Wednesday (10.5.2022)

WEDNESDAY (10.5.2022) Your daily guide to New York nightlife.

UPTOWN / BRONX

HELL’S KITCHEN

MIDTOWN EAST

CHELSEA

MEATPACKING

[ADVERTISE ON THOTYSSEY!]

WEST VILLAGE / SOHO

EAST VILLAGE / LES

TRIBECA / LOWER MANHATTAN / FINANCIAL DISTRICT

BROOKLYN

QUEENS

LONG ISLAND

WESTCHESTER

NEW JERSEY

BALLROOM & KIKI | BEARS | BINGO | BOAT PARTIES | BRUNCH | BURLESQUE | CABARET | CIRCUIT PARTIES | CRUISING | DANCE PARTIES | DIVES | DRAG RACE STARS | DRAG SHOWS | DRINK N’ DRAW | FETISH | GAMES | GEEKY | GOGO BOYS | KARAOKE | LATIN | LESBIAN | LIVE MUSIC | OFF-BROADWAY | OPEN MIC | PAGEANTS & COMPETITIONS | PIANO BARS | SAFE SPACES | SCENE QUEENS | SPORTS BARS | TRIVIA | WATCH DRAG RACE

Save the Date | Full Calendar | Halloween

GET YOUR EXCLUSIVE THOTYSSEY GEAR HERE!

Tuesday (10.4.2022)

TUESDAY (10.4.2022) Your daily guide to NYC nightlife programming.

UPTOWN / BRONX

HELL’S KITCHEN

LEVEL UP Game Night @ Atlas

MIDTOWN EAST

CHELSEA

MEATPACKING

[ADVERTISE ON THOTYSSEY!]

WEST VILLAGE

EAST VILLAGE

LOWER MANHATTAN / FINANCIAL DISTRICT

BROOKLYN

QUEENS

WESTCHESTER

NEW JERSEY

GET YOUR EXCLUSIVE THOTYSSEY GEAR HERE!

BALLROOM & KIKI | BEARS | BINGO | BOAT PARTIES | BRUNCH | BURLESQUE | CABARET | CIRCUIT PARTIES | CRUISING | DANCE PARTIES | DIVES | DRAG RACE STARS | DRAG SHOWS | DRINK N’ DRAW | FETISH | GAMES | GEEKY | GOGO BOYS | KARAOKE | LATIN | LESBIAN | LIVE MUSIC | OFF-BROADWAY | OPEN MIC | PAGEANTS & COMPETITIONS | PIANO BARS | SAFE SPACES | SCENE QUEENS | SPORTS BARS | TRIVIA | WATCH DRAG RACE

Save the Date | Full Calendar | Halloween

On Point With: Lana Del Trey

Get to know the up-and-comer who just won Shequida’s Drag Wars All-Stars V… Lana Del Trey!

Thotyssey: Hello Lana, thanks for chatting with us today! So first off, congratulations on winning Drag Wars All Stars V! What was that whole experience like?

Lana Del Trey: First off, thank you! The whole experience was a whirlwind! I got inducted into All-Stars a few months back, but wasn’t sure when the actual competition would be until two weeks before. I had ideas, but I didn’t kick into high gear until I knew the date. It was a really fabulous creative process coming up with my numbers, curating the looks and deciding what I wanted to give. It really allowed me to take a step back and decide how I wanted to represent myself. I loved having specific categories to be able to use to pipeline my inspo, as I always love a theme. Overall I feel like I got to give a really accurate peek into who I am through my All-Stars package, and it was a hell of a fun time!

It looks like you’ve been performing and turning looks to some degree for awhile, but how long would you say you’ve been a Proper Drag Queen?

Yes indeed… I’ve definitely been performing and turning looks since the womb, but I didn’t officially start doing drag until February of 2022! So I’m still very much a baby queen in the time sense, but seasoned in other aspects. The lashes and wigs are just newer pieces to the puzzle!


Where’s your original hometown, and how did you begin as a performing artist?

I’m originally from Southern Maryland, in the middle of nowhere but about an hour outside of DC. I started performing to my imaginary audience alone in the corn fields, but then found my footing through school choir and community theatre, and eventually went to conservatory for musical theatre… which is how I got to NYC.

What are some of your favorite songs to sing? And have you sung in drag yet?

Oooh, good one! When it comes to musical theatre I love a cheeky moment like “You’ll Be Back” from Hamilton, or “Stop” from Mean Girls But I also love a good Bernadette ballad like “Move On” from Sunday in the Park with George. It depends on the mood! In my free time I sing any and everything… lots of Gaga and Lana, of course. I’ve only sang in drag once so far: at “Night of 1000 Celines” hosted by Marti G. Cummings and Frankie Grande, where I did my camp justice to Celine with “The Power of Love.” I definitely plan to sing in drag more soon!

What are some other things one might see in a Lana Del Tray performance these days?

I’d say Lana Del Trey is very layered. You can expect to see a modern day funky rock star diva at the surface, who loves to have a good ol’ trashy time and connect with the crowd. At the same time, if you’re someone who likes to read between the lines you can find many messages about my beliefs and my inner pysche through my performances. I’ll take you on an LDT Trip.

And where’s a place you’d like your drag to be in like a year or so? Weekly shows, social media stardom, Sorceress Supreme, etc?

In a year, I’d love to be doing weekly gigs and any sort of performances that I can, wherever I can! I’m definitely a live performance-based queen, and the social media stuff would be great if it comes along with it. I just want to connect with as many people as I can, and bring true quality entertainment and art to those who get to see me. I’ve got many more sides of myself to show, and I feel like drag is truly on the cusp of infiltrating mainstream media to the highest degree. I’d love to be a part of that revolution, and see what opportunities can lay on the other side of that… for not just drag artists, but all queer people! Long term, I want to be a super star, known for staying true to exactly who I am!


One to watch! In the meantime, folks can get their Lana fix at 3 Dollar Bill on Thursday, October 6th care of Janelle No. 5’s large cast show “DIVAS!” What’s in store for us then??

