Winter Is a Drag Ball turned 30 this year with a theme of “ResistDANCE + RevoluSHINE.” On Saturday, hundreds of partygoers dressed up in diamonds and pearls and turned out to celebrate this tradition of defying cabin fever and supporting Vermont CARES. The night raised more than $15,000 for the harm reduction and HIV/AIDS service organization.
Photographer James Buck was there once again to capture the party, performances and parade of costumes for Seven Days.
Local drag king and ball organizer Mike Oxready presented 30 acts on two stages at Higher Ground in South Burlington, including Rev. Yolanda and the Circle of Love, WABAAM!, Green Mountain Cabaret, Miss Chekova, Prisma Pallet, Sasha Sriracha, the House of LeMay, and King COCKtail. Rhedd Rhumm emceed the stage in the Showcase Lounge. DJ Llu spun a “before bedtime” dance set in the lounge, and DJ Craig Mitchell kept the party going in the ballroom.
“The performances embodied resistance, resilience, power, community, and queer and trans joy. The energy was palpable!” Oxready said. “The costumes were incredible, the dancing was contagious, and the shows were electrifying. I can’t wait for next year.”
For more about the history of Drag Ball in Vermont, read the 2015 story and watch a slideshow depicting the first 20 years of this legendary Vermont event.
Got something to say?
Send a letter to the editor and we'll publish your feedback in print!