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Spittin the illest about misogyny in the queer community 💅🏼  | Cherry Kills

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I’M SCREAMING

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WreckRoom Idol Meet the Performers (3 of 3)

Here is the final segment of WreckRoom Idol’s Meet the Performers interviews! Reblog and tag your early favs!

Tape, 23

What attracts you to drag? How and why did you start doing drag?:

  What attracts me to drag is the performative aspect to it, as well as the ability to create a character that connects with an audience on a deeper level than I could if I was performing as just myself. I love how I can eliminate my name and bring to life something people can relate to and see themselves in. Which is why I manifested “Tape.” Tape started off as a scholarship video I did my sophomore year of college where I wrapped my head in tape and stuck plants on the sticky side to represent the growth of natural talent. It’s on YouTube under “Growth of an Artist” if you wanna look it up. It’s baby Tape. From there I was asked to write a show based off that to be performed in Scotland at the Edinburg FRINGE Festival. So I wrote a show relating Frankenstein to pop stars and how they create egos, their monsters, that end up resulting in their deconstruction. We incorporated drag in the show. When we got back I wanted continue the drag element of Tape so I jumped into performing at The Boom. Now here we are. It’s also a way for me to feel like a pop star since I can’t sing. I mean, I COULD, but you don’t wanna hear that. Trust me.

Describe your drag persona. Who and what influences your art?: Tape is a mixture of a lot of things. Three adjective I could use to explain Tape would be; metal, grunge, chic. I’m really inspired by heavy metal and rock music. Rob Zombie and Rammstein. I also draw influence from Gaga (who doesn’t), Bjork, and Enigma. My ultimate goal when I perform is to make people think I just stepped out of a Tarantino or Rob Zombie film.

How has drag impacted your life?:

 Drag has impacted my like in both positive and negative ways. One of the few things that actually makes me happy is performing. And doing drag has given me something to look forward to everyday. I get to meet all kinds of people and inspire the fans that I have and make them feel good as well. I find it so weird when I get recognized now in the “Gayborhood,” but it’s still amazing that people do. I won’t go into details on the negatives. There aren’t a lot, but I’d like to stick to thinking of the positive.

Why did you decide to compete in WreckRoom Idol?:

 I’m competing in Idol to improve. I wanna learn more. I need to be pushed to explore my creativity and believe a competition will do just that. I also want to prove to people in my life that this is more than just a hobby, it’s an artwork that truly brings me happiness. I’m good at it and want to make something of it.

 Can you give me a glimpse at what people can expect from you in this competition?:

You can expect a lot of performance art elements. I’m planning on incorporating little nods towards performance artists that I look up to. Mille Brown, Oliver de Sanganza, Marina Abromovic . I don’t want to give away to much though. I will say I’ve been asked about my silly string crotch a lot, and I will say that will be making a “comeback” (oh my god! I didn’t plan that pun.)

 Do you have a favorite WreckRoom Idol? If so, who and why?:

I really didn’t know much about idol.  I would probably have to say Miranda Wrights. She’s basically my drag mom. I started out on my own,but she helped me learn so much more. I mean, I AM blessed with her hip pads.  I also adore Jak Kay. She was my first drag queen back in senior year of high school. I sent her a message once telling her how inspirational she was. She probably won’t remember tho.

Quick catchphrase, GO!:

“Truly, 100%, without a doubt, relevant.“

Entity (Miss Tiddie if you're nasty),  24, high mileage but new tires and wiper fluid, runs okay, $32.50 OBO What attracts you to drag? How and why did you start doing drag?:

I grew up around queens, specifically those invested in the pageant circuit. My older sister was a dresser and occasional judge for many of the folks we would consider local icons today. I remember seeing signed posters from drag performers around the house when I was 8 or so and being completely enamored, but I also remember thinking it wasn't for me. It wasn't until Drag Race aired and I saw queens like TaMMie Brown and Raja that I realized the full breadth of the community. The rest is tragedy. Describe your drag persona. Who and what influences your art?:

Entity isn't so much a persona as she is a more vibrant version of my daytime self. She's like if Nina Hagen and Bill Hader fucked and dolled the byproduct up in real life neuroses, insecurities, and quirks. How has drag impacted your life?:

Drag gives a person permission to look their faults and virtues in the eye. It's hard to be intimidated by something that chooses to stick cosmetic grade pipe cleaners on its lashes; it's harder yet to ignore it. I know myself better than I ever have before, and I know my friends better too. It's funny how something predicated on fantasy can illuminate what's real. Why did you decide to compete in WreckRoom Idol?:

I'm almost out of pickling jars and the wrinkles are coming back; I heard harvesting the life force of the youth at large would do in a pinch. Also, like, the cultural importance of preserving queer spaces and a good old fashioned validation complex, but I'll save that for the tell-all memoir.

Can you give me a glimpse at what people can expect from you in this competition?: Dirty lace fronts, absurd song choices, and a can-do attitude. Also probably a cyst or two, who's to say? Do you have a favorite WreckRoom Idol? If so, who and why?:

Alotta, because she doesn't have much time left. The Make-A-Wish Foundation does really good work, I suggest everyone donate. Quick catchphrase, GO!:

Sometimes she's Entity, most times she's just entitled.

Jessi Alexander, 19 years old.

 What attracts you to drag? How and why did you start doing drag?:

 People get to live out who they see themselves as in drag, you get to be the real you but also a completely different person. I started doing drag because I saw it as my chance to escape. I work a boring job, I was a nerd in high school but while I'm performing I feel like a famous celebrity and it's the only time I feel like that.

Describe your drag persona. Who and what influences your art?:  

My persona is the bad boy who lived next door to you your whole life but your parents never let you hang out with him. Messy hair, tattoos, rock music and very sexual. Classic movies influenced my persona. Grease, pretty in pink, rock n roll high school, the breakfast club, etc. I'd see the bad boy character and want to be them. Leather jacket, ripped jeans, dead behind the eyes but can party.

