The UW Drag Spectacular drew a crowd of all identities Thursday at Varsity Hall in Union South, as part of the LGBT Campus Center’s Out and About Month lineup.
Raven and Jujubee, runners-up of season two of “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” emceed the evening. The two began the event with banter and requested beer from the audience.
Varsity Hall filled to capacity 10 minutes after the doors were opened. All seats facing the rainbow backdrop of the stage were filled, and numerous attendees were required to stand.
The show featured local and student talent. Performers wore elaborate costumes while dancing and lip-syncing to songs by Beyoncé and other female pop stars.
The hosts kept the crowd alive with their unfiltered commentary. Raven brought an audience member on stage after he offered her a drink pitcher and the crowd raved as their humorous interaction unfolded.
The performers flaunted their skills. They grabbed tips from the audience while doing tricks like jumping into splits.
The event emphasized pride for LGBT members and allies, and encouraged the free expression of all gender identities.
“That’s why we’re here,” Raven said. “We’re here for each and every one to have a good time.”