Today we’d like to introduce you to Liam Manchesthair
Hi Liam, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
In 2017, I was a fan of local drag shows. I enjoyed the conceptual artistry that SLC had to offer. I remember coming up with ideas and concepts on my own as an aspiring drag king but had not really seen it represented until I saw more gender blending performances at Club Try-angles. I started attending their monthly show, in drag, for a year and I was invited by my long time friend Roary Hollace to perform with Those Bitches and friends. By 2018, I was part of the troupe and was inspired by my dear drag wife (yes, we had a drag show wedding) Sister Molly Mormon to grow into my persona, Liam Manchesthair.
During the pandemic the local community was able to connect through a virtual drag show called 8-b!tch show curated by Rose Omen & Ivory LaRue. It was a gift to have that opportunity to still grow and be part of the drag community.
I started to perform at Why Kiki for Brunches in July 2021 with Ursula Major and shortly became a resident performer at the bar. I had the opportunity to build an All-Drag King show that I called King’s Kiki that just celebrated the running of 3 years (the show retired on the 3 year anniversary show).
I have performed from Ogden to Cedar City and competed in Colorado. My experiences have been very enriching the past six years of my career.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Drag has hit mainstream within my years of performing which has been a double edged sword. Though drag is popular, we must acknowledge that celebrated drag is mostly towards queens and not kings, things, and in-betweens. I also want to note our queer Burlesque performers are also part of this category because history has proof that drag and burlesque were underground together, both relying on each other in the past. Most of my introductions at shows include an explanation of what my art is and how it is ALSO drag. Even with the success of producing an all-king show, we still struggle to have more than a once a month production. When I have advocated for more king casting or shows, I have been told by some venues and producers that I am demanding and unreasonable, that people don’t come to see the kings. Proving that there is bias that still exists amongst the LGBTQIA+ community and diversity still has plenty of room for growth. My ask is that venues and queer spaces balance representation of performance styles with equal pay for an equitable and celebrated community.
Drag is abundant in SLC, UT, yet kings are booked sparingly. For those who do book kings regularly, I applaud each of them and have immense gratitude in my heart because I see what our kings can do which has brought me to tears with queer joy. There is in fact room at the table for kings, things and burlesque to be equally celebrated and to thrive. I encourage avid fans of local shows, and drag queens who produce, to attend more shows with variety to gain a diverse perspective and see how bright we can collectively be!
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
As a male impersonator, I’m known as the Chunky Hunky of SLC but most people call me Daddy Liam, because I am the person that will make sure you drink water and wear your knee pads when performing.
As Liam I produce, perform, and emcee. I’m available for private events and local performances. I also teach performer workshops and offer continued mentorship for the local community. The best way to contact me is through my social platforms for bookings and details.
I am community driven and really care about the longevity of Kings in Utah. I earnestly don’t want to see kings fade away like the Salty Kings of SLC back in 2009. Had kings still been more active when I started, I wouldn’t have personally felt isolated. I want our future kings to have deep roots and know that they are welcomed, even long after I am retired. That’s why I am Admin of @KingBeez.Utah on Instagram. I want there to be a space for kings to be showcased in their performances, to be a reference point for producers, and to promote any show that has a king casted in a show for our Utah kings.
My drag persona has taught me to celebrate myself and take up space and shine. I’d be a very different person without drag. I never thought I could celebrate my body type, push my creativity, learn how to market, and network and be a mentor. Most importantly, finding out that I have a voice that matters and others relate to far and wide.
What does fill my heart and humbles me is the growth of the king community. When I first started King’s Kiki, we barely had six performers for our show but as our audience and local drag fans grew, so did the inspiration for 20+ people to participate as a king. The number is still growing and I am not one bit surprised to see that number continue to build.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
My partner, Gertie Garnet who is a burlesque performer, always provides me safety and support. She has been my rock and we have been a mighty power performer couple.
My cheerleaders are my community! First, I wouldn’t have a show to produce without all the kings that have dared to shine. These kings have seen me fail and own my faults, they have seen me advocate for them and strive for greater. I truly want the best for each king which has inspired me to be my best for them.
Second, my sapphic and queer community. Again, a show doesn’t happen if people don’t come out to support and the community has shown me that support consistently.
Lastly, I have been very lucky to be booked by venues, companies, and freelance producers all around Utah which I am deeply grateful for.
Overall, the biggest role in my success has been taking action and seeing what happens. I’m content with what I have given to my community. I’ve loved the art of drag and the creativity of performing. I have learned so much just by wearing a crown.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/liam_manchesthair
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/liam_manchesthair
- Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/100089614898303/
