Drag show contestants dazzle Finals crowd

Pandora Boxx started the night with an upbeat swing to Donna Lewis’ “I Love You, Always Forever.” He and Love reminisced about their lengthy careers within and outside of Drag Race.

“I was a three-time loser, but I kept coming back every time,” Boxx said.

The lights dimmed as he announced Dirty Lucciano as the first act. Lucciano paid tribute to Tina Turner’s hit “Rolling in the River” in a sparkly white mini dress and matching pumps. He garnered major applause when he transitioned from a graceful sing-along to a high energy dance routine consisting of twists and dives.

Performer Vita Vanitea went next with a routine of props and dance techniques that paid homage to Hong Kong culture. The audience and judges were particularly wowed by the brightly colored ribbon poi Chau weaved to S.U.E.’s “Moment.”

Dohner, a senior environmental studies major at SUNY-ESF, completed the student lineup, strutting onto the stage in a velvet robe and sunglasses to Silk Sonic’s “Smoking Out the Window.”

Their classmates, as well as their mother, jumped up to shout support while they executed outfit reveal after outfit reveal to Qveen Herby’s “Sugar Daddy.” The crowd grew louder when Dohner pulled out a swatter to end the performance, playfully tapping people as they made their back onstage.

The celebrity kings and queens each performed their own routines following the students. Dragula contestant Maxi Glamour showcased their distinct absurdist style, playing the flute and doing handstands and dramatic drops in quick succession.

Lady Gaga impersonator Judas Joe Manson belted along to “Teeth,” wearing the signer’s signature Monster Ball Tour yellow wig and bodysuit. Chicago-based drag king Tenderoni danced to the beat to a mix of classic ’90s R&B, encouraging everyone to get up and dance. Kylie Sonique Love enchanted people as she spun and swayed to “I Will Survive” in a flowing white gown.

The performers, judges and hosts gathered together to announce the 20th winner in the organization’s history. Love crowned Dohner as this year’s winner, who immediately went to hug their fellow contestants.

“I’m just so glad we were able to come together and have fun,” Dohner said. “My friends and family inspired me to do what I love to do, and it brought me here.”