Saturday (10.16.2021)

SATURDAY (10.16.2021) Your daily guide to New York queer nightlife.

UPTOWN / BRONX

HELL’S KITCHEN

MIDTOWN

MIDTOWN EAST / FLATIRON

CHELSEA

MEATPACKING

  • LEBAIN: Trivia feat. Thorgy Thor (8pm)

WEST VILLAGE

EAST VILLAGE

BROOKLYN

QUEENS

LONG ISLAND

NEW JERSEY

Listed below are livestreamed and pre-recorded digital / virtual nightlife-centric content, broadcasted online.

ONLINE CONTENT (see all)

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

Save the Date | Halloween | Full Calendar

Friday (10.15.2021)

FRIDAY (10.15.2021) Your daily guide to New York and New Jersey nightlife programming.

UPTOWN / BRONX

HELL’S KITCHEN

MIDTOWN

MIDTOWN EAST

CHELSEA / HUDSON YARDS

WEST VILLAGE

EAST VILLAGE

BROOKLYN

QUEENS

NEW JERSEY

ONLINE CONTENT (see all)

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

Save the Date | Halloween | Full Calendar

GET YOUR EXCLUSIVE THOTYSSEY GEAR HERE!

Thursday (10.14.2021)

THURSDAY (10.14.2021) Your daily guide to New York queer nightlife events.

UPTOWN / BRONX

HELL’S KITCHEN

MIDTOWN

MIDTOWN EAST / FLATIRON

CHELSEA

WEST VILLAGE

EAST VILLAGE

LOWER MANHATTAN / FINANCIAL DISTRICT

BROOKLYN

QUEENS

LONG ISLAND

NEW JERSEY

ONLINE CONTENT (see all)

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

Save the Date | Halloween | Full Calendar

GET YOUR EXCLUSIVE THOTYSSEY GEAR HERE!

On Point With: Jake Resnicow

Perhaps New York’s (and Miami’s, and the globe’s) most prolific event producer who’s been known the world over for his thrilling circuit parties and dynamic major galas and benefits since 2010, Jake Resnicow is back from lockdown with a vengeance this holiday season… and millions will be down for all the kikis he has to offer!

Thotyssey: Thanks for talking to us today, Jake! This is a very busy time for you and your team, no doubt. First of all, congrats on your recent fifth anniversary of the current circuit party you’re best known for these days: M.E.A.T.! How did that go?

Jake Resnicow: It went great. We also recently debuted the party in Chicago for Market Days. It was wild and can’t wait to be back next year!

What is the secret to the success of these types of nights? Do you have that formula down pat?

I have a great team, and am fortunate to work with so many talented DJs and performers. Together, we’re always looking to create new and exciting elements for each event, and up the production value.

Where are you from originally, and how did you find yourself in the partymaking business?

I am from just outside Boston, MA. My first event was 2010 was when we took over Governors Island during Pride. Seeing thousands of smiling faces as the fireworks went off, I knew this was my calling. That being said, entertainment has always been in my blood. I got my start MCing weddings and bar-mitzvahs when I was a teenager.

You’ve hosted massive events and major fundraisers, and enlisted countless stars on the scene as well as bona fide celebrities. Have you had an event you produced that you will always remember the most fondly, or that you’re the most proud of?

Without a doubt, our WorldPride event at the Javits Center. I love integrating as many elements as possible to give our guests a 360° experience! We brought together Bette Midler, Kygo, Billy Porter, STOMP, Cirque du Soleil, Beyonce’s choreographer Chris Grant, fifty pro-dancers, as well as a cast of thirty Broadway performers to all come together on the same stage for an amazing cause! I’m most proud of how we integrated each performance seamlessly without any stoppage of the music, and made history. Together, we raised over $500,000 to benefit LGBTQ+ organizations.

What’s the wildest thing you’ve ever seen happen at one of your events?

At “Utopia,” several of our performers started casually teaching a few choreographed dance moves in the middle of the dancefloor. Moments later, hundreds of guests joined, and it became this magical moment of community I’ll never forget.