Yas!!! This DIVAS is the horror edition, perfect for celebrating Spooky Season! Halloween is my absolute favorite, and I’ll be paying homage to one of my childhood favorites: Edward Scissorhands. I tend to gravitate towards those characters who are misunderstood. Edward looks a little scary, but has a heart of gold and wants to love and be loved… kind of like Lana, lol! I feel like I’m describing it so existentially, but long story short I’ll be serving up rockstar Edward Scissorhands camp cunt realness.


Anything to add?

Mostly just to keep an eye out for my upcoming weekly show, with my All-Stars co-stars Milan Garçon and Taraye… more details to come!

Oooh, exciting! Okay lastly: what is a drag cosmetic product that you swear by?

I’d say I swear by a good chunky glitter–silver is my go to, but any color works to correspond with a look. It’s great for the graphic lid I like to do, and can also make a cheek highlight or lip color pop really nicely. Love a bold chunky glitter! Right now I just have box of various colors that I got from Amazon by the brand SoJourner.

Gorgeous! Thanks, Lana!

Check Thotyssey’s calendar for Lana Del Trey’s upcoming appearances, and follow her on Instagram.

On Point Archives

Stream Podcast Ep. 6 Now!

In this week’s episode of ThotLight, Thotyssey and Red Eye Radio’s weekly reckoning of NYC nightlife biz and jizz:

Jim recounts a sad chapter last week sitting alone with the bags in Thirst while Freddie was thotting it up in the back with the VIPs… and to add insult to injury, Freddie also shares his special moment with a famous gay newscaster later that weekend. Also, Jim was at J.R. Price’s remixed single live performance at VERS. In the news: Cherry Valentine (RIP), Kornbread, Erika Klash, Miss’d America, Miss Coney Island, Drag Wars V & Kimmi Moore.

We are also honored to speak with OTA’s legendary producer and commentator Leggoh JohVera about the creation of his world famous ballroom weekly that recently hosted Lil Nas X , Rosalía, Mariahlynn and… Mae Whitman!?; how multimedia dancing star Yanis Marshall’s shade brought the show tons of global attention; the politics, gatekeeping and sanctity of ballroom and who is allowed to enjoy the scene; thoughts on Legendary & POSE; his Cali roots and joining (then leaving) the iconic House of LaBeija; his recent first trip out of the US, and the future of ballroom.

Stream now:

Monday (10.3.2022)

MONDAY (10.3.2022) Your daily guide to New York City nightlife programming.

UPTOWN / BRONX

HELL’S KITCHEN

MIDTOWN / TIMES SQUARE / MIDTOWN WEST

CHELSEA

[ADVERTISE ON THOTYSSEY!]

WEST VILLAGE

EAST VILLAGE / SOHO

  • CLUB CUMMING: “Cast-Offs” feat. Ben Rimalower & Daniel Nolen (8pm);
    Lance Horne (9pm)
  • NOWHERE: “Macho Mondays” feat. gogo boys & DJ Ryko (8pm)

BROOKLYN

QUEENS

LONG ISLAND

NEW JERSEY

BALLROOM & KIKI | BEARS | BINGO | BOAT PARTIES | BRUNCH | BURLESQUE | CABARET | CIRCUIT PARTIES | CRUISING | DANCE PARTIES | DIVES | DRAG RACE STARS | DRAG SHOWS | DRINK N’ DRAW | FETISH | GAMES | GEEKY | GOGO BOYS | KARAOKE | LATIN | LESBIAN | LIVE MUSIC | OFF-BROADWAY | OPEN MIC | PAGEANTS & COMPETITIONS | PIANO BARS | SAFE SPACES | SCENE QUEENS | SPORTS BARS | TRIVIA | WATCH DRAG RACE

Save the Date | Full Calendar | Halloween

GET YOUR EXCLUSIVE THOTYSSEY GEAR HERE!

On Point With: Queen Brendaline

A teacher by day and newbie drag performer by night, Queen Brendaline returns to her home base Rockbar in a major way this October.

Thotyssey: Hello Brendaline, thanks for chatting! I understand you saw a movie tonight… what and how was it?

Queen Brendaline: Thanks for asking! I fulfilled my Gay Contract™ and saw Bros, which was a lot of fun.

Oh cute! Would it surprise you if the straights actually go out to see it?

No, because the gays are very in right now. As long as they bring singles (or fives), straights are always welcome at my shows.

[Editor’s note: whoops, the straights didn’t come after all]

Tell us a bit of your origin story, if you will! Where’s your original hometown, and what ultimately put you on the drag path?

I’m either from New York, the sea air of Seattle, or the forests of New Hampshire… depending on which part of my childhood you’re asking about. There’s a photo of me and my (straight) best childhood friend in costume-box drag. He’s having fun, but I am clearly feeling myself, living the fantasy.

Years went by with nothing… then like so many people stuck at home in 2020, I finally thought “hey, I can do that.” And I was absolutely right.

So you began as a Digital Diva?

More or less, though I was blessed enough to avoid doing video-chat drag. I did some virtual poetry readings, and it’s just not the same.


How and where did you start doing live IRL shows?

I started on a loading dock at a distillery in Jersey City at a Halloween party. And then my second show was the Miss Rockbar preliminaries. Rockbar has been my home out of drag for years, so it’s been fun to add a new way to spend my nights there.

How did you enjoy that pageant experience… and are you taking part in this year’s?

The real pageant was the friends I made along the way, so of course I loved it. I would love to list them all here, but this is my interview and I’m tired of sharing the spotlight with queens who are far more dedicated and talented than I am. And yes, I’ll be back for Mx. Rockbar this year. I’m ready to make new friends and nemeses!

How would you describe Brendaline as a queen?

Queen Brendaline is just me, Brendan, but in a wig and makeup. My aesthetic is a sort of “why not?” maximalism, because why perform if I can’t throw every piece of spaghetti at the wall and make it all stick? There is no reason I shouldn’t do DDR dances while carrying a tiger purse and wearing gym shorts as a dress, you know?

