Meet Ryan Carpenter | Fena Barbitall – drag superstar

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ryan Carpenter and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ryan, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Now that I’m in my 20th year of drag, it’s easier for me to look back and piece together how it all started. Originally Drag was a fun, creative exciting way to make money doing what I love. over the years beyond my control it has developed into a business. I’m still trying to catch up with that. A little over four years ago I branched off into wig styling which has now become a whole business and itself, I have put a lot of time and effort into it because i need to feel proud of my work. It has met my needs to be creative and fiscally responsible so far.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I consider myself a laid-back relatable person. I put my bra on one strap at a time just like everyone else. As far as being a performer I’m like no other. When it comes to my business, and I really feel like my brand of entertainment, speaks for itself, just put me on stage and let it rip. I’ve absolutely honed my craft, and I think my brand of humor and engaging entertainment is what draws people to me naturally without a lot of outside influence or noise six years ago when I picked everything up and moved across country to start all over again from scratch, was absolutely the most difficult thing I’ve ever done, but thankfully the most important thing that I brought with me was my years of experience and ability to just make shit work . Every project I do comes with a new lesson to learn, which I would like to believe that I, ultimately learn from my mistakes. my story started in a small town with not a lot of resources but thankfully, my imagination took me wherever I needed to go.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Well, I’m a very visual person so when people come to stay with me usually the first place I take them is at Mulholland Drive to see the view of the city. next I think it’s important when you’re here to see the beach and not just any beach mama you want to go to Malibu baby the rocky cliffs, the beautiful waves. It’s such a peaceful place. I’m more of a downtown sort of person so usually I want people to experience some gritty downtown nightlife at one of my favorite places club precinct. To me it’s the perfect dive club. I suppose while you’re here you would want to eat something too. for that I definitely think we need to go into east LA for some incredible Mexican food at casita Del Campo and if you’re lucky you can catch a show! LA is full of entertainment around every corner. Whether you’re looking to laugh or be thrilled, places like the comedy store, and the Largo are great for standup comics, which is my personal favorite when I’m looking to laugh and be entertained. And of course, while you’re here you need to see Disneyland.!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My shout out is absolutely dedicated to my mother not only the strongest person I know, but the most resourceful, dedicated and caring person I’ve ever known. A retired educator, who worked endlessly to improve the lives of her young students. Also one funny bitch

x 

Instagram: @fenabarbitall

Twitter: @fenabarbitall

Youtube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCWZA0ofPI4lnfiG5F0bjZtQ

Other: I’m available for birthdays, weddings and other fun things where you give me money.

Image Credits
Astor yang Jeremy Lucido Stephen Zakari