You’ll kick yourself if you miss out on Masquerage 2017 this weekend

Credit: Briana Snyder Photography

Credit: Briana Snyder Photography

It is almost time to get lost.

Organizers are gearing up for Masquerage 2017, the biennial bash thrown by Equitas Health (formerly AIDS Resource Center Ohio).

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“It is all about raising awareness and funds for our mission,” Wanda Willis, an Equitas spokeswoman said of the event.

Alexis Michelle, the stage name of New York-based drag performer Alex Michaels, will headline the party set for 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 21 at the Montgomery County Fairgrounds Roundhouse, 1043 S. Main St. Dayton.

Michelle competed on the most recent season of “RuPaul’s Drag Race.”

About 800 people are expected to attend the party themed “Lost Worlds.”

Credit: HANDOUT

Credit: HANDOUT

Founded in 1984, Equitas Health is one of the nation’s largest  HIV/AIDS, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer/questioning (LGBTQ) healthcare organizations.

Its mask and costume-optional party will also include performances by The Rubi Girls, Dayton's own comedy drag troupe, and sultry aerial dancers from Femme Fatale FitnessDJ. Dayna will play music.

>> MORE: Line up of performers at Masquerage 2017

Ticket sales have been strong, Willis said.

“She (Alexis Michelle) will open the show and she will close the show,” Willis said. “I think she will be a big hit, and the Rubi Girls are always fabulous.”

Me on the dancefloor tonight because my mug is so right

🤳

— RuPaul's Drag Race (@RuPaulsDragRace)

Alexis Michelle is a friend of Masquerage 2017 chair Brenden Wynn from his days in New York and ballet.

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Willis said the pair studied together at Interlochen Arts Academy in Michigan.

Tickets are available at Masquerage.org. Those who purchase tickets to the VIP Red Ribbon Lounge for $150 in advance or $175 at the door will receive free drinks, a Dayton.com swag bag and a meet-and-greet with Alexis Michelle.

General admission tickets are $65 in advance and $75 at the door. It includes a welcome cocktail and food from SageCraft Catering. Wanda described the appetizers as delectable.

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