In August DragWorld returns to Olympia London after two victorious years of glamour, glitter and big hair, where thousands of fans from all corners of the UK and world descend on London, all ready to meet their favourite queens and kings. With Shea Couleé appearing, we catch up with the queen to talk selfies, music and RuPaul’s Drag Race.
What is your favourite part of drag?
The transformation is the most fun.
What do you think is the most important part of it?
Showing an authentic part of yourself that others don’t often see in the day-to-day.
In June 2019, you were named one of the Top 100 Most Powerful Drag Queens in America by New York Magazine – what does that mean to you?
I actually had NO IDEA about that until just now. However, it’s nice to be recognised by the publication.
What are you most looking forward to about DragWorld UK?
Getting the chance to hang out with all of the fans! I LOVE the fans in the UK. They’re some of my FAVES.
The cast of Everybody’s Talking About Jamie is going to be there. Have you watched the show and if so, what did you think?
I tried to see the show last time I was in London. But, the day I had off, was also one of the days they weren’t performing. I’m really excited that they’ll be there though! I’ve heard NOTHING but rave reviews!
DragWorld will be like a sea of selfies – what is your top tip for taking a top selfie?
KNOW YOUR LIGHTING.
Have you found any differences between UK and US drag queens?
I find UK drag queens to be more studied. They understand pop culture, but know deeper, more obscure references too. American drag queens are innovative, and the UK girls know their HERSTORY.
On Drag Race, you played Naomi Campbell in ‘Snatch Game’ – is the experience as high-pressure as it looks?
It’s honestly just awkward. There is no audience, and for sound purposes, the crew must remain quiet. So NO ONE LAUGHS. It’s hard to tell whether or not you’re actually funny.
Your latest single ‘Rewind’ is incredible. What is your biggest goal for your music and how does ‘Rewind’ add to this?
Thank you so much! Music is one of my biggest passions. I have really enjoyed exploring different sounds, and what I want most from my music is to produce songs that are authentically me. I love fast-tempo dance tracks, but I also want to make music to cry to, contemplate, fuck to, etc. I want to be able to supply the soundtrack for people’s lives.
You recently came out publicly as non-binary. What impact do you want to make on other non-binary individuals?
Representation is key. I’m just here to live my life as openly as possible to give hope and encouragement to others with similar experiences.
If Shea Couleé were to have a wedding, what would her outfit involve?
Shea Couleé would wear a reinterpretation of the iconic 1966 Helmut Newton YSL “Le Smoking Suit”.
Which queens would be invited or not invited?
Everyone is invited! Except for Charlie Hides…
What are some dos and don’ts for wedding speeches?
Avoid inside jokes… they kill the vibe.
If you could only use three makeup items for a look, what would they be?
It simply cannot be done. But my Fenty Beauty Highlighter would DEFINITELY be one of them.
What else have you got on?
The video for ‘Rewind’ – be sure to tune in and watch! Also planning a UK tour…
Shea Coulee is appearing at DragWorld UK 17 & 18 August and The Official pre-party Drag Ball on 16 August.
