Every day, hundreds of queer New Yorkers check Thotyssey for a complete and thorough listing of where they can go that night for circuit parties, drag shows, cabaret, burlesque, ballroom, trivia and game nights, bingo, etc. Since 2016, Thotyssey has been the only such heavily detailed and researched daily list that spans the whole city, and is truly the only essential resource for local nightlifers and tourists alike.
And while we promote everyone’s events (that we know of) in an organized list on the day of the event… maybe you want more coverage for your own event? Maybe you need to sell a certain number of tickets early, or you just want a few hundred eyeballs on your event flyer ASAP? Perhaps you want to post a promo video? Or maybe you just need your own event to pop out of a text-heavy post with a colorful image and direct link? Thotyssey is here for you! For a small daily fee, we can promote your event as many days as you want… or we can work out a longer term discounted rate for recurring or distant future events. We’ll post your flyer, some ad copy and links to wherever the kids need to go. We quietly started this service in June 2022, and it’s already been a great success!
Want more info, including rates? Email us to begin the discussion!
A longtime staple of Fire Island dance parties, Anastasia C. Ledwith aka DJ Stacy has recently returned to an historic Manhattan nightlife institution as well.
Thotyssey: Hi Stacy! How was Pride?
DJ Stacy: Hi Jim… this was an awesome Pride! I DJ’d at Henrietta Hudson Friday, then did the Haus of Sucia drag brunch in Harlem, then headed right to Cherry Grove and did Cherry’s On The Bay ’til close… then came back Sunday and was back at Hens! The energy from everyone was overwhelming and fantastic!
Oh my, lots of dance floors! This has been a crazy, kinda shitty month for many… but Pride turned out to be a great fun release, even for those who had to work it.
I believe that everyone really came together in a positive light, even though we had some dark decisions made. As I was making my way into the West Village on Pride evening, there was a point where I had to get out of the Uber and walk to Hens and everyone was cheering, laughing, hugging one another… and just truly celebrating.
So where are you from originally, and was music always a part of your life while growing up?
I am from Long Island, and yes… music was always a huge part. My mom and her three sisters were always playing Donna Summer and Barry White in the house dancing around, etc. I learned how to DJ from our neighbor on turntables when I was in second grade, and from there on kept begging my parents for my own equipment. It took until I was in seventh grade when my dad finally caved, and we went to PC Richards and bought two turntables, a mixer, amp and speakers. My dad said I had to give him 10 percent from each gig to pay him back. I started doing all my school dances, and by the time I was 16 I was in bars and clubs.
What was your early nightlife DJ career like?
Back in those days it was pretty crazy. I worked in a lot of clubs in Long Island, and the local bars and clubs in my neighborhood with everyone from high school there on a Friday night. I even worked in a lot of topless strip clubs, from Long Island all the way to queens! It was the 80’s and 90’s, so there was, like, an anything goes [behavior]. People used to do lines right off the tables; they didn’t ID people back then, so I know. It was a fun time, very care free.
My first Dj gig in a gay club was for Jacque Piazza, the owner of Cherry’s On the Bay, at this place called Sizes in Bay Shore.
You are well known today as a staple Fire Island DJ, with a long time residency at Cherry’s.
17 years! This is my 17th season DJing at Cherry’s.
Amazing! What’s so special about FI for those not in the know, and how has it changed over the years that you’ve noticed?
Cherry Grove is magical, Jim. When I get in that DJ booth and get into my flow, I get chills. The feeling of everyone dancing and cheering — like, non-stop, for hours — is the most wonderful feeling in the world. It is like time stops on Fire Island, and it’s just magical moments of people full of joy! The only thing that has changed over the years is that it is not just a place for LGBTQ. It is a place, a home, for everyone. Everyone is welcome, and treated like family.
Some people think Fire Island is just a playground for circuit queens, but actually there are quite a few lesbian DJs there with long careers who have been residents and popular recurring guests like yourself, Susan Levine, Twisted Dee and Morabito! The lesbian community is still slaying the game in the Grove. Despite that admittedly hilarious SNL clip from a few years ago, lol!
That was a funny skit! Yes, I totally agree with you!
