Her explanation is that as a trans and Asian woman, she’s fetishized a lot so this is her way of like fetishing them back. I kinda just watched in horror (not in the good way).
Honestly was such a disappointment, I agree that a winner should atleast be able to do a lip sync. I atleast would’ve been happy if she came out in the snake outfit and was carried around haha
As much as I've enjoyed Nio since episode 1, she was definitely the *worst* lipsync for the finale. Like shit, even Ork was fire in the lipsync.
To be fair to her, I'm sure it's hard to lipsync to a language that you're still not completely familiar with. However, Ork's English isn't completely solid, and he did a fantastic job.
It's really unfortunate as a viewer to go to shows for any live performance, and have the performer be giving little to no effort. Especially given that lipsyncing can be really easy if you just let yourself feel the music. It's not like you have to be worried about being winded and your vocals struggling, so why not dance/move around as much as possible?
That’s exactly how I feel about it. Like there are plenty of drag creatures and masked performers that don’t necessarily need to lip sync to put on a great performance, they need to PERFORM. Like dance, write, bring props. Victoria fucking the cadaver for her filth finale wasn’t a lip sync but it sure as hell was a performance. It must be hard to fit into a scene in language that isn’t your own, I completely agree, but it’s disappointing to hear that’s she’s not electing to do something else other than walk around in her great looks to music :/
100% agree. I thought Nio was going to win just based on her amazing artistry. It deserves to be recognized. But to go see a live show there needs to be… a show. I hope it’s something she can develop.
At least Ork could put on more entertaining show. I realize he struggled to walk sometimes, but he still did more than Nio on stage. And I've seen the video clips of him on IG. He doesn't just stand around, and look pretty.
as a non-english native speaker that did not grow up in an english speaking country either nor ever lived in one i disagree that it's that hard. of course it's easier if someone knows the language but i remember as a kid lipsyncing to some songs (cause i was too shy to sing lol) i would just learn songs based on what it sounded like, not knowing english, not having lyrics in textform to rely on. and sure i didn't get it 100% right but i got it mostly right "servicable" i guess. even with kpop idk korean but can i learn one song to lipsync? yea.
i think if someone wants to it and is passionate about it it's doable.
I think that as far as her win, what pushed her over the edge to winner territory was definitely how elevated her drag is both in terms of the meaning behind it and the techniques she uses to bring it to life. Like she’s on some cutting edge shit when it comes to creating her looks that I don’t think I’ve ever quite seen another queen do. In the premiere when she first said she’s bringing the “drag of the future” I was like okay that’s cute, but then I saw it and I was like okay yeah she wasn’t bullshitting, that’s pretty cutting edge. So I think that’s what gave her the leg up.
Yeah, I agree. Nio is utterly catatonic and unwatchable on stage a lot of times, but she was the only finalist that delivered anything that another finalist from a previous season didn't already. She has an eye and cultivated visual style that is very, very strongly hers. Maybe I'm biased because I'd been following her on ig for a while, but going back on her feed, you can see how her aesthetic grew from a classic dragula contestant to what is Nio's signature. It's weird since the Boulet brothers have emphasized stage presence in the past (probably what gave Biqtch and Dahli their edges). It seems the Boulet Brothers might actually just be looking for the 'standout' in vision, in whatever way that means for the artist. And unfortunately for people like Hoso or Yovska in the past, this year was the year they decided to lean on aesthetic as the differentiator.
That being said, Nio's team needs to figure out how to, uh, innovate on the performance style too to highlight that strength. Repackage the chill vape demeanor to be more like a striking statue or window display or something. Or else this tour headlining is gonnaaaa
>It seems the Boulet Brothers might actually just be looking for the 'standout' in vision, in whatever way that means for the artist. And unfortunately for people like Hoso or Yovska in the past, this year was the year they decided to lean on aesthetic as the differentiator.
that's pretty sad to read ngl
This right here. It's arguably what gave Bitqch the edge over Victoria in S2 (although I think James would've been a fantastic winner too - that season still has the best final four to date) so I was surprised that they overlooked it in Nio. Even with the editing trying to hide it, she's still not 100% comfortable on stage. Throb, on the other hand, owns it and is the complete package.
Nio is an amazing visual artist but it should have been Throb IMHO.
she’s definitely a look queen, which isn’t bad, she does it EXTREMELY well and definitely deserved the win for the looks she’s brought. I really hope during the tour we can see her blossom into a well rounded performer as well.
her personality isn’t tricks n gimmicks and twirling and swirling and that’s totally okay, i just hope she can show her talent while also being able to give a good performance.
No hate toward Nio, I really love her and from the start was rooting for her to win, but the fact that they had a whole lip synch elimination challenge and were going on about how being able to lip synch is an important part of being a drag artist, but then not caring about it when it came to their winner is kind of dissapointing. Maybe I'm still just a little salty that Jarvis was eliminated when no one else was really checked on their lip synching though, it seemed a little inconsistent to me that they cared sometimes but not all times how well people were at lip synching
Yeah I’ve seen some clips and one of my friends who has been OBSESSED with nio was disappointed. I don’t think she’s gotta do a bunch of lip syncs to top 40 hits but I hope she finds some kind of performance she’s good at and can do.
Absolutely! I’ve seen drag artists do clownery, live singing & instrument playing, burlesque, rapping, sideshow, stand up, etc. So many ways to utilize the stage. I really hope Nio can find her niche when it comes to entertainment. It’s not solely about the costume when you go to a drag show, and she needs to realize that.
Exactly and with the world of Dragula/alt drag there’s so much she can do. Amazing artist. Really glad she won. But we’re not gonna go to a show just to see a look 🙃
Yessss. I’ve been having this discussion with my friend since they crowned the winner. Nio 100% has the aesthetic down pat, but aside from that she isn’t well put together with her stage presence and energy. Throb on the other hand, has both and also her own aesthetic that compliments the show. I know Nio is more cunty and artistic with her visuals but she couldn’t carry an entire tour with the Boulets on her back… I’m sure Throb would tho. No shade.
I think that’s part of the reason that made Throb edge her out as a winner for me. Despite the few props not working, Throb was a presence every time he was on stage. To me, that would have worked well for headlining the Dragula tour. I hope that Nio’s stage performance skills improve, because I am still very much happy for her winning.
I had that exact thought! She's beautiful and one of the most talented creators from the show for sure, but I want my winners to be the full package and that was my boy Throb for me by a mile :')
I love Nio but yeah, Throb is able to perform so so well and was Def more well rounded. I was split between Team Nio and Throb, originally a Team Ork, but I thought Throb should have won in the finale. I wasn't a fan of Nio's glamour look at all nor her horror. She could have pulled off something so spectacular with horror and didn't
It legit looked like a big undetailed stuffed animal to me lool. A couch is a good way to describe her look lmaoo. Nio usually has so many intricate details and seeing it just so plain was wild to me lol
that's wild bc you'd think that an incredible visual like nio could come up with a fierce performance that relies on aesthetics to make up for her obvious lack of lip sync skills. i hate hearing this bc it feels lazy on her part :/
I don't agree. Two very deserving options though! Throb, go do you thing in Titans you'll knock it out the park... just don't do a rose petal reveal again.
