BOA’s Home for the Holidays

Rollz, Benz Menova, Star, EVE 6000, BOA, and Koko Starr at Windsor Sportsmen’s Club on December 15, 2023.

A Night of Festive Fabulousness with BOA and EVE 6000

In the heart of Windsor, the Windsor Sportsmen's Club played host to a night of festive glamour, outstanding performances, and a touch of unexpected "testicle difficulties" at the Home for the Holidays show, presented by Lavender Promotions and Koko Starr Events. Headlined by the sensational BOA from Canada's Drag Race Season 1 and featuring the extraordinary Eve 6000 from Season 2, this event promised a spectacular evening of drag excellence.

Act One: A Rumble of Testicle Difficulties

The evening kicked off with the enchanting Benz Menova, gracing the stage in a classic angelic ensemble. However, a quirky twist unfolded during the first act as technical difficulties—affectionately labeled as "testicle difficulties" by BOA—caused a 15-minute break. Despite the hiccup, the show resumed with grace, featuring Rollz, BOA, Star, and the fabulous Eve 6000, who stole the spotlight with her transcendent presence.

Intermission: A Breather Before the Fabulous Storm

Following a mesmerizing first act, the intermission allowed the audience to catch their breath and prepare for the dazzling lineup awaiting in the second act.

Act Two: Unleashing the Holiday Magic

The second act unfolded with Koko Starr, Rollz, Benz Menova, Star, Koko Starr (again), Benz Menova (again), then BOA, and the incomparable Eve 6000, each delivering performances that left the audience in awe.

Koko Starr: Elevating Drag to New Heights

Koko Starr graced the stage in two spellbinding performances. Her rendition of an Ariana Grande mix showcased her ability to transform from a floor-length black ball gown to a white, lace-edged ensemble. The second act, set to "Santa Baby," featured a stunning green velvet skirt with snowy white trim, displaying Koko's evolving prowess and boundless creativity.

Benz Menova: Legs for Days and Unmatched Resilience

Benz Menova brought her A-game, starting with a Little Mix performance in a heavenly angelic outfit. Despite a wig mishap, Benz's resilience shone through, captivating the audience in sultry red velvet for her final act. With legs for days and an undeniable stage presence, Benz's performances left an indelible mark on the night.

Starr: The Ultimate Showwoman

Starr, a consummate performer, dazzled in a silver bodysuit for "Last Christmas" and a Mrs. Claus-inspired look for "Santa Tell Me." Her infectious energy, crowd interaction, and show-stopping moves solidified her reputation as the ultimate showwoman.

Rollz: Connecting Through Passion and Perseverance

Rollz's performances went beyond entertainment, incorporating a heartfelt slideshow about love, hope, and perseverance. Clad in a rose gold gown and a glittering snowball-inspired outfit, Rollz's connection with the audience was palpable, making her an undeniable highlight of the night.

BOA: Home for the Holidays Extravaganza

BOA, the queen of the hour, showcased her growth and hard work with three standout performances. From a Vivienne Westwood-inspired look to a neon yellow tiger-patterned outfit and a purple holographic mini dress, BOA's journey of self-discovery and reinvention was on full display. BOA's narratives about high school and local Windsor hangouts added a personal touch, making the audience feel like part of the family.

Eve 6000: Transformative Authenticity

Eve 6000, a force to be reckoned with, embraced her authentic self, radiating a calm yet fierce passion. Her performances, set to Mariah Carey and Celine Dion, showcased not just her artistic prowess but her deep connection with the trans community, making for a powerful and empowering display.

Final Bow: A Night to Remember

As the night concluded, BOA’s Home for the Holidays proved to be more than a drag show—it was a celebration of resilience, reinvention, and the unbreakable spirit of the drag community. With “testicle difficulties” conquered and a stage filled with holiday magic, BOA, Eve 6000, and the stellar lineup delivered an unforgettable evening of festive fabulousness.

Review by Britt Leroux
Edited by Kevin Blondin
Photos by Syx Langemann

Crystal Reverie: Cirque du Soleil's Frozen Spectacle

A Nostalgic Reunion with Spectacular Performances and Whimsical Winter Magic

I was welcomed back to the enchanting world of Cirque du Soleil's Crystal, where breathtaking performances on ice blend seamlessly with the magic of imagination. Returning to the WFCU Centre in Windsor, Ontario, on Thursday, November 30, 2023, at 7:30 pm, this spectacle marked a nostalgic reunion for me with the first Cirque du Soleil show I ever photographed back in 2018.