Many party producers eventually start running their own venues. Did that prospect ever interest you?

I would be open to it, but I truly love focusing on special events. I approach each event from the lens of how can we do more and be extraordinary. Whether we’re taking over a water park or an island, I challenge my incredible creative team to go the extra mile. Each event must be special and memorable.

How world-destroying was it to have to sit out through lockdown, as a person whose livelihood and passion are about bringing people together?

It was devastating, but after the storm always comes a rainbow. [That period of lockdown] was where we also cultivated the magic of “Utopia” retreats in the Poconos and Isla Mujeres.

The spooky season is upon us! What was your favorite ever Halloween costume?

Each year we host a costume contest with amazing prizes. Props to Nikki Exotika, who consistently blows everyone away. Her Ice Queen look and “The Exorcist” were next level!

You have a lot of events coming up this spooky season and beyond. Let’s talk about them, starting with:

Psyched for our U-NITE 4-Year Anniversary! It’s right in the heart of Manhattan and we’re preparing a very special production! DJ Paulo always delivers, and excited to welcome red-hot Muhammad from Atlanta.

This is always our biggest M.E.A.T. of the year next to Pride. The best play to unleash your darkest desires and get down.

Then later that night / early next morning, you are presenting your first of two after hours events this month!

For those interested in a wild morning experience, Spartacus afterhours takes place Saturday and Sunday morning of Halloween weekend.

Beyond excited to welcome you to a new, thrilling Halloween experience at America’s largest indoor theme park. This will be our biggest production since WorldPride! Get ready for a massive dancefloor of thousands of spooky, sexy costumes! This brand-new venue will be exclusively ours for a night of tricks and treats with rides, rollercoasters and haunted attractions!

It’a a rooftop rager to ring in the witching hour. Join us back at the amazing Superior Ingredients to dance from day into the night with beats from your DJs, kicking off with a Cacao Ceremony with Radius at 3pm and twirling into the night.

This will be a truly unique musical experience!

And then we’ve got some out of town kikis as well!

New Years Weekend we’re bringing “Dreamland” to Miami Beach with five parties over four days! Headliners include Kim Petras, Todrick Hall, Sofi Tukker and Purple Disco Machine, plus Alexis Tucci, Matt Denton, Spencer H, Las Bibas from Vizcaya, Ty Sunderland and many more amazing artists to be revealed. We’re also taking over multiple hotels and spectacular open-air venues. For just $99 down, you can lock in the full experience including three night accommodations at one of our exclusive hotels.

And later in the spring, a major international event returns!

Our magical “Utopia Festival” returns April 1-4, 2022 to Isla Mujeres, Mexico.

All amazing events! Lastly: You look great! What’s the secret to staying in shape and being healthy, with such a demanding and often stressful career that has bizarre hours?

It’s not easy! I try to start every morning with a run and get the gym out of the way. I have to take weekends off. I also really enjoy finding time for a yoga session when possible.

Thanks so much, Jake!

Check Thotyssey’s calendar for Jake Resnicow’s upcoming events, and follow him on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and his website.

On Point Archives

Wednesday (10.13.2021)

WEDNESDAY (10.13.2021) Your daily guide to New York nightlife.

UPTOWN / BRONX

HELL’S KITCHEN

MIDTOWN

MIDTOWN EAST

CHELSEA

WEST VILLAGE

EAST VILLAGE

LOWER MANHATTAN / FINANCIAL DISTRICT

BROOKLYN

QUEENS

WESTCHESTER

NEW JERSEY

ONLINE CONTENT (see all)

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

Save the Date | Halloween | Full Calendar

GET YOUR EXCLUSIVE THOTYSSEY GEAR HERE!

On Point With: DJ Stiletto

Brooklyn and Manhattan are the current stomping grounds for the sensational DJ Tory Stiletto!

Thotyssey: Hello DJ Stiletto! How is October treating you so far?

DJ Stiletto: October famously is my favorite month outside of June, so it’s been treating me well!

Are you turning spooky looks yet?

