In the heart of Caerphilly, Wales, a transformative journey unfolds for Nicole Bird, a 27-year-old disabled drag queen whose life has been profoundly impacted by her alter ego, Flossie Sunshine. During the Covid lockdown, she found her voice and confidence within the embracing walls of House of Deviant, the first and only disabled drag troupe in Wales. Speaking of her experience, Ms. Bird shares, “It makes me feel fabulous and confident. I’m proud to be a woman in drag.”
Led by the indomitable 31-year-old Sophie Scheeres, better known as Miss Shade B, House of Deviant has become a symbol of empowerment for its members. Sophie’s journey began during a night out when she approached Gareth Pahl, who later founded the troupe, expressing her desire to become a drag queen. “I’m trying to use my voice more, be more confident – that’s what I need,” she shares, highlighting the transformative nature of drag performances for self-discovery and empowerment.
Celebrating Welsh Culture through Drag
The forthcoming National Eisteddfod in Boduan, Gwynedd, marks a significant milestone for House of Deviant, as the queens prepare to perform for the first time at this esteemed cultural event. In a Welsh-language show called Ffabinogion, the troupe brings a modern twist to some of the timeless tales from the Mabinogion, Welsh myths, and legends. While the performers themselves may not be fluent Welsh speakers, they have eagerly embraced the challenge of learning the language to bring authenticity to their performances.
Guiding the queens through their cultural exploration is Ellis Lloyd Jones, a TikTok content creator hailing from Treorchy, Rhondda Cynon Taf. Ellis emphasizes the importance of representation and celebration of diverse talents at the Eisteddfod. “Although the queens don’t speak a lot of Welsh, they’re showing they’re really passionate to get into it and learn it, and I think that’s something we should celebrate,” he states.
Empowerment and Self-Esteem Through Drag
For Gareth Pahl, the creator of House of Deviant, witnessing the impact of drag on the performers’ lives is a source of immense pride. As a drag performer himself for over two decades, he knows firsthand the confidence and empowerment that comes with embracing one’s alter ego. “One of the purposes of the project is not only about growing self-esteem but also to show the world what they can do,” he remarks. The troupe’s performances serve as a testament to the power of drag in empowering individuals who may have struggled to find their voices in society.
The journey of these disabled drag queens has not only showcased their talents but also sparked conversations about inclusivity and breaking barriers in the arts. As the queens prepare to grace the stage at the National Eisteddfod, their performances will undoubtedly inspire and captivate audiences, while proving that drag is a celebration of humanity and a powerful tool for self-expression.
