Melanated Pole Fest

The first only BIPOC pole festival in the states was a huge success! Actin’ Up did a phenomenal job organizing and performing over the weekend. I had the pleasure of taking photos of three of the workshops on Saturday while enjoying the showcase on Friday and Saturday evenings. My only regret is not bringing my camera on Saturday night because goddamn. These performers were reigniting all the hope and excitement.

Friday was an intimate performance. For almost everyone, it was their first time performing at a showcase. As such, no video or images were allowed but sheesh it was emotional. Each performer wrote a story to their younger self and… immediately crying. It felt so powerful, such an honor to see each performer talk directly to their younger selves, embrace them, and then express in a gorgeous dance for the audience. Unapologetic was the perfect name for such a powerful, soft, and transformative performance.

Saturday evening was a completely different vibe. There were one’s thrown, thunderous applause, and high energy. I had the privilege of sitting in the balcony with the perfect view to record some videos of the performers and scream my ass off. Listen, as much as I love sweet and intimate, I also love when people take off their clothes and climb to the top of the pole in .5 seconds. Stunna was exactly that, leaving me speechless and craving more.

Actin’ Up, you are a treasure. Not only do you show up for community day in and out, but you know how to put on a damn good show. You never cease to amaze me with your ability to perform, connect with the audience, connect with people, remain curious, approach the world with such softness and power, and STILL organize/produce such a powerful weekend.

You deserve all your flowers.

Want to see some of my favorite images from the Saturday workshops?