Code Red brings 90 performers together for HIV awareness

The 11th Annual Code Red, hosted and created by Michael “Cherry Pop” Tambon is quickly approaching with its official 2023 date being Dec. 3. It will be held at the Brooklyn Bowl in Fishtown this year. 

The event, which aims to raise funds for HIV services, will boast a large line-up of drag queens, drag kings, trans-identifying, bearlesque and burlesque performers, plus, comedians and live performances by musicians. The line-up for the latter spans Vinchelle, Bev, Iris Spectre, Maria Topcatt, Sapphira Cristal, Mary D’Knight, Omyra Lynn, Goddess Isis, Lady Geisha Stratton and Navaya Shay, among others. 

The night ultimately will feature 24 acts with 90 performers. And as a release states, the event aims to break the silence surrounding HIV, with a special performance, “Breaking the Silence,” inviting individuals to come forward as HIV positive, raising additional funds sometimes reaching up to $20,000 during that single number. This “heartfelt” and “vibrant” event raises funds and awareness for HIV taking place on the Sunday closest to World AIDS Day as a marker to its message.

Code Red was created in 2012 after founder Michael Tambon, aka Cherry Pop, received an HIV diagnosis. “Past and present come together in one room to make a better future for those living with HIV,” said Tambon in a statement.

Tambon continued: “Guests can expect a high-energy evening filled with entertainment, heartwarming moments, and a strong message of unity and support.” As Cherry Pop, the founder will also be hosting the event. 

One part of Code Red is called “Breaking the Silence” where Michael/Cherry asks other people with HIV to join them on stage to show the community it is ok to be known as HIV-positive and to show a friendly face to the audience so they don’t feel alone in their HIV journey, the release states. Tambon focuses on sharing HIV prevention and treatment available in the community and encourages HIV-negative individuals to get on PrEP to prevent contracting HIV. 

Since its inception over a decade ago, Code Red’s impact has grown from raising $2,500 in its inaugural year with 13 performers with 100% of the proceeds benefiting Philadelphia HIV/AIDS organizations, to now raising $236,000. The release also cites that the goal in the beginning was to create a fun environment, draw a crowd, and use the stage to raise awareness of HIV prevention and treatment. Since then, it has become a success, consistently raising approximately $35,000-$45,000 annually.

The funds raised at the event will directly be dispersed to a variety of organizations, including the AIDS Fund, Mazzoni Center, Galaei, and Action Wellness—all of whom focus on HIV awareness, prevention, and care for the greater Philadelphia community, including the LGBTQ+ and minority communities.

Code Red will take place at Brooklyn Bowl, 1009 Canal Street. Ticket options span seating at $45 or standing room at $30, with doors opening at 5 p.m. The festivities kick off with local singers performing, followed by a welcome and the main show, which runs until 9:30 p.m., with an intermission. Tickets for the event can be purchased at ticketmaster.com. More information can be found at secure.givelively.org