What do You Mean That's Tonight?

Let me just start off by saying, I'm a moron.  There.  Now that I've gotten that off my chest, here's why.

Tonight starts two shows that I like a lot.  Two shows that, as a blogger of things drag, should have made me specifically ask for the night off.  What am I talking about? Honey, if you haven't heard, then you must be living under a rock.  Tonight starts both RuPaul's Drag Race, Season 6, AND Watch RuPaul's Drag Race with Taffy Pulls.  Both star drag queens.  Both make me very happy.  AND, both are going to be unavailable to me, because I didn't realize that I should have asked for the time off...So, I'm stuck working tonight.  I get out of work after both shows will be over.  It's depressing.

This was the Taffy Pulls I first met, when I moved to Portland.  I knew of her, before I moved here, because she and my ex knew of each other through Facebook.  Coming from a small town, where drag consisted of what essentially boiled down to the literal sense of it, "Boys in dresses, sometimes with full beards," this particular look was not something I was at all familiar with.  Then again, I also believe that the first time I met this Taffy person, it happened to be a Harbor Masters night at Blackstones...thus the look, and my extreme discomfort.  I actually spent the following couple of days wondering if I had actually made the right decision to move...

Flash forward two years, and (where did the time go? Has it really been that long?) I consider Taffy to be one of my closest friends.  Mostly, because I don't like to let people get close to me.  Over time, I got to know Taffy as both Taffy and Shane.  Taffy and I bonded over the fact that Shane and I worked for the same company, although, at different times, and even at the same home.  Small world, right?  Taffy and I share a self-deprecating sense of humor...although, hers is decidedly much sharper than mine.  Because I try not to embrace my inner "Rose Nyland". I'm often the butt of a joke, but I don't want to admit it. I would like to say that Taffy actually inspires me to be me.  The fact that she can go from one show, as a Spoon, to the next as Stevie Nicks, to the next with Gaga's beer can hair. She's not afraid. She even ran for city council! And, this is why I love her.

Taffy's RuPaul's Drag Race show opened my eyes a bit to all the intricacies of drag, and that what most people consider to be drag is just a small portion of what real drag is. (This is also a lesson that Dan and Shaunna Rai have been impressing on me for as long as I've known them.)  I mean, when I first started getting involved in the world of drag, my understanding of it, was what I got from movies like Mrs. Doubtfire, and Trick, or the posters for movies like Priscilla, Queen of the Desert or To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything, Julie Newmar.  In other words, drag was about attractive-ish men, who make really ugly women, but the world loves them anyway.

Over time, I've come to the realization, as I usually do, that it's not like that at all.  Sometimes in drag, the end result is much more beautiful than the beginning.  Sometimes, the whole thing looks like a mess, but it's planned out, that it's going to be a mess, and that's what's amazing about it.  Sometimes, queens border on scary.  Sometimes they're raunchy as hell.  Sometimes, they're as prim and proper as a Victorian corset.  Drag is a culture all of it's own.  And, there are just as many subcultures as you can imagine.

And, above it all, I've learned, through keeping this blog, that more than looking pretty, or getting attention (which are two reasons people actually do drag) the biggest thing with drag, is that you learn something about yourself.  You learn how to be better at what you're doing, if you're doing it.  You learn what you need to do to get the response you want from an audience.  And, if you're in the audience, you learn that there's nothing more interesting than a man in a dress (or a woman in men's clothing) because it will throw everything you know about people up in the air, and jumble all the pieces when they hit the ground.

And, what have I learned?  So much about myself.  I get jealous.  I get frustrated.  I wish some days, that I had the balls to get someone to "drag me up," and parade me around town, because nobody will know it's me.  I'm surprised every time someone tells me that they love my blog, because I don't stop to think that people actually read it.  I still have so much to learn. About drag. About life. About myself.  I have so many questions that I need to have answered. And, I'm a moron. Who loves drag, and the entire community.  Who is going to miss Taffy's first show of this season, and is going to have to watch RuPaul's Drag Race in reruns tonight, after work, to see the other half of the first episode that they didn't show online.

What it's Like to be a Bar Husband...

One of the interesting things that's going to be coming in the near future, is Shaunna Rai's guest bar tending stint at Blackstones.  She's been talking about bar tending at one of the local bars, pretty much, since I've known her.  Because, really, who is EVER going to forget about being served their drinks by a drag queen?  And, who is going to not tell everyone they know about it.

So, this is going to be starting on Saturdays, right around March 15th.

In the meantime, Dan will be training, to learn where everything is, and how to make the drinks, and the pricing and all that stuff, on Wednesdays for Happy Hour.

Up until recently had never considered what it would be like to be the other half of a bar tender.  To be completely honest, it's just like being the other half of a drag queen.  I knew it was going to be different than just going to the bar, like we normally do.  Because, I'd be sitting alone.  And, Dan (or Shaunna Rai) will be behind the bar, serving drinks.

