Mr. Mom
Premiere Drag Queen of the Twin Cities Brewery Scene.
Drag Scene!
Queens & Kings of the Twin Cities
August 30, 2023
How long have you been on the Drag Scene?
I have been performing for just over 5 years.
What does the term “drag” mean to you?
Drag to me means playing in what’s “uncomfortable” to society. Playing with gender norms and societal norms and flipping them on its head. Drag was created to be a protest and a political statement and I think its important to always keep that in mind.
How do you separate your “dual identity”?
It started off as super easy but I think through the years Mr. Mom has really helped “Jeff” grow as well as “Jeff” as helped Mr. Mom grow. They really continue to build and support each other vs. turning one on and having one off.
Who is your “go-to” artist?
I do not think I gravitate towards one specific artist, but I do love to jump back into the musical theater realm.
Greatest performing moment?
My greatest performing moment was when my home bar, 56 Brewing, decided to put my face on a beer can and we had a beer launch day edition of my show, Mr. Mom’s Campgrounds. I ended the show with an unplanned double number of performing the first song I ever performed in Drag, “I’m Breaking Down”, followed by “Vogue” by Madonna was the song that helped me win my first competition.
Say something nice about one of your fellow performers.
I have always lived for the absolute buffoonery that Pistachio Creampie brings to the stage. This is not a read, as her drag brings me complete joy. She is one of those performers that looks like they are having fun when they perform and it makes watching it so much more enjoyable.
Any special involvement in the LGBTQ+ community?
I do not have anything super special in the scene. I do try to involve or make myself available to help or assist with any fundraiser or charity shows I am asked to do.
Where in the Twin Cities can you be seen?
Primarily at my home bar of 56 Brewing in NE Minneapolis where I host, Mr. Mom’s Midwest Mondays, which is the 1st and 3rd Monday of every month. I also produce Mr. Mom’s Campgrounds bi-monthly with the next edition coming Halloween Weekend. Otherwise the 3rd Saturday of the month in the summer I am at Sister Sludge Coffee and Wine bar in S Minneapolis.
What words of wisdom would you have for someone just starting in the Drag Scene?
Simple: Take drag seriously, but do not take yourself too seriously, and if you aren’t having fun, you shouldn’t be performing.
Who do you nominate for the next Drag Scene interview?
There are too many amazing performers in the scene but I’d have to go with a fellow member of my drag family the Powderpuffs and nominate Jeb Shrub, Maiden Taiwan or my daughter Aura Ginn.
Social pages?
I solely use Instagram: @mr.mom0892
Oliver Yew
Your Favorite Late Night Snack
Drag Scene!
Queens & Kings of the Twin Cities
August 16, 2023
How long have you been on the Drag Scene?
I've been performing for about 4.5 years now.
What does the term "drag" mean to you?
Drag is art and community. One of my favorite things about drag is the wide range of artistic expression that it encompases.
How do you separate your "dual identity"?
For the most part, I don't separate them, who Oliver is on stage is an aspect of me as a whole. However, outside of queer spaces, I usually wait until I get to know someone before they get to know that I am a drag king.
Who is your "go-to" artist?
This makes me a walking drag king stereotype, but right now probably Adam Lambert because it's fun, gay, and high energy. My favorite genre to perform though is probably rock/metal.
Greatest performing moment?
My greatest performing moment was probably my first time performing at Pride in the Park with Dragged Out last year. They were one of the first shows I went to when I moved to the Twin Cities so it was an honor to get to perform with them for such a big community event.
Say something nice about one of your fellow performers.
I love watching Xavier perform, and he also has built such an important space for drag kings in the Twin Cities with Dragged Out. That show was where I got my start and I am so grateful for all the hard work he does creating that space to highlight Drag Kings in the Twin Cities.
Any special involvement in the GLBTQ community?
Not right now
Where in the Twin Cities can you be seen?
I'm on cast with Transcendence Cabaret, Mr. Mom's Campground and BOOKED. Other than that you can see me here and there around the cities!
What words of wisdom would you have for someone just starting in the Drag Scene?
Perform at your own pace! It is ok to take breaks, perform less than your peers, perform more than your peers etc. But make sure you are enjoying what you do and if it becomes more of a chore than something you enjoy, take a step back, even just for a bit!
Who do you nominate for the next Drag Scene interview?
Mr. Mom
Photo Credit: Jason Bucklin
Jojo Ventus Ninja
Ballroom Scene Entertainer
Drag Scene!
