By Kevin Ferrisi –

The night was electric at Chez Est, the epicenter of Connecticut drag. The Health Collective and Angel Rivers proudly presented Drag Me Out, a benefit event that drew an eager crowd. The atmosphere buzzed with anticipation for dazzling performances by Angel Rivers herself, the charismatic host, alongside Ethel DeLuxe, Bleach, Paxx Headroom, and Natalia Fierce. As DJ Rory spun electrifying tracks, the audience reveled in the show filled with anticipation for the surprises that were in store for the evening. 

The Health Collective and Angel Rivers teamed up to organize a fundraiser benefiting The Health Collective held at Chez Est. The objective was to have five seasoned performers each chose one person within the community who had never done drag before. Modeled after the family resemblance makeover challenge on RuPaul’s Drag Race, each duo was to execute a makeover and performance that portrayed a strong family resemblance. 

Attendees witnessed a unique transformation as five community members experienced drag for the first time, showcasing the powerful and transformative nature of the art form. Esteemed entertainers Angel Rivers, Ethel De Luxe, Natalia Fiercé, Bleach, and Paxx Headroom headlined the evening, captivating the audience with their stunning performances alongside their honorary drag children for the night.

The night was also filled with the energetic beats of DJ Rory Roux Lay, providing the perfect soundtrack for an evening of celebration and unity. The event successfully raised significant funds for The Health Collective, furthering its mission of promoting health and wellness within the community. Thanks to the extraordinary generosity of community members, supporters, and donors, the event raised $1,400!

We reached out to the Chief Deputy Director of The Health Collective, Anthony DiLizia, to find out what inspired them to collaborate with Chez Est. He explained, “The Health Collective understands the importance of meeting people where they are in order to provide greater access to our compassionate, culturally competent care and resources. This means expanding our presence in and supporting queer spaces. Chez Est is one of those critical spaces and has remained steadfast in creating a safe environment for the LGBTQIA+ community to come together and be their most authentic selves. As such, it is only logical that we be present in that space, and The Health Collective is proud to be a friend of, and partner with, John Pepe and the rest of the Chez Est team!”

During our exchange with Anthony, we wanted to find out how drag is a useful resource for furthering the company’s mission. “Part of The Health Collective’s mission has always been to empower people to lead their healthiest and happiest lives and drag is a powerful tool in making that mission a reality. Drag is an art form that helps foster a sense of identity, self-expression, and belonging,” Anthony said. “Drag events and performances create safe spaces where individuals can explore and celebrate themselves without fear of judgment or discrimination. The inclusivity, visibility, and acceptance represented in drag are fundamental in reducing social and mental health issues which are directly correlated to other health outcomes.”

We reached out to the host of the event, Angel Rivers, to find out what holding such a unique event meant to her. Her reply, “I was very happy to share the stage with all the entertainers. Truly showcasing that, not only the art of drag can make an impact in someone’s life, but also in the world! There is power in what we do. I think Drag Me Out encapsulates what the meaning of drag in our community is. Drag is there for the community at every moment and not just for entertainment. But to inspire everyone to keep going in life & do great things for each other.”

The night concluded with a triumphant sense of unity and accomplishment as Chez Est witnessed the transformative power of drag during the Drag Me Out benefit. Ultimately, the event celebrated identity, self-expression, and community support. It left a lasting impact on all who attended, especially those undergoing the transformative nature of drag for the first time.