The 2014 Miss’d America Pageant, a drag-queen spoof on the annual Miss America Pageant, returns to Atlantic City at 7 p.m. Sept. 28 at Harrah’s Resort.
Carson Kressley will host the competition again this year, along with new musical guests The Village People and the Melanie Rice Orchestra. The ’70s disco-drag fever-themed event will include a pre-party at the Eden Lounge from 5-7 p.m. and a post-party directly after the pageant at The Pool at Harrah’s.
Ten contestants underwent a strict initial screening process for the chance to compete for the crown. While it’s a smaller number of contestants than last year, the leaner lineup will allow more time for each contestant to perform during the talent portion of the pageant.
“Before, they were being rushed though the talent portion,” said Gary Hill, co-creator of the event.
Contestants will compete in three categories: swimsuit, talent and evening gown, and must also complete a judge’s interview.
Hill said the last piece is a good opportunity for the judges to consider how the contestants will handle themselves in public settings.
“The interview process is very important, because it demonstrates how they would address the public,” Hill said. “We’re looking for someone who is both fabulous and articulate.”
Last year’s winner, Victoria “Porkchop” Parker, will crown the new winner and give a farewell performance.
The first-place winner will receive a $1,000 cash prize, second-place $500 and third $250. A contestants’ brunch will be hosted the following morning at the Claridge Hotel. Afterwards, the new winner will dip her shoe in the ocean at the newly christened gay beach on Park Place.
During her reigning year, the winner will be expected to represent the LGBT community of Atlantic City and South Jersey at Pride events around the country as well as LGBT events, mixers and fundraisers in Atlantic City.
Proceeds from the pageant will be divided equally between the Greater Atlantic City GLBT Alliance and the Schultz-Hill Scholarship Foundation. To date, the pageant has donated more than $225,000 to charity.
Ticket prices range from $35-$100 and can be purchased online at ticketmaster.com or at the Harrah’s box office.
For more information, visit the Greater Atlantic City GLBT Alliance website, www.acglbt.org.