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The Grit and Glamour of Queer LA Subculture

Miscellaneous REACH LA Materials

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Torie Henry 007 v. Anita Daahling Energi, Open to All Vogue Performance. Category called for "We know there has to be life on other planets so tonight we want you to show us what could be out there. We want to see extraterrestrial creatures vogue for their lives." On Saturday, December 15th, 2016, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 11: Legends of the Future at the now defunct 356 S Mission Gallery. Legendary Mother Gia Mizrahi, a black trans model and entertainer, was the hostess of the ball. Evan Kent Mizrahi assisted Gia and Sean with organizing the ball. Starting with Ovahness 11, Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon has tasked a young legend in the LA ballroom community with hosting the Ovahness Balls. Working with young legends in this context has enabled REACH LA to both build young legend's event organizing skills and celebrate young people who have supported REACH LA since 2006. Photos taken from 356 S Mission online archive; Photos taken by: Frank Levert; Photos taken by 356 S Mission online archive; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Smith; Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
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REACH LA hosted a discussion and leadership group for primarily young Black and Latino Men who have Sex with Men (MSM) to address and combat disparities in their local communities. By attending National HIV conferences and hosting youth summits, the Ovahness Leaders educated several demographics about how to tackle the systemic inequities that young Black and Latino MSM face. Upon graduating from the Leaders' program, a few alums have gained employment at organizations like REACH LA, UCLA Vine Street Clinic, and Children's Hospital Los Angeles.; Picture taken at the annual National AIDS Education & Services for Minorities Conference; Advisors of the Ovahness Leaders: Greg Wilson, Tyrone Carter, Sean/Milan™; Courtesy of: REACH LA Facebook Profile
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Torie Henry 007 v. Anita Daahling Energi, Open to All Vogue Fem Battle. Category called for "We know there has to be life on other planets so tonight we want you to show us what could be out there. We want to see extraterrestrial creatures vogue for their lives." On Saturday, December 17th, 2016, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 11: Legends of the Future at the now defunct 356 S Mission Gallery. Legendary Mother Gia Mizrahi, a black trans model and entertainer, was the hostess of the ball. Evan Kent Mizrahi assisted Gia and Sean with organizing the ball. Starting with Ovahness 11, Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon has tasked a young legend in the LA ballroom community with hosting the Ovahness Balls. Working with young legends in this context has enabled REACH LA to both build young legend's event organizing skills and celebrate young people who have supported REACH LA since 2006. Photos taken from 356 S Mission online archive; Photos taken by: Frank Levert; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Smith; Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
Legendary Sean/Milan™ commissioned R-LA Studio dancers to perform a choreographed routine inspired by Alice in Wonderland for Ovahness 7. The dancers performed to Scissors Sisters' 'Lets Have a Kiki.";On Saturday, November 3rd, 2012, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 7: Escape from Wonderland at the now defunct GAM Arts Center (4975 West Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90019). Like other Ovahness Balls, admission was free for individuals (particularly LGBT youth of color) who took a free HIV test at REACH LA. Ovahness 7 featured performances by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon and R-LA Studios. R-LA Studios comprised of performers who frequently collaborated with REACH LA and utilized REACH LA's newly established dance studio. In 2012, REACH LA's opened up a dance studio in the same building as its office as a means to offer a free dance rehearsal venue for the ballroom community and other queer of color performers. R-LA Studios performers included John Santos, Evan Mizrahi, Legendary Daveione Chanel, Legendary Gia Banks, and Legendary Jamari 007. Photos provided by REACH LA's Facebook profile; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Ebony (Enyce Chanel at the time); Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
On June 2nd, 2013, the City of West Hollywood Arts' Division hosted its second iteration of "Install: Weho", a series of installations and performances by queer artists, in a parking lot next to the City of West Hollywood Library. Featured artists included Patrisse Cullors (Black Lives Matter Co-founder) and Julie Tolentino (LA-based performance artist). Install: Weho was a part of the City's annual "One City, One Pride," a month-long festival that showcases LGBTQ art in Los Angeles. For Install: Weho, REACH LA dancers performed a contemporary/hip-hop/vogue fusion piece entitled "Night at the Museum." REACH LA staff and volunteers, including Greg Wilson, Terrell Winder, Violet, and Sean/Milan, headed a resource table at the event. This event is the first time that REACH LA participated in One City, One Pride. Each year since Install: Weho, REACH LA has either participated in or hosted a One City, One Pride event. ; Courtesy of: City of West Hollywood Flickr Account; Photo Credit: Joshua Barash; Choreographer: Legendary Father Jamari 007; Featured Dancers: Jamari, John Origines, Legendary Daveione Williams Chanel; To view more images from the event, see https://www.flickr.com/photos/weho/albums/72157633911948689/with/8942540568/
Legendary Father Jamari 007 kicks and dips during his Twister vogue performance. Twister Category: Get your 10's for realness, then come back as the Cheshire Cat's bangy wife. (Dont forget your mask and wig). On Saturday, November 3rd, 2012, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 7: Escape from Wonderland at the now defunct GAM Arts Center (4975 West Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90019). Like other Ovahness Balls, admission was free for individuals (particularly LGBT youth of color) who took a free HIV test at REACH LA. Photos provided by REACH LA's Facebook profile; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Ebony (Enyce Chanel at the time); Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
REACH LA hosted a discussion and leadership group for primarily young Black and Latino Men who have Sex with Men (MSM) to address and combat disparities in their local communities. By attending National HIV conferences and hosting youth summits, the Ovahness Leaders educated several demographics about how to tackle the systemic inequities that young Black and Latino MSM face. Upon graduating from the Leaders' program, a few alums have gained employment at organizations like REACH LA, UCLA Vine Street Clinic, and Children's Hospital Los Angeles.; Picture taken at the annual National AIDS Education & Services for Minorities Conference; Advisors of the Ovahness Leaders: Greg Wilson, Tyrone Carter, Sean/Milan™; Courtesy of: REACH LA Facebook Profile
Glamorous Awakening was a Mini-Ball hosted by Michel'le Allure (now St. Laurent) and produced by REACH LA. Michel'le is a black trans woman known in the Ballroom Scene as one of the Legendary Faces. Michel'le is currently garnering national attention for her impersonations of Beyonce Knowles. Glamarous Awakening was one of REACH LA's first attempts, aside from the Ovahness Ball, to mobilize the West Coast House and Ballroom Scene around HIV education. Ballroom participants and REACH LA staff have suggested that young ballroom kids at the time such as Enyce Smith and Gia Banks suggested that mini balls would be a successful way to engage their communities ; Photo Courtesy of REACH LA office; Photo Scanned by Occidental College students; Hostess: Legendary Michel'le St. Laurent; Commentator: Selvin Mizrahi; Volunteers: RLA Ovahness Leaders; Funded in part by: LA County Office of AIDS Programs & Policies
Legendary Jamari 007 v. Amoya Prodigy Vogue Battle. Category: Realness w/a Twist From Boxer to Ballerina… On Sunday, October 9th, 2011, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 6: Ball Stars at the now defunct GAM Studio (4975 Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90019). Ovahness 6 was a part of REACH LA's Ball Star Weekend, a 4 day series of events that enabled attendees of all ages to dance & gather. Like other Ovahness Balls, admission was free for individuals (particularly LGBT youth of color) who took a free HIV test at REACH LA. Photos provided by REACH LA's Facebook profile; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Ebony (Enyce Chanel at the time); Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
REACH LA partnered with leaders in the Ballroom scene, including Legendary Dashaun Lanvin (pictured above), to promote the initiative "Just B the Generation to End AIDS transmission." The initiative included giving out t-shirts with the phrase "Just B" on the front and adjectives such as "Fine" on the back." On Saturday, November 3rd, 2012, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 7: Escape from Wonderland at the now defunct GAM Arts Center (4975 West Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90019). Like other Ovahness Balls, admission was free for individuals (particularly LGBT youth of color) who took a free HIV test at REACH LA. Photos provided by REACH LA's Facebook profile; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Ebony (Enyce Chanel at the time); Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
