QPOC Presents Drag Show
Multiple, 2006
This recording of the Fall 2007 Drag Show would’ve been the second or third iteration of the Drag Show after being started by Indi Vazquez ‘07. It is a full recording of the show, and also contains a short edited trailer for the drag show compiled from student performers and emcees.
Imitation for Which There Is No Original
Cait De Mott Grady, 2011
This book compiles photographs from the biannual Grinnell College QPOC Drag Show between Fall 2008 and Spring 2011 in a vibrant depiction of the power of drag as a destabilizing, affirming, confusing, and liberating force. It showcases the creativity, joy, and talent that students bring to drag performances on campus and presents interviews with students on what drag means to them.
Scarlet and Black, “Stuffed shirts, stuffed pants to stuff Harris seats”
Chevon Chatman, 2006
Presenting what is today one of the most popular events at Grinnell College, the Queer People of Color (QPOC) Drag Show was started by Indi Vazquez ‘07 in the Fall of 2006. It was not the first attempt to organize a drag show, as an S&B article from May 5th, 2006, notes that Nick Blencowe, who had been nominated for All-Campus Events (ACE) Coordinator, had attempted, but failed to organize a drag show in the prior semester. It did, however, kickstart a tradition that has been ongoing since 2006, stretching over 14 years, as it continues to adhere to the principles of student performers and tips being used as charitable donations that were established during the first Grinnell College Drag Show.
Wig
Unknown, Donated 2021
Donated to the Grinnell College Special Collections and Archives in 2021, this wig appears incredibly similar to the one worn in “Imitation for Which There is No Original” by Ragnar Thorisson ‘11 and may have been used in any number of other performances.