Drag in New Orleans discussion

Following up from last night’s exclusive screening of To Decadence with Love, Thanks for Everything, Gender & Sexuality Programs is hosting a virtual discussion and Q&A Wednesday at noon with the stars and director of the film, Lavaeu Contraire, Franky Canga, and Stuart Sox.

The documentary film follows the lives of two drag queens (Contraire and Canga) as they prepare for a weekend of New Orleans’ annual six-day queer celebration of identity, Southern Decadence, which culminates in a parade through the French Quarter.

About the panelists

Originally from Miami, Franky Canga is a multidisciplinary performance artist in New Orleans. Franky is a classically trained dancer who uses his technique to inform his drag, burlesque, and circus art. Known as the gender-bending gentleman, Franky in his art often focuses on deconstructing the idea of what it means to be black and queer in the South. His Haitian heritage also plays a key role in informing his art and how he perceives the world.

Laveau Contraire has been performing since 2015. Shortly after starting her drag journey, Laveau was crowned the winner of Tumblr’s Drag Race Cycle 7 and hosted and produced Cycle 8. Laveau was crowned Miss Appletini 2017 at her first pageant. Since then, she has expanded her artistry to include hosting, producing, live singing, original music, celebrity impersonations, improv, drag mothering, drag wrestling, and is always looking to expand her horizons. Laveau is passionate about making drag accessible to audiences of all ages and often participates in Drag Queen Storytime events throughout New Orleans.

Stuart Sox, director of the film, is a videographer living in New Orleans. He works as a freelance videographer for various agencies, companies, and events. He’s also a videographer for Tulane University. He has a bachelor’s degree with a major in communication and media studies from Southern Alabama University.