Getting to Know Dirt
With the announcement of our Drag Artist In Residence at the upcoming Showcase, we're taking a moment to highlight our three finalists.
Meet Dirt!
Click here for Ruby Chopstix and Deb from Winnipeg.
Q: Can you introduce me to your drag persona?
A: So, Dirt is this incredibly high-energy, optimistic, and fun character—a tiny, animated being, if you will. For me, Dirt isn't a separate entity; it's an amplified version of myself, cranked up to 10 and filtered through this unique lens. I often describe it as a "wholesome idiocy" or, more precisely, a sincere form of foolishness. Everything stems from a genuine desire to entertain and share good times with people, or perhaps stir something up. But, at its core, it's also just delightfully silly.
Q: What inspires your Drag? Are there specific artists, present or past, who have influenced your aesthetic?
A: One of the first drag kings who truly inspired me was Andro Gin from Miami, Florida. A lot of my early influences, like the white base and neon colors in my looks, stemmed from observing Andro. It's interesting; there's a misconception that drag kings might be less flashy, leading many of us to embrace a white base with vibrant paint. Andro Gin was among the first to showcase this style, and I found inspiration in molding it into my own.
Beyond that, I draw inspiration from the world of Dragula and similar realms. I have a deep fascination with woodblock printing, especially the iconic "The Great Wave off Kanagawa." I've even created a couple of outfits inspired by it. Generally, I'm inspired by art in various forms—paintings, digital art, or even other costumes—that evoke a sense of richness, texture, diverse colors, and flavours. I'm particularly drawn to pieces that convey a touch of strangeness, sadness, or a creature-like quality. I find inspiration in individuals who embrace a slightly avant-garde or out-of-the-box approach.
Q: What's the most rewarding aspect of performing in drag?
A: The most fulfilling moments are when someone approaches me after a performance, expressing disbelief or curiosity about the song choice or a particular effect. What truly moves me is knowing that people not only saw the performance but also derived something meaningful from it. Whether they felt seen, inspired, or just a passionate connection, it's incredibly gratifying. One memorable instance was during our rendition of the first Rocky Horror Show, where people were genuinely excited and thrilled. Similarly, when I performed "Erotic Nightmare" at the Goodwill, numerous individuals expressed their love for unconventional performances, yearning for more unique and unconventional acts.
Q: Okay, so considering your impressive repertoire, what is your most memorable or favourite performance to date?
A: Without a doubt, it has to be the first "Erotic Nightmare" show. During this performance, I showcased a trick involving a bald cap pulled fully over my face, with cut-out eyes, nose, and a mouth, creating the illusion of pulling my entire face off when ripped apart at the back. The goal was to be terrifying, and it certainly achieved that effect.
The energy was fantastic, the audience was responsive, and everything was going smoothly. I had been particularly nervous about this number, as the trick required precise execution and timing. As the hard, screaming metal number progressed, and I reached the moment of pulling off the face, the audience erupted in excitement. The realization that the trick had worked, and people were genuinely thrilled about it, was incredibly satisfying.
Q: What do you love most about Manitoba Drag?
A: What captivates me the most is the sheer eclecticism and uniqueness of Manitoba Drag. It's a scene that thrives on its eccentricity and embraces the diversity within it. There's a passionate commitment from everyone involved, and despite the occasional gossip and drama, which is par for the course in any community, there's a genuine emphasis on supporting one another, practicing harm reduction, and fostering mutual aid. The sense of camaraderie and kindness is truly heartening.
In particular, Sunshine House and the Bannock Babes, along with the longstanding history of Club 200 as one of the older gay bars in Canada, play integral roles in shaping Winnipeg's drag scene. However, above all, it's the deep sense of community and the remarkable friendships that have been forged within the Manitoba drag scene that make it truly special.
Q: What advice do you have for someone who wants to try drag for the first time?
A: Getting involved in the community is key. Attend drag shows, tip generously, introduce yourself, and offer sincere compliments to performers. Engage in conversations about their acts, showing genuine interest. It's crucial to present yourself as approachable and be courteous to door staff and bar staff. Kindness goes a long way.
Express your desire to start doing drag, and people in the community will likely guide you to open shows where you can try your hand at it. Keep in mind that the first time might not meet all your expectations, but persistence is key to improvement. Listen closely to advice from experienced drag performers, like Anita Stallion, who often has valuable insights. While it's essential to take your craft seriously, don't forget to enjoy the process and not take yourself too seriously along the way.