We’ll get to see some of those flying noodles this Tuesday night, for your show at Rockbar! Tell us more about what we can expect!

At my “Fall Flavors” show, you can expect music by melancholy white women with acoustic guitars, fall fashion runways, my signature homemade pumpkins-and-leaves dress, party favors, ghosts, maybe a scavenger hunt…and performances by some stunning queens (heeeeeey Ratchét Marseilles and Taína la Cienega la Fina!) who are ready to blow you away like leaves in the autumn breeze.


Pumpkin spicy! What else do the children need to know?

As a teacher, I’m a certified expert in what the children need to know–which is to come see me any time I’m on any stage, book me for stages you have power over… and unlike most reality show contestants, I came here to make friends. So come say hi!

Oh, also: they should know that a queen with cardstock eyebrows (Nancy NoGood) said I have a “slanted take on drag.” So get ready to get weird, I guess!

All good to know! Okay lastly: Hocus Pocus 2! Yay, Nay, Meh or Wha?

Oh, absolute yay. I think this was a really smart and savvy requel. And to learn what I mean by that, come to my Fall Flavors show, Mx. Rockbar prelims on October 24, or follow and DM me for an explanation!

Lol, thanks Brendaline!

Check Thotyssey’s calendar for Queen Brendaline’s upcoming appearances, and follow her on Instagram.

On Point Archives

Sunday (10.2.2022)

SUNDAY (10.2.2022) Your daily guide to New York and New Jersey nightlife programming.

UPTOWN / BRONX

HELL’S KITCHEN

MIDTOWN EAST

CHELSEA

MEATPACKING

[ADVERTISE ON THOTYSSEY!]

WEST VILLAGE

EAST VILLAGE / LES

TRIBECA / CHINATOWN / LOWER MANHATTAN

BROOKLYN

QUEENS

LONG ISLAND

NEW JERSEY

BALLROOM & KIKI | BEARS | BINGO | BOAT PARTIES | BRUNCH | BURLESQUE | CABARET | CIRCUIT PARTIES | CRUISING | DANCE PARTIES | DIVES | DRAG RACE STARS | DRAG SHOWS | DRINK N’ DRAW | FETISH | GAMES | GEEKY | GOGO BOYS | KARAOKE | LATIN | LESBIAN | LIVE MUSIC | OFF-BROADWAY | OPEN MIC | PAGEANTS & COMPETITIONS | PIANO BARS | SAFE SPACES | SCENE QUEENS | SPORTS BARS | TRIVIA | WATCH DRAG RACE

Save the Date | Full Calendar | Halloween

GET YOUR EXCLUSIVE THOTYSSEY GEAR HERE!

Saturday (10.1.2022)

SATURDAY (10.1.2022) Your daily guide to New York queer nightlife.

UPTOWN / BRONX

HELL’S KITCHEN

MIDTOWN EAST / FLATIRON

CHELSEA

MEATPACKING

[ADVERTISE ON THOTYSSEY!]

WEST VILLAGE

EAST VILLAGE

BROOKLYN

QUEENS

LONG ISLAND

NEW JERSEY

BALLROOM & KIKI | BEARS | BINGO | BOAT PARTIES | BRUNCH | BURLESQUE | CABARET | CIRCUIT PARTIES | CRUISING | DANCE PARTIES | DIVES | DRAG RACE STARS | DRAG SHOWS | DRINK N’ DRAW | FETISH | GAMES | GEEKY | GOGO BOYS | KARAOKE | LATIN | LESBIAN | LIVE MUSIC | OFF-BROADWAY | OPEN MIC | PAGEANTS & COMPETITIONS | PIANO BARS | SAFE SPACES | SCENE QUEENS | SPORTS BARS | TRIVIA | WATCH DRAG RACE

Save the Date | Full Calendar | Halloween

GET YOUR EXCLUSIVE THOTYSSEY GEAR HERE!

Friday (9.30.2022)

FRIDAY (9.30.2022) Your daily guide to New York and New Jersey nightlife programming.

UPTOWN / BRONX

HELL’S KITCHEN

LUCKY CHENGS @ SECRET ROOM: Drag dinner (6pm)

HARDWARE: Janelle No. 5 (8pm);
Mathieu Blue’s “Super Size Queen” feat. Bootsie LeFaris, DJ Mike Borowski, VinnyGaga & Phil Chanel (10pm)

RISE: Celeb Drag Race / Jacklynn Hyde (8pm);
DJ dance party with Lexington Banks (11pm)

SPOT: Celeb Drag Race /  Skye Walker (8pm);
Kizha Carr, Hibiscus & Egypt (9:30pm);
DJ Nesto (11pm)

HUSH: Celeb Drag Race /  Stasi (8pm);
Pietra Parker & Natalie Carrera (9pm);
DJ dance party (10pm)

RITZ: “Open Call” drag competition hosted by Holly Dae (9pm);
DJs Xavier Mazara & Nick Gaga with Nick Gaga & Stasi (11pm)

GREEN ROOM 42 @ YOTEL: Sutton Lee Seymour: Glamazon Prime (9:30pm)

THIRST: DJ Jonny Mack (10pm)

ATLAS SOCIAL CLUB: DJ Lace (10pm)

THE Q: [1st Fl] Brie Bordeaux, Christine Dior & Wesley (10pm);
[3rd Fl] DJs ItsMiggs, Bazzley, Mitch Ferrino, Ickarus, Rocket & Nas Leber (10pm)

THE SPOT: DJ Nesto (10pm)

INDUSTRY: DJ dance party with Brenda Dharling (11pm)

BOXERS HK: Diogo Ambrosio’s “Foreplay Fridays” (11pm)

VERS: TBA

MIDTOWN EAST

CHELSEA

BOXERS CHELSEA: DJ Eric Abobo (7pm);
DJ Sammi Blendz (11pm)

GYM BAR: Karaoke hosted by Ari Kiki (9pm)

BARRACUDA: DJ dance party (10pm)