Montay Prodigy, Open to All Vogue Fem 10s. Category called for "We know there has to be life on other planets so tonight we want you to show us what could be out there. We want to see extraterrestrial creatures vogue for their lives." On Saturday, December 17th, 2016, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 11: Legends of the Future at the now defunct 356 S Mission Gallery. Legendary Mother Gia Mizrahi, a black trans model and entertainer, was the hostess of the ball. Evan Kent Mizrahi assisted Gia and Sean with organizing the ball. Starting with Ovahness 11, Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon has tasked a young legend in the LA ballroom community with hosting the Ovahness Balls. Working with young legends in this context has enabled REACH LA to both build young legend's event organizing skills and celebrate young people who have supported REACH LA since 2006. Photos taken from 356 S Mission online archive; Photos taken by: Frank Levert; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Smith; Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
On November 9th, 2013, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 8: The Haunting at The Factory nightclub in West Hollywood. To Adrienne's knowledge, GAM Arts Center had closed recently and REACH LA had to locate a new venue for their ball function. The Facebook event description reads as "For young men HIV is scary. REACH LA’s mission is to educate young men of color to eliminate the stigma and horror of HIV. OVAHNESS 8: The Haunting is about educating young men of color that they do not have to live in fear of HIV if they are educated about the virus, use protection and get tested regularly. OVAHNESS BALL 8: The Haunting! Get ready for a nightmare that may save your life." Young people received free admission to the event if they took a free HIV test at REACH LA, a recurring feature of each Ovahness Ball.; AIDS Project Los Angeles volunteers are pictured at their resource table ; Photos provided by REACH LA's Facebook profile; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Ebony (Enyce Chanel at the time); Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™; Photo taken by Unknown
Category: Sneaker v. Sneaker "Looking for that sneaker that just makes no sense at all. (2012+ only)." On Saturday, November 3rd, 2013, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 7: Escape from Wonderland at the now defunct GAM Arts Center (4975 West Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90019). Like other Ovahness Balls, admission was free for individuals (particularly LGBT youth of color) who took a free HIV test at REACH LA.; Photos provided by REACH LA's Facebook profile; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Ebony (Enyce Chanel at the time); Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™
Amoya Prodigy (pictured centered) getting his 10s for Realness with a Twist. Category: Realness with a Twist - From Boxer to Ballerina…On Sunday, October 9th, 2011, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 6: Ball Stars at the now defunct GAM Studio (4975 Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90019). Ovahness 6 was a part of REACH LA's Ball Star Weekend, a 4 day series of events that enabled attendees of all ages to dance & gather. Like other Ovahness Balls, admission was free for individuals (particularly LGBT youth of color) who took a free HIV test at REACH LA. Photos provided by REACH LA's Facebook profile; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Ebony (Enyce Chanel at the time); Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
Female Figure Vogue Performance Battle, Category is In the name of Jane Fonda, "My name isn't pretty-pretty, it's Barbarella.". Vogue down in a Space Mod effect. Think “Barbarella” On Saturday, December 17th, 2016, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 11: Legends of the Future at the now defunct 356 S Mission Gallery. Legendary Mother Gia Mizrahi, a black trans model and entertainer, was the hostess of the ball. Evan Kent Mizrahi assisted Gia and Sean with organizing the ball. Starting with Ovahness 11, Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon has tasked a young legend in the LA ballroom community with hosting the Ovahness Balls. Working with young legends in this context has enabled REACH LA to both build young legend's event organizing skills and celebrate young people who have supported REACH LA since 2006. Photos taken from 356 S Mission online archive; Photos taken by: Frank Levert; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Smith; Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
Icon Grandfather Hector Xtravaganza pictured walking on the runway of Ovahness 4 for Legends, Stars, and Statements. On Saturday, July 25th, 2009, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 4: L'acte Final (The Final Act) at the now defunct Gam Art Center off La Brea and Pico. Ovahness 4 is significant in that many members from the New York Chapter of the House of Xtravaganza attended the function. Photos provided by REACH LA's Facebook profile; Photographer unknown; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi; Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
Under a grant by the Alliance for California Traditional Arts, REACH LA and respected house/ball members hosted a series of workshops at the Hollywood Dance Center. The workshops enabled participants acquire an in-depth understanding of the performance, creative design, and event production aspects of ballroom. This program is one of the first times REACH LA publicly demonstrated the elements of the ballroom culture. After this program, REACH LA has led vogue demonstrations at University of Southern California in 2013, Whitney Museum of American Art in 2017, and St. John's Hospital's TransNation Eleganza Gala in 2017. ; Instructors: Legendary Taz Ultra Omni, Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon, Legendary Overall Father Trey Rodeo, Legendary Daveione Chanel, Legendary Enyce Ebony, Stacey Chanel, Joey Mizrahi, Legendary Father Milan Chanel.
Legendary Mother Gia Banks beginning the ball by performing KDA's "Just Say" feat. Tinashe with featured dancers. On Saturday, December 17th, 2016, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 11: Legends of the Future at the now defunct 356 S Mission Gallery. Legendary Mother Gia Mizrahi, a black trans model and entertainer, was the hostess of the ball. Evan Kent Mizrahi assisted Gia and Sean with organizing the ball. Starting with Ovahness 11, Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon has tasked a young legend in the LA ballroom community with hosting the Ovahness Balls. Working with young legends in this context has enabled REACH LA to both build young legend's event organizing skills and celebrate young people who have supported REACH LA since 2006. Photos taken from 356 S Mission online archive; Photos taken by: Frank Levert; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Smith; Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
(Scroll Down from initial Image to View Article) In May 2016, REACH LA hosted its first drag pageant at 356 S Mission Gallery. 9 young drag queens vied for the opportunity to be REACH LA's Drag Ambassador and local drag performer Calypso Jete hosted the event. The pageant consisted of interview, talent, and best dress categories. LA Weekly promoted the event by outlining the importance of the pageant and a brief overview of REACH LA's involvement with young queer youth of color. Adrienne Adams describes the LA weekly write-up as an overdetermined rendering and positioning of black queer involvement in Los Angeles' queer nightlife.; Sean/Milan™ provided written responses to the LA Weekly reporter's inquiries.
On June 25th, 2016, Calypso Jete, local drag performer and frequent RLA collaborator, guided attendees on a tour of a series of pop-up performances. The performances took place at Weho locations like the entrance of RAGE Nightclub and theWest Hollywood Park. Notably, the late Stuart Timmons, author of Gay: LA, attended the event. The REACH LA dancers performed a variety of genres popular among queer of color dancers, including contemporary, vogue, and hip-hop. ; Courtesy of: City of West Hollywood Flickr Account; Photo Credit: Tony Coelho; Creative Director: Sean/Milan™; Tour Guides: Calypso Jete and Daniel Lagunes; Featured Dancers include (but not limited to): Christopher Frazier, Gia Banks, John Origines, Enyce Smith, Jamari Amour, Daveione Williams, Thomas Davis; To view more images from the event, see https://www.flickr.com/photos/weho/albums/72157670313150385/with/27907406646/
REACH LA's "The Ovahness Archives" was presented at West Hollywood Park Auditorium on June 20th, 2014. The interactive tour, curated by Sean Milan/Garcon, guided audience members on a virtual tour of a "Ball," breaks down the categories of vogue and runway, and presents a unique merge of mainstream dance and ballroom influence. This description is provided by Sean/Milan™. The Ovahness Archives is one of REACH LA's many efforts to use history, ballroom demonstrations, and performance to forge connections between ballroom individuals and the larger public. ; Photo Credit: Tony Coelho; Photo Courtesy of: WeHo Arts Facebook Page.Featured Performers: Legendary Ebony Lane, Alfred 'Nacho' Lopez, Prettyboy Redd, Evan Kent Mizrahi, Jaylen 007, Legendary Daveione Williams Chanel, Legendary Father Jamari Amour 007; To view more photos from the event, see https://www.facebook.com/pg/wehoarts/photos/?tab=album&album_id=721648711236424
