A chilling energy descended upon Bartlett Hall at the University of Massachusetts Amherst as the student-run drag club, “UMass is a Drag,” unleashed its Halloween spectacle, “Creature Feature.” The performance wasn’t just entertainment; it was a vibrant expression of identity and artistry, a space where students could transform and embody fantastical personas.
The show welcomed performers of all genders, including transgender and non-binary students, and even invited audience members to participate in the art of drag. This wasn’t a one-off event, but the club’s third annual Halloween show, a testament to its growing presence and the consistent demand for its unique brand of performance art.
Support for “UMass is a Drag” extended beyond the student body, with the campus’s Stonewall Center, a vital LGBTQ+ resource, lending its backing. The intention was clear: to forge a powerful connection between drag enthusiasts, the LGBTQ+ community, and those who stood in solidarity.
For one student involved, the university’s embrace of drag was profoundly meaningful. They articulated a sentiment shared by many – that UMass offered a haven where artistic expression wasn’t stifled, a place where freedoms and opportunities flourished that might be absent elsewhere.
When approached for comment by an external organization, the club’s response was anything but diplomatic. A representative delivered a blunt, defiant message, a raw expression of protectiveness over their space and their art.
Videos from the event captured the electrifying atmosphere, showcasing performers like “Hexplode Von Zarobitch” commanding the stage with confidence and flair. The audience responded with enthusiastic applause, creating a palpable sense of celebration and acceptance.
The university’s continued support of these events has sparked wider conversations about the role of public funding in cultural programming. As debates about campus activities intensify, “UMass is a Drag” stands as a bold statement of inclusivity and artistic freedom.
