Cubao Drag represent! Midnight opens up about all things drag
Right off the bustling thoroughfare of Aurora Boulevard is the site where they serve the most mouth-watering pancit—Rapture Cafe Bar. While the famous pancit is a reason to lure guests in, it’s just one of the many reasons why people can’t stop raving about this place. The Rapture Royalties are talented drag artists restoring vitality to the area and breathing new life into Cubao drag’s legacy.
All eyes on Midnight! Let’s all say hi!
What inspired you to pursue drag?
Money, chareng! I just really wanted to show my artistry to everyone.
Who or what are your inspirations that help you shape your drag persona and performances, and why?
Local drag artists are my inspirations. [They] inspired me to find my inner power, which is [my drag persona], Midnight.
Movies also inspire me.
Best makeup tip or hack?
Sleep and drink a lot of alcohol, chour! No, really! Mugs look polished if you have enough sleep and water.
Best fashion/styling tip or hack?
Do not let the outfit wear you; wear them!
Top 3 drag essenstials?
- Contour
- Wig
- Confidence
What is Cubao Drag? What makes it different and unique from the others?
Mga baliw po kami, chour! We’re [a] bunch of undiscovered talented people who just happened to become a family, not just co-workers, but chosen family.
Top 3 go-to songs when you perform?
- Crazy In Love
- Hotter Than Hell
- My Mind
What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned from your sisters?
Treat everyone kindly and [the value of] pakikisama.
What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve faced in your drag journey?
The feeling of getting burned out.
How do you handle and overcome criticisms or biases within the drag community?
I just focus on doing my thing and not taking everybody’s perspective seriously.
What is the proudest moment of your career so far?
It’s getting the acknowledgment of Cubao Drag/Rapture Royalties and being part of Bunganga Battle Royale, a competition hosted by Viñas DeLuxe.
Where do you want to see your drag in the future?
In Drag Race Philippines and the world!
What’s the best thing about drag?
I am making up [for my] younger self’s frustrations. Because [I] couldn’t be feminine or express my artistry when I was young. So, I’m making the most out of drag and showing the young me I’ve made it.
Photography KIM SANTOS
