Ballroom: Queer Art and Activism Panel discussion

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©Janelool 
Teddy 007 & Angel Lanvin fra The Distortion Ball 2024 av Cassandra & Diesel 007 under Oslo Pride 2024 
Outfits designed by Katariina Kekoni

Doors: 19:00 
Event start: 20:00 
Seated event 
Notice: The event is free but be aware that a ticket does not guarantee a seat. Due to limited capacity, please arrive early to secure your spot. 
Please remember to allow time to reach the 12th floor and to store bags, umbrellas, and liquids in the lockable wardrobe in the lobby area.  
 
In the past decade, the Ballroom scene has become a global phenomenon and entered the mainstream. However, at its core, Ballroom has always been a form of resistance – emerging as a space where BIPOC queer and trans individuals could gather and express themselves freely. Originating from the underground scene in Harlem during the early 1970s, Ballroom has remained a vital platform for self-expression and community. 
 
MUNCH is thrilled to host the Scream for a Change Ball. The ball is presented by Cassandra & Diesel in collaboration with MUNCH and Oslo Pride, with support from RFSU.   
 
Ahead of the ball, we’re hosting a panel discussion with two of the leaders of the Oslo Ballroom scene, Cassandra and Diesel, in conversation with international Ballroom icons, Icon Kenyon Alpha Omega and Icon Overall Mother Lola Gorgeous Gucci. At a time when LGBTQIA+ rights are being threatened across the globe, this conversation will dive into the legacy of Ballroom as a form of activism through art, campaigning against racism, transphobia, homophobia, and discrimination. 
 
The conversation will be hosted by Art Mediator at MUNCH, Siddharta Cardenal Kapoor. 
 
Icon Kenyon Alpha Omega 
Kenyon Alpha Omega is an actor, model, writer, poet and strategist. In the scene he is known as the Icon King Father Kenyon Alpha Omega and has been in Ballroom for 23 years. Walking Pretty Boy Realness and Sex Siren then quickly progressing to Perfect 10s. Focusing on Sex Siren and BQ Perfect 10s lead to many grand prizes and of the years ultimately making him worthy of being deemed Legendary and then an Icon. The only Iconic BQ Perfect 10 and Sex Siren. Kenyon began building his Ballroom foundation with the Innovative House of Prodigy for 18 years which lead him into leadership roles in the house eventually becoming the overall father. Realizing the only way to forge a new path in Ballroom he ventured to Co Found the house of Supreme Moncler. After two years the house decided to close. Still wanting to help with a new and fresh start in Ballroom Kenyon joined the House of Alpha Omega alongside his family to help a new generation navigate this growing phenomenon known as Ballroom.  

 
Icon Overall Mother Lola Gorgeous Gucci 
Lola Gorgeous Gucci is the epitome of high fashion, fierce energy, and unapologetic glam. A dazzling blend of luxury and confidence, Lola is known for turning heads and setting trends wherever she goes. Whether she’s commanding the stage, curating iconic looks, or empowering others to live boldly, Lola Gorgeous Gucci lives by one rule: stay fabulous, stay fearless. With a heart as fierce as her heels, she’s not just a name—she’s a movement, an ICON.

 
 
Cassandra is a leading figure in the Norwegian Ballroom community, as well as being a judge and participant in Europe. She has put Norway on the map in her role as Trailblazer and her Up & Coming Legend status in the European Runway category. Cassandra organised Norway's first ball – Ball of Norway – in 2017 together with Emmadonna and Soul Sessions Oslo. Since then, she has also been responsible for three new editions of Ball of Norway and kiki ball at Dansens Hus.  

Diesel is a dancer and performer who competes both nationally and internationally. He became an active part of the Ballroom scene in 2011 and went to his first ball in 2016.  Diesel is an Up & Coming Legend in the MF Sex Siren category. He has received several awards, including European Prince of Seduction in 2018 and European MF Sex Siren of the Year at the Voguing World Awards in 2024. Among other events, Diesel organized The Sinister Ball for World AIDS Day and The Query Ball at Norway's National Museum.  

 
Siddharta 
Siddharta Cardenal Kapoor holds a degree in art history from the University of Oslo and works as an art mediator at MUNCH. With a strong commitment to inclusion and representation, he facilitates open and diverse art experiences that connect with a broad and varied audience. As an artist, he releases music under the name Sid Hart, where he explores themes of queer identity and love with a distinct sense of vulnerability.