Drag Queen You Should Know: Per Sia

Meet Per Sia, one of the originators of Drag Queen story hour. All photography by Vita Hewitt

If Per Sia’s laughter could be bottled and prescribed to help raise your spirits it would fly off the shelves. I was a little giddy to go to meet Per Sia at the iconic El Rio in San Francisco. She is one of the originators of Drag Queen Story Hour in San Francisco which now happens in over 20 states. As a result of this, it has allowed Drag performance to become a beautiful part of a larger conversation. Per Sia is busy bringing art to children at the school she works for, performing and advocating for her community. She is a San Francisco gem and definitely a performer you should know…

Per Sia is often performing at El Rio.

How did your drag journey begin?

I used to take pictures of drag queens in LA. I’ve always loved drag performers. But when I moved to SF, I fell out of love with photography and began my drag career. I am on year 17. 

What is your day job?

I work as a head teacher for first grade at an after-school arts program in SF. I teach about the importance of public transit, teach about drag/queer history, have Steam (Science, technology, engineering, Art, Mechanics) projects, and much much more. I love what I do and I am amazing at it.

You are such an active part of the community here in San Francisco. Can you tell us a bit about all that you do?

I do a lot. I host parties, DJ, perform, lead workshops and presentations about queer issues to humans of all ages (kids to seniors), and much much more. But Drag Story Hour is by far my favorite job. I get to merge my love for the classroom with my love of drag. That is why I say I am the luckiest drag queen in the world because I do everything I love.

How do you think the anti-drag and anti-trans bills are affecting the community here. The country at large? You personally? 

They are affecting my community, and most definitely me. What I am is TRANS! What I do is DRAG! And both are under attack. One might think because I live in San Francisco I would be immune but the reality is that it has been affecting me and my queer family. But in high heels and with fabulous outfits I continue to push forward. I will not let hate stop my queer joy and queer magic. 

Per Sia holding space and joy at El Rio.

What’s coming up for you?

I am booked and blessed, so go to my Instagram @per_sia to check out my upcoming events.