Heklina, the drag icon, and American actor passed away at 54. The Oasis, the nightclub and theatre that hosted one of the iconic drag events paid tribute to Heklina.
Stefan Grygelko aka Heklina’s unfortunate death was announced by his friend Peaches Christ who wrote: “I am shocked and horrified to bring this news to you. I am living in a real-life nightmare so forgive me if I don’t have all the answers just now. This morning, in London, England I went to collect my dear friend Heklina, who is costarring with me in a Mommie Queerest show here, and found her dead.”
The Oasis pays tribute to Heklina
Heklina, the drag queen and co-founder of Tr*nnyshack held one of the most iconic drag shows of all time at The Oasis and the nightclub announced they would be mourning the shocking demise of the legend opening the place for all.
The official account of The Oasis tweeted: “We are shocked and devastated to learn of the passing of Heklina today. Oasis will be open at 4 pm for drinks, stories, and community if you’d like to come by. Sending love to all.”
Heklina rebranded The Oasis almost a decade back
Heklina wanted to create a place of nurturing. Speaking of the need to create a place for hosting all drag events, the actor had said: “It has several meanings; the new “Mothership” of drag in SF, something warm and comforting, nurturing even. And it also ties into the “drag mother” thing. This will be a place for all drag mothers to bring their children, to hone their craft.” The drag legend bought The Oasis almost a decade back in 2014 with D’Arcy Drollinger, Geoff Benjamin, and Jason Beebout.
The Oasis hosted several varieties of programs featuring drag stars, cabaret and performing artists, live musical acts, and DJs.
Twitter mourns Heklina’s death
Twitter is mourning the drag legend’s untimely passing.
Remembering his warm presence, drag queen Coco Peru wrote: “I’m heartbroken. We communicated nearly everyday and nothing made me happier than making her cackle. We visited recently and I’m so grateful we spent some time together. Heklina, I loved and adored you and my only comfort right now is in knowing that I told you that often.”
Another user added: “It is sad and surreal to hear about the unexpected passing of Heklina. She has always been a true & good friend to us who we will miss immensely. She was consistently humble, wise, generous, forgiving, hysterical, & filthy, and will always be an inspiration to us.”
More tributes read:
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