"2 Broke Queens"

by Hayden Smith
Staff Writer

Tulsa’s Bamboo Lounge is host to a wild weekend of homemade glamor with its “2 Broke Queens”.

Keisha Kye and Chaella Montgomery host two shows every third weekend of the month as two down-on-their luck queens, with costumes inspired by the similarly-named sitcom 2 Broke Girls.

“The inspiration for our show comes from the ability both Chaella and I have to sew, stone and create our entire wardrobe in this very expensive world of drag,” Kye says. “And though we are very crafty and are able to wear perceivable current trends, underneath it we really are two broke queens.”

The show is officially in its second season, with loyal fans coming out every third Saturday to watch these queens host their show with lively banter, discounted desserts and a colorful array of performers, both regulars and guests.

“As in all good showbiz, we do like to try new things along the way,” says Kye. So every month is full of surprises for audience members old and new.

The show began after the two were awarded with titles last year, with Montgomery being crowned Miss Oklahoma Vintage American National Star 2016 and Kye as Miss Vintage American National Star 2016.

The two decided to make a show reflecting that of title holders, both with a professional cast and with a warm and welcoming environment.

As title holders, the two queens also frequently engage in charitable missions to benefit the LGBTQ community, from the 50/50 charitable raffles hosted at the bar during 2 Broke Queens shows to efforts in bringing the AIDS Walk back to Tulsa with other organizations.

The show typically involves both audience engagement, celebrating birthdays and anniversaries, as well as interaction with the bar, announcing drink specials and recognizing the hardworking staff, owner, managers and DJ at the Bamboo Lounge.

Their Sunday show, meanwhile, offers a more relaxed environment. The spinoff, called “2BQ: Swing-Shift,” starts earlier in the evening and features many of the same cast members with a more laid back crowd and overall atmosphere.

Along with striving to be active in the community and put on a spectacular show for fans, Kye says the real driving force is Johnnie Cronin, the owner of the club. “He has a heart of gold.”

For a fun-filled, glamorous night on the town with a bit of DIY flair, don’t miss 2 Broke Queens every third Saturday at 11 p.m. and their “Swing-Shift” performance the third Sunday of the month starting at 6 p.m. It’s sure to be a night to remember.

Copyright 2017 The Gayly – June 14, 2017 @ 6 p.m.