A beloved Lexington tradition returns to the Lyric Theatre on December 7. Slay Bells, a Holiday Drag + Variety Show is not just a great chance to see top-notch local queer talent, it’s also a fundraiser for Moveable Feast Lexington. 

MFL is the only nonprofit in Lexington delivering hot, freshly prepared meals every weekday to low-income folks with HIV/AIDS and those in hospice care as well as their families. The mission is simple; feed neighbors in need and nourish our community. Though Moveable Feast has already distributed over 800,000 meals, there’s been an influx of requests for meals, so this fundraising event is more important than it’s ever been.

Local Celebrity Drag Performers Shine as Slay Bells Returns to the Lyric Theatre

One of the most beloved Slay Bells traditions is to feature first time celebrity drag performers. Many Lexingtonians are still going gaga for Vice Mayor Dan Wu, who brought down the house during his sizzling debut. Many supporters are also excited to see what Silas House, Terry Mullins, and Andrew Shayde bring to the stage this year. 

While Shayde is no stranger to being in the spotlight, he is excited to paint his face, fluff up the wig, and try something completely different.  

“Looking back into LGBTQ history, whether it was police brutality, political violence, faith-based persecution, or a deadly epidemic, humor helped our community cope in some really dark times,” he said. “That tradition of coming together for a common good, and to find some joy among each other, still happens.” 

Shayde encourages folks to hold hope for the future while finding joy, where one can, in the present. 

“Slay Bells is a perfect example; we can step into a theater, and if just for a moment, laugh our cares away all to help some of our most vulnerable friends. While much of the world has turned away from HIV activism, there are many soldiers left out here still putting in the work, ensuring these folks are fed and healthy,” he said. “Moveable Feast is still saving lives. Let’s join ’em by showing up, donating, and by God, having some great laughs together.”

Three emcees will grace the stage, all beloved queens of The Imperial Court of Kentucky, the organization that produces Slay Bells. Helena Handbasket, Uma Jewels and Petty Poussey are no strangers to stepping up for the community and have been longtime supporters of Moveable Feast Lexington.

When asked about why Slay Bells matters, Jewels said “Slay Bells is an excellent way for drag to reach audiences it might not always meet. It’s a tame-enough show for folks of all ages, it supports a truly vital organization, and it provides an opportunity for drag artists to give back to the community.”

The ladies will be joined on stage not only by local celebrity guests, but also award-winning comedienne Mandee McKelvey, a menagerie of Kentucky drag queens, and local musicians. 

There is also a silent auction and reception preempting the event giving the audience a chance to bid on curated items like rare art, locally made goodies, and weekend getaways. Thanks to local artists and small businesses, the auction is a great way to pay it forward while finding unique items and experiences for the holiday season. The best part is, profits from the event go directly to Moveable Feast’s mission.

Moveable Feast Lexington Relies on Slay Bells to Support Its Vital HIV Meal Program

This mission has been supported faithfully by Terry Mullins, Moveable Feast’s former executive director, now director of client services, for three decades. Mullins is also former president of the Tri-State Gay Rodeo, president and founding member of ActOut Lexington, and as legend has it, helped open Crossings as their very first bartender. Despite everything Mullins has done for our community in Eastern and Central Kentucky, he has never performed in drag in a Slay Bells production. 

Thanks to support from Isaiah Screech, Emperor 39 of the Imperial Court, Mullins is now ready to let his inner diva out to play. Screech has been integral in the planning and coordination of this year’s event and is no stranger to creating fantastic event experiences.

“Slay Bells is more than a holiday-themed drag show—it’s a space where queer identity, artistry, and joy are celebrated openly. Events like this create a sense of belonging and visibility for LGBTQ+ folks, especially during a season that can feel isolating for some,” stated Isaiah after a recent programming team meeting. He is working with 6 other volunteers from both Moveable Feast and Imperial Court who are working diligently to make this magic a reality.

With so much doom and gloom in the news, Lexingtonians are excited for an opportunity to come together and spread the love through joy, art, and a whole lot of glitter. More performers will be announced in the days to come, but get your tickets now while they’re still available! For tickets and more information, visit feastlex.org/event/slay-bells-2025