Simma Downe she/her
When did you did join the cabaret community? What inspired you to become involved?
I started Drag in Halifax in 2016. Just a few months before I started I saw my first drag show and I was inspired by the power, strength and irreverence that the performers had I knew I wanted to do that too. The drag, burlesque and cabaret scene in Halifax has always been super intertwined and I brought that same connection to Fort McMurray when establishing the Drag Scene there.What is your favourite act to perform?
My favourite act is Praying by Kesha, it might be a park n bark, but I include some very personal visual and get to tell an important part of my personal story. I love how I can connect with the audience in such a personal way.What trend do you want to see more of? What trend do you wish would STOP?
We need more diversity in casts. Less flat human hair wigs and all white cis casts!Can you describe a moment that challenged you as a performer?
As a producer I’ve had to have some hard conversations with performers, including conversations about racism, and consent. But I’ve always ensured that my shows are safe and inclusive for all audiences and that has meant cutting ties with performers that are accountable.Have you ever dealt with burn out? How did you manage it?
I’m the top of person who thrives being busy to an almost overwhelming level so on the rare occasion I have experienced burnout, it takes a long time to recover. I basically go through a hard reset and shut down for a couple weeks to let me social battery recharge.From where do you draw inspiration to create new art?
I’m always keeping up with new pop culture but what I love the most is reflecting on the classics and legendary references. I love to take a classic or an obscure reference and build a number around it.Did you ever consider an alternative stage name? What was it? Who would that person have been?
While preparing for my first time in drag I was thinking about food/spice related names like Ginger or Cinnamon. My original thought for a drag persona was very stepford wife. I’m very glad I didn’t stick with those original ideas.If you could learn one new performance skill what would it be?
I would love to be able to do a split.What is your DREAM SHOW? Money is no object. Who is your DREAM CAST? (dead or alive)
I have drag family all across the country. I would love to bring everyone together for one amazing giant show.Do you have a mantra or philosophy that defines this moment of your performance career? Has this changed over time?
My mantra has been to be myself, not compare myself to others and to not be afraid to blaze new trails.Would you share your goals for yourself, or any advice for others in the community?
My biggest advice for others is to be authentic, and to put in time and effort into everything you do. Work on new skills, constantly improve costumes, keep making new acts. Basically just don’t become stagnant or passive in your craft.