South Florida Drag Pioneers Honored

Visit History Fort Lauderdale’s “I Am What I Am: A Tribute to South Florida’s Drag Pioneers” exhibition at Galleria Fort Lauderdale June 1-30

Velvet Lenore will perform at the exhibition opening reception 1
Velvet Lenore will perform at the exhibition opening reception.

A cast of more than 40 drag artists will adorn a prominent Wall of Fame as part of History Fort Lauderdale’s “I Am What I Am: A Tribute to South Florida’s Drag Pioneers,” in honor of Pride Month in June at Galleria Fort Lauderdale. The tribute, on view June 1-30, will showcase the members of the drag community who tirelessly entertain and support philanthropic endeavors. Tickets are available for the opening reception on May 31, at 6 p.m., at Galleria Fort Lauderdale, featuring a special pioneer presentation, guest performances, and more.

Joanna James will perform at the exhibition opening reception
Joanna James

South Florida’s own drag pioneers Nikki Adams, Tiffany Arieagus, Cathy Craig, Daisy Deadpetals, Electra, and Latrice Royale will be celebrated for their longevity, entrepreneurship, roles on local television, and international fame. Images from the past and present, plus videos, costumes, and artifacts, will be shared to highlight their success.

The photo Wall of Fame, designed by Robert Tabor and sponsored by Lips Fort Lauderdale and Hunter’s, will showcase local performers such as Athena Dion, TP Lords, Nicole T. Phillips, Tiffany Fantasia, and Nicole Halliwell. Joanna James, Erika Norell, and Velvet Lenore will perform special tributes with the help of DJ Aulden Brown at the opening reception. Shawn Palacious and Joe Posa as Joan Rivers will host the event, which also serves as the official Stonewall Pride celebration kickoff event. Fort Lauderdale City Commissioner Steve Glassman will also present a special proclamation.

Erika Norell will perform at the exhibition opening reception
Erika Norell

“History Fort Lauderdale is thrilled with the response to celebrate these larger-than-life personalities who make our community a more colorful and inclusive place to live and visit,” said Patricia Zeiler, executive director of History Fort Lauderdale. “Members of the LGBT+ community have been resolute supporters of and contributors to the vibrant fabric of Fort Lauderdale’s world-class arts scene and we’re excited to celebrate their contributions during Pride month and beyond.”

Tickets for the “I Am What I Am: A Tribute to South Florida’s Drag Pioneers” Stonewall Pride Month Kickoff are $25 and include one Stoli cocktail and delicious bites from Lips Fort Lauderdale and Tulio’s Tacos and Tequila Bar. Click here to purchase.

The exhibition will be free and open to the public during mall hours from June 1-30.

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