I’m a bit of a New Yorker–always in black. So I guess you could say, spooky lewks have definitely entered the chat.

Everyone’s favorite DJs in NYC are also fashionistas, it seems. Do you accept that “responsibility?”

Yes and no. Before I really began pursuing my interest in music again, I spent many years hosting–“booth babe’ing”–while others would spin, or just being a person listed [as a host]. All of those things have trained me to show up feeling and looking 100%. When I’m playing, I show up feeling and looking 100% even if I don’t feel like it… but the music always speaks for itself.

[Photo: Gabby Ray]

If you had complete creative control over what you’re playing for one night at a venue, what might that night sound like?

90’s hip hop and R&B into pop and disco, ending with high energy house.

That sounds like a Night! Are you a New York native, and was music always a part of your life?

I was raised in Charlotte, NC. As an art school student, I studied musical theater and dance… so music has always been there.

Do you have any favorite musicals? And is there anything new you might wanna see as Broadway reopens?

Favorite musicals: definitely Aida and Les Mis. And I’m eager to see Diana–I had to fight to not watch it on TV, it’s just not the same.

How did you begin as a DJ?

I worked on an online radio show in my one year in Atlanta; I met a lot of different creatives, and even had a kind of “assistants takeover” show. That’s kinda where it began with playing music. Having close friends that DJ’ed made every night out a class: artists like P_A_T, Dicap, Mazurbate and Nita Aviance.

But I struck gold in a hopeless place; during Covid there were lots of Zoom parties going on, i.e. Club Quarantine, FFZ. So that’s where people really got to listen to me. Next thing, I was doing private zoom parties for groups of friends.

How did you like DJing those digital parties?

It was a little weird, of course–at first–because I would literally be standing in my bedroom dancing around playing music for people, with maybe a box of White Claw next to me… and my roommates could not hear the music, so I’m sure it seemed a little odd.

Whatever gets you through the night! Do you have interest in remixing or even original composing at all?

As of right now, I like making my mashups and recorded sets. I think certainly in the future, the studio time will present itself.

[Photo: @53reynolds]

You’ve already forged a strong presence in Brooklyn venues like The Rosemont and 3 Dollar Bill. But these days, we can also find you spinning a party called “Humpty” every Wednesday at The Q!

Yes! The Q has been so great… New York’s Manhattan gay scene has been dying for a gay meeting spot. I always thought that what we’ve needed here is something similar to Twist in South Beach–quite an “everybody” bar.

What can you tell us about “Studio X Stiletto,” going down October 22nd at a secret Lower East Side venue?

Studio X Stiletto! My second baby! This will be a very chic, members only venue. I have given quite the guest list the space to merge with the venue, all the while giving the Stiletto vibe. Trust me, you never know who’s in the building at this venue.

And the very next night (Saturday, October 23rd) you’ll be at Good Room spinning with The Carry Nation.

Exciting weekend! I cannot wait to play the Bad Room [a floor within Good Room] alongside KIA, and obviously be on a roster with such amazing nightlife legends.

The exciting weekend extends through Sunday, with you DJing that week’s edition of the new party at The Q, “Hard Serve!” What else is coming up for you that the children need to know about?

There’s plenty in the works. But I can’t give anything out yet. Gotta keep it Hush – if you know what I mean!

Hush indeed! Well that leaves us with the question of the season to end this: have you ever seen something like a ghost or a UFO, or had any sort of supernatural experience?

Years ago, back in North Carolina… I swear to you I saw a UFO, and I had videos on my Blackberry. But everyone said they didn’t really see anything, or didn’t know what it is. But just the way it was, like, close and dark [one moment] and then so far away next… spooky.

Gag… watch the skies, children! And thank you, Stiletto!

[Photo: @53reynolds]

Check Thotyssey’s calendar for DJ Stiletto’s upcoming appearances, and follow him on Facebook and Instagram.

On Point Archives

Tuesday (10.12.2021)

TUESDAY (10.12.2021) Your daily guide to NYC nightlife programming.