Queens & Kings of the Twin Cities
August 2, 2023
How long have you been on the Drag Scene?
I've been in the drag/ gay entertainment scene for about a year and a half now. I started performing in the scene in May 2022.
What does the term “drag” mean to you?
Drag to me means a heightened expression of one's self or altar. There are no rules and there's no particular way of going bout it. However someone wishes to express themselves with their performance that is their drag.
How do you separate your “dual identity”?
For me and a lot of other entertainers I know of. There isn't a separate identity. Jojo Ventus is who I am and have always been. I still dance and dress for each occasion regardless if I'm on stage or not. The persona is me.
Who is your “go-to” artist?
My go-to artist is Bruno Mars. He has a hand full of songs that are known by everyone. He's easy to skate to and always gets the crowd hyped.
Greatest performing moment?
My greatest performance moment was definitely performing the entirety of Rihanna's super bowl performance at the finale of Drag Duels at Saloon. Drag Duels is a competition held by Priscilla Es Yuicy and Carino XOXO. Drag Duels is for performers in the scene to win prize money and a sash and crown. Each week there's a runway and challenges connected with lipsync performances. I was a guest performer and it was nice to see that many people entertained as I danced harder and harder for 8 min straight.
Say something nice about one of your fellow performers.
Hmmm... this is hard because I admire so many. For fashion wise I really admire my sister, Aqua Vulva. She is always pushing herself in making her garments and achieving great couture looks with her own two hands. Lady Cummeal I also admire. The tenacity and consistency in her performances are something I heavily admire and I can never get enough of seeing the Flipphone Superstar. Chandra Irmani has also been a beautiful one to see improvement in the way she dances and entertains a crowd. She also can always put a smile on my face. Her vibes are immaculate.
Any special involvement in the GLBTQ community?
I'm a leader in Vogue Down Minneapolis which is a group of ballroom kids collaborating and making safe spaces for BIPOC LGBTQ to learn more and express themselves through ballroom. Secondly, I am a part of Queer Skaters MN, an inclusive skating community where all wheels are welcome. Queer skaters have meets every week in the summer on Mondays at the Oval in Roseville and also have meets frequently at Familia skatepark
Where in the Twin Cities can you be seen?
I can be seen all over. Mostly I am at The Saloon in downtown Minneapolis once a month for Hotpink and once a month for Booked. I'm rarely at gay 90's usually from So You Think You Can Drag or as a guest performer. I'm also bi-monthly hosting Kiki Zone a kiki ball at Lush Lounge and Theater.
What words of wisdom would you have for someone just starting in the Drag Scene?
Something my first mentor taught me was to count steps and tricks. Make sure that you take your time, feel, and interact with the audience. Study your craft. You don't always have to be the dancing diva. Find what makes you entertaining and hone those skills into being the best version of yourself.
Social pages?
IG: jojo_ventus TW/X: jojoventus_ TikTok: JojoVentus212
Suture Fancy Cassadine
Twin Cities Drag King
Drag Scene!
Queens & Kings of the Twin Cities
July 05, 2023
How long have you been on the Drag Scene?
Suture fancy is my drag name and I’ve been in the scene for just over a year!
I’m an EMT so I thought it was a clever way to incorporate that and the play on the phrase suits your fancy.
What does the term “drag” mean to you?
It’s the best freedom of expression I can imagine. There’s no greater feeling than making others happy.
How do you separate your “dual identity”?
I definitely am a lot like my drag persona so luckily I don’t have to separate too much. Slightly less cocky maybe!
Who is your “go-to” artist?
I would say The Weekend, Jonas brothers, Justin Bieber.
Greatest performing moment?
Brunches with Flipphone or the gay 90s are always great for me.
Say something nice about one of your fellow performers.
Aranya has helped me a lot this past year with costumes and support.
Any special involvement in the GLBTQ community?
I guess my biggest involvement with the community has been performing with venues that give space to out front and queer space and helping raise money for those feels great!
Where in the Twin Cities can you be seen?
I’m mostly performing at the Gay 90s, the Saloon, Flipphone events the most!
What words of wisdom would you have for someone just starting in the Drag Scene?
Have fun! And just enjoy the process and the journey. Don’t sweat the little things and just be yourself! Don’t compare yourself to anyone else and just constantly aspire to do better.
Who do you nominate for the next Drag Scene interview?
