Where can we find you out and about?: Vivien is often found lurking around her friend’s shows. Nothing stable as of yet.
Why Drag?: I have no clue what I would do if I didn’t do drag. I used to play sports for years. I played the cello and piano and I sang in choirs and did shows at school. But when I discovered drag it was all over.
What made you start drag?: I saw the Sissy That Walk music video, took one look at Darienne Lake and said, “if she can do it, so can I.” And I just haven’t stopped since. Big girls forever.
Who are you drag inspirations?: Darienne Lake, obviously. But also I take huge inspiration from the legends such as Coco Peru and a few OG local girls from around the nation. I also have to credit incredible performers like Vanessa Williams, Ginger Rogers, and Carol Burnett with a lot of my personal etiquette training.
Your favorite part of drag is _____?: I don’t know if I have a favorite part. The thing that attracted me to drag was that I am able to be in complete control of every part of the performance. I make my own outfits. I style my own wigs. I make my own mixes and paint my own face. The only thing I can’t do is dance, so I just make sure to take off my clothes to distract from my stagnant feet.
What is your number one makeup secret?: Use as many colors as you can. Blending doesn’t happen with only two colors.
The three must haves of drag are _____?: Corsets, heels, and total, unabashed stubbornness.
Who are some of your favorite drag artists, designers, stylists, producers, etc. to collaborate with?: I mean, I would be remiss if I didn’t name drop my best friends, Melissa Fint (in Seattle) and Gina Tonic (in New York). Those two have given me so much laughter and support. I owe them everything. When I lived in Seattle I relished every chance I had to work at Julia’s on Broadway. Those queens and their producer are the absolute best and I miss them daily.
What has been the most rewarding moment in your drag career?: The most rewarding was the most grueling part of my drag career so far - myself and Gina Tonic road tripped across the country this past Summer. Once in a lifetime experience. Cause I’m never doing it again, but it was so worth it. I met so many amazing people and saw how vast and beautiful this continent is.
If you were to do one character on Snatch Game, who would it be and why?: Kirstie Alley. There’s so much material to work with. And I can do a killer Minnesota accent.
How can drag change the world?: I prove that fat is also sexy. That loud is also proud. That anger can be righteous and that love is more than a feeling.
What is the biggest tip you can give a queen starting out today?: Don’t. But seriously. Don’t. But if you have to, do it because it’s the only thing you can do to be happy. And then do it to the best of your ability and never sell yourself short.
Social Media: @viviengabornyc on everything including Venmo and Cash App!