On Kathy Sprague’s 30th birthday, TabiKat Productions was born.
Now, 24 years later, the business has been a staple in the Moscow community, putting on various drag shows each month.
Sprague started TabiKat Productions with her wife, Tabitha Simmons. The name of company is a mashup of the two nicknames they hate — an inside joke between them.
However, their company’s origin actually stemmed from a sad event.
Someone close to Sprague passed away on her 28th birthday from AIDS complications. As a way to move forward, the first TabiKat show was put on two years later, hopefully creating a safe and inclusive environment for all.
“(They are) a lot of fun. We have a mixed crowd of gay, straight, non-binary… whatever people. We all dance and have a good time,” she said.
Inland Oasis, another Moscow business, has been involved with TabiKat Productions for many years, offering condoms and STD testing opportunities after the events.
TabiKat not only puts on shows, but they are also involved with other community events. After purchasing a sound system, they were able to travel and help with nonprofits and rallies.
Sprague said the business’s relationship with the community of Moscow is fantastic.
“We always try to have a positive and inclusive message at every show,” Sprague said.
The inclusive relationship extends to the performers, as well.
Jada Cortese, who performs under the drag name Twitch, highlighted the welcoming atmosphere between the performers.
“TabiKat is one of the best places to work. If I ever felt like my drag wasn’t worth it, other performers would lift me up instead of dragging me down. At the other place I performed at, nobody really helped each other, it was more of a competition and you had to stand on your own,” Cortese said.
Cortese first heard about TabiKat when she went to a pride show. About a year and half later, she became a performer, participating in events such as Drag 101 and Drag Bingo, which all proceeds are donated back to the community.
“It’s absolutely amazing and we have a loyal crowd. On nights where we don’t have as much people you wouldn’t know the difference because they’re just as loud,” she said.
Cortese said she has never had a bad show and plans to perform with TabiKat as long as possible because she’s never worked with people who are so kind.
“Whether you are new to a drag show or have never been to a TabiKat show and you can’t bring tips or money, just being there makes the performers’ day. They’ll just care if you’re there and being loud,” Cortese said.
The 24th anniversary show takes place Saturday at the 1912 Center. Doors open at 9 p.m., with two shows at 10:30 p.m. and midnight. The event is 18 years or older, and there will be a separate bar for those over 21 years old.
Tickets are available at Safari Pearl for $8. They will also be sold at the door for $10, with a dollar taken off for those who dress up. Personal identification is required at the door.
Nicole Hindberg can be reached at [email protected]