Watch Pageant

Pageant is a 2008 documentary film directed by Ron Davis and Stewart Halpern that follows the journey of five contestants in the Miss Gay America pageant. The film explores the world of competitive female impersonation and showcases the talent, hard work, and dedication required to participate in this unique form of performance art.

The documentary focuses on the challenges faced by the contestants as they prepare for the pageant. It introduces the audience to the contestants and their individual backstories, showing the audience what motivates them and what drew them to this particular competition.

One of the main storylines of the film follows the journey of Carl Glorioso, a seasoned performer who has previously won the title of Miss Gay America. Carl is shown preparing for the competition and working on his talent presentation. He is also shown talking about his own personal struggles, including growing up as a gay man in the south, and the impact that winning the Miss Gay America title has had on his life.

Another contestant who is featured prominently in the film is Victoria Parker. Victoria is a newcomer to the world of female impersonation and is shown navigating the competition with a mixture of nervousness and excitement. Throughout the film, we see her rehearsing, trying on different outfits, and receiving guidance and support from the other contestants.

Robert Martin is another contestant who is featured in the documentary. Robert is a talented performer, but he faces a number of challenges along the way, including the loss of his father just days before the competition. Despite these obstacles, Robert refuses to give up and is determined to put on the best show he possibly can.

Throughout the film, we are also introduced to a number of other contestants, all with their own unique backgrounds and personalities. These include Cliff Dixson, a performer from Baltimore with a love of Stevie Nicks, and Michael Andrews, a pageant veteran who has previously competed in Miss Gay America.

As the competition unfolds, we get a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into creating a successful pageant performance. We see the contestants rehearsing their talent presentations, preparing their costumes and makeup, and supporting each other both on and off the stage.

The film also explores the wider cultural significance of the Miss Gay America pageant. It highlights the challenges that LGBTQ+ individuals face, both historically and in the present day, and shows how the pageant provides a platform for people to express themselves and challenge stereotypes.

In addition to showcasing the talents and personalities of the contestants, the documentary also features interviews with a number of former Miss Gay America titleholders. These individuals talk about their own experiences and provide insights into what it takes to succeed in the pageant.

Overall, Pageant is a captivating and moving documentary that sheds light on a unique subculture within the LGBTQ+ community. It is a celebration of talent, perseverance, and self-expression, and a testament to the power of art to bring people together and overcome prejudice.