Devastatia Tour Unleashed
Priyanka: Devastatia Tour Unleashed
Canada's Drag Race Winner Brings Spectacle to Windsor
Priyanka, the winner of the first season of Canada’s Drag Race, has captured hearts and headlines with her infectious personality, dazzling performances, and fierce style. With Indo-Guyanese roots and a background as a TV host for YTV, Priyanka has proven to be a true multi-talented entertainer. Now, she’s back with her highly anticipated Devastatia Tour, hitting more than 30 stops across North America, South America, and Europe. As she prepares to bring her electrifying show to Windsor’s Rockstar Music Hall on November 15, 2024, Priyanka is ready to leave fans in awe once again.
THIS is DRAG: How has life changed for you since taking the crown?
Priyanka: I remember the week before I found out if I was going to win Drag Race. I was in Windsor performing on a patio, and I think about all the crazy things that have changed since that day and yet, everything is still the same. The hustle is still 100%, and by winning I've been given a really cool platform to do the projects I want to do and to continue to show everyone that Canadian drag is iconic.
TiD: Your Devastatia Tour is massive, with more than 30 stops across multiple continents. What inspired you to create this tour, and how did it come together?
P: I had an old manager say that I should just go to two cities. And I said, no, no, no- I won Canada's Drag Race in 2020. I think it's important that I go around and thank all the people personally who supported me all across Canada, North America, the UK, Europe, South America. I know that I won a TV competition, but I know in my heart the best way to see me is in a live performance.
TiD: What can fans expect from Devastatia that sets it apart from your previous performances and other drag tours?
P: They can expect a fully fleshed out pop legend icon story about my life. The views are in and people are saying that it's a show that they've never, ever seen before. And some people are even coining it as their favorite concert ever!
TiD: How do you stay creatively energized and inspired when you’re performing on such a long tour?
P: It's easy for me to stay creative when I’m on the tour. It's before the tour when I’m doing everything myself to get ready for it that I have no time to be creative. So, the fix for me is to remember to give myself time to dream. Because without dreaming, there’s nothing you have to work towards to make it come true.
“They’ve never, ever seen a show like this before!”
TiD: You have a stop in Windsor coming up. What are you looking forward to at this particular show?
P: One of my number one fans Katie is from Windsor. I'm excited to go back to Windsor and perform for one of the first supporters I had when I first started drag, and show the town of Windsor and Katie how much growth I've experienced thanks to their support.
TiD: From TV host to drag superstar, your career has been so diverse. How do you balance these different aspects of your career, and how have they influenced your drag?
P: I know that my purpose in life is to entertain people. So, I'm giving my all to it, no matter what the form is. It could be a live performance, it could be TV, it could be on social media. I just love it all.
TiD: After this tour, what's next for Priyanka? Any exciting projects or collaborations on the horizon?
P: Absolutely, but I can't tell you about it yet.
TiD: Is there anything else that you would like to add for your fans in Southwestern Ontario?
P: Come see me in person - it’ll be a show unlike anything you’ve ever seen before!
Don’t miss Priyanka’s Devastatia Tour when it hits Windsor’s Rockstar Music Hall on November 15, 2024, presented by Lavender Promotions. Tickets are on sale now, so grab yours and prepare to be blown away by one of Canada’s brightest drag superstars!
Devastatia Tour
Friday, November 15, 2024
At Rockstar Music Hall in Windsor, Ontario
Pythia: Unleashing Myth and Magic
Pythia: Unleashing Myth and Magic at The Devil's Ball
Get ready for a night of magic, mystery, and myth as Pythia, the sensational Greek-Canadian drag artist from Canada’s Drag Race season 2 and RuPaul’s Drag Race Global All Stars, descends upon Sarnia for a spellbinding performance at The Devil's Ball. Known for blending historical and mythical elements into her jaw-dropping looks and performances, Pythia has captivated fans with her innovative take on drag. Raised in Greece and now based in Montreal, this costume designer and performer has brought an enchanting, otherworldly presence to the stage.
