In a world that too often demands conformity, Freeda Kulo is a blazing reminder that authenticity is the fiercest form of rebellion. Known for her razor-sharp wit, commanding presence and show-stopping performances, Freeda has carved out a unique space in the drag universe — where glamour meets grit and every strut tells a story.
Beyond the sequins and spotlight, Freeda is an advocate, artist and unapologetic force of self-expression who continues to inspire others to embrace their truth. Whether she’s captivating audiences on stage, slaying on screen or mentoring the next generation of queens, one thing is clear: Freeda doesn’t just perform—she provokes.
In this exclusive conversation, we talk legacy, liberation and the power of drag as both performance and protest. Welcome to the world of Freeda Kulo — bold, brilliant and always unforgettable.
Interview
Freeda, for those who are meeting you for the first time — how would you describe Freeda Kulo in three words?
Class, sass and ass!
Your name is iconic. Tell us the story behind Freeda Kulo. How did she come to life?
Being proud of my Mexican heritage , I have always loved Frida Kahlo, not just for her artwork but also for her story. She used her life experiences of love, life and loss, which are conveyed in her pieces. Similarly, I use my drag style to achieve the same, but with a campy, witty flair. Plus, I used to be very self-conscious about having a big butt, and I decided to leave the shame behind and celebrate, which explains the play on words.
Drag is such a powerful form of self-expression. What was your “aha” moment when you knew this was your calling?
It was in 2020, after a period of lockdown, when bars were finally able to host drag shows, but the audience had to be seated. Icon in Astoria had a Latin night on Wednesdays called Fiesta Latina, hosted by Pedro Alvarado, who would rotate different Latinx queens as performers. I attended multiple weeks to introduce myself, get to know the queens, the audience, and the whole vibe. I finally got my chance and there was a packed house! I remember curating my set list so I could tell stories about the numbers or share funny anecdotes that really connected with people. I finished my third set and thought the night was over, but then the manager at the time, Dakota West, came up to me and told me that there was a line of people wanting to come in. He suggested I do a fourth set because everyone was loving it. Luckily, I had packed an extra costume and went for it! The cheering and love I received that night still brings a smile to my face. At the end of the night, I counted my tips and couldn’t believe I made over 1000 dollars. I was struggling so hard financially that I felt this was a sign from the universe to do what I love!
Every queen has her signature. What’s the secret sauce that makes a Freeda Kulo performance unforgettable?
There has to be an element of drama, like that of a novella, a stunning look that’s well thought out and then a hard left turn to humor. Though I strive to have it all put together, I’m not afraid to laugh at myself.
Who are your biggest inspirations — in drag, in fashion, in life? Any unexpected icons?
My landlord pushes me to work hard and pay rent, lol! But in all seriousness, drag- wise, I admire Trixie for being able to build an empire, Valentina for her beauty and style and for being such a class act. In life, my mother, who immigrated to California when she was 18, has been so resilient despite all that life has thrown at her. One would think that someone who has endured so much pain and hardship would be bitter, but on the contrary, she is the kindest person ever and is so giving. I wish I could give her the world!
The drag scene has exploded globally thanks to shows and streaming — but what do you think people still misunderstand about drag culture? At least in some parts of the world, I don’t think people quite understand how liberating the art form is. There are antiquated tropes about what a drag queen looks like, how she acts and how recklessly she lives, but in reality, it’s an artistic profession for some and an outlet for others. In many Latin countries, I believe it stems from machismo and internalized homophobia. There is such a sense of liberation that drag gives you, and those who condemn us secretly have a desire to be that free. It reminds me of Madonna’s song “What It Feels Like for a Girl, “ where it says, “Girls can wear jeans and cut their hair short, wear shirts and boots, ‘cause it’s okay to be a boy. But for a boy to look like a girl is degrading ‘cause you think that being a girl is degrading. But secretly, you’d love to know what it’s like, wouldn’t you? What it feels like for a girl.”
If you could collaborate with any music artist or celebrity on a performance, who would you choose and why?
Before drag, I had a huge love for dancing and used to be part of a few dance companies. One choreographer I consider a genius is Parris Goebel. The first time I saw her work was five years ago, when she created a dance film for Justin Bieber’s “Yummy.” The movement was fire, and I also love how inclusive she is with her cast of dancers. She is also well-known for her work with Gaga, Beyoncé and Rihanna at the Fenty show and the Super Bowl I mean, the legends of our time, so it’s only fitting that I dream of being in that echelon of artists.
