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Jessica L’Whor doesn’t wait for the spotlight; her life is a stage. After beginning her drag career as a student at Colorado State University, the local LGBTQ+ icon now performs at Osteria Marco’s drag-brunch bingos, hosts RuPaul’s Drag Race viewing parties at Hamburger Mary’s, and judges auditions for drag shows at Denver Pride. She’s been working as a Colorado entertainer for over 11 years, but despite there being perhaps livelier drag scenes in New York and Los Angeles, she has no intention of leaving.
“Drag in Denver is so overlooked, it’s as wonderfully prominent as other cities,” Jessica says (who, when not performing, goes by Zachary Sullivan and works as an entertainer). “It’s such a huge community aspect here. I could move, but I’m so invested in this scene and supporting local artists.” Some of that work includes “Colorado’s Next Drag Superstar,” an event she launched last year where local drag performers compete for the superstar title at X Bar. The competition is scheduled to take place again this August.
But the response to her work isn’t always positive. Jessica made national headlines in 2018 when she, as her family-friendly alter ego Miss Jessica, spoke at a Thornton middle school. Though her anti-bullying presentation was age-appropriate, some parents weren’t happy. “Drag is no different than any other sort of entertainment,” she says. “Just like movies and sports games, drag can be family-friendly or it can be adult-oriented. We teach kindness, self-love, and being accepting of other people’s differences.” But seven years later, most Coloradans still don’t quite get drag, says Jessica.
That’s why, in July 2023, she began her “Ask A Queen” video series on TikTok. The premise is simple: Jessica plants herself in a busy spot (like outside Coors Field before a Rockies game), encourages passersby to ask her anything, and pays them a dollar for their curiosity (she’s given away over $1,000 so far). “Wearing full glam on the streets is a way to show people that we exist, and offering them money is a way to see if we can get some healthy conversations going,” she says. “I’ve gotten such a broad spectrum of questions; it’s been one of my favorite projects.” The internet agrees—one clip of a woman politely asking to pray for Jessica garnered 3.5 million views.
We asked the queen to share some of the best questions she’s gotten and the answers she gave at the time.
Editor’s note: The following conversation has been edited for length and clarity.
5280: What made you get into drag?
Jessica L’Whor: I hated drag. I was very insecure with myself and called it gross and disgusting. I had a partner at the time who loved it, so I went to a show—and fell in love with the queen onstage. That inspired us to go to Walmart and get some makeup. I kept doing it, and it’s the best thing I’ve ever done.
Christina or Britney?
If we’re considering longevity, I would pick Christina. I understand Britney’s circumstances, but Christina is still working, collaborating, and creating new music.
What lipstick shade are you wearing?
Black eyeliner with dark purple and a silver shimmer in the middle.
How do you feel safe in your day-to-day life?
I’m thankful to be surrounded by people who make me feel safe, and I only go places where I feel safe. When I’m out here surrounded by crowds, I get to meet so many wonderful people. I’m always on my guard, though.
Can you do the splits?
I can do what I call a half-assed split, where I bounce down halfway and then allow myself to get up.
Why do you give away dollar bills?
Drag queens are looked at in a bad light right now, and I wanted to show people that we can just go out and have open conversations. Usually, we get tipped dollars, so I thought it would be fun to give dollars away.
What’s your favorite condiment?
I’m addicted to A.1. steak sauce. I will drink it through a straw. I need an IV of it.
What is the best queer anthem of all time?
I feel like you can’t help but dance whenever “Dancing Queen” by ABBA comes on.
Any advice for young LGBTQ+ people?
I think the sooner you embrace being LGBTQ+, the happier you’ll be. If you have supportive family and friends, it makes it a lot easier, because ultimately, you’re just being you.
Jessica L’Whor’s 3 Can’t-Miss Pride Events
1. Fruity Arts Fest
Previously known as the Rainbow Market, this annual bazaar features independent LGBTQ+-owned businesses. Now in its fourth year, the event is upgrading its name and location, with a move to RiNo’s 22,000-square-foot ReelWorks Denver, where you’ll find a lineup of more than 75 vendors (including founder Elle Billman, who sells line art drawings) on June 8. Expect flash tattoos, handmade jewelry, tarot card readings, and enough glitter to keep you sparkling all summer.
2. Drag Nation
On the last Friday of every month, Tracks nightclub in RiNo transforms into a drag lover’s dream during Drag Nation, where the city’s fiercest queens perform for an 18-and-older crowd ($20). Catch local talent, national icons, and even stars from RuPaul’s Drag Race as they sashay across the stage. This month, Drag Race alums Jewels Sparkles and Lexi Love will headline a special Thursday edition on June 26.
3. Denver Pride
In 1974, a couple dozen dreamers organized a picnic in Cheesman Park to celebrate love. That humble gathering turned into the city’s massive Pride festival, parade, and 5K, which draw more than 500,000 Coloradans to Civic Center Park annually. This year’s festivities (June 28 to 29) will feature over 250 local artisans and 30-plus food vendors.
Read More: The Best Pride Events Happening in Denver
