The Queer Student Union’s annual drag show will take place yet again on April 26 at 7 p.m. At the show, drag performers will entertain the crowd with dancing and lip-syncing with the theme of “outer space.”
For Aris Alonzo, president of the Queer Student Union, April is all about LGBTQ pride. The drag show is the group’s biggest event, but they work throughout the year with the LGBTQ community.
“It’s a student group,” Alonzo said. “So students can talk about any issues, relax and have a safe space.”
Dressing in drag is defined as wearing clothing of the opposite gender usually for entertainment purposes.
“It’s kind of its own art form,” Alonzo said.
The Queer Student Union encourages drag performers to pursue their passions and considers drag performing an art form.
“You’re creating a persona that is opposite from yourself for performance and expression,” said Liam McBride, secretary of the Queer Student Union.
The drag show isn’t competitive and is simply a fun night out for the LGBTQ community or anyone who wants to attend.
“It’s kind of a relaxing break,” Alonzo said. “It’s usually our biggest event.”
The event is free but tipping the performers after the show is highly encouraged by the Queer Student Union. The show will feature six to eight drag queens and kings from PSUC and the Plattsburgh community.
One of those drag queens is Sean Brace also known as “Misty Nights.” Brace is a 15-year drag veteran and has done many drag events around the area in the past. This will be Brace’s fifteenth time performing at PSUC’s drag show.
“I came from a high school and summer musical background, so when I came to the realization that I was gay, the first gay friend I had was a queen,” Brace said. “And that really sparked my interest.”
Brace said that for him, drag performing is all about the power to be his own boss in performing.
“Drag gives me the chance to be the star of a show or number without having to go through all the auditions,” Brace said.
Some of Brace’s favorite songs to perform are “Proud” by Heather Smalls, “Dark Horse” by Katy Perry and “Beautiful Trauma” by Pink.
“The best part is when you actually do what you intended,” Brade said. “And (you) have people come up to you after a number almost in tears saying how much you touched them.”
Email Tess Acierno at fuse@cardinalpointsonline.com
