Spotlight!
Bad Ass Queer Folx of Colour!

By Jeong Park

Outro: Started from the bottom and now we here

February 28, 2024

And so the tales are told.

Here's the breakdown. I asked 39 Black artists of all stripes for an interview. Out of those, 33 said yes and out of those, I eventually collected 29 interviews and a whole fleet of photos with credit.

Twenty nine of y’all had magnificent things to talk about. All ten questions were the same. There were a couple minor tweaks but the heart, the essence didn’t change. I focused on self definition, achievement, art, barriers, family, dreams, and recognition.

This was very intentional. Each question was crafted with an eye and appreciation towards Black culture, artistry, and communities.

Of course, not everyone in our Twin Cities was represented. And some were asked but didn’t respond at all or didn’t fill out their interview and send photos. That’s OK. It is a precarious time for all of us and life has us in a chokehold whether we like it or not.

We all have our priorities and we need to honour those commitments. I hope to possibly have this interview another time with others. We shall see.

In 16 days, we published all 29 interviews with photos and credit. Within a week of my initial inquiries, we began sharing interviews. It was a massive undertaking but it was so important and essential.

It was only the owner and I doing all of this. I proofread and tidied up and passed along the interviews and photos and credits. We made a few mistakes and we edited and updated so that each interview and photo was correct for each person. Thank you for your graciousness and patience as we did our corrections.

It was such an honour and privilege to get these out in the very limited window of time and opportunity we had. This, too, impacted who could take part and we were bound by the time as it was essential to get this all done in this month, Black History Month.

I get these flashes of inspiration and pivot. Sometimes it works out and sometimes, I have to wait. I am so very, very glad we were able to connect and to simply bear witness to what y’all had to say.

A HUGE thank you to all 29 of you who took part in this celebration of our Black artists. I so appreciate your time and generosity. Thank you for the opportunity you gave me to create this space and the trust that I would center your voices and stories and photos. A million times over, thank you!

Thank you to the owner of this digital publication for running at my side. Not many can keep up with me but you sure did. The spreadsheet probably helped. And your correcting and updating despite two programs and two web programs to make changes… Ope, as we say! Thank you, David!

To our readers who shared these stories, thank you so much!!!! To our white accomplices who shared each interview, thank you for walking your talk!

Now, as Lala said, all of you producers and show runners take note: These are the Black artists you need to open doors to when you are casting in your shows, your podcasts, your events and festivals. When I said embarrassment of riches, this lays on your shoulders to walk your talk of diversity and inclusion.

I don’t want to hear ever again you don’t know who to ask. Read these interviews again, take special note of the people these Black artists mention. Take careful note of which shows are truly diverse and have a longstanding reputation amongst our Black artists. Support these Black artists and these shows with your attendance, advocacy, and money.

Speaking of money, pay them their worth, shower that coin upon them, bless them with bookings, with being the headliner, with stepping back and centering them.

This ain’t a one month out of the year deal, y’all. Black Excellence is 24/7, 365 days a year. Best jump on it.

Tre Da Marc

February 28, 2024

First, if you were to introduce yourself to a perfect stranger, what would you tell them about yourself?

My Name is Tré Da Marc. My Pronouns are He/ Them. I am a BIPOC, Queer, hearing impaired, award winning international Burlesque Performer from MInneapolis,MN. I've competed at BHoF (the Burlesque Hall Of Fame) and in 2020 won the title of King of The Noire Pageant produced by burlesque icon Perle Noire. I have been performing for 10 years and have been voted one of the top 50 Burlesque performers in the world. I love sharing my love for burlesque with people and traveling the world!

Next, speaking of Black Excellence, how does that define you and what you do, your goals, and the barriers you’ve broken through or are still facing in this white supremacist society?

I personally find the term Black Excellence limiting to what I strive to attain as an artist. My art is based in the Black Queer experience and is rooted in authenticity within that experience, not by externally defined markers of “excellence”. My voice as an artist is constantly evolving. I seek to bring cohesive, provocative and well thought out narratives to the stage via the art of the tease. I combine my narrative, costuming and choreography so it all fits together to tell a cohesive story. An example of this is when Beyonce’s Daddy Lessons came out, I was inspired to make a cowboy act and costume that reflects a honey bee and Black culture in Texas. I wanted to create a narrative surrounding the work ethic necessary to create an artist like Beyonce and the sting of the sacrifices and battles Black artists have to traverse to get to the sweetness of success. My art is an act of resistance and love. I infuse it with the power to humanize myself and others that share and intersect with my identity and to confront and strip away the oppression surrounding that identity one costume removal at a time.

What does showmanship mean to you?
Showmanship for me is adeptly showcasing the multiple meanings nestled inside each one of my acts. Yes, it’s our moment on the stage, but the most important element of that moment is the connection we make with our audience and how we make them feel and think about our art. Each performer does this differently. What makes our art and showmanship valid isn’t the glitz and glamor or the number of rhinestones on our costumes. The depth of our authentic connection with the audience is where our true sparkle and shine lies.

Photo By Tim Knox

How did you evolve as an artist? Tell us a bit about your beginnings and the milestones in your performance career?

I had my burlesque debut in 2013 at a show called Nudie Nubies in Minneapolis produced by Redbone. I’ve had many achievements since then including performing in over 50 festivals here and abroad, being cast as a headliner or feature in many of them. I competed at BHoF in 2018, won King of The Noire Pageant in 2020 and was voted one of the Top 50 most influential Burlesque Industry Figures in the world in 21st Century Burlesque Magazine from 2020-2022. I started my own production company called Infringement Productions in 2022 bringing together all Black casts of world renowned performers each year for my show Juneteenth Jubilee. I’ve performed in hundreds of shows on a plethora of stages with a repertoire of acts that ranges from classic to neo to nerdlesque and beyond. I credit my success as a performer to self-reflection and allowing my art to be the fabrication of my heart. I stay humble and I work hard every day to be better than I was yesterday. I watch videos of past performances as a way of focusing on the areas I feel I need to improve on and gauge my progress within those improvements. I’m also constantly upgrading and improving my costumes and taking dance classes to increase my movement vocabulary. I want to be the best performer out there and I’m constantly asking myself what I need to do next so that I can continue evolving to be the best. There are growing pains and sacrifices that come with every metamorphosis, but my art is always better when I emerge on the other side.

If you were to choose one number, one act that would be your legacy, what would that be?

I currently have an act named Sunflower. The costume is made from an African ankara print fabric that features yellow and blue sunflowers with a fur cape and blue pheasant feather fans. The act is set to the music Tadow by Masgeo and it feels like an accurate representation of my journey as an artist that is in a continuous state of growth and evolution.

In this upcoming year, thinking upon your goals and dreams, what are some of the ideas you have and what do you want to do in your communities?

My first eight years in burlesque were consumed by the goal of competing at the Burlesque Hall of Fame (BHOF). Now, my goals have shifted. My focus is currently on growing my reach as a burlesque performer, improving my craft, being an ambassador for cultivating a more nurturing community within our industry, producing shows that reflect diversity and inclusivity and advocating for myself and other performers across the industry to be paid what we are worth. I also aspire to perform abroad more. One of my biggest goals is to perform in Japan.

If money were no object, what has been a dream number you would put together?

I have a whole Google drive dedicated to dream acts, but I don’t have a dream act that would require all that money! Having access to those kinds of resources would prompt me to create an all Black international touring burlesque show and Vegas residency on par with Dita Von Tease’s productions that would blow everyone’s minds and offer the steady, sustainable income myself and my peers in this industry deserve. Unfortunately, burlesque privileges white performers and producers when it comes to upscale, high dollar productions. Where they are told yes, we are often told no or to scale our dreams down. Black performers are and have always been at the forefront of Burlesque. Our contributions to this artform are oftentimes erased. We are more than deserving of the opportunity and financial backing for a show of this kind.

Family means a lot and family can also be complicated. Our biggest support systems can be chosen family when a family of origin is not there for us. Who is family to you and what is the most treasured support you’ve received?

My Family and Chosen Familly have been really supportive of my artistic endeavors. My Chosen Family consists of Foxy Tann, Redbone, Nox Falls and Twirlisha Devine. They are always there to advise me, support me at my lowest moments and celebrate me during my biggest triumphs. I wouldn't be the person that I am today or growing into if it wasn't for their love and care.

Who are some of the icons or mentors in your life who have shown you the way, who you have admired, and whose examples you wish to live up to?

My Mentors Foxy Tann and Redbone have been the guiding lights of my Burlesque career. Their nurturing insight has helped me immensely through the years and have had a huge impact on me and my art.

Lastly, the Twin Cities is an embarrassment of Black talent in burlesque, drag, and all performance art. Who are we sleeping on who should be recognized? Which shows do y’all recognize as ones who truly show inclusivity, diversity, and a commitment to centering Black and Indigenous and People of Colour entertainers?

There are a ton of Amazing Black performers in the state of Minnesota and I believe that there needs to be more awareness of their talent, art and accolades beyond the shortest month of the year or one weekend in June. We are “slept on” because people don't know or understand our legacy. We are here creating to be SEEN, to have something outlive us and it is up to the people to research and experience the legacy of art that BIPOC are creating here In Minnesota. All of our art is valid so please support us sharing our authentic Black souls at a show near you. Also check out the Black Burlesque Directory (https://www.itspochop.com/black-burlesque-directory) To find Black Burlesque performers around the world!

Megan The Maneater

February 28, 2024

First, if you were to introduce yourself to a perfect stranger, what would you tell them about yourself?

I would tell them first off and foremost that I LOOOOOOOOVE Pokemon!!!!!!.... and purple is my favorite color and then I would proceed to tell them of all the crazy things I've jumped off of like a house, I rolled under a bus, I jumped off of a fire truck and then if they weren't like already shell shocked, I'd probably start talking about how I was a professional ballet dancer for 18 years and then had to retire and then did drag and then at that point I feel like if we didn't bond or click over anything I just act really goofy and awkward😅 Eventually they would realize that I'm absolutely crazy and insane but like if you gave the Energizer Bunny caffeine that's me, super chaotic and energetic all the time 😜

Next, speaking of Black Excellence, how does that define you and what you do, your goals, and the barriers you’ve broken through or are still facing in this white supremacist society?

I think black excellence definition changes from person to person but what black excellence means to me personally is owning your culture and your ethnicity and not afraid to show it, embracing it, and incorporating it and everything you do. And as for the goals that I've broken through or accomplished the first ever black entertainer I saw was Geneva Richards and Kamaree Williams and when I saw them I was like that's black excellence; strive to become like them and be kind, compassionate and all around a star in the drag world without compromising my own roots, without giving in to the whitewashed mainstream culture.

As for the goals and barriers that are broken through with black excellence I actually don't think I have done any of that. I was adopted by a white family and didn't realize I was black until first grade and ever since then I feel like I've been playing catch up when it comes to my culture and history and while I have a definition and know what black excellence is, I personally feel like I haven't accomplished that yet and I'm still striving to get there.

What does showmanship mean to you?
Showmanship means to me that regardless of what happens, regardless of how you personally are feeling, you always put your best foot forward. It doesn't matter if your competition just sabotaged your outfit; smile be happy that you're even there in the first place because there are people always looking at you and there's always someone who's going to be looking up at you and if you show a mean jealous ugly side of you that's what they're going to think you are and ultimately you don't want to put that energy out into the world.

Photo By Jason Bucklin

How did you evolve as an artist? Tell us a bit about your beginnings and the milestones in your performance career?

Dear God(s) how I first started as a drag performer was a completely unhinged hot mess of Non-Stop flips and untamed energy😅 meaning that regardless of the number I would do nothing but high energy acrobatics, flips, tricks non-stop the entire thing and did nothing but like hardcore dance and now I've like learned control and restraint and to respect the flow of not only the musicality or meaning behind the number but also the vibe of the audience. And not come busting out of the gates running and I've learned that I don't have to sacrifice my body and put it in harm's way every time I perform to make the audience impressed or like me more. You know I just have to be me.

I think my biggest milestone in drag was performing at Black Bear casino with an audience of over 2,000 and alongside the famous Detox and there is something in me that just clicked when I walked out on stage and heard the fans screaming and could feel their vibration in my chest and I thought to myself, “This is it. I made it. I'm a real drag queen.”

If you were to choose one number, one act that would be your legacy, what would that be

That's a really good question and a hard one oh I feel I'm torn because part of me wants to like have a powerful number or a meaningful number be my legacy and which case I would want it to be my mental health awareness number cuz that one has a lot of personal meaning to me but I also feel like my signature number that I'm known for is my Power Level Up mix so I don't know it’d have to be between one of those two.

In this upcoming year, thinking upon your goals and dreams, what are some of the ideas you have and what do you want to do in your communities?

I have so many ideas I want to get done this year. Some of them include making a lot of new trans youth numbers and a lot more numbers that accentuate my black heritage. As for what I want to do in my communities, I definitely want to reach out and support black trans youth a lot more and help volunteer with that and I also want to help find spaces where upcoming queer people can find a safe place to explore and perform numbers; to figure out who they are as an artist in a safe space.

If money were no object, what has been a dream number you would put together?

I'm not going to tell you the name because I'm hoping that it will still happen but okay okay I'm going to tell you the name my dream performance number is a mix between Beyonce's Alien Superstar and it starts out with like a whole bunch of backup dancers and laser lights and fog machines and everything and then it goes into this song that talks about like rising up from the chains of oppression and at that point like I have chains wrapped around me and I'm being like lifted up towards the ceiling while there's like all the backup dancers down below dancing and then the chain snaps and I fall and I just bust through the stage, right? And everything gets quiet and like the medics come and like all the dancers run off stage and everyone's freaking out and all of a sudden like boom! Spotlight on me, all lights off in the stadium, and then like I rise up and like the dance mix of like I'm a Survivor mixed with like I Will Rise from the Ashes starts playing and then I like end it with a Power Level Up combo towards the end. Yeah that's my dream number and also I want to fly over the audience at some point.

Family means a lot and family can also be complicated. Our biggest support systems can be chosen family when family of origin is not there for us. Who is family to you and what is the most treasured support you’ve received?

I'd have to say hands down without a doubt my chosen family would be my home troupe that I perform with called Transcendence Cabaret. No matter what I'm going through, they're always there for me and they support me and it doesn't matter if the entire community is up in arms about something or just the nation as a whole, they've always been there for me through thick and thin and I don't know what I would do without them. And if I had to single one person out entirely out of everyone in my chosen family, it have to be our fearless leader Jeong Park; they personally have always checked in on me and have supported me through so much cuz I have a horrible horrible habit of whenever s*** hits the fan, instead of reaching out and asking for help, I isolate myself and disappear from everyone's lives until I work my way through whatever I'm dealing with. He's got me through a lot of dark places and times so I don't think I'd be here without them 🥰

Who are some of the icons or mentors in your life who have shown you the way, who have admired, and whose examples you wish to live up to?

I could list so many people who have helped me over the years to become who I am today and giving me great examples and help and advice that has carried me through my career but I'm going to go with the first ever black queen and that would be Kamaree Williams. I starting out as a baby Queen and did competitions weekly at Lush where she was the one of the show runners and I strived to be just like her; you know she embodied her black excellence, she had the whole black girl magic thing down and was always kind and considerate to everyone. So yeah, I wanted to be just like her and she's one of my idols and I look up to her very much and she's also like stupid beautiful so you know yeah.

I would have to say hands down Transcendence Cabaret without a doubt. They're an entire trans cast, they have specific shows dedicated for each heritage during the respective months which is something you don't see a lot with a lot of the other show runners, and they're all really cool chill people. And nobody seems to know they exist even though they've come before pretty much every other show here in the Twin Cities so they are definitely slept upon and everyone needs to wake up and go see them.

Plum Ridiculous

February 28, 2024

First, if you were to introduce yourself to a perfect stranger, what would you tell them about yourself?

Probably that I am really happy to be a mom and I love my family a lot. I know that's pretty simple, but I also think of all the non blood related and chosen family. I think that really sums me up. I just really love my people, and my animals, my little community and family.

Next, speaking of Black Excellence, how does that define you and what you do, your goals, and the barriers you’ve broken through or are still facing in this white supremacist society?

I think I truly know where I come from and I think often on what it took to get here. I think often on those that cut the path ahead of me. It's a huge thing.

What does showmanship mean to you?
Having the ability to love making your art and letting that show to your audience. Musicality combined with confidence.

Photo By Darin Kamnetz

How did you evolve as an artist? Tell us a bit about your beginnings and the milestones in your performance career?

My Beginnings in Burlesque began after I did treatment for an eating disorder. I thought that the treatment was going to consist of tips and tricks for losing weight and that's not what it was at all. It was actually several weeks of deconstructing personal self image stuff and working on learning to accept myself just the way I am. I left there with the belief that I could really reach out and do some things that I always wanted to do. I saw an advertisement for a chair class to learn how to do lap dances for larger bodies and that's what got me started. I could see myself moving in the mirror and realized this was something that I could do and it felt good and empowering and I just kind of took off from there. That was 5 years ago. I would say that this is giving me a lot of confidence in a deep way. I don't think of myself as a vain person but I do feel a sense of self love and a sense of personal sensuality. I think that I have evolved into a very confident performer who is able to connect very well with the audience and it's a gift to me every time that I get to do it.

If you were to choose one number, one act that would be your legacy, what would that be?

I don't think I've produced that number yet. I think it's still yet to come.

In this upcoming year, thinking upon your goals and dreams, what are some of the ideas you have and what do you want to do in your communities?

I would really like to learn how to produce my own shows and I would really like to put together a body neutral show with emphasis on making room for BIPOC performers. I would like to host it and I would also like to be able to make space for newer performers to get out and try some things in a safe environment. One of the goals I have with that, is to create a very kind of loving environment backstage as well. I feel like adding another good show to the community is a great way to invest. I'm also very proud to be part of the fat community and I feel very blessed to have had a good learning experience about how to create safe spaces. I think that if I were able to hold my chops producing a show I could also continue that Legacy of creating healthy safe spaces for performers to continue on.

If money were no object, what has been a dream number you would put together?

I would really love to have a handmade evening gown. I know that feels very simple perhaps. But I feel like as a younger person long before I was performing, I didn't feel really connected to the sensation of feeling beautiful. This is something that I've grown into and for me it is such a delight to dress myself up. So I guess the young person in me still has that urge. I would love to have a professionally handmade gown that is fitted to me. And I would love to do a performance with a professionally made wig and someone to do my makeup and just be fully dolled up just once.

My mother is the support person I think that has touched me the most. She grew up in the 50s and very much had that kind of generations pushed to be a certain way and to behave herself like a lady. Or whatever that means, you know what I mean. Women were encouraged to know their “place” back then. To behave, and not be too bold.. She once told me that she makes room for me to go and do these things and she's so supportive of me because she never had the chance to just go and be free and watching me do it gives her so much joy. That means so much to me and I think about her every time that I go on stage. She's come to see me perform and I know that she's proud of me and she sees the art in it. It means so much to me.

Who are some of the icons or mentors in your life who have shown you the way, who have admired, and whose examples you wish to live up to?

The first person that comes to mind actually that I feel like I emulated in a way as a fat performer is not a burlesque performer. Her name is Dana and she was a member of the cast of the Minnesota Renaissance festival for years. She played this gorgeous stunning big bodied Viking woman out there and she did sword fights. She was sexy as hell and she knew it, and she made an impression on me as a teen and it has stuck with me all these years. She ended up in an audience that I was performing for one night and I actually got the privilege of telling her that seeing her in that role and mastering her body and being completely present in herself had affected my entire life. And I do believe truly that getting to witness her at such a young age very much still affects how I perform as a burlesque performer. it put in my head that I had every right to be there, I had every right to feel the beauty in myself.

I have had a wonderful time at all the Transcendence Cabaret shows that I have attended. I think we still have a long way to go as far as coming full circle with creating inclusive and diverse shows and safe spaces. I see that the effort is out there, but obviously we're still in the evolution of process. I do remain hopeful for the future. As far as who is being slept on, I think that the best way to put it is just to say that I'm rooting for everybody black.

Lala Luzious

February 28, 2024

First, if you were to introduce yourself to a perfect stranger, what would you tell them about yourself?

Truthfully, I would probably just say, “Hi, I’m Lala!” There is no humble way to say this, but I often get introduced as a lot of things. Drag Queen, writer, podcaster, actor… while I am proud of those things at the same time, they are just things I do. I think if I were to introduce myself, I’d say I am a person that dreams big and doesn’t talk themselves out of making those dreams happen.

Next, speaking of Black Excellence, how does that define you and what you do, your goals, and the barriers you’ve broken through or are still facing in this white supremacist society?

This is a hard question. It is because I put very little effort into being Black, and a lot of effort into being excellent. Navigating the intersection of identity and achievement is complex, and for me, it's particularly nuanced. The essence of being Black is ingrained within me; it is the same as breathing, or smiling, or thinking. It just is what is most natural to me. Conversely, being excellent has been a path marked by setbacks and challenges, both personal and societal. Yet, with each stumble, I've gleaned invaluable lessons. No matter what happened or how hard things seemed, I kept going. So when I consider the two words “Black” and “Excellence” together, for me, it transcends mere descriptors of race or someone’s proficiency. It is really about how resilient that person is. It signifies the capacity to endure and rise above adversities, whether they stem from racism, classism, sexism, homophobia, and all the other barriers out there in the world. Those recognized as both Black and excellent epitomize resilience, embodying a tenacity that defies odds. In this way, no matter what was accomplished, the strength it took to get there makes them that much more amazing.

What does showmanship mean to you?
I can say there isn’t a second of my life that I have not been a showman. It was clear to me and my parents at a young age that I was made for the stage. I’d use the phrase “it’s second nature” but I’d even go as far to say it is “first nature” for me. If I had to define it, showmanship requires a blend of talent, creativity, and stage presence to command attention and evoke emotions. Whether it's on stage, in business, or any other aspect of life, showmanship is about leaving your mark and creating moments that linger in the minds and hearts of others. When it comes to my work, I pour a lot of myself into making those moments happen. It ends up being a lot of my energy. But I also feel most beautiful and powerful on stage so I get the energy back in a way. I love the process of creating and then showing it off!

Photo By Ryan Coit

How did you evolve as an artist? Tell us a bit about your beginnings and the milestones in your performance career?

