The Breakdown The Category Is: Cinematic Excellence.The Breakdown is a bold, community-powered media arts training program created by and for Calgary’s Ballroom scene, centering the voices of queer and trans people of color (QTPOC). Over two months, participating artists will collaborate with their Houses to learn media analysis, storytelling, and video production skills.Through hands-on workshops, access to professional gear, and mentorship, each House will create a 5–10 minute original video or performance artwork to be showcased on a modular LED screen at a public event on December 13, 2025. From fashion films to cultural tributes, The Breakdown empowers artists to remix, reclaim, and represent Ballroom on their own terms.Proudly supported by Calgary Foundation, SpanicArts, Calgary Arts Development, Alberta Foundation for the Arts and Canada Council for the Arts. Paris is Burning (1990) + KIKI (2016) FREE Screening Join us for a special double feature screening of Paris is Burning and KIKI, two landmark documentaries that explore the past and present of Ballroom culture through the voices of Black and Latinx queer communities. Followed by a facilitated discussion, this event invites Calgary’s QTPOC and House community to reflect, connect, and imagine new ways of reclaiming narrative through media and performance.DATE: Friday, October 17th, 2025LOCATION: SpanicArtsTIME: 6:30pmgET YOUR TICKETS The Broadway Kiki Ball VogueYYC in partnership with Calgary Queer Arts Society Presents… Curtains Up: The Broadway Kiki Ball!Whether you’re soaring as high as Elphaba or hustling like you’re late for Rent, this is your chance to command the stage, to own the night, to be the moment. So paint your face, tighten your corset, and step into the limelight, because this isn’t just another ball… It’s your ball. It’s jazz hands and high notes, standing ovations and dreams made real. After all, darling, life is a cabaret, and tonight the world is watching. Are you ready to give them a show they’ll never forget?DATE: Saturday, October 18th, 2025LOCATION: SpanicArtsTIME: 5PM to 9PM GET TICKETS From Idea to Frame: Creative Thinking Workshop In this first filmmaking workshop, artists will explore how to develop a strong narrative structure for their video or performance piece, with a focus on storytelling rooted in Ballroom culture. Through guided exercises and group discussion, participants will begin shaping their creative concepts and decide what they want to create during the residency.DATE: Friday, October 24th, 2025LOCATION: EMMEDIATIME: 6PM-9PM Camera 101 Workshop Learn the essentials of camera operation with the Sony PXW-Z150 and Blackmagic URSA Mini with Jashan Makan, covering composition, exposure, and movement techniques. Then, apply your new skills through hands-on mock shoots, from documentary handheld work to interview setups and creative fashion lighting.DATE: Sat. November 1st, 2025LOCATION: EMMEDIATIME: 10:00AM- 2:00PM SIGN UP HERE Editing and Presentation on LED Panels EMMEDIA's Technical Manager Joe Kelly will teach participants how to edit their videos on Adobe Premiere Pro and get them ready for presentation on the LED Panel wall!DATE: Saturday, November 22nd, 2025LOCATION: EMMEDIATIME: 12PM-4PM
