Ginger WTFA dominates the Showgirl Division with triple victories while Serenity Valentine claims the Starlets crown in a high-energy, industry-packed weekend at Rocket City Showgirls and The Pony Bama.
Stage lights blazed down, bass thumped and the energy was unmistakably electric as the Exotic Dancer Invitationals lit up Huntsville, Alabama, from April 29 through May 1. Hosted across two of the city’s hottest venues, Rocket City Showgirls and The Pony Bama, the three-night showcase delivered a high-octane celebration of talent, creativity and star power that left audiences buzzing and judges with tough decisions.
“Year after year, the EDI competitions showcase the best of the best in feature ‘showgirl’ entertainment, and this year’s EDI East was certainly no exception,” says EDI Founder and ED Publications Publisher David Manack.
From the opening number to the final curtain call, performers brought their A-game, fusing athleticism, artistry and charisma into 14 unforgettable routines. The EDIs again proved why they remain the premier showgirl event on the industry calendar, spotlighting rising stars alongside seasoned pros in a fiercely competitive yet supportive environment.
Taking top honors in the prestigious Showgirl Division was the unstoppable Ginger WTFA. Commanding the stage with her “Golddigger” routine, she blended precision, storytelling and originality to secure the division crown along with Best Dancer and Most Original Show. As the 2025 Overall Winner in the Starlets Division, Ginger now joins rare company as one of the few performers to win both categories in back-to-back years.
“Bringing home the number one title I’ve been working toward all year feels surreal,” Ginger says. “Stepping into the Showgirl division for the first time and earning first place, Best Dancer and Most Original Show is beyond words. From my first EDI in the Starlet Division last year to now heading to finals in Las Vegas, this feels like a full-circle moment. I’m grateful, humbled and still a little in shock that it’s real.”
The Starlets Division delivered its own fireworks, showcasing emerging talent ready to break through. Serenity Valentine rose above a stacked field, her confidence, polish and magnetic presence earning her the championship. Her Vampire Lestat performances radiated star quality and signaled the arrival of a fresh face poised for a major breakout.
“I’m overwhelmed with gratitude and excitement,” Serenity says. “I’m thankful to EDI producers Kristofer Kay, Dave Manack and Roxi D’Lite for the opportunity to share my creative vision, and to everyone who supported and pushed me beyond my limits. Your support has meant everything.”
Behind the scenes, a powerhouse team of sponsors and talent fueled the event’s success. The Invitationals were backed by industry mainstay Jerry Westlund of the Pony Clubs, whose continued support helps elevate the platform for dancers nationwide. Adult film favorite Lauren Phillips added star wattage to the weekend; her presence drew fans and heightened the excitement.
“We can never forget to thank our partner in the EDI contest, the host club,” Manack adds. “Pony Club chain owner Jerry Westlund, Stephanie Wilbanks, Jeb Jarrell and the entire staff at Rocket City Showgirls and Pony Bama made all of us feel welcome and were perfect hosts.”
MC DJ Danny Meyers kept the show tight and the crowd engaged; his timing and instinct kept transitions seamless. Co-producer Roxi D’Lite directed the run of show with precision, while stage manager Rob Aiken ensured each performance executed flawlessly.
Both venues proved ideal hosts, each bringing its own flavor while maintaining top-tier production. Lighting, sound, stage design and hospitality were dialed in, creating an immersive, festival-like atmosphere that carried momentum across all three nights.
“Congratulations to Showgirl Division winner Ginger WTFA and Starlets Division winner Serenity Valentine,” Manack says. “Our sincere appreciation goes to all EDI East competitors for their talent, effort and commitment. We look forward to doing it again at EDI West in Denver.”
Showgirl Division Winners
- Overall Winner: Ginger WTFA
- 1st Runner-Up: Hayla Faye
- 2nd Runner-Up: Vampiress
Starlet Division Winners
- Overall Winner: Serenity Valentine
- 1st Runner-Up: Riot Graves
- 2nd Runner-Up: Zelda Zodiac
Mini Titles
- Best Overall Show: Vampiress
- Best Pole Performer: Hayla Faye
- Hottest Body: Caitlyn Baby
- Most Extreme Show: Vampiress
- Best Dancer: Ginger WTFA
- Best Costume: Koyotee J Von Diva
- Most Original Show: Ginger Wtfa
- Audience Favorite: Phoenix Phires
