MSU Drag Show Kicks off Pride Week
By Lacee Shepard
Michigan State University kicked off pride week Friday, April 13 with an elaborate drag show arranged by UAB, RING and RHA.
Doors did not open until 8:30 p.m. but the crowd was forming a line long before that. The show was hosted in the cafeteria of the International Center and the show pulled in such a large audience that there were many viewers leaning against walls and sitting along the stage.
The drag show followed a “fright night” theme, based off of the date Friday the 13th. There were “blood” smeared sheets used as a backdrop and even a coffin placed on the stage that was set to resemble a cemetery. The hilarious Hershae Chocolatae, who introduced performers and entertained the crowd between acts, hosted the show.
Although the description was somewhat vague on the UAB site it soon became apparent what was going on at the drag show. Contestants were to lip-sync to a song of their choice while dancing. If that wasn’t enough attendee’s were welcomed to give money to the performers and many took the opportunity.
Each act was unique and unforgettable in its own way. The second performance by Hershae Chocolatae was one of the most popular. Featuring a performance of Whitney Houston’s “I Will Always Love You” followed by an encore of other remixed Houston hits Chocolatae stole the spot light. Her memorable stage presence was only enhanced by her flips and splits that made her a fan favorite.
The other notable favorite amongst the crowd was Cheetah Jameson. Cheetah danced to Deborah Cox’s “Absolutely Not.” She had all eyes on her as she performed one of the night’s most active dances, in some of the highest heels seen on stage.
The show was truly one of a kind between the charismatic participants who strutted along the stage, and their interaction with the crowd. During one song an audience member was even brought on stage to dance.
The other participants on stage did dance moves many could never dream of and some of those moves were made in heels that most cannot stand in let alone strut up and down a stage in. Overall, with the witty hosts and captivating performers, it was a wonderful show that made the hours pass like minutes.