Imperial Court of NY’s Prince and Princesses Show
The Imperial Court is one of those things that most people just don’t “get” until you’re in the midst of it. The best way I could describe it is to say it is a group that raises TONs of money for various LGBTQ organizations by representing a royal court through the art of drag. Not just your typical nightlife drag artists that perform for a living, these lads and ladies come out for different fundraising events throughout the year and make a difference in the world while doing it. They are one of the most fun and kindhearted groups of people I’ve ever had the privilege of coming across. They make each of their events a show and make EVERYONE feel welcome. It’s literally impossible to feel out of place or unwelcome at an Imperial Court event. You have to throw yourself into to completely understand what I mean.
Saturday night, with only three weeks before the 26th annual Night of a Thousand Gowns, I attended the Imperial Court of NY’s Prince and Princesses show at Industry Bar. The event, which donated all proceeds to GLAAD, was a fun little party inviting some members of the court to perform and show their stuff.
Ritz Kraka and, the more than appropriately named, Witti Repartee were hilarious hosts keeping the show moving and the the live auctions entertaining.
Among the princes and princesses walking the stage to lip sync, sing, or perform I found a talented little Aussie sprite (and real girl) Kylie Edmond. She stole my heart when she covered The Spice Girl’s Who Do You Think You Are, putting her own fun twist to it. (View a sideways short clip of her performance here)
The event just made me even more excited for this year’s Night of A Thousand Gowns. Less than three weeks away and I can hardly contain my excitement. My outfit is going to be sickening!
Get your tickets before they’re all gone!
Photos by Mario Muela
- Cardigan