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Alyssa Edwards Reigns Supreme in San Diego with ‘Crowned’ Spectacle

Drag Queen performs on Stage at the House of Blues in San Diego on April 17
Alyssa Edwards performs in the crowd at the House of Blues in San Diego on April 17 Stephen Day

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On April 16, 2025, the House of Blues in San Diego was electrified by Alyssa Edwards' "Crowned" tour—a dazzling fusion of drag, dance, and heartfelt storytelling. The show chronicled Alyssa's evolution from a shy boy in Mesquite, Texas, to a global drag icon and the winner of "RuPaul’s Drag Race Global All Stars" in 2024.

Drag Queen performs on Stage at the House of Blues in San Diego on April 17
Brad Loekle performs on stage at the House of Blues in San Diego on April 17 an icon of a camera Stephen Day

The evening kicked off with a stand-up set by comedian Brad Loekle, whose sharp wit and bawdy humor set the tone perfectly for the night. A staple of the queer comedy scene and known for his appearances on TruTV’s World’s Dumbest, Loekle warmed up the crowd with punchy political jabs, hilarious dating disasters, and just the right amount of raunch. His high-energy performance had the audience howling, priming them for the fabulous spectacle that followed.

Drag Queen performs on Stage at the House of Blues in San Diego on April 17
Alyssa Edwards performs on stage at the House of Blues in San Diego on April 17 an icon of a camera Stephen Day

Alyssa's journey began in the drag pageant circuit, where she earned acclaim for her dance prowess and charisma. She gained widespread recognition on "RuPaul’s Drag Race" Season 5 in 2012, captivating audiences with her candid testimonials and signature tongue-pops. Her return in "All Stars" Season 2 further solidified her status, and her victory in "Global All Stars" crowned her as the first-ever "Queen of the Mothertucking World."

Drag Queen performs on Stage at the House of Blues in San Diego on April 17
Billy kisses Alyssa Edwards hand as he meets her on stage at the House of Blues in San Diego on April 17 an icon of a camera Stephen Day

The "Crowned" performance was a testament to Alyssa's theatrical flair. In a memorable moment, she invited a straight man named Billy on stage to assist in removing her coat, blending humor with audience engagement. Between high-energy numbers, Alyssa regaled the crowd with funny, slightly shady stories as she spilled the tea about her fellow "Global All Stars" castmates, keeping the audience laughing and leaning in for the next juicy anecdote.

Drag Queen performs on Stage at the House of Blues in San Diego on April 17
J Lau Farrow Halston performs at the House of Blues in San Diego on April 17 an icon of a camera Stephen Day

The show also spotlighted local talent, featuring Escondido's J Lau Farrow Halston. J Lau shared insights into her work with the Human Dignity Foundation, a San Diego-based nonprofit dedicated to improving the quality of life within the LGBTQIA+ community. The foundation supports programs that promote equal treatment, wellness, and human dignity, focusing on areas such as civil rights, health and wellness, arts and culture, aging, and youth and families. Their grantmaking is guided by community participation and a commitment to fostering lasting change.

Drag Queen performs on Stage at the House of Blues in San Diego on April 17
Alyssa Edwards gives a signature facial expression after finishing a story at the House of Blues in San Diego on April 17 an icon of a camera Stephen Day

Alyssa's storytelling was interwoven with high-energy dance numbers and elaborate costume changes, reflected her roots as a choreographer and dance instructor. Overall, "Crowned" was more than a drag show; it was an inspiring narrative of resilience and authenticity, leaving the San Diego audience both entertained and uplifted.

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Stephen Day
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