Yes, Queens! Join the Honolulu Pride Celebration at Capitol Modern

Photo: Courtesy of Capitol Modern

Hawai‘i’s most stunning drag queens will be ready for you on First Friday, Oct. 4, for Honolulu Pride Month’s launch party. As a public contemporary art museum, Capitol Modern welcomes everyone with open arms to experience creative arts of all disciplines, including the art of drag.

“Being a passionate fan of drag, I’ve always appreciated its power to challenge norms and celebrate individuality,” says Aly Ishikuni, Public Programmer of Capitol Modern since 2017 and proud ally of the LBGTQ+ community. “With a commitment to inclusivity and the arts, I was excited to create a dedicated platform and space for drag performances.”

Everyone is invited to events at Capitol Modern, and admission is absolutely free. “I believe in the importance of producing events and initiatives that promote understanding and visibility; to build safe spaces where love, acceptance and equality prevail for all!” says Ishikuni.

Photo: Courtesy of Capitol Modern

Kick off the evening with a fun and fabulous drag tour of the museum galleries led by the legendary Cocoa Chandelier at 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. Pop into the POD (Passion on Display) space on the first floor to see what Capitol Modern’s Artist in Residence Solomon Enos is up to. Then head outdoors to support talented local artists who are part of Art+Flea’s urban market and artist collective House of Bloom. Check out DJ A.i.T.’s live set and hit the gorgeous glass pool dance floor.

Photo: Courtesy of Capitol Modern

At 8 p.m., the drag queens of Generation Next will bring their big queen energy to the Sculpture Garden. Guest performers include Glacier Mugler, Sardonyx Del Rey, Diamond, Dahlia Aura, Lolita Flambe, Kelly Price, Ki Santel, Pia Zamora and Marina Del Rey.

Drag queens are highly skilled artists who create pure magic and joy. To Ishikuni, drag artistry is not solely for entertainment purposes. “It is an art form that embodies creativity, resilience and self-expression—and it deserves to be celebrated!”

Photo: Courtesy of Capitol Modern

These queens will be giving glitz, glamour and everything in between. “From the meticulous preparation—costume design, makeup artistry, and choreography—to the electrifying performances themselves, the hard work behind each show is truly inspiring,” says Ishikuni. “What captivates me is the way they can effortlessly blend humor, emotion and artistry and create experiences that are both entertaining and thought-provoking.” It’s going to be a packed house, so get there early to get a good spot.

As a fierce champion for the art of drag, Ishikuni says, “Each performance tells a story, reflecting the diverse experiences and identities of the performers while inviting the audience to celebrate alongside them. This magic is not just in the performances, but also in the sense of community and empowerment that drag fosters.”

Also, make sure to bring dollar bills (and more) to tip your favorite queens and make them feel appreciated for all their hard work.

“At Capitol Modern, our events are always a welcoming space where everyone is encouraged to express themselves authentically,” says Ishikuni. “We hope that you’ll leave our next First Friday event with a renewed sense of pride and inspiration from the creativity displayed by our performers!”

First Friday, Oct. 4, 5 to 9 p.m., free admission, Capitol Modern, 250 S. Hotel St., capitolmodern.org, @capitolmodern

SEE ALSO: On View: 9 Crazy-Good New Art Exhibits to See in September

Lisa Shiroma is a correspondent for Capitol Modern and an artist. She is the former owner of the Capitol Modern Museum Gallery Shop, which she ran with partners Aly Ishikuni and Travis Sasaki from Mori by Art + Flea.