REBAR: “FUQBOI” feat. DJ Susan Levine & AndrogyNY (10pm)

EAGLE NYC: “Mr. Eagle 2023: Meet & Greet” (9pm);
DJs Sam Gee & Bare Naked (10pm)

ADVERTISEMENT

TICKETS HERE

Sutton Lee Seymour in her GLAMAZON PRIME is a follow up to her MAC Award Nominated cabaret, DRAGFLIX, spoofing TV Shows, Movies, and Musicals! And now in this post-mid-pandemic world, she’s giving advice for online dating, working, shopping, therapy, more dating, and also where to find the best pillows for screaming. Join her for a fun filled night of live singing, comedy, and drag! For the past decade, Sutton Lee Seymour has been spreading merriment and madness around the world from London to Los Angeles while also holding a residency in Puerto Vallarta at The Palm Cabaret! She also performs with Atlantis Events on their gay cruise and resort vacations! Seymour stars in the comedy web series WHAT A DRAG, which is available to stream on IndieFlix, Dekkoo, and YouTube!
SEPTEMBER 30TH 9:30PM @ GREEN ROOM 42
TICKETS HERE

WEST VILLAGE

EAST VILLAGE

BROOKLYN

QUEENS

LONG ISLAND

NEW JERSEY

BALLROOM & KIKI | BEARS | BINGO | BOAT PARTIES | BRUNCH | BURLESQUE | CABARET | CIRCUIT PARTIES | CRUISING | DANCE PARTIES | DIVES | DRAG RACE STARS | DRAG SHOWS | DRINK N’ DRAW | FETISH | GAMES | GEEKY | GOGO BOYS | KARAOKE | LATIN | LESBIAN | LIVE MUSIC | OFF-BROADWAY | OPEN MIC | PAGEANTS & COMPETITIONS | PIANO BARS | SAFE SPACES | SCENE QUEENS | SPORTS BARS | TRIVIA | WATCH DRAG RACE

Save the Date | Full Calendar | Halloween

GET YOUR EXCLUSIVE THOTYSSEY GEAR HERE!

On Point With: Athena

Starting drag with a competition win just a year ago, Athena is now ringing out the end of September with two fierce shows this weekend. [Cover photo: Clock & Key Photography]

Thotyssey: Hello Athena We’re nearly into the Spooky Season… are you ready with monstrous looks?

Athena: Yup! It’s about that time of year… I’m so excited for this one, especially ’cause it’s my first Halloween with drag.

How long have you been doing drag now?

I just recently hit one year!

Congratulations!

[Photo: MTHR TRSA]

Where are you from originally, and what sort of things interested you that may have led you down the Drag Path?

I am a born and raised queen from Queens NYC, and growing up I was always a performer. I did musical theater, choir, and I danced. So in high school when I discovered drag from Drag Race like every other Gen Z kid–and I saw the looks the tricks and the dips and the entire fantasy–I knew this is what I was meant to do with my life.

Athena’s the Greek Goddess of wisdom and battle! Is that where you got your drag name from?

You know, a lot of people think that… but it’s actually just an anagram of my name out of drag, lol!

How did you make your drag debut? And do you have a drag mother?

Audrey Phoenix hosted a competition at Icon in Astoria, and I randomly discovered it on social media and decided to take the risk… and I won.

At the moment, I don’t officially have a drag mother. But I do have someone absolutely very important to me who’s been by my side my entire career, and who has been helping me grow without even knowing it. She’s actually a well-beloved NYC local, but that cat’s not out the bag yet!

Intriguing! How might you describe the “type” of drag you like to serve today, both in looks and on stage?

Honestly, I’ll describe myself as a show-stopping slut. I love being dressed half-naked, entertaining.

Let’s talk about some upcoming shows this weekend, starting with Saturday: you’ll be joining Hibiscus at Stonewall for her monthly show “Smackdown!”

Yes, I’m so excited to be working with such an icon. Oh trust, y’all are in for some stunts and shenanigans, boots!


And Sunday, you’re joining Maddelynn Hatter for a show at Good Judy: “Madd Mass!”

Yup! It’s the start of her new weekly show, and I have the honor of being her first guest!


What else is coming up for you?

Well, right now I have a drag brunch coming up on October 9th at Amor Loco in Times Square with my special guest host Boyish Charm. And whatever else drag life throws my way!

Excellent! So lastly: What’s something you’ve learned about drag this first year that’s surprised you the most?

Honestly, how creative my fellow artist are. As much as I love doing drag, I am a fan of drag. I’ve seen my peers do such creative numbers that are so inspiring, it keeps me going… and we all share the joy of what we do.

Thanks, Athena!

[Photo: Lilith Moon]

Check Thotyssey’s calendar for Athena’s upcoming appearances, and follow her on Instagram and Twitter.

On Point Archives

Thursday (9.29.2022)

THURSDAY (9.29.2022) Your daily guide to New York queer nightlife events.

UPTOWN / BRONX

HELL’S KITCHEN

MIDTOWN EAST / FLATIRON

  • LIPS: “Divas Night” dinner shows feat. Jesse Volt & more (5pm)
  • TOWNHOUSE: Pianist Fred Barton (6pm)
  • UNCLE CHARLIE’S: Pianist Jordan Wolfe (7pm)

CHELSEA

ADVERTISEMENT

TICKETS HERE

Sutton Lee Seymour in her GLAMAZON PRIME is a follow up to her MAC Award Nominated cabaret, DRAGFLIX, spoofing TV Shows, Movies, and Musicals! And now in this post-mid-pandemic world, she’s giving advice for online dating, working, shopping, therapy, more dating, and also where to find the best pillows for screaming. Join her for a fun filled night of live singing, comedy, and drag! For the past decade, Sutton Lee Seymour has been spreading merriment and madness around the world from London to Los Angeles while also holding a residency in Puerto Vallarta at The Palm Cabaret! She also performs with Atlantis Events on their gay cruise and resort vacations! Seymour stars in the comedy web series WHAT A DRAG, which is available to stream on IndieFlix, Dekkoo, and YouTube!
SEPTEMBER 30TH 9:30PM @ GREEN ROOM 42
TICKETS HERE

