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Tag: Jujubee

  • Ginger Minj Summons a Star-Studded Drag Coven for Hokus Pokus Live! Tour

    Ginger Minj Summons a Star-Studded Drag Coven for Hokus Pokus Live! Tour

    Witches, drag lovers, and theater kids unite because Ginger Minj is casting her most ambitious spell yet. The RuPaul’s Drag Race icon and Hocus Pocus 2 scene-stealer has announced the return of her spellbinding stage production Hokus Pokus Live!, and this time, she’s bringing a cauldron full of drag royalty along for the ride.

    This all-new theatrical experience will tour 22 U.S. cities from Sept. 4 to Oct. 6, co-starring Drag Race darlings Jujubee and Sapphira Cristál, along with Dragula champion Landon Cider.

    A Wickedly Starry Lineup

    Ginger Minj, known affectionately as “The Glamour Toad”, isn’t just performing; she wrote, directed, and co-produced Hokus Pokus Live! through her Fruit Wine Productions. This marks the show’s third iteration, but don’t expect a rehash. Each performance promises a fresh blend of iconic characters, new songs, and supernatural sass tailored to the talents of this all-star cast.

    “It’s more than just a drag show,” Minj said in a statement. “It’s a magical theatrical experience that will leave audiences spellbound.”

    That magic comes in no small part thanks to her cast:

    • Sapphira Cristál, the operatic powerhouse and runner-up of Drag Race Season 16.
    • Jujubee, fan-favorite multi-season queen with Broadway chops from DRAG: The Musical.
    • Landon Cider, a trailblazing drag king whose theatrical flair made him a Dragula winner.

    The Bette Midler Blessing

    The origins of Hokus Pokus Live! are as iconic as the show itself. Ginger credits Hocus Pocus 2 co-star Bette Midler for planting the spellbinding seed. “I just really love the way that you do me,” Midler reportedly told Ginger. “I would like to see you take this and run with it and turn it into something.”

    Consider it done, Divine Miss M.

    Tour Dates & Ticket Info

    The tour kicks off Sept. 4 in Orlando, FL, and hits major cities like NYC, Chicago, San Francisco, and Los Angeles before wrapping Oct. 6 at The Novo. Tickets go on presale July 16 (Code: SPELLBOOK) and general sale July 18 at hokuspokuslive.com, with VIP packages available for those who want to hex it up with the cast.

    VIP Packages That Slay

    Whether you’re looking for a spooky meet-and-greet or some exclusive glam swag, there’s a VIP tier for every witchy wallet.

    • Coven Ultra VIP includes front-row seats, Q&A sessions, exclusive merch, and a group photo with the cast.
    • RIP (Really Important Person) includes premium seats, a supernatural meet-and-greet, signed posters, and more.

    Final Spell

    From Broadway-worthy vocals to drag transformations that defy reality, Hokus Pokus Live! promises a theater experience with a high-glam twist. And with a cast like this? The spell is already cast.

  • ‘Drag Race’ Star Jiggly Caliente Undergoes Leg Amputation Following Severe Health Complication

    ‘Drag Race’ Star Jiggly Caliente Undergoes Leg Amputation Following Severe Health Complication

    Jiggly Caliente, a beloved performer known for her appearances on “RuPaul’s Drag Race” and as a co-host on “Drag Race Philippines,” has undergone a partial leg amputation following a serious medical emergency, her family announced.

    Caliente, whose real name is Bianca Castro, experienced a “severe infection” that led to hospitalization and the subsequent loss of most of her right leg, according to a statement shared by her family on Instagram.

    “The family of Bianca Castro, known to many as the beloved drag performer Jiggly Caliente, is heartbroken to share that over the last month Bianca has experienced a serious health setback,” the post read. “Due to a severe infection, she was hospitalized and, as a result, has undergone the loss of most of her right leg.”

    The statement also confirmed that Caliente will not appear in the upcoming season of “Drag Race Philippines” and will not be participating in any public engagements for the foreseeable future. “Her recovery will be extensive,” the family wrote.

