The longest running female impersonator pageant is making its preliminary stop in Columbus this Sunday at Axis Nightclub for “A Night in Oz”.
Presently in its 45th year, Miss Gay Heart of America began in Nashville long before the beloved “RuPaul’s Drag Race”.
The pageant’s very similar to that of Miss USA, except the contestants are men impersonating women.
Contestants compete in four categories and winners are chosen in turn by a panel of judges. The winner and first alternate from the weekend’s regional preliminary competition will ultimately travel to the Miss Gay America National competition in hopes of receiving the crown of Miss Gay America.
The judges select winners they believe exhibit the highest degree of professionalism and quality entertainment, in respect to the art of female impersonation.
The competition categories include talent, onstage questions, pageant presentation, evening gown and a male interview. Using a wide range of activities in determining winners helps deduce not only a well rounded Miss Gay America, but one that leads by example.
Last year’s Miss Gay Heart of America 2016 Kelly Ray Shelton, who’s been involved in the Miss Gay America pageant for years, explained in a recent interview with MGAZINE The World of Miss Gay America, that the relationships she’s formed through her involvement in the pageant make it all worthwhile.
“This I know for sure, though much money was spent, you just can’t put a price on the Miss Gay America experience. From the lessons learned, the memories made, the week with close friends, the new friends made, and the connecting with bar owners and promoters, as well as striving side-by-side with others for excellence so beautifully executed by all the performers, especially Asia O’Hara [Miss Gay America 2016],” Shelton told the magazine.
This Sunday’s theme asks its contestants to wear their interpretation of a character from the Wizard of Oz. However, bodily feminization is prohibited. Meaning contestants are not permitted to intake female hormones, have had breast implants or use injectable fillers. Although, plastic surgery is permitted.
While the pageant may seem exclusively targeted to the gay community, people from all walks of life are encouraged to attend. Whether that may be through direct contestant involvement or simply coming out for the show.
Appearances for the night are set to include Miss Gay America 2017 Suzy Wong, Miss Gay America 2016 Asia T Ohara, Miss Gay America 2011 Coti Collins, Miss Gay America 2000 Catia Lee Love. Miss Gay Heart of America 2008 Jade Sinclair , Miss Gay Heart of America 2016 Kelly Ray Shelton, and Columbus’ own Nina West and Virginia West.
Sunday’s event at Axis Nightclub is located at 775 N. High St. The official crowning of Miss Gay Heart of America 2017 will begin between 10 and 10:30 p.m.
For more information, visit www.axisonhigh.com or www.missgayamerica.com.
