A sexy drag performer leading us through the end of a long, hot summer: the stunning Supernova!
Thotyssey: Hello Supernova! Much like your namesake, it’s been a hot summer. How has the season been treating you?
Supernova: This summer we have been blessed and high favored, grateful and forever thankful! I’m Supernova, New Jersey’s highest entertainer… that’s why I love space! Thanks for having me!
We see you frequently pop up in Brooklyn these days, but do you also get to perform in Jersey a lot?
Brooklyn is where I started drag two years back, but Jersey is my home! I have been making the rounds here in my state; I’m performing the Rocky Horror Picture Show shadow cast with non-profit Ordinary Kids, and I’ve been doing some gigs with [northern Jersey alt-drag collective] La Gatita, but with God’s blessing I can perform at home just as much as I perform in Brooklyn!
Are you an actual Jersey native? Also, growing up, what were some interests and skills you had that may have ultimately put you on the drag path?
Born and raised, I’m from East Orange, NJ! Growing up I wasn’t exposed to anything drag at all; I knew drag queens existed, but not as something someone like me can do. However, I’m heavily into music and one of my inspirations is Lady Gaga, and honestly that says enough. Although I went to a STEM school, I always dabbled here and there in acting / improv, dance and more. Most of the talents I picked up were strictly from YouTube and TikTok!
How did you premiere in the real world as Supernova… and how has she informed your daily life?
Such a great question! Supernova has taught me about relationships, networking, and the importance of being. When I first got into drag I was in my bedroom, emulating the queens I saw on RuPaul’s Drag Race because at first being beautiful to people is all I cared about. Of course, this thought process did not stick as soon as I started attending open sets–seeing the drive and the reality of what local drag performers do to make themselves a success.
My concept for drag has totally changed into not something that I show, but a testament to what artistic self-expression can do for community! The art form itself has so much ties to who we are. But in order for one to live on, we must realize the drag performer is a character.
How might you describe Supernova today, as a character / performer and aesthetically?
I like to go to the definition of the word itself. It’s common knowledge that a supernova is a colossal explosion of a star… but what no one pays attention to is that supernovas take light years to expand, to produce new solar systems. That’s the way of the artist–to destroy and create. Which is why when it comes to my drag character, she’s not just a drag performer, she’s become my ultimate work. She is bright colors, shared hugs and awesome synths. She’s that girl you walked past the other day, and you just loved the way she walked. She’s that new song you heard on the radio that made you want to run into the abyss. More and more, Supernova is passion, moving slowly but steadily… but you feel her impact!
Have you had a favorite moment or gig in your drag career so far?
Some of my favorite moments have always been the gigs in Jersey. I don’t know, it’s something about being in a basement that keeps my heart whole!
You do have a big Jersey gig coming up this weekend: Friday night in Asbury Park!
Yes, I finally have been given the opportunity to perform at Paradise! “Freeda Fridays” hosted by this week’s guest host Crystal Envy with performances by Luxx Noir London, Lana Ja’Rae, Tina Twirler and Boxa Crayonz! This is gonna be a very fun gig, I’m so excited!
Then it’s Back to Brooklyn for you with “Flavor of Cxnt” at C’mon Everybody on Saturday!
Ooh honey… as their sound editor, I am very excited for you guys to see the shenanigans, tomfoolery and women fighting for a “Flavor of Cxnt!” I highly recommend you watch a few clips of the original show Flavor of Love to really feel immersed in the plot!
You’ll be back at C’mon on Sunday, September 1 for “SKXNT,” hosting the party with Bertha Vanayshun! What’s going down then?
I’m so glad you asked me this question! In Brooklyn and beyond, Caribbean people hold j’overts, basements and raves that happen all Labor Day Weekend! This was a great opportunity for us to create a space for queer and Caribbean people. We have drag performances by Maljo Blu, Miss Afrosephone and Oliver Herface, our selecta (DJ) Sp3cial K, and a costume contest… rep your flag! I’m excited because the venue, C’mon Everybody, hasn’t had an event quite like this one. So grab your friends–queer, Caribbean or both. Everyone’s welcome to come to the islands for one night only!
What else is coming up for you?
I am dabbling in film, so keep an eye out for any new releases in the coming months!
Very exciting! Okay, I shall end with: what is your favorite item in your drag bag, cosmetic or otherwise?
Got2B Spray is a necessity in a drag bag! No setting spray? Got2B spray. Lace coming off? Got2B spray! Need to fix your curls? GOT2B SPRAY!
A strong endorsement! Thanks, Supernova!
Check Thotyssey’s calendar for Supernova’s upcoming appearances, and follow her on Instagram.
Thotyssey 