I would love to nominate Aranya or LIlah Doll.
Social pages?
@Suturefancy_ Is my Instagram as well as on every platform!
Miss Ava Cado
The Opera Singing Diva
of the Twin Cities
Drag Scene!
Queens & Kings of the Twin Cities
June 21, 2023
How long have you been on the Drag Scene?
I've been performing in the twin cities for 4 years, practicing drag for 5, and started being half decent at drag about 2 years ago (teehee).
What does the term “drag” mean to you?
Drag is an amplification of the self. Specifically, the parts of ourselves that we don't get to explore in our everyday life. Glamor! Excess! Just being plain stupid! fart jokes! or maybe that last part is just me.
How do you separate your “dual identity”?
Honestly the closer your drag persona is to you, the easier and more genuine your drag becomes. I've met some drag performers who put on an entire persona when they're in drag, right down to a new personality and mannerisms and you know what? It looks exhausting. I started actually having fun in drag once I realized I can just be my stupid and silly ol' self. Oh yeah and the earlier you unlearn the "drag-mouth" language we get from drag race, the better. You know what I'm talking about. "Yes GWAD honey mawmaw okurrrrrr *tongue pop*"
Who is your “go-to” artist?
I don't really have a single go to, but I love me some Adele, Liza Minelli, Judy Garland, and Barbara Streisand.
Greatest performing moment?
Definitely the first time I had a successful mix, in which I was singing the recitative (talk singing) part from the Opera song Ombra Mai Fu, in which I'm singing how much I love my plantain tree, and then I get into an operatic rendition of "Cuz I Love You" by Lizzo. Very proud of that night and that mix.
Say something nice about one of your fellow performers.
Pistachio Creampie is genuinely the funniest bitch and one of the most creative look creators in The Twin Cities.
Any special involvement in the GLBTQ community?
My partner Wanda and I are THE drag queens of Mankato, where we've been cultivating our own drag scene for about 2 and a half years. Recently we've been producing shows in St. Paul as well, and always try to keep room in our shows for new performers who want to make their debut. So if you're a drag king/thing/queen in south central Minnesota and would like to perform, hit us up! <3
Where in the Twin Cities can you be seen?
In the twin cities Wanda and I have shows at Lost Fox and Station 81 in Lowertown St. Paul, and you can usually find us watching Werk at the Saloon on a Thursday night! Otherwise follow Drag me with a spoon on Facebook and instagram if you'd like to know about all our events ranging from the Mankato area all the way to St. Paul!
What words of wisdom would you have for someone just starting in the Drag Scene?
This is a tough pill to swallow: All drag is valid, but no one owes anyone bookings. At the end of the day, it's about who you know, who you've made an impression on, what kind of impression that was, and who you're friends with. That's always been showbiz.
Who do you nominate for the next Drag Scene interview?
I'd like to nominate my drag daughter, Lola Lemon, queen of doing the absolute MOST.
Social pages?
@itsmissavacado on instagram if you'd like to see me be glamorous, @itsaavacado on tiktok if you want to see my wig tutorials (more coming soon, I promise, mean it), @itsaavacado on twitter if you just want to see me type stupid things to the little gay people in my phone.
Anna Bolic
The World’s Strongest Queen
Drag Scene!
Queens & Kings of the Twin Cities
June 07, 2023
How long have you been on the Drag Scene?
I have been on the drag scene for about a year and a half.
What does the term “drag” mean to you?
Drag is more than art, it's the most personal creative outlet. What I love most about drag is each performer's artistic expression, there's no limits on how you can entertain an audience!
How do you separate your “dual identity”?
While my mindset is definitely different in the club than it is day to day, I don't necessarily think of Anna as separate from myself. I have always seen her as the sum of all the best parts of me - just maybe expressed in a bolder and more colorful way. My drag inspires the rest of my life, just as my daily life influences my drag.
Who is your “go-to” artist?
I've been having the most fun performing rock numbers or any P!nk songs, though my favorite inspiration has always been Lady Gaga!
Greatest performing moment?
Any time I don't roll an ankle.
Say something nice about one of your fellow performers.
As sweet as she is talented, Kiki Galore has been one of the most supportive friends on the scene and I'm grateful to perform alongside her!
Where in the Twin Cities can you be seen?
The Saloon, The Gay 90s, backyard wrestling events.
What words of wisdom would you have for someone just starting in the Drag Scene?
