Las Vegas is gearing up for a night of fashion, creativity, and philanthropy as the Sin Sity Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence prepare to host their annual Project Nunway event. Slated for Saturday, Sept. 7, at The Usual Place in Downtown Las Vegas, this year’s event promises to be an unforgettable evening, combining avant-garde fashion with a noble cause.
The theme for this year’s Project Nunway is “Barbie Sinful Dream World,” where local designers will compete to create the most imaginative and innovative outfits inspired by the iconic doll. However, in keeping with the spirit of the event, these ensembles will be crafted from recycled, found, and unpurchased materials, highlighting the anti-consumerism and eco-sustainable values at the core of Project Nunway.
Hosted by Alexis Mateo, a celebrated drag queen from “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” the evening will feature dazzling performances alongside the fashion competition. Alexis Mateo will not only emcee the event but will also perform a special number, ensuring the night is filled with entertainment and flair. Additionally, “Drag Race” star Jaymes Mansfield will treat attendees to three stunning performances, including an exclusive show for VIP ticketholders. Adding to the evening’s excitement, drag king Touni will present a unique “Ken” show, further enhancing the theme’s playful and subversive nature.
Each designer participating in the competition will be paired with a Sin Sity Sister, collaborating to bring their vision of the “Barbie Sinful Dream World” to life. Designers will be judged on their creativity, talent, individuality, and overall execution of their garments, with special recognition for those who best interpret the theme and capture the audience's imagination.
Proceeds from Project Nunway will go directly to the Sisters AIDS Drug Assistance Program (SADAP), which provides life-saving medications and support to people living with HIV/AIDS. SADAP has been a vital resource in the Southern Nevada community, offering assistance to individuals regardless of race, age, or gender. For 16 years, the program has helped clients obtain necessary HIV/AIDS medications and health insurance, as well as preventative care through Prep and PEP.
The Sin Sity Sisters have raised over $1 million for Southern Nevadans in need, and Project Nunway is a shining example of their ongoing commitment to the community. With tickets starting at $25 for general admission and $65 for VIP access, this event offers an opportunity to support a worthy cause while experiencing the best in local fashion and entertainment.
Join the Sin Sity Sisters on Sept. 7 for a night where fashion meets philanthropy, and creativity knows no bounds.
The Judges
Taylor Trash is a celebrated figure in the Las Vegas LGBTQ+ community, known for her significant contributions and dedicated service. As Empress 21 at the Imperial Royal Sovereign Court of the Desert Empire, Inc., Taylor has played a pivotal role in supporting and uplifting the community. Her extensive experience and involvement in various events have made her a well-respected figure in fundraising and community support. Over the years, Taylor has been a valuable ally to the Sin Sity Sisters, helping to raise substantial funds for their initiatives. Her deep commitment to the community and proven track record make her an exceptional choice as a judge for Project Nunway 2024.
Rico Ramirez, Senior Diversity Recruiter at the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA), has been an integral part of the Las Vegas community since moving from Colorado in 2005. With a Master’s degree in Hospitality Management from UNLV, Rico has dedicated his career to building relationships within the LGBTQ+ community and supporting various nonprofits, including the Southern Nevada Association of PRIDE, Inc., and The Center. His extensive volunteer work and commitment to fostering community connections make him an excellent choice for a judge at Project Nunway 2024.
Josie Cavallari is a passionate advocate for trans rights in Las Vegas, embodying a vibrant spirit that celebrates life to the fullest. As the District Manager at BCBGMAXAZRIA and a self-employed business owner, Josie brings a wealth of experience in fashion and management to her role. Her commitment to the LGBTQ+ community and her dedication to fighting for trans rights make her an ideal judge for Project Nunway 2024. Josie's enthusiasm and deep connection to the Las Vegas community will ensure a thoughtful and impactful perspective in evaluating this year's designs.
Kathy Alday has long been a vital part of the Las Vegas LGBTQ+ community, notably representing the NGRA and contributing significantly to the Gay Rodeo. With years of dedicated fundraising and community involvement, Kathy's extensive experience and commitment to LGBTQ+ causes make her an exceptional choice to serve as a judge for Project Nunway 2024. Her deep understanding of community engagement and event organization will bring valuable insight and expertise to this year's competition.
Samantha Palaggi is a tireless supporter of the LGBTQ+ community, known for her boundless energy and enthusiasm. She’s always ready to lend a helping hand, offering unwavering support to friends and organizations alike. Samantha’s dedication to making the world a more inclusive and accepting place, coupled with her ability to spread joy wherever she goes, makes her an outstanding choice to judge Project Nunway 2024. Her positivity and commitment to unity embody the spirit of the event, ensuring she will bring a fair and compassionate perspective to the runway.
