Spotlight: Luka
THIS is DRAG - SPOTLIGHT 020 / MAY 2025
Luka
Curated by Kevin Blondin
For May’s spotlight on THISisDRAG.com, we step into the legendary world of Luka, a Windsor-based drag artist whose career spans decades and cities—from Vancouver to New York to San Francisco. Known for her 70s- and 80s-inspired fashion, cheeky humor, and dazzling performances, Luka is a cornerstone of the Windsor/Detroit drag scene. Whether performing at the iconic Wigstock or preparing for the 30th anniversary of Wiggle, Luka brings timeless style, infectious laughter, and a deep love of drag to every stage she steps on.
Luka Ladybug: Glamour, Grace, and a Touch of Camp
The Evolution of Luka
Luka’s drag journey began in the early '90s with an impromptu performance to Suzanne Vega’s song "Luka," which ultimately inspired her drag name. Her aesthetic—rooted in retro glam, fashion-forward silhouettes, and playful touches of camp—pays homage to a lifetime of creative passion. Over the years, she has proudly represented Windsor/Detroit while also performing in Vancouver, New York, and San Francisco, adding her signature flair to every locale.
Her favorite track to strut to? “Slave to the Rhythm” by Grace Jones, a perfect soundtrack to Luka’s bold and rhythmically fierce drag persona.
Fashion, Humor & Heart
When asked to describe her drag in three words, Luka lands on: fashion-based, humorous, and a little risqué. These traits shine through in her performances, which often balance style with satire and glamour with grit. Her looks are frequently inspired by the glitz of the 70s and 80s, but always with an original twist—and she never hits the stage without her MAC Studio Fix, killer heels, and the right bra.
Motifs that frequently pop up in Luka’s drag include spacey elements, outrageous accessories, and a healthy dose of comedy. And while she might serve looks that could land on any runway, her ultimate goal is to make people smile. “Laughter is the best medicine,” she says. “We shouldn’t take ourselves too seriously.”
“A great leader sometimes needs to follow.”
Icons, Besties & Big Moments
Luka credits her biggest inspiration as none other than Cyndi Lauper, with a nod to her mom for always encouraging her creativity. On the Drag Race front, her heart belongs to Sharon Needles. And if she ever needs a partner in crime, her drag bestie Miss Cotton is always by her side.
One of Luka’s proudest drag achievements was performing with the House of Venus at Wigstock in New York City in the late ’90s—an experience she still treasures. That legacy continues this May, as she prepares to celebrate her birthday by taking part in the 30th anniversary of Wiggle, a show produced by longtime collaborator Michael Venus. This full-circle moment, taking place May 16 at the Masonic Temple in Windsor, includes a special screening of a Wiggle documentary and promises to be a night to remember.
Magic, Message & the Future
For Luka, drag is pure illusion—an art form that transforms and transports. “It’s the magic of makeup and fashion,” she says. That sense of transformation extends beyond herself to her audience. Through her work, she aims to show others that joy and laughter are radical acts of resistance.
“A great leader sometimes needs to follow,” she shares, a quote that speaks to her humility, wisdom, and years of experience. In five years, Luka still sees herself lighting up Windsor’s stages—and we’ll be there, front row.
Follow Luka / Booking: Keep up with Luka on social media and don’t miss her return to the stage at the 30th Anniversary Wiggle Show at the Masonic Temple on May 16. For bookings, reach out directly via social media.
Venus Envy Film Screening + Wiggle 30 Celebrations
Friday, May 26, 2025
At Temple Ballroom - 986 Ouellette Ave, Windsor, ON