It’s easy to write off entertainers as merely good-time folks. But in LGBT communities, entertainers play a special and often unique role.

They’re the cheerleaders who generate hope when there isn’t any. They’re the healers who administer joy to cure mental-health issues like depression and anxiety. They’re the defenders who use humour to fend off hatred and hurt. And they’re the firekeepers who prevent the activist flames from burning out.

This year, we shine a light on entertainers, who are often activists in disguise, advancing the cause through fundraising, hosting events, and keeping potentially invisible minorities bright and shining even in the darkest of hours.

While there are numerous individuals and organizations, these profiles provide a brief sample of the wide range that the city has to offer.

LGBT+

Man Up's Paige "Ponyboy" Frewer liberates gender diversity through drag

Jul 27

Dressing up as Taylor Swift is more of a drag for Paige Frewer than dressing up masculine.

Arts Features

Ladner comedian Darcy Michael isn’t hiding his Pride

Jul 27

As Darcy Michael has grown more famous, he has toyed with how to represent himself.

LGBT+

Joan-E praises the activism of Vancouver's drag queen community

Jul 27

Joan-E sings the praises of the “amazing drag-queen community here in Vancouver” and the role of drag within the LGBT movement.

LGBT+

Barb Snelgrove is a vibrant LGBT force to be reckoned with

Jul 27

Self-driven, dedicated, and deeply motivated, she’s a force of nature.

LGBT+

Christopher Hunte's glam alter-ego, Symone Says, is a benevolent force

Jul 27

Like many others before him, Christopher Hunte fell unwittingly into drag.

LGBT+

Entertainer David C. Jones strives for diversity in LGBT theatre

Jul 27

It’s impossible to pin David C. Jones down as just one particular type of entertainer.

LGBT+

Dance group House of La Douche champions LGBT culture and diversity

Jul 27

While the group was formed to promote and campaign for LGBT culture, House of La Douche has grown in cultural diversity in recent years.

LGBT+

Flygirl Productions' Mandy Randhawa creates better world for LGBT people through dance and music

Jul 27

Flygirl Productions' Mandy Randhawa says she's using her life experience to create a better world for other people.

Music Features

Queer as Funk fights for LGBT rights with soul, Motown, and sharp dressing

Jul 27

When asked about her band’s growing success, Queer as Funk lead singer Connie Buna makes a serious face.

LGBT+

Vancouver Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence spread joy across the Lower Mainland

Jul 27

They're instantly recognizable by their painted white faces and distinct wimples, which look like a pair of white horns.