Review by Mia Phillips
After almost 25 years in the business, Miss Conception is still at the top of her game. Her summer show, Miss Conception Goes to the Movies has been captivating audiences, and for good reason. In this spectacular one-woman show, she brings to life some of Hollywood’s most iconic films and transforms them into a whirlwind of entertainment that even Dorothy would appreciate. The show is only one hour long, and in that time, Miss Conception manages to execute so many onstage costume changes, I completely lost count. She does it all while managing to deliver flawless choreography and showcasing her vocal talents.
On stage, Miss Conception exudes a natural charisma and ease that can only come from an innate talent for entertainment. She shows the audience that she’s no fluke, by sharing a heartwarming home video of her earliest performance, which proves she was just born this way.
Her quick wit evokes laughter from an audience of all ages, ensuring that everyone who attends finds something to enjoy in her show. She also shows off her vast knowledge of cinema, sprinkling in fun facts about each movie and their cultural significance to the LGBTQ+ community, allowing audience members to feel connected to the films even if they haven’t seen the original. The selection of movies she pays tribute to includes classics such as The Wizard of Oz, Mrs. Doubtfire, Cabaret, Moulin Rouge, and more. The sheer variety makes the hour whiz by, making it perfect for those with the attention span of a goldfish.
The finale, however, is what sets Miss Conception Goes to the Movies apart. In a moment that is both unexpected and touching, Miss Conception begins to wipe away her makeup, shedding not another elaborate costume but her entire drag persona. Dressed down in simple day clothes, she reveals herself as the person behind the performer, delivering a powerful message of humanity and vulnerability. This conclusion is a reminder to the audience that, at the end of the day, drag queens are people, deserving of the same respect and kindness as anyone else.
In a time when the art of drag and drag performers are increasingly under attack by those with political power, Miss Conception’s show urges audiences to practice tolerance and compassion. Miss Conception Goes to the Movies is not just a celebration of cinema; but a reminder to act with kindness. And perhaps rewatch some of those cinematic classics because cinema these days just isn’t the same.
Miss Conception Goes to the Movies is performed at Pilgrim House, 336 Commercial St., Provincetown, through September 14. This week, the show is performed Thursdays – Saturdays, 7 p.m., with additional 2 p.m. matinee on Saturday and an additional show on Wednesday, August 21. For tickets and showtimes after that, call 508.487.6424 or visit pilgrimhouseptown.com.
