April 2022 Volume 4, Issue 12
The Queens at Starlight Drag Show
The house was packed and buzzing with anticipation as people lined up around the block at the Starlight Lounge Saturday, April 9. The crowds gathered for the evening’s entertainment, Sharon ShareAlike and her fabulous drag queen troupe, The ShareAlikes.
Drag shows are typically performed by male actors dressing as women but have come to include performers of all gender identities and are known for their extravagant showgirl-esque costumes. Sharon is widely-known in the drag community for her creation of the original silicone breastplate used by queens for female illusion. Her products have even appeared in shows such as Ru Paul’s Drag Race and The Ellen DeGeneres Show.
The performers, affectionately referred to as ‘her daughters’ by ShareAlike, descended from the lounge’s private upper balcony to lip-sync, dance, and interact with the audience for tips. In between performances, ShareAlike came down to engage the crowd with her brand of adult humor.
“I love making all of my own over-the-top showgirl-type costumes. Bantering with the audience is also a thrill of mine. If I can make you laugh and surprise you with a costume I feel I have done my job.” said Sharon ShareAlike.
“The crowd and the energy and the love just propel you forward. It’s amazing, and an adrenaline rush for sure,” said performer Frankie ShareAlike.
The show is equal parts comedy, burlesque, and arthouse. Some performances are playful and risqué, while others are emotionally powerful, leaving the audience in silent reverence. The crowd enjoyed every minute of it.
“This is probably one of the best things I’ve seen in my life. We need more things like this here,” said resident Lori Lococci.
Sterling resident Angie Frazier, a long-time fan of drag shows, reached out to ShareAlike over Facebook, and the famous queen responded.
“She messaged me back right away. She’s really friendly and easy to talk to and was excited to do the show,” said Angie Frazier. “I wanted a reason for people to get out of their homes, laugh, and have a good time.”
Frazier reached out to several venues, but only Starlight Lounge owner Jerry Criss responded.
“I was excited about it, bringing something different to the community. I’m all about the entertainment experience. Whatever gets people out of the house,” said Criss.
Frazier and Criss put out the word, and excitement for the show quickly spread, selling out in two weeks. Criss bought the lounge in 2005 and has hosted various musicians. This was the lounge’s first drag show and a huge success. Be sure to catch future shows if you missed the chance.