Alaska Thunderf— Opens up about ‘Drag: The Musical’ Film Plans and Collaboration with Liza Minnelli
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Alaska Thunderf—, known for her appearance on RuPaul’s Drag Race, is sharing insights into the future of ‘Drag: The Musical’. Collaborating with Tomas Costanza and Ash Gordon, Alaska co-wrote the musical which initially premiered in Los Angeles and later enjoyed a successful Off-Broadway run at New World Stages in New York City. The show, featuring Alaska alongside Nick Adams as drag club owners, concluded on April 27 with the release of a live cast recording album, now available for streaming.
In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Alaska reflects on her post-Off-Broadway plans, joking about embracing a break from donning heels and drag daily. Discussing the release of the live cast recording, Alaska explains the evolution of the musical from its original soundtrack phase to the Off-Broadway production, emphasising the significance of capturing the energy and changes in the show’s journey.
Liza Minnelli, a producing partner for the Off-Broadway run, is featured on the album, much to Alaska’s astonishment and delight. Recounting Minnelli’s unexpected involvement and impact on the production, Alaska expresses gratitude for the legendary star’s support and influence. The experience of collaborating with Minnelli acts as a driving force behind the team’s motivation and creativity, enhancing the overall production.
After dedicating eight years to ‘Drag: The Musical’, Alaska reflects on the unpredictable and transformational nature of the creative process. Crafted during the pandemic with a modest beginning, the musical evolved into a source of inspiration and pride, resonating with audiences and exceeding Alaska’s expectations. The journey underscores the encouragement for aspiring creatives to persevere through doubts and uncertainties, as remarkable outcomes may surpass initial apprehensions.
Bringing ‘Drag: The Musical’ to New York City fulfilled a longstanding dream for Alaska and the team, transitioning from a vibrant Los Angeles setting to the iconic theatre atmosphere of NYC. Despite initial apprehension about audience reception in the bustling theatre scene, Alaska encountered overwhelming support and acceptance, fostering a sense of community within the theatre realm. The show’s unique scheduling allowed for cross-audience engagement with Broadway performers, further solidifying the musical’s place in the NYC theatre landscape.
Exploring the increased visibility of drag performers on Broadway, Alaska credits RuPaul’s Drag Race for raising awareness and appreciation for drag as an art form. Highlighting the transformative impact of drag as a creative, humorous, and subversive medium, Alaska acknowledges the evolving perceptions and acceptance of drag culture within mainstream entertainment, paving the way for greater inclusion and representation on stage.
Amidst the emotional final performance in NYC, Alaska acknowledges the profound community support and connection forged throughout the show’s run, encapsulating a shared passion for ‘Drag: The Musical’. Looking ahead, Alaska anticipates the upcoming Pride season with enthusiasm, poised for global performances and the unfolding evolution of the musical’s future iterations, whether on stage or on screen.
As discussions swirl around a potential ‘Drag: The Musical’ film adaptation, Alaska remains open to possibilities and eagerly awaits future projects. With a keen focus on performance, music, acting, and creative endeavours, Alaska expresses readiness for new ventures and challenges, embodying a spirit of artistic exploration and growth in the dynamic world of entertainment.
The evolving landscape of Broadway and drag performance intersects in the narrative of ‘Drag: The Musical’, offering a platform for diverse voices and expressions within the theatre realm. Alaska Thunderf—‘s journey exemplifies resilience, creativity, and collaboration, shaping a vibrant and inclusive space for drag culture on stage and beyond.