PRISM brought out the feathers and cubic zirconium Saturday night to raise money for a good cause.

As part of Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Awareness Month, PRISM held its sixth annual Gay Jam titled “Episode VI: Return of the Divi.” (Divi is plural for diva.)

Originating as a comedy show in 1997, the drag/variety show was held Saturday at the Holmes Student Center’s Diversions Lounge.

As in years past, a charity raffle was held at the free show. This year’s charity organization is Questioning Youth Center, a DeKalb-based non-profit organization that recognizes the needs of adolescents struggling with their sexual identities. The raffle prizes included gift certificates donated by area businesses and restaurants and were given throughout the show.

The show started about 30 minutes late because so many people were filing through the doors. At 7:30, drag performers Ms. Thang and Stella took the stage, performing a lip-synched duet of “Can That Boy Fox Trot.” The standing-room-only crowd cheered and laughed at the choreographed, comedic number.

One favorite drag performer of the evening was Tina Stefano, a Chicago-based headlining diva and NIU Gay Jam veteran. He used the whole room as his stage, allowing the audience closer looks at his perfectly applied make-up, flawless hair and flashy costume.

Besides the drag acts, comedians Ben Thomas and Carolyn Law shared some laughs with the crowd. Thomas (seen as Stella earlier in the show) made his comedy debut and veteran comedian Law emceed the event in addition to performing. Rounding out the variety portion of the show was vocalist Louise Steeves, who sang three numbers, showing off a powerful and dynamic range.

The very colorful and entertaining show yielded more than $450 for the Questioning Youth Center, which will be added to proceeds from other events to be held throughout the month.

For any questions about this year’s Gay Jam, how to donate money to the charity or to find out how to get involved in next year’s show, call PRISM at 753-0584 or e-mail at [email protected].

PRISM will hold its end of the year celebration dance at 9:30 p.m. Friday at Eduardo’s Restaurant’s Flamingo Lounge, 214 E. Lincoln Highway. Admission is $5. Participants must be 18 to enter and 21 to drink.