What Does the Fox Say?

When you're out and about and get Friday the 13th tattoos with your closest drag queen friends, there has to be a story...right!?

A photo posted by Steve Dixon (@dragged2inside) on May 14, 2016 at 11:07am PDT

Last weekend was a busy, crazy and fun weekend. Basically, everything that I needed after getting bad news about job prospects.

Friday night, we had the Portland Pride Launch Party. I had been asked to take pictures, in exchange for free admission for me, Shaunna Rai and Miss E,on. At least, that's how it was supposed to work. As with the party last year, I had to walk about three blocks to get there after parking. Only to find out that there was nothing for us...so needless to say, Shaunna wasn't happy.  And, it was my responsibility to fix it.

We ended up paying for our tickets, then got reimbursed. Not ideal, but it worked. The launch party was fun. Shaunna was announced along with Cherry Lemonade and drag king Jack Hardness as the judges for the Pride parade. There were so many performances, and I basically was glued to the camera and didn't really interact with anyone...although, my flame glitter beard did get noticed by the MC and I got a shout out.

The night finally was over and I could put the camera away. A few of the other drag queens were going to Styxx, for drinks, so we went along.

As it was Friday the 13th, it turned out to be a very interesting, fun night.

Shortly after going to Styxx, we were told about a shop that was doing tattoos for $20 for as long as they had a line. So, what happens? A troupe of drag queens descended on Lucky's Tattoos. Gigi Gabor had called ahead to see if they were still open, and when she told them that they would be getting a group of queens coming in, they couldn't turn it down.

So, we left Styxx and walked to the tattoo parlor. Shaunna said she would pay for mine, since I'd paid for drinks. We got there, and they said that they were going to cut off just before I would have been able to go. Gigi, Cherry, Shaunna, E,on and Lady Ginger went to sign their lives away as far as paperwork went. I have been wanting another tattoo for a while, especially since I paid for Dan to get one for Valentine's day. So, when she said they wouldn't be taking any more people, I advocated for myself and asked. And, because I was with the queens, I lucked out.

Since we now had a place in line, we headed down the street to Studio 55. And, we ended up closing the club. So, we headed back to the parlor. Jacinda  (who came in boy form) and I had to run to move our cars so they wouldn't get towed.

Finally, we hunkered down for the night...or morning...since it was like 2am by now. There were still a few people ahead of us. The tv was on, and it was sports. Shaunna complained that queens don't care about sports. The tv eventually listened, and changed to some kind of nature show.

"What the fuck!?" I looked up to see people shoot a hippo, and then butcher it on air. What the fuck, indeed. Once that was over, Wild America, a show from the 80's came on. And, again, dying animals...this time at the hands...teeth of other animals.

Finally, it was time to get tattooed. Gigi was first. When talking about what people were going to get, she had said she would be getting the number 207, to represent her Maine drag sisters. I thought that was awesome. 

E,on got the Deathly Hallows (from Harry Potter).

Ginger was excited, because this would be her first tattoo. She got a diamond, with the number 13.

Cherry got a two for one design. She combined a cherry and a lemon, to represent...well...herself.

Shaunna decided to get a key...on her butt cheek...and made sure everyone knew that it was the key to unlock her asshole. Little did she know that it actually unlocked the asshole in someone else. The guy who was supposed to do her key refused to tattoo her ass. So, she got a cool woman instead. The tattooer had to rip Shaunna's tights to do it. And, admitted afterward that it was two firsts for her that night...the first ass she ever tattoed, and the first drag queens she had ever tattooed.

And finally, I got a fox. The guy who refused to do Shaunna's ended up doing mine. And, I think he took out frustration on me during my linework...it hurt way more than the coloring did.

While the fox really doesn't have a drag related story...other than it was done with five queens in full drag...it does have a story, other than that it's cute and looks like something I would draw.

The fox is kind of a spirit animal of sorts...and the story of why is kinda morbid. I was picking a client up from work, and got behind another car. A fox ran out in front of the first car, and was hit and killed. But, before it died, it locked eyes with me. I've been drawn to foxes ever since.

