Miss Crime Scene: Unbreakable Work of Art

Fresh off the Facebook drag competition, The Drag Race, Miss Crime Scene has no plans of slowing down. As a woman in the drag community, she's had to work especially hard to prove herself as a drag performer and continues to show that she's more than just a girl in a costume. Miss Crime Scene won the first season of The Drag Race by winning the hearts of her judges as well as having the opportunity to gain a following in the process. Unlike most queens in online competitions, Miss Crime Scene has always gone above and beyond to show her support for her fellow contestants even in tough times during the competition...which is a truly admirable quality.

1. Who is Miss Crime Scene? 

Miss Crime Scene is basically my escape. She is so different than who I am normally. She is not scared to put herself out there, show off her body, bend the rules, and just go for it. While normally I am a hermit, shy, glued to some video games or behind the scenes creating art, all paired with yoga pants, messy hair and no make up on. She is in the spotlight instead of holding the spotlight. She comes off as a very sexual being who is just isn't scared to take on the world and give everyone a show. She is everything I am scared to be, everything everyone told me I couldn't be.  No matter what is thrown at her (even if at the scene of a crime) she refuses to let things break her. She turns anything that might harm her well being or happiness into humor, or her own personal cat walk. She makes the best of anything that comes her way. Putting her feelings aside to make sure she keeps herself together is what she calls her "survival instinct" and it kicks in whenever it's needed. 

2. Where did you get your drag name? 

I got my name YEARS ago, when I was 13 years old and I am 27 now. I made it up one day, because I wanted to use a modeling/photography name for any online profiles I had. I had crime scene tape all over my room and pictured what you saw in my drag race photo for the name challenge, and Miss Crime Scene was the name that popped into my mind. I never knew it would become anything really serious or even stick, but everyone started calling me by that name. People in my school, others schools, people online and it just grew like wild fire. People really liked my stuff, made fan art, sent me gifts, featured me on pages and I just knew I couldn't change my name and really didn't want to after thinking about it because it's cool to see how much I have grown with this same name over the years. 

3. When and why did you become a drag performer? 

When I started I wasn't a bio queen, I was a back up dancer for my friend Twylyte Starr. I met him at a show I went to and he wanted to go dancing after, so we all met up at a bar. I drank too much and fell off stage, bringing him down with me onto the dirty muddy floor. The next day I apologized and we laughed about it and the bruises that came from it. We didn't even know it happened until someone told me and I said I was sorry. It was such a fun time, and we kept going out dancing together until one day he asked me to be a back up dancer and I said I would try it out. It was so fun, I did back up dancing for him, was in an "Alice in Wonderland" play he put together as the white rabbit, and then one day I asked if I was allowed to do a solo number and he said yes. I was so nervous and did my first number which was teeth by Gaga as a lion tamer. After a while I started doing more solo numbers and trying to experiment more with my look and performances to just prove to myself that I was allowed a spot next to all these talented queens. I learned about being a bio queen way after and I am just so happy to keep growing and learning. 

4. Where do you draw inspiration from? 

I get inspiration from so many things. I use all the negative things people have ever said to me to keep going. I LOVE the 90s, video games, cosplay, comics, halloween, clowns, and just so many other things. I am used to being able to be visual because of photography/modeling and putting together an entire theme, outfit, background etc so visual art in general has looking at it and thinking "how can I make this come to life, instead of just an image but a performance". I also use the fact that I want to help everyone who has ever been bullied to know that they can do anything they want. Anytime I think I am not good enough, I push for all of those people and for anyone who is just scared. The whole reason I do modeling…. I am a fat human who says "I am allowed to feel beautiful and to create art with my body, or even just to look sexy" and I want to show others that also. I refuse to give in due to bigots, bullies, negative miserable trolls, or insecure people who try to rip apart anything different. 

5. What is your favorite and least favorite part about being a bio queen performer?

My favorite part is being able to tell women of all ages that they can do it also, even though they are so used to the world telling them no…. it's a yes if you want it bad enough. Also being able to interact with such talented and amazing artists and being able to learn from them for my personal growth as a performer and person. My least favorite part has pros and cons to it. Not being valued, discredited, or not taken seriously due to the fact that I am a biological woman is my least favorite part, but also it's part of my drive to do better, do bigger, and push like crazy…. so it's still a win. As long as I get my McDonald's after each show, I am gooooood gorl. 

6. Have you dealt with any discrimination from the drag community because you're a biological girl? How do you handle negativity thrown towards you?