Like so many other things that I've come to realize, by writing these blogs, I realized that I was jealous.  A) Because when I first moved to Portland, I'd hoped to become a bartender, at some point. and B) Because by sitting there watching, I got a little jealous of the guys who were flirting with him, while he was getting drinks ready for them.  The latter, I think, comes from the fact that I am an observer.  I watch people.  So, I notice the way people look at each other.  I notice the way that someone's fingers linger on someone else's just a second or two longer than is comfortable for most people.

So, what I need to remember, is that bartender Dan is going to be a character. Just like Shaunna Rai is a character.  Because, I know that he's going home with me at the end of the night.  And, flirting is all part of the game. It gets better tips.  As long as I can keep that in mind, then I'm going to be fine.  Because, for whatever reason, knowing that it's a character, makes it easier for me to deal with it.  There's some kind of separation that goes on in my mind that makes it all okay.  Yeah, I know. It's weird. But, it's me...

Nothing says High Fashion like a Bacon Top...

Next week is an important week for me.  Not only because I'm expecting callbacks from some potential jobs, but, because it's the premiere of RuPaul's Drag Race, Season 6.  And, it's the premiere of Watch RuPaul's Drag Race with Taffy Pulls.

I'm a little miffed with Logo for ignoring fans who have Android devices, and not iOS devices. (Only because if you have the app you get to watch the full first episode.

)  I got to watch the first half hour of the first episode, via a link from Facebook.  And, I've already decided on who I like and dislike, based on that information.  Although, if this season is anything like the last one, I'll go back and forth between a few people before settling on who I want for my final three.  Because, with any of these reality game shows, it's always about the final three.

My Contribution to Taffy's show last year.

Anyway, I can't tell which I'm more excited for, seeing the show, or seeing what Taffy has in store for us, this year.  I mean, after all, last year, I ended up being dragified.  So, it'll definitely be worth it to see what she's got going on.  I know she's already mentioned that she'll be Skyping with her mom.  Also, she'll be talking to TS Madison, an internet personality, during one of her shows.  And those are just the things that I know about.  With Taffy, you never can expect to know everything that's going on.  So, I'm ready for the surprises to start!

If you haven't already watched the first half hour, there are going to be spoilers, so stop reading!

Adore Delano:  Danny Noriega from American Idol.  I didn't watch AI back then, so I still have no idea who he is.  But, he looks less like a "lesbian Jonas Brother", I think that's what he said in the interview room... I want to like him, because I think he's an underdog.  But, I'm having a hard time with his whining. Although, I had to laugh at his "Polish remover" comment.

Ben de la Creme: Wait, was that Michelle Visage?  No, that was Ben.  Okay. The resemblance to everyone's favorite judge is uncanny.  So, I wasn't sure, but of the first episode girls, I think she may quite possibly be my favorite.  The cheesecake on the runway, just did it for me.

Gia Gunn:  Not sure about her.  The first thing that comes to mind about her, was her Hula Hoop purse, at her walk-in.  I'm going to go crazy if Ru keeps up with the G-g-g-gia thing (like the chia pets commercials).

Laganja Estranga:  I feel like I could really like her, or really dislike her.  I'm not sure yet.  She's hyper, and the death drop, or whatever she did, upon arrival was awesome.  She's one I'll watch, and decide just a bit later.

April Carrion:  I've seen pictures of her outside of the show.  She's cute as a boy, and beautiful as a girl.  What was she thinking with her walkin outfit?  She looked like a boy scout who just jumped out of an airplane. I want to see her do well though.  She's one that I like.

Kelly Mantle:  She threw Willam a little bit shade, in her intro.  And, she looks a lot like Christine Baranski. That's about all I remember about her... No, wait...the "bacon" top...

Vivacious:  The alien head...that's all I can say.  I get that she's creative, and thinking outside the box, but she doesn't need to hit us in the head with the box to prove the point.  21 years worth of experience in drag, I hope that she can pull it out, and not end up going home in the first episode.

Ru's twist of only showing the first seven...well, I'm not thrilled about it.  I want to see ALL the queens, all at once.  Not have two different premieres.

I want to see Bianca Del Rio, whose look I'm in love with.  And I want to see Darienne Lake.  (She's following me on twitter now, after I posted a portrait of her to my Twitter page, and tagged her in it.) And, Jocelyn Fox, who will be guest bar tending, at Mainestreet in Ogunquit, in May...so, I'm probably going to get to meet her.  (Exciting!)

And, my boy Mike Ruiz was on the first episode. Sigh.  And, Adam Lambert. Smaller sigh.

I was a bit disappointed by most of the runway looks.  But, it's the first episode, so they've got time to get better.

Give to Me Your Leather, Take From Me, My Lace

Shaunna's Cousin from Deliverance...