By the time we were done, it was just about 4am. Which normally wouldn't be an issue...except we were doing the Zumba weekend starting at 9am. By the time we got home to go to sleep it was 5am. I still had to wash off my glitter beard and didn't get to sleep until almost 6. Only to be woken up 2 hours later, for a full day of running, taking pictures at the Zumba retreat.

But, it was so worth staying up all night. Because, I mean, really...who else can say, honestly, that they got tattooed with five drag queens on Friday the 13th? I'm willing to bet the number of people who can, is pretty small.

Update #1: What Do You Mean?

So, I posted the other day, that I was really looking forward to a show, that seemed to have been cancelled.  It was a show that would get Shaunna/Dan and me out of the state of Maine for the weekend, and give us a chance to have a mini vacation of sorts.

Over the last twenty four hours, it has been up and then disappeared a number of times.  This morning, I woke up to a post from the host stating that the show was going to be on February 25th, and that they were going to make a long weekend out of the event.

At this point, I'm trying to take it all with a grain of salt.  I don't know whether to believe that it's really going to happen or not.  I mean, with the amount of pay that he's promising, and lodging for the night, I'm not sure how he's going to recoup the money that it will take to lodge the queens, much less pay them, especially, as he is promising to also fly in queens from far away.

I may be totally wrong in assuming that this is all a set up...and I hope that I am.

I'm still hoping for a best case scenario, and that Shaunna Rai and Miss E,on will get their chance to show off in New York for a butt load of girls from across the country.  They work hard enough, that they deserve some recognition.  And, I'll do my part to promote as much as possible.  I just hope that the host gets things figured out, and that the event and his page stop getting deactivated, so that I can truly promote this show, and help make it amazing...because, occasionally, I can be a good ally and promoter.  I'll keep you posted on what's going on.

Keeping my fingers crossed that this is actually going to work out for the best.

Malice in Wonderland

The Screaming Queens show is an important show in my history with Shaunna Rai. I met Shaunna Rai and company for the first time at a Screaming Queens show. And, although she was performing that night, it was technically my first date with Dan, as well. The show itself is a benefit, to raise money for the Down East AIDS Network, and it usually makes a good amount of money.

So when Shaunna said she would be participating again this year, it was kind of exciting. It would be almost like reliving our first date. Sort of. Although, a lot has changed since then.

A couple days before (or maybe the night before, because I don't remember exactly) we made a trip to go see Benni (Miss E,on) for last minute costume fittings. And, as usual I was amazed at what the end result was for each outfit. Even though there was no hair, so I kinda had to imagine what Shaunna would look like in them when Dan was trying them on.

The day of the show, we ran around a little bit. Shaunna was going to do what she did for the Drag Me to Hell show, and buy some shot glasses and have the bar make shots for everyone. (Unfortunately, with the glasses that we found, there weren't enough.)

Finally, it was time to go pick up E,on, and head to Waterville. I made sure to load the address into the GPS, for the drive. And, we were on our way. We made really good time getting into Waterville. So good, in fact, that we had time to go shopping.  We stopped at Mardens, and looked around. We also stopped at Kmart, and again found the shot glassss, but, still too few, since we hadn't bought the ones we had seen earlier.

Unfortunately, for me, the GPS believes that Champions (the venue) is a little dive place on Elm Street. And, in spite of putting in the exact address, I was accused of punching in the wrong address, and screwing up the afternoon. (Needless to say, after that, I was overly thrilled to have come. Note the sarcasm dripping from that statement.) E,on, fortunately got us there. It turned out that I had taken the wrong exit, and that messed everything up. But, in my defense, I was doing what the GPS told me to do.

Once we were finally there, it went pretty smoothly. I unloaded the car, and got the girls situated. We got there early, because Shaunna Rai doesn't do late. Just behind us was Miss JoAnn, in her new RV. Just as she was getting settled in to start painting, with the girls she remembered that she had forgotten her headdress. The Queen of Spades won't look much like she's supposed to if she doesn't have a spade headdress, right?