It's 2015 and still humans just can NOT accept other humans. So many people seem to have to be oppressive about something. I get shit for being a "woman" from a lot of people online randomly, it always comes in waves. I even get shit from other bio queens which makes no sense at all. I don't understand how people can preach about equality or how their art is valid but then try to rip others down and say they aren't valid. It's literally the chicken surfing on a pizza a potato. That doesn't make sense and neither do their views. I am thankful for feminism every day. When it comes to handling negativity I try to remember that anyone who acts unpleasant is most likely dealing with bad things in their life, had it rough and can't figure out how to deal with all of that frustration, dealing with their own insecurities and projecting it onto others, or they just want your attention so they try to insult you and take it back as soon as you say something back to them. Sometimes I might take a break from the internet and compose myself. Nature, baths, dance parties, friends, things in the real world can help you stay away from that dangerous fake negative head space that tries to pull us in. Getting upset? Go do something, don't stew in it. When you come back, you will feel fine and you will be able to laugh at them.

 7. What advice do you have for women who would like to become a bio queen performer?

:insert Shia labeouf photo: JUST DO IT! No but seriously, life is short and if you were laying on your death bed the only think you will regret is the shit you didn't do, you won't give a shit about who said what, and all of that other shit that doesn't matter. Don't let yourself down, and fight like hell for the things you love. Respect and love yourself enough to do the things that you want to do, you deserve it and only you can make things happen.

8. You recently won the Facebook drag competition, "The Drag Race", what do you have to say to your supporters? 

THANK YOU SO MUCH YOU SEXUAL ANGELS!!! I thought I would be the first one to be eliminated and you guys just were so supportive and kept me going. I always think everything I do is terrible, so thank you for letting me know when I did something that you loved! 

9. What was your favorite challenge from The Drag Race? 

DAT INSTA WEAVE GORL! Magic in a spray bottle. I had so much fun filming that video and I might keep going with more videos like it. I love my boyfriend for always helping me out and also one of my best friends Ryan for helping out also. I was so excited to use my dog Captain Bill in it as well as the lip sync challenge. He loves his camera time. 

10. Which challenge was the most difficult one to execute in your opinion? 

Snatch game nearly killed me. I was so upset trying to think of who I could be. I ended up choosing Sofia, drinking some beer and filming it. I ended up having fun and people loved it. That is what really makes or breaks anything to do honestly, always remember to make it fun.

11. Who were you closest to out of all the other competitors? 

Well besides Twy and Myrtle because they are drag family, I got pretty close to Vegas and Luxe the most. Vegas and I figured out that besides our drag style, we are pretty much twins. Luxe is just such an angel and I enjoy talking with her a lot. In reality though I talk to all of the girls and love them so much, everyone is so nice and supportive. I am in love with this cast and all of the judges. I was scared that everyone would fight and it would be a war but it ended up being a sisterhood. Season 1 sisters and I feel very grateful to know these angels. Oh, and Sunday and I are having a chicken nugget wedding. 

12. Who would you say is your biggest inspiration when it comes to drag? 

This is so hard, I have a list of people that inspire me in drag. Honestly I would just have to say members of my drag family are my biggest inspiration, they are always there to support you and to give you talks if you are doubting yourself. They never let you fall flat, they teach you things so you can improve, everyone loves to share the spotlight instead of fighting over it, they keep you laughing, and they are just part of my backbone. 

13. What is your biggest insecurity when it comes to drag? 

Hmmmm…. I have 2 things that get to me. The fact that I always have ripped tights because my thighs fight with me each time I pull them up and trying to not bore the crowd. Performing is SO fun, but I want people to always enjoy what I do and never to fall into a safe zone where everyone knows what I am going to do before I do it and they lose interest.

14. If people want to see you perform, where should they go? 

They can come to Higher Ground every First Friday of the month in Burlington VT, or they can come on over to Plattsburgh NY where I live. I perform other places also when booked, was recently in Massachusetts and heading down to Albany NY in a few days. So if you know people in your area who put on shows, request that I am booked and I would LOVE to go meet all of you and perform in your town! 

15. Marry, Kai Kai, Kill...a few of your former competitors: Capria Luchia, Vegas Van Dank, Nina Von Queefs

Marry and Kai Kai all of them bitches. Only kill if they touch my damn pizza rolls.

Follow Miss Crime Scene 

Instagram: @misscrimescene

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OfficialMCS/

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Valentine Addams: Chicago's Fairy Princess

Every big city has their own type of drag aesthetic that makes the performers in that city stand out from other communities. Over the past few years, there has been some insane growth in the city of Chicago because rather than having a signature aesthetic that does well, each performer uses the stage as their outlet to do whatever they feel like doing, regardless of outside standards. Chicago performers are truly one of a kind artists that take their work to a whole new level, and that work should never go unappreciated. The performers in Chicago have formed a sisterhood and have encouraged each other to take things to the next level instead of trying to tear each other down. That's what makes the city of Chicago so very special. Meet Valentine Addams, who was encouraged by Chicago's star host, Trannika Rex, to showcase her talent, and since then, Valentine hasn't looked back. Valentine Addams is just one of the very many Chicago performers that prides herself in being a one of a kind artist and is always looking for ways to take her work to the next level. The possibilities are limitless. 