How has drag impacted your life?:

  It gave me something to live for. Before I'd go to work then go home, I was in a rut. I'd hang out with friends but only if my depression wasn't too bad and I could actually feel motivated enough to get out of the house. Drag motivates me, it makes me happy, it makes me want to get out there. It's led me to people that I love and call family. It's given me that opportunity to express how I feel inside and when I go out there and hear people cheer for me it gives me life.

 Why did you decide to compete in WreckRoom Idol?:

I've never done something like this before and I think it'll be really fun. I'm excited to compete!

Can you give me a glimpse at what people can expect from you in this competition?:

 Surprises. I am definitely bringing some new style out and trying to do things I wouldn't normally do.

Do you have a favorite WreckRoom Idol? If so, who and why?:

I love everybody

Quick catchphrase, GO!:

 YOU GOTTA RISK IT FOR THE BISCUIT!

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Alotta Vahjeen: WreckRoom Idol winner and mentor

WreckRoom Idol Season 3 Winner Alotta Vahjeen returns to the competition as a mentor this season, and she is keeping an eye out for more than just polish and talent. Read on to find out what Alotta looks for in the next Idol, as well as her own Idol legacy. 

Photo credit: Carrie Strong

You won your season of WreckRoom Idol. How does it feel to walk back into Idol on the other side of the competition?

It's been over three years since I won Wreck Room Idol, and I'm such a different person and a different drag queen than I was. Idol was such a magical experience for me and I'm over the moon to be able to come back and be on the other side of things. 

How did the competition help you grow? 

  The first night of idol was my third time ever stepping onto a stage in drag. I was VERY much a newcomer and really had nowhere to go but up. Having to challenge myself every week and come up with a different look and fit into a category and do it all week by week is insane! It kind of puts you into creative overdrive, and it's hard to reach that point of creativity outside of something like this.

As a mentor, what are you looking for in the members of your team, and the next Wreck Room Idol?  

I'm not looking for anything in particular in my team. For me it's more about that X factor which you can't put into words. It's about that star power and seeing somebody and feeling something, and it's not necessarily who's the most polished or the most "entertaining.”

What is the best advice you could give to contestants performing at Idol? 

 I distinctly remember the night of the finale of my season calling my mentor (Tatiana Monroe) to tell her I wasn't going because I knew I wasn't going to win and I was laying on my bathroom floor, crying, in full drag. The best advice I could give is to never doubt who you are as an artist, or as an individual. I almost didn't show up to my own crowning because I doubted myself, and look how things turned out. Remember that it's yours to lose, every time.

Why is this competition crucial for the drag community in Oklahoma City?

 A competition like this is important (especially at the WreckRoom) because it challenges people ,who maybe haven't been in the game very long, artistically and unlike a pageant, it isn't judged based on points and rhinestones and dance mixes. It's really about star power and who can make an impact and who can truly become an idol. 

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WreckRoom Idol Meet the Performers (2 of 3)

In NO PARTICULAR ORDER, here are five more contestants in the running for WreckRoom Idol!

 Oliver Angelo, 18

What attracts you to drag? How and why did you start doing drag?:

For me, the appeal of drag is the versatility of performance, as well as the freedom to present in a performance as whatever gender you like. As a gender fluid individual, drag is very rad because under all that makeup you have no idea what the sex or gender of the individual is- or rather, it doesn't matter! I started doing drag just a couple weeks ago to see if I would like it, and, sure enough, I do. It's very liberating. 

  Describe your drag persona. Who and what influences your art?: 

  My drag persona is a proud bisexual drama major and angsty writer. He's a happy-go-lucky chainsmoker and a sort of beatnik attention whore- I am influenced by the beautiful boys of tween dramas and cheesy romance movies, the cynicism of William Burroughs, and some of my favorite comedians (specifically Robin Williams and Bo Burnham). He's probably the result of my oppressive Catholic school experiences. Oliver is an impulsive, in-the-moment kind of guy just trying his best to bring some fun in this otherwise dank world. 

  How has drag impacted your life? 

  Drag is making me more comfortable in my skin as both a performer and an individual. To be honest it has helped me to have others recognize and acknowledge my gender fluidity when very few will. 

Why did you decide to compete in WreckRoom Idol?: 

  In all honesty I'm auditioning for Wreckroom Idol because I've been watching Rupaul's Drag Race for five years and would jump all over an opportunity to try something like it. I'm here to live my drag race fantasies.

  Can you give me a glimpse at what people can expect from you in this competition?: 

  I am so new to drag I honestly don't know what to tell people to expect. I don't even know what to expect from myself! But I expect I will be playing with androgyny a lot- there will be a lot of exploration, self-discovery, and definitely some booty shaking. Oliver is all about the ass. Expect tight pants. 

Do you have a favorite WreckRoom Idol? If so, who and why?:  

I'm quite excited for Alotta Vahjeen. Don't know much about her but her aesthetic looks stunning, and I love good aesthetic. 

Quick catchphrase: GO!: 

To Boldly Ho where No Man has Ho'd Before 

 (Photo credit: Carrie Strong)

Bay Valentine Turrelle,  22 

 What attracts you to drag? How and why did you start doing drag?: 

 I had a rough time growing up due to being bullied cause I was 400lbs and gay and so getting to become someone else that doesn't have all the insecurities is what originally attracted me to drag. I've always been super creative and loved theatre so it was just a win win situation.

 Describe your drag persona. Who and what influences your art?: 

 I refer to my Drag persona as fish, meaning I stick with the more kind of drag make up, but at the same time still a beautiful campy woman. My drags really inspired by more of like the now, really modern and up-to-date 2000s kinda stuff, because everything evolves for the better, why shouldn't drag? 

