By Kevin Ferrisi –

Connecticut drag fans were ready for the Chez Legends All Stars Weekend last Friday and Saturday! It was the most exciting event of the season, delivering glitz, glamour, and lots of local talent. The winners of season 11 and season 12 of Chez Legends, a famous drag competition in the state, faced off for the coveted title of Mx. Chez Est 2024 and an amazing prize package. As the weekend kicked off with a star-studded red carpet, everyone was eager to see who would win the title, which not only represented excellence in drag performance but also symbolized the diverse community that Chez Est in Hartford, CT, catered to. It was an extravagant event filled with incredible talent and intense competition that kept everyone on the edge of their seats.

For twelve seasons, Chez Legends, a highly acclaimed local drag competition held at Chez Est in Hartford, has showcased the state’s finest drag talent. Presented by House of Lay Entertainment and Chez Est, the 10-week competition, held twice annually, welcomes drag artists of all backgrounds. Competitors contend for a coveted spot in the evening’s lineup, with the top finalist each week and a Golden Buzzer wildcard pick by Mia E. Z’Lay, advancing to the season finale. There, one contestant emerges victorious, claiming the season’s title. Subsequently, winners from two consecutive seasons engage in an All Stars showdown to compete for the prestigious Mx. Chez Est title.

Friday

Friday night, April 26th, marked the start of the weekend at the charming Infinity Hall in Hartford, CT. The venue was transformed for the extraordinary Chez Legends All Stars Met Gala. Attendees were greeted with a glamorous red carpet and photo opportunity, prompting them to showcase their best attire. The energy surged as the evening unfolded, featuring a thrilling competition that showcased the dynamic performances of season 11 winner Judah and season 12 winner Moxie Angel.

The show kicked off with an electrifying runway walk from the esteemed House of Legends, featuring a lineup of iconic drag performers, initiated with Judah and Moxie Angel. Among them were the mesmerizing Giganta Smalls, Kiki Lucia, Ambrosia Black, Kalysta Kaykes, and the dazzling Kenya Mone Heart, also renowned contestants from RuPaul’s Drag Race season 15 and Connecticut’s drag sensations, Amethyst, Robin Fierce, and Loosey LaDuca. In addition to these luminaries were local icons Glass Staine, Titiana Melendez, October May Lay, Natalia Fierce, Astra, Mx. Chez Est 2023 Rozz Aura, the fabulous Bebe Galini, Mia E. Z’Lay, and the esteemed Chez Est owners Lulu Diamant Fierce and John Pepe.

As anticipation reached its peak, it was time for the main event that had drawn everyone there: the epic showdown between Judah and Moxie Angel. The battle unfolded over three intense rounds, each designed to test their skills and creativity. In the first round, they faced off in the category of Impersonations, where they had to embody a character with precision and flair. The stakes only heightened as they moved into the second round themed; Sleeping Beauty, challenging them to weave enchantment and allure into their performances. Finally, the tension climaxed in the third round with the Red Carpet category, where they were tasked with exuding glamour and sophistication fit for the most prestigious of events.

Judah’s set during the competition was a masterful display of versatility and creativity. For the Impersonation round, she captivated the audience by singing live to a rendition of Orville Peck’s ‘Roses Are Falling’, bringing a unique blend of mystery and allure to her performance. Transitioning to the Sleeping Beauty round, Judah seamlessly melded classics with modern hits, featuring Madonna’s iconic ‘Vogue’, and Beyonce’s empowering ‘Break My Soul’, as well as Ariana Grande’s playful ‘Yes, And?’ and Lady Gaga’s theatrical ‘Babylon’. Each song choice showcased her ability to adapt and shine across different musical styles. In the Red Carpet round, Judah’s selections of Billie Eilish’s ‘GOLDWING’ and Jane Bell’s ‘Mother Ate’ were particularly striking, offering a sophisticated yet edgy interpretation that perfectly encapsulated the glamour and intensity of a red carpet event.

In the Impersonation round, Moxie brought an iconic performance to life with renditions of Paula Abdul’s hits: ‘Straight Up’ and ‘Cold Hearted’, capturing the essence of the pop sensation’s charisma and style. Moving on to the Sleeping Beauty segment, the stage was set on fire with a dazzling showcase of creativity and talent. Moxie commanded the spotlight with a dynamic performance of ‘Drop the Top’ by Trannilish infused with elements from Nicki Minaj’s ‘The Boys’ and Lil Kim’s ‘No Matter What They Say’, featuring original lyrics by Moxie herself. The energy soared even higher with a mashup of ‘Big Difference’ by Nicki Minaj and original lyrics again by Moxie, along with ‘Playboy/Positions’ by Shygirl, captivating the audience with its boldness and originality. Finally, in the Red Carpet round, elegance and allure took center stage as Moxie sang live to the sounds of Dionne Warwick’s ‘Walk the Way You Talk’ and Beyoncé & DJ Khaled’s ‘Shining’, leaving an indelible impression of glamour and sophistication.

