Name: Witti Repartee

Where can we find you out and about?: I’m often seen at Rockbar (where as the “Queen Mum” I’ve starred in staged readings, judged competitions, co-hosted fundraisers and where I throw my annual 39th Birthday Party), but can also be found at Excelsior in Park Slope hosting the Oscars, their annual Pie Baking contest and other special events, the Eagle, where I’ve been the host of Halloween and numerous Team Eagle events, and as a member of New York’s chapter of Drag Queen Story Hour.

Why Drag?: Drag gives me an opportunity to play a character and perform songs that a guy generally wouldn’t do.  It’s a fantastic outlet for someone with a theatre background who never followed that path as a profession.

What made you start drag?: When I was thirteen, I was rooting through the costume collection during summer theatre camp and chanced upon a purple suit that was very similar to the one worn by Dana Carvey’s Church Lady on "Saturday Night Live."  One or two “Isn’t that Specials” later, and I was hooked.  I started doing it more seriously in college, and then performed around New Jersey before meeting my drag mother in a production of La Cage Aux Folles in 1997.

Who are you drag inspirations?: Easily, the “Charleses” – Busch, Pierce and Ludlam.   Beyond that, it’s a blend of Agnes Moorehead, Bette Davis, Bette Midler, Rosalind Russell and Bea Arthur.

Your favorite part of drag is _____?: Giving newer queens a platform to take the stage, own the spotlight and shine!  The shows I produce are always variety-style revues, and I always have a couple early-career queens in the lineup:  I wouldn’t be who I am if Victoria Weston hadn’t taken me under her wing in 1997 and given me a slot in her show on Fire Island.  I was untested, untried and made a mistake or two, but with guidance learned who I was, where my voice was and how to hold an audience.  It’s my job to help provide that for others, when and how I can.

What is your number one makeup secret?: Let the lash glue dry completely.

The three must haves of drag are _____?:  Lashes that fit your face, shoes that you can stand in on a concrete floor for three hours, and confidence.

Who are some of your favorite drag artists, designers, stylists, producers, etc. to collaborate with?: My sisters Pepperica Swirl and Farrah Moans are amazingly fun to plan and host shows with.  Excitingly, Pepper (PlanetPepper) designs almost all of my custom clothing, and Farrah (MOANS) is an amazing jeweler!  My hair designer, Izzy Decauwert, is phenomenal:  5 years at Hairspray and she makes fabulous structural wigs that hold up!  I’ve had a lot of fun working with Jason Romas at Rockbar on staged readings, and my favorite producer is the co-founder of Kaleidoscope Collaborations, Nick DiCeglie, who is a gem and a gentleman.

What has been the most rewarding moment in your drag career?: There are two that vie for it:  stepping down in 2013 after a year as Empress XXVI of New York:  my Emperor, Ritz Kraka and I made over 160 appearances, 16 trips around the country and gave away or made possible over $120,000 in grants through our work with the Imperial Court of New York.  Emotionally, though, it would have to be Folsom Street East 2016.  It was a week after the Pulse Nightclub shooting in Orlando, and instead of the comic number I’d planned, I had to sing "I Am What I Am."  We were all scared, and singing that song with an audience of thousands of people was such a unifying and grand moment.  I hope the audience remembers it as well as I do!

If you were to do one character on Snatch Game, who would it be and why?: Oh lord.  I consider myself an actor and a singer, not an impressionist.  The perfect character on Snatch Game has to be A) someone you can do well, B) someone who has enough catchphrases or tics that they can be exaggerated, and C) someone who is enough of a pop culture icon that the audience is going to buy in.  The two that have worked best on the show, to me, were Bianca del Rio’s Judge Judy and Jinkx Monsoon’s Little Edie. (Although Ben Delacreme’s Maggie Smith as Violet Crawley and Paul Lynde were also exceptional.)    Who would I do?  Bette Davis or Bea Arthur, probably.  My Holland Taylor would slay, but these days people just know her as Sarah Paulson’s wife.  Which is sad.

How can drag change the world?: Right now, we all need to smile more.  Drag can add joy.  Marie Kondo approve.

What is the biggest tip you can give a queen starting out today?: Know who you are.   You’re not playing yourself in a dress, you’re creating a character:  who is she, where does she come from?  Every song, every costume choice, it all needs to hang on something and the arc of a well developed character is it.

Social Media: @wittirepartee on Instagram and Twitter

For more on Witti, visit wittirepartee.com and follow @titndrag365

Name: Vivien Gabor

Where can we find you out and about?: Vivien is often found lurking around her friend’s shows. Nothing stable as of yet.