1. Who is Valentine Addams?

Valentine is a fairy succubus princess from one of Neptune's moons! She is super sensual but can be very cute and flirty. She never hides her body and uses it to get what she wants, boys and money! Super Kawaii!!!

2. When and why did you start doing drag?

I started doing drag when I was 21. I did it for Halloween, I went to work as my boss and she loved it. And then around 23 or 24, I started performing because my really good friend, Trannika Rex, forced me to perform and I haven't turned back since.

3. Where did your drag name come from?

Valentine came from my first name being Valter. Addams, because I love the Addams family and I started off being more gothy like my boy drag.

4. Where do you draw inspiration from?

I find most of my inspiration from anime really. That and fantasy films and such. I used to make up fantasy worlds in my mind as a kid, so a lot of my looks are just those ideas coming to reality.

5. How long does it take you to get ready for a typical performance?

About 3 hours. From the time I start glueing down my eyebrows to the time I'm putting those lashes on.

6. What is your favorite thing about performing in Chicago?

I think the community. I have such a great amazingly talented group of friends like Kim Chi, Shea Coulee, Trannika Rex, Nico, Lucy Stoole and Beverly Lately just to name a few. But it has less to do with how talented I think the Chicago queens are, and everything to do with how supportive we try to be of each other. 

7. What makes Chicago drag unique?

What's makes Chicago drag so unique would have to be how different we all are. There's sooo many different looks happening in Chicago right now. And in most recent years all the different kinds of queens are finally starting to work together and do some amazing things. We are all striving for the best and to have a great time. I think we all are very serious in our art but don't take ourselves too seriously, so most Chicago queens are easy and fun to work with. Most of us consider ourselves artist's before drag queens, so we are trying to cross the boundaries of what drag is and into the art world. 

8. Does your family support you as a drag performer?

My mom loves it and all 3 of my brothers are cool and have come to see me a few times. But my father and I don't really talk about it. We unfortunately don't talk about much in general. 

9. What has been the biggest lesson you've learned so far during your drag career?

Don't drink and do drag. At least not a lot.... Hehe

10. What advice would you give someone who is more new to the drag scene?

Practice makes perfect! And PAY ATTENTION TO DETAILS!!!! it pays off. 

11. What is your favorite makeup product to use?

For sure my highlight. It's Studiofix Shivering White by MAC. Game changer! My good friend, Trixie Mattel told me about it the first time I met her years ago. And I haven't gone back since. It's the whitest white. I'm so pale I need something crisp and white, unless it won't show up on my milky skin tone. 

12. If you could change something about the drag scene, what would you change and why?

Probably the cattiness. I think there's a lot of drag queens out there that can be catty. But I try to surround myself with great friends. 

13. What has been your biggest accomplishment so far?

Honestly my biggest accomplishment so far has been my career in hair. I still can't believe I've been doing it for almost 9 years now. 

14. Do you have a specific role model that you look up to? If so, who is it and why do you look up to them?

I think my role model would have to be my mom. She is a strong woman in my life, so I've always looked up to her. She has always been my number 1 cheerleader. She's always supported what I've wanted to do, or at least once she realized that I was always gonna do whatever I wanted.

15. What is something that not many know about you? 

Most people don't know that I'm Mexican. I was born in Mexico and my family moved to the states when I was 5.

Follow Valentine:

Instagram: @itsmevalentine 

Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/Itsmevalentine?tsid=0.9646798293106258&source=typeahead

Twitter: @valentineaddams

Photo Credit:

Neverland

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Plastic Factory

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Adam Ouahmane 

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Nestors Photography 

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The Drag Enthusiast

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Saint Peter D'Vil: Rock & Roll Glamour

California has a huge variety of drag performers with huge personalities and fun performances to match. Among these performers, one would find that there are a handful of whom strive to be outside the box and don't conform to expectations set by the drag community. Drag is an art, and is a way of expressing oneself. Saint Peter D'Vil is an experienced performer who strives to be different from the rest and loves seeing people have fun at the shows she hosts and puts together with her husband, Carlos. 

1. Who is Saint Peter D'Vil?

Saint Peter D'Vil is camp, horror and rock and roll. I have a saying, I never try and be natural I always aim to be supernatural. I am drag queen, entertainer, event promoter, producer, host and judge for competitions. A glamour ghoul death glam drag queen. I do practice witchcraft. It comes naturally I feel, but I keep on pushing to be more knowledgeable and push myself to do more. I never really label myself as "witch" or hash tag it. Seems dumb to me, I guess, I just know what I am and capable of. I love showing people a great time at my events and shows. 

2. When and why did you start doing drag?

I started dabbling in drag in high school going to clubs and shows. I started doing drag because it let's you be whoever you want to be and made me express myself with art, music and entertainment.

3. Where did you get your drag name?

I got my drag name because my name is Peter and I wanted to have a mixture of good Saint Peter and bad devil. Also, I have dyed my hair a lot black and white like Cruella Deville. I wanted to make my name an enigma like question yet and mix two genders and not have myself labeled as a girl or something.

