Paris is Burning
Join us for a one-night only screening of Paris is Burning followed by a post film discussion with Trans Theater Icon and Ballroom Legend Cece Suazo. Cece will be in conversation with Dr. Alisa Hurwitz, a Clinical Psychologist specializing in Autism spectrum and gender identity.
Supported by:
About Paris is Burning:
Where does voguing come from, and what, exactly, is throwing shade? This landmark documentary provides a vibrant snapshot of the 1980s through the eyes of New York City’s African American and Latinx Harlem drag-ball scene. Made over seven years, Paris Is Burning offers an intimate portrait of rival fashion “houses,” from fierce contests for trophies to house mothers offering sustenance in a world rampant with homophobia, transphobia, racism, AIDS, and poverty. Featuring legendary voguers, drag queens, and trans women—including Willi Ninja, Pepper LaBeija, Dorian Corey, and Venus Xtravaganza—Paris Is Burning brings it, celebrating the joy of movement, the force of eloquence, and the draw of community.
About Cece Suazo:
Cece was honored with the 2018 Advocate Magazine Award for her contributions in the ballroom community and performing arts. Ms. Suazo’s ballroom career began in 1988 as the youngest member in the Iconic House Of LaBeija and in the ballroom community. She became “Mother” of the house briefly. Earned Legendary status in 2010. In 2013 she departed the house after 27 years to pursue her career. In 2020 she became the westcoast house mother from the International House of Icon (who placed #5 on the HBOMax competition ballroom series LEGENDARY). In 2016 she was reunited during her performance of Street Children with Paris is Burning filmmaker Jennie Livingston.
About Dr. Alisa Hurwitz:
Dr. Alisa Hurwitz (she/her) is a Clinical Psychologist specializing in the Autism spectrum and gender identity. She works at Dartmouth where she provides gender-affirming mental healthcare and general outpatient therapy. Dr. Hurwitz applies her professional knowledge to consult with performance companies, conduct post-show talkbacks and interview theater creatives. She has been a presenter/moderator at BroadwayCon, Empowered Artist Collective and TheaterMakers Summit and has collaborated on productions with the Cultural Arts Playhouse, Chryssie Whitehead’s In My Own Little Corner, Cue Zero Theatre and The Hidden Ones. Her Musicals & Mental Health series can be found on Instagram (@thedrdrama) with guests such as Eva Noblezada, Lauren Patten, Hailey Kilgore, Ali Stroker, Rebecca Naomi Jones and Ethan Slater.