On October 25, 2024, Pythia will be joined by a fantastic lineup including Sheerah Mae Heartt, POISON, Charlize Angel, Karma Kameleon, Lillith Nox, and Miss Conduct, in a Halloween-inspired drag event you won’t want to miss! Hosted at Refined Fool Brewing Co., the evening promises a costume contest, fierce performances, and a meet-and-greet with the queens. Doors open at 8pm, with tickets starting at $25 and meet-and-greet options for $35.
We sat down with Pythia to discuss her career, creativity, and what fans can expect from her upcoming performance at The Devil’s Ball.
THIS is DRAG: Welcome, Pythia! How are you feeling about performing at The Devil’s Ball in Sarnia this October?
Pythia: I cannot wait! I have never been to Sarnia before, and I love a Halloween event. Spooky season is when my power is at its peak, so I am ecstatic!
TiD: Your drag is often infused with historical and mythical elements. Can you tell us more about how these influences shape your drag persona?
P: I love fashion and costume history, as well mythology and religion, and a lot of my performances or looks are inspired by such concepts! Whether obvious or not, there are always elements ingrained into my work, and not a single detail goes unplanned! I also named myself after Pythia who was an oracle of the god of the arts, Apollo, so to me it’s a way to manifest this ancient feminine power into the present through my drag!
“Spooky season is when my power is at its peak, so I am ecstatic!”
As a costume designer, your looks are always intricate and unique. What’s your process for creating these incredible outfits, and where do you find your inspiration?
As mentioned before, a lot of it is referential of various aspects of my Greek culture, or general interests of mine. Every look is different and tells a different story! They are all like different characters in a play that is Pythia! I can’t explain it, but the inspiration strikes at the strangest moments, and I’ve come up with some of my greatest concepts in my dreams!
You were raised in Greece before moving to Montreal as a teenager. How did your upbringing in these different cultures influence your style and approach to drag?
I just think it has allowed me to love myself no matter what. Growing up in the hyper Christian Orthodox society of Greece, I felt ostracized and like I could never belong in my own culture, but drag made me realize that I can actually celebrate myself for my identity just as I am. That’s why I’m so proud to represent my culture and customs through a queer lens. Cause I can’t imagine how many queer Greek people feel the way I did, and I want to show that we also belong.
What first inspired you to start performing drag, and how did you develop your signature blend of myth and glamour?
I began drag through cosplay and theater! The story telling and attention to detail that goes behind theatricality and performance is so intriguing to me. I wanted to share all the crazy ideas and stories locked up in my brain somehow, and drag allowed me to do just that! It’s like a different medium of art to me. I do it all in the context of the arts, painting, drawing, illustrating, photography, sculpture, props, costumes, makeup etc.! But drag combines all of my love for art in one!
You made a huge impact on Canada’s Drag Race and Global All Stars. How has your time on these shows influenced your career, and what’s been the most rewarding part of the journey?
Honestly so much! Everything changed because of these shows and I am forever grateful and blessed. I remind myself every day, how lucky I am to be able to do what I love full time, and connect with and touch so many people from around the world through my art. And just the fact that it’s allowed me to travel and experience different parts of the world, and Canada and enrich myself with the local queer histories and talents of each place I visit, is the best prize I could ever win!
Greek mythology is a central theme in much of your work. What is it about these ancient stories that resonates with you and your drag?
The fact that they were so queer and raw. The ancient stories even beyond Greece, had so much queer identity and matriarchal importance that has been completely sanitized and erased through Christianity and Colonization. The ancient gods were so close to us and to what humanity is and always has been. They were jealous, greedy, messy, and made mistakes... They loved, and feared, and bled, and hurt. They were imperfect like humans! I feel like modern religions have completely convinced us to aspire to an unattainable “sinless” perfection, but that’s just not what human nature is.
Halloween is coming up, and The Devil’s Ball has a spooky theme. Can you give us a sneak peek into your costume or the vibe you're bringing to the event?
All I’m gonna say is you’ll all have 7 days to live after watching my performance.
What’s been your most memorable performance to date, and what made it stand out for you?
My favourite performance would have to be a number I did in 2019 for a local Drag Competition in Montreal, where I perform as a psychic medium during a seance and even levitate a table with magic! Woooo!
You’re known for pushing boundaries and creating art that’s truly unique. How do you stay inspired and keep evolving in your drag career?