Find a skill or something about you that others can't imitate!
Who do you nominate for the next Drag Scene interview?
I nominate Suture Fancy!
Social pages?
Instagram: @_anna_bolic_
Michelle C Cassadine
Live your best life!
Drag Scene!
Queens & Kings of the Twin Cities
May 24, 2023
How long have you been on the Drag Scene?
I've been doing drag for roughly 3 years.
What does the term “drag” mean to you?
The term "drag" means for me at least an outlet to express myself artistically and to connect with the audience and see the smiles on their faces.
How do you separate your “dual identity”?
Honestly it's been hard lately but I find it easy to separate them by keeping my drag in different rooms and go my "Micheal" when not in drag but my drag family knows me as Michelle.
Who is your “go-to” artist?
Cardi B, Beyonce and Toni Braxton.
Greatest performing moment?
My greatest performing moment honestly would be when I perform for pride on the stonewall stage in Loring Park!
Say something nice about one of your fellow performers.
It would definitely have to me Nocturna Lee Mission. They inspire me so much to try different makeup and to be the best!
Any special involvement in the GLBTQ community?
I have a few shows coming up soon in June but other than that I don't have anything in the works at this moment.
Where in the Twin Cities can you be seen?
I can be seen mainly at the Black Hart of St Paul or sometimes at the Gay 90s or at the Saloon downtown.
What words of wisdom would you have for someone just starting in the Drag Scene?
If coming out in drag, try to promote yourself. Be professional and kind to people that want to book you. Keep improving yourself and your drag.
Who do you nominate for the next Drag Scene interview?
Anna Bolic
Social pages?
Instagram: @michellecassadine
Facebook: @Michellecore424
Wanda Gag
1 of 2 of Your Favorite Live-in Gal Pals.
Drag Scene!
Queens & Kings of the Twin Cities
May 10, 2023
How long have you been on the Drag Scene?
I’ve been doing drag for three years now and involved in the scene about as long. I was living in Mankato for the last 6 years and driving up for drag but recently moved to Minneapolis in November so I’m here full time now!
What does the term “drag” mean to you?
Drag to me means putting on this larger persona of yourself. For me, drag is just Wyatt but louder and prettier (which is difficult cause I’m very pretty already). It’s taking all that fear of judgment and leaving it at the door and giving people a good time and making them feel welcome. Other than that, there’s no set definition of drag. I think anyone can do drag anyway they want, as long as their doing it respectfully and for the right reasons.
How do you separate your “dual identity”?
Separating Wanda from Wyatt is mostly just wearing less makeup and pink. Wanda is really just an extension of me, it’s me at my most flamboyant and confident. Out of drag I’m working hard on costumes, planning more shows, and supporting my drag family.
Who is your “go-to” artist?
Currently my go to artists are Marilyn Monroe, Kylie Minogue, and the B-52’s.
Greatest performing moment?
My greatest performing moment was definitely in drag duels for the S&M Leather/Red Light District challenge where my partner Miss Ava Cado and i re-recorded “promiscuous girl” as “promiscuous frog” in Kermit and Miss Piggy voices, and performed it as Dominatrix Piggy and Sun Boy Kermit. It was the only challenge we won that season but it still lives in infamy as people still send me miss piggy memes to this day.
Say something nice about one of your fellow performers.
Hellen Heaven is one of the newer up and coming performers in the twin cities but I think she’s really going places. She’s is so incredibly kind and funny, and just has the enthusiasm and love for drag that will take you far in this scene. She has very whimsical and silly concepts but also has such heart and love for her community and it shows in her performances.
Any special involvement in the GLBTQ community?
Not exactly in the twin cities but in Mankato where we (Drag Me With A Spoon) put on a lot of our shows, we are regularly fundraising for South Central Minnesota Pride so that they can put on more queer events like their pride festival, Queers and Beers, and more! So far in the last year we’ve raised more than $2,000 for the organization and are now members of the committee in an effort to build community even more.
Where in the Twin Cities can you be seen?
You can find me hosting Drag Me With A Spoon monthly shows at Station 81 and Lost Fox in Lowertown St. Paul.
What words of wisdom would you have for someone just starting in the Drag Scene?
It is so easy to compare yourself to other performers and what they’re accomplishing, but just know you’ll get your flowers eventually. We all hit our strides at different times, and once you figure out your niche and what you love, everyone else will see that and join you in celebrating your drag. Until then, have fun, try new things, and be kind. Kindness will take you so far in this industry.
