By Mari Sato
Last Tuesday, Owen Art Center welcomed the Unbothered House of Cartier for the third annual All About Ballroom event, presented by SMU’s Fashion Media Program and the Women & LGBT Center. The function started with a short panel, moderated by fashion media professor Jenny Davis. The ballroom scene was created by Black and Brown folks in response to racism in integrated Drag ball spaces in New York. Ballroom competitors compete in different categories that are dance and fashion forward to win cash prizes.
After the panel discussion, the energy shifted as anticipation built for house members to get dressed in their elaborate outfits and perform. Circus by Brittany Spears blared through the atrium’s speakers and the group entered the runway. The House of Unbothered Cartier dropped jaws between their death drops, stylized catwalks, and floor performances that included spins, twists, and flips. House members then took the floor performing their respective categories while explaining the signature moves and styles that define each one.
After House of Cartier finished performing, students and faculty took the stage to compete in the community ball. There were three categories to compete in, Best Dressed, Runway, and Presentation. Professor Davis opened the show with the Best Dressed category, while Dr. Ethan Lascity took the stage for Runway. Across the three categories nearly 20 students participated supported by the rythmic claps of the audience.
Once the community ball ended I got the chance to speak with some of the members of the House of Unbothered Cartier about their personal experiences with ball culture. Leryy, Ballroom name Gulf Coast Mother Leryy explained “It’s an outlet for people who are usually looked down on so you know, kind of shine. It’s our moment to be the superstars.” While Ballroom may seem all fun and fashion, it also demands intense focus and preparation. Amor Luxe, ballroom name The Legendary Gulf Coast Father Amor Unbothered, shared their mental process to prepare for a ballroom performance, “Mentally, I have to block everything out, everybody out, I don’t want to talk to anybody. I have to get in my little space and transform because I have an alter ego when I come out for ballroom.”
For students 21+ who may have missed the event, the House of Unbothered Cartier can be found at Marty’s on Wednesday nights. SMU’s Fashion Media Program and the Women & LGBT Center hope to continue the tradition with a fourth event next year.