 Even a little snow can't keep a show from going on...Thank Goodness.  And, you always know, when Shaunna Rai's "cousin" shows up, that you're in for a VERY interesting night.

After a drink, I was asked to call a cab, since I had to stake my claim on a free parking spot, due to the parking ban, knowing that the lot would be full by the time the show was over.  So, I did.  More than an hour and a half before we needed the cab to be here.  I thought nothing of it, as there was no reason for me to.  I received the confirmation that someone would be here by 8:30pm to pick us up, and no calls saying that that was inaccurate.

So, the girls got ready, and we did the usual photo shoot, before we leave the house.  Shaunna had a couple of shots done, because she's modeling nails for a company called X-Tar Cosmetics.  And, because I'm going to be bored for the next week, due to a severe shortage of hours that I'll be working, I wanted something that I could play with, for a poster to promote Shaunna Rai's Happy Hours, at Blackstones.  And, Vanila got a couple of shots done as well, just because, well, that's what we do. That's how we roll here...

So, finally, it's time for us to go wait for the cab.  Our neighbors arrived home, and we got to listen in to a phone conversation (because they were on the stoop, and yelling into the phone.)  8:30 came and went, and the cab wasn't here.  Vanila called the cab company, who proceeded to tell her, that "It's not our problem that when you called to order the cab, the dispatcher was new, and didn't know that we didn't have any cabs available."

Seriously, Unacceptable.

Abbey Road Taxi quoted us a 10 minute wait, and they were here sooner than that.  And, the show was back on the slippery, snowy road.  And, I started breathing again.  Because, in my crazy head, somehow, I had screwed up the taxi thing.

Upon arrival, I ordered drinks for Shaunna and I.  Shaunna was not performing in the show, so it was a different kind of night than the usual show night.  And, I was pretty excited.  My Facebook page will say otherwise, but I have few enough friends...but I had friends, who Dan/Shaunna Rai didn't know, coming in from Chicago, to see us and the show.

Shows normally start relatively early, like around 9 or 9:30pm.  This one, was scheduled for a 10pm start.  Around 9:15, I started to think that the snow was keeping the boys away.  And, I was a bit disappointed.  And, then, Brian and Patrick walked in.  And, they brought Liz, one of my favorite people from when I worked for the bank.  Big hugs all around, and I got a couple of slaps for leaving the bank...which, as much as I hate to say it, was one of the best choices that I've made for myself.

Introductions were made, and things went well.  And, I found out that I'm being stalked from Chicago.  Well, the boys have been watching the progressions in my life since I originally became single, up through now.  And, for the second time in a week, I heard, "You've gained so much confidence, and you seem so much happier. I'm proud of you."  The boys were actually in town to look for wedding venues, for their upcoming wedding.

I spent the weeks prior to the show, convinced that someone was going to be singing the Stevie Nicks/Don Henley song, "Leather and Lace", because I kept hearing the name of the show was Leather and Lace...it was really Leather and Love.  I need to pay better attention to promotion materials, and keep my head out of things.

The show started, and I was in a spot different from my usual perch by the front of the stage.  I spent the entire show, standing, trying to stay out of people's way, but, keep them out of my way, as well.  It was a delicate balance to not knock people in the head for getting too close to me.

It would be great, if I could actually remember after the show is over, what songs were performed.  But, I spend so much time, focused on taking the pictures, that I tend to forget to pay attention to the music.

What I did focus on though, was the performers.  Danielle was trying a new look, with her mesh (fishnet?) outfit, and managed to pull it off well.  I remember when I first heard about the show, that this particular outfit was the topic of a lot of speculation.  Cherry Lemonade, who had put a tax return into a chestplate, was looking bustier than I've ever seen her.  She was on it with both her lip sync number, and with her live number.  I have to say, when you've got the voice, you need to play it up.  And, Cherry has the voice.  Madame Sheena always puts on a good lip sync.   Vanila, who is usually pretty energetic in her performances wasn't quite there for this show.  This would probably be because she spent the entire week before the show, hacking up lungs, and dealing with a bum tooth.  The performance was good, just, I could tell she wasn't feeling it.

Shaunna Rai, after the show, did her mingling thing.  Because it was a Valentine's day show, she handed out some Cherry Blow Pops, that we'd bought earlier.  To each recipient, she made a request.  "Tell me how long it takes you to get to my center."  (I don't think anyone actually did mention how long it took...)  She managed to find the two girls who had never been to Blackstones before, much less a drag show...and welcomed them with her Blow Pops.

While she did her thing, I checked in with Vanila, to see kind of where we were at, as far as needing to get another cab.  Vanila went downhill quickly after the show.  And, so the cab was called pretty close to when I asked.  "It'll be about 10 minutes," was the cab company response.  And, like before, since it was the same company, they were there much sooner than the 10 minutes.  Vanila booked it for the cab, while I found Shaunna to tell her that the cab was here.  She said she'd be right out.  And then got caught up with taking pictures with fans.  So, when she finally got to the cab, I wasn't sure that she was going to get a fan out of the cabbie.