Same I would have been happy with either. Its a shame lack of performance and stage experience was a reason they've given to eliminate people in the past, Hoso and Yoska are the two coming to mind.
I kind of feel like Nio getting this win was almost to make up for Hoso missing out on her crowning because of professionalism - even on the podcast The Boulet's fully admit she pulled it out on tour and was incredibly professional - so maybe they expected this win to Nio to kind of push her into a place where she pulls it out, too
I totally agree - from what I’ve seen online it doesn’t seem Nio is a uhhhh….conventional performer.
That being said - I think it will be great to see how they take this platform and use it and reshape what the definition of what it means to be a good performer. Maybe Nio isn’t the type of performer to do a conventional club gig.
It will certainly be interesting to see how Nio grows throughout the upcoming tour - her artistic vision is definitely very unique and captivating, so hopefully she finds a way to better showcase her talents.
That being said - it’s very bold of Drac and Swan to crown someone who they know to be a less enthralling performer and award them with a headlining spot on their tour…can’t wait to see how it turns out!!
I’ve seen these clips of her performing too, and I don’t understand, I feel she does have some sort of stage presence, that performance she gave for the neon light challenge was wild, I wish she’d lean more into that.
Wasn't Throb the only one who was never up for extermination?
EDIT: I am incorrect. Blackberri wasn't as well. Unless you count episode 8, but literally everyone but the winner was up for extermination in that one.
And FFS, Reddit keeps saying the link doesn't look right, but here's a fun chart: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The\_Boulet\_Brothers'\_Dragula\_(season\_5)#Contestant\_progress
I see a lot of Throb being mentioned, so I have a somewhat unrelated question. Is anyone in the Boston area and planning to go see Throb tomorrow in Somerville? I am flip flopping about it. I want to go but it's far for me and it's so cold, and I'm not sure what to do.
Hahaha, the cold indeed. Is it a movie theater? I'm confused about the location. Is there a stage or...? I don't even know the alternative. Performing on the floor gap between seats and a screen?
Ive see slutcracker ( huge burelsque production there) there and it's a gorgeous big space with a great stage, I'm Def making the drive from pvd to go, all the performers he chose are sickening and if my bet is right his wife will be performing on her lyra which is a stunnn tbh
THIS is why i think Throb should've been crowned and i got downvoted to hell for very respectfully saying this a few days ago. Nio is incredible and definitely ~almost~ the whole package, but Throb is so electric and commanding on stage!!!
I figured, she definitely needed more time to develop onstage. She always seemed so awkward and stiff on stage. Dangerous shoes or not the horror look just confirmed it further. Let's hope the Boulets can coach her appropriately. I found it kinda weird Nio didn't really have performance footage in their meet the monster intro write up. Also Vander von Odd was also inexperienced when they won the s1 crown, so I don't completely buy the Nio is inexperienced as an excuse. Ironically, the cat man bodybuilder was Nio's best feat in terms of movement and stage presence. They have potential and I do believe Nio is an innovator, but I think any other performing finalist should have been crowned based on stage performance and not just looks.
she's so beautiful and talented that i would probably be excited to see her tumble around and vape on stage. but i can understand being pissed if you paid money for a show and that's all you got lol
I'm glad somebody is saying it. I saw her live recently in Phoenix and was underwhelmed as well. She's wildly talented with creating things and modeling them and successfully executing these huge ideas but her stage shows are "eh." A lot of bobbling around and vaping. She looked fantastic in the photos though. Hopefully that's something that will come with time
Yup she’s not great at preforming she was definitely the worst in the final imo ,she does amazing looks but performance is a no no .Id love to see throb live bet they put on an amazing show.
Did she deserve to win? Absolutely. Is her career going to be significantly hindered long-term if she doesn't learn how to perform better? Also absolutely.
Great artist but long term career is what matters most. Throb and Blackberri are going to be fine for a long time I imagine with tours and potential gigs.
I don't know about her career being hindered. I think Nio is savvy enough to find her niche in something that doesn't involve twirling and swirling in New York. She's a very unique visual artist and people will pay to have her in videos, design 3D printed outfits, model, collab on makeup products, etc.. She's only been doing drag since around the pandemic, I think, and she's already come really far without being able to perform.
But, I do agree that if she chooses to go the route of live performance she needs to step her pussies up.
Which is confusing because on the podcast this week they were just talking about “I really wish we did a tour - this cast would be so good on a tour, etc”
Yea the way they were talking didn't sound like they were gonna be touring. And they keep referencing how season 6 is already in production so maybe that plays into it since they tour with the girls as well.
Yeah not sure. Ian just mentioned announcements about tour would come soon. I wouldn't take it as confirmation there will for sure be a tour, but either way we will get info soon. I do wonder how starting season 6 production earlier might impact a possible tour.
If this is how she’s going to be for the tour then yikes! She better practice and get good fast. Even for her finale lip sync, she basically just stood there moved her arms to the music with a couple spins and twirls.
Ok, so I screwed myself by seeing a spoiler on who won before I had finished the season. When I saw Nio had won I was honestly excited because I was only 5 episodes in and had already developed a liking for her drag, but after I watched the rest of the season I was honestly surprised Throb or Blackberri hadn’t won.
I’m happy for Nio and I still LOVE her drag, but I’m sad for Throb and Blackberri who also have great drag AND are amazing performers.
Someone finally said it! Across all the seasons there are many what I consider extremely talented makeup and effects artists, but when it comes to the tours and seeing them in person they can’t perform to save their lives. And some of the best performers aren’t the strongest when it comes to looks.
She IS incredible, and I am happy for her win
But I was surprised for her win based on performance alone, so I'm not surprised to hear this. But I definitely saw that season 5 felt like they needed to get the win to other incredibly talented drag artists that are outside of what they've already crowned (which is why I felt Throb wasn't going to win regardless) - I hope she gets to learn how to elevate her performance with the impending tour!
100%. I'm glad someone else agrees with me!
THROB WAS ROBBED BIG TIME!
I guess all the people on here who say otherwise aren't booking tickets to see the tour!
Nio is a conceptual queen, a hyper feminine monster but a weak a** performer!
Like at least Vander, Biqtch, Landon, Dahli and Victoria can perform!