 How has drag impacted your life?: 

 Drag has impacted  my life in multiple ways, it's made me a better person, teaching me how to express myself in ways I couldn't before drag,  i've met so many great people that have had huge influences on who I am as a person today and I can honestly tell you the person I was before drag is not the person I am now.   

 Why did you decide to compete in WreckRoom Idol?:  because my Drag  has grown so much in the last year, and I want to show people that it doesn't matter if you've been doing drag 6 months or 6 years as long as you go in there and give it your all honey the sky is your limit. 

 Can you give me a glimpse at what people can expect from you in this competition?:  Face Cracks of the Century.  

Do you have a favorite WreckRoom Idol? If so, who and why?:  I don't really have a favorite, no T, I just wasn't into the drag scene or even around the OKC area until this year and I'm just now starting to meet the more seasoned queens and girl they are fabulous!

Quick catchphrase, GO!: 

Play with Bay 

Angelica Cyrus Monroe, 18

 What attracts you to drag? How and why did you start doing drag?:

I’ve always loved drag and drag queens. Their personalities and lifestyles are so loveable. Their costumes and makeup and everything they do has always interested me. But honestly doing drag myself was something I had never once considered. I had never heard of girls being drag Kings and I especially had never heard of faux queens. Growing up my mom told me stories of how she always hung out at the Wreckroom on weekends (in the 90’s, when she was my age) and watched the drag shows and she even lived down the road in a house with drag queens for a little while. So I already knew what the Wreckroom was, but I didn’t think it was still around. But when I heard they were reopening in July I was like “DUDE I HAVE TO GO” I went the first weekend and have been there every weekend since. But still, doing drag hadn’t crossed my mind. Until I met Knight Monroe and Black Widow one night at a show sometime in August. I guess you could say they’re both faux, which at this point I had still never heard of. But by then I had already made good friends with some of the regular performers up there, and one night they convinced me to perform the following week in Face Off, as a drag king. Knight Monroe performed the same night as me, but that’s about all I remember from my first show. Around that time was also when I learned that I could be a faux queen, so my second weekend that I performed, I did it as a queen and it just kinda stuck. I’ve been performing as a faux queen every single Friday for about two and a half months. Once I started performing I guess I caught the attention of Knight Monroe, because he offered to help me with costumes and my performances, and then he just became my drag dad. Honestly doing drag is everything I never knew I wanted. Everyone at the Wreckroom has become my family now and the Wreckroom is my new home. 

Describe your drag persona. Who and what influences your art?: Honestly, since I haven’t been doing it very long I’m still figuring out what my style is. My real name isn’t my drag name, but the name I use in drag is what I’ve always been called (except Monroe, that’s new). So Angelica Cyrus was always this sort of alter ego for me. She’s really badass, she loves leather, she doesn’t take any shit, she’s confident. Honestly I’ve kind of modeled myself after Miley Cyrus, Halsey, and Melanie Martinez. They’re probably my favorite female celebrities for so many reasons. 

 How has drag impacted your life?:

I struggle with a mental illness, so after I finished high school, I kind of lost all my high school buddies and so I didn’t have much of a social life, which contributed to my depression. But since I found this and started doing it, not only do I have something to do every single weekend, I also fell in love with doing this and it’s boosted my confidence so much and I’m learning new things about myself as I go. I think it’s helped make me stronger. 

 Why did you decide to compete in WreckRoom Idol?:

This one made me laugh. Because Knight (Kain) is my drag dad, I kind of heard about Idol first, and he actually asked me to help him get people together to invite people to compete. So since he’s running the whole thing it’s not much of a surprise that I’m in it. I mean of course I wanted to do it, but it’s not like someone asked me “hey we’re bringing back Idol, wanna be in it?” It was more like, “you’re already in this”. But either way I’m super excited to do this. I don’t even care if I win, I’m just happy I get this opportunity at all. 

 Can you give me a glimpse at what people can expect from you in this competition?: 

Definitely something different. I like to be very out of the box, I don’t like to be just like every other drag queen because I’m not. I’m a real girl. So for me this isn’t drag, it’s just me taking my life to the next level. So you can expect to see me definitely bringing out elements from the people I look up to and just generally being myself and not fitting into any mold. I’m very high energy and outgoing, I’m kind of all over the place sometimes but not in a bad way, just in general as a person. 

 Do you have a favorite WreckRoom Idol? If so, who and why?: 

I actually can’t say I do, since I’ve never actually met any of them or seen them perform. I’m still pretty new to all of this, so I’m still learning who certain people are. 

 Quick catchphrase, GO!: 

“girl, trust your intuition.”

Jasper Jaxs, 20

  What attracts you to drag? How and why did you start doing drag?: 

  The vibe, I love the people. Jexa is who really made me want to start. I love her. I have gender issues and was told I should try it. Since I have started I have felt more comfortable in my own skin. 

  Describe your drag persona. Who and what influences your art?:

Jasper has always been a name I liked. When I was young I had this character I loved to day dream about that i made up. His name was Jasper and he was mysterious and everyone liked him. But only a few really knew him. I always wanted to be that. So I guess in a way the cool "bad boy type" haha. 

  How has drag impacted your life?: 

 I have met so many people who become family. I have been able to figure myself out a little better. 

  Why did you decide to compete in WreckRoom Idol?: 

  Because I wanted a chance to prove to myself I could do it. I'm not looking to win. I'm ok with getting kicked out the 1st week haha. But I have already loved the excitement and friends I have gotten from this.

Can you give me a glimpse at what people can expect from you in this competition?: 

I'm going to be growing and trying my hardest to become better better each time. I will be here for anyone who needs me.

Do you have a favorite WreckRoom Idol? If so, who and why?: 

I don't know anyone who has been in Wreckroom idol. 