I just have to remember, that miss Shaunna Rai, is quite resourceful, and makes it hard to NOT like her.  She climbed in, after Vanila bribed the driver to not leave without her.  As she got in, she mentioned something about being good and covering up her "hoo-hah."  And, the conversation went something like this:

Cabbie: I don't know what a hoo-hah is.
Shaunna: If I have to explain it, I'll have to charge you.  Here, have my cherry.
Cabbie: What is it?
Shaunna: It's a Blow Pop.  It's my cherry.  Tell me how long it takes to get to my center.

Outwardly, I was laughing, because the driver was an older gentleman.  Friendly as all get out.  And he didn't seem at all thrown by the fact that he had two drag queens in his cab.  But, inwardly, I was cringing, because, this is a person that none of us knows.  And, he could very well take offense at anything that Shaunna said, and it could all blow up.  Fortunately, nothing like that actually happened.  The guy laughed along with us.  And, he told us a bit about the company, and was happy to hear that Vanila was now going to be a repeat customer.

Then, just like that, the night was over.  We were home.  The drag came off, the TV came on. And, I ended up being the last one awake.

Not a bad way to spend a Saturday night.  Good friends, good show at a great bar.

What are YOU Looking At?

Pretty close to a year ago, I posted about what it's like for me when Dan goes shopping for Shaunna Rai. How people stare or glare at him/us for looking around in the women's clothing.  At the time, I thought it was super uncomfortable, for me to do the shopping with him.

The uncomfortable feeling has gone away, mostly. The anger toward people who make no bones about letting me know that they're staring at us, though... This is a new thing for me.  Anger is a feeling that I avoid at all possible costs.  It's a very uncomfortable feeling for me.  (And, partly the reason that I earned the nickname, Stephanie Dickless, in junior high...because I wouldn't get angry and fight back).

So, why has a feeling of discomfort morphed into a less comfortable feeling of anger?

I think part of it is, after 33 years of doing nothing, when it comes to fighting, I'm over being the pushover. I want someone to say something to me, so that I can just lose my cool, and essentially, freak out on them. And, part of it is, people know what's right or wrong.  I don't glare at old ladies, when they're picking up sweaters covered in felt snowmen, or overwhelmed with sequins and beading, because I know that's wrong.  I also know, that they're going to look like the old ladies that they are, when they wear them, because that's just how things go.

After taking a trip to Marden's in Biddeford, and having no less than 4 different people staring at us, as Dan was meandering through the shoes, and tops in the ladies' section, I mentioned the staring.  Dan, after 20 years of doing this, is completely oblivious to it, unless something is specifically said to him, or within earshot.  A year in, and I'm still in the "they're staring at me" mode, although, they're probably not really staring at ME.  He told me about how, one of his exes used to follow behind, when Dan and his other drag friends would go shopping, because the ex was super sensitive to the other shoppers, and wanted to be there, to stop anything, if it started.  And, I get it.  When I thought about it, on the drive home from Biddeford, I was kind of like, you know, part of me wants to have someone say something to me, because, for the first time in my life, "I WILL finish it."

That probably says a lot more about me, than I care to think about.

But, hey, a lady-boy needs to have some clothes too.  And, if shopping in a public place is how she wants to get those clothes, who has the right, to say that it's wrong? I don't tell you where you can shop, so don't tell us where Shaunna Rai should get her clothes.  And if you do, lord help you, because I may just go psycho on your ass.

Pull Yourself Together...

 2014 is not off to a good start for people I know.  My uncle, went in for a triple bypass surgery this morning. My former babysitter, Crystal, passed away from Cancer, at the end of January.  And, last week, the Maine Drag Community, lost one of their own, also to Cancer.

I did not personally know Topaz del Pollo, but I did see her perform once.  Dan is the one who knew her. 

I've come to the conclusion that the drag community tends to use Social Media sources more often than your average person does.  And, it shows.  I read the news of her passing on Facebook, and it wasn't long, before there was a huge outpouring of sympathy for both her biological, and drag survivors.  

I'd witnessed this a couple of other times. Once with the passing of Erica Andrews, Roxxxy Andrews's drag mother, and once with Coco Montrese's death hoax.  The news gets out, and then, the internet blows up with it.  It's mind-boggling, to me, how much love queens get from their fans.  And, how much they give the fans back in return.

Within a day, there was a benefit being discussed.  And, so March Dragness, an event in Bangor, is going to be dedicated to Topaz.  The theme for the show is Legends in Concert.  The event information made me laugh, because it says that performers will become a Legend; living or non-living...which, instantly makes me think zombie...although, I know that's not what they actually mean by that. 