So, I got volunteered to go with her husband, to Arundel  (on the other side of the state) to go grab it, before the show started. Now, I have known Russ for a few years, because of Miss JoAnn, but, I don't recall ever having heard him speak, much less having had a conversation with him. So, it was going to make for a very long trip.

It was, much as I expected it to be...quiet. I was lost in my head. So, when Russ spoke up and showed me where he and Miss JoAnn had met, I was surprised. Also, by how they met, and the brief history of what it was like to be gay before I was anywhere near ready to come out. 

We got to Arundel, and I had time to shoot out an Instagram update, while he grabbed the headpiece, before we turned around, and I drove like a maniac to get back before the show started. On the ride back, I retreated into my head again, thinking, for most of thr return trip how, I'm sitting with my future in 30 years or so, right next to me. Russ was super sweet. He refilled what we had used for gas in Biddeford, and then had me top it off when we got back to Waterville.

We made it back with plenty of time before the show. I ran over to McDonald's to grab a burger, so I wouldn't be drinking on an empty stomach. (Since I had been warned that if I passed out, I was going to be left behind.) 

I went inside, and got a hug from Paul, one of the creators of the Screaming Queens show, and he told me that he was putting a drink on his tab for me, for making the trip to Arundel. (Being a lightweight drinker, I only paid for one drink for myself for the night.) 

When the doors opened, I led my parents to the VIP tables, that were literally on the edge of the stage. (Halfway through the show, I felt bad, because where they chose to sit, they got to see a lot of the backsides of the queens.) Meanwhile, I was off running around, trying to get great shots and fending off the professional photographers who had been asked to take pictures of the show.

Valerie Honeywell opened up the show, as hostess (and shared it off and on through the night with LaWanda). 

Shaunna Rai opened the show with a mix performance. It was Alice themed music, and very difficult to follow...which, is somewhat fitting, considering the source material. The dress and apron outfit was cute, and Shaunna's giant white bow just kinda made it work. And, Shaunna being the tear away queen, had a dance outfit on underneath. 

Miss JoAnn followed. If I remember correctly, she did a number from Cabaret...which didn't really go with the Alice theme. But, seeing the headpiece in action made it totally worth the drive to get it. The queen of Spades didn't really come across without it. 

The queen of hearts, herself was up next. LaWanda has so much energy on stage, that she exhausts me. Toward the end of her number, her wig fell off. (I'm not entirely sure that this was accidental, so much as it is a way to say, "just so you didn't forget, I'm a man in a dress.")

The Mad Hatter, Miss E,on, was up next. Her song was also a mix, that included "They're Coming to Take Me Away". Totally an E,on number, to be sure.

At this point, LaWanda took over the mic, to introduce Valerie. Valerie came out in a tear away, that I'm pretty sure belonged to Ariel Gibbs, a close friend of Shaunna's, who passed away over the summer. Valerie was the White Rabbit.

ClubKid MizzDiveena, the Cheshire Cat was up next. Her makeup was great. It was a little reminiscent of the skeleton makeup Shaunna had done a week or two earlier, but it worked for the character. 

Valerie came back out, and introduced a couple members of the Down East AIDS Network, to say a few words about what Screaming Queens is all about, and where the money goes, and all that.

LaWanda was back, I'm pretty sure that this number was Juice Newton's Queen of Hearts song. You would think that I would remember, because I was lip syncing to it along with her.

Shaunna was back for another mix, and another tear away, leaving her in a fringe dance outfit.

Miss JoAnn followed, with Somewhere Over the Rainbow. I was actually really happy with pictures I got of this number. Over the years, I haven't been able to get a lot of really good pictures of her, because lighting in most of the places I've seen her at, has been, well, sub par. 

Valerie was up, with her Bunny ears this time. Followed by E,on and Diveena. Diveena brought out the headpiece that she had worn for Dragapalooza last spring. 

LaWanda came out for her final number, which was made more interesting, by a shirtless Paul, with a leather harness and Bunny ear mask, following her around like a puppy dog. 