  Quick catchphrase, GO!: 

  I don't really have one "but if I did.. it would be "alright alright alright" because it always puts a smile on people's faces.

What attracts you to music? When did you start singing?  

What attracts me to music is the ability to reach others through song. I started singing at the age of three years old. 

Describe your stage persona. Who and what influences your art?:

My stage persona is a mix of soul and rhythm. God influences my art.

 How does music impact your life? 

music has impacted my life by having the ability to relate through song/music.

 Why did you decide to compete in WreckRoom Idol? 

I decided to compete for Wreckroom Idol because it has lots of different talent an I think that JuzP Johnson would fit in great. 

Can you give me a glimpse at what people can expect from you in this competition?: 

People can expect originality, quality, professionalism, and of course a great experience 

Do you have a favorite WreckRoom Idol? If so, who and why?: 

My favorite wreckroom idol is all of them because they are all original in their own way. 

Quick catchphrase: GO!: 

Be original.

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Drag Family Trees interviews Jasey Rae Paige

Kinsey Scale of Drag Family Trees chats with an incredible bio-queen, Jasey Rae Page from the state of Oklahoma! Read on to find out what Jasey has to say about drag’s impact on the community at large. 

Name: Jasey Rae Paige

 State: Oklahomo 

What was my first encounter with live drag?

It would have been going to the Wreckroom for my first time when I was seventeen. Jexa was the Miss Wreckroom and little did I know, I would spend the next six years of my life there every weekend, give or take.

 Describe your first time in drag. 

 Oh lord, is there a better word than hot ass mess? I did a number with my husband for my very first time in drag and realized that there was something deeper calling me to the stage. 

 Describe your drag persona in four words.

A boss ass bitch. 

 Do you have a drag mother?

I do! Her name is Alanna Paige. She’s been one of my best friends and also my drag mom for roughly four years… I’ve gotten my fair share of beatings from her but I would never ever give her up.  

What does being in a drag family entail?

Well, for me. It’s a sense of belonging. I belong to a really big family that has many smaller families built into it. I have a Mom who loves me endlessly, even when I piss her off and because of that I have other people. Like my Aunt, Tiffany Paige. G-ma, Lindsay… It’s really just knowing that there is a group of people willing to stand behind you and push you to be who you know you’re meant to be and also push you to be greater. 

What is your proudest moment in drag? 

Uh, probably during Wreck Room Idol when I did Proud Mary for the old people number. I had a broken ankle and a walker, and still managed to get the other contestants to join in and help out with background dancing.

 What is the funniest moment you’ve ever had in drag? 

It would probably be during a performance at the Wreck when my nipple almost fell out during a number… I was doing Fancy by Iggy Azalea and definitely got into it and my boobs were like, HI!  

 Who are some of your drag inspirations? 

 Victoria Rios is by far number one; who she is as a person has changed who I am as a person. But, Brandi Amara Skyy, Bella Nicole, Eleanor Rigby, Damian Matrix, Bastian Cox, and low and behold, Jak’kay Monroe.. These are just a few of the entertainers in my life who have shaped me into who I am. 

Why is drag beneficial and important to the queer community?

I think drag is all about being a different version of yourself. And in a day and age where it’s terrifying to be gay and proud of it, I think drag gives you that little boost to like remember that it’s okay to be different. I know that growing up at the Wreck Room definitely opened my eyes to the wonders that you can become with a little makeup and some stones, but like also the feelings that you need to get out that you can’t do when your required by society to be a certain type of person. 

What is the difference between you in drag and out of drag?

Ash is the sweet side of me. Like a motherly figure that only wants the best for people. But Jasey, is like a stone cold bitch. Like the type of attitude that just doesn’t give a fuck. Jasey is very IDFWU with everyone whereas Ash is like OMG LEMME LOVE YOU.

Why is drag an important artistic expression for you and what message are you trying to spread? 

Okay, so this is going to be a bit long because it’s important to me. Buuuuttt, the message I’m trying to send is that it’s okay to be who you are. I was once told that I am to fat to be looked up to and obese people aren’t positive role models. After watching both big and little divas win Nationals, I’ve learned that’s not true. There is so much hate surrounded by body image and I don’t think that’s a fair fight. Not every girl can help what size she is.. I work out religiously and never lose a pound. I don’t drink soda, I cut back sweets, and still nothing helps. It’s just the way that my body is wired. I wear crop tops and short shorts and leggings because IDGAF what people have to say about me but I don’t think it’s okay for people to try and bring body image into something that is supposed to be passionate. The BroTherhood and Sisterhood that comes from being a part of the USofA system is a completely different world. It’s unlike anything you will ever experience and it’s honestly just the best way to be a part of something that makes you feel welcome. Long story short; don’t ever bring someone’s weight into a competition where the judges don’t judge based off if you’re a size 2 or a size 30. They judge based off talent and how you present yourself as a person. 

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Wreck Room Idol Meet the Performers (Part 1 of 3)

In NO PARTICULAR ORDER, here are the contestants for the comeback of WreckRoom Idol! Do you have early favs?  

Alexander, age 21

What attracts you to drag? How and why did you start doing drag?: 

  What attracted me to drag was the Glamour and beauty of everyone even the king's I started doing drag as a queen and found myself as male being transgender female to male it makes me feel like I belong somewhere.

Describe your drag persona. Who and what influences your art?:

My drag Persona is kind of dark kinda nerdy kind of cool he tries too hard to be liked by everyone. My stepdad influence is my drag he's always trying to win the favor of my brother and sister. Also music helps me feel secure. 

How has drag impacted your life?: 

  Drag has impacted my life in helping me gain a family and great friends. It has also helped me become more true to myself and showing me that it doesn't matter who you are or what you do but you can be what you love.

