By Kevin Ferrisi –

Drag enthusiasts and community members alike gathered at Trevi Lounge for an electrifying evening of entertainment and charity on the evening of May 12th. The 2nd Annual CT Drag Me to Life Charity Benefit aimed to exceed the success of its inaugural year in Hartford, under the previous name “Drag Saves Lives.”

Hosted by the charismatic Frankie Cyanide, known for his spirited Wacky Wednesdays at Trevi Lounge, the event featured a dazzling array of drag and burlesque performances from talented artists across the Northeast. With proceeds dedicated to supporting the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Connecticut Chapter (AFSPCT), attendees were treated to an unforgettable showcase of talent and solidarity.

Throughout the night, performers captivated the audience with a dynamic mix of lip-syncs, dance routines, live singing, and burlesque acts spanning over six hours. The energy in the venue remained high as the performances unfolded, with attendees showing their support through enthusiastic cheers and applause.

In addition to the captivating performances, the charity event also featured raffles and donation drives, contributing to the impressive fundraising total of nearly $6,500. The generosity of the attendees, combined with the dedication of the performers, ensured that the evening was not only entertaining but also impactful in supporting suicide prevention efforts in the local community.

In the intricate tapestry of suicide prevention efforts, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Connecticut Chapter (AFSPCT) emerges as a beacon of hope and resilience. As an integral component of the national organization, AFSPCT is committed to the noble mission of saving lives and instilling hope in individuals impacted by suicide. Through a multifaceted approach encompassing research, education, and advocacy, the Connecticut chapter endeavors to unravel the complexities of suicide, understanding its underlying causes, and implementing effective prevention strategies. 

By harnessing the power of dedicated volunteers and community-driven initiatives, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) strives to illuminate the path towards mental wellness, providing vital education on mental health, extending support to those bereaved by suicide, and extending a lifeline to individuals in crisis. In a world where every life is precious, AFSP stands as a steadfast guardian, steadfast in its resolve to combat suicide and foster a future where hope triumphs over despair.

Suicide casts a long shadow over the LGBTQ+ and drag communities, leaving behind a trail of devastation and sorrow. Faced with societal stigma, discrimination, and the internal struggle of self-acceptance, LGBTQ+ individuals often grapple with higher rates of mental health issues, including depression and anxiety, which can exacerbate the risk of suicide. Within the drag community, the pursuit of self-expression and identity often serves as a sanctuary for individuals exploring their gender and sexuality, yet it is not immune to the pervasive challenges and vulnerabilities faced by the broader LGBTQ+ community.

We reached out to Frankie following the event and he told us, “I’m really proud of how many people came together to support! The bar was full of folks from across the community, and having performers from across MA/NY/CT donating their time and tips is so great to see.”

As the night came to a close, Frankie expressed his gratitude to all who contributed to the success of the event, from the performers to the attendees and sponsors. The 2nd Annual CT Drag Me to Life Charity Benefit served as a testament to the power of unity and compassion within the drag community, leaving a lasting impact on all who participated.