Divas Night of Nights

Get frocked up girls as the Drag Industry Variety Awards, the most talked-about topic and highlight of any showgirl’s calendar is coming soon.

In recent times the awards fell into financial trouble but this year Avid Events Limited took over and changed the event’s name to DIVA.

DIVA co-chair Dejay Toborek said the name was created to continue the legacy of a ceremony that rewards, recognises and celebrates the achievements of the drag community.

Founded in 1991 by David Wilkins, Penny Clifford and Ian Jopson, the Drag Industry Variety Awards was created to celebrate the work of Sydney drag queens and the many talents of the people who make up the local gay entertainment industry. The first awards were held at DCM nightclub.

While the very first awards were a big success, the founders discovered the event was too big for a small group of people to handle, and as a result created a not-for-profit company with a committee structure to help organise the annual night.

From the first ceremony, the awards travelled to a variety of venues including the Shangri-la Hotel, the Hordern Pavilion, Sydney Town Hall, Paddington Town Hall and the Showroom at Star City Casino.

While DIVA continues to move forward, the awards will be held this year at The Bourbon on Monday, October 26. Comedian Julia Morris will host.

In the awards tradition, the DIVA Public Voting Day is on Saturday, October 24 at Stonewall Hotel from noon. It’s the public’s chance to vote for their favourite drag queen.

While there has been a name change, the organisers promise that the essence of the night will be the same.

This year there are fewer awards, with a number of previous awards combined to reflect the changing nature of drag in Sydney. In a departure from previous years, this year the infamous Bitch or Boast after-party will be held at the same venue as the awards.

Love or pretend to hate it, drag has not only made an impact on the entertainment industry but helps shape a proud and diverse community.

The DIVA Awards take place Monday, October 26, at The Bourbon in Kings Cross. Free drinks and canapés for the first four hours. A Bitch or Boast after-party will kick off at the venue from midnight. Tickets are $100 + BF from www.divaawardsaustralia.com.au