Hudson’s Royal Court Reigns Supreme
Hudson’s Royal Court
Step into the kingdom of camp as Hudson Bae and his court dazzle with high-energy performances, theatrical fashion, and birthday bash antics!
March 8, 2025
At The Barbershop Bar
WINDSOR, Ontario
A Night of Royalty and Revelry
Hear ye, hear ye! Windsor’s drag scene gathered for an evening of medieval mischief and birthday cheer as Hudson Bae hosted Hudson’s Royal Court at The Barbershop Bar on March 8th. Guests were invited to don their finest royal attire and join the king of the night in a celebration filled with high-energy performances, captivating costumes, and an atmosphere brimming with laughter and camaraderie.
Table of Contents:
A Regal Affair: Setting the Scene
Courtly Performances: The Stars of the Show
Fashion Fit for Royalty
A Night to Remember
A Regal Affair: Setting the Scene
As the clock struck eight, the doors to The Barbershop Bar opened to an eager crowd, excited to partake in Hudson Bae’s birthday bash. With the venue packed and the audience dressed to impress, the ambiance was electric, blending the charm of a Renaissance festival with the high energy of a modern drag show.
Hudson, ever the charismatic host, welcomed guests with his signature wit, kicking off the night’s festivities with a blend of comedy, charm, and classic court jester antics. From the moment he took the stage, the energy was contagious, setting the tone for an unforgettable night.
Courtly Performances: The Stars of the Show
Hudson’s Royal Court featured an outstanding lineup of drag royalty. Venom Von Snaps, Luxy Charms, and Cecil Cecropia graced the stage with stunning performances, each bringing their unique flair to the celebration. Though Lua was absent, the show pressed on with enough excitement to keep the crowd thoroughly entertained.
Venom Von Snaps delivered sultry, commanding performances, serving rock-and-roll edge with her leafy green ensemble and fiery red locks. Later in the night, she transformed into a punk princess with fishnet details and a schoolgirl skirt, proving her versatility as a performer. Luxy Charms embodied pure theatricality, first appearing as a devilish rocker in a Kiss crop-top, and later switching to a more refined, black and white aesthetic, all while maintaining her signature clown-inspired look.
Cecil Cecropia was a powerhouse of punk and rebellion, first in an all-black rocker ensemble and later embracing a DIY aesthetic with an oversized sweatshirt, safety pins, and skull-themed accessories. And of course, Hudson Bae himself was a sight to behold, first in a blue jester’s garb complete with a white ruff, then in a striking white ruffled shirt and platinum wig, playfully wielding a “#1 Daddy” coffee mug.
Fashion Fit for Royalty
The night wasn’t just about the performances—it was also a visual spectacle. Themed outfits added an extra layer of excitement, with each performer embodying their own take on royal flair. The audience, too, played their part, arriving in their best regal attire, transforming the venue into a full-blown royal court. Whether clad in crowns, flowing gowns, or medieval-inspired finery, the crowd fully embraced the theme, making the event feel like a grand festival.
A Night to Remember
With a packed house, stellar performances, and a birthday celebration fit for a king, Hudson’s Royal Court proved to be a night of unforgettable revelry. The camaraderie between performers and audience alike made the event feel intimate yet spectacular—a true testament to Windsor’s thriving drag community. As the night came to a close, the cast stayed on set to mingle with guests, ensuring that everyone had the chance to capture memories with their favorite royals.
Long live Hudson Bae and his court—until the next royal gathering!
Review by Kevin Blondin
Photos by Liana Anselmo
Lights, Laughs, and Luxy!
I Love Luxy - An Original 50s Sitcom
A hilariously raunchy tribute to 1950s sitcoms, I Love Luxy turned Windsor’s Temple Ballroom into a black-and-white TV set, delivering campy comedy, outrageous characters, and unforgettable audience interaction.
February 14, 2025
WINDSOR, Ontario
A 50s Sitcom Brought to Life
There’s something magical about stepping into a time warp, and on Valentine’s Day, Windsor’s Temple Ballroom became a living, breathing 1950s television set. I Love Luxy, an original concept by Epoxy with co-production by Temple Blooms Productions, starred the incomparable Luxy Charms, and delivered a side-splitting spoof of vintage sitcoms, complete with live skits, improv, and lip-sync performances that kept the audience roaring with laughter.
