“It’s probably the party of the year in Jasper.”
Sue McCarthy is really excited for this year’s Diva-Licious fundraiser.
The co-chair of the Jasper Pride Festival Society spoke about the society’s fundraising event Nov. 20, and said it’s hard to have a better time in Jasper.
If past events are any indication, this year’s Diva-Licious, which has become a well-loved tradition in town, will pack the Jasper Legion to capacity, as Jasperites squeeze in to see bombastic performances by top-notch drag queens.
McCarthy explained that this year’s show will be even bigger than last year’s, as three wigged wonders will strut their stuff on stage, for an hour and a half of performances.
Along with last year’s performers—Toni Lester Van Blam and Ginger Schnapps—Chantelle Lee will make an appearance this year, meaning even more high heels, big hair and vocal acrobatics than before.
“It’s a fun evening; it kind of splits that November lull here in Jasper. It’s like ‘it’s over, let’s go dancing,’” McCarthy said.
“It is all about dancing and having a good time and just connecting back with your friends again.”
And while for Jasperites the evening is a chance to cut loose and enjoy the party, it’s also the Pride Society’s big fundraiser, allowing them to muster up enough cash to fund the Jasper Pride Festival next spring.
Along with the entertainment, the event will feature a silent auction, stocked with more than $8,000 worth of prizes, including deluxe tickets to Maroon 5 and a free breakfast package from Coco’s Café valued at more than $1,300.
“We’ve had great support, and they’re good prizes this year. Bring your checkbooks and your cash,” McCarthy said with a laugh.
She said if interest is there for the prizes, the evening could raise twice as much as it did last year. That would be a needed boost for the society, which will extend pride weekend by an extra day next year, adding new family events, movie nights and a surprise guest speaker.
Diva-Licious will take place Nov. 29 at the Jasper Legion. Doors will open at 7 p.m., and the show will begin at 9 p.m. Tickets can be picked up at the door, or in advance at wickedwhitewinter.com. They cost $12 for general admission or $6 for society members.
Trevor Nichols
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