Lights dimmed and music blasted as the College Street Taphouse prepared for one of the Gender & LGBTQIA Center’s favorite events of the year — the Kiki Ball. A night filled with music, dance and friendly competition, Kiki Ball is made up of runway style performances from competitors in six categories: best dressed, international superstars, newbies, out of this world, hand performance and vogue.
Since its inception in 2021, this was the first year Taphouse hosted the event, which resulted in one of the best turnouts the event has seen in the past few years, according to GLC event planner and senior Ana Sofia Rodriguez. Students gathered excitedly, cheers and applause filling the room as each contestant took the floor to showcase their unique moves. The energy was electric, with the crowd cheering for every dip, spin and strut.
Kiki Ball, rooted in ballroom culture, is a space where self-expression, creativity and joy take center stage. It provides an opportunity for students from all backgrounds to come together, appreciate the artistry and history of ballroom, and celebrate the vibrancy of LGBTQ+ cultures.
The theme of the ball was out of this world, and participants brought their own flair, drawing inspiration from ballroom culture, voguing — a type of dance inspired by the poses of models in fashion magazines made popular by drag performers — and freestyle dance. Competitors captured the audience with their confidence and creativity; some executed dramatic floorwork, while others commanded the space with sharp, precise movements, each performance adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the event.
Elon senior and president of oSTEM — an organization that encourages and supports members of the LGBTQ+ communities within STEM fields — Maria Ledin emphasized how pivotal events like the Kiki Ball are for students to build relationships and community with like minded individuals.
“It's underestimated how important events like these are,” Ledin said.
Having safe spaces on campus for the LGBTQ+ communities is always a priority, according to the GLC’s website, and that means ensuring that LGBTQ+ students feel supported and valued. However, while maintaining a focus on safety and inclusion, the GLC emphasizes that the Kiki Ball is a celebration open to everyone, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation.
“You don’t need to be in the queer community to be in a space that is meant for inclusion,” Ledin said.
Elon freshman Bennett Crisci said he was looking forward to the event because it would allow him to step outside his comfort zone.
“You can’t understand something you don't experience,” Crisci said.
As the night drew to a close, the energy in the Taphouse remained high, with students still buzzing from the performances and connections made throughout the evening. The Kiki Ball once again proved to be more than just a competition — it was a celebration of identity, artistry and community.