Images courtesy of Brendon Maczkowiack/Minty Hydrangea.
The Big Drag Fundraiser is back this year to spread glitz, glamour and positive vibes, coming directly to Rhino Room next month for a full night of fun and entertainment. Hosted by Minty Hydrangea and Special Guest, the night features top-tier entertainment and DJ sets all night, and has a spectacular lineup of South Australian artists, all of whom are donating their time and talents to the very worthy Cancer Council SA.
Last year, the event raised an impressive $2100 for the charity, and was attended by a crowd of more than 100, with this year promising to be even bigger and better.
Not only are all proceeds going straight to Cancer Council SA, but the event is being held in memory of former Howling Owl owner, Rachel Krieg, who sadly lost her battle with cancer in early 2025. This local legend was a huge champion for the arts community, supporting local and international artists and providing a safe space for them to unleash their creativity and individuality, putting her blood, sweat and tears into countless functions and events, and making her mark on Adelaide’s iconic East End.
Event organiser Brendon Maczkowiack (aka Minty Hydrangea) and CEO of All That Drag, says the night is as much about showcasing talented drag and burlesque performers as it is about celebrating Rachel’s life and legacy, and the enormous impact she had on the arts community.
“This fundraiser is about making sure that Rachel’s name is never forgotten, because she was a pioneer in local South Australian art,” says Brendon, who fondly remembers Rachel’s last message to him: “Have a drink and a dance for me. I’m going out, and who better to do this for me than you?” A beautiful message that Brendan now lives by.
“It’s also about giving to a charity that I think everyone should be giving to,” he says, as approximately 30 new cases of cancer are diagnosed every single day in South Australia.
“No one is receiving payment for this event, to maximise our donation to the Cancer Council SA…I think it’s something that needs to be done, and cancer needs to be beat. It’s 2026, how the hell do we not have a cure?”
For a great time supporting a truly worthy cause that honours the memory of one of Adelaide’s best, you won’t want to miss the Big Drag Fundraiser.
Big Drag Fundraiser
When: Friday 22 May at 9.30pm (doors open at 9pm) – Saturday 23 May at 2am
Where: Rhino Room, at 1/131 Pirie St, Adelaide SA 5000, Australia
For more information or to book tickets, click here.
