Take a journey through time and discover the origins of the renowned local contest

By Kevin Ferrisi –

History of Chez Est

Chez Est, a prominent LGBTQ+ nightclub in Hartford, CT, has been a cornerstone of the community since it was established in 1976. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and inclusive environment, Chez Est has long been a safe haven for LGBTQ+ individuals seeking camaraderie and entertainment. Over the decades, it has hosted numerous events, including drag shows, dance parties, and charity fundraisers, solidifying its role as a cultural hub. Despite challenges and the evolving nightlife scene, Chez Est has remained steadfast, adapting, and thriving as a beloved institution in Hartford’s social landscape. The Chez Est has survived three owners, two fires, a relocation, and a pandemic. It is not just a bar, nightclub, restaurant, cabaret, or community space; it is a living and breathing part of the local queer community.

The name “Chez Est” translates to “at home” in French, reflecting its mission to provide a welcoming and inclusive environment where individuals can feel comfortable and accepted. Chez Est has demonstrated remarkable resilience in navigating social challenges and the evolving nightlife scene since its founding. Amid societal shifts, including the fight for LGBTQ+ rights and the impacts of the AIDS crisis, Chez Est has remained a sanctuary for the community, adapting its offerings and atmosphere to meet the changing needs and preferences of its patrons. This adaptability and unwavering dedication to its core mission have cemented Chez Est’s status as a beloved and enduring institution in Hartford’s nightlife.

Chez Est has only had three owners since its founding, which has led to remarkable consistency in the community. The nightclub opened in June 1976, continuously operating as a full-time gay bar under its original owner, Gary Bouchard, a supportive straight ally. The second owner, Bryan Couzens, began his involvement with Chez Est in 1995 as a barback, was promoted to assistant manager in 1999, and co-managed the bar in 2001 after the departure of the full-time manager. Bryan eventually purchased the business from Gary in 2008. Bryan and his friend John Pepe first visited Chez Est on New Year’s Eve 1994, where John noted the lively, never-ending party atmosphere. John began working at Chez Est in 2003. Chez Est has been John’s home for the past 21 years, and Bryan has been his best friend for over thirty years.

In the late summer of 2017, Bryan informed John that Chez Est would close its doors for good on December 31, 2017. After many conversations with Bryan and longer discussions with his husband Luis, a.k.a. Lulu Diamant Fierce, John decided he could not let this happen. John and Luis worked out a deal with Bryan and purchased Chez Est in October 2017. They immediately implemented numerous changes, driven by their mission to provide the community with an ultimate nightclub experience while living the company vision: “There’s something for everyone at the Chez.”

Chez Legends

Just a few months later, into the very next year, in March of 2018, season 10 of RuPaul’s Drag Race was set to premiere, and local drag icon and Chez Est staple Mia E. Z’Lay suggested to John to host a viewing party each week for the episodes that aired every Thursday. This idea quickly proved to be a hit, and business began to boom as more and more patrons flocked to the bar to watch the show together. However, after the finale of season 10 aired on June 28, 2018, John and Mia were faced with the challenge of maintaining this heightened level of business without the draw of the viewing parties. Brainstorming for a new attraction, they decided to create their version of Drag Race, launching their own drag competition, which they hoped would continue to keep the bar bustling with activity and excitement.

They immediately found local sponsorships and created an enticing prize package. The very next week, following the Drag Race finale, beginning on July 5, 2018, the inaugural week of the competition hosted by Mia E. Z’Lay took place, marking the start of a 10-week extravaganza. The event, initially named Chez Queen, saw contestants battle each week for the winning spot, which granted them entry into the grand finale where they would compete for the coveted title and crown. The competition quickly became a staple event, drawing crowds and building excitement. However, once it concluded, Mia and John found themselves, once again, strategizing to maintain the bar’s vibrant atmosphere. This led to the creation of an Open Stage night every Thursday, ensuring a consistent influx of patrons and keeping the spirit of entertainment alive.

