Search Results

If you’ve been to a drag show in Naarm lately, you might have noticed a curious trend: performers performing on stage to the unmistakable Centrelink hold music . It’s not just drag queens, kings, and things either; I’ve seen live bands using it, and it’s all over TikTok, sandwiched between a hundred lizard memes. There’s something oddly powerful about that hold music. It’s the soundtrack of survival. You’ve endured, you’ve waited, you’ve aged ten years… and there’s still a solid chance they’ll just hang up on you. Which got me thinking… maybe there are things in everyday Melbourne life that deserve the same triumphant energy. Things that might seem small, but deep down, we all know they should be celebrated with the same gusto as a perfectly executed death drop. So here are a few everyday wins I think deserve a standing ovation . 1. Knowing which bins to put out without checking the neighbours’ yards You, my friend, are the Bin Whisperer. You’ve mastered the secret code of green and yellow weeks without a single peek down the street. The whole neighbourhood should be clapping for you. 2. Finding the matching Tupperware lid on the first try This is the domestic equivalent of a miracle. You’ve ventured into the chaotic cupboard of plastic chaos and emerged victorious. Someone cue the pyrotechnics. 3. Untangling a cord without swearing Whether it’s your phone charger, your hair straightener, or the Christmas lights you swore you’d store properly last year, the struggle is real. Managing to unravel it without muttering “for f***’s sake” at least once? Truly MEDEA award-worthy. 4. Remembering why you walked into the room If you’ve got ADHD, you know this is the Mount Everest of daily life. You walk in, your brain buffer wheel starts spinning, and you’re suddenly making a snack instead. Remembering what you came for? That’s deserves a gold star! 5. Carrying all the shopping bags in one trip Sure, your fingers have gone numb and you may never regain full feeling in your hands, but you did it. You are a legend. 6. Scoring a table at your favourite brunch spot without a wait In Melbourne, this is basically winning the lottery. You stroll in, expecting a 40-minute queue, and instead you’re seated instantly with a coffee on the way. The true  taste of victory is smashed avo without the waitlist. 7. Snagging the last seat on a packed tram That feeling when you spot it, swoop in, and sit down just  before the tram jolts forward. It’s a moment of pure triumph, and frankly, deserves confetti cannons. 8. Finishing the washing and actually putting it away Washing it? Easy. Hanging it out? Doable. Folding it? Fine. But actually putting it away ? Now that’s a rare, crowd-cheering achievement. In short:  life is full of little victories. And while we might not get a standing ovation for all of them, we should at least give ourselves a mental round of applause. So next time you do something mundane but unexpectedly difficult, imagine that Centrelink hold music swelling around you… and take a bow.

Are you ready for a night of giggles, cheeky love advice, and more Italian flair than a Vespa parade? Look no further because Silvio Di Baci  is bringing their one-man spectacular, A Bit of Baci , to Club Voltaire in North Melbourne from 7th–9th October 2024! Think of it as a wild mix of comedy, romance, and dating tips—delivered with Silvio’s signature smooth-talking, heart-throbbing style. Silvio Di Baci —Romeo of the drag world, and all-round charming rogue—has thrown every ounce of wit, wisdom, and silliness into this show. Expect a rollercoaster of laughs and love lessons as Silvio takes you through a hilarious journey of romantic misadventures. Whether you’re single, loved-up, or "it’s complicated," this is the show to get your giggle on! What’s A Bit of Baci All About? Expect side-splitting dating tips, questionable advice, and plenty of romantic escapades (with a few cheeky detours). Imagine a stand-up show colliding head-on with a bonkers love seminar, all hosted by Silvio’s larger-than-life persona. Whether you’re after the secret to sweeping someone off their feet—or just need a laugh after a few disastrous dates—Silvio’s got the goods. And who knows, you might even get roped into the action! Not to brag, but Silvio has wooed crowds from the Sydney Rd Street Party to Drag Expo, so you’re in expert hands for an evening of non-stop fun. And if you’re simply after a good belly laugh, don’t worry— A Bit of Baci   has that in spades too. It’s a night of comedy and charm that’ll have you buzzing with joy all the way home. Important Bits—Accessibility Note Club Voltaire is upstairs, and while it’s a fab venue, we apologise for any accessibility issues. Need assistance? Give us a shout, and we’ll do our best to help make arrangements. We want everyone to have a cracking time! A Fringe Festival Must-See As part of the Melbourne Fringe Festival (running from 1st to 20th October), A Bit of Baci  is your chance to experience one of the quirkiest, funniest shows in town. Melbourne Fringe is bursting with performances, art, and more, so get stuck in and make A Bit of Baci  your festival highlight! Get Your Tickets Now—Don’t Miss Out! Ready for a night of belly laughs, dating tips, and enough Italian charm to make you swoon? Grab your tickets to A Bit of Baci   now and secure your spot! Whether you’re coming for the advice, the laughs, or just Silvio’s outrageous charisma, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable evening. So, what are you waiting for? Get your tickets, get ready, and prepare to leave utterly smitten by the magic of Silvio Di Baci ! Get ready to experience the extraordinary – see you at Club Voltaire! Ticket Sales are now open! Don't miss out on this spectacular event!