Why Drag?: I have no clue what I would do if I didn’t do drag. I used to play sports for years. I played the cello and piano and I sang in choirs and did shows at school. But when I discovered drag it was all over.

What made you start drag?: I saw the Sissy That Walk music video, took one look at Darienne Lake and said, “if she can do it, so can I.” And I just haven’t stopped since. Big girls forever.

Who are you drag inspirations?: Darienne Lake, obviously. But also I take huge inspiration from the legends such as Coco Peru and a few OG local girls from around the nation. I also have to credit incredible performers like Vanessa Williams, Ginger Rogers, and Carol Burnett with a lot of my personal etiquette training.

Your favorite part of drag is _____?: I don’t know if I have a favorite part. The thing that attracted me to drag was that I am able to be in complete control of every part of the performance. I make my own outfits. I style my own wigs. I make my own mixes and paint my own face. The only thing I can’t do is dance, so I just make sure to take off my clothes to distract from my stagnant feet.

What is your number one makeup secret?: Use as many colors as you can. Blending doesn’t happen with only two colors.

The three must haves of drag are _____?: Corsets, heels, and total, unabashed stubbornness.

Who are some of your favorite drag artists, designers, stylists, producers, etc. to collaborate with?: I mean, I would be remiss if I didn’t name drop my best friends, Melissa Fint (in Seattle) and Gina Tonic (in New York). Those two have given me so much laughter and support. I owe them everything. When I lived in Seattle I relished every chance I had to work at Julia’s on Broadway. Those queens and their producer are the absolute best and I miss them daily.

What has been the most rewarding moment in your drag career?: The most rewarding was the most grueling part of my drag career so far - myself and Gina Tonic road tripped across the country this past Summer. Once in a lifetime experience. Cause I’m never doing it again, but it was so worth it. I met so many amazing people and saw how vast and beautiful this continent is.

If you were to do one character on Snatch Game, who would it be and why?: Kirstie Alley. There’s so much material to work with. And I can do a killer Minnesota accent.

How can drag change the world?: I prove that fat is also sexy. That loud is also proud. That anger can be righteous and that love is more than a feeling.

What is the biggest tip you can give a queen starting out today?: Don’t. But seriously. Don’t. But if you have to, do it because it’s the only thing you can do to be happy. And then do it to the best of your ability and never sell yourself short.

Social Media: @viviengabornyc on everything including Venmo and Cash App!

Name: Ducky Sheaboi

Where can we find you out and about?: Current gigs taking place at Icon in Astoria and Flower Power Coffee House in Glendale.

Why Drag?: Why NOT drag? Drag can have every element of entertainment within a 3 minute number! It’s a fun way to network. However, the community aspect is the best reason to do drag.

What made you start drag?: I have gone to queer bars and clubs since I was 18. The biggest highlights of a night are when the shows start. Seeing a queen command a room was a feeling that really empowered me to be proud of being part of such a vibrant community. I wanted to become a reason people come to queer spaces rather than just being a spectator.

Who are you drag inspirations?: I definitely draw inspiration from my Southern roots. Southern women have perfected big hair meets going to the function, honey. They incorporate a lot of color into their wardrobe that I really enjoy. However, the biggest impact on my looks is how I listen to music and consider what type of lady Ducky could adapt elements of to best portray the look.

Your favorite part of drag is _____?: The community! From the patrons, bar managers, to the other amazing queens out there it’s impossible not to find the social aspect intoxicating.

What is your number one makeup secret?: Prayer. I can’t afford plastic surgery to shave down this jawline, so prayer is going to have to work for now.

The three must haves of drag are _____?: Clean wigs and wardrobe, a vodka tonic, and good vibes.

Who are some of your favorite drag artists, designers, stylists, producers, etc. to collaborate with?: The ICONIC family has been essential in further developing Ducky as a personality and performer. Heidi Haux, who hosts and mentors throughout the competition, has been such an inspiration on how to constantly take drag to the next level. She’s so stunning but keeps it real - can’t get any better than that.

What has been the most rewarding moment in your drag career?: Honestly, spitting butter into a crowd during ICONIC Season 1. I have never felt more alive!

If you were to do one character on Snatch Game, who would it be and why?: I was Paula Deen during ICONIC Season 1 and I would honestly stay true to her. I am working on a new Paula number, so we’ll see how it goes.

How can drag change the world?: I wish I had a grand answer for this, but I’m going to answer with a more simple approach. I feel like drag can change the world by offering people of all types an escape from the “normal” through entertainment. We should allow ourselves more fantasy in our lives and I think drag is such a beautiful escape into fantasy.