Table of Contents:
A Mock-Live Filming Experience
A Cast of Colorful (or Grayscale) Characters
Nosey Neighbours and Interactive Comedy
A Perfect Valentine’s Day Treat
A Mock-Live Filming Experience
The show kicked off just after 8 PM, instantly immersing the audience in the black-and-white world of classic television. With a set designed to resemble a 50s-style home and a cast decked out in grayscale costumes, I Love Luxy brilliantly recreated the aesthetic of vintage TV. The night was packed with raunchy yet playful humor, over-the-top performances, and cleverly executed skits that paid homage to the golden age of sitcoms.
A Cast of Colorful (or Grayscale) Characters
At the heart of the show was Luxy Charms, the unhinged housewife whose home became a revolving door for outrageous visitors. Epoxy and Iddy Oats set the stage as charismatic TV hosts, while a wild lineup of characters—including Belle Vyra as an alien from Mars, Airress as a bohemian beatnik, and Cecil Cecropia as the ever-reliable milkman—kept the laughs rolling. Lua and Mercury Retrograde, playing the nosey neighbours, provided some of the night’s most hilarious moments with their constant surveillance and judgmental expressions.
Nosey Neighbours and Interactive Comedy
The audience interaction was one of the show’s standout elements. During intermission, Lua and Mercury Retrograde remained in character, peeking through the window with binoculars while casually ironing the curtains—a detail that had the crowd in stitches. The commitment to character and the immersive nature of the performance made the experience even more engaging.
A Perfect Valentine’s Day Treat
By the time the final act wrapped, the audience was left in awe of the sheer talent and comedic timing displayed throughout the night. To top it off, the cast stayed on set for a post-show meet-and-greet, allowing guests to snap photos with their favorite characters. Erica Spotton captured the night’s best moments, ensuring the magic of I Love Luxy would live on beyond the stage.
A Nostalgic Night to Remember
With its perfect blend of camp, chaos, and classic TV nostalgia, I Love Luxy was an absolute triumph. Whether you came for the laughs, the lip-syncs, or the sheer absurdity of it all, one thing’s for sure—this was a night Windsor won’t soon forget.
Review by Kevin Blondin
Photos by Eri Spotton
Windsor-Essex PrideFest 2024
Windsor-Essex PrideFest 2024
A Weekend of Unity, Glamour, and Celebration
WINDSOR, Ontario - Windsor-Essex Pride Fest 2024 was a resounding success, bringing together the LGBTQ+ community and allies for a weekend full of vibrant performances, joyful celebrations, and unforgettable moments. From August 9th to August 11th, the festival transformed Lanspeary Park into a haven of pride and unity, showcasing a diverse lineup of drag performances, dance parties, and community events that left attendees buzzing with excitement.
Friday Night: United Dance Party
The weekend kicked off on Friday night with the United Dance Party at Lanspeary Park, a free event that brought out the best in Windsor’s LGBTQ+ nightlife. DJ Kevin Bailey set the tone with infectious beats, while special guests Mercury Retrograde, Angelina Lepore, Hudson Bae, B. Martini, and Epoxy—who stepped in for Lua—kept the energy soaring.
Hudson Bae’s striking leather ensemble set the mood for a night of fierce fashion and dance. B. Martini, living her Pink Pony Club fantasy, delivered a show-stopping performance to Chappell Roan's "HOT TO GO," while Angelina Lepore captivated in an all-black ensemble, exuding elegance and mystery. Mercury Retrograde brought her burlesque roots to the forefront, wowing the crowd with her big Peggy Bundy red wig, leopard print dress, and fire act, which included setting her tongue ablaze. Epoxy, initially there to MC, couldn’t resist the stage and joined in with her signature blue hair and fearless attitude. The United Dance Party was a dynamic start to the weekend, setting the bar high for the events to follow.
Saturday: Queens of Pride
Saturday’s Queens of Pride event at Lanspeary Park was the festival’s crown jewel, featuring an all-star lineup of drag performers. Trinity The Tuck Taylor, from RuPaul’s Drag Race season 9 and All Stars season 4 winner, and Aimee Yonce Shennel from Canada’s Drag Race season 4 headlined the event, delivering show-stopping performances that had the audience on their feet.