Shaunna's final number was Pink's The King Is Dead (But the Queen is Alive). Alice got the upper hand, and took off the Red Queen's head...or so we are left to imagine.

Valerie closed out the show, with a little Celine Dion. I was getting tired, and glad the show was almost over, because throughout the show, I had been running back to check on my parents, and then back out to get the best pictures I could. 

At one point during my running, I was stopped and asked if I was Steve Dixon. I thought it was odd, but, I have developed a small following,  so, not that odd. It turned out that the guy who asked was a guy I had gotten a picture of at the Halloween party at the Westin,  and he wanted to thank me for it. 

They opened the floor up for dancing, once the show was over. I started the back and forth of bringing drag bags back to the car. I definitely got a work out, because I didn't find out until the very last trip that I could have saved some energy by going an alternate route, instead of through the main dance floor area.

Finally we were ready to go. We said goodbye to my parents,  and headed to McDonald's,  so that Dan and Benni could get something to eat before we made the trek back home.

It was a crazy night. And I believe,  the final number for funds raised for the night was right around $4000. So, definitely worth it.

You Don't Know What It's Like...

Me as Liz Taylor from AHS: Hotel

Halloween had never really been my holiday, since I was a kid. When I was a kid, I loved it. Dressing up, pretending I was someone else. It was the gay boy holiday. You spend so much time pretending you're someone different, that it's nice to be able to dress the part and get away with it.

I outgrew Halloween when I was about 14. I wasn't popular enough to get invited to Halloween parties. So, I would go out trick or treating with my brother and the girls across the road. And, that was when I found out that I had aged out of Halloween. Someone said, "what are you doing, you're too old for trick or treating." And, that was it.

Dan has asked me every year what I was going to do for Halloween, and every year, I put off making a decision until the last minute, when it's almost too late to do anything about a costume. This year, though, American Horror Story : Hotel happened. More specifically, Liz Taylor happened.

Madame Sheena, ClubKid MizzDiveena, Shaunna Rai, Miss E,on

I've avoided doing any kind of drag, mainly because I know what goes into it, how much work it is, and most importantly, I have worried that I would like it more than I should.  But, the Character of Liz Taylor wouldn't be drag exactly.  When the suggestion was made that I could do her, it wouldn't let go. I wouldn't have a lot of makeup, and could do it myself, for the most part. The wardrobe was simple. The worst part was going to be the shoes.

For the first time ever, I asked Benni (Miss E,on to make me something. I had to have Liz Taylor's flowy wrap thing, in order to make the character believable.

My Minions, Mom and Dad

I spent three weeks walking around in heels that used to belong to Raquel Blake, that were too big for Shaunna Rai. I found out the hard way that falling in heels is one of the worst things in the world. Especially when the heels make you almost 7 feet tall... The ground is a long way down.

Miss E,on

Finally, the night was here. Halloween. Shaunna Rai started her makeup. I shaved everything that would potentially be visible, including my head. Once that was over, it was a matter of throwing on what makeup I would need, and some lashes. I did the lipstick and eyeshadow myself. Dan/Shaunna did my lashes and liner. (We almost glued my eye shut, but, it worked itself out.)

Shaunna Rai

And, it was time to head to Portland. We stopped to pick up Miss E'on and Stephan and his partner, Devin. Devin was excited, because this would be his first drag show. We all ended up squeezed into the back seat of
Stephan's car. The ride there was long. Once we got into Portland,  it became a matter of finding a place to park. And, I got on the wrong side of Shaunna's mood, when I didn't speak up soon enough, because Shaunna couldn't see with her blackout contacts.

I finally found a parking lot around the block, and we were on out way. We got to the Westin in plenty of time. Chris O showed us where the girls would be getting ready. We brought the bags back, and I took Stephan and Devin back out to try to get their bracelets...only we were still way too early.

Chris O

And, given the fact that I was walking around in boy clothes with my face a made up, I was feeling weird, and decided that if the guys were ok, I would go get ready, and change into Liz Taylor. 