What is the biggest tip you can give a queen starting out today?: Queen, don’t get caught up in catching guest spots. Put your business mind to work and create your own space while still getting those guest spots and features. But more importantly, don’t be a mean queen because there’s always someone meaner and more successful that’s going to let you know what’s up - just have fun and work hard!

Social Media: Instagram @ducky_sheaboi

For more of Ducky, visit @titndrag355!

Name: Audrey Phoenix

Where can we find you out and about?: The Gutter (it’s a night spot). 10 points to anyone who gets that reference.

Why Drag?: I’ve always wanted to sing, dance and act and I unfortunately can’t do any of those things! Somehow drag allows me to pretend I can.

What made you start drag?: It was totally unplanned. Sutton Lee Seymour was having a debutant show at Albatross and I just decided “why not?” and entered. I didn’t expect that many people to be interested or care, but they did and here I am.

Who are you drag inspirations?: As far as actual drag queens: Shangela, Kizha Carr, Brita Filter, Jasmine Rice LaBeija and of course my drag mother Diana Dzhaketov. As far as overall performers: Judy Garland, Kritin Wiig and strangely enough Conan O’Brien.

Your favorite part of drag is _____?:  The sisterhood. I’ve met so many incredible queens this past year who I honestly consider dear friends now. I love these bitches.

What is your number one makeup secret?: If I had any I’d be MUCH prettier!

The three must haves of drag are _____?: Talent, humor, and an ability to know your words in a lip sync. 

Who are some of your favorite drag artists, designers, stylists, producers, etc. to collaborate with?: JAX is pretty gold in all regards. I also love sharing the stage with my sis Pussy Willow.

What has been the most rewarding moment in your drag career?: Anytime I feel like an audience is really loving what I’m doing on stage. There’s nothing like hearing people laugh with you (or at you, I’ll take both).

If you were to do one character on Snatch Game, who would it be and why?: The challenge with Snatch Game is making the character funny. I do a pretty good Eartha Kitt impression, but I haven’t figured out how to make her funny yet. She’s too eloquent and regal!

How can drag change the world?: As long as it can continue to inspire creativity, bring joy and be fun.

What is the biggest tip you can give a queen starting out today?: Be kind and leave your ego at the door. There’s no reason to be mean to your sisters.

Social Media: @audreyphoenixrises on Instagram

To see more of Audrey, follow @titndrag365!

Name: Pussy Willow

Where can we find you out and about?: I am at Albatross monthly on Wednesdays for The Pussy Party.

Why Drag?: Because it’s an industry that is ever changing and evolving, which is super exciting.

What made you start drag?: I started drag to change people’s views on female drag and the stigmas beneath it.

Who are you drag inspirations?: Alaska as far as Drag Race girls, but most of my inspiration comes from local queens like Sutton Lee Seymour, Cacophony Daniels, Paige Turner, & Marti Gould Cummings. Just to name a few.

Your favorite part of drag is _____?: Performing for new people and making new connections.

What is your number one makeup secret?: I always contour my neck.

The three must haves of drag are _____?: Wigs, heels, contour.

Who are some of your favorite drag artists, designers, stylists, producers, etc. to collaborate with?: I have yet to find a drag queen that I dislike performing with. As far as stylists go Shelby Late does some incredible hair and Nails for Queens NYC makes killer sets.

What has been the most rewarding moment in your drag career?: When I placed third in Ultimate Drag Pageant, the entire room started chanting my name and the validation/ love was so overwhelming.

If you were to do one character on Snatch Game, who would it be and why?: On UDP I did Dolly Parton for Snatch Game and I wouldn’t hesitate to do her again. However, my original first choice was Katherine Hepburn, because of her quick wit and “I give no fucks” attitude.

How can drag change the world?: Drag is so monumental for the LGBTQAI+ community because the more it is normalized the closer we get to being less ostracized from those who have no knowledge of queer culture. Because it is ever changing and growing, drag is an expression of who you are no matter your gender, race, sexuality, etc. Drag is for everyone.

What is the biggest tip you can give a queen starting out today?: Connect. Connect with your audience, connect with other queens, connect to yourself.

Social Media: Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, & Venmo all @willowthatpuss.

Follow @titndrag365 to see more of Pussy Willow!

Name: Novaczar

Where can we find you out and about?: I perform in Queens, Manhattan and Brooklyn! Icon for open stages in Astoria, Marci Park in Williamsburg, Offside Tavern on 14th street in Manhattan to name a few!

Why Drag?: Drag allows me to get more in touch with my creative side and live out my leading lady fantasies I was always told I’ve never be able to live out growing up.