I'm saddened by the loss of Topaz, because the drag community in Maine is small enough, and divided enough as it is, without losing members.  My heart goes out to those who knew her well.

Meet: Shaunna Rai

You're probably thinking, "Wait, you're dating Shaunna Rai, how come she's the third Meet: Insert Drag Queen Name Here installment?"

That, my friends, is because Shaunna Rai didn't answer any of the questions until after Bunny Wonderland, and Vanila Honey-Bush.  And, I'm going in order of how I received them.

How did you get your start in drag?
I was 20 years old, my roommate, one night, said, "You would make a pretty queen." So, we had a painting party, and Shaunna Rai was born.  I got into a bar, Metro, in Lewiston, at the time, and stayed 20 minutes, and left.  I felt weird.




How did Shaunna Rai get her name?
My roomie, who painted my face, his name was Kevin, named me.

What is your favorite part of doing drag?
The painting.  I love becoming a work of art.
 I have to say, that's my favorite part of watching Shaunna get into character, too. Between the smells of the makeup, and just watching the work that goes into the look, it's just amazing to watch.

Queens tend to get categorized (ie. Comedy, Club Kid, Pageant Queen, etc.) What category do you consider yourself to be?
I am not sure. I have done pageants, but would say show girl queen, fishy queen (real looking).
After getting multiple answers on more than one of this question, I realize that drag queens don't necessarily just fit into one category.  

Have you ever experienced stage fright while performing? How did you overcome it?
No, as Shaunna Rai, never. I love it. It's like a drug for me. As Shaunna, I am never scared. It's weird.  I guess, I feel she can do anything Dan can't. 

Have you ever won any titles or awards?
Yes, First Runner Up at PJ's for Miss Newcomers 1997, Queen of Southern Maine Pride. I was Miss LA (Lewiston/Auburn) Pride 2004 and Miss Androscoggan, as well. 

Tell me about some of your (good or bad) backstage experiences with other queens.
Stealing queens are shady,  but I am known as one to not fuck with 'cause I will not let anyone leave til I check a bitch.  Also, you learn about the girls backstage. It's small talk. The day we had. Things going on in life. Not at all what you think the talk would be.

Do you do your own hair, makeup, costuming? Or do you have help with some or all of the above?
Hair and makeup, yes, I do my own. Costumes are by BGB. Miss E'on if you're nasty....lol. But, I am teaching myself to sew, with help.

Tell me about a memorable adventure that you've had that you would not have had, if not for drag.

Traveling of any kind. I think food runs to Denny's at night.  The most fun, was the First Friday Art Walk shows that I did with Vanila.  Also, all the fun queens I meet and have met. It's kind of like a family. We are dysfunctional, but we are a family.

When you're out of drag, what do you do? (ie. Work, fun, etc.)

I am a hair stylist/makeup artist. For fun, no drag things. I love cars, the beach, road trips, adventures.

Tell me anything else that you think might be important for me to know, to get inside the head of a drag queen.

I think most do it as an escape. To be something they aren't in everyday life. Drag doesn't make me less of a man, and I don't want to be alone for the rest of my life, because of drag.

That last sentence, is probably the most powerful thing that I've come across, so far in my exploration of drag.  I've never believed that drag would make anyone less of a man.  As far as I'm concerned, it takes more balls, to put on a dress, and put yourself out there as someone of the opposite gender, than it does to be a "real man."  

And, maybe, I'm just open minded, or something, but I can't see anyone not being able to deal with someone because they do drag.  Why would you get over a relationship, over something that makes the other person happy?  So what if it means that he puts on makeup and a dress? A happy relationship comes about, when all parties involved are happy.

Meet: Vanila Honey-Bush

So, as most of you know, Vanila Honey-Bush is my roommate. When I first met Ryan (Vanila) he was with Dan, at a Khris Francis show.  And, if I'd realized at that time, that they were not a couple, I could have saved myself some poor decisions made during singlehood...I can't remember if I met Vanila before or after Ryan moved to Connecticut.  I want to say it was before, and I know I'll be corrected later, if I'm wrong about it. 

Anyway, Vanila was the second person to respond to my plea for research help.  And, it's always good to find out more about people you live with anyway, right? Especially, those with multiple personalities...

If you read the Meet: Bunny Wonderland post, you'll recognize the questions, as it's a set set of questions, that I put out there.

How did you get your start in drag?

I started drag when I was 19. My mother had a fascination with wigs and make-up. When she died, I entered a drag competition in Yboy City Florida wearing her hair and clothes.  I started really to pay homage to her but then discovered I loved it!

How did you get your drag name? (I should've, and probably will later, asked who named Delani?)

My original drag name was Delani Stevens. Didn't really have any meaning to it. I changed my drag name in 2012 to Vanila Honey-Bush at the request of my roommates at the time. I was drinking a tea and the name of the tea was Vanilla Honeybush and they said that it was me!

