BarbieQ put on a phenomenal performance in “25 Years & Counting”, a show commemorating her 25th anniversary of performing drag. Her experience in the scene is on full display in the show’s incredible vibrancy and professional execution. The show was well structured, the dancing flawless and the costumes enthralling. The music chosen was an array of hits, from ABBA to Dolly Parton to Janet Jackson. Audience members young and old were singing along, captivated. It truly had all the elements of the perfect evening of drag.

BarbieQ herself is hilarious, confident and a little naughty while maintaining an authenticity that makes it clear why she is a fan favourite. Alongside the glitzy performances, there were moments of sincerity. I loved hearing testimonials from her friends and fellow drag queens on her importance to the Perth drag scene and their love for her as a friend and performer. Her rainbow-filled performance of ‘This is Me’ nearly brought me to tears, it was so vibrant and heartfelt. Hearing her speak on her spontaneous drag origins and getting to see her reenact her first drag performance was a heartwarming experience. It was an honour to be in the presence of such talent, especially of the homegrown kind.

As Fringe rounds up for the year, this is one more show not to be missed. BarbieQ is Perth royalty and “25 Years & Counting” makes it clear why. Take your drag-fanatic friends, your new-to-drag friends, your parents and your grandma because this is a talented, heartwarming, funny and dazzling show that all will enjoy. Simply phenomenal!