You’re wife Valerie is a longtime bar staffer on the Island as well. How is your “Living and Working with the Spouse” situation?
So Val is at Island Breeze now killing it behind the bar! Working together…. hmm. If we worked together all the time with being married and living together… well, she would probably kill me, lol! But she is the best part of my life, and I will forever love that woman.
The Independence Day Invasion of the Pines is right around the corner! That has a wonderfully weird and fascinating history, and it brings thousands to the Island every year.
That’s my favorite time of the season! So this year is the very first time I am not DJing on the day of the Invasion. I believe it is going to be back-to-back drag shows, but I am not sure. I am DJing at Cherry’s the 2nd and 3rd, which is Saturday and Sunday night! So, I am pretty excited to be able to actually hang out and get a closer look at all the fabulous drag outfits, etc. I think this year is going to be one of the best!
You are also a current resident DJ at Henrietta, which seems to be getting both a lot of attention as one of the last remaining queer women’s spaces and a jolt of new energy for its weekend dance parties. How long have you been there?
So I used to do Henrietta back in the day — like seven years ago, along with Stonewall. When [owner] Lisa reopened after pandemic, she changed a lot of things; she remodeled, and just completely reinvented an already iconic place! I have been there since she reopened, and now a resident [almost] every Friday. The crowd is more diverse than ever! It used to be mostly women — even the staff. Now it is a total mix of lesbian and gay, and it is an awesome crowd with an explosive energy that reminds me of Fire Island! Awesome staff, just amazing… and I love it.
Have a great weekend! By the way, what’s exciting to you about new music right this second?
In my opinion, I don’t think there is a ton of new stuff out there. I feel like before the pandemic, artists were putting out more music — like high energy, commercial dance. But I am super happy — and I am sure like everyone else — that Beyonce has given us the new summer anthem! Love the song and the remixes they are producing are great! Other then that: Dua Lipa, Gaga, The Week’nd and Bad Bunny are always killing it with amazing tunes.
Agreed! Okay, one last question: what might your best advice be for a baby DJ who wants to make it in the scene?
I see a lot of new DJs who do not use headphones. I am old school, but true to the art of being a DJ — and that means the ability to mix. To mix as an artist, you need to hear your beats, feel those beats and blend them together flawlessly. Even though many let the computer do it for them, I do not. I use the computer, of course — we all do. But I do my own mixing. I think it would really do wonders for them!
Thank you, Stacy!
Check Thotyssey’s calendar for DJ Stacy’s upcoming appearances, and follow her on Facebook and Instagram.
THE Q: [1st Fl] “Cheers Queers” happy hour feat. Aveq Moi (6pm); [1st Fl] The Cake Boys – Sweaty Eddie with Spawn, Cuntyham & MissMa’amShe (8pm); [2nd Fl]“Qruisers” feat. DJ Mitch Ferrino & more 910pm)
3 DOLLAR BILL: “Pussy Polla” feat. House of Mounstras, Chico Raro & La Banda Chuska with Warhola Pop, Rika Sauvage & Scarlett La Queen plus DJs Madame Vacile, El Julius, Mr. Trouper & Sadboy (9pm)
This Puerto Rican born beauty queen recently won a major national pageant, and is about to help a drag sister claim a crown of her own. Bow down to Sophya Medina!
Thotyssey: Hello Sophya, how was your Pride?
Sophya Medina: Hi Thotyssey, thanks for having me here! It was so much fun… I really enjoyed all this month!
You actually were getting your Pride on way back in June, when I saw you march in Jackson Heights for Queens Pride in your full Miss Mundo Latina USA Plus 2021 sash and crown regalia!
Yes! It was so amazing being in the area [within the parade] with my title. And also I was partnering with the Hispanic Aids Forum and Latino Pride Center on site with prevention, condoms, and HIV tests for our community!
Tell us a bit about your triumphant turn at the Miss Mundo Latina pageant, and your history with drag pageantry.
Miss Mundo Latina USA was held in Washington DC; it’s a national pageant, and it has ten years of history in that state. One time I attended this pageant as a dresser, and it caught my attention. And three years later, I caught the crown being Miss New York Mundo Latina USA; also I won Talent and Question and Answer.