What is your favorite part of doing drag? 

My favorite part of doing drag is the social reactions. I love being the center of attention no matter where I go. Lets face it, queens certainly get noticed.

That's for sure.  Queens definitely get noticed, for a myriad of reasons.  

Queens tend to get categorized (ie. Comedy, Club Kid, Pageant Queen) What category do you consider yourself to be?

 I would probably get thrown into pageant queen strictly for my more "fishy" look, but I like to think I can be a healthy combo of many categories.

Have you ever experienced stage fright while performing? How did you overcome it?

 I have always been ok with the stage and spotlight. Don't ever really have to overcome that.

Have you ever won any titles/awards?

 I have won one title and currently still hold the title of Miss Blackstones 2013

Tell me about some of your (good or bad) backstage experiences with other queens.

Backstage with queens is not pretty. Think about it, most of the time back stage is spent changing and re-applying so tucks are popping and wigs are off.

Is it sad that I was almost disappointed by this answer. I was hoping to hear more horror stories, like the boots freakout. But, I get it. This is a good way to stay on everyone's good side.  Besides, if I grill her more, I'm sure I can get some dirt on some bad backstage experiences...something worse than seeing someone pop a tuck...

Do you do your own hair, makeup, costuming? Or do you have help with some or all of the above?

 I do my own make-up and buy my own clothes. Haven't really been a huge costume kind of girl. When it comes to hair, I buy. I could style my own if I wanted, however I have an awesome friend... Shaunna Rai who helps with that.

Tell me about a memorable adventure that you've had that you would not have had if not for drag. 

Most memorable drag adventure.... hmmmm thats a hard one.  I may have to come back to you on that as most of the times are quite memorable.

She's right with this. In just the year plus, that I've known her, there have been some very memorable times.  I think the one that stands out the most (for me), was when she and Shaunna Rai faced off as Kelly Clarkson and Pink, respectively, in Boston, within days of the Boston Marathon bombing...

When you're out of drag, what do you do? (ie. Work, fun,etc.)

 I tend to be in drag a lot.. I enjoy it. My boss the other day, said to me... I am a 9-5 boy, so I can be an 8-1 girl. I work in International Travel and will be out and about almost every night. Im extremely social.

Tell me anything else that you think might be important for me to know to get inside the head of a drag queen. 

When it comes to a queen don't ever assume you know the reasoning behind why they dress. I find it best just to let it ride.

Meet: Bunny Wonderland

Bunny Wonderland

If you recall, a couple of weeks ago, I decided that I needed to do some research into what it's like to be a drag queen, because I intend to try to make a graphic novel about it...at some point.  And, I wrote down a bunch of interview questions, and posted it all over the place.  Because, when you live with drag queens, you know a lot of other drag queens, and therefore it should be easy to get a whole lot of answers, right?  Wrong.  I literally got two responses.  Well, three, because Dan/Shaunna Rai will answer any questions I have any time I ask.

So, as a way of keeping track of who answered, and a way of promoting for them, I'm going to go out on a limb, and give out some of the answers that I received.

The first, and fastest, to get back to me was Bunny Wonderland.  I met Bunny for the first time, at the Lewistunning Dragapalooza, last summer, when Shaunna Rai co-hosted it.  I'd heard her name, but knew nothing about what of drag she would be categorized in, and so went in totally unprepared for the act.  What came through, was immediately clear, she is hilarious.  The act started with A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes, and moved through The Sound of Music, right on to a demonic possession from The Exorcist.  In short, my mind was blown.

So, who is Bunny Wonderland?

Amber Snow, Bunny Wonderland, Shaunna Rai

Bunny's portrayer, Knate, actually got his start, doing drag, hosting Rocky Horror Picture Show, at the Movies at Exchange Street, in Portland, back in 2001. Bunny made her first appearance at an AIDS Benefit Drag Show, in 2005. Now that I've paraphrased some of her bio, I'll let her speak. "As usual, my first time out of the gate was...well...less than polished. But, I had a taste of the freeness that Drag brings, and with it a happy outlet for gender expression, and needless to say, I was hooked. I was approached by Southern Maine Pride, to be the Princess of Pride in 2006, and to act as a Youth Ambassador. I gave Bunny a full makeover, bought some "cute" dresses and started hanging with other queens (Shaunna Rai, Ariel Gibbs, Amber Snow, etc.) I learned a few tricks of the trade, and developed my character.  Bunny slowly transitioned from a retro kitsch queen to full blown punk debutante in a matter of months. She still to this day has a touch of retro style, and mouth of a sailor. I always wanted Bunny to be sweet as pie, and community oriented. I always have Bunny be the one when someone else says "NO," she says, "Yes, and?""