REACH LA's "The Ovahness Archives" was presented at West Hollywood Park Auditorium on June 20th, 2014. The interactive tour, curated by Sean Milan/Garcon, guided audience members on a virtual tour of a "Ball," breaks down the categories of vogue and runway, and presents a unique merge of mainstream dance and ballroom influence. This description is provided by Sean/Milan™. The Ovahness Archives is one of REACH LA's many efforts to use history, ballroom demonstrations, and performance to forge connections between ballroom individuals and the larger public. ; Photo Credit: Tony Coelho; Photo Courtesy of: WeHo Arts Facebook Page.Featured Performers: Legendary Ebony Lane, Alfred 'Nacho' Lopez, Prettyboy Redd, Evan Kent Mizrahi, Jaylen 007, Legendary Daveione Williams Chanel, Legendary Father Jamari Amour 007; To view more photos from the event, see https://www.facebook.com/pg/wehoarts/photos/?tab=album&album_id=721648711236424
REACH LA's "Go West: Sunday Funday Mini Ball" occurred on Sunday, June 25th, 2017 at the RAGE Nightclub in West Hollywood. This 5-category event embraced both a Cowboy Western and a Summer Fun in the Sun motifs. Adrienne Adams remembers handing out event flyers all over the West Hollywood strip on the Thursday before the event; Photo Credit: Davide Laffe; Event Host: Evan Kent Mizrahi; Featured in Photo: India Mizrahi & Mike Rashawn Toy; Winner of OTA Runway: Legendary Fe 007; Winner of OTA Best Dressed: Marcus Mizrahi; Winner of OTA Vogue Fem: Montay Prodigy
On Saturday, November 3rd, 2012, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 7: Escape from Wonderland at the now defunct GAM Arts Center (4975 West Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90019). Like other Ovahness Balls, admission was free for individuals (particularly LGBT youth of color) who took a free HIV test at REACH LA. Ovahness 7 featured performances by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon and R-LA Studios. R-LA Studios comprised of performers who frequently collaborated with REACH LA and utilized REACH LA's newly established dance studio. In 2012, REACH LA's opened up a dance studio in the same building as its office as a means to offer a free dance rehearsal venue for the ballroom community and other queer of color performers. R-LA Studios performers included John Santos, Evan Mizrahi, Legendary Daveione Chanel, Legendary Gia Banks, and Legendary Jamari 007. Photos provided by REACH LA's Facebook profile; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Ebony (Enyce Chanel at the time); Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
Category: Fem Queen Realness - You're a guest of the Queen's ball…Sell it in a gown. On Saturday, November 3rd, 2012, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 7: Escape from Wonderland at the now defunct GAM Arts Center (4975 West Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90019). Like other Ovahness Balls, admission was free for individuals (particularly LGBT youth of color) who took a free HIV test at REACH LA. Photos provided by REACH LA's Facebook profile; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Ebony (Enyce Chanel at the time); Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
Legendary Overall Mother Trace Mizrahi, whose actress stage name is Trace Lysette, solidified her status in the New York Ballroom Community throughout the 2000s. Since 2013, she has appeared on Amazon's Transparent. Category: Fem Queen Realness - Come to the game as a "Basketball Wife" wedding ring included... Your Husband makes millions and it should be clear to everyone... On Sunday, October 9th, 2011, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 6: Ball Stars at the now defunct GAM Studio (4975 Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90019). Ovahness 6 was a part of REACH LA's Ball Star Weekend, a 4 day series of events that enabled attendees of all ages to dance & gather. Like other Ovahness Balls, admission was free for individuals (particularly LGBT youth of color) who took a free HIV test at REACH LA. Photos provided by REACH LA's Facebook profile; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Ebony (Enyce Chanel at the time); Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
On Saturday, December 17th, 2016, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 11: Legends of the Future at the now defunct 356 S Mission Gallery. Legendary Mother Gia Mizrahi, a black trans model and entertainer, was the hostess of the ball. Evan Kent Mizrahi assisted Gia and Sean with organizing the ball. Starting with Ovahness 11, Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon has tasked a young legend in the LA ballroom community with hosting the Ovahness Balls. Working with young legends in this context has enabled REACH LA to both build young legend's event organizing skills and celebrate young people who have supported REACH LA since 2006. Photos taken from 356 S Mission online archive; Photos taken by: Frank Levert; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Smith; Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
Open to All Runway, Category called for "OTA Runway European or All- American Small vs Tall vs Big vs Drag vs Trans Women vs Trans Men vs Legends The future is uncertain and we don't know what it holds and we can only use our imagination of what it will be like.... well tonight you will end the guessing game and bring us a jaw dropping futuristic effect using unconventional materials. Oh and one more thing, something on your effect has to move... good luck and don't f@&$ it up- 7 Trophies all will battle for $350" On Saturday, December 17th, 2016, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 11: Legends of the Future at the now defunct 356 S Mission Gallery. Legendary Mother Gia Mizrahi, a black trans model and entertainer, was the hostess of the ball. Evan Kent Mizrahi assisted Gia and Sean with organizing the ball. Starting with Ovahness 11, Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon has tasked a young legend in the LA ballroom community with hosting the Ovahness Balls. Working with young legends in this context has enabled REACH LA to both build young legend's event organizing skills and celebrate young people who have supported REACH LA since 2006. Photos taken from 356 S Mission online archive; Photos taken by: Frank Levert; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Smith; Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
Virgin Vogue Battle, Category called for "Let's see who the next top voguer is. Bring it in all white with a touch of red." On Saturday, August 4th, 2007, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 2: America's Next Top Ball Kid at the now defunct Gam Arts Center off of La Brea and Pico Blvd. Youth under 24 were eligible for a refund of the cost of their ticket at the door. Photo provided by REACH LA facebook profile Videographer unknown; Commentator: Legendary Father Taz Ultra Omni; Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
Female Figure Sex Siren, Category called for "bring it like Mystique, don't forget your skull accessory." On Saturday, December 17th, 2016, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 11: Legends of the Future at the now defunct 356 S Mission Gallery. Legendary Mother Gia Mizrahi, a black trans model and entertainer, was the hostess of the ball. Evan Kent Mizrahi assisted Gia and Sean with organizing the ball. Starting with Ovahness 11, Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon has tasked a young legend in the LA ballroom community with hosting the Ovahness Balls. Working with young legends in this context has enabled REACH LA to both build young legend's event organizing skills and celebrate young people who have supported REACH LA since 2006. Photos taken from 356 S Mission online archive; Photos taken by: Frank Levert; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Smith; Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
Each product tag was connected to a piece in the Ovahness Collection. The Ovahness Collection, according to its website, "is a 10-piece capsule collection of originally designed t-shirts, along with an exclusive pair of sunglasses. It was created by a collaboration of urban designers who, like many of us, are affected by HIV/AIDS." The collection pieces feature covert symbols and/or messages related to HIV/AIDS. The first iteration of the Collection was sold exclusively at Macy's Beverly Center Men's Store in L.A., with 100-percent of the sales benefiting REACH LA’s Ovahness Young Men’s HIV Testing and Prevention Program. Art & Understanding, a national online HIV/AIDS publication, wrote about the Collection in its November 2015 issue. To view items in the Ovahness collection, see https://www.ovahnesscollection.com. ; Collection items created by: Sean/Milan™ (creative director/ LGBTQ activist); Evan Kent (Fashion Designer); Jasmine Elaina McCloud; Shawn Frausto (graphic and tattoo artist); Raphael Cole (fashion designer–F.O. T. A.); Francisco Armenta (graphic artist/ LGBTQ activist), Stevie Boi (Eyewear & Fashion Designer), and Manu Horn (fashion designer/make-up artist for M•A•C Cosmetics).
