ThE SQUAD

FOUNDER/CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Moonlight Alain Mikli (Moon Glasgow Brown) is the visionary founder of Moulin Noir KC, a movement dedicated to honoring and uplifting Black femme and LGBTQ+ voices. In the ballroom scene, Moon has attended and hosted balls across the nation, pushing boundaries. Moon works to create transformative spaces that center love, healing, and joy for Black artists and communities to thrive. Through Moulin Noir, Moon celebrates the artistry, resilience, and self-expression of marginalized communities, providing a powerful platform where their stories and talents can be celebrated and embraced.

CREATIVE DIRECTOR-BURLESQUE

Lola Lovelace (Lacey Nicole Knight) focuses on showcasing the historical elements of the Kansas City dance and burlesque scene. Knight advocates for women’s empowerment by challenging social norms and redefining conventional beauty standards. Over the past few years, she has dedicated herself to collaborating with fellow creatives who share her passion for redefining and promoting self-love among all women.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR SMYCKC/FISCAL SPONSOR

Marshelle West is a prominent community leader and activist who was born and raised in Kansas City, Missouri. She is known for her dedication to social justice and public service. West is the founder of the non-profit organization Show Me You Care KC, which works to address social issues and improve the lives of residents in the Kansas City area.

COMMENTATOR

"Burr's hypnotic chants become the very pulse of the room." - St. Louis Magazine

Meko is a distinguished ballroom commentator hailing from St. Louis, Missouri. Since their debut in 2002, Meko has mesmerized audiences with their dynamic presence. Their passion for ballroom culture has led them to host events across several big cities. Meko’s dedication to the art form extends beyond the microphone, as they have mentored others in voguing and runway, fostering the next generation of ballroom talent.

YOUR BABY MOMMAS FAVORITE DJ

DJ Baby Boi is a powerhouse behind the turntables, bringing a signature style and unmatched energy that’s a vibe in every crowd. Known for her dynamic hosting skills and unmistakable sound, DJ Baby Boi has spun from underground vibes at The Bat Cave to citywide celebrations like the Kansas City Super Bowl Parade. Her mixes have become the soundtrack for major holidays, like Labor Day and the Fourth of July on radio stations 107.3 and 105.1. Living life like a movie DJ Baby Boi is all about seizing each moment and creating experiences her audiences won’t forget.

Step onto the runway and channel the timeless style and sophistication of Harlem’s golden era. This category invites participants to embody the grace, confidence, and flair that defined the Harlem Renaissance, a period when fashion was not just about clothing but a bold statement of identity and pride.

Step onto the runway dressed to impress in a look inspired by Harlem’s finest night at the Apollo Theater. This category is not only about looking good but capturing the spirit of Harlem’s legendary style and showing that you belong among the icons. Dress to impress and let your look shine as a tribute to Harlem’s finest.

This category invites participants to captivate the audience with a performance that channels the soul, rhythm, and resilience of Harlem’s golden age. Inspired by the artists, musicians, and dancers of the Harlem Renaissance, each performance should be a celebration of creative expression, individuality, and the unapologetic spirit of Black culture.

Embody the authentic spirit, style, and presence of Harlem’s diverse community, paying homage to the individuals who lived, thrived, and made Harlem legendary. This category is all about showcasing your ability to authentically portray the everyday elegance, charisma, and realness of Harlem’s people whether they were business executives, street legends, or young scholars on the rise.

In Memory of James Ashby

Honor the lives of LGBTQ+ artists and individuals with an original poem or spoken word piece. Let your words pay tribute to those like Langston Hughes who used their voice to capture the complexities of Black Queer life, to challenge injustices, and to inspire change. Through your words, create space for healing, raise awareness of mental health, and remind us all that our stories, our voices, and our lives matter.

This category is about celebrating beauty as both art and power, embodying the confidence, charm, and sophistication that Harlem’s icons exuded. Step forward with elegance and let your face tell the story of Harlem’s legendary style.

Channel the sultry, magnetic allure of Harlem’s underground jazz clubs. This is a celebration of sensuality, confidence, and unapologetic self-expression, inspired by the seductive dancers and charismatic personalities who lit up Harlem’s nightlife.

Celebrate beauty, strength, and confidence. Inspired by Harlem’s appreciation for elegance and the human form, this category showcases participants who take pride in their physique and embody Harlem’s glamorous, sculpted aesthetic.