Class spotlight: vogue with rylee

Rylee is a force to be reckoned with in the Vogue community. She is the mother of the Philadelphia chapter of the iconic House of Prodigy. Rylee makes sure her students know the history, importance and culture of Vogue in her classes at UMA. Don't miss out on classes with Rylee y'all! Learn more from Rylee below!

Hear from Rylee about Vogue!

-Tell us about the history of Vogue

Voguing started in the late 60s/Early 70s in the Underground Ball scene of Harlem, NY coming from the Black and Brown LGBTQ+ communities. Inspired by models off of Vogue magazine, people started emulating the poses to music. We know that as Pop, Dip, and Spin or Old Way now. At UMA, we mainly learn and practice Vogue Femme. Vogue Femme came up in the 90s. While Vogue Femme still incorporates the posing, we see a lot more fluidity and femininity incorporated into the movement. Vogue is a form of protest and it is important to acknowledge the responsibility it takes to enter the Ball scene. By responsibility I mean in terms of being aware of Patriarchy, White Supremacy, and Homo/Transphobia.

-When did you start dancing Vogue? What made you interested?

I first started Voguing in 2016, but did not really take it seriously until 2017 and I walked my first Mainstream ball in 2018. I was very intimidated by it at first because of hyper-feminine the style is, but once I got into it, it totally transformed how I connected to my body and femininity.

-Who are some of your idols in Vogue - past or present?

Some of my Vogue idols include Tati Miyake Mulger, Meeka Alpha Omega, Inxi Prodigy, and Kassandra Ebony

-What is your favorite part about teaching Vogue @ UMA?

My favorite part about teaching Vogue at UMA is seeing people tap into different parts of themselves that they didn't think they can access. I love seeing people grow into their confidence and witnessing light bulb moments when movement/concepts start to set in and click.

-What do you hope people get out of your Vogue classes?

I hope people can receive empowerment from my class. Whether they feel empowered by becoming physically stronger, empowered by expressing themselves, or empowered through knowledge by gaining a clear perspective of the society we live in relationship to Ball culture.

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You can get into Vogue classes at both UMA locations. 

Mondays @ 812 Chestnut:
6:00pm Beginner Vogue
8:00pm Intermediate/ Advanced Vogue

Wednesdays @ 812 Chestnut:
6:00pm Beginner Vogue

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Thanks, Rylee!