Why did you decide to compete in WreckRoom Idol?: 

  I wanted to get into Idol because I know I will do well at it I feel like I can showcase myself and be true to myself..

Can you give me a glimpse at what people can expect from you in this competition?: 

  Expect more than you bargained for with Alexander you will see me and expect some punk rock songs but I will pull pop or even classic rock.

Do you have a favorite WreckRoom Idol? If so, why?: 

I haven't honestly watched any of the previous Idols I don't want to psych myself out. 

 Quick catchphrase: GO!:

My catchphrase would probably have to be “oh shit!” because I don't really pay attention a lot of the time. 

Porcelain Vahjeen, 22 

What attracts you to drag? How and why did you start doing drag?: 

  I’ve always been attracted to drag because of the glamour and because the confidence that the Queen’s exuded. I always wanted to be able to have that confidence and really to be able to push myself and do things that made me uncomfortable and drag was a way for me to be able to do that and also to grow as a person along the way.

Describe your drag persona. Who and what influences your art?: 

   If I had to describe my drag persona I would say porcelain is a space alien who came down to be a Stepford wife, It didn’t really work out so she took up stripping to raise money for the hungry orphans on her planet. I take a lot of my inspiration from either men or women really who either exuded the confidence that I want to show, had/have a glamorous lifestyle that I want or they’re just particularly funny. I would say other drag queens are where the majority of my inspiration comes from. I don’t particularly look to any specific person or group of people. It’s just always inspiring for me to see a queen go out in an unconventional outfit and a song the audience barely knows and turn it into something beautifully entertaining. 

How has drag impacted your life?: 

   Drag has made me more confident as Tyler, it has also made me more aware of the way women and the LGBT community get treated negatively. I believe because of drag I have learned more of the important political parts of the LGBT community and it has given me a whole new meaning as to why I do drag. It makes me want to get involved and stand out in the community. All to further not only LGBT rights but also women’s rights. Drag has also been a way for me to find other people who are like me and who are interested in the same things that I am. it has built friendships are strong and valuable to me that I never would have had them without some heels and a wig.

Why did you decide to compete in WreckRoom Idol?: 

  I decided to compete because the Wreckroom is where I started and I would like to show my appreciation for the Wreck. Once it closed myself and other underage queens and Kings really had nowhere to go. I would like to be able to do my part in making the WreckRoom be successful and to stay that safe haven for those underage baby Kings and queens who can’t get into the 21+ bars yet. 

. Can you give me a glimpse at what people can expect from you in this competition?: 

  Do you remember the first time you tried to make an omelette and it turned into scrabbled eggs, but you ate it anyways? I am scrabbled eggs and this is going to be delusions.  

 Do you have a favorite WreckRoom Idol? If so, who and why?:

  Season 3, Alotta Vahjeen. For obvious reasons. Without Alotta I wouldn’t be where I am today. Not only is she my drag mother, but she’s also my roommate and one of my best friends. Without her I don’t believe I would be able to show the confidence that I have now. My face would probably still be a big mess as well. 

Quick catchphrase: GO!:

 If at first you don't succeed, destroy the evidence...

Jupiter Marie Halliwell, 21

What attracts you to drag? How and why did you start doing drag?:  

Since I was young I always enjoyed dressing up and being someone I wasn’t. I mean everyone loves playing pretend and playing dress up when they are kids and to me drag is the adult version of that. It’s about letting my creativity shine and spreading love through breaking societal rules.  Describe your drag persona. Who and what influences your art?:

 My drag persona is a character in and of herself. She’s a character from a novel series I’m writing. She’s queen of a planet who lost her husband on an interstellar honeymoon and got stranded on Earth. Rock and Roll is the bigger influence as far as aesthetic goes. My biggest local influences would be queens like Jak’Kay Monroe and Alotta Vahjeen. Overall, my main inspirations stem from rock and roll artists, like Maria Brink, Lzzy Hale, Dorothy, and tons more. 

 How has drag impacted your life?:

 Its been a negative and a positive, I’ve met a ton of amazing people through drag and I’ve grown some much as a person. On the negative side, I’ve definitely made bad choices spending money I shouldn’t have on drag. Over all it’s been most definitely a positive experience that I wouldn’t ever change. 

Why did you decide to compete in WreckRoom Idol?: 

it’s been a lot standing dream of mine since I first stepped on the WreckRoom stage in 2015 as Franchesca. I have heard so many amazing stories about the competition and I’ve know plenty of former competitors who have gone on to do amazing things with their drag career.  Can you give me a glimpse at what people can expect from you in this competition?: 

A glimpse of what people should expect me from? As I said, I love Rock and Roll, but I’m more than meets the eye. As they say, “Expect the unexpected.” Do you have a favorite WreckRoom Idol? If so, who and why?: 

Overall, no, specifically because I loved each winner for their own unique reasons, and I can’t say one is better or more my favorite than any of the others.

 Quick catchphrase, GO!!: I’m out of my world. I’m out of my mind. Running through space and running through time.

Mikayla Kanielle, 26

What attracts you to drag? How and why did you start doing drag?: 

  The escape from the "normal" world is why I enjoy it most. I love being different. My friend Phillip, aka Gizele Monáe inspired me to do it most. He painted me for my first show and let me teach myself from there. A main reason why I started and continued doing it is that I want to be leader for the community. To build myself into a respectable entertainer. Thats something I think Gizele has done and I'd like to make her proud and be the best I can be. 

Describe your drag persona. Who and what influences your art?: 

   I say this from time to time but I'm the "Kakashi" of drag. Simply put, anything I see someone do and I want to do it, I will! Most of the inspiration I get comes from my sisters, Lyza LaRue, Krystal Naomi, Shalula Minaj(Queen), and Iman Naomi. Just by watching them I've learned how to better my makeup skills, crafting, and my performances. 

