Third Annual ‘Drag Eye for the Straight Guy’ Competition Coming to Tracks

As part of a unique, inclusive, and stigma-breaking celebration, Denver drag queens Lushus La’Rell and Nuclia Waste present the Third Annual “Drag Eye for the Straight Guy” drag competition, coming to Denver on Friday, September 10 at Tracks Nightclub.

The event transforms four straight male contestants into drag divas for their first time, also helping to raise critical funds in support of the Matthew Shepard Foundation. The foundation works to amplify the story of Matthew Shepard, a young, gay man whose life was cut tragically short in 1998, and to inspire individuals, organizations, and communities to embrace the dignity and equality of all people.

This year’s contestants are Luke Faser (management analyst at Denver Sheriff’s Department), Matthew Gillette (high school teacher and coach), Thomas Reynolds (project manager for Peerless Midwest), and Mark Somanader (director of school support at Achievement Network). They will all compete in three categories for the title “Miss Bear to Make a Difference.”

In spirit of drag traditions, each contestant has the support of a local drag mother, responsible for preparing them for the competition. The event will also include a performance from the 2019 winner Lady Smart Ash (or Scott Gilmore, the deputy executive director of Parks and Planning for the City and County of Denver).

By this third round, the competition has grown both in size and notoriety, as a key fundraising event for the Matthew Shepard Foundation. Guests will also bear witness to the transformation of Dennis Shepard into his drag persona, Pearly White.

This year’s judges include Eddie Randle (9News reporter), Everett Schneider (owner of Bedrock Landscaping), Scott Cawood (CEO of World at Work), and Joey Miranda (owner of VYBE).

“It is so exciting to combine my long-standing commitment to the Matthew Shepard Foundation with this unique event,” Lushus La’Rell says. “It is a privilege to bring this experience to Denver and to raise funds to help erase hate.”

General admission tickets for “Drag Eye for the Straight Guy” are available for purchase here. Note that proof of vaccination is required for admission into the event.

Photo courtesy of the Matthew Shepard Foundation