Just generally pushing myself and trying things even if they sound insane or impossible to do. Even if I don’t think I’ll be able to make something, I always attempt! It’s a learning experience nonetheless! Constantly creating at 100% and only editing down if I have to! That’s my life motto, the sky is not the limit, I can go further than that!
How do you balance the artistry of costume design with the performance aspect of drag, and what’s more challenging for you?
My drag performances are 100% linked with my costumes. All the numbers I build, I build along with whatever costume I will be wearing, and most numbers only work with that particular costume and that’s it! The challenge would be making more adaptable universal looks that I can perform multiple numbers in, but I love my theatricality too much to sacrifice that!
Have you performed in Sarnia or the surrounding area before, and how are you feeling about coming to perform in a smaller city like this one?
I haven’t! The closest place in proximity would have to be Hamilton, for the premiere episode viewing party of Canada’s Drag Race Season 2! I love performing in smaller cities. It’s more intimate and special and I tend to connect with the audience more in this way!
What advice would you give to drag performers who are looking to incorporate more storytelling and artistic elements into their work?
I think storytelling is naturally a vital part to drag, and my only advice would be to just cultivate it more, and find ways to incorporate more into a drag performance than just high kicks and splits! Discover what it is you want to say through your drag, and think of all the ways you can say it through performance or visual! Background videos, props, costume/wig reveals are things I personally love incorporating into my work!
Can you tell us about any upcoming projects or performances that fans can look forward to?
Lots of gigs and cool things coming up, that I post constantly on my socials, but the thing that will take up most of my attention in November is rehearsals for a theater show I’m creating with Denim from Season 4 of CDR! It’s called “ORACULUM” and it’ll go live on December 1st-December 15 at Buddies in Bad Times in Toronto! Super excited for this project!
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers or your fans ahead of The Devil’s Ball?
Just a huge thank you for all the love and support, and just for having me in your beautiful city! I cannot wait to meet and party with everyone!
Don't miss this opportunity to see Pythia and a dazzling lineup of drag performers at The Devil's Ball on October 25, 2024, at Refined Fool Brewing Co. Get ready for an evening of myth, mystery, and magic, and don’t forget to come dressed to impress for the costume contest! Doors open at 8pm, with general admission at $25 and meet-and-greet options available for $35. Secure your tickets now for a hauntingly fabulous night!
The Devil's Ball
Friday, October 25, 2024
At Refined Fool Brewing Company in Sarnia, Ontario
Aimee Yonce Shennel: A Radiant Star
Aime: Yonce Shennel: A Radiant Star
Prepare to be captivated by the dazzling Aimee Yonce Shennel, a standout performer from the fourth season of Canada's Drag Race. With roots in the Dominican Republic and a flourishing career in Canada, Aimee brings a unique blend of cultural influences to her drag persona. Known for her high-energy performances and deep connection with the audience, Aimee is set to light up the stage at the Queens of Pride event in Windsor on Saturday, August 10, 2024. Hosted by WEPrideFest at Lanspeary Park, this celebration promises an unforgettable experience with a stellar lineup, including the renowned Trinity The Tuck Taylor.
“Remember to love everyone around you, especially those who send you hate. They hate you because they want to be you, they want to be as happy as you are. Share your energy, look out for each other, because that is what Pride means!!!”
DRAG MAG: Welcome, Aimee! How are you feeling about performing at Queens of Pride in Windsor?
Aimee Yonce Shennel: HOLA!!! I am super excited to perform and meet everyone at Queens of Pride in Windsor. It will be my first time going there and hopefully not the last one.
DM: Your journey began in the Dominican Republic and has flourished in Canada. How have these diverse cultural backgrounds influenced your drag persona and style?
AYS: My drag journey began in Canada in 2017, but my cultural background has definitely influenced my drag persona. I believe that coming from the Caribbean is what makes me unique in drag. We are super kind and welcoming to everyone.
DM: Can you share the story behind your drag name, Aimee Yonce Shennel?
AYS: Aimee means love in French. Yonce comes from the Queen Beyoncé, and Shennel is to honour my drag mother who introduced me to this beautiful art.
DM: What was your experience like on Canada's Drag Race season 4, and how has it impacted your career?