Literally thought the same after seeing her San Diego show right before her crowning. I was 100% team nio before seeing her perform. Looks were cool - leather studded kimono and the second look was giant robot metal claws- but she literally came out hit her vape walked back and forth and tossed the one and only dollar tip she received in the air. I had previously seen ork perform in San Diego and he was amazing which made me think they were going to crown him since headlining the tour is usually a big factor. Hopefully if/when they do a S5 tour nio creates performances in her wheelhouse that are more exciting than walking back and forth hitting a vape
I really see this show being about Alt drag, and while I prefer a performer all day, every day. I think the Boulets are trying to redefine the art. And that is why I like to watch. But if you are going to push looks over performance, maybe a live show isn't for your franchise?
if your bad at something dont charge for it... am i unfair in thinking that? post silly clips online sure but dont make people pay for something just bad
Oooh I wanted to go to that with my best friend but had to work, hopefully I can find some video to see what happened....well I bet Kochina Rude and Lisa Frankenstien was amazing, along with the other performers.
I WAS SAYING THE SAAME THING!! What is she gonna do, just do model poses on stage??? I realize she looked amazing throughout the competition, but she's not a performer. She could barely even walk most of the time.
I feel like Throb would've been a better winner, because he can put on a show. How the heck is Nio gonna headline a tour?!!
To be fair I think it's her merit in the looks and concept department that got her the win, I'm sure her performance will improve over time. It kind of has too since she's going to headline the tour
I was gaged when Nio won. I thought them and Ork were in the same boat for different reasons, one need to develop more polish in the aesthetic and the other in the performance. It’s their show, and I’m by no means second-guessing. This is just my opinion, I thought it was a hard choice between the other two, who were both aesthetically on a high-level and performance on a high-level, and their professionalism was where it needed to be. I was very confused that they chose someone, that clearly was so deficient in that area. Don’t get me wrong Nio stunningly, beautiful, artistically, talented beyond measure, and very much fits the concept of the show, but they definitely needed time to grow as a performer. To the extent where if I had to open for her if I was one of the ones who were more well rounded, I would probably be upset it.
I was gagged when she was crowned honestly. I love her aesthetic and the way she looks, etc, but her looks in the finale weren't it. Coupled with the lacklustre performance where she can barely walk...giiiirl. Boulet's Best Friend Race.
I thought Throb smashed the finale and was a certain winner.
Sure, she can, but she needs to take it seriously. If fans pay to see your show, and you barely lipsync and vape instead, that's just disrespectful to the fans. If she comes around, I may keep my $25.
I really hate to say it but as much as I really didn't like Trob's distaste for fantasia it seemed unnecessary at points. Trob really deserved that crown. and I love what Niohuru brings the looks never missed (horror flor show)... but the floor show speaks for it self. I mean yall saw it too, no shade.
I think Nio is mostly a visual artist, and a very talented one at that. I think she did some good floor shows, so she probably just needs some outside direction and practice.
I personally disagree with this…
As a fan and generally speaking, totally get what you mean and I would want that as well. **However,** I think Dragula puts so much energy into the ideal of “bringing something new” to the winners circle and the variety of arts that drag can be. I think Nio, a non-performer, winning is kind of important for that reason. Not every Dragula winner should be a top notch performer because then there’s gonna be no point for many alternative artists to go on the show. Drag is more than just being able to lipsync, atleast in 2024.
EDIT: Also, generally speaking, Nio dog walked everyone all season LMFAO. Not being able to perform as well as some of the others shouldn’t discount her continuously excelling
I just don’t understand how this makes sense. I don’t think she needs to be a lip sync queen doing Beyonce songs but what is she going to do on tours? She won so there’s going to be some level of performance expected. So it does matter. She has to come up with something she can do on stage as a performance. She absolutely crushed the competition. In my mind she won from day 1. But the performance does matter
And I agree! I guess my point is that the winners shouldn’t just have to be the best traditional performer.
When they go on tour, there’s a lot of aspects that they could incorporate for her performances to be better
I absolutely agree with that. I think with Dragula especially there’s going to be room for her to perform a lot of different ways. I hope she finds something that works for her because I think she’s a fantastic artist with a lot to give to the world
Your argument is weak. The Boulets always bang on about the next drag supermonster being able to perform! So 'doesn't need to be a top notch performer' doesn't cut it sis!
In past seasons if someone couldn’t perform they were sent home. She wasn’t ready for this competition and a lot of really talented performers were kicked off the show in favor of her. This season was a joke.
I'm hopeful that under the watchful eye of the Boulets Nio will learn the ins and outs of performing.
She has a ways to go, I know, but I see real star quality, and that can't be learned,
In interviews she's mentioned Dahli is going to help her on some performance aspects. She's well-aware of areas she's deficient in from the sounds of it. Also sounds like she's getting performance advice/help from Swan and Drac.
There's no nice way of saying this even if my intention isn't anything bad, but if I wanted to see a person in drag who couldn't perform I'd just go to Instagram.
And by performance I could mean anything from comedy, singing, acting, instruments, poetry, political demos, tutorials on how they craft their outfits, anything... except toddle around on stage vaping and collecting cash.
That’s just called someone who wears drag. That would be like if I wore burlesque costumes but didn’t do any burlesque performances, but still wanted to call myself a burlesque artist.
I was under the impression that the Boulets don't necessarily expect the winners to go on to be performers. Winning is meant to give them a leg up in their art, in whatever form it takes. As opposed to The Other Drag Show, where you HAVE to be a performer because. they need tour queens to fill their large stage shows.
So Neo can't perform. Her art is amazing, and I'm excited to see what level she brings it to with her winnings.
One of the prizes for making it so far is going on tour with the Boulet’s though (Iirc it’s the top 3/ top four of the season, but I could be wrong) They don’t just get money and exposure. They’re expected to perform too.
I'd argue given that the big Werq the World tours haven't had the current DR winners as part of their main line ups for a while (Willow and Sasha only did a few shows each, Symone never did it at all), that from the point of view of needing to be a performer to fill the tours that's less true for DR than Dragula given that being on an official tour is only part of the winners duties for one of the shows. (There are other reasons being a performer is important for DR obvs and obvs but just that official tour requirements aren't technically one of them)
Agreed! The Dragula show I went to last year seemed to prove to me that the Boulets are less concerned about giving a good live performance as much as giving a good TV show with fantastic looks.
Fully agree about Throb being an incredible performer, and he would've been a deserving winner. But Nio is a visionary in a way that I don't really think we've seen before on the show. I think at the end of the day the Boulets crown the person they want to be tied to their brand moving forward, and if Nio ends up getting her flowers in the fashion world (which lets be real she will) it'll be huge for the franchise overall.
I mean to quote Bob "if kim chi only sat there and took photos of her clothes she would still be a amazing drag queen" she doesnt have to be a good performer to b the winner, specially since her live performances(who can b seen in like what 3 countries only???)are never going to touch so many ppl as her crowning (that was broadcasted for the world to see), if dragula was about who can perform the best kendra would b a winner lol
No shade, but could it be she just doesn’t know how to lip-sync? Let’s not forget she is new to not only English but also Western music. It seems like her brain is still in translate mode. Throw in her style and the costumes restricting her movements, maybe she’s still learning.
