Brooklyn-based community arts organization BRIC experienced a backlash upon intially announcing the lineup for its anniversary screening of Paris Is Burning as part of its Celebrate Brooklyn! festival. They had invited a panel that neglected to include members of the ballroom community or from the film.
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The Trans Queer People of Color community responded with a petition, leading BRIC to issue an apology with promises to revise the program. Recently, the nonprofit announced its new lineup:
This updated lineup for BRIC's screening of the Sundance Grand Jury Prize-winning documentary Paris Is Burning will feature an introduction by director Jennie Livingston and by Junior LaBeija and Dr. Sol Williams Pendavis, both of whom are featured in the film. Before the screening, fellow Paris Is Burning cast members Grandfather Hector Xtravaganza and Jose Disla Xtravaganza present The Houses United Ball: Celebrating Brooklyn, which will feature members of the Houses of LaBeija, Ninja, Mizrahi, Khan, Infinity, Milan, Princess and Xtravaganza. Vjuan Allure will DJ before and during the ball.
One word:
Paris Is Burning/The Houses United Ball: Celebrating Brooklyn/Vjuan Allure
Where: Celebrate Brooklyn! at the Prospect Park Bandshell (Prospect Park West & 9th St., Brooklyn)
When: Friday, June 26 at 7:30 PM (Gates open at 6:30 PM)
Admission: Free ($3 suggested donation)
For more information go to BRICartsmedia.org/cb or call 718-683-5600
Les Fabian Brathwaite -- owning everything since 1985.
