The Royal Bloom: Chapter II – New York, New York

Inspired by the forthcoming exhibition Occupied City, which explores life in New York during British occupation from 1776 to 1783, this edition reimagines that period through the lens of ballroom’s ongoing struggle for autonomy, artistry, and survival. It parallels the city’s early fight for liberation with the enduring resilience of Black and queer communities who continue to build beauty in defiance of erasure.

This event is officially OTY-approved under the New York/New Jersey Ballroom Alliance.

Ballroom has always been an act of revolution — a declaration that existence itself deserves light, space, and applause. This event stages that defiance in a museum context, merging two timelines: colonial New York’s fight for freedom and the ongoing struggle of marginalized artists to define and defend their place in history.

The evening unfolds through seven cinematic categories — each symbolizing a stage of rebellion and rebirth. From the poise and command of the Femme Queen Trilogy to the precision of Performance and the discipline of Runway, every category becomes a statement of independence, self-governance, and grace under scrutiny. This revised program outline is shared as a working document to support alignment and discussion with the Museum of the City of New York.

Date: May 9th, 2025
Location: Museum of the City of New York, South Terrace
Masters of the ceremony: Icon Jack Gorgeous Gucci & Legendary Precious 007
DJ: Byrell the Great

ENTRY: $35 CASH ONLY at the Door
Tickets: $30 online