A gorgeous queen on the rise known for her colorful and elaborate handmade looks, Azul Mari Juanna is puffing and Priding all over town this month.
Thotyssey: Hello Azul, thanks for chatting with us and Happy Pride Month! Are you enjoying all the positive Pride energy in the air?
Azul Mari Juana: Pride feels a little bittersweet these days due to the fact that yesterday the verdict came in for my brother‘s O’Shea Sibley’s murder and manslaughter: another injustice for the LGBTQIA community. But I am looking forward to honoring his name at all my pride gigs everyone needs to know his story
Yes, there was a strong case to be made that O’Shea’s murder was premeditated. It’s perhaps more important to celebrate and honor Pride this year in his memory, but also with the growing hostility towards the queer community in this country.
The hostility needs to stop; we are the balance of the universe. Society has a big problem with people that go against the norm, and the community is a representation of going to the beat of your own drums. That intimidates a lot of people, because they’re not brave enough to live in their truth.
You certainly have carved out a place for yourself and your art. Can you describe the your drag today?
My drag is a love letter to my inner gay kids that wanted to play with Barbies and heels. Growing up in a strict Dominican household, those things was definitely forbidden. My drag displays my taste in fashion because I make all my looks from head to toe. My performances are a representation of women in male dominated fields–an homage to strong female characters.
You sport some truly gorgeous looks! Can you you share a bit more of your origin story: were you born in NYC or the DR or elsewhere, and how did you discover drag and ultimately create Azul?
I’m first generation born in New York from Dominican parents. I grew up in Miami where I became obsessed with fashion, and discovered drag in high school when I did a play dressed like a girl. I ate the look up (for the time), and baby Azul was born in a 6” pump.
I’ve seen you win a round of Polish the Queen at Red Eye a while back, and watched you slay the Queer Talent Show at Metro more recently. And you just competed in a particularly epic installment of the Are You the Ultimate Diva pageant! Have you had a favorite experience in the competition / pageant scene, and is it something in general that you enjoy doing?
I love showcasing my talent, and I would never turn down an opportunity to make an AZUL original collection; that’s why I enjoyed competing in Ultimate Diva so much.
But I actually don’t enjoy competingm because I feel like I’m at an disadvantage due to the fact that I have to style every wig and make every garment down to the shoes. While all the other girls are getting things made and buying off the rack, I’m making a one of one couture gown.
It’s good that you use your platform to showcase as many amazing talents as you can. Is it your goal to have a few weekly or monthly shows in the City, or do you want something else from drag?
I don’t wanna be confined to a weekly show. I want to be booked around the world. I see myself like a international queen. Maybe even the host of Drag Race Dominican Republic one day.
That would be amazing! Speaking of which, do you have any favorites in this current season of All Stars, if you’re watching?
So far, my favorites are Akeria and Silky.
Both quite entertaining! You’re going to get a chance to do a bit of entertaining yourself as a featured performer in several Pride events this month.
I am so excited to perform at Brooklyn Pride (June13th), Bronx Pride Expo (June 18th), and Harlem Pride (June 27th) this year. it’s gonna be so fun to celebrate pride and my culture with everyone.
Anything else to add?
Just make sure to follow me on all platforms.
Lastly: what’s the most essential item in your drag bag, cosmetic or otherwise?
It wouldn’t be Azul without the Mari-Juana.
Thanks, Azul!
Check Thotyssey’s calendar for Azul Mari Juanna’s upcoming appearances, and follow her on Instagram and TikTok.
Thotyssey 