Image description: A bright green piggy bank with a gold coin is placed on a purple background. Large black text in the top left reads “Drag ain’t cheap.” and in the bottom right, it continues with “So why are the gigs?”. In the top right corner is the Performers of Pride logo — a colourful speckled circle with orange text reading “Performers of Pride – Promoting Drag.” So You Wanna Be a Drag Performer in Naarm? You’ve got your look, you’ve picked your number, maybe you’ve even hot-glued rhinestones to your face for the first time. Congratulations, you’re diving into drag! But once you’re ready to hit the stage, a big question comes up: Where do you actually start? For lots of new performers in Naarm, the answer is often an open stage  night: a show that’s open to everyone, no matter how new you are or whether you’ve got connections in the scene. These shows can be fun, welcoming, and a great first step. But they also bring up some tricky stuff, especially when it comes to money . This post isn’t about naming and shaming. It’s also not here to hand out “right” answers. It’s here to open up the conversation. What You Get (And What You Don’t) At most open stage shows, performers are paid around $50  for doing a number. Some shows offer more, some less, and some don’t pay anything at all. For people who haven’t done drag before, that might seem okay. But let’s think about what’s involved: hours of getting into drag, travelling to the venue, often being there all night waiting for your turn, performing, and then heading home. That’s a lot  of time and effort. For many performers (especially those already spending their own money on makeup, wigs, and costumes) that $50 doesn’t stretch very far. And if the gig is unpaid? That can sting even more. Personally , I don’t think it’s okay to ask people to perform for free when a venue is profiting. But I also know some people see it differently. Some performers are happy to do unpaid gigs when they’re just starting out. Some organisers are also working with tight budgets and doing their best. Why Is It Like This? There’s no single reason. But here are a few factors that can affect performer pay: Experience level : Some people think new performers shouldn’t expect high pay, especially while they’re learning. Budget limits : Many shows, especially at smaller venues, don’t have big budgets. Venue pressure : Some bars are doing it really tough right now. The economy’s a mess, cost of living is high, and a number of venues in Naarm have closed recently. Industry standards : In some cases, low or unpaid gigs have just become “normal,” and no one’s questioned it for a while. So when you see a low-paying or unpaid gig, it’s worth asking: Is this because the money truly isn’t there, or because drag isn’t being valued enough? What Should New Performers Do? That depends on your goals, your situation, and your comfort level. Some people are happy to take any chance to get on stage. Others prefer to hold out for paid opportunities. Neither approach is wrong, but it’s good to know what you’re signing up for. Here are a few questions you might want to ask yourself: Am I okay with the time and cost of doing this gig? Is this a place where I’ll learn something, meet people, or get experience? Is the organiser being transparent about pay? Do I feel like I’m being respected? What About People Running Shows? If you’re organising shows or booking performers (especially newer ones) this is a good moment to reflect, too. Are the performers being paid fairly for the time they’re spending at the venue? Is there a way to build pay increases into the budget as the show grows? Can you be open with new performers about what they’re being paid and why? Again, there’s no perfect answer, but asking the question is a great start. Where Do You Stand? This is a big, ongoing conversation in Naarm’s drag scene, and there are lots of different opinions and experiences out there. Some people feel strongly that unpaid gigs are never okay. Others see them as a stepping stone. Some think $50 is fair for a quick number, others don’t. And some organisers are genuinely struggling to offer more right now. That’s why this blog isn’t about handing out hard rules. It’s about thinking through the topic together . If you’re a performer, how do you feel about doing a gig for free or for a small fee? If you run shows, how do you balance fairness with budget realities? As a community, how do we keep drag sustainable for everyone? In short: Open stage shows are a big part of how new drag performers get started in Naarm. Many offer low pay, often around $50, and some don’t pay at all. There’s debate about what’s fair, especially given the time and effort drag takes. Economic pressure on venues is real, but that doesn’t mean the conversation about pay shouldn’t happen. Everyone in the drag scene has a part to play in making it better, but there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Let’s keep talking about it. Let’s share stories, ask questions, and support each other. Because when we open up these discussions, we make the scene stronger, and more sustainable, for everyone.