L.A. Jewel brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for the LGBTQ+ community to her role as a judge for Project Nunway 2024. A former Miss Gay Las Vegas At Large 2001 and Miss Henderson Pride 23, L.A. has a distinguished history in pageantry and performance. As the owner and manager of L.A. Jewel and The Cover Girls, and with extensive experience as a makeup artist and hairstylist, L.A. possesses a keen eye for detail and design. Her involvement with Imperial Crown Princess Royal 9 & 17 and her work with L.A. and Friends Productions further showcase her commitment to the arts and entertainment. Residing in Las Vegas, L.A.'s diverse background and vibrant presence make her an ideal judge to evaluate and celebrate the creativity and talent at Project Nunway.
The Designers
Marcus Phillips is a classical musician, cosplay enthusiast, and emerging fashion designer making his mark at Project Nunway for the second year. Inspired by anime, cosplay, pop culture, and drag queens, Marcus channels these influences to create sensational runway designs. Whether crafting a bedazzled jockstrap or couture for Comic Con, Marcus strives to encourage everyone to embrace their inner diva. Get ready for a splash of drama and fun as Marcus returns to the Project Nunway runway for Barbie's Sinful Dream World!
Debra Storey is the creative force behind Blazzian Collection, a luxury brand specializing in handcrafted evening gowns and cocktail wear. With a strong foundation in fashion education and business management, Debra combines her design talent with a commitment to community outreach. Since launching Blazzian Collection in 2008, she has produced multiple successful fundraising fashion shows benefiting organizations like the Make-A-Wish Foundation and SafeNest Las Vegas. As a member of the Las Vegas Fashion Council, Debra continues to inspire and support the next generation of fashion talent.
Cecil and Matthew Kester Shatswell have been active members of the Las Vegas LGBTQ+ community for the past 14 years, contributing in numerous ways. Their joint accomplishments include participating in the Las Vegas Gay Softball League, volunteering with the Sin Sity Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, engaging with the Idaho Chapter of The International Court System, and launching a business focused on the LGBTQ+ community.
Cecil works for Cirque du Soleil as a full-time backup lead technician in the wig and makeup department. Together, under the label "Cocky Punk," Cecil and Matthew design original GoGo apparel for Piranha Nightclub and Gipsy nightclub, showcasing their creations weekly on some of Las Vegas' hottest GoGo dancers.
The Boys of Cocky Punk are thrilled to return to the Project Nunway stage to share another of their unique creations.
Sister CoCo B. Touchindawood is a founding member of the First Coast Sisters in Jacksonville, Florida, where he currently serves as Abbess and Mistress of Novices. His journey in costuming began during his time in New Orleans from 1988 to 1996, under the mentorship of Jim Schexnsyder, ASID. CoCo is a former member of the gay Carnival Krewes Amon-Ra and Armenius, where his elaborate Mardi Gras costumes graced the Krewes' Balle Masques.
With a wealth of experience in Nunway competitions, CoCo has participated in six different Nunway events, winning two (Yuma and Vegas) and serving as a judge in Vegas last year. Outside of his creative endeavors, CoCo works full-time as an RN in the ER at a military base in Jacksonville, Florida. He also designs stunning costumes, including feather back pieces and collars for drag kings and queens.
CoCo is excited to dive back into the Nunway competition to support the Sin Sity Sisters in their fundraising efforts for the ADAP program.
Dan Gardner is making his debut as a designer for Project Nunway 2024, creating a look for Sister Prudence. As the founder of G-Wiz Design, he has been providing G-Strings and activewear to professional dancers on the Las Vegas Strip since 1987. His menswear line includes G-strings, Micro-G-strings, briefs, square-cut shorts, swimwear, and ballet dance belts, all proudly manufactured in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Roger Hanko is a new designer participating in Project Nunway 2024. He will be designing for Sister Venus, and we're excited to see what he will bring, as he carries an air of mystery as one of our fresh talents.
Joshie Tay, originally from Dubuque, Iowa, is a dedicated member of the LGBTQ+ community in Las Vegas. With a background in wardrobe assistance from Disney On Ice and a degree from Clarke University, Joshie has been actively involved in the My O My Drag Show and works on prominent Las Vegas Strip shows like Opium. This year, he makes his debut as a designer on the Project Nunway stage, bringing his creativity and passion to the runway.