Queen of Screams: Luxy Charms Rules Halloween
Luxy Charms, Windsor’s reigning queen of screams, celebrates four years of fright and fabulousness with a killer Halloween lineup. From Life’s A Drag to The Cult of Belle Vyra, Luxy talks horror, humor, and the art of drag that’s to die for.
Read the full interview now!
Windsor’s spookiest queen celebrates her drag birthday with a killer lineup and a cult following.
Four years ago, a nervous young performer stepped onto the stage at Koko Starr’s Life’s A Drag – Open Stage event at Turbo Espresso Bar. That performer was Luxy Charms — who would go on to become Windsor’s undisputed queen of screams, blending horror, humor, and heart into every performance.
Show poster from Luxy Charms’ first event. Friday, October 29, 2021.
Since that debut, Luxy has evolved into a local legend — known affectionately as the cereal killer, and the very first queen ever spotlighted by THISisDRAG.com in the premiere Halloween edition of DRAG MAG.
This October, Luxy celebrates her fourth drag birthday with two major events: Ryan & Steve’s 6th Annual Halloween Bash Extravaganza (Saturday, October 25 – invite only) and The Cult of Belle Vyra (Sunday, October 26 at The Barbershop Bar), featuring a killer lineup of Windsor’s finest creatures of the night.
🕸️ BLOOD, BEGINNINGS & THE BIRTH OF A MONSTER
THISisDRAG.com: You’re celebrating your fourth drag birthday this Halloween — congratulations! Can you take us back to that first performance at Life’s A Drag and what that night meant to you?
Luxy Charms: I remember being very nervous. It was the first time I’d ever stepped outside of the house in drag, and my entire friend circle came to support — sporting homemade T-shirts they made from Vistaprint or something. It was a competition-based open stage, and I managed to make it to the final lip-sync battle round through audience voting.
The song choice was determined very last minute, so I ended up learning it in literally a day — just listening to it on repeat until I couldn’t stand it anymore (I still can’t). I ended up winning! My best friend actually cried like a baby. We all celebrated by dancing the night away upstairs at a rave that was going on. I came home way too late, covered in dollar-store glitter, and tried to scrub it off just to get a few hours of sleep before work.
TiD: Since then, you’ve carved out a space as Windsor’s spooky queen. When did you realize that horror, Halloween, and all things creepy were part of your drag DNA?
LC: When I was a kid, I’d stay up late watching way-too-adult movies with my mom. That was our form of bonding. I always loved Halloween because it was an excuse to wear capes and grim reaper dresses with billowing sleeves — and nobody batted an eyelash. I’d give my little sisters’ Barbie dolls goth makeovers with black markers and nail polish. So when I started drag, going spooky felt completely natural — it’s what I’ve always loved.
What are some of your biggest inspirations — horror icons, movies, or moments — that have helped shape the Luxy Charms persona?
Tiffany (Bride of Chucky), Elvira, Morticia (The Addams Family), Tank Girl, Nancy (The Craft), Ginger (Ginger Snaps), Hexadecimal (Reboot), Leeloo (The Fifth Element), and Blind Mag (Repo! The Genetic Opera). Some horror, some not — but all empowered female characters. Growing up in a family full of women, my drag is really a love letter to badass femininity.
Fans know you as the “cereal killer.” Where did that name come from, and how does that playful horror energy show up in your performances?
“Luxy” came from two inspirations — Lux Interior, the lead singer of The Cramps, and Lux Lisbon from The Virgin Suicides. “Charms” came from my love of cereal as a comfort food. Ironically, Lucky Charms isn’t even my favorite cereal — but it just sounded right.
Halloween seems to be more than just a theme for you — it’s a lifestyle. What does Halloween mean to you personally and artistically?
Halloween has the best weather, decorations, color palette, parties, and candy — what’s not to love? It’s the one time of year when everyone feels free to dress however they want without fear of judgment. It’s equally magical as a kid and as an adult.
You’ve become a master at blending horror and humor on stage. How do you strike that balance between terrifying and entertaining your audience?
I always try to strike a balance — creepy, sexy, and funny. When the look says one thing and the performance flips it on its head, that’s when drag becomes really captivating.
If you could build your dream horror movie cast, which drag performers or local artists would you want to star alongside you — and who would die first?
Epoxy, Howl, Mercury Retrograde, Mina Gorgina, Randy Johnson, and Airress.
Epoxy would definitely die first. She’s the accident-prone bimbo one.
For all the baby ghouls and monsters just starting their drag journeys, what advice would you give to those trying to find their own voice (or scream) in the scene?
Just do it (insert Shia LaBeouf meme here). It’s easy to talk yourself out of it, but the best part about starting off rough is getting to look back and see how far you’ve grown. Do drag that you want to see — when you love what you’re doing, the audience will too.
“Drag taught me that my softness is my strength — even monsters can have heart.”
🎭 RYAN & STEVE’S 6TH ANNUAL HALLOWEEN BASH
TiD: You’re on the cast of Ryan & Steve’s 6th Annual Halloween Bash Extravaganza — a fan-favourite private event that’s become a staple of Windsor’s spooky season. What makes this Halloween bash such a special gig for you?