    Fans and fellow performers have been asked to respect Caliente’s privacy during this time. “While Jiggly concentrates on healing, we invite her friends, fans, and community to uplift her with messages of hope and love on her social media channels,” the statement said. “Bianca’s family and drag house are deeply grateful for the continued outpouring of support, strength, and prayers.”

    Support has poured in from across the drag and LGBTQ+ community. Fellow “Drag Race” alum Manila Luzon commented, “Praying for you, sister,” while Jujubee added, “I love you so much. Can’t wait to see you again.”

    Other well-wishers included Hannah Conda from “Drag Race Down Under,” who wrote, “Sending so much love my angel,” and Spankie Jackzon, who added, “Thinking of you… take it as it comes.” Comments of love and encouragement also came from Raja, Kween Kong, Marina Summers, Pangina Heals, and Morphine Love Dion, among others.

    Jiggly Caliente rose to fame after competing on Season 4 of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” in 2012, and later returned for “All Stars” Season 6 in 2021. In 2016, she publicly came out as a transgender woman and has since become a prominent voice and advocate for trans visibility in the entertainment industry.

    Beyond reality television, Caliente has appeared on FX’s acclaimed series “Pose,” which explores the underground ballroom culture of 1980s New York City and features a predominantly LGBTQ+ cast. Her absence in the upcoming season of the popular franchise will be deeply felt by fans, many of whom credit Caliente with providing authentic representation and heartfelt mentorship on the show.

    For those wishing to send encouragement, Caliente’s family encourages fans to leave messages on her official social media pages.

  • Chappell Roan Takes a Star-Studded Trip to DRAG: The Musical in NYC

    Chappell Roan Takes a Star-Studded Trip to DRAG: The Musical in NYC

    Chappell Roan made a glamorous entrance at the Off-Broadway hit DRAG: The Musical this past weekend, joining the glittering world of drag at New World Stages in New York City. The Grammy Award-winning singer, known for her bold musical style and advocacy for drag culture, was spotted enjoying the performance on Sunday, April 6, surrounded by some of the biggest drag stars in the world, including RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars winner Alaska Thunderf—, Jujubee, Jan Sport, Luxx Noir London, and Lagoona Bloo.

    Photo: Matthew Murphy
    Photo: Matthew Murphy

    Roan Goes Incognito at the Theater

    Roan, a global superstar, was determined to experience the show without drawing attention, arriving at the theater dressed in a cloak and with her signature red locks hidden under a hood. A source at the scene described her entrance as “totally incognito,” adding, “It was like something out of The Traitors!” The pop sensation made sure her arrival was discreet, but once inside, she wasted no time mingling with the cast and crew, who couldn’t have been more thrilled by her presence.

    Chappell Roan’s Backstage Love and Support

    After the show, Roan showed her true colors by visiting the DRAG: The Musical cast backstage, where she shared warm interactions with everyone involved in the production. According to People, “There was so much love in the room,” as Roan was “very personable with the cast” and even recited lines and moments from the show, showing her deep appreciation for the performance.

    Roan’s connection with the cast was especially evident in her interaction with Nick Laughlin, who plays the bearded drag queen Puss Puss DuBois. The two share a long-standing friendship, and Roan was joined at the show by her musical collaborator, Kyle Goold. It was a perfect evening of celebration and support for the drag community, which Roan has consistently championed.

    DRAG: The Musical – A Show About Family, Fashion, and Fierce Competition

    DRAG: The Musical has been a hit since its October 2024 opening, with the show set to run until April 27. The musical tells the comedic story of two rival drag clubs competing for supremacy in an outrageous, wig-snatching battle of wit and style. The drag queens, played by a stellar cast, embark on a journey of fashion, family, and, ultimately, forgiveness. Directed and choreographed by Spencer Liff, who is known for his work on Hedwig and the Angry Inch and So You Think You Can Dance, the production is as heartwarming as it is hilarious.