4. How did the Haus Of D'Vil start and what do your teeth necklaces represent?

The Haus of D'Vil started with me of course and my husband, Carlos Gomez Aranda, working together doing my events with my drag daughters and members of my team and drag family. The tooth necklaces were actually gifts to the people that would help me with events and drag queens that would come and do an event with me. They are made out of howlite stone which is a magical and energy stone that blocks negativity to keep you centered and is good for your teeth and bones and help you sleep. I wanted them to be meaningful. They're basically a charm for protection.  And I thought the necklaces looking like fangs was a cute idea.

5. What has been your favorite number you've ever performed and why?

My favorite number I have ever performed...I don't know...I have so many. Dragula last year I performed "MacArthur Park" and the Boulet Brothers made it rain on me with a water hose so I was performing under rain and that was really cool at the club. But I have so many numbers that I love doing. I love rock and roll stuff usually. 

6. What is your favorite/least favorite parts about doing drag?

My favorite thing about drag is entertaining and showing people a good time. Also doing makeup and hair and being whatever I want to be. My least favorite part is putting on eyelashes and nails.

7. In your opinion, what has been your biggest accomplishment so far?

My biggest accomplishment so far is having my own events that I run myself and being able to perform what I want. Also being able to book other drag queens such as queens from RuPaul's Drag Race and having them actually work at my event and working with a lot of talented performers. Also being a part of Drag con was really cool.  Being in the book with my name in alphabetic order under RuPaul was really awesome as well. Also being invited to be there and being part of the World of Wonder blog a couple times was great! 

8. What is your favorite item of drag that you own?

My favorite drag item...I don't know I don't really have a favorite item. I have many. Oh! I have a certain pairs of heels that I like so I try to buy them like the same ones so people probably think I wear the same shoes but I have a lot in the same style! 

9. What is the most misunderstood thing about drag in your opinion?

Most misunderstood thing about drag to me is that we all want to be girls and just do girl numbers but I think drag is whatever you want it to be and it's art. It's the art of performance.

10. How do you deal with negative comments by other people who aren't so open minded?

How do I deal with negative comments by other people who are closed minded?  I just deal with it and sometimes make it around them and talk back and explain to them and sometimes it gets crazy.

11. What advice do you have for younger queens?

My advice two younger queens is listen, pay attention, and learn more about the craft. Know what kind of bars you go into and what crowd it is. That way your performance can be built around that so you have a good show. Also, it's good to take constructive criticism, there are lots of young drag queens that can't take it, but you have to learn from experiences. Also, you can step out of the bubble and do stuff that you aren't comfortable with and have fun with it.

12. What is the biggest lesson you've learned in the time you've been performing as a queen?

The biggest lesson I've learned is to know your crowd and to be careful and don't hurt yourself. 

13. If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and why?

If I could travel anywhere in the world it would be Germany and France. I love all the history about those places and they look beautiful.

14. What is something not many people know about you?

Something that may you know about me I'm a very motherly, I listen, and I'm actually very nice. My eyebrows are just drawn on that way. And that I'm old...I'm 34 years old and married to my husband. 

15. Which club do you like performing the most at? 

There are too many! I love all the clubs I work at. I love performing at Precinct, I have a night there every Thursday, Rock and Roll Gay Bar. I love Faultline bar and Eagle bar...funny those are all the leather type bars. And of course Mickey's! I love Mickey's for the lighting and the stage is great. Mickey's is like one of my home bars. I'm there every month and I love it there, it's like my home. It's where I started doing events. All the other bars I work at now are all like my second home. 

Follow Saint Peter D'Vil:

Facebook: https://facebook.com/saintpeterdvil?tsid=0.6587911352980882&source=typeahead

Instagram: @saintpeterd_vil

Buy Haus Of D'Vil fang necklaces!

https://www.etsy.com/listing/197348000/haus-of-dvil-howlite-stone-fang-necklace

Photography by Brett Saari

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The Drag Enthusiast

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Harvest Dubois: Australia's Sweetheart

Taking a lot of inspiration from Trixie Mattel, Havest Dubois is known for her campy style and lively personality. She is quite new to performing, but her aesthetic would tell you otherwise. She resides in Australia where drag isn't too much different, but the main focus of performances is the performance because performers don't actually get tipped like they do in the U.S. Either way, Harvest has already won the hearts of many and is set on winning many more hearts in the future. 

1. Who is Harvest Dubois?

Harvest Dubois is fun fun campy persona that is pretty much my boy self, honestly. I don't put on much of a character for Harvest, other than the boosted confidence that I get. She's loud, annoying, and always wants attention. I always have to put in a word whether it's shady or not!

