Cubao Drag Artist and theatre geek Judith strikes up a laid-back conversation to get a sense of who she is
Judith’s beginnings are firmly planted in theatrical performance. I first met the Rapture Royalty backstage at Rapture Cafe Bar. While everyone else was putting their glam on, Judith had black blotches on her face. She wore a white, tattered t-shirt that was intentionally cut and smeared. On the stage, she was suddenly Lea Salonga in Miss Saigon—a performance that echoed hope and despair with the song “I’d Give My Life For You.” This is Rapture Royalty Judith.
What inspired you to pursue drag?
“I started as a theatre geek. I love watching actors give life to characters. And then I saw Rent and got curious after seeing a man in a dress and a wig. That was when I started to learn more about drag and decided to pursue it.”
Who or what are your inspirations that help shape your drag persona and performances?
“My love for theatre—the way the lights hit my face. My drag mother, Gorgeous Dawn, helped me become who I am. She opened the door for me to the drag world. She taught me many things and really became a mother in and out of drag.”
What’s the best thing about drag?
“The ability to transform into someone else.”
Fashion and Beauty
Best makeup tip or hack?
“Know your shades!”
Best fashion/styling tip or hack?
“Learn about your silhouette and colors that suit your skin tone.”
Top 3 drag essentials?
- Eyeliner
- Lipstick
- False eyelashes
Cubao Drag
What is Cubao drag? What makes it different and unique from the others?
“In Cubao, it is a diverse cast of people with unique and colorful personalities.”
What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned from your sisters?
“No matter what problems and fights we have, at the end of the day, we always have each other’s backs.”
On Performing Live
What was your first drag performance like?
“It was at school. We had a stage play, and I auditioned for a character exploring her identity. I wore a wig and a dress. I lip-synced to “I Know Where I’ve Been” and was super nervous and frightened. I received applause even though I felt like they would laugh at me.”
Top 3 go-to songs when you perform?
- Katy Perry – “California Girls”
- Paramore – “Still Into You”
- Katy Perry – “I Kissed a Girl”
Describe your best performance so far.
“I have memorized every beat, note, and breath to “Satisfied” from Hamilton and given a whole new take on it.”
Where do you want to see your drag in the future?
To be a Ru Girl, it’s like a badge or diploma saying you have graduated from something.
Photography KIM SANTOS