Who do you nominate for the next Drag Scene interview?
I nominate my wife/husband/best friend Miss Ava Cado for the next interview. 💖
Social pages?
Instagram: @wandagag
Twitter: @thewandagag
Anne Noying
The 7 foot tall nuisance of the Twin Cities.
Drag Scene!
Queens & Kings of the Twin Cities
April 26, 2023
How long have you been on the Drag Scene?
I have been in the scene in Minneapolis since the end of June of 2022! Before that, I was performing in Iowa City, Iowa and had been performing there only since February of 2022.
What does the term “drag” mean to you?
Drag to me means community. Before I started drag I felt very out of touch with the queer community at large. I would watch Drag Race and go to gay bars but I never felt myself connecting with others. As soon as I started performing it was as if I immediately felt the belonging that I had been missing. I was able to connect with others over our shared hobby and I felt much more in tune with my queerness it really has become something I value incredibly.
How do you separate your “dual identity”?
In drag, I'm able to feel my Leo fantasy and feel like I'm the most important person in the room. Meanwhile, out of drag, I'm perfectly content to sit in the back row, relax, and know that I'm still confident in who I am.
Growing up I knew I was different from my classmates and I felt like I had to keep my head down to avoid being othered or bullied. Being Anne now really allows me to show up, show out, and be the boisterous personality that I wasn't always comfortable being around everyone. Being able to be my louder self in drag has made my out-of-drag life easier as well. I'm comfortable in quiet, I don't feel like I'm struggling to show myself any longer, and I'm able to focus on the more personal sides of my emotions and grow myself that way.
Who is your “go-to” artist?
If I had to only choose one I would probably say Carly Rae Jepsen (one of my drag names I was considering was Carly Slay Legendsen from an old Tumblr meme.) I haven't performed many of her songs but she has this ability to write songs that are so full of emotion (ha) and I really gravitate toward her lyrics and connect deeply. If not Carly, my main go-to's are some classic pop girlies like Katy Perry, Taylor Swift, Miley Cyrus, and Kesha. Those four are always in my rotation in some way and I generally end up performing one of their songs once per show.
Greatest performing moment?
Well I have two. One was a fail of glorious proportions that someone managed to catch on film which I thus have uploaded to TikTok and garnered 430k views for so that's pretty exciting having a lovely fall seen by the world.
In a more serious way though, my greatest performing moment was recently at the end of March at the Drag Duels cycle two finale. My partner for the competition, Hunky Dory, and I had competed in the eight week competition at Saloon and had made it to the finale with three challenge wins under our belts. The final performance was "Your Best Drag" and I have never felt more confident in anything than I did that performance. I did a burlesque performance to "GOLDWING" by Billie Eilish, "Crazy in Love" by Beyonce, and "Dangerous Woman" by Ariana Grande and the amount of pride, joy, and ease I felt in that performance was something I will never forget. I felt like that was the moment I was able to prove to Minneapolis that Anne is here and she's got something to say.
Say something nice about one of your fellow performers.
There are so many nice things I could say about so many people in this community it's hard to choose one. So I'll choose a few quickly! Wanda Gag and Ava Cado are my drag parents and have taught me so much about sewing, hair creation, and putting on shows that I can never thank them enough for. Hunky Dory is one of the greatest drag kings I have ever seen and is one of my best friends. Decreme Cassadine has so much heart and pours it all into her performances I love watching her. Finally, Priscilla Es Yuicy and Cariño have given me a much bigger platform by having me in Drag Duels and both are amazing Latinx performers with so much talent and kindness.
Sorry that was many more than one fellow performer, oops!
Any special involvement in the GLBTQ community?
I would love to be involved in much much more! Currently, my special involvement to the community is keeping High Noon sales high at Saloon but I would love to be able to volunteer in drag and give back to the community that has made a special place for me.
Where in the Twin Cities can you be seen?
You can find me at Lost Fox in St. Paul on May 8th and Station 81 in St. Paul on May 21st with Drag Me With a Spoon events! In May I will be in St. Peter at the American Legion on May 20th, and in Lanesboro for a special Mother's day weekend event on May 13th and 14th.
Other than that, I occasionally show up for an open stage Wednesday at the Gay 90s or a Werk show Thursdays at the Saloon.
What words of wisdom would you have for someone just starting in the Drag Scene?
