43
‘Drag Queen’ turns obstacles into triumph
By LORRAINE WARDLE
YOUNGSTOWN
They came in packs. They overfilled the parking lot. They swarmed the building. The audience for “How the Drag Queen Stole Christmas” could not have been more excited.
Or more diverse.
The outrageous and highly anticipated holiday production attracts a crowd like no other.
The make-up of the audience is actually a little shocking. The performance space at the Calvin Center on Saturday night was packed with theater-goers of all kinds, from intoxicated revelers to sober senior citizens.
This “Drag Queen” clearly has something for everyone.
It is easy to see why everyone loves this show. From the opening number to the final chorus, Robert Dennick Joki’s musical extravaganza lovingly pokes fun at pop culture, current events, and the city that people seem to love to hate. Sometimes, the reactions from the audience were just as funny as the gags onstage.
Every year, Joki changes the script to reflect current events, both local and world-wide. When one of the major performers dropped out this year, Joki had to change much more than he planned. Not one to be deterred, Joki made his show fresher and funnier than before.
Die-hard fans might have been worried when main character Miraj didn’t appear onstage. They had nothing to fear, however, as Jo Ellen Jacob filled his large shoes without a hitch. Jacob was perfect as Minaj, a low-voiced, attitude-filled, taller version of the pop star.
Nicole Zayas reprised her role as Buffy Starr for an amazing seventh time with her signature sass.
Bernadette Lim returned to the role of Minnie Cooper, the sweet young queen with a beautiful singing voice. Beth Farrow reprised her role as the hilariously nasty Starina, joined by the lovely Rachel Clifford as young Starrlet.
The trio of “ghosts” was perfect. As Christmas Past, Lynn Sabeh’s Marilyn Monroe was both sultry and silly. Marisa Zamary played Christmas Present Paula Deen with a perfect drawl and an awesome singing voice. Alyssa Connelly created an amazing Lady Gaga as Christmas Future.
Perennial performer Andrew Labedz joined the cast for an impressive sixth time, playing multiple parts. His partner, Miley Saurass Rex was played by newcomer Terri MacSkimming, who created a frighteningly accurate Miley Cyrus impression.
Also new to the show was Hunter Thomas, who had the audience roaring as Little Orphan Tranny. David Cirelli’s performances as Michael and Mick were touching and entertaining and Kage Coven was hilarious as both a rapping cab driver and an irreverent Santa.
Of course, the show would not be complete without the incredible performance of Joki as Starrlet O’Hara.
Each performance also includes a reception, silent auction and raffle. The proceeds from the production benefit The Rust Belt Theater Company and its Young Actors Studio.