AYS: I had a very good time on CDRS4, and I would do it again if I had the opportunity. The way I was treated there was amazing; they really take care of the queens, ensuring we have a good time. My life hasn’t been the same since then. Traveling around the world (mostly in Canada) and meeting thousands of people, feeling their love and appreciation, is everything for me. I am looking forward to seeing what the future holds.
DM: You were named Miss Capital Pride and featured in the Queer Black Excellence Showcase. What do these titles mean to you, and how have they shaped your journey as a drag performer?
AYS: Winning Miss Capital Pride was the beginning of my crazy journey in drag. It’s the biggest competition in my city, and after winning, I have been busy nonstop. It definitely shaped my drag journey and prepared me for what was coming (CDRS4). Now I am ready for an ALL STARS.
DM: How do you prepare for your performances, and what can the audience in Windsor expect from your show at Queens of Pride?
AYS: We are going to party!!! I am going to bring my high energy to the stage and celebrate love! Every scenario is a different experience for me. I always project the show in my mind and plan every single detail in advance. I make my own mix and practice my moves. I don’t really choreograph my numbers (only when I have dancers), but I do moves and I do them well. I prefer to perform, give a show, and connect with the audience, ensuring they enjoy my number and aren’t falling asleep. I really enjoy and love what I do, and I can’t wait to share that energy with everyone.
DM: Who are your biggest inspirations in and out of drag, and how have they influenced your work?
AYS: Of course, Beyoncé in and out of drag. I just love everything coming from that woman. She inspired me to be free, to be me, and I want to inspire others in the same way.
DM: As a prominent figure in the drag community, how do you use your platform to advocate for representation and inclusivity?
AYS: I do a lot of volunteer work that people don’t even know about because I don’t post about it. I do a lot in my city for the community (refugees, new drag performers, drag kings, high schools, open stages, etc.). I should probably share more about these things, not to become more famous or buy people’s love, but to inspire others.
DM: What has been your biggest achievement in your drag career so far, and why is it significant to you?
AYS: Being on TV has been my biggest achievement so far, and I am looking for more. It is significant because I had the opportunity to share who I am with the world, let them know my human side, and touch and change people's lives.
DM: What role do pride events play in your life, and what does it mean to you to perform at such events?
AYS: Pride events mean a lot to me because being part of them is my way to honour and celebrate those who fought and gave their lives in the 70s, 80s, and 90s. Because of them, we have the right to be who we are. They started something, and it is our job to continue the legacy and ensure there is a safe space for everyone in our community. Being a drag queen and performing at pride events is my way to say we are here, we exist, and we aren’t going anywhere.
DM: How do you balance the demands of your drag career with your personal life?
AYS: To be honest, my drag career has become my personal life. I do have personal things I do out of drag, like meeting my close friends and family, but I enjoy drag so much that it has become part of my personal life.
DM: What advice would you give to aspiring drag performers who look up to you?
AYS: Try it! And if you are having fun, keep doing it. Ask questions, meet your local drag performers, and you will find a family and a community who will help you. Drag is a very competitive career, and you will meet people who try to put you down, but don’t let them! Remember, you are doing this because you love it, and one day you will be happy with your drag persona. Don’t try to be anyone else; find your own self. Practice and practice. I have been doing this for eight years, and I am still learning things every day. Never stop learning from others, keep growing, and never feel better than others. Share love and support everyone around you!
DM: Can you give us a sneak peek into any upcoming projects or initiatives you’re excited about?
AYS: Omg!! I can’t really talk about it, but there are projects on the table, and I am excited about them.
DM: How can fans and readers support you and stay updated with your work?
AYS: Following me on social media, and there will be some amazing merchandise at the festival on Friday and Saturday!
DM: Is there anything else you’d like to add or share with our readers today?
AYS: Remember to love everyone around you, especially those who send you hate. They hate you because they want to be you, they want to be as happy as you are. Share your energy, look out for each other, because that is what Pride means!!!
Don’t miss the chance to see Aimee Yonce Shennel and an incredible lineup of drag performers, including Trinity The Tuck Taylor, at Queens of Pride on Saturday, August 10, 2024, at Lanspeary Park in Windsor. Hosted by WEPrideFest, this event is a celebration of love, diversity, and extraordinary talent. Come out, show your support, and experience the magic of Pride!
