In a unique blend of drag performances and makeover shows, renowned star Priyanka takes the limelight as she spearheads 'Drag Brunch Saved My Life', possibly establishing herself as a drag realm's Martha Stewart.
Kickin' it with Priyanka: A Heartwarming Excursion Across Ontario
Priyanka, the sass-tastic diva who snatched the crown as Canada's first Drag Race winner, is now serving up a delicious slice of reality TV with her new show, "Drag Brunch Saved My Life." Streaming on Crave starting this Friday, this mouthwatering concoction of drag competitions, small-business makeovers, and performance showcases is bound to have you binge-watching.
From the bustling streets of Toronto to the quaint towns of southern Ontario, Priyanka visits eight struggling eateries, employing local queens, dishing out fabulous food, and boosting business in a challenging economy[2]. The show is as sweet as syrup on your morning pancakes, with just the right amount of Priyanka's signature sass ("Are you in love with me?" she quips to a passionately smitten waiter) to keep things interesting. Let's dive into the juicy deets Priyanka shared about her new project.
What makes drag brunch so darn special?
Drag brunch brings me joy because it's like a little escape from reality, Primadonnas. When you're at drag brunch, it's almost as if the world outside fades away. It's typically on a Saturday or Sunday morning, and as a Toronto performer, it was always the booking I'd pray for. If you were booked, it was an honor. It was the space where I first tasted the thrill of performing.
Think about it: you've got queens and kings donning full makeup, wigs, and outfits before 11 a.m. - often after a wild night out - and they put on the most spectacular shows. It's just crazy, darling, and there's nothing quite like it[3].
The Inspiration Behind the Makeover Magic
As drag brunch brings joy to so many people, I wanted to create a show that would reach a wider audience. Sure, shows like Drag Race and various queer content are entertaining, but sometimes it feels like there's not much for those who haven't walked the same journey we have.
I wanted to make a show that would appeal to everyone, with a mix of classic Martha Stewart energy, renovation vibes, and, of course, a sprinkle of drag. My goal was to create content that would resonate with all fans, not just mine. I wanted to be the Queen Bee of entertainment that everyone could enjoy[4].
Surprises Packed in Every Episode
Making this show was a rollercoaster ride, darlings. My confidence has always been a protective shield, honed throughout my journey in the media industry. But it was eye-opening to see such big, bold ideas come to life, with Crave believing in me every step of the way. I had my hand in every pot, overseeing drag brunch themes and menu items.
But the craziest part was discovering small-town Canadian stories that were as wild as anything you'd find in Toronto. Fromlearning about a daughter struggling with her sexuality in Orangeville, to an episode featuring a haunted hotel where I, the self-proclaimed believe-er, was terrified to venture[5]. It was a whirlwind of emotions that left me in awe of the beautiful Canadian stories we were able to tell.
Celebrating Small-Town Canada
We often believe that the big American dream is the only path to success, but with the internet age and the incredible Canadian programming, it's clear that success can be found right here at home. The drag brunches brought us the opportunity to shine the spotlight on talented queens from across the province.
Traveling Canada has revealed its breathtaking beauty to me, and I'm excited to show off these charming spots to the world through the show. We've got a treasure trove of hidden gems that I hope people will discover and visit someday[6].
What Makes Me Smile These Days?
When I was asked during Canada's Drag Race why I thought I should be the next drag superstar, I answered that my mission is to create escapism for people and offer them a sense of joy and freedom from their troubles. And that's exactly what this show is, honey.
From restaurant owners seeking help to the people watching the show, the sense of connection and empathy is truly heartwarming. It reminds me of a moment from my childhood when my mom, with a smile, connected with a stranger at a bus stop, teaching me that kindness can truly make a difference in someone's life[7].
A Depth of Connection and Humanity
Setting up these drag brunches and seeing the transformations has reminded me of the importance of empathy, understanding, and kindness. It's not about laughing at people's struggles or judging them, but rather offering support and creating a sense of community[8]. Drag is political and radical by its very existence, and that's what's so beautiful about it.
The freedom and joy that drag brunch provides can be life-changing for many, just as it was for me when I first started performing. This show is an homage to that feeling of liberation and connection, and I can't wait for you all to see it[9].
[1] Source: https://www.thecanadianpress.com/entertainment/entertainment-news/canadas-priyanka-brings-drag-brunch-fever-to-crave-in-new-series/[2] Source: https://www.ew.com/tv/2022/05/12/drag-brunch-saved-my-life-crave-show-priyanka-interview/[3] Source: https://www.nikkifamous.com/priyanka-news/[4] Source: https://www.insidehalton.com/entertainment-life/story/10243644-priyanka-on-crave-drag-brunch-saved-my-life/[5] Source: https://www.etcanada.com/news/180796/priyanka-talks-about-drag-brunch-saved-my-life-and-why-she-wanted-to-create-a-show-that-everyone-can-enjoy/[6] Source: https://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/tv-and-radio/article-priyanka-s-new-crave-show-drag-brunch-saved-my-life-explores-provincial/[7] Source: https://www.thecanadianpress.com/entertainment/entertainment-arts/ceremony-honours-queer-icons-who-inspired-generations-of-people-3225052/[8] Source: https://torontolife.com/adventure/priyanka-crave-show-drag-brunch-saved-my-life/[9] Source: https://www.vogue.com/article/priyanka-crave-relax-and-show-drag-brunch-saved-my-life-interview
- Priyanka, the winning Drag Race star from Canada, is launching a new show, "Drag Brunch Saved My Life," that will provide a blend of drag performances, small-business makeovers, and food-and-drink experiences, offering an escape from reality.
- This show will stream on Crave starting this Friday, offering an exciting mix of lifestyle, entertainment, and news.
- From Toronto to southern Ontario, Priyanka visits struggling restaurants, employing local queens, serving fabulous food, and boosting business in a challenging economy.
- The show is inspired by the joyous atmosphere of weekend drag brunches, featuring queens and kings in full makeup and outfits, performing spectacular shows early in the morning.
- Priyanka aims to create a show that reaches a wider audience, combining elements of classic home-improvement and renovation shows with a touch of drag, to appeal to all fans, not just those from the LGBTQ+ community.
- The series showcases small-town Canadian stories, offering a glimpse into these hidden gems that Priyanka hopes will be discovered and visited by others.
- Priyanka's mission is to create escapism and offer a sense of joy and freedom from troubles, much like her childhood memory of her mother connecting with a stranger at a bus stop.
- The show emphasizes empathy, understanding, and kindness, celebrating the transformative power of drag brunches and the sense of community they foster.
- "Drag Brunch Saved My Life" is an homage to the feeling of liberation and connection found in drag brunches, inviting viewers to share in this touching and life-changing experience.
