Holiday Cheer, Auntie Style
Unapologetically Indigenous Drag Comes to Sarnia
Chelazon Leroux is a Two-Spirit Canadian drag performer, comedian, model, and activist who first captured national attention as a fierce competitor on Season 3 of Canada’s Drag Race. Raised in northern Saskatchewan, Chelazon’s drag is unapologetically Indigenous, blending humor, advocacy, and stunning visuals to create a platform that educates and empowers. With over 540,000 TikTok followers and a beloved “Auntie” persona featured in Deadly Like Auntie, Chelazon continues to inspire through her artistry and activism. This December, she’s bringing her one-of-a-kind charm to Sarnia for Auntie’s Holiday Extravaganza.
THIS is DRAG: Since competing on Canada’s Drag Race Season 3, how has your life and career evolved?
Chelazon Leroux: I have been able to chase after more of the things I wanted in life, social media gave me my platform, Drag Race helped broadcast my story to more audience. And post Drag Race I’ve got to tell my story all over the country and meet/learn from different nations.
TiD: Your drag is unapologetically Indigenous, blending activism and humor. How do you balance these elements in your performances?
CL: It’s natural, my existence has informed my storytelling. Since birth I was taught humour from my family and community. Activism as a natural part of my identity because being indigenous and queer is always challenged and threatened in this country. The balance comes from me being authentic in my experiences and showcasing them through different media.
TiD: Your “Auntie” persona has become iconic. What inspired you to create this character, and how has it resonated with audiences?
CL: Auntie is built off of the native women who raised me, I combined all those experiences of these women who had a tough life and still found a way to love unapologetically. It resonates with audiences because it is authentic and familiar.
TiD: Deadly Like Auntie is both hilarious and empowering. How did this series come about, and what message do you hope it sends?
CL: It was not intentional, it’s one of those things that just happened and became a reoccurring series on TikTok, I hope people find some humour, knowledge, or an escape from a hard reality.
“Humor and love can teach and heal—just like Auntie does.”
TiD: TikTok has been a huge platform for you, with over half a million followers. How do you approach creating content that entertains while also educating?
CL: The balance between both has always been important. In my educational content it’s always nice to have a sense of humor so people digest the truth easier. And in my entertainment and humor there is an honesty about the harsh realities of the world and that’s why I think it works.
TiD: Auntie’s Holiday Extravaganza is coming to Sarnia in December. Can you give us a sneak peek into what fans can expect from this festive show?
CL: It’s a time to come together in community, watch drag and share stories. That’s truly what the holidays have always been about to me, and I can’t wait to celebrate it!
TiD: Have you performed in Sarnia or similar smaller cities before? What’s unique about connecting with these audiences?
CL: I love smaller communities because the support and engagement for a show is much stronger. I come from a small reserve, as soon as some form of entertainment happens, everyone goes hard for it!
TiD: What’s next for Chelazon Leroux in 2025 and beyond? Any exciting projects or goals you’re working toward?
CL: In the spring I will be touring with the International day of Pink which will be my first multi day tour which I’m very excited to embark on. There’s a few my projects in the works that I think fans will be excited to see develop.
TiD: Is there anything else that you would like to add?
CL: Go out there and giver. Happy Holidays!
Auntie’s Holiday Extravaganza with Chelazon Leroux
Friday, December 13, 2024
At Refined Fool Brewing Co. in Sarnia, Ontario
Don’t miss Auntie’s Holiday Extravaganza with Chelazon Leroux at Refined Fool Brewing Co. in Sarnia on December 13, 2024, presented by Diversity Ed. With an incredible lineup of performers and Chelazon’s signature wit and style, this is the perfect way to kick off the holiday season. Get your tickets now—$20 for general admission and $30 with Meet and Greet. Doors open at 8 PM, and the show starts at 9 PM.