UPTOWN / BRONX

HELL’S KITCHEN

MIDTOWN

MIDTOWN EAST

CHELSEA

MEATPACKING

  • LEBAIN: Susanne Bartsch’s “On Top” (10pm)

WEST VILLAGE

EAST VILLAGE

BROOKLYN

QUEENS

WESTCHESTER

NEW JERSEY

ONLINE CONTENT (see all)

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

Save the Date | Halloween | Full Calendar

GET YOUR EXCLUSIVE THOTYSSEY GEAR HERE!

On Point With: Robin Fierce

Known as one of Connecticut’s most talented and busiest queens, Robin Fierce is now slaying the game right here in New York as well!

Thotyssey: How’s your October, Robin?

Robin Fierce: So far so good… it’s officially my birthday month.

Happy birthday! Can you legally drink and vote now?

Lol, I’ve been able to legally vote for eight years now, and drink for five! And that is officially a math question on the SATs: “how old is Robin Fierce?”

It’s okay, no one can do math!

Yeah math was not my strongest subject. On Friday, I will be 26. And fun fact that I learned last week: I share a birthday with Pixie Aventura.

That’s one of our amazing new York girls! So you are a very unique case in the drag world in that you are a well-known Connecticut queen, but you’re also pretty busy these days here in NYC. Would you rather be more of one than the other (NY versus CT), or are you happy being a Two State Queen?

I am very grateful to be known in both places. I wouldn’t say I am super well-known in New York City yet, but I’m hoping to get there soon, though. And I don’t mind being a Two State Queen… the more the merrier! Let’s add all fifty states to the mix. Why not the whole globe, lol?

World dominatrix… I mean, domination.

That part!

Where are you from originally, and what were your earliest creative interests?

My main family and I are from Brooklyn, New York. We moved to Connecticut when I was five years old, and I grew up most of my life here in Connecticut. I’ve always been interested in art–when I was younger I would draw all the time, and I’ve been singing since before I can remember. Music was my first passion… probably my first love!

When did you become Robin?

I am definitely a product of Drag Race. I came out when I was about 19 going on 20. Then I started diving into queer culture, which of course involved watching RuPaul’s Drag Race. And, realizing that drag queens are like me… they are not these weird creatures. I mean… sometimes we are, lol! But they’re human just like us, and they’re artists just like me. So very soon after, I started dabbling in drag. I practiced my makeup for almost six months before I actually left the house in drag. Thus, Robin was born.

Connecticut is an interesting state to do drag: venues are very scattered in different cities, you basically need to drive to them all, and not every queer bar is necessarily a drag bar. And not every drag bar features weekly shows! What’s been your experience navigating all that?

Well, I just work when and where I can. Sometimes that’s in CT, sometimes that’s in NY, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, or Maine. Everything is all over… get in where you fit in.

Based on your name, is Beyoncé your gawdess… or is there another diva that wears that crown?

She’s part of it. I wanted my last name to depict what my drag would be, more then basing it on Beyoncé. But, I’d say her and Mariah are my top divas.

What are your live performances like?

I mean, they range. I lip sync, I sing, I do high energy, ballads and comedy. So it really depends on they day… but it’s always a good time.

Speaking earlier of Pixie, you are co-hosting her New York Hardware show “Drag Swap” every Tuesday in October. How is that going?

Well! I’ve only done one so far; this week will be the second week. I love working with Pixie–watching her perform and host is a lot of fun. I feel like I learn a lot from watching her as well. I mean, I love hosting and performing… I do it often. Being around queens like Pixie is not only fun, it sharpens you.

Another gig you’re doing here in New York: The Countess Mascara’s drag brunch at Lunella in Little Italy, on Halloween Sunday!

Yeah, the brunches with Countess are always a good time. This is going to be a slightly bigger cast then she usually has–there’s, like, five of us! So it’s going to be a lovely show, dahling! I can’t wait to see what everyone brings on the 31st!

And tell us a bit about your Connecticut drag! That weekly show at Troupe is called “Candyland.”

It’s my one woman show; it’s about and hour / hour and a half of me performing and playing games with the audience!

