Legendary queen RuPaul once sang about “Charisma, Uniqueness, Nerve and Talent,” and this year’s VA Pride embraces that vibe 100% thanks much in part to the tireless work of behind-the-scenes folks like VA Pride committee chair and entertainment lead Marquis Mapp. Hours of conversations, contracts and planning are paying off.
“I think we had a 2-to-3-hour conversation about parking and accessibility,” they say.
To say that this might be the most inclusive and mindful VA Pridefest yet is an understatement. To start, this year’s headliner lineup is, let’s just say, a femininomenon (all front persons are female-identifying). For its second year at the Bon Secours Training Center, the Pride celebration spans generations, bringing something for everyone with ’90s dance playlist staples Crystal Waters and Robin S. finished off by the New Orleans funk, soul and hip-hop flavor of the powerhouse outfit, Tank and the Bangas.
“We are so excited about Crystal [Waters] and Robin S., our ’90s divas that have gotten us through,” says Mapp. “They had our community dancing and celebrating, emphatically embracing queer life and joy for decades. It’s a return to our club days. They are time-honored and iconic. So it’s our gift to some of the elders in our community who might not know some of the newer artists,” they add. “And, I mean … Tank.”
Mapp says they want to create “micro experiences” for folks. They point out that we have so many identities represented in our queer community, and they are passionate to help represent that full spectrum. This year’s fest will also feature a deaf and blind performance interpreter, Hunta Williams, who partnered closely with organizers to ensure that everyone feels honored, invited and included in the event. “That’s just so often overlooked,” says Mapp. Williams will be accompanied by three other deaf, Black, queer interpreters.
This weekend is all about community and camaraderie, and of course, some celebratory shenanigans. In addition to the headliners, folks can catch “RuPaul’s Drag Race” star Mistress Isabelle Brooks and Kennedy Davenport, and check out wares from over 130 vendors. There’s a sober space and even a little something to keep the kiddos occupied in the Allianz Youth Pride Pavilion with family-friendly activities.
Local singer-songwriter Landon Elliott will also perform. “I’m so honored and excited to celebrate Pridefest alongside such incredible local and national queer talent,” says Elliott. “I can’t wait to perform some new music myself and then dance with everybody to Tank and the Bangas!”
For newbies, Mapp suggests looking at the schedule and planning accordingly.
“It’s a full day. Earmark time for the acts you want to see, but make sure to check out our amazing vendors. Some don’t do many events throughout the year, so definitely check it out. There’s so much to see and do. It’s truly a labor of love.”
VA Pridefest will be held on Saturday, Sept. 14 from noon to 8 p.m. at Bon Secours Training Center, 2401 W. Leigh Street.The event is free and all ages. For more info: diversityrichmond.org/virginia-pride, @vapride on Instagram and Facebook.
