Life’s anything but a drag

Professional drag performer Rhys Bobridge is hoping this week to be crowned Australia’s favourite dancer in the hit television series So You Think You Can Dance.

Bobridge, who was born in Adelaide but now lives and performs in Melbourne, faces off against Demi Sorono, Kate Wormald and Jack Chambers on Sunday night.

The 26-year-old jazz dancer has been a favourite since the series started earlier this year, and draws massive screams from the weekly audience in appreciation of both his dance skills and unique sense of style.

I was born for this competition. Being on the stage is like breathing to me, Bobridge said.

Regardless of the outcome, the show will be amazing exposure for me. I’ve learnt so much already in the short time I’ve been involved on the show and it has deepened my love for what we as dancers do. I believe dancers are a unique breed and I am blessed to be one. This is one of the most uplifting and positive experiences of my life.

Bobridge is a regular on the Melbourne drag scene, first hitting the circuit at the age of 17, and has a regular gig as an elf in the children’s entertainment group The Fairies.

He describes it as incredibly liberating to take on another persona and do things you wouldn’t have the guts to do as your everyday self.

I joke that when I was born I fell out of my mother and into the splits, Bobridge said.

I don’t think there was any realisation -“ it was just something I always did. I started pretty young, so it’s always been a part of my life.

I truly believe that everyone has a purpose on earth and mine involves my talent. I love what I do and feel so lucky to be able to do what I love.