On June 2nd, 2013, the City of West Hollywood Arts' Division hosted its second iteration of "Install: Weho", a series of installations and performances by queer artists, in a parking lot next to the City of West Hollywood Library. Featured artists included Patrisse Cullors (Black Lives Matter Co-founder) and Julie Tolentino (LA-based performance artist). Install: Weho was a part of the City's annual "One City, One Pride," a month-long festival that showcases LGBTQ art in Los Angeles. For Install: Weho, REACH LA dancers performed a contemporary/hip-hop/vogue fusion piece entitled "Night at the Museum." REACH LA staff and volunteers, including Greg Wilson, Terrell Winder, Violet, and Sean/Milan, headed a resource table at the event. This event is the first time that REACH LA participated in One City, One Pride. Each year since Install: Weho, REACH LA has either participated in or hosted a One City, One Pride event. ; Courtesy of: City of West Hollywood Flickr Account; Photo Credit: Joshua Barash; Choreographer: Legendary Father Jamari 007; Featured Dancers: Jamari, John Origines, Legendary Daveione Williams Chanel; To view more images from the event, see https://www.flickr.com/photos/weho/albums/72157633911948689/with/8942540568/
On June 25th, 2016, Calypso Jete 007, local drag performer and frequent RLA collaborator, guided attendees on a tour of a series of pop-up performances. The performances took place at Weho locations like the entrance of RAGE Nightclub and theWest Hollywood Park. Notably, the late Stuart Timmons, author of Gay: LA, attended the event. The REACH LA dancers performed a variety of genres popular among queer of color dancers, including contemporary, vogue, and hip-hop. ; Courtesy of: City of West Hollywood Flickr Account; Photo Credit: Tony Coelho; Creative Director: Sean/Milan™; Tour Guides: Calypso Jete and Daniel Lagunes; Featured Dancers include (but not limited to): Christopher Frazier, Gia Banks, John Origines, Enyce Smith, Jamari Amour, Daveione Williams, Thomas Davis; To view more images from the event, see https://www.flickr.com/photos/weho/albums/72157670313150385/with/27907406646/
REACH LA's "Go West: Sunday Funday Mini Ball" occurred on Sunday, June 25th, 2017 at the RAGE Nightclub in, West Hollywood. This 5-category event embraced both a Cowboy Western and a Summer Fun in the Sun motifs. Adrienne Adams recounts a memory of Legendary Mother Ginger Mizrahi jumping from the second floor of RAGE onto a first floor table during her Legends, Stars, and Statements demonstration.; Photo Credit: Davide Laffe; Event Host: Evan Kent Mizrahi; Featured in Photo: LaDon TJ 007 & Shady 007; Winner of OTA Runway: Legendary Fe 007; Winner of OTA Best Dressed: Marcus Mizrahi; Winner of OTA Vogue Fem: Montay Prodigy
On Saturday, October 18th, 2014, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 9: Your Time to Shine at 356 S Mission Gallery. Ovahness 9 is the first of four times that REACH LA held the Ball at 356. Painter Laura Owens, one of the four co-founders of REACH LA, is also the owner of 356 S Mission Gallery. In search of a venue for the Ball, one of the board members contacted 356 S Mission staff about the possibility of hosting the event at the Gallery. After 20 years of separation from REACH LA, Laura Owens has been able to reconnect with the organization by providing a venue for the Ball.; Michelle 007 is wearing the red wig and black ensemble in the photo;Photos taken by: Frank Levert; Photos provided by REACH LA's Facebook profile; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Ebony (Enyce Chanel at the time); Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™
Ovahness 7 featured a performance by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon, a tradition at the Ovahness Balls. On Saturday, November 3rd, 2012, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 7: Escape from Wonderland at the now defunct GAM Arts Center (4975 West Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90019). Like other Ovahness Balls, admission was free for individuals (particularly LGBT youth of color) who took a free HIV test at REACH LA. Photos provided by REACH LA's Facebook profile; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Ebony (Enyce Chanel at the time); Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
Category: Best Dressed - Best Dressed (Head to Toe)- You've been invited to the Royal dinner from the Red Queen sell it in all Black with a touch of Red ...and remember if it aint Ovah ...it will be over... On Saturday, November 3rd, 2012, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 7: Escape from Wonderland at the now defunct GAM Arts Center (4975 West Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90019). Like other Ovahness Balls, admission was free for individuals (particularly LGBT youth of color) who took a free HIV test at REACH LA. Photos provided by REACH LA's Facebook profile; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Ebony (Enyce Chanel at the time); Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
On June 25th, 2016, Calypso Jete, local drag performer and frequent RLA collaborator, guided attendees on a tour of a series of pop-up performances. The performances took place at Weho locations like the entrance of RAGE Nightclub and theWest Hollywood Park. Notably, the late Stuart Timmons, author of Gay: LA, attended the event. The REACH LA dancers performed a variety of genres popular among queer of color dancers, including contemporary, vogue, and hip-hop. ; Courtesy of: City of West Hollywood Flickr Account; Photo Credit: Tony Coelho; Creative Director: Sean/Milan™; Tour Guides: Calypso Jete and Daniel Lagunes; Featured Dancers include (but not limited to): Christopher Frazier, Gia Banks, John Origines, Enyce Smith, Jamari Amour, Daveione Williams, Thomas Davis; To view more images from the event, see https://www.flickr.com/photos/weho/albums/72157670313150385/with/27907406646/
On June 27th, 2015, REACH LA presented an original theatrical production entitled "Face Over 30" at Fiesta Hall in Plummer Park. The production charts a young black queer man's journey through a religious upbringing, Los Angeles gay nightlife, and eventually the Ballroom Scene. The event took place during One City, One Pride's Day of Theatre. Face Over 30 is the 3rd time REACH LA participated in One City, One Pride. Created by Sean Milan Written by V.a. Patrick Slade and Sean/Milan™ Directed by V.A. Patrick Slade Choreography by Jamari Amour Additional Choreography byThomas Davis and Daveione Williams Starring Xavier Smith, Armond Anderson-Bell, Jamari Amour, Christopher Webb, Gia Banks, Daveione Williams, Zaveon JeQuan, Greg Wilson, Mia Fierce, Delleon Mclin/Calypso Jete; Photo Courtesy of: Sean/Milan™ Facebook Page
REACH LA's "Go West: Sunday Funday Mini Ball" occurred on Sunday, June 25th, 2017 at the RAGE Nightclub in, West Hollywood. This 5-category event embraced both a Cowboy Western and a Summer Fun in the Sun motifs. Evan Kent Mizrahi, featured in the photo, first walked a Ball at Ovahness 3 in 2008; Photo Credit: Davide Laffe; Event Host: Evan Kent Mizrahi; Featured in Photo: Evan Kent Mizrahi; Winner of OTA Runway: Legendary Fe 007; Winner of OTA Best Dressed: Marcus Mizrahi; Winner of OTA Vogue Fem: Montay Prodigy
On November 9th, 2013, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 8: The Haunting at The Factory nightclub in West Hollywood. To Adrienne's knowledge, GAM Arts Center had closed recently and REACH LA had to locate a new venue for their ball function. The Facebook event description reads as "For young men HIV is scary. REACH LA’s mission is to educate young men of color to eliminate the stigma and horror of HIV. OVAHNESS 8: The Haunting is about educating young men of color that they do not have to live in fear of HIV if they are educated about the virus, use protection and get tested regularly. OVAHNESS BALL 8: The Haunting! Get ready for a nightmare that may save your life." Young people received free admission to the event if they took a free HIV test at REACH LA, a recurring feature of each Ovahness Ball. "; Legendary Shay Ebony, an established member of the Iconic House of Ebony, is pictured here during Legends, Stars, and Statements (LSS). Photos provided by REACH LA's Facebook profile; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Ebony (Enyce Chanel at the time); Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™; Photo taken by Unknown
On November 9th, 2013, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 8: The Haunting at The Factory nightclub in West Hollywood. To Adrienne's knowledge, GAM Arts Center had closed recently and REACH LA had to locate a new venue for their ball function. The Facebook event description reads as "For young men HIV is scary. REACH LA’s mission is to educate young men of color to eliminate the stigma and horror of HIV. OVAHNESS 8: The Haunting is about educating young men of color that they do not have to live in fear of HIV if they are educated about the virus, use protection and get tested regularly. OVAHNESS BALL 8: The Haunting! Get ready for a nightmare that may save your life." Young people received free admission to the event if they took a free HIV test at REACH LA, a recurring feature of each Ovahness Ball. "; Legendary Overseer Mike-Mike Ebony is pictured here showcasing his trophy for Schoolboy Realness. Photos provided by REACH LA's Facebook profile; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Ebony (Enyce Chanel at the time); Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™; Photo taken by Unknown
On November 9th, 2013, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 8: The Haunting at The Factory nightclub in West Hollywood. To Adrienne's knowledge, GAM Arts Center had closed recently and REACH LA had to locate a new venue for their ball function. The Facebook event description reads as "For young men HIV is scary. REACH LA’s mission is to educate young men of color to eliminate the stigma and horror of HIV. OVAHNESS 8: The Haunting is about educating young men of color that they do not have to live in fear of HIV if they are educated about the virus, use protection and get tested regularly. OVAHNESS BALL 8: The Haunting! Get ready for a nightmare that may save your life." Young people received free admission to the event if they took a free HIV test at REACH LA, a recurring feature of each Ovahness Ball.; A European Runway participant in featured in the photo . Photos provided by REACH LA's Facebook profile; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Ebony (Enyce Chanel at the time); Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™; Photo taken by Unknown
