Features / Drag
Cabaret to showcase drag’s boundary-pushing origins
Bristol’s drag scene continues to expand, with various performers and collectives catering for diverse gender identities and drag styles.
After attending events that lacked drag’s original punk elements, long-standing Bristol drag performer UGLY saw a gap in the scene.
“A lot of drag is glitz and glam. Which I love, it’s my favourite kind of drag. However, I want to provoke some feelings through drag that have been lost. I want to push boundaries and make people a little bit upset,” said UGLY as they laughed and sipped their drink in the sunny garden at the Farm pub.
is needed now More than ever
UGLY at Loco Klub’s 10th birthday – photo: Charley Williams
UGLY created an event called Fagbutt, which has put on several shocking, boundary-pushing drag performances across Bristol.
Their next event ‘Bad Friday’ is on April 18.
The cabaret features Rupaul’s Drag Race UK Season 3 alum Charity Kase. Further touring performers include Mama Mamba, Lydia L Scabies, Marvy Mucus and local Bristol performers featured include Narcotik and Roach.
Narcotik features on the lineup for Fagbutt’s ‘Bad Friday’ event – photo: Charley Williams
Creating a night with no rules
Inspired by the absence of inhibitions at festivals they’ve attended, UGLY wanted to bring a ‘do whatever you want’ atmosphere to their events in Bristol.
UGLY said that while Bristol is quite saturated for shows, what Fagbutt is doing is different to other drag performances.
Drag performer Miss Venus Wailer at Fagbutt’s Halloween event, Fagbutt x Femmegeddon present: The Dollhouse – photo: Charley Williams
“My favourite memories are from micro venues at festivals. You leave with a feeling of awakening from a fever dream that you can’t explain. You’re not only going to remember Fagbutt for the rest of your life, you’re going to tell everyone in the city about this one event you went to. I want to leave a lasting impression,” said UGLY.
A lot of UGLY’s inspiration draws from circus and sideshows, which they believe goes hand in hand with club culture and club kid culture.
Miss Venus Wailer at Fagbutt’s premier event in June 2023 – photo: Caitlin Damsell
‘You’ll come out with a memory for life’
Fagbutt is known for performances that push boundaries, which is what UGLY says is the essence of punk.
“Fagbutt isn’t for everyone, but it’s an unforgettable experience, which I think is worth pursuing. You’ll come out with a memory for life, and despite how we might look at the event, we are very welcoming and will look after you,” said UGLY.
UGLY loves drag with a shock factor. They explained that a lot of performances that push boundaries are deeply personal to performers. Examples of previous performances featured at Fagbutt include body modifications on stage and angle grinders being cut on metal plates on a performer’s body, among other shocking elements.
Co Kendrah at the Fagbutt x Femmegeddon Halloween event – photo: Charley Williams
Fagbutt’s ‘Bad Friday’ event will feature a cabaret and an after party, with DJs and dancers. UGLY said they suggested performances could centre around the theme of Easter, religion, renewal and the spring equinox.
“Queer spaces need to exist, not every space is for everyone. But the option is there for people to try new things and explore queer culture. I’ve been doing drag for seven years now and my life is centred around it,” said UGLY.
They continued: “The people I’ve met through it are like family to me. So, you could open yourself to the possibility of finding family. We’re all growing and constantly evolving, aren’t we? Maybe coming to this event is just one step in the evolution.”
Fagbutt’s ‘Bad Friday’ is on April 18 at Loco Club. Tickets can be purchased here. Follow Fagbutt on Instagram for more information and updates
Main Image: Charley Williams
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