Cole Hampton

In a podcast recorded in March 2020, Cole Hampton shared insights into their life, including the creation of their drag persona, Pamela Hancock, their experiences within the Pride movement, and thoughts at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in New Zealand. The recording touches on themes from the 2000s to the 2020s, reflecting on various aspects of queer culture, performance, and individual identity.

Raised by a single parent, Cole details a personal journey that intertwines family history, including the disappearance of their father, with the embrace of vibrant theatrical and drag communities in Wellington. The persona of Pamela Hancock, a 63-year-old character from Bulls, drew inspiration from diverse sources, ranging from 1970s cultural figures to personal acquaintances. Pamela wasn't just an expression of drag; they were a confluence of the many women and some men in Cole's life.

Growing up, Cole navigated various challenges, from high school bullying to personal encounters with domestic violence. These experiences were crucial in shaping their character and resilience within the queer community. The process of self-identification and coming out was an intricate part of Cole's development, not initially prompted by self-realization but rather by external assumptions and the pressures of high school politics. Cole's reflection on these experiences speaks to a broader narrative of finding one’s place within a community and the value of historical awareness and self-education.

Cole shared a compassionate understanding of drag culture's richness, noting its inclusivity beyond the mainstream inspired by media phenomena like RuPaul's Drag Race. They mentioned Wellington pioneers who had set the standard in the drag scene, emphasizing that drag extends far beyond aesthetics to encompass comedy, lip-syncing, and acting. Cole's passion for history resonated through their portrayal of Pamela, acknowledging the legacies of those who pushed the boundaries of queer performance art.

The discussion wove into the intersections of performance and activism. Cole believed that activism didn't have to be overt and could be impactful through humor and fostering a sense of community, particularly important when faced with societal adversities and crises such as COVID-19.

Cole's account radiates a call for kindness, understanding, and the importance of communication within the queer community—especially in divisive times. They touched on the lack of communication exacerbated by social media, despite its role in connecting individuals. As the COVID-19 pandemic unfolded, Cole expressed concern for the community's marginalization, underscoring the ongoing need for unity and advocacy, perhaps more pertinent now than ever.

The interview concluded with Cole contemplating the future of their persona Pamela Hancock and the queer community amidst a health crisis, demonstrating the intersections of personal and collective narratives within the ever-evolving tapestry of queer culture. It's a poignant reminder of the enduring need for inclusivity and dialogue in the pursuit of progress and acceptance for all community members.

This summary is created using Generative AI. Although it is based on the recording's transcription, it may contain errors or omissions. Click here to learn more about how this summary was created.

Cole Hampton

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