As the grand finale of the show unfolded, the members of the House of Legends made their electrifying return to the stage. Each performer dazzled the audience with a unique blend of high fashion, embodying the night’s theme with looks that ranged from avant-garde to classic glamour. The stage came alive with their fiery dance routines, every movement executed with precision and flair. Their fierce lip-sync performances captivated everyone, embodying the songs with emotion and attitude. Amidst the whirlwind of applause, what resonated most profoundly was their unmistakable talent as the audience witnessed Connecticut drag at its finest hour. After the clock struck midnight, their collective spirit and exuberance marked a moment of pure celebration, ending the show on a spectacular high note.

Saturday

Saturday night, April 27th, saw the excitement unfold at the vibrant Chez Est in Hartford, CT, as it played host to the thrilling second half of the two-night event. The evening held promises of memorable moments, including the debut presentation of the William Musanti Humanity Award, the Steven M. Fish Mayoral Award, and the prestigious Mx. Congeniality Award. Attendees eagerly awaited the announcement of the Chez Legends All Stars winner and the coronation of the esteemed Mx. Chez Est 2024.

At this year’s awards ceremony, Patrick Dunn, also celebrated as Kiki Lucia, was honored with the William Musanti Humanity Award, recognizing his profound impact on the community through advocacy and compassion. The Steven M. Fish Mayoral Award was deservedly bestowed upon Nick Dionne, a beloved fixture at Chez Est, for his unwavering commitment and service. The competition for the prestigious Mx. Congeniality Award was particularly intense, featuring notable nominees Ethel De Luxe and Perry Winkle. After much anticipation, the accolade was awarded to Ethel De Luxe, who has consistently demonstrated grace, kindness, and an amiable spirit that resonates deeply within the community.

Following the award ceremony, the stage was graced with stellar performances that captivated the audience. The evening saw remarkable acts by Miss Chez Est for Life, Mia E. Z’Lay, who performed alongside the stunning Kenya Mone Heart. The crowd was further treated to an unforgettable performance by Bebe Galini, who took to the stage one last time in her role as a judge. This touching final act marked her departure from the judges’ panel after several celebrated seasons on Chez Legends, leaving the audience both nostalgic and electrified.

Rozz Aura commanded the stage for one last performance as the reigning Mx. Chez Est. With every movement, she captivated the audience, her presence radiating grace and charisma as tears flowed down her face. As the spotlight enveloped her, Rozz Aura delivered a mesmerizing performance that was a testament to her reign and artistry. With each note and every step taken, she left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who witnessed her farewell performance, a fitting tribute to her time as the reigning monarch of Chez Est.

As the anticipation reached its peak, the moment everyone had been eagerly awaiting finally arrived. It was time to crown a new All Star and bestow upon them the prestigious title of Mx. Chez Est 2024. Season 11 winner, Judah, and season 12 champion, Moxie Angel, stood side by side on stage, their nerves palpable as they awaited the announcement. With the audience holding their breath in suspense, the tension was almost tangible. Then, in a thrilling climax, the new champion was revealed, and the crown was passed on to Moxie Angel, who emerged victorious, securing the esteemed title of Mx. Chez Est for 2024.

In a poignant moment of transition, Rozz Aura, the reigning Mx. Chez Est 2023, gracefully stepped down from the throne, marking the end of an era and the dawn of a new one. The passing of the crown from Rozz to Moxie Angel held a special significance beyond the competition itself. Rozz Aura, the esteemed mother of the Haus of Aura, proudly watched as her drag daughter, Moxie Angel, claimed victory. As a drag mother, Rozz had nurtured and mentored Moxie throughout her journey, and seeing her succeed was a moment of immense pride. Handing over the reins of Mx. Chez Est within their drag family was not just a transfer of title, but a symbolic gesture of love, support, and legacy. With grace and composure, Rozz Aura passed on the esteemed crown, signifying the duties and privileges of Connecticut drag royalty, but also the enduring legacy of Chez Est.

Moxie Angel’s feat has earned her the esteemed title of Mx. Chez Est 2024, adorned with a regal sash, as well as a crown and scepter graciously provided by Fierce Drag Jewels. Alongside these coveted accessories, Moxie also secured a one-year contract with Chez Est, solidifying her presence in the drag scene. Additionally, she earned a coveted spot within the House of Legends, marking her as a distinguished member of the drag community, poised to continue leaving a lasting impression on stages far and wide.

Be sure to check out the next season of Chez Legends starting on May 30, 2024 at the Chez Est in Hartford, CT. Season 13 promises to offer new thrills and an over-the-top announcement by the renowned competition you do not want to miss.

NIGHT 1 PHOTOS: Click here to check out all the photos in the events gallery from Chez Legends All Stars at Infinity Hall in Hartford, CT on April 26, 2024. Photos by James Hilton.

NIGHT 2 PHOTOS: Click here to check out all the photos in the events gallery from Chez Legends All Stars at Chez Est in Hartford, CT on April 27, 2024. Photos by Kevin Ferrisi.