WEST VILLAGE

EAST VILLAGE

LOWER MANHATTAN / TRIBECA / CHINATOWN / FINANCIAL DISTRICT

BROOKLYN

QUEENS

NEW JERSEY

BALLROOM & KIKI | BEARS | BINGO | BOAT PARTIES | BRUNCH | BURLESQUE | CABARET | CIRCUIT PARTIES | CRUISING | DANCE PARTIES | DIVES | DRAG RACE STARS | DRAG SHOWS | DRINK N’ DRAW | FETISH | GAMES | GEEKY | GOGO BOYS | KARAOKE | LATIN | LESBIAN | LIVE MUSIC | OFF-BROADWAY | OPEN MIC | PAGEANTS & COMPETITIONS | PIANO BARS | SAFE SPACES | SCENE QUEENS | SPORTS BARS | TRIVIA | WATCH DRAG RACE

Save the Date | Full Calendar | Halloween

GET YOUR EXCLUSIVE THOTYSSEY GEAR HERE!

Wednesday (9.28.2022)

WEDNESDAY (9.28.2022) Your daily guide to New York nightlife.

UPTOWN / BRONX

HELL’S KITCHEN

MIDTOWN / TIMES SQUARE

MIDTOWN EAST

CHELSEA

MEATPACKING

ADVERTISEMENT

TICKETS HERE

Sutton Lee Seymour in her GLAMAZON PRIME is a follow up to her MAC Award Nominated cabaret, DRAGFLIX, spoofing TV Shows, Movies, and Musicals! And now in this post-mid-pandemic world, she’s giving advice for online dating, working, shopping, therapy, more dating, and also where to find the best pillows for screaming. Join her for a fun filled night of live singing, comedy, and drag! For the past decade, Sutton Lee Seymour has been spreading merriment and madness around the world from London to Los Angeles while also holding a residency in Puerto Vallarta at The Palm Cabaret! She also performs with Atlantis Events on their gay cruise and resort vacations! Seymour stars in the comedy web series WHAT A DRAG, which is available to stream on IndieFlix, Dekkoo, and YouTube!
SEPTEMBER 30TH 9:30PM @ GREEN ROOM 42
TICKETS HERE

WEST VILLAGE / SOHO

EAST VILLAGE / LES

TRIBECA / LOWER MANHATTAN / FINANCIAL DISTRICT

BROOKLYN

QUEENS

LONG ISLAND

WESTCHESTER

NEW JERSEY

BALLROOM & KIKI | BEARS | BINGO | BOAT PARTIES | BRUNCH | BURLESQUE | CABARET | CIRCUIT PARTIES | CRUISING | DANCE PARTIES | DIVES | DRAG RACE STARS | DRAG SHOWS | DRINK N’ DRAW | FETISH | GAMES | GEEKY | GOGO BOYS | KARAOKE | LATIN | LESBIAN | LIVE MUSIC | OFF-BROADWAY | OPEN MIC | PAGEANTS & COMPETITIONS | PIANO BARS | SAFE SPACES | SCENE QUEENS | SPORTS BARS | TRIVIA | WATCH DRAG RACE

Save the Date | Full Calendar | Halloween

GET YOUR EXCLUSIVE THOTYSSEY GEAR HERE!

On Point With: Sheneeda Dickson

This talented performer and longtime Gay Men’s Chorus singer only recently entered the realm of post-lockdown drag in NYC, and despite (or possibly because of) being a bit more seasoned than the average baby queen, she’s already won a major competition and placed in a second. We all will soon need more of Sheneeda Dickson in our lives! [Cover photo: David Serrano] 

Thotyssey: Hello Sheneeda! Congrats on getting Miss Congeniality at last night’s “Drag Wars V” at Pieces!

Sheneeda Dickson: Good afternoon, and thank you so much.

What was that whole experience like?

Last night was huge! It was a great experience; being in the dressing room with the girls laughing, joking preparing… it’s a memory I will never forget. Each experience teaches me and prepares me for what the future holds, to take a few of last night’s lessons with me.

It’s been a great year for you… you’re also the entire winner of last season’s Polish the Queen! Now that must’ve been a truly glorious moment.

It all really seems like a dream. My drag was birthed during the quarantine season, where I was just a cyber queen. Then my sister / daughter Lanyé Armön, whose online competition (“BIGO Drag Race”) I won, suggested I come to this place called Playhouse and enter an actual in-person competition–and my first night ever performing in drag live– on November 24, 2021. I won, And ultimately went on to win the season finale. It’s as if I’m watching someone else’s story; it doesn’t feel real at times.


Did you have skills or interests from your early years that may have drawn you to drag?

From a wee little lad, I always had theatrical dreams. I’ve sung in school choirs, church choirs, done a few school plays. My mother who was a nightclub singer when she met my father, who played in a band at the same nightclub… so I guess you can say music is in my blood. I [always thought I would] come in as the next Usher Raymond or Luther Vandross, but as you get older you begin set aside the dreams you had and deal with life on its terms.

I am a six year alumni of the New York City Gay Men’s Chorus. During rehearsals for different shows I would watch the drag queens of the chorus, and it always seemed as if they were having the most fun. Aside from always wanting to do drag on Halloween, that’s when I really began to toy around with the idea of doing drag.

[Photo: JJ Mack]

Many queens start when they are, like, toddlers, lol! You’re an inspiration to many, but what are the joys and challenges of being a Later to the Party Queen?

It’s such a joy to just have the opportunity to express myself artistically. For many years, I thought that chance had come and gone. Meeting new like-minded individuals, people of color–all colors, making new friends, pushing myself artistically, learning how to sew, dabbling in hair styling… it really feeds my soul and gives me a sense of purpose, or brings me great joy.

