The documentary “Paris is Burning” focuses on the 1990s ballroom culture in New York City. Director Jennie Livingston followed African-American and LatinX people in the gay, trans, and drag queen communities who participated in these elaborate balls.
The art of voguing wasn’t created by Madonna, but by the underground ballroom scene. It was a way for participates to “throw shade” at one another on the runway.
The events were made up of “houses,” that were each named after a legendary participant. In the documentary, the House of LaBeija, House of Ninja, House of Corey, and the House of Xtravaganza are highlighted.
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