My close friends know that I love pageantry so much; I enjoy it a lot. This crown is my second national title, and my Number 9 crown. I’ve been doing pageants since 2016 when I was in Puerto Rico. In 2018 I left my country to see new opportunities and to grow as an artist and entertainer, and now New York became my home.
What was your life like in Puerto Rico before you came here… and how might you describe the drag scene there?
My life was amazing there. I left my family, my friends and great people that gave me opportunities to grow as an artist. Puerto Rico was great, but I think that I fulfilled my dreams and it was a time for a challenge and to look for new opportunities.
The drag scene there? The only think that I can say is that Puerto Rico is one of the best scenes in the world for me: competitive, classy and elevated. Everybody has to go and see Puerto Rico’s drag scene in person; it’s another level experience!
There are a number of young PR-born queens here in NY like Vena Cava, Victoria Holiday and Warhola Pop! Did you know any of them back in Puerto Rico?
Oh yes! They are icons on the island!
Have you found that your own drag has changed at all since you came to New York?
Completely! First of all, to start doing my own makeup… that was a nightmare! But finally I woke up, and now every day is opportunity to get better. When I saw how competitive and good drag is in NYC, I got completely mesmerized!
How might you describe your drag today, for anyone who has never seen you perform before? And have you had a favorite venue for doing it here in NYC?
I will say that everyone has to come to my show and watch it! My drag is very spicy, high energy — I’m a dancer, and also I love to do very dramatic ballads. I don’t have one favorite venue to perform in, because every single one that gives me the opportunity to express myself becomes my favorite! A huge thanks to all the persons in the city (Manu, The Q, my sister Freeda Kulo, Kween, Pedro Alvarado, Icon, Polish The Queen, Phil Chanel and all the venues and persons that trust in my work… thank You so much!
We’re all gonna get a chance to see you turn out for a pageant sister pretty soon: this Saturday at the Wow Cafe for Shawntel K. Bonet’sContinental pageant fundraiser! Jasmin Van Wales is hosting, and many great queens including yourself will be performing!
Yes! I’m excited to share the stage with amazing performance like Jasmin Van Wales! This is going to be great because we’re gonna help one of the girls of the city to fulfill her dream to compete on that big Continental stage. It’s going to be great, and everyone is invited!
What else are you up to these days?
Now I’m working on a lot of projects…. On August 1st I will be in Guatemala judging an international pageant. And I’m still working with prevention of STI, HIV and PReP for your community with the Hispanic Aids Forum and Latino Pride Center.
Soon I will be back to my country Puerto Rico… and if you don’t see the reality show that I’m hosting, go now to YouTube and type “La Batalla Lipstick Drag” because next season is gonna be in Cali, Colombia. This is the third season, and it’s my second season being part of it. It’s a Latin drag competition where we challenge our contestants on makeup, design, lip sync and talent. It’s a safety space for baby drag queens that want the opportunity to showcase their talent.
Amazing, congrats on the show and everything else!
Thank you Thotyssey, I really appreciate the opportunity to be in your spotlight, and to reach more people that get to know me and my work!
Known today for bringing the beat to local bar parties, retired dancer JRoc has DJ’ed the big clubs from back in the day as well. Here, he shares how his Pride and trip to Thailand went, what he’s up to now, and the future of dance music.
Thotyssey: Hello JRoc, thanks for chatting with us today! So you had a busy Pride last night… how did it go?
DJ JRoc: It was amazing! So many people, and so much positivity in spite of what’s happening in the world. And I was super nervous.
Yes, I think we all had this awareness of possible problems happening given the political climate. But it wound up being a glorious day filled with positivity for most… and a nice little break from our reality! What were you playing, Pride anthems and otherwise?
Well, I’m obsessed with Brazilian funk beats right now. But I have this remix of J Balvin’s “In da Getto” that has the vocals of Megan the Stallion’s “Thot Shit” that I can’t quit right now, lol! But Pride-wise, I love anything Dua Lipa too.
And recently, you were also in Thailand.