Everything takes time. I was told this, didn't listen, and as a result, let myself become jaded. Drag takes time to perfect. It takes time to find yourself and who you are as a performer. Just because you think you have X doesn't mean you're going to be cast in every show. Be patient, allow yourself grace to grow, and all good will come in due time.
Who do you nominate for the next Drag Scene interview?
Wanda Gag is my drag mother, co-founder of Drag Me With a Spoon, and overall good time gal, check her out and giver her some support!
Social pages?
You can find me on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, Gmail, Venmo, Cashapp, Samsung Smart Fridge, etc. all at @ShesAnneNoying. Facebook I am just Anne Noying.
DeCrème Cassadine
The easiest thing to do is love.
Drag Scene!
Queens & Kings of the Twin Cities
April 12, 2023
How long have you been on the drag scene?
I’ve been doing drag 1 year and 2 months.
What does the term “drag” mean to you?
Drag is the fullest extent of self expression and the greatest ride of any lifetime. It’s like getting to be any and every character in a movie, while also getting to make the movie. Haha I love analogies.
How do you separate your “dual identity”?
I like to say that DeCrème is the key to lock on my life, she gives me total freedom, so there’s no real separation between haha. I guess we are a dual soul.
Who is your “go-to” artist?
I love Beyoncé! So I perform her a lot. Though Kelly Rowland and Lizzo are also among my top go to’s! Or Adele, I Know every word to almost every one of her songs!
Greatest performing moment?
My First drag story hour, At Can Can Wonderland, I got to meet some amazing children, and they gave me a rainbow hair bow, and told me how much they look up to me. I thought I would burst into tears, but I wanted to make it a memory for us both so I gave them my Heart hair pin. I wear that bow and take it with me to EVERY show and pageant I do. Greatest Memory Ever!
Say something nice about one of your fellow performers.
Wanda Gag of Drag Me with Spoon is such a great person, inside and out. They (along with their partner Ava Cado) have treated me with so much love, care, and support, and for that I am extremely grateful. Not to mention the tons of glasses of wine and laughs we share, they are genuinely amazing.
Any special involvement in the GLBTQ community?
I am currently the Duchess of the Imperial court of Minnesota, which does lots of charity work, I also look to be involved and do so much more work for a great community and show that Blackness, Queerness, and Charity can share spaces.
Where in the Twin Cities can you be seen?
Hahaha that’s a loaded question but to easily put it, I perform with Drag Me With a Spoon at Lost Fox in Saint Paul a lot, I am always at the Gay 90’s and Saloon any Chance I get. I also host and produce shows at Can Can Wonderland with my stunning cohost Chandra Armani. Anyone looking to have me, just reach out and we can get in on the books!
What words of wisdom would you have for someone just starting in the drag scene?
Love. Love yourself, and love the moments that come and go. Enjoy it all, life is fleeting and the last thing you want to do is have boring memories to look back on.
Who do you nominate for the next Drag Scene interview?
I nominate my Good good Judy, Anne Noying. She is someone that all the world should know!
@dec.reme
André Van Angst
UMN’s Next Drag Superstar 2019
Drag Scene!
Queens & Kings of the Twin Cities
March 15, 2023
How long have you been on the drag scene?
I started performing in 2019, took two years off during the height of the pandemic, and have been back since last summer. I’ve really hit the ground running these past several months, finding so many great opportunities and being inspired every day to grow.
What does the term “drag” mean to you?
To me, drag is fucking with gender and making art. I come from a theatre background and have witnessed and participated in a wide variety of performance. For me, what sets drag apart from other kinds of performance is how unique, expansive, and inescapably queer it is. Drag can be anything from dance to comedy to politics to high fashion, it can be filled to the brim with gender or completely void of it, and every bit of it is still drag. From centuries of performers messing with gender on stage, to evenings in predominantly Black and POC ballrooms, to national pageants, to internationally televised competitions, to story times in libraries, drag is this beautifully malleable art form whose only constant is that it is intrinsically queer. How incredible it is that we get to have this.
How do you separate your “dual identity”?
André is charming, sexy, flamboyant, confident, all the things I wish I were in my real life. I get to play a part that is so far from how I was raised or how the world views me: this cocky caricature of masculinity that I only get to experience when I paint it on. Out of drag, I knit and play Minecraft and teach drama classes to children and drink so much tea. And I don’t always get to be out and proud. It’s relieving to have an artistic outlet to channel things I’m missing in my day-to-day life, to have a space where I am so loudly queer and celebrated for it.
