When renowned performance artist Erika Norell refers to those in the drag stratosphere as iconic, you know that they must be special. From her lips to God’s ear, the names of Electra and Tiffany Arieagus are spoken with reverence. She has never forgotten those who helped her learn the true art of drag, or what they taught her about humility.
“I don’t do things for recognition, but applause is a beautiful thing,” Norell said.
To know Norell is to understand that her integrity and fervent support of the LGBTQ community are part of her own personal manifesto. She has been living her authentic self for many years. When asked what advice she would give to individuals learning to accept their place in the LGBTQ community, she characteristically responds from the heart.
“Be honest with yourself and the world, and respect everyone’s place, so that they will respect yours,” Norell said.
Norell’s stage presence is electrifying yet she can also bring a poignancy to some of the characters she portrays that renders the audience all but shattered as she does in her performances from Sunset Boulevard.
“No one needs to introduce Erika Norell. The audience knows who she is the moment she steps on stage,” Mizz Out South Florida Pageant Director Justin Wyse said.
For Norell, drag became a destiny she was always meant to meet. It has made her strong but not always in a superhero way. “I feel strong when I’m able to recognize and accept my weakness,” Norell said.
Spoken like a true Goddess.
RELATED