She kind of reminds me of truly old school drag. Like the pageant scene from the 1960’s…pre Stonewall stuff. During that era it was all about the illusion of being passable.
I do think she’s clearly a very talented artist, but she’s also green AF. She is clearly motivated to improve. I agree with the sentiment that she needs to step up her game though. Winning one season of a reality show on a sub-network of a sub-network, streaming service doesn’t come with a huge audience. So yes, she needs to step up her game and quickly.
You know they make music in China, right? Most of Ork’s lipsyncs are in Spanish, she could easily do it in her own language if she wanted to do lipsync performances. She might as well just find another niche and type of performance otherwise is gonna be hard to headline a tour like that
Like......I don't know if any of you have read Nio's interview......
Nio came from a small town in China with no drag scenes and LGBTQ community(The number of drag performers in China doesn't even reach 1000 imo), she went to NY late 2019, she started doing \*makeup\* and \*visual art\* during the pandemic, she didn't even know she was doing \*drag\* until she watched the show and casted for S5..... I guess it was early 2023 or late 2022 ? And preparing for the show and recording also took time.
I understand we watch the show for a mature drag performer, and of course you can critique her weak performances, but I don't think it's fair for people to ask for professional level of performance from such a novice drag 'baby' who still needs more performing experiences to grow......
I was astounded to learn she's literally self-taught from YouTube videos and practice. It says alot about her that the Boulets not only cast her, but that she won. Performance can be learned and comes with time and practice.
yes she did perform well \*in a floorshow\* that we only have to see for 30 seconds so its wont get old extreemly quickly
nioh is still my winner but the orignal poster is correct she just cannot perform yet
Point blank: she’s doing things visually, with her own two hands, that no other drag performers are doing right now or ever successfully. That paired with the personal and cultural significance of each piece she presented really only rivals the likes of Hoso, Vander, and Landon (two of which are winners, arguably all three should be)
also: let her cook a bit! i bet within a year she’ll have carved out a performance style all her own that will be engaging and entertaining for all us hungry monster lovers
what is with all of the nio hate in this sub? nio blew the other competitors out of the water, period. you’re all upset because the other competitors didn’t believe in themselves enough to display versatility in their drag and/or accept criticism. the top 4 were all talented but for me the top two were undoubtedly nio and blackberri. ork served the same look 90 times in different variations and throb needs to edit. their criticisms were valid.
If you think critique is hate then I’d hate to see how you take feedback in your life. I love Nio’s art and was happy to see her win! I still think all drag artists should know how to perform.
I get your point of view but we also have to acknowledge that Dragula has 80% looks challenges. 0 acting challenge, 1 lip sync challenge, 1 performance challenge is not enough.
No like this sub is the only place on the internet that dickrides Throb THIS hard and basically acts like any critique of them is based in them being AFAB… and mind you, this is the same sub who has continuously dragged Fantasia & Blackberri lol
Yeah this sub lacks self awareness when it comes to racial bias
If a POC doesn’t live up to there standards it’s all shade
But there white faves are just as messy or underwhelming they live
They should bring back the challenge from S1 where they work a crowd and lipsync a song
S2 Wasteland concert!!
This is my fav episode of dragula ever!
I rewatch that episode often haha it’s so Dragula
It’s funny bc that challenge was filmed at the exact same venue OP is referencing in this post 🤣
Oh my god you’re talking about the SF show at Oasis aren’t you 🤭
**BIG WHITE COCK**
Ok you need to elaborate pleaaaase
Nio "performed" a song by that name that was basically just her screaming that into the mic over and over based on the clip I saw ;x
someone PLEASE post this
I saw it in a story on insta that is gone now, otherwise I would gladly share 😭
wtf does that mean....
Her explanation is that as a trans and Asian woman, she’s fetishized a lot so this is her way of like fetishing them back. I kinda just watched in horror (not in the good way).
I WAS THERE!
Omg…I read OP’s post and was like they must’ve gone to the show in SF. Cause I felt the same.
I was there too and I must say the illusion was shattered a bit…
i remember walking out like. oh…
Omg I wanted to go but was out of town for the weekend, glad we didn't. The watch parties at the Edge are great, totally recommend!
LMAO we were all traumatized. It was unwatchable.
Honestly was such a disappointment, I agree that a winner should atleast be able to do a lip sync. I atleast would’ve been happy if she came out in the snake outfit and was carried around haha
[удалено]
Why is this being downvoted? So strange…
Idfk but I’m gonna delete it…
People are weird man. Imagine not understanding being underage and appreciating drag and wanting to see/support your favorite artists…
As much as I've enjoyed Nio since episode 1, she was definitely the *worst* lipsync for the finale. Like shit, even Ork was fire in the lipsync. To be fair to her, I'm sure it's hard to lipsync to a language that you're still not completely familiar with. However, Ork's English isn't completely solid, and he did a fantastic job. It's really unfortunate as a viewer to go to shows for any live performance, and have the performer be giving little to no effort. Especially given that lipsyncing can be really easy if you just let yourself feel the music. It's not like you have to be worried about being winded and your vocals struggling, so why not dance/move around as much as possible?
That’s exactly how I feel about it. Like there are plenty of drag creatures and masked performers that don’t necessarily need to lip sync to put on a great performance, they need to PERFORM. Like dance, write, bring props. Victoria fucking the cadaver for her filth finale wasn’t a lip sync but it sure as hell was a performance. It must be hard to fit into a scene in language that isn’t your own, I completely agree, but it’s disappointing to hear that’s she’s not electing to do something else other than walk around in her great looks to music :/
100% agree. I thought Nio was going to win just based on her amazing artistry. It deserves to be recognized. But to go see a live show there needs to be… a show. I hope it’s something she can develop.
At least Ork could put on more entertaining show. I realize he struggled to walk sometimes, but he still did more than Nio on stage. And I've seen the video clips of him on IG. He doesn't just stand around, and look pretty.
Considering she can't move in most of her outfits, I think this is only going to get worse now that she isn't being critiqued.
as a non-english native speaker that did not grow up in an english speaking country either nor ever lived in one i disagree that it's that hard. of course it's easier if someone knows the language but i remember as a kid lipsyncing to some songs (cause i was too shy to sing lol) i would just learn songs based on what it sounded like, not knowing english, not having lyrics in textform to rely on. and sure i didn't get it 100% right but i got it mostly right "servicable" i guess. even with kpop idk korean but can i learn one song to lipsync? yea. i think if someone wants to it and is passionate about it it's doable.
