Artist of the Day | IVY LEAGUE
ARTIST OF THE DAY
11.002.2021
IVY LEAGUE
LOCATION
Calgary, AB, Canada
GENRE
Drag!
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?
In setting some context first, as a drag artist, essentially all of our work pre-pandemic was live performance (in bars, theatres, private parties etc.) When things came to a halt I was in a bit of a limbo: all foreseeable gigs cancelled, both my day jobs on hold, and I was broken up with all in the same week. I am so thankful that my support network was able to be maintained with digital connection-- I feel truly lucky for all the incredible people I have in my life.
How has that affected your plans for the coming year? Did you have a tour planned, upcoming album release?
I had planned on performing at least a couple times a week as usual while further honing my craft (dancing, singing, makeup artistry, writing, sewing.. you name it!) But with the pandemic AND beginning medical school at the Cumming School of Medicine-- this changed dramatically.
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?
Before learning I was accepted into med school, I spent a lot of time working on costume design, sewing, writing a production for the digital delivery of Nextfest, and participating in online shows when possible. This, of course, was balanced with slowing down and learning how to better take care of myself.
Since begging school in July I have been very, VERY busy trying to be a good student so that I can be the best doctor I can be. Serving my community as a physician, while also being a drag artist when I'm out of clinic/hospital is a dream. Balancing my artistic and scientific sides, while being able to advocate for my community from each of those platforms excites me greatly.
As I mentioned previously, I have some pretty incredible people in my life that have kept me sane. Although FaceTime and socially distanced walks aren't quite the same, I know this is only temporary and I am so excited to be able to hug and hang out with my people (hopefully) soon.
Drag also has been a big positive when it comes to supporting my mental health. Expressing myself through my art is cathartic, and connecting with audiences is so fulfilling. Currently I'm using the little spare time I have to work on content and costumes for when live shows are possible again-- I am so excited to make y'all smile and laugh when we can be doing live shows again.
How are dealing with the Covid second wave?
The second wave has been tough. Restrictions are hard, however my conviction is fortified by understanding that peoples lives are being saved by us deferring our needs for a bit.
Favourite Starlite Room Moment?
Performing at one of the fabulous Fruit Loop events held pre-pandemic, of course!
Do you have a message for everyone at home reading this?
For those of you out there that are struggling, you are not alone. I know everything is hard, but your selfless actions are saving lives. I know it doesn't always feel like it, but you are making a big difference.
You are important, you are good enough, and you are doing the best you can <3
If you would like to be our next ARTIST OF THE DAY please email us at:
JEN@CONCERTWORKS.CA