Once I was in the costume and heels, it was like I was a different person. I kinda understood for the first time how it was that Shaunna Rai comes out of Dan's mouth once a certain amount of makeup goes on. Nobody really notices Steve. But, everyone was watching Liz. 

Madame Sheena

While I was trying to not kill myself with the 8 inch heels, people stopped me to ask for a picture. Not because I had a camera, but, because they wanted to take a picture with me in it. It was literally one of the most surreal nights of my life.

On my way into the ballroom, to get directions about what was expected from pictures, I was stopped and asked if I would be participating in the costume contest. I hadn't really thought about it, mainly because I was there to "work." But, I figured, "what the Hell, you only live once, and if I stand a chance of winning,  why not?"

My parents showed up, and we're in partial costume. They asked about the bathrooms, so I pointed them in the right direction, and when they came back, they were Minions. Some nice person actually took a picture with all three of us..which I still have not seen anywhere...And, it was a bit awkward. While I've posed with my parents before, it has never been as awkward as it was when I was in the heels. Both of my parents at some point touched my butt.

ClubKid MizzDiveena

We all ended up with VIP bracelets. Which was cool. It meant that I had full access to everything. The VIP area was upstairs, with its own bar, and a bunch of tables. The balcony view of the dance floor was cool, and being above the chandeliers made for some nice pictures. But, I have to admit, I spent very little time in VIP. (Partly because it was hell walking up and down the stairs in the heels and a robe thing that was flowy enough that it would randomly start sliding, if I didn't hold myself just so.)

This was the first event in a long time that I spent completely sober. It was just as well, given how much trouble it would have been if I had fallen... Because, I still almost fell a number of times even without a drink. (My left ankle seems to be weaker than my right one.)

Once the doors were opened, I was dragged into the photo booth by the photographer. I got my one picture, and then went on my way, with camera out and at the ready. And, I did something that I rarely do at these events. I asked groups of people I'd I could take their pictures. And, as Shaunna has told me for years,  they all said yes..because, who doesn't want to pose for a camera? (Aside from me...)

When all four performers were finally there,  I grabbed a group picture of them. (One of the best pictures of the night.) They did their thing, and split up to mingle. Announcement was made of the agenda for the evening and DJ Jodi played music for everyone to dance to until the performances. 

Around 9:30pm, Miss E,on took the stage. About that time, some of Dan's friends from work showed up and said hi to me, before heading to the bar and to try to hunt down Shaunna.

Shaunna was up next, and I was looking forward to the song. Evanescence's Bring Me to Life. I've always loved the song, and when she said that she was doing it, I was excited. The performance went off without a hitch. 

More dancing. More pictures. I was asked by Coraline to get a picture with her. After she left, a couple of the hotel employee ladies took about a bajillion pictures of me on their phones. (More pictures that I have never seen.) 

Next up was the costume contest. Because I was supposed to be doing photos, this was stressful for me. I had no idea how I would manage to get pictures once I was on stage. Fortunately, waiting until last to go up, and being in one of the last categories, I didn't have much to worry about. Well, aside from the fact that I had been in heels for almost 3 hours, and my feet hurt and my legs were starting to get shaky.

Going up, I introduced myself as Liz Taylor, and when asked "and what are you?" I made a joke..."I'm dying to get out of these heels." The audience laughed. Unfortunately,  I was not fabulous enough to win the fabulous category. (Although, it made me feel good later, when someone told me that I was robbed, and should've won in my category.)

I totally agreed with the judges' decision that Medusa won overall. Ashley's costume was amazing. 

After it was over, I had to get rid of the heels. Literally, the pain on my feet and the wobbliness in my legs was making me sick to my stomach. I went and found our friends from the salon, and a lady, who I don't know, helped me take my shoes off. (I almost fell when I tried to do it myself.) I have a total new respect for women, who wear heels all day. And an even greater respect for drag queens, who, not only walk around in heels, but also dance, kick and do splits in heels.

Madame Sheena was up next for performing. I can't recall the name of the song. I want to say that it was from something called the Littlest Witch. Something like that.