Open Stage night lasted a few months. As it became repetitive, Mia and John realized they needed a fresh attraction to keep their audience engaged. Inspired by the success of their previous drag competition, they decided to launch a second season in the fall of 2018. Kicking off on September 27, the new 10-week competition culminated in an exciting finale, seamlessly leading into December and closing out the year on a high note. This renewed energy revitalized the bar, drawing in even larger crowds and solidifying Chez Est as a staple in the local entertainment scene.

As 2019 rolled around, Chez Est resumed its Open Stage nights every Thursday, but John found himself unsatisfied. He missed the vibrant spirit of the drag competition and felt a pressing need for the next big event. That’s when he had a stroke of inspiration: a head-to-head battle between the winners of season 1 and season 2 for an All Stars position. This idea gave birth to the All Stars competition, setting a new standard for the bar’s events. It established a thrilling tradition where winners from two consecutive seasons would face off in an All Stars showdown, vying for the prestigious Mx. Chez Est title, a coveted honor that has become a cornerstone of the bar’s legacy.

During the middle of the third season of the competition in 2019, a significant change was announced: the name evolved from Chez Queen to Chez Legends. This transformation came about when a drag king claimed victory during their week, enlightening John to the realization that the original name was not sufficiently inclusive. The announcement signaled a shift towards a more embracing and encompassing identity. Season four saw the implementation of the new name, Chez Legends, moving forward. This name change was inspired by Bryan, the bar’s second owner, who had introduced the name ‘Headliners and Legends’ for the bar’s drag shows, reflecting the illustrious and iconic nature of the performers who graced its stage.

Amidst the chaos of the pandemic’s grip on the world in 2020, one glimmer of resilience shone through: the unwavering spirit of competition at Chez Est. Despite the challenges posed by lockdowns and social distancing measures, the establishment refused to let the flames of their beloved competition die out. With the lifting of restrictions, Chez Est wasted no time in picking up where they left off, breathing life back into their dormant season. Determined to make up for lost time, they not only resumed the competition with enthusiasm for season 5 but also decided to run the following season 6 back-to-back. It was a testament to the indomitable human spirit, proving that even in the face of adversity, passion and perseverance could prevail.

In 2023, season 11 ushered in significant changes to the competition’s format. Mia E. Z’Lay transitioned from host to a seat on the judges’ panel, bringing fresh perspectives to the table. A new standard was established, with the last two season winners alternating each week as hosts, injecting diversity, and excitement into the show. Additionally, season 11 introduced the Golden Buzzer, a pivotal innovation born out of past scenarios where wild card winners were selected. Audience applause determines the weekly winner, but one particularly close week prompted the introduction of a wild card spot in the finale. This led to the birth of the Golden Buzzer only used by Mia E. Z’Lay.

Today, Chez Legends has become the state’s premier local drag competition, highlighting the best drag performers for twelve seasons. Organized by House of Lay Entertainment and Chez Est, this 10-week contest occurs twice a year and is open to drag artists from all walks of life. Embarking on its thirteenth season this week, participants compete for a chance to be part of the season finale lineup. The top finalist from each week and one special Golden Buzzer wildcard, chosen by Mia E. Z’Lay, move on to the season finale, where one contestant wins the season’s title. Following this, winners from two consecutive seasons face off in an All Stars showdown to compete for the esteemed Mx. Chez Est title.

The competition has deeply impacted the community by providing a vital platform for artists to showcase their artistry. It serves as a cornerstone in maintaining the venue’s relevance and vitality. While each event contributes uniquely to Chez’s appeal, the collective synergy sustains its vibrancy. The community is the lifeblood of Chez Est, driving its energy and ensuring longevity. Legends, alongside other events like Wuf, Latin Night, Pink Drink, shows by DCJR Events, and other drag events happening all year, plays a pivotal role in the Chez’s ecosystem. Recognizing the evolving societal landscape since the 80s and 90s, John understood the necessity to adapt and diversify. While the bar once thrived around the clock because queer people flocked to the space to find solace, contemporary changes like social media and greater LGBTQ+ acceptance have altered the landscape providing more inclusive venues. Consequently, John embraced a strategy of catering to diverse needs, allowing Chez Est to evolve organically and remain relevant amidst shifting cultural tides.

