Gay And Gender Non-Conforming Dance Troupe Challenges Societal Norms

NPR

Published May 13, 2015 at 12:40 PM EDT

From left: Adrian Clemons, Kareem Davis, Kentrell Collins, Jerel Maddoz and Timothy Smith are the Prancing Elites. (Oxygen)

The Prancing Elites are a Mobile, Ala.-based, all-black, gay and gender non-conforming dance troupe. The five dancers dress in sequins and bodysuits, make-up and heels, and perform a type of dance called J-setting.

Now they are the subjects of a new reality show on the Oxygen network called “The Prancing Elites Project.” Here & Now’s Robin Young speaks with three members of the Prancing Elites: Kentrell Collins, Jerel Maddox and Kareem Davis.

Watch full episodes online

[Youtube]

Correction: An earlier version of this interview misstated the name of the college where J-setting originated. It originated at Jackson State University, not Jacksonville State.

Guest

Kentrell Collins, captain of the Prancing Elites dance team. He tweets @PEKentrell.
Jerel Maddox, dancer in the Prancing Elites. He tweets @PEjerel.
Kareem Davis, dancer in the Prancing Elites. He tweets @PEkareem.