What began as an effort to save a Charlotte LGBTQ+ gathering space has grown into a drag entertainment initiative that has raised more than $105,000 for local charities since 2019, with more than 50 local drag artists participating along the way.
Organizer KayCee St James launched DRAGO at the Single Barrel Room inside Whiskey Warehouse in Plaza Midwood after learning the venue was struggling financially. St James proposed weekly drag bingo shows that could bring in customers while raising money for local causes. Given three months to prove the concept, DRAGO began hosting shows in May 2019 and continued through the end of the year, adding Halloween, Thanksgiving and New Year’s Eve events.
The fundraising has reached organizations serving LGBTQ+ residents and the broader Charlotte community. Beneficiaries have included Time Out Youth, Charlotte Pride, Charlotte Black Pride, the Gay Men’s Chorus of Charlotte and Hearts United for Good. DRAGO has also supported Safe Alliance, Carolina Breast Friends, Loaves & Fishes, Families Forward, RAIN and the Latin American Coalition, among others.
DRAGO moved to Artisan’s Palate in January 2020, before the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted its schedule. After outdoor performances in the White Rabbit parking lot, the group resumed events at Artisan’s Palate as charity drag brunches. The restaurant handled donations and performer payments, while DRAGO tracked the funds raised. The venue eventually paused the series in 2025.
In May 2026, DRAGO relaunched its brunches at Snooze AM Eatery in Plaza Midwood. Shows are currently scheduled every other month, with organizers hoping to move to a monthly schedule next year.
The new venue also helped spark a collaboration with neighboring Pilot Brewing. During one brunch, DRAGO’s microphones connected to the brewery’s sound system, prompting staff to come over and see what was happening. That encounter led to a free monthly drag game night featuring rotating rounds of trivia, bingo and Family Feud.
The next charity brunch, “Sisters of the Coven: Where Queens Unite for Drag Brunch,” is scheduled for Saturday, October 17, at 3 p.m. at Snooze AM Eatery, 1331 Central Ave. Hosted by St James and Valarie Rockwell, the Halloween-themed event will feature drag performances, costumes and raffles, with proceeds benefiting Twirl to the World.
“DRAGO has always been about showing up for people,” said St James. “Every event is a chance to celebrate creativity while supporting organizations that make Charlotte stronger. Twirl to the World has been spreading love and resources in our community for years, and we’re proud to help amplify their mission.”
Tickets and tables are available at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/twirl-to-the-world-drago-charities-drag-brunch-tickets-1998117639648.
This story is brought to you by Rosedale Health and Wellness and Dudley’s Place.