2. Where did you get your drag name?

My drag name comes from a can of braised steak and onions! I'll find a photo for you! I originally wanted to be just Harvest and have a Milk queen aesthetic and be a dry harvest, wet harvest, midnight harvest, etc...but then my friend said I needed a last name and popped up has Dubois like French Dubois and I changed the pronouncing to the bois referencing that I'm a whore. ;)

3. When and why did you start performing in drag?

I started performing in drag in late July of last year. It was a good 4 months after I had seen my first drag show. I've always been interested in drag, I never thought I would ever actually do it...but after seeing that show, which was at our main gay night club in my city's birthday show, I fell in love and jumped right on the band wagon. Unlike a lot of queens, I stayed at home for good few months and practiced before I even left the house. For my performance, my good queen friend Kodi Pendant painted my face and gave me some tips before performing. I hadn't ever even left my house in drag, let alone perform, so being in heels in the middle of a night club was extremely new to me. 

4. How is Australian drag different from American drag?

Australian drag really embraces the different styles of drag. If you havesomething special and different, you will really get praised for it in Australia. We do not tip the queens, and I've heard we prefer it, as it takes away from the performance. In my opinion, it's performance art, not how much money you can grab. We are all very campy and costumy queens over here but we do have fishy girls as you would say, but all of our costuming is actually costumes. It's very rare to see a girl just wearing our costumes as everyday clothing. 

5. What has been your biggest accomplishment so far?

Shaving off my eyebrows! Nah, actually my biggest accomplishment in drag so far has been getting hired as a professional queen after such a short time of doing drag. I had only been doing drag for about 3 months before I got asked to star in a stage show at Connections Night Club for Pop Thursday's, which is run by the fabulous Barbie Q Coals. It's a drag queen night show with drag queen barmaids and the most camp music! I did Hairspray along with 3 other queens: Veronica Jean Jones, Barbie Q Coals, and Katya Kokov. After that, I was hired as a member of their drag queen staff and am constantly whirling around the club entertaining guests! 

6. What has been your biggest obstacle?

My biggest obstacle would have to be overcoming my shyness. I've always been a shy kid, mainly because when I was growing up, I wasn't really allowed much of an opinion and had to keep my mouth shut. I think that's why I'm such an opinionated asshole now. I remember one night in January, I had a man come up to me in the club who was one of my good friend's friends and he started talking to me asking me about my drag and such and then he said to me "you're  scared I can tell you are." I replied with "a little to be honest" and he made me grab his balls and said "look at that queen over there she's beautiful but she's boring as batshit. Do you want to be that?" I said "no", so he said "grab everyone by the balls and be a bitch. Be a big personality. You have the look. You  have an attitude to go with it..." and that has helped me so much and I thank this man from the bottom of my heart. 

 

7. Who would you say is your biggest inspiration and why?

My biggest inspiration is...you guessed it...Trixie Mattel. I've always loved big drag and as soon as I laid eyes on Trixie, I knew she was my favorite! I've been following her for a good time now I found her through the Neverland parties in Chicago, as another queen posted a video of Pearl around October of last year, and I watched it. The suggested videos came up as Trixie Mattel so I thought "hell let's see what we have here" and I instantly fell in love. She was performing "I Was Gonna Cancel" by Kylie Minogue. I really love the life like barbie doll aesthetic she does. I grew up playing barbies and being obsessed with everything girly so I really gravitated towards her. I also love the idea of not being able to recognize yourself. She has said "I utilize none of my natural features". When I first started following her, I was so obsessed that I kind of wanted to be her, so I was paintingvery similar for a good while. But then after thinking about it, I decided to take a few aspects of her makeup and make them my own so I wasn't stealing anyone's gig.

8. How long does it take you to get ready for a performance? 

For me to get ready it takes about 2-3 hours to do my makeup. I'll be prepping my music about a week in advance and learn the beats and words.

9. What is something you want to change about the drag community? Why would you change it?

The bitchiness. It's awful. I'm all for a good read, but when stuff gets that competitive, and people start crushing light globes and putting it in face powder or swapping wig glue for super glue or something, it needs to stop. I don't understand how things can get so out of hand. Everybody should just love and be shady when needed for humor. 

10. Where did you learn to do your makeup?

I learned a majority of my makeup from YouTube and studying photos and practicing. I did get a bit of help from a friend who is a makeup artist, and she helped me figure where to put things, cover my brows and all that jazz!

11. In your opinion, what is the most misunderstood thing about drag?

Not all of us want to actaully be women or want to always look like a woman. I like to look pretty but unnatural pretty.  There is so much stress on drag queens to always be beautiful. I like to get dirty and try different looks and not always be pretty.

12. What is your favorite thing about performing?

The crowd response. I love seeing smiles in the audience and seeing people enjoying me on stage. I love when people have a laugh and can't take their eyes off you. It makes you feel amazing having people filming so they can watch it again...just makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside that people appreciate what I'm doing. Of course, once I'm done, the applause! The things for confidence an amazing applause can do to you! 

