Vampire beauty pageant in Philadelphia offers contestants cash prizes and a shot at immortality.
The inaugural Miss American Vampire Philadelphia pageant took place at Doom, a heavy metal bar in the city, featuring an eclectic mix of contestants who showcased their creativity while embodying the vampire archetype. Thirteen participants performed in various categories, including a costume parade, a personal interview, and a talent display infused with a hint of the supernatural.
Doom’s owner, Justin Holden, was inspired to host the event after a bartender shared an evocative photograph of a past Miss American Vampire winner. The original Miss American Vampire pageant was launched by MGM in the 1970s to promote the film “House of Dark Shadows.” The competition invited aspiring vampires to channel their inner darkness and showcase their personalities through performance, all while vying for the title amid an unorthodox yet welcoming environment.
The evening unfolded as contestants, adorned in elaborate outfits that ranged from traditional Transylvanian attire to modern interpretations featuring floor-length gowns, took to the makeshift stage. Judges comprised a panel of goth enthusiasts and burlesque performers who assessed the participants based on originality and vampiric allure. Prizes included 0 in cash, customized fangs, and comic books donated by local vendors, while a gothic crown, inspired by fashion designer Bob Mackie, added an artistic flair to the competition.
The atmosphere in the bar was electric as attendees cheered for their favorite contestants. Among them was Lililth Lobotomy, known for her striking blue hair and tongue-in-cheek persona who garnered enthusiastic applause with her eye-catching attire emblazoned with the phrase “Eat the rich.” She ultimately earned the title of Miss Off Putting for her spirited performance of “The Phantom of the Opera” while showcasing a lit candelabra.
After an engaging interview session, the crown of Miss American Vampire Philadelphia was awarded to Norah Morse, who captured the judges’ attention with her humorous take on vampire essentials and her casual confidence. Morse, who goes by Alex Decker in her everyday life, expressed a long-standing fascination with the vampire mythology, relishing the opportunity to explore her creative side in the competition.
For other contestants like Mira Castigin, the event was a chance for self-expression and empowerment. Castigin, whose vampiric alter ego serves as a reflection of her personality as an EMT, emphasized the importance of enjoying life while connecting with like-minded individuals in a celebratory atmosphere.
The pageant attracted enthusiastic responses on social media, with many expressing their excitement for this unique blend of performance art and community engagement. Overall, the Miss American Vampire Philadelphia pageant proved to be a successful event that not only celebrated individuality and creative expression but also fostered a sense of inclusivity within the local cosplay and goth community as they embraced the ritualistic and theatrical elements of vampiric lore.
As the evening unfolded, it became clear that this pageant was not merely about crowning a winner, but rather about creating a space for individuals to exhibit their fantastical sides and connect over shared interests in the whimsical world of the undead.
