Beloved local drag performer Valencia Prime dies mid-performance at Philly gay bar – PennLive

September 15, 2022 News Editor

A beloved Philadelphia drag performer died Monday night amid a performance at a popular gay bar.

NBC News reported Valencia Prime, a 25-year-old transgender woman, was performing at Tabu Lounge and Sports bar when she collapse mid-performance, according to bar owner Jeffrey Sotland.

“Today we mourn the loss of a very bright and rising star in the performance community and a person who was always full of love and positivity,” the bar said in a social media statement. “We say goodbye to Valencia Prime but we will not forget the light you brought to the stage.”

The self-proclaimed “Philadelphia’s plus-size dancing diva,” the beloved drag performer received an array of tributes across social media following her passing.

“You are and will forever be my light,” drag artist Aloe Vera posted in a Facebook message. “I wish I knew how to keep going without you. I wish I knew how to be inspiring too others that are hurting right now… but a piece of my soul has been taken from me and I’m struggling to pick myself up off the ground without you. I love you with everything in my heart Valencia. Rest in power.”