DragCon UK: Drag queens gather for two-day convention

Michelle Visage cuts the ribbonEPA

Almost 200 drag queens gathered in east London on Saturday for the opening of DragCon.

The third annual convention for Drag Race fans welcomed queens from across the world at ExCel London.

The two-day event includes performances, meet and greets and shopping stalls.

BBC's LGBT & Identity Producer Josh Parry, who was at the ribbon cutting ceremony on Saturday morning, described the event as a "world of colour".

An act during the opening of RuPaul's DragCon UK 2024 at ExCeL London
PA Media
An act in a yellow sequinned costume and feather display
PA Media
A drag queen in a crown on the pink carpet
PA Media
Performers take a photograph together
EPA

Around 180 queens "sashayed" down the pink carpet for the official opening of the event before being welcomed by one of the judges on Drag Race UK Michelle Visage.

Drag queen Ella Vaday from Dagenham said: "It's about meeting the fans from all around the world that watch us on TV.

"It gives you a chance to connect, have a chat and it's about a really positive environment."

A performer with extravagant pink hair and bright makeup
EPA
An act during the opening of RuPaul's DragCon UK 2024 at ExCeL London
PA Media
A drag queen makes her way to the event
EPA

Cheryl Hole, Drag Race UK series one contestant from Chelmsford, said the event was a "fabulous" weekend.

"DragCon really is this opportunity to bring the world together to celebrate everything that we love," she said.

Fenton Bailey, owner of the US production company behind RuPaul's Drag Race, said: "I think it's amazing for us to see ourselves on TV and also to be able to meet in person.

"The energy here, the sort of feeling of community and fellowship is amazing.

"It is chaos, but it's the best kind of chaos."

Presentational grey line

Listen to the best of BBC Radio London on Sounds and follow BBC London on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to hello.bbclondon@bbc.co.uk

Adblock test (Why?)



(Feed generated with FetchRSS)

Mr. Lee

Mr. Lee is a passionate writer with a deep appreciation for exploring diverse subjects. His curiosity and thoughtful perspective allow him to engage with a wide range of topics, bringing clarity and insight to his work.

Post a Comment

Previous Post Next Post

Contact Form