About Rafaela

Inspired by the drag community in Taipei, Sam Garcia first began performing drag in January 2019, adopting the stage name Rafaela. This name is the feminine version of Sam’s middle name, Rafael, as their drag represents the feminine side of themself.

Rafaela is most well-known for her live-singing vocal talents, as well as her gender fluid expression. She believes drag is the art of hyperbolizing society's gendered symbols in performance, and enjoys combining masculine symbols such as facial hair with her elegant, feminine appearance. By combining masculinity and femininity, Rafaela’s looks and performances challenge the gender binary that has long policed social expression.

Rafaela performs regularly as drag bars around Taipei, including Café Dalida, Ganymede, and Locker Room. She has also performed at many queer events including the WERK Party, and events celebrating Taipei and Taichung Pride. Making her international debut, she performed at International Council for Traditional Music World Conference in Bangkok, Thailand in July 2019. 

Take a look at some of Rafaela’s projects and media below.