On Feb. 29, Haus of Wonder: A Family Affair debuted to an enthusiastic crowd at Dorothy Downstairs, 2500 W. Chicago Ave., celebrating chosen family, culture and artistry. With over 85 drag kings, Chicago’s vibrant scene continues to grow. Among the city’s many drag houses, the Haus of Wonder—led by Parker Haines, aka Switch the Boi Wonder—has launched a performance series that amplifies underrepresented voices while showcasing drag families.
“Drag is everywhere. It’s a beautiful, beautiful community,” said Switch, reflecting on the deep connections within the scene.
Koda Calma, known on stage as Koda Pendants, is one of Switch’s drag children. “As queer people, especially drag performers, many of us don’t have relationships with our biological families,” Koda explained. “Houses provide mentorship and community.”
“What makes the Haus of Wonder special is that six out of seven of us are Filipino drag artists,” Koda added. “We’ve bonded through this shared cultural connection.”
For their debut show, the Haus of Wonder invited the Haus of Ami to perform, led by their father, Lúc Ami.
“Lúc Ami is like a drag alien deity,” Koda said. “Their house has this mystical energy, while the Haus of Wonder leans into burlesque influences, reflecting Switch’s roots. But within houses, there’s always room for individuality—each performer brings their own flair.”
Switch emphasized that A Family Affair is about inclusivity and representation. “Drag Kings are still underrepresented in drag shows,” they said. “We’re often treated as a box to check off. Add being a person of color, and it’s even harder in a scene that’s still very white-dominated.”
In today’s political climate, Switch sees drag as both art and resistance. “As a queer, trans person of color, my very existence is political. But not all art has to be explicitly political—sometimes joy itself is a radical act.”
Now 52, Switch has spent over two decades in drag. “I’m like an old king,” they joked. “Since I’m past 30, I guess I’d consider myself a trans elder.” With that role comes a deep responsibility. “It’s about showing the next generation what’s possible and teaching them to keep fighting for what they want.”
A Family Affair embodies the spirit of chosen family, cultural connection, and joyful resistance that defines Chicago’s drag scene.