Conclusion

The success of the competition is fueled by various factors, but above all, it’s the passion of the drag artists within the community that has propelled it to greatness. Initially conceived as a modest event, it could have easily slipped into obscurity. However, it blossomed into a monumental phenomenon over time. This growth was not accidental; it was nurtured by providing a platform for these artists to shine. As the competition expanded, so did the Chez’s commitment to its evolution. Stagnation is the enemy of progress. John explained, “To thrive I must continually push boundaries and embrace change. That’s why I am relentless in my pursuit of making the competition bigger, grander, and more inclusive. The decision to move All Stars to the theater was a bold move and was the scariest thing I’ve ever done. Yet, it was a necessary step in our journey towards something greater.” For the first time in the competition’s history, the recent sixth installment of Chez Legends All Stars took place outside of Chez Est at the Infinity Theater in Hartford this past April, solidifying the expansion of the competition.

The staff at Chez Est is dedicated to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all patrons. The club is a generous mix of familiar faces and newcomers coming to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Come to Chez Est and let them welcome you home! Chez Est in Hartford proudly stands as the drag mecca of Connecticut, boasting a rich history of hosting RuPaul’s Drag Race stars. Let’s also not forget to mention three of Connecticut’s drag sensations who made it as contestants on RuPaul’s Drag Race season 15; Amethyst, Robin Fierce, and Loosey LaDuca, who navigated their drag career from the Chez Est stage and proudly call Chez Est their home.

With its dynamic ambiance and steadfast commitment to celebrating drag culture, Chez Est has become a sanctuary for both seasoned performers and avid drag fans. The venue consistently delivers unforgettable experiences that showcase the creativity and diversity of drag. Whether it’s a renowned queen or a rising talent, Chez Est provides a stage where drag fantasies come alive, earning its place as a beloved institution within the LGBTQ+ community and beyond.

The premiere of season 13 of Chez Legends looms on the horizon, scheduled for this Thursday, May 30th. Anticipation crackles in the air as whispers of an epic, shocking announcement is set to be communicated at 8:00PM at the Chest Est in Hartford. The opening week promises to unveil the biggest news in Chez Legends history, setting the stage for an unforgettable spectacle. The curtains will rise, excitement will peak, heralding the dawn of what promises to be the most impressive and exhilarating season to date. Across Connecticut, drag performers hone their craft, poised to deliver electrifying performances that ignite the stage and captivate audiences with sheer brilliance. With each act pushing the boundaries of creativity and artistry, fans brace themselves for an unforgettable journey into the heart of drag excellence during the new season of Chez Legends.

Winner Timeline

Season 1 – 2018 – October May Lay
Season 2 – 2018 – Lotus Qween
All Stars 1 – 2019 – October May Lay
Season 3 – 2019 – Ray DeCorazón
Season 4 – 2019 – Ambrosia Black
All Stars 2 – 2020 – Ray DeCorazón
Season 5 – 2020 – Kalysta Kaykes
Season 6 – 2020 – Natalia Fierce
All Stars 3 – 2021 – Natalia Fierce
Season 7 – 2021 – Astra
Season 8 – 2021 – Amethyst
All Stars 4 – 2022 – Amethyst/Astra
Season 9 – 2022 – Kenya Mone Heart
Season 10 – 2022 – Rozz Aura
All Stars 5 – 2023 – Rozz Aura
Season 11 – 2023 – Judah
Season 12 – 2023 – Moxie Angel
All Stars 6 – 2024 – Moxie Angel