The first set opened with Epoxy in striking black and white zebra stripes, followed by Vanity Affair in a hot pink and black vinyl outfit. Benz Menova teased the audience with a pole dance, while Venom Vonsnaps, with backup dancers Hudson Bae and Belle Vyra, delivered a high-energy performance. Lena Di amazed with her silver coat and electric blue dress, while Star, full of life in a skin-toned bodysuit with primary colors, dazzled the audience. Aimee Yonce Shennel brought the crowd to life in a black and lime green vinyl coat, while Trinity The Tuck seduced the audience with a slow and sultry number, leaving everyone wanting more.
The second set saw Venom Vonsnaps returning in a hot pink gown, Benz Menova in a seductive pole dance, and Epoxy in an iridescent ensemble. Star shone in a light blue blazer with shimmering tinsel, Vanity Affair made a bold statement with a black-hands-with-red-nails ensemble, and Lena Di brought high-energy dance moves in red feathers. Aimee Yonce Shennel returned in a sexy genie look, granting every audience’s wish, while Trinity closed the show with a shimmering black and red outfit, showcasing her perfect curves.
Saturday Night: GLITTERBALL
After Queens of Pride, the GLITTERBALL at Waters Edge Event Centre kept the party going. DJ Josh Karmin kept the crowd moving all night, with special performances by Van Goth, Dulce, Liquorice, and Elixia adding to the electric atmosphere.
Sunday: Pride Day and Show Your Colours Parade
Sunday’s events kicked off with the 2024 Parade: Show Your Colours, a vibrant and colorful display of community pride. Following the parade was Pride Day! at Lanspeary Park, a free admission event featuring performances by Detroit's Drag Royalty Sabin, Windsor’s Comedy Queen Mel Lucier, musical acts like Alisabeth Von Presley, Nikki Holland & the Dirty Elizabeths, Carly Thomas, Saints Down, and drag performances by Subrina Kink, Aurora Bore Alice, Daisy, Dawn Key, and Mina Gorgina.
Windsor-Essex Pride Fest 2024 was a testament to the power of community, bringing together people from all walks of life to celebrate love, diversity, and self-expression. From the United Dance Party to the Show Your Colours Parade, every event was filled with joy, laughter, and unforgettable performances, making this year’s festival one for the books.
For exclusive interviews with Trinity The Tuck Taylor, and Aimee Yonce Shennel visit the links below.
Photos and review by Kevin Blondin
A Night of Regal Splendor
A Royal Review
A Royal Affair II: Crown Jewels
Windsor, Ontario - May 24, 2024 – The Barbershop Bar was transformed into a dazzling palace on Friday night for "A Royal Affair II: Crown Jewels," a spectacular event presented by Koko Starr Events. Hosted by the ever-charismatic Koko Starr, the evening featured stellar performances by Venom Vonsnaps and a spotlight act by B. Martini, delivering an unforgettable night of glamour, charisma, and breathtaking acts.
The night began with an energetic and hilarious performance by Koko Starr. Dressed in a striking black and white ensemble with long blonde hair, Koko lit up the stage with her dance to Tate McRae's "Exes." Known for her sharp wit and bold humor, Koko didn't disappoint, making the audience laugh with her unfiltered commentary.
Venom Vonsnaps then took the stage, embodying a fierce and confident presence. The golden years have been kind to Venom, who appeared with a wine bottle, sipped a glass, and then gave a defiant performance to Willam's "Uck Foff," complete with flipping off the audience in a continuous, dramatic motion. Her boldness and charisma were truly captivating.
B. Martini's first performance of the night was nothing short of sensational. Sporting huge bouncing breasts, a red outfit, tall black boots, and long red hair, she wowed the crowd with her performance to Kim Petras' "Coconuts." After a brief wardrobe change, B. Martini returned after intermission to perform Alex Newell's "Mama Told Me," still dressed in red but without the breastplate, adding a humorous touch with her turkey, mayo, and secret sauce sandwich.