In today's drag industry, it's crucial to be increasingly conscious of the products we use, not only in terms of quality but also their impact on animals and the environment. As drag performers and members of the LGBTQIA+ community, we have the power to make a difference by choosing vegan and cruelty-free makeup products. Australia offers a fantastic range of such brands that prioritise the well-being of animals and the environment, allowing us to express our fabulous selves guilt-free. Why should you opt for vegan and cruelty-free makeup? Well, these products are formulated without any animal-derived ingredients and are never tested on animals. By making this conscious choice, you actively contribute to animal welfare, protect our planet, and promote an ethical beauty industry. Not to mention, these cosmetics often harness the power of plant-based alternatives, offering you high-quality, sustainable, and healthier options for your dazzling beauty routine. Suitable Brands to Purchase Now, let's dive into some of the must-have vegan and cruelty-free makeup brands available in Australia: INIKA Organic: Renowned for its luxurious and high-performance makeup, INIKA Organic is a 100% vegan and cruelty-free brand. Their certified organic, non-toxic products, crafted from natural ingredients, cater to diverse skin tones with an extensive range of cosmetics including foundations, concealers, eyeshadows, and lipsticks. Eye of Horus: If you want your eyes to mesmerise the crowd, Eye of Horus is your go-to brand. This cruelty-free and vegan brand specialises in eye makeup, offering stunning and long-lasting products such as mascara, eyeliners, brow products, and eyeshadow palettes. With nourishing botanical ingredients and no harmful chemicals, your eyes will shine brighter than ever. Australis Cosmetics: Being an adored Australian brand, Australis Cosmetics brings you an extensive selection of affordable yet high-quality vegan and cruelty-free makeup. From foundations and primers to lipsticks and nail polishes, their range caters to the diverse needs and preferences of makeup lovers of all ages. Ere Perez: Embrace natural beauty with Ere Perez, a cruelty-free and vegan brand committed to offering gentle formulas and a wide range of skincare and makeup products. Their minimalist approach enhances your natural features while being kind to animals and the planet. Natio: Natio, a popular Australian brand, not only provides skincare products but also offers a variety of vegan makeup options. With clear labelling for easy identification, Natio's commitment to cruelty-free practices and affordable prices makes them a trusted choice. Sukin: While Sukin is primarily known for its skincare range, they also offer vegan and cruelty-free makeup options. Made with natural, nourishing ingredients, Sukin's cosmetics are perfect for those seeking a minimalist approach to beauty without compromising ethical values. Kryolan: For professional-grade makeup, Kryolan is a renowned brand that upholds cruelty-free practices. While not all their products are vegan, they clearly label their vegan options, making it easier for you to choose from their wide range of foundations, powders, eyeshadows, and more. Fenty Beauty: Founded by the iconic Rihanna, Fenty Beauty has gained global recognition for its inclusive range of cosmetics. While not all their products are vegan, Fenty Beauty offers exceptional quality and a selection of vegan options that cater to diverse skin tones, allowing you to express your individuality on and off the stage. e.l.f. (eyes lips face): e.l.f. is a popular cruelty-free brand known for its affordable yet high-quality makeup products. They offer a wide range of cosmetics, from foundations and primers to eyeshadows and lipsticks. e.l.f. is committed to providing cruelty-free options at accessible prices, making it a favourite among makeup enthusiasts. Remember, while these brands are cruelty-free, not all their products may be vegan. To ensure your makeup aligns with your values, refer to specific vegan labeling or reach out to the brands for more information. Brands to Avoid Now, let's discuss some brands that you may want to avoid, as they still test on animals: MAC Cosmetics Maybelline L'Oreal Revlon Estée Lauder Benefit Cosmetics Clinique CoverGirl Avon Rimmel London Max Factor NARS Bobbi Brown Yves Saint Laurent (YSL) Lancôme Giorgio Armani Beauty Dolce & Gabbana Beauty Shiseido Dior Guerlain Shein How to Find More Information Finally, if you're looking for a comprehensive and trustworthy resource to explore cruelty-free brands, we highly recommend visiting Leaping Bunny. Leaping Bunny is an internationally recognised certification program dedicated to promoting cruelty-free practices in the beauty industry. By visiting their website here, you can access their extensive database of certified cruelty-free brands. Unlike PETA, Leaping Bunny actually independently verify the companies they endorse. So, my fabulous friends in the Melbourne drag and LGBTQIA+ community, let's join forces to embrace the power of vegan and cruelty-free makeup. By incorporating these ethical choices into our routines, we can express our true selves while making a positive impact on the world around us. Remember, when you rock the stage, you're also advocating for a kinder and more compassionate future. Stay glamorous, stay compassionate!

