Highline College hosted their fourth annual Pink Prom to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community. Building 8 was transformed into a rainbow-colored space where students were free to express themselves, dance the night away, compete in dance battles, and enjoy the entertainment.
Aiden Sonsteng/THUNDERWORD
Brought to life by the Q Center, the LGBTQIA+ Task Force and the CCIE, this year’s theme was “Rainbow Renaissance: a Pride Prom Fantasy Faire”. The event delighted attendees with performances from the fabulous Queen Xana Obsession and Tyra Tyra, while DJ Eric Nelson kept the atmosphere upbeat and lively, encouraging the crowd to dance and express joy.
When you first walked in you could tell how much of a welcoming environment had been intentionally made, with friendly faces everywhere you look and free merch. It was such an amazing experience from the moment that Queen Xana Obsession came out and got the party started the energy just kept rising.
The event also provided a photo booth, food from Azteca, refreshments (including the ever-popular color-changing butterfly pea “elixir potion”), a student lounge with games in Mt. Constance, a low-sensory room with coloring and calm lighting in Mt. Olympus, and opportunities to win prizes in the dance-off, costume contest, and lip-snyc battles.
The highlight of the evening was the drag performances with host Queen Xana Obsession keeping the party atmosphere going. Her counterpart, Tyra Tyra, entertained the audiences with dances that included her doing the splits and even doing a number on roller skates.
The whole night everyone was full of energy and joy. This was one of the first queer events I went to and I am so glad I went. Compared to a more straight-focused event the whole thing just felt more creative and genuine than your average prom.
**All photos credited to Aiden Sonsteng.**
Drag Queen Xana Obsession performs for the crowd.
Pink Prom attendees dance throughout the evening.
Drag Queen Tyra Tyra entertains the attendees.
Solomon and their partner perform a dance.
Attendees of Pink Prom hit the buffet, enjoy their meals, and each other’s company.