Theatrical thriller House of Pink is a Celebration of Drag Queens and the LGBTQI+ Community
By Khaya Masipa
As Pride month came to to an end this week, the vibrant and diverse celebrations culminated in a spectacular display of drama, action, and a whole lot of pink, courtesy of the House of Pink. This gender-bending drag show paid homage to the rich and storied history of drag performance, inspiring people to embrace their true selves and have fun with the fabulous “Queens” gracing the stage.
The House of Pink took the audience on a journey through the ever-evolving stages of what we now know as the culture of drag. Dressed in sexy lace underwear, tight corsets, elaborate wigs, and sky-high heels, the Queens created a visual spectacle that left the crowd in awe. Their stage names were equally dramatic, with monikers like ‘Kitana Clitoris,’ ‘Phoenix Rising From The Asses,’ and ‘Miss Raj’ among others.
The heart of the show lay in the lip-syncing performances of classic songs such as ‘It’s Raining Men’ by Geri Halliwell and ‘I Wanna Dance with Somebody’ by Whitney Houston, which inspired the audience to sing along and dance with the Queens. A special treat awaited the crowd when Zizo Beda graced the stage with a captivating lip-sync performance.
Speaking with the show’s director and host, Lebogang Toko, it became evident that “House of Pink” was a labor of love. Toko expressed hopes that the show could eventually find its place on the grand stage of Broadway. He stated, “It’s been three years since the House of Pink first took flight. We’ve transitioned from the underground club scene to a platform like the Market Theatre, which signifies the potential for global success.”
“House of Pink Volume 3” continues the legacy of drag, featuring a talented cast of Johannesburg-based drag artists who have consistently mesmerized, inspired, and entertained a diverse range of audiences with their artistry and charisma. Toko further emphasized, “It’s an affirming continuation of the drag legacy.”
The House of Pink, born as an initiative of the Feather Awards, represents a stepping stone toward the prestigious award ceremony itself, where the LGBTQI+ community is celebrated for their remarkable achievements. Thami Dish, the founder of the Feathers, commended the drag performance, saying, “I thank every one of the Queens who laid their spirits and souls bare for everyone to see. It’s drag, and it’s beautiful.” He also hinted at what lies ahead, stating, “The journey to the Feather Awards has officially begun, so expect more passion, more energy, more love, and more greatness.”
In a world where diversity and inclusivity are celebrated, the House of Pink stands as a shining example of how the LGBTQI+ community and the art of drag continue to break boundaries, inspire, and captivate audiences with their authenticity and creativity. As Pride month may have ended, the House of Pink’s legacy endures, proving that love, acceptance, and celebration of individuality know no bounds.
Image: Supplied