Let’s get a little spicy — what’s been your most outrageous or hilarious on-stage moment?
My most outrageous moment was when I competed for Miss Paradise 2024 in Asbury Park. The first category was “Presentation,” with the theme “Music brings people together.” While waiting to go up on stage, the contestants and former winners gathered in the hotel lobby of the Empress Hotel, and I was the last to arrive. Everyone’s head turned, and the room fell silent. I recall some former Miss Paradise winners telling me that the moment I arrived with that presentation, they said it was over for the other girls. I had the audacity to hit the stage with a mariachi band and an avant-garde custom dress imported from Mexico, made by Valencia Gonzaga, that filled up the stage. I sang and remember the cheers overpowering the host of the pageant. I was overwhelmed with joy when I saw my mom, Tia Maria, and my sister Maria crying tears of joy alongside Pedro Alvarado, whom I lovingly call my gay dad.
Drag is glamour, but it’s also hard work. What’s something about the grind behind the glitter that people don’t always see?
Not only is drag expensive, but it is also time-consuming to maintain. Cleaning wigs, restyling hair, stoning garments, hand-stitching feathers, washing costumes, etc. It’s a lot of maintenance, and you have to keep up with your looks. Additionally, something that is greatly impacting drag artists and the creatives who support them are these tariffs! A lot of times, materials are outsourced and prices have more than doubled. In return, designers and wig stylists have to take that into consideration when they are commissioned.
As a queer artist, how do you see your role in today’s social and political climate? Is drag more powerful now than ever?
It can be very overwhelming to wake up every day, see the news, or jump on social media and feel helpless about everything going on. It’s jarring, and it feels like things get worse each and every day. But I realize that people go to drag shows not only for entertainment but also because there’s power in community. Whenever you feel lost or helpless, it is imperative to find your tribe, connect, vent, grieve, get angry, and hold each other up no matter what. The way we fearlessly captivate a community to foster queer joy fuels a liberation that should be accessible to us all. Additionally , there are many things that we take for granted. For instance, I always make it a point at my drag brunch in Kween Astoria to show recognition for the kitchen staff because it reminds me of the sacrifices my parents made as immigrants for me to have the opportunities I enjoy today.
What’s next for Freeda Kulo? Any big shows, projects, or secret plans you can tease for us?
I’m always cooking up something new, but before I give y’all a rundown of where you can catch this Kulo, I want to emphasize that now more than ever, we have to support queer creatives, especially those who are local, POC and trans. Book drag kings, things and queens! Show support because it’s really tough right now, and it means the world to us when you come out. With that said, I’m cooking up something new in the kitchen, Hell’s Kitchen, that is on Saturday nights. Keep your eyes peeled for this because you don’t want to miss the first lewk! Every Sunday, I’m at my home bar, Kween, in Astoria for Drag Brunch. My hermana Mexicana, Fonda Koxx, holds it down on Saturdays, and we always have a different special guest each week, with seatings at 1 PM and 3:30 PM. On Thursday, June 5th, catch me at 3 Dollar Bill for the Renaissance Drag Concert & Dance Party, headlined by Aja, who is currently on RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars, Season 10. I will also be hosting CUNY Pridefest at Queens College on Friday, June 6th, from 12 PM to 4 PM, and it’s open to the public! On Saturday, June 21st, from 5 PM to 8 PM, I’m hosting the Rock the Boat Pride Cruise, brought to you by Albatross, Icon, Kween and The 44 Entertainment Group. Plus, I’ll be back in Jersey City for Drag Me to Dinner on Thursday, June 26, at the Rooftop at Exchange Place, located in the Hyatt hotel. On Saturday, June 7th and June 28th, you can find me at Balcon Salon for Bacon Brunch, hosted by the iconic Jasmine Rice LaBeija at 2 PM. On Pride, Sunday, June 29th, I will be performing at the boat party brought to you by Friends Tavern and Viva La Heights.
And finally–for anyone out there who’s dreaming of stepping into their own spotlight but feels afraid, what would Freeda Kulo tell them?
I know it can be nerve-racking and feel very vulnerable to expose yourself to the light, but know that all that energy can be used to propel your passion, to improve, and it can ignite a talent and beauty that have always been inside you. It’s not always easy and it takes a lot of work, but you will have those moments when the universe gives you a wink and a nudge to tell you that you’re on the right track and this is meant for you.