I think everyone who knows me knows I started performing in drag in middle-of-nowhere Indiana, and that experience was everything you assume it would be (ha ha)! I never dreamed of the places drag would take me. I often credit drag as the one thing that never got boring to me, because it has been the catalyst for so many different things in my life. Of course, I perform but also my work in journalism, acting, podcasting, and public speaking came from doing drag. I evolve all the time and because of that, everything is a milestone to me. Even doing this interview is a milestone, as it is an opportunity to reflect on where I have been and where I want to go. I choose to invest my time in projects that will improve me as a person and artist. Otherwise, what is the point?

If you were to choose one number, one act that would be your legacy, what would that be?

I don’t think there is one “act” just in itself that would be my legacy. I actually like to do new or different songs all the time so I never got attached to a number in that way. But I would hope that my podcast “Snack Size” would be my legacy. I am very passionate about living life to the fullest, and that is what my show is about.

In this upcoming year, thinking upon your goals and dreams, what are some of the ideas you have and what do you want to do in your communities?

I am focusing on myself for a while. I have spent many years in this community creating opportunities and doing for others. While I didn’t expect anything in return, what I did not expect is the disrespect I’ve had to deal with sometimes. It is sad to say, but serving the community is often a thankless job, but it is even harder when you have people making it challenging for you. So this year I decided I am going to really go all-in on myself. I have a new brand launching soon and hope to finish my second book of poetry later this year. I also have an exciting performance with Sasha Colby coming up and then for Pride my two best friends, Desiree Bouvier and Zon Legacy Phoenix are coming to perform for the weekend in my shows. And to be honest, that won’t be all I do, but I am leaving space to do/be/see/experience whatever my heart desires this year! And I am so excited about that.

If money were no object, what has been a dream number you would put together?

Oh, what a fantastic question! I dove into the world of drag when my wallet was on the skinnier side. But you know what they say—necessity is the mother of invention. I had to get real crafty and stretch those pennies like nobody's business. But I refused to compromise my vision. For example, when I moved to Minneapolis, UPS decided to play hide-and-seek with most of my drag. Talk about a nightmare! I wanted to do my first open stage, so I found this sparkly sequin tablecloth, raided my stash for stones and fringe salvaged from one of my surviving outfits, and voilà! I concocted this dazzling dance costume that's still a showstopper today. Moral of the story? Money's never been the boss of me, and it never will be. You gotta have that go-getter energy, and trust me, the universe starts rolling out the red carpet. So, proudly speaking, I'm checking off everything on my dream list, or I'm in the process of doing it! The only thing money could snag me that I don't already have? A performance with Beyonce!

I was just having this conversation with a friend of mine. I have a lot of love in my life, not much of that love comes from biological family, but let me tell you, those folks who've stepped up and embraced me like family? They mean the world to me, maybe even more. I'm like a patchwork quilt of experiences and influences, all thanks to the people who've poured their love and wisdom into me.

But my most treasured support? That's me. Loving myself—it's a daily choice, a commitment. Because without that self-love foundation, everything else just sort of crumbles. Me, myself, and I…we've been through the wringer, no doubt! But you know what? It's given me this rock-solid core, this inner strength that says, "Hey, you got this. You can tackle anything life throws your way." And that's priceless if you ask me.

Who are some of the icons or mentors in your life who have shown you the way, who have admired, and whose examples you wish to live up to?

There are truly so many people who have helped me on my journey. But in reading this question, the first person I thought of is my “grandmother” Jerry. As a younger Black gay man, Jerry was probably the first older-than-me Black gay man I ever met. I had just gotten out of a military high school that had in many ways erased my sense of self. I didn’t know how to be openly gay, and more so Black and gay. Jerry was (and is) fabulous. He had style, wit, personality, poise, and grace. He knew how to be professional, knew how to party, could dance, and knew how to read the house down. He could kiki with women while simultaneously and secretly hit on their boyfriends and get numbers…a skill that still mesmerizes me to this day. Jerry very much raised me as to how to navigate the world as Black gay person. From dating, to family, to how to live on your own, to how to fix something…he was more of a Dad than I ever had known in life. As a wild young adult, he always pushed me toward being more and was quick to let me know if I wasn’t doing my best. He loved me at some of my worst moments in life and of course celebrated with me at my best. I owe a lot of who I am and who I have yet to become to that kind of guidance. I am blessed to have met someone like Jerry.

In my personal opinion, all of the BIPOC entertainers in this community are not getting what they deserve in comparison to our white counterparts. For me to name one, or two, or seven, or ten is to leave out many who are just as deserving. I do not intend to side step the question in this answer, but instead implore this community to open its eyes. These entertainers are often performing in an otherwise all white cast. They are working the spotlight or the door trying to get an “in” to the stage. They may just be posting on Instagram because they don’t yet have bookings but are still determined to put themselves out there. This question shouldn’t have to be asked and the “sleeping” is a very intentional choice by this community’s gatekeepers for reasons I have not ever understood. But the truth is, we are ALL out here waiting for people to see us…not just in February, not just on Juneteenth or Indigenous Peoples Day…but for the talented, creative, resilient, and beautiful artists we are every single day.

Mr & Miss Twin Cities Black Pride
Andre 1000 & ChaChi

February 27, 2024

First, if you were to introduce yourself to a perfect stranger, what would you tell them about yourself?

I would tell them that I am Andre, I am married, I am a dad, I am a city employee, I am a local drag performer, and I am the newly crowned Mr Twin Cities Black Pride. 😊

To get to know me is to love me! I am ChaChi Monique Cassadine! A girl is who is in love with the woman she's becoming. A room shaker, electrifying entertainer, but I'm also one of the most genuine and loving people you will meet.

Next, speaking of Black Excellence, how does that define you and what you do, your goals, and the barriers you’ve broken through or are still facing in this white supremacist society?

Andre - For me, Black Excellence is always striving for better. I wake up every day, and try to be better than I was the day before. A better father, A better husband, a better member of the community, and a better entertainer. I want to be someone you all can be proud of. The road leading to “better” for black people is always more complicated than it has to be. It’s almost like we have to prove that we are GREAT, before we can even be considered to stand next to other performers.

ChaChi - I am Black Excellence. Well at least that is what I strive to be everyday. It's how we carry ourselves and what we do even when no one is looking. Know who you are as an African American male or female in this society and stand proud in that. Even in the year 2024 black queens spaces are limited. From what I’ve experienced we have to work even harder for spots and places we deserve to be. We have to paint more, our costumes have to be over the top, our performances have certain expectations to be a black entertainer, however I feel that pushes us to be some of the best entertainers to be in this scene.

What does showmanship mean to you?
Andre - To me, showmanship is giving the people what they want to see- being able to appeal to a wide audience, while still being in line with your core values.

Photo By Mikah Aleman

What does showmanship mean to you?
ChaChi - Showmanship to me is putting yourself in your audience's shoes. Give your audience a show that you would want to see. I always say my audience are my employers, and I never want to show a poor performance in front of my employer.

Photo By ChaChi

How did you evolve as an artist? Tell us a bit about your beginnings and the milestones in your performance career?

Andre - I started doing drag at the Gay 90’s in the early 2000s as a part of the drag king troupe The 24 Karat kings. When the drag king show stopped, I set out to find a drag home. For a while, I performed in a show called Dykes Do Drag, which is where I met Barbara Gordon. I did her show a few times and was noticed by the show producer of Dragged Out. I’ve been a part of that show since 2008 or 2009? That show is unique because it is the longest running drag king show around these parts. I also did a show called Elegance, which was an all BIPOC cast. I’ve performed all over the Twin Cities. I’m currently one of the show producers at the Saloon.

ChaChi - I started my drag career in May of 2014 competing at the Gay 90’s for their So You Think You Can Drag weekly competition. I knew nothing about nothing back then. All I knew is I wanted to entertain. I struggled with what it meant to really be a drag queen. This is an expensive art and you have to be ready for that. I also cared too much about what everyone thought my drag should be. I was told “you need to change your name. They won't take you seriously with a name like ChaChi” “You perform too many black girl songs”, soooo many different things that I believe pushed me back because I believed them! It was when I took those words and turned it into my motivation where my real drag career began! I can honestly say moving to Atlanta and participating in their drag scene has grown and matured me as a drag performer as well! Them girls didn't play with me down there lol!

If you were to choose one number, one act that would be your legacy, what would that be

Andre - Well, the act that got me the name Andre 1000 was when I performed “Hey Ya!” By Andre’ 3000. He is my favorite artist. He’s a genius. He’s beautiful.

ChaChi - Well everyone who knows me knows I LOVE ME SOME FANTASIA BARRINO TAYLOR!! Her favorite song to perform is “When I See You” . She has a live version she did for the Steve Harvey Neighborhood Awards show that I also perform. That has become my favorite number. That would have to be an act that would be my legacy.

In this upcoming year, during your reign, what are some of the outreach ideas you have and what do you want to do in your communities?

Andre - I would like to find a way to cultivate the new up and coming black talent in the queer community. When I am looking at all of the new performers, so many of them don’t look like me. So, I’m SEARCHING for people of color that want to perform. And I know that there are some performers that just don’t have access to the things that they feel they need to be a successful performer.

ChaChi - I also would love find more black queer performers. I wouold love to find more black queer drag kings. Looking to have a an all Afican American drag king show. Drag kings arent seen much in the community. Its time to get you all to come out and have a good time with the rest of us.

If money were no object, what has been a dream number you would put together?

Andre - That’s easy. MC Hammer, “U can’t touch this” live performance, MTV VMAs 1990. Hammer had like 100 people on stage with him. It was crazy!!

ChaChi - NO SHADE!! My girl Fantasia ate that Grammy’s tribute to honor the late ICON Tina Turner. I would have to get me a piece! That gold fringe costume I want it, I want it…. I WANT IT!!

Andre - I’m honestly very lucky. My biological family supports me, as well as my chosen family. My village is small, but mighty!

ChaChi - I have been blessed to have my family and my chosen family have both been my biggest supporters. I would send out a promo and my biological family would PACK THE SHOW OUT!!! And have a great time as well. My chosen family are some of my biggest supporters as well. My Cassadine family keeps me on my P’s and Q’s. I love you all!!

Who are some of the icons or mentors in your life who have shown you the way, who have admired, and whose examples you wish to live up to?

Andre - My mom. She raised me and my brothers with very little help, and we came out alright. She’s a blessing to me still. I learned how to love from her. She’s everything.

ChaChi - My drag mother Sasha Cassadine. Since the first day i seen her perform for Miss Gay 90’s i fell in love with her energy, talent, and COSTUMES!!!! When I perform she definitely a queen i chanel. She strives for perfection and she pushes her children to do the same. She loves drag so much, and you can tell every time she hits the stage that this is what she was born to do!

Andre - Well, that’s tricky. I mean- y’all slept on me for YEARS. It just took the right producer at the right moment to call me, and now y’all treat me like a local celebrity. But I’m always tryna give flowers to the babies out there- Jojo Ventus is one of the sweetest people, and can set a stage on FIRE!! Another few that I really enjoy watching are Texas TeaCakes, Ken Doll, Makeva, and my Queen ChaChi Monique Cassadine. And maybe I’m a little biased, but Hot Pink at the Saloon has an 80% BIPOC cast. I love being on a producer team with such amazing artists.

ChaChi - ME! Lol I have been doing drag for almost 10 years! I have won many competitions at the Gay 90’s (too many to count), The Saloon, and LUSH, and am now a title holder. Hopefully now I will stop being overlooked and be seen for the hard work I've been putting into my drag. I also would love to highlight JOJO VENTUS NINJA!! That baby there has gift and they are shining! Ken Doll COSTUME, PERFORMANCE, and MUG!!!! Mak3va you took a little break, but came out on fire!!! Honesty Jackson. Every time she hit the stage it's felt with emotion! Love it every time. I honestly have to say the Saloon has the most BIPOC I have seen since i have moved back to Minneapolis from Atlanta. Love the energy of that bar.

Alexandro Rox

February 27, 2024

First, if you were to introduce yourself to a perfect stranger, what would you tell them about yourself?

As a performer and advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights, I introduce myself as Alexandro Rox, an artist dedicated to breaking boundaries and celebrating diversity in all its forms.

Next, speaking of Black Excellence, how does that define you and what you do, your goals, and the barriers you’ve broken through or are still facing in this white supremacist society?

Black Excellence entails uplifting marginalized voices amidst systemic oppression. Despite being raised in a family entrenched in racist beliefs near a KKK training camp in South St. Louis, MO, I found solace in art. At 15, I fled my last group home, disowned and left to navigate the streets. Art became my refuge, fostering a loving intentional family and connecting me with a supportive fanbase.

My mission is to utilize my platform to amplify Black voices, challenge stereotypes, and foster inclusivity, particularly within the entertainment industry. While progress has been made, systemic racism persists, posing ongoing challenges. Nevertheless, I am steadfast in my commitment to dismantling these barriers and forging a more equitable and inclusive world for future generations of Black artists and performers.

What does showmanship mean to you?
Showmanship, to me, embodies the art of storytelling through performance. It's about captivating audiences, evoking emotions, and sparking meaningful conversations about identity and empowerment.

Photo By Ryan Coit

How did you evolve as an artist? Tell us a bit about your beginnings and the milestones in your performance career?

My evolution as an artist has been a journey of self-discovery and growth. It's about embracing authenticity, exploring diverse narratives, and pushing artistic boundaries to create impactful and transformative experiences.

My journey in the entertainment industry began in 2008. Beyond the spotlight, I faced and conquered foot cancer, emerging as a survivor with a renewed dedication to advocacy.

Throughout my career, I've achieved significant milestones. From being crowned the 2022/2023 Twin Cities Crown Prince to earning the title of the 2021/2022 International Mr. Gay MN U.S. Male Impersonator, and receiving the International Humanitarian award for my work with the Queer Fam Brigade during the Minneapolis uprising. I aspire to one day document the untold story of the uprising, highlighting its unsung heroes.

These achievements symbolize resilience and commitment. However, they are more than just accolades—they reflect my dedication to championing causes like advocating for Neurodivergent youth, promoting Web3 accessibility, inclusivity, body positivity, empowering LGBTQIA+ community members, and emphasizing self-care.

In essence, my performance career is about making a positive impact. Each milestone reminds me of the journey traveled and the path ahead, filled with opportunities to inspire, empower, and champion authenticity.

If you were to choose one number, one act that would be your legacy, what would that be?

If I were to choose one legacy number, it would be a powerful fusion of storytelling, activism, and raw emotion—a performance that resonates with authenticity and leaves a lasting impact on hearts and minds. I would choose the one titled “trust in me”

In this upcoming year, thinking upon your goals and dreams, what are some of the ideas you have and what do you want to do in your communities?

In the upcoming year, my goals include fostering body positivity, advocating for social justice, and creating platforms for underrepresented voices to be heard and celebrated.

If money were no object, what has been a dream number you would put together?

If money were no object, my dream production would be a grand spectacle of diversity and creativity—a groundbreaking traveling show that pushes boundaries, challenges perceptions, and inspires change on a global scale.

To me, family encompasses both chosen and biological connections. One of the most cherished forms of support I've experienced was during the aftermath of the Minneapolis Uprising. Through my organization, The Queer Fam Brigade, we were able to provide substantial financial aid to individuals and indigenous communities impacted by the George Floyd murder and the uprising that followed.

My chosen family consists of individuals who accept me unconditionally and stand by me through every challenge. During that tumultuous time, Minnesotans demonstrated that love and solidarity transcend biological ties. It was a powerful reminder that in times of crisis, the bonds forged through empathy and shared humanity are indeed unbreakable.

Who are some of the icons or mentors in your life who have shown you the way, who have admired, and whose examples you wish to live up to?

Icons and mentors have played a pivotal role in shaping my journey. They include LGBTQIA trailblazers, social justice advocates, and artists who challenge the status quo. Their courage and dedication inspire me to continually push boundaries and strive for excellence.

Among them are Sasha Cassadine, Mystereo Cassadine, Dirty Boi Xzavier, Mikko Blaze, and Red Bone. However, these names only scratch the surface of the numerous role models, intentional family members, and friends who have stood by me, especially during my lowest points. Without their unwavering support, the flame within me might have extinguished long ago. They serve as a reminder that even in the darkest times, there is light, and nothing lasts forever, not even hardship.

The Twin Cities boast an abundance of Black talent in burlesque, drag, and performance art. One individual who deserves recognition is Domita Sanchez, whose unique artistry and powerful storytelling deserve a spotlight. Additionally, shows that prioritize inclusivity, diversity, and centering BIPOC entertainers include The Bawdy Downe, Flip Phone Events (majority of the cast are black and Asian), Foxy Tann’s Show and Burly Bluff’s

Alex Palacios / Cuntessa

February 27, 2024

First, if you were to introduce yourself to a perfect stranger, what would you tell them about yourself?

First things first, pronouns – they/elle. I'm Honduran-born, a fierce advocate, a social justice enthusiast, and a total dreamer – with just the right amount of "messy" to keep things interesting. Oh, and let's not forget my love for service and creativity. Finally, I’m a sucker for all things cute: clothes and guys, to the front.

Next, speaking of Black Excellence, how does that define you and what you do, your goals, and the barriers you’ve broken through or are still facing in this white supremacist society?

I don't see myself as the epitome of excellence – partly because I'm a failed perfectionist, and partly because I refuse to buy into any hierarchy that tries to define my worth. Now, when it comes to overcoming obstacles, resilience isn't just a nice-to-have trait – it's an absolute necessity. Facts: the world we live in isn't exactly known for its kindness towards folks like me who are HIV positive, queer, Afro-Latine immigrants, or have struggled with addiction. But amidst it all, I'm keenly aware of the privilege I hold compared to other Black Hondurans who never got the opportunities my parents fought tirelessly to give me. I make it my mission to honor the sacrifices and achievements that got me here by actively working to dismantle supremacy and uplift equity. For me, it's all about progress and connection, not about striving for some elusive concept of excellence. It's about paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future for us all.

What does showmanship mean to you?
In one word: integrity. Despite my drag name, I aspire to live in integrity as often as possible, and to honor that we have all failed in this pursuit from time to time. I truly believe that people who exhibit showmanship don't value superiority or “peacocking,” but rather the practice of accountability and self worth, and encourage others to do the same.

Photo By Karla Alvarez

How did you evolve as an artist? Tell us a bit about your beginnings and the milestones in your performance career?

Have I told you about my drag debut? Picture this: 7th grade, me and my friends strutting our stuff in my sister's clothes, belting out a tune by the now-obscure girl group Eden's Crush – and then my sister walks in, a look of horror on her face. I was more mortified than the audience at the Oscars (y'all remember the slap heard around the world?). But you know what? Embracing this persona, this fabulous alter ego, became my way of giving back. Whether I was performing for the beloved Aliveness Project, strutting my stuff at SlutWalk, gracing the stage with the Imperial Court of Minnesota, or even marching for women's rights “in full f-ing glam at 8am in the morning” (I kid, it was a blast), my campy expression was always about creating a world where nobody feels ashamed to be seen and to be themselves. It's all about spreading love, one fierce Top Model pose at a time!

If you were to choose one number, one act that would be your legacy, what would that be

I've got Broadway dreams! Picture this: me, center stage, lights dazzling, choreography on point – the whole shebang! And what better way to slay the stage than with a number from "Chicago" or, even better, "RENT"? Call me basic, but "Out Tonight" from "RENT" just gives me LIFE! Sure, my recent farewell performance of "Hard to Say Goodbye" from Dreamgirls was a moment, but let's be real – it was the motion picture soundtrack version.

In this upcoming year, thinking upon your goals and dreams, what are some of the ideas you have and what do you want to do in your communities?

I guess it's time to spill the tea on my latest project! Beyond my hustle in health equity and politics (because, you know, I'm a force to be reckoned with!), I'm teaming up with a dear friend to launch a podcast that's all about cutting through the noise. We're done with virtue signaling and cancel culture extremes – it's time for some real talk about the diverse Black experiences in America and what it'll take to build a true democracy. Yep, that means having those tough conversations with folks we might not see eye-to-eye with, all while keeping equity and our shared humanity front and center. And trust me, when it's time to push, we're gonna push HARD!

If money were no object, what has been a dream number you would put together?

Gurl…I would love to create a one-queen show celebrating all of the diversity that lives within me and that I've experienced. Yes, an original SERIES of numbers, darling.

This list is longer than the one of my former and imagined boyfriends! Let's start with you and the troupe, of course. Yolanda, Ed, and Iola, the ultimate squad goals! Then there's the incredible crew at Aliveness, both past and present, with a special shoutout to the former Executive Director, Amy Moser. Let's not forget my former boss and friend, Liz, and my English teacher turned friend, Ilana. These folks? They're the ones who lit a match, turned on a light, and sent up flares to guide me through my darkest times. They're the real MVPs, lighting up my life in ways I never thought possible!

Who are some of the icons or mentors in your life who have shown you the way, who have admired, and whose examples you wish to live up to?

So, picture this: my sister Melissa, the one who strutted into my 7th grade drag debut like she owned the place, is the beating heart of my world. I adore (and sometimes loathe) how she constantly challenges me, yet we always come back to our unbreakable bond. If y'all tell her, I'll deny it, teehee.

Then there's my dear friend Jeff, the guiding light who helped me blossom into the confident leader I am today.

Jerome Evans, who beside welcoming me to participate in his own political efforts and made me consulting executive producer for his show Bottomless Coffee, also encouraged me to run for office and is a steadfast, loyal friend.

And of course, we can't forget about the one and only Michelle Obama – talk about a style icon! She embodies the grace, resilience, and sophistication that I aspire to emulate.

Too many to name. Boys and girls, sit and listen to your titi Tessa: Y'all (you know who you are, but seem to not care…) took a sleeping draught, some racially biased infusion– but there's hope! We have an antidote: just show up, practice humility, and bring the coin. “Wake up, [Twin Cities]... Wake up.”

Tank TopOff

February 26, 2024

First, if you were to introduce yourself to a perfect stranger, what would you tell them about yourself?

I’m Dom Giovon aka Tank TopOff a trans activist, drag performer, and all around crazy guy lol!

Next, speaking of Black Excellence, how does that define you and what you do, your goals, and the barriers you’ve broken through or are still facing in this white supremacist society?

Well being mixed raced and raised in a white household had its challenges. I was always either too brown or not brown enough. Despite that I still am black Hispanic and proud! I embrace all my colors.

What does showmanship mean to you?
The way you go about using the stage, props, music, set, etc as an entertainer.

Photo By Teran Lind

How did you evolve as an artist? Tell us a bit about your beginnings and the milestones in your performance career?