What made you start drag?: Seeing Sasha Velour compete on RuPaul’s Dragrace Season 9

Who are you drag inspirations?: Sasha Velour and Vander Von Odd

Your favorite part of drag is _____?: Being able to be my own director, producer, choreographer, costume designer

What is your number one makeup secret?: I don’t set my entire face with powder

The three must haves of drag are _____?:  Charisma, Uniqueness, nerve and TALENT! HA! That’s four.

Who are some of your favorite drag artists, designers, stylists, producers, etc. to collaborate with?: Madelynn Hatter when it comes to hair, my good friend Ryan Ward when it comes to costumes, my roommate Mikey Dallas too, Jonathan Vasquez when it comes to photography, Gilda Wabbitt when it comes to one of my favorite queens to work with and same with DJ JCLEF

What has been the most rewarding moment in your drag career?: Being embraced, respected and supported by the entire NYC nightlife community

If you were to do one character on Snatch Game, who would it be and why?: Probably something out there like “Old Gregg” because no one would expect it AND his one liners are HILARIOUS!

How can drag change the world?: Drag can change the world because it’s an artform that can bring together almost any artform if you use you creative mind set enough

What is the biggest tip you can give a queen starting out today?: Have a vision and no matter what anyone says, keep that vision and drive alive and well. Don’t let anyone tell you you can’t do something

Social Media: Instagram/Facebook/Venmo: @novaczar Cashapp: @novaczarqueen

Follow @titndrag365 to see more of Novaczar!

Name: Boyish Charm

Where can we find you out and about?: Since I’m still so new to drag I’m mostly working the competition scene in NYC. Most often you can find me at Drag Wars at Pieces on Mondays. Starting Jan 10th you can find me competing in Ultimate Drag Pageant at The West End every Thursday. You can also occasionally find me hosting my own show in Westchester at Vintage Bar. I perform wherever someone will let me on stage I’ll quite literally perform for anyone anywhere.

Why Drag?: I chose drag because I have a background in theatre and I realized drag was the perfect way for me to encompass all aspects of performing into one. I can sing, dance, act, do comedy, work on fashions, do makeup, etc. I also chose drag because as someone who cares for the LGBTQ+ community so much, I always looked to drag queens as the backbone to our community. Drag brings us all together and allows us an escape to have fun and accept ourselves. It means the world to me that I can have a platform through drag to represent our community

What made you start drag?: In high school I found Drag Race and knew immediately that drag was what I was meant to do. Then I went to my first gay club and saw a drag queen live for the first time and started drag about a week after.

Who are you drag inspirations?: Coco Peru, Sharon Needles, Bob The Drag Queen, Shequida, Sherry Vine, Aquaria, Monet X Change

Your favorite part of drag is _____?: Making people happy

What is your number one makeup secret?: I secretly have no idea what I’m doing, Does that count?

The three must haves of drag are _____?: Personality, Kindness, Stage presence

Who are some of your favorite drag artists, designers, stylists, producers, etc. to collaborate with?: My amazing sisters Fool’isha, Roque, Ana Valbanana, Virginia Thicc, Vix, Ratchet Marseilles, etc. the list can go on forever

What has been the most rewarding moment in your drag career?: I put together and hosted a charity show during pride weekend to benefit homeless LGBTQ+ youth and we were able to raise two thousand dollars!

If you were to do one character on Snatch Game, who would it be and why?: Ethel Merman because not only is her personality so big and funny, but I could quote all of the musicals she was in

How can drag change the world?: Drag can change the world because drag has the power to bring people from all walks of life together to have fun and show them that we’re all not so different from one another. It shows people that life isn't that serious, we can all have fun together as one.

What is the biggest tip you can give a queen starting out today?: Don’t worry about what you think you need to be or what anyone tells you that you should be, be yourself and do what makes YOU happy. Drag is meant to be fun. If you’re not having fun the audience won’t have fun.

Social Media: @boyishcharmnyc on Instagram, Twitter, and Venmo (if I’m lucky)

Follow @titndrag365 to see more of Boyish Charm!

To commemorate Drag365, I've compiled my favorite nine photos for each month during Drag365. Now's the time for you to tell me YOUR favorite from each month! All you have to do is head on over to Instagram, follow me @michaelblocktalk and comment on the January Fav 9 photo grid! It's so simple! 

