Over a dozen local drag performers came together at Superstar Boudoir on 5 December 2024 to take part in Liverpool’s very own Snatch Game. The evening was a dazzling celebration of creativity, satire, and community spirit, all in support of Sahir.

For those unfamiliar, Snatch Game is a popular challenge from RuPaul’s Drag Race, based on a satirical version of Blankety Blank. Contestants showcase their best celebrity impersonations, blending humour with sharp social commentary.

Organised by Genevieve Renee, the event featured an impressive line-up of talent, including:

• The Vivienne – Drag Race UK Winner, West End star, and Dancing on Ice finalist
• Brenda Labeau
• Naya Thorn
• Carmen Sutra
• Aura Sutra
• Ava Cassandra
• Debbie Darling
• Vanilla Bon Bon

Guest contestants Just Minnie and Scouse Girl Savanna brought additional flair to the evening, while Robyn Renee hosted on the door and DJ Andrew kept the energy high with a killer soundtrack.

Bringing the Community Together

Reflecting on the event’s success, organiser Genevieve Renee said:

“I decided to get involved with fundraising for Sahir because the LGBTQ+ community in Liverpool has done so much for me, and I felt it was my time to give something back. Not only did we raise a lot of much-needed funds for Sahir, but we also managed to bring the community together!”

The performers’ impersonations delighted the audience, with characters like Austin Powers, Mrs Grinch, an uncanny Lily Savage, and Donald Trump taking centre stage. The satire was both entertaining and thought-provoking, addressing key social issues in a way that encouraged reflection while removing fear.

Aura Sutra’s Excitement

Aura Sutra shared her enthusiasm for the event, saying:

“Thank you so much for one of the most fun gigs I’ve had in my three years of full-time drag. My doctor, who has been supporting my transition for over two years, suggested supporting Sahir in return for everything he did for me, and I am buzzing that I’ve finally been able to do it! I can’t wait to do more!”

The Vivienne Champions the Cause

Drag Race UK winner The Vivienne, a long-time supporter of Sahir, told BBC Merseyside:

“I’ve been working with Sahir for as long as I can remember. Whenever I’ve done a TV show, like The Chase, my go-to has always been Sahir. Growing up in Liverpool, it meant so much to know there was a charity, started here, that does incredible work for the HIV/AIDS cause. Not a lot of people know about Sahir, and more people should. Supporting it as a community is vital.

“We get to take the mick out of certain characters, but it’s important to call out these individuals for what they’re doing. For example, Trump’s plan to strip the US military of all transgender people is madness. These are people willing to give their lives for their country, yet he doesn’t see them as worthy.”

Debbie Darling’s Dedication

The event also marked the return of Debbie Darling as one of Sahir’s leading drag fundraisers. Reflecting on her involvement, following her Drag & Drop abseil from Liverpool Cathedral alongside Ketona Madrave, Debbie said:

“The team at Sahir work so hard, providing the counselling and peer support our community needs. As someone who’s also a mental health nurse by day, it’s something that’s extremely close to my heart. I use every opportunity I can to give back to the charity that does so much for us.”

Fundraising Success

The night was a resounding success, raising £3,336 through ticket sales, a raffle, and the sale of limited-edition Sahir clack fans. The funds will support Sahir’s vital work in the local community.

Do you have your own fundraising ideas? Head over to Sahir’s website to set up a fundraising page and contribute to this incredible cause.