100 Photos Prove Drag Saves the Day

Sometimes the only way to tell the seasons are changing in Los Angeles is by the events. The way to tell that autumn is here is the sudden appearance of drag queens on the street. Natives know it's time for the annual Best in Drag Show coming this October 8.

Battle for the Tiara (the original name of the event) began as a small annual party and AIDS fundraising event filled with love and heart in Alexis Pittman's living room. Each year it has grown in size and renown. No longer able to squeeze into a tiny living room, the event attracts 2,000 people and takes place each fall at the Orpheum Theatre in downtown Los Angeles.The event is helmed by an amazing group of dedicated and creative people including Jeffrey Drew, Patrick Rush, Jimmy Cuomo, Joey Alfano, John Paschal, Todd Gadjusek, and Greg Butler. For more than 10 years, Kathy Griffin has generously opened the show and been a major donor. She leads the judges' panel and ensures that the evening is a comedic success.

Grab your tickets now as they go fast every year, and be a part of a wonderful fundraising event. The great photo here are from the archives of the event and courtesy of John Paschal International Studios.