RuPaul’s Drag Race Battle of the Seasons

The world’s biggest touring drag stars are on their way to Australia.

With an all-star cast of previous winners, finalists and fan favourites from all seven seasons of RuPaul’s Drag Race, the Battle of the Seasons tour will see contestants bring out the claws and the glamour live on stage, hosted by series judge Michelle Visage.

Season 5 star Alaska Thunderf*ck brings her unique performance style to BOTS. She caught up with City Hub ahead of the Australian leg of the tour.

“It’s basically like RuPaul’s Drag Race – Live and in Concert,” said Alaska. “You can expect to see mothers who have brought their kids, kids who have brought their grandmothers, and everyone in between – all getting their life from the stars of the best TV show on television.”

When asked about which signature acts fans can expect to see, she can’t help but retain some mystery – “It’s a surprise!” – but she can confirm that she will be performing songs from her recent album, Anus, on which she surprised critics with her sophisticated handling of different musical styles. “But in the meantime you can buy it on iTunes,” she quipped.

“I’m so excited to hang out with Jinkx [Monsoon] and Sharon [Needles],” she said when asked about the co-stars she is most looking forward to working with again. “They’re loud and they make me laugh. But really any time I get to spend with my sisters is time that I treasure. We all speak each others’ language and we laugh constantly.”

The popularity of RuPaul’s Drag Race has only strengthened with each new season – this has called into question the alternative pull of the show, Alaska had her own thoughts on this.

“I think it’s important to go into your art without the main intention being ‘I want this to be mainstream’. That waters down your content,” she said.

“I was attracted to drag as a young artist because there are no rules. There aren’t the strict limitations you have on radio-friendly music or TV-friendly content. Drag is a response to and a commentary on the absurdity of the mainstream. Do I think it will become mainstream? Our audiences get bigger and stronger and louder every year – so just have to wait and see.”

Thunderf*ck also isn’t afraid to be outspoken when it comes to her progressive views on gender and sexuality, such as in the lyrics of her song ‘Pussy’ (which tells the story of a romantic tryst she shared with a transgender man).

“Some of the most beautiful women in the world have gigantic penises! Get into it. Additionally, some of my favourite drag queens were born with vaginas instead of penises. The Bio Queen, as she is called, is a category that has been embraced by many entertainers for years in the world of drag.

However, we still need to push acceptance and open mindedness in our own community because there are places that don’t allow performers onstage because of their genitals. And that is ludicrous.”

As for BOTS: “It’s going to be a great show. But on top of that, it’s a space of inclusivity and safety and open mindedness, which the world needs now more than ever. Come be a part of it.” (AM)

Jul 2, 7pm. The Big Top, Sydney Luna Park. $89-$200+bf. Tickets & info: rupaulbots.com or oztix.com.au