ClubKid MizzDiveena was the final performer of the night. I knew due to her Jack Skellington costume that she had to be doing something Nightmare Before Christmas related. And, she didn't disappoint. She did a whole number to "This is Halloween."

The rest of the night was dancing. Shaunna and I caught back up with the group from the salon. Then, it was time to get changed and head out. We stopped and said goodbye to my parents. And, then it was back to the car, to head home.

On the way home we stopped at Burger King. We went inside, and I don't think that the people at the counter knew quite what to make of us. Two guys, two guys with makeup,  and Miss E,on, in full drag.

It was a great night. I has so much fun. And, I stepped so far out of my comfort zone, that it wasn't funny. But, I got an understanding for the first time, first hand, of what it's like to be a drag queen, and to get all of the attention. I would be lying if I didn't say that I actually of enjoyed the attention. I understand the draw to doing drag now. And, I'm not as immune to it as I once thought.  (But, once a year for Halloween, would be more than enough for me...since I don't perform. I can lip sync with the best, but I would be a very boring queen to watch.)

Remembering the Underground

In the grand scheme of things, in terms of the gay community,  I'm about preschool age as a gay man. Looking back on my life, I find that by settling down at 19, I missed out on a lot of the "scene", during my 20's and very early 30's. There is so much history that I have been learning about Portland's, Lewiston's, Augusta's and Bangor's gay history. And, now, there is only Portland left with any semblance of a gay bar, until you head south.

Miss JoAnn

So, when the announcement was made that Styxx was going to host a show called Remembering The Underground, it was one I wanted to go to. The premise, being that years ago, the space now known as Styxx was another business, called The Underground (fitting, as the club/bar is in the basement of the building, therefore it is Underground).

Back in the day, they had shows there all the time. Queens from Boston would come and perform. There was always a line around the corner, just to get in.

This was going to be a #throwbackthursday on a live stage. The queens would be performing music from the '90's and reminiscing about the old days, and some of the Queens and Kings who have either stopped performing by choice or have passed away.

Madame Sheena

For the first time I got kind of snotty about posters. I designed and redesigned, to totally different specifications the poster. I promoted on my own pages. And the performers either didn't share it at all, or literally just hit the share now button on Facebook, and didn't give reasons why anyone would want to go. I took out frustration on everyone, and feel the need to apologize.

The night itself was going to be fun. Both Miss E'on and Leanna Love, ended up being in the show as two other queens had canceled at the last minute.

And, Dan's daughter was going to be there, and get to see Shaunna Rai perform for the first time...aside from at a hair school show. Other than a little chit chat on Facebook, I hadn't really had much interaction with Logan so, I was looking forward to it.

We got to the bar, and I took the bags to the back, as usual. Miss JoAnn was already there. She greeted us warmly, and said something about her age, in response to something Leanna had said about being too old. (Miss JoAnn, I think is the oldest drag queen I know.)

Danielle Dior

Once things were squared away, I went to get Shaunna and myself something to drink. I may have gotten a little snippy with the lady at the door, when I went back to give Shaunna her drink...I drove with half the performers, with no gas money involved, and you're going to charge me a cover? (I now see that I'm just as bad as the rest of the people I complain about. I've been given too many free entries, for being the driver, that it has gone to my head.) And, I learned my lesson. When I'm already in the back, for a show, just wait until the back bar opens...

DJ ChrisO started the music, for the night, and in a way I was transported back in time. The music was the music that was new when I was finishing high school, and starting art school. (In other words, the soundtrack to my coming out.) Whitney Houston's It's Not Right came on, and I literally flashed back to my first time ever in a gay night club, in Philadelphia, at Woody's, when I was just over 18.

Leanna Love

The show started, and Madame Sheena started off the introductions.  Shaunna, E,on and Leanna paid homage to a group of girls that Shaunna used to perform with (the ISG...International Show Girls, who used to perform on the Scotia Prince cruise, back in the day.)