Aquaria // photo by Michael Block

Day: Wednesday, March 14th      

Show: Legend Wednesdays

Location: Rise

Queens Seen: Aquaria (@ageofaquaria), Brenda Dharling (@bdharling), Marti Gould Cummings (@martigcummings)

Brenda Dharling, Marti Gould Cummings, Aquaria // photo by Michael Block

Only legends allowed at Rise on Wednesdays. The interactive revue show was on fire as Aquaria, Brenda Dharling, and Marti Gould Cummings entertained the thirsty crowd. After a group megamix to start the night, the three queens each brought their own solo numbers to the stage. Aquaria brought out her work mix and her stupid girl mix, Marti did a little Patti LuPone and "Fabulous", and Brenda rounded it out with "Sorry Not Sorry" and her Celine mix. These three NYC legends gave a show with an array of styles, which allowed this show to strike the right chords for everyone. Legend Wednesdays is a fast-paced hour-long show. You're in and you're out, as they leave you wanting more. The only woe about Rise's show is sometimes their clientele can be a little, well, rude. Sure, space can be limiting. But if you have a table for at least four in the very front hugging the stage and you and your friends want to stand and dance along, perhaps it's best to hop to the back of the bar and let those who would like to watch watch rather than impeding everyone's view. But I suppose that's the price you pay for ridiculously good drink specials. If you can snag a spot early enough or don't mind watching the show from the monitors, Legend Wednesdays is an enjoyable quick and dirty night of drag.

Dusty Ray Bottoms // photo by Michael Block

Day: Wednesday, March 14th      

Show: The Dusty Ray Bottoms Show

Location: Hardware

Queens Seen: Dusty Ray Bottoms (@dustyray), Misty Mountains (@mistymountainsnyc), Viva Vidalia (@vivavidalia)

The name on everybody's lips is gonna be, Dusty! Soon before her triumphant debut on RuPaul's Drag Race Season 10, Dusty Ray Bottoms plays host to her own solo show at Hardware. Bringing an all-request show to the stage, Dusty also welcomed special guests dancing diva Viva Vidalia and mega mix queen Misty Mountains to wiggle too. Dusty started the night off with a request from me, her reimagining of "Roxie." She alluded to the fact that she had a rock orchestrated version in the works and I was oh so excited. She also taught us about the Eurovision girl who sounds like a chicken. And it's actually very accurate. Viva took the floor and danced the house down to Jessie J's "Domino" while Misty played the role of "whore" with her sex-ed mix and her whorehouse mix. It wouldn't be a complete night for me if I didn't get a little Queen. And Dusty delivered, ending the show with "Don't Stop Me Now." Dusty is a dotty diva of drag whose show is never short of eclectic.

Paige Turner // photo by Michael Block

Day: Wednesday, March 14th      

Show: Drag Me to the Top

Location: Laurie Beechman Theater

Queens Seen: Paige Turner (@paigeturnernyc)

*Disclaimer: So in case you didn't know, I'm a theater critic. That's my primary job in the biz. As opportunities came, I got to introduce drag and cabaret into my repertoire. I'm excited that I am now able to mix the mediums together where I can bring my typical theatrical criticism into the world of nightlife. For shows that I see at the Beechman, my full review will be the source of criticism but I'll still include the show in Drag365. I will include a pull quote to the review along with the link to the full review.

"Think of Drag Me to the Top as a potential future pilot of the Paige Turner universe. The concept of the show follows Paige after she stumbles upon a handy dandy rule book that will make her a star. In this hour-long comedy romp, Paige discovers how to be the star that she knows she already is. Laced with sugary covers of showtunes, pop songs, and entendre after entendre that keeps the gays "yas-ing," Drag Me to the Top is the full package." 

To read the full review, click here.

Gilda Wabbit // photo by Michael Block

Day: Tuesday, March 13th      

Show: Bawdy Bingo

Location: Albatross

Queens Seen: Gilda Wabbit (@gildawabbit), Misty Mountains (@mistymountainsnyc)

Misty Mountains // photo by Michael Block

Over at Bawdy Bingo, there's fun and games and of course a show. But what makes this little bingo show different is the community feel at Albatross. Whether all the regulars are there or not, hostesss Gilda Wabbit ensures you're a part of the family. Joining Gilda's bingo family for the night was none other than Misty Mountains, now known as DJ Mossy Knolls. Sprinkling in some live singing throughout the night, Gilda guides the crowd through four rounds of bingo. The winner of each round gets their shot at spinning the prize wheel which includes such prizes as a shot, a drink, a bottle of wine, and of course, a cash prize. As a competitive person, I had to have my hand in each round. Sadly, Gilda did not call my balls and made me a four-time loser. It wouldn't be a Gilda Wabbit show if it didn't include live singing. While she busted out the classics, it was her special guest that surprised the crowd with a live singing country tuner of her own. The Gilda fans clamored for her classics, including the wickedly naughty parody of "Defying Gravity" entitled "Double Penetration," Misty debuted a new sex-ed mix, featuring an array of freshly unpackaged, or so she said, toys. If there's one thing that's true about this show, the title doesn't shy away from the truth! Bawdy Bingo is everything that it claims to be.

