Lace up your corsets, gentlemen; and ladies, dust off those suits.
Binghamton University’s Rainbow Pride Union is preparing for its seventh annual drag show. Located in Binghamton University’s Osterhout Theater, the show will be March 26 from 7:05 to 8:35 p.m.
With an expected outcome of almost 400 people, the drag show is an open event, available to all BU and Broome Community College students.
As the event was located in the Mandela Room in previous years, the larger venue has propelled higher expectations for this year. Last year’s stage manager and current assistant director of RPU, Jordan Zager, said he anticipates this year’s event to be “a much more productive and exciting drag show.”
Filmed by BTV Channel 6, the theme of the event will be the Oscars and will consist of songs, performances and surprise entertainment, including a special guest judge.
Participants will be divided into two groups: professional and inexperienced, and will consist of performances by Drag “Queens” and “Kings.” Each group will be judged separately, and past prizes have included iPods and gift cards. Absolutely no experience is needed, and meetings will be held by the RPU executive board to overview all potential performances.
At least 50 percent of all net profits will be donated to the Southern Tier AIDS Program (STAP). STAP is an organization that provides HIV and HCV prevention education and outreach services to individuals and communities inflicted with HIV/AIDS.
By conducting this event, RPU hopes to spread the knowledge of the LGBTQ community, while diversifying the campus.
When asked why RPU chose to donate to the STAP organization, Director Phil Calderon said, “Because of the exceptionally important role STAP plays within our community — on so many levels.”
Tabling for the event will be held today and Monday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the New University Union. Tickets are $5 and $7 at the door and are also be available in the RPU lounge located in the New Union, room 302.