Well Tank specifically started with Transcendence Cabaret! My sib aka the fearless leader of the group suggested instead of live performing as Lil One my rap alter ego that I should try drag, and well the rest is history lol. Since then I have toured the US doing casino shows and other various amazing events. Tank now is way more polished than baby tank.

If you were to choose one number, one act that would be your legacy, what would that be

Either my Youngblood number or my colors by Jason Derulo number.

In this upcoming year, thinking upon your goals and dreams, what are some of the ideas you have and what do you want to do in your communities?

I am currently working on bringing a podcast to life! Me and a trans brother of mine want to hit on topics that need to be discussed but are not often brought up because of embarrassment and what have you. If you know me you know I’ve never been one to keep my mouth shut if I feel the need to say something so, might as well use it to educate and bring light to said topics.

If money were no object, what has been a dream number you would put together?

I’ve always wanted to do like a boy band concert number with dancers lights smoke the whole nine I want like the Backstreet boy experience for my audience or since I am Tank Topoff the Magic Mike experience.

I’ve been blessed to not only have support from my community family but my actual family as well. The most treasured support for me definitely comes from my mother and my woman. My mom has rooted for me since the very first time I filled in my mustache to get on stage and has always challenged me to do better. My girl is my biggest cheerleader going on roadtrips to make little money with me just to be seen in the drag community. Those two are my rocks.

Who are some of the icons or mentors in your life who have shown you the way, who have admired, and whose examples you wish to live up to?

One of my biggest inspirations and it’s no secret has always been Mr Andre 1000! He’s trans black and unapologetic and that’s what I’ve always strived to be. Another icon I look up to is Christina “action” Jackson that’s momma right there! The level of respect I have for her is unmatched. She is one of the first queens I ever met and to this day the nicest and realest one I’ve ever met.

When it comes to recognition we can’t look over Lala Lucious! Between creating the successful show POWER and constantly booking POC artists she is a huge supporter of what we are tryna achieve.

Lady Cummeal Cassadine

February 26, 2024

First, if you were to introduce yourself to a perfect stranger, what would you tell them about yourself?

A bolt of ecstasy straight from the 80s, the Boriqua Princess of the Midwest, Lady Cummeal Cassadine (Royal Haus of Cassadine), aka Renaissance Ninja (International Iconic House of Ninja) is a local drag queen, actrx, writer, & educator in the Twin Cities, originally from THEE Windy City, Chicago. She holds her degree in Acting & minor in Business from The University of Minnesota-Twin Cities. A lifelong Prince fan, she takes much of her inspiration from him & and works as a Tour Guide at Paisley Park Studios. A Twin Cities Princess, Lady loves to keep ya on the edge of ya seat, thirsting for some fun, with versatile and electric performances. Classy with a lil bit of nasty, come out and join the party to experience the full euphoria and ecstasy of The Divine Secret.

Next, speaking of Black Excellence, how does that define you and what you do, your goals, and the barriers you’ve broken through or are still facing in this white supremacist society?

Black Excellence is not as monolithic as stereotypically thought, presenting itself in a multitude of ways, and I think my journey is a great example of that; from a C.O.G.I.C junior deacon to a drag queen. Just being Puerto Rican AND Black, my existence today & every day is barrier-breaking from the moment I take that first conscious breath in the morning.

Black Excellence is The Beauty of Resilience amongst the constant barrage of willful & intentional ignorance. Therefore, my art, whether that be in drag, theater, or writing, will always be about the ecstasy of color. My Blackness. My Latinidad. My Queerness. My Mixedness. My Borinquen. Black Excellence does not define me, rather I define it; For myself, as anyone should.

What does showmanship mean to you?
Captivation. Exhilaration. A Moment. Detailed. A Gift. Thoughtfulness. Ritualistic. Consciousness. Beyond the Self. Selfless. A Prayer. Authentic. Inherent.
Some have it. Many don’t.

Photo By Darin Kamnetz

How did you evolve as an artist? Tell us a bit about your beginnings and the milestones in your performance career?

My artistic career started, because my mom made me apply for a scholarship that I got, & allowed me to go to any high school I wanted. My dad is a skilled visual artist, but that’s all I knew as “art”. So, I chose a school I felt I would never get bullied at, The Chicago Academy for the Arts. To attend you had to declare an artistic major, and I chose Theatre because I thought it’d be the easiest. Little did I know I’d have an existential crisis on and off for the rest of my life jajajaja.

Nonetheless, I fell in love with theater making, writing & most importantly, performing. Eventually, I changed majors to Musical Theater where my training in dance & vocals were harnessed. Ultimately I ended up going to college for it at the University of Minnesota/Guthrie Theatre BFA Actor Training Program (a mouthful), where I really began to discover the type of art and artist I wanted to be, and am now.

From then, I’ve studied & performed in London, attended & taught at The Northwestern High School Institute Theatre & Musical Theatre Program (Cherubs), and taught & facilitated at The Goodman Theatre, The Guthrie Theatre, Children’s Theatre Center, among many others.

In 2019 my best friends and I premiered our original show, STOOPIDITY, at the MN Fringe Festival where it won Audience & Venue Pick, selling out all our shows but 1. It also was named Best New Work of 2019 by Cherry & Spoon. This is the same show where Lady Cummeal was truly born (02/09/2019), and later that year, in June, is when Sasha Cassadine would find me, adopt me, & nurture me to where I am today.

In 2020, I decided to step away from theater in a performer capacity, for personal reasons, & began to pursue drag full-time. This was honestly one of the best times of my life, being able to relentlessly experiment and grow. I started off with an interest in Club Kid Culture and the art made in that experience, although that’s not the type of drag and performance that would get me booked & working…. SO under the advice of my mother, I started to dabble more in glamour drag and open up my toolbox of drag, because it’s the growth with glamour drag that won me the Flip Phone Superstar 2022 Crown, & now I am able to cross drag genres seamlessly. Which I think is a BIG part of my career, being flexible and versatile enough to try everything & anything instead of knocking it as “not my type of drag” (something Sasha instilled in me from the start).

Here I am now in 2024:

• Returning to Theatre as an actor. I’m in my first major production in the Twin Cities, The Spectacularly Lamentable Trial of Miz Martha Washington at Mixed Blood Theatre.

• Co-host of The Lemon Squeeze presented by Sasha Cassadine & The Haus of Cassadine.

• Event Host at Paisley Park Studios

• Acting Mother of The House of Ninja MN

• Poster Child for Hennepin Theatre Trust for their We the People project

• Collective Member for Vogue Down Minneapolis

• Returning to STOOPIDITY

I hold a self-awareness of how odd my journey sometimes looks because I end up in places & and positions I was never looking for, and yet there’s a beauty to allowing a calling to pull you in rather than searching for it. The gift of being an artist is the malleability of the journey, & like Black Excellence, mine can only be defined by me.

If you were to choose one number, one act that would be your legacy, what would that be

That’s a tough one because two numbers follow me around, and just like I break barriers, I’m gonna break the rules. A tie between: My Let’s Go Crazy Prince number from Pride 2023 at First Ave & My winning talent for Flip Phone Superstar 2022. A mix of David Bowie & Lady Gaga.

In this upcoming year, thinking upon your goals and dreams, what are some of the ideas you have and what do you want to do in your communities?

I have a few ideas I’ve been juggling with for a while now. I’ve always wanted to start my own Cabaret to provide a wider array of entertainment, with & and without drag as a centerfold. I want to start a sort of drag resource course, where young & and old entertainers can access training or workshops to better their skills as drag artists, performers, and businesses.

I’ve always wanted to throw my warehouse events and hope to get that up & and running soon!

Honestly, with financial support, I have so many ideas both as entertainment and aid for this community it’d make your head spin.

If money were no object, what has been a dream number you would put together?

Well, if money wasn’t an object, I probably still wouldn’t say anything because if I told you it’d spoil the surprise, and I prefer to move in silence. If you’re interested in what that dream number would be, come out and support me & the shows I’m in so I can produce this dream number

www.dominoeffectproductionz.com

https://linktr.ee/TheDivineSecret

I am fortunate to be a member of two well-known houses. The Royal Haus of Divine Cassadine, led by the legendary Sasha R. Cassadine & The International Iconic House of Ninja, led by Overall Dolores Ninja. Sasha found me during a time when I had no idea what my plans were post-college (or in life for that matter). I was just wandering with no sight of a clear future. She took me in, guided me, exposed me to opportunity & spoke on my name as if I’d already hit legendary status, and has given me so much I didn’t realize I was searching for.

The Ninjas found me in the summer of 2021, and just like Sasha, saw a skill and strength in me I had yet to nurture and give space to. Ultimately naming me Acting Mother of the Minnesota Chapter of The House of Ninja in 2023.

Flash forward to today and my drag & ballroom family continues to grow. Now having 5 gay kids of my own: Ken Doll Cassadine, Zaya D. Cassadine, ThatQueerIsa Cassadine, Pan Pan The Clown Cassadine & AidyHD. My kids have my whole heart and help me be a better person.

These individuals are some of the most diverse, beautiful, & talented people I know today, and I’m constantly gratuitous for the opportunity to be loved by them, learn from them, and grow with them. They constantly anchor me, challenge me, & uplift me. They love the darkest parts as hard as my lightest parts. I joke a lot that I just stumbled into all of this, which isn’t far from the truth, yet that’s exactly what happened. I don’t talk about it a lot but I’m constantly navigating, like many, severe mental health issues & trauma, of which my severe anxiety & depression are most present, and yet the amount of care my family has with me helps to quiet those and make them easier to accept, acknowledge, and live with. Without any of these individuals, I would not be responding to this interview now; Fully confident & proud of the individual I have grown into & the amazing work I have done and continue to do.
The definition of family to me: Being loved & lifted & challenged toward the greatness I’m meant to claim, learning to grow into a better & more purposeful person/artist along the way.

Who are some of the icons or mentors in your life who have shown you the way, who have admired, and whose examples you wish to live up to?

Prince
Beyonce
Barberetta West
Stephanie Butler
Sasha R. Cassadine
Maija Garcia
Janelle Monae
Genevee Ramona Love
Nocturna Lee Mission
Michael Punter
Jaidyn Dior Fierce
Utica
Andy Robinson
Patricia Rusk
Tenderoni
Bambi Banks-Coulee
Logan Clark Wilde
Isabella Pelz
Wanda Pelz
Andre 1000
Brian Bose
Geneva Richards
Cynthia Lee Fontaine
Mercedes Iman Diamond

Lastly, the Twin Cities is an embarrassment of Black talent in burlesque, drag, and all performance art. Who are we sleeping on who should be recognized? Which shows do y’all recognize as ones who truly show inclusivity, diversity, and a commitment to centering Black and Indigenous and People of Colour entertainers?

BLACK TALENT:
KenDoll
Priscilla Es Yuicy
Keke Boudreaux
Don Escada
Jojo Ventus Ninja
ZORA
Dr. Goon & The Daily Tribune
Tre Da Mark
Myster’EO Cassadine
Brian Bose
Rustina Phoenix Nuttz
Yoni 007
Sasha Bangz

(this is also a great example of where I can open up my sights because as I am typing this I’m realizing how few BLACK performers I actually know in the Twin Cities.)

SHOWS:
Black Ass Friday
Queen Duin’s Latin Night
Hot Pink
Flip Phone Events

Rustina Phoenix Nuttz

February 26, 2024

First, if you were to introduce yourself to a perfect stranger, what would you tell them about yourself?

Hello there! My name is Rustina Phoenix Nuttz. I am the salty but always sweet Auntie of the Midwest. As a drag entertainer, I’m going to entertain and make sure you have a great time but I’m also gonna educate you on some stuff.

Next, speaking of Black Excellence, how does that define you and what you do, your goals, and the barriers you’ve broken through or are still facing in this white supremacist society?

Black Excellence is something black people have always had to do. We have to be excellent in order to be seen and recognized. Plus we just do excellent things because it’s in our culture to just be excellent!

During my time in Nebraska drag world, I was told I couldn’t have multiple titles in one year, and I held three titles in the span of 10 months. I have created an all black cast show at one of the major bars in the Twin Cities though it was told that doesn’t ever work out. And with that show I have cast over 30 black entertainers in the Twin Cities area.

Something that we as black artists in the Twin Cities is constantly fighting for is equity. Not equality. We are still having to fight and ask for performance opportunities in spaces that have the ability to cast us in their events. Because of that, many black entertainers (Lala Luzious, Keke Boudreaux, Ruby Jewels Cassadine, Shia Vaughn and Lucyfer Love) have found ways and outlets to create their own shows throughout the community to help our black community.

What does showmanship mean to you?
The true definition is skill at entertaining, theatrical presentation, or performance. For me my showmanship is all through my performance. From a theatre background, my goal in my drag is to always embody the character of the song I’m performing and to either give you an escape from your problems, allowing you to be fully engaged and entertained.

Photo By Darin Kamnetz

How did you evolve as an artist? Tell us a bit about your beginnings and the milestones in your performance career?

In my beginning it was always told to me that I had the performance and stage presence. My issue was my aesthetic and that’s what hindered/hinders me from certain gigs and opportunities. Currently, my journey is to continue to elevate my drag and find looks that fully embody the brand of Auntie of the Midwest but with a little style! I am very fortunate enough to have some amazing people in my life to help push me and keep me moving forward to become better in all my aspects of performance.

If you were to choose one number, one act that would be your legacy, what would that be

Gladys Knight “End of the Road” medley. I watched one of my drag mothers Coco Nuttz perform this the night she became my drag mother and that song is the embodiment of Black Excellence. Since then I’ve been able to put my own spin on it and always love performing this number.

In this upcoming year, thinking upon your goals and dreams, what are some of the ideas you have and what do you want to do in your communities?

My goals really is to just continue elevating my drag and what I do and to continue to provide opportunities for BIPOC entertainers but most importantly black artists in the Twin Cities.

If money were no object, what has been a dream number you would put together?

A group production number of “No Bad News” from the Wiz. The Wiz was one of the first theatre based production I saw and I’ve always been in love with what this movie/musical means in our community.

I am very blessed to have a chosen family but also my blood family as well. Over the years I have been able to really connect with some members of my family who have been nothing but supportive. Though they don’t fully understand, they have always loved me since I was little and have continued to always remind me that I have love from them.

My most treasured support is from my mother and MeMe (gma). They flew here in December to check in on me after my time in the hospital and just showed me so much love when they were here. I know that I am very fortunate and grateful to have my mother and grandma pour so much love and support to me.

Who are some of the icons or mentors in your life who have shown you the way, who have admired, and whose examples you wish to live up to?

My mothers: Coco Nuttz, Zon Legacy Phoenix, and Khamillion Adonis Dickerson Dartanyn.

I am blessed to have a black gay man, a black trans woman and a black Afab entertainer as my drag mothers. Each of them have accomplished so much in their communities and having them as mothers continues to push myself.

Entertainers to watch out for:

Megan the MANEATER Carter, Andre 1000, JoJo Ventus Ninja, Chia, Plum Ridiculous, Texas Tea Cake$, Tré Da Marc, Chachi Monique Cassadine, Moe Russell, Ruby Jewels Cassadine, Mikko Blaze, and Amir Oddysea Kinara

Productions or Shows to go and support:

B and M Entertainment

Shia Vaughn’s Royal Divas

Hot Pink at Saloon

Black Queer Connect Productions with Lucyfer Love

Fierce Productions with Jamie Monroe

Stella Rockstar

February 25, 2024

First, if you were to introduce yourself to a perfect stranger, what would you tell them about yourself?

I'm Stella Rockstar! I am a performer, dance instructor, and a casting director/cast member of the Queer Circus. I've been doing Burlesque for 10 years, and before that always dabbled in various dance mediums. I have an incredible wife and two fur babies.

Dancing is my life, I'm obsessed with my besties and love my fam, and I am a night owl.

Next, speaking of Black Excellence, how does that define you and what you do, your goals, and the barriers you’ve broken through or are still facing in this white supremacist society?

Black Excellence defines me because I strive to show up as my best self as often as possible, and to stay present. I have learned that my energy is a precious resource for my community as well as myself. Showing up authentically is my act of revolution towards white supremacy.

What does showmanship mean to you?
I love a performer with strong energy, who makes great eye contact and plays to the crowd. Showmanship really shines through when you feel the emotions radiating off the dancer!

Photo By Kaeley Rolland

How did you evolve as an artist? Tell us a bit about your beginnings and the milestones in your performance career?

When I first started out I really wasn't sure what my vibe was or what kind of dancer I wanted to be. With time and experience I was able to find my stride, and my dancing really improved when I started taking more classes and stepping outside of my comfort zone. My first ever burlesque performance was at First Ave for Grown n Sexy Pride with The Vigilantease Collective. Eventually I became known for my floorwork and began teaching at the Rose Academy! I love it so much that now I teach multiple classes there and am now the Program Director. Becoming a Queer Circus cast member also meant the world to me. It was so exciting and validated.

If you were to choose one number, one act that would be your legacy, what would that be

Flowers has definitely become a signature act for me, because it's colorful and all about self love; audiences appreciate that vibe. But I have the most fun doing my Love Doctor number because it's super spicy and high energy!

In this upcoming year, thinking upon your goals and dreams, what are some of the ideas you have and what do you want to do in your communities?

Last year I was fortunate to receive a grant which allowed me to provide free community dance classes and it was so fulfilling for my students and me. So I'd love to be able to do something like that again. I want to keep producing and supporting shows that include and center BIPOC communities and fat performers.

If money were no object, what has been a dream number you would put together?

I would have a custom Bird cage with poles I could dance on and a swinging little trapeze in the middle. No idea what song I would use but the costume would be stoned to the heavens and very avian.

I'm very fortunate to have a supportive and loving birth family as well as a chosen fam with who I am just as close so I've had a lot of support and everyday I cherish it. To me family is you celebrate your wins and grieve losses with. The people you know are there for you and also who you show up for, it has to go both ways.

Who are some of the icons or mentors in your life who have shown you the way, who have admired, and whose examples you wish to live up to?

SWEETPEA! A decade ago she snatched me up as a baby burlesquer and we have gotten so much closer over time. She's straight fire on stage but more importantly she is one of the kindest humans I know.

We need to do a better job of showing up for shows that are that are consistently all BIPOC. I've seen countless shows with amazing casts, and great potential (Melanated Menagerie, Fat Bitch Friday to name a few) that don't get the same support as other shows at the same venues. Shows like Queer Circus, TC Cabaret, Golden Garters, Take it Off: a Fat Burlesque Weekend and pretty much anything produced by the Rose Academy all do a great job of having diverse cast members!

Purple Queen Zen

February 25, 2024

First, if you were to introduce yourself to a perfect stranger, what would you tell them about yourself?

I am a strong Black woman. I am a person with a passion for uplifting the community, a person who speaks truth and honesty, and I am a person of integrity. Most days you can find me, a true power ambivert, either relaxing at home with my family or out having fun around beautiful people. I have a passion for creating positive music that brings awareness to realities faced by my community.

Next, speaking of Black Excellence, how does that define you and what you do, your goals, and the barriers you’ve broken through or are still facing in this white supremacist society?

I challenge myself to speak up and say it with my chest. I want to send a message that illuminates the unseen inequity and violence that white supremacy creates. I practice daily self care that allows me to stay afloat with equal parts uplifting community and accepting honest allyship efforts to smash white supremacy. I take every part of my day and radiate Black joy and live my life as an example. I reject the labels put on us. I celebrate and give praise to the Universe where I find my ancestors who shine upon me.

What does showmanship mean to you?
To me, this means using the gifts that God has given me and trusting that it will bring others joy and happiness. It means creating a space for belonging and acceptance. It means inviting all people to enjoy the universal language of music alongside me.

Photo By Carise Rotach

How did you evolve as an artist? Tell us a bit about your beginnings and the milestones in your performance career?

I got my start rapping in churches and doing cyphers in the back of elementary school buses. After the loss of a sibling, I took a pause to grieve. Ultimately I realized the power of the tongue that existed in me and I knew I had to go back to my art. My craft took a new turn and I wanted to speak truth and realness about how to make the world a better place. I felt a new purpose to radiate my message of hope and joy through the pain. In 2018 I saw my music loved by my community in a different way, played on the radio, and was able to perform on First Avenue’s mainstage. The smaller stages like 7th Street and Mortimer’s were also where I got to see people grooving to my music.

Around the start of the pandemic, I nearly lost my life from an illness that put me in the hospital. Recovery from this illness included temporary memory loss and I found that I wasn’t able to remember any of my lyrics. My loved ones supported me and kept encouraging me to get back on the stage. I found that drive I had found many years ago to keep creating. Today I enjoy DJing, performing, and rocking the crowd around town. I look forward to releasing new music soon (stay tuned!).

If you were to choose one number, one act that would be your legacy, what would that be?

I believe I have not yet created that. It’s not here yet. If I had to choose today, I’d pick my song Worth It, which reached the most streams of my catalog to date. It’s a banger. Go stream it!

In this upcoming year, thinking upon your goals and dreams, what are some of the ideas you have and what do you want to do in your communities?

I want to support people doing impactful policy work in my communities by highlighting them in my music. I will travel and bring my music to other diverse cultures across the world. I’ve got a few fans in New Zealand :) I want to have a bigger reach and see more people impacted by my art.

If money were no object, what has been a dream number you would put together?

I would do a festival full of artists who I know have the power to change the energy and change hearts and minds. I’d love to pay them what they are worth and give them a platform.

My wife and bonus kid, my mother, and a few of my childhood friends in the queer community are who I consider my family. I built a family out of my community growing up at a time where it was harder to say “I’m gay/lesbian”. Those people stood by me and accepted me for who I am. I will always respect those few but mighty folks who stayed and showed up. My most treasured support is from my late brother KJ who continues to inspire me to keep going no matter what.

Who are some of the icons or mentors in your life who have shown you the way, who have admired, and whose examples you wish to live up to?

Powerful Black women in the music industry are my inspiration; Queen Latifah, Missy Elliot, Lauryn Hill, Erykah Badu, MC Lyte, and the list goes on…. I also can’t forget about the men like Nas, Kendrick Lamar, and many more who changed the game. I’m inspired by my generation and the evolution of thought around seeing changes that need to be made and executing it.

I don’t quite consider it an embarrassment. I really do believe that we have so much talent and it sucks not to be exposed to Black artists the same way we are exposed to other artists. I do think all of us have to play a role in promoting Black artists, putting ourselves out there more, and holding people and places accountable for what we want to see. We all have to do more and do better.

