Understanding the opposite sex may be difficult, but experiencing a drag show could make it easier. On Saturday, Nov. 5 at 7 p.m. in Jarman Hall, Gamma Rho Lambda paired with "Side by Side", a non-profit organization that helps children between the ages of 11-20 if they decide to be a part of an alliance community, to put on a drag show for Longwood students and Farmville residents. The admissions fee was $5 at the door with all proceeds going to charity.
The show consisted of two main events, an introduction of the candidates and a talent portion. There were five different contestants for the night, four drag kings and one drag queen.
“I wanted to help the new sorority on campus,” said sophomore T.J. Baumgart, one of the participants in the show.
Baumgart went by “Luscious” for the night, sporting a little black dress and heels for one of the acts. During the talent portion, he danced to “Love Game” by Lady Gaga. The crowd screamed and clapped every time “Luscious” was called on stage. Baumgart would then walk across stage wearing a dress and heels, flashing a giant smile at the audience.
Being a part of Greek life himself, Baumgart aimed to spread Phi Mu Delta’s (PMD) name to a larger audience. PMD was one of a number of organizations that helped put the show on stage. The additional parties included LU Pride and the Student Diversity and Inclusion Council (SDIC), who helped set the show up. The Belly Dance Company was also part of the show, three of their members performed during intermission.
“It felt great to perform on stage, especially for the LGBTQ+ community,” said sophomore and Dance Company member Kirsten Wachsmann.
Wachsmann and two of her fellow dancers performed to “Memories” by "Panic! At The Disco." There were also a couple of flash mobs during which audience members were invited to come onstage to dance.
“I want to do this next year and it’s good for charity,” said junior Leah Gilbert.
The performers were a big part of the performance, but the MCs were just as much a part of the show as the contestants. The end of the show saw each person thanked for their help and contribution. This included thanking the backstage crew and the judges themselves. The judges consisted of Longwood faculty members.
“(My favorite) would have to be the talent portion, because of how loud the students were,” said senior Alisha Ewell, one of the MCs.
The show raised awareness, not only for the LGBTQ+ community, but also for "Side by Side". By the end of the night between front door payment and donations, over $300 was raised.