13. What advice do you have for other queens who want to become great performers in the future? 

Always be humble and accept advice. Don't be afraid to try new things, and be out of the box. If you have something special, show it, don't just blend in the crowd. Drag is forever changing, so don't ever feel like you have mastered it, because no one can master art.

14. Who has been your favorite queen to meet and why? 

My favourite queen I have met would have to be Adore Delano. She is the sweetest thing I have ever met and so very talented. She was the first Rupaul's Drag Race queen I had met, and I loved her so much that I went back for her second show to meet her again! Such a kind soul.

15. Marry, Kai Kai, Kill: Latrice Royale, Phi Phi O'Hara, Trixie Mattel!

I would marry Trixie because she's good wife material. I would Kai Kai Latrice because I've always wanted to be with a woman of color and kill Phi Phi...I do love Phi Phi but not as much as the other girls!

Follow Harvest:

Instagram: @harvest_dubois

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100007104721118

Photos by:

Claire Alexander

Instagram- @claire.alexander

Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/clairealexanderphotographer

Tobey Black

Instagram- @tobeyblackphotographer

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Being Queen: A Mile In My Heels - A Documentary by Honey Golightly

There's many performers in this day in age that want to have a wall built between their persona in front of a camera and their real self. Meanwhile, one should realize that behind all the glitz and glamour of being a performer, specifically a drag performer, sometimes it can be a real struggle to keep afloat and live comfortably. Honey Golightly is in the midst of filming her second documentary titled "Being Queen: A Mile In My Heels", which will showcase not only Honey, but the man behind the makeup, Kyle, as he lives his everyday life and tries balancing his home life with being a drag queen. Life isn't always easy, but to devote so much effort into living a dream is definitely inspiring and this documentary will be worth the watch. 

1. What can people expect while watching your new documentary? 

HG: It's going to be a totally new experience. To begin with these next few months are going to be a whirlwind for me, and packed with big events. I'm giving everyone a front row seat. Also, I've changed so much and it's time to debut the new me. I'm hanging all of my struggles and dirty laundry out to dry - nothing will be held back. Expect bigger and better things, more drag, and more excitement. It's going to be a lot different from the last one. 

2. What are the biggest challenges you've faced since your last documentary ended?

HG: Adjusting to an entirely new life! Where we left off last time I was bored, unemployed and still living at home. Now I barely have a spare second to think!  

3. Since you've moved out on your own, do you enjoy living on your own more than you did living with family?

HG: Absolutely. Of course there are days that I miss it, and the bills sure as hell aren't fun, but I need room to breathe. My parents, like me, are strong personalities and it's hard to squeeze all that under one roof. Our relationship has totally improved since I left. 

4. What's the story behind the title "A Mile In My Heels"? 

HG: In the tradition of "Keep Calm and Golightly", it's a spin on a popular phrase. I keep feeling like I'm in motion - on my way to new things, on my way to adulthood - and I wanted the title to reflect that. Not to mention I will literally be putting some mileage on my platforms at the Milan Zombie Walk, a local event I'll be a part of.

5. What has been the biggest lesson you've learned this year? 

HG: I've learned to be way more careful when it comes to trust. People can be evil. And you won't know it until it's too late.

6. What do you want people to get from your documentary? 

HG: I want people to understand who I am, given the context of where I come from, and the things I deal with. Most people know me as Honey, a totally made up character who I can sometimes get too comfortable hiding behind. I want to tear those walls away and allow the ones who care to get to know me on a much more personal, more human level.

7. What was your favorite part of filming?

HG: So far, it's simply been seeing the improvement in quality over the last one. I've done a lot of growing up as a filmmaker and editor, and I'll be putting a thousand percent of my effort into this project.

Check out the new documentary trailer here:

Check out Honey's first documentary here:

Follow Honey Golightly:

Instagram: @thehoneygolightly 

Twitter: @Honey_Golightly 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/mshoneygolightly

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/misshoneygolightly

The Drag Enthusiast: 

Instagram: @dragenthusiast

Twitter: @DragEnthusiast

Tumblr: dragenthusiast.tumblr.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dragenthusiast

LaMona Divine: Brazilian Drag Goddess

Photo: Bless Magazine 

In Brazil, drag isn't as appreciated as it is in America. The performers in Brazil find themselves struggling to put their ideas together, mainly because getting work can sometimes be a hard task and the materials they need to create their work can sometimes be pretty expensive. It should really make one appreciate what they have. Brazil has a wonderful drag scene filled with talent and beauty, and hopefully the performers who work very hard to keep going, will soon receive the appreciation and gratitude they deserve.

1. Who is LaMona Divine? 

LaMona Divine is a glamorous bitch, a seductive villain of comic books flirting with the fashion world, aesthetics are very important to her. She is a strong and ambitious woman who is not intimidated easily, inspired by many female icons that show that strength and independence. She calls herself of Divine’s daughter. 