Have a great birthday and great shows! And at last: what’s your favorite Halloween candy?

I do love a Twix. Right or left, I don’t have a preference… lol!

Thanks, Robin!

Check Thotyssey’s calendar for Robin Fierce’s area appearances, and follow her on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.

On Point Archives

Monday (10.11.2021)

MONDAY (10.11.2021) Your daily guide to New York City nightlife programming.

UPTOWN / BRONX

HELL’S KITCHEN

MIDTOWN

CHELSEA

WEST VILLAGE

EAST VILLAGE / LES

BROOKLYN

QUEENS

NEW JERSEY

  • PARADISE: “Drag Wars” hosted by Cee’mour Cox (11pm)

ONLINE CONTENT (see all)

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

Save the Date | Halloween | Full Calendar

GET YOUR EXCLUSIVE THOTYSSEY GEAR HERE!

Sunday (10.10.2021)

SUNDAY (10.10.2021) Your daily guide to New York and New Jersey nightlife programming.

UPTOWN / BRONX

HELL’S KITCHEN

MIDTOWN

MIDTOWN EAST

CHELSEA

WEST VILLAGE

EAST VILLAGE

TRIBECA / NOLITA / LITTLE ITALY / LOWER MANHATTAN

BROOKLYN

QUEENS

LONG ISLAND

WESTCHESTER

NEW JERSEY

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

Save the Date | Halloween | Full Calendar

Saturday (10.9.2021)

SATURDAY (10.9.2021) Your daily guide to New York queer nightlife.

UPTOWN / BRONX

HELL’S KITCHEN

MIDTOWN

MIDTOWN EAST / FLATIRON

CHELSEA

MEATPACKING

WEST VILLAGE

EAST VILLAGE

BROOKLYN

QUEENS

NEW JERSEY

Listed below are livestreamed and pre-recorded digital / virtual nightlife-centric content, broadcasted online.

ONLINE CONTENT (see all)

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

Save the Date | Halloween | Full Calendar

On Point With: Esther

October is the perfect month to showcase drag that is odd, surreal, silly and / or spooky. Enter Esther, who despite being known for fringe Brooklyn drag is actually haunting Manhattan with two unique Halloween shows. [Cover photo: Octavio Yattah]

Thotyssey: Hello Esther! We’re in the spooky season… is this your fav time of year?

Esther: It’s a wonderful time of year. The passing of the autumnal equinox always feels transformational, and people who don’t normally do drag outside of their daily drag do drag! I love it.

If you were a drag ghost, where would you spend your afterlife haunting?

My forever style and vibe icon is Samara from The Ring, so I’d definitely have to spend my afterlife in a well. But! If anyone were to watch my videotape, I’d be able to crawl through their TV and eat them.

I think that’s only fair!

[Photo: @stemcelle]

Where are you from, and what were your earliest creative pursuits while growing up?

I’m originally from LA, so naturally I grew up in a particularly hyperreal environment. In preschool I was obsessed with Riverdance, Lord of the Dance, etc. and would perform along to VHS rips from PBS. I’d wear a white t-shirt on my head as my hair, my mother’s blouses as my dresses, and a white tank top underneath as my bra. Eventually my mother started documenting these shows with her camcorder, and it was then that I was first introduced to video making! Fast forward a few years, and I’m using the same camcorder to film and edit a season of Survivor starring my teddy bears. We do live for a show!

An all-teddy bear season is precisely what that show needs! How ultimately did you become Esther?

I moved to NYC for school, got a job, and a few years later met Merrie Cherry in a pig nose prosthetic at TNT. I told her that I had just purchased drag makeup for the first time, and she invited me to do [her drag competition] Dragnet! Then, a few months later Jacquée Kennedée invited me to do a new party called “OOPS,” and that was when Esther really started to germinate.

How would you describe Esther’s looks and stage persona today, for the uninitiated?

