Malta’s Drag Scene: Fighting Discrimination with Humour and Facts

Picture this: Republic Street, Valletta’s bustling heart, filled with laughter and cheers. Not your average Saturday night, but a drag show like no other. Welcome to ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ Malta-style, where queens take the stage not just to entertain, but to educate and fight discrimination.

Malta’s drag scene has evolved. It’s no longer just about the wigs, the makeup, and the lip-syncing. Today, it’s about using performance art to challenge stereotypes and fight discrimination. Take for instance, local queen Drag Sethora. She’s not just a fabulous performer; she’s a passionate activist using her platform to raise awareness about LGBTQ+ issues.

‘Drag is a form of art that allows us to express ourselves freely and challenge societal norms,’ says Drag Sethora. ‘It’s about breaking boundaries and pushing people out of their comfort zones.’

At these shows, laughter is the language, and education is the message. Between lip-sync performances and comedy skits, queens share facts about the LGBTQ+ community, debunk myths, and challenge stereotypes. They turn serious issues into digestible, shareable moments.

‘We use humour to make people listen,’ explains Drag Sethora. ‘Once you’ve got their attention, you can slip in some facts. They might not remember everything, but they’ll remember something. And that’s a start.’

Take, for instance, the show’s host, Dragony, who often incorporates local references into his comedy. ‘I might joke about how Malta’s weather is as unpredictable as a drag queen’s mood,’ he says. ‘But then I’ll segue into a serious point about how Malta’s progress on LGBTQ+ rights has been just as unpredictable.’

These shows aren’t just about raising awareness; they’re also about raising funds. A portion of the proceeds goes to local LGBTQ+ charities. ‘We’re not just here to entertain,’ says Drag Sethora. ‘We’re here to make a difference.’

And they are. Malta’s drag scene is changing minds, one performance at a time. It’s turning Republic Street into a stage for progress, one glittering, fabulous step at a time.

‘We’re not just fighting for our rights,’ says Dragony. ‘We’re fighting for everyone’s right to be whoever they want to be. And we’re doing it with fake fur, fabulous outfits, and a whole lot of sass.’