Drags Aloud: Showgurl @ Underbelly Cowgate

Damn, gurl!

Feature by Nick Manderson | 20 Aug 2011

Far too many drag queens take themselves too seriously, sucking the fun out of their performance. Australia’s Drags Aloud, however, always remember that fun is the key element to any drag show.

The 2008 Forth Radio Fringe Award winners return with a look at the life of a showgurl – a less poised version of a proper showgirl. The queens (Amanda Monroe, Jessica James, and Kris del Vayze) are temporarily one woman down, but their performance is in no way lacking. There are more sequin and feathers than you can count; it is ultra-camp, yet without the tedious self-indulgence often present in other drag acts. Fitting song choices make for hilarious parody, and enable a great range of costumes.

Drags Aloud: Showgurl keeps the audience entertained throughout frock changes with video sketches, which also act to narrate and direct the show. Amusing yet sensitive personal monologues from each queen give the audience a glimpse into their lives as showgurls. The monologues take some of the wind out of the show’s sails, but it is quickly recovered with the energy of the following numbers.

A quick note on the venue: avoid sitting at the top corners around the stage, as the lights will leave you a little blinded. Otherwise the large personalities have no trouble filling the Underbelly space.

The show is only at the Fringe for 10 days, so don’t miss out. Saying “Drag isn’t my cup of tea” or “I’ve never been to a drag show before” aren’t suitable excuses; the comedy cabaret of Drags Aloud is the perfect primer. A must-see at this year’s Fringe.

Drags Aloud, 18-28 August, 10:20pm, Underbelly Cowgate. Also performing at DRAGAHOLIC, 24 August, midnight, Underbelly Bristo Square.

http://dragsaloud.com/index.html