Queens melt ICE at benefit concert

On March 21, Chicago drag icon Lucy Stoole and The Metro, 3730 N. Clark St., presented Chicago Drag Melts ICE, a concert fundraiser for immigration organizations.

Utica and Lucy Stoole onstage Photo by Vern Hester

The nearly sold-out event featured not only Stoole but Emmy winner and RuPaul’s Drag Race contestant Laila McQueen (season 8) and RuPaul’s Drag Race contestant Utica (season 13). Also on the bill were 38 local performers for a streamlined, at times chaotic, action-packed night of drag and protest. Audience members were treated to four sets of performances.

Among the talent onstage for the event were Essence, Valerie Mendez, Tiki Vonte, Aurora Gosmic, Meya Douglas, Helvetikah Blak, Kerosene, Jay Kay, Serena Fiierce, Bambi Banks, Lady Cummeal, Khloe Park, Neutral Gena, Anita Horchata and her dance squad, Stephanie and Abhijeet.

Dear Jamie. Photo by Vern Heste

Anita Horchata and friends. Photo by Vern Hester

Other performers included Satvia Diamond, Shutt Up, Rachel Slurrz, Dear Jamie and their dancers, Tila Von Twirl, Sindy Viscious, Alexandrea Diamond, Ari Gato, Koda Pendants, Vonda La Rose, The Dommm, Fantasy Banks, Bang Bang, Milani Varela, Honey Bee Rose, Alex Jenny, Cleo Le Maneca, Persephone Brooklyn LaRue, Valentine Addams and Jerika Thique Diamond.

Beneficiaries of Chicago Drag Melts ICE included Immigration Bond Fund, ICIRR, Stand with Minnesota and National Immigrant Justice Center.

Tila Von Twirl. Photo by Vern Hester.