Did you know that Galway is home to a diverse array of fascinating characters? This vibrant city is full of unique personalities, and we’re giving you the chance to meet some of them. Join us as we say Howya! to some of Galway's most creative figures. This month, we had the pleasure of chatting with Galway's Trans Icon Blondie Boots about all things drag, where she finds inspiration for her looks and she shares some of her favourite moments as a performer. Check it out!
Q. Tell us about yourself.
My name is Blondie, and I'm Galway's Trans Icon. I've been doing drag and performing in Galway for 7 years. I moved to Galway for college 10 years ago and fell in love with the city and the queer community here.
Q. What first drew you to drag?
Everything! From as early as I remember, I've loved dressing up, putting on makeup, and, like most kids destined for the stage, I forced my family to watch whatever performance I could put together in our sitting room.
When I was around 15, I discovered RuPaul's Drag Race and quickly became obsessed. I had never seen a drag queen before, and it wasn't long before I realised drag encapsulated everything I wanted to do in life: performing, fashion, comedy, hair, makeup, and community.
It was also a way for me to express my gender as a young trans kid. Drag gave me the chance to dress like the woman I knew I was, but because I said it was "just drag," I was able to experiment with my gender without feeling scared.
Q. How would you describe your drag persona in 3 words?
Unapologetic Trans Excellence
Q. Could you tell us a bit about ‘Wigs by Blondie’ and how it came about?
Wigs by Blondie is my wig styling business. I started it back in September 2025 because I love styling drag hair. I have always styled my own wigs for my drag, so I figured it was time to put the skills I've developed over the years to good use. Plus, there really isn't anyone else in the West of Ireland styling drag hair, and luckily there is a market for it.
Q. Where do you find inspiration for your looks?
I find a lot of inspiration from '90s/early '00s fashion, specifically anything grunge or punk. That was the music and aesthetic I was surrounded by as a teenager, and it absolutely influences my look both in and out of drag.
I'm also inspired by trans women. My drag is ultimately a love letter to them and the amazing beauty that we possess. The reason I am so open about my trans journey is because I want other trans people to see that if I can do it, then so can they, and that they are not alone.
Q. How would you describe the drag community in Galway?
I would describe the drag community in Galway as iconic, and I might be biased, but I think we have the best performers in the country. I always feel most at home when I'm surrounded by the Galway drag community.
We've been through a lot together as a community, and I think our resilience speaks for itself. Club GASS just turned 10 last year, and it's one of the longest-running club nights in Galway. With the way nightlife in this country is going, that's a very impressive fact, and the reason for its longevity comes down to the amazing performers and the loyalty of the Galway crowd. They show up for us every time.
Q. Do you think Galway is a supportive place for aspiring drag performers?
Absolutely. Galway hands down has the best crowds ever. People really show up and show out for us every time, and no matter if it's a newer performer or a more seasoned one, they cheer and shout and lose their minds for us all the same.
There's really nothing more inspiring for a performer than a Galway crowd cheering for you. I'd highly recommend you perform for one if you ever get the chance. You won't regret it.
Q. Will you be taking part in any events for this year's Galway Pride Week? If so, what can people expect?
Of course! You couldn't keep me from Galway Pride Week if you tried. There is a lot being worked on right now, but not much has been confirmed yet, so keep an eye out for those announcements.
We are doing our Trans Night again this year during Pride Week, and you can catch myself and all the other Galway performers in the Róisín Dubh all day long on the Saturday of Pride after the parade, which I will, of course, be walking in. I plan to be walking my new puppy in the parade this year too, so look out for the gorgeous golden retriever in a trans flag.
Q. What's the best piece of advice you've received as a performer?
If something goes wrong on stage, no, it didn't. The audience doesn't know what you have planned, so just roll with it.
Q. Which look or performance are you most proud of?
Oh, easy. I performed Stay For Something by my close personal friend CMAT. I reenacted her live performance of the song. I mean, I watched the performance hundreds of times until I had every movement memorised, and she saw it and loved it. She told me she owes me her life. That's definitely my favourite performance to date.
Another proud moment is a few months ago when I announced on stage at Club GASS that I had started my medical transition. The entire room erupted in applause. It was so overwhelming, but I will never forget how much love and support I felt from my community. That will stay with me and inspire me forever.
Photos by Ciarán MacChoncarraige.
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