A Fabulous Date Night: Bottomless Drag Brunch and Unexpected Connections
In a world that's constantly buzzing with the demands of parenthood, my husband and I managed to carve out a rare moment for ourselves. After a year of putting the needs of our children front and centre, we decided it was time for a night out.
With the kids safely tucked away for an overnight stay, we ventured to our first ever drag brunch, a spectacle that promised both bottomless mimosas and a dazzling show, with a few competitions thrown in for fun. Joining us were our two friends, eager to revel in the joy that awaited us at the hands of the fabulous hostess, Viva la Diva.
As the afternoon unfolded, Viva la Diva strolled around the tables, engaging with the audience. When she reached our table, number 69, she inquired if we were celebrating any special occasion. With a shared glance and a smile, my husband and I confessed that this was our first date in over a year – a much-needed escape from the rigors of parenting.
Viva la Diva, ever the entertainer, seized the moment. With gusto, she took to the microphone and proudly announced to the entire venue that we, two gay dads, were on a rare date night. The room erupted in cheers, and we found ourselves at the centre of a celebratory spotlight.
As the drinks flowed freely and the performers took the stage, our table became a hub of laughter, singing, and dancing. The drag brunch was not just a feast for the senses but a real celebration of our rare night off.
During the break, Viva la Diva surprised us by joining our table. What followed was a conversation that transcended the glitter and glamour of the drag world. Viva shared her longing to have children in a time when it wasn't allowed. The discussion touched on the impact of Section 28, a dark period in LGBTQ+ history, and the challenges she faced. As well as coming out stories and changes in legalisation.
We, in turn, opened up about our experiences as a couple, navigating through microaggressions and societal norms. Viva spoke about her joy in being able to get married in 2013, just as the tides were turning in America. Her wedding, held in New York with the reception at Stonewall, became a symbol of progress and resilience.
What began as a lively drag brunch transformed into an unexpected exchange of lived experiences. Viva la Diva's story reminded us of the strides the LGBTQ+ community has made, but also highlighted the hurdles that still lie ahead. It also reminded me of the many generations of LGBT+ people that have not been able to fulfil their aspirations of parenthood due to historical legalisations that denied them the opportunity. As I left the venue that evening, I carried not only the memories of a fabulous date but a renewed sense of purpose in supporting the ongoing journey toward equity and acceptance.
