Cultural Healing through Ballroom : A Tribute to Kenny Alain Mikli during Black History Month
In honor of Black History Month, I am thrilled to spotlight the trailblazing icon Kenny Alain Mikli, a true pioneer and one of the founders of the Midwest Ballroom Scene. This platform serves as a tribute to his outstanding contributions to the ballroom community, showcasing Kenny as one of the most influential fathers in the ballroom community, currently residing in Chicago, Illinois, and tirelessly supporting numerous chapters of the House of Alain Mikli across different states.
Kenny's journey in Ballroom began in 1991 when the Midwest was still finding its footing. As a member of the inaugural house in the Midwest, the House of Avant Garde, he played a pivotal role in Chicago's first ball. In 1992, Kenny established his own house, E'lan, named after a fashion magazine he had previously modeled for with his former house. E'lan made a striking debut at the Fantasy Ball, introducing Chicago's first lesbian house mother and securing four trophies that night. With approximately 25 members, E'lan expanded its influence to cities like Saint Louis and Milwaukee. Kenny excelled in categories such as Banjie Realness, Models Body, and Old Way. Notably, he initiated community services between community-based organizations and the ballroom community through the Kupona Network.
His impact extended beyond the Midwest as E'lan merged with the House of Ultra Omni in 1993, marking the first house from the east coast to venture into the Midwest. Kenny's musical accomplishments include the gag track "freekmama" and contributions to well-known ball tracks. In 2001, he was rightfully inducted into the Midwest Hall of Fame alongside other luminaries, honoring their significant contributions to the Midwest ballroom circuit.
Kenny's leadership has been integral to Chicago's ballroom scene, bringing in East Coast personalities and establishing the Omni balls as a staple during the 4th of July weekend. In 2007, he created the Midwest Legends Ball, celebrating the region's trendsetters akin to Oprah Winfrey's Legends Show. For the past 17 years, Kenny has led the House of Ultra Omni as its Midwest and Overall Father. The reopening of the House of E'lan in October 2011 earned it the title of New House of the Year for the Midwest in 2012. In 2016, the House of E'lan joined forces with another East Coast House, led by icons Selvyn (MC DEBRA) and Nicole Alain Mikli.
Kenny's legacy continues to thrive as the Legendary Katrina Alain Mikli and Kenny took over as the Overall Parents, nurturing families throughout the Midwest Ballroom community. On February 7, 2024, we had the privilege of experiencing the wisdom, passion, and experiences of this pioneer and icon, Kenny Alain Mikli, as he shared his profound insights into ballroom culture and its profound impact on connecting communities to resources. Thanks to Kenny, many Legends and icons have emerged, shaping the Ballroom Culture.
This blog post was written by the Legendary Chad Carroll
