by Merv Buchanan
The enduring popularity of The Crazy Señoritas, female impersonators show, owes much to their outrageous and utterly unforgettable performances at the renowned Luna Lounge in Bucerias.
For over a dozen years, these talented performers have been drawing sellout crowds, composed largely of Canadians and Americans. These visitors, eager to escape the harsh northern winters, come searching for unique nighttime entertainment they can boast about to their friends and family back home.
Before each performance, co-owner Hugh Gaffney sets the stage perfectly by addressing the audience with his humorous and slightly provocative introduction: “All of tonight’s performers are men. The best-looking ones are men. The curviest ones are men. And the ones that may turn you on a bit… they’re men too.”
His playful and cheeky prelude prepares the crowd for a truly memorable and one-of-a-kind evening.
At the heart of The Crazy Señoritas’ success is their leader, Azael Carrillo, better known by his stage name, “Diva Divine.” With razor-sharp wit, quick improvisations, and an endless array of creative disguises, Carrillo keeps audiences in stitches all night long. His hilarious alter egos, combined with a bevy of stunning “girls” and talented dancers, create a magical and entertaining spectacle.
Most of the cast primarily speak Spanish, but that doesn’t stop them from delivering show-stopping performances. Their expert lip-syncing to songs by iconic artists like Cher, Celine Dion, and others exudes such remarkable style and charisma that audiences often forget they aren’t hearing the real stars.
Clad in elaborate, outrageous “Vegas showgirl” costumes adorned with vibrant feathers, sequins, and sparkles, and sporting sky-high heels and even taller wigs, these performers blur the lines of reality so convincingly that one can’t help but wonder if it’s truly possible they’re all men.
A Crazy Señoritas show is all about embracing the fun and freedom of being a grown-up. The humor is edgy and cheeky, offering plenty of laughs without crossing into offensive territory. However, the performances are not intended for children, as some of the song lyrics and themes are risqué and a bit naughty.
Performed with a wink and a nod, the questionable lyrics are delivered in a lighthearted and tongue-in-cheek manner that audiences adore. These are definitely not the kind of tunes you’d hear on mainstream radio.
Another highlight of the evening is the constant engagement with the audience. From playful interactions during the show to the hilarious “photo ops” that follow, the entertainment doesn’t stop until every attendee is grinning ear to ear.
By the end of the evening, there’s always a long line of enthusiastic fans eager to snap a picture with “the girls” to take home and share with friends, family, and social media followers alike.
For those lucky enough to catch this dazzling show, The Crazy Señoritas perform every Tuesday night at The Luna Lounge, with shows running through March 25th. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a first-time visitor, this unique and wildly entertaining experience is sure to leave you laughing, clapping, and telling everyone you meet about the fabulous night you had.