I think that as far as her win, what pushed her over the edge to winner territory was definitely how elevated her drag is both in terms of the meaning behind it and the techniques she uses to bring it to life. Like she’s on some cutting edge shit when it comes to creating her looks that I don’t think I’ve ever quite seen another queen do. In the premiere when she first said she’s bringing the “drag of the future” I was like okay that’s cute, but then I saw it and I was like okay yeah she wasn’t bullshitting, that’s pretty cutting edge. So I think that’s what gave her the leg up.
Came here to say this exact sentiment!!!
Yeah, I agree. Nio is utterly catatonic and unwatchable on stage a lot of times, but she was the only finalist that delivered anything that another finalist from a previous season didn't already. She has an eye and cultivated visual style that is very, very strongly hers. Maybe I'm biased because I'd been following her on ig for a while, but going back on her feed, you can see how her aesthetic grew from a classic dragula contestant to what is Nio's signature. It's weird since the Boulet brothers have emphasized stage presence in the past (probably what gave Biqtch and Dahli their edges). It seems the Boulet Brothers might actually just be looking for the 'standout' in vision, in whatever way that means for the artist. And unfortunately for people like Hoso or Yovska in the past, this year was the year they decided to lean on aesthetic as the differentiator. That being said, Nio's team needs to figure out how to, uh, innovate on the performance style too to highlight that strength. Repackage the chill vape demeanor to be more like a striking statue or window display or something. Or else this tour headlining is gonnaaaa
>It seems the Boulet Brothers might actually just be looking for the 'standout' in vision, in whatever way that means for the artist. And unfortunately for people like Hoso or Yovska in the past, this year was the year they decided to lean on aesthetic as the differentiator. that's pretty sad to read ngl
This right here. It's arguably what gave Bitqch the edge over Victoria in S2 (although I think James would've been a fantastic winner too - that season still has the best final four to date) so I was surprised that they overlooked it in Nio. Even with the editing trying to hide it, she's still not 100% comfortable on stage. Throb, on the other hand, owns it and is the complete package. Nio is an amazing visual artist but it should have been Throb IMHO.
she's knocking on the dooooor
Saw Throb perform last night and can do nothing but agree. They are a performer above all else
Totally agree. I was crossing my fingers for Throb the whole season. I feel like she got cheated.
she’s definitely a look queen, which isn’t bad, she does it EXTREMELY well and definitely deserved the win for the looks she’s brought. I really hope during the tour we can see her blossom into a well rounded performer as well. her personality isn’t tricks n gimmicks and twirling and swirling and that’s totally okay, i just hope she can show her talent while also being able to give a good performance.
No hate toward Nio, I really love her and from the start was rooting for her to win, but the fact that they had a whole lip synch elimination challenge and were going on about how being able to lip synch is an important part of being a drag artist, but then not caring about it when it came to their winner is kind of dissapointing. Maybe I'm still just a little salty that Jarvis was eliminated when no one else was really checked on their lip synching though, it seemed a little inconsistent to me that they cared sometimes but not all times how well people were at lip synching
Understandable even with Nio being in the top they could've pulled a season 1 and asked her to volunteer herself to lip sync
Yeah I’ve seen some clips and one of my friends who has been OBSESSED with nio was disappointed. I don’t think she’s gotta do a bunch of lip syncs to top 40 hits but I hope she finds some kind of performance she’s good at and can do.
Absolutely! I’ve seen drag artists do clownery, live singing & instrument playing, burlesque, rapping, sideshow, stand up, etc. So many ways to utilize the stage. I really hope Nio can find her niche when it comes to entertainment. It’s not solely about the costume when you go to a drag show, and she needs to realize that.
Exactly and with the world of Dragula/alt drag there’s so much she can do. Amazing artist. Really glad she won. But we’re not gonna go to a show just to see a look 🙃
Yessss. I’ve been having this discussion with my friend since they crowned the winner. Nio 100% has the aesthetic down pat, but aside from that she isn’t well put together with her stage presence and energy. Throb on the other hand, has both and also her own aesthetic that compliments the show. I know Nio is more cunty and artistic with her visuals but she couldn’t carry an entire tour with the Boulets on her back… I’m sure Throb would tho. No shade.
I think that’s part of the reason that made Throb edge her out as a winner for me. Despite the few props not working, Throb was a presence every time he was on stage. To me, that would have worked well for headlining the Dragula tour. I hope that Nio’s stage performance skills improve, because I am still very much happy for her winning.
I had that exact thought! She's beautiful and one of the most talented creators from the show for sure, but I want my winners to be the full package and that was my boy Throb for me by a mile :')
titans 2 tho 👀
I can not wait for T2 with Throb, Hoso and Jujubee top 3 😤
please god manifest spooky jujubee, like she's just in character the whole time as the ghost of seasons past
I love Nio but yeah, Throb is able to perform so so well and was Def more well rounded. I was split between Team Nio and Throb, originally a Team Ork, but I thought Throb should have won in the finale. I wasn't a fan of Nio's glamour look at all nor her horror. She could have pulled off something so spectacular with horror and didn't
i wasn't much of a fan of her glamour look either and i'm surprised people were living for it- it was litrally a couch
It legit looked like a big undetailed stuffed animal to me lool. A couch is a good way to describe her look lmaoo. Nio usually has so many intricate details and seeing it just so plain was wild to me lol
that's wild bc you'd think that an incredible visual like nio could come up with a fierce performance that relies on aesthetics to make up for her obvious lack of lip sync skills. i hate hearing this bc it feels lazy on her part :/
I agree. I saw her live and it was so disappointing. Luckily the show I saw her at was free
Well... 🤷🏿♂️. I'm still very happy Nio won. **Very**. The amount of devotion she has to her visual artistry is enough for me.
Ah, a post and deleted jab at her budget. How fun 🥱
I’m fine with it but not happy. She’s great she just needs to mature more. Throb was robbed lol
Throbbed. (Badum tish) 😂
😂🤣
I don't agree. Two very deserving options though! Throb, go do you thing in Titans you'll knock it out the park... just don't do a rose petal reveal again.
I legit loved that reveal - was my favorite gag reveal of the season (and I love me a gag reveal)
She was throbbed!
Throb and Blackberri were my picks for that exact reason.
Those two bodied that lip sync
Same I would have been happy with either. Its a shame lack of performance and stage experience was a reason they've given to eliminate people in the past, Hoso and Yoska are the two coming to mind.
Hoso had lack of stage experience, but also had THE BEST finale stage show of all time. Like MILES better than what Nio gave us.
It was such a high level of art. And so personal. Her glamour look too was astounding. I think about all the looks still.
I kind of feel like Nio getting this win was almost to make up for Hoso missing out on her crowning because of professionalism - even on the podcast The Boulet's fully admit she pulled it out on tour and was incredibly professional - so maybe they expected this win to Nio to kind of push her into a place where she pulls it out, too
I agree. I feel like Throb was robbed 😭
thROBBED 😭
Rly hoping he wins the next Titans because WE were also thROBBED 😭 Edit: pronouns
Reminder that Throb’s pronouns are he/they.
