Charity Drag Show Celebrates 20 Years of Inclusivity and Generosity

March 28, 2023

BLOOMINGTON, Ill. — A campus tradition celebrating inclusivity and generosity will continue during the 20th Annual Charity Drag Show at 7 p.m. on Saturday, April 1, at Hansen Student Center.

Organized by Illinois Wesleyan University’s Pride Alliance and the IWU Pride Alumni Community, the evening will feature live entertainment while donations collected will benefit The Trevor Project , a suicide prevention network for LGBTQ+ youth. 

“Pride chose The Trevor Project due to its ability to reach the wider community and its multitude of offerings,” said Nina DeBoni

'23, vice president of Pride Alliance. “As a famous non-profit centered around LGBTQIA+ people, donations to The Trevor Project are vital to maintaining their mental health-related services.”

Emceed by local drag queen Sharon Sharealike, the Charity Drag Show will host returning performers Jessie Jonze, Star Lyht, student performer Memphis Mackey, and IWU alum performer Reggie Boots, as well as performances from the IWU Deja Vu Dance Team and Cypher Dance Team. 

DeBoni said attendees can expect “a night filled with love, laughter, and wonderful loudmouthing from our stunning cast of royalty.”

“Attendees should expect community, too — a homecoming of sorts that, with their wonderful donations, continues a supportive cycle of giving,” said DeBoni.

The RSVP deadline to attend is Wednesday, March 29, and seating is limited. The doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the show begins at 7 p.m. Those interested in attending should RSVP here.

Dean of Students for Campus Life Kevin Carey '13 said ongoing commitment from the Pride Alliance and the LGBTQ+ community at IWU and beyond is inspiring. 

“To see this event become a campus tradition — one that students value and get excited to attend — really creates inclusive vibrancy,” he said. 

By MJ Soria '25