This Philly-based beauty keeps the Tri-State in heat this summer with a Manhattan weekly show and an upcoming PA party she’s producing… take us to your planet, Venus Mystique!
Thotyssey: Hi Venus! Thanks for chatting with us tonight! So Dear Lord, summer is almost over! How did the season treat you?
Venus Mystique: Fantastic! I’ve spent so much time in the city this summer, and it has been refreshing in so many ways!
Love to hear that! You are quite the stunner, by the way–how long have you been in the drag / performance scene?
I started in the Philadelphia scene two years ago, and recently in the past year have started working in NYC nightlife… which has been so fulfilling! I currently balance between both cities, with hopes to move to NYC soon.
You have a weekly show here; that must be a beastly commute!
For sure! But I love what I do!
Where are you from originally, and what were your creative interests growing up?
I’m actually born and raised in Lehigh Valley, PA. I grew up in the mountains, secluded from any type of city environment. This led me to dream much bigger for my future, and crave the city life for its ever-evolving atmosphere and representation of all different walks of life. Growing up, I was always infatuated with femininity and it’s power–and that still holds true today. I’ve always been inspired by stars like Marilyn, Anna Nicole, Beyoncé, Gaga, and women who exude unbeatable confidence.
What was your drag debut like?
Definitely a proud moment! I had wanted to do drag for so many years prior, so I remember it being so fun and exhilarating.
And what might you say are some big differences between the drag scenes of NYC and Philly?
Philly is a great scene with a lot of talented entertainers; it just suffers from a lack of performance spaces in the nightlife scene. What I really appreciate about NYC nightlife is the wide variety of venues, opportunities, and appreciation for drag in all aspects.
How might you describe the type of drag you do today, as far as looks and numbers go?
My drag and performance style lately have stemmed from the comfortability in my transness, as it’s important to me that I showcase trans excellence through what I do.
Tell us about “BBL (Beauty, Body, Legs),” the weekly Thursday show you host at a Playhouse Bar with Essa Noche and Lana Ja’Rae. What’s it like, and how did it all begin?
“BBL” is really something special that came together so organically. The three of us had worked together many times prior to the creation of “BBL,” and all have great working relationships together. We each bring something special beyond just beauty, body, and legs. We care for each other, and I think that comes through with our banter and personalities on the mic every week!
Then this coming Saturday, you’ll be performing at Sandy Jack’s in Brooklyn for “Fashionista,” hosted by the lovely Victoria Holiday! That should be fun!
Absolutely!
And I see you’ll be back in Philly at the end of the month for a party at Franky Bradley’s!
Yes! I’ve combined forces with producer/promoter Darius Alexander, most known for the “Disco Heaven” parties in Philly and most recently NYC. Our new party “FAMESLVT” is a new queer-focused house music and techno party that aims to leave our attendees feeling like celebrities. Through the power of glitz, glam, and electrifying beats, we hope to bring something new to the Philly nightlife scene! You can check us out on Instagram, and our opening night on August 31st!
Anything else coming up for you?
I can’t give away too much, so you’ll have to follow along and see! I’ve been focusing a lot on party producing lately, in hopes to push myself and my drag into all different avenues.
Can’t wait to learn more! In closing, what are your favorite and least favorite things about drag?
My least favorite thing about drag is drama, as I think there’s always a better way to resolve issues directly and with accountability.
My favorite thing about drag is how it makes others feel, and the magic behind that. I was a viewer of drag for so long before I started, and I remember how empowered it made me feel. It’s about taking people out of reality for a short amount of time, and bringing them into the fantasy. Confidence is key, and incredibly infectious.
Beautifully put! Thanks, Venus!
Check Thotyssey’s calendar for Venus Mystique’s upcoming area appearances, and follow her on Instagram and Twitter.
Thotyssey 