Local RuPaul’s Drag Race fans can mark their calendars for January, as three South Florida queens are preparing to make their mark on Season 18 of the show! Athena Dion, Juicy Love Dion and Mia Starr will join 11 other queens in competing for the crown, and R House is upping the ante with a lineup of weekly viewing parties and appearances from the stars themselves!
The Wynwood landmark known for its chef-driven drag brunch and entertainment is hosting a slate of programming in celebration of its two headlining performers, Athena and Juicy Love. Known as the “Mother of R House” Athena is recognized for her glamorous stage presence and sharp humor, while leading her celebrated drag collective, House of Dion.
Her drag daughter, Juicy, is a fan-favorite performer (she’s not called “Miami’s Afro-Cuban dancing doll” for nothing!) and former So You Think You Can Dance contestant. These two mark the first-ever mother/daughter duo to compete on the show together.
Also appearing on this season is West Palm Beach diva — and former R House alum — Mia Starr, who has danced alongside Rihanna, Britney Spears and even JLo for her Super Bowl performance.
R House celebrations
As the highly anticipated 18th season premieres on Friday, January 2, there will be a kick-off viewing party with the three contestants themselves! The night will start with a meet-and-greet at 6:30 p.m., followed by a live hosted viewing party led by Athena with episode commentary, Q&As and crowd engagement at 7 p.m.
Then, enjoy a dynamic after-party with live performances by the queens and other special guests, from 11 p.m. to 3 a.m. This is set to be one of (if not the) biggest and most star-studded cast celebrations in Drag Race history!
If that wasn’t sickening enough already, R House will also host viewing parties every Friday throughout the season, with rotating hosts and surprise guests. Plus, fans can catch live performances by Athena and Juicy this December, leading up to the national premiere. You can learn more on R House’s website.
We certainly can’t wait to cheer our local queens on!