Taking a journey backstage during the rehearsals on November 23rd, the behind-the-scenes experience was nothing short of mesmerizing. From the bustling wardrobe with over 5,000 costume pieces to witnessing acrobats and ice skaters rehearse their gravity-defying acts, every corner of the arena resonated with the anticipation of the upcoming show.

On premiere night, the excitement reached its peak as I picked up my tickets from old colleagues at the Media Table. Despite being assigned to shoot the event from my seat, the opportunity to capture the artistry of Crystal from a different perspective was a welcomed challenge.

Crystal, Cirque du Soleil's 42nd creation, marks a breakthrough with its exploration of the artistic possibilities of ice. This unique production seamlessly weaves together world-class ice skating, acrobatics, and a captivating storyline, pushing the boundaries of performance. The international cast, representing eighteen different nationalities, brings Crystal's tale of self-discovery to life.

The costumes and makeup, designed to withstand the rigors of ice, add a whimsical touch to the show. From Crystal's flamboyant red hair to the surreal and fantastical attire of various characters, each costume contributes to the visual feast.

The show unfolds as Crystal, a creative young woman, falls through the ice into an underwater world of her imagination. Through a journey of self-discovery, she turns her quirks into creativity, venturing out on thin ice to appreciate life from fresh angles.

The quick-change costumes, the dazzling skates, and the meticulous attention to detail showcase Cirque du Soleil's commitment to creating a spellbinding experience. The event, with its humorous nods to winter themes and impeccable performances, highlights the essence of Cirque du Soleil's magic.

As Crystal graced the stage wearing a Windsor Spitfires hockey jersey, the hometown connection added a delightful touch, resonating with the local audience. Despite a slight delay in the 2 pm show, the enchantment of Cirque du Soleil's Crystal remains timeless.

In conclusion, this event was not just a return to familiar grounds but a reaffirmation of why Cirque du Soleil productions continue to captivate audiences worldwide. Crystal's spellbinding performances, coupled with its imaginative narrative, made for a truly unforgettable night. The magic of Cirque du Soleil's Crystal lingers on, inviting audiences to look at life from fresh angles and discover the beauty of venturing out on thin ice.

Don't Miss the Encore!

After mesmerizing Windsor, Cirque du Soleil's Crystal is set to enchant audiences once again! The dazzling spectacle returns for six spellbinding performances from January 4th to 7th, 2024, at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit. Brace yourself for a journey into a world where ice and imagination collide, delivering a breathtaking experience like no other. Secure your tickets and get ready to be captivated by the magic of Crystal!

CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS

Photos and review by Kevin Blondin

Dragtastic Blowout Unleashes Glamour and Laughter at Five15!

In a dazzling extravaganza on Sunday, December 10th, 2023, the illustrious Five15 in Royal Oak, Michigan, hosted the Dragtastic Blowout, featuring the sensational Miss Vanjie alongside special guests Sabin, Iowna, Victoria, Lex, and Emma. The night unfolded as a testament to unparalleled glamour and entertainment, leaving the audience in awe.

Headlining the event was the one and only Vanessa Mateo Vanjie, renowned from her unforgettable appearances on the 10th and 11th seasons of RuPaul's Drag Race. Vanjie graced the stage with stunning looks, a hilariously loud personality, and an ass that could only be described as fantASStic! The audience was treated to a show-stopping performance, with Vanjie captivating hearts while dancing to the fierce beats of a Beyoncé anthem.

The festivities continued beyond the spotlight, as Vanjie showcased her friendly and personable side during the meet and greet. Fans had the opportunity to connect with the queen herself, receiving autographs that will undoubtedly become prized possessions.

However, the night did experience a minor hiccup as the 2 pm show commenced fashionably late, around 2:30 pm, causing a delay in the eagerly anticipated meet and greets. Yet, the crowd's excitement remained undiminished, eagerly awaiting the stellar lineup that awaited them.

Special guest Sabin brought an electrifying energy to the stage, contributing to the overall spectacle of Dragtastic Blowout. Each performer, including Iowna, Victoria, Lex, and Emma, added their unique flair to the evening, creating an unforgettable experience for drag enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

Our very own THIS is DRAG US correspondent, David Benvenuto, was on the scene to witness and capture every captivating moment. Dragtastic Blowout at Five15 undoubtedly proved itself as a must-see event, leaving the audience buzzing with anticipation for the next extraordinary drag spectacle.

Stay tuned for more exclusive event coverage and drag insights from THIS is DRAG!

