THUNDER BAY — A local drag house is bringing not one but eight Lady Gagas to the stage on Saturday.
Monster Mayhem: Night of 1000 Lady Gagas, a drag tribute to pop superstar, Lady Gaga is taking place at Black Pirates Pub.
The night “is about more than imitation”, said Jimmy Wiggins of Wiggins Productions in a recent interview about the show. Unlike traditional tribute acts, Night of 1000 Lady Gagas is not about imitation. "The show is about inspiration rather than imitation”, Wiggins explained.
"Each performer brings their own interpretation of Gaga’s essence—with unique costuming and performances set to Gaga’s music”.
Known for her avant-garde fashion, advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights, and fearless self-expression, Wiggins said she has become a cultural icon.
He describes her as "This generation’s Cher”, emphasizing that her influence extends beyond her music and has had a significant impact on the queer community. "Her music, her costumes, her boldness. Everything about her—just 11/10”, he added.
"Thunder Bay hasn’t had a gay bar in about years. The bar we had burned down," said Wiggins. "The drag shows started as a way to throw parties for my friends, and it bloomed into something bigger."
Drag is a force for community and expression, said Wiggins, and the city’s drag scene has become a vital part of the city’s cultural landscape, offering a space for self-expression and inclusivity.
The 19+ event, hosted by Wiggins Productions and TBShows, follows the format of Wiggins Productions’ previous Diva’s & Legends shows but with a singular focus on Mother Monster herself, featuring eight performers channeling the essence of Lady Gaga—her music, fashion, and artistry.
Fans can expect a night of Gaga’s greatest hits like "Bad Romance”, "Rain on Me”, and “Abracadabra”, performed by a lineup of local drag performers: Mz Molly Poppinz, Ivan Love, Amber Ail, Faux Rocious, Miss Take, Shaela Vie, Lolita, and Ophelia.
Lady Gaga, born Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta (March 28, 1986), celebrated her birthday on Friday, adding a layer of significance to the event. "When we started planning, we realized it aligned with her birthday”, said Wiggins. He said it felt like fate, and they knew they had to make this show extra special to honour her.
Wiggins Productions has faced backlash from critics, siad Wiggin, including online harassment and protest threats regarding their Storytime events. Despite this, Wiggins said support for drag events has remained strong in Thunder Bay, with sold-out shows becoming the norm.
Doors open at 9 PM and the show starts at 10 PM. Tickets cost $20.
