Allusia
Alias:
Allusia Alusia
Cole Hartley
Allusia emerged onto the drag scene in the Pacific Northwest 21 years ago in punk rock hair and political statements. Inspired by artists that marched to the beat of their own drums like Cyndi Lauper and Nina Hagen, as well as savagery of the animal kingdom, Allusia always strove to unapologetically carve out her unique spot in the ecosystem of art. With lyrics inspired by prehistoric desires and looks divined from esoteric fever dreams, she crashed into the scene like a bull into a china shop – and hasn’t had time to look back. Her first drag performance was a fundraiser for Stonewall Youth, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing resources and a place of belonging for queer youth. From there she went on to perform in various drag shows, house parties, and seedy garage rock shows as well as becoming part of local grassroots political movements. At 19, she became the youngest ever co-chair of Olympia Gay Pride and has ever since strived to make the world a better place for the queer community. At 25, Allusia packed a U-Haul and moved to Los Angeles with no plan, no money, and no clue. Wasting no time, she quickly became a staple in the West Hollywood party scene with residencies at Here Lounge, Micky’s, The Abbey, Hamburger Mary’s, The Factory, and more. She has appeared on stage with Christina Aguilera, Jennifer Hudson, La Bouche, Bright Lights, and a slew of others that she cannot remember due to various blackouts. Fueled by the delights of being a nightlife socialite, she became a video ho in countless music videos and made saucy drag appearances in movies and television shows such as AJ And The Queen, Bones, Glow, Dorothy, and We Are Your Friends as well as casting and starring in cult drag favorite Cherry Pop. After a six-year break from making music, Allusia rode back in with a sex-fueled do whatever you want party single called “Psycho Pony.” Her upcoming EP Animal Nature remains true to her riotous roots while including a glossy pumped-up new feel. With the second single “Party Rhino” near the horizon, it feels like the after-party might go on forever.