Entertainment News | Events
In a celebration of art, identity, and inclusivity, WerQfest announces its electrifying lineup for its fifth-anniversary edition, featuring none other than drag icon & musician Kevin Aviance as one of the headliners.
The festival, founded by Tre’von Griffith and Shelton Boyd-Griffith, is set to take place on July 13th, 2024, at The Big Top in St. Louis, MO.
WerQfest stands as a beacon for the black queer, trans, and non-binary community, using the power of arts and entertainment to create safe spaces and amplify voices within the community. With a mission deeply rooted in celebrating artistry and providing a platform for rising and established talents, WerQfest is becoming a vital cultural touchstone.
Kevin Aviance, known for his towering presence, bold performances, and influential contributions to the '90s gay dance scene, emerges as a fitting headliner for WerQfest 2024. Hailing from Richmond, Virginia, Aviance's journey to stardom began in the basement of his house, where he honed his skills in music, dance, and theater. Influenced by avant-garde icons like Grace Jones and David Bowie, Aviance's career soared after joining The House of Aviance in Washington, DC
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In New York City, Aviance ruled the nightlife circuit, delivering unforgettable hits like "Cunty" and "Rhythm Is My Bitch" that captivated audiences and earned him a well-deserved reputation.
Collaborating with renowned DJs and sharing stages with legends such as Whitney Houston and Madonna, Aviance's star continued to rise, solidifying his status as a living legend in the world of drag and music. His stardom was recently reincarnated after his feature collaboration with the Queen herself, Beyonce on her queer-dedicated album "Renaissance".
Alongside Aviance, serpentwithfeet, the Baltimore-born, Los Angeles-based artist known for his soulful sound and captivating performances, adds another layer of depth to the WerQfest lineup. With collaborations spanning across genres and artists, serpentwithfeet's presence promises to elevate the festival experience to new heights.
As WerQfest marks its fifth year, founders Tre’von Griffith and Shelton Boyd-Griffith reflect on the journey that has transformed the Saint Louis queer creative ecosystem. Their vision of creating powerful, uplifting, and creative content within the LGBTQIA+ community has become a reality, inspiring and empowering countless individuals along the way.
In addition to the stellar musical lineup, WerQfest will feature activations including a Dick Appointment dance party and werQPlace, a curated market showcasing black, brown, and/or LGBTQ+ led businesses and brands.
Proceeds from the festival's merchandise collection will benefit the Okra Project, a mutual aid collective providing support to black trans, non-binary, and gender-nonconforming individuals.
With Kevin Aviance and serpentwithfeet at the forefront, WerQfest 2024 promises to be an unforgettable celebration of art, culture, and community, honoring the rich diversity and creativity within the black queer community.
Tickets for WerQfest 2024 are available now.