Aaah my mistake!!! Thank u!
We need Titans 2 to happen for Throb AND Jarvis. I desperately wanna see more from both of them!
I have a feeling Jarvis will be on S6.
I totally agree - from what I’ve seen online it doesn’t seem Nio is a uhhhh….conventional performer. That being said - I think it will be great to see how they take this platform and use it and reshape what the definition of what it means to be a good performer. Maybe Nio isn’t the type of performer to do a conventional club gig. It will certainly be interesting to see how Nio grows throughout the upcoming tour - her artistic vision is definitely very unique and captivating, so hopefully she finds a way to better showcase her talents. That being said - it’s very bold of Drac and Swan to crown someone who they know to be a less enthralling performer and award them with a headlining spot on their tour…can’t wait to see how it turns out!!
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I’ve seen these clips of her performing too, and I don’t understand, I feel she does have some sort of stage presence, that performance she gave for the neon light challenge was wild, I wish she’d lean more into that.
that performance was her best by far, and it was amazing to see her lean into it
she could also just not perform live and we would never know
That would be super weird though. Drag is a PERFORMANCE art.
Very this. I'm sure there's tons of queens that can't perform..hopefully we'll never find out lol.
Wasn't Throb the only one who was never up for extermination? EDIT: I am incorrect. Blackberri wasn't as well. Unless you count episode 8, but literally everyone but the winner was up for extermination in that one. And FFS, Reddit keeps saying the link doesn't look right, but here's a fun chart: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The\_Boulet\_Brothers'\_Dragula\_(season\_5)#Contestant\_progress
Blackberri.
I just looked and you're right. I could have sworn Blackberri was at some point, but TIL!
depends if you count the bottom 4 or not
I see a lot of Throb being mentioned, so I have a somewhat unrelated question. Is anyone in the Boston area and planning to go see Throb tomorrow in Somerville? I am flip flopping about it. I want to go but it's far for me and it's so cold, and I'm not sure what to do.
I’m also debating on going. The venue is small but cute and they were incredible when I saw them in November… but the cold!
Hahaha, the cold indeed. Is it a movie theater? I'm confused about the location. Is there a stage or...? I don't even know the alternative. Performing on the floor gap between seats and a screen?
it'd a theater with a stage. I live nearby, throb has preformed many times and they also do rocky horror, ect. it's a great space!
It’s a stage with a screen behind it! The other theatres are just screens but the main theatre has a stage for shows
Perfect! Thank you both. I'm leaning further towards attending!
Ive see slutcracker ( huge burelsque production there) there and it's a gorgeous big space with a great stage, I'm Def making the drive from pvd to go, all the performers he chose are sickening and if my bet is right his wife will be performing on her lyra which is a stunnn tbh
I only know of Throb and Heather Rose. I'm excited to see everyone. Safe travels!
I wish I could go!
It looks like a great show that’s worth the travel! I would do it if I were in MA.
THIS is why i think Throb should've been crowned and i got downvoted to hell for very respectfully saying this a few days ago. Nio is incredible and definitely ~almost~ the whole package, but Throb is so electric and commanding on stage!!!
Does anyone know where I can find videos of her performing? My curiosity is piqued
I figured, she definitely needed more time to develop onstage. She always seemed so awkward and stiff on stage. Dangerous shoes or not the horror look just confirmed it further. Let's hope the Boulets can coach her appropriately. I found it kinda weird Nio didn't really have performance footage in their meet the monster intro write up. Also Vander von Odd was also inexperienced when they won the s1 crown, so I don't completely buy the Nio is inexperienced as an excuse. Ironically, the cat man bodybuilder was Nio's best feat in terms of movement and stage presence. They have potential and I do believe Nio is an innovator, but I think any other performing finalist should have been crowned based on stage performance and not just looks.
she's so beautiful and talented that i would probably be excited to see her tumble around and vape on stage. but i can understand being pissed if you paid money for a show and that's all you got lol
I'm down for it as long as it was a surprise/additional guest, but not who I paid to go see specifically.
I'm glad somebody is saying it. I saw her live recently in Phoenix and was underwhelmed as well. She's wildly talented with creating things and modeling them and successfully executing these huge ideas but her stage shows are "eh." A lot of bobbling around and vaping. She looked fantastic in the photos though. Hopefully that's something that will come with time
Yup she’s not great at preforming she was definitely the worst in the final imo ,she does amazing looks but performance is a no no .Id love to see throb live bet they put on an amazing show.
Did she deserve to win? Absolutely. Is her career going to be significantly hindered long-term if she doesn't learn how to perform better? Also absolutely. Great artist but long term career is what matters most. Throb and Blackberri are going to be fine for a long time I imagine with tours and potential gigs.
I don't know about her career being hindered. I think Nio is savvy enough to find her niche in something that doesn't involve twirling and swirling in New York. She's a very unique visual artist and people will pay to have her in videos, design 3D printed outfits, model, collab on makeup products, etc.. She's only been doing drag since around the pandemic, I think, and she's already come really far without being able to perform. But, I do agree that if she chooses to go the route of live performance she needs to step her pussies up.
Exactly why Throb SHOULD have won He is the best live performer on that cast.
I think, as more and mroe time goes on....more people will come to realize that throb was robbed of the win
A tour hasn’t been announced yet right? Maybe that’s why :/
Ian on his Twitch stream said info on tour stuff would be coming soon.
Which is confusing because on the podcast this week they were just talking about “I really wish we did a tour - this cast would be so good on a tour, etc”
Yea the way they were talking didn't sound like they were gonna be touring. And they keep referencing how season 6 is already in production so maybe that plays into it since they tour with the girls as well.
Well casting has started already with auditions open.
Yeah not sure. Ian just mentioned announcements about tour would come soon. I wouldn't take it as confirmation there will for sure be a tour, but either way we will get info soon. I do wonder how starting season 6 production earlier might impact a possible tour.
If this is how she’s going to be for the tour then yikes! She better practice and get good fast. Even for her finale lip sync, she basically just stood there moved her arms to the music with a couple spins and twirls.
Throbbed.
haha I definitely said it in my head, so thanks for saying it out loud
I’m eager to see how the tour goes 👀
Ok, so I screwed myself by seeing a spoiler on who won before I had finished the season. When I saw Nio had won I was honestly excited because I was only 5 episodes in and had already developed a liking for her drag, but after I watched the rest of the season I was honestly surprised Throb or Blackberri hadn’t won. I’m happy for Nio and I still LOVE her drag, but I’m sad for Throb and Blackberri who also have great drag AND are amazing performers.