Miss JoAnn was introduced, and a joke was made about her having been performing since 1912...she really isn't that old...I got some great shots of her. Her Somewhere Over the Rainbow was a great number. It's one of my favorite songs, and it just fit for her to do it.

Barbara Streisand made an appearance. Oh, wait, no, that was Madame Sheena.

Danielle Dior, who is a former Miss Gay Maine, and was a fixture in The Underground days, hosting both the shows and Strip Night, did a number.

Shaunna Rai

Leanna, who I normally have a hard time getting good pictures of, did a version of Fever, by Madonna, and I got a few really good shots of her too.

Somewhere in between numbers, I saw our friends Andrea and Dana. I talked to Andrea a bit about a game that I'm excited to see come out, and she talked about someone that she was kind of seeing, having invited her to go to some kind of gamer convention in Boston. Dana asked me if it would be ok for him to put a dollar bill in his fly for tipping Shaunna. I never know what's appropriate until afterward,  so I gave my blessing...only because I know he wouldn't do anything bad.

E,on did her number,  which, for the life of me, I can't remember what it was. The one thing I do remember, was our friend Steve giving her a tip...in his teeth, and the huge grin on his face after. This is what shows are supposed to be about. Having fun.

Miss E,on

The thing I was most looking forward to, was the banter about the back in the day queens, who are no longer around. We reached Donna Summer's Last Dance, and the banter was not there. I knew little more about the old days than I did before I went. That was my only disappointment from the show.

The show was over, and the queens were heading back to pack up. Shaunna was still socializing, and introduced me to a couple, who asked if I could take a picture of them. They had met at The Underground, years ago, and wanted a picture, to commemorate it.

Finally, we were on our way home. The trip home from Portland seemed so much shorter than it did when we were in Portland after driving from Portsmouth.

Cancer, Schmancer

It's very rare that a show comes along that I'm just not that into... Unfortunately, this was one of those rare shows that I probably should've stayed home for.

With the events of the previous night's show I was more or less exhausted and physically in pain, as I had apparently hit both my hip and my face on the way falling to the ground at the Breezeway.

In the middle of the day, I took a cake, along with a bunch of cupcakes to the Elks Club in Lewiston, so it would be there for Leanna Love, and be a surprise, as she didn't know that we were making her a cake.  Other than that, I did pretty much as little as possible.

I may have milked the sore and exhausted thing a little bit, but, I needed the rest, because there was still one more day of shows to go.

We got there, and I did the usual thing, being bag boy, grabbing my "dresser" ticket, and meeting up with my parents.

I hated the setup of the Elks Club. For a show, it was set up poorly. People wanted to tip, but the tables were too close to get through comfortably and there were so many people that it just looked awkward for the performers.  The stage was in a corner, far away from the audience, and there was little to no lighting, which meant that pictures were not very good from the night.

Knowing the girls in the show, I knew that the bar girl in each of them wouldn't allow most of them to stay on the stage, and figured that the best place for photos would be from across the room. I was mostly right, although, I should've used a flash, instead of relying on the low light settings on the camera and hoping.

I caught hell from stepping in front of the ladies in the concession stand, until they realized that during the show, nobody was getting up, and that they could move out from behind the counter.

Carol, my lobster smuggling friend from Zumba and her husband came, and I had them sit with my parents. Although, my mom followed me around with her camera...and Carol and her husband left...and dad followed us to the front, finding an empty chair, and getting the Shaunna treatment that I normally get, when she throws pieces of the tear aways at me...

Because I wasn't that into it, it felt like it took forever, I couldn't understand the need of Jacinda and Natilee to climb up on the tables and crawl around. (I mean, if that's what you want to do, fine, but, I just didn't get it.)

There were a couple of things that stood out for me though, and it wasn't all bad.

The show itself was a fund raiser, for two women who were battling cancer. Benefit shows are a good thing.

Over the years, I have often heard of Malibu, a queen that used to do shows all the time. I had never met her, and as far as I knew, she was no longer performing...only she did for this show.  My only issue with her performances, as a photographer, was that she kept turning her back to me, and even when she was looking toward my camera, her hair covered her face.