My personal favorite part of learning about drag queens is how they got their names.  Because, I don't know, it's just fun.  They run the gamut of "First Pets Name+Street You Grew Up On=Drag Name" (In my case, it would be Spice Andrews.)How'd Bunny get hers?
"I've been a vegetarian for close to 15 years. Vegetarian=Bunny.  I have always had an affinity for strong fictional female characters, and my first show was at the hookah bar in Portland, ME. Combined=Wonderland"

What's your favorite part of doing drag?
"The ability to make people laugh, think and be moved by a smart and clever performance is the reason I do drag. Hands down, nothing is more important to me than having someone walk away from a performance and go, "That was fucking awesome." I could lip sync to Beyonce for 7 mins and collect a fistful of tips, but honestly...that's not my speed. I also love the pomp and circumstance that comes with "putting on the mask." People treat you very differently while in drag, and I kinda like it. I can do, say, and be something I normally wouldn't be."

Queens tend to get categorized. (ie. Comedy, Club kid, Pageant Queen) What category do you consider yourself to be?
Campy, Esotreric Punk Debutant

Bunny Wonderland

I have experiened stage fright every time that I've ever done anything on stage.  Have you ever experienced stage fright while performing? How did you overcome it?
I have only experienced stage fright as Bunny once. In 2007, I performed my largest performance to date, hosting Oberlin Drag Ball in Ohio, close to 2000 people. I was to be sent down an elevator for my opening appearance and I was terrified. I waited for close to 30 mins for the damn thing to go down and for the show to start. I kept saying "Let's get this started, I'm scared being up here!" but the show never started. Finally, someone came to me, up in the stage grid and said, "We're waiting for your call to start!" I had no idea that I was supposed to give the word. I said go, and I felt the thing go down to the stage and I almost died of fright.

Have you ever won any titles/awards?
Princess of Southern Maine Pride 2006-2008.

Good or bad, tell me about some of your backstage experiences with other queens.
I have always had an easy time getting along with other queens. I have seen everything from catty comments, to full blown fights but I have never been on the receiving end of them (thankfully). There was one time backstage, while I was hosting an amateur drag competition that a queen competing threw a HUGE hissy fit trying to get a thigh high boot on. She literally lost her damn mind, screaming, crying, kicking, swearing, hitting her friend to help her. I remember thingking to myself, "I will never take drag as seriously as that girl..." (btw, this is NO one we know, this girl lasted very shortly on the scene, mostly due to her bad attitude). I was in shock at what I was seeing, and couldn't believe that someone would react so violently to putting on a fucking boot...

Shaunna Rai does her own makeup, and hair. She sometimes hires out Benni Bernard for costumes, when it's not something that she can do on her own.  Do you do all your own hair, makeup and costuming? Or, do you have help with some or all of the above?
"I do my own makeup, hair and costumes. I usually buy wigs online and then style them myself, add hair, additions. Costumes, I buy a silhouette I think works well for me, and add to it. Makeup has pretty much always been the same "palate" if you will. With tweaks and the like thrown in over the years.

I've had so many "adventures, since I started hanging out with Dan/Shaunna Rai. Tell me about a memorable adventure that you've had that you would not have had if not for drag.
What I'm doing now would not be possible without my yeats as Bunny. I currently run a series at a professional theatre that combines drag, burlesque, film and onstage industry professionals from film. Basically, I host a night of cult films, and we have someone from that film do an onstage interview with Bunny. I've worked with everyone from Lloyd Kaufman (Toxic Avenger), Rae Dawn Chong (Color Purple, Commando) to Michael Finnell (Gremlins) and Noah Hathaway (The Neverending Story).

When you're out of drag, what do you do? (ie. Work, fun, etc.)
I work as a producer/arts programmer for Seacoast Repertory Theatre. I also am a resident actor for the Rep as well. I serve on a bunch of Arts boards including NHPTA (New Hampshire Professional Theatre Association) and the NH Chapter of TED Talks.

Obviously, I am not a drag queen, and I'm doing this to research what it is like to be one.  Tell me anything else that you think might be important for me to know, to get inside the head of a drag queen.
We crave attention. It is what fuels us. No matter what anyone says, it's always about attention and intention. And that, kind sir, is not a bad thing at all.

Happy Birthday, Dear Gay Guy

You would think that the nights of a drag show are the most fun for me.  While I enjoy them, this is mostly false.  The drag nights that are the most fun, are the impromptu, "I just wanna be pretty" nights. Friday night, was one such night.

The reason I enjoy these nights, more than drag shows, is because there's a lot less stress involved.  Every show night, there's the "Which outfits/wigs/accessories do I need to bring? Does my makeup look amazing? Am I drop dead gorgeous?" The stress leads to snappiness, and a general time where I avoid saying/doing anything, and making myself scarce.  If there's one thing that I've learned, in the past year, it's that you on't argue with a queen.  It's not in your best interest.