Today we delve into the world of demisexuality—a unique facet of asexuality that often goes unnoticed or misunderstood. As a proud demisexual individual, I want to shed light on this often-overlooked aspect of human sexuality and discuss the struggles I've faced when it comes to navigating sexual relationships. Discovering My Demisexuality Like many others, I spent a significant part of my life struggling to find a label that resonated with my experiences. It was only after stumbling upon the concept of demisexuality that everything clicked into place. Demisexuality, as I understand it, is a sexual orientation where individuals require a deep emotional bond with someone before experiencing sexual attraction. Unlike the conventional narrative surrounding sexual desire, demisexuals don't experience immediate sparks or find themselves drawn to others solely based on physical appearance. My best explanation of this is seeing a picture of an attractive celebrity pop up on social media. Commonly I will see many comments of people describing how attractive they find the person sexually, how they wish to spend a night with them, and often talking about how certain parts of their appearance are more sexually appealing. I, as a demisexual, don’t get this. I see a picture of an attractive human being, I do admire their physique (and I do have my own preferences like most people), and I can appreciate the effort that goes into a well-toned body, but that’s about it. A celebrity that I have no emotional connection to is not sexually arousing. It’s like admiring a gorgeous sunset or a piece of artwork. Sex just isn’t a part of it. This is my unique journey of sexuality without emotional bonds, but of course other demisexuals may have completely different experiences. Demisexuality, like all other sexualities, is a spectrum and entirely unique experience for each person. The Struggles of Sexual Relationships While demisexuality has its own beauty and strength, it undoubtedly comes with its own set of challenges. Perhaps the most apparent hurdle lies in navigating sexual relationships, especially in a society where sex is often an important aspect to our social interactions. The Expectation of Immediate Attraction: The societal norm of "love at first sight" or the instant chemistry commonly portrayed in media can be alienating for demisexual individuals. When we fail to experience immediate sexual attraction, it can be disheartening and leave us feeling out of place. I personally was left feeling 'broken' for many years until I discovered demisexuality as a term to describe my experience. The Struggle to Communicate Boundaries: Establishing clear boundaries and expectations becomes crucial in any relationship, but for demisexuals, it can be particularly challenging. Expressing the need for an emotional connection before engaging in sexual intimacy can be met with scepticism or even dismissal. Establishing boundaries is a vital aspect of any relationship, but initiating that conversation from a place where the other person lacks understanding or awareness of your experience can be an arduous and emotionally taxing process, often overwhelming to the point of exhaustion. This often results in simply not engaging to begin with, saving the hassle of experiencing the hardship of communicating our needs, but also missing out on opportunities to find deep, loving emotional bonds. Feeling Misunderstood or Marginalised: Demisexuality is still a relatively unknown concept to many, which often leads to misunderstanding and misconceptions. Friends and even partners may struggle to comprehend the depth of emotional connection required for sexual attraction to arise. This lack of understanding can inadvertently invalidate our experiences, leaving us feeling marginalised or disconnected from those we care about. How to Support Your Demisexual Partner Educate Yourself: Take the initiative to educate yourself about demisexuality and understand what it means for your partner. Familiarise yourself with the concept, read personal stories, and explore resources available online. This knowledge will help you gain insight into their unique experiences and challenges. Create a Safe Space for Communication: Establish an open and non-judgmental environment where your partner feels comfortable discussing their feelings