André 1000 is a Black drag king, recently crowned Mr. Twin Cities Black Pride. He has talent and vision for the community. DJ Cassie Opia has a drive of determination to set up community artists for success. She’s created industry share nights to connect performers. Ameen Taahir is my cousin and recently released new music and graphic designs used in retail stores. There’s so many others that can be found just by looking at social media events happening each week. I, honestly, am still searching for more events that center BIPOC performers and hope to become a part of creating that space.

Gregory

February 25, 2024

First, if you were to introduce yourself to a perfect stranger, what would you tell them about yourself?

I’m an actor, improviser, and clown, teaching artist, panelist, and writer. I’ve been a lifelong geek and although my siblings were too, I’ve always been the weird one of the four of us. Also a lifelong enjoyer of Star Wars and Star Trek and think the convention of preferring one over the other is one of the stupidest pop culture things ever.

Next, speaking of Black Excellence, how does that define you and what you do, your goals, and the barriers you’ve broken through or are still facing in this white supremacist society?

Okay, folks, strap in. To be honest – by this point in life, I just assume and accept that my presence in a space is a statement. Unless a space is specifically BIPOC centered, I’m still usually The Only One In The Room, although that’s happening less and less and it’s marvelous. And thankfully the expectation to prove my Blackness quotient is smaller than it was when I was growing up and we can simply be happy to have more of us in a space.

Since starting therapy I’ve been more focused on deconstructing the dark side of Black Excellence where it goes beyond achieving, showing up, and existing as my full self and ability and mutated (and still mutates) to the destructive menace of perfectionism and inability to rest. Those two aspects dovetailed far too efficiently since my early life and there have been times in my life where it reached an unhealthy point. To this day I still don’t feel the supposed freedom of being mediocre or just being and I don’t see how I can exercise that freedom in this world. So rather than risk being seen being or doing anything less than exemplary, I tend to opt out. We’re still having to be twice as good to get half as far and even when “non-racist” people say “I just think the best person for the job should get it”, it still never occurs to their “non-racist” mind that the best person for the job could be someone darker than the palm of a hand. Anyone not white must obviously only be there because of the Grand Plan of the Woke Mob unless enough white people vouch for them.

We also need to continue dialogues amongst ourselves about how that negatively dovetails with colorism and blackchecking. We need to allow ourselves the freedom to explore and represent the entire breadth of human creative and expressive possibilities. For example, as a Black individual who is also a clown, I am still a unicorn and there’s a lot of ignorance about that form of performance.

I grew up in a predominantly white environment - not by deliberate action of my parents or maternal grandparents (who were the ones who moved to Iowa in the first place), but by flow of development. My grandparents bought a house out past city limits, on a gravel road. Then the suburb grew up around that as white flight and acquisition/expansion did what they do. I was always The Only One In The Room and since I was labeled gifted I was a curiosity and I also had to constantly prove myself, which meant that I developed the habit of flexing the fact that I knew the answer or knew all these things when the white kids didn’t. The thing is - at 50, I still notice not only when and how I do that, but also recognize how that’s a thing I still need to be able to do. 2024 and it’s still “You need to be smart, but don’t be too smart . . . “ and so on.

As far as the empowerment aspect of it and its relation to what I do – I’ve never seen anyone in improv locally, nationally, or internationally do what I do when I do Where I Am Now (my solo mostly-silent improv). Film? Circus? Stage? Definitely. But improv? As far as I know, I’m the only one and that’s one thing I actually let myself be proud of. I’ve had improvisers of all hues come up to me and lose their minds and it feels tremendously validating and I want to tell younger me “See? Just keep at it, kid. It’ll get better. Even the Black people will get you.” And now that I’m getting back on track after being shaken by all the lynchings the last several years, I hope to take that beyond the Twin Cities.

To sum up, the concept of Black Excellence for me is double edged and I don’t know that we discuss and dissect that enough. In a world where we can ultimately never be enough, how can we create local/national/global community/-ies where good enough truly is good enough? Or where simply being is enough and worthy and valued. We don’t all have to have been kings and queens - it’s all right to be writers, caretakers, farmers, jesters, weavers, or just sitting on a bench or lying down in the grass. We don’t – and shouldn’t – always have to be doing or proving. That can kill us as much as the ignorance and fear and violence of racism. A slow death is still a death. And a slow life is still a life. I’m still going to strive, I’m just less willing to kill myself for anyone’s approval like that anymore and we need to guard against letting something devolve into one more way of doing the oppressor’s work for them.

What does showmanship mean to you?
Showmanship to me incorporates flair, ability, and a personal “voice.” If there’s one thing that you leave an audience with that defines You in their memory, I feel that’s the result of whatever cocktail you served up.

Photo: Kelly Gritzmacher, Studio 292 Photography, 2023

How did you evolve as an artist? Tell us a bit about your beginnings and the milestones in your performance career?

Milestones: traveling and performing with Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey, traveling and performing with Kinoshita Circus in Japan, creating my own solo improv show, becoming a host for CVG-TV every year for CONvergence..

Evolution: I’m always evolving. I started out as a kid just watching and mimicking cartoons and voices. I was always watching something and my folks encouraged us to be active and curious. I wrote a play in 4th grade and then the sequel in 6th grade and got clearance and support from the teachers to produce it with classmates. Years later I joined the recently-formed sketch comedy troupe at Iowa State University and then started taking improv classes at Brave New Institute up here in 97 or 98. I’d been hiding my interest in clowning since about sixth grade and only after graduating college did I start to be more open about it. My clowning education began solely with attending workshops and my evolution is now sparked by having just turned 50 and figuring out what my art means or what it’s worth in today’s society where we’re fighting the renewed strength and some revised iterations of the same bullshit our forebears fought against. What does it mean to freely give of myself to an audience that likely contains “Shut up and dribble” type folks or folks that would more quickly seek ways to justify my untimely death at the hands of police rather than face and change the evils of what police do and stand for?

My biggest evolutionary step was realizing years ago that the audience doesn’t owe me anything, but I owe them effort, preparation, engagement, and foremost a sense of welcome. No matter what I do on stage, they are welcome to be present and take it in and I hope they leave with some sort of gift whether it’s rest and relief, or thought and challenge.

I would like to evolve beyond caring so much about results. It kills me that I have almost no idea how I positively affect someone and usually never will. When I was on Ringling, a lot of energy went to proving I belonged there and was just as capable as the clowns that hadn’t had the fortune of being selected to go to the recently closed Clown College. The three years of touring after that was flavored by the frustration of touring with a bunch of people in their 20s treating it like a class trip and being used to the privilege of not being seen as an ambassador or example of others like yourself. I was annoyed that they seemed so blasé about the work and the privilege of touring, taking its perks for granted. I’m now more likely to focus more on myself and how effectively I support those I work with and if someone’s like that, I’m more likely to say “They’re gonna learn. But they probably won’t,” and make sure their different standards don’t detract from the results of mine. Thankfully I got through all that before I started teaching workshops because it helped me lean even harder into encouraging and engaging participants. I became okay with the rhythm of introducing an exercise, running it, then debriefing afterward. Some people like workshops where stuff is packed in, but after having experiences where I didn’t get an exercise until weeks or months after the fact, I drifted toward a style that allows people to work stuff out in the moment and talk it out. Between that and being a teaching artist for Upstream Arts for five years I feel I solidly developed a comfort with and habit of making space for people to get stuff on their own to whatever degree they get it in the moment, as long as they get something from it. Then that can germinate more after the fact. But I like to make sure no one leaves empty handed, even if they never set foot on a stage.

If you were to choose one number, one act that would be your legacy, what would that be

I’m super proud of something I call “A Man, A Banana”. I developed it when I was in Japan and first performed it for people in Sendai displaced by the tsunami and the Fukushima reactor collapse. I manage to entertain people just by eating a banana and it goes over in a way that is super satisfying to this dork who usually considers himself utterly devoid of ideas.

In this upcoming year, thinking upon your goals and dreams, what are some of the ideas you have and what do you want to do in your communities?

I keep telling myself that I’ll create a one-man show, whether for Fringe or not. I have plenty of people I would love to collaborate with, and I would like more Black people of all ages see what other artists and I are doing and see possibility and inspiration whether it’s in a similar discipline or something else they enjoy or have been curious about. If I could help people from marginalized groups nurture a creative or expressive spark, that would make me happy.

If money were no object, what has been a dream number you would put together?

I’d love to have a reproduction made of Bert Williams’s rooster suit and create a number around that, possibly with someone’s original music. In addition to the numerous dream cosplays I’d create or commission, the idea of money being no object would definitely include a period – whether brief or extended – where I wouldn’t have to worry about working full time for a while or a lack of space.

The BIPOC improv community is much larger now than it was when I first started up here in the late 90s. I don’t have enough digits to count the people now. There are clown folks I’ve connected with – some former Ringling, some not – who have helped me stay in that realm of being continually open to ways we all can showcase and represent clowning beyond the narrow idea lay people often have. These people have given me valuable support and I’m more likely to give support than to accept it as easily. I’m fortunate to have a biological family that has supported me and my efforts throughout the years and I’m happy to say that I’m able to be that for my niblings. I even have another cousin and her daughter who are also actors, so when I once felt I was alone in the family, I now know I’m not!

Who are some of the icons or mentors in your life who have shown you the way, who have admired, and whose examples you wish to live up to?

Icons: Bert Williams, Doug Jones, Bill Irwin, and Ahmed Best come to mind off the bat, but I guarantee there are more in the junk drawers of my mind. I haven’t had the opportunity to have much in the way of direct mentorship, but at the top of that short list is Danise Payne, former Ringling and UniverSoul clown who I got to work with. She’s not only the first woman to have clowned on the Gerry Cottle Circus in England, but the first USAmerican as well. She worked without uttering a word and had the most expressive hands, which came from her paying close attention to Marcel Marceau, who I thankfully got to see perform before he died. The first time in my life I considered a Black, non-conventional looking goofball like me could also be photogenic and attractive was the late 90s when I was a model with Vision Models and Talent, so I have Nathan Yungerberg and Teqen Zea-Aida to thank for that. In the geekosphere I would love to reach the level of work of people like Ytasha Womack, Rodney Barnes, Phil Lamarr, Maurice Broaddus, and Allen Turner, just to name a few.

I don’t know who folks are sleeping on, but I’d say host Foxy Tann; musician Atim Opoka; visual artist Leslie Barlow; musician Sym-1; burlesque artist Tré Da Marc; musician Khary J; author, journalist, and cosplayer Briana Lawrence

Moe Russell

February 24, 2024

First, if you were to introduce yourself to a perfect stranger, what would you tell them about yourself?

I am Moe of the haus of Russell one of the only alternative Black Drag artist in Minnesota. I have done drag almost 9 years and have done it seriously for about 5. Everything I do is for the culture, from co hosting with Transcendence Cabaret, to making show posters for fellow artists and taking amateur photos of drag artist.

Next, speaking of Black Excellence, how does that define you and what you do, your goals, and the barriers you’ve broken through or are still facing in this white supremacist society?

Black Excellent to me is about redefined Black perception of what we are allowed. All my life I have had to choose which part of my culture I was allowed to present. Rather if it’s Afro-Cubano, Queer and Black, or anything in between Black People are just perceived and often self perceive ourselves in one diaspora.

What does showmanship mean to you?
Showmanship (showpersonship) is the balance of being entertaining and professional.

Photo By Jason Bucklin

How did you evolve as an artist? Tell us a bit about your beginnings and the milestones in your performance career?

I began as just a door person volunteering for Flip Phone. I worked years trying to earn a place and though I did receive some opportunities eventually I moved on. My drag changed in the last three years as I decided to try new makeup techniques and do more alternative styles beyond the "norm" of what people perceive and fans really responded. Since then I have performed nationally with Disibilitease, performed with Power at Twin Cities Pride, and ran for Miss Twin Cities Black Pride 2024.

If you were to choose one number, one act that would be your legacy, what would that be

Ain't no way by Aretha Franklin.

In this upcoming year, thinking upon your goals and dreams, what are some of the ideas you have and what do you want to do in your communities?

All American Goddess New Comer is calling my name. I also want to create new and different opportunities for Black Artist not just drag. I want people to Know Black Art is EVERYWHERE AND EVERYWHERE!

If money were no object, what has been a dream number you would put together?

A full Black production of La Boheme. As an Opera singer I would love one of the most acclaimed Opera's to be done by us for us.

Of course my drag Mother Cee Russell, she changed the trajectory of my drag and is blazing a trail for Us all. My brother, My drag Aunt Lala Luzious, my sister Rustina Phoenix Nuttz, my sibling Eun Bee Yes Smith and far too many more to name. I am blessed to have a wealth of family

Who are some of the icons or mentors in your life who have shown you the way, who have admired, and whose examples you wish to live up to?

Definitely Lala Luzious, she is doing things I always dreamed of and is a prime example of leading with grace and professionalism.

Texas Tea Cake$, ooh lord every time I see Texas chile I feel alive!

I am gonna toot my own horn and say Transcendence Cabaret is slept on, we produce accessible shows while putting Transgender Black and People of Color in the front.

Texas Tea Cake$

February 24, 2024

First, if you were to introduce yourself to a perfect stranger, what would you tell them about yourself?

I am a Texan, born and raised. I work in theater for my muggle job and I am a burlesque performer by night. Some might say that I’m cool, but I assure you I am an old woman who wants to be in bed no later than 10PM. I love romance novels and costuming books. My dream is to one day win an Oscar for Costume Design.

Next, speaking of Black Excellence, how does that define you and what you do, your goals, and the barriers you’ve broken through or are still facing in this white supremacist society?

Gosh, I think “Black Excellence” is the hot topic of the moment. Is it to be Black is to be excellent or is it you that you are Black, therefore you MUST be excellent? I’m currently just working on being me, authentically, without an entire history defining me. I already deal with what it means to be Black navigating this world, should I also have to grapple with being excellent on top of that? Sounds like a lot of work with less pay. I mean I am still the only Black person in my current position and I think I’m the first Black woman to be in it too. Those are the kind of barriers I’ve broken and it's becoming disappointing to me the older I get. I just want white people to stop touching my hair! Stop it!

What does showmanship mean to you?
The ability to bring entertainment to an audience that you can be proud of. I technically majored in showmanship (Theater) and have always felt like I was putting on a show. Now, in my 30s, I think I was trying to be “excellent” because that is what people liked. They liked when I sang and danced and simply was a joy as a child to be around. When I got older and had much more knowledge of the world I heard a lot more criticism than applause. Suddenly, you find society feels like a Black woman can’t/shouldn’t/haven’t done a lot of things. I feel my showmanship proves that to be a bunch of bullshit. I will do what I want, how I want.

How did you evolve as an artist? Tell us a bit about your beginnings and the milestones in your performance career?

I started doing burlesque 2021, once I moved here to the Twin Cities! I had begun following a bunch of burlesque artists during the Pandemic and ramped myself up to take a class at The Rose Academy of Burlesque. I loved that class so much! I met an entire group of friends (we call ourselves Glitter Coven) who are also doing fantastic things in the community! From there I would go on to perform at Nudie Nubies Nationwide, an amateur burlesque competition where artists all over the nation compete! I freaking won the 2023 title! I was shocked. There was fierce competition for the title and I didn’t think that I would win. I was convinced during everyone else’s performance that I was going to win. It was truly the highlight of my life, not just my budding burlesque career!

If you were to choose one number, one act that would be your legacy, what would that be?

I have to say my ‘Pickle Juice’ number has become a legacy number. I came up with the idea for this act because I saw another performer, Ashleeta, dressed as a banana on an online burlesque show and thought how fun it would be to dress up as a pickle! Ever since it debuted people have come up to me and said how much they love it! I have now performed that act in 3 states! Hoping to do so a lot more in 2024.

In this upcoming year, thinking upon your goals and dreams, what are some of the ideas you have and what do you want to do in your communities?

My goal is to compete in a festival outside of Minnesota and my dream would be winning a title at one of those festivals. I want to expand in all of the communities across the nation! Visiting those burlesque communities and making new connections and having them bring their art to Minnesota! My real big goal is to produce a show and have all my friends in it, ha!

If money were no object, what has been a dream number you would put together?

I’m not sure. Act truly comes from an organic place for me. I guess I don’t think of an act until I have a strong concept. I mostly dream of gorgeous outfits, that is where all the money would go. Rhinestone from head to toe and something so inamering you can’t look away!

My husband, Nikos, is my everything. He is my best friend, love, coach, and everything! His support is something that I treasure and don’t care to be without. He has been there for this journey every step of the way. It would truly be hard to be Texas Tea Cake$ without him.

Who are some of the icons or mentors in your life who have shown you the way, who have admired, and whose examples you wish to live up to?

Holliedazzle is my ‘Burly Mama’, the person that sponsored me into the Twin Cities burlesque scene! She has been with me for my highs and lows and I appreciate that she is someone I can go to for just about anything. I love her so much!

Foxy Tann is an icon & mentore, not only to myself but also, any other person looking to break into the burlesque scene! ‘The Boss of Burlesque’ is the boss for a reason and she will get you together if you are willing to learn.

Deeva Rose is just putting out another generation of burlesque artists through The Rose Academy of Burlesque. If you want to start somewhere I suggest it’s at their school!

Petty Treason, Tre Da Marc, Bessie Snow, and Keke Boudreaux are just a few other examples of who I’d like to look up to!

Well, Tre Da Marc has the best Juneteenth show in town! I recommend you keep an eye out for that this year! Rustina Phoenix-Nuttz puts on a ‘Black Ass Friday’ at the Saloon every 1st Friday of the month, as well as a plethora of other wonderful shows! Keke Boudreaux produces The Bawdy Downe, their Love&Sex show is Feb. 16th. Bessie Snow produces Appetit at Volstead’s Emporium Uptown Bar. A show called Draggy Divas also produces shows that center Latino/a/x performers around the Twin Cities! Foxy Tann and the entire Nudie Nubie team has a monthly competition at Black Hart of Saint Paul that ushers in new burlesque from all over! There is so much wonderful talent around this place and I truly hope you all can support in any way you can! Love isn’t always about money (though that is what a lot of us need in these unprecedented times). If you just show your face and share a post or tell everyone that these events are happening, it would mean the world to this community's BIPOC entertainers.

Ms Margaret Live!

February 24, 2024

First, if you were to introduce yourself to a perfect stranger, what would you tell them about yourself?

I’m Margaret aka Ms Margaret Live! In these radio streets (I really do say that to people). I’m a radio personality, activist, educator, a mother, and most importantly a resilient Black woman. I work for an organization called Ed Allies where we focus on education reform and legislation that closes the gaps and eliminates the disparities faced by our underserved students and I host my own morning show “Ms Margaret Live! In The Morning” and have my own content studio with a goal to be in full operation Spring 2024. I would also mention that I serve on the Board Of Directors for the organization Love First Community Engagement which is something I’m very proud of, and a whole list of other things that I can’t even remember. I probably do too much lol but its all worth it.

Next, speaking of Black Excellence, how does that define you and what you do, your goals, and the barriers you’ve broken through or are still facing in this white supremacist society?

When I think of Black excellence, I think of my HBCU experience. I am a proud Alumni of Fisk University where I majored in Business Administration With A Concentration In Music Business. HBCUs are the epitome of Black Excellence. At an HBCU, your greatness and ability to go above and beyond society’s expectations is assumed as soon as you step foot on campus -it’s not something you have to prove. The pride that HBCU students have and carry with them post graduation is what Black Excellence looks like. One of the reasons why I opened my content studio for Black Content Creators is to get away from the White Supremacy that you encounter in the radio world -a predominantly white male lane.

At my last radio gig where I hosted a morning show, I reported acts of harassment and discrimination-acts that had been happening prior to me being hired but others were too scared to speak up. Here I was a new employee but due to the pride I have in myself , my value, and my worth I refused to be mistreated and was subsequently taken off the air unless I recanted my complaints. I ended up resigning and decided that was the last time I would be in a position where someone could take what’s important to me away from me. That’s why I have my content studio now.

Had I not gone to Fisk, had I not been surrounded by “Black Excellence” everyday, I know that I would not have the confidence to walk away from situations that do not serve me and to branch out on my own and create a space where White Supremacy cannot exist.

What does showmanship mean to you?
To me, showmanship is the ability to connect, entertain, and move minds, hearts and souls. The stage has always been my safe space so I think that’s why when I’m on stage, even if I’m nervous, it’s like a switch flips and I come alive . My mom intentionally put me on stages and in activities that put me in front of crowds of people because she wanted me to be able to feel confident in front of large crowds or on stage and she dealt with stage fright growing up. I thank her for that because that’s why I have the showmanship that I do today. I read a room and know exactly what the people want and need, and I thrive off of delivering just that.

Photo By Alvin Washington

How did you evolve as an artist? Tell us a bit about your beginnings and the milestones in your performance career?

I launched my first talk-radio show “Ms Margaret Live!” on WFNU Radio and subsequently went on to host the show at KFAI and The Uptake. Since first launching my show, I’ve interviewed countless activists, celebrities, politicians, entrepreneurs, etc. I’ve given a lot of people their first on air interviews which is really special to me. I’ve hosted several events throughout the Twin Cities such as the Black Women's Expo, Rondo Days, and worked the red carpet at the Super Bowl when it came here to the Twin Cities. I have been featured nationally and internationally by outlets such as the LA Times, Fan Force Media (Australia), Voyage Magazine, and was featured in a documentary “Minneapolis 4” which premiered in France.

One of my proudest moments was the completion and premiere of my documentary “When They Took My Baby Away” which features Amity Dimmock, mother of Kobe Heisler who was killed by Brooklyn Center police in August 2019. Thanks to SPNN I was able to make it happen. It was something I always wanted to do and still can’t believe that I completed it as the story is so important. I also served as the Vice President for the KFAI Board Of Directors and had a brief stint as the morning show host on Jazz 88.

All of this has led to my latest and greatest media accomplishment which is betting on myself and starting my own morning show. Right now everything I’m doing is solely produced and funded by me. While that is a challenge and some days doubt creeps in, I’m proud that I have the audacity to pursue my purpose here on this earth no matter what. I am also co-host of the “AmplifiED” podcast and I host a weekly series called “Mondays With Margaret” which provides insight into the many things taking place during the 2024 MN Legislative session.

If you were to choose one creative thing that would be your legacy, what would that be?

I think about my legacy a lot. For me, I can’t think of one thing or one project that I think represents my legacy. Through my work and advocacy, I just hope that people know that I cared. When I started my show, conversations about race, mental health, social justice, etc were very taboo. I wanted to provide a platform where we could have those conversations in a way where awareness, healing, laughter, and upliftment could reside in the same space . I’ve done several different series such as my most recent “Healing The Black Family” interviews which I believe showcase my commitment to uplifting my community.

