Cartier Trust founder and ‘mum of K’ Rd’ Karen Ritchie has joined the line-up for tonight’s hair-raising fundraiser at Auckland’s Switch Bar. In Ritchie’s own words to organiser Tess Tickle: "Doll, the last time I lip-synced was at Cartier’s funeral. Put me on early love before I have too many drinks.” Wigarama is a fundraiser for the Cartier Trust, which was established in memory of much-loved drag artist Courtney Cartier. Courtney died in October 2000, aged just 32 years old, of lymphatic cancer after living with HIV and AIDS for some years. With limited money available for her funeral, the community united to help – and the idea of the Cartier Trust was born. The Trust supports the funerals of those who lose their lives from AIDS-related illnesses and provides emotional help to family members and friends. Wigarama is also about supporting those living with HIV. The shows will kick off at 9PM with Ritchie due onstage at 10PM-10.30PMish. The line-up of performers is too long to list, while James Leuii will DJ, with Buckwheat, Tess Tickle and Steven Oates hosting. Doors open from 7PM, and a $5 donation will get you in. “We want you to come along, have a good time and help us raise some money,” Ritchie says. Switch Bar is at 390 K’ Rd.
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Saturday, 4th May 2013 - 10:44am