Drag queen turned Britney on Halloween 2003

Born and raised in California, Britney Spears impersonator Derrick Barry began training as a gymnast at the age of five, notes his fan website.

BENGALURU: Born and raised in California, Britney Spears impersonator Derrick Barry began training as a gymnast at the age of five, notes his fan website. The artiste took to theatre, seven years later. It was at the age of 19 years that he moved to Hollywood to further his passion for the art of performing.

He first met the Toxic singer on  The Tonight Show with Jay Leno on November 17, 2003. He was also seen as a participant on season 8 of the hit reality competition RuPaul’s Drag Race. The drag performer performed at KittyKo, The Lalit Ashok, Bengaluru as part of the Kitty Su India Tour. City Express caught up with the artiste on everything Britney and more... Halloween 2003 piloted his newfound career of impersonating Britney Spears.

When did you take to performing drag? How did you discover the art form?
I started on Halloween in 2003 and it was my Britney Spears impersonation that led me to have my first on camera interaction with her on the Tonight Show.   I discovered the art form while I was living with my girlfriend in Hollywood and her cousin moved in to go to make up school. She put make up on me as a test and nobody could believe how much I looked like Britney

Why Britney Spears? What is it that drew you to her?
My best friend in high school saw an ad of Britney and was convinced it looked just like me. That prompted me to want to do it for Halloween in 2003.

How similar and different are you and Britney?
Our similarities are in our love for music, dance, gymnastics and performing. Our differences are that she is a real woman that has kids.  I’ve been trying to get pregnant for years and it’s just not taking.

Do you have a favourite Bollywood movie or star?
I don’t have a favourite, but I love the costumes, culture and the dance.

What are your thoughts on India?
India has been a place of wonder for me.  It’s a magical place with most incredible people and cuisine.

Have you ever performed with Britney?
We have had numerous interactions, but I am still waiting for my meet and greet photo.

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The New Indian Express
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