Oh yes, for a much wanted vacation… and also getting content for a future possible YouTube channel. I also got to DJ some places while I was there, which was amazing!
What’s hot out there now, musically? Are they kind of on the same page as us?
Thailand loves Western music; they are super into hip hop and rap! I was at a bar and heard reggaetón! They love all the pop stuff, too. When you go to the tourist spots, it’s so current — it’s crazy. These days with the connectivity we can achieve, it makes it so much easier for other countries to influence each other. The artist there use a lot of Western styles now for their music.
So, “JRoc.” I’m guessing that’s a play on whatever your real name is?
I got that name when I was younger; my real name is John Lewis. So normal, right!? Lol! I was at a school party dancing, and someone said I “rocked it,” and a friend as a joke kept saying “JRoc” — “J” is from John. So when I started DJing, I decided that would be my name. No one really called me that before, except close friends from when I was younger. But now even my mom does, which is hilarious because she was super against it!
Where are you from originally, and was music always a part of your life growing up?
I was born and raised in Topeka, Kansas and lived there ’til I was 18. Music was always in my life: I would play piano by ear, and I also grew up learning to play the trumpet and the saxophone (haven’t touched them in years, lol). But I remember Saturdays, my mom and dad would play Motown classics on a the record player (God I’m old, lol), but I grew up with an eclectic sound. I love big band music, Motown, R&B and pop.
And for a while you were a dancer.
When I was 14 I started training in tap, jazz and ballet. I’ve always been kind of “athletic,” so it felt natural to me. I did musical theater in high school since freshman year; performing always felt like home. I love dancing, and got to see the world because of it. I never hit it big, but I got to do small things with some artists: Britney, Janet, Christina, Missy… but never anything major. I wish, lol!
How did you eventually become a DJ, and a New Yorker?
So my dad is a teacher; when I was young he used to DJ school dances, and I would help him take his music. I never thought to be a DJ until I retired from dancing. I left Kansas when I was 18 to travel in a show. Eventually I came to New York in ’98 to be a choreographer for a boy band that never happened, lol! But I did some small things with MTV, and started getting connected with clubs and working as a barback and bartender. And I was hanging out with DJs and thought, I can do this… it speaks to me. And I started grinding; some gigs were just, like, 25 dollars, just to get a spot to be seen. It was rough, lol!
What were some gigs, residencies, moments, etc. that were personal highlights for you over the years?
OMG, there are so many! Ugh, where do I start? DJing Limelight back in the day! Heaven, Splash, Exit… one day at the Roxy! Just being able to be close to the greats is amazing. It was awesome to be at Splash when Kylie was there, and Kelly Rowland popped up another night! Christina came through, too. I think Splash and Limelight / Avalon were the best times for me. But I love the places I work now, too; they give me the best memories also.
Do you think nightlife is a little less “fun” though, in these days after most of the big clubs have gone? Or is it just different?
I’m a firm believer that you make the fun where you go. At my age, you learn that everything has its merits. I think we were more free and less regulated in the past for sure… but different sandbox, still a great playground. At lease we get to play! I think smaller venues are great because it’s more intimate for us as artists. From my side I get to interact more with people, which gives me so much joy to see people love it. Bigger clubs in the past were more of a “universal fun” feel, if that makes sense. Like, you got to lose yourself in the crowd. But something about now is so awesome in it’s own respect.
So Boxers in NYC started as a gay sports bar in Chelsea with hot shirtless bartenders in signature red boxers, but it’s evolved over the years into a franchise and includes other elements like drag and dance parties. These days, the original Chelsea location still stands, and a new HK location just opened last week. Tell us about where and when we can find you spinning in the Boxersverse nowadays, and what that whole vibe is like.
So I’ve been with Boxers for like 8 or 9 years. I love it because they focus so much on diversity; the types of parties and employees run the spectrum. I love that they are always thinking about the next step, and they stay active in the community — which is super important. I also love it because as a DJ, they encourage me to be just as diverse because they know that’s the crowd. As a community, we are everything and everyone! I feel it is very much a “come as you are, because you’re beautiful” vibe; no pretensions, no muss, no fuss.
