"The Alexander Ball" (2022), a documentary directed by Jessica Magro, is a heartfelt and immersive observational film that shines a spotlight on the Meanjin ballroom scene, offering viewers an inside look at the lives of queer people of colour, with a particular focus on the experiences of trans women. The documentary centers on Ella Ganza, a Samoan-Māori-Australian trans woman of colour and the House Mother of one of the most prominent ballroom houses in Meanjin (the First Nations name for Brisbane).
The film follows Ella and her ballroom family as they prepare for one of the biggest pride events of the year, The Alexander Ball. The documentary is a deeply emotional and vibrant portrayal of the resilience, joy, and strength found within the queer community of colour, especially among trans women. It presents a fascinating glimpse into a subculture that has existed for decades but has not always received the visibility it deserves. The Alexander Ball offers a compelling snapshot of how ballroom culture, originally born in the streets of Brooklyn, New York, has evolved and taken root in Australia, shaping a unique and meaningful space for self-expression, identity, and community.
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At the heart of "The Alexander Ball" is Ella Ganza, a celebrated figure in Meanjin's ballroom scene. Ella, a trans woman, represents both the struggle and the triumph of being a person of colour in a world that often marginalizes her. As the House Mother of her ballroom family, she provides guidance, mentorship, and love to those around her. Ella's role as a leader in the ballroom community is not just about being a figurehead, but about creating a safe space for people to express themselves authentically, regardless of their gender identity or cultural background. The film delves into Ella's personal journey and the immense challenges she faces as a trans woman of colour. Her story resonates deeply with viewers as it highlights the perseverance needed to survive in a world where transphobia, racism, and discrimination intersect. Ella’s success in the ballroom scene serves as a testament to the power of community, resilience, and the importance of safe spaces for marginalized individuals. One particularly poignant moment in the documentary occurs when Ella reflects on the sense of belonging she has found in ballroom culture. She talks about how ballroom is a space where trans people, particularly trans women of colour, can exist unapologetically. This space allows them to express their identities without fear of judgment or violence, offering both a refuge and a platform for their talents to shine.
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The Meanjin ballroom scene, where the documentary is set, is part of a global phenomenon rooted in ballroom culture, which originated in Brooklyn, New York, during the early 20th century. Ballroom was initially created by Black and Latinx queer people, providing them with a space to perform, compete, and showcase their talents in an environment that was more accepting than the mainstream LGBTQ+ spaces, which often marginalized queer people of colour. As Joshua Taliani, a queer Indigenous man and the House Father in the documentary, explains during a Q&A after the film’s screening, ballroom became a sanctuary for those who faced oppression in both their own communities and the wider society. Taliani touches on the intersectional challenges faced by many in the ballroom community: “In mob, you experience homophobia. In the gay scene, you experience racism. And then you find Ballroom, and you find your place.” Ballroom offers a space where marginalized individuals - especially queer and trans people of colour - can express themselves freely without fear of discrimination.
"The Alexander Ball" illustrates the importance of ballroom not only as a performance art but also as a vital community. It is here that people find their chosen family, a group that offers both emotional support and practical help. Ballroom houses, which are organized families within the scene, serve as a second home for many. They offer mentorship, protection, and a sense of belonging in a world where many members of the queer community face rejection or hostility. The documentary showcases how the Meanjin ballroom scene has begun to carve out its own distinct identity, one that builds on the history of American ballroom culture while also reflecting the unique experiences of Australian queer, Indigenous, and Pasifika communities. The scene’s growth and development in Meanjin are vital to understanding the broader cultural shift towards inclusion and representation in Australian LGBTQ+ spaces.
One of the most compelling themes in "The Alexander Ball" is the profound significance of ballroom culture for trans women, particularly those of colour. The documentary provides a window into the lives of these women, who often face heightened levels of violence, discrimination, and marginalization. A poignant moment in the film comes when a young Femme Queen (a ballroom term for a trans woman) addresses the audience during a Q&A session. She speaks about the immense challenges she faces as a trans woman of colour, noting that simply getting out of bed every day is an achievement in itself. She goes on to describe how ballroom has provided her with not just a community, but a support system that offers protection and mentorship in a world where transphobia is rampant. As the documentary highlights, the suicide rates among trans women, particularly those of colour, are disproportionately high, and the violence they endure is an ever-present threat. Ballroom, however, offers a counter-narrative to this harsh reality. It provides a space where trans women can thrive, be celebrated for their talents, and form strong bonds of sisterhood with other women who understand their struggles. The emphasis on protecting trans women, especially trans women of colour, is a central theme in the film, and the documentary calls for greater awareness and advocacy to safeguard their lives.
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"The Alexander Ball" addresses the challenges and adversities faced by the ballroom community, it is far from a gloomy or somber film. Instead, it is a vibrant and uplifting celebration of resilience, talent, and joy. The documentary showcases the stunning performances, creativity, and artistry that define the ballroom scene, with breathtaking dance routines, voguing, and fashion taking center stage. The film’s celebratory tone is infused with the energy of the participants, who embody the spirit of defiance, strength, and joy that comes with being unapologetically oneself. The performances at The Alexander Ball are more than just competitions; they are acts of liberation and self-expression. The documentary allows viewers to witness these performances in all their glory, highlighting the skill and artistry of the ballroom community. In addition to the performances, "The Alexander Ball" also emphasizes the joy and camaraderie that exists within the ballroom houses. The relationships between House members are heartwarming and full of love. The sense of family that is cultivated within these houses provides not just emotional support but a sense of purpose and empowerment.
"The Alexander Ball" is a groundbreaking documentary that offers an essential glimpse into a world that is often overlooked. It provides a platform for marginalized voices - especially trans women of colour - while showcasing the beauty, creativity, and resilience that are central to the ballroom community. However, at just 22 minutes long, the film feels like only a small window into this vibrant and diverse subculture. There is a growing call for more visibility and recognition for both the documentary and the Meanjin ballroom scene. A feature-length film or even a reality series would allow for a deeper exploration of the lives and stories of the people involved, giving them the space they deserve to share their narratives with a broader audience. "The Alexander Ball" is a powerful and necessary work, and it deserves more screen time and a larger platform to reach people across the world.
In conclusion, Jessica Magro’s "The Alexander Ball" is a remarkable and important documentary that celebrates the resilience, creativity, and joy of the Meanjin ballroom scene, with a particular focus on the experiences of Samoan-Māori-Australian trans woman of colour, Ella Ganza. Through its portrayal of the people involved in the scene, the documentary offers an intimate look at a subculture that is often ignored and showcases the importance of ballroom as a space of acceptance, protection, and empowerment for queer and trans people of colour. This documentary is a must-watch for anyone interested in understanding the intersection of gender, race, and community in today’s world.
Image credits: YouTube
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