▲Despite its popularity in the West, drag is a global phenomenon. In some parts of the world, drag shows are true performance art, with performers looking more like Las Vegas showgirls than 'Drag Race' contestants. This is certainly the case for drag queens in Bali's top tourist districts. To catch a glimpse of their ornate costumes and impressive stage presence, have a look at this fun gallery.

▲Cabaret shows involving transgender performers and drag queens in Kuta and Seminyak, Bali's famous tourist districts, are an absolute hit.

▲It's a stark contrast to the reality faced outside these venues, where discrimination is widespread.

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Reports from Human Rights Watch, an international non-governmental organization, outlined that the persecution of LGBT people in Indonesia has led to a rise in HIV infections.

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This has caused a public health crisis in the country due to the difficulty the LGBT community feels in seeking counseling and education on HIV.

▲It's a different world inside the bars. In this image, drag queen Tracy gets ready for the fifth anniversary celebrations of Bali Joe Bar in 2013.

▲For its part, Mixwell bar has also now been around for well over a decade and is considered, along with Joe Bar, one of Bali's best gay venues. This photo was taken in 2018.

▲As you can see here, Bali Joe Bar includes male performers in their shows.

▲As for Mixwell bar, it's quite famous for featuring male go-go dancers.

▲Back to the real stars of the cabaret shows. These drag queens are getting ready to go on stage.

▲Drag queen Fiona (center) can also be seen putting on makeup backstage.

▲Donita Monro prepares, mostly that wig, ahead of performing.

▲Drag performer Monica enjoys a cigarette backstage.

▲Tonight is a special performance, worthy of prayers from these artists.

▲Behind the scenes, right before these performers hit the stage.

▲You think Disneyland knows their name's being used in this way?

▲This is the same Donita Monro from a few slides earlier (hint: dark wig). Can you believe it?

▲It's easy to see who's the star of this performance: Ayubie, front and center.

▲Sizzling on stage, drag performer Nury is lighting things up.

▲Drag queen Renata plays up the comedy for an expectant audience.

▲Does this performance make Monica a Disney queen?

▲Looking like they're in a beauty pageant, one has to ask: who's best dressed?

▲Is this Bali, or Motown? We're getting major '60s vibes.

▲Only Fiona gets to walk on the bar, thank you very much.

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Greeting an adoring public. Much deserved!

Life is a cabaret for Bali's drag queens

The high art of drag on display

06/04/19 por StarsInsider

LIFESTYLE Lgbt

Despite its popularity in the West, drag is a global phenomenon. In some parts of the world, drag shows are true performance art, with performers looking more like Las Vegas showgirls than 'Drag Race' contestants. This is certainly the case for drag queens in Bali's top tourist districts. To catch a glimpse of their ornate costumes and impressive stage presence, have a look at this fun gallery.