Some of the challenges are facing the fact that many audiences love to see the young girls who are spinning and dipping, leaping off of objects into ball busting splits, and being first to perform Top 40 hits… and wondering how I can fit into that. As an artist, I love to stay true to work that brings me joy artistically… but you also have to know how to read the room, and give the people what they want. So although it’s challenging at times, I am up to the challenge.


You serve the children something entirely unique! How might you describe the Sheneeda Stage Experience, for those not yet in the know?

Sheneeda is a soulful, funny, eclectic weirdo with a love for everything from Liza Minnelli to Megan Thee Stallion. She’s a student of the art of entertainment with a burning desire to be the best, and the balls to try anything artistically. I love to make you laugh, make you cry, make you think about the current social standings and the plight of the downtrodden misfits of society. You never know what you may get from a Sheneeda Dickson show, but please believe it will be a show.

And what’s your favorite number to do right now?

I have a Hello Dolly number that I really love. But if I can say more recently, I did a Kim Petras Slut Pop mix that is so out of my norm… but I really had fun doing it.

As a result of winning Polish, you’ll be hosting your very own one-off show at Playhouse: “CrazySexyCool” on Sunday, October 2nd (4pm) with guest stars Lanyé and Diamante Habibi. Tell us more!

Myself along with my supporting cast all are strong in our own ways, and we all have understanding for the business side of this craft… and we want long-term jobs. So “CrazySexyCool” is going to be just that: crazy, sexy and cool. It’s going to be energetic, soulful, current, flashy and exciting!


Anything else to add?

First, I want to thank you for this opportunity! It really means a lot… this is my very first interview for publication. I am ever eager to grow and learn, so I will continue to grind my heels on these New York City streets and my quest to become that bitch that all of NYC (and beyond) know about. I will humbly ask any and everyone to follow me, and take this ride with me to superstardom.

We’re looking forward to it! Thanks, Sheneeda!

Check Thotyssey’s calendar for Sheneeda Dickson’s upcoming appearances, and follow her on Instagram.

On Point Archives

Tuesday (9.27.2022)

TUESDAY (9.27.2022) Your daily guide to NYC nightlife programming.

UPTOWN / BRONX

HELL’S KITCHEN

LEVEL UP Game Night @ Atlas

MIDTOWN EAST

CHELSEA

MEATPACKING

ADVERTISEMENT

TICKETS HERE

Sutton Lee Seymour in her GLAMAZON PRIME is a follow up to her MAC Award Nominated cabaret, DRAGFLIX, spoofing TV Shows, Movies, and Musicals! And now in this post-mid-pandemic world, she’s giving advice for online dating, working, shopping, therapy, more dating, and also where to find the best pillows for screaming. Join her for a fun filled night of live singing, comedy, and drag! For the past decade, Sutton Lee Seymour has been spreading merriment and madness around the world from London to Los Angeles while also holding a residency in Puerto Vallarta at The Palm Cabaret! She also performs with Atlantis Events on their gay cruise and resort vacations! Seymour stars in the comedy web series WHAT A DRAG, which is available to stream on IndieFlix, Dekkoo, and YouTube!
SEPTEMBER 30TH 9:30PM @ GREEN ROOM 42
TICKETS HERE

WEST VILLAGE

EAST VILLAGE

LOWER MANHATTAN / FINANCIAL DISTRICT

BROOKLYN

QUEENS

LONG ISLAND

WESTCHESTER

NEW JERSEY

GET YOUR EXCLUSIVE THOTYSSEY GEAR HERE!

BALLROOM & KIKI | BEARS | BINGO | BOAT PARTIES | BRUNCH | BURLESQUE | CABARET | CIRCUIT PARTIES | CRUISING | DANCE PARTIES | DIVES | DRAG RACE STARS | DRAG SHOWS | DRINK N’ DRAW | FETISH | GAMES | GEEKY | GOGO BOYS | KARAOKE | LATIN | LESBIAN | LIVE MUSIC | OFF-BROADWAY | OPEN MIC | PAGEANTS & COMPETITIONS | PIANO BARS | SAFE SPACES | SCENE QUEENS | SPORTS BARS | TRIVIA | WATCH DRAG RACE

Save the Date | Full Calendar | Halloween

On Point With: Bri Joy

A new arrival to the Brooklyn scene, the Haus of Quench’s Bri Joy is rapidly making his mark as a drag performer to watch, while also becoming an event producer on the rise. [Cover Photo: Carmen Grace DeCristo]

Thotyssey: Hello Bro, thanks for chatting today! As we’re already approaching Spooky Season rapidly, how did your summer go?

Bri Joy: Summer was incredible! This was my first summer as a drag performer, let alone in NYC… so it was a big big shift from what I’m used to!

What made you want to do drag, and how did you discover it?

I’ve loved drag since I was a kid in middle Georgia watching–you guessed it–RuPaul’s Drag Race! I loved the way that people were able to express themselves in so many different ways, and craved the day that I could be a part of it. I thought it was magical.

When I moved to North Georgia and started going to Atlanta and seeing drag shows in real life, my obsession grew. When I finally moved to New York and found myself on the scene more frequently than ever, I just had to try!

[Photo: Carmen Grace DeCristo]

Was there ever a thought that “drag is only for this type of person, so I can’t do it?”

Oh definitely! I hesitated on trying to give shows for a few years having been *gags* assigned female at birth. But I talked to drag performers in the Atlanta scene just before moving here, to be sure. I remember Taylor Alxndr in particular told me “drag is about entertainment; as long as you’re entertaining and can pull a look, there’s a place in drag for you.” Having been an actor for a decade at that point, I knew it was all up to me to push myself onto a stage.

How would you describe the “type” of drag you do today, as far as looks and numbers and overall vibe?

Joyful, to put it simply. For the most part, my numbers are about taking songs that I love and telling a story while creating a fun and exciting environment for those watching. Often my drag is cathartic… if the song I’m doing is about falling in love, then I’m probably falling in love. If it’s angry, then I am usually working through some complex emotions. My looks are built off the tracks, and what’s most financially feasible at the time. All of my looks are thrifted or handed down to me by my house (the Haus of Quench). I like to make fun of the silly things that happen in my life.

