In honor of National Coming Out Week, UB's finest gentlemen in ladies' garb competed for the title of "Miss Gay UB" at Wednesday's Amateur Drag Contest, sponsored by the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender Alliance.
Aaron LeBeau, a sophomore legal studies major, ultimately claimed the crown.
The event, which took place in Harriman Hall, was the first in a series of events sponsored by the LGBTA in celebration of National Coming Out Week. LGBTA Vice President Rachel Parrino said the drag show and other promotional activities are intended to send a message to the UB community.
"Basically, we're showing people that we're here and we aren't going to leave," Parrino said. "It's for those of us that are 'out' to be out, proud and happy. As far as the people that are still in the closet, it's to show them that they're not alone and that there's support when they're ready."
The show featured four contestants - "Lily," "Jewel Tucker," "Kabuki," and "Chi Chi Kaboom."
Although the contestants were new to performing in drag, there were some decorated veterans at the show as well.
Last year's reigning "Miss Gay UB," Mikaila K. DelRio, opened and closed the show with her performances. "Fanta-See Island," - who is the reigning Ms. Gay New York State of America, Ms. Grand Divas, Ms. New York State and Ms. Continental - hosted the event in addition to performing.
Each of the contestants performed two sets and was rated by a panel of judges on the basis of appearance, performance, attitude, creativity and overall presentation.
Island encouraged the crowd to actively participate and tip generously.
"Tipping is not a city in China - it's what you do for the performers here," she said.
The crowd was comprised of people from all walks of life and Island applauded heterosexuals in attendance.
"I'd like to support all the straight people for coming out, being open-minded and supporting us," she said.
The new "Miss Gay UB" said the purpose of the contest was to entertain, not to inform.
"I don't think that it's a good way to educate people about the LGBTA community, it's just for laughs and a good time," LeBeau said. "It's people celebrating other perspectives of life."
As the winner of the show, LeBeau was invited to compete in the professional drag show Thursday in the Student Union, against performers from Club Marcella, a downtown Buffalo nightclub.
Jewel Tucker, who was Tuesday's runner-up, said the contest was a way to get involved, and celebrate his homosexuality.
"I've never done it before, and I'll try anything at least once," Tucker said. "It's a chance to partake in the celebration of being gay."
LGBTA supporter Ryan Furey, a junior biology major, said support for the show was impressive.
"We have a lot more contestants this year than we've had before," Tucker said. "We had a great turnout, almost double what we had last year."
It was the first time at a drag show for Jessica Gyurics, a sophomore pharmaceutics major.
"I had a great time; it gave me a new perspective on the gay community," she said. "It was humorous and entertaining and although I'm a heterosexual, I'll be there to support their next drag show."
"It doesn't matter if you're gay or straight, everyone is welcomed," Gyurics said.
The LGBTA will also hold various workshops outside the Student Union today from noon until 2 p.m.
