Photos by Andrew Propp

Each September, Augusta Elks Lodge #964 holds a cross-dressing beauty pageant to raise money for the local chapter of the Boys and Girls Club for Teens. The fundraiser, called Miss Elk Ugly, is staffed by volunteers from the lodge. The performers are male and female members work backstage, helping to choreograph and produce the show. The show's contestants begin practicing their routines three months in advance of the show, culminating in an intense final week of rehearsals. Although Miss Elk Ugly is only open to members of the lodge, each year it typically raises thousands of dollars for the Augusta branch of the Boys and Girls Club. (captions below)

Captions

Photo 1: Each September Augusta Elks Lodge #964 holds a cross-dressing beauty pageant to raise money for the local chapter of the Boys and Girls Club for Teens.

Photo 2: Participants begin practicing three months before the performance.

Photo 3: Miss Ugly choreographer Cathy Wheeler trims a hat that will be used in the opening number of the show.

Photo 4: Support staff lay out the performers' costumes in advance so that they can change quickly.

Photo 5: Brady Joslyn, "Be Be Onme," receives help getting dressed before the show.

Photo 6: Don Joslyn, Brady's father, closes his eyes as his makeup is applied.

Photo 7: Two members of the backstage crew make last minute changes to one of the performer's wig.

Photo 8: No caption.

Photo 9: Brady Joslyn clowns around as he waits for his turn to perform in the talent portion of the program.

Photo 10: At the bar before the show.

Photo 11: Jim Ferland, the Master of Ceremonies, leads a huddle before the performers walk on stage.

Photo 12: Brady Joslyn struts for the crowd during the swimsuit/lingerie portion of the competition.

Photo 13: Anthony Gause dances in his rendition of "It's Raining Men."

Photo 14: Fellow pageant members look on as one of the contestants struts for the judges.

Photo 15: Brady Joslyn becomes the first rookie performer to be crowned Miss Ugly.

Photo 16: No caption.

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