Artist of the Day | VOULA CALLAS
ARTIST OF THE DAY
07.02.2021
VOULA CALLAS
LOCATION
Edmonton, AB, Canada
GENRE
Drag Performance
With the current pandemic, the state of the music and touring industry has dramatically changed. Where were you when everything was brought to a halt?
I was booked to be in the University of Alberta’s Annual Outreach Drag Show on Friday March 13th, 2020. I remember the week prior to this date vividly because it was when the pandemic went from 0 to 100. As each day passed the restrictions tightened and the social gathering sizes for shows became smaller and smaller until eventually we reached the lockdown. I pulled out of the show since the dark looming cloud of covid completely killed any desire for me to perform. I felt confused and scared for what was to come with the pandemic.
How has that affected your plans for the coming year? Did you have a tour planned, upcoming album release?
I was booked for the Mental Health Dragathon at Evolution Wonderlounge, another annual drag show in the city during May long weekend. I was booked for a couple more shows in the spring and summer as well, but due to the pandemic all live performance events were forced to cancel. This forced the drag community to get creative, and when restrictions were eased I was able to do a live-streamed show at Evolution, as well as a a show with a live audience that was socially distanced within the bar. I also did a Park Queens show outdoors at the Gazebo Park off Whyte Ave during the summer with the weather permitting.
What have you been doing to fill/make the most of your new-found free time at home? How are you supporting your mental health through all of this?
I have been diligently putting together new looks for future performances and photo shoots. This entails making weekly trips to my favourite thrift and vintage stores, online shopping, ordering new wigs, and practising new skills like wig styling and dabbling in some sewing. Also I’ve made lists of future songs I would like to perform and choreographing new routines.
How are dealing with the Covid second wave?
I have reminded myself constantly that we have been through this before, and that we can survive the effects of social distancing by taking extra time for self care when we are feeling especially lonely . I know that the physical distancing and sacrifice will benefit us all in the long run. Little things like treating yourself with takeout once a week from a different local business goes a long way, and it gives you something to look forward to in your week instead on focusing on all the bad things happening in the world.
Favourite Starlite Room Moment?
The Fruit Loop Winter Ball On January 18th, 2020. It was magical and sometimes I wish I could revisit that pre-pandemic night.
Do you have a message for everyone at home reading this?
Do what makes you happy. Listen to that inner voice in your head telling you to look at those heels on that shelf, and try not to care about what other people will think (although I know it can be hard sometimes). Life is short, try and live each moment like it’s your last, because seeing as how 2020 has gone, we never truly know what tomorrow will bring.
Voula Callas
If you would like to be our next ARTIST OF THE DAY please email us at:
JEN@CONCERTWORKS.CA