And what’s the story behind your drag name?

My drag name is my name! When I first started drag, I went with the name Bri Duh Bull (hehe)… but over time it felt inauthentic. There’s so much of myself in my work that separating it didn’t feel right, so I just went with my name: Bri Joy.


How did you come to discover the Haus of Quench?

I found the Quenchies kind of by chance. I was obsessed with Brooklyn drag when I first got here, and was vying to see any and all shows I could! In late October of last year, I heard that a drag haus was hosting a show on the L train— which was something I had never experienced before. So I went! And I saw Silly Brown, Cuntyham, Sterling Tull, Juniper Juicy, Julie J and Paris L’Hommie give shows for the first time. I fell in love! I really enjoyed the idea of taking drag and putting it in environments that weren’t made for it. The very next day, the Haus hosted a drag brunch and I knew I had to go. During the brunch and the afters that followed, I met everyone and spoke with Haus father Archie [Cuntyham] over some drinks and cigs; he put me in the Haus, like, off rip. It was bizarre and quick, but it felt right. And here we are!

And now you also have an event brand of your own: Pride & Joy!

Being in the Haus and creating such close connections with producers I looked up to empowered me to start acting on my own ideas. So the Quench founder Sp3cial K and I started working on “Black Velvet,” mine and their monthly at C’mon Everybody, which highlights Black trans performers. Most recently, new member Purp and I have started our bi-weekly brunch program called Casa Quench at Casa Maya, which is bi-weekly and gives a daytime stage to the Haus.

When can we see the next installments of these shows?

[The next brunch is] in two weeks! Saturday, October 8th. And Black Velvet’s 6th installment is on October 5th!

This Friday also brings “Full Bush” to The Deep End, care of the iconic Michael Cavadias, yourself and many more! This is a Kate Bush tribute party and show. What more can you tell us about the night?

I’m so excited for this Friday because I love Kate Bush, but also because I get to perform with the biggest Kate Bush fan I know: my drag dad, Cuntyham. It’s going to be a show featuring our personal takes on our favorite songs of hers. This is one of those shows that’s more for the cast than anyone, and will in turn be more enjoyable as a result. It’s going to be a Kate Bush party with shows from what I can tell! I’m jazzed.

Looking ahead, on October 15 at Purgatory you will be one of the titular ghouls for “Night of 1000 Samaras,” care of Nancy NoGood and The Nobodies!

Yes, I’m so excited to give tribute to The Ring with such good judies of mine, the Nobodies and Nancy! I first worked with them in June, and am so excited to collaborate again.


Is there anything else at all you want to mention?

I just want to shout out my Haus, my family and my home, the Haus of Quench for inspiring me and giving me stages to stand on. I’m so grateful for this community here in Brooklyn for welcoming me into the fold.

Finally, what are you gonna be for Halloween?!

I’m planning on being the Whip It Girl as a fun, gaggy joke!

Perfection! Thanks, Bri!

[Photo: @frantheyco] 

Check Thotyssey’s calendar for Bri Joy’s upcoming appearances, and follow him on Instagram.

On Point Archives

ThotLight Podcast Ep. 5 on Spotify & more!

Episode 5 of ThotLight, the Red Eye Radio podcast hosted by Thotyssey’s Jim Silvestri and Redifine Radio’s Freddie Cosmo, is up! On this ep, Jim spills some sweet tea on a game-changing new venue, while Freddie plays with new sound effects and ponders what Rosalía’s appearance means for OTA. We report on the new Miss Gay New America, a legendary queen’s ill-timed Twitter joke, a hilarious Craigslist posting that went viral, the end of  Straight Acting and a Brazilian Gaga clone’s gaggy Miami Moment.  

Plus, in-studio guest MissMa’amShe on conquering the Brooklyn Moment, turning out Bitchfest, Bushwig & Mx. Nobody, the state of drag, her amusing Twitter takes and the unforseen rise of her plastic drag daughter Career Doll!

And this just in: ThotLight can now be streamed on major platforms!

Monday (9.26.2022)

MONDAY (9.26.2022) Your daily guide to New York City nightlife programming.

UPTOWN / BRONX

HELL’S KITCHEN

CHELSEA

ADVERTISEMENT

TICKETS HERE

Sutton Lee Seymour in her GLAMAZON PRIME is a follow up to her MAC Award Nominated cabaret, DRAGFLIX, spoofing TV Shows, Movies, and Musicals! And now in this post-mid-pandemic world, she’s giving advice for online dating, working, shopping, therapy, more dating, and also where to find the best pillows for screaming. Join her for a fun filled night of live singing, comedy, and drag! For the past decade, Sutton Lee Seymour has been spreading merriment and madness around the world from London to Los Angeles while also holding a residency in Puerto Vallarta at The Palm Cabaret! She also performs with Atlantis Events on their gay cruise and resort vacations! Seymour stars in the comedy web series WHAT A DRAG, which is available to stream on IndieFlix, Dekkoo, and YouTube!
SEPTEMBER 30TH 9:30PM @ GREEN ROOM 42
TICKETS HERE

WEST VILLAGE

EAST VILLAGE / SOHO

  • CLUB CUMMING: “Cast-Offs” feat. Ben Rimalower & Daniel Nolen (8pm);
    Lance Horne (9pm)
  • NOWHERE: “Macho Mondays” feat. gogo boys & DJ Ryko (8pm)
  • JOE’S PUB: Bridget Everett & The Tender Moments (9:30pm)
  • PHOENIX: TBA

BROOKLYN

QUEENS

LONG ISLAND

NEW JERSEY

BALLROOM & KIKI | BEARS | BINGO | BOAT PARTIES | BRUNCH | BURLESQUE | CABARET | CIRCUIT PARTIES | CRUISING | DANCE PARTIES | DIVES | DRAG RACE STARS | DRAG SHOWS | DRINK N’ DRAW | FETISH | GAMES | GEEKY | GOGO BOYS | KARAOKE | LATIN | LESBIAN | LIVE MUSIC | OFF-BROADWAY | OPEN MIC | PAGEANTS & COMPETITIONS | PIANO BARS | SAFE SPACES | SCENE QUEENS | SPORTS BARS | TRIVIA | WATCH DRAG RACE

Save the Date | Full Calendar | Halloween

GET YOUR EXCLUSIVE THOTYSSEY GEAR HERE!

