Drag Prince Alfie Ordinary is to host Brighton’s first ever winter drag pageant, The Big Drag Pageant on Ice at Brighton Dome, following its success for some years as part of Brighton Fringe.
The event will in fact not feature any ice at all – according to Alfie, it’s just a name to indicate it’s winter time.
Roni Guetta, the producer, said: “Of all the shows and events I have produced in the years, the Drag Pageant remains unmatched. It is both a heartfelt and emotional celebration of Brighton’s unique drag community, and a sensational and raucous night out.
“It is the meeting of the fun and the feelings that make this a very unique experience, and why audiences can’t get enough.”
For those who don’t know, Drag Pageants originated in the USA to copy and comment on the female beauty contests like Miss America. They follow a similar format with a runway appearance, a question and answer section, and a talent spot for the acts to show off their acts.
The event, at Brighton Dome Concert Hall, is part of the Dome’s winter festive activities, and there are substantial prizes on offer to the contestants – all of whom are previous winners or finalists in the May version of the event.
I asked some of the contestants and the organisers about their feelings about the show.
Smashlyn Monroe said: “As a performer I am honoured to be with such an amazing line up. And there is nowhere else I can truly be myself and feel so free bringing my art to the legendary Dome stage. As a 43-year-old queer fat tattooed bald headed non-binary babe I really am living my dream!”
Ophelia Payne said: “Beyond excited to be part of this amazing show! The Pageant for me was a real pivotal moment in my drag career so to be coming back AND getting to perform at the iconic Dome is a once in a lifetime moment.”
Gem The Clown said: “Getting to perform on the Brighton Dome stage really is a ‘pinch me’ moment! I’m so excited to share what I’ve been preparing – glue gun burns and all. It’s really special to get to share this experience with such talented and inspiring draggy friends.”
Miss Disney said: “Performing on the Brighton Dome stage has to be a Miss Disney dream come true – and being part of this gorgeous cast that I’m lucky to call my friends after having time out from drag is really the icing on the cake.”
Ex-Girlfriend said: “I’m so stoked to be taking part. I feel so incredibly honoured to have been invited as this year’s current reigning winner to take part with this legendary cast. Get ready for a night of electrifying performances from the best of the best.”
Arran Shurvinton said: “It is an honour to be asked back for this seasonal extravaganza. This show has become an iconic staple in the city and community. A coming together of so many disciplines and characters, experience and passions. To have this opportunity is truly a dream come true!”
Alfie Ordinary said: “This is it! The drag extravaganza of the decade. We’ve got eight of our best contestants from previous pageants at Brighton Spiegeltent and upped the stakes. Everyone is going to turn it out, and as the host I have the best job in the world seeing it all unfold in front of me.”
The Big Drag Pageant On Ice is on December 4 – tickets HERE