2024/25 Season
Velour: A Drag Spectacular
World Premiere
AUG 13 – SEP 15, 2024 Sheila and Hughes Potiker Theatre
By Sasha Velour and Moisés Kaufman
Directed by Moisés Kaufman
A Co-Production With Tectonic Theater Project
Radical. Magical. Unforgettable.
Created by groundbreaking drag artist Sasha Velour (Smoke & Mirrors, NightGowns, The Big Reveal Live Show) and legendary theatre artist Moisés Kaufman (Here There Are Blueberries, The Laramie Project), Velour: A Drag Spectacular is a sweeping, coming-of-age tale interwoven with the radical history of drag and queer expression.
Inspired by Velour’s origin story as a small-town, genderfluid child turned globally-renowned drag superstar, the show unfolds through a dazzling blend of innovative projection mapping, video animation, awe-inspiring lip-sync performances, and bold personal storytelling.
Known for her emotional and shocking performance art, Velour harnesses the power of drag spectacle to reveal her deepest fears (and joys) and puts them on display to immerse the audience in queer fantasia.
From the often confusing yet joyous search for belonging, to the deep wells of grief that catapult us to face our inner truths, Velour: A Drag Spectacular is a tour de force, rich with humanity, beauty, and above all else – DRAG.
“Velour is a magnetic, funny and fierce performer”
“Arresting images. Big-wow production numbers. Eye-popping”
— The San Diego Union-Tribune
“A feast of pastel colors, aerial thrills, painterly projections”
“This show is spectacular”
— LA Times
“A delightfully intelligent, funny, and visually dazzling theatrical fantasia.”
— BroadwayWorld
Discover More
» Read the program online
» The San Diego Union-Tribune: La Jolla Playhouse’s ‘Velour’ a Drag Spectacular with a Heart
» LA Times: Sasha Velour, Winner of ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race,’ Tells Her Own Story in ‘Velour: A Drag Spectacular’
» Theatermania: Sasha Velour Dazzles with Wicked Humor in Velour: A Drag Spectacular
» BroadwayWorld: VELOUR: A DRAG SPECTACULAR at La Jolla Playhouse
Hear what audiences are saying
Velour: A Drag Spectacular audience members share their thoughts on this magnificent world premiere play. An “amazing,” “incredible” show by a “master storyteller” about “the magic of drag.”
Watch a chat about the shows
Artistic Director Christopher Ashley and Artistic Producing Director Eric Keen-Louie talk about each show and why they are excited to share them with Playhouse audiences.
Ticket Information
Single tickets are now on sale. La Jolla Playhouse is the only authorized ticket seller for this production.
First Look (previews): Aug 13 – 17
Weeks 2 – 4: Aug 20 – Sep 8
‘First Look’ performances are the first week of each show before opening night. These lower-priced tickets allow you to experience the show while the creative team continues polishing and making changes. This stage is vital for the show’s evolution, offering the team a chance to view it from the audience’s perspective. Playhouse staff provide a brief introduction, and the creative team may be in the audience near you taking notes.
Content Guidance
This production includes occasional loud noises and flashing lights. We understand sensitivities vary from person to person. If you have any questions about content, age-appropriateness or stage effects, please get in touch with our Patron Services team at [email protected] or (858) 550-1010 and we’ll be happy to give you more info.
Ticket discounts
The Playhouse offers a range of ways to save on tickets, including Military, Student and Rush discounts, and $30 tickets in Area 5. Discounts are subject to availability and conditions may apply. Read more here or call Patron Services at (858) 550-1010 for more info.
Audience Engagement Events
Enhance your Playhouse experience by attending these free events. Simply book your performance for one of the following dates.
Talkback Tuesday
Participate in a lively discussion with performers and Playhouse staff members immediately following the performance.
Tue, Aug 20 and Aug 27 after the 7:30pm show
Discovery Sunday
Hear from guest speakers in a moderated discussion exploring the themes of the show.
Sun, Sep 8 after the 1pm show
Useful Information
Duration
Approximately 1 hr, 50 mins with no intermission
Duration is subject to change, please check back or see your pre-show email.
Parking
Parking is FREE for La Jolla Playhouse patrons in the South Parking Structure when a valid parking pass is displayed. Take advantage of the free shuttle to the theatre. Find all parking information here.
Sasha-inspired Style
Take a cue from the vibrant Sasha Velour and express yourself when you join us for the show! There is no dress code, but you are free to wear your best drag or drag-inspired outfits. Feather boas, vivid colors, sparkly sequins – all of it is welcome, so have fun! (And if you post a photo on social media, make sure you tag us: @lajollaplayhouse on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.)
Covid-19 Policy
La Jolla Playhouse no longer requires patrons to wear masks indoors while attending our theatres. However, we recommend indoor masking while at La Jolla Playhouse. For up-to-date information regarding COVID-19 safety procedures, please visit our Covid Safety Page.
Onsite Dining
La Jolla Playhouse’s on-site restaurant, James’ Place, is open for dinner service at 5pm nightly (Tue – Sun). Please note, James’ Place is not open prior to matinee performances. James’ Place offers full bar service and a selection of specialty sushi, Asian fusion, steak & coastal cuisine items. Reserve your table on OpenTable or by phone on (858) 638-7778. Indoor and outdoor seating available.
Concessions
Concessions opens 60 mins before showtime. Come early to relax outside and enjoy a selection of beer, wine, cocktails, sodas and individually wrapped snacks. All food must be consumed before entering the theatre while concession drinks with lids will be allowed in the theatre.
Access Performances
ACCESS Performance (ASL interpretation): Sat Sep 7, 2pm
The Playhouse caters for a wide range of access and special requirements. Access performances offer American Sign Language interpretation for patrons who are d/Deaf or hard-of-hearing, captioning for patrons to access on individual devices, and a relaxed welcoming environment for patrons with sensory sensitivities. Audio Description for patrons who are blind or have low vision can be requested in advance. Please call (858) 550-1010 or email [email protected] and we will work with you to address your access needs. Find more info about access here.
Sensory Friendly Guide
Read the Sensory Friendly Guide for the Potiker Theatre here
Production Sponsors
Weston Anson
Denise and Lon Bevers
Kay and Bill Gurtin
Pam Wagner and Hans Tegebo
Photo of Sasha Velour by Mettie Ostrowski, artwork concept by Sasha Velour.
Cast & Creators
- Creators
- Cast
- Design
- David RockwellScenic Designer
- Diego Montoya StudioCostumer Designer
- Amanda ZieveLighting Designer
- Palmer HefferanSound Designer
- Cosette "Ettie" PinProjection Designer
- House of VelourVideo Creation
- Angela PhillipsAerial Designer
- Stephen OremusMusic Director
- TBD CastingCasting
- Jacole KitchenCasting
- Ann C. JamesSensitivity Specialist
- Matt JoslynCreative Producer
- Jacob RussellStage Manager
- Topaz CooksAssistant Stage Manager
- Benjamin SeibertSenior Production Manager
- Ryan MeisheidGeneral Manager
- Eric Keen-LouieArtistic Producing Director
Gallery
Venue Info
Sheila and Hughes Potiker Theatre
The Sheila and Hughes Potiker Theatre is a black box flexible theatre seating up to 450 patrons, and the centerpiece of the 6,500-square-foot Joan and Irwin Jacobs Center.
