What fresh Hell(‘s Kitchen) is this? Lucifer is the Devil you will WANT to know this season, as they light the fire of your weekends with two new parties!
Thotyssey: Hi Lucifer, Happy Pride Month! Does the devil do rainbows, lol?
Lucifer: Hello! You know, it’s Next Season Demonic. It’s in season… I heard rainbows were trendy this month.
What’s your favorite type of summer look to sport this time of year?
Honestly, this time around I’ve been up’ing my wardrobe for the heat! I currently have some hats with horns and shirts with wings in production that I want to incorporate into my outfits! I would say a staple piece is my Teddy Crucifix Necklace by HEAV3N. Shout out to them! Sometimes I like to look spooky, but I wouldn’t be surprised if you caught me looking like a frat boy… I think they call that “trade.” It depends on the day!
Mixing it up for the masses! So for all the unschooled out there, how might you best describe your role(s) in NYC nightlife today?
My role encompasses being a curator, producer, and flyer designer, and I occasionally have the pleasure of hosting parties! I’m never opposed to hosting parties for other curators.
As a curator, I oversee every aspect of the event. I am responsible for selecting the hosts, gogos, drag queens, DJs, and sponsors. I bring the party to life, transforming it from a concept on paper to an unforgettable reality.
Where are you from originally, and what were you’re early interests and pursuits?
I am from from Houston, Texas, specifically from a neighborhood called Aldine (Greenspoint). From a young age, I’ve had a diverse array of interests. Throughout my school years, I was recognized as Student of the Year nearly every year (except for one in high school). My passion for student advocacy led me to serve on the student advisory committee for the superintendent of one of Texas’s largest school districts. Additionally, I held the position of class president. I was actively involved in various fairs, and had the privilege of presenting at the Texas Bob Bullock Museum in Austin.
My love for public speaking took me across the United States, where I delivered speeches on topics ranging from business to comedy. Balancing my ambitions, I also worked two jobs during high school.
In total, I participated in about twenty-three extracurricular activities, always striving to achieve more. My wide-ranging interests and ambitious pursuits have always driven me to overachieve and seek new challenges. If I had to narrow it down, my goal is to help people discover a sense of belonging. I aim to evoke emotions and make people feel connected.
How did you discover NYC nightlife?
I am a United States Air Force veteran. Fun fact: as I was out-processing, I did research into NYC nightlife. I always wanted to work at The Q; I never got a chance to, unfortunately.
Somehow, I ended up as a hospitality manager for the lord’s chicken, Chick-fil-A. I was absolutely miserable, and honestly mistreated by my supervisor due to my queerness. I eventually left that job, as Lucifer did not belong, lol!
Then, I met George Maestre, who oversees Boxers and Hush. He connected me with Hush’s management, and I became a barback at Hush. I was a little wild; I wasn’t your ordinary barback. I dressed up crazy, and I had a lot of fun!
I took some time off (a year), and then George brought me back as a host of “BOPS.” Then, I slowly but surely became a curator of the party. I want to take this time to shout him out for everything he does; he’s one of my role models in nightlife. I really appreciate him, and I honestly see him as one of my mentors. He’s motivational, and I really look up to him.
Beside George, Jon Ali gave me my first hosting gig at Playhouse. One last thing: I want to thanks Boxers, Hush, Playhouse, Balcon and Fresco’s Grand Cantina for helping me build a platform. You all have contributed to my life in such a positive manner!
As a nightlife curator and producer, do you have any significant “branding” or tricks of the trade for your events?
Actually, I’m am a marketing geek; some of my work has been “ghost bought” by major hospitality corporations. You may have stayed or eaten at their venues. I have done marketing on a global scale.
Along with that, I used to raise money for my high school’s JROTC program, as I facilitated and helped lead a program with an event company. This event company would give us a large donation in order for us to work these events. This program allowed the senior JROTC class to go from Houston to Washington DC for free for an entire week! Due to this event company, I was able to work with big hitters: Samsung (TX office), City of Port Lavaca and more! I guess you can say New York City’s nightlife atmosphere is a smaller playground for me, but it requires way more production to stand out.
The event you were a part of, “BOPS,” has been Boxers HK’s long-running Saturday night party. What was it like to be a part of that?
It was truly a remarkable journey! I encountered numerous lessons, faced many setbacks, and celebrated significant achievements. The entire experience was an invaluable learning opportunity, for which I am profoundly grateful.
“BOPS” is getting a makeover, I hear.
