In a dazzling display of support and camaraderie, the queens of RuPaul’s Drag Race gathered at the August Wilson Theatre in New York City on 4th March to witness a seminal night of theatre: Bob the Drag Queen’s performance in the role of emcee Harold Zidler in Broadway’s acclaimed production of *Moulin Rouge! The Musical*. The event was notable not only for Bob’s leading role but also for the star-studded presence of several Drag Race alumni who came to cheer on their fellow queen.
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Bob, who rose to fame after winning season 8 of the reality competition, thrilled audiences as he took centre stage in the production, which is a stage adaptation of Baz Luhrmann’s iconic 2001 film. As part of the celebratory atmosphere, attendees engaged in a pre-show photoshoot, capturing the essence of drag and Broadway amalgamating beautifully.
Among the prominent Drag Race contestants in attendance were Aquaria, the winner of season 10, and a notable trio from All Stars 8: Alexis Michelle, who appeared in season 9, and two-time finalist Kandy Muse from season 13. They were joined by Broadway performer Marcia Marcia Marcia, alongside her fellow season 15 queens Luxx Noir London, Loosey LaDuca, and Robin Fierce.
An impressive representation from season 16 featured Amanda Tori Meating, Megami, and Crystal Envy, while contestants from the currently airing season 18, DD Fuego and Myki Meeks, completed the celebratory roster. The atmosphere was charged with excitement as the queens expressed their admiration for Bob’s significant accomplishment.
Alexis Michelle, who has extensive experience in musical theatre, reflected on the importance of the evening, stating, “This is very special. Obviously, I know what it means for someone who comes from the theatre to make their Broadway debut, so I am so happy for Bob.” Her sentiments were echoed by Aquaria, who noted the unique nature of Bob’s casting, expressing enthusiasm for Bob’s transition from a concert setting to the Broadway stage. “Last time I saw her, she was opening for Madonna on the Celebration Tour,” Aquaria said. “So tonight here on Broadway, it’s particularly special to see a familiar face.”
The support was not solely sentimental; it resonated on a deeper level for many of the queens. Myki Meeks articulated how Bob’s role transcended typical expectations, revealing a pathway that many in the drag community might not have previously considered. “Drag and musical theatre are two passions that I didn’t realise, at first, fully could blend together,” Meeks reflected, highlighting the theatricality inherent in drag performance.
Following the emotionally charged pre-show mingling session, the queens settled down to experience the show. Bob did not disappoint, delivering a stellar performance that culminated in a heartfelt standing ovation, during which she acknowledged her fellow queens from the stage. “That’s for all my Drag Race sisters who came to see me tonight,” Bob proudly declared, particularly singling out Amanda’s eye-catching beehive wig.
After the performance, the queens congregated once more, this time on stage for a celebratory selfie session. The atmosphere was pulsating with joy and mutual admiration, as Bob expressed gratitude for the unwavering support from her drag family. “It feels nice to have the support from the Ru girls,” Bob told PEOPLE, reminiscing about long-standing friendships and newly formed connections within the drag community.
*Moulin Rouge! The Musical* merges beloved songs from the original film with newer hits, delivering an impressive score that includes music spanning over 160 years. Since joining the cast on January 27, Bob has captivated audiences with his instant charisma, leading up to a limited run that concludes on March 22. Following Bob’s tenure, the role of Zidler will be filled by Megan Thee Stallion, making history as the first female-identifying performer to take on the character in any iteration of the show globally.
As excitement builds for Megan’s debut on 24th March, Bob playfully remarked, “I don’t think Megan needs any advice from me. I think she’s doing just fine without me.”
With tickets for the highly anticipated show now available, the intersection of Broadway and drag continues to flourish, promising a bright future for both forms of artistry.