Shanghai, China – In the heart of China’s financial capital, a vibrant subculture thrives, as the LGBTQ community gathers to celebrate the art of voguing. Reminiscent of the mid-20th century dance halls in New York’s Harlem, these events, known as “balls,” have gained popularity among queer communities of color since the 1980s. Amidst a complex social landscape and increasing censorship, Shanghai’s voguing scene has become a vital outlet for self-expression, uniting individuals in their quest for acceptance.
Voguing, characterized by staccato hand motions, angular postures, and brief pauses, merges dance, fashion, and performance art. Sui Kawakubo, a member of the renowned Kiki House of Kawakubo, describes voguing as a unique form of self-expression that encourages dancers to delve into their deepest emotions. For Kawakubo, voguing has provided a platform to emerge from his introverted nature and explore a new facet of his identity. The balls feature various categories, including “Femme Queen Performance”, “Couple Realness”, “Face”, and “Body”, combining the excitement of a dance competition with the spectacle of a fashion show.
Although voguing has gained traction in China, the road is not without obstacles. Shanghai’s LGBTQ community faces a challenging environment that remains inclusive yet inherently conservative. As international influences collide with traditional values, the delicate balance is felt even in China’s most cosmopolitan city. Organizations such as Shanghai Pride and Beijing’s LGBTCenter have encountered difficulties, leading to the suspension and closure of their activities, respectively. This mounting censorship underscores the uncertain future of voguing and related activities in the country.
Voguing events in Shanghai often take place discreetly, with last-minute changes in location to evade scrutiny from authorities. Despite the challenges, participants and spectators are undeterred, finding solace in this rare pocket of expressive freedom and fluidity. The community remains united, welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds who seek an environment where they can authentically be themselves. The roar of music, cheers, and the electrifying energy of competition permeate the air as voguers take the stage, showcasing their talent and defying societal constraints.
As International Pride Day approaches, the future of voguing in China stands uncertain. VJ Kawakubo, one of the pioneers of voguing in Shanghai, maintains hope for a more tolerant and accepting society. In a landscape that disconnects from younger generations’ desires for self-expression and individuality, the voguing community serves as a testament to the resilience and unwavering spirit of the LGBTQ community. While challenges persist, the dancers and their supporters continue to embrace voguing as a powerful medium to break barriers and express their true selves.
In this era of evolving social dynamics, Shanghai’s voguing scene shines as a symbol of defiance, acceptance, and the unwavering pursuit of personal liberation.
