Drag queen Barbada De Barbades recently performed at Montreal’s Museum of Fine Arts for a musical drag story hour, accompanied by music from the Metropolitan Orchestra. The performance took place on the Bourgie Hall stage as part of a collaborative series with the orchestra. Barbada led the audience through a spring-themed performance, showcasing the intersection of drag, storytelling, and music to create a visually stunning and entertaining show.
Olivier Godin, Bourgie Hall’s artistic director, noted that the blending of drag with classical music is a natural fit for their programming. Fabienne Voisin, CEO of the Metropolitan Orchestra, highlighted the accessibility and fun factor of such performances, emphasizing how they can introduce audiences to classical music in an enjoyable and engaging way. The collaboration between Barbada, the orchestra, and the museum aims to break down barriers and showcase the versatility of the arts.
Despite facing security concerns that led to the cancellation of previous events, Barbada expressed gratitude for the opportunity to perform on a prestigious stage like the Museum of Fine Arts. She described the experience as emotional and significant, noting the importance of seeing drag represented in mainstream cultural institutions alongside renowned musicians. Organizers reported a positive response to the series, indicating strong support for the inclusion of diverse art forms in traditional settings.
The combination of drag, storytelling, and live music offers a unique and innovative approach to engaging audiences of all ages. By presenting classical music in a fresh and entertaining context, performers like Barbada and organizations like the Metropolitan Orchestra are redefining traditional boundaries and challenging preconceived notions about high culture. This collaboration demonstrates the power of art to unite people, spark creativity, and foster appreciation for a wide range of artistic expressions.
As the series continues to attract interest and support, it serves as a testament to the importance of diversity and inclusion in the arts. By showcasing drag performances in a museum setting alongside orchestral music, the collaboration between Barbada, the Metropolitan Orchestra, and the Museum of Fine Arts is breaking new ground and opening up conversations about representation, identity, and artistic freedom. The success of these events reflects a growing recognition of the value of intersectional art forms in creating vibrant and inclusive cultural experiences for audiences around the world.
