Support Us Button Widget

Meet Raleigh drag performers

Webp.net-compress-image (78)

Ruby Deluxe performer Alex Thee Rabbit | Photo by RALtoday

If you’ve been to a local drag show before, then you know what we mean when we say there’s really no experience like watching a performer get up in front of a crowded bar + use the stage as their form of self-expression.

Now that local shows are back in person, we spoke to performers at Downtown club Ruby Deluxe about the art of drag, their personal styles, and what performing means to them.

From dance numbers, to comedy sets, to creative makeup, to outfit designs — drag is both an art form + a form of entertainment.

“It’s magic, it is so liberating,” Dawn, one of the drag queens we interviewed, said

I don’t think I would be able to exist in our society, in this world, in my body if I was just working my job and then like I got off work and I played video games or something. 5 o’clock, I close the laptop and I’m like what are we making for Dawn tonight. I’m so excited.”

Watch the video below with our full interviews + find out where to watch local drag performers. Venues include Ruby Deluxe, Vidrio, The Dogwood Bar & Eatery, and Raleigh Beer Garden (and of course Legends and Flex). ProTip: make sure you hit up an ATM beforehand to have your tips ready.

https://youtu.be/7ZZUxGQMgeM


More from RALtoday
Whether you’re shortening on time or need to impress the in-laws, our com-pie-lation of local bakeries will help you find the perfect sweet treat.
Get ready to dash for drumsticks — there are seven turkey trots to get you up and moving on Thanksgiving Day around the City of Oaks.
Take the stress out of prepping and planning on Thanksgiving with these 13 restaurants + eateries offering takeout and dine-in seasonal feasts.
Over the next 10 days, we’re launching a reader-driven campaign to sustain what we do best.
Explore all 308 acres of Dorothea Dix Park and its top landmarks, history, and more.
Owner Steve Malik announced North Carolina FC would attempt to become part of the USL Division One, but the team will discontinue until their bid is potentially accepted. Plus, NCFC needs a 15,000 occupancy venue to join USL Division One.
Nineteen Raleigh + Triangle restaurants have been named to the esteemed Michelin Guide after its first foray into the American South. Here’s what we love at these spots — and what the Michelin inspectors might have, too.
There’s plenty of new faces representing the Wolfpack this basketball season. Here’s what you need to know before you root for NC State this season.
Instead of throwing your pumpkins away, consider donating them to local farms through Pumpkins for Pigs.
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.