Maxi gets launched

This time of year is really a test of endurance. It separates the men from the mice when it comes to drag. It seems from the Mardi Gras kick-off till the end party that many showgirls around town spend more time in their female form than as blokes.

And I am guessing 2005 is no exception, though I have let the team down a little this year. However, by the amount of colour and movement this weekend I think I was the only one.

Friday night saw the gay and lesbian community welcome in the silly season with the Mardi Gras launch held down at Hyde Park.

Hosted by the always fabulous Bob Downe, the caged crowd was treated to performances by Claire de Lune, Courtney Act, Candy Stratton, Dikes on Mikes and a speech by my new hero Julie McCrossin that even had me hooting in delight. As usual I was with the cask-laden backpackers so we were located on the other side of the fence, but I had a fabbie time anyway.

After the launch and a few beers later, it was time to head down to the Midnight Shift to see the brand new DIVAstated Icons show.

Starting with the Cher show, it was apparent straight away that DIVAstated had had some new additions to the cast. With original cast members Ashley, Vanity, Stacey and Mumma Shirl still going strong, the Shift also welcomed Minnie Cooper and girl about town, the fabulous Ricca Paris.

And what an extravaganza it was, bringing the Cher final concert alive! The crowd was left cheering for more. At this stage I was cheering for my bed so I made a quick exit stage left and missed the second show.

Thank goodness Vanity brought home a DVD of the event so really I didn’t miss a thing. Congratulations, girls, both shows looked spectacular and as usual exhausting.

Speaking of exhausting, I must mention we have started rehearsals for a brand new show at Stonewall opening this Saturday night starring Vanity Faire, Stacey Gayski and yours truly.

Campness at its best is probably the best way to describe it.
My god, I think I will need to hook myself up to a Red Bull drip to get through the next couple of weeks.

EYESPY Dallas Dellaforce and Della Deluxe, there you go, I mentioned you both, now shut your holes!

Polly’s Follies kicks off in a new home this Sunday at 6:30pm. After only a week’s holiday, Polly and her motley crew will be bringing out their madness early at Stonewall, followed by Sluts On Sunday, featuring Candy and Daisy with their new adults-only section.