The History Of The Rusical Challenge on ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’
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The Rusical challenge has evolved from a simple one-off challenge into a dazzling mainstay that continues to captivate audiences worldwide. What began as a maxi challenge nearly a decade ago has become a beloved staple of the show. Let’s look at how the Rusical grew from a one-time event to a tradition on RuPaul’s Drag Race.
How The Rusical Challenge Started
It was back in 2014 that the visionary Tom Campbell, an executive producer of RuPaul’s Drag Race, wanted to do something different for the show’s contestants and viewers. As the sixth season rolled around, Campbell’s brainstorming session led him to the world of Broadway musicals.
The spark ignited when the word “musical” collided with the show’s distinctive branding, birthing the term “Rusical.” Little did anyone know, this was the beginning of a new era in the Drag Race universe.
The Rusical is a challenge where the queens still have to look fabulous, but they also have to sing, dance, and act in a story. Each season, the challenge has a different theme. Sometimes it’s a funny take on a well-known story, and other times it’s a brand-new idea meant to make people laugh.
The people behind the scenes work hard to make each Rusical special. A songwriter named Brett McLaughlin, also known as Leland, is a key part of the process. He writes the songs for the queens to perform. Sometimes the queens lip-sync to his pre-recorded music, and other times they sing live. McLaughlin’s goal is to make each queen shine in their performance.
Rusicals Showcase Surprising Themes With Powerful Messages
One of the most notable Rusicals, “Wigloose: The Rusical,” resonated profoundly with viewers due to its poignant narrative that eerily paralleled real-world events. Focusing on a small town’s attempt to ban drag, the musical’s themes also struck a chord in the midst of discussions about the art form’s legitimacy.
As the queens poured their heart and soul into their performances, they inadvertently tackled the controversy head-on. The creators and producers recognized the opportunity to make a real impact, leading to the establishment of the Drag Defense Fund in collaboration with MTV, World of Wonder, and also the ACLU.
As the Rusical challenge evolved, its impact expanded beyond the screen. With a growing focus on elaborate set designs, resonant storytelling, and poignant themes, the Rusical became more than a mere spectacle. It grew into a dynamic form of art that transcended reality TV, prompting conversations about social issues and artistic expression.