Queens of Pride
Saturday, August 10, 2024
At Lanspeary Park in Windsor, Ontario
Jada Shada Hudson: Unstoppable Force
Jada Shada Hudson: Unstoppable Force
Prepare to be enchanted by the vibrant and dynamic Jada Shada Hudson, the fierce runner-up from the third season of Canada’s Drag Race! Originally hailing from Barbados and now dazzling audiences in Toronto, Jada has become a beloved figure in the drag community. Beyond her television fame, she also shines on the cast of Slaycation, bringing her unique flair and charisma to every performance. Jada Shada Hudson will be gracing the stage at the Mosaic event in Sarnia on Friday, July 12, 2024, at Refined Fool Brewing Company. Presented by Sarnia-Lambton PrideFest, this special BIPOC event will feature an extraordinary lineup of performers, including Salina EsTitties, Galaxy, Tammy The Brown, The X Wife, Kamilla Flores, Kara Melle, and Sarnia’s own Brenda. Join us as we dive into the world of Jada Shada Hudson and discover what makes her such an extraordinary force in the drag community.
“The struggles it took me to get here and now my life is a movie—I mean, I am Toronto’s Turn-up Queen, and that’s a lifestyle for sure.”
DRAG MAG: Jada Shada Hudson, welcome! Can you tell us how you came up with your drag name and what it represents?
Jada Shada Hudson: My drag name came about very easy with the help of my friends one night. They told me let’s pick a black actress and maybe a black singer/artist and I chose Jada Pinkett Smith and Jennifer Hudson and merge them and got Jada Hudson. The Shada came from a friend that use to call me Miss Shada cause I was shady lol.
DM: How did your journey in drag begin, and what inspired you to start performing?
JSH: My journey is Drag began when I moved here to Toronto and needed money. I entered a Talent show in our church street village as a make African dancer and I lost to a drag queen. The owners of the bar said “You’re so good,” and “such an entertainer,” but here the audience normally gravitates to the art of DRAG especially if I wanted to win. So they said they will buy me my costume and look, get someone to do my makeup and all I have to do is show up and do what I do onstage. That I did and I won the talent show.
DM: Being originally from Barbados and now living in Toronto, how have these diverse cultural backgrounds influenced your drag style?
JSH: It changed my drag style because I try to incorporate my culture in my shows whether it be in music, costume or dance moves which makes me stand out more.
DM: Who are your biggest inspirations in and out of drag?
JSH: My biggest inspiration was the late Michelle Ross. I had the pleasure of working with her every week and I learnt so much and I saw how she connected with ppl and how they loved her. Some ppl have that connection and whatever they do you just love it she was that and am so glad that I have that special something as well. I get inspired by a lot of artists like Rihanna coming from Barbados as well, she to is a Bajan Queen and is so amazing with style and her music and the way she does her brand. As huge a star as she is she still is very Caribbean and we see and hear it always still she goes home to Barbados and is still that girl from the island. My mom as well cause she is so strong and a workaholic she loves to work no matter how she gets she lives it, always moving around doing something and I have that hustle mentality to always be working.
DM: What has been your biggest achievement in your drag career so far?
JSH: So many I thought being on billboards in Dundas Square was big thing but then coming 2nd place on Canadas Drag race really changed my career and life globally. Now I am seen as a celebrity and that still blows my mind. Just announced I am on a new show called SLAYCATION on CraveTv and Wowpresents plus where your favourite RupaulsDragRace Queens are vacationing in a winter home up north and having the ultimate girls trip which makes my 3rd show on tv.
DM: How do you prepare for a performance?
JSH: I really don’t prepare for regular shows I choose the song the music depending on the audience there or the event a costume to match and I go out there and do what I do best, and that’s entertain. Now for bigger shows and dancers I normally rehearse to get all the choreography right etc and am Spiritual so I like praying in general as well.
DM: As a prominent figure in the BIPOC drag community, how do you use your platform to advocate for representation and inclusivity?
JSH: I use my platform in pushing BIPOC events and I perform for a lot of charitable organizations here in the city and am also showing my culture in a lot of my shows.
