Self-proclaimed alien drag deity Lúc Ami will be hosting a drag swap this Friday, March 8, from 5-9 p.m. at The Understudy in Andersonville, 5531 N. Clark St. The all-ages event will serve as an opportunity for drag artists to trade or buy performance items—wigs, accessories, makeup, etc.—from fellow kings, queens and gender aliens.
Ami first began organizing swaps in November of 2022 at Northalsted's Charlie's Bar, where, along with drag performer Male Spice, they co-host Queeriod!—Chicago's weekly showcase for up-and-coming drag talent.
"I originally started the drag swaps as both a way to bring more people into the door at Queeriod, as well as also just to encourage the people that I see signing up, and performing there regularly, to have accessible ways to elevate their drag," said Ami.
The March 8 event will be Ami's first all-ages swap and the first held at The Understudy, an Andersonville bookstore, coffee shop, and performance space dedicated to fostering Chicago's local theater community. The swap will take place as part of the venue's ongoing Cafe Royalty series hosted by drag performers Lezbian Minnelli (@lezbianminnelli) and Sharon Pisia (@oversharon.online). The series welcomes new talent looking to shake up Chicago's drag scene.
Ami first got their start in drag by attending swaps at the now closed Berlin Nightclub: "That was really helpful for me as a beginning drag artist. I remember back when Lucy Stoole sold me a double stacked wig for ten dollars." Stoole, a Chicago drag veteran, was recently named "Best drag performer" by the Chicago Reader. "It was really helpful for me to step on stage with this really exciting new piece on stage." said Ami.
Seven years later, Ami has made his mark on Chicago's drag landscape. Last year they won best conceptual artist at the 2023 Gaggys, an award show that honors the best of Chicago's LGBTQ+ nightlife. Ami is also passionate about mentoring new drag talent and has created a newbie masterdoc for those looking to break into the Chicago scene.
Donations for the drag swap can be organized through Lúc Ami via Instagram (@luc.ami) or email (lucamidrag@gmail.com) ;. Ami will be performing at their upcoming St. Patrick's Day show on March 16 at The Whiner Beer Company, on March 31 at their spooktacular Dracula Show at the Empty Bottle, and every Sunday at Queeriod! More information about Ami's upcoming drag swap at link.