Who is your “go-to” artist?
I love to tell a story with every number I do, so I wouldn’t say I have any specific “go-to” artists, more like a rotation of stories and vibes. I’ll shake my ass to some country songs, get in my feels with some pop punk, or get weird with some Bo Burnham. You never really know what you’re gonna get, so I guess you’ll just have to come see me perform!
Greatest performing moment?
Before I made my come-back last summer, I got the itch to make costume pieces, as I’m sure every drag artist can relate to. I dug through some old clothes I hadn’t worn in years, looking for inspiration. With no real direction or plans I grabbed a pair of old denim shorts and asked myself, “What if I cut the ass out of these?” Two weeks later I was in my first show back on stage, doing a ridiculously silly country song, and when I tore off my shirt to reveal those shorts, I swear I could feel the bar shake from the screaming. It was a moment where I knew I wanted to keep going bigger and stupider. Now those shorts have been thoroughly sparkled and that country number is a staple in my repertoire.
Say something nice about one of your fellow performers.
The other drag kings in the cities have been so incredibly kind, welcoming, supportive, and of course talented as hell. We have a rich community of kings here that’s growing every day. In particular, I want to shout out Quinn Tessential, Pippin Panic, and Suture Fancy for being huge inspirations and fast friends.
Any special involvement in the GLBTQ community?
I’m not extremely active in the community outside of drag and generally existing as a queer person. I do my best to support other artists in the cities and am always interested in doing more.
Where in the twin cities can you be seen?
I frequent Wednesdays at the Gay 90's and Thursdays at The Saloon, otherwise keep an eye on my Instagram where I always update folks on where I’m performing next!
What words of wisdom would you have for someone just starting in the drag scene?
Don’t worry about fitting into any kind of box or mold. Of course, always be inspired by other performers (and go support them as much you can). But if you want to do that weird song or make that crazy costume, just do it. You will find the people who love and appreciate you for what makes you unique.
@andrevanangst
Hunky Dory
Strawberry Short King of Minneapolis
Drag Scene!
Queens & Kings of the Twin Cities
March 1, 2023
What does the term “drag” mean to you?
For me drag is an art form and expression. It allows performers to show their inner most selves in one of the most powerful and vulnerable ways. If people have seen me perform they’ve seen parts of me that I was taught or felt like I should push down finally coming to the surface. It also dives into a deeper meaning of gender and how that can be portrayed on different levels. With that being said I think it’s important to remember that drag is for everyone and not just the Queens. It’s for the BIPOC community, Kings, Male entertainers, Female entertainers, trans/non-binary performers and so on and so forth, that come in all shapes and sizes, all from different backgrounds. The best drag is inclusive drag.
How do you separate your “dual identity”?
Hunky was created when I was feeling extremely low in many aspects of my life. I’ve been performing since I was 5 years old and what once felt like a good fit for me, traditional theater wasn’t filling the cup as much as it used to. Learning more about the politics of theater, it pushed me into wanting to perform in my own ways but still as someone else. While Hunky is someone else in my mind (with much more confidence) He has also helped me heal in many different ways, as well as learn new things about myself out of drag. When I think about the dual identity aspect of drag, I feel like Hunky Dory is bits and pieces of my life resurfacing, whether happy or sad, in the best way possible. Hunky is constantly inspiring to push my creative self farther, every day.
Who is your “go-to” artist?
I love when different types of drag can be in the same show and have a good balance of things you would expect vs something a little bit more different. I love drag that is more alternative, punk, campy, full of dance and constantly surprising. There are so many people in the Minneapolis scene that are so great at all of these that I can’t pick just one.
Greatest performing moment?
My greatest performing moment thus far has been my Joker number that I debuted during my first Werk Finale at the Saloon. It was a number that I was so scared to perform because 1) it’s a huge nod to mental health and the stigma surrounding it and 2) I didn’t think the audience would appreciate it as much as I did. Turns out that (from what I could tell) the audience loved it and it is one of the times I felt most comfortable on stage. It just goes to show that with drag you should be putting out the work you want to see from yourself and not just work you think would be a crowd pleaser, because it could turn out to be both in the end.
Say something nice about one of your fellow performers.
