Rob Hunter de Woofs ©ICNY

Last weekend, the Imperial Court of New York (ICNY) came alive at the Twenty-Third annual charity gala, Night of a Thousand Gowns.  Royalty reigned supreme amid high heels, high hair and even higher tiaras at the Marriott Marquis Hotel in Times Square on Saturday, March 21st.

Since 1986, over a million dollars has been raised by ICNY to benefit philanthropic and youth enrichment organisations such as LIFEbeat (The Music Industry Fights AIDS) and MCCNY Homeless Youth Services. The charity cultivates social awareness for the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender communities, tackling serious issues with a positive attitude.

Over 1,000 people attended the charity gala and silent auction in the Marriot Marquis Broadway Ballroom. Bedecked, bejeweled, and bewigged, Time Square was transformed into drag queen central. There were feather boas galore, rhinestones dazzling under disco lights, and at midnight, the new Emperor and Empress were crowned.

The charity gala is the highlight of ICNY’s social calendar, which holds events in the United States, Mexico and Canada. The brainchild of Jose Sarria, the Imperial Court was conceived in San Francisco to unite the gay and lesbian communities in the politically driven 1960’s. The New York Court was established in 1986 and promotes outreach and education along with fun and entertainment…dressing up with a purpose!

Merry members of the Court enjoyed cocktails, a Viennese dessert buffet and top-tier performances from Grammy Award winner Michelle Williams and Shrek The Musical’s Christopher Sieber. This year’s honorary chairs included Sir Elton John, Patti Lupone, and Joan Rivers.

For more information on upcoming events, drop by the Imperial Court