Koko Starr returned to the stage, spreading love and joy with her performance to Miranda Cosgrove's "Kissin U," adorned in red and white with heart motifs. Her infectious energy kept the audience engaged and entertained.
Venom Vonsnaps took the stage once more, delivering a high-energy performance to Erika Jayne's "Xxpensive" in a tight black and silver dress. Despite a few wardrobe malfunctions, Venom's fun energy shone through. She followed up with a lively rendition of Shania Twain's "Man! I Feel Like a Woman," showcasing her versatility and charisma.
The highlight of the evening was a duet performance by B. Martini and Venom to Lady Gaga's "Telephone." B. Martini, clad in a leather jacket over a leather bra with long hair curled around empty beer cans, and Venom, playing the Beyoncé part, shared the spotlight in a powerful and electric performance that had the crowd roaring with excitement.
Koko Starr closed the night with a sultry and dazzling performance to Sabrina Carpenter's "Espresso," wearing a small, glittery pink dress. Her ability to connect with the audience ensured a memorable end to a fantastic evening.
The community turnout was impressive, with everyone enjoying the night to the fullest. The bar staff was cheerful, and the audience was engaged and enthusiastic throughout the event. "A Royal Affair II: Crown Jewels" was a spectacular success, reinforcing the vibrant and dynamic drag scene in Windsor. The evening truly lived up to its regal name, leaving attendees eagerly awaiting the next event by Koko Starr Events.
Review by Kevin Blondin
Semi Qualified Queens Live Shakes Up Windsor
Semi Qualified Queens Live Shakes Up Windsor: A Night of Glitz, Glamour, and Giggles
A Night of Glitz, Glamour, and Giggles
WINDSOR, ON - The Windsor Sportsmen's Club was transformed into a hub of fabulousness on Saturday, March 23, 2024, as Semi Qualified Queens Live dazzled the audience with a spectacle of drag performances and witty banter. Hosted by the charismatic Juice Boxx, a familiar face from the inaugural season of Canada's Drag Race, and the sensational Synthia Kiss, known for her appearances on season 2 of the hit show, the event was a whirlwind of entertainment.
Adding to the excitement, Windsor's own Koko Starr took center stage as the featured guest, showcasing her immense talent and local charm to the delight of the crowd. Brought to life by Freddie, Semi Qualified Queens Live is a live recorded podcast format event that has been wowing audiences across multiple cities in Canada.
The evening kicked off with Juice Boxx's electrifying performance, characterized by boundless energy and crowd interaction. Sporting a stunning pink sparkly dress, Juice Boxx treated the audience to a medley of songs, punctuated by plenty of lap dances and infectious enthusiasm.
Following suit, Koko Starr commanded the stage with her rendition of "Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend," donning a metallic pink dress and exuding high-octane energy. As the music pulsated, Starr captivated the audience by shedding layers of her attire, revealing a sultry bodysuit underneath.
Synthia Kiss, adorned in a holographic pink outfit adorned with feathers, continued the momentum with a dynamic performance set to "It Was Love at First Sight." The birthday surprise for Kiss orchestrated by Juice Boxx added an extra touch of sweetness to the evening, as the crowd joined in singing "Happy Birthday."
The synergy between Synthia Kiss and Juice Boxx was palpable during their duet, as they seamlessly blended skits and songs into a delightful medley. From iconic tunes like "Vogue" by Madonna to comedic skits from Chicago and Legally Blonde, the duo's performance was a testament to their chemistry and comedic timing.
In the second set, Synthia Kiss and Juice Boxx shifted gears to a talk show format, grilling Koko Starr with their trademark wit and charm. Dressed to the nines in gowns designed by Synthia Kiss herself, the trio kept the audience in stitches with their playful banter and infectious energy.
Closing out the evening with a bang, Synthia Kiss and Juice Boxx took to the stage once more for a lively duet, dancing to hits by Ariana Grande and Madonna. With plenty of laughs and even some floor rolls, the duo left the audience clamoring for more.
On Saturday, March 23rd, 2024, in Windsor, Ontario, Semi Qualified Queens Live in Windsor proved to be an unforgettable night of drag excellence, showcasing the talent and camaraderie of Canada's drag scene.
Review by Anna Kettle
Edited by Kevin Blondin
Photos by Kevin Blondin