    In addition to Alaska Thunderf—, who stars in the show, she also co-wrote the musical’s book and music alongside multi-platinum songwriter Tomas Costanza and chart-topping artist Ashley Gordon. Legendary performer Liza Minnelli lends her voice to the production by providing the pre-show announcement.

    A Long-Time Drag Supporter

    Roan’s connection to drag is no secret—she’s been an outspoken advocate for the art form and the LGBTQ+ community throughout her career. Her debut album, The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess, was also heavily influenced by drag culture, with Roan describing the LP as “just daydreams in drag.” The album features the hit single “HOT TO GO!” which has earned praise for its vibrant energy and captivating lyrics.

    DRAG: The Musical continues to dazzle audiences with its all-star cast and fantastic production. The show runs through April 27, with tickets available for purchase now. 

  • RuPaul’s Drag Race Announces Groundbreaking ‘Slaysian Royale’ Spin-Off to Showcase Asian Queens from Around the World

    RuPaul’s Drag Race Announces Groundbreaking ‘Slaysian Royale’ Spin-Off to Showcase Asian Queens from Around the World

    A new chapter is unfolding in the RuPaul’s Drag Race universe as the show expands with a groundbreaking spin-off, Drag Race Philippines: Slaysian Royale. This all-Asian edition of the Drag Race franchise promises to shine a spotlight on the vibrant and diverse world of Asian drag, bringing together queens from various Drag Race franchises for an exciting battle for the crown.

    The spin-off, which builds on the existing Drag Race vs. The World format, will feature Asian queens from RuPaul’s Drag Race international franchises competing against each other in a unique, high-stakes competition. Set to air on streaming platform WOW Presents Plus in 2025, Slaysian Royale will be hosted in the Philippines, where Drag Race Philippines has quickly become a fan favorite. The show has seen tremendous success, with its third season airing last summer. Although comedian and drag star Paolo Ballesteros, known as Mamwa Pao, currently hosts Drag Race Philippines, it remains to be seen whether Ballesteros will return for Slaysian Royale.

    In a statement, Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato, founders of the production company World of Wonder, expressed excitement over the new format. “This new version of Drag Race shines a spotlight on Asian drag as never before, celebrating its culture, its history and creativity in a unique battle royale,” they said.

    The cast for Drag Race Philippines: Slaysian Royale has yet to be revealed, but Drag Race fans are already buzzing with anticipation. The Drag Race franchise has long been a platform for celebrating Asian talent, with standout queens representing a variety of countries and backgrounds. In the past few seasons, Asian queens have made significant marks on the competition, both as fan favorites and winners.

     

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    Nymphia Wind made history as the first Taiwanese queen to win RuPaul’s Drag Race on season 16. In the previous season, Sasha Colby, a transgender performer of Asian American Pacific Islander descent, claimed the title on Drag Race season 15. Other iconic Asian queens from the Drag Race franchise include South Korean star Kim Chi, season eight finalist and Vietnam-born Plastique Tiara, Filipino drag legend Manila Luzon, and Chinese-Canadian queen Aurora Matrix, who reached the finale of Canada’s Drag Race.

    Nymphia Wind, the first Taiwanese queen to win RuPaul’s Drag Race. Photo: Jama Willis
    Nymphia Wind, the first Taiwanese queen to win RuPaul’s Drag Race. Photo: Jama Willis

    Other beloved queens such as River Medway, Le Fil, Sum Ting Wong, and Zahirah Zapanta have become fan favorites on Drag Race UK. Thai-American queen Jujubee, who has competed four times in the Drag Race franchise—on season two, All Stars 1, All Stars 5, and Drag Race UK vs. The World—remains one of the most beloved contestants in the series’ history. Jujubee, who recently confirmed she will not return to compete again, is known for her consistent strong performances, making it to the final in every season she participated in.