Marti Gould Cummings // photo by Michael Block

Day: Monday, March 12th      

Show: Stage Fright

Location: Therapy

Queens Seen: Marti Gould Cummings (@martigcummings)

Icons and stars to the stage! Each week at Stage Fright, Marti Gould Cummings welcomes a Broadway star to share some stories and sing some songs. Sometimes, these stars happen to come straight from their show! Once on This Island star and former American Idol icon Tamyra Gray was Marti's special guest for a once in a lifetime experience. After a mashup of "Ring of Keys" and "Get Out and Stay Out," it was time to welcome Tamyra to the stage. With stories about her experience on American Idol and her extensive Broadway resume, we get a glimpse of Tamyra's favorite song from American Idol, "And I'm Telling You I'm Not Going." It was something special to say the least. Marti tried to get Tamyra to FaceTime Kelly Clarkson, now of The Voice fame, but it didn't happen. When it came to Broadway Heads Up, it was Stage Fright vs Indragneto as Marti and Tamyra took on Chelsea Piers and Celah Doore. The queens ended up taking it. Rounding out the night with some "Out Tonight" and "Skid Row," Stage Fright was a nothing short of a high energy blast.

Paige Turner // photo by Michael Block

Day: Sunday, March 11th      

Show: Slurp

Location: Therapy

Queens Seen: Paige Turner (@paigeturnernyc)

When your catchphrase turns into your signature show, you know you've done something right. The staple of Sunday night nightlife, Slurp is fast-paced romp of a drag show hosted by the thirstiest blonde in the land, Paige Turner. She's a Showbiz Spitfire for a reason. Filling the set list with theater tuners, Disney classic, and gay anthems, this show is truly for everyone. Paige kicked off the show with "Raise the Roof" from The Wild Party" and quickly followed it up with her toasting number, "C'mon Get Slurpy." After a couple of more numbers, Paige got into game mode. It was time for Name That Tune. Paige invited a pair of Brazilian slurps to partake in the game. Soon we confirmed that Spanish and Portuguese are not the same language. The rules of the game are simple. Guess the song title wrong and you have to remove an article of clothing. The game is over when Paige is satisfied with the lack of clothing being worn or the game goes off the rails. Let's just say it may have been the latter on this evening.
After ending the night with a rousing lip sync to "Once Upon a Time" from one of the most underrated clunkers on Broadway, Brooklyn, it's safe to say Slurp is one of the best weekly shows there is.

Jackie Cox // photo by Michael Block

Day: Sunday, March 11th      

Show: Just Jackie

Location: New World Stages

Queens Seen: Jackie Cox (@jackiecoxnyc), Gilda Wabbit (@gildawabbit), Gloria Swansong (@gloria_swansong)

Jackie Cox, Gilda Wabbit // photo by Michael Block

Gloria Swansong, Jackie Cox // photo by Michael Block

She's the new queen of New World Stages! Just Jackie and Friends finds Jackie Cox and her special friends celebrate drag and theater with an almost all singing show. With a fresh take on the classic drag sensibility, Jackie Cox manages to entertain from top to bottom. To kick the night off, the pretty queen sang "Pretty Girl Rock" with her own unique spin. She followed it up with the Postmodern Jukebox version of Katy Perry's "I Kissed a Girl," because why not? Joining her for theatrical debauchery were Gilda Wabbit and Gloria Swansong. Gilda showed off her pipes with Pink's power ballad "Glitter in the Air" and her signature parody of "Defying Gravity" entitled "Double Penetration." For Gloria's turn, she dazzled with her solo version of "Cell Block Tango" and the powerful "Back to Before" from Ragtime. It wouldn't be a full show if Jackie didn't ask for her gal pals to do some duets. In a wild live-sung/lip sync extravaganza, Jackie and Gloria did "Sing" from A Chorus Line, which yielded quite a comical result. Gilda and Jackie took on Maria and Anita in West Side Story for "A Boy Like That." Audiences like a good drag show. Audiences love a smart drag show. Jackie brought in a little Wicked and Judy Garland trivia as an homage to her guests.
Jackie Cox delivers time after time to ensure an enjoyable show that's special and entertaining. Smart drag is the best drag.

