For local teen Jack Khan, his drag persona Jackaranda has allowed him to strut the stage and sing to his heart’s content. But it’s his stance on anti-bullying and his annual ‘Jackaranda Says No to Bullying’ event that is creating long-lasting change.
Images Johnny D Photography
When did your interest in drag and anti-bullying advocacy first begin?
I became interested in drag after attending an all-ages drag show in 2018 that was being held by Cherry Ripe. I was amazed at the talent and variety of performers. I thought this would be a great way to perform.
I became interested in advocating for bullying after experiencing a lot of bullying, but also witnessing people of all ages, in different situations, being bullied. I got bullied a bit by kids but mostly my bullying comes from adults in our community who see what I do as something disgusting and inappropriate. Drag may be one thing for adults but for me I'm just in age-appropriate shows, looking fabulous and singing songs.
How did you start pursuing your passion?
I have always loved to sing. Apparently, I was singing before I could talk. I met Roxee Horror [at an event], and she asked me to be in her show at IPAC. Roxee and Cherry both took me under their wing and helped me with looks and makeup. I performed Hallelujah in all white and angel wings, and I got a standing ovation. I was hooked from then on.
What/who inspires you?
Music inspires me. The way I feel when I sing, the words of an amazing song. Music can make you feel every emotion and it’s deeper when you are making the music yourself.
People who are kind inspire me. I've met many local performers and I've met and become friends with some famous and successful people. They don't inspire me because they are famous, as that doesn't interest me, they inspire me because they are humble and kind. They are the first to pick up the phone and call me if they know I'm going through a rough time. They don't tolerate bullying and just promote love and peace. They tell me all the time, if you're not humble and a genuinely nice person no-one will want to work with you. You may have five minutes of success but to last [in the industry] you have to be pleasant to be around. I'm lucky - I have good people who believe in me.
Tell us about your creative process
I don't know if I have a creative process. I tend to find a song I love and then practice it over and over again to get it the best I possibly can. I'm very hard on myself if I don't think something went well. I'm still really finding my style as I start writing songs and discover new music. I do love big band songs and jazz, but it's all exploring at the moment and working on improving my voice.
Any career highlights?
I always love performing in Roxee Horror’s shows and any performing with Cherry Ripe. I am a Wear It Purple ambassador and I love doing different things with them yearly. I have done three ‘Jackaranda Says No to Bullying’ shows and hopefully I'll do one each year, this is a big passion for me. Raising awareness, providing information and entertaining while doing so.
What are you currently working on?
Currently I am working on my voice. I have a long way to go with my singing and music. I want to improve on that. I am learning the piano. I have music producer friend who is teaching me things and is going to set me up with my own set up in my bedroom so I can start playing around to discover my own sounds and style.
Ultimate goals for the future?
My ultimate goal is to make music. I want to find my style and work on my voice to bring out my own music. I also would like to bring out Jackaranda on special occasions. Jackaranda is a character, just an extended and sassier version of Jack!
Check out Jackaranda on Facebook at @jackarandaqueen