Drag Performers Generate £18,000 for Church Roof Repairs

A sum of £18,000 has been collected by drag queens for a church that sustained damage during Storm Darragh, through the organization of a “carol service with a difference.” The roof of St Andrew’s United Reformed Church, located in Roath, Cardiff, suffered significant damage from recent high winds and heavy rain, necessitating substantial funds for its repair. This financial need received considerable support from “Dragged To Church,” an annual event now in its seventh iteration, characterized by “festive frocks and frivolity.” Furthermore, the narrative of the event’s origins is reportedly being adapted into a film by actress Eve Myles, known for her role in Keeping Faith. Reverend Des Kitto of the church stated that the roof issues predated the Covid pandemic, prompting him to seek guidance from local radio presenters Nathan Wyburn and Wayne Courtney regarding fundraising strategies. Reverend Kitto recounted: “They told me they wanted to put on a Christmas carol show with a difference – one that was hosted by drag queens. “They asked me if I thought the church would be okay with that, so we spoke to the elders and it turns out they were fine with it.” The initial “Dragged To Church” event generated two thousand pounds, and subsequent iterations have consistently attracted larger audiences and increased proceeds, including some notice from celebrities. Reverend Kitto further mentioned: “Eve Myles contacted us after our second one and said she wanted to make a film about it all,” adding, “Last we heard is it was just waiting to get the finances secured – it is very exciting.” Rob Keetch, publicly recognized as drag queen Doctor Bev, attributed the event’s triumph to achieving “a fine balance between the humorous and the reverential.” He stated: “Trying to get drag performers to work together is like herding cats, but we did it.” He continued: “We worked hard to keep the thing respectful, covering everything from O Holy Night to I Saw Mummy Kissing Santa Claus. “There’s a running joke about who’s going to mess up first and accidentally swear.”But when it happens, the place lights up with laughter.” He further mentioned that attendees are consistently encouraged to “leave their inhibitions at the door and prepare to get up and join in with the singing.” He concluded: “We get all sort of people turning up and lots of different faiths. “The Rev Kitto is amazing and his church is one of the most welcoming places I’ve ever been.”It’s really opened its doors to the LGBTQ community.”