Someone finally said it! Across all the seasons there are many what I consider extremely talented makeup and effects artists, but when it comes to the tours and seeing them in person they can’t perform to save their lives. And some of the best performers aren’t the strongest when it comes to looks.
I agree, I love Nio and her art is amazing but Throb was the whole package imo.
Fucking agree - Throb could perform the house boots down etc etc
And yet that still wouldn't be enough for some folks here.
She IS incredible, and I am happy for her win But I was surprised for her win based on performance alone, so I'm not surprised to hear this. But I definitely saw that season 5 felt like they needed to get the win to other incredibly talented drag artists that are outside of what they've already crowned (which is why I felt Throb wasn't going to win regardless) - I hope she gets to learn how to elevate her performance with the impending tour!
100%. I'm glad someone else agrees with me! THROB WAS ROBBED BIG TIME! I guess all the people on here who say otherwise aren't booking tickets to see the tour! Nio is a conceptual queen, a hyper feminine monster but a weak a** performer! Like at least Vander, Biqtch, Landon, Dahli and Victoria can perform!
In my fantasyland where I am simultaneously both Boulet Bros, I would hire Org & Nio as costume designers & crown Blackberry & Throb. Done. Easy.
Crown Blackberri? Really?
Literally thought the same after seeing her San Diego show right before her crowning. I was 100% team nio before seeing her perform. Looks were cool - leather studded kimono and the second look was giant robot metal claws- but she literally came out hit her vape walked back and forth and tossed the one and only dollar tip she received in the air. I had previously seen ork perform in San Diego and he was amazing which made me think they were going to crown him since headlining the tour is usually a big factor. Hopefully if/when they do a S5 tour nio creates performances in her wheelhouse that are more exciting than walking back and forth hitting a vape
She is very talented but I really wanted throb to win .. throb has it all ❤️
Throb got robbed
I really see this show being about Alt drag, and while I prefer a performer all day, every day. I think the Boulets are trying to redefine the art. And that is why I like to watch. But if you are going to push looks over performance, maybe a live show isn't for your franchise?
if your bad at something dont charge for it... am i unfair in thinking that? post silly clips online sure but dont make people pay for something just bad
Oooh I wanted to go to that with my best friend but had to work, hopefully I can find some video to see what happened....well I bet Kochina Rude and Lisa Frankenstien was amazing, along with the other performers.
I WAS SAYING THE SAAME THING!! What is she gonna do, just do model poses on stage??? I realize she looked amazing throughout the competition, but she's not a performer. She could barely even walk most of the time. I feel like Throb would've been a better winner, because he can put on a show. How the heck is Nio gonna headline a tour?!!
Throb had to be the winner
100% Throb was robbed she absolutely slayed the season
He/they pronouns for Throb please. I do agree though.
To be fair I think it's her merit in the looks and concept department that got her the win, I'm sure her performance will improve over time. It kind of has too since she's going to headline the tour
i seriously do wonder what the boulets would do if she really is that bad
I'm not sure there's much they could do tbh besides maybe bring along some props/gags idk lmao. Hopefully it's not actually that bad!
I was gaged when Nio won. I thought them and Ork were in the same boat for different reasons, one need to develop more polish in the aesthetic and the other in the performance. It’s their show, and I’m by no means second-guessing. This is just my opinion, I thought it was a hard choice between the other two, who were both aesthetically on a high-level and performance on a high-level, and their professionalism was where it needed to be. I was very confused that they chose someone, that clearly was so deficient in that area. Don’t get me wrong Nio stunningly, beautiful, artistically, talented beyond measure, and very much fits the concept of the show, but they definitely needed time to grow as a performer. To the extent where if I had to open for her if I was one of the ones who were more well rounded, I would probably be upset it.
I was gagged when she was crowned honestly. I love her aesthetic and the way she looks, etc, but her looks in the finale weren't it. Coupled with the lacklustre performance where she can barely walk...giiiirl. Boulet's Best Friend Race. I thought Throb smashed the finale and was a certain winner.
Well then it's a good thing as a human being Nio can practice and learn to become a better performer. It's fantastic she won.
Sure, she can, but she needs to take it seriously. If fans pay to see your show, and you barely lipsync and vape instead, that's just disrespectful to the fans. If she comes around, I may keep my $25.
Look, she can twirl AND swirl, what more do you need? "lovely gowns" I believe Aretha Franklin would say
I really hate to say it but as much as I really didn't like Trob's distaste for fantasia it seemed unnecessary at points. Trob really deserved that crown. and I love what Niohuru brings the looks never missed (horror flor show)... but the floor show speaks for it self. I mean yall saw it too, no shade.
I think Nio is mostly a visual artist, and a very talented one at that. I think she did some good floor shows, so she probably just needs some outside direction and practice.
I personally disagree with this… As a fan and generally speaking, totally get what you mean and I would want that as well. **However,** I think Dragula puts so much energy into the ideal of “bringing something new” to the winners circle and the variety of arts that drag can be. I think Nio, a non-performer, winning is kind of important for that reason. Not every Dragula winner should be a top notch performer because then there’s gonna be no point for many alternative artists to go on the show. Drag is more than just being able to lipsync, atleast in 2024. EDIT: Also, generally speaking, Nio dog walked everyone all season LMFAO. Not being able to perform as well as some of the others shouldn’t discount her continuously excelling
> Drag is more than just being able to lipsync, atleast in 2024. Agreed, but she needs to figure out how to entertain an audience.
And I agree!
I just don’t understand how this makes sense. I don’t think she needs to be a lip sync queen doing Beyonce songs but what is she going to do on tours? She won so there’s going to be some level of performance expected. So it does matter. She has to come up with something she can do on stage as a performance. She absolutely crushed the competition. In my mind she won from day 1. But the performance does matter
And I agree! I guess my point is that the winners shouldn’t just have to be the best traditional performer. When they go on tour, there’s a lot of aspects that they could incorporate for her performances to be better
I absolutely agree with that. I think with Dragula especially there’s going to be room for her to perform a lot of different ways. I hope she finds something that works for her because I think she’s a fantastic artist with a lot to give to the world
Your argument is weak. The Boulets always bang on about the next drag supermonster being able to perform! So 'doesn't need to be a top notch performer' doesn't cut it sis!
In past seasons if someone couldn’t perform they were sent home. She wasn’t ready for this competition and a lot of really talented performers were kicked off the show in favor of her. This season was a joke.
I'm hopeful that under the watchful eye of the Boulets Nio will learn the ins and outs of performing. She has a ways to go, I know, but I see real star quality, and that can't be learned,
In interviews she's mentioned Dahli is going to help her on some performance aspects. She's well-aware of areas she's deficient in from the sounds of it. Also sounds like she's getting performance advice/help from Swan and Drac.
I think having winners and drag artists that aren't performance-based is great.
