YUMA, Arizona (KYMA / KECY) – Be on the lookout this weekend as the kings are on their way to Yuma … not the kings of Buckingham Palace, the kings of the Imperial Court of Arizona.
This monarchy of drag queens, drag kings, and performers is transforming the Yuma American Legion # 19 into their palace on Saturday night as part of their Arizona Drag Tour, a multi-stop drag show that raises funds for Arizona Pride organizations.
As the entire nation focused on figuring out a way to fight the deadly virus, the Arizona Imperial Court found a way to remind members of the LGBTQ + community that they are not alone in this time
Christopher Jay Hall, known as “Miss Nature” on stage, is one of the minds behind the tour. His experience in the rural community of Florence, Arizona, drives the Passion Project.
“We wanted to go to communities that … know what it’s like not to have many resources,” Hall said. “If I wanted resources, I’d have to go out and get them.”
Rest assured they are ready to kill!
Christina Lancaster is better known as “Justin Deeper-Love,” another head behind this weekend’s show and part of the spectacle.
“We immediately felt like we were doing something for the pride organizations,” said Lancaster. “I represent Tucson as Mister Tucson and especially during the pandemic there were no pride festivals.”
If this was your first or 15th drag show, there is something for everyone. What is important, as Armando Murillo puts it, known as “Dirtee X” and the host of the night, is a place where one can celebrate each other’s differences at a time when gatherings of the magnitude known to the community cannot take place.
“We don’t always see the ripple effect we have,” said Geo Johnson, a performer on the tour known for his Freddy Mercury act. “We hear stories, we hear how we help others or make them feel like they belong.”
And if security is your thing, you’ve come to the right place. Hand sanitization, temperature controls, and socially detached seating will all be available. Performers are also required to wear face shields and the public are asked to wear masks.
“Safety is a priority here,” assured Hall. “I tell everyone that raising money is second only to public safety.”
Proceeds will go to Yuma PFLAG, which provides services and resources to Yuma’s LGBTQ + community.
The show is scheduled for this Saturday night at Yuma American Legion # 19 on 2575 S Virginia Drive.
Tickets are $ 15 and can be purchased at the door or on the Imperial Court of Arizona website until 5:00 p.m. Friday. Instead of participating, you can also donate money directly to your cause by clicking here. You can also stream the event on Miss Nature’s Twitch account.
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