Just like every other artist in Cape Town struggling during the Coronavirus lockdown, the drag community are also twirling their weaves, thinking up ways to make ends meet.
A group of well-known cabaret entertainers has now come together to host a live virtual concert on Thursday, called Thursgay, featuring divas Kat Gilardi, Vida Fantabisher, Manila Von Teez, and special guest, Wendy LaRosa.
ON THE BILL: Guest Wendy LaRosa
Tickets are selling at R50 online, and the show promises to deliver “high voltage entertainment to turn your Covid-19 frown upside down”.
Vida Fantabisher says now is the time for all their “closet” admirers to come out: “For those of you who have been slightly afraid or embarrassed to physically attend a drag show, now’s the time to watch our girls perform right from the comfort of your home.”
She adds: “Going digital has changed the way we do drag, but it also allows us to share a message of hope and kindness and self-care.”
The song and dance concert, recorded at Penny Lane Studios in Wynberg, will bring financial relief to the drag queens who hope to do regular shows like this to raise funds.
Manila says: “We have been doing shows with pre-recorded songs, but it’s not the same, and this opportunity for our friends, families and fans to see us live is exciting.
“I’m sure it will be weird not seeing people in front of us, but we are looking forward to the experience.”
Kat Gilardi says the lockdown has all, but crippled the entertainment industry.
“I went from gigging four times per week to nothing.
“I had to deal with the reality of not earning at all and dealing with the ‘new normal’.
“Don’t get me wrong, this new virtual way of entertaining is not easy, but it’s better than not doing what I live for.”
The show will air on YouTube on Thursday at 5.30pm
ENTERTAIN: Thursgay will air live will be on YouTube on Thursday
Tickets cost R50 at Quicket, you will receive your link view to the show.