Right now Chelsea is home. We are figuring out if I can fit into the HK location… which is gorgeous, by the way. But every Thursday from 7-12 and Saturday from 6-10, you can find me at the Chelsea location. Both Chelsea and HK are gonna try some new things! I’m so excited for it.
And talk to us a bit about your other residency at uptown neighborhood bar Toolbox, which recently expanded its space to accommodate more dance parties and shows! Janae SaisQuoihosts and performs there on Friday nights, which you DJ. Have you enjoyed the changes in the space?
So, funny story; I had never visited Toolbox before, and started working there a year ago because my friend DJ Nandi asked me to sub in a couple of dates. After that, they asked me to come on. So I never saw it before the renovation… but I absolutely love it. It reminds me of when I worked at Posh in regards to it’s size, but the new lighting and shows are so awesome! The sound system is killer! People literally have been amazed at the changes after Covid, and I think they are absolutely killing it right now. We are even moving into getting gogo boys for some added eye candy on Friday nights when I’m there.
Where else can we find you, now or in the future?
Tuesdays this summer I’m in Cherry Grove on Fire Island, at The Ice Palace, for “Take a Shot Tuesdays” with AndrogyNY and Lauren Ordair. [Other than that] I’m just trying to make it through the summer! I want to look into making a YouTube channel that focuses on giving people hope and joy, if I can find the time; I’m gonna call it “Between a Roc and a Happy Place.” [But for now] just come and support me at Boxers, Toolbox and Fire Island, and stay tuned for future developments.
So finally: “Break My Soul!” Does this truly indicate “the return of house music,” or is that just hype?
OMG, it is so the return of classic house, in the sense of it being on people’s radars! Let’s be honest: the show Legendary has helped to usher this back into the world. Even though that’s not the exact genre of music… it’s part of the culture! Black queer culture has given so much to the world, so it’s nice that it gets a spotlight. But it’s always been there; it’s one of the foundations of dance music. I say, bring on the remixes! Lol, not that they need them… but let’s go!
Satisfy your sweet tooth at our MONDAY NIGHT PRIDE FINALE event: CLIMAX CANDY MEN featuring the long awaited NYC return of DJ Joe Gauthreaux! And experience the Big Apple debut of DJs Jeremy Dava & Yordy at our midtown Manhattan playground with two-level slide.
Satisfy your sweet tooth at our MONDAY NIGHT PRIDE FINALE event: CLIMAX CANDY MEN featuring the long awaited NYC return of DJ Joe Gauthreaux! And experience the Big Apple debut of DJs Jeremy Dava & Yordy at our midtown Manhattan playground with two-level slide.
SATURDAY (6.25.2022) Your daily guide to New York queer nightlife.
UPTOWN/ BRONX
12TH AVE & 133RD ST: Harlem Pride feat. Rodney Chester & Harmonica Sunbeam with Gabriel the Angel, Jypsy Jefree, Milla Tyme, Billiam B, Dreamboys, Tia Carta, Bri Nicole, Robert Garcia, Marck Angel, Iambos, Jay Saint, Jayling & King Niko (noon)
Satisfy your sweet tooth at our MONDAY NIGHT PRIDE FINALE event: CLIMAX CANDY MEN featuring the long awaited NYC return of DJ Joe Gauthreaux! And experience the Big Apple debut of DJs Jeremy Dava & Yordy at our midtown Manhattan playground with two-level slide.
SULTAN ROOM: Jake Brush & Candystore with Binky, Bri Joy, Lola Jean, Gio Black Peter & M. Lamar (8pm); “Nefertitties” feat. Ana Masreya with Beaujangless, Lanyé Armön, BaeJing & DJ Fatin (10pm)
TV EYE: “Killer Queens” feat. glam rock band tributes to David Bowie (Michael T & The Vanities), T. Rex (Dylan Fernandez & The Electric Warriors) & Roxy Music (The Ritualists) with Boy George Michael, C’etait BonTemps & God Complex (8pm)
KATCH: Cynthia Russo & LasReinasNYC feat. Crazia Maria with DJs Lena & Zehno (9pm)
Satisfy your sweet tooth at our MONDAY NIGHT PRIDE FINALE event: CLIMAX CANDY MEN featuring the long awaited NYC return of DJ Joe Gauthreaux! And experience the Big Apple debut of DJs Jeremy Dava & Yordy at our midtown Manhattan playground with two-level slide.