By Kevin Blondin
With photos and videos by David Benvenuto

Glitter, Laughter, & Holiday Magic

A Sneak Peek at The Jinkx & DeLa Holiday Show

In a festive night filled with sequins, laughter, and holiday cheer, BenDeLaCreme and Jinkx Monsoon graced the stage for an exclusive preview of their internationally acclaimed holiday extravaganza, The Jinkx & DeLa Holiday Show. The Masonic Temple in Detroit, Michigan, played host to the first lucky audience on Wednesday, November 8, 2023, as the dynamic duo unveiled their latest creation, and THISisDRAG.com was there to experience the magic.

As the queens prepared for their grand tour across the US, UK, and Canada, the special preview in Detroit offered a glimpse into the dazzling spectacle that fans can expect this holiday season. Produced by BenDeLaCreme Presents, the duo's sixth annual holiday tour promised to be their biggest yet, featuring more cities, more shows, and even grander theaters, including the iconic Dolby Theatre.

The anticipation in the air was palpable as the queens took the stage, ready to showcase their brand-new production. From the moment the curtain rose, it was clear that audiences were in for a treat—a whimsical journey through a holiday wonderland brought to life by the creative genius of BenDeLaCreme and Jinkx Monsoon.

The Jinkx & DeLa Holiday Show has become a cherished tradition for drag enthusiasts, and this year's edition did not disappoint. The duo demonstrated their commitment to authentic queer storytelling, taking charge as the sole writers and creators of the show. BenDeLaCreme, also in the roles of producer and director, emphasized the importance of queer narratives being told from within the community.

The Masonic Temple transformed into a festive playground, adorned with dancing snow people, gingerbread characters, reindeer, and a colorful array of holiday-themed personas. The campy duo's sixth year touring together brought forth a spectacle filled with laughter, camaraderie, and an abundance of ridiculous yet delightful musical numbers.

Characters such as Santa, Krampus, angels, Hunky the Elf, a drummer boy, and an ensemble of dancing friends and elves graced the stage, creating a visual feast for the audience. The queens' wit shone through in hilarious medleys, including irreverent renditions of Christmas classics like "Santa Baby" and original songs with a playful twist, such as a Frosty the Snowman tune set to the melody of "Witchy Woman."

One of the highlights of the night was the duo's ability to seamlessly weave together holiday favorites with their unique drag flair. Songs about hot cocoa, set to the tune of classics like "Jitterbug," and a Santa Claus anthem with a rock twist delighted the audience, creating a memorable experience that transcended the traditional holiday show.

As the queens took their final bows, the crowd erupted in applause, signaling the success of the preview night. The Jinkx & DeLa Holiday Show promises to be a must-see extravaganza, offering a perfect blend of entertainment, humor, and a touch of holiday magic. For those seeking an escape into a world of glitter and joy, BenDeLaCreme and Jinkx Monsoon's holiday spectacle is the ultimate ticket to a festive celebration of drag at its finest.

By Kevin Blondin (@kevinblondinsta)
With photos by Santiago Felipe (@santiagraphy)

Night of the Living Drag

A Hauntingly Hilarious Twilight Zone Experience

In the heartland of Toledo, Ohio, on a chilling October night, something otherworldly was brewing at the Stranahan Theater. The spirits of the drag underworld were summoned for the 12th Annual Night of the Living Drag, an event shrouded in mystery and enigma. Presented by Voss Events (@vossevents) in collaboration with World of Wonder, this was a night to sashay into another dimension, guided by the spectral hand of drag royalty.

Hosted by the Mysterious Yvie Oddly (@oddlyyvie)

As the curtains rose and the stage was set, we were introduced to our spectral host for the evening, the iconic Yvie Oddly. Known for her victory in RuPaul's Drag Race (@rupaulsdragrace) Season 11, Yvie embodied the enigmatic spirit of Rod Serling, the iconic host of "The Twilight Zone." With her cryptic humor and tantalizing charm, Yvie Oddly led the audience through a portal to a realm where the extraordinary becomes ordinary and the impossible takes form.

A Stellar Cast of Ghostly Divas

What's a haunting without a cast of extraordinary apparitions? The lineup for Night of the Living Drag was nothing short of spectacular. While some ethereal beings may have been absent, the audience was treated to the presence of a star-studded ensemble:

• Tayce (@itstayce): This British sensation graced the stage, bringing her spellbinding charm and charisma. Her presence alone was like a bewitching spell that had the audience entranced.

• Angeria Paris VanMicheals (@angeriavm): The audience was spellbound by Angeria's unparalleled energy and passion, as she conjured a spell of laughter and awe. A drag spirit to be reckoned with.

• Jaida Essence Hall (@jaidaehall): As the winner of RuPaul's Drag Race Season 12, Jaida Essence Hall needed no introduction. Her regal presence added a touch of elegance to the spectral affair.

