Meet Makaila Moonshine

We are kicking off a series of interviews with queer New Bernians to help you meet members of the community, beginning with our Halloween Party MC, drag queen Makaila Moonshine. Makaila grew up in the Duffyfield area of New Bern, and found a love for performing at a young age.

NBP: How long have you been part of the New Bern drag scene?

MM: I have been doing drag for over 21 years, off and on. I've been a part of the New Bern drag scene since it started; one of the first to come from inside New Bern. I started to do drag when I was about 16 or 17 years old. I had a love for music and dancing, and my dream as a child was to become a choreographer when I grew up. Dancing is where I found Makaila Moonshine, then two of my friends named me. My first ever show was in Greenville, North Carolina, before New Bern even had a drag scene.

NBP: The Halloween party is at The Omega Center. What is the importance to you in performing at an event in the neighborhood you grew up in? 

MM: It's a very special moment for me. Performing and headlining a show… this is something that I would have never thought I’d have the chance to do as a professional. This is a dream come true and I'm truly honored to have this opportunity. This is only the start of what will be great for the community. 

NBP: How would you describe your drag persona and what do you bring to the show?

MM: Makaila Moonshine is not like any other queen. I was heavily influenced by India.Arie for mindset and Beyonce for dance. I bring a unique energy, a new vibe, and I’m gracing you with great entertainment that you only get from Makaila.

NBP: How do you think drag ties into the LGBTQIA+ community as a whole? 

MM: I think drag brings the Hollywood effect to the LGBT community and it helps the community build a platform for performers that is like no other. Most of all, it brings a safe place where everyone can strive to be their own unique individual.

NBP: Where would you like to see the drag scene in Eastern North Carolina in the future?

MM: I would love it to be more open door, where we are accepted and welcomed to come and entertain everywhere. We also need a dedicated drag bar, where people can come for a great time more than once or twice a month. 

NBP: What advice do you have for someone wanting to get into drag, but is feeling shy or doesn't know where to begin?

MM:

• Be yourself

• Make sure it's something you really want to do (don’t pressure yourself)

• Use music that connects with you so you don't freeze up the first time

• Be creative

• Be humble

• Know what to wear and what looks best on you

• Practice hard and whenever you can

• Most of all own the stage and once the beat drops, have fun, it is your time to shine