In this upcoming year, thinking upon your goals and dreams, what are some of the ideas you have and what do you want to do in your communities?

I have a TON of content on the way, much of it I can’t announce lol but I’m most excited about my “Ms Margaret Live! In The Morning” Show which airs Fridays at 11am on my Facebook platforms and YouTube, plus my new podcast series called “The Audacity To…” The Audacity series highlights Black Folks who have had the courage and the gumption to go against the grain, believe in themselves, and create their own lanes. For example, my first guest Alysha Price wrote a book about co-parenting -something that most parents deal with but is something people like to shy away from talking about because of how co-parent can be viewed as a “failure” -yet it’s reality and doesn’t have to mean drama or chaos. I like people who aren’t afraid to tackle what’s considered “taboo” and my intention with this series is to inspire people to be true to themselves and have the audacity to create their own lane

If money were no object, what has been a dream interview you would put together?

Oprah, hands down! Oprah has been and will always be my main source of inspiration when it comes to my work in media. I have watched her since I was a kid and loved how she wasn’t afraid to talk about what so many people were afraid to talk about. Her show gave people access to how other people live and what many of us go through that we feel alone in. Much of the reason why my show has focused on the type of topics that is has focused on is due to me being inspired by her show and the empire that she’s been.

My mom and aunt raised me and due to the village that their mother, my grandmother, formed around them, that village became our family. I think that's why friendships are so important to me because that's my main source of family that I've known. While I do have siblings, we didn’t grow up together and I didn't have much of a relationship with my dad’s side of the family so I’ve always felt closer to my mom’s friends who became my aunts and uncles than I did to people who are actually related to me. I thank God that in our adult years, my siblings and I have done for each other what my dad couldn't, which is to ensure that we stay connected, never lose touch, and we have formed our own sibling relationships. With that being said, much of my support comes from my chosen family and of course my mom who has always been there for me. I treasure the support from my mom and aunt. I know so many people who don’t have that type of love and support that they have given me.

Who are some of the icons or mentors in your life who have shown you the way, who have admired, and whose examples you wish to live up to?

My mom will always be the person who I admire the most. In my mind, no one is as great as she is and I know there are many people who are also inspired by her. My mom is the type of person who just does things right. I don’t know a single person who doesn’t like her and I’ve never heard anyone speak negatively about my mom. She has built a Queendom all on her own and from a child I knew what greatness looked like because I had her to look up to.

While this isn’t a burlesque show, I have to give a shout out to my girl Quinn Shimmer Villagómez. Quinn is the host of the longest running LGBTQ radio show in the nation, “Fresh Fruit.” Quinn has made it a point to create platforms and events that showcase BIPOC artists, designers, creators, etc such as The Purple Ones and Design Icon. When I was being mistreated at a radio station, Quinn stood beside me and had my back and that meant the world to me. She always hosts the Power To The People Stage at MN Pride Festival and is really big on giving local artists time to shine . Love you Quinn!

Mikko Blaze

February 23, 2024

First, if you were to introduce yourself to a perfect stranger, what would you tell them about yourself?

My name is Mikko Blaze and I am a transgender, Afro-Latinx vocalist and drag artist in the twin cities. I’m the reigning Mr Gay 90s 2024 and the 2018 karaoke World champion

Next, speaking of Black Excellence, how does that define you and what you do, your goals, and the barriers you’ve broken through or are still facing in this white supremacist society?

As someone who has had to navigate the complexities of being multi racial and a first generation American, I feel like I don't have a choice but to be excellent in this society. I think about all my ancestors who couldn’t do all the things i’ve been able to do and how important it feels to carry their legacy. I broke huge barriers by being the first Trans Karaoke world champion. I pulled out the trans flag and represented my trans community around the world in Helsinki, Finland. I think the best way I can fight white supremacy is by being unapologetically myself and being visible. I also use my voice and music to connect with people and have them see my humanity.

What does showmanship mean to you?
It means paying attention to the details, being memorable and leaving the stage feeling proud of what you did.

Photo By Jess Wemeier

How did you evolve as an artist? Tell us a bit about your beginnings and the milestones in your performance career?

I had an accident as a child that nearly killed me at 5, and had to spend a lot of time alone in the hospital bed. I would sing all day to pass the time, anything I heard on the radio. I always sang in church, I grew up Jehovah's witness so and being a queer kid wasn’t fun, so singing was my escape. I then went to the Perpich center for arts education which gave me my base and the discipline to continue.

I started doing drag in 2008 at the Gay 90s amateur competitions and just kept going. I wanted to be the best at what I did, so I kept challenging myself. I was part of the 24K Kings, Dragged Out, and The Vigilantease collective. I learned so much from my peers while being in these groups.

I then focused on my vocal abilities while I was transitioning. I started doing karaoke competitions in 2016, which led me to winning in Helsinki Finland, a duet silver medal in 2017 and a gold medal in 2018. In the middle of all this I actually met my Band “Hurricane Karaoke/Blaze” because of a live band karaoke competition at the state fair.

Now I'm hosting, playing band gigs, creating my own music and doing drag. The goal is to keep elevating. YOLO!

If you were to choose one number, one act that would be your legacy, what would that be

When I sing live “Rise up” by Andra Day. I feel this song so deeply when I sing it and it got me a world title.

In this upcoming year, thinking upon your goals and dreams, what are some of the ideas you have and what do you want to do in your communities?

I would like to create more opportunities for Drag artists but more specifically drag Kings. I think I'm ready to try my hand at Producing. I also want to help youth who are interested in performing have a platform and guidance to do so. I remember being a teenager going to district 202 and just feeling so happy. I wanna figure out a way we can create a space like that again.

If money were no object, what has been a dream number you would put together?

“CopaCabana” by Barry manilow. I would want to have a whole band, burlesque performers, Drag artists dancing around me while I sang live.

I have a lot of chosen family I've met from all phases of my life. Some of the folks that have helped my career have been, Julia Starr the Starr family, Sasha Cassadine and haus of Cassadine, Genevee Love, Seven, Azalia Cruz, Sweetpea, Kyle Rucker, Bella Beefcake, Miriam Kim, and so many more have done so much for me in my evolution as an artist. Being mentors, being supportive and sometimes keeping me together. I appreciate all the people that have been there for me along the way.

Who are some of the icons or mentors in your life who have shown you the way, who have admired, and whose examples you wish to live up to?

I really love Tenderoni and Landon Cider. I hope that I can elevate my drag to their level. They are both so talented and creative.

I love what Rustina Phoenix Nuttz is doing at the saloon with the Black Ass Fridays. I love that DJ QueenDuin is doing latin nights at the Saloon and organizing WTF, Powerpuff.

Andre 100 is producing at Hot Pink, and he's really good at it!

Keke Boudreaux is producing some FANTASTIC burlesque shows.

Lola Honey

February 23, 2024

First, if you were to introduce yourself to a perfect stranger, what would you tell them about yourself?

My name is Tia Avion better known as Lola Honey. I’m a trans woman who transplanted here from Southern California about 5 years ago. I am also a drag entertainer and have been on stage most of my life but about 15 years in drag. I have a boyfriend I love very much, Ben, 2 cats Infinity and Void, and 5 lizards of 4 different species.

Next, speaking of Black Excellence, how does that define you and what you do, your goals, and the barriers you’ve broken through or are still facing in this white supremacist society?

Black excellence to me means being me unapologetically. I may be outspoken but that doesn’t make me loud. My confidence may make one feel uncomfortable but doesn’t make me intimidating. Black excellence is being unapologetically well… Black. In all of its beautiful forms. The barriers I have broken through are being told I wouldn’t be able to perform here if I didn’t start over since I was new here. I am the first person of color to host a show in Rochester as well as be the co-owner to it and one of the creators as well with all of our shows in its first year selling out minus one that we were short 3 ticket sales.

What does showmanship mean to you?
Being good at what you do and practicing your craft. Knowing the only competition is yesterday’s version of yourself.

Photo By Lola Honey

How did you evolve as an artist? Tell us a bit about your beginnings and the milestones in your performance career?

Well I use to just wear things off the rack first off… lol sometimes I still do. I have grown so much when it comes to makeup and putting together looks that are pleasing to see on stage. I’ve always been a boss on the stage but even that has grown for me. I have won a number of competitions in Los Angeles one being “The last bitch standing “ season 4 in Pomona and was also featured on RPDR season 3s casting special in a few clips. I am also a normal at La Femme and run my own show in Rochester called “2 Kings and a Queen” with my drag brothers Reggie and Smoque.

If you were to choose one number, one act that would be your legacy, what would that be

My Mortal Kombat Number. It’s available on YouTube. Search Lola Honey and look for Sheeva.

In this upcoming year, thinking upon your goals and dreams, what are some of the ideas you have and what do you want to do in your communities?

My goal is to run an all trans show that will run on a consistent basis and help provide more opportunities for queer people as a whole and more than that trans people of color.

If money were no object, what has been a dream number you would put together?

I have so many ideas I don’t know where to start but in my head I’m seeing a mechanical snake body that is functional so I can live my Medusa Fantasy.

My family is actually very supportive. My Mom Keshia is my biggest inspiration with my older sister Shamyka being a close second. My brother who passed away a few years ago always inspired me to be fearless and has instilled that in my heart. My grandmother Sandy who also passed around the same time as my brother always inspired me with her kind, forgiving spirit and amazing fashion sense.

I also give a shout out to my cousins, aunts and uncles too, who all think of me as the star of our family.

My chosen family would be my bestie Sean for 20 years. He knows me in and out and our 3rd, Jorge the baby of our group. He's like a lil brother to us.

All of those relationships mean the world to me but I wouldn’t be who I am today without my Mother.

Who are some of the icons or mentors in your life who have shown you the way, who have admired, and whose examples you wish to live up to?

I have always loved Shannel from Drag race like before Drag Race. I also love Mercedes Iman Diamond, Onya Deek, Azalia, Allota and Kamaree as they have been so supportive here and I mean come on they are the best entertainers around! Back home in Cali, Rolla Blunt, Dani Kay and Juicee Couture (Rest in Peace sis) played a big role in who I was on stage early on.

Me!!! lol I think a lot of the new up and coming entertainers are amazing and shouldn’t be slept on. Here I give a shout out to them and other more seasoned entertainers we gotta book more. London Darkhorse Escada, Ken Doll, Francis Reine, Saint Reign, DeCreme, and Honesty Jackson to name a few.

Jamel Brown

February 23, 2024

First, if you were to introduce yourself to a perfect stranger, what would you tell them about yourself?

That I’m a black transman and my passion is doing drag.

Next, speaking of Black Excellence, how does that define you and what you do, your goals, and the barriers you’ve broken through or are still facing in this white supremacist society?

Black Excellence defines me and what I do, because i’m a black transman that’s working towards my goals regardless of the barriers I face being that i’m black and trans, so it’s usually harder for me to get noticed and the credit that I deserve.

What does showmanship mean to you?
Being a skilled performer with a unique approach.

How did you evolve as an artist? Tell us a bit about your beginnings and the milestones in your performance career?

I heard about a contest called, “So You Think You Can Drag” at the Gay 90’s and i’ve always been interested in the drag scene. I started participating in “So You Think You Can Drag” weekly, and my supporters and I can see me evolving as a performer and perfecting my craft.

If you were to choose one number, one act that would be your legacy, what would that be

My number “Motel Pool, By Travis Garland”, that was the first number i’ve ever done.

In this upcoming year, thinking upon your goals and dreams, what are some of the ideas you have and what do you want to do in your communities?

To upgrade my drag clothing and perform out of state. As far as my community, I would like to attend more drag performances and support the other performers more often.

If money were no object, what has been a dream number you would put together?

There’s a lot of numbers that i’ve been saving up for and preparing to do.

Family to me means someone that is there for you and shows you the right path. Family to me isn’t blood, it’s someone that’s been there for you since day one and hasn’t left your side. The most treasured support I’ve received is the feedback I receive from my supporters during and after I perform.

Who are some of the icons or mentors in your life who have shown you the way, who have admired, and whose examples you wish to live up to?

One icon that I look up to is one of my dear friends QuinnTEssential, he’s been there for me a lot throughout the way. I also look up to Andre 1000, he’s a great performer. Watching both of those performers perform gives me a lot of tips on how to improve my numbers. There’s a lot of drag kings that I follow on social media that I really look up to and enjoy watching.

Transcendence Cabaret shows diversity to people of all sorts. I feel like Rustina Phoenix Nuttz is a great performer and is slept on. She’s very humble and should be recognized more.

Jojo Ventus

February 22, 2024

First, if you were to introduce yourself to a perfect stranger, what would you tell them about yourself?

I would probably say, Hey I'm Jojo. I'm an artist, performer, entertainer who's very nerdy.

Next, speaking of Black Excellence, how does that define you and what you do, your goals, and the barriers you’ve broken through or are still facing in this white supremacist society?

Black excellence defines me as I am here for myself and also My seniors that were ahead of me and my ancestors before them. Showing up for yourself. Succeeding in white spaces. Then making black spaces. At least that's one of the ways to do it. My goals lay in making space for queer black people. Showcasing ballroom through the amazing talent and beauty in our community. While still facing white supremacist and anti-blackness in common spaces.

What does showmanship mean to you?
Showmanship to me is showcasing not only your talent but being able to interact with the crowd and look good doing it. Excelling in all three is how I know I'm doing a good job and I see the same for others.

Photo By Ryan Coit

How did you evolve as an artist? Tell us a bit about your beginnings and the milestones in your performance career?

I've evolved very quickly. Blending a lot of things I love, skating, cosplay, drag, male entrainment, vogue/ ballroom. In the beginning it was just dancing and male entertainment. Werk was where It started at the Saloon. WInning Werk gets you a spot on Hot Pink at the Saloon, their main show of entertainment which isn't just drag. Burlesque, comedy, singing, and other forms of live entertainment are pretty much welcomed. Leading on from there I've performed at The Gay 90s ladies of LaFemme after winning their competition So You Think You Can Drag.

That also gained me a spot at a pre-show that no longer is at the gay 90s called Homme Fatale. That was an all male entertainers show. Since then I've been to LUSH, Queerdo, competed for a spot in Hot Pink, the Saloon’s main show. I won. Now I'm a cast member of 4 amazing drag and entertainment shows. Booked, Black Ass Friday, Hot Pink, and The Other Show. Being in these shows, showcasing ball ballroom with my group, Vogue Down Minneapolis, and being a house chapter Father of Ninja are things I'm really proud of and have got me where I am today.

If you were to choose one number, one act that would be your legacy, what would that be

I'm never too attached to a number but as of recent, My House by Beyonce for Werk All Stars was very close to my heart. The story of it really helped me get through the winter depression. Having my friends around me everyday practicing. Creating my costumes and having such a clear vision for the performance was thrilling. Seeing it in videos really warms my soul. It represents my masc side. Fem side. Ballroom and the camp of it all. It was a lot of fun.

In this upcoming year, thinking upon your goals and dreams, what are some of the ideas you have and what do you want to do in your communities?

My goals this year are based in ballroom at the moment. Some balls are of the year so participating and winning in your category grants you points for the year. Those points allow you to be nominated for of the year at an Awards ball. So going out and bringing trophies home for Ninja and Minneapolis is one goal. Other is sharing art. Doing more art for the entertainers in my community and showcasing them off as well as I am a digital character designer.

If money were no object, what has been a dream number you would put together?

Hmmm maybe a skating number that has elements of ballroom. Lots of embroidered, stone embellished costumes. I would fly out some ATL, Chicago, and LA skaters. For a song… maybe Deja Vu by Beyonce.

My Ninja family and chosen family through the years. I've had a lot of help when it comes to emotional or financial support when things happen. I really treasure that. I remember my car getting towed and not being able to afford to get it out for like 2 days. If I waited I still wouldn't have gotten it out because the payment increases everyday. I did everything I could to do it myself but I couldn't. So now I called on them and they had my back. And I have been there when they needed me.

Who are some of the icons or mentors in your life who have shown you the way, who have admired, and whose examples you wish to live up to?

Raven Nevermore is one of my Motha and mentor. That's really what parents are in Ball room now. Just closer. Icons that have an imprint On me are Beyonce of course. MNEK , Pierce The Veil, Michael Jackson, and Prince. Really just to be myself. wearing what I want. Doing what I want. Sticking up for my community and just being me.

Hands down I believe the most diverse show has been Queerdo. You can see all kinds of entertainers there consistently. Not just as a theme or a gimmick. For people that should be recognized are Tre da Marc, Wariboko, Mak3va are the first few to come to mind. They are amazing at what they do and should be on more stages.

Jamez

February 22, 2024

First, if you were to introduce yourself to a perfect stranger, what would you tell them about yourself?

My name is Jamez L Smith.

Born 1963 in Montgomery, Alabama, I spent the first 8 years of my life in Newark, New Jersey before moving to San Francisco, California, which I consider my Home Town. I’ve lived in Texas, Illinois, Seattle, Canada, the United Kingdom & Los Angeles. I moved to Minneapolis in 2007.

I’m an out and proud Gay Black Man. Per the trend of the times, I’m genderqueer, having no preference of pronoun (if pushed, I’ll claim “Us, We & Ours” or simply “All” or “None”. I really don’t care. I digress, but if postgenderism is a goal, then why would a pronoun matter?).

Many know me as DJ Jam E.Z., Your Favourite Gay Uncle. I host two radio shows on KRSM 98.9 FM, and periodically get invited to DJ at various venues and nightclubs.

I am first and foremost, a Poet. (see the anthologies: The Road Before Us: One Hundred Gay Black Poets, Sojourner: Black Gay Voices in the Age of A.I.D.S.). Over the years, I’ve participated in a number of stage productions, and the occasional short film. I also hold interest in other art forms, including photography and collage.

Canonized by the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, Inc. for my volunteerism as “Saint DJ Whacks Master Jamez”, I went on to become Sister Onalee Begottenson, Founding Member of the Ladies of the Lakes, Minneapolis House of the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence.

That’s a lot more than I would normally say to a perfect stranger. It’d probably more like, “Hi. My name is Jamez.”

Next, speaking of Black Excellence, how does that define you and what you do, your goals, and the barriers you’ve broken through or are still facing in this white supremacist society?

OMG! How does that define you?!

I don’t know any actual statistics, but I think it is amazing that any black man born during the height of the civil rights movement, navigating everything from poverty to the HIV epidemic, from the crack epidemic to police shootings has lived to reach 60 years of age. I am blessed to be able to identify myself as that black man. My existence and ability to have a positive impact in life is a mark of excellence.

That said, I confess that I have not thought of myself in terms of “Black Excellence”.

Dropping “Black Excellence” into a search engine resulted with: “a high level of achievement, success, or ability demonstrated by an individual Black person or by Black people in general. It is often used to highlight and celebrate specific examples of such achievements and abilities.”

Black Excellence seems to be an empowerment movement, tied directly to achievement, success and the meanings therein, as applied to Black People. I think of the Black Girls Rock Network, or the “Kings” program of Minneapolis Public School’s Office of Black Male Student Achievement.

Black Excellence seems like another iteration of “Black Pride” or “Black Power”.

Again, I’ve not thought of myself in such terms. I’m obviously black, and very much proud to be so. Perhaps it’s ego, but I’m reluctant to say any one thing defines me. The sum of my experiences, ever changing and, ideally, evolving. Semantics and perspectives.

...what you do, your goals...

I would say Black Excellence defines what I do in that I always strive to do my best, to grow as an individual, and uplift others along my journey. I’d like to believe I’d do the same and be as excellent were I not black.

...barriers you’ve broken through...

Wow. These are not simple subjects.

Attempting to keep it simple:

I was raised in poverty. Grew up in a housing project on foodstamps and welfare in San Francisco. I credit my intelligence and education with getting me through that barrier.

I was blessed with educators who recognized my potential and encouraged and guided me accordingly. I was placed in accelerated programs, and placed in a college preparatory high school.

My achievement levels enabled me to break through the poverty barrier, so that today I’m able sustain my existence.

Mind you, it’s not been easy. I’ve had to rebuild my career, starting from zero, at least 3 different times over the years. I’ve faced homelessness a number of times. But perseverance, good fortune, and good friends have sustained me.

...facing in this white supremacist society...

I joined the United States Air Force in 1983. 3 years and 7 months into my enlistment, the First Sergeant showed up at my dorm room with a security police officer. I was told to not ask any questions, and informed that I would be moving to the other side of the base, effective immediately. They had boxes and a truck, and helped me pack.

After unpacking at my dorm, the security police were dismissed, the First Sergeant invited me to sit down and then asked, “Why didn’t you say anything, Airman?”

“You told me not to ask any questions.” I responded earnestly.

“You don’t know what this is all about, do you?” He asked.

“No sir, I do not.”

He then explained that, after years of investigation, they now had evidence proving that my supervisor and his supervisor were both members of the Klu Klux Klan. Further, they had testimony from former members of my unit that I, the only black person in my unit, was regularly taunted and mistreated by leadership. Incidents included making me scrub protective coatings off of door frames, and readjusting my work schedule to conflict with college classes I was enrolled in.

“Why didn’t you say anything?” he repeated.

“Well, I figure that was just the way of the military. I was just following orders and didn’t know I had right nor reason to complain.”

In 2005, as part of a job interview, I was tested on my knowledge of the Microsoft Office Suite. I used to teach Word, Excel, PowerPoint & Access at the Adult & Immigrant Education Program of San Francisco City College, so I held no concern that I would pass the tests.

There was one other person being tested along with me, a white male. I finished my tests just before this gentleman finished his. The administrator printed out our test results. They told the white guy, “your scores are very impressive, and we have a position that you would be perfect for. Let’s take you in to meet the Director.

The administrator returned to me and said, “I’m sorry, but your scores are barely passing. We don’t have any positions for that level at the moment, but why don’t you spend a few weeks honing your knowledge, and we can retest then.”

“That’s impossible!” I protested. “I used to teach these programs to ESL students. Let me see my scores.” She handed me the piece of paper, and I saw the problem right away.

“First of all,” I said, “that’s not my name. These are not my test scores.”

She looked, then pulled out the previous person’s passing scores. My name was atop the page.

“Oh my god.” she muttered.

Overhearing our exchange, her colleague came over, took both pages from her and said, “You’ve swapped their scores!”

They both began apologizing profusely. They informed me that they would contact me the following day to make amends.

By noon the next day, I’d not heard back, so I telephoned the office, asking to speak to the people I’d interviewed by name. “They are no longer employed with us.” I was told.