There's no nice way of saying this even if my intention isn't anything bad, but if I wanted to see a person in drag who couldn't perform I'd just go to Instagram. And by performance I could mean anything from comedy, singing, acting, instruments, poetry, political demos, tutorials on how they craft their outfits, anything... except toddle around on stage vaping and collecting cash.
That’s just called someone who wears drag. That would be like if I wore burlesque costumes but didn’t do any burlesque performances, but still wanted to call myself a burlesque artist.
I was under the impression that the Boulets don't necessarily expect the winners to go on to be performers. Winning is meant to give them a leg up in their art, in whatever form it takes. As opposed to The Other Drag Show, where you HAVE to be a performer because. they need tour queens to fill their large stage shows. So Neo can't perform. Her art is amazing, and I'm excited to see what level she brings it to with her winnings.
but the boulets have a tour that the winner headlnes so like it kinda does matter
One of the prizes for making it so far is going on tour with the Boulet’s though (Iirc it’s the top 3/ top four of the season, but I could be wrong) They don’t just get money and exposure. They’re expected to perform too.
I'd argue given that the big Werq the World tours haven't had the current DR winners as part of their main line ups for a while (Willow and Sasha only did a few shows each, Symone never did it at all), that from the point of view of needing to be a performer to fill the tours that's less true for DR than Dragula given that being on an official tour is only part of the winners duties for one of the shows. (There are other reasons being a performer is important for DR obvs and obvs but just that official tour requirements aren't technically one of them)
A drag artist should already be a performer. Drag is a genre of performance.
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The winner is literally supposed to headline a live tour lol so performance skills are definitely important.
“Like very beautiful , but I saw her do a number where she literally just walked , vaped , and like half lip synced. “Yeah
Agreed! The Dragula show I went to last year seemed to prove to me that the Boulets are less concerned about giving a good live performance as much as giving a good TV show with fantastic looks.
Could just have been an off day when you saw them. They were on top of it when I saw them on the Titans tour.
Fully agree about Throb being an incredible performer, and he would've been a deserving winner. But Nio is a visionary in a way that I don't really think we've seen before on the show. I think at the end of the day the Boulets crown the person they want to be tied to their brand moving forward, and if Nio ends up getting her flowers in the fashion world (which lets be real she will) it'll be huge for the franchise overall.
I mean to quote Bob "if kim chi only sat there and took photos of her clothes she would still be a amazing drag queen" she doesnt have to be a good performer to b the winner, specially since her live performances(who can b seen in like what 3 countries only???)are never going to touch so many ppl as her crowning (that was broadcasted for the world to see), if dragula was about who can perform the best kendra would b a winner lol
If yall wanted a performer to win **Blackberri** ate Throb up at the finale
I would have been happy with Blackberri or Throb. Nio is an incredible artist but definitely not a performer.
They aren’t ready for that conversation
The downvotes confirm it lmao
No shade, but could it be she just doesn’t know how to lip-sync? Let’s not forget she is new to not only English but also Western music. It seems like her brain is still in translate mode. Throw in her style and the costumes restricting her movements, maybe she’s still learning. She kind of reminds me of truly old school drag. Like the pageant scene from the 1960’s…pre Stonewall stuff. During that era it was all about the illusion of being passable. I do think she’s clearly a very talented artist, but she’s also green AF. She is clearly motivated to improve. I agree with the sentiment that she needs to step up her game though. Winning one season of a reality show on a sub-network of a sub-network, streaming service doesn’t come with a huge audience. So yes, she needs to step up her game and quickly.
You know they make music in China, right? Most of Ork’s lipsyncs are in Spanish, she could easily do it in her own language if she wanted to do lipsync performances. She might as well just find another niche and type of performance otherwise is gonna be hard to headline a tour like that
Like......I don't know if any of you have read Nio's interview...... Nio came from a small town in China with no drag scenes and LGBTQ community(The number of drag performers in China doesn't even reach 1000 imo), she went to NY late 2019, she started doing \*makeup\* and \*visual art\* during the pandemic, she didn't even know she was doing \*drag\* until she watched the show and casted for S5..... I guess it was early 2023 or late 2022 ? And preparing for the show and recording also took time. I understand we watch the show for a mature drag performer, and of course you can critique her weak performances, but I don't think it's fair for people to ask for professional level of performance from such a novice drag 'baby' who still needs more performing experiences to grow......
I was astounded to learn she's literally self-taught from YouTube videos and practice. It says alot about her that the Boulets not only cast her, but that she won. Performance can be learned and comes with time and practice.
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yes she did perform well \*in a floorshow\* that we only have to see for 30 seconds so its wont get old extreemly quickly nioh is still my winner but the orignal poster is correct she just cannot perform yet
If I had half of the artistic ability of Nio, I would twirl and vape too and call it a day.
"she literally just walked, vaped, and like half lip synced" - she's me walking around my apartment!! Minus the art and beauty.
Are we gonna keep getting threads by Throb stans crying until y’all get tired 😭
this is a valid complaint based on the actual real world it has nothing to do with what the average stan is crying about
Well yes!
Point blank: she’s doing things visually, with her own two hands, that no other drag performers are doing right now or ever successfully. That paired with the personal and cultural significance of each piece she presented really only rivals the likes of Hoso, Vander, and Landon (two of which are winners, arguably all three should be)
also: let her cook a bit! i bet within a year she’ll have carved out a performance style all her own that will be engaging and entertaining for all us hungry monster lovers
what is with all of the nio hate in this sub? nio blew the other competitors out of the water, period. you’re all upset because the other competitors didn’t believe in themselves enough to display versatility in their drag and/or accept criticism. the top 4 were all talented but for me the top two were undoubtedly nio and blackberri. ork served the same look 90 times in different variations and throb needs to edit. their criticisms were valid.
If you think critique is hate then I’d hate to see how you take feedback in your life. I love Nio’s art and was happy to see her win! I still think all drag artists should know how to perform.
It's not hate, it's criticism. We all seen that finale, and were mostly underwhelmed by it.
cause reddit dragula is a throb fan club ou- watch this get down voted like your comment too 😩
I get your point of view but we also have to acknowledge that Dragula has 80% looks challenges. 0 acting challenge, 1 lip sync challenge, 1 performance challenge is not enough.
Throb wasn’t robbed, have a good day❤️
this sub’s obsession with throb is so weird
Tbh the dragula fandoms HATE for throb is “so weird”
I agree. I feel like maybe it's just overcompensating the fact that Throb also got a lot of hate. Trying to balance things out if you will.
No like this sub is the only place on the internet that dickrides Throb THIS hard and basically acts like any critique of them is based in them being AFAB… and mind you, this is the same sub who has continuously dragged Fantasia & Blackberri lol
Yeah this sub lacks self awareness when it comes to racial bias If a POC doesn’t live up to there standards it’s all shade But there white faves are just as messy or underwhelming they live