On, "I just wanna be pretty nights," all of that stress is gone.  The hardest decisions are still, what outfit and hair am I going to wear? But, there's not the same sense of urgency, to painting, and getting dressed up to go out.

Anyway, partway through the day, we decided that we were going to go out. And, then we were contacted by Andy, our new friend, who I talked about last time. It was his partner's birthday on Friday. So, the night on the town, was going to turn into a birthday party! What fun.

I'd deposited my check earlier in the day, so I figured that it was going to be all set.  When the girls started painting, I'd go out, and pick up a cake, and get a little extra money for drinks, and, everything would be all set.  I picked up the cake, and a couple of other things, and headed to the checkout.  The lines were full of people with carts full of crap.  And, here I am, with 3 things.  And, I hate lines. I hate shopping, in general, unless I can get in and out in less than 10 minutes. Finally, the lady in front of me gets up to the conveyor belt, and then says, "You go ahead of me." Shocked? Yes. People don't do that anymore.  I thanked her profusely, and then went to pay for my purchases.  I ran my card, and asked for cash back. And, it declined.  And, I started to freak out a little.  I ran it again, without the cash back, and it went through.  Weird, but okay.  At least I could leave now.  I thanked the lady again, and wished her a good evening.

I finally, decide, before I go home, I'm going to check the ATM, and see what's going on with my deposit?  And, it's not there.  I can't find anywhere that I actually deposited money into my account, despite the fact that I have a receipt from the teller saying that I did.  And, so I start panicking.  What the hell happened to the money?

I got home, and at this point, I'm freaking out.  And, I kinda exploded.  I was ready to murder the teller, for stealing my money, and the person who tried cutting me off on the way home. And, I just can't think at this point. Dan tells me, call the bank.  Nothing's going to get taken care of if you're just yelling about it.  Half an hour later, I'm actually talking to someone from the bank, who says, "Yes, the money was deposited into your account, the system just hasn't updated yet. It'll be there at midnight."  And, I'm just all like, I don't even get it, because I've never had NONE of my check available use immediately.

Anyway, Shaunna Rai finally was ready, with her new hair, that she had literally only had for hours, before wearing it.  And, we were on our way to Blackstones to meet Andy and Tommy.  Before they arrived, I talked to JR, about hiding the cake, and getting utensils, and paper plates...because it never crossed my mind to pick them up while I was out...not that I would have been able to afford them anyway.  The boys showed up, and we chatted for a while, and then it was time to bring out the cake.

I went and got the cake, and brought it out with candles lit, and people started singing.  I remembered from my birthday, when I walked in, and everyone sang to me.  And, as I'm walking, I hear the people who know them, say, "Happy Birthday, dear Tommy," and this one guy, on the other side of me, singing, "Happy Birthday, Dear Gay Guy." And, at that point, I realized that I'd had enough to drink to actually relax...which is something difficult enough for me to do.  I just let loose after that.  I felt bad, because I bought a cake that I knew I wouldn't be able to eat, because of my gluten thing...but I knew that it would be bad if I had cake, period.

The night seemed to fly by.  The girls were doing their usual mingling.  And, I was chatting with people.  I was hit with "So, you really thought that we were ax murderers?" Because of my last blog.  Truth is, I think everyone's an ax murderer, until they prove to me otherwise.  But, that's neither here nor there.  I learned about the heirarchy of Bitch, and the way to use it...  "You aren't a bitch just because you can be.  You're a bitch, because they deserve it. And, you don't try to out-bitch those who have paved the way for you to dress in drag, because you will be taken down."  (I'm paraphrasing, but you get the picture.)

At some point, I had had a bit more to drink than I should have, and became a nuisance.  Our local "Tina Turner" Thomas, went into his dance, when Proud Mary came on.  And, I had had just enough to drink, to think that he just wanted to dance.  And, I just wanted to dance.  And, yeah... it wasn't pretty.  Or so, I hear.

At the end of the night, we went to Denny's with the birthday boy, and his other half.  I don't remember much from that point.  I remember eating, and drinking my coke.  At some point, the girls took pictures with someone at Denny's.  I think they said the winner of the 80's night at Bubba's.  And, some girl said later to Shaunna Rai, that she liked her hair, and asked if she could touch it, and Shaunna Rai ripped the wig off, and held it out to her.  Most of this, I heard about yesterday, because I didn't remember it.

I knew that I'd had too much of a good time, when I woke up yesterday though. The first words out of my mouth, were, "I have a head...and it hurts." But, it was totally worth it.  The boys had fun. The girls had fun, and most of all, I had fun.  

Upcoming Events for 2014

Because I happen to live with both Shaunna Rai, and Vanila Honey-Bush, I promote for both of them, and other friends.  Here's what's coming up in the next few months:

And these are the ones that have passed:

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