...still facing in this white supremacist society...

I’ve plenty more examples from being asked to prove I could afford a drink before being allowed into a gay bar in The Castro, to being denied service at a gay bar in Loring Park. - but, frankly - this is exhausting.

What does showmanship mean to you?
Performing to the best of one’s ability with dignity and grace.

Photo By Jade Patrick

How did you evolve as an artist? Tell us a bit about your beginnings and the milestones in your performance career?

I was raised in the church. Southern Baptist. I was probably 10 years old when I was first asked/told to stand up in front of the church and read a bible passage. I was apparently quite good at it, because it became a regular occurrence. This helped me become comfortable being in front of an audience (to a degree. We still get stagefright).

I started writing when I was 12. I had no one to talk to, so I started writing letters to God in a notebook. “Dear God”, I would start each entry, and then proceed to express my deepest woes, most secret fears and dreams.

I soon found that I needed to have pen and paper with me, at all times. Journaling became my security blanket, a la, Linus from Peanuts.

I took my first creative writing course during my freshman year in college. Going through one of my notebooks, my professor saw the poetry buried within the pages of heart, soul & brain dumps. He taught me to identify them myself, how to pull them out and refine them.

I eventually developed a knack for short-form poetry.

In 1990, attending the OutWrite Conference in San Francisco, I met Assoto Saint. He took me under wing, and signed me to appear in the 1991 anthology, The Road Before Us: 100 Gay Black Poets.

Through Assoto’s continued guidance, I was signed to be published in Sojourner: Black Gay Voices in the Age of AIDS.

I’ve always wanted to collaborate, to be a part of a community of like minds and spirits. While living in Seattle, I attempted to create an artists collective. I sent an open call out to artists of all genres to join me in my apartment, where we would plan our collective’s future. The response was encouraging.

Poets, dancers, painters, photographers, chefs and more, over twenty people, showed up at my little Capitol Hill flat. There was even a lawyer, who said he came because he recognized we might need help navigating copyright and business legalities. We met once a month for the next 5 months. Then my job sent me out of the country for 3 months.

I’d made arrangements for meetings in my absence, but when I returned, the group had dissolved.

I decided to try again, but this time with more focus. I put out a call specifically for Poets. Seven people responded. Three showed up at my apartment for that first meeting. It was magical. We dubbed ourselves “The Prophets of The New Tribe”, and proceeded on a 7th month tour of poetry readings at coffee shops, book stores, branch libraries and college campuses.

As I said, this was in Seattle. Seattle, at the time, had the reputation of having the highest rates of depression in the country. I was not immune. In addition to being constantly cloudy and dreary, Seattle is the most racist place I have ever lived in. Without going into detail, it all became too much for me.

After suffering a bit of a breakdown, I decided that the healthiest thing for me to do was to return to San Francisco and pursue my dream back in my hometown.

I continued my poetic pursuits in San Francisco, but never found the success I’d experienced with the Prophets. I lost my guide, mentor and friend, Assoto, in 1994 when he passed from complications to HIV. I haven’t been published in a book since, not for lack of effort.

I attended open mics, and organized my own events. I dj’d wherever I could. After taking one photography class, I began doing 35mm slide projector installations at local bars and nightclubs. I joined “Magnus Hirshfeld’s Musuem of Sexology”, an immersive theatre production combining museum artifacts, theatre & burlesque, eventually becoming Stage Manager.

I answered a call for participants in a study examining race relations within the gay male community. Researcher Niels Teunis, in collaboration with Director Veronica Combs, guided a multi-racial group of 8 gay & bi males, using Theatre of the Oppressed technics to share and explore our experiences and perspectives. All of which culminated into a stage production we called Out/Rage!. We performed poetry, dance and skits based upon our work.

If you were to choose one number, one act that would be your legacy, what would that be

Beyond the reams upon reams of poetry I’ve written, it has yet to manifest.

In this upcoming year, thinking upon your goals and dreams, what are some of the ideas you have and what do you want to do in your communities?

The timing of this question is significant. I’ve focused a great deal on my djing over the years. Where poetry is #1, DJing is so close a second it seems to have taken precedence. In addition to two record focused radio shows per week, I’ve been attempting to establish some sort of regular nightclub presence in the Twin Cities. I have not been successful.

My most recent attempt was a celebration of my 60th Birthday this past December. I’d been planning and working on the event since May of 2023. I secured a venue in July. My hype machine rolling, I booked dj’s, support staff, selected a fiscal beneficiary, etc. In November, I was informed that the management had double-booked, and that I was being bumped.

Defeated and deflated, I decided to take this as the final sign that I am not meant to produce parties, events, or anything else in the community.

I’m tired. If invited to participate in something, and I feel I have the capacity to do so, then great.

I currently have no goals.

Dreams, I still have a plenty. #1, again, is the poetry. I want to be published. I want books of poetry with my name in the bylines.

If money were no object, what has been a dream number you would put together?

There is a song by Chic called “Real People”. I’ve always wanted to interpret that song as a multidisciplinary modern dance performance, utilizing staging, film and effects, with a trans woman of colour prima ballerina in the lead.

This is almost too personal. Another song comes to mind: “Family” by Hubert Laws.

“Family, that’s what people really are.”

At the age of 12 I began to value my chosen family more than family of origin. Over the years, members of my family of origin have joined my chosen family.

Family are the people who see me, understand me, accept me, and appreciate me. Family are the people who love me. Family allows me to love them.

The most treasured support I’ve received? Comparisons are odious. Having someone simply listen is priceless. Delivering a care-package of meds, juice and hot soup when I have the flu.
I’ve had friends purchase airline tickets when I needed a vacation. Those who have called upon me to be with them during their deepest grief. Love. I treasure loving and being loved, in all the forms it may take.

Who are some of the icons or mentors in your life who have shown you the way, who have admired, and whose examples you wish to live up to?

Assoto Saint, as mentioned.
Sister Ora Reese, who served as my Spiritual Guide from when I was ten until her death when I was 30.
Inez Gordon, Mama Duck, my first True Friend.
Charmaine Candy, a Newfie whose friendship and support sustained me during those harsh years in Seattle.
Boy George, who recognized something in me and took the time to offer earnest advice and encouragement, cautioning that there will be those who don’t want me to succeed, who will sabotage and work against me, and urging that I not let the pain deter me.
Brigitte LaBouvie, another who stepped in with Spiritual Guidance, helping me to for myself what she and others saw.
Margit Anderson, who continually shows me Sisterhood.
Prince Rogers Nelson, whom I never got to meet, but through his art showed 14 year old me that not only was it ok to be different, it was preferred.

I am clueless as to who else is out there. I, sadly, don’t know a lot of people of colour locally, much less those who are performers. Even fewer in burlesque/drag.

There are the usual suspects: Daddy Rox, Kevin Kaos Moore, Tre DeMarc

Names I’d like to see recognized, though none are burlesque/drag:
Harry Waters, Jr.
Kaz Fawkes.
Does Teqen Sjoberg Zéa-Aida perform?
Andrea Pierre.

Nicole M. Smith
Jamez L. Smith

Miss Honesty Jackson

February 21, 2024

First, if you were to introduce yourself to a perfect stranger, what would you tell them about yourself?

Hello my name is Miss Honesty Jackson from Cedar Rapids Iowa. My real name is Darnel Johnson and I'm a gay black man who is also a Drag Entertainer. I'm know as the R@B soul diva of Drag. I've been In the game about 10 years now and I love entertaining the people. My style of Drag is much my own and I only do what feels good for me. Some people would say I'm ubran and have a lot of soul. It's all about emotion and telling a story when it comes to Ms Honesty Jackson.

Next, speaking of Black Excellence, how does that define you and what you do, your goals, and the barriers you’ve broken through or are still facing in this white supremacist society?

Black Excellence is just a few words; always stay true to self. Never let anyone tell you can't be anything or nothing because it all starts with self. My goals In this business is always trying to be the best me I can be. And also be recognized for my hard work and dedication to my craft. I was told nobody is gonna book you because all you do is R&B music. So that was a lie, everyone loves R&B music and I've been booked for all kinds of shows and people live for it. I don't face many barriers because I believe in what's for me is for and what's not for me ain't for me. Also Im a title holder and an award winning Drag Queen in Iowa and Minnesota so anything is possible.

What does showmanship mean to you?
Showmanship to me and always is be respectful and loving and everything else will fall in place. Being kind and genuine to others will always give you the best showmanship. Evolving as an artist is important to me because you have to be marketable in this business so you must step out of your comfort zone. Learning new makeup trends, adding bigger costumes and better hair is a must. You must think big and believe in yourself. Trust me once I started really investing in my career things started happening. I'm now booked at least 4 times a month.

Photo By Betty Bang

How did you evolve as an artist? Tell us a bit about your beginnings and the milestones in your performance career?

I'm currently Ms Ice Castle 2024 and a member of the Imperial Court of Minnesota. Session 13 WERK winner and WERK All Star. I'm Miss Gay Iowa City 2020 and also Entertainer of the year Newcomer Quad Cities Iowa award winner 2019. I'm also Hosting Hastings Pride this year in Hastings MN. I'm so proud of all my milestones and achievements over the years.

If you were to choose one number, one act that would be your legacy, what would that be?

My one act I would have to say that is my Legacy is Fantisa When I See You. I just embody that and that one song I do that is always a hit on the stage.

In this upcoming year, thinking upon your goals and dreams, what are some of the ideas you have and what do you want to do in your communities?

My goals are to book more shows that are outside of Minnesota and Iowa. My Dream is to be able to perform in Las Vegas Nevada and do one national competition. I'm always giving back to my community. That is part of me and it's a must for me. But I would love to put on a show and raise money for HIV and AIDS on a yearly basis. Being a person who lives with HIV, it is important to give back always.

If money were no object, what has been a dream number you would put together?

And if I had all the money to do it I would redo Whitney Houston “I have Nothing”. The video, the whole thing.

My support system is my son who loves me . He is 16 and he is a blessing all by himself. Then my amazing boyfriend who pushes me to be my best at all times. He is the reason I'm at the top of my game now. Last but not least, my Minnesota friends and family for just believing in me.

Who are some of the icons or mentors in your life who have shown you the way, who have admired, and whose examples you wish to live up to?

I'm not big on Icons and looking up to people but my mother; she was everything to me she will always be my icon. So I live up to her standards at all times even though she is not here on earth but her spirit is in me always.

People who really should be recognized are every POC performer in this world because we all have a space In this world of Drag and LGBT community. It's all love and remember, always believe in who you are and never stop being you.

D

February 21, 2024

First, if you were to introduce yourself to a perfect stranger, what would you tell them about yourself?

Hi there, my name’s Drew but I go by “D”. I go by they-them pronouns. I live in North Minneapolis and work in county mental health services. I have a 9-month old cat named Odyssey whom I love very much and I am a DJ and sound-system enthusiast.

Next, speaking of Black Excellence, how does that define you and what you do, your goals, and the barriers you’ve broken through or are still facing in this white supremacist society?

I try to think about excellence as not just an individual thing but in the context of a community.To me Black Excellence looks like my values, my conduct, the people I aspire to be more like, the health of the community around me, and the things we do together.

My goals creatively are often short-term because I like to meet them. Whether it’s putting on a community event with the People’s Sound System project (which I’ll talk about more later), working with others on their events, or generally just taking DJ gigs which I really enjoy doing.

My focus most of the time is thinking about what does community success look like? For example if I have an event on the same night as another similar event; I genuinely think it’s good for Minneapolis that there’s multiple events going on so individuals can pick and choose where they feel the most comfortable on a given night. The result is people get out of their homes and share the relief of being in community after a long work week.

I think a barrier we face to sum these thoughts up is collectivism vs. individualism. White supremacy seems to always trend towards manifesting individualism and valuing competition over cooperation with others. I push hard against that.

What does showmanship mean to you?
Showmanship… hmm. I think for me it’s a mix of demonstrating commitment to a performance art form, professionalism, and in a sense being public-facing and comfortable with that. In my experience as an artist I don’t hide what I appreciate about art-making, aesthetics, and history I pay attention to. There’s no knowledge I am hoarding that results in having “the secret” or whichever. I just love to share what I appreciate with others whether it’s music, art, jokes, social commentary, or whatever; and I take responsibility for what I say as an artist.

Photo By @lefnky

How did you evolve as an artist? Tell us a bit about your beginnings and the milestones in your performance career?

Wow that’s a good question. I grew up in North-West, Ohio in a place technically called a village because when I was there the census was like less than 2500 inhabitants. My parents worked really hard and my brother and I often had to be sat by our Grandparents on my Mom’s side. My grandparents exposed me to a love of jazz (big band & free) from a young age. They loved Duke Ellington in particular. They talked often about the clubs they’d go and dance at well into the 90s.

My parents on the other hand could not really afford to buy my brother and I instruments or anything music related so I missed opportunities early in life to play in bands. I did get into computers early in life though and I remember the advent of file-sharing which led me to early youtube, torrenting, limewire, etc. I had a stereo in my room that I kept in good shape and I would burn discs for friends often. I liked hip-hop, RNB, rap, J-Pop (because of Cartoon Network), generally anything 80s & synth-like. I remember the first time I heard Roger Zap’s “Computer Love,” from a random file dump. I played it over and over again haha.

Performatively speaking I really did not start djing until long after college in Duluth. I had friends that were in a group called The Crunchy Bunch who were same aged vinyl DJs and I met DJ Nola around the same time who became one of my biggest inspirations. They made it seem really intimidating to be honest because they were all so talented. It was not until later that I bought equipment starting with record turntables in 2018 (because that’s what I saw and what I knew) and later digital equipment in 2021. I started with the classics after I came up on some records from a CraigsList ad and realized I loved midwest dance music. (Chicago & Detroit House & Techno especially)

If you were to choose one number, one act that would be your legacy, what would that be?

I want my legacy to be the spiritual aim of the People’s Sound System. To me it’s the most important thing that I do for the community. At the foundation, iit started in the George Floyd Square where I was an active protester there during the summer of 2020. Since I’ve always been interested in audio I was keen to pay attention to the sound systems that would pop up there for events, anything from a bluetooth speaker & a microphone used to rally marches together to a large PA system w/ a DJ for free meals.

I realized there was transformative power in those PA systems and how they broadcasted the voices of the grieving people in George Floyd Square. The roundabout was initially a circle for example before the fist. People often gathered there in the early days in a circle after Floyd was murdered and we talked about our shared trauma’s and personal ones there in shared listening.

My intention for the People’s Sound System is to carry the legacy of what the People did in Minneapolis in Summer 2020 and also build upon it integrating features that nourish community like dance, the arts, and education. Eventually I want there to be more education like putting production tools in the toolbelts of BIPoC youth. I see it as a community resource and we’re building our capacity to share it more where it’s needed with each successful event.

I am most proud of the DEFIANCE fundraiser recently. We raised several thousand dollars for local Palestinian relief during a dance event at the Red Sea where we hosted an art auction during. S/O to the People actively organizing for Palestinians right now.

In this upcoming year, thinking upon your goals and dreams, what are some of the ideas you have and what do you want to do in your communities?

On a personal level, I want to pour into the artistry more this year and continue to write music. I’ve been somewhat outspoken about that and it’s a big interest of mine to continue to develop. I am surrounded by so many gifted creatives in numerous mediums. I just want to continue to create experiences with people I love in this scene and who give a lot of love back. It’s contagious and that love goes right into the community. I know May Day in the Park is coming up sooner than later and I have plans to expand upon that this year and create space for other artists to participate in the sound system culture that’s already going on.

If money were no object, what has been a dream number you would put together?

Hmm. I’m imagining an exercise where an A.I. would calculate what is “enough” money over a course of a life-time. I would take that and leave the rest to everyone else.

Chosen family is everything for me. I am a transplant and go home to visit my Mom and Brother only several times a year. My chosen family to be honest are the people I dance with, the people I collaborate with, and the people I just know hold a deep-positive regard for me built over a long period of time in vice versa. My chosen family are ravers, many of them are queer, varied in age, and familial in our commitment to each-other in a lifetime of ups and downs. We have the difficult conversations and the conversations that energize us and get us excited about doing things together.

Lately I’ve been thinking about friendships. I love my friends who I have soft hangs with away from event spaces where we just unwind and get away from being perceived all the time. Let’s make dinner, let’s watch something interesting, take a class, or do something we have not tried yet. This ecosystem of friendship is important too and I think the pandemic has thwarted this a-lot.

Who are some of the icons or mentors in your life who have shown you the way, who have admired, and whose examples you wish to live up to?

I have a lot of them. Growing up Black in America we’re often taught about “great people” in schools and their great contributions to civilized society but we take for granted the people who treat us like greatness everyday. I think great people have their place in the constellations in the sky and so do the average people in our village who humanize us and make us feel real and cared for. It’s hard for me to be specific because I know it takes a village.

On a personal level I tend to admire a kind of character that is brave and unafraid to a point where they have nothing to prove because that’s how they want to live. To me it’s not an identity thing but just a force of one’s will. We admire these people in books, movies, cartoons, anime, etc all the time and they teach us to not be afraid and question “authority.”

There’s some groups I want to raise up. Starting with Transcendence Cabaret, I had the sweetest time working with them last year for the Translate event and it was the most diverse lineup I’ve seen. S/O to our visuals designer @moqui._ and GoGos with @decadancemn, @iam.veo, @mouthfulofchia, Viv, and Trè Da Marc “The Chocolate Drop That Won’t Stop. S/O to @jayceelives and her Jumpsuit & Cyber City Disco parties. She books diverse talent mostly and centers trans well-being at her events. I took a steamy couple’s Valentine’s Slay heels class last Wednesday at @theoworkroom.mn that was awesome and I admire the positivity I experienced there. Next week I am going to see close friends perform at the Rose Academy of Burlesque at The Pourhouse 02.25 and looking forward to seeing some up in comers!

Christina Action Jackson

February 20, 2024

First, if you were to introduce yourself to a perfect stranger, what would you tell them about yourself?

Hi, my name is Christina Jackson, also known as Christina action Jackson. I’ve been in the Twin Cities drag scene for 17 years now.

Next, speaking of Black Excellence, how does that define you and what you do, your goals, and the barriers you’ve broken through or are still facing in this white supremacist society?

Black excellence to me is seeing other POC artists succeeding and expressing themselves, while giving the opportunity to showcase their talent. Also coming together and supporting each other is also very important when it comes to black excellence.

In my 17 years of being an entertainer, I have been blessed to be a show Director and MC. I’ve used my platform when I could to get and provide opportunities to other POC entertainers are some of the barriers I broke down. I was also part of the longest running All black cast show which was ran by Big Tim called Elegance. I was also the MC. Some of the barriers that I’m still facing is that people forget that I am black that I am biracial and my blackness is constantly dismissed so I’m constantly trying to prove myself to everyone that I’m still here.

What does showmanship mean to you?
Showmanship to me means, uplifting other entertainers that are POC as well as going out and supporting them and their triumphs and in the wins when they’re getting titles or having their own shows. Going out and supporting them and make sure your presence is known and I’ve been doing it since I’ve been fighting a stroke for the past two years. I still try to get out as much as I can to show the community. I’m still here, you still have my love and you still have my support.

Photo By Christina Jackson

How did you evolve as an artist? Tell us a bit about your beginnings and the milestones in your performance career?

Me evolving as an artist I invested in my craft if I couldn’t find a way to do it I did one thing that was expressed to me by my sister Azalia Selena Cruz out of every show you do if you just take five dollars of your tips set that off to the side for each show before you know it, you saved up enough for a new outfit, for more make up, something to reinvent your image and your craft.

Some of the milestones that I’ve hit in my career; I put in the work, keeping my rule when somebody says no you can’t you get up and show them yes you can, and that’s what I’ve been doing for the past 17 years. I’ve been blessed to be part of a cast with my sister Azalia Selena Cruz in Cantina in the Mall of America. We were the first ever drag show in the Mall of America. I’ve been able to start shows in Duluth Superior as well as Somerset Wisconsin. I was Show Director of bars that had come and gone now unfortunately from Over the Rainbow to Kohl’s to Gladius to Maddie’s on Main, and the hard work that I put in, had brought me all over the country, helping other entertainers compete in nationals for national titles.

One thing I always remember is my humble beginnings. I always remember where I started and where I am now.

With being humble, I never expected to get bookings for anything. I never threw a temper tantrum whenever I wasn’t included. I didn't act like I was owed anything.

I also use my platform as a Show Director to help start the careers and support other POC entertainers.

If you were to choose one number, one act that would be your legacy, what would that be?

My one number that I would choose that would signify my legacy is Christina Aguilera “Fighter” because that song has a lot of meaning to me because I fought so hard for 17 years to get to where I am and I fought so hard to recover from the stroke and still I’m here still fighting and I get to use my weapons on stage.

In this upcoming year, thinking upon your goals and dreams, what are some of the ideas you have and what do you want to do in your communities?

I will still continue to support my community. The thing that I’ve been working on by myself behind the shadows is I want to hold the first ever Twin Cities drag awards. Hopefully I get to make that happen. As far as performance wise I want to get more comfortable singing live.

If money were no object, what has been a dream number you would put together?

A dream number for me if money was no object is I would always want to recreate the opening to the old 1990s X-Men cartoon series with entertainers dressed as all the X-Men characters, me being Storm and so on.

I have a very large group of chosen family. I’ll say my most treasured are my sister Azaila Selena Cruz and my sister Aurora Veil as well my sister Mary Brewster. And the rest of my drag family, as well as a whole Rainbow community in the Twin Cities, came together with My Baby DJ Richie Rich put together two fundraisers for me while I was in the hospital and I couldn’t leave to raise money for me to help me for when I was able to get out from my stroke.

Who are some of the icons or mentors in your life who have shown you the way, who have admired, and whose examples you wish to live up to?

I learned from some of the best legends and icons in the Twin Cities drag scene, such as my drag mother Tinea, CeCe Russell, Shamika Dupri, Ashely Brown, Shia Vaughn, Genevee Love, Monica West, Nina D’Angelo, Mary Brewster, Geneva Janet Richard, Dee Richards, and Azalia Selena Cruz. I hope to live up to the standard of showing excellence, humility, benevolence, and nothing but love and support because like I always say #AllAboutLove.