. How has drag impacted your life?:

  Drag has given me this kind of purpose. I've tried a few other things in my young life but nothing makes me as happy. Crafting and creating things makes me feel almost best. But when it all comes together perfectly on stage, there's no better feeling! 

  Why did you decide to compete in WreckRoom Idol?: 

  Having seen Queens and Kings compete, whether they won or lost develop into a better performer. Also building a platform and proving to myself that I can do this. I can rise to the challenge. 

  Can you give me a glimpse at what people can expect from you in this competition?: 

  Effort, Vigilance, and Expression. 

Do you have a favorite WreckRoom Idol? If so, who and why?: 

  Mine would definitely be Season 3 winner, Alotta Vahjeen. Even though she calls herself a trash monster she's still consistent, evolved and polished for her craft. She knows she is and her worth as an entertainer while still encouraging us that are still learning.

Quick catchphrase: GO!

 "I'm Mikayla Kanielle baby, and I Can·yell"

Dahlia Black, 19

What attracts you to drag? How and why did you start doing drag?: 

  Pretty much the first time I ever got attracted to drag was the Halloween show two years ago.  For me it's like for one night a week, I can be whoever I feel like.

Describe your drag persona. Who and what influences your art?: 

  My drag persona is pretty much a combination of the powerhouses in the pop music industry.  You know who they are,  Britney spears,  Katy Perry,  Beyonce, etc.

How has drag impacted your life?:

Drag has impacted my life by boosting my self esteem,  also it's a place for me to blow off steam.

Why did you decide to compete in WreckRoom Idol?:

I decided to compete in WreckRoom Idol because I've always had a pep in my step. I figured I could let that rub off on other people.

Can you give me a glimpse at what people can expect from you in this competition?: 

  Hmmmm.. A glimpse of the competition... color.  Lots of color.  Oh. And many many many impersonations.

Do you have a favorite WreckRoom Idol? If so, who and why?:

Honestly I don't have a favorite idol, they're all huge influences and it wouldn't be fair to just pick one.

Quick catchphrase, GO!:

Too much glitter in this room I presume.

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Jak’kay Monroe’s WreckRoom Idol Judge Xander Atrocious

Kinsey Scale Van de Kamp of Drag Family Trees gets ALL the T on Xander’s legacy with WreckRoom Idol, advice for the contestants, and what to look forward to this season!

How did you first become involved with WreckRoom Idol? 

I started going out to the WreckRoom around season 3. Before that I never really went out. I'm a homebody at heart. But I had a friend drag me out (no pun intended) to watch a drag show. Before that, I had no clue about drag or anything. I was intrigued to say the least. From there I went out pretty much every week. When season 4 came around, I went out to support the Patriarch or the Atrocious family, AJ Atrocious (love you dad). When season 5 came around, I signed up and somehow made top 4. Lol.

How has drag impacted your life? 

This is such a loaded question for me but I'll try to simplify it as much as I can. The Good- The biggest thing drag has helped/forced me to do is to get out of my comfort zone. A lot of people don't know this about me but I can be wicked shy and have terrible stage freight. Like stupid bad. Before I ever step on stage I get crazy nervous, but once I'm out and doing my thing, I step into "the Xander zone" and just have fun. The Bad- It showed me a lot of character flaws I had and really needed to work on. BIGGEST one was my arrogance. Every new king who walks out will have the complex, I'm no different. I think a big part of that is the fan girls. They are out showing, love, throwin dolla bills, yelling for you, and it makes you feel like a rock star. In my case, I had crazy potential when I first came out. So on top of the fangirls, i had everyone in my DM wanting to perform with Me, do their shows, pagaent etc and I let that go to my head In a big way. I thought I had all my shit together, you couldn't tell me anything, thought I was the prettiest dude around.But, If physics shows you anything, what goes up, must come down. I went to nationals for USofA and everything that could have went wrong did go wrong for me. I was humbled in the worst of ways. It affected me pretty bad where I had to step out of everything and find myself and what I was doing. I took the good and bad and did some soul searching and found who I was outside of drag to now be able to come back with some wisdom and a character change onstage.

As a mentor, what are you looking for in the next Wreck Room Idol? 

Someone who understands what they are required of with the title. Someone who will be promoting the shows, bringing in crowds. Someone who is not one trick pony. I want to see a power ballad on performance and a rap battle the next.

What is the best advice you could give to contestants performing at Idol? 

Be open to advice and growth. You can learn something from anyone. Very rarely do I watch a performance and not learn something or get inspired by something that I've seen. 

 What are you most excited about for this incarnation of the competition? 

I'm excited to see some drag kings to be honest. I'm one of the newest slightly known kings around if that says anything. Not dogging any other category of drag, but a lot of the newer guys are under age and don't get the exposure or help that they need to grow or have a mentor to hit up for questions.

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eight words; say them and I'm yours

go back to party city where you belong

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Knight Monroe: The mind behind the return of Jak’kay Monroe’s WreckRoom Idol

Drag Family Trees brings you this exclusive first interview from Knight Monroe, the performer behind the return on WreckRoom Idol. Read on to find out what’s in store for the audience and contestants in the competition, plus how drag benefits a community. 

photo credit: Carrie Strong

How long have you been doing drag, and how has your drag evolved over time? 

I started doing Drag in 2011. It first started off as a fun thing to do until I started seeing it as a character and a way to play someone I wasn’t. I have always loved acting and modeling and this was a way for me to become someone else. My drag didn’t take off until  I met my drag Mom Jakkay Monroe and from there my look and evolution began. I competed in WreckRoom Idol back then as well. I did drag until about 2014 in OKC and Wichita. When I started to work on my personal life I took a break from drag and worked on myself. This past year I started doing Male Entertaining or “Male Drag” as some people call it. I decided to do the MR. System and won my first prelim Mr. Gay Oklahoma City USofA 2017 where I’m the current reigning. I placed 5th at State and won Interview. If it wasn’t for Drag I would not have been able to accomplish these other goals an dreams I have this year. 

