Drag ON! takes over Dundas Square on July 2nd starting at 2pm, as Pride Toronto serves up a ferocious sequel to last year’s over-the-top and overwhelmingly successful event. Be a part of drag history as DRAG ON! snatches the official Guinness Book of World Records title for Largest Drag Stage Performance.  Featuring the fiercest looks and freshest routines of more than 50 of Toronto’s reigning queens, kings, and other gender-benders, with  a backdrop of dramatic beats by Britney Spears impersonator extraordinaire Derrick Barry (RuPaul’s Drag Race, X Factor) Co-hosted by legendary lovelies, Lady Bunny and Bianca Del Rio.

Featured Performer – Jada Hudson

Jada Hudson is Toronto’s glamazon scene queen. A musical and visual mix of camp, chic, high fashion and urban funk, she’s one of T.O’s most familiar faces performing regularly at Garage on Church, Crews and Tango’s and Woody’s. Miss Hudson serves crowds a musical spectrum and often, a highlight, live singing.

I had a chance to speak with Miss Hudson regarding her upcoming appearance at the event where she is sure to work, work , work, work!

What kind of performance or vision are you bringing to the “Drag On!”event Pride Weekend?

As an individual with a Carribean background I try too infuse my cultural influences and experiences in any performance I do. With Drag On! that will be no different. In addition, my years spent as a part of the elite dancing group of my home country Barbados, “Dancing Africa”, serves me well in being able to deliver a high energy performance, tapping into an array of dance styles.

There will be a plathora of local and international queens showcasing their talents and efforts for the Drag On! event. Which Canadian drag performer do you respect or sdmire most and why?

I would have to say the legendary Sofonda Cox is the Canadian drag performer that I respect and admire. As a performer who has been doing drag for the extensive amount of time she has, I find that to be quite an accomplishment. In addition I totally respect her drive and passion for the art of drag and her ability to continuously evolve, grow in her craft and raise the bar and standard of what it means to be a female impersonator. Sofonda has the innate ability to always stay ahead and have her finger on the pulse of what is current, fresh and innovative and impliments that in her drag. This is something that I truly really respect and admire.

“Drag On!” is sure to draw a huge crowd. Are you nervous or excited?

I am ecstatic for Drag On? because this gives me another opportunity to showcase myself on an amazing platform as well as working with some amazingly talented local drag performers in addition to the international performers that will be here.

Who is your ultimate musical diva and why?

Rihanna. Not only is she my fellow countryman, I truly identify with her on many, many levels. Rihanna has made such a huge impact and the power behind her name has given her the ability to have such a great influence on music and fashion. She’s bold, fearless and unapologetically true to who she is.

There will be famed drag stars such as Lady Bunny and Derrick Berry alongside the line up of performers for the event. Are you a fan of the show “RuPaul’s Drag Race” and who would you like to meet from the show if you could?

I absolutely admire the show Drag Race. This show has created a platform and an opportunity for a variety of drag with different aesthetics to showcase their talents to a wide audience, an international audience that has seen many of these performers achieve great success by being on the show. I admire all the performers that have been on the show.

Drag On! may very well be one of the great highlights of Pride weekend. What is your career highlight thus far?

Being selected to be one of the female impersonators for the musical Snow Queen would be the highlight of my drag career. To be so young in a career as a drag performer and be able to perform onstage at the legendary Elgin Theatre was an immense honor. This opportunity gave me the stage to not only showcase my talent as a drag performer but it allowed me to utilize my talents in acting, dance and live singing. It will be a moment I will never forget!

Mark your calendars folks for yet another unforgettable moment and catch Jada Hudson and many more Saturday July 2nd for “Drag ON!” at Dundas Square at 6 PM.

Check the official Drag ON! Facebook Page for the latest schedule of performers and performance times.

Happy Pride ya’ll!

About the Author

The beautiful and legendary Donnarama has graced the stages of T.O with outrageous costumes and comedy skits, and there is never a dull moment! A scene queen and Canadian drag staple, her dedication, pioneering originality and uniqueness have scored her numerous awards, bar titles and visits to therapy. Visit Donnarama on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/donnarama.italiana