• Rainbow Story Hub
• October 9, 2025
• 0 Comments
• 3 minutes Read

Duane Shave

Duane Shave was a founding member and Empress of the Imperial Sovereign Court of the Wild Rose (ISCWR) as well as Matriarch of All Alberta in the International Court System. We bring you the story of Duane Shave — better known onstage as Empress II, Chatty Cathy — a true pioneer in Edmonton’s performing arts and queer community history. As Edmonton’s longest-performing drag queen and a retired educator, Duane’s influence stretches far beyond the stage. His story is one of courage, compassion, and commitment, intersecting performance, teaching, activism, and community leadership.

From helping to found the Imperial Sovereign Court of the Wild Rose (ISCWR) in the mid-1970s to being crowned Empress II, Duane has long been a central figure in Edmonton’s drag and LGBTQ2S+ community. He stepped into the role of Matriarch of All Alberta upon the passing of the Edmonton court’s founding Empress, and he continues to be a guiding presence in its operations.

In a time when public drag events were rare, Duane performed some of Edmonton’s first “public drag shows,” including at venues like Chez Pierre — spaces that welcomed queer expression in an often-hostile environment. Through his decades of performance, mentorship, and service, Duane has left a legacy that binds art, education, and activism together.

We invite you to listen closely as Duane Shave — Empress II, educator, advocate — shares the story of how a life on stage can also be a life of service, community, and transformation., a retired educator, and one of the first drag queens to perform publicly in the city, notably with Empress 1 Millie at the Pegasus nightclub and in the ISCWR’s elaborate Broadway-style drag shows, including Hello Dolly!.

• Rainbow Story Hub
• October 2, 2025
• 0 Comments
• 2 minutes Read

Marni Panas

Advocate, Leader, and Changemaker

This biopic tells the story of Marni Panas, a nationally recognized advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion. Marni has dedicated her life to advancing 2SLGBTQIA+ rights, healthcare equality, and creating safe, affirming spaces where everyone can be their authentic selves.

From her personal journey as a transgender woman to her leadership in organizations and communities across Canada, Marni’s story is one of courage, resilience, and hope.

🌈 Why This Story Matters
Marni’s work continues to inspire change—challenging stigma, building understanding, and showing what it means to lead with compassion.

👀 What You’ll Learn

Marni’s personal and professional journey

Her role in advancing human rights and healthcare inclusion

The impact of her advocacy on Canadian society