and needs. Encourage them to express their boundaries, desires, and any concerns they may have. Be an attentive listener and show genuine interest in understanding their perspective. Respect Their Pace: Recognise that building an emotional connection is crucial for a demisexual individual to experience sexual attraction. Avoid pressuring them or expecting immediate intimacy. Allow the relationship to develop organically, giving them the time and space they need to establish that deeper emotional bond. Be Patient and Understanding: Navigating a sexual relationship with a demisexual partner may require patience and understanding. Be mindful that their journey is unique and may differ from your own experiences or expectations. Respect their pace and honour the emotional connection they require before engaging in sexual intimacy. Validate Their Feelings and Experiences: Acknowledge and validate the feelings and experiences your demisexual partner shares with you. Avoid dismissing or trivialising their emotions or doubts. Let them know that their experiences are valid and that you appreciate their honesty and vulnerability. Communicate Your Support: Express your support and willingness to navigate the challenges together. Reassure your partner that you respect their boundaries and are committed to fostering a healthy and fulfilling relationship. Show them that you are invested in their emotional well-being and that their comfort and happiness are a priority to you. Seek Mutual Consent: Consent is essential in any intimate relationship. Prioritise open discussions about consent, ensuring that both partners have a clear understanding of each other's boundaries and comfort levels. Mutual consent should always be the foundation of any sexual activity. Being demisexual is a beautifully intricate journey, allowing us to form deep, meaningful connections with others. While the struggles within sexual relationships can be challenging, they are not insurmountable. By embracing self-acceptance, promoting open communication, and fostering understanding in society, we can create a world where demisexual individuals are embraced and celebrated for their unique experiences.

If you're like me, you know how amazing the drag scene is here in Naarm. We have such a vibrant and diverse community of performers who bring so much energy, creativity, and passion to every show. As an audience member of drag shows, I've had the pleasure of watching some incredible performances over the years. From classic lip syncs to stunning dance numbers to hilarious comedy routines, there's no shortage of amazing talent in our community. But one thing that I've noticed is that there's often a lack of diversity in the types of performers and styles of drag that are showcased. While some shows and venues are welcoming and inclusive to all performers, there are unfortunately others that are not as accepting and diverse. That's why I believe it's so important to foster new artists to the scene and promote variety in the types of performers we see on stage. This means creating opportunities for emerging performers to showcase their talents and gain experience, and encouraging established performers to experiment with new styles and genres of drag. It also means being inclusive of performers from all backgrounds and identities, and celebrating the diversity of experiences and perspectives that make our community so special. As an AFAB drag queen, I believe that it's important to have a variety of performers represented on stage. While I've noticed an increasing number of AFAB and non-binary performers in Naarm, I also know that the opportunities available to us can be more limited than those for AMAB queens. Unfortunately, there is still a widespread perception that drag is mainly about cis male drag queens with a certain look and style, and this can sometimes make it harder for performers who don't fit this narrow stereotype to get booked at certain venues. Of course, I don't mean to criticize or attack any specific group of performers. The reality is that drag has always been about pushing boundaries and challenging norms, and that includes expanding our understanding of what drag can be and who can perform it. As a community, we should be celebrating and embracing the diversity of experiences, identities, and perspectives that make up our drag scene, and making sure that everyone has a chance to shine on stage. By working together and supporting each other, we can continue to create spaces where all performers feel welcome, respected, and celebrated for their unique talents and contributions to our community. Let's keep pushing the boundaries of what drag can be and who can perform it, and let's create a more inclusive and supportive drag scene for everyone. Thanks for reading, and I hope to see you at the next drag show in Naarm!