I like to describe Esther as a Comme des Garçons fan account, because a lot of her looks reference Kawakubo’s runways. Esther loves a bulbous, asymmetrical shape! For the stage, I usually write scenes in which I play multiple characters, prerecord their voices, and then lip sync to myself. Esther might explore the neoliberal narratives transmitted through the global product known as Blackpink (of whom she is a stan), or she might turn into an office building. Either way, Esther loves a multimedia experience.

How was performing at Bushwig, by the way?

So fun. It was a time of reunion, celebration, and expression! And it felt so good to get on that stage and connect with the audience. I also got to film another performance video on location with artist Rachel Rampleman, with whom I and many others have collaborated in the last year.

Tell us a bit about the origins and goings on of “Unforgivable Emotional Carnivore,” a surreal showcase that started at short-lived Brooklyn venue The Vault. UEC consists of yourself, Pinwheel Pinwheel, Menthol Menthol, God Complex and DJ Ten Yards.

Pinwheel and God wanted to do a show called “Unforgivable” and Pinwheel and Menthol wanted to do a show called “Emotional Carnivore,” so they all joined forces! DJ Ten Yards and I joined the cast a few months after their debut, and it has been the most incredible collaborative experience. We pick an overarching theme, such as Nickelodeon Apocalypse or Grandmas in Space, construct a narrative, and leave plenty of room for improv. It is drag at its most theatrical and absurd. We currently have a residency at The Cell Theatre in Chelsea, and we also now do a monthly brunch at Moonrise Izakaya in the UWS with Paris L’Hommie.

Back in the day, Brooklyn was really the only borough to showcase more avant-garde drag. But these days, the Manhattan and Brooklyn drag scenes are a lot more intertwined.

Absolutely! I love seeing and being around all styles of drag, and I’m finding that audiences are more receptive than ever to the weirdness. At our first Upper West Side drag brunch, for example, we didn’t know what to expect… but the crowd was incredibly generous and supportive.

You’ll be back in Manhattan–specifically the East Village, this time–on Sunday for a show called “Villain Edit” at Club Cumming.

“Villain Edit” is a fantastic showcase of drag talent, and I’m so excited to be a part of this edition! Esther will be invoking dark, femme energy as she takes on the role of a post-corporeal cephalopod.


And then on October 22 and 24, Unforgiveable Emotion Carnivore returns to The Cell for a ghostly showcase!

Yes! All I can say is… beware of the splash zone…

That’s always been my motto!

Anything else to report?

Yes! I am co-producing a new show debuting this November, so keep your eyes peeled for more info!

Very exciting! Okay lastly: what is the best Halloween candy?

OMG! Probably peanut M&Ms or Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups.

Agreed. Thanks, Esther!

Check Thotyssey’s calendar for Esther’s upcoming appearances, and follow them on Instagram.

On Point Archives

Friday (10.8.2021)

FRIDAY (10.8.2021) Your daily guide to New York and New Jersey nightlife programming.

UPTOWN / BRONX

HELL’S KITCHEN

MIDTOWN

MIDTOWN EAST

CHELSEA / HUDSON YARDS

MEATPACKING

WEST VILLAGE

EAST VILLAGE

BROOKLYN

QUEENS

NEW JERSEY

ONLINE CONTENT (see all)

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

Save the Date | Halloween | Full Calendar

GET YOUR EXCLUSIVE THOTYSSEY GEAR HERE!

Thursday (10.7.2021)

THURSDAY (10.7.2021) Your daily guide to New York queer nightlife events.

UPTOWN / BRONX

HELL’S KITCHEN

MIDTOWN

MIDTOWN EAST / FLATIRON

CHELSEA

WEST VILLAGE

EAST VILLAGE

LOWER MANHATTAN / FINANCIAL DISTRICT

BROOKLYN

QUEENS

NEW JERSEY

ONLINE CONTENT (see all)

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

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On Point With: Billy Lykken

A fierce and fabulous vocal talent and wholly original star of the NYC cabaret stage, Billy Lykken is back with a soul-satisfying, classic-yet-timely set.

Thotyssey: Hello Billy, thanks for chatting with us today! OMG, yesterday we were without Facebook and Instagram for much of the day… how did you survive?

