Today we’d like to introduce you to Gin Von Tonic.
Hi Gin, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’m a drag queen local to Chattanooga. However, I’ve performed all over the Tennessee region. I grew up as a competitive dancer, so I’ve always been a fan of performing. I quit dancing for some years, then I started attending drag shows, I got to know some queens, told them about myself, and they booked me the next week on a show as a “bio queen.”
I performed as a female, doing drag, and it felt so awesome. Since then, I’ve performed in, directed, and hosted drag shows, drag trivia nights, drag karaoke nights, and drag brunches. I’ve made my name in Chattanooga as a well-known drag queen; and a trailblazer for females in drag. It took a lot of time, guidance from other queens, hard work, and passion. But I’m so happy to be doing what I do and making waves.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Mostly. If you work hard at your art, most people will take you seriously and see you as an equal. However, there is some misogyny in drag. Drag queens are traditionally biological men portraying a female illusion. So not everyone likes the idea of biological women, portraying female drag. But it’s 2021, and there are so many talented female queens killing the game.
I’ve fought hard to be taken seriously, I’ve even been booked places as the first female drag queen ever – because of my determination to perfect my version of drag. I pride myself on doing everything men have to do; the dramatic makeup, the big wigs, the hip pads, the layers of tights. The only thing I can’t do is tuck, I don’t have the right equipment.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m a female drag queen or a female impersonator. I perform in, host, and direct shows. I’m known for my eclectic looks, performances, and concepts. I’m proud of the opportunities I’ve worked to get, being a female in the drag world.
I’m proud of the spaces I’ve been able to create. And I’m proud of my art and passion. I’m different because I always do new concepts, I never like to repeat concepts. I also will perform anything: Broadway, pop, heavy metal, blues. Love it.
What are your plans for the future?
I want to keep creating unique shows, and providing opportunities for other amazing performers. I’d love to open my own place one day. But also working with allied business is really so wonderful.
Wanderlinger Brewing in Chattanooga, Barley Taproom are two venues that let me direct shows. The Big Chill, Bar Watson, Gate 11, and other Chattanooga businesses also have shows hosted by other queens. It’s amazing to have such local support.
Contact Info:
- Email: ginvontonic@gmail.com
- Instagram: @Ginvontonic
- Facebook: Ginvontonic
Image Credits
Courtney Stone
