Why We Don’t Need Drag Queens… (And Why We Absolutely Do)
Photos and reflections from a night full of colour, laughter, and community spirit.
I got super excited when I heard about the Drag Queen Bingo. I’ve never played bingo before, and the last time I went out with a friend just for fun was about seven years ago. So when my friend Anna said she could come with me, I couldn’t wait. Cherry West and Ivy Kutoure were performing, and from the start it was clear this was going to be more than just shouting “Single 6” or “Double-Seven” — it was interactive, theatrical, and pure fun.
A Local Invite
I wouldn’t have even brought my camera if it wasn’t for Mark, the founder of Food Facts Friends. He asked me to bring it along and “take a few snaps,” knowing how crazy I am about photography. I’m so glad he did, because the night turned into one of those events you want to bottle up and keep.
The event was organised by Food Facts Friends — they had a raffle, and money was collected for The Midlothian Pantry, a project where people can shop with dignity for the food they need. It wasn’t just about fun; it was about giving back, too.
I also noticed the volunteers, many of whom I see helping in the community week after week. On this night, they seemed to be having a good time themselves, which was so lovely to witness. Volunteers play such an important role locally — without them, a lot of families simply wouldn’t get the support they need.
It was also nice to bump into familiar faces — peopI usually just pass in the street or meet briefly at their workplace. Here, we were all sitting together, laughing, clapping, and sharing the same atmosphere. For some, this was their first event in years, which made it even more meaningful.
At one point, a friend handed me a drink with a smile and said, “Here you go, my dear, I don’t know when we’ll next be able to see each other again at a show.” A simple, friendly gesture — but one that really captured the spirit of the evening: being together, because you never know when you’ll get the chance again.
Cherry West & Ivy Kutoure
Cherry West is one of those performers who doesn’t just walk on stage; she owns it. With her sharp wit, larger-than-life outfits, and energy that draws everyone in, she makes you feel like you’re part of the show, not just an audience. (Her story is even more inspiring — she started performing as a teenager, with her parents fully supporting her creative path. BBC article, Scottish Sun feature).
Ivy Kutoure brought glitter, glamour, and a quick wit, turning even the most routine bingo call into comedy gold. Together, they had the room roaring with laughter and applause.
More Than Just Bingo
When I walked in, I didn’t expect so many different people: young, old, seasoned bingo-players, total newbies, friends catching up after years. There was joy in the way people encouraged each other, called out numbers, and joined in the jokes.
With drag queens leading, bingo became something bigger: a performance. Costume reveals, songs, banter, and moments where everyone got to play a part.
Drag queen in glamorous dress singing and pointing to the audience during live performance.
Why We Need Drag Queens More Than Ever
Expression & Performance – Drag is about bold creativity. From makeup to costumes to comedy, it pushes boundaries and celebrates individuality.
Community & Inclusion – Drag nights bring people together who might otherwise never cross paths.
Joy & Escape – In a busy, sometimes heavy world, drag reminds us to laugh, cheer, and enjoy being alive.
Cultural Impact – From RuPaul’s Drag Race to local community events, drag is now part of mainstream culture — and it’s helping change perceptions for the better.
Black and white photo of drag queen striking a dramatic pose on stage.
My View Behind the Camera
Photographing this event was both challenging and rewarding. The coloured lighting was harsh, but in black & white those distractions disappeared and the emotion came through.
My favourites are the shots where the performers connect directly with the audience, or moments of stillness between all the energy.
So, do we need drag queens? Maybe not in a literal sense. But without them, nights like this would be quieter, less colourful, and far less joyful. Cherry West and Ivy Kutoure reminded me that drag is not just entertainment — it’s art, community, and celebration.
Well done