A rising star king in the ring competing for his cup, Oxymoron is a brilliant contradiction.
Thotyssey: Oxy, hello! How are you enjoying the beginning of the end of summer?
Oxymoron: I’m ready for Halloween already, so I’m counting down the days!
I hear you… autumnal spookiness is calling. Can you tell us about the aesthetics and performing style of your drag?
As Oxymoron, the word means “contradicting.” I perform in a way that expands the binary definition of whatever it may be–performing through storytelling, and an aesthetically pleasing trans gogo boy.
Where’s you original hometown, and what were some artistic interests and inspirations you had?
My original hometown is Neptune, New Jersey right next to the infamous Asbury Park. I’ve always been in the arts scene since elementary school doing band, dance, and theatre while also playing multiple sports. I had dreams of becoming a professional trumpet player when I was a kid, and knew that being a part of any production would be a part of my life forever.
How did you become Oxymoron, and what influenced that transformation?
I took the negative experience of my trans-ness and being called an oxymoron, and flipped the script to show that my gender identity does not make anything contradictory. We are who we are–we have likes and dislikes– and it really just comes down to respecting yourself and others when navigating how to communicate your likes and dislikes.
Have you had a fun or surprising moment while performing, as far as audience reactions or anything else?
As far as audience reaction goes, I’ve enjoyed their support and willingness to see a different kind of drag. It’s been uplifting to observe the room before performances and see their reaction change as they realize I am a masculine presenting trans nonbinary drag king. My most memorable experience was mid-number, dancing with an audience member who was giving out heart shaped origami one dollar bills; she killed every step, making it look like it was rehearsed!
Congratulations for winning a preliminary round of Cunning Stunt’s King’s Cup drag competition at Club Cumming! What inspired you to try out for that?
Yes, thank you so much! What inspired me was the lack of drag kings I see in general on a weekly basis. So when you say “a king’s only competition in a queen-dominated industry,” I’m there already! Cunning Stunt also brings me a safe space to feel not so isolated from the world, and visible to the naked eye.
You’re returning to Club Cumming compete in the King’s Cup finale on Wednesday! What’s in store for us then?
First and foremost–to have fun, connect with the kings and things, and engage with the crowd to thank them for all of their support. My goal is to showcase dance, acting, and delivering a powerful message that at the end of the day, choosing yourself is not a selfish action.
I also see you’ll be performing for drag queen Venus’ show “Drama Club” at Sandy Jack’s on Friday, August 21st.
I love Venus! I love the energy and scene of Sandy Jack’s so much that I’ll be doing a comedy number and gogo number.
By the way, I see you’ve taken on the drag surname “Armön”… is Lanyé your mom?
Yes yes yes! I love my momma so much! She’s given me more than meets the eye. There’s so much love and support that goes beyond just a performance. Momma Lanyé gave me a home when I was kicked out of my biological one for existing as a transgender individual. She doesn’t treat me any less than, and challenges me to be the best I can be inside and outside of the bar. I throw my arms on Lanyé and hug her tightly. Taking on the Armön name has truly shaped my character to extend a lending hand–whether that be holding the door for people or helping the queens, kings and things in any way possible!
Doing mother proud! Is there anything else you want to add?
Yes… a gentle reminder that we are in a safe space, and to keep those safe spaces it really starts with us actively placing no judgment regardless of race, class, gender, ethnicity, religion and / or sexuality.
Well said! Okay lastly: what’s your favorite or most essential item in your drag bag?
Peach Broadway lip gloss! I don’t go nowhere without it, and sometimes I perform and it would be in my suit jacket or pants pockets!
Thanks, Oxy!
Check Thotyssey’s calendar for Oxymoron’s upcoming appearances, and follow him on Instagram.
Thotyssey 