Rustina Phoenix-Nuttz is the definition of powerful. There hasn’t been a performance by her where I haven’t been absolutely in awe with the raw emotion and energy that she carries. And performance beside, she is also one of the most loyal and supportive people I’ve ever met.
Any special involvement in the GLBTQ community?
I would love to be more involved within the community. I have just recently started drag and I’m trying to find my footing but if there’s anyway I can be more involved I would love to know!
Where in the Twin Cities can you be seen?
I have quite a few show coming up here soon! Mostly you can catch me at the Saloon for Drag Duels every Sunday with my lovely partner Anne Noying competing for the win! I will also be at Crave with Flip Phone events for the Backstreet Boys Vs. NSYNC drag brunch on March 26th!
What words of wisdom would you have for someone just starting in the Drag Scene?
Don’t wait to start. If you want to do it- Do it. The only way you can get better is by doing. Invest in staples garments and shoes, find the open stages, ask for feedback and filter out the unsolicited “advice” that doesn’t serve you. Go out to the shows! Not only are they fun but the more you show up the more time you have to create relationships with the wonderful performers and people in the scene. And most of all have fun and do it for yourself.
Social pages?
Instagram: @hunkydorydrag
Quinn Tessential
The Minneapolis Manwich
Drag Scene!
Queens & Kings of the Twin Cities
December 07, 2022
How long have you been on the Drag Scene?
Two years
What does the term “drag” mean to you?
Being a drag king is about making parody of the masculine ideal; it is important to be critical of the power held by men in almost all areas of society.
This is true even in queer spaces. The tendency to prioritize audiences of white cis gay men by casting primarily skinny white drag queens over other artists needs to be evaluated. While drag shows are often used as just an excuse to go out with you're friends and party, they are also send a political message about what sort of queer expression is valued. For this reason, I only support shows that regularly feature POC, king, afab, fat, and trans cast members.
How do you separate your “dual identity”?
I started drag after a long dissatisfaction with my experiences in musical theater. I was tired of auditioning for a show and either being out right rejected by directors, or being told to put on a dress and pretend to be a woman in the back of the scene. I created Quinn Tessential so I could have agency over my performances. As a drag artist, you are the performer, director, sound designer, and costume designer of your number, so I created a drag persona that continuously excites me and inspires me to create. Also, it's just a fun, memorable name to perform under!
Who is your “go-to” artist?
I find drag shows the most entertaining when there is a mix of all sorts of artistic styles: glamorous, campy, dance based, horror, etc. This helps the next performer break the audience expectations set by the previous one. Drag is most effective, in my opinion, when multiple artists work together to display the diversity of queer expression, which is why I cannot just pick one person.
Greatest performing moment?
My favorite moments when performing are the moments when my improvisational instincts take over and I do or say something I wouldnt have thought of othereise. An example is when I used a tape measure to make a dick joke and have it extend longer and longer from my crotch. While performing, I realized I didn't plan how to get out of this position, so the tape measure just collapsed to the floor. My instinct was to yell "I'm so embarrassed, that never happens!" And look embarrassed. That is now a permanent part of the performance I do every time.
Say something nice about one of your fellow performers?
Despite the vast difference in our drag styles, I always love seeing Jenna Cis perform. Their looks and physicality are always the perfect mix of eerie and beautiful.
Any special involvement in the GLBTQ community?
I was recently in the cast of La Cage Aux Folles at Lush, where almost the entire production team was part of the LGBTQ community. It was an honor to work with a group of kind and talented individuals to tell a story about chosen family and queer joy.
My DM's are also always open to people interested in learning more about Twin Cities drag.
Where in the Twin Cities can you be seen?
I produce many of my own shows in the metro. I work mostly with breweries such as Urban Growler Brewing Company, Alloy Brewing Company, Forgotten Star Brewing Company, and Sisyphus Brewing. I also am preparing for a Nightmare Before Christmas drag show at The Saloon on December 21st. Lastly, watch out for me at Dragged Out, Gorgeous, and Girl on Girl at the Black Hart!
What words of wisdom would you have for someone just starting in the Drag Scene?
Be kind and humble backstage. Make relationships with artist you respect and learn from them while filtering out unhelpful criticism from others. If you can afford it, go out to all different types of shows and expose yourself to as many different types of drag as possible. Support kings, afab, POC, and alternative drag artists. Lastly, be what you want to see in the Drag Scene, not what you think other people want to see.
Social pages?
Instagram: @qt_drag
Show Production: Qtpresents.ticketleap.com
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