On Point With: Vidana

The Bionic Bimbo of Brooklyn is repairing herself before a Spooky Season Slay next month… behold the villainous Vidana! [Cover photo: Daniel Roa]

Thotyssey: Thanks for talking with is tonight, Vidana! How did your month go?

Vidana: September was a wild ride for me. I had to get a surgery where they took out some veins and muscle that were causing me pain for over a year. I did a quick recovery back at my parents home for two weeks, but now I’m back in the game! I was very eager to get right back to it… I just can’t do stunts for another four weeks.


Oh goodness, we’re glad all is well now! What’s a stunty number you look forward to doing again?

Oh, there’s this crossing guard number that I have been wanting to bust out so bad. So once this body is in check, I plan on giving one of my most cunty yet completely unhinged performances.

So where are you from originally, and were performing / music / fashion etc. always in your life?

So I was born and raised in Cape Cod, and ended up going to SUNY Purchase in Westchester where I started drag with that massive drag community. I was hiding pieces of drag, and shipped them down to my school right before I left for move-in, and started drag the day after. I originally went to school for classical music performance, and ended up transferring to a college in the city for fashion once Corona hit.

I’ve been living in the City ever since, but only started performing here back in summer of 2021. I had to take roughly a year off of drag since I broke the right side of my face and ended up getting facial reconstruction; four titanium plates later, I consider myself the Bionic Bimbo of Brooklyn.

Stunts upon stunts! What happened there!?

Lol, I hadn’t eaten in over a day and passed out standing up in the subway as the train slammed on the breaks and flew into me face first.

Oh my Christ! That’s a very lucky outcome.

Yeah, thank God I was able to get it fixed; they had to rebreak my bones to get it done.

[Photo: Jeff Eason]

A true Terminatrix! How did the name Vidana come to you?

I wanted something original, short and sweet. I was searching names when I stumbled on Vidana — it happens to be a combination of my two friends who accepted me from the jump and helped me come out of the closet. They always push me to be the best person I can, and I thought it would be a sweet way of showing Vaughan and Deanna’s importance to me and my livelihood.

Love that! What have been some of your favorite experiences doing drag in NYC since you started performing here?

I absolutely loved competing in Janelle No. 5’s “Ultimate Diva” pageant; I worked tirelessly, and was so proud of what I got to showcase. It pushed me to work harder. I also loved shooting the Museum of Ice Cream Pride campaign this year with Daniel Roa, a close friend of mine.

[Photo: Daniel Roa]

You’ll be back with Janelle and a massive coven of Fright Queens for the Spooky Season premiere of “DIVAS” at 3 Dollar Bill on Thurs, October 6!

Yes, I’m so excited to be joining this amazing cast! Each of us have picked an iconic Halloween character to portray, and I can’t wait to be a dumb bitch on stage again. My number will be based on Drew Barrymore’s character in Scream and the opening scene from Scary Movie, a favorite of mine.


You’re still in recovery, but is there anything else coming up for you that you can confirm?

I don’t have much else set right now, but I plan on producing shows very soon! My goal is to have extremely diverse rotating casts. I want to showcase every aspect of NYC drag.

Excellent! Okay, lastly: what might some good advice be for a baby queen trying to make it in NYC today?

Show up and support! Being present in the community is a big key to success. Work hard and find what makes you stand out from the masses, and pour your focus into that.

Thanks, Vidana!

Check Thotyssey’s calendar for Vidana’s upcoming appearances, and follow her on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

On Point Archives

Sunday (9.25.2022)

SUNDAY (9.25.2022) Your daily guide to New York and New Jersey nightlife programming.

UPTOWN / BRONX

HELL’S KITCHEN

MIDTOWN EAST

CHELSEA

MEATPACKING

ADVERTISEMENT

TICKETS HERE

Sutton Lee Seymour in her GLAMAZON PRIME is a follow up to her MAC Award Nominated cabaret, DRAGFLIX, spoofing TV Shows, Movies, and Musicals! And now in this post-mid-pandemic world, she’s giving advice for online dating, working, shopping, therapy, more dating, and also where to find the best pillows for screaming. Join her for a fun filled night of live singing, comedy, and drag! For the past decade, Sutton Lee Seymour has been spreading merriment and madness around the world from London to Los Angeles while also holding a residency in Puerto Vallarta at The Palm Cabaret! She also performs with Atlantis Events on their gay cruise and resort vacations! Seymour stars in the comedy web series WHAT A DRAG, which is available to stream on IndieFlix, Dekkoo, and YouTube!
SEPTEMBER 30TH 9:30PM @ GREEN ROOM 42
TICKETS HERE

WEST VILLAGE

EAST VILLAGE / LES

TRIBECA / CHINATOWN / LOWER MANHATTAN

BROOKLYN

QUEENS

LONG ISLAND

NEW JERSEY

BALLROOM & KIKI | BEARS | BINGO | BOAT PARTIES | BRUNCH | BURLESQUE | CABARET | CIRCUIT PARTIES | CRUISING | DANCE PARTIES | DIVES | DRAG RACE STARS | DRAG SHOWS | DRINK N’ DRAW | FETISH | GAMES | GEEKY | GOGO BOYS | KARAOKE | LATIN | LESBIAN | LIVE MUSIC | OFF-BROADWAY | OPEN MIC | PAGEANTS & COMPETITIONS | PIANO BARS | SAFE SPACES | SCENE QUEENS | SPORTS BARS | TRIVIA | WATCH DRAG RACE

Save the Date | Full Calendar | Halloween

GET YOUR EXCLUSIVE THOTYSSEY GEAR HERE!