Strike a pose!
Voguing is a style developed in the 1980ies and is characterised by poses, similar to the ones of photo model poses with some influences from the Harlem ballrooms of the 1930ies. Characteristics are formation of lines, symmetry, and precision in the execution of such formations and graceful, fluid-like action. Since the founding of Vogue Evolution in 2008 in New York, Voguing became very popular.
“In 1980 I was introduced to Vogue by accident. I met Willi Ninja in Washington Square Park after coming from the LOFT, (a club founded by David Mancuso). We all back then just danced in the street after the party was over Sunday afternoon. David Mancuso took me to my first gay club. The dancing was real electric and I said to myself: ‘I gotta learn this shit!’. And I've been Voguing ever since.
Life is the Club. The Club in my day was the safe haven for all us ‘misfits’ that just didn't fit in society’s mould. I was fortunate to realise that you can be ‘in’ the scene, but not ‘of’ the scene. All Social Dance forms are important and relevant. It is the voice of today's youth as it was generations before. Because it is real, it will have real perils if one doesn't pay attention. My quest, so to speak, is to share a little of my life with you and hope that one will enjoy the beauty of being connected in the spirit of being free.
The focus of this class will be on proper posture, correct body vocabulary, motivation (meaning individual characterisations), controlling to be in the moment, and organic musicality. I will introduce Old Way Vogue (male vogue), New Way Vogue and Vogue Femme.”
Archie Burnett
