From Adversity to Acceptance: Nunoy Revlon and the Transformation of the Ballroom Scene in the Philippines
The narratives within the LGBTQIA+ community have long been untold, but they are finally finding their voices. One vibrant and underground phenomenon within this community is the Ballroom scene, which emerged in the 1970s as a fusion of dance and competition. At its core, Ballroom celebrates voguing, a dance style inspired by fashion poses and catwalks, characterized by fluid and precise movements. It is a celebration of self-acceptance and being comfortable in one’s own skin.
However, Ballroom is more than just dance; it has evolved into a tight-knit community known as “Houses.” Each House has its unique history and traditions, providing a sense of belonging and a sanctuary for those who have experienced illness or discrimination. It has become a surrogate family, offering support and acceptance to its members.
In recent years, Ballroom has gained mainstream recognition, with stars like Beyonce and Madonna incorporating its moves into their performances. Popular TV shows like RuPaul’s Drag Race, POSE, and Legendary have also spotlighted the growing phenomenon. One individual bridging the gap between Ballroom and the larger community is Nunoy Revlon.
Sitting on the top floor of the Virtue and Vice bar in Poblacion, Nunoy Revlon shares his journey as a Ballroom advocate and his efforts to foster a more accepting community in the Philippines. He is about to embark on a series of international events, hosting balls, teaching workshops, and judging walks alongside notable figures in the Asian Ballroom community.
Returning to the Philippines, he plans to organize the upcoming Revlon ball—a historic event in the country featuring judges from Europe and the US. Through his participation in the Ballroom scene, Nunoy Revlon aims to shed light on the culture, both locally and on a global stage.
From Small-Town Struggles to Dance-Fueled Triumph
Nunoy Revlon’s journey hasn’t been easy. He grew up in a small village in the Netherlands, where the prevailing mindset was conservative and intolerant. As an adopted child, he faced conversion therapy from his adoptive parents, who aimed to alter his gender identity through various methods, including electric shocks.
In addition to conversion therapy, Nunoy experienced physical abuse at the hands of his peers at school. The culmination of this mistreatment led to a serious altercation when he was 16, resulting in juvenile prison time. Despite the hardships, his time in prison allowed him to meet people from diverse backgrounds, including the LGBTQIA+ community, which opened his eyes to a world beyond the narrow confines of his small town.
After his release, Nunoy embarked on a journey to Amsterdam, where he discovered the freedom and exposure of city life. Working odd jobs, he eventually stumbled upon a dance audition, which led him to the University of Dance, Arts, and Entertainment College. Through the ballroom scene and his university experience, Nunoy finally found acceptance and embraced his Filipino heritage.
Finding His House of Revlon Family
In 2015, Nunoy encountered the Parisian Chapter of the House of Revlon and felt an instant connection. The House of Revlon felt like a tight-knit, familiar family—a feeling Nunoy had always yearned for. When the Paris chapter joined the reality-competition series “Legendary,” where they showcased physically staggering performances and mind-boggling creative themes, Nunoy became a proud member and House Prince.
While participating in the show, Nunoy made the brave decision to share his personal story, including the strained relationship with his mother, on national television. Despite the challenges, he found strength in his journey and was able to forgive and move forward. The Parisian chapter of the House of Revlon achieved significant success on the show, securing third place.
Motivated by his experiences abroad, Nunoy decided to bring the House of Revlon tradition to the Philippines. In October last year, he moved to the Philippines and established a new chapter of the House. Currently, seven members of the House of Revlon reside together, providing support, care, and guidance to each other both on and off the runway.
The Anatomy of a House: The House of Revlon Philippine Chapter
The transition to life in the Philippines wasn’t easy for Nunoy. He experienced culture shock and had to navigate the challenges of a different environment. However, he found solace in the House of Revlon members who became his chosen family. Together, they navigate the ups and downs of life, ensuring that everyone has food, education, and emotional support.
Nunoy’s deep love for his House members is evident, and he strives to help them become the best versions of themselves. In the Philippines, where the LGBTQ+ community often faces discrimination and artists remain underpaid, Nunoy continues to work as a dancer, choreographer, and performer to support his House and the wider community.
With Nunoy Revlon’s dedication and passion, the Ballroom scene in the Philippines is thriving. Through his efforts, the community is becoming more accepting and inclusive, providing a safe space for individuals to express themselves and find their own unique sense of belonging. Nunoy’s inspiring journey serves as a beacon of hope and resilience for others who may be facing similar challenges.
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