Montebello Park's stage was filled with talented performers on June 9th, as 39 colourful performers set out to break the Guinness World Record for the most drag queens and kings on stage at the same time.
When it comes to celebrating Pride, Niagara's LGBT community has really come a long way. No longer tucked deep in the woods or behind the walls of a lounge or hall (NOT that there was anything wrong with those) this year's festivities were loud, proud and in the heart of downtown St. Catharines at Montebello Park.
Although rain played havoc with the event throughout the day, it couldn't dampen the spirits of those in attendance. There was a genuine joy in being a part of the biggest Pride gathering in Niagara's history and in the feeling that the event has grown to be accepted as one of equal significance as that of Niagara's Wine or Folk Arts Festivals, just two of many diverse annual celebrations that also call Montebello Park home.
In addition to the Guinness World Record performance, guests also enjoyed live performances from artists Lexi Tellings, Kelly and the Kelly Girls and The Cliks. A licensed area was provided by ENVY Lounge and to keep us dancing into the dark of night, were guest DJ's Cat, Pierre Fitch and local favourite Rob from Ignite.
I can honestly say I can not recall a time I ever felt prouder to be a part of Niagara's LGBT community. With all the effort that so many put into the venue, the least I could do would be to put together a video sampling of time I spent at the event accompanied by my partner Rob and "Sister Jane". Feel free to share it with all your family and friends.
Happy Pride Niagara...and thanks for making this our best yet!
Proud Sponsors of this year's PRIDE NIAGARA:
A Shout Out to Shannon
With all due respect and appreciation to everyone involved, we'd like to send a special thank you to Shannon Unrau [aka Nathan Drake]. Shannon was the brainchild behind the idea of breaking the Guinness World Record for the most drag queens and kings on stage at the same time. Working around the clock to make the dream a reality, Unrau spoke with the media, was in contact with Guinness and put the call out to performers from Niagara and surrounding communities to pull in all together.
Kudos to you Shannon and the 38 performers who joined you on stage to break the Guinness World Record, dance away the rain clouds and make all of us shine with pride.