Last year, Assistant Director Barak Stockler approached students Eden Rovner ’27 and Felix Knight ’27 to lead different environmentally themed Hillel events. Felix had a vision for the Save the Rainforest Drag Show instantaneously, inspired by the 1997 film Batman and Robin, where a similar event takes place. However, the drag show was about more than aesthetics from its inception; Eden and Felix wanted to unite the campus behind something that concerned everyone—climate change. The first show in April 2025 was attended by family members of performers, along with about 25 students. For many, it was their first Hillel event.
For the second drag show, Eden and Felix wanted to expand the range of performers, increase attendance, and have more diversity in terms of performers and audience than the previous year. These goals were met with resounding success. A student who had attended both shows speculated that as many as three times as many students attended the Save the Ocean Drag Show. One of the winning acts was by the student government president. In addition, Save the Ocean Drag Show was held in the newly reopened Gopher Hole, which was beautifully decorated, adding to the vibe. The music had water themes, and there were slides with environmental messages. Some of the costumes also carried out the theme. Prizes were donations to organizations that promoted ocean conservancy. The students took the MCs admonition to “be kind” seriously and cheered loudly for every act. The atmosphere was happy and positive. The show ended with the announcement of next year’s theme—STOP! The Desert Drag Show, which will focus on the issues of desertification and drought.
The event co-chairs, Eden and Felix, did an amazing job pulling this event together with support from Rabbi Josh, Barak, and many other Goucher Hillel students. It was such a win-win—fun for Goucher Hillel students, plus a way to build bridges with students from all over campus. Rabbi Josh and Barak deserve kudos for supporting the students in making this event such a huge success. It brought much joy to organizers, participants, and attendees.