Drag Queen Spotlight: Angelicia Maria Talks Selena, Burlesque, and Being a Showgirl

May 14, 2023
JORDAN JAYRO

Hello, gorgeous! It’s time for another Drag Queen Spotlight! This one’s a very special one! We’re getting to know Chicago’s own Angelicia Maria! She is fiercely talented and stunning! Angelicia is a burlesque showgirl and Selena impersonator. I am so glad I got to do this interview with her! Women always do it better, and Angelicia is no exception! Check out her interview below, and follow her on Instagram!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Angelicia (@angeliciamarquez)

How did you get your stage name?

My stage name is also my chosen name that my mom and little sister helped me come up with at the beginning of my transition. I wanted something unique and different.

How long have you been a performer?

I would say I have been performing for almost 8 years.

How would you describe your onstage persona?

My on-stage persona is someone who is confident, body positive, fierce, daring, and flirty.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Angelicia (@angeliciamarquez)

When is your birthday? How old are you?

My birthday is May 6th and I am 29 years young.

Relationship status?

I am single, and since embarking on a new journey to a bigger city and fully chasing my dreams I knew I couldn’t be in a relationship if I wanted to achieve my goals. In life we make sacrifices and I felt like I wanted to chase my stars, not men.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Angelicia (@angeliciamarquez)

What was your first time performing like?

My first time performing was such an invigorating experience, having eyes on me and people cheering me on made me feel seen, valued, and beautiful.

What made you want to start performing?

My first performance was a benefit for an AIDs foundation. It was such a good feeling to give back to the community and be a part of something bigger than myself.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Angelicia (@angeliciamarquez)

Who inspires you (celebrities, other entertainers, etc.)?

My inspirations include Selena Quintanilla Perez, my mother Maria, and my grandmother Alberta. I’ve taken a lot of inspiration from the women in my life, not so much from celebrities. I was raised by some badass women so I always wanted to be as strong as the Latina women who raised me.

Favorite song/artist to lip sync to?

My favorite songs that I’m currently obsessed with performing are Kylie Minogue’s “Can’t Get You Out of My Head”, “Move Ya Body” by Nina Sky, and “Bidi Bidi Bom Bom” by Selena.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Angelicia (@angeliciamarquez)

What’s your favorite thing about being a showgirl?

My favorite thing about being a showgirl is all the people I get to meet. I’ve had people share some beautiful stories with me, and I’ve had people tell me how much I inspire them. After all, that’s the best feeling ever.

What are your hobbies?

I enjoy going to the gym, dancing, painting, swimming, traveling, long drives, and spending time with friends and family.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Angelicia (@angeliciamarquez)

What’s the craziest thing you’ve witnessed in a dressing room?

The craziest thing I’ve ever witnessed in a dressing room would probably have to be someone being arrested as soon as I entered the room. It wasn’t anyone on the show, just a patron that did something wrong and tried hiding in our dressing room.

Biggest pet peeve about working with other entertainers?

I generally get along with everyone I work with but it would have to be someone who touches my things without asking.