Pride Parade 2023
by Shimi Cohen
One of my favourite events to photograph is the Pride parade. Every year, I join thousands of LGBTQ+ people and allies in the streets to march for our rights and celebrate. It's always a colourful, vibrant, and festive occasion that fills me with hope and happiness.
I love capturing the diversity of the LGBTQ+ community in my photos. And see people of different ages, races, genders, sexualities, and backgrounds coming together in solidarity and harmony. Also, how people express themselves freely and creatively with their outfits, their signs, and their flags. I see people smiling, dancing, hugging, and kissing. And love capturing the spirit of LGBTQ+ pride. People who are proud of who they are and who they love. Not afraid to stand up for themselves and for others. I see people who are making a difference in the world with their courage and their compassion.
I was lucky enough to get a backstage pass to WIGSTOCK 2023, the legendary drag festival that returned to TEL-AVIV.
I had always dreamed of seeing the fabulous queens up close and personal, and I was not disappointed. Here's what I witnessed behind the curtains of the most glamorous show on earth. As soon as I entered the backstage area, I was greeted by a flurry of activity. There were dozens of drag queens getting ready for their performances, each with their own station of wigs, costumes, makeup and accessories. The air was filled with glitter, hairspray and laughter. I felt like I had stepped into a fairy tale.I decided to walk around and chat with some of the queens, who were more than happy to share their stories and secrets with me.
I also met ERICA, who was preparing for her act with her signature bald head and dramatic eyebrows. She said she wanted to create a visual spectacle that would celebrate the diversity and beauty of drag. She also gave me a sneak peek of her outfit, which was a stunning red gown with a long train and a crown of roses.
I was amazed by the creativity and talent of all the queens I met. They were not only performers, but also artists, activists, and role models. They had overcome many challenges and prejudices to express themselves and entertain others. They were also very supportive and friendly with each other, forming a tight-knit community.
I felt honoured and privileged to witness their transformations and preparations. I laughed at their jokes, gasped at their reveals, and cheered at their routines. I also learned a lot about drag history, culture, and lingo. It was an unforgettable experience.
WIGSTOCK 2023 was more than just a show. It was a celebration of life, love and drag. It was a reminder that we can all be whoever we want to be, and that we should always have fun and be fabulous.
