By Mik Hyldebrandt
She’s the very recent winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars 3, and she is performing in Atlanta on April 23. Peach caught up with the fan favorite to talk dress-up, inspiration, and how she has dumbest and coolest job at the same time.
A little background for those few not in the know – how did you start out doing drag?
I owed Verizon about $250 from buying extra lives in Candy Crush. And I never got a callback from my group interview at Forever 21. And when you’re a drag queen, people literally launch money at you with a T-shirt cannon.
Last name Mattel which combined with your look rhymes with Barbie – is she an inspiration and why?
I am SO gay and when I was a kid I wasn’t allowed to play with dolls. So as an adult I get to play dress-up for a living. I really do have the dumbest/coolest job.
Even though we all know Trixie Mattel, tell us in your own words what Trixie’s persona is?
It’s a childlike Fisher Price look with a dark, dry sense of humor. Plus sad Caucasian folk music.
Being on Drag Race the first time meant huge changes for you – how has it been winning the season second time around? What has changed?
Well I didn’t win second time around – I won third time around. So I have two losses and one win – which still makes me a one-time loser, mathematically speaking. There’s a crown and scepter in my garage, but I’m still a loser on the inside.
What other drag queens are your inspiration?
I love Lady Bunny, Coco Peru, and Jackie Beat. These people pre-date drag race. They also predate the written word. Old people can be fun.
You are such a multi-talent when it comes to music, singing, acting, and stand-up. What can the audience expect from your ‘Now With Moving Parts’ show?
There’s dad jokes, mom dresses, and rudimentary guitar playing. Something for everyone!
What is it about drag that is so powerful? And why does it resonate so well in our current society?
Drag is a vacation from reality. My shows are a storytelling/comedy with music. I’m also very fun to look at.
There are no signs of stopping Trixie Mattel right now – or even slowing down! What’s next for you?
I’d like to find a way of shaving my head that doesn’t mess up my bathroom.
Anything you’d like to add?
Come see me in Atlanta! Let’s go to Swinging Richards after.
—
Trixie Mattel performs on April 23 at the Buckhead Theatre. Tickets on Ticketmaster.com.
