In the Media
How Queer Folks Across Canada Are Celebrating Pride from a Distance -
by Russ Martin,
June 22, 2020
“Last year was my first Pride as a drag king and boylesque performer—and it was hands down my best Pride ever. Performing brought me to Pride in three different cities and my first burlesque festival, so I was looking forward to keeping up that momentum for 2020, and reconnecting with the friends I made.
I work full-time in healthcare, and even with the added stress of the pandemic, I’m thankful for the stability and routine it provides. Doing drag and burlesque is like living a double life. Putting on the moustache, makeup, and rhinestones, and getting on stage as Ben Agiter gives me a surreal and euphoric feeling. Since COVID-19, I’ve done one online show, but lip-syncing alone at home in front of a crappy webcam left me feeling empty. There are tons of talented folks producing online shows and content, and I’m all for it—it’s just not for me. The pandemic has impacted my connection to the queer community, and my artistic expression, but I’m hoping it’s temporary.”
I work full-time in healthcare, and even with the added stress of the pandemic, I’m thankful for the stability and routine it provides. Doing drag and burlesque is like living a double life. Putting on the moustache, makeup, and rhinestones, and getting on stage as Ben Agiter gives me a surreal and euphoric feeling. Since COVID-19, I’ve done one online show, but lip-syncing alone at home in front of a crappy webcam left me feeling empty. There are tons of talented folks producing online shows and content, and I’m all for it—it’s just not for me. The pandemic has impacted my connection to the queer community, and my artistic expression, but I’m hoping it’s temporary.”