Billy Lykken: I freaked out a little because I rely on Facebook to promote my show. But I kept telling myself… at least Zuckerberg lost 6 billion dollars.

That does bring comfort! It must be so great to be out performing in venues again. I saw you recently did classic cabaret spot Pangea’s anniversary show, with several other performers… how did that go?

It was a raucous party and a fabulous time! I love Pangaea. This will be my first solo show there, but I’ve been appearing regularly even before Covid–in Gerry Geddes‘ “Fabulous First Fridays.” Gerry is also directing [my upcoming Pangea show] Hot Mess: Billy’s Blues! The energy in that room is positive and exciting. I can’t wait.

So of course during lockdown, live performing opportunities were very limited. But you at least were able to do an outdoor show in front of Don’t Tell Mama!

Performing on a stoop in front of 50 people on Restaurant Row was amazing! The challenging part was the confusing city guidelines on live performance. Just before the show they made a rule that only “incidental” music was allowed, so I couldn’t sell tickets. We passed a tip hat around instead, and people were so generous and happy to be out that I made more money than any show I’ve ever done.

Broadway is back as well, now. Anything you’re looking forward to seeing in particular?

I’m an old school musical theater queen, so I’m so ready for Hugh Jackman in The Music Man. Company, too.

By the way, most of us got rather doughy sitting on our asses this past year. But you got snatched! What was your fitness secret?

Haha, thank you! I had already started getting fit before Covid hit… and as soon as it did, I was smart enough to snatch up home equipment before the price gouging started.

Where are you from originally, and how did you begin as a performer?

I was born in the Philippines, grew up in Seattle, and moved to NYC fifteen years ago to be an actor. But my real dream since I was a kid was to be a singer. I grew up listening almost exclusively to live diva albums: Liza Minnelli at the Winter Garden, Bette Midler: Live At Last, Diana Ross at Caesar’s Palace. I remember when I was a teenager, imagining that I was Barbra Streisand in the early 60’s singing with a trio at a small club like the Bon Soir. During Covid lockdowns, I realized… “Hey, I sort of achieved that!”

What were some of the first NYC venues you performed at, as a singer?

My boyfriend Rick Skye was the Liza Minnelli impersonator at Don’t Tell Mama’s long running MAC award-winning show Judy and Liza Together Again, with Tommy Femia as Judy Garland. I was so shy to sing back, then but I went to the show every weekend for seven years and really learned so much watching them perform. When I finally got the confidence to do my own show Sacred Monster, Sydney Myer booked me in the same room.

You’ve often appeared on stage androgynously, in makeup and jewelry and sometimes a kimono. What is the origin of that look?

It started as a characterization of my favorite “divas” melded together. I sort of threw the kitchen sink at those shows trying to do a Bette Midler-esque, very eclectic setlist. And I have a lot of fun dressing up. I’ve been slowly moving away from the characterization the last couple of years. I want Hot Mess! to be more about the music… and I’m lucky because my musicians are really excellent. I’ll still be dressed androgynously, but a little toned down from the past.

You also do a fierce version of Eartha Kitt’s brilliant Japanese cover of “Come on-a My House!” Do you know Japanese at all, or did you learn that phonetically?

Syllable by syllable! It was funny because my music director Yasuhiko Fukuoka is Japanese. The first time I did it for him I asked if I was speaking Japanese correctly. He said “yes,” and then I asked him what I was saying. He said “I don’t know!” That song is a lot of fun.

What are some of your other favorite numbers to do?

“Mississippi Goddam” by Nina Simone during the Trump years. I also love singing Aretha Franklin songs–I used to do “Ain’t No Way,” and this show I’m doing now was originally going to be songs Aretha wrote. I realize how insane it is to do Aretha songs because she was the greatest of all time, but people don’t know that she was an excellent songwriter. We’re doing four of her songs in Hot Mess!, two of them that she wrote.

Tell us more about Hot Mess!, which will be October 8, 9 and 11 at Pangea. It appears that this will be a more blues and jazz inspired set, right?