Nicole Onoscopi // photo by Michael Block

Day: Thursday, March 8th     

Show: Ultimate Drag Pageant

Location: The West End

Queens Seen: Marti Gould Cummings (@martigcummings), Nedra Belle (@nedrabelle), Allura Borealis (@alluraborealis), Bambi (@imstillcute), Carlos the Uber Driver (@carlostheuberdriver), Celah Doore (@celahdoorenyc), Foolisha (@thefoolisha), Nicole Onoscopi (@nicoleonoscopi), Shelby Late (@shelby_late), Tiffany Anne Coke (@tiffanyannecoke)

Bambi // photo by Michael Block

After 8 long weeks of competition, it's time to finally crown a winner of Season 6 of Ultimate Drag Pageant. Eight girls go in, one remains. Marti Gould Cummings and Nedra Belle welcomed the Two Tuckers as the special guest judges. With a pageant theme, the girls were ready to show off their best talents. Tiffany Anne Coke began the night with a burlesque number as an ode to Gypsy. With a little technical glitch, she came back later to do it again with an extra fire inside. Foolisha looked like a vampire goddess as she lip synced, fangs and all. Allura paid homage to one of her heroes, her sister, and sang "Cabaret." Reminding the judges and the crowd of her winning weeks, Nicole Onoscopi sang "If I Had My Time" from Groundhog Day as she brought out three of her friends who each wore the outfit from her previous numbers. Shelby Late gave a pageant-themed number honoring some stupid hoes in the pageant circuit. Bambi danced the house down to "Grown Woman" by Beyonce. To lighten the mood, Celah took a bunch of shots on stage as she performed "Good Old-Fashioned Love Story" from The Wild Party. Rounding out the night was a preview of the solo show Carlos the Uber Driver would create, a challenge the judges gave her weeks prior. After all was said and done, with all the judges scores and audience votes tallied, the top three to reach the finale lip sync were Bambi, Carlos, and Nicole. After an emotion-filled performance to "This Is Me," It was Nicole Onoscopi who was crowned the winner of Ultimate Drag Pageant season 6.
It was quite a joy to watch the ten queens journey to this grand finale. I'm proud of each and every one of them and extremely excited to see what happens next. Bright futures are ahead for sure.

Golden Delicious, Vanna Deux // photo by Michael Block

Day: Thursday, March 8th     

Show: Drag Race Viewing Party

Location: The West End

Queens Seen: Vanna Deux (@vannadeux), Golden Delicious (@msgoldendelicious), Miz Diamond Wigfall (@mizdiamondwigfall)

The sounds of a stray radio pervaded the air as the lip syncs tracks attempted to overpower the low hum of the mysterious voice. What was a girl to do? Stop the number dead in its track? Pretend the radio was an illusion, a fantasy of the mind? Or power through it and get that coin, henny! Option three girl! With the penultimate episode of All Stars 3 serving nothing but mediocrity, hostess Vanna Deux gave us a show with her special guests Golden Delicious and Miz Diamond Wigfall. Since she's the hostess with the mostest, Vanna did a little "Mama Knows Best" and "So Much Better" to fulfil the Jessie J and theater fans in the crowd. Golden decided to be a little dirty with a scat number and a her blow job mix. Later in the show, Diamond lead the crowd with the National Anthem that was a mix of Fergie and Maya Rudolph's "SNL" sketch. Not to be outdone, Vanna asked the girls to join her in a trio to "Up the Ladder to the Roof" as performed by Sherie Rene Scott in Everyday Rapture, featuring Lindsey Mendez and Betsy Wolf.
With a trio of queens who are no stranger to the West End, this was a fun night of shows that paired well with a lackluster episode of Drag Race.

Clarice DuBois // photo by Michael Block

Day: Tuesday, March 6th     

Show: Clarice Explains It All

Location: ICON

Queens Seen: Clarice DuBois (@claricedubois), Nicole Onoscopi (@nicoleonoscopi)

Nicole Onoscopi // photo by Michael Block

Each month at ICON, Clarice DuBois takes the stage for a variety show and her attempt to explain something. And this month, Clarice delivered on both accounts. The monthly variety show, Clarice Explains It All, is a celebration of the talent pool in New York City through the lens of a drag show. For her March show, Clarice welcomed emerging drag queen Nicole Onoscopi and comedian Cameron Jefts. Clarice, a self-proclaimed Broadway queen, dazzled the crowd with her tribute to Liza with "New York, New York" and "Journey to the Past," but it was her new French mix, which featured Mika, that had me tickled pink. Nicole made herself known to the crowd as she handed out business cards with her information to "Call Me Maybe" and then shocked and awed with her colonoscopy mix. Who doesn't love watching a drag queen try to fist themselves? Cameron decided to share with the audience what a potential live action Pokemon movie might look like as a created some hybrid celebrity pocket creatures. When it came down to the portion of the show where Clarice had to explain something, it was up to her to explain public transit. Perhaps her improv skills were in play but she sold us a story about the dreadful MTA that I think must people were buying.
Every month at ICON, Clarice DuBois explains it all. What "it" is? Well, you'll just have to show up and see! It's always a pleasure to see the variety of talent that NYC has to offer.

