The month-long search for Ottawa’s Next Drag Superstar wrapped up on Feb 23 when the top prize was awarded to Jade London.
Rhinestones, glitter, false eyelashes and wigs were ubiquitious – from the judges’ table to the crowd, and, of course, onstage.
Disco balls and hot-pink feathers completed the décor and set the mood as the crowd cheered for its favourite contestants, who spent much of the evening weaving around each others’ costumes and stilettos as they readied their wigs and makeup in the dressing room.
The event, held at Flamingo nightclub, was hosted by the unforgettable Gia Corangie, a busty blonde with a wicked tongue, and was attended by more than 100 people.
Dubbed by the Ottawa Citizen as the most exciting competition to hit Ottawa’s drag scene, the crowned queen won a two-night stay in New York City as well as a VIP pass to the official RuPaul’s Drag Race finale party.
“The competition has been fierce and hilarious,” said club promoter and head judge Stephan Klovan. “It’s created such a stir and has raised so much awareness within our community. We’re really proud that everyone’s hard work paid off.”
Flamingo’s general manager, Sebastien Provost, says he is looking forward to hosting the event in future, especially after seeing how eager fans were to follow the competition each week.
Special guest judge, and RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 3 runner-up, Manila Luzon, along with judges DJ Bujo, Sarah Ainslie and DJ Bruno Pacheco, were proud to crown the one and only Jade London.
While the spunky Ottawa native had been dubbed the one to watch throughout the competition, she quickly proved she was the rising star after her performance Thursday night.
Appearing onstage as the only queen to bring along her own backup dancers, Jade’s fierce lip-synching and choreography sent the crowd into a frenzy, with fans cheering and whistling through to the end.
“I want to represent Ottawa of its best talents, personality, energy and creativeness by being a positive role model,” Jade said. “I will always strive to push the entertaining limits and further expand the world of drag.”
Mission accomplished.
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