What you may not know about me, young and virginal as I seem, I happen to be the mother of a very handsome and agile young man – he’s just not allowed to call me “mother” in public. Drag isn’t just for queens, and this prince of the people is just one of the many kings joining the Drag ON! cast. Introducing my boy, Maximum Capacity.

What does Pride mean to you?
An opportunity for everyone to be proud of who they are, proud of how far we have come, and proud of where we are hoping to go! It is one of the most inclusive events that Toronto has to offer. A place where everybody feels welcome and that in itself is something to be Proud of!

What are you most looking forward to this Pride?
I am most looking forward to the events, seeing old friends and making new ones, and the feeling of everybody being in a great mood enjoying each other. The city becomes electrified with such a positive addictive energy that I never want Pride to end.

What do you love most about being a drag king?
Being a drag king gives me the ability to entertain, surprise, and delight people. Performing is one of my most favourite things to do, and I feel blessed that I get the opportunity to share my enthusiasm with friends and strangers alike.

Who is your favourite artist to perform?
I really enjoy oldies and songs from my childhood. I like getting people to dance along with me and get taken away with the music just as much as I am.

What inspires you to be a drag performer?
Having the ability to express parts of me that are not “socially acceptable” during my regular day to day. Real life jobs and responsibilities can go to hell when I “Max Out” and step on stage. The ability to entertain and take others away from their “everyday life” is something I cherish. Even if for one second I can encourage someone to step outside of the “norm” and do what they want I feel as though I have succeeded.

What year and song are you representing on stage at Yonge-Dundas Square for the Drag On event?
2002 – “Hot in Here” By Nelly. Trust me, it is going to get very VERY hot!

Max will be performing on Saturday, June 27 from 2:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. at Yonge-Dundas Square as part of the Pride Toronto festival.

About the Author

Judy Virago is a transgender writer and performer living in Toronto. A background in theatre, activism and government social policy has informed her interest in transgender rights and visibility. She is the co-founder of the queer art collective The House of Filth and was voted "Runner Up" for Now Magazine's Best Toronto Drag Queen 2015. She takes her inspiration from fierce, fabulous creatures who have soared to stardom, fallen from grace, and clawed their way back to the top.