What motivated you to bring Wreckroom Idol back? 

Honestly the kids. The Wreckroom has been closed for awhile now that when it finally reopened there was a whole group of new performers and entertainers that I feel like deserved to have the chance at this competition. I want them to see the Wreckroom how I did packed and full of love! And let’s  admit it I love my drag Mom Jak’Kay so any excuse to bring her back is a good one. 

 What can the audience expect from this competition? 

They should expect a Wreckroom Idol like never before! I have pulled out all the cards for the audience and contestants from surprise twists to sickening special guest judges to the return of Jak’Kay! Literally one word will describe these Fridays. EXTRAVAGANZA!  Which you can’t spell without the word EXTRA!

. What is the best advice you could give to the performers of Idol?

Be yourself and do your research! Always be looking and learning and listening.And don’t F%#! It up! 

 Why is this competition important for the youth of this community? 

I believe it is important because it’s an outlet for these kids that isn’t dangerous or illegal. It’s a safe space and a home to most of them. This competition will help them grow as well as expose them to all styles and forms of art. 

What are you looking forward to in this competition?  I’m looking forward to the growth. To see everyone week after week grow is pretty spectacular. I’m also looking forward to making this season a success and to see who’s gonna join the other idols!

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Ariel Alice: Pre-WreckRoom Idol Judge Interview

Drag Family Trees interviewer Kinsey Scale Van de Kamp decided to have a chat with the first ever WreckRoom Idol, and new judge of this season’s Wreck Room Idol, Ariel Alice. She spills the tea on the benefits of this competition, advice for the queens, and what to expect for this season. 

Photo credit: Carrie Strong

How did it feel to win the first ever Wreck Room Idol? 

It felt correct. That sounds conceded but there really was this moment before Jak’kay announced my name where in my head I just thought, “I got this. It is me. I am winning this.” So while I still had the reaction of “OH MY GOD IT ACTUALLY HAPPENED!” It was more from the satisfaction of making this thing happen as opposed to “I can’t believe it was me”. So I would say it felt correct, it felt satisfying, and it felt affirming, like I was finally being given the chance I’d been fighting for this entire time.

 How did the competition help you grow?

I felt like during the actual competition, you certainly grow, but you grow even more after. There’s only so much growth that can happen in those few weeks of performing on a Friday or Saturday, and when you’re given a challenge, for the most part, you just stick to what you know, and what you trust will get your vision across. Once those challenges are lifted though, and you’re actually allowed to be free and do whatever you want, and people will pay attention cause you were the “winner”, you experiment a lot more, and that’s when you really start growing.

As a judge, what are you looking for in the next Wreck Room Idol? 

I look for someone whose true to themselves, who stands out from the crowd. Someone who isn’t afraid to push boundaries, and most importantly, someone who looks good standing next to the rest of the idol circle! You have Jak’kay, myself, Illyana, Alotta, Hades, and Vi to stand next to, you can’t be the one lost in that mix.  

 What is the best advice you could give to contestants performing at Idol? 

Invest in some professional promo pics. Honestly, it’s the easiest and cheapest way to make yourself look professional and invested in this craft.  Besides that, I’d say a great piece of advice is, check your attitude at the door. Jak’kay and I are returning judges, I know how we judge, and personality is on that list, so being a diva or whatever is fine, but don’t act entitled, keep your little feuds and issues off Facebook, act like you’re applying for a job, cause you are. Oh and one last piece of advice, SHOW UP FOR EVERY CHALLENGE!

 What are you most excited about for this incarnation of the competition? 

Well this is the longest we’ve gone between Idol seasons, so most of these performers are people who started performing after the last season. I don’t know most of them, and I have seen only three of the contestants perform before this point. Before I’d known most if not all of the contestants, this time, even I don’t know what’s going to come out on stage. So I’m most excited to see this new group perform and see people I’ve never met before, that’s a gift I haven’t been given before.

Photo credit: Carrie Strong

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Thankfully musician/drag queen Kaylee Losawyer went to a high school where people expected her to paint herself in blue paint to audition for the genie role in Aladdin. Photos: Kaylee Losawyer.

Many dream about expressing themselves creatively, but hold back because they fear they’ll get rejected. But folks can’t love you if they don’t first have the chance to reject you, but you’d be amazed how far you can get by clearly asking others for help.

Today we’re joined by one of our younger listeners, Kaylee Losawyer, a gal with a can do spirit who’s managed to put out an album of music and become a fierce drag performer by simply asking others to help her get it done.

Listen as Kaylee talks about the steps you to take to get stuff done, the funny way she auditioned to be the blue genie in Aladdin and how to handle disappointment when others say “not today Satan.”

When you can’t decide what gender to present as, why not do both? Kaylee Losawyer as her drag alter ego Kinsey Scale.

Plus–

How the Internet is changing drag families and sisterhoods.

Orange is the New Black third season will feature a Martha Stewart inspired character.

K Kanye backs out of the music streaming service Tidal.

The Chinese government cracks down on funeral strippers.

I don’t know what it is you’re good at, but if it’s at a funeral, it’s not dancing. Deceased?

// //

// ]]>

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Trans | Seattle, Washington - 2015 

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The fierce and fashionable Coco Chanell

In a special edition of Drag Family Trees, I am bringing you a correspondence between myself and Coco Chanell, a very young but incredibly talented Oklahoma City drag queen. When I first met Coco, I was blown away with her beauty and charisma. I learned about her age and absolutely had to interview her. This interview is dedicated to the young ones who read this blog. Though there are limited opportunities for youth to perform in drag, it is never too early to start developing a solid persona. Without further ado, the eloquent and talented Coco Chanell!

