I moved to South Florida 21 years ago and after a few months I met Latrice Royale, and we have been friends ever since. I have seen her at her lowest and now at her highest as a much sought after entertainer (Drag Race and All-Stars alumni) around the globe, and the one thing I can tell you is that she is the same person I met 21 years ago. Her heart and soul are the same, and that’s when you know you have a special person. What better time to run this interview than on Pride weekend to show Latrice how very proud we are of her. It was a real pleasure to sit down with my friend for this Hotspots exclusive interview.
Now that you are married, how has life changed for you?
It’s all gotten better. Finding someone that you can really grow with is the most rewarding thing to have happened to me. We’ve actually found that we’re trying to be better for one another. I’m living my best life.
What’s ahead for Latrice?
The sky is the limit. I’ve already been part of some amazing projects that are going to come out later this year. I’m pursuing acting for more scripted television and theatre. And of course continuing to grow my businesses and my work within the community.
Speaking of the work you’re doing with the community, what drove you to do the work you do?
It’s my passion to work with people that drives my contributions to the community. I believe it’s important to get involved with matters of the heart. I found myself getting involved with the movement toward Marriage Equality, Amendment Four, as well as local community issues. I’ve always been a champion for equality and what’s right!
Another way you have been giving back is with your pageant Mr. and Miss Pride South Florida, how did that come to be?
As you know I’m an old pageant girl at heart. I wanted to bring the pageant back to give a platform and opportunity for growth for each individual that participates. Pride South Florida Pageantry is unlike any other system. We offer an opportunity to actually compete in a “national pageant” environment. It is held in a proper theatre at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. We want all of our contestants to feel like kings and queens. And the winners are signed to an international management company. All for the elevation of the art!
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You mentioned your interest in going more into television and theatre, can you tell us more about that?
I’m glad you asked! LOL. I just got done working on a new project that I’m very excited about! I am acting and even served as a consultant to the writing staff, which was a whole new direction for me altogether, but that made it one of the most amazing experiences. After getting incredible feedback from my performance during filming, I can’t wait for you all to see it later this year.
I noticed by your schedule you’re very busy, how do you balance your work with your marriage?
Well I have to tell ya, it takes a lot of patience, communication and understanding! I am blessed to have a loving husband that gets it! It’s not easy; we make sacrifices for our marriage to build stability for our future. Unfortunately, we have to work because we are NOT rich! LOL. Even though we are apart from each other, having a partner with common goals is the key to our success.
I’ve noticed that part of your company has moved into production, could you tell us how that came about?
We already were producing the Pride South Florida Pageant and I had already worked with Peaches Christ, who had written “Mister Act” as a vehicle for me to star in. Therefore, when the idea came up to bring that show to Florida, we felt this would be a great opportunity for the community to be involved. We cast all local talent, including the Pride South Florida Royalty, to create one amazing production. We love bringing a taste of San Francisco to South Florida and will definitely be bringing more Peaches Christ to our lives.
If you’re on the road all the time how do you manage to produce these theatre shows?
Ah ha! That’s the magic of having a husband with a theatre background! Christopher is the wheelhouse that makes it all possible. He works really hard making sure that everyone feels valued for their time and effort while keeping the engine full steam ahead. We actually could not pull it off without his work. Like I said, it’s good to have a husband that gets it.
With Pride Season on the horizon, tell us your thoughts on Pride?
I’ve always said that Pride is my favorite time of year. Although we celebrate Pride Season, I’m a firm believer that “Pride” is a lifestyle! I celebrate Pride every day of my life. Knowing who I am and what I stand for, not only within my community but worldwide, is what makes me proud of who I am. I’ve been through a lot and I’ve seen even more. If I can continue to help others see the beauty and potential within themselves, then my job is done. Happy Pride and remember to be the best YOU that YOU can be!
For more information about Latrice or to purchase any of her merchandise (check it out, its fierce) go to LatriceRoyale.com.
