Drag queens bring glamour and grit to country Queensland
A group of drag queens recently performed a sold-out show in the rural Queensland town of Emerald, Australia. The event was met with enthusiasm by the local community, highlighting a growing acceptance of diverse cultural performances in conservative regional areas.
Why it matters
The story illustrates shifting social dynamics and the role of arts in fostering inclusivity within rural, conservative communities.
Drag queens bring glamour and grit to country Queensland J By Jacob Gamble
Link copied Share Share article Deep in one of Australia's conservative heartlands, four drag queens take their heels on the highway for a road trip.
The group has a gig about 300 kilometres from Rockhampton at a country pub in Emerald, in Queensland's central-west.
Emerald has a population of about 15,000 people. ( ABC Capricornia: Jacob Gamble )
It's a far cry from the "gaybourhoods" of Sydney's Oxford Street or Melbourne's Smith Street, but the queens receive a glowing reception from a sold-out crowd.
Twirling in a wavy brunette wig and gold mini dress, Leisha Luck lip-syncs to a Kesha song with seasoned confidence.
A drag-themed birthday party led to an unexpected career pivot for Leisha, who made a professional career performing five nights a week in Sydney and Melbourne.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in