Ep 2. Ladies' Tum

Afropop: The Ultimate Cultural Exchange season 7 episode 2, titled "Ladies' Tum," dives into the unique world of Tanzanian drag culture. The episode focuses on two drag queens, Lilian and Gift, who perform under the monikers of "Dada Kabucha" and "Ms. Gift" respectively. The vibrant and colorful world of Tanzanian drag unfolds before our eyes as we watch these two queens prepare for a big performance.

We learn about the challenges they face as members of the LGBTQ+ community in Tanzania. The country has strict laws against homosexuality and the environment is not always favorable for those who are different. However, despite the challenges, Lilian and Gift have found a way to live their truth through their drag personas.

Through interviews with Lilian and Gift, we learn about the creative process behind their performances. They start by choosing a song and then designing their costumes around that theme. We watch as they go shopping for fabric and accessories, discussing their vision for the final product. We see them expertly sew and stitch together their outfits, putting the finishing touches on their makeup.

The performance itself is a spectacle to behold. Lilian and Gift take to the stage, commanding attention with their bold and confident moves. Audience members scream and cheer as they transform into their alter egos. The energy of the performance is tangible and infectious, and we can't help but be swept away by the sheer passion and joy that emanates from Lilian and Gift.

We also get a glimpse into the role that drag culture plays in Tanzanian society. Lilian and Gift explain how drag culture has traditionally been a way to push boundaries and explore gender identity in a country where expressing oneself can be difficult. They speak about the importance of creating safe spaces where people can be themselves and express themselves freely.

However, we also see the darker side of the Tanzanian drag scene. Lilian and Gift talk about the discrimination they face on a daily basis, from being denied entry to certain clubs to receiving hateful comments online. They acknowledge the harsh realities of their situation but remain resolute in their commitment to expressing themselves through drag.

Overall, "Ladies' Tum" is an insightful and eye-opening exploration of Tanzanian drag culture. Lilian and Gift are captivating performers with a message of acceptance and self-expression that transcends borders. Their story highlights the importance of creating safe spaces for marginalized communities to express themselves, and serves as a reminder of the power of drag to push boundaries and challenge societal norms.