You can’t talk about the drag scene in Perth without mentioning BarbieQ. The statuesque beauty with legs to die for is an ICON. It’s hard to not feel some sort of impact when you meet her.
So, I was eager to attend this 25th anniversary celebration. With BarbieQ, you always know you’re in for a good time. What drew me in with this show in particular was the promise of BarbieQ sharing her stories and some high and lows of her career. I’d seen her brilliance as a performer and choreographer, I wanted to know how she managed to mould herself into the diva she is.
Truthfully, it didn’t feel like there was a lot of tea spilled. She did talk about her musical interests and inspiration but not much else about her journey through the years. However, the show definitely delivered on high energy, cheeky fun. BarbieQ showcased numbers from her 25 year career – from her very first drag show to her current reincarnation as Dolly Parton. If you grew up listening to songs in the 80s and 90s, you will recognise most (if not all!) of the songs featured.
Watching BarbieQ and her dancers is like watching a well-oiled machine. The sets were tight and the costumes were fabulous. BarbieQ commands the stage and this is esepcially evident in her solo performance of “This is Me”. All eyes were on her as she powered her way through the song, ending with a huge rainbow flourish.
I left the venue with a hoarse voice from all the cheering and singing from this show. Even if I didn’t get what I was expecting, BarbieQ, as always, left me in awe.
BarbieQ: 25 years and counting is running at Connections, every night until 18th February. Grab your tickets here! Check out our reel for a sneak peek!