Drag queens take stage for AIDS funds

Valley AIDS Network raises more than $3,500 with annual Cabaret Show

Katelyn Wyszysnki / staff photographer Ashley Adams performs as Cher at the second annual Cabaret Show, which raised over $3,500 for the Valley AIDS Network.

Lavish quantities of fringe, feathers and sequins adorned the performers of the second annual Cabaret Show, which primarily was sponsored by the Valley AIDS Network and University Program Board Sunday night.

The College Center Grand Ballroom was decorated in a casino theme for the show, complete with poker chips and large cardboard dice. There was nearly a full house — just shy of 1,000 people, according to Cannie Campbell, associate director of the Health Center.

The emcee, Sabrina B, crowned Ms. Gay Harrisonburg 2002-'03, playfully encouraged the guests with a game of Sabrina says. "Sabrina says clap your hands, and Sabrina says everybody put your hand in your pocket and pull out a dollar!" The majority of funds were generated through tips, and volunteers — donning tiaras and red sashes — helped collect the scores of donations that the drag queens missed.

Not to be confused with the musical "Cabaret," this dinner theater-style extravaganza featured the lip-syncing and dancing talents of 13 professional female impersonators. Admission was $5 or $3 with a toiletry item, which all was donated to the Valley AIDS Network, and customers were encouraged to give the performers tips, which also went to the Valley AIDS Network.

By intermission, $2,200 had come in, and freshman Jeremy Paredes, UPB director of media and public relations, said he was confident the show would meet the $5,000 mark. "The entertainment is awesome, and the crowd is totally receptive [to donating and to the performers]," he said. The audience was extremely enthusiastic during all the numbers — shown by cheering, clapping, tipping and even getting up and dancing with the performers.

Donning elaborate costumes and headdresses, the performers lip-synced and danced to popular songs by artists ranging from Cher to Britney Spears.

Bianca Brooks was crowned Miss Harrisonburg Newcomer. She gave a truly classy performance to Christina Aguilera's "The Voice Within," where, in the middle, she managed to keep her composure even after her wig fell off.

Miss Gay Harrisonburg 2003-'04, Gabrielle Stevens, did a dead-on impression of country crooner Reba McIntire. Miss Club 216 2003-'04 Jessica Taylor, an Uma Thurman look-alike, ventured out in black leather and a dragon-print bodysuit.

The performance that earned the most tips was 17-year-old Indiah Ferrah's rendition of "Love is Alive," during which she showed off her gymnastic ability and energetic flair.

Nevaeh Simone, who did not participate in the Cabaret Show last year but did this year, said the crowd's excitement and applause made her "feel like a real woman."

In between the acts, members of Reality Educators Advocating Campus Health read short public service announcements that educated the audience about how AIDS is contracted, AIDS statistics and safety precautions against transmitting AIDS. Sophomore Angie Fusco, who narrated a skit during the event, said she felt that being a part of R.E.A.C.H. got her more interested in AIDS prevention and awareness.

The guest drag queen this year was senior Andrew Hart, who was presented as Angelina Jolie. The crowd roared and applauded as he came out dressed in a bright teal halter-top pantsuit, platform heels, a stylish auburn wig and lip-synced "It's Raining Men" by The Weather Girls. Not only did Hart bring in plenty of tips, but his make-up towel also sold at auction during the event for $40.

Other prizes of the evening included free contraceptives and a raffle of gift certificates to Blockbuster Video, The Daily Grind, Artful Dodger, local bridal and tuxedo stores and Pamela's Secret.
Sabrina Bs presentation of Lee Ann Womack's "I Hope You Dance" concluded the night's entertainment.

"[The Cabaret Show] was a wonderful and creative way to support [the Valley AIDS Network]," junior Rachel Rupright said. "I was thoroughly impressed with the time, effort and confidence of these women to come out and do what they do."

Campbell said she was not disappointed at all about the funds raised. "We beat last year's total, and there's still more money coming in," she said.