As per tradition, on the eve of Starlet of Aotearoa/NZ we interview the reigning Grand Winner:
What have been your highlights of 2023?
Shania Came - I know this question is supposed to be related to my performance-art but for me, coming out as non-binary was the major highlight of 2023. I share this in this forum because I can honestly say the burlesque/drag/cabaret community and performance-art was integral to the encouragement, care, self-expression and safety I needed to be my true self publicly.
Becoming Starlet of NZ encouraged me to continue doing MY art MY way - I felt ready to take on new wigs/gigs/opportunities around Aotearoa and through this I was introduced to more of the
community of performers who celebrate individuality.
Because of all this, I adored every moment on stage throughout the 2023 year, performing as Shania Came, her country loving sibling Johnny Pash and 1/3 of Throuple Trouble who also won Bling it On 2023 (with @velmacherry_freddieberries and @trystn_oliver_town)!
What is your advice to this years contestants?
Shania - Make friends, make connections, make the stage your own (because no-one does burlesque quite like you do and the audience is fizzing to know who your persona is and what makes it unique).
What are your 'must haves' back stage?
Shania - I seek out things which give me energy back stage, such as:
1. Connecty moments with other cast members (whether this is smiles in the mirror or chats about what reveal/surprise they are most excited to pull off on stage)
2. Sussing where there are quiet spaces in the room to get in the Shania mindset
3. Setting spray – the more excited I get, the sweatier I get
4. An energy drink – original V is the key to my heart but also sometimes make me sweatier, so
see #3 above.
What is in the future for you?
Shania - In my future I see more of the random 2am ideas I have put in my notes-app coming to life on stage (maybe not all of them though because 2am Shania is a loopy b****). I have sh
