Second Sunday Tea: Spill That Tea, Sis!

Family-friendly events mean something different to everyone, just as every family dynamic has its own unique perspective. When a drag performance enters the mix, it often turns heads—sparking excitement in some, while eliciting curiosity or even confusion for others. But what does ‘all-ages’ really mean in the world of drag? I spoke with three drag queens who have set out to be pioneers of this very concept by hosting a monthly, all-ages tea party at Hotel Monaco. 

As of November 10, families gather at Hotel Monaco every second Sunday of the month, ushering in a fresh blend of tea, treats and self-expression. This isn’t your typical drag show. Instead of the late-night, adults-only feel often associated with drag performances, this elevated and immersive experience welcomes everyone from toddlers to grandparents. Whether you’re part of the LGTBQIA+ community, a curious ally, or a parent looking for a catered bonding experience, the all-ages drag tea party opens its doors to you, promising an atmosphere that’s as joyful as it is safe, as entertaining as it is thought-provoking.

The inspiration for the event began with the friendship between Scarlett Kiss and Hotel Monaco’s event manager. In their conversations, Scarlett Kiss learned of a personal challenge for her friend, who, as a parent and member of the queer community, felt the absence of spaces where families could fully be themselves. With this idea, Scarlett Kiss decided to bring it to fruition, searching specifically for “genuine, authentic people” with the integrity needed to create such a meaningful experience. In her search, she found Divina 2.0 and Erin Judgment, whom Scarlett Kiss describes as having “heart[s] of gold” and being “great artists and entertainers.”

With Erin Judgment being parent herself and Divina 2.0 bringing insights from her experience in different cities, all 3 queens share a unified passion for expanding the sense of community in Salt Lake City. Divina 2.0 notes the additional inspiration drawn from reflecting on experiences like the Pride Parade, “marching in it and seeing the effect by passing by all the children and families, just seeing the joy and the lightheartedness.” Together, they’ve built an event that celebrates family and individuality in a space welcoming to all and maintaining the same playfulness.

Each queen plans to bring her unique charm and personality to each event, with themes varying every month. Guests can expect an entire production, as Scarlett Kiss notes that “people are buying a ticket, so we want to provide them with a top-notch show,” and hopes attendees leave feeling fulfilled. From solo acts to group performances, the show is set to grow more extravagant while remaining consistent. Erin Judgment even hints at grand features, like “a massive seven-foot-wide by seven-foot-tall cake on theme for kids to take pictures around.”

“This will give us an opportunity to sit face to face with them… and create that dialogue.”

With love and self-acceptance as central themes, Erin Judgment emphasizes that “the mission statement… will be a consistent thread woven into all of our performances.” Divina 2.0 highlights the need for steady support in the city, stating, “This city needs consistency.” More than just a safe space, the show serves as a consistent haven that strengthens its positive impact on both the city and the LGBTQIA+ community over time. Erin Judgment envisions expanding this inclusivity further, expressing a desire to see drag kings performing, all ethnicities represented and people with different abilities in their show. Divina 2.0 adds her aspiration to feature “a bilingual queen,” showcasing the event’s commitment to diversity in all its forms. The importance of all-ages spaces lies at the heart of the event, which creates a family-friendly atmosphere set to foster connection and understanding. Erin Judgment highlights how performers in this event cannot resort to potential vulgarity, stating, “Performing in an all-ages show is completely different than in a bar because it challenges you as a performer to not rely on, maybe, crassness that is very easy to go to.” 

The event is structured to be entirely child-friendly, ensuring that nothing presented is inappropriate, challenging misconceptions some may have about drag. This nurturing environment is designed not only to empower young attendees by showcasing these confident queens expressing themselves freely, but also to strengthen the community. The event drives home the message of all-ages gatherings as a vital part of cultural engagement, helping to understand our shared humanity. As Divina 2.0 notes, “They are left to define it themselves. We won’t be defining it for them. They will be given the opportunity to…have their own takeaway.”

Scarlett Kiss reinforces the profound impact these events can have on young attendees, adding, “You never know how you’re going to inspire them.” Through simple interactions one can have at this monthly tea party, performers can encourage children to embrace their authentic selves, highlighting the essential role of all-ages gatherings in shaping a supportive community. Erin Judgment reflects on this impact, sharing, “As a parent…I would hope they would remember that I took them to something to help them feel safe…because I care about them and I love them, and I’m invested in giving them tools to be successful in life.” The group discussed how broadening anyone’s experiences, especially a child’s, can challenge biases and open the mind. This, in turn, leads to greater success in the world, as it fosters interpersonal relationships with individuals who may differ from oneself. And, for some who may lack positive examples, showing they are not alone in this world.

“The biggest importance is creating context for people to have their own experiences.”

With any event involving children, questions are bound to arise. A core goal of the monthly tea party at Hotel Monaco is to foster a safe space for open conversations about LGBTQIA+ topics. Erin Judgement explains, “I think one of the easiest ways for us to do that is to engage the audience.” Unlike traditional drag shows, this immersive event features queens mingling with the crowd, taking a unique approach to audience interaction by “not sitting in a dressing room somewhere,” Erin Judgment continues. “We are actually going to be sitting with the attendees. That way, we get to engage them, and we get to answer questions.” 

Divina 2.0 adds that while Salt Lake City offers other all-ages events, “there’s nothing this intimate” making this gathering special. “This will give us an opportunity to sit face to face with them… and create that dialogue.”

Erin Judgment emphasizes how this may be someone’s first introduction to drag, stating, “The biggest importance is creating context for people to have their own experiences,” encouraging attendees to form their own opinions rather than relying on any preconceived notions.

This unique setup encourages dialogue, creating a welcoming space where everyone can feel seen and included. The performers invite those who may be hesitant to come with an open mind and see beyond any online discourse. With an atmosphere of acceptance and warmth, this event invites all who join with love in their hearts.

The all-ages drag tea party at Hotel Monaco “Spill that Tea, Sis” is reshaping family-friendly events, pioneering a vibrant, welcoming space where everyone can celebrate individuality and connection. Each month, this event will bring new themes, creative performances and an atmosphere where individuals and families alike can feel truly seen and inspired. “This is a very vulnerable experience that a lot of the world today is scared of,” says Divina 2.0. “Thank you for bringing your family.” By joining in, you will be a part of something groundbreaking—a joyful, inclusive community where love and acceptance are center stage. This event is not only a celebration of diversity; it’s also a testament to how Salt Lake City is evolving. 

Join the magic and see what makes this extravaganza unforgettable at the next event on December 8, 2024, from noon to 3 PM at Hotel Monaco in downtown Salt Lake City.

Read more about the Salt Lake City drag community:
Bold & Beautiful: The Matrons of Mayhem
Slaying Cancer and Serving Equity: Cancer’s A Drag