She’s about to leave us for the West Coast, but until then the Jersey Jewels shine bright like Mara! [Cover photo: Anthony Leo]
Thotyssey: Mara, hello! July is now cooked… how did the month treat you?
Mara: Hey hey hey! July was a whirlwind — a little chaotic, very sweaty, but overall a great month! I recovered from Pride, snuck in a little bit of travel, spent time with friends, and of course attended some amazing parties. On top of that, I’ve been deep in prep for a big move to Los Angeles this September! So it’s been a mix of celebration and bittersweet goodbyes. NYC has really shown me love this summer, and I’m trying to soak in every last late night (or early morning) and vodka soda moment before I go. I’m also planning a big going-away bash-slash-birthday party at the end of August — so if you’re around, I want to see everyone have one last celebration before I hit the West Coast!
Have a great move! How long were you here, and where was your original hometown!
It’s been ten amazing years! Though I was born in Pittsburgh, I feel like I really grew up and into myself in NYC and have lived many lives in the process. The amount of endless opportunities brought me here, but I definitely found my queer self along the way; including coming out and being out. I definitely kept the work hard play hard mentality of Pittsburgh with me here though.
Tell us about how you entered the nightlife world here.
It’s been a journey! The pandemic was a big wakeup call for me… I always knew I was queer, but made up a lot of excuses on why I wasn’t coming out of the closet. I finally realized life was too short, and instead of having a “what could go wrong” mentality, I started to ask what could go right. Once I started going out in nightlife I definitely found not just my community, but my chosen family. I also realized I love being able to connect people together, which led into hosting, which eventually led me into doing drag. Wouldn’t change a thing!
What do you think is the key to being a good host in a nightlife party setting?
Not to oversimplify it, but a good vibe! Every night is probably someone’s first time out — at that party, or at that venue. You’re there not just to bring people, but to make sure they have fun and come back! I try to make sure I’m talking to at least one person I’ve never met, and then I can bring them into my circle. That’s one of my favorite parts of hosting and being out. If you know me, you know I stay chit chatting.
Werk! And now what’s your drag like, as far as looks and numbers go?
My drag can be a little bit of everything, because I like to pull from where I’m currently at in life and what is inspiring me! Being an AFAB queen, I feel like I have an open playing field because I’ve already gone outside of expectations even doing drag. It’s always going to be pretty and sexy, but I also try not take myself too seriously. I was a performer growing up, so everything will have a little tongue-in-cheek nod in it. My very first number was “When You’re Good to Mara,” a play on Chicago’s “When You’re Good to Mama” to give you an idea of what you can expect. That one has stuck around, and was of course included when I competed (and placed!) in Janelle No 5’s “Are You the Ultimate Diva?” competition. Also, always be prepared for a split… as long as I’ve stretched beforehand.
Has The Rosemont been a home base for you since you entered nightlife?
Hahaha, well I do like to say that all roads lead to The Rosemont! I’ve definitely spent many nights there, but I’ve got home bases everywhere! You never know where I’ll pop up.
For now, we do know you’ll be back there this Sunday for “Jersey Jewels”– you’ll performing / hosting with Prima Love, and DJs Hope 808 and P_A_T will be on board as well!
“Family Jewels” is always a ki, and bringing in a Jersey Shore element is going to make it that much better. I’m Gym-tanning-laundry-ing as we speak!
Where else might we be able to find you for the rest of the summer?
I have a few things in the works, so keep an eye on my Instagram! Can’t say too much yet, but trust me, there will be several opportunities to give me a kiss, a hug, a tip, or make me regret my moving decision before I say Bye Bi and head out West at the beginning of September! Mother out! *kiss*
So we must end with: when you hop off the plane at LAX, will you have a dream, a cardigan, both, or neither?
You will never catch me in a cardigan! I’ll take the California Dreaming though. And a Chappell Roan song will be on!
Thanks, Mara!
Check Thotyssey’s calendar for Mara’s upcoming appearances, and follow her on Instagram.
Thotyssey 