Queer Comedy and Holiday Resilience: The Jinkx & DeLa Holiday Show
Queer comedy serves as a powerful tool for resilience, especially during the holiday season. BenDeLaCreme, known as DeLa, emphasizes the importance of comedy in accessing joy and breaking down emotional barriers. DeLa's journey with comedy began as a college student seeking refuge from challenging family dynamics during the holidays. Inspired by the "Pee-wee's Playhouse Christmas Special," DeLa found solace in performing outrageous drag numbers that connected her with her community and chosen family. Her show, "Homo for the Holidays," became a beloved holiday tradition in Seattle, providing a space for joy and connection for the queer community.
DeLa and Jinkx Monsoon, both drag superstars from "RuPaul's Drag Race," share a deep bond that predates their fame. Their friendship blossomed at a drag show in a Seattle Starbucks, leading to the creation of the annual "Jinkx & DeLa Holiday Show." Initially conceived as a casual holiday revue, the show evolved into a two-act variety extravaganza that has captivated audiences across the country. Through their performances, Jinkx and DeLa infuse the holiday season with campy magic and queer humor, offering a unique and entertaining perspective on Christmas.
Despite their individual successes in comedy and drag, Jinkx and DeLa find joy in coming together each year for "The Jinkx & DeLa Holiday Show." Their DIY roots and underground performance experiences have shaped their approach to entertainment, blending subversive and mainstream elements to create a one-of-a-kind show. As they prepare for their upcoming performance at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, Jinkx and DeLa promise a night of laughter, sci-fi, horror, and over-the-top drag holiday content that fans have come to love.
Through their comedy and performances, Jinkx and DeLa aim to bring joy and hope to their audiences, especially during challenging times. As they navigate the evolving landscape of entertainment and representation, they remain committed to creating inclusive spaces for queer and trans performers. "The Jinkx & DeLa Holiday Show" stands as a testament to the power of humor and community in overcoming adversity and celebrating the holiday season with authenticity and creativity.