Catfight for the Crown 2024

A Night of Glamour and Charisma

Detroit, Michigan - The iconic Fillmore theater was abuzz with excitement on Friday, June 14, as it played host to the fifth annual Catfight for the Crown, a drag pageant that pays homage to ballroom culture. This year's competition was fierce, featuring three formidable houses: Haus of Morefill, Haus of Scissors, and Haus of Stars. The event, hosted by the dynamic duo Kourtney Castro and Jeremy Toney, was not only a showcase of incredible talent but also a fundraiser supporting the Ruth Ellis Center.

The Haus of Morefill, represented by Zoe and Bermuda Banks, Haus of Scissors with Roxanne Paypa Scissors and Avery Quinn, and Haus of Stars featuring Belladonna Marz and Portia Lynn, brought their A-game to each category: face, swimsuit, Haus talent, evening wear, and interview. Special performances by Mimi Southwest, Motor City Drag Kings, and an all-star panel of judges added extra sparkle to the evening.

The night began with the Face category, where Haus of Morefill's flawless presentation earned them the win. The crowd erupted as Zoe from Haus of Morefill stunned in the Swimsuit category, donning nothing more than gold speckles and an aura of confidence that captivated everyone. Belladonna Marz of Haus of Stars dazzled in the Evening Wear category, showcasing elegance and poise. In the Interview category, Belladonna and Portia Lynn both delivered powerful responses, earning a tie for first place.

Special guest performers Mimi Southwest and the Motor City Drag Kings electrified the audience with their performances, setting the stage for the main event. The judging panel, featuring Rita Pamphlet, KimArie Yowell, Gabriella Santiago-Romero, Sebastian St. Laurent, Lindsey K. Taylor, and Katrina Alexis Monae, provided insightful commentary and critiques throughout the night.

The highlight of the evening came when Zoe, representing Haus of Morefill, was crowned Miss Kitty 2024 by Mimi Southwest and Doug Furgason, Director of Catfight For the Crown. The air was filled with confetti as the new queen took her place, holding her trophy and bouquet with pride. Belladonna Marz, who won the Evening Wear category, was also honored as Miss Congeniality.

Doug Furgason and Nazarina V. Mwakasege, Director of Development and Advancement at the Ruth Ellis Center, took the stage to express their gratitude and excitement for the event's success, their stage charisma leaving a lasting impression on the audience. Their heartfelt words underscored the importance of community support and representation in the LGBTQ+ community.

Catfight for the Crown not only celebrated the artistry and resilience of the drag community but also brought people together for a worthy cause. As the night drew to a close, it was clear that the Haus of Morefill's victory was well-deserved, and Zoe's reign as Miss Kitty 2024 had begun on a high note.

Photos and review by Kevin Blondin