Unleashing Greatness: A Celebration of Talent in the Gulf Coast Kiki Ballroom Scene
Icon XaPariis Nike Uses the I Am Unleashed Kiki Ball to Honor, Inspire, and Elevate Community Figures.
The concept of "unleashing" someone in the ballroom community is a way to proclaim, "This person has made me know it!" For the Gulf Coast kiki ballroom scene, the I Am Unleashed Kiki Ball, organized and promoted by Icon XaPariis Nike, offers an opportunity to shine a spotlight on those who have captivated and inspired her.
Drawing on a tradition initiated by mainstream ballroom icon Stewart Ebony, the act of unleashing celebrates the contributions of standout individuals in the community. XaPariis, reflecting on her authority to undertake this, responded to skeptics with a laugh:
"Sometimes I feel like people truly lack knowledge about ballroom culture. Icon Stewart Ebony is an icon that folx respect and wants to be recognized by. I've been an active, consistent participant in the Gulf Coast kiki scene since 2015. That's nearly 10 years! The fact that people even question this makes me more than qualified to execute something like this."
The ball is designed as a moment to give roses to individuals who have demonstrated creativity, talent, and charisma in the Gulf Coast kiki scene. As XaPariis explained, there’s no rigid criterion for who she unleashes—it’s simply about those who have "made her know it."
Celebrating Those Unleashed
Leading up to the event, XaPariis has unleashed a select group of individuals whose artistry, resilience, consistency and presence have deeply impacted the Gulf Coast kiki scene. Among them are:
Founding Mother Butta Moschino
Father Carter Guiseppe Zanotti
Gulfcoast Prince Alexi Old Navy
Mother Enoch Versace
KimmyAnne Unbothered Cartier
Houston Princess Nyla Guiseppe Zanotti
Deja Nike
Founding Mother Natalie Lepore
Father Lavigne Old Navy
Dallas Prince Narcotix Juicy Couture
Sallie Mae aka Thee Stallion Nike
Gulfcoast Prince Bronze Von Dutch
Sky Von Dutch
Father Phenom Wang
Founding Father Khaos Sephora
Founding Father Hannibal Mamba
Icon Chi Chi Bodega
Dallas Mother Nikki Juicy Couture
Empress Gia Nike
Dallas Father Kam Von Dutch
Founding Father Micha Moschino
Each of these individuals exemplifies the excellence and vibrancy that the I Am Unleashed Kiki Ball is meant to celebrate.
Beyond Recognition: A Space for Joy and Expression
The heart of the event extends beyond acknowledgment. XaPariis emphasized:
"The overall objective of this ball is for attendees to have fun. Sometimes people equate winning with fun and losing with failure. But we, as a scene, need to reconnect with the joy and community this space was created for."
The I Am Unleashed Kiki Ball is more than a competition; it’s a showcase of the talent, creativity, and energy that define this culture. It’s a way for XaPariis to personally acknowledge those who have inspired her and elevated the community.
In a world that often doesn’t see it for us, balls are safe havens. This event aims to bring the community together in celebration of who we are.
XaPariis Nike’s Legacy and Vision
XaPariis Nike began her journey in the Gulf Coast kiki scene in 2015, a time when the region's ballroom presence was still finding its footing. Over the years, she has become a cornerstone of this community, known for her leadership, consistency, and ability to uplift others. She also embraces a bold, unapologetic approach to addressing criticism and fostering growth.
"You gotta learn how to not care. If your emotions are driven by others, you are doing yourself a disservice. If you are happy about your art, that is all that matters. If you desire others' truth in regards to your art, don't be offended by it," XaPariis shared, offering advice to emerging talents in the scene.
While mainstream ballroom has celebrated figures through acts like unleashing, this is the first time the tradition has been adapted for the kiki scene. It’s a testament to XaPariis’s innovative mindset and her vision for honoring Gulf Coast talent.
When asked about her hopes for the future of the Gulf Coast kiki scene, XaPariis responded: "There is nothing wrong with the Gulf Coast Kiki Scene. Nothing anyone participates in will be free of fault. I do not desire perfection. I desire consistency. As long as we continue to maintain spaces for the culture to manifest, I am a happy camper."
Join Us This Weekend
The I Am Unleashed Kiki Ball is an event you don’t want to miss. Whether you’re walking the floor, cheering from the sidelines, or simply soaking in the energy, this is a night for the entire community.
Join us this weekend to witness the Gulf Coast’s finest unleash their talent and creativity. Let’s come together to celebrate the artistry and joy that make ballroom unforgettable. And no matter what happens on the floor, remember: ballroom is about fellowship and fun. Let’s keep that spirit alive.
Date: Saturday November 30, 2024
Time : Doors Open : 6:00pm LSS: 7:30pm
Where: 4748 Algiers Street Suite 100 Dallas, TX 75207