Today, Blue Boy keeps a low profile. Performances are posted on social media, but events are not widely promoted. Tourists join a steady flow of locals and regulars for drag performances six nights per week. ​“We need to push ourselves to deliver something special every night,” says Azizan. ​“It’s what makes us proud. It’s also what keeps this place alive.”

Azizan centres his choreography around storytelling. A former dancer, his song choices range from heart-wrenching ballads to pumping electronic breakbeats, while dance routines are character-driven: sometimes elegant and graceful, other times, wild and animalistic. Inside, a powerful fiction written by the performers in their safe space distracts from a harsh reality facing the LGBTQ+ community outside.

But as the night draws to a close, most around the table have a positive outlook for their future. ​“This is our home, a place for the community and for everyone who wants to participate and support us.”

Tomorrow, the same group of performers will be back inside the club for rehearsals, which take place every day of the week. They will sing and dance to a completely new set. ​“We like to keep the crowd guessing,” Azizan continues, smirking. ​“They never know what to expect from us.”

**Read next: **The Drag collective fighting for a queer, independent Wales