MISS DARIENNE LAKE

DARIENNE LAKE IS ONE OF THE MOST SEASONED GIRLS FROM “RUPAUL’S DRAG RACE” SEASON SIX. DARIENNE CHATTED WITH CONTRIBUTING WRITER MICHAEL COOK ABOUT HER FAVORITE QUEENS FROM THE PAST, WHAT SHE CAN BRING TO THE COMPETITION THIS YEAR AND WHY SHE MAY HAVE A LEG UP ON SOME OF THE NEW YORK CITY GIRLS FROM THIS SEASON!

Some of the New York City girls may think they have a leg up on you since they’re from theBig Apple. Think you have an equal amount of fierce-ness to bring from Rochester?
Just because you are from a small town doesn’t mean you can’t have huge appeal. I grew up on Long Island untilI was 12. Bianca is from New Orleans, Vivacious is from Jamaica and Milk is from Syracuse, so if anyone is a true New Yawka, it ME!

You come from a lovely line of gorgeously plus-sized ladies in the“Drag Race” family. What separates you from the Stacy Layne Matthews and the Delta Works from past seasons?
I radiate confidence, and don’t make excuses about what I can or can’t do. I have a product that makes you come back for more once you get a taste. I’m comfortable in my own extra skin, and feel sexy.Dora Diego

What made you give“RuPaul’s Drag Race” a shot?
After almost 20 years, I was feeling stagnant and unchallenged with drag. I needed something to refresh and excite me. I wanted to explore more of the world and learn a few new things.

Who are some of yourfavorite queens from thepast seasons that youtake inspiration from?
Latrice Royale had such heart and determination. Jujubee showed that you can be a diva, throw some shade, but still be warm and friendly. Roxxxy Andrews has such an amazing polishto her looks (like Chad Michaels or Shannel), but proves you can be a bitch and people still want to pay to see you.

Was your “Drag Race”experience everything you could have hoped for? What were your favorite and least favorite parts of the process?
It surpassed my wild estexpectations. Being on the show was a whirl wind of emotions and almost feels like a dream. My favorite part was proving to myself that I’m stronger than I give myself credit for.I also enjoyed learning about the process of creating “RuPaul’sDrag Race.” I give much credit and respect to the quick thinking and consummate professional that is RuPaul. My least favorite part is the time constraints. It’s hard to rush art, especially when your head is already spinning. I wish I had more time to watch some of the other contestants’ creative processes. That, and they only had crunchy Cheetos.