Werq the World: A dystopian sci-fi spectacle across 100+ global cities
In a fusion of vibrant personalities, fierce artistry, and unapologetic self-expression, RuPaul’s Drag Race has risen as a “sickening” cultural phenomenon over the years. Since its inception in February 2009, the show has not only redefined the parameters of reality competition but has also become a potent platform for celebrating diversity, sparking conversations, and inspiring millions worldwide.
Devoted fans may remember when each season’s winner used to headline Logo’s Drag Race Tour, in partnership with Absolut Vodka. However, recent years have witnessed Voss Events elevating the tour to new heights with the creation of “RuPaul’s Drag Race Werq the World” tour. This tour, conceived by Brandon Voss with input from Shangela, made its debut on May 26, 2019, in Toronto. The inaugural lineup featured host Bianca Del Rio, joined by luminous performers such as Alaska, Alyssa Edwards, Detox, Kim Chi, Shangela, Shea Couleé, and Valentina.
Further testament to the show’s impact, May 2019 saw the premiere of World of Wonder’s 10-part docuseries, “Werq the World,” directed by Jasper Rischen. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, many drag entertainers turned to social media and livestream platforms to connect with their devoted followers. Demonstrating remarkable creativity, Voss’ team took a novel turn with their tour and unveiled “Drive ‘N Drag,” a concert series spotlighting fan favorites like Aquaria, Yvie Oddly, Acid Betty, Plastique, Jaida Essence Hall, Violet Chachki, Monét X Change, Asia O’Hara, among others. This innovative tour format allowed fans to relish drive-in concerts, bringing the electrifying spectacle directly to their own cars.
The latest incarnation of the show, “RuPaul’s Drag Race Werq the World,” stands as the grandest drag extravaganza on the planet. This year’s tour boasts performances spanning across more than one hundred cities worldwide. The 2023 production takes an audacious leap into a Sci-Fi adventure, unfolding within a dystopian future. Against this backdrop, the queens find themselves at a crossroads, torn between the familiarity of the real world and the allure of a simulated reality they have come to know.
The North American cast displays an ensemble of remarkable talents, including Asia O’Hara, Bosco, Daya Betty, Deja Skye, Kandy Muse, Lady Camden, Laganja, Naomi Smalls, Rose, Mistress Isabelle Brooks, and Sasha Colby. Meanwhile, the Australian ensemble features Aquaria, Jaida Essence Hall, Kim Chi, Naomi Smalls, Plastique Tiara, Rose, and Yvie Oddly. In Europe and Mexico, audiences will enjoy performances by Aquaria, Bosco, Daya Betty, Ginger Minj, Jaida Essence Hall, Kandy Muse, and Vanessa Vanjie.
Brandon Voss, the show’s visionary producer, states, “We’ve really elevated the show this year with a cohesive storyline that weaves live theater into a large-scale concert style performance. Werq the World is a multimillion-dollar production, specially designed for large venues and arenas. It rivals concerts by the largest pop stars in the world.”
Unveiled on June 17 in Atlantic City, the “RuPaul’s Drag Race Werq the World Tour” embarked on a journey that will culminate in a final performance in Mexico City. A remarkable surprise awaits New Yorkers as the tour makes a stop in the Big Apple. Prepare to immerse yourself in the unique charms of “RuPaul’s Drag Race Werq Shop NYC,” a two-day only pop-up shopping extravaganza slated for August 26-27, 2023. Encompassing two floors of prime Manhattan real estate, the event promises to dazzle with DJs, live drag performances, enticing giveaways, Drag Race-inspired photo opportunities, captivating memorabilia displays, and a bustling café/lounge nestled in the heart of Soho, NYC. Shimmy down to Werq Shop NYC, conveniently located at 131 Greene Street within Shopify NY in Soho, NYC, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. EDT. Rify Royalty takes the helm on Saturday, accompanied by DJ Ohaileigh, while Sunday finds Nicky O leading the festivities alongside the tunes of DJ Brik. Be on the lookout for more announcements of special guest appearances on both days. As an extra treat, holders of “Werq The World 2023” tickets can snatch a 15% discount on all their purchases.
Upcoming tour stops include Boston, New York, Washington, D.C., Montreal, Ottawa, London, Toronto, Tokyo, Manila, Taipei, Singapore, Melbourne, Sydney, Manchester, London, Glasgow, Dublin, Prague, Stockholm, Copenhagen, Amsterdam, Berlin, Vienna, Paris, Munich, Zurich, Milan, Madrid, Guadalajara, a final stop in Mexico City. Are you in, or are you out?
For tickets and more information visit WerqTheWorld.com.
