We recently connected with Karina Precious and have shared our conversation below.

Karina , appreciate you joining us today. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?

Karina Precious is a renowned Vogue dancer from Ukraine, now a legend in New York’s Ballroom Scene. As the first Ukrainian vogue dancer in the U.S., she arrived in the Mecca of the Ballroom Scene, New York City, in 2013 for a visit—and never left.In 2018, she also discovered a passion for Burlesque, which she has since pursued professionally.
Karina is known for her glamorous and sensual performances, where she adds a unique flair by incorporating a giant martini glass into her routines. As a full-time burlesque performer and showgirl, she dazzles audiences at upscale parties, corporate events, and private functions, blending elegance with allure to create an unforgettable experience. With every performance, she captivates with her distinctive style and sophisticated charm.

Karina , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

Karina Precious is a celebrated performer in New York City’s entertainment scene, known for her unique blend of Voguing and Burlesque. Hailing from Ukraine, Karina made history as the first and only Vogue dancer from her country to perform in the U.S., quickly earning Legendary status in the Ballroom community by 2021. Her journey into the world of dance began with Voguing, a powerful and expressive style that captivated her, and she immersed herself in its culture and life when she joined Iconic House of Revlon in 2014.

In 2018, Karina expanded her artistic horizon when she discovered Burlesque, a genre that allowed her to embrace her love for sensuality, glamour, and performance art. Since then, she has pursued Burlesque professionally, carving a niche for herself as one of NYC’s top performers.

Known for her high-glam, sultry routines, Karina brings a touch of sophistication and allure to every performance. A signature element of her shows is incorporating Voguing elements : catwalk , duckwalk, hands performance, spins and dips into Burlesque acts.
“I have a strong connection to the Ballroom Scene, and I’m never shy about letting it shine. Whether in a glamorous venue or on any stage where I can vogue, I’m here to show the world the real me—confident, bold, and unapologetically true to myself.”
Karina owns a giant rhinestoned martini glass, which she seamlessly integrates into her acts, adding both drama and playfulness. Whether performing in intimate settings or large venues, her shows are a visual feast, combining elegance with an unapologetically bold sensuality.

Karina is a full-time burlesque performer and professional showgirl in New York City, collaborating with a variety of entertainment companies. However, she has been primarily associated with Astarte Creative since 2018, where her artistry continues to captivate and inspire audiences. Her performances have earned her a devoted following, and she remains a respected figure in both the Burlesque and Ballroom scenes.
Instagram : karinaprecious__

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

One of the defining moments that tested my resilience came when I was 20 years old and made the bold decision to leave Ukraine and move to New York City. I had no connections, no money, and just a 3-month visa, but my passion for voguing and my desire to immerse myself in the city’s underground Ballroom Scene—the heart of black queer culture—drove me. It was a world I felt connected to, a place I could call home, even though I had no direct ties to it. That risky leap was fueled by my determination to find community, express myself, and make my mark in a culture that resonated deeply with me.

Another defining moment of resilience came when war broke out in my home country, Ukraine.In the midst of uncertainty and turmoil, I had to find a way to stay grounded, keep working, and take care of my mental health. Despite the chaos, I focused on preserving my stability and continuing to move forward.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

The most rewarding part of being an artist for me is the freedom to express myself authentically. It’s not just about creating something impressive, but about sharing my truth, exploring my emotions, and being vulnerable in my work. This freedom allows me to bypass external pressures, focus on what’s meaningful to me and create something deeply personal. Ultimately, it’s fulfilling to know my art is a reflection of who I truly am.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.karinapreciousburlesque.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karinaprecious_/
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@karinarevlon_
• Soundcloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/dgHqxrhtE1aXZkaR9

Image Credits

Photographer @Zhanna_Bozhenko