We had the good fortune of connecting with Aaron Michaels | Hunnie Bun AKA Hunnie B. LaBeija and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Hunnie Bun, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I chose to pursue a career in Drag because it felt right. I kind of feel like it chose me!

I always knew I was “different”. From as early as I can remember I loved the glitz and glamour of hair, makeup and fashion.

However, I was severely teased, bullied and assaulted in elementary school. It was quite traumatic. That was when I learned that all adults weren’t safe. The very people that were supposed to support and protect me, didn’t and I wasn’t able to thrive in school like I should have. I went through a really dark place and even though I was young, I found myself contemplating suicide. I just didn’t want to be here anymore.

Luckily, my mom pulled me out of school and I started taking classes online. It was then that I was able to be myself, focus on my studies and heal. With the support of my family, I was able to pull through, “come out” and be happy!

Then I discovered DRAG!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?

I am a working youth drag entertainer who has performed throughout the state of Colorado. I am part of an amazing non-profit organization called Dragutante that provides a safe space for youth drag performers and I have recently joined a mainstream ballroom house, The Royal House of LaBeija. I also had a small feature in the documentary, “Generation Drag” that is streaming right now on Discover+. It was produced by Tyra Banks and I think it is just so cool that I got to be a part of that.

I started drag at the age of the 13, with my first time ever in drag being on my 13th birthday. I remember feeling so strong and empowered. I had never felt more myself as I do in drag. It is such a beautiful art form where you can express yourself creatively and be whatever you want to be. The best thing is, drag is for ANYONE! Drag doesn’t care about your race, size or background. Drag is where I found a community… I found my people!

I work very hard at what I do. I do my own makeup, select my own music, choreography & I do all of my own video editing. I am always studying my craft and trying to get better. That said, it is a team effort. My mom & grandma help me with my hair and outfits because it truly takes a village to raise a drag queen! I am blessed to have such a supportive family. I call them the Hunnie Bun Crew! My grandpa was even the one to give me my drag name and I just think that is so special.

Throughout this journey I have learned that nothing replaces hard work and positivity. I have also learned not to focus on what others are doing, but to stay in my own lane. It is important to remember that everyone’s path is different and there is space for everyone. Finally, above all else… Be a kind human! PERIODT! Yes, that is period-t with a “t”. 

I want people to know that drag is an form of expression and IS for all ages! There are so many amazing kids like me who are youth drag entertainers and we aren’t going anywhere. So, make room!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I absolutely LOVE boba. There is this cool place by my house called Sharetea and they make the BEST milk teas. I have also been known to have a bit of a sweet tooth and like crumble cookies. They are huge and warm and just so good!

I also love a good burger, so Hamburger Mary’s is a must. Plus that is where it all started for me, as that is where I had my 13th birthday, so it is nostalgic for me.

I like the 16th street mall and and just hanging out downtown. It’s a vibe. But, I have to say I recently discovered I like nature when attending a youth summer camp put on by YouthSeen. I literally like hugging trees now! lol…

Definately check out Dragutante.org for upcoming youth drag shows! I would also check out Red Rocks. It is just so beautiful.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to bring recognition to the Dragutante organization. It is a non-profit that provides a safe space for youth drag performers ages 8-18. It is the reason I was able to get into the drag and start making a name for myself. I am so grateful that there is an organization like Dragutante.

Website: aaronmichaelstalent.com

Instagram: @Aaronmichaelstalent

Twitter: @AaronmichaelsHB

Facebook: @Aaronmichaelstalent

Youtube: Aaron Michaels aka Hunnie Bun

Other: TikTok: @Aaronmichaelstalent

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutColorado is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.