    The excitement surrounding Slaysian Royale has already sparked waves of support from the global Drag Race community. Drag Race alumni have taken to social media to express their enthusiasm. “How freaking epic!!!” wrote Drag Race UK vs. The World star Hannah Conda. Canada’s Drag Race contestant Luna Dubois shared: “Oh this is so fierce!” Ongina, the first-ever Asian American contestant on RuPaul’s Drag Race (season one, 2009), tweeted: “INCREDIBLE!!”

    Drag Race fans are eagerly awaiting the new spin-off, which is sure to elevate the visibility of Asian queens within the Drag Race universe. As the franchise continues to expand, Slaysian Royale will bring an exciting and culturally significant addition to the ever-growing global Drag Race family.

    In the meantime, RuPaul’s Drag Race season 17 is currently airing on Fridays on MTV in the U.S. and WOW Presents Plus internationally.

  • New Drag Competition Series ‘Drag House Rules’ Promises Drama, Chaos, and Surprises

    New Drag Competition Series ‘Drag House Rules’ Promises Drama, Chaos, and Surprises

    A new satirical drag competition series is set to captivate fans of drag culture this week, and it’s not your typical reality show.

    “Drag House Rules,” which premieres Friday, February 21, on OUTtv, is shaking up the genre with a blend of over-the-top drama, alliances, and unpredictable moments. The show brings together a star-studded cast of seven drag queens—six alumni from RuPaul’s Drag Race and one winner from The Boulet Brothers’ Dragula—to live under one roof and compete for a mysterious $100,000 prize package.

    The queens participating in this drama-filled competition include fan favorites Jujubee, Manila Luzon, Silky Nutmeg Ganache, Laganja Estranja, Rock M. Sakura, and Tammie Brown, alongside Dragula champion Biqtch Puddin’. These queens will face off in a high-stakes game full of twists, turns, and shocking moments.

     

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    “Drag House Rules” takes what fans love about drag competitions and turns it on its head. According to the show’s synopsis, the queens will battle it out in a series of challenges that soon give way to chaos, secrets, and broken alliances. As the game progresses, the competition becomes increasingly unpredictable, with each contestant trying to outwit the others to stay on top.

    The premise sounds familiar: drag queens competing for a grand prize. But the reality of the show may not be what it seems. Entertainment Weekly, which unveiled an exclusive preview of the series on Wednesday, February 19, suggests the show may be a scripted satire of drag reality TV rather than a traditional competition.

    In fact, the preview includes playful hints that the series might not follow the typical reality format. The show’s creators appear to be poking fun at the genre, with quotes like “this ‘competition’ series might not be all that it seems” and “this peculiar ‘contest.’” Furthermore, John Mark Hostetler, the co-director of Trixie & Katya Live – The Last Show, is behind the direction of “Drag House Rules,” signaling that the show is likely a scripted comedy rather than a straightforward competition.

    The trailer for the series supports this theory, showcasing the queens acting in exaggerated, over-the-top ways. In the preview, the queens are seen engaging in heated arguments, physical altercations, and coming up with new catchphrases—all while hosted by Tony Moore. The tone appears to be more playful and theatrical, embracing the campy, outrageous side of drag culture.

    While the show may not deliver the same kind of nail-biting competition as RuPaul’s Drag Race, it is sure to appeal to fans who love drag and enjoy humor, satire, and unexpected twists. The series promises to deliver an entertaining mix of chaos, wit, and heart, all while giving drag fans a chance to see some of their favorite queens in a different light.

    “Drag House Rules” joins a growing trend of drag-related shows pushing boundaries and exploring new formats, from reality competitions to scripted series. The show is designed to keep viewers on the edge of their seats with each episode, offering a unique and humorous take on the popular drag competition genre.

    With the premiere just days away, fans are eagerly anticipating the debut of “Drag House Rules.” If the exclusive preview is any indication, this show is going to be full of surprises, laughs, and plenty of dramatic moments to keep viewers talking long after the credits roll.

    Don’t miss the premiere of Drag House Rules on OUTtv this Friday, February 21.