• Denali Foxx (@denalifoxx): Denali's performances were an otherworldly experience, blending grace and strength in a mesmerizing display of talent.

• Rosé (@omgheyrose): Hailing from the glittering cast of RuPaul's Drag Race Season 13, Rosé added a dose of glamour to the supernatural soirée.

• Jorgeous (@jorgeous_1): A rising star in the drag cosmos, Jorgeous dazzled the audience with their unparalleled charisma and vivacity.

While Icesis Couture (@itsqueenicesis) and Plastique (@plastiquetiara) may have been missing from the ethereal lineup, the spirits of drag lived on through the captivating performances of these luminous queens.

The Mysterious Twilight Zone

The show's theme borrowed inspiration from the enigmatic universe of "The Twilight Zone," a dimension of imagination that transcends the boundaries of reality. As each queen took the stage, it felt like stepping into an alternate reality where the supernatural was the norm, and the audience was merely an observer of the uncanny.

The Haunting Spectacle

The performances were nothing short of a haunting spectacle. Each queen weaved her unique enchantment, delivering acts that ranged from the eerie to the enchanting. The audience was transported to a realm where the extraordinary became the everyday, and the queens were the mysterious guides on this uncanny journey.

As the night unfolded, the spirits of drag were unleashed, and the audience was caught in a spellbinding whirlwind of performances. The stage was transformed into a supernatural playground where the queens danced, sang, and dazzled the audience with their unearthly talents.

A Portal to Another Dimension

Night of the Living Drag was not just an event; it was a portal to another dimension, a place where the spirits of drag reign supreme. It was a night where laughter and awe merged into a single, otherworldly experience, a place where the bizarre was beautiful, and the strange was stunning.

A Hauntingly Hilarious Night

In a world filled with the mundane, Night of the Living Drag was a refreshing escape into the extraordinary. It was a hauntingly hilarious night, a reminder that drag is not just an art form but a gateway to a realm where anything is possible. As the night came to a close, the audience left with their spirits lifted, knowing they had been part of a unique experience that transcended the ordinary.

For those who were fortunate enough to attend, Night of the Living Drag was a night to remember, a night when the spirits of drag came to life and carried us away to a dimension where the extraordinary reigns supreme. The enigmatic Yvie Oddly and her spectral ensemble left an indelible mark, reminding us that in the world of drag, the supernatural is simply the norm, and the mysterious is always magnificent.

By Kevin Blondin (@kevinblondinsta)

Friday the 13th

with a twist of Lemon

Friday the 13th - with a twist of Lemon

When: Friday, October 13, 2023

Where: Windsor Sportsmen’s Club, 2401 Dougall Avenue, Windsor, Ontario

Presented by: Lavender Promotions and Koko Starr Events

Main Act: Lemon (From Canada's Drag Race Season 1)

Supporting Acts: Luxy Charms, Rollz, Koko Starr, Phoenix Black, Hudson Bae, Subrina Kink

Admission: $20 in Advance, $25 at the Door, General Admission Only

The Zine Experience:

Let's turn the clock back to Friday the 13th, a date infamous for its dark aura. But Windsor wasn't about superstitions; it was about celebrating the extraordinary. The Windsor Sportsmen’s Club was the place to be, and it wasn't just any Friday night – it was the night Lemon (@lemongivesyoulife), the tangy sensation from Canada's Drag Race (@canadasdragrace) Season 1, returned to Windsor for another spectacular drag event hosted by Lavender Promotions (@lavenderpromo) and Koko Starr Events.

Picture this: It’s Friday night, it’s 8 pm, and I’m at a place called the Sportsmen’s Club with dead animals covering the walls… This truly is a Friday the 13th.  Inside, the air buzzes with anticipation, as the crowd awaits a sour and sensational spectacle. Lemon, with her zest for life and a style as bright as the fruit she's named after, was the star of the show. She didn't disappoint; She squeezed out every drop of charisma and talent.

But Lemon wasn't alone. She brought with her a smorgasbord of talent that added a variety of flavors to the night. Luxy Charms (@luxycharms666), the self proclaimed “little goth clown hooker” was pure luxury and charm, drawing us in to her darkness with her sinister grin. Rollz (@rollzthedragqueen), the dark horse of the evening, spun us into a whirlwind of wonder. Koko Starr (@kokostarrqueen), a local legend, brought her A-game, dazzling the crowd with her power and glamour. The dancing queen from London, Ontario, Phoenix Black (@itsphoenixblack), fiery and fierce, set the stage ablaze with her presence. Hudson Bae (@kinghudsonbae), the embodiment of cool, brought a new definition to suave. And Subrina Kink (@subrina_kink), sprinkled a touch of kink and a dash of horror into the mix that would have made Jason’s own mother proud!

