The reigning Mx. Level Up 2024 is Lasha Cristal, a lively fixture on the Philly drag scene for the last six years. Originally from Jersey, Cristál always had a passion for performing. “It was always one of the greatest joys of mine,” she shared. “To be able to do it and get paid, honey, that’s the ultimate goal.”
When Cristál made her first forays onto the Philly drag scene, she felt enveloped by the local legends. “Icons welcomed me and the people that are here. The Vin Chelles of Philadelphia, the Sapphira Cristáls. These legends that are a support system to us and make opportunities for us,” said Cristál. VinChelle has also proven to be a transformational force in Cristál’s existence as a performer, offering Black and artists of color a competitive space instead of condescension and closed doors. “A lot of opportunities in my career, VinChelle’s name is at the end of it,” reflected Cristál.
It was no easy journey for Cristál to become Mx. Level Up 2024. The pageant, held at Level Up an LGTBQ+ and Black-owned bar and lounge in Philly’s Gayborhood followed the traditional pageant format but with a vibe of casualness and open respect. Contestants had to do talent, a questionnaire, and self-expression. Cristál decided to do the self-expression category as Oshun, African spiritual goddess.
“It was one of my favorite runways to put together. I had a custom crown from Edith Wiggles and Giggles. For my talent portion, I chose to make a little noise and be a little loud about some of the issues that are going on today, which I was happy to display on such a platform.”
What really sets the Level Up pageant apart, though, is its willingness to be truly inclusive. “My runner-up was a drag king and trans man, Eugene Rideher. it’s a very inclusive space,” added Cristál Garnati from Chicago. Whereas the general feeling of the Philly drag community is very wide open to whatever kind of artist you are, beyond that.
Some of the wisest words she shares are for ones seeking entrance into the drag scene: “All your have to do is step out and support the shows. Don’t worry if you don’t have a look yet. Just show your face and give us face time. Say ‘I loved your outfit, I loved your performance, I’m up and coming and would love to get involved.’ A closed mouth doesn’t get fed. It’s a welcoming community.” Followers can experience Lasha Cristál’s amazing performance in her monthly show, ‘Blah Blah with Lasha,’ the second Sunday of each month at Level Up Bar & Lounge, 1330 Walnut St.
The paths and triumph of Lasha Cristál as Mx. Level Up 2024 will reveal not only her wishful talent and commitment but also the helping and embracing nature of the local drag community of Philly. Here, in the competition, she is Oshun, which is a nice depiction of plenty of roots in heritage and dedication to use the platform to elevate important issues. As she keeps illuminating the stage, Cristál’s counsel and demonstration open the way for a new generation to enter into the fabulous place called drag.