2. When and why did you begin performing in drag?

LaMona was born from my need to explore my creativity in parallel with my professional life (I am Fashion Assistant), I needed to give life to my muse that has always accompanied me since I was kid, but in the past she had no aesthetics and my contact with her was only in the imagination. Years later, after I was watching the reality show RuPaul's Drag Race, my conception of a drag queen has changed completely, and in 2013 it inspired me bring LaMona to real life, and being very shy, I bought my first wig (very simple) and some make-up and started testing. The first time I went out for a party dressed as LaMona Divine was in February 2014, since then I never stopped.

3. Where did you learn to do your makeup?

I learned a lot with tutorials on the internet, but also learned a lot of makeup tricks with my best friend and makeup artist Alessandra Lira (she is everything to me), and also learned a few important things with the makeup artist Mychelle Pavão. I believe that I'm still constantly learning something and I hope always be able to learn new things to evolve my makeup and job.

Photo: I Hate Flash 

4. In your opinion, how is Brazilian drag different from American drag?

Is very difficult to make a comparisons because we have very different cultures especially in the scenery of LGBT, our way of consuming art is very different too, so it ends up reflecting the lack of appreciation that we suffer here. One of the most noticeable differences of American drag to Brazilian drag is outrageous and glamurous costumes, for example to us it's much harder to get some basic materials and for American drag it's much more affordable, they have everything, and this definitively influences the final result of the Brazilian drag queen's look. I also notice that the Brazilian drag queens like to show more of our body because we have a great latin blood! And of course a good portion of these drag queens want to look like fishy queens. But even with the difficulties, I'm happy when I see very talented drag queens with different styles, and this has happened often. Unfortunely the American drag community is very different, because here our drag community is still small and not very united. This year, Rupaul's Drag Race debuted on Brazilian television and it certainly will bring more visibility to our community, and it will help us to show that drag queen is also a beautiful art.

5. What is your favorite thing about being a drag performer? 

The best thing for me is being able to tell a story to the public through the costumes, choreography and music and feel they are enjoying it. The Brazilian public is very passionate and have an incredible energy, they are so amazing, it’s very good to perform for them. Lately we have received many queens of RuPauls Drag Race and they are loving the contact with the Brazilian public, it’s something that they have never ever seen before.

6. Is your family accepting of you being a drag performer? How did you tell them?

Today my family accepts me, especially my boyfriend, who gives me a great support and all the love that I need. At first my mother did not understand and it was so complicated, but I didnt have much of a chance to explain to her because she unfortunately is not here anymore, but I believe today she would understand this kind of artistic expression.

7. What is something not many people know about you?

People don’t know that I'm a perfectionist Virgo neurotic and fussy about my work, but it's something I’m working positively to my favor. And people don’t know that I have a lot of really cool projects and ideas on the way!

8. How long does it take you to get ready for a performance?

I take around 3-4 hours to get ready, I like to do everything calmly to be able to fix something that may not have been very good.

9. If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and why?

There are so many places I want to travel and know, but first I would like to take LaMona to the drag scene in EUA and London, it would be a very cool thing!

10. Do you have a favorite drag queen that you look up to? Why do you look up to them?

I have many drag queens who inspired me, I can tell Violet Chacki (I love all the costumes she wears), I love the makeup of Kim Chi, Mika Holly White and Lill Queen, OMG has so many others!

11. What other queens from Brazil are worth following?

We have very talented and wonderful drag queens here, for sure I can say that I follow Biancca Banks, Ikaro Kadoshi, Gloria Groove, Alma Negrot, Tiffany Bradshaw, and my sister Shady Jordan (and many others)

12. Is there anything you wish to change about the Brazilian drag scene that bothers you a lot?

I can say that what bothers me most is the lack of appreciation of our art, because people still have difficulty in assimilating what a drag queen is and how wonderful this work is, it sure reflects in our paychecks and job opportunities.

Photo: Bless Magazine (Aquila Bersont)

13. What has been your biggest accomplishment so far? 

Hmm, think is when people recognize me at parties and say my work is cool because I do different things. It has already created an identity for me, it's really wonderful to hear!

14. What has been the biggest obstacle you've had to face? 

I faced and and still face today the lack of money to invest in all my ideas, because when you have little money you need to be more creative, it sure has been a learning experience.

15. If you were deserted on an island, what 3 things could you not survive without?

Let me see...my carrot wig, my lipstick and my eyeliner, I think is enough for me, I guess hahaha

MUITO OBRIGADA E BEIJOS ❤

Photo: Kaique Talles

Follow LaMona: 

Instagram: @lamona_divine 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/LaMona-Divine/108240079526751

The Drag Enthusiast:

Twitter: @DragEnthusiast

Instagram: @dragenthusiast

Tumblr: dragenthusiast.tumblr.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dragenthusiast

Photo Credit:

Bless Magazine: https://www.facebook.com/blessmagazine

Crystal Beth: Dancing Queen

(Photo by Carrie Strong Photography)

Falling in love with the art of dance, Crystal Beth used what she learned during dance class to incorporate it into her drag performances. With each performance, she blows the crowd away with her energy and passion and never disappoints. 

