Today we’d like to introduce you to Styx.
Hi Styx, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Growing up, I always felt a need to perform and put myself on display to other people. I would choreograph dances with my friends in my bedroom and show them to my family and neighbours. I did ballet, theatre, pageants, sports, and even marching band just trying to fulfill my inner need to be seen. I discovered drag at the age of 15 and never thought that it was something that I, an AFAB person, could do. At 21, I met my partner who’s been doing drag for ten years this year. He was taking a break at the time and I encouraged him to go back to it after hearing how fondly he reminisced about it. I decided to put together a couple looks for myself and tag along to an open stage that he signed up for. That night, Styx was born. That was four years ago and the rest is history. Now, at 26, I’m producing my own drag/burlesque shows with diverse casts and keeping myself booked every other weekend. Something like that is not an easy feat in an industry dominated mostly by cisgendered, AMAB people. I’m so happy with where I’ve gotten myself to as an artist and I cannot wait to see what the future holds for me.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Not in the slightest. There are a handful of nasty people in the drag industry who tried their hardest to bring me down as an entertainer due to their own personal issues. Trying to prevent that from getting to me was pretty hard, especially as a newer alternative entertainer. I had to learn that some people are just mean for no reason. You have to ignore it while still being open to constructive criticism from those who do actually care about you.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I love to blend my drag with cosplay and burlesque, especially characters from my childhood. Audrey II from Little Shop of Horrors, Shego from Kim Possible, Medusa, Marceline from Adventure Time just to name a few. I love building props from recycled materials to help bring my characters to life. I made a fairly large, articulated headpiece for my Audrey II costume entirely from cardboard, hot glue, tape, and some live moss donated by a friend. That would probably be my favourite piece I’ve made and definitely one of my proudest moments.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
Being nervous is okay. I was always told “If you ever stop being nervous, stop doing drag.” because that means you’ve gotten too comfortable with what you’re doing. Being nervous means you’re proud of what you’re about to put on that stage. And don’t be afraid to slow down. Let them look at you. You worked hard on what you’re wearing, let the crowd take it all in.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @_theriverstyx
