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Have you met the new Queen of Montreal?
Montrealers have been flocking to her shows for more than a decade, and now Montreal drag superstar Gisèle Lullaby is set to conquer the world.
After winning season three of Canada’s Drag Race, Gisèle—a.k.a. Simon Gosselin—became queen of all media, appearing on Tout le Monde en Parle and stealing the show on the televised 2022 Prix Gémeaux ceremony. Gisèle has headlined shows in Britain and Australia, and recently released her debut record single "Je Ne Sais Quoi".
The charismatic and humorous Gisèle sat down with Time Out Montreal for a candid Q&A.
Why do you love drag?
When I was young I was told that drag was not for me, but in my heart I was so excited to learn drag. Everything feminine was fascinating to me. Drag encompasses everything that I love, that I’m passionate about.
How did you begin your drag career?
I became a backup dancer for Rita Baga.
Who is your drag mother and mentor?
I would say my main mentors are Mado Lamotte, Michel Dorion and Miss Butterfly who is also my drag mom.
What was it like to compete on Canada’s Drag Race?
It was the hardest thing I ever did in my life. It was amazing but also terrifying. I knew I was at the right place at the right time, but there are a lot of people in my life whom I love and it was really hard to stop talking to them all for two months while we filmed the show.
How has wining Canada’s Drag Race changed your life?
Just being a contestant on Drag Race is a golden ticket. But to win, that’s like winning the Stanley Cup! It’s amazing to be embraced by all of Canada, but it felt really wonderful to bring the crown home to Montreal and Quebec.
Since winning the crown you’ve done shows in England and Australia. How do you feel about being part of Montreal’s fabled drag history?
It blows my mind to know that audiences there know who I am! It makes me proud, but early performers like Guilda, they are the true trailblazers that made this all possible.
Montreal has so many different neighbourhoods. Which is your favourite?
The Gay Village. It is where I like to hang out and it is where I am likely to run into my friends.
What activity do you love to do in the city?
Shopping for clothes, especially at Zara. I make my own clothes, but I also love to shop for Gisele because she is a sample size, unlike many other drag queens. I’m not petite, I’m model size! I have the luck and privilege to be able to fit in those dresses.
Where is your go-to watering hole?
Cabaret Mado is a favourite. I also enjoy having drinks at District Vidéo Lounge and Le Normandie tavern.
What is your favourite local restaurant?
French restaurant Leméac in Outremont. I love the full flavour of the place, and I know everyone who works there!
What are your favourite Montreal festivals?
The Mode & Design festival. Because I am the winner of Canada’s Drag Race, I will be on every runway this year! I want to be in every catalogue! I also love Montreal Pride. Even if we didn’t have a parade this year, they still put on an amazing party.
What are your favourite festive holiday lights in Montreal?
I love watching the city from atop Mount Royal.
What do you love most about Montreal?
I lived in Toronto for two years, and what I loved about returning home to Montreal is the diversity and sense of humour of Montrealers. People here are focused on enjoying themselves and being at peace with their neighbours.
Where can your fans see you perform in Montreal?
I have made a full association with Cabaret Mado as a headliner and producer now. Most of all I love hosting shows. How long am I going to do it? I don’t know, but right now I love performing at Cabaret Mado.
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