Rugby

Photos: New Orleans rugby players transform into drag queens | Entertainment/Life

July 23, 2024

New Orleans rugby players traded their cleats, uniforms and mouthguards for wigs, high heels and corsets to take part in one of the wackiest drag shows ever seen on Bourbon Street.

Six members of the Crescent City Rougaroux rugby team spent hours transforming into their drag personas before baring it all on stage at Oz New Orleans, a popular French Quarter gay bar and dance club, on Saturday night.

Cali Fornication, dressed in a hot pink two piece set with multiple pairs of oversized sunglasses, flipped and twerked to Katy Perry while Stevie D—s pulled McDonald’s french fries from a trench coat and fed them to random people in the crowd as “Bad Romance” by Lady Gaga pumped through speakers of the packed bar.

Elmer Thudd caught a (human dressed as a ) rabbit on stage and S’Cream Queen’s performances, one in a tank top and Cher Horowitz-esque skirt, captivated the audience.

Stormy Avery’s Demi Lovato medley was a hit, especially when she pretended to death drop on the floor, but instead merely landed on her feet and shook her head. And then there was Bear Necessities, who stripped down to a corset and bikini briefs while lip synching “Funhouse” by P!nk.

In between numbers, host Lexis Redd D’Ville, who dazzled in a white one piece and bedazzled denim chaps, kept the crowd laughing and helped sell raffle tickets for a 50/50 drawing.

All proceeds from the drag show, including the door cover, tips and merchandise sales, go directly back to the players.

“All funds we raise go toward making our team financially inclusive, ensuring that no player’s financial situation is a barrier to playing rugby,” said Nick Renouff, treasurer for Crescent City Rougaroux.

Founded in 2017, the Rougaroux is Louisiana’s first LGBTQ+ and inclusive rugby team. They are sponsored by Phoenix Bar, Oz New Orleans and Gay Camping Friends.

“Our members come from diverse backgrounds but share a common bond: a love for rugby and a commitment to building a community that will have a lasting impact on the New Orleans area.”

The Rougaroux is open to people of any skill level and experience. The team is hosting a Rugby 101 session on Saturday, Aug. 24, at the corner of Harrison and Marconi in City Park for those interested in joining the team.

Here are photos from Saturday’s show.

Members of the Crescent City Rougaroux rugby team performed in a benefit drag show with host Lexis Redd D’Ville at Oz New Orleans on July 20,2024. Members are: Stormy Avery, Stevie D—s, S’Cream Queen, Bear Necessities, Cali Fornication and Elmer Thudd.