California's LGBTQ Media Source! * PRINT * DIGITAL * WEB * SOCIAL MEDIA * EVENTS *

One of the most memorable contestants from Season One of Rupaul’s Drag Race was the artistic Shannel.  She continues to allure audiences with her makeup artistry, elaborate costumes and stage presence.  We were surprised to learn that this Las Vegas ‘diva’ was actually pretty down to Earth.

GED:  You describe yourself as a female illusionist and drag queen. What’s the distinction?

Shannel:  A female illusionist is taking the impersonation art form into something very real and believable. I’m somewhere in between – a cross of the two. I like to be an over the top creation of a woman.

GED:  Your outfits and makeup are among the most impressive in the business. Where do you get your incredible stage wardrobe?

Shannel:  Coco Vega in Las Vegas makes my wardrobe. We design everything together. She constructs it and I do all of the rhinestone work and make all of my jewelry. I also do all of my own makeup. I’ve been a makeup artist since I was 15. It’s second nature to me.

GED:  What haven’t you conquered yet?

Shannel:  Nothing that I haven’t wanted to do. A big personal achievement was becoming the host of Divas Las Vegas. Now that it’s reality there’s nothing more that I want right now. It’s been the ultimate success in my career.

GED:  So you’re not interested in Shannel’s Drag Race?

Shannel:  Oh God, no! It was an amazing time and I’m fortunate to have done it, but I’m really over it and am happy doing my own thing.

GED:  What do you do in your spare time, if there is any?

Shannel:  I work five to six times per week so I stay pretty busy. In my down time I like to keep the house organized and spend time with friends. I love going to the movies and theme parks.

GED:  You’ve become a famous drag personality. Do you feel any obligation to be a role model?

Shannel:  Not really an obligation but I’ve noticed the more successful people become, the more egotistical and self righteous they become. For me it’s the other way around. The more successful I’ve become the more humble a person I am. I don’t take it for granted. There are thousands of talented queens out there who would love to be in my shoes. I cherish the opportunities I’ve been afforded.

GED:  You have over 40,000 ‘likes’ on your Facebook page, so you’re pretty popular.

Shannel:  To tell you the truth I don’t think about it too much. I just do my thing – my Dreamgirls shows, Hamburger Mary’s, or wherever I’m fortunate enough to perform. I don’t think of myself as a celebrity in any way shape or form – I never have. Hey, I need to get paid and I love what I do. It doesn’t go to my head like some others who will remain nameless.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.