In Montpellier, Miss Victoire affirms that drag is a political expression
In Montpellier, Miss Victoire affirms that drag is a political expression
Miss Victoire, aka Fabrice, an emblematic figure of Montpellier’s drag scene, embodies the power of expression conveyed by drag. Beyond the sequins and makeup, her art carries a strong political message. Living between her daytime identity as a salesman and her flamboyant nighttime persona, Miss Victoire challenges norms and asserts herself as a key element of Montpellier’s LGBT+ scene. Through her performances, she advocates for a freedom of being and belated but deserved recognition within her community and beyond.
The art of drag as a means of expression
Fabrice, a seller of refined canapés by day, becomes Miss Victoire by night, sparkling on the stages of LGBT+ bars throughout Montpellier. With his metamorphosis, he proves that the art of drag is more than just a show: it’s a self-declaration. According to Miss Victoire, donning a stage outfit isn’t just a physical transformation. For her, it’s become an extension of her personality, a way to express that she is both Fabrice and Miss Victoire. “I don’t necessarily dissociate my role as Miss Victoire from the person I am; let’s say it’s an extension of my personality.” A Daily and Political CommitmentFor Miss Victoire, drag is resolutely political. “Doing drag, being a guy in makeup, is already political. It’s a daily commitment. I just want to look beautiful and have a good time.” By choosing not to politicize her shows, she demonstrates that her very existence as a drag queen is an act of defiance against traditional societal norms. Far from being marginalized, she feels deeply integrated into the Montpellier scene, exalting her true nature and proving that she can shine regardless of prejudice.
Growing Recognition and Inclusion
Miss Victoire is recognized not only by her local community, but also by her loved ones who, although once concerned about her career choice, are beginning to embrace her passion. This gives her immense pride, heightened by recent displays of support, particularly when she discovered a photo of herself in drag hanging in the family living room. « I came home last week and found a photo of me in drag on the living room wall, » she says. The gradual acceptance in her personal life reflects the changing attitudes fostered by years of performance and representation. Montpellier, a vibrant scene for a thriving art form Montpellier
has always been known for its cultural vibrancy, and Miss Victoire is one of its driving forces. Originally from Avignon, she moved here for her studies and quickly became an icon of the local party scene. Her contribution also extends to major events like Pride, where her name is eagerly awaited by spectators. With the company Folle de rage, she performs at prestigious clubs such as the Cabaret Cornu and the Zénith Sud, illuminating each evening with her quirky and inclusive charm. Her passion for bringing people together through entertainment and lightheartedness shines through in every performance.
From the beginnings of art to professional recognition
Miss Victoire’s journey began humbly, wearing scarves as dresses in the playground. Passionate about
theater From middle school onward, she developed a taste for her first performances, slipping into the skin of different personalities. Today, it’s within the walls of Coxx, the club’s basement, that she brings her shows to life. Her collaboration with Tom, the owner, demonstrates a special alchemy, reinforced by a sense of belonging to a « family » that celebrates difference and highlights the diversity of drag culture. « I still work with them because I get along very well with Tom, the owner. I’m part of the family, as he likes to say, and I love hearing it. »