February 17th, 2023Chilling Out with MC Art Simone

Art Simone will MC the All Ages Soundshell event on Saturday, March 11
and co-MC at Carnivale on March 12 with ABC’s favourite weatherman
Nate Byrne! She chatted with ChillOut Festival’s Amy Fabry-Jenkins.

Amy: Art, it’s not your first rodeo. What’’ your favourite ChillOut festival memory?
Art: My favourite memory of ChillOut Festival is always being part of Street
Parade – being surrounded by so many supportive people who come together to
champion and celebrate everything queer is just so special!
Amy: What do you like about performing at LGBTQIA+ events? Is there anything
that makes regional pride events different?
Art: Performing at regional events is super important to me because I’m a believer
that everyone deserves to have safe, inclusive spaces where they can be themselves
and be surrounded by like-minded individuals. Being outside of metro locations can
at times be super-isolating, so it’s important to bring these events to regional areas so
everyone can feel valid and loved. Because of this I often find that regional audiences
are even more fun as patrons are so appreciative and thankful for the glitter & glam!
Amy: What are you looking forward to this ChillOut Festival?
Art: What’s not to look forward to – there is a star-studded program filled with
amazing events, entertainers and everything you could want. But of course I am
looking forward to the All Ages Soundshell on Saturday, March 11 and Carnivale on
Sunday, March 12.
Amy: This year’s festival theme is ‘Find Your Wings’. How did you ‘find your wings’?
Art: I found my wings through the art of drag. I often liken drag to being my
superhero uniform. It’s what has helped me to be a better version of myself and live
life to the fullest.