Rust Belt Presents ‘How the Drag Queen Stole Christmas’
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio — Starrlet O’Hara will be coming to town this weekend when Rust Belt Theater Co. presents “How the Drag Queen Stole Christmas.”
The raucous and original Christmas musical, now in its 14th year, will be performed at 8 p.m. on Dec. 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21 and 22, with additional, and extra risqué, shows at midnight Dec. 14 and Dec. 21.
“Drag Queen,” an off-the-wall retelling of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol,” tells the story of Starrlet O’Hara, a tyrant drag queen who is visited by three ghostly divas on Christmas Eve.
Written and composed by Rust Belt founder and director Robert Dennick Joki and Josh Taylor, the show is updated each year to lampoon politics, current events and pop culture. This year’s production will also feature new songs, new performers and new costumes.
“We are limiting the seating this year in order to provide a better experience for our dedicated patrons, so it is very important to make and keep your reservations,” Joki says.
The cast includes Nicole Zayas, Joshua Fleming, Jojo Garcia, Jeremy Grimes, Erik Glasgow, Wesley Miller, Kage Coven, Janelle Yohman, Keith Stepanic, Josh Yohman, Lisa Torrence, Amanda Rudnytsky, Celena Coven, Rian Davis, Tay Love, Heather Powell, Austin Brown, Alicia Royer, Abigail Kremm, Geri DeWitt and Joki.
Each performance will include a complimentary wine and cheese reception, and theatergoers will be able to purchase jewelry and souvenirs at Starrlet’s Workshop, a pop-up gift shop that will feature the work of local artists.
The production will also continue its tradition of raising funds for local charities during intermission.
The cast will also host an after party at Club Switch, 221 Belmont Ave., on Dec. 7, after the performance. Attendees will be treated to drag performances and prize giveaways.
All tickets are $20; for reservations, call 330 507 2358.
The theater is located in the Calvin Center at 755 Mahoning Avenue, just outside of downtown Youngstown.
Pictured: Joshua Fleming and Robert Dennick Joki in “How the Drag Queen Stole Christmas.”
Copyright 2024 The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.
