In the electric world of New York City’s Ballroom scene, there is a name that shines brighter than the city lights – Legendary Karma Versace. Hailing from the vibrant borough of Brooklyn, Karma’s journey from humble beginnings to the glitz and glam of the ballroom stage is a tale as legendary as Karma himself. Step into his world, where a chance encounter in a city apartment sparked a decade-long odyssey through the dazzling universe of Ballroom.
It all began when Karma dipped his toes into the electrifying waters of Ballroom, immersing himself in the Kiki Scene two years later. But it was not just the fierce voguing and dazzling costumes that captivated him. It was the art of commentating, a skill he discovered while watching the incomparable Precious.
“It sounded like she was rapping,” Karma reminisces, with excitement in his voice. “I wanted to do that.”
Under the tutelage of Precious, Karma honed his commentary skills on the sandy shores of The People’s Beach at Jacob Riis Park. It was here that he learned the true essence of Ballroom – a place where being yourself is not just accepted, it is celebrated.
“I am inspired by the whole scene, period,” Karma says, acknowledging the trailblazers who paved the way for him, including Precious, Cassandra, Kevin, and Snookie.
Among his many triumphs, “winning Times Square,” holds a special place in Karma’s heart, a testament to his dedication and passion for the art form. Yet, even as he basks in the glory of past victories, Karma recognizes that Ballroom is constantly evolving.
“Ballroom is always going to change because life changes,” he reflects.
However, amidst the glitz and glamour, Karma identifies a concerning trend – the lack of historical knowledge among today’s youth in the Ballroom community. When he first entered the scene, Karma was taught the who’s who of Ballroom, but now, those valuable lessons seem to be fading away.
“Ballroom is supposed to be a safe haven,” Karma asserts, emphasizing the importance of preserving its rich history and culture.
In an age dominated by social media, Karma acknowledges its role in shaping the landscape of Ballroom. Alongside Mya, he has carved out a space on BIGO LIVE, showcasing the talents of young performers from across the globe.
“On BIGO, you could really see Ballroom,” Karma enthuses, highlighting the platform’s ability to connect artists and enthusiasts worldwide.
As for what is next, Karma’s boundless energy shows no signs of waning. With plans to travel to Texas and Georgia, among other places, he is ready to spread his love for Ballroom far and wide.
In the ever-evolving world of Ballroom, one thing remains constant – the strong spirit of Legendary Karma Versace, a true legend of the scene. With each step he takes, he continues to inspire and uplift, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of all who have the privilege of witnessing his greatness in the ballroom scene.