UNDER ST. MARKS: “Muffins in the Window” feat. Katrina Slippery Slide with Edie Nightcrawler, Dame Cuchi Frita, Jackson Sturkey, Veronica Garza, Andrea Alton & Temple Grande (10:30pm)
SOCCEROOF: XCakes, Dick Appointment, Club Carry & Human By Orientation’s “Garden” feat. DJs Pauli Cakes, Kenni Javon, Antpuke, BR0NZ3_GODDESS, Bearcat, Byrell The Great, Brown Liquah, Deathrayz, Gay Z, Goth Jafar, Memphy, Kai the Black Angel, PreColumbian, RiverMoon & Who Invited Evan (7pm)
In response to the Supreme Court’s ruling today overturning Roe v. Wade, there will be a protest in New York today in Washington Square Park at 6:30pm. On Instagram, DM @cunyforabortionrights or @nycforabortionrights if you represent a group that would like to co-sponsor the protest. There is also an action at Union Square @ 5pm with @freedomsocialistsnyc.
LINCOLN CENTER: “Summer for the City: Ultra Pride” feat. Bright Light Bright Light, Edie Nightcrawler, The Maine Attraction, DJs Bill Coleman & Rissa Garcia (6pm)
The “RuPaul’s Drag Race” Season 14 star is largely known for her burlesque aesthetic, classically trained dance repertoire, sharp humor and sexy runway looks. And now that her tour is taking her to NYC Pride, we can all taste what the delicious Bosco has to offer![Cover photo: Eric Magnussen]
Thotyssey: Hello Bosco, thanks for chatting with us! So where in the world are you now, and what was your last big show like?
Bosco: Howdy! Not a problem at all. I’m currently in Washington DC, on my way to Minneapolis. I’ve had the pleasure of doing a lot of big shows recently, but was especially proud of a show I played recently at House of Blues in Orlando — great party, with a fabulous dance troupe I got to work with called Hard Drive.
What’s your favorite number to do these days?
My favorite song in the whole world is “Careless Whisper” by George Michael, and I love performing it.
Everything you did on that live taped Drag Race finale was exciting and exquisite! Did that experience feel like you were in a Broadway revue or something?
It was a wildly stressful and intense day. I think I was corseted for 8 hours or so? I had bruises and blisters all over my back for a week after. I wouldn’t have made it through that day without the other girls in the Top 5. We were each other’s support group, for sure.
One of my favorite elements of this past season is how you got some flack with being one note with your presentations in the challenges and runways, but then you blew everyone away with how dynamically funny you were in that roast! You also had great reads in that mini-challenge. That must have been the best feeling in the world, when you were able to show that side of yourself, right?
Yes.
You were known for incorporating burlesque into your looks and numbers onstage, and for getting your inspiration from that world. Is it still a big part of what you do?
Oh absolutely, I find a lot of inspiration in burlesque when translating acts to the stage. But the main source of my inspiration comes from strippers and sex workers.
There was a lot of trans visibility on your season, with two queens being openly trans throughout the run, another queen coming out emotionally mid-season (our New York sis Jasmine!) and two queens including yourself coming out after filming. That’s been a really wonderful thing to see! Do you think this opens up many opportunities for non-cis drag performers to be on the show someday?
Who’s to say? It’s hard to say what the impact will be… but I do know that there is no unringing the bell. Our season demonstrated very clearly that trans performers are an important part of the drag community, and including us only elevates the quality of the show.
Have you ever been to, or performed in, NYC before? Or kiki’ed with any queens from here, besides Jasmine?
Yes! We all got to hang out and catch up in May, when we were tasked with surviving Drag Con. Miss Vanjie seems like a good time gal so I’m excited to meet her!
Anything else to let the children know about?
Working on some killer acts for the upcoming Voss tours! Also scheming and plotting some top secret projects I’ll be announcing later this year.
