Sparks have been flying recently in regards to ‘The Sparkle Tour’ Drag Show fundraising event that is set to have two shows at Eagles Hall in Duncan on May 19.
The first show at 7:30 p.m. is aimed at all ages, while the second packs a little more sass, and is suited for ages 19-plus. The event is being presented by the Duncan Cowichan Festival Society, and Assisting Refugees in Cowichan (ARC), a refugee sponsorship organization founded by the Duncan United Church along with folks from the LGBTQ2S+ community.
READ MORE: Group formed to aid LGBTQ2S+ refugees come to Cowichan; drag show fundraiser this month
“The focus is on having fun, a little comedy, a little dancing and great entertainment that breaks down the typical phobias associated with the LGBTRQ2S+ community. Love is better than hate,” said third time organizer Jeff Leggat.
Leggat said this upcoming event has been the target of a smear campaign through a right wing group set on shutting the show down through convincing the community that this type of entertainment is aimed at indoctrinating, grooming or otherwise abusing children with sexualized behaviour.
“This is absolutely not the case. If anyone is concerned, we are here to assure you the all-ages show is anything but nefarious in any sense of the word,” said Leggat. “It’s about inclusion, fun and most important, fundraising for two incredible non-profits. As a member of the affirming congregation of Duncan United Church, we like to reply and react to hate with love. I am proud of our community sponsors for dealing with the active harassment and lies perpetrated by those with misinformation and misguided outrage.”
Leggat said that the drag performers are talented, professional entertainers with style and integrity, and that their first show has always been a hit with kids and seniors. It emulates an audience interactive Disney/American Idol-esque lip-sync, sing-a-long with dancing. The second show, while a little saucier, promises not to showcase inappropriate actions, words, innuendos or be trashy. More information can be found on the Duncan Cowichan Chamber of Commerce event page.
“I hope our community can once again stand together in harmony and come on out for a wonderful evening — the first time we hosted the Drag Show a few years back it was sold out,” said Leggat. “We are hoping for another sold out night where all can come together in joy, and celebration of community.”
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chadd.cawson@cowichanvalleycitizen.com
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