The months-long quarantine has been tough for everyone, including for those who love going out on weekends to party. Now, instead of dancing along to a DJ in a bar in Makati or Bonifacio Global City, they’re stuck at home watching Netflix or catching up on their reading. While I do enjoy staying in on a Saturday night, there are times when I feel like letting loose and dancing with a crowd to the latest song.
Thankfully, there are groups that are using technology to bring the party closer to us. Those who are obsessed with RuPaul’s Drag Race and the local drag culture will love Drag Playhouse, which organizes parties, events, and shows related to drag. Over the weekend, they held DISCOnnection Night: House 628 Virtual Ball, an online Zoom party with DJs and drag queens.
The evening was hosted by Eva Le Queen, Prince, OV Cunt, and Marina Summers, who showed that you can still have a good time even at home. They held a voguing showdown and lipsync contest. They were judged by Xyza Mizrahi, the mother of House of Mizrahi PH; Nique Manza, international pole champion and drag queen; and ADDLIB diva JP Ponla. Surprisingly, it was still fun to watch even if we’re miles apart and shaky internet connection got in the way. It’s definitely the best compromise for those who want to party while in bed wearing pajamas.
A highlight of the evening was the DJ sets of Deej Diaz, Ayel Mari, and Tom Suplico. Since the theme of the event is disco, their sets featured tracks from all eras of disco such as Donna Summer, Cher, Kylie Minogue, Lady Gaga, Dua Lipa, Doja Cat, and so much more. I particularly enjoyed how the Zoom video focused on every participant in the room so they can showcase their drag or their dance moves. Somehow it made me feel less alone watching the party in a silk robe drinking whisky.
The biggest highlight is the appearance of Drag Race legend Manila Luzon. Fans will know her as one of the contestants on the show’s third season, and seasons one and four of RuPaul’s Drag Race All-Stars. She dropped by to say hello to her fellow queens and fans. It was gag-worthy to see her with a message for everyone in the room.
We’re all stuck at home and we’re not sure yet when bars will be allowed to open. In the meantime, we’re happy that events like DISCOnnection Night are still going on. It makes the world a little less frightening and adds just the right touch of glitter to make us more hopeful for the future.
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