When life’s a drag… find a queen!
August 21, 2009 at 9:26 am by Aleka Phoenix
I have an insatiable obsession with Drag Queens. The term encompasses a wide range of atypical performers: respected queens like Apple Love, seasoned bawdy queens like Natasha Richards, and innovative new queens like Gianna Love and Lennox Liemont. Some wouldn’t categorize the later as true drag queens, but there are no guidelines or standards that explain what makes for an officially drag queen. That’s why I’m hunting for a knowledgeable drag queen who will diagram the logistics.
Drag Kings are also a tricky category on the verge of change. There are great performers like Teddy D, 6 Pak, and Spikey Dikey, but all have different approaches to “being in drag.” For some it’s about the performance. For others drag is really a lifestyle combined with a performance aspect.
No matter how you define it, drag has become an expressive outlet that can encompass fabulous performances and intriguing costumes. So while I’m out hunting down “drag persons” to unravel the mysteries of the drag world, below is a sampling of some great places I like to go to see local drag.
Monday’s a Drag @ Georige’s Alibi 3100 3rd Ave N St. Petersburg, FL 33713:
The Bartenders dress up in drag, unshaved, but with themed ensembles, and they call your bingo numbers. Bingo is free to play, but it gets packed quickly! Favorite bingo call: “G 30, G as in Gonorreah 30.” By favorite bingo caller and bartender: “Nicolette on Her Knees” Raunchy and tacky…love it! 6-9:30 (all that and Happy Hour too!)
Monday DIVA Search with Natasha Richards @ Georgies Alibi:
Beginner Drag-ers compete weekly to win $200 in CASH. Crowd loudness decides the winner. Also you can catch a few songs by Natasha who is oh so charming, and has great outfits! Starts at 10 pm.
Friday- Saturday @ Club Nautico’s NEW Crown Theatre 4900 66th ST N. St.Petersburg, FL:
It feels like a real cabaret, with little candles on quaint tables, beautiful stage curtains, low lights–a great place to take in a show. Performance times are, 10:30pm and 12:30pm.
Monday, Thursday-Sunday Valentines 7522 N. Armenia Ave.Tampa, FL :
I’ve yet to check out a show here, but occasionally Gianna Love performs and Apple Love. Their website boasts they are the “#1 rated drag show in central Florida.”
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