Thelma Houston, drag performers and Central Florida media personalities unite on September 19 to support Hope & Help’s HIV/STI services
ORLANDO, FL, UNITED STATES, September 17, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — Hope and Help of Central Florida, Inc. (dba Hope & Help) is set to welcome an incredible lineup of performers, speakers, DJs, and guest hosts for their 2026 Headdress Gala fundraiser, happening on September 19, 2026.
Headlining the event is Grammy Award-winning music legend Thelma Houston, who is best known for her hit “Don’t Leave Me This Way.” Her performance will anchor a night filled with creativity, fashion, and self-expression. The annual Gala is a fundraiser for Hope & Help, supporting their work providing HIV/STI prevention, testing, treatment, and healthcare services in the wider Central Florida area. For over 30 years, the organization has worked tirelessly to remove barriers to care and support thousands across the Central Florida region.
“Metamorphosis: The Power of Expression” will bring the Headdress Gala’s signature combination of theatrical performances, fashion, music, dance, and philanthropy to life through drag artistry, specialty acts, and the appearance of notable personalities from in and around Central Florida. In addition to Houston’s headlining performance, the Gala will feature entertainers including Alexis Mateo, T.P. Lord, Mala Mia, Amber Mills, Brigette Galore, and Gidget Galore.
The event will also include a performance by Darcel Stevens, one of the most well-known drag artists in Orlando, who is slated to appear as both a featured performer and member of the host lineup. Vocalist Rosie Webber will perform in the VIP room, adding an intimate live-music experience for VIP guests.
“We are proud to be bringing together some of the finest performers from the Central Florida area and beyond,” says Thresa Giles, CEO of Hope & Help. “We are grateful for their support of this important cause and the work we do to support the community.”
Throughout the evening, guests can expect a broad range of entertainment, from singers, dancers, and drag performers to fashion shows and DJ sets. In addition to Darcel Stevens, hosts for the night include Johnny Magic and Sondra Rae of XL 106.7, Chad Pitt of Magic 107.7, and Julie Broughton of News 6 Orlando.
Ticket purchases, sponsorships, and funds raised through the Headdress Gala support Hope & Help’s mission to expand access to essential HIV/STI prevention, testing, treatment, and healthcare services. Gala proceeds also help advance services such as new care models and mental health support for individuals and communities throughout the region.
“Metamorphosis: The Power of Expression” invites attendees to celebrate their own individuality and that of a diverse cast of performers while investing in care that changes lives. With a Grammy-winning headliner, a spectacular lineup of performances, beloved media hosts, and an audience ready to make a fashion statement, the 2026 Headdress Gala promises to be an unforgettable evening of entertainment and impact.
Tickets and tables are on sale now at headdressgala.com.
For more information, please contact Anna Kate Womack, publicist at Otter PR, via email at annakate.womack@otterpr.com.
About Hope and Help Center of Central Florida, Inc.
Hope and Help Center of Central Florida, Inc. provides HIV/STI prevention, testing, treatment, and healthcare services across seven Central Florida counties. For more than three decades, the organization has worked to reduce barriers to quality care, improve health outcomes, and support individuals and communities affected by HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.
Anna Kate Womack
Otter PR
+1 703-232-3140
email us here
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