Trixie Lynn James, of Knoxville, Tenn., prepares for the Alliance Drag Show.
SEE MORE PHOTOS FROM THIS EVENT HERE
Every seat in the house was full last night as the Murray State Alliance held its semi-annual drag show in the Curris Center large ballroom. Nearly 300 people attended to see students and local community members dressed in full drag, performing for their cause.
The Alliance has hosted the event on campus since 1996, said master of ceremonies D. Andrew Porter, senior from Scottsdale, Ky.
“We make a statement,” he said. “It really is a culture shock, but it is also a campus tradition.”
Though some find the event controversial the Alliance supports what it stands for.
Isabella Edwards, of Paducah, is a regular entertainer at the Alliance Drag Show events.
“Shows like these are part of our (Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender) culture,” said Jo Bennett, sophomore from Murray and marketing officer for the Alliance. “It’s just something fun for everyone to be a part of.”
Student performer Aubry La’Shea Shannell said that she has participated in the Alliance’s shows for the past three years as well as shows in Nashville and Clarksville.
In attendance were people experiencing their first drag show and also regulars to the event.
“I have never been to a drag show before,” said Sarah Powell, freshman from Jacksonville, Fla. “It seemed like it would be a good time.”
Not only were there drag queens rocking the stage, but there were also drag kings who strutted their stuff.
Aubry La’Shea Shannell, of Murray, is another regular and favorite performer.
The catwalk mimicked that seen at a fashion show with spotlights and strobe lights flashing all around. The costumes worn by the queens ranged from Reba McEntire to Beyonce. Attendees approached the stage often to give their favorite performers tips and a quick kiss before returning to their seats. Performers also ventured out into the crowd and gave attendants lap dances.
The event raised more than $1,500. Proceeds will be used to promote the Alliance’s mission statement which is “acceptance, education, and awareness of diversity in the student body, to empower students to share common goals, concerns and interest as equals and to promote the importance of unity on campus and in the community.”
Story by Breanna Sill, Staff writer
C.Y. Troy works the crowd.
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Penny Hill Downs • Nov 19, 2013 at 2:15 am
Great job
Jared Theodore Jeseo • Nov 18, 2013 at 1:09 am
We're putting up a slideshow soon.
Trixie Lynn James • Nov 18, 2013 at 12:33 am
I would love to see all the pictures!!