July 21, 2025 | Aaron "Avant G." Mizrahi

"Baby, we not playing games:" Payne Balmain

Meet the people who are igniting Milwaukee's Ballroom scene with historic passion.

Payne Balmain (photo by Glenda Mitchell of Our Lives Magazine)

“Ballroom isn’t just entertainment. It’s culture, history, and survival.”

In the heart of the Midwest, beneath the disco lights and over the steady pulse of house beats, a cultural movement continues to flourish.

Milwaukee’s Ballroom scene — a vibrant, unapologetic space where LGBTQ individuals, especially Queer and Trans People of Color (QPOC), gather to celebrate, compete, and uplift one another — is rising with a fervor that refuses to be ignored.

Leading the charge is Payne Balmain of the House of Balmain, a name steadily gaining respect in ballrooms from Chicago to Detroit and beyond.

“I’m Payne,” they introduce confidently. “I’m in the House of Balmain — we’re the Midwest House of the Year.”

A title well-earned, as Payne currently holds the title of Streetwear of the Year in the Midwest, competing in three dynamic categories: Realness, Sneaker vs. Sneaker, and Streetwear.

But beyond the trophies and accolades lies a deeper story of chosen family, resilience, and the fight for visibility in a world that hasn’t always made space for QPOC voices.

The House that built me

For Payne, joining a house wasn’t just about walking a category — it was about finding a tribe.

“It was the way the House of Balmain moves with support and integrity from state to state,” Payne reflects.

“They always come and support our Milwaukee scene. Win, lose, or draw, the sportsmanship is always top tier.”

That sense of camaraderie is the heartbeat of Ballroom culture.

Houses act as surrogate families, particularly for those pushed to the margins of society. They provide mentorship, resources, and a platform for individuals to express themselves authentically.

In Milwaukee, where the scene is still growing, this support system is both radical and necessary.

A scene on the rise

Compared to major Ballroom hubs like New York or Atlanta, Milwaukee’s scene is still carving out its place in the national conversation.

“We’re definitely on the rise, but the talent is present,” says Payne.

Yet, challenges persist.

One lingering reputation Payne mentions is Milwaukee’s notorious tardiness at balls in other cities — a stereotype the community is working to shed through consistency, professionalism, and unforgettable performances.

Still, these obstacles have only made Milwaukee’s Ballroom culture more determined.

“I see big things poppin’ and lil’ ish stopping for sure,” Payne proclaims, hinting at a future where Milwaukee won’t just be participating — it’ll be leading.

Why QPOC visibility matters

As we celebrate QPOC (Queer People of Color) Month, uplifting Milwaukee’s Ballroom community is more important than ever.

“Ballroom is life-changing for QPOC individuals,” Payne explains.

Payne Balmain

Payne Balmain

Payne Balmain

“It’s where people can be themselves, feel empowered, and gain confidence. It teaches you how to move in the world unapologetically.”

To those outside the community, Payne urges an understanding of Ballroom’s cultural significance — how it’s long been a safe haven, a battleground for self-expression, and a stage for Black and Brown queer resilience.

“Ballroom isn’t just entertainment,” Payne reminds us. “It’s culture, history, and survival.”

Milwaukee is brimming with events and initiatives this month aimed at highlighting Ballroom’s contributions, from high-energy mini balls to panel discussions on QPOC issues.

Payne encourages everyone to show up, support, and learn.

“Mistakes will be turned into major moves, and respect for our scene will increase.”

The message is clear

If Payne could send one message to the world about Milwaukee’s Ballroom scene, it would be simple, bold, and unmistakably Ballroom:

“Baby, we not playing games. Meet me on the floor and I’ll show you what I mean.”

Milwaukee’s Ballroom community is here. It’s fierce, it’s fearless, and it’s only getting started.

Note: this story will also appear in the July/August Pride in Color issue of Our Lives Magazine.

Payne Balmain