Vegas-style drag show raises funds in Merced
Las Vegas came to Merced over the weekend for a drag show that raised money for a number of local causes.
The annual event and dinner, which was themed “Casino Royale: A Night of Gowns, Crowns and Royalty,” lined up about 25 performers from around the state, according to co-organizer Rick Regur.
An estimated 150 people watched fire-breathers, Vegas-style showgirls and an Elvis impersonator, to name a few performers at the Merced Multicultural Arts Center.
The Owl Empire of Stanislaus County, a nonprofit that hosts LGBT charity events, put on the event officially called the ICP Ball 41.
Since the last show, I’ve had phone call after phone call (asking), ‘When is the next show?’
Rick Regur
co-organizer of drag show, on growing popularityBesides the Vegas-style performers, there were giant poker card decorations, a mock-up of the “Welcome to Las Vegas” sign and plenty of glitter.
Regur said the Merced-based events have grown in popularity. “Since the last show, I’ve had phone call after phone call (asking), ‘When is the next show?’ ”
The money raised goes to several programs, he said, including those that benefit animals, research, health, arts and other causes.
To learn about the next show, go to www.oesci.org.
This story was originally published August 2, 2015 at 2:35 PM with the headline "Vegas-style drag show raises funds in Merced."