A Drag Queen Christmas

10th Anniversary Kicks Off U.S. Tour in Detroit

DETROIT, Michigan - The holiday season sparkled a little brighter this year as A Drag Queen Christmas – 10th Anniversary kicked off its U.S. tour at the iconic Fisher Theatre in Detroit on November 13, 2024. Presented by Murray & Peter Present, this festive extravaganza marked the premiere of a 39-city tour across the United States and Canada, delivering holiday cheer and jaw-dropping performances.

Hosted by the ever-charming Nina West, the show featured an all-star lineup, including Plasma, Sapphira Cristal, and Plane Jane from RuPaul’s Drag Race season 16, Roxxxy Andrews from All Stars season 9, Crystal Methyd from season 12, Brooke Lynn Hytes from season 11 and Canada’s Drag Race, Lady Camden from season 14, and the hilarious and unpredictable Jimbo, reigning queen of All Stars season 8.

Act One: Festive Glitz and High-Energy Performances

The evening opened with Nina West, wrapped like a holiday gift in her Christmas-themed outfit, flanked by male dancers in red shorts and gold harnesses. Her warm and witty banter set the tone for a night of merriment and over-the-top glamour.

Plasma was the first queen to take the stage, making a grand entrance as a giant Christmas bell wrapped in a red ribbon. Nina humorously "cracked" the bell open with a hammer, revealing Plasma in a candy-cane-striped outfit for a high-energy rendition of Jingle Bells.

Brooke Lynn Hytes followed, turning up the heat with an electrifying number to Def Leppard's Pour Some Sugar On Me. Her high kicks and precise choreography, paired with the male dancers, brought the audience to their feet.

Plane Jane exuded winter royalty in a layered white and silver gown, revealing a chic platinum-blonde braid and sleek ensemble underneath. Roxxxy Andrews brought holiday sex appeal to Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree, shedding her luxurious feathered robe to reveal a glittering red mini-dress.

Lady Camden’s performance of Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen was both whimsical and theatrical. Starting as a toy soldier, she transitioned into a jester-like costume, complete with a Freddie Mercury mustache. Sapphira Cristal delivered a stunning transformation number, beginning in a voluminous feathered ensemble that gave way to a sparkling blue and white outfit with dazzling moves.

Jimbo had the audience in hysterics, rolling onto the stage in an inflatable toilet dressed as a cheeky holiday poo to Hanky the Christmas Poo. Her comedic timing and playful twerking to H.O.T.T.O.G.O. by Chappell Roan were show-stealing. Crystal Methyd closed the act with a fiery nod to Heat Miser, ending her set in a quirky pink-and-yellow outfit that encapsulated her signature blend of camp and charm.

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Act Two: Holiday Magic and Show-Stopping Finales

After a 20-minute intermission, Brooke Lynn Hytes, joined by Nina West, treated the audience to a Broadway duet from Wicked. Brooke Lynn stunned in an emerald-green gown with a thigh-high slit, while Nina looked radiant in a pink ballgown with an elegant updo.

Lady Camden opened the second act as a wind-up ballerina to Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy, seamlessly transitioning into You Spin Me Round (Like a Record) by Dead or Alive. Plane Jane followed with a sultry rendition of Santa Baby, joined by the dancers dressed as Santa and the Grinch.

Crystal Methyd’s creativity shone in her gingerbread-inspired performance to C Is for Cookie and a medley of tracks, ending with How Many Licks? by Lil’ Kim. Plasma brought vintage Hollywood glam in a green gown with white fur accents, exuding timeless holiday elegance.

Roxxxy Andrews returned with a powerful medley of tracks from The Greatest Showman, including Never Enough and This Is Me, donning a regal blue-and-white fur-lined robe. Sapphira Cristal capped her second set in a glittering blue jumpsuit and furry white boots, grooving to a Lizzo mix.

For the grand finale, Jimbo appeared as a shimmering Santa with a sack of presents, eventually stripping down to a lacey red lingerie set that had the audience roaring with laughter.

A Festive Start to a Glittering Tour

The premiere of A Drag Queen Christmas – 10th Anniversary was a dazzling success, blending holiday magic with iconic drag performances. From Nina West’s charismatic hosting to Jimbo’s outrageous comedy, the queens delivered a show that was equal parts heartwarming and hilariously entertaining.

With 39 stops on this tour, fans across the U.S. and Canada have plenty of opportunities to experience the magic of drag this holiday season. If the Detroit premiere was any indication, this year’s tour will be the best yet.