LC: It’s such a fun gig because it’s not your typical drag venue. The audience is super diverse — people who might not normally attend shows. It gives everyone a reason to dress up and experience something they’ve never seen before.
What are some of your favorite memories or wildest moments from past Halloween performances?
It’s hard to narrow down! I’ve done everything from killer nurses to mosquito drag, witch hat reveals, zombie bites, and spider ladies eating men on stage. Horror always finds its way into my performances somehow.
🕷️ THE CULT OF BELLE VYRA
TiD: The next day you’re headlining The Cult of Belle Vyra at The Barbershop Bar. What can audiences expect from this dark and divine lineup?
LC: It’ll be the first time my entire drag family is performing in the same show, which is so special to me. Expect creepy, witchy, cult vibes — and maybe a little sacrilege. It’ll be enthralling and just the right amount of uncomfortable.
Without giving too much away, what kind of performance are you summoning for the night — are we in for a ritual, a resurrection, or something even more unholy?
You can expect something different from me — a heart-wrenching, somber ballad followed by something creepy and silly to lighten the mood.
The Cult of Belle Vyra
Sunday, October 26, 2025
TICKETS
💀 WRAP-UP
TiD: Finally, is there anything you’d like to say to your fans, followers, or the creatures of Windsor getting ready to celebrate Halloween with you this year?
LC: All I can say is — wow. Four years. From the bottom of my cold, dead, shriveled little clown heart, thank you to everyone who’s supported me and my art. Drag has truly saved my life and helped me gain confidence I never knew I had.
I’ve met so many amazing people through drag — friends, family, even love. These are trying times, especially for those deemed “other.” Be kind, be compassionate, and show up for one another. It costs nothing — and it could save someone’s life.
Stay safe this Halloween — and please, don’t drink and drive.
Four years after first stepping onto a Windsor stage, Luxy Charms continues to cast her spell on audiences with a mix of fright, fantasy, and fierce authenticity. What began as a one-night experiment at Life’s A Drag – Open Stage has grown into a legacy of glitter, gore, and unshakable individuality — proof that sometimes the monsters we create become the most beautiful parts of ourselves.
You can catch Luxy in all her dark glory this Halloween weekend at Ryan & Steve’s 6th Annual Halloween Bash Extravaganza (Saturday, October 25 – private event, invite only) and The Cult of Belle Vyra (Sunday, October 26 at The Barbershop Bar), featuring an unholy lineup of Windsor’s most wicked performers.
Whether she’s making you scream, laugh, or both at once, one thing is certain — Luxy Charms is a drag force to die for.
By Kevin Blondin
Photos by @timedrightphotography @darkelflx @crisco1492 and @photography.by.lilo
Saltina Shaker: Cyberpunk Witch, Online Queen, and Pride Powerhouse
Saltina Shaker: Cyberpunk Witch, Online Queen, and Pride Powerhouse
In this exclusive interview, Saltina talks drag, disability, digital fame, and what fans can expect from her this Pride.
Read the full interview now!
Seductive, strange, and proudly disabled — Saltina is everything at once.
From viral skits and makeup transformations to unapologetic conversations around disability and body image, Saltina Shaker has become one of Canada’s most magnetic drag creators — and she’s not slowing down. With nearly 3 million followers and counting, Saltina continues to blur the lines between beauty, absurdity, and advocacy.
Now, the Ottawa-based queen is returning to Windsor for Queens & Kings of Pride, presented by Windsor-Essex Pride Fest and Lavender Promotions. This all-ages event will feature Saltina alongside a powerhouse lineup including Beth, Bombae, Cyril Cinder, Van Goth, Sunshine Glitterchild, Remedy, Airress, and Hudson Bae.
Before the big event, we caught up with Saltina to talk about her journey, her art, and what she's bringing back to the Windsor stage this summer.
THISisDRAG.com: For those discovering you through this event — how would you describe Saltina Shaker as a drag persona?
Saltina Shaker: Saltina Shaker is what happens when a Victoria’s Secret model gets possessed by a cyberpunk witch and moonlights as a rock star. She’s seductive and strange, avant-garde and absurd — scary, sexy, and stupid in all the right proportions. My drag is how I process reality — and sometimes how I shatter it.
TiD: You’ve built an incredible online platform, reaching millions with your drag, comedy, and makeup. What drives your creativity when it comes to content creation?
SS: Honestly, I create from this deep place of contradiction. I’m drawn to beauty and chaos at the same time. If something makes people laugh, feel, or pause and say, “Wait… what did I just watch?” — that’s when I know it’s working. I see my content not just as entertainment but as a form of spiritual resonance, albeit absurdly.
You’ve been so open about your experiences with disability and body image. Why is advocacy such an essential part of your brand?
I live with an invisible disability, and for a long time, I thought that meant I had to prove I was strong by hiding my pain. But drag taught me the opposite: my softness is my strength. Being open about my body, my limitations, my scars — it’s about simply existing without pressure. Resilience isn’t always loud. Sometimes it’s quiet.
You were working on your Master’s degree — how do you balance drag with academia?
