Queen Nina West has been making waves in the entertainment industry with her unique blend of humor, talent, and activism. After gaining national attention on the eleventh season of RuPaul's Drag Race, Nina has become a household name, breaking down barriers and challenging societal norms with her performances. In a conversation with Ryan Basham, she delves into her role in the current production of Hairspray and some of the politics surrounding drag in today's environment.
As an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, Andrew believes that drag is a powerful tool for self-expression and empowerment. He explains that drag queens have been at the forefront of many social movements throughout history, using their platform to create a safe space, challenge societal norms, and fight for equality.
It is important to continue to support and celebrate drag, not just for its entertainment value, but also for its political significance and the impact it has on representation and acceptance in society. Individuals can support the drag community by attending performances, engaging with drag performers on social media, and educating themselves on the history and significance of drag. Additionally, individuals can support activism work by donating to organizations that support LGBTQ+ rights, participating in community events and most importantly speaking up when something is said that is wrong.
If you would like to see Hairspray during its SoCal stop it is playing April 18-30 at Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa and May 2- 21 at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles.