Monika Leininger
The University of Wyoming will host the first drag show ever on campus on Saturday.
The drag show seeks to promote diversity and social justice in the Laramie and surrounding community.
The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines drag as “clothing typical of one sex worn by a person of opposite sex.”
The evening will feature five performers. The queen’s performing on stage will be Khrys’ta Aal, Brooklyn Shiverz, Natailia Wynters, Lala Shears and Jessica L’Whor.
Jessica L’Whor is a fifth year student at CSU studying business management and entrepreneurship. She said she believes the show will be a great success.
“I hear the show is sold out, and I feel there has been a lot of support,” L’Whor said. “I hope drag shows continue and the drag community continues to grow.”
The UW United Multicultural Council will be sponsoring this weekend’s drag show. According to their mission, the United Multicultural Council seeks to support and enhance diversity and multiculturalism.
Taylor Albert, UW senior molecular biology student and a director of the event, has seen widespread support from the Laramie community.
“The most impressive thing for us was the outpour of support from the community,” Albert said. “We are having a raffle the night of the show thanks to donations from businesses around Laramie. All raffle proceeds will be donated to Wyoming Equality.”
As with all events encouraging self-expression and challenging societal norms, this group has had to plan ahead to ensure the safety of performers and visitors.
“Our biggest concern is the safety of performers and attendees of the University of Wyoming Drag Show. As a united group we will not be tolerant of behavior that does not contribute to a safe environment,” Albert said.
In addition to the show there will be a SafeZone training before the show. The training is meant to provide education toward creating an inclusive environment for the LGBTQIA community.
The show will be held in the Wyoming Union Ballroom. The SafeZone training will begin at 5:30 p.m. and pizza will be provided. The actual drag show will begin at 6:30 p.m.
The United Multicultural Council has collaborated with Wyoming Equality, Spectrum, SafeZone and the Shepard Symposium to make this event happen.
