Raja Gemini, the renowned drag artist known for winning RuPaul’s Drag Race, is set to make a special appearance in Dallas for her birthday.
She will headline the STRUT Dallas Tea Dance: From Hoedown to Throwdown on June 14 at the Round-Up Saloon, coinciding with the vibrant celebrations of Pride Month.
While Raja will undoubtedly be the highlight of the event, STRUT is much more than just a performance night.
Organized by Deryck Todd Presents, the event aims to foster a sense of community by partnering with Texas Latino Pride and Pride in Dallas, which will serve as the event’s nonprofit beneficiaries.
Attendees can look forward to an exciting lineup that includes not just Raja’s performance but also a full roster of drag artists, three DJs, and even a live band.
The experience will be enriched with pop-up shops, multiple hosts, and Salem Moon serving as emcee, capped off with a charity auction, making it a true Queer-Chella event.
In a recent conversation with Dallas Voice, Raja shared her thoughts on the significance of performing on her birthday.
“I’m a Gemini. We’re hustlers. We like that money,” she said, expressing her enthusiasm for the opportunity that arose on her special day.
Although this will be a celebratory event, Raja confessed that her feelings towards returning to Dallas are bittersweet.
Remembering her friend Bruce, the Dragon Lady, who passed away, she acknowledged the personal impact of his absence, noting, “He was such a loveable and naughty friend.”
Raja also mentioned that she holds a fondness for Dallas, comparing its atmosphere to that of Los Angeles, stating, “It’s very comfortable for me and pretty glamorous.”
Reflecting on her early days in the city, she recalled her first experience in the Rose Room, feeling intimidated despite having just won Drag Race.
However, she found solace in the kindness of fellow queens like Asia O’Hara, who welcomed her into the community.
When asked about the evolving perception of Dallas on the national drag scene, Raja affirmed that the city’s drag culture is indeed gaining respect and recognition.
“Dallas is highly respected, and I hear more conversations about the queens of Dallas than other cities you might think people would talk about,” she noted.
Turning the conversation to her personal journey, Raja was open about her age.
“This is my 51st birthday. I’ve been doing drag for 34 years, so I’ve put in my dues,” she proudly stated.
She elaborated on how she embraces aging, acknowledging that while her physique has changed over the years, her passion for drag remains unwavering.
“I don’t behave like I’m 51, and I get to have fun and travel and say it out loud with pride,” she emphasized.
Raja’s reflections on her life beyond the stage reveal her gratitude and resilience.
“I’m proud that I survived,” she remarked, highlighting the challenges she faced in the late ’80s and early ’90s during the HIV/AIDS crisis.
She spoke candidly about her unexpected journey into a successful drag career, recalling that she initially found success in makeup artistry instead.
“I did the makeup thing and was doing well, but drag? I don’t do make up at all anymore. I’ve had my fill, and now, it just sounds revolting,” she admitted.
Since winning Drag Race in 2011, Raja has experienced significant personal and professional growth.
She acknowledged the cultural impact of the show, stating, “It really has been this historical, cultural moment, and I’m so glad to be a part of it.”
Winning the show granted her lasting opportunities in her career, equipping her for ongoing success in the drag world.
“Drag is part of my expression, but I’m also an artist. I’m a painter, a writer, designer, art director — so it doesn’t end at drag for me,” she explained.
With her diverse talents and responsibilities towards her audience, Raja emphasizes the importance of evolving as an artist while catering to fans’ desires.
Tickets for STRUT Dallas Tea Dance: From Hoedown to Throwdown are available on Eventbrite.com.
image source from：https://dallasvoice.com/birthday-queen/