The “BOPS” rebranding to “RUSH” encapsulates the essence of New York City’s vibrant nightlife, bringing a dynamic and edgy experience that thrives on the exhilarating rush of euphoria. Showcasing New York’s freshest drag queens alongside seasoned veterans, “RUSH” offers a unique mentorship platform where the new generation can learn the intricacies of production and networking. This isn’t a drag show; it’s an immersive learning experience that prepares drag artists for both impromptu and meticulously rehearsed performances.
Far from being merely a party with drag acts, “RUSH” features choreographed dances with a variety of props and movements, creating a 360-degree experience for attendees. Adding to the excitement is the “Rush Boys,” who brings a touch of sexiness to balance the playful drag, enhancing the overall atmosphere. Our resident DJ keeps the energy high with captivating beats, ensuring an interactive and unforgettable night. The trio of elements—drag, the Rush Boy, and the DJ—come together to create a dream team for an edgy and fun-filled party. And let’s not forget our hosts, the latest and greatest from New York, who guide you through the night with flair and charisma.
“RUSH” marks a new chapter in my life, closing the “BOPS” era and showcasing my personal growth. This transformation period is reflected in the event, designed to make you feel confident, free, and liberated. I want everyone to feel a deeper connection to the community as soon as they experience the “RUSH!”
The Boxers team and I concluded that this past weekend served as the “RUSH” teaser. We felt it was sentimental and right to give the “BOPS” branding one final celebration. This weekend will be the last “BOPS!” “RUSH” will officially begin on June 15, 2024.
But we still have an all new Lucifer experience coming to us this weekend! What can you tell us about this?
Around last August, I began to have feelings of depression and a sense of being lost. I found myself uncertain about many things, and realized I needed a break for my mental health. However, the demands of my life at the time didn’t allow for that. I was weighed down by numerous negative factors that I didn’t let go of soon enough. I clung to hope, and held onto things that ultimately made me anxious and were unhealthy for me.
I wasn’t prioritizing my health, and as a result I gained weight. When it became noticeable, some community members teased me about it… which made me feel worse. At the start of my nightlife career, I was very muscular, but I’ve since lost some of that definition. Although I’ve come to accept it, it really bothered me for a while.
Ultimately, this inspired me to curate this party at Balcon. Many in our community idolize individuals who appear god-like. And while that’s fine, I believe it’s time for us to evolve and celebrate everyone in our party, taking this mission earnestly to heart. Why? Because everyone loves sex, lol!
“NØ RSTXXXN” promises an unforgettable evening filled with the allure of dance, the enchantment of music, and an ambiance that exudes sexuality, sensuality, and creativity for all. “NØ RSTXXXN” is crafted to be a night where the Brooklyn queer experience intersects with the hypersexuality of Hell’s Kitchen, offering guests an experience that tantalizes the senses and ignites the spirit. This event aims to be a beacon for those who appreciate sex positivity for all.
This sets it apart from what’s currently offered in the HK community. I recognize the disparity within our community, and am committed to addressing it. I hope people embrace my mission of inclusivity and creating a space for everyone. This party features hosts of all body types and diverse walks of life. It showcases electrifying music that is sure to get you moving. And a show that will leave you… well… horny! Oops!
I’m a big boy who loves to party, but this isn’t a big boy party—it’s a celebration for everyone! Whether you’re a member of the LGBTQ+ community, or anyone in between, you’re welcome here. This is an inclusive space for all types of people (builds and identifications), from hunks to twinks, twunks, bears, femme, masc and beyond.
Love this! By the way I’m sure everyone under 25 will get it right away… but for the mercy of us Tragic Oldz, what does the name “NØ RSTXXXN” actually mean, lol?
Lol! “NØ RSTXXXN” stands for no restrictions. Honestly, the name was a collaboration between Lanyé Armön and me. We were inspired by the idea of having no dietary restrictions! A bit random and off-theme. We thought “no restriction” sounded exciting, because, let’s be real: who doesn’t love the freedom to eat!? I know the party isn’t focused on food, lol. And we added the” XXX” to make it sexy. Such a fun name origin story!
And this just in: I see you will also be hosting a fun “Latinx Pride party” at 3 Dollar Bill in Brooklyn called ¡ORGULLO! on Friday, June 21st!
Anything to add?
Honestly, I want to take this time to remind people to smile. Life is a journey… enjoy it. I hope these words inspire people, and they learn a bit more about why I do things; most people don’t often hear this side of me. Dream big! The world is beautiful; you just have to find the beauty within it.
Lovely and timely words! Happy Pride, Lucifer!
Check Thotyssey’s calendar for Lucifer’s upcoming appearances, and follow them on Instagram.
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