By Dilpreet Kainth, Special to The Chronicle
On Wednesday, March 2nd, The Pride Network hosted a Drag Show that showcased an overall theme of drag culture. The Pride Network teamed up with Hofstra Students for Fashion Reform and created a tremendous success. Christian Fuscarino, founder of The Pride Network, and Jose Rivera, volunteer of The Pride Network, worked for several weeks to create a show that reached maximum capacity. Many people were turned away from admission because the theatre was filled.
The Drag Show aspired to reach the goal of creating awareness for the public. The event’s profits will be donated for an AID’s walk in NYC. Admission was free but donations were greatly appreciated. Students and faculty were welcome. “It’s a show for everyone to enjoy,” said Fuscarino.
With comical and clever remarks, the host, Tia Carrera, helped entertain the audience and kept everyone laughing.
The show had several performers, which included eight talented drag queen dancers and singers. The eight drag queens performed by lip-synching modern songs such as Rihanna and Christina Aguilera while dancing to their own choreographed routines. The show included performances from Gizel Carrera, Foxie Valentine, Chanel International also referred to as Miss Long Island Pride, Halo Carrera, Carmen Carrera and Blonka Ivette.
As the queens walked on stage, a screen above them featured pictures of them out of costume. Carmen Carrera is famously known for starring in the show, RuPaul’s Drag Race which airs Mondays at 9 p.m. This show is known for starring drag queens and kings.
In between the queen’s performances, the dance groups—Imani and Transcendants—performed with themes of transgender. Sigma Cappella performed three songs. The audience went wild as act after act appeared on stage. The applause was deafening at times.
After all performances were finished, the perfomers went on stage for a Q and A. Any audience member could address a question to the drag queens. “I just wanted people to see what drag culture is about,” said Rivera.
“By providing a drag show, we can show Hofstra students a look at drag culture.” believes Fuscarino, “It allows us time to break down stereotypes about drag queens and drag kings.”
The entire show allowed students to gain insight about what drag is and its importance for the gay community and gay pride. “I personally loved the show. It was hysterical,” said Maribeth Powers, freshman.
The Drag show was an effort to create awareness to the student body. The drag queens went on stage for a Q and A at the end of the show. (Jim Ausanio/The Chronicle)