Queer Student Alliance builds community through cabaret

The cabaret opened with a theatrical drag lip-sync performance of “Willkommen” from Cabaret by Butch Thespian. (credit: Grace Salter)

Hope Rogers and Ryan Greenhill followed with a powerful joint vocal performance as Death Wish Deers, singing “All I Wanted” by Paramore, drawing the audience into their emotional and powerful rendition. (credit: Grace Salter)

Saige Kovalik followed with multiple renditions of Gigi Perez songs, including “At the Beach In Every Life” and “Please Be Rude.” Kovalik’s vocals impressed the audience and their vibrant frog sweater and colorful hair added a nice touch of color to the performance. (credit: Grace Salter)

Aaliyah Aziz, performing under the name Cinderblaze, improvised on the violin, adding a creative and whimsical touch to the lineup. Aziz, who often plays in the Student Center, brought the same beautiful, resonant sound that regularly fills campus halls. (credit: Grace Salter)

Tobin Norman’s performance of “Abbey” by Mitski showcased their beautiful, powerful voice, with strong vocals that left the audience hanging on every note. (credit: Grace Salter)

After intermission, Butch Thespian returned to the stage for a second drag lip-sync performance, performing “Hard to Be the Bard” from Something Rotten with sharp humor that kept the audience laughing. (credit: Grace Salter)

Ryan Greenhill then took the stage with a solo performance of “Messy” by Lola Young, delivering a catchy song and fun, energetic performance. (credit: Grace Salter)

Indie Vyduel followed with an incredible drag lip-sync of “Gnarly,” showcasing amazing dance skills and commanding stage presence. (credit: Grace Salter)

Hope Norman closed the musical performances with a deeply emotional and vocally stunning performance of “The Greatest” by Billie Eilish. (credit: Grace Salter)

Hope Rogers closed the musical performances with a deeply emotional and vocally stunning performance of “The Greatest” by Billie Eilish. (credit: Grace Salter)

Ryan Greenhill ended the night with a last-minute comedy act, sharing some silly stories about his friends. (credit: Grace Salter)

By GRACE SALTER - posted December 16, 2025

The Queer Student Alliance (QSA) at Cleveland State University held its cabaret on Wednesday, Dec. 3, in Berkman Hall Auditorium, featuring performances that highlight the importance of protecting queer art, culture and identity.

The event delivered a range of entertainment, including drag, singing, violin and a comedy act, all presented by LGBTQ+ students and allies. The cabaret was organized by QSA to create a space where students could freely express themselves through art and performance.

QSA Vice President Maggie Natt, who performs under the drag name "Butch Thespian" served as the event's host, providing humor and charisma while keeping the audience engaged when transitioning between acts.

Following the performances, QSA leaders reflected on the purpose of the cabaret and its impact on students. QSA President Hope Rogers and Vice President Maggie Natt organized the event with the goal of creating a welcoming space for students to connect through art.

“It was an idea that Maggie and I had to try and bring people together,” Rogers said. “I was hoping for people to be able to come to the show and just exist together for a while.”

Natt, who also hosted the event while performing two drag numbers, said the cabaret plays a key role in fostering safety and connection for queer students and their allies.

“I think they can help create creative and meaningfully safe spaces for queer students,” Natt said.

Natt added that the performances were meant to show students that queerness and self-expression can take many forms.

“You can be openly and visibly queer in so many different ways,” said Natt.

Rogers said organizing the cabaret required coordination and flexibility, particularly after the event date was moved and some performers dropped out. She ultimately added another performance herself to fill the program.

“Our number one goal is to be a safe place for queer people and allies alike,” Rogers said. “I hope people who came to the show enjoyed it and feel inclined to get more involved with QSA.”

With drag, music and comedy, the cabaret left students inspired, entertained and reminded of the importance of queer creativity and community.