Drag Spotlight
- Derek
- Jun 30
- 3 min read
Rhode Island boasts a diverse range of drag performers, including Drag Queens, Kings, and Artists. Options Magazine aims to spotlight these performers as we progress. Some may be familiar, while others could be new. For our first Drag Spotlight, we present Drag King Ricky Mortis, known to attendees of RKO Army’s performance of The Rocky Horror Picture Show or last year’s Dark Lady block party.
This performer has graced stages at local venues like Dark Lady, Dusk, Askew, EGO, and Deadbeats, and has even performed in Boston. Sharing stages with notable Rhode Island performers such as Complete Destruction, our very own board chair King Neptune, Rage Ramzee-Brown, and last year’s Options Awards co-host Semi-Sweet, Ricky has contributed significantly to the local drag scene. We spoke to them about their history and memorable moments in the community.
Options: Who inspired you to become a drag performer?
Ricky Mortis: The local drag scene when I started had an open stage called At Dark Lady, and I was inspired by the new and seasoned performers who just got up and gave it their all! At the time, I'd hit nearly my 10-year mark of performing Rocky Horror, so I figured I could do that; I can do drag. Close enough!
O: Who took you under their wing when you first started?
RM: No one took me under their wing per se, but I taught out advice wherever I could. I was fortunate that everyone shared their secrets with me! Whether it be makeup tips or how to command attention, I was fortunate to get advice from everyone.
O: What was the best advice you were given in the early days of performing that you still adhere to today?
RM: It was being told, “You know how to do this, go give it your all.” It was a helpful reminder that I know the stage and I know myself and what I'm capable of.
O: What is your favorite part of being a drag performer?
RM: My favorite part is the gender euphoria that comes from makeup and the freedom of dance & performance. It truly gives me an adrenaline rush that can’t be beat!
O: What is your least favorite part of being a drag performer?
RM: The least favorite part is the drama, of course. Don’t say anything behind someone’s back that you wouldn’t say to their face, is how I live my life.
O: Do you have a memorable performance that sticks out to you?
RM: My first Dark Lady Pride show gave me more of a rush and euphoria, and a love of community than I think I’ll ever get. I truly felt like a movie star that night, and it will never be beat. Another one was the very last Dusk show. I performed Welcome to the Black Parade with two of my closest friends, and it was incredibly powerful and emotional for me. Plus, it came with a bucket of blood dumped over me!
O: If you were to give advice to an up-and-coming drag performer, what would you tell them?
RM: My best advice that I have personally been working on myself is to take it slow. You’re tempted to rush through a song and do a bunch of bits n gags n reveals- try commanding attention by just standing there and making eye contact.
O: What is the best way for people to find out where you are performing next, and if someone wants to reach out to you for a performance?
RM: The best way to find out where I’ll be is by following me on Instagram, @rickymortispvd. I’m constantly updating my highlights with new flyers, and when there’s a heavy show month, I’ll make a flyer that contains all the info! You’ll find one like that for June!
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