Me, personally I don’t think the Twin Cities is an embarrassment because I took advantage of every opportunity that I had to get myself seen to make my presence known. I earned my lashes. I know the younger generation look at me like I’m boomer talking, but that’s the truth. Nobody owed me anything, nothing was just handed to me because of the color of my skin. I do feel there are a lot of shows that do include POC entertainers. Transcendence Cabaret, Wonderland the opportunities are there is just a matter of people wanting to put in the work to do it. In my personal opinion I know others may not agree, but I didn’t get as far as I did in 17 years and earned the reputation I have just sitting around, waiting for somebody to hand something to me. I earned what was given to me and I was blessed to have.

Blackberry

February 20, 2024

First, if you were to introduce yourself to a perfect stranger, what would you tell them about yourself?

My name is Kiki! I love to smile and spread joy! I love movies, music, traveling, and fashion. I try to see the best in everyone and love to give hugs and encourage people. I have been through a lot but it has made me a better, stronger, caring person.

Next, speaking of Black Excellence, how does that define you and what you do, your goals, and the barriers you’ve broken through or are still facing in this white supremacist society?

It defines me by the fact I choose to educate myself and rise above hate. I love everyone no matter the race or color. I’m constantly in the community encouraging and uplifting people especially the queer youth they need someone to look up to. My speech is eloquent and I carry myself in all my black dignity. Some of my closest friends are politicians, business owners, and change makers because they see the excellence in me .

What does showmanship mean to you?
It means performing at your best! I take pride in what I do. From the way I sing to the way I dress, to how my energy feels on that stage. I want the crowd to understand that my soul/heart are being laid out for them to see.

Photo By shotmyami

How did you evolve as an artist? Tell us a bit about your beginnings and the milestones in your performance career?

I honestly never thought I would have the opportunity to be a crooner. I used to sing at church, and when that was taken for me for being queer, I went to the show if it wasn’t for a drag king, seeing me in the audience and feeling my energy I wouldn’t even be on the stage today. Singing has gotten me through so much depression sadness brokenness it makes me believe and dream that I can be anything. I will say the biggest milestones were performing at the Black Hart then at Phoenix theater with Trans-late, and most recently at the Mr. Black pride pageant.

If you were to choose one number, one act that would be your legacy, what would that be?

I would say that would be the first time I performed with Transcendence Cabaret. I never thought a troupe would accept me as I am. I'm not your usual “ drag king”. I don’t wear make up. I just come out as myself and love, and Jeong happened to see that in me and accepted me performing Nice and Slow that night was everything!

In this upcoming year, thinking upon your goals and dreams, what are some of the ideas you have and what do you want to do in your communities?

Well, one of my dreams was actually to perform for a Black History Month and I’ve done that twice so that’s been pretty incredible! I would love to get my music out there more my voice to get more opportunities to sing with people and collaborate with drag queens. As far as my community I want to keep going out there as a black queer person of color and letting my people know it’s going to be OK. I definitely plan to do more activism and speaking engagements.

If money were no object, what has been a dream number you would put together?

I would love to perform live on stage with Bruno Mars, Usher and Justin Timberlake. I wanted to be a Casanova per se lol! And those three are my idols.

I can honestly say that my blood family we have been estranged since 2019, but even before that things were rough, I really felt alone until I finally embraced the fact I was a lesbian and came out, and that I also embraced the fact that I had trauma and then I was hurting and then I needed love. And because I was that vulnerable I have surrounded myself with the most exceptional, chosen family anyone could ask for they have been there for me through Doctor appointments, suicide attempts, break ups and I’ve shined. I didn’t know chosen family could be this wonderful or that I would prefer them over my blood family. I think the biggest moment for me was when I first premiered as a drag king in October 2023 at the Black Hart my entire chosen family showed up. It was epic.

Who are some of the icons or mentors in your life who have shown you the way, who have admired, and whose examples you wish to live up to?

My first mentor would be my chosen mom, Lisa. She was proud to be a lesbian to be living free out in the open. She showed me what real love was and how to be patient and kind to myself. I’m so lucky to have her and her amazing wife Debbie. My second mentor would be Amada Marquez Simula . We share a lot of the same pains and struggles from our childhood and to see how far she’s come being a mayor of a city and working so hard in the community but still being able to be human and understand real people, real problems, I can’t imagine anyone greater in my life. And my third mentor is Jackie Golob . She is an amazing sex therapist and puts self-care above everything else. She taught me how to love myself, to take time to get massages, facials, take myself out to dinner, meditate etc. She is such a bad ass and I’m honored to have her in my life.

This is an excellent question so far the only show I’ve seen that honors people of color is Transcendence Cabaret. I actually almost decided to retire from drag because I’ve tried so hard to get my foot in so many doors but it’s really a popularity contest, which is super sad I’m not trying to upstage anyone. I just want to have fun too and celebrate my craft but it’s very hard out here, I would like to give a special shout out to Honesty Jackson and Moe Russell, these two queens showed me what black drag can truly be I’m honored to be in their presence.

Atlas O Phoenix

February 19, 2024

First, if you were to introduce yourself to a perfect stranger, what would you tell them about yourself?

My name is Atlas O Phoenix, and I am an artist and auteur. I have lived in Minneapolis for nearly 33 years, having moved here at the age of 20 to attend Minneapolis College of Art and Design. Unfortunately, after a year, I was unable to afford to continue my studies. However, with the advent of digital filmmaking in the mid 90s, I began creating work in 2000 after receiving the Jerome Foundation’s Media Arts Grant. Since 2017, I have been a generative artist, engaging in various creative activities such as writing, producing films and stage readings of my scripts, directing, acting for the stage, and performing as a drag artist in Dykes Do Drag from 2017 to 2020. I have written, produced, directed, and edited three multi-award-winning short films and recently received the Coup de Coeur award in France for my film short, Ordinary. It also received an award for Best International Documentary in a queer film festival in India. My work has been showcased nationally and internationally, including at the Walker Art Center and the Minneapolis Institute of Art. I reside in south Minneapolis with my cat, S’mores.

Next, speaking of Black Excellence, how does that define you and what you do, your goals, and the barriers you’ve broken through or are still facing in this white supremacist society?

Honestly, I don’t really think about it much. It rarely occurs to me. I am not unaware of what is happening. The films I have made of myself in black and white serve a purpose: I am decolonizing myself. I have never believed that I couldn't achieve something due to another person's inferiority complex that fuels their superiority complex. What others think of me or say about me is not my concern. Recently, I experienced racism, melanophobia, and trans hate within my intersecting communities, where I was verbally and emotionally abused by multiple people in the QTIPOC community, and my website was hacked by a former friend, a white trans woman. The problem, in my opinion, is not limited to white people or black people. It is about brokenhearted people who lack self-compassion, self-love, and patience to become a better version of themselves. The only reason white supremacy, male chauvinism, sexism - whether from a cisgendered male or trans-masculine person, and racism exist is because we give it power by validating it as something to fear. Fear is false evidence appearing real. There are no limits. These things are porous and can therefore be destroyed by ignoring them and taking our power back, like the last scene in 'V for Vendetta' where everyone laughs at the news. Fool me once, shame on you; fool me twice, shame on me. I am not giving my power away to anyone. And I have always had exactly what I needed and wanted. At the end of the day, it is not important to say I "am" something. I "be." I just be me, for better or worse. Melanophobia is something I coined to explain what is actually happening; It is the fear of skin color. There is only one race: the human race. Therefore, racism is one human dividing the world of another human being by using melanophobia, transphobia, etc., to break the spirit of that which they fear. The fear is internalized within our intersecting communities. Ultimately, people fear their ability to be successful. Marianne Williamson said that we don't fear that we can be powerful but that we fear the power we have. Stepping into our power means cutting loose the things, places, people, and behaviors that no longer serve us. Stepping into our power is stepping into our individuality. This is where our freedom comes from. My freedom is in my mind. It’s from this wellspring that everything about me unfolds, and I can have the destiny I manifest.

How did you evolve as an artist? Tell us a bit about your beginnings and the milestones in your performance career?

This is a long, but the real evolution started with two years, 2020-2022 of intense therapy modalities: Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, AIR Network Therapy, and finally EMDR. This challenging, habit-based work is how I became who I am; my true self. My mental health disorders including Bipolar disorder, schizo-affective disorder, chronic anxiety and depression are in remission and I am being taken off my medication. All this has helped me create some of the most powerful and beautiful art I’ve ever made. I look forward to the future of my work.

Photo By Atlas O Phoenix

In this upcoming year, thinking upon your goals and dreams, what are some of the ideas you have and what do you want to do in your communities?

Currently, I am the recipient of five grants for the production of my experimental feature-length documentary, Beautiful Boi. This film chronicles the transition of my body at the age of 50 and my mental health journey spanning nearly forty years. This film is for those who relate or want to be educated on a subject they are curious about. Additionally, I am in the process of developing the next iteration of the wellness event, Trans-Late!. Stay tuned for more updates!

Who are some of the icons or mentors in your life who have shown you the way, who have admired, and whose examples you wish to live up to?

I don't believe in icons; that's a quick way to give away my power. Recording artist Me'Shell Ndegeocello once remarked that at the beginning of her career, she thought she knew everything, and what was worse, she said, is that she believed other people knew better than she did.

We give our energy and power away to people, and in doing so, we rescind our own intuition to please these mentors and the invisible relationships with "icons". Some of my past mentors have been deeply damaging to my life and work. This usually happens when you're able to stand in your power, which feels threatening to their ego. A perfect example is Sigmund Freud and Carl Jung. Unhealthy mentorships can quickly turn into abusive situations. Unfortunately, due to these people’s public image in the community, we are left with no way to call them out for their egregious behavior, and therefore it is never addressed, allowing the abuse to continue. No one wants to deal with conflict and nobody wants to rock the boat because their livelihood is affected.

My true mentors, young and older, are kind, humble people who inspire me to stay connected with my intuition. I don't know everything, and that's the point. The point with art and life is to stay curious and adapt.

Truth? Everyone is sleeping on Transcendence Cabaret. Point blank. All it took was one look at a poster of this troupe to understand that they were serious about their craft. I crave entertainment and provocation, not just tokenism based on shared identities. That's why I enlisted this troupe for the sold-out event, Trans-LATE! last February 2023. There would be no TL! without TC. I am currently waiting to hear about a grant, and my aspiration is to bring back this wellness event this summer for Pride, and next year for Valentine's Day.

Ashley Scott: Dragon

February 19, 2024

First, if you were to introduce yourself to a perfect stranger, what would you tell them about yourself?

Hello, I'm Ashley Scott also known as Dragon. I'm a retired disabled Army Veteran, I served in Iraq and served during "Don't ask, Don't tell". I am one of many community leaders.

Next, speaking of Black Excellence, how does that define you and what you do, your goals, and the barriers you’ve broken through or are still facing in this white supremacist society?

Black is Excellence when we hold ourselves to our full potential, when we are allowed. Black folx have lead the world in many firsts if you know your history. Does it define me knowing that I hail from great rulers, inventors, leaders and more? Yes, because I know where I come from. I have been looked at differently since I was born because of the color of my skin. I've had to grow up faster, act a certain way, taken the high road when not at fault, and hold my tongue because I'm seen as less than. I have shown up and showed out, breaking many barriers and creating safe spaces for those like me that need them.

Photo of Haughty Hazelnut by Oliphant Portraits

What does showmanship mean to you

Truthfully I think it's a happy good ole boy dance used to sale or sway people, but when used right it can be used to educate, inform and reach people's hearts, souls, their cores and for me it's a mighty weapon that allows me to let another walk in my shoes, feel my sadness, worries, fears and understand my life .

Photo By Ryan Coit

How did you evolve as an artist? Tell us a bit about your beginnings and the milestones in your performance career?

My art started as drawing and model making in childhood, expanding to debate, speech, band, and theater which I took into my first year of College adding choir. In the military I used my acting while serving during "Don't ask, Don't tell" it was hard wearing so many masks yet not having a face of your own. Drag... I first saw it at the Gay 90's in the late 90's early 2000's. The 24 K (karat) kings were the Drag King troupe, I loved them, they helped set in motion the paths in life my journeys would take. Anyways I first performed in 2009 as a way to help my PTSD, anxiety and being an introvert. I Won my first pageant that same year and ran many more allowing me to compete at a national level many times. This gave me great knowledge allowing me to learn many many new ways to perform and use my performance not just for Myself but for others.

If you were to choose one number, one act that would be your legacy, what would that be

It would be the performance I used as my talent the year I won Mr. Twin Cities Leather 2020, it was a Drag performance lip syncing to "Learn to Love '' by Tituss Burgess. This number allowed me to speak about Body Positivity, Transgender issues, Military and LGBTQ+, Leather and Kink and the struggle to find, Be and LOVE YOURSELF.

In this upcoming year, thinking upon your goals and dreams, what are some of the ideas you have and what do you want to do in your communities?

This year I have the privilege to be Mr. Trans Minnesota 2024 for the second year in a row. I get to hold this title with an amazing Miss and first ever Mx who is just as wonderful. I/We hope to make space and a difference in the Community, but most importantly I wish to Show Up, Show Out and be there for anyone who needs someone, granted I have the Spoons ;)

If money were no object, what has been a dream number you would put together?

I've Always wanted a working transformation chamber, you know like the one Steve Urkel used to turn into the Suave Stefan Urkel. I think it would be fun as I always think Myself and my drag persona are much like Steve and Stefan.

My main family is my Girlfriend Foxx, Boyfriend Britt, Little Boy Ace and little brat Killian. I have a big loving extended family in the leather and kink Community, Twin Cities Leather, within my home bar The Saloon, Twin Cities Spectrum, Twin Cities T-Rexx and the many other spaces of the community I touch. The One time thus far I will always re!member is when I won Mr. Twin Cities Leather, the deafening roar of the Community and how my family rushed the stage. It took me 3 decades and some years to find and experience that kind of support. It was a full circle moment for me.

Who are some of the icons or mentors in your life who have shown you the way, who have admired, and whose examples you wish to live up to?

As one of the few Black students in my elementary school I got to talk to this young gentleman who referred to me as a future leader. This was 3rd grade. I met him again in 5th grade and when I made it to middle school he always checked in. His name is Mr. Hamilton E. Bell, he was dean of students. He never let us BI&POC students slack off because we were future leaders. Through him I learned Earth, Wind, and Fire , honor, respect and how to navigate while knowing what I look like and what people think of that. He was a dad for me and many others. I wish I had kept in contact. I hope I've made him proud.

Two people who unfortunately passed away in my late teens early 20s are my Gamma and my Auntie Janet, both of whom Always saw me, Even before I knew myself. I know I made them proud.

Lastly, my PopPop who passed away last Christmas. Thankfully I was able to see him the November before and he told me how proud he was of me. He was big in his Community, and advocated for a lot. I got my sense of service from him.

Transcendence Cabaret is One of the most inclusive Shows I know.

The Saloon has opened up to get more diversity, shows fighting body positivity, different styles of drag and holding space for new performers.

One performer I always love to see is a OG, one I've known for years Andre 1000

Another that is always running and everywhere, even my sister's kids have seen her perform a few times and Community events is Megan the Maneater, my drag granddaughter

Amir Odyssey Kinara

February 19, 2024

First, if you were to introduce yourself to a perfect stranger, what would you tell them about yourself?

I would simply say "Hi, my name is Amir Odyssey Kinara. I'm a performance artist based out of Minnesota." Yes, that's all they need to know about me.

Next, speaking of Black Excellence, how does that define you and what you do, your goals, and the barriers you’ve broken through or are still facing in this white supremacist society?

To give better con(tact/exts). I'm living my life through my personal experience(s) knowing the history that is behind me as well. I'm using my time to share the stories and moments that I {saw/experienced} now. The excellence is always there. It's the drive, the creativity, the intent behind each performance. This includes being supportive of fellow performers onstage, backstage, as well as Behind a screen/keyboard. Issues and drama have a way of unintentionally showing up. Those moments are when excellence shines through. While things aren't always fair/equitable, the intent is what always shows up. Keeps people from hiding behind the masks/cloaks, especially when no one needs to[hide] to be their most authentic self.

What does showmanship mean to you?

Showmanship to me means that if you're going to give yourself a (person/a), if you're going to make a face for yourself : to remind yourself of who you want to be :, then it also means that you should want to [emulate] those things that you're already seeing yourself doing{in the future @}right now. When your intent truly shows on what you want to do, that will always be part of your characteristics. Nothing plays chance to anything. Instead, we focus on what it means for us to involve ourselves in our current daily life and are intent is what makes it worth everything that we're doing. It's a way for all of us to find our own joy. Understand our sadness, "acknowledge o(ur) defeats or flaws "as people say; and then move on to shine brightly like we all should. glitter's not the only thing that shines...

The showmanship comes in when you can take your persona, your emulations, and your creativity and use it to connect with your performance/entertainment style.

Photo By ClockworkSteve

How did you evolve as an artist? Tell us a bit about your beginnings and the milestones in your performance career?

I started performing as a stripper in 2016. After the first few months, I got to learn about burlesque and how beneficial it was to create a story that was meaningful. Each year I focus on adding another aspect to my performances. This eventually brought me into the worlds of pole dance, Belly Dance, and Circus with the Trapeze being my first(and Favorite) apparatus. When I finally moved to Minnesota in 2018, I joined Queer Circus and have been growing my skills since. During 2021/22, I took more time to focus on my personal dance style and movement. And my performances have truly benefitted.

If you were to choose one number, one act that would be your legacy, what would that be

That act has to be one that I can always go back to, to be memorable? I haven't done that yet. There's still so much to learn, and there's only a small amount that I've gotten to learn about... This is a powerful question for me. The reason why is because the number that I truly want to see, is the one that I haven't done. Anytime that people see me perform, we all are experiencing that performance, that moment, that number, that time together. And you will either want me to succeed, want me to fail, or want to take a smoke break during my performances. Not all stories take centuries. And not all novels take days. But the legacy I want to leave is simply for being a great entertainer who also used their knowledge to educate on health and wellness.

In this upcoming year, thinking upon your goals and dreams, what are some of the ideas you have and what do you want to do in your communities?

Dance is my passion and having a platform or space to do that is lovely. One of my production goals is a Belly Dance festival(Workshops included), A Freestyle Dance based competition (to support reading, the arts, music). As far as performance goals; build up my health to perform more often, as well as have enough funds/networking for a performance tour.

If money were no object, what has been a dream number you would put together?

I'd put on a show tour. Solo performance time of 1 hour, collaborating with other performers(duo/group) that way I can use all of my skills to create a storybook show

Family comes in many forms. Having people who support your dreams and goals, even when long distance means more than I could ask for. I even have parental support which seemed like a pipedream at first. I have you all to thank for wanting to see me succeed, especially cause the most treasured support is the support I'm getting already.

Who are some of the icons or mentors in your life who have shown you the way, who have admired, and whose examples you wish to live up to?

People who inspired, motivated, supported, mentored(long list, not everyone.):

Devon Ayers, Ray Gunn, Jojo Ventus, J.Legras, Lakota Shekhar, Brian Bose, Teddy Martin, Genevee Love, Rustina Phoenix Nuttz, Bella Sin, Sabrina Caprice Heart, Tito Bonito, Riley Poppy, Pandora Foxx, Roxy Von Teddy, Moe Russell, Ariesfirebomb, TimisaRocker, Alexander Cameron, Lala Luzious, Athena(Belly Dance), Zhané Dawlingz, Co-co Nostal'Jah, P No Noire, Samson Night, Trè De Marc, Anisa Love, Jé Hooper, DJ Larry Peace, Zon Legacy Phoenix, Allurem Velvit, Sym-1, and last but not least, myself. While influences can be many, I still focus on Having my own lens.

Let's be real, there are plenty of shows that haven't been getting the marketing feedback they need. Drama or not. Twin Cities isn't the only place seeing these issues either. And as far as who should be recognized? My list is only a small fraction of people that aren't getting their accolades that they deserve. Besides Transcendence Cabaret, Bawdy Downe, Trè 's Juneteenth Jubilee, Melanated Menagerie, B and M Entertainment and a few others, the rest of the shows aren't getting the reach they should. How do we change that? Maybe a producers Forum?

Black History Month: Black Excellence

February 19, 2024

You know, having this Sag sun sign with Cap moon and probable Leo rising means not only do I got double the fire but I also got that stone cold focus to get it done.

And getting it done in the month of February apparently means reminding people that if y’all gonna publish anything, center Black people. It ain’t that hard. Put them on the cover, write about them, book them in your shows, pay them well… do I need to write an instruction manual?

Guess I’ll write this intro which could also be called the seven degrees of, well, me. Here we go.

I’m not naming names but a publication had the caucacity to put a flour ranger on the cover of its magazine. As if there aren’t some damn amazing Black people who could have (and should have) graced that cover.

But they did and I was like, oh, so do you need some help? Did Timmy fall down the well?

So this digital mag did a cover with ALL Black artists. Promoted shows with ALL Black entertainers. But we weren’t done yet.

Cos I was still upset and since this is my damn column and because I know people, I started reaching out; hey, I wanna interview you and I want some photos with photographer credit (cos that’s another damn topic for another day) and we’re gonna publish these interviews and photos until the end of the month. This blessed month which celebrates Black history and all that goes with it.

I asked almost 40 people. Out of those, I was referred to a handful who I didn’t know personally. But everyone else? I know them through their art, their work, their activism, their everything.

Are you ready? Cos we got over 20 interviews with Black people from all over the Twin Cities. People who do their amazing art and work and are creative beyond description.

Some of these artists are queer, some are accomplices, all have Black heritage so you will see some fantastic biracial and multiracial Black Excellence as well.

Every day, you will see these interviews with photos up until the 28th where you will once again see Black people on the cover to close out Black History month along with their interviews and photos (again, with photographer credit). So check back each day so you don’t miss a thing!

This is such a wonderful opportunity to interview and to celebrate Black Excellence during Black History month! Let’s start by getting to know these beautiful folx!

The tea is piping hot and ready to be served. Set yourself down and hold out your cuppa.
I’m gonna pour you some Black Excellence goodness.

Put on your good church hat, bring a shawl and put on your Sunday best for Soulful Sunday!!

February 14, 2024

Come on out February 18th at 8pm for the revival of the year! The cast of Black Ass Friday is going to give a full baptism of some of the iconic legends in Gospel. Join Rustina Phoenix Nuttz and Shara Phoenix Baptiste as they minister to you a night of love, praise and fellowship!

With cast members: Ashley Brown, Moe Shia Vaughn, Kamaree Williams and Andre 1000!

Come on and get SWALLOWED by the spirit and have a great time!

More Information Here!

Roots and Routes Minneapolis: An Asian Artistic Expoloration of Identity and Heritage.

