Drag around the world has boomed over the past few years. With legendary shows such as RuPaul’s Drag Race dominating the US and now taking its first steps in the UK (with Season 1 to launch sometime in 2019), the word is out, way out - and Malta is catching up. 

Local superstar Clinton Paul has found his true calling and entered the vibrant world of drag with his alter-ego The Clintess. Excited to share how it all started, The Clintess says, “it's crazy to say that it all started last year, way back in March when I took part in the holy pageant of Gharghur by Dwal Godda called Poezija Siekta.” This is where he was asked to drag it up for a Valletta 2018 project; where he would have to get into drag in less than three hours. Little did he know that this was going to be just the start!

“During the Valletta 2018 event, I was approached by a local DJ to enter a Drag Lipsync Challenge for Malta Pride, and the rest is history. The Clintess was born - a sexy yet sophisticated woman who keeps class at her very core.” 

“The Clintess has a good sense of style, she is not your typical Drag Queen; she interprets her own original songs and can even sing live. Her name was derived from two sources; my colleagues call me Princess and my name is Clinton so I mixed the two together,” he continues. 

Drag is an art form that involves a lot of creativity and commitment, but most importantly passion and drive; a good hand at make-up and finding the fun in dressing up. “I always love dressing up and doing makeup. I have to say, and I am very proud of the fact that I feel so much ME when being The Clintess. I've been in the entertainment industry for quite some time now, but this new chapter in my life is so exciting that I can work with designers who want to dress her, and make music videos that I never did as Clinton Paul.”

“Being a public figure and now gaining more popularity with The Clintess I feel that I want to destroy the taboo that all Drag Queens are all typically slutty and over the top. I'm not. I want to take Drag to the next level.” And Clinton’s major message to the public is "be true to yourself”.

“My transitioning - I'm calling it that now - from Clinton Paul to The Clintess was greatly appreciated and accepted, I have to say. “The Clintess is the girl I always wanted to be, and I want the best things for her. Obviously you cannot please everyone - but as long as I have the support and the feedback of my fans who are with me in this new journey I am more than happy.”

The Fotographer

His three hour change into drag takes a village to maintain, from his make-up artist Sandy Para to his assistant Maria Vella, who helps him get into the gowns and outfits designed by multiple designers including Henry Vassallo and Fiona Couture. His team ensure the glam look is executed to The Clintess’ unique style and experience.

“One of the best experiences was actually taking part in a popular TV Show called Hadd Ghalik. It was Drag Queens vs Rugby Players. I had to perform during the show so it was something that I really enjoyed. After Hadd Ghalik, I attended Miss World Malta, Miss Universe Malta, Malta’s Got Talent Fashion Awards and many more. A lot of opportunities are coming for The Clintess and I feel very grateful and blessed.”

As Clinton Paul the personality takes a back seat, The Clintess will rise to give drag a focal point in Malta, with a mission to educate people about the art of drag and about being true to oneself. There are also lots of events to look forward to, he reveals. “One big thing that's going to happen this September is that I'm launching a brand new album under the name The Clintess. This will be a first for a Drag Queen in Malta. So expect a lot of interesting songs, videos and shows. I'm super excited and ready for this. There is even going to be a launch party for the fans.”

So start your engines ladies and gents, there’s a whole lot of entertainment coming your way.