DM: What does it mean to you to be part of the Mosaic event, celebrating BIPOC performers?
JSH: It means a lot because a lot of these cities and places where I go there aren’t a lot of BIPOC performers so having a show for that is amazing and we get to show our talents and that we are damn good at what we do, and passionate.
DM: Can you give us a sneak peek into what we can expect from your performance at Mosaic?
JSH: Nope you’ll have to wait and see.
DM: What do you enjoy most about performing at Pride events, and how do you hope to impact those who attend your shows?
JSH: Doing this for 15 years I still enjoy the joy in people’s faces when I perform, the way they are so happy, the cheering also sometimes the messages after in my DMs. I recently did the Lion king here for Toronto’s Pride at one of the biggest events Starry Night as Rafiki, costumes, makeup everything and a guy told me he was in tears when I performed and thanked me for that performance and he was a person of color.
DM: Having been a part of Canada’s Drag Race, how has your experience on the show influenced your career and your activism?
JSH: It has put me on a globally platform which is great and amazing but is very scary as well because so many people are watching me now. They are watching what I wear, how I look, the things I do, the people I’m with etc. Since I’ve been on the show I have a little anxiety now because I am always being stopped or pulled from ppl that maybe recognize me or want a picture etc and sometimes in crowded places being pulled or screamed at or everyone wanting a pic can be a lot. But I wouldn’t change my life for the world. I am so blessed to do what I do and to be Jada Hudson so I live every min of it.
DM: Do you have any upcoming projects or initiatives you’re excited about that you can share with our readers?
JSH: YES A NEW SHOW on TV Called SLAYCATION coming this Winter 2024 on Cravetv and WowPresents plus with Kandy Muse, Luxx Noir London, Kerri Colby (USA), Lawrence Chaney (UK), and myself from Canada.
DM: How can fans and readers support you and stay updated with your work?
JSH: Follow me on all my platforms JadaHudson Instagram TikTok Twitter if you’re of age (wink wink). My Instagram stories is normally my life so that’s a great start.
DM: Do you have any personal goals or dreams you are working towards in your drag career?
JSH: I would love my own reality show, a show showing the lives of Jada Hudson and Dwight because they are 2 separate lives but both so entertaining. Being a gay Caribbean black big coming to Canada as a refugee now being one of Canada’s biggest gayest stars is still mind blowing to me. The struggles it took me to get here and now my life is a movie and I mean I am Toronto’s Turn-up Queen and that’s a lifestyle for sure.
DM: Is there anything else you would like to add or share with our readers?
JSH: Nothing more just be kind, be loving, and I am single and I think this is the time for me to actually find love.
Don’t miss the chance to see Jada Shada Hudson and a stellar lineup of BIPOC performers, including Salina EsTitties, at Mosaic on Friday, July 12, 2024, at Refined Fool Brewing Company. Presented by Sarnia-Lambton PrideFest, this event promises an evening of extraordinary talent, community spirit, and unforgettable performances. Admission is free for this 19+ event, with donations supporting local LGBTQ+ initiatives. Come out, show your support, and experience the magic of Mosaic!
Mosaic
Friday, July 12, 2024
At Refined Fool Brewing Co. in Sarnia, Ontario
The Girlfriend Experience: Embracing Authenticity
The Girlfriend Experience: Embracing Authenticity
Get ready to meet the phenomenal talent that is The Girlfriend Experience, a captivating performer and passionate activist from the fourth season of Canada’s Drag Race! The Girlfriend Experience is set to dazzle the audience at the upcoming YOUphoria event in Sarnia. This special event, hosted by Sarnia-Lambton PrideFest, will take place on Saturday, July 13, 2024, at the Imperial City Brewhouse. Featuring an all-trans and non-binary cast, including stars like Kylie Sonique Love, the event promises to be a night of unforgettable performances and powerful messages. Join us as we delve into the world of The Girlfriend Experience and what makes her such an extraordinary force in the drag community.
“I hope through my drag and drag style I show the world that trans women are beautiful, trans women can be desirable.”
DRAG MAG: The Girlfriend Experience, welcome! Can you share what inspired your drag name and how it reflects your persona on and off the stage?
