For 25 years, Julia’s on Broadway has been a cornerstone of Seattle’s LGBTQIA+ and entertainment scene, blending drag, burlesque, and theatrical performances into an unforgettable experience. Its evolution began with classic impersonations of beloved Queer icons like Madonna, Cher, and Dolly Parton. Over time, the shows evolved into something entirely unique.

Co-owner Jacqueline Hyde, one of the performers and guest services lead, spoke with the SGN about the venue’s changes, its impact on the community, and what makes it a must-visit destination.

“Our journey originally started with impersonation… and then more of the modern. Today, we have completely evolved out of that, and we're now doing inspiration," Hyde said.

Julia’s newest show, Evolution, is a prime example, blending inspiration from Beyoncé and Dolly Parton. It opens with a 1920s burlesque-inspired number, and even teases the upcoming summer show, Wicked Oz.

"Every number is a minimum of seven to eight minutes… No show that we've ever done here has ever done that," Hyde said.

For those who prefer brunch, Julia’s weekly Bad Girls Brunch features Disney’s most iconic villains — Cruella, Ursula, Maleficent, the Queen of Hearts, and Scar — with Julia’s signature twist.

"It's not just queening, it's not just a bar show. It is literally a theatrical experience," Hyde added.

The venue recently installed a video wall, allowing for dynamic visuals during performances and making the space ideal for corporate events. Hyde said the video wall can be split into four screens or remain as one video over the entire surface. The lighting and sound equipment have blacklight and neon effects that transform the room into a glowing spectacle. (Julia’s is also working to utilize the space more in the daytime for events.)

"There is kaleidoscope of neon that we use during the show… everything glows," Hyde explained.

Feels like home

Julia’s is a hub for Seattle’s LGBTQIA+ community, especially during Pride, with Hyde noting how “literally, all roads lead to Julia’s at Pride.”

But the audience isn’t only Queer — many first-time visitors are straight patrons, some of which use the space for bachelorette parties, because Julia’s is seen as an “oddity,” or as the city’s drag hot spot. Still, Julia’s remains a safe space for those with and without a family, especially during holidays.

"A lot of people come here when they don't have families… it feels like home," Hyde said.

The driving force behind Julia’s success is founder Eladio Preciado, whose vision and attention to detail shaped the venue into what it is today.

"Eladio single-handedly has the vision, the mission, the fortitude, and the drive… He’ll draw out of you the best and give it to them a little bit at a time," Hyde said.

Food and drinks: Comfort with a twist

In addition to its colorful performances, the food and cocktails at Julia’s draw in the crowds. Hyde highlighted some menu items that are favorites of customers and staff:

• Hawaiian Benedict with pulled pork and pineapple
• Steak tacos with ribeye beef and cilantro sauce
• Stuffed chicken wrapped in prosciutto
• Cheesecake with a crème brûlée top and passionfruit glaze
• Vaginal Rejuvenation cocktail
• 50 Shades of Gay cocktail
• Screaming “O” cocktail

"Any one of our cocktails can be made into a mocktail… We carry nonalcoholic champagne so that people can still celebrate," Hyde noted.

"If you're looking for a drag brunch, you go to brunch. If you're looking for an experience that will blow your brain… that is legit Evolution."

At its core, Julia’s is about the people: the performers, the staff, and the patrons.

"Without the community, we are nothing… It is a living, breathing entity in here," Hyde said, adding how even the building itself has a personality. "This room knows when there’s a good audience and when there’s a bad audience."

Julia’s is at 300 Broadway E. on Capitol Hill and online at https://www.juliasonbroadway.com.