Drag name:Coco Chanell Real name:Wes Rose Age:17 Location:Oklahoma City,Oklahoma Home Club: The Wreck Room When did you first encounter live drag? The first time I ever encountered live drag I was about 15 years old. A group of friends and I had planned to go to the movies but it was too late for anyone under the age of 17 to purchase tickets. One of my friends sarcastically suggested that we go to the wreck room to see a drag show. I would have never thought that a few months later I would be performing on that same stage! When did you start to consider doing drag? I considered doing drag about 4 months after seeing my first drag show. I had added some of the queens that I watched perform on Facebook and that's how I found out about Jak'kay Monroe's Wreck Room Idol. Describe your first performance. Unlike most performers, my first performance wasn't during an open talent night. For some reason I thought that it would be good idea to just dive right into the drag world head first. At 16 I signed up for a competition called Wreck Room Idol. Some of my competitors had been doing drag for well over a year and this was my first time even leaving the house in drag! Back stage I was a nervous wreck, I remember thinking "what did i just sign myself up for", but as soon as my music came on and I felt the spotlight hit my face I knew everything was going to be just fine. How did you choose your drag name?  I chose the name Coco Chanell because I thought it would be cute to be able to have my own symbol hahah; that's really the only reason I have. Do you have a drag family? I have an amazing drag family/families. My drag mother is the lovely Venetia Zane Paige and my drag father is Nathaniel Monroe. Venetia and I officially met when I signed up for Wreck Room Idol, it was only about two weeks of us knowing each other that she asked me to join her drag family. When she asked me I remember almost crying because in such a short amount of time I had already begun to look up to her so much! Unlike most performers I choose to interview, you are a minor and you still live at home. How has drag affected your relationship with your parents?  In a really awkward way drag has sort of brought me closer to my mom. The only people who live In my house are my mother, younger brother, and myself. My brother has no clue about me doing drag and my mom doesn't mind it but she has her moments when she seems that it does bother her as well. At the end of the day she still loves me so that's all that matters! What is the most meaningful piece you have performed? The most poignant piece that I have ever performed would have to be Unconditionally by Katy Perry. I was able to put a lot of emotion into it because it was the first song that I ever performed. I tried to take all of my fears of being out there for the first time and use them to perform the song in the most convincing way possible. What is the best advice you have ever received about doing drag?  One thing that is important to me is to continue to grow as performer. No one knows everything about drag so I always take people's advice and opinions into consideration; this is probably one of the best pieces of advice that I have ever been given as well. What is the most challenging aspect of drag for you? The most difficult part of drag for me is finding a new song and costume/outfit every weekend. Staying new and fresh is really important in this business and wearing the same costume that you wore last night isn't very new...or fresh! How has drag helped you grow as a person?  Drag has helped me to stop caring so much about what people think about me. I find that out of drag I am able to be myself more now. Before i started doing drag I was scared of the thought of people knowing that I was gay, I even dated girls just to " fit in" ! You hear people say it gets better but I honestly didn't think that it ever would. I think it's safe to say that drag actually saved my life. Who are your main drag influences? My two main drag influences are Venetia Zane Paige and Jak'kay Monroe. They are both amazing people and entertainers. Jak'kay is very edgy and is just so different from everyone else, she doesn't care what people think about her and that's something that I love about her. Whereas Venetia is one of the most beautiful queens that there are and is known to dance the house DOWN! They both are very unique performers and I think that's why I idolize them so much, because its important to be unique in order to prosper in this industry. What is your proudest moment in drag? My proudest moment in drag would have to be the night that performed for the first time. As soon as I stepped foot onstage I instantly knew that drag was something that I was going to want to do for a really long time. Seeing the way that the audience was reacting to me sent my pride through the roof! I couldn't believe that all of these people liked me and didn't just laugh me off the stage. I was a 16 year old gay kid in a wig lip syncing to a Katy Perry song, who knew people liked this kind of thing? Is working in this industry feasible for you at your age? Going to school,working,doing chores, and still finding time for drag isn't always easy. Sometimes it's just impossible to get all of them done, but because I'm still in school and living at home, school and chores always come first. I love drag and eventually plan on doing it full time but right now it's not an option; plus I'm not old enough to do shows anywhere in okc other then The Wreck Room and its only open Friday and Saturday.

coco chanell

What do you want people to take away from your act? What I want people to take from my shows depends on the song that I am performing. If I'm doing an emotional number I would hope that the audience is able to feel that emotion through me. Regardless of the song choice I want the crowd to be entertained and feel that the money they spent to get in was completely worth it. Personally I try to entertain everyone in the crowd and not just those who tip. How does drag affect you? Drag is very empowering for me, I'm able to transform into a character who has fans and is surrounded by people who love me. Out of drag I can be a little self conscious about my weight but in drag, I love the fact that I'm bigger than some of the other girls. How does drag impact your community? Where I do drag helps the youth. I perform at a teen club in okc, The Wreck Room allows entry to both performers and audience members ages 16 and up. The Wreck Room is the only gay club for teens in okc. What I like about it there is that no matter how you look, act, or your sexual preference your treated with respect. Everyone is accepted there and I think that by there being such a diverse crowd young people learn to accept each other. What are the differences between Coco and Wes? When I'm in drag I'm pretty much fearless, I have no problem going into Walmart in full drag! People know that drag queens exist so why should we only go to clubs in drag? In drag my confidence is much higher then out of drag, I'm able to hide all of the things that bother me. When I'm out of drag a lot of people actually think I'm straight! It's kind of like a Spider-Man situation, I can be Coco anytime of the day if I choose to be because its who I am but when I'm Wes  people have no clue that I'm Coco too. All I know is that I love my double life, and I hope the world is ready for me because I won't stop until I reach the top!