Shanika Sunrise, a drag queen from Sandbach, Cheshire, recently experienced a night unlike any other. The performer supported Chappell Roan during her sold-out UK tour.
With emotions running high, Shanika described the event as beyond their wildest dreams, making a significant mark on their career.
Shanika Sunrise, hailing from Sandbach, Cheshire, jumped at the opportunity to support Chappell Roan after spotting an advertisement on social media. Describing it as the ‘chance of a lifetime,’ Shanika immediately applied, eager to perform at the Manchester Academy.
The excitement was palpable right from the outset. Shanika’s anticipation grew as they prepared to take the stage, underscoring the importance of this moment in their career.
Arriving backstage, Shanika was filled with an overwhelming mix of energy, anticipation, and excitement. The sound of the crowd’s roars grew louder, heightening the sense of what was to come.
Wrapped in a mermaid tail, Shanika felt the incredible surge of excitement as they waddled backstage, knowing something huge was about to happen.
The experience truly hit home once they left the stage, with the crowd’s chants of ‘Shanika Sunrise’ resonating in their ears. Shanika had never encountered such a tremendous response before.
The alter ego Shanika Sunrise was born out of a necessity to cope with hardship. In 2017, at the age of 19, Shanika was undergoing cancer treatment, and this persona served as a vital escape.
‘It literally got me through my whole experience,’ Shanika remarked, highlighting the profound impact of their drag persona on their overall well-being.
This journey of self-discovery and resilience has been central to Shanika’s life, culminating in memorable performances like the one at Manchester Academy.
The response from the audience was overwhelmingly positive. Shanika described how hearing the crowd chant their name was a surreal experience that they had never imagined.
The wave of support from the fans added to the magical atmosphere of the night, making Shanika feel truly recognised and appreciated.
Following the show, Shanika took to social media to share an inspiring message with their followers. They emphasised the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity.
‘People may try to minimise you or make you feel unwelcome at the table when you’re trying to make your art. Just do it for yourself,’ Shanika advised, encouraging others to stay true to their passions.
The experience has undoubtedly marked a significant milestone in Shanika’s career. It has not only provided them with wider recognition but also a renewed sense of purpose in their art.
Looking ahead, Shanika is inspired to continue pushing boundaries and pursuing their dreams, fuelled by the incredible experience of supporting Chappell Roan.
In summary, Shanika Sunrise’s opportunity to support Chappell Roan on tour stands out as a career-defining moment. The experience was not only a celebration of their artistic journey but also a testament to their resilience and pursuit of dreams.
With a renewed sense of purpose and an ever-growing fanbase, Shanika is set to continue making waves in the world of drag performance, driven by the support and recognition they have garnered.