On Saturday, October 18th, 2014, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 9: Your Time to Shine at 356 S Mission Gallery. Ovahness 9 is the first of four times that REACH LA held the Ball at 356. Painter Laura Owens, one of the four co-founders of REACH LA, is also the owner of 356 S Mission Gallery. In search of a venue for the Ball, one of the board members contacted 356 S Mission staff about the possibility of hosting the event at the Gallery. After 20 years of separation from REACH LA, Laura Owens has been able to reconnect with the organization by providing a venue for the Ball.; Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon performed a mix of Shirley Bassey's "Diamonds are Forever.";Photos taken by: Frank Levert; Photos provided by REACH LA's Facebook profile; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Ebony (Enyce Chanel at the time); Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™
On Saturday, October 18th, 2014, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 9: Your Time to Shine at 356 S Mission Gallery. Ovahness 9 is the first of four times that REACH LA held the Ball at 356. Painter Laura Owens, one of the four co-founders of REACH LA, is also the owner of 356 S Mission Gallery. In search of a venue for the Ball, one of the board members contacted 356 S Mission staff about the possibility of hosting the event at the Gallery. After 20 years of separation from REACH LA, Laura Owens has been able to reconnect with the organization by providing a venue for the Ball.;Photos taken by: Tina June; Photo provided by 356 S Mission website; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Ebony (Enyce Chanel at the time); Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™
Legendary Mother Gia Mizrahi and Legendary Loveli Revlon battle it out. Category: FF Runway - This is your last chance to defeat the Red Queen, make your introduction count! Pump as The White Queen in couture! Don't forget your Crown and your red lip! On Saturday, November 3rd, 2012, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 7: Escape from Wonderland at the now defunct GAM Arts Center (4975 West Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90019). Like other Ovahness Balls, admission was free for individuals (particularly LGBT youth of color) who took a free HIV test at REACH LA. Photos provided by REACH LA's Facebook profile; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Ebony (Enyce Chanel at the time); Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
Category: BQ Senior Sex Siren - Bring it as the Queen’s Sex Slave or it’s off with your head! On Saturday, November 3rd, 2012, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 7: Escape from Wonderland at the now defunct GAM Arts Center (4975 West Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90019). Like other Ovahness Balls, admission was free for individuals (particularly LGBT youth of color) who took a free HIV test at REACH LA. Photos provided by REACH LA's Facebook profile; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Ebony (Enyce Chanel at the time); Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
Schoolboy Realness Battle featuring Legendary Mike-Mike Ebony. Category: Schoolboy Realness - Any Track and Field Event will do…On Sunday, October 9th, 2011, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 6: Ball Stars at the now defunct GAM Studio (4975 Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90019). Ovahness 6 was a part of REACH LA's Ball Star Weekend, a 4 day series of events that enabled attendees of all ages to dance & gather. Like other Ovahness Balls, admission was free for individuals (particularly LGBT youth of color) who took a free HIV test at REACH LA. Photos provided by REACH LA's Facebook profile; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Ebony (Enyce Chanel at the time); Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
Category: Open to All Vogue Performance - The Wiz requests a poster of five bodily fluids that transmit HIV for the Emerald City to behold. Then, if you're not chopped for that, he'll allow you to serve five elements of vogue in gold. On Saturday, July 26th, 2008 REACH LA hosted Ovahness 3: Welcome to the Emerald City at the Gam Art Center (4975 Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90019). Youth under 24 were eligible for a full refund before 10pm. Photos provided by REACH LA's Facebook profile; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Ebony (Enyce Chanel at the time); Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
Legendary Father Jamari 007 (Blahnik at the time) opened up the ball with a show stopping performance featuring many dancers. On Saturday, December 2nd, 2017, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 12: Gothic Playground at the now defunct 356 S Mission Gallery. Legendary Father Jamari 007 (Blahnik at the time) was the host of the ball. O12 is the second Ovahness Ball in which Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon tasked a young legend in the LA Ballroom community to plan and host the function. The Ball was $40 or free if one took a HIV test at REACH LA.; Photos taken from REACH LA's Flickr Website; Photos taken by Davide Laffe; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Smith; Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
Legendary Loveli Revlon, known for FF Sex Siren, walks Legends, Stars, and Statements (LSS). On Saturday, December 2nd, 2017, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 12: Gothic Playground at the now defunct 356 S Mission Gallery. Legendary Father Jamari 007 (Blahnik at the time) was the host of the ball. O12 is the second Ovahness Ball in which Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon tasked a young legend in the LA Ballroom community to plan and host the function. The Ball was $40 or free if one took a HIV test at REACH LA.; Photos taken from REACH LA's Flickr Website; Photos taken by Davide Laffe; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Smith; Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
Icon Devine Chanel, Category Unknown. On Saturday, July 26th, 2008 REACH LA hosted Ovahness 3: Welcome to the Emerald City at the Gam Art Center (4975 Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90019). Youth under 24 were eligible for a full refund before 10pm. Photos provided by REACH LA's Facebook profile; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Ebony (Enyce Chanel at the time); Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
On July 29th, 2006, Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon (Mother Milan Couture at the time) worked with REACH LA to host the first Ovahness Ball at the now defunct GAM Art Center. GAM Art was at 4975 W. Pico Blvd off La Brea and Pico. The event had a five dollar cover. Altamed Inc. had a testing station at the ball from 10pm to 1am. Video taken from Sean/Milan's Youtube channel. Commentator is not listed on the flyer; video taken by unknown.
Stacy Alford, Christopher Blades, and Peter Singleton among those featured in the photo. Photo taken on rooftop of REACH LA. On July 29th, 2006, Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon (Mother Milan Couture at the time) worked with REACH LA to host the first Ovahness Ball at the now defunct GAM Art Center. GAM Art was at 4975 W. Pico Blvd off La Brea and Pico. The event had a five dollar cover. Altamed Inc. had a testing station at the ball from 10pm to 1am; Photo taken from REACH LA Facebook Profile; Commentator is not listed on the flyer; video taken by unknown.
ames St. James, former NY club kid and the award-winning author of "Party Monster" and "Freak Show," goes to REACH LA's annual "Ovahness Ball,." James' youtube video caption reads as "Many ball legends are there - Carmen and Grandfather Hector Xtravaganza walk the runway, as does Luis Xtravaganza, one of Madonna's featured dancers from her "Vogue" music video, Blonde Ambition tour and "Truth or Dare" documentary. Plus, James gets a very special surprise when the ball MC's call him up to walk! On Saturday, July 25th, 2009, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 4: L'acte Final (The Final Act) at the now defunct Gam Art Center off La Brea and Pico. Ovahness 4 is significant in that many members from the New York Chapter of the House of Xtravaganza attended the function. Photos provided by REACH LA's Facebook profile; Photographer unknown; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi; Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
Open to All Vogue Dramatics Battle, Category called for "Dramatic in all red, the battleground is all set for this HIV fight. The T-Cells are low your life is at stake. The infection is prominent so make no mistakes." On Saturday, July 25th, 2009, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 4: L'acte Final (The Final Act) at the now defunct Gam Art Center off La Brea and Pico. Ovahness 4 is significant in that many members from the New York Chapter of the House of Xtravaganza attended the function. Photos provided by REACH LA's Facebook profile; Photographer unknown; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi; Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
House of Allure winning Grand Prize Category that required at least performers from a house to create a production. Legendary Michel'le (now St. Laurent), Legendary Mother Gia (now Mizrahi), Chris Allure, and Lil Tre Allure are featured in the clip. Grand Prize As a House called for "Magic John's AIDS Foundation is looking for a new act to kick-off their campaign. They want one flawless to be the face of their campaign, one runway diva to model their clothing, and one performer to draw in a huge crowd? Does your crowd have what it takes? Come in the color of red, and show the judges that you're helping the cause by protecting yourself sexually." On Saturday, August 4th, 2007, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 2: America's Next Top Ball Kid at the now defunct Gam Arts Center off of La Brea and Pico Blvd. Youth under 24 were eligible for a refund of the cost of their ticket at the door. Video provided by REACH LA youtube video; Videographer: Gina Lamb; Commentator: Legendary Father Taz Ultra Omni; Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
Video featuring Tinkerbell, Star, and Legendary Enyce Smith. Vogue Fem Performance Open to All, Category called for "Knowing your five elements is key, but do you know to protect yourself from HIV? Show the judges you know how in a white and red effect." On Saturday, August 4th, 2007, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 2: America's Next Top Ball Kid at the now defunct Gam Arts Center off of La Brea and Pico Blvd. Youth under 24 were eligible for a refund of the cost of their ticket at the door. Video provided by REACH LA youtube video; Videographer: Gina Lamb; Commentator: Legendary Father Taz Ultra Omni; Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
