Editor’s Note: A word used as slang to describe female genitalia is included in this story. It is part of the name of one of the drag performers covered in this piece. While the Collegian understands the word may offend some, the performer’s name is necessary to include as part of this piece, specifically in how it is part of the performer’s persona and identity.
Nails. Hips. Heels.
Everything you can imagine that embodied the Drag Brunch performance on March 20. Held at Cru 130 on 130 West Main Street, Turlock.
Upon arrival, the sidewalk leading up to the venue had groups of people near the entrance. Cold and mildly windy, seating wasn’t until 11:15 a.m. because identification check-ins, transactions and seating were taking place at the same time.
The venue was practically a long hallway, length-wise, that stretched from the stage and directly across the entrance. Several tables were placed amongst the walls to allow movement for the performers to have leverage across the venue.
A little bit later, the emcee began warming up the crowd.
Gigi Banks, one of the main hostesses from Modesto, opens up the crowd with light witty humor that encourages quiet tables to be more loud and slight teases towards DJ Invisible, the DJ incharge of the entertainer’s music numbers.
While interviewing Banks behind the scenes, there was a lot of power play that took into consideration when emceeing a crowd.
“I feel like confidence, I always fake it till you make it, that’s one of my motto’s, or confidence whether you gotta fake it. And just go out there and have a great time, while talking clearly. It’s important to command the room, while being the hostess,” said Banks, a Modesto Drag Queen.
During Bank’s performance, the energy she exuded was bold and giving formidable tiger mom energy. What her performance stood out was that she gave off charismatic and confident body poses while moving along with the music choices. Although the songs were not any music I have heard of, they certainly complimented Banks’ attitude and stage presence.
Next up was Ronnie Punani, a drag queen that’s based from Stockton. During her musical numbers, she executed their performance in a show-stopping way. From a Scooby-doo Velma outfit to an avant-garde stage costume that was embellished with silver diamonds and rainbow vinyl.
The way they exuded and carried themselves was similar to celebrities performing at the Super Bowl with a whole-decked out dance choreography. From greeting their audience to doing twirls and springs, they radiated star energy.
After their performance, followed by Heroine, a drag queen who hails from Sacramento but had their career kickstarted in Oakland at first glance, their presence might appear daunting and ghostly; however, after witnessing their performance it broke down the assumptions.
Heroine’s choreo involves fast-paced and sharp moves that elevates the ensemble they’re wearing.
“You just have to enjoy what you do, and do it to have fun. And that’s the biggest misconception that many people have that they go into this going into pageants or going on to TV. Those are great roles to have, but overall, it’s just all about having fun and enjoying yourself. It’s about embracing a side that you can’t really express out too much. It’s been a taboo for so long, but now it’s being embraced and showcased and appreciated by many people,” said Heroine.
Lastly, was Kurt Demone or GreasePaint, a trans non-binary entertainer that performs in both Burlesque and Drag. Burlesque is a type of performance that allows the entertainer to dance provocatively and perform comically. While watching Demone’s performance, they exuded a mesh between their two performances.
The number’s Demone had performed were astonishing, they were able to deliver provocative dance moves while interacting with the audience. It was like a mutual exchange between the audience members and Demone.
“The drag community has been very open and understanding of it which was really nice. When I do Burlesque they’re a little bit educated on it. I haven’t experienced any negative feedback from it,” said Demone.
To the left side was the brunch food items that were being served. The food items were catered by Cuts Steakhouse on 142 W. Main Street that had eggs, candied bacon, gravy spiced with numerous black peppers and herbs, potato chunks, chocolate chip cookies, and various fruits. However, upon my arrival, they were desecrated and barely had any leftovers for the rest of the attendees.
While watching their performance, it felt like a testament that they’re untouchable and unattainable, that they’re a performer that is out of this world.
Evidently in all of their performances, it was a show that despite the uphill battles they may undergo, they’re able to do what they love.
Right after the performances, followed an after brunch-party that allows the audience members to take pictures with their drag queens. Allowing them to connect and network and simply have fun with their favorites.