Photos and review by Kevin Blondin

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

Sasha Colby’s ‘STRIPPED’ Tour

A Raw and Intimate Journey

DETROIT, MI - On Thursday, April 4, 2024, Saint Andrew's Hall in Detroit was transformed into a haven of raw emotion and intimate storytelling as Sasha Colby, the illustrious winner of RuPaul's Drag Race season 15, took center stage to present "Stripped," her North American Tour. Presented by Live Nation, the evening promised an unforgettable experience, and it delivered in spades.

From the moment the curtains rose, the audience was enveloped in Sasha's captivating presence. Seated in anticipation, the packed house eagerly awaited the journey that was about to unfold.

"Stripped" was not just a drag show; it was a deeply personal and transformative odyssey that invited the audience to walk alongside Sasha through the chapters of her life. Like an autobiography brought to life on stage, the performance balanced moments of laughter and joy with scenes of raw emotion and vulnerability.

Sasha mesmerized the crowd with classic hits by Madonna and other iconic tracks, showcasing her versatility and undeniable talent. With each dance move, neck crack, and stunning look, she proved herself to be nothing short of a G-O-D-D-E-S-S.

As the title of the tour suggested, Sasha bared all, stripping down to pasties and a thong as the evening progressed. In a bold and vulnerable move, she wiped away her makeup before the end of the first set, revealing a truly naked version of herself to the audience.

The show was not without its surprises. Sasha brought out a special guest performer, The Petty Divine, adding an extra layer of excitement to the already electric atmosphere. Additionally, audience members were invited to participate in a Goddess-off, reminiscent of a twerk-off, bringing the crowd to their feet in cheers and applause.

"Stripped" was a testament to Sasha's creativity and artistry, with stunning scene designs, costumes, and conceptual elements that left the audience in awe. Long interludes, banter, and onstage costume changes added depth and dimension to the performance, ensuring that no moment was ever dull.

In the end, there was no denying that Sasha Colby is indeed a winner, baby. Her ability to blend entertainment with introspection, vulnerability with strength, made "Stripped" a truly unique and original show that will be remembered for years to come.

Review and Photos by Kevin Blondin

Jimbo’s Drag Circus World Tour 2024

Jimbo Wows Audience at Royal Oak Music Theatre

ROYAL OAK, MICHIGAN - On Thursday, February 29, 2024, the Royal Oak Music Theatre was transformed into a spectacle of outrageous characters and adult humor as Murray & Peter in association with House of Jimbo proudly presented Jimbo's Drag Circus World Tour. The eagerly anticipated event marked the kick-off show and tour premiere, promising an evening unlike any other.

The doors opened promptly at 7pm, with attendees eagerly filing into the venue to witness the extravaganza. As the clock struck 8pm, the lights dimmed, and the show commenced, catapulting the audience into a world of whimsy and wonder.

From the moment Jimbo took the stage, the energy was electric. Drawing from her diverse repertoire, which includes appearances on Canada's Drag Race season 1, RuPaul's Drag Race UK vs The World season 1, and her crowning achievement as the winner of RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars season 8, Jimbo showcased her unparalleled talent and comedic prowess.

The performance was a whirlwind of laughter and entertainment, with Jimbo seamlessly transitioning between her most iconic characters, including Joan Rivers, Shirley Temple/Sweet T, Casper, and many more. Accompanied by her sidekick clown, Jeepers, Jimbo captivated the audience with dancing eyeballs, babies, and bologna slices, delivering a show that was as unforgettable as it was unique.

The production was nothing short of superbly professional, with sign language interpreters ensuring accessibility for all attendees. The 20-minute intermission provided a brief respite before the spectacle resumed, leaving no dull moment throughout the evening.

In attendance were Jimbo's beloved family members, her Mom and sister, adding a touch of warmth and support to the electrifying atmosphere.

One attendee remarked, "By far the best solo drag show I have ever seen! Hilarious and entertaining. Never dull for a second.”

Another enthused, "Jimbo has proven once again that she is a look queen, a costume queen, a comedic queen, a concept queen, a dancing queen, and queen of all things that are good in drag and circus. If you have a chance to see this show near you, do not miss out!"

And one more exclaimed, “The best merch on the market."

The tour, which boasts almost 60 more shows scheduled across North America between February 29 and June 13, promises to continue captivating audiences with its unique blend of drag and circus.

Jimbo's Drag Circus World Tour 2024 has left an indelible mark on Royal Oak, Michigan, proving that when it comes to entertainment, Jimbo reigns supreme.

For those who missed out on this extraordinary event, don't despair - keep an eye out for future tour dates, and prepare to be dazzled by the one and only Jimbo.

Review and Photos by Kevin Blondin