In 2008 and 2009, the Ovahness Leaders organized a skate party at the World on Wheels Roller Rink, a Mid-City based roller rink popularized in the 80s and 90s. The Fire & Ice Skate Party is the second time that the Ovahness Leaders partnered with World on Wheels to host this event. The first 200 youth who attended the event were eligible for free admission; Photo Courtesy of REACH LA office; Photo Scanned by Occidental students; On-site HIV Testing Provided by: LA Gay and Lesbian Center (currently known as the LA LGBT Center); DJ'ed by Ben Castro / Xtravaganza, a well-known DJ in queer nightlife and longtime friend of Sean/Milan™
Glamorous Awakening was a Mini-Ball hosted by Michel'le Allure (now St. Laurent) and produced by REACH LA. Michel'le is a black trans woman known in the Ballroom Scene as one of the Legendary Faces. Michel'le is currently garnering national attention for her impersonations of Beyonce Knowles. Glamarous Awakening was one of REACH LA's first attempts, aside from the Ovahness Ball, to mobilize the West Coast House and Ballroom Scene around HIV education. Ballroom participants and REACH LA staff have suggested that young ballroom kids at the time such as Enyce Smith and Gia Banks suggested that mini balls would be a successful way to engage their communities. ; Photo Courtesy of REACH LA office; Photo Scanned by Occidental College; Hostess: Legendary Michel'le St. Laurent; Commentator: Selvin Mizrahi; Volunteers: RLA Ovahness Leaders; Funded in part by: LA County Office of AIDS Programs & Policies
REACH LA's "The Ovahness Archives" was presented at West Hollywood Park Auditorium on June 20th, 2014. The interactive tour, curated by Sean Milan/Garcon, guided audience members on a virtual tour of a "Ball," breaks down the categories of vogue and runway, and presents a unique merge of mainstream dance and ballroom influence. This description is provided by Sean/Milan™. The Ovahness Archives is one of REACH LA's many efforts to use history, ballroom demonstrations, and performance to forge connections between ballroom individuals and the larger public. ; Photo Credit: Tony Coelho; Photo Courtesy of: WeHo Arts Facebook Page.Featured Performers: Legendary Ebony Lane, Alfred 'Nacho' Lopez, Prettyboy Redd, Evan Kent Mizrahi, Jaylen 007, Legendary Daveione Williams Chanel, Legendary Father Jamari Amour 007; To view more photos from the event, see https://www.facebook.com/pg/wehoarts/photos/?tab=album&album_id=721648711236424
On November 9th, 2013, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 8: The Haunting at The Factory nightclub in West Hollywood. To Adrienne's knowledge, GAM Arts Center had closed recently and REACH LA had to locate a new venue for their ball function. The Facebook event description reads as "For young men HIV is scary. REACH LA’s mission is to educate young men of color to eliminate the stigma and horror of HIV. OVAHNESS 8: The Haunting is about educating young men of color that they do not have to live in fear of HIV if they are educated about the virus, use protection and get tested regularly. OVAHNESS BALL 8: The Haunting! Get ready for a nightmare that may save your life." Young people received free admission to the event if they took a free HIV test at REACH LA, a recurring feature of each Ovahness Ball. " Legendary Enyce Ebony performed a choreographed routine alongside two featured dancers during the ball ; Photos provided by REACH LA's Facebook profile; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Ebony (Enyce Chanel at the time); Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™; Photo taken by Unknown
On November 9th, 2013, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 8: The Haunting at The Factory nightclub in West Hollywood. To Adrienne's knowledge, GAM Arts Center had closed recently and REACH LA had to locate a new venue for their ball function. The Facebook event description reads as "For young men HIV is scary. REACH LA’s mission is to educate young men of color to eliminate the stigma and horror of HIV. OVAHNESS 8: The Haunting is about educating young men of color that they do not have to live in fear of HIV if they are educated about the virus, use protection and get tested regularly. OVAHNESS BALL 8: The Haunting! Get ready for a nightmare that may save your life." Young people received free admission to the event if they took a free HIV test at REACH LA, a recurring feature of each Ovahness Ball. "; Legendary Daveione Chanel (formerly a St. Laurent) is pictured walking his 10's for European Runway Photos provided by REACH LA's Facebook profile; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Ebony (Enyce Chanel at the time); Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™; Photo taken by Unknown
On November 9th, 2013, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 8: The Haunting at The Factory nightclub in West Hollywood. To Adrienne's knowledge, GAM Arts Center had closed recently and REACH LA had to locate a new venue for their ball function. The Facebook event description reads as "For young men HIV is scary. REACH LA’s mission is to educate young men of color to eliminate the stigma and horror of HIV. OVAHNESS 8: The Haunting is about educating young men of color that they do not have to live in fear of HIV if they are educated about the virus, use protection and get tested regularly. OVAHNESS BALL 8: The Haunting! Get ready for a nightmare that may save your life." Young people received free admission to the event if they took a free HIV test at REACH LA, a recurring feature of each Ovahness Ball. "; Legendary Loveli Revlon is pictured hanging on the nightclub's mounted beam; Capri 007 is the other sex siren participant in the photo Photo taken by Unknown
On Saturday, October 18th, 2014, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 9: Your Time to Shine at 356 S Mission Gallery. Ovahness 9 is the first of four times that REACH LA held the Ball at 356. Painter Laura Owens, one of the four co-founders of REACH LA, is also the owner of 356 S Mission Gallery. In search of a venue for the Ball, one of the board members contacted 356 S Mission staff about the possibility of hosting the event at the Gallery. After 20 years of separation from REACH LA, Laura Owens has been able to reconnect with the organization by providing a venue for the Ball.; Icon Duke Mizrahi & Jhon Jon Garcon are pictured in the photo;Photos taken by: Frank Levert; Photos provided by REACH LA's Facebook profile; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Ebony (Enyce Chanel at the time); Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™
On Saturday, October 18th, 2014, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 9: Your Time to Shine at 356 S Mission Gallery. Ovahness 9 is the first of four times that REACH LA held the Ball at 356. Painter Laura Owens, one of the four co-founders of REACH LA, is also the owner of 356 S Mission Gallery. In search of a venue for the Ball, one of the board members contacted 356 S Mission staff about the possibility of hosting the event at the Gallery. After 20 years of separation from REACH LA, Laura Owens has been able to reconnect with the organization by providing a venue for the Ball.; Photo taken by: Frank Levert; Photos provided by REACH LA's Facebook profile; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Ebony (Enyce Chanel at the time); Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™
On Saturday, October 18th, 2014, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 9: Your Time to Shine at 356 S Mission Gallery. Ovahness 9 is the first of four times that REACH LA held the Ball at 356. Painter Laura Owens, one of the four co-founders of REACH LA, is also the owner of 356 S Mission Gallery. In search of a venue for the Ball, one of the board members contacted 356 S Mission staff about the possibility of hosting the event at the Gallery. After 20 years of separation from REACH LA, Laura Owens has been able to reconnect with the organization by providing a venue for the Ball.; Photos taken by: Frank Levert; Photos provided by REACH LA's Facebook profile; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Ebony (Enyce Chanel at the time); Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™
On Saturday, October 18th, 2014, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 9: Your Time to Shine at 356 S Mission Gallery. Ovahness 9 is the first of four times that REACH LA held the Ball at 356. Painter Laura Owens, one of the four co-founders of REACH LA, is also the owner of 356 S Mission Gallery. In search of a venue for the Ball, one of the board members contacted 356 S Mission staff about the possibility of hosting the event at the Gallery. After 20 years of separation from REACH LA, Laura Owens has been able to reconnect with the organization by providing a venue for the Ball.; Legendary Michel'le St. Laurent is pictured competing in Female Figure category;Photos taken by Tina June; Photos provided by 356 S Mission Gallery's website; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Ebony (Enyce Chanel at the time); Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™
On Saturday, October 18th, 2014, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 9: Your Time to Shine at 356 S Mission Gallery. Ovahness 9 is the first of four times that REACH LA held the Ball at 356. Painter Laura Owens, one of the four co-founders of REACH LA, is also the owner of 356 S Mission Gallery. In search of a venue for the Ball, one of the board members contacted 356 S Mission staff about the possibility of hosting the event at the Gallery. After 20 years of separation from REACH LA, Laura Owens has been able to reconnect with the organization by providing a venue for the Ball.; Michael Roberson, a public health practitioner and ballroom historian based in New York City, received a Community Life Saver Award, while Legendary Father Jamari 007 (Blahnik at the time & Virgil Meakins received Community Outreach Awards l;Photos taken by: Frank Levert; Photos provided by REACH LA's Facebook profile; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Ebony (Enyce Chanel at the time); Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™
On November 9th, 2013, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 8: The Haunting at The Factory nightclub in West Hollywood. To Adrienne's knowledge, GAM Arts Center had closed recently and REACH LA had to locate a new venue for their ball function. The Facebook event description reads as "For young men HIV is scary. REACH LA’s mission is to educate young men of color to eliminate the stigma and horror of HIV. OVAHNESS 8: The Haunting is about educating young men of color that they do not have to live in fear of HIV if they are educated about the virus, use protection and get tested regularly. OVAHNESS BALL 8: The Haunting! Get ready for a nightmare that may save your life." Young people received free admission to the event if they took a free HIV test at REACH LA, a recurring feature of each Ovahness Ball. "; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Ebony (Enyce Chanel at the time); Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™; Photo taken by Unknown