For just $20 this unforgettable night could have been yours. The audience, a blend of faces from all walks of life, reveled in the atmosphere. It was general admission, so no one was too far from the magic happening on stage.

The energy in the room was electric, a fusion of Lemon's vibrant spirit and the crowd's enthusiastic cheers. With every lip sync, every costume change, and every dance move, Lemon and her ensemble elevated the room to new heights.

As the night waned and the clock ticked away, it was clear: Lemon and her cohorts had painted the town yellow. It was a Friday the 13th that would be remembered for its audacity, its eccentricity, and its pure zest for life.

In the end, as the crowd dispersed, smiles on their faces and a touch of Lemon's inspiration in their hearts, the Windsor Sportsmen’s Club remained an oasis of extraordinary. The city had experienced a Friday the 13th like no other – one that proved that sour can be sweet, and that a little bit of Lemon goes a long way.

The Verdict: Sour, sweet, and everything in between – the Windsor drag scene will be talking about this unforgettable Friday the 13th for years to come.

By Kevin Blondin (@kevinblondinsta)

The Dark Carnival

a night of twisted delights

Windsor, Ontario—The autumn winds blew gloomy and fierce on the night of Friday, September 22, 2023, as I ventured deep into the heart of the city, seeking refuge from the mundane. My destination: Scarehouse Windsor (@scarehousewindsor), a dark, looming monstrosity nestled at 1441 McDougall St., promising an evening that would leave my soul twisted and my senses ravaged. It was a night they called The Dark Carnival, a spooktacular drag event that marked the commencement of the Halloween season.

At 10 pm, the doors of Scarehouse Windsor swung open, revealing a dimly lit chamber that beckoned those brave enough to venture inside. The air was thick with anticipation, an electric current that sent shivers down the spines of all who dared enter.

The motley crew of performers, each with a sinister twist, awaited us like phantoms in the night. Ariel Attack (@attackariel), known as The Anomaly, embodied a nightmarish vision of beauty and chaos, while D. Ann Eh (@d.ann.eh), The Mad Scientist, conjured up horrors that would make Mary Shelley weep. Hudson Bae (@kinghudsonbae), The Mysterious Benefactor, lured us into a web of intrigue, and Howl (@howlthebeatnik), The Contortionist, contorted their body in ways that defied the laws of nature.

But it didn't stop there. Lua (@she.is.lua), The Many-Armed Woman, a grotesque marvel, seemed to have limbs sprouting from every corner of her being. Luxy Charms (@luxycharms666), The Circus Clown, both hilarious and terrifying, kept the audience on the edge of their seats. Mercury Retrograde (@miss.mercury.retrograde), The Bearded Lady, challenged conventions of beauty and gender, and Subrina Kink (@subrina_kink), The Fortune Teller, foretold our darkest destinies with a malevolent grin.

Venom (@venomvonsnaps), The Marvelous Mime, communicated in silent horrors, leaving us with a profound sense of unease. And throughout this madness, our ringmaster, Mr. Gygglez (@ingvarfreyrson), guided us through the night's descent into madness with a devilish charisma that was both captivating and disconcerting.

At 10:30 pm, the performances began, and all semblance of reality melted away. It was a descent into a surreal dreamscape where nightmares danced with glee. The audience, a gang of wide-eyed thrill-seekers, was held captive by the spellbinding performances. Each act was a journey into the twisted recesses of the human psyche, a psychedelic odyssey that defied explanation.

But The Dark Carnival was more than just a spectacle of horror and wonder. It was a gathering of kindred spirits, misfits and rebels, all united in their love for the bizarre and the unconventional. As the night wore on, the line between reality and nightmare blurred.

The Dark Carnival was not just a celebration of the strange and the supernatural. It was also a force for good, a beacon of hope in a world gone mad. The event proudly supported Trans Wellness Ontario (@transwellnessontario), a testament to the power of the community to come together and make a difference.

As the night ended, reality began to reassert itself, but the memories lingered like a fever dream.

In the end, The Dark Carnival was a journey into the heart of darkness, a night of twisted delights and untamed desires. It was a reminder that in a world that often feels alien and absurd, there is beauty to be found in the grotesque, and magic in the macabre.

So, as I stumbled out into the unforgiving night, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for this night. It was a reminder that amid chaos, there is still a place for the weird, the wonderful, and the wicked.

Goodnight, Windsor. Until we meet again in the shadows.

By Kevin Blondin (@kevinblondinsta)