For entertainer Adam Larkham, it's hard to believe he was receiving death threats two years ago for wanting to spread joy as his alter ego Roxee Horror.
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From reading children's books for Drag Storytime at Wollongong Library and the occasional night club appearance, Roxee Horror is now a force to be reckoned with.
"It's brilliant to see Wollongong embracing the queens," he told the Mercury.
Larkham has teamed up with Jake Kosarew - aka Ellawarra - and the pair are "trying to take over Wollongong" one show at a time.
Larkham quit his day job to doll up in make-up and wigs full-time, while Kosarew is going full-time from January.
Both have been packing out Illawarra clubs for bingo and trivia, and also selling out shows at Wollongong Town Hall.
"I used to perform at the Music Lounge, which holds 150 people, and when [Merrigong] offered me the Town Hall ... I was like 'am I going to be able to sell that?' " Larkham said.
"Our last show sold out ... I couldn't imagine doing what I do anywhere else. Wollongong has been phenomenal."
Their next delight is the Christmas production, Roxee Horror's Miracle on Crown Street on December 12. The duo are excited to give other queens a throne, with a completely local cast ready to spread festive cheer.
Meantime, Roxee and Ellawarra's side project "Word Vomit", is also gaining momentum.
A fan of the YouTube program cried with excitement to recognise Larkham sans make-up at a take-away store. He said the fan moment made him realise he was starting to have a positive impact in Wollongong.
For details and tickets for Miracle on Crown Street, visit www.merrigong.com.au