Drag Queens Take Over First Friday at Capitol Modern

Photo: Courtesy of Capitol Modern

October is full of changes. After two decades as Hawai‘i State Art Museum (HiSAM), the much-loved museum is shedding its old moniker and adopting a bold new name: Capitol Modern. It reflects its historic location in the Capitol District and unrivaled collection in contemporary art. The museum’s name may become different, but at its core, it’s still “art for the people, by the people, and forever free.”

The timing for the name change goes perfectly with the drag queens who will be performing on First Friday. The art of drag requires a dramatic metamorphosis, embracing of a new persona, and this event will celebrate transformation. Capitol Modern opens its doors and welcomes you to experience an unforgettable First Friday filled with electrifying energy and creativity.

Photo: Courtesy of Capitol Modern

Start the evening off with an exclusive Drag Tour through the museum’s galleries on the second floor with the legendary Cocoa Chandelier from 6 to 6:30 p.m. An award-winning professional entertainer, Ms. Chandelier will skillfully blend drag and fine art into a fabulous time.

Photo: Courtesy of Capitol Modern

Next, go to the outdoor Sculpture Garden on the first floor where DJ A.I.T. will be getting the party started. Head upstairs to the Grand Lānai to treat yourself to tasty refreshments from local food vendors Middle Eats, Coolbeans and Sistah Girls. You can also find pop-up vendors Umamiplant, My Medicine Cabiiinet and Manini Gallery selling artwork and original creations.

 

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The highlight of the evening will be the multitalented drag show titled Generation Next 2.0, featuring 13 fierce drag queens filling the Sculpture Garden space with their exuberance and larger-than-life personalities. Showing up to slay will be Glacier Mugler, Kamulani, Kelly Price, Leila DelRey, Juicy Angel, Midori, Sardonyx DelRey, Mya Stone, Zee, Pia, Oliver, Melody Lucas and Marina DelRey. Bring plenty of dollar bills to tip your favorite performers.

First Friday, Oct. 6, 6–9 p.m., free admission, Capitol Modern, 250 S. Hotel St., capitolmodern.org, @capitolmodern

SEE ALSO: Capitol Modern Invites You to Face “Fear of the Unknown”

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