And finally: if “The Daytona Wind” ever became a real show, would you reprise your role… sound effects and all?
A fan favorite of NYC’s burlesque scene, Abel Rey has a lot to show you this Wednesday at Monster’s “Bacardi Party!”
Thotyssey: Hello Abel, thanks for chatting! Happy Pride! How’s June treating you so far?
Abel Rey: June has been wonderful so far. I was in Fire Island last weekend with the boys. Lots of great events coming this week.
Pride aside, summer is probably the best time of year for a performance artform that requires the removal of clothes, right?
It depends on the venue! We do start dressed, you know. Several times we are under several costumes and layers of clothing. In the summer, we hope to have good AC backstage, or we will sweat out the makeup. Taking off clothing after sweating for a while is very lovely, though. Then you add the screams and applause of the audience for doing so, and we are golden.
How long have you been in the burlesque world, and in New York, now?
I’ve been in NYC most of my life… almost 22 years now. I have been burlesquing since 2018. I started doing it out of a dare by Viktor Devonne, the former producer of the now-defunct White Elephant Burlesque. During the lockdown, most shows went virtual, and I was recording numbers at night in the park with my best friend holding the camera.
What was it about burlesque that clicked with you, and made you want to stick with it?
Each burlesque number is like your own one-person act. Picking the song and margining the number, rehearsing and performing it is so satisfying. Being my director and worse critic is what kept me so interested.
Did you have to get over a lot of inhibitions about baring skin on stage, or was that never an issue for you?
I never had any problem getting naked in front of strangers. I was a gogo boy when I was in college.
Oh werq! How would you describe the types of numbers you like to do today?
My style of burlesque is very vaudeville. I love the beginning of the century aesthetics: bow ties, straw hats, lapel flowers. Some of my numbers have magic tricks, and some are just classic 1920s striptease burlesque.
Have you had a favorite moment or show as a performer so far?
There have been so many wonderful moments! Hard to think of a single one. I guest the one I remember the most was my very first act back in 2017 at Rockbar. I invited all my friends and I rehearsed non-stop for days. I was so nervous, and when they started to announce me I almost puked. But I soldiered on, and stepped on that stage.
Since than, you’ve been quite in demand! You’ve done Pixie Aventura’s Thursday show at Playhouse several times… drag and burlesque go well together!
Drag and burlesque are a great pairing. Most of the time we have a drag queen as the host of a burlesque show; there are also crossovers like Zenon TeaVee who does drag burlesque. Pixie’s show is different; as a drag show with a burlesque guest performer. I love doing Pixie’s show, as she and her girls keep the energy of the audience really high… so when is my turn to perform, they are so loaded and excited to see a boy getting undressed on stage.
We’ll be excited to see you mix it up with some great queens this Pride Wednesday, 6/22, at Monster’s Thotyssey-powered Bacardi Party! You’ll be joined by iconic hostess Holly Dae and an amazing drag cast — Tina Twirler, WorshipHer, Nani Tsunami and Vena Cava — not to mention the hot boys of Spunk, and the great DJ Nesto! This is going to be the one and only Pride Week Hump Day kiki!
I’m sure we will have a blast! I’m quite excited!
Anything else coming up for you that the children need to know about?
On Thursday I am performing at The Atlantic BKLN in Brooklyn for “Pride of the Atlantic.” Then on July 9, I will be doing the final closing show for “HomoErectus Burlesque” at The Stonewall. I also will be performing in Philadelphia and Washington D.C in July and August. The thing about burlesque is that we usually get dates the week of… so it’s an ever-filling up calendar.
We will stay glued to your socials! And finally: what do you think might be the worst song ever to perform burlesque to?
At Burning Man (I go there a lot), there is a camp that has a game called “Terrible Songs To Striptease To” where you accept the challenge and go on stage and muscle your way through songs like “Tears in Heaven,” “Torn” “Cat’s in the Cradle,” “The American National Anthem,” etc. But! I have learned that any song can be a good song, if you know how to make it work. It’s all about attitude.
at our MONDAY NIGHT PRIDE FINALE event: 
debut of DJs 
Thotyssey 