The 4 Best Drag Show Venues in Calgary for World-Class Talent and Performances
Ask any of my friends and they’ll tell you that I’m a RuPaul’s Drag Race superfan. I’ve seen almost every episode there is, and I adore all the lingo they use.
But for the longest time, I thought only America had a thriving drag scene. It wasn’t until the Canadian spin-off that I realized we had plenty of amazing drag performers as well.
Even before the first season of Drag Race Canada ended, I promised myself I’d support local drag talent. That’s when I started searching for all the locations where they perform and familiarizing myself with the best queens in the city.
Now, I have a couple of favorite spots to go to when I feel like I need more fierceness in my life. You can find these amazing Calgary drag show venues below.
1. Twisted Element
– Media credit: nearahnuff
Address: 1006 11 Ave SW
Contact details: +1 403 802 0230
Operating Hours:
- Thursday to Sunday – 8:00 PM to 3:00 AM
Twisted Element is probably the most inclusive space there is in Calgary. It’s where plenty of people feel the freedom to express themselves, whether that’s through their wardrobe or performances.
Naturally, it’s also one of the most popular establishments for drag shows. In the past, they’ve hosted performances featuring internationally known drag queens like Sasha Colby, Marina Summers, and Kendall Gender.
But every weekend, they also have local queens hosting themed nights, and it’s just as electric. Trust me when I say that every visit here feels like a party. Everyone inside, performers and customers alike, is there to sing and dance their hearts out.
Don’t worry, you still get a say in how to enjoy your night. You can go to the main floor if you want something more crowded and lively, or head to the basement, which is a little more relaxed and good for socializing.
| Pro tip: Although there is no dress code in Twisted Element, every customer is expected to keep their shoes on throughout the night for safety purposes. |
2. Dickens
– Media credit: n.stix.n
Address: Gibraltar Place, 1000 9 Ave SW
Contact details: +1 403 233 7550
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 11:00 AM to 2:00 AM
- Saturday – 11:00 AM to 12:00 AM
- Sunday – 12:00 PM to 2:00 AM
Dickens is where locals go to for live music with a bit of an edge. This alternative venue hosts plenty of queer-friendly events and is welcoming of everyone, regardless of where they come from and who they love.
The place itself is a bit old, and the decor is all over the place. But if you ask me, it adds to the atmosphere. I find that it even gives it a lot of character.
And speaking of character, you’re bound to meet some interesting ones here. Just imagine bumping into the cast of The Breakfast Club — punks, music nerds, jocks, skaters, and everyone else in the city looking for a good time.
The one thing they all agree on is that the drag shows here are unmatched. The stage is on the smaller side, so you feel closer to the performers, and the sound system is phenomenal. It’s basically impossible not to dance along with the queens onstage.
| Pro tip: Apart from their shows, Dickens is also known for their pub grub. If you want to make your night even better, we recommend having their pizza with some beer. |
3. The Attic Bar & Stage
– Media credit: theatticyyc
Address: 1413 9 Ave SE
Contact details: +1 403 475 4741
Operating Hours:
- Thursday, Sunday – 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday – 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Monday to Wednesday – Closed
The Attic Bar & Stage is pretty much a chameleon of a location at this point. It transforms into whatever an event needs it to be — a live music stage, a comedy bar, or a drag show venue.
I think it’s especially good for first-time drag watchers. The establishment is quite intimate, so there’s a high chance of interacting with the queens. And they don’t just perform music acts all the time, sometimes they do comedy too.
In fact, one of the longest drag shows in the country is a permanent fixture here. For over 25 years, Carly’s Angels has been delighting audiences with a mixture of witty humor, spectacular vocals, and fantastic dance moves.
But perhaps the best thing about watching here is that you don’t have to do it on an empty stomach. Besides hosting performances, this is also an amazing plant-based restaurant that serves the most delicious stone-baked pizzas in the city.
| Pro tip: Seeing a drag show in The Attic Bar & Stage is much more fun with friends. However, you have to make sure you purchase all your tickets in one transaction. If not, there’s no guarantee that you’ll all be seated together. |
4. The Backlot
– Media credit: queenvaleriehunt
Address: 209 10 Ave SW
Contact details: +1 403 265 5211
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 4:00 PM to 2:00 AM
The Backlot is one of the OG queer bars in Calgary. It’s been an impactful safe space for the LGBTQ2S community since 1996.
But no matter what you identify as, you’re sure to enjoy one of their many themed nights. Over the years, there have been countless karaoke sessions, dance parties, and costume contests held here.
Of course, there’s also the drag shows from time to time. These aren’t just regular drag productions, though. I mean, where else would you see talented queens performing stunts while trying to tackle super spicy wings?
But don’t let that intimidate you; this place is far from being extreme. In reality, it’s very laid back. So you’re bound to enjoy whether you go alone or with a group.
| Pro tip: If you want to save some on food and drinks, it’s better to go to The Backlot during weekdays. Their prices go a bit higher on the weekends. |