Imagine mixing a cocktail - one-part Star Trek Convention, one-part To Wong Foo, shake with a double dose of F.U.N. (Friendship, Unity, Nonsense), and dress it with a 2-foot-high sequin tiara. Welcome to
Coronation XXV, Toronto's annual Drag-spectacle held on October 8th, 2011, as hosted by
The Imperial Court of Toronto (T.I.C.O.T.)
On this special evening, Drag Royalty from across Canada and the United States descend on Toronto for one night to celebrate the year's worth of fundraising and service to our LGBT communities. As the centre-piece of this incredible soiree, Emperors, Empresses, Princes and Princesses-alike arrive in full-jewels and garb to honour the reigning monarch [this year,
Dusty Balfour, Empress XXIV ] who alongside the membership of T.I.C.O.T., has fundraised more than $25,000 in 2010/11.
Beneficiaries of fundraising this year, include Supporting our Youth (S.O.Y.) and People with AIDS Foundation (P.W.A.): Food for Life Program - two deserving charities, both which contribute endlessly to our LGBT community life in Toronto.
Current QArtists that attended
Coronation XXV include Drag King and Drag Queens:
Miss Conception, Clint Lyckher, Kiena Dior, Harley-dr Davidson, Dusty Balfour and many more.
The tradition of T.I.C.O.T. dates back 25 years, and has seen some legends pass through its doorways - from the incredible
Michelle duBarry, to Candice, to Scarlett Fever. During this past quarter of a century, T.I.C.O.T. has raised over $750,000 total for local Charities, further complimented by the fundraising efforts of "daughter courts" in Buffalo, Cincinnati, Hamilton, London and St. Catherines Niagara.
As best stated by
Kristyn Wong-Tam, Toronto's City Councillor for Toronto Centre-Rosedale, "The Annual Coronation Ball contributes not only to the cultural fabric of our city, but also the social fabric by supporting important social services through its donations. Congratulations to the organizers, volunteers, and the sponsors who put in countless hours to ensure a successful and enjoyable event for all".
