In the rolling hills of Ceredigion, a place more known for its pastoral beauty than its sequins and glitter, Chris Jones, a farmer’s son, is carving out an unexpected path. Inspired by the hit TV show “Ru Paul’s Drag Race,” Chris created his alter ego, Serenity, to express a side of himself that the confines of rural life kept hidden.
The Creation of Serenity: A New Persona Emerges
Three years ago, in the quiet town of Lampeter, Chris began his transformation into Serenity. As a 26-year-old dance teacher with a passion for performance, Chris found an outlet for his creativity that resonated with his identity more than anything before. Serenity, he says, is a fierce representation of his personality, a part of him that only emerges under the spotlight.
A Positive Force in Ceredigion
Against the backdrop of the Covid-19 pandemic, Chris’s journey took on a new urgency. The lockdowns brought life to a standstill, but they also provided Chris with a chance to focus on his newfound persona. The local reaction has been overwhelmingly positive, with Serenity bringing a novel form of entertainment to an audience unaccustomed to the flamboyant world of drag.
The Mind’s Eye: A Haven for the LGBTQ+ Community
Serenity has found a home at The Mind’s Eye, a club in Lampeter that offers a welcoming space for the LGBTQ+ community. Chris emphasizes the importance of such safe spaces for personal growth and acceptance, and he advocates for more venues that cater to the LGBTQ+ community across Wales.
Spreading the Message of Self-Love
Not content with just local fame, Chris aims to take Serenity’s message of self-love and acceptance beyond the confines of Lampeter. Having recently performed at Pride Cardiff and in Manchester, he has tasted the larger stage and is eager for more. Yet, his roots remain firmly planted in the Welsh countryside, where the support for Serenity runs deep.
A Drag Queen with Rural Roots
Chris’s story is one of contrasts – the traditional life of a Welsh farmer’s son merged with the colorful and often misunderstood world of drag. It’s a narrative that speaks volumes about the changing face of rural communities and the enduring power of self-expression. With Serenity, Chris Jones is not just performing; he’s pioneering a movement, bringing a dash of drag to the Welsh countryside, one show at a time.
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