It’s 1980 in New York City, and nowhere is the city’s glamour and energy better reflected than in the burgeoning Harlem ballroom scene. Angel is new to the drag world and when she falls in love with Hector, who dreams of becoming a professional dancer, the two decide to form the House of Xtravaganza, the first-ever all-Latino house in the ballroom circuit.
Into the house come Venus, a whip-smart trans girl who dreams of finding a rich man to take care of her; Juanito, a quiet boy who loves fabrics and design; and Daniel, a butch queen who accidentally saves Venus’ life. The Xtravaganzas must learn to navigate sex work, addiction and persistent abuse, leaning on each other as bulwarks against a world that resists them.
Join us at Mabel’s Covent Garden to discuss this book focusing on the Ballroom Scene highlighted in award-winning documentary, Paris Is Burning, and in current BBC show Pose. We’ll be meeting at 7pm and non-members, friends and anyone with an opinion are welcome!