The Girlfriend Experience: My drag name was inspired by the working girl but to be honest, it was first my instagram handle. As I began to travel for out of town gigs, I would get introduced as The Girlfriend Experience. This came around the time I began my transition so I used the name to rebrand and have separation between my drag person and my everyday life. I’ve always been inspired by strippers and showgirls. The Girlfriend Experience is the ultimate fantasy, the woman I always saw in me. She can be anything you want her to be *wink wink*.
DM: You were born in Germany and now live in Vancouver. How have these different cultural backgrounds influenced your drag style?
GFX: I honestly can’t say that either have had much influence on my drag. My drag is more influenced by gender and the celebration of femininity.
DM: As a trans woman and activist, how do you integrate your advocacy work with your performances? What messages are you hoping to convey to your audiences?
GFX: I hope through my drag and drag style I show the world that trans women are beautiful, trans women can be desirable. I hope through my authenticity people can see women like me aren’t something to be ashamed of or hidden away. I believe in honesty and what is more honest than baring your heart, soul and body for people to see. It removes the walls of secrecy and lets the audience see me, all of me.
DM: You’re set to perform at the YOUphoria event in Sarnia alongside some incredible talent. How does it feel to be part of an all trans and non-binary cast event, and what significance does this hold for you?
GFX: The beauty of drag is it brings people together and in a world with so much division, sharing space with fellow trans folk establishes further community not just for myself but for others trans folk.
DM: Can you give us a sneak peek into what we can expect from your performance at YOUphoria? Are there any special themes or inspirations you’re drawing from for this event?
GFX: I don’t know if I can do a good job of explaining my performance but like always, I will be giving 100% of my heart and energy. Again, this is such a fabulous event and sharing space and stage with trans folk motivates me to bring my A game and give it all I got!!
DM: YOUphoria is not just a performance event but also supports QT Camp through donations. How important do you think events like these are for the LGBTQ+ community, especially in smaller cities?
GFX: I'm blessed to live in a city with such a tight knit and diverse community. My hope is everyone to feel as connected as I have through the years. Events like this bring people together and that’s the beauty of drag, bring people together.
DM: What do you enjoy most about performing at Pride events, and how do you hope to impact those who attend your shows?
GFX: I loooooove Pride, the energy is always turned way up and celebrating with everyone and hearing the screams fills me with so much energy, it’s the adrenaline rush and the united feeling of happiness and celebration.
DM: Having been a part of Canada’s Drag Race, how has your experience on the show influenced your career and your activism?
GFX: The show was such a blessing. Although I didn’t place far, it unlocked my cage and let me escape, reminding me how big the world is. Transitioning was such a rollercoaster. The social transition particularly after my affirming surgeries really affected me. I became fearful of the world and ultimately that was my downfall on the show. In a way the show gave me back my freedom. Traveling has brought me back to a place of peace and self reliance that I needed after a high speed few years.
DM: What are some challenges you’ve faced as a trans performer in the drag community, and how have you overcome them?
GFX: I’ve been lucky to be shown so much support by my community in Vancouver. Unfortunately some people have questioned if my drag is considered drag now that I have had surgeries. This was debated more during the run of my season.
DM: Do you have any upcoming projects or initiatives you’re excited about that you can share with our readers?
GFX: I’m currently getting ready for the Pride crawl! Very excited to experience drag on a hyper level now that I’ve been on the show and DragCon is just around the corner. Looking forward to a weekend full of drag and to meet all the fans!
DM: And Lastly, do you have anything that you would like to add?
Pride is 365 days a year. We are so special as a collective to have experienced life behind a queer identity. I think this life offers a unique and special perspective that deserves to be celebrated everyday. Stay grateful for the things you have and always lead with kindness.
Don’t miss the chance to see The Girlfriend Experience and a stellar lineup of trans and non-binary performers, including Kylie Sonique Love, at YOUphoria on Saturday, July 13, 2024, at Imperial City Brewhouse. Presented by Sarnia-Lambton PrideFest, this event promises an evening of extraordinary talent, community spirit, and unforgettable performances. Admission is free, with donations supporting QT Camp. Come out, show your support, and experience the magic of YOUphoria!
YOUphoria
Saturday, July 13, 2024
At Imperial City Brewhouse in Sarnia, Ontario