Wednesday, April 7, 2010

Frontiers Magazine: L.A.'s Drag Roster

"L.A. is such a Drag"

by Stephan Horbelt

Drag queens have long been an institution of gay culture, and it doesn’t take watching an episode of RuPaul’s Drag Race to prove that. While it takes a truly talented drag to “lipsync for her life,” let’s not forget it was also drag queens who initiated the Stonewall Riots and have long been spokespeople, organizers and supporters for various LGBT causes.

As we delve into our city’s range of nightlife options with this issue, it’s very obvious that L.A. after dark is permeated by these gender-bending performers. Finding a drag show on any given night is hardly impossible. Queens emcee a slew of parties, clubs and events around town. Not to mention the general fascination outsiders and onlookers have with the ability to change one’s gender temporarily.

Here’s a look at some of the L.A. area’s most popular and talented drag performers. They’ve made us laugh, cringe and occasionally we’ve even shed a tear. God only knows what we’d do without them.

Rhea Litre'

How long have you been performing in drag?

Roughly four years. I never thought that I would be the drag entertainment of the nightclub. I pinch myself every time I get on stage. I consider myself very lucky to be able to get on stage and showcase my art, and most importantly, get paid for it!

Drag horror story:

Oh my Gaga! Mic feedback, headpieces falling off, heels breaking—anything bad that could happen during a performance has happened to me, but you perform and you learn!

Highlight of your drag career:

When I was able to perform and sing live at Lady Gaga’s official CD release party for The Fame Monster at Voyeur. Gaga was there in all her glory! Most recently, it was amazing to be embraced by the legendary party Trannyshack. I felt like I had really “made it!”

Where to find Rhea Litré:

Monday nights at Fubar for Metro Mondayz; Thursday nights at the Abbey for Sanctuary. Follow her at facebook.com/rhealitre.


To see the Full Roster go to Frontiers Official Website HERE

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