1. Who is Crystal Beth?

Crystal Beth is an entertainer, a dancing queen who shows high energy and confidence on stage. She lets everyone know who she is by her performances. With her knowledge and large variety in dance skills she can do anything for the crown. She has been given the nickname the "Split Goddess" of Oklahoma, and she greatly approves. But overall at the end of the day she is a normal person who is loving her life. 

2. How did you come up with your drag name?

I gave myself my first name Crystal after my biological mother. Everyone said I looked like her when I first started. My drag grandmother at the time gave me my last name Beth. Which is ironic in my eyes because I've never touched a drug in my life. But finding the humor in the name I loved it and ran with it. 

3. When and why did you start doing drag?

I started drag on May 11th of 2013. My first time in interest and drag was my first time to an underage gay club in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. I saw the queens onstage have so much fun and freedom. So I went out on May 11th for the open talent night and won the crowds approval. 

(Photo by Carrie Strong Photography)

4. Your performances are very energetic. How long have you been dancing for and why did you get into dance to begin with?

I've been dancing since I was a freshman in high school. I grew up watching So You Think You Can Dance and just loved the way the human body was able to move. So when I moved to Oklahoma City, the school I attended offered a dance class. I seized the opportunity and enrolled in a beginner class. By the start of my sophomore year, I was in the top dance class in the school. I was also teaching the beginner class alongside my dance teacher.

5. Do you have a drag family or do you fly solo?

I belong to one of the most established drag families in Oklahoma, known as the Van DeKamps. I was lucky enough to even be considered a candidate for the Van DeKamp team. With the house Mother Jexa Van Dekamp having the most attentive background in drag, her children are put on the chopping block every time they perform, and Jexa is the reason I still continue to do drag. 

6. In your opinion, what is the most misunderstood thing about drag?

To me, the way we are seen in the public eye...There are multiple stereotypes and misunderstood forms of drag. I've been called a sataninist, I've been labeled as trans, and I've actually been feared by some people as a "freak". I'm a human being but I'm just another weirdo in the public eye. 

7. How do you deal with negative thoughts about what you do from other people?

I tend to ignore most of it. I don't want to anyone to see me as a heartless or rude person. To me, not reacting is also an action. If it comes to the point to where I just can't handle it I usually go to a friend for advice. I tend to stay within the drag community because they know the hard situation but another performer can go through. 

8. What song is your favorite to perform and why?

Well I generally perform mixes, but if I must choose one song, it would be "Woman's World" by Cher. It's upbeat and it has a great message in it. Cher is also one of my all time favorite artists. 

9. How long does it typically take for you to get ready for a performance?

I've made it a point to have my makeup done within an hour, adding about 20 minutes for body and costume. so full transformation happens within an hour and 30 minutes.  

(Photo by Carrie Strong Photography)

10. What is one thing you wish to change about the world?

The poverty level facing America. Americans are working too hard to be living in poverty. I completely agree with Sen. Bernie Sanders with his statement on poverty that no American worker that works 40 hours a week should be living in poverty.

11. Who is your biggest inspiration and why?

My drag mother, Jexa, has been the main foundation for my drag career. She's always there when I need her, no matter the reason. She's my biggest fan but she's also my top critic. She wants me to achieve greatness, and see me succeed.  She's been my shoulder to cry on but she's also my best friend.

12. What is your thoughts on the Miley Cyrus performance on the VMAs with 30 drag performers?

AMAZING!!!! Miley was able to show the whole world a drag show. She made every performer's dream come true that was on that stage. It made me feel like the world is coming to terms with the publication of drag queens.

(Photo by Carrie Strong Photography)

13. If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you travel to and why?

I would love to visit Ireland. I could be able to visit my ancestor's homesteads. My family is actually distant royalty on my father's side. I could go visit my family's castle and just to be able to see the sights would be jaw dropping. 

14. In your opinion, what has been your biggest accomplishment thus far?

Honestly starting drag and being able to keep doing it...I never saw myself as a two-time title holding, dancing drag queen by the age of 19.

15. What is something that not many people know about you? 

I can do the splits 37 different ways, 16 of which are sexual positions.

(Photo by Carrie Strong Photography)

Follow Crystal Beth:

Instagram: @crystal_beth96

Facebook: https://facebook.com/crystalbeth.taylor?tsid=0.25389677891507745&source=typeahead

The Drag Enthusiast:

Twitter: @DragEnthusiast 

Instagram: @dragenthusiast 

Tumblr: dragenthusiast.tumblr.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dragenthusiast

Photo Credit:

Carrie Strong Photography

Instagram: @carriestrongphoto