Legendary Casanova Ebony & Greg Garcon facing off. Category: All-American Runway - As the March Hare you are quite over worked and over-caffeinated. Bring us your controlled walk and a fashionably frazzled preppy look with ears and teacup… On Saturday, November 3rd, 2012, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 7: Escape from Wonderland at the now defunct GAM Arts Center (4975 West Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90019). Like other Ovahness Balls, admission was free for individuals (particularly LGBT youth of color) who took a free HIV test at REACH LA. Photos provided by REACH LA's Facebook profile; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Ebony (Enyce Chanel at the time); Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
Category: European Runway - Bring The Maddest Hatter to life...don't forget your OVAH Hat!!! On Saturday, November 3rd, 2012, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 7: Escape from Wonderland at the now defunct GAM Arts Center (4975 West Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90019). Like other Ovahness Balls, admission was free for individuals (particularly LGBT youth of color) who took a free HIV test at REACH LA. Photos provided by REACH LA's Facebook profile; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Ebony (Enyce Chanel at the time); Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
On Sunday, October 9th, 2011, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 6: Ball Stars at the now defunct GAM Studio (4975 Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90019). Ovahness 6 was a part of REACH LA's Ball Star Weekend, a 4 day series of events that enabled attendees of all ages to dance & gather. Like other Ovahness Balls, admission was free for individuals (particularly LGBT youth of color) who took a free HIV test at REACH LA. Photos provided by REACH LA's Facebook profile; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Ebony (Enyce Chanel at the time); Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
On Sunday, October 9th, 2011, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 6: Ball Stars at the now defunct GAM Studio (4975 Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90019). Ovahness 6 was a part of REACH LA's Ball Star Weekend, a 4 day series of events that enabled attendees of all ages to dance & gather. Like other Ovahness Balls, admission was free for individuals (particularly LGBT youth of color) who took a free HIV test at REACH LA. ; Photos provided by REACH LA's Facebook profile; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Ebony (Enyce Chanel at the time); Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
Icon Commentator Jack Mizrahi walks LSS before taking the mic for commentating. On Sunday, October 9th, 2011, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 6: Ball Stars at the now defunct GAM Studio (4975 Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90019). Ovahness 6 was a part of REACH LA's Ball Star Weekend, a 4 day series of events that enabled attendees of all ages to dance & gather. Like other Ovahness Balls, admission was free for individuals (particularly LGBT youth of color) who took a free HIV test at REACH LA. ; Photos provided by REACH LA's Facebook profile; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Ebony (Enyce Chanel at the time); Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
Category: Female Figure Runway - News Anchor Woman in a sickening suit… microphone a must. On Sunday, October 9th, 2011, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 6: Ball Stars at the now defunct GAM Studio (4975 Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90019). Ovahness 6 was a part of REACH LA's Ball Star Weekend, a 4 day series of events that enabled attendees of all ages to dance & gather. Like other Ovahness Balls, admission was free for individuals (particularly LGBT youth of color) who took a free HIV test at REACH LA. Photos provided by REACH LA's Facebook profile; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Ebony (Enyce Chanel at the time); Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
Feat. Legendary Enyce Ebony holding the mic as he vogues. Category Performance (OTA) Dramatics or Soft… Bring it as a Gymnastics Gold Medalist would…On Sunday, October 9th, 2011, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 6: Ball Stars at the now defunct GAM Studio (4975 Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90019). Ovahness 6 was a part of REACH LA's Ball Star Weekend, a 4 day series of events that enabled attendees of all ages to dance & gather. Like other Ovahness Balls, admission was free for individuals (particularly LGBT youth of color) who took a free HIV test at REACH LA. Photos provided by REACH LA's Facebook profile; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Ebony (Enyce Chanel at the time); Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
Category: Virgin Runway - Pump not only like, but in a pony effect… On Sunday, October 9th, 2011, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 6: Ball Stars at the now defunct GAM Studio (4975 Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90019). Ovahness 6 was a part of REACH LA's Ball Star Weekend, a 4 day series of events that enabled attendees of all ages to dance & gather. Like other Ovahness Balls, admission was free for individuals (particularly LGBT youth of color) who took a free HIV test at REACH LA. Photos provided by REACH LA's Facebook profile; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Ebony (Enyce Chanel at the time); Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
Legendary Mother Gia Mizrahi (Allure at the time) stomps the runway as Dorothy. Category: OTA Runway - Dorothy v. Scarecrow v. Lion v. Tin Man v. Ms. One v. Glenda v. Evilene... With a fierce sign protesting the invasion of HIV on our scene. On Saturday, July 26th, 2008 REACH LA hosted Ovahness 3: Welcome to the Emerald City at the Gam Art Center (4975 Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90019). Youth under 24 were eligible for a full refund before 10pm. Photos provided by REACH LA's Facebook profile; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Ebony (Enyce Chanel at the time); Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
Category: Open to All Vogue Performance - The Wiz requests a poster of five bodily fluids that transmit HIV for the Emerald City to behold. Then, if you're not chopped for that, he'll allow you to serve five elements of vogue in gold. On Saturday, July 26th, 2008 REACH LA hosted Ovahness 3: Welcome to the Emerald City at the Gam Art Center (4975 Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90019). Youth under 24 were eligible for a full refund before 10pm. Photos provided by REACH LA's Facebook profile; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Ebony (Enyce Chanel at the time); Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
Jon Leezy Energi pictured. Old Way v. New Way, Category called for "The Skeleton." On Saturday, December 2nd, 2017, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 12: Gothic Playground at the now defunct 356 S Mission Gallery. Legendary Father Jamari 007 (Blahnik at the time) was the host of the ball. O12 is the second Ovahness Ball in which Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon tasked a young legend in the LA Ballroom community to plan and host the function. The Ball was $40 or free if one took a HIV test at REACH LA.; Photos taken from REACH LA's Flickr Website; Photos taken by Davide Laffe; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Smith; Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
Evan Kent Mizrahi pictured. BQ European Runway called for "Gothic Couture, Runway rocks and so should you !!! Serve the runway tonight as the mistress of the underworld in a High Fashion Gothic Couture look" On Saturday, December 2nd, 2017, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 12: Gothic Playground at the now defunct 356 S Mission Gallery. Legendary Father Jamari 007 (Blahnik at the time) was the host of the ball. O12 is the second Ovahness Ball in which Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon tasked a young legend in the LA Ballroom community to plan and host the function. The Ball was $40 or free if one took a HIV test at REACH LA.; Photos taken from REACH LA's Flickr Website; Photos taken by Davide Laffe; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Smith; Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
Francisco "Cisco" Ruelas 007, Virgin Vogue. Category called for "The Black Cat;" On Saturday, December 2nd, 2017, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 12: Gothic Playground at the now defunct 356 S Mission Gallery. Legendary Father Jamari 007 (Blahnik at the time) was the host of the ball. O12 is the second Ovahness Ball in which Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon tasked a young legend in the LA Ballroom community to plan and host the function. The Ball was $40 or free if one took a HIV test at REACH LA.; Photos taken from REACH LA's Flickr Website; Photos taken by Davide Laffe; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Smith; Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
Daphne Mizrahi, Female Figure Runway 10s. Category called for In the name of all things twisted bring me high fashion witchery and don't forget your ovah fedora {think Salem - Google ‘Goth Witch’} ." On Saturday, December 2nd, 2017, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 12: Gothic Playground at the now defunct 356 S Mission Gallery. Legendary Father Jamari 007 (Blahnik at the time) was the host of the ball. O12 is the second Ovahness Ball in which Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon tasked a young legend in the LA Ballroom community to plan and host the function. The Ball was $40 or free if one took a HIV test at REACH LA.; Photos taken from REACH LA's Flickr Website; Photos taken by Davide Laffe; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Smith; Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
