Artist Spotlight: Steven Retchless đ€ đ đ
Steven Retchless, a dynamic and multifaceted performer, began his journey in the entertainment world in the dazzling city of Las Vegas, where he was born and raised. With a deep-rooted love for the fine arts, his early years were shaped by the glittering lights of Vegas and the vibrant culture of Puerto Vallarta, where he also grew up. These two cities, each with its unique charm, served as the backdrop for his evolution as an artist.
From a young age, Steven’s passion for performance was evident. His first taste of the stage came in the form of school showcases during the first and second grades. Little did he know, these small performances would lay the foundation for a career that would eventually take him to the finals of âAmerica’s Got Talentâ as a pole dancer. In the pole community, Steven didnât just make a markâhe became a trailblazer. His performances, marked by a distinctive blend of androgyny and sex appeal, set him apart and earned him recognition as a competitor, teacher, judge, and performer.
However, Stevenâs artistic journey didnât stop at pole dancing. After achieving considerable success, he returned to Puerto Vallarta, a place he considered paradise, to immerse himself in the art of cabaret. His first foray into the local entertainment scene began with an audition for âXanaduâ at Act2PV Theater. This experience allowed him to explore every facet of theater, from singing and dancing to acting, choreographing, and even drag. It was a time of discovery and growth, as Steven honed his skills and ventured into new territories, crafting a one-man cabaret act that showcased both his established and newfound talents.
The path wasnât always smooth. Steven faced significant challenges, from battling stage fright to overcoming the emotional hurdles of producing his own shows. He vividly recalls the intense meditation sessions before his debut in âXanadu,â trying to gather the courage to sing in front of an audienceâa task that once terrified him. The pressure culminated in a breakdown the day before the premiere of his self-produced one-man show, âRETCHLESS,â where he cried hysterically out of fear. Yet, each challenge became a lesson, each obstacle a stepping stone.
As Steven navigated through personal and professional trials, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the sudden passing of the theaterâs owner, he emerged stronger, evolving into a comedic yet thought-provoking drag queen with a deep, resonant message. His growth as a performer and writer in Puerto Vallarta has been exponential, transforming him from a shy artist into a boisterous queen who commands the stage with confidence.
Today, Steven is a performer who understands his worth and value. He has learned to embrace imperfections, roll with the punches, and focus on pleasing his true audience. His journey has been one of self-discovery, and through it all, he has found a deep sense of self-worth and purpose in his art. As he looks to the future, Steven is excited to continue sharing his story, his performances, and his message with the world, confident that his best is yet to come.