Yes, queer blues! The jazzier side of blues in a storytelling cabaret setting. I’ve never been more excited about the material; I’ve been listening to a lot of Lou Rawls, Helen Humes, Dinah Washington, and of course Aretha for inspiration. I’ve always had a hyper-emotional way of performing, and I’m really enjoying singing the blues. But it’s still going to be very musically varied, and definitely not sad!

Just what the witch doctor ordered, and an absolute Can’t Miss!

Lastly: it’s the spooky season! Have you ever seen a ghost, or had a supernatural experience?

Of course… I’m Filipino! We believe in everything: ghosts, elves, Jesus. I’ve had some pretty wild psychic readings where my grandma came for a visit. She says she’s fine.

Thanks, Billy!

Check Thotyssey’s calendar for Billy Lykken’s upcoming appearances, and follow him on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.

On Point Archives

Wednesday (10.6.2021)

WEDNESDAY (10.6.2021) Your daily guide to New York nightlife.

UPTOWN / BRONX

HELL’S KITCHEN

MIDTOWN

MIDTOWN EAST

CHELSEA

WEST VILLAGE

EAST VILLAGE

LOWER MANHATTAN / FINANCIAL DISTRICT

BROOKLYN

QUEENS

LONG ISLAND

WESTCHESTER

NEW JERSEY

ONLINE CONTENT (see all)

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

Save the Date | Halloween | Full Calendar

GET YOUR EXCLUSIVE THOTYSSEY GEAR HERE!

Tuesday (10.5.2021)

TUESDAY (10.5.2021) Your daily guide to NYC nightlife programming.

UPTOWN / BRONX

HELL’S KITCHEN

MIDTOWN

MIDTOWN EAST

CHELSEA

MEATPACKING

  • LEBAIN: Susanne Bartsch’s “On Top” (10pm)

WEST VILLAGE

EAST VILLAGE

BROOKLYN

QUEENS

WESTCHESTER

NEW JERSEY

ONLINE CONTENT (see all)

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

Save the Date | Halloween | Full Calendar

GET YOUR EXCLUSIVE THOTYSSEY GEAR HERE!

Monday (10.4.2021)

MONDAY (10.4.2021) Your daily guide to New York City nightlife programming.

UPTOWN / BRONX

HELL’S KITCHEN

MIDTOWN

CHELSEA

WEST VILLAGE

EAST VILLAGE / LES

  • CLUB CUMMING: “Broadway Video Jukebox” feat. Austin Ruffer (6pm)
  • NOWHERE: “Macho Mondays” feat. gogo boys & DJ Ryko (8pm)

BROOKLYN

QUEENS

NEW JERSEY

  • PARADISE: “Drag Wars” hosted by Cee’mour Cox (11pm)

ONLINE CONTENT (see all)

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

Save the Date | Halloween | Full Calendar

GET YOUR EXCLUSIVE THOTYSSEY GEAR HERE!

Sunday (10.3.2021)

SUNDAY (10.3.2021) Your daily guide to New York and New Jersey nightlife programming.

UPTOWN / BRONX

HELL’S KITCHEN

MIDTOWN

MIDTOWN EAST

CHELSEA

WEST VILLAGE

EAST VILLAGE

TRIBECA / NOLITA / LITTLE ITALY / LOWER MANHATTAN

BROOKLYN

QUEENS

WESTCHESTER

NEW JERSEY

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

Save the Date | Halloween | Full Calendar

Saturday (10.2.2021)

SATURDAY (10.2.2021) Your daily guide to New York queer nightlife.

UPTOWN / BRONX

HELL’S KITCHEN

MIDTOWN

MIDTOWN EAST / FLATIRON

CHELSEA

MEATPACKING

  • SNS BAR: DJs Antpuke, Code ABI, Thank You & Goth Jafar (9pm)

WEST VILLAGE

EAST VILLAGE

BROOKLYN

QUEENS

NEW JERSEY

Listed below are livestreamed and pre-recorded digital / virtual nightlife-centric content, broadcasted online.

ONLINE CONTENT (see all)

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

Save the Date | Halloween | Full Calendar