On Point With: Krystal Versace

The youngest ever drag artist to win a season of the “RuPaul’s Drag Race” franchise, the then-19 (now 20) year old star of “Drag Race UK” Season 3 Krystal Versace is finally ready to meet her adoring fans in public, care of her very first world tour. Get ready, NYC! [Cover photo: Scotti Bennett]

Thotyssey: Thanks for talking to us today, Krystal! So now that some time has passed, are you able to just enjoy your Drag Race fame and success, or is everything still so surreal and crazy?

Krystal Versace: Thanks for having me… yeah, it’s still very surreal. It’s been very much an up and down rollercoaster. As Ru says, “with a lot of power comes a lot of responsibilities,” and I have chosen to take the harder route around things to get the result I dreamed of. I’m very excited for what’s to come.

Do you think there’s anything specifically unique about being Drag Race Famous in the UK, as opposed to what the girls in the flagship US show go through?

I think its more or less the same. However, the US is a lot bigger than the UK… so life’s a lot more condensed here, I feel.

The level of looks and the skill set you showcased on your season were really extraordinary, especially when you factor in how young you were. Are there any specific sources from where you get your fashion inspiration?

I always have known what looks good on me; I’ve always had a clear vision of my style, and how I want to present myself. I don’t have one place where I get my inspiration, but I get very inspired by the people around me.

Many New York queens started drag back in the day so that they could get into the bars underage easier. Is that something that was common with young British queens as well, or is age not such a big deal in that respect?

Obviously its not as big of a deal. However, myself personally starting drag so young–I did in fact do my first gig underage, being 17.

You appeared in the “Drag Performance” edition for Charli XCX’s “Good Ones” music video. What was that experience like, and are you inspired now to put out any original music of your own?

It was a very exciting experience, as I love Charli’s take on music. You will have to keep your eyes peeled, as maybe something will come up in the future…

Did you have a favorite moment from your season of Drag Race UK, and are you still in regular contact with your castmates?

Yeah we all keep in contact. We have a WhatsApp group where we all chat, and try to support each other’s shows when we can. One of my favourite moments on the show was being praised by RuPaul! Plus, lip syncing with Vanity–even though I was in the bottom.

I understand you’re taking a little social media break, which is certainly understandable. Sometimes the Drag Race fanbase has a rep for being ruthless and cruel towards some cast members. Is that something that has affected you, even though you no doubt also have tons of loyal fans who shower you with love?

I don’t ever see any hate comments–I luckily only see love and support. I took a break from social media, as it’s been very overwhelming for me since I won. I wanted to make sure what I show for myself and my fans is 100% Krystal, and I can’t wait to come back with a bang.

Is there a really cool city that you’ve gotten to perform in since filming the season?

I’m about to be travelling around the U.S., which I’m really excited for. Keep an eye for where you can find me, as it’s all coming out soon!

That tour is Voss Events’ “Drag Race UK: British Invasion,” which comes to the US in May; it also stars fellow UK queens Baga Chipz, Divina de Campo, Blu Hydrangea, Tayce, A’Whora, Lawrence Chaney and Cheryl Hole. Drag Race UK vs. The World stars Lemon, Pangina Heals and Janey Jacké are along for the ride as well! What do you all have in store for us?

I personally can’t wait. This is my first tour, and to be working with Voss and travelling the US is quite major. The cast is an amazing bunch of girls, and I can’t wait to tour with them all. And obviously I’m going to bring something new… we like to constantly switch it up here.

The “British Invasion” comes to New York’s Terminal 5 on May 22nd! Have you ever been here before… and are there any particular New York queens that you enjoy?

I’ve never been to the US, so all of this is very new to me! I mean, I can’t wait to meet them all. For me it’s a total adventure, and I’m ready to make my stamp in the Big Apple.

We’re finally reaching the end of our current US season of Drag Race. Who’s been your favorite?

My faves left definitely have to be Lady Camden and Willow Pill.

What else is coming up for you that you can share?

I’m currently creating a sick show of my own. That’s all you’re getting for now…

Finally: what’s a song or number you can’t wait to perform for the first time?

I wont be giving too much away as I have major stuff coming for my own show in the summer. But anything with a bangin’ beat has my name all over it…

Thanks Krystal, and belated congrats!