Skater Boy Realness, "SchoolBoy Vs Butch: Punk Skater He was A Skater Boy He said See You later Boy In a Rock Graphic T-shirt and Wallet chain." On Saturday, December 2nd, 2017, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 12: Gothic Playground at the now defunct 356 S Mission Gallery. Legendary Father Jamari 007 (Blahnik at the time) was the host of the ball. O12 is the second Ovahness Ball in which Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon tasked a young legend in the LA Ballroom community to plan and host the function. The Ball was $40 or free if one took a HIV test at REACH LA.; Photos taken from REACH LA's Flickr Website; Photos taken by Davide Laffe; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Smith; Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
Legendary (possibly icon?) Lady Blahnik, Female Figure Sex Siren. Category called for "Elvira, Tonight it's your Night to step into the dark side as the Mistress of the Night." On Saturday, December 2nd, 2017, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 12: Gothic Playground at the now defunct 356 S Mission Gallery. Legendary Father Jamari 007 (Blahnik at the time) was the host of the ball. O12 is the second Ovahness Ball in which Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon tasked a young legend in the LA Ballroom community to plan and host the function. The Ball was $40 or free if one took a HIV test at REACH LA.; Photos taken from REACH LA's Flickr Website; Photos taken by Davide Laffe; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Smith; Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
Packrat Lanvin v. Calypso Jete, Female Figure Vogue Performance, Category called for "The Craft, I Bind You Nancy From Doing harm against others and harm against yourself! Bring it as one of the craft sisters." On Saturday, December 2nd, 2017, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 12: Gothic Playground at the now defunct 356 S Mission Gallery. Legendary Father Jamari 007 (Blahnik at the time) was the host of the ball. O12 is the second Ovahness Ball in which Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon tasked a young legend in the LA Ballroom community to plan and host the function. The Ball was $40 or free if one took a HIV test at REACH LA.; Photos taken from REACH LA's Flickr Website; Photos taken by Davide Laffe; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Smith; Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
TJ LaDon 007, BQ Vogue Fem 10s, Category called for The Soul Taker Tonight instead of snatching wigs, you'll be snatching souls as the VooDoo Doctor." On Saturday, December 2nd, 2017, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 12: Gothic Playground at the now defunct 356 S Mission Gallery. Legendary Father Jamari 007 (Blahnik at the time) was the host of the ball. O12 is the second Ovahness Ball in which Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon tasked a young legend in the LA Ballroom community to plan and host the function. The Ball was $40 or free if one took a HIV test at REACH LA.; Photos taken from REACH LA's Flickr Website; Photos taken by Davide Laffe; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Smith; Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
All-American Runway, Category called for "Punk Never Dies, So Live Out loud, Then Rip The Runway to Shreds in a Kilt." On Saturday, December 2nd, 2017, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 12: Gothic Playground at the now defunct 356 S Mission Gallery. Legendary Father Jamari 007 (Blahnik at the time) was the host of the ball. O12 is the second Ovahness Ball in which Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon tasked a young legend in the LA Ballroom community to plan and host the function. The Ball was $40 or free if one took a HIV test at REACH LA.; Photos taken from REACH LA's Flickr Website; Photos taken by Davide Laffe; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Smith; Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
Open to All Runway, Category called for " Category: OTA Runway - Dorothy v. Scarecrow v. Lion v. Tin Man v. Ms. One v. Glenda v. Evilene... With a fierce sign protesting the invasion of HIV on our scene. " On Saturday, July 26th, 2008 REACH LA hosted Ovahness 3: Welcome to the Emerald City at the Gam Art Center (4975 Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90019). Youth under 24 were eligible for a full refund before 10pm. Photos provided by REACH LA's Facebook profile; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi and Legendary Enyce Ebony (Enyce Chanel at the time); Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
Legendary Mother Gia Mizrahi walking open to all runway. Legendary Daveione Chanel in the background. Category called for "Send in the Clowns, Send in the Clowns: Advertise REACH LA's new HIV testing site, let everyone know because it might save a life." On Saturday, July 25th, 2009, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 4: L'acte Final (The Final Act) at the now defunct Gam Art Center off La Brea and Pico. Ovahness 4 is significant in that many members from the New York Chapter of the House of Xtravaganza attended the function. Photos provided by REACH LA's Facebook profile; Photographer unknown; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi; Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
Legendary Daveione Chanel in his look for European Runway. Category called for "Send in the Clowns, Send in the Clowns: Advertise REACH LA's new HIV testing site, let everyone know because it might save a life." On Saturday, July 25th, 2009, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 4: L'acte Final (The Final Act) at the now defunct Gam Art Center off La Brea and Pico. Ovahness 4 is significant in that many members from the New York Chapter of the House of Xtravaganza attended the function. Photos provided by REACH LA's Facebook profile; Photographer unknown; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi; Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
Legendary Fe 007 (left) and Legendary Trey Rodeo in their look for European v. American Runway. Category called for "Send in the Clowns, Send in the Clowns: Advertise REACH LA's new HIV testing site, let everyone know because it might save a life." On Saturday, July 25th, 2009, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 4: L'acte Final (The Final Act) at the now defunct Gam Art Center off La Brea and Pico. Ovahness 4 is significant in that many members from the New York Chapter of the House of Xtravaganza attended the function. Photos provided by REACH LA's Facebook profile; Photographer unknown; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi; Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
On Saturday, July 25th, 2009, REACH LA hosted Ovahness 4: L'acte Final (The Final Act) at the now defunct Gam Art Center off La Brea and Pico. Ovahness 4 is significant in that many members from the New York Chapter of the House of Xtravaganza attended the function. Photos provided by REACH LA's Facebook profile; Photographer unknown; Commentated by Icon Jack Mizrahi; Beats provided by DJ Ben Xtravaganza; Event curated by Legendary Sean/Milan™ Garcon
Daveione Williams, one of the 6 participants in REACH LA's Dance Collective, created a choreography video that uses movement to trace the intimacy and alienation that young black lovers experience. Williams, a legendary European Runway walker, has worked with REACH LA since 2006. The REACH LA Dance Collective, funded by the California Arts Council and Los Angeles County Arts Commission, provided 6 Black gay and trans dancers with opportunities to develop their business and artistic skills. This video is one of four videos produced under the Dance Collective. Since 2006, Sean/Milan™ and REACH LA have created platforms for House and Ballroom scene members to display their talents outside of the subculture.; Artistic Direction & Choreography: Daveione Williams; Cinematographer: Q Burdette; Featured Dancers; John Origines & Krystal Hicks; Produced by: REACH LA; Funded by: California Arts Council & Los Angeles County Arts Commission
A spin-off of the well-known Vogue (K)nights New York, Vogue Nights LA is a monthly 5-category ball at Club Cobra in North Hollywood. The Shady Gang, host of the event, is a 4 person Dance group and ballroom enterprise comprised of Legendary Father Dashaun Lanvin, Legendary Father Jamari 007, Carlos Lanvin and Packrat Lanvin. The Shady Gang hosts Vogue Nights LA every last Wednesday of the month as a means to bring the West Coast Ballroom Scene together more frequently. The video shown is a highlight of the "Legends, Stars and Statements" at one of the first Vogue Nights. REACH LA provides funding, condoms, and HIV-education resources for Vogue Nights. Video Courtesy of : Francisco 'Cisco' Ruelas 007; Commentator: Legendary Dashaun Lanvin (Featured on MTV's America's Best Dance Crew); Featured in Legends, Stars, and Statements: Hurricane Khan, Tre D Chanel , TJ Ebony, Torie Blahnik, Roxy Prodigy, Carlos Lanvin, Packrat Lanvin, Legendary Father Jamari 007
In collaboration with REACH LA, Gina Lamb (REACH LA Employee 1999 - 2009) and Lamb's Pitzer College students, legendary commentator and voguer Enyce Smith hosted a talk show entitled Beyond the Runway for three seasons. Beyond the Runway "features members of the House and Ball community sharing their stories about living as African American in the LGBT community and how to overcome obstacles of discrimination and poverty. This weekly talk show advocates HIV awareness and prevention, as well as offering a glimpse into the lives of of some truly extraordinary people... the stars, statements and legends in the West Coast Ball Scene!" (Source: Beyond the Runway Youtube Description) The series is filmed in REACH LA's Dance Studio. Sean/Milan™ of REACH LA named the youtube series and assisted with the framing of the youtube series. This particular video is an episode focused on the Ovahness Ball. For the complete youtube series, see https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8bGt-mWmd7ziapS1yEmOpw/featured?pbjreload=10.
REACH LA's 2006 short documentary, I'm Still Here, charts the creativity and personal narratives of individuals in the Los Angeles House and Ballroom Scene. The documentary won Fan Favorite award at the 2006 Outfest Fusion LGBT People of Color Festival; Executive Produced by: Sean/Milan™, Tyrone Carter, and Gina Lamb; Filmed by REACH LA's Media Lab participants, Pitzer students, and Gina Lamb; Courtesy of Gina Lamb's Youtube Page
Aljazeera, a world news publication and tv channel, extensively covered REACH LA's Ovahness Ball 9: Bring it in 2014. The article, which you can access by scrolling down on the feline performance picture, both discusses how REACH LA connects the House and Ballroom scene to both arts and health initiatives and provides a glimpse into the production of the Ovahness Ball.; Cover Photo for article: Legendary Father Jamari 007's Realness with a Twist tens performance.