January 17, 2024

It is I, back again with a very special edition of my column. I am so pleased to interview these two powerhouse Asian people who will be putting on a very special event that highlights our Asian diaspora here in Minneapolis! Of course, as a fellow Asian, I had to get all the (pardon the pun) piping hot tea!

Here’s my interview with both Maria and Julia. It has been lightly edited for grammar but otherwise, everything is in their own words.

Thank you so much for taking the time to answer these questions! First of all, where did you get the inspiration for an all Asian extravaganza like this?

Maria: Immigrants, they are the backbone of this country, and they are the least recognized but more often blamed and hated by many. When COVID-19 happened, Asian businesses were slowly closing down because of the economic crisis and Asian Hate. I lived in Minneapolis for 5 years and there are only a few shows, events and representation in the city. I realized It's time for tremendous change by breaking the barriers and putting an end to stereotyping Asians. On my last visit in Minneapolis I had a dinner with Chef Tammy Wong (Owner of Rainbow Chinese Restaurant) and we talked about how local businesses are struggling. Eat Street is one of the go-to places to dine, but after everything that happened in Minneapolis, it is not the same anymore. You can see the big difference between businesses before and now. That's why right away I messaged Julia Starr about what I've seen, heard, and felt about this community, and discussed starting Roots and Routes Minneapolis by bringing all my Asian and Pacific Island brothers and sisters together and celebrating our culture and diversity.

What can we expect at this show?

Maria: GOOD FOOD, GOOD PEOPLE, and PURE ASIAN TALENT & ARTISTRY!

Julia: A taste of Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) culture in many aspects! With AAPI live performances , designers, singers, queer artists, and Amazing food! I like to say we are hitting all 5 senses of an experience!

Tell us more about the venue and the food!

Maria: We are partnering with Hewing Hotel; thanks to Michelle Havens for giving us the safe space to use. We have 2 food vendors and one of them is me! I'm doing a South East Asian Menu for everyone.

What entertainment will we see?

Maria: We have local singers Jea Espino and Ram Santos, Dj Chico Chi, and the main entertainment is the local Drag/Entertainers.

It is wonderful to see all of these Asian artists! How did you wrangle them all into this one event?

Maria: Our connections; the Asian Community is small. Everyone knows each other. 🤣

Julia: Honestly Maria knows many of the food industry’s best Asian cuisines and I provided the AAPI talent!

What would you like people to take away from this?

Maria: We seek to foster understanding, support, raise awareness, and promote a more inclusive society. And to Empower, Honor and Celebrate the diversity of AAPI cultures and tradition.

Julia: An experience like no other! A gathering where people can come together and enjoy food, culture, and queer art.

What is your favourite Asian comfort food and will it be at this show?

Maria: LUMPIA (Filipino Egg Rolls), it is the star of the party! Yes, it will be at the event with other of your favorite asian food.

Julia: Omg Lumpia ….. Maria made me some last month and every time she cooks for me it puts a tear in my eyes, cause it reminds me of home in the Philippines.

What of your culture do you want highlighted at this show?

Maria: FAMILY (by blood or chosen family), is the most important in Asian Culture, it is the major source of their identity. BAYANIHAN, a Filipino word, means the spirit and drive of a community to help individuals in need.

If we wanted to book any of you, how would we go about doing that?

Julia: You can always message us at; mlfbulaon@yahoo.com, https://www.instagram.com/rootsandroutesmpls?igsh=Y3F4YzhtcWg5Y20w, or Julia Starr Instagram @julia_starr__

We are currently working with Hewing Hotel to make Roots and Routes a seasonal event. However we encourage show producers and bar managers to book and hire all the talented entertainers that will be involved with the event

And finally, representation is so important in this White dominant society. What type of representation do you want us to see at this and future shows?

Maria: Solidarity, that we stand together as one and help each other to make a safe space and make more opportunities for the Asian Community.

Thank you so much and the best of success to your show! I hope to see more shows in the future!

Behold the Queens: Black Burlesque Show Producers

February 15, 2023

So y’all thought I was gone for good. Ah, sweet summer child.

It’s been a minute but I couldn’t resist interviewing not one but TWO dynamos in our burlesque
community.

And, because this is February and it’s Black History month, we gonna do some
acknowledgment of our Black producers who are working hard to bring you the cream of the
crop.

I had the privilege and pleasure of interviewing these two Black women and let me tell you. I
sent them the exact same questions and I knew, KNEW that they would each show their
individual creativity, knowledge, and no bullshit attitudes.

Was I right? Of course I was.

I didn’t change a thing in the interviews. Lightly edited for any spelling or grammar but other
than that? They can speak for their damn selves.

Keke Boudreaux and Haughty Hazelnut are in the house. Pause a minute, drink your fill of their
gorgeousness photos, and read what they have to say.

KEKE BOUDREAUX
Photo by Grinkie Girls Photography

Let’s start with the basics! Tell us a little about yourself. I know we all have to submit bios so if you want to start there, what bio info would you like us to know about you?

Producer and director of The Bawdy Downe. Cast member of Black Hearts Burlesque, Capital City Cabaret, Queerdo, Vendetta Vixens, and Ballentines Burlesque. She got her launch as the Nudie Nubies Ultimate Reveal 6 winner and is now the local luminary of fine and flirty feathered goods, Keke’s Suds Soaps and Keke’s Sips Simple Syrups under the label ApätheKekē. The Bayou Bonnaroo!

Your name is lovely! What is the backstory and inspiration?
Well I grew up being called Keke Boudreaux was actually the name my dad was given at birth.
He was born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. But some family stuff happened. Long story short he
changed it. Like really bro. Lol. My real last name could have been Boudreaux. That would have
been FIRE. So I reclaimed it.

What thrills you about being on stage?
The crowd interaction. I love when they feel it. I love when I can feel them feelin it. Feel me? Lol.

What is the most challenging part of burlesque for you?
Getting venues to not censor AFAB bodies. Still a huge problem today. There’s some real
antiquated laws out there made by ancient irrelevant white men.

What influences your style? Who do you emulate (if anyone) when you create your
numbers?
Of course Josephine Baker. The OG Black burlesque dancer. I want a tattoo of her in her classic
banana skirt walking her cheetah.

When it comes to representation and tokenism, what is your idea of what representation should look like in our artistic communities?
Equitable hiring. Black and POC have to be twice as good to get regular gigs while Sally Jane
with a pretty face can be alright and get the same.

If you were to point out what tokenism is in our artistic communities, what have you seen
or experienced?
I noticed some tokenism. I recall a new poc moving to town and my gigs with a certain group
dropped and they were on. Is it coincidence or is it their new diversity hire? I honestly don’t
know, but it is something you think about. You could have both of us. But as a whole, I think
burlesque in the twin cities does well in casting.

And, with representation, Black artists are often not given their due. With your show,
what is most important for you to not only center your Black artists but also to provide
for them and other Black artists in our communities?
I want MORE. OUTREACH. There’s not many of us. I want more black bodies on the stages.
We gotta let them know this is a thing you can do. But how accessible is it? That’s another thing
to think about.

What draws you to producing a show or event?
I love the planning. The casting. I love curating a vibe. I want my cast and the audience to have
an experience they enjoy and can’t wait for more. Making coin doesn’t hurt either.

And finally, tell us what you are most excited about your show. What do you want us,
your audience, to walk away with after watching your amazing event?
I want them to rejoice in these bodies that we’ve allowed them to see. Then I want them to
rejoice in their own. Cuz these meat bags are amazing. No matter what size, shape, what they
been through etc etc. They shouldn’t be censored, hidden away. You’re sexy.

Thank you so so much!!! Your show is going to be super fantastic! Break a lash and
some hearts and get that well deserved coin! <3
Kisses!

instagram.com/keke.boudreaux

HAUGHTY HAZELNUT
Photo by Oliphant Portraits

Let’s start with the basics! Tell us a little about yourself. I know we all have to submit bios so if you want to start there, what bio info would you like us to know about you?

Classically focused with a Rock n’ Roll twist, Haughty Hazelnut is a Twin Cities based burlesque performer. Officially a traveling show girl, Haughty is back from Seattle and basking in the glory of the inaugural Fatlesque Fest NW produced by Mx. Pucks A’Plenty, and is excited to perform more in MN and beyond in 2023! Haughty was a local runner-up at 2022’s Nudie Nubies Nationwide, and is a now a new producer in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area. When she’s not making the room shine, you can catch her hanging at the Rabbit Hole, The Rose Academy, or with the Sweet Heat Honnies. You can find more about what she’s up to and how you can get in touch with her at haughtyhazelnut.com.

Your name is lovely! What is the backstory and inspiration?
I feel like I got really lucky actually! A friend and I used to frequent Uncommon Grounds in
Uptown a lot and my signature drink was was a Dirty Hazelnut Chai. (I still drink these
religiously. lol) We were flirting with the barista and they called me a dirty little hazelnut, and
Haughty Hazelnut was born! About a year and a half later I was taking classes at the Twin Cities
Burlesque Academy and we had to pick out names as part of their level one program. I was
inspired by the Uncommon Grounds incident and spent hours combing through every name in the Red Hot Annie’s Name Directory when it was still live (RIP), along with every social media
platform I could find to make sure it was free. Haughty Hazelnut was the only name I every tried
to come up with and it feels like it was meant to be.

What thrills you about being on stage?
I think the most exciting part about being on stage is the fact that I’m a Black, plus-size body
that for many reasons, never thought I’d get the chance to be on stage at all. It’s such a joy to
be able to connect with people on an authentic level while expressing myself through the
artforms I love. I am so grateful for this chapter of my life. Being on stage has been a proving
ground for and to myself, and everytime I take a stage it gives me more information about what I’m capable of.

What is the most challenging part of burlesque for you?
I’m trying really hard right now to not pay attention to the background noise. I think any part of
performing culture comes with a certain degree of feedback and commentary. Growing up I had a lot of experiences dealing with others commenting on my body and physical features, so putting myself in a position to be judged and critiqued on a regular basis has been a struggle. And while the thought of people perceiving me GIVES ME GREAT ANXIETY, it has also given me a lot of opportunity to keep my eyes on my own paper and try to just do the work. This has also been a good lesson for my non-burlesque life! I am a recovering perfectionist, and I think I’ll always be my worst critic. Burlesque has given me the opportunity to show up and build something for myself that I love and am proud of, with the reminder that everything is always evolving. I still feel very new in a lot of ways, and it’s a constant reminder that consistency and growth are actually the goals that get you to longevity. Showing up as authentic and at all, vs. perfect, is definitely a focus right now.

What influences your style? Who do you emulate (if anyone) when you create your
numbers?
I love a classic costume! I really create all my acts from the music first, and then figure out what kind of costume pieces I want to feature from there. I don’t think I’m very comical or gimmicky, but I’m excited to expand my repertoire of acts and styles as I continue to grow!

We have so many wonderful performers and teachers here in Minnesota, I'm lucky to be able to work and create with many of them. I could shout out a lot of people, but I’ll forever be grateful to be in a place with so many resources for this art. I definitely wouldn’t be doing what I am without Nudie Nubies, The Twin Cities Burlesque Academy, or The Rose Academy of
Burlesque. I’m not sure I have any one person who has been a “signature” influence, but I have
a burlesque playlist I’ve been building for years at this point, and there is a song on there for
every person I’ve worked or taken a class with.

When it comes to representation and tokenism, what is your idea of what representation
should look like in our artistic communities?
I’ll start with saying that my voice is not a monolith for all BIPOC voices, and that there are many ways to be marginalized. I’ve worked in a lot of arts,entertainment, and non-profit spaces both inside and outside of burlesque, and representation to me looks like making sure the art/message reflects the audiences you’re serving. There’s a lot of conversation about
diversifying audiences here in Minnesota, but that starts with the acts, the performers, and the
stories you’re casting and putting in your spaces.

If you were to point out what tokenism is in our artistic communities, what have you seen
or experienced?
The Oxford definition of Tokenism is: the practice of making only a perfunctory or symbolic effort to do a particular thing, especially by recruiting a small number of people from underrepresented groups in order to give the appearance of sexual or racial equality within a workforce. BIPOC, Queer, and Fat bodies are almost never given the spotlight as a headlining feature, and we quite often see only one person representing these categories in a show. Let alone many of them together. If you’re only seeing one person in a cast of many that is of a marginalized group, ask yourself why that is? Is that actually representational to the city or community you live in? Are they making a spectacle or showcasing someone for their differences instead of their talent? I know I have often been the only Black or Fat body cast in a show, and there are many of us. Coming home from Fatlesque Fest NW in Seattle this year where everyone was a Fat body, and how GOOD it felt to be among company where I wasn’t an outsider in size or in color, really put things into perspective for me. Only casting one different body in an all white/thin cast inherently reduces our ability to get stage time on a regular basis, which prevents us from being able to grow as performers. There are spaces here in MN that I’ve seen do a phenomenal job countering these scenarios, like The Rose Academy, Petty Treason Productions and TC Cabaret. I would love to see more thought from spaces and producers on casting a wider variety of humans as shows begin to pick up again.

And, with representation, Black artists are often not given their due. With your show,
what is most important for you to not only center your Black artists but also to provide
for them and other Black artists in our communities?
I firmly believe that representation should always be a focus in every arena. Giving space to
Black voices and Black artists is important because we have just as much to say and just as
much art to share as anyone else, while often not having the same opportunities to participate
as white and strait sized entertainers. From the lens of living and growing up here in the
Midwest, I think there is this wrong assumption that Black and Brown people are this small,
small percentage of the majority - but it’s not true, and it’s only continuing to be more diverse.
And I will add that it’s especially not true in our art spaces. Black artists across the board from
rock n’ roll to burlesque have been pioneering influences, and often have to work much harder to get a fraction of the exposure while having their art erased or stolen from them. If I have the
chance to create an event that gives more room for Black and marginalized voices to shine, I
will do so.

What draws you to producing a show or event?
I love creating concepts from scratch. I don’t have a traditional theater background but I’ve
worked in my fair share of venues, and used to review a lot of shows/do booking on the side.
Before I was ever a burlesque performer I was an event production and marketing manager
around town, and bringing those skills into this world has been both very validating and a lot of
fun! I’m also very passionate about activating cultural spaces in new ways. Producing has
started to give me a chance to bring all my worlds together.

And finally, tell us what you are most excited about your show. What do you want us,
your audience, to walk away with after watching your amazing event?
Wow. There’s so much to say about this event!! I was formerly the Assistant Director of
Operations at Meritage, and the Hamm Building was where I produced my very first show back
in 2016! I always said if I were to have the opportunity to produce a live burlesque show in the
restaurant that I would do whatever I could to make it happen. I have a deep love of French
culture, good food, and of course burlesque, so when the management came to me to ask if I
would help them create a concept for the room I was all in.

Not only is this a non-traditional burlesque space, we’re also partnering with Meritage as part of their Guest Chef Series which allows us to highlight more awesome people like Chef Jametta
Raspberry in new ways. It really is very cool to be able to showcase burlesque in partnership
with a very beloved restaurant here in the Twin Cities.

Meritage en Nuit is also my first official Hazelnut Productions venture! I am very honored that
they are taking a chance on opening their space to this artform, but also to me as a producer
who wants to actively bring people and concepts into new places as both performers and as
guests.

I hope anyone in attendance at this show, whether they’re familiar or not with Meritage or
burlesque, are able to truly witness the greatness of the art we are presenting, and also walk
away feeling like they were well taken care of. Here’s to a good first run, and hopefully many
more!

Can’t wait to see everyone around town soon!

Thank you so so much!!! Your show is going to be super fantastic! Break a lash and
some hearts and get that well deserved coin! <3

Here’s some additional information about Haughty Hazelnut, too!

Meritage en Nuit is a special partnership in presentation with Meritage - St. Paul Restaurant and Hazelnut Productions that features guest chefs, and sizzling burlesque.
Hazelnut Productions is an inclusive and thrilling production company focused on highlighting
exceptional burlesque, activating new spaces, and uplifting marginalized bodies.

haughtyhazelnut.com

Spotlight!Bad Ass Queer Folx of Colour!

By Jeong Park

Outro: Started from the bottom and now we here

February 28, 2024

Tre Da Marc

February 28, 2024

Megan The Maneater

February 28, 2024

Plum Ridiculous

February 28, 2024

What does showmanship mean to you?Having the ability to love making your art and letting that show to your audience. Musicality combined with confidence.

Lala Luzious

February 28, 2024

Mr & Miss Twin Cities Black PrideAndre 1000 & ChaChi

February 27, 2024

What does showmanship mean to you?Andre - To me, showmanship is giving the people what they want to see- being able to appeal to a wide audience, while still being in line with your core values.

What does showmanship mean to you?ChaChi - Showmanship to me is putting yourself in your audience's shoes. Give your audience a show that you would want to see. I always say my audience are my employers, and I never want to show a poor performance in front of my employer.

Alexandro Rox

February 27, 2024

What does showmanship mean to you?Showmanship, to me, embodies the art of storytelling through performance. It's about captivating audiences, evoking emotions, and sparking meaningful conversations about identity and empowerment.

Alex Palacios / Cuntessa

February 27, 2024

Tank TopOff

February 26, 2024

What does showmanship mean to you?The way you go about using the stage, props, music, set, etc as an entertainer.

Lady Cummeal Cassadine

February 26, 2024

What does showmanship mean to you?Captivation. Exhilaration. A Moment. Detailed. A Gift. Thoughtfulness. Ritualistic. Consciousness. Beyond the Self. Selfless. A Prayer. Authentic. Inherent.Some have it. Many don’t.

Rustina Phoenix Nuttz

February 26, 2024

Stella Rockstar

February 25, 2024

What does showmanship mean to you?I love a performer with strong energy, who makes great eye contact and plays to the crowd. Showmanship really shines through when you feel the emotions radiating off the dancer!

Purple Queen Zen

February 25, 2024

What does showmanship mean to you?To me, this means using the gifts that God has given me and trusting that it will bring others joy and happiness. It means creating a space for belonging and acceptance. It means inviting all people to enjoy the universal language of music alongside me.

Gregory

February 25, 2024

What does showmanship mean to you?Showmanship to me incorporates flair, ability, and a personal “voice.” If there’s one thing that you leave an audience with that defines You in their memory, I feel that’s the result of whatever cocktail you served up.

Moe Russell

February 24, 2024

What does showmanship mean to you?Showmanship (showpersonship) is the balance of being entertaining and professional.

Texas Tea Cake$

February 24, 2024

Ms Margaret Live!

February 24, 2024

Mikko Blaze

February 23, 2024

What does showmanship mean to you?It means paying attention to the details, being memorable and leaving the stage feeling proud of what you did.

Lola Honey

February 23, 2024

What does showmanship mean to you?Being good at what you do and practicing your craft. Knowing the only competition is yesterday’s version of yourself.

Jamel Brown

February 23, 2024

What does showmanship mean to you?Being a skilled performer with a unique approach.

Jojo Ventus

February 22, 2024

What does showmanship mean to you?Showmanship to me is showcasing not only your talent but being able to interact with the crowd and look good doing it. Excelling in all three is how I know I'm doing a good job and I see the same for others.

Jamez

February 22, 2024

What does showmanship mean to you?Performing to the best of one’s ability with dignity and grace.

Miss Honesty Jackson

February 21, 2024

D

February 21, 2024

Christina Action Jackson

February 20, 2024

Blackberry

February 20, 2024

What does showmanship mean to you?It means performing at your best! I take pride in what I do. From the way I sing to the way I dress, to how my energy feels on that stage. I want the crowd to understand that my soul/heart are being laid out for them to see.

Atlas O Phoenix

February 19, 2024

Ashley Scott: Dragon

February 19, 2024

Amir Odyssey Kinara

February 19, 2024

What does showmanship mean to you?

The showmanship comes in when you can take your persona, your emulations, and your creativity and use it to connect with your performance/entertainment style.

Black History Month: Black Excellence

February 19, 2024

Spotlight!
Bad Ass Queer Folx of Colour!

What does showmanship mean to you?
Having the ability to love making your art and letting that show to your audience. Musicality combined with confidence.

Mr & Miss Twin Cities Black Pride
Andre 1000 & ChaChi

What does showmanship mean to you?
Andre - To me, showmanship is giving the people what they want to see- being able to appeal to a wide audience, while still being in line with your core values.

What does showmanship mean to you?
ChaChi - Showmanship to me is putting yourself in your audience's shoes. Give your audience a show that you would want to see. I always say my audience are my employers, and I never want to show a poor performance in front of my employer.

What does showmanship mean to you?
Showmanship, to me, embodies the art of storytelling through performance. It's about captivating audiences, evoking emotions, and sparking meaningful conversations about identity and empowerment.

What does showmanship mean to you?
The way you go about using the stage, props, music, set, etc as an entertainer.

What does showmanship mean to you?
Captivation. Exhilaration. A Moment. Detailed. A Gift. Thoughtfulness. Ritualistic. Consciousness. Beyond the Self. Selfless. A Prayer. Authentic. Inherent.
Some have it. Many don’t.

What does showmanship mean to you?
I love a performer with strong energy, who makes great eye contact and plays to the crowd. Showmanship really shines through when you feel the emotions radiating off the dancer!

What does showmanship mean to you?
To me, this means using the gifts that God has given me and trusting that it will bring others joy and happiness. It means creating a space for belonging and acceptance. It means inviting all people to enjoy the universal language of music alongside me.

What does showmanship mean to you?
Showmanship to me incorporates flair, ability, and a personal “voice.” If there’s one thing that you leave an audience with that defines You in their memory, I feel that’s the result of whatever cocktail you served up.

What does showmanship mean to you?
Showmanship (showpersonship) is the balance of being entertaining and professional.

What does showmanship mean to you?
It means paying attention to the details, being memorable and leaving the stage feeling proud of what you did.

What does showmanship mean to you?
Being good at what you do and practicing your craft. Knowing the only competition is yesterday’s version of yourself.

What does showmanship mean to you?
Being a skilled performer with a unique approach.

What does showmanship mean to you?
Showmanship to me is showcasing not only your talent but being able to interact with the crowd and look good doing it. Excelling in all three is how I know I'm doing a good job and I see the same for others.

What does showmanship mean to you?
Performing to the best of one’s ability with dignity and grace.

What does showmanship mean to you?
It means performing at your best! I take pride in what I do. From the way I sing to the way I dress, to how my energy feels on that stage. I want the crowd to understand that my soul/heart are being laid out for them to see.

KEKE BOUDREAUX
Photo by Grinkie Girls Photography

HAUGHTY HAZELNUT
Photo by Oliphant Portraits