In a cultural moment that demands both resilience and radiance, Robert “Silk” Mason is answering the call with style, soul, and unapologetic pride—and taking over New York from Queens to Westchester.
Born in the Bronx and raised in Columbia, South Carolina, Mason, 25, is a Juilliard-trained dancer, choreographer, actor, and founder of The Royal Haus of Silk in the Kiki ballroom scene. His journey is part stage, part service, and all purpose. “I was born to do this,” Mason says. “It’s in the blood that pumps through my veins.”
This Pride Month, Mason is reconnecting with his Juilliard senior solo and performing it at Queens and Bronx Pride events—a full-circle moment that speaks to his growth as both an artist and advocate. His work bridges elite training and Black queer culture, crafting space for others to shine.
One of Mason’s standout performances was as the iconic Mistoffelees in CATS: The Jellicle Ball at the Perelman Performing Arts Center. The Off-Broadway show reimagined the classic musical through a ballroom lens, blending Broadway theatricality with queer Black expression. A viral Reddit comment said it best: “Silk Mason was probably my favorite part of the whole show. Just amazing and such a stage presence.”
The nickname “Silk” fits. His movement is fluid, his presence commanding, and his mission rooted in care. “I am a performer—that will not ever change,” he says. “But I am also here to build and give back.”
With a grant from the Mellon Foundation and support from Producer Hub, Mason’s Haus now offers free ballroom workshops to the community. “We are all students,” he says. “No one has all the answers. These workshops are about learning from each other and giving folks permission to show up as themselves.”
Mason’s résumé is stacked—from national ad campaigns (Apple Music, Carolina Herrera, Facebook Messenger) to award-winning films (Into the Colors, Forged in Chaos). But it is his advocacy that sets him apart. As “Royal Mother” of his Kiki Haus, Mason mentors queer youth, many of whom have felt unseen—even within the LGBTQ+ community.
He does not mince words when speaking about the times. “This administration is cutting back on our God-given rights,” he said in an exclusive interview with Westchester County Press. “But our community is strong. We are not going anywhere.”
For Black communities—especially those navigating generational values—Mason’s message is clear: Black queer and trans people are part of the family. “God did not put us on this earth to destroy each other,” he says. “We are here to love, cherish, build, heal, and grow.”
So whether he is center stage or in a community center, Robert “Silk” Mason is moving with purpose—and inviting the world to move with him.
Featured image credit: DepositPhotos.com