I actually recently chose to pursue drag and content creation full time as an entrepreneur! I'm no longer planning to finish my Master’s, and it feels really good to be a queer business owner.
“My softness is my strength. Resilience isn’t always loud — sometimes it’s quiet.”
TiD: What’s something people don’t always realize about the work that goes into drag at this level?
SS: Logistics. Plan your stuff accordingly. Your future self won’t just thank you — they’ll rely on it to elevate to the level you want to be.
You’re returning to Windsor for Queens & Kings of Pride! What are you most excited to bring to this year’s event?
Probably a lot of fart jokes.
This is a major all-ages celebration featuring performers from across Canada. What does it mean to you to be part of a Pride event that’s inclusive, accessible, and family-friendly?
It means everything! Thanks for having me. I’m so excited for people who connect with me online to be able to see me live.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with fans, followers, or those attending Queens & Kings of Pride this year?
Heck yea! I know the world may seem like it’s falling apart right now, but I’m really proud of everyone still being able to keep carrying on. I know it’s hard to wake up sometimes and feel motivated, but I hope you see the good in what you can do. ❤️
Queens & Kings of Pride - Presented by Windsor-Essex Pride Fest
Saturday, August 9, 2025
TICKETS
From TikTok to the stage, Saltina Shaker continues to redefine drag with humor, vulnerability, and wild creativity. Catch her live at Queens & Kings of Pride on Saturday, August 9, 2025, at Lanspeary Park in Windsor. This all-ages Pride event promises unforgettable performances, over 70 vendors, and fierce vibes all day long.
🎟️ Grab your tickets now: Queens & Kings of Pride – Tickets
Helena Poison: Punk, Poison, and a Whole Lot of Ass
Helena Poison: Punk, Poison, and a Whole Lot of Ass
Helena Poison spills on Canada’s Drag Race Season 5, her signature punk-rock style, and what fans can expect at her upcoming event in Sarnia.
Canada’s Drag Race Finalist Talks Music, Fashion, and What’s Next
Helena Poison rocked the stage on Canada’s Drag Race Season 5, making it all the way to the top four without ever landing in the bottom. Hailing from Toronto, this powerhouse performer blends punk-rock edge with high-fashion drag, and yes—the name is a nod to My Chemical Romance. Now, Helena is bringing her electric energy to Sarnia for a must-see drag event at Refined Fool Brewing Company, hosted by Diversity Ed. With a stellar lineup featuring Poison, Karma Kameleon, Airress, The X Wife, and Molly Kewl, this is one show you don’t want to miss!
THIS is Drag: You made it to the top four of Canada’s Drag Race Season 5 without ever landing in the bottom. What was it like competing at that level, and how do you feel about your journey on the show?
Helena Poison: It was really cool! I feel great about my run on the show. I got to participate in every part of the experience, learned a bunch about myself, and made some lifelong sisters. It’s everything I wanted.
TiD: Your name pays tribute to My Chemical Romance—how has music influenced your drag aesthetic and performances?
HP: Music has always been a huge inspiration since I was a kid. I like to match music to looks and vice versa. Like, who is this girl, and what’s her movie scene soundtrack? Or, what’s a funny song to do while wearing a faux-human skin bikini?
TiD: Since Drag Race, how has your career evolved? Any standout moments or projects you’re especially proud of?
HP: Attending DragCon UK and getting to walk the pink carpet was pretty unforgettable. The folks in the UK really made us all feel very famous and stunning!
“Music has always been a huge inspiration. I like to match music to looks—who is this girl, and what’s her movie scene soundtrack?”
TiD: You’re known for serving both fierce fashion and a punk-rock edge. How would you describe your style today, and how has it evolved over time?
HP: I’m always shifting and adjusting my style. Lately, I’ve been leaning hard into the weirdo alt school-girl vibe. But at its heart, my style is always a mix of fantasy, grunge, and fetish.
TiD: You’ll be in Sarnia for an incredible show at Refined Fool Brewing Company! What can fans expect from your performance?
HP: Probably something very demure and mindful—not too much, but enough. You know? Oh, and ass. A lot of ass.
TiD: What’s next for Helena Poison? Any exciting plans or dream gigs on the horizon?
HP: There’s actually lots in the works! A ton of online content is coming, plus some Canada’s Drag Race Season 5 sister collabs, and a podcast—so stay tuned to my socials!
TiD: Is there anything you’d like to add for your fans and readers of THISisDRAG.com?
HP: Keep up with me and all my CDR5 sisters on socials! We’re funny and hot if nothing else. And also, check out my YouTube channel!
🔗 youtube.com/@TheHelenaPoison
Helena Poison Drag Show
Saturday, April 12, 2025
At Refined Fool Brewing Company in Sarnia, Ontario.
Catch Helena Poison live in Sarnia on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at Refined Fool Brewing Company! Presented by Diversity Ed. and hosted by Poison and Karma Kameleon, with performances by Airress, The X Wife, Molly Kewl, and the queen herself, Helena Poison. Don’t miss this night of high-energy drag—grab your tickets now on Eventbrite and get ready for an unforgettable show!