This year, the wait for RuPaul’s Drag Race didn’t seem as frustrating due to LOGO airing All Stars in between. I must say that even from episode 1 I could tell that season 5 is gearing up to be one hell of a ride!
This year, the wait for RuPaul’s Drag Race didn’t seem as frustrating due to LOGO airing All Stars in between. I must say that even from episode 1 I could tell that season 5 is gearing up to be one hell of a ride! It’s never easy to be the first to go but fan favorite Penny Tration (yes she was voted in by the fans) was intelligent and wonderful to chat with.
At what age did female impersonation become an interest & how did you pick your name?
When I was 4 or 5 I started dressing up in my mom’s clothes, but at 21 I did and HIV fundraiser and dressed up and the rest is history.
Kenny Dash picked it. Helga was my original name and someone had it trademarked. I was served a cease and desist so I had a contest to pick my new name.
How many times did you apply to be on RPDR and how did it feel when you found out you got chosen?
From season 2 on, and I was turned down for every season including this one.
What was it like to be picked by the fans and how has it changed your life?
Gosh, it was amazing to have that many people care about me. In this day and age, it’s hard to get people excited about anything. There were thousands of people who were applying and to be picked was humbling.
Tell me about your RuPaul’s Drag Race experience?
It was a boot camp. It was the hardest thing I ever had to do while being in drag, but it was definitely worth it. As the time passes, I realize it has definitely been more reward then effort. Also, getting to know these girls as friends was a blessing in my life.
Who do you want to win?
Detox, as I think she is a genius. She would bring someone who is bright, capable and a talented business person. Personally I adore her.
Tell me about the man behind Penny Tration?
Anthony Cody has been married to his husband for 6 years and we own a costume and wig design studio and manage a nightclub where we do weekly shows. He is an opera singer.
Tell me something people would be surprised to know about you.
I love little Debbie snack cakes, but I am not sure people would be surprised to know about that.
What’s ahead for Penny Tration?
A lot of crazy things: I am doing a movie in a couple weeks at the CNKY film festival. I am also performing at lots of prides and am being booked out a lot. I am so thankful for this opportunity.
To find out more about Penny Tration go to: MissPennytration.com or facebook.com/pennytration or Twitter.com/pennytration
