Strike A Pose: Ralph Escamillan On The Power & Legacy Of The Posh Ball

Equal parts runway spectacle, cultural tribute, and community celebration, the Posh Ball is back and bigger than ever. Now in its eighth year, Van Vogue Jam’s flagship event returns to downtown Vancouver on July 26 with all the attitude, artistry, and unapologetic joy that Ballroom is known for. We caught up with VVJ founder and Executive Director Ralph Escamillan to talk about what makes the 2025 edition so special—from pop culture-inspired categories to the event’s growing impact as a space for QTBIPOC expression and resistance. —Noa Nichol

Let’s start with a pose—if this year’s Posh Ball had a signature look, what would it be and why?

I think this year’s look would give red carpet—naturally.

You’ve described Ballroom as a space of “resistance and radical joy.” How do you balance those two energies when curating an event like the Posh Ball?

I think what brings balance are the interconnecting relationships between members—whether they’re siblings from different Kiki houses but part of the same mainstream house, co-workers outside of Ballroom, or even dealing with issues off the floor. The Ball becomes a space where all those intricacies can coexist, and where we’re able to meet each other exactly where we are.

This year’s categories are full-on cinematic fantasy—from Pulp Fiction to The Wizard of Oz. What inspired the theme and how do you think film fits into Ballroom expression?

Ballroom has long been a point of inspiration for film—whether for stylists, costumers, makeup artists, or directors. This year’s theme is about shining a light on the magic of movies through one of the most dynamic and innovative spaces I know: Ballroom.

With icons like Dashaun Basquiat, MikeQ, and Jack Mizrahi joining the lineup, how do you go about building a night that honours both legacy and local community?

We’re still such a growing scene in the Kiki community, and this is only the second Mainstream Ball on the West Coast of Canada—so having such important figures from the Ballroom scene here is a major catalyst for our local growth. The Kiki scene is where a lot of the mainstream talent begins, so I’m excited to see our regular walkers challenged by this icon-studded night, while also getting the chance to showcase the strength and creativity of our local Ballroom scene to such an esteemed panel.

The Posh Ball draws hundreds of creatives from across North America—what’s the vibe like backstage before the categories hit the floor? Any pre-ball rituals or superstitions?

I can only speak for myself—but as a walker (competitor), I have to make sure I eat right, get a sweat in, and spend time with my house to keep my mood up and spirits high. Once you step into a ball, anything is possible. So for me, it’s vital to stay grounded, have my house close by, and keep my support system within reach.

Ballroom is rooted in history but always pushing forward. What do you hope a newcomer to Posh Ball walks away feeling or understanding for the first time?

Listen—Ballroom is a lot. I’d never presume a first-time spectator will walk away fully understanding everything that just happened. You can’t just read up, study, or watch a show to prepare for the experience of an actual ball. But what I do think they’ll walk away with is a sense of sheer talent and awe for what our community brings. And hopefully, that sparks a curiosity to learn more about our scene after the night ends.

From sponsorships to category design, how do you ensure the event stays unapologetically QTBIPOC-centred, even as it grows in scale and popularity?

The growth of Ballroom in any scene is inevitable—but true Ballroom community is about being present, active, and aware of your relationship to the culture. And I really believe our scene reflects that.

I always say: Read yourself before Ballroom reads you. The elders in our community are our toughest critics, and if we’re not doing it right—trust and believe, we’ll hear about it.

Finally, if Posh Ball 2025 were a movie, what would the title be—and who would play you?

Honestly, I’d say Triangle of Sadness—just for the sheer drama and chaos. And obviously, I’d be played by Philippine acting legend Dolly de Leon.