Boudoir LeFleur // photo by Michael Block

Day: Monday, March 5th     

Show: Magical Mondays

Location: ICON

Queens Seen: Boudoir LeFleur (@drag.witchbitch), Jessie James (@jessiejamesnyc), Amelia Reasons (@ameliareaons92), Sherry Poppins (@its.sherrypoppins)

Amelia Reasons // photo by Michael Block

Every Monday night at ICON, the witchy one, Boudoir hosts Magical Mondays. Bringing dark magic and hair whips with her giant 80s curls, Boudoir dances the house down until she can no longer stand. Spoiler alert, she's on the floor seconds into the night. As the official Roombo of Drag, Boudoir provides a night of endless entertainment as she performs some non-typical genres for a drag show including a Heart medley and a Prince mix. Joining in on the fun on this magical evening, Boudoir welcomed a wickedly talented cast of characters. Visiting all the way from Orlando, Jenny Reverent got the crowd going with two burlesque numbers, one of which was a Winnifred Sanderson strip. If you ever wondered what Winnie wore underneath all those layers, Jenny broke the surprise. Jessie James, bowler gap and all, dazzled the crowd with her Pokemon mix that reveals her name. The true darling of the night was Amelia Reasons, who made her second appearance in drag ever. She dazzled the crowd with her Gaga dance mix. The other star of the show was drunk Mary Kerry, as Boudoir labeled her. She was a drunk straight woman who couldn't keep her hands off the hostess and loved to stop the show dead in its tracks. It's likely that Boudoir's Gypsy mix, which featured an indragneto cameo from Sherry Poppins, cast a spell on her as Mary Kerry was never heard from again.
While the energy may be low in between songs as Boudoir attempts to catch her breath on the floor, the energy is supreme as she makes every nook and cranny of the venue hers. If she hasn't thrown herself up against it, she hasn't found it yet. If you're looking for a home cleaning service, I suggest you call Boudoir, put on some music, and watch her clean your home as she sweeps the floor to the beat of the music.

Ritzy Bitz, Nicole Onoscopi, Rose // photo by Michael Block

Day: Sunday, March 4th           

Show: Drag Brunch   

Location: La Pulperia

Queens Seen: Ritzy Bitz (@msritzybitz), Nicole Onoscopi (@nicoleonscopi), Rosé (@rosewithanaccent)

It's Sunday morning. What do most millennials do in NYC? Go to brunch! But rather than just a typical, boring, average brunch. Why not go to brunch where there's a show! Every Sunday at their Hell's Kitchen restaurant, La Pulperia hosts a drag brunch with the one and only Ritzy Bitz. Ritzy is eager to jumpstart your day as you sip on your endless mimosas and eat your delicious entrees. Joining her on this particular Sunday was Rosé and Nicole Onoscopi. This show marked the official first booking for Nicole, a rising drag baby on the scene. So what makes a drag brunch different from a typical drag show? The sun is out. Just because it's daytime doesn't mean the performers will hold anything back. Curse words will fly and raunchiness is in full throttle. But it's not like the table of sixteen-year-old girls haven't been exposed to any of this before! Ritzy has an infectious hosting ability. Her biting "don't give a fuck" attitude is just right for this crowd. They live and laugh along. She caters to the needs and desires of the brunch crowd providing them with mixes and songs that fit the Broadway and Top 40 boxes, while still putting her own flair within. There aren't many things better than Ritzy's "Do It Alone" mix. With the Chicago tuner as the skeleton, Ritzy drops in some iconic dance hooks that get the crowd bopping about. When she relinquished the spotlight to her special guests, both Rosé and Nicole brought their own unique brand of kooky. Rosé served the crowd her classic numbers including her "Bad Singer" mix and her "Mama" mix. Nicole, branded as a Disney Channel reject queen by the girls at the front table, gave some Hannah Montana "Rockstar" as well as her insanely funny "disability" mix and her "colonoscopy" mix.
Drag Brunches are a dime a dozen nowadays. But a good, well-rounded drag brunch? That may be like finding a needle in a haystack. Luckily La Puperia and Ritzy Bitz are a match made in heaven. You need a little spice and a little kick to pair with their menu and boy does Ritzy deliver! You're certain to have a lot of fun as this is breakfast theater at its finest.