#dragperformance

A Star in Greece’s Drag Scene Diona Dallas was more than just a drag queen—she was a trailblazer in the Greek LGBTQ+ community, a performer who broke barriers, and a fierce advocate for queer visibility. Her presence illuminated Thessaloniki’s nightlife, particularly at the Enola Club, where she became a defining figure, welcoming guests with humor, charisma, and unmatched energy. For over a decade, Diona was the heart of Thessaloniki’s drag culture, using her platform to celebrate individuality and challenge social norms. She was known for her extravagant costumes, powerful performances, and a personality that could captivate anyone who entered her orbit. The Early Days: Finding Her Identity Diona’s passion for drag began in her childhood. She often recalled experimenting with her mother’s clothes, unknowingly laying the foundation for her future in performance art. As she grew older, she embraced her identity and found solace in the LGBTQ+ nightlife scene, where drag offered her both an escape and a means of self-expression. Her transformation into Diona Dallas was not just about aesthetics—it was about rebellion, empowerment, and storytelling. She brought her own unique style to drag, refusing to conform to mainstream expectations. Breaking Barriers in Greece’s LGBTQ+ Scene In Greece, where LGBTQ+ rights have long been a battleground, Diona Dallas stood firm in her advocacy for acceptance. Her presence at Pride events, especially Thessaloniki Pride, was legendary. She didn’t just perform; she stood as a symbol of resilience, ensuring that drag and LGBTQ+ culture were celebrated, not hidden. Diona understood that drag was not just entertainment—it was activism. She used humor, satire, and art to challenge gender norms and fight against discrimination. Her ability to captivate audiences went beyond performance; it was a form of cultural resistance. Her Connection with Enola Club and the Community The Enola Club in Thessaloniki became Diona’s second home. Every Friday night, she transformed the entrance into a spectacle of laughter and joy, ensuring that everyone felt welcome. She was more than just a performer—she was a community figure, a friend to many, and a mentor to aspiring drag artists. For years, Diona held the role of hostess, greeting visitors with a mix of humor and warmth, making each night memorable. She often joked that the key to happiness was “to always have fun and never let anyone ruin your mood”—a mantra she lived by. [gallery columns="2" size="large" link="none" ids="16556,16555,16554"]   The Challenges She Faced Like many LGBTQ+ individuals, Diona’s journey was not without hardship. Drag and queer culture, though celebrated in underground circles, still faced discrimination in wider Greek society. While she was embraced in spaces like Enola, outside of them, she experienced the struggles that come with living openly as a queer performer. Despite these challenges, she remained unapologetically herself. She was known for her sharp wit, unwavering confidence, and ability to transform pain into art. Her performances often reflected the struggles of LGBTQ+ individuals, giving a voice to those who felt unheard. A Legacy That Lives On On the 28th of June 2024, one day before the starting of the Europride in Thessaloniki, the Greek LGBTQ+ community suffered an immense loss with the passing of Diona Dallas. Her sudden departure left a void in the drag scene and beyond. She was more than just a performer—she was a symbol of joy, resilience, and defiance in the face of adversity. Her legacy continues to inspire young drag artists and activists in Greece and beyond. Her influence can be seen in the growing visibility of drag culture, the increasing acceptance of LGBTQ+ rights, and the continued celebration of queer identity in Thessaloniki and throughout Greece. Remembering Diona Dallas For those who knew her, Diona Dallas was a beacon of light. Her presence at Pride parades, LGBTQ+ events, and Thessaloniki’s

A fun little bonus post for ya’ll from when I was in Chaplaincy training back in 2019 and my cohort put on a talent show!

November - Seoul, South Korea