Jersey Couture, (who I have to fight myself to not call Jersey Shore) performed. It's rare enough to get her out out of drag, and even worse in drag, much less performing.

I don't remember if it was the sound,  the audience, the tipping or what, but, for the first time ever, in the time that I have been with Shaunna, I spotted a mistake in a number. So many of the numbers I have seen her do enough that if I wanted to, I probably could perform it spot on myself...so, when a rip away was missed, and then a double rip away happened, I kinda freaked out...like, what happened?

The show finally ended, and all the queens came out for a bow. And Chris, the emcee, asked Leanna to come back to the stage for a minute. Leanna, knowing that her birthday was right around the corner, tried to book it out of the place. After all the work that we put into the cake, I wasn't going to allow her to leave without at least seeing the cake. So I grabbed her arm, and walked her to a chair, while she glared at me, accusing, "You knew about this and didn't warn me!"

A few more pictures with all the queens, the cake, and a few random fans, and it was time to go. And I was ready...we still had Portsmouth the next day. Leanna invited us to go out for dinner, but we declined, and went home.

This was a bit of a low point in my drag fan career. But, you can't be on point all the time, and keep your physical being from having some kind of effect on your mood.

There's No Place Like Home...

The last few months have been a whirlwind.  I've missed blogging about so many events, and, I'm not sure that I could keep up, even if I tried.

May was full of the Southern Maine AIDS Walk, Dragapalooza (and I feel like there was something else...)  June was full of Pride stuff.   July was all about moving.  August has been about settling in, loss, and the beginning of a second run of the Midsummer Night Queens show in Portsmouth.  September is going to be about my brother's wedding, and a night to "Remember the Underground" (the previous incarnation of Styxx in Portland...before I was "allowed" to go out to the gay bars, so before my time...)

The AIDS Walk was three days of awesome.  Porcia Chanel and Scarrlett Couture came from New Hampshire, and spent the weekend in Ogunquit with us.  As usual, because they were essentially, new people, to me, I was kinda freaked out.  But, they made me feel like I belonged there, which is always a big thing for me.  The fundraising part of the Walk bypassed last years $100,000, which will go to benefit the Frannie Peabody Center, and all the work that they do with local people who are coping with HIV/AIDS and the struggles that come with it.  And, as it always does, the weekend itself makes me proud to know the people who I know, because they make me strive to be a better, more understanding person.

Dragapalooza was a huge show this year.  Like 39 numbers, or something like that.  As always, it was a fundraiser for Lewiston/Auburn Outright, and there were quite a few student entries, in conjunction with the professionals.  A couple of returning acts from last year. I'd brought two cameras, because I knew that I was going to need them, for pictures...and I wasn't wrong.  I drained the batteries from both cameras before the end of the show.  (Which, prompted me to go Ebay shopping, and bought myself two extra rechargeable batteries for my good camera, for less than I could buy them in an actual store.)

1920's Steve and Shaunna Rai
Photo by Steven Bridges

June started off with the Great Gatsby party, to kick off Pride.  It was a great time.  I looked like a cross between Mario and a News Boy from the 20's...Apparently, I can't pull off a mustache properly, and should probably just give it up...

Shaunna Rai and Miss E,on were asked to perform for a cruise out on Portland Harbor.  In spite of the fact that I am deathly afraid of drowning, I went, and had an amazing time.

I came thisclose to actually getting to go to Pride, but stupidly decided that I needed to work that day.  The closest that I got was that I drove by the set up sites, while everything was getting set up for the parade...and then I got to drive by the park at the end of the afternoon, when things were starting to be taken down.  I think I learned my lesson.

Dan and Ariel

July was the month that I didn't expect to make it through.  The old apartment had begun to leak, badly, in places that it shouldn't have been leaking, especially, since it was in the ceiling of the second floor of a three story building... Dan and I ended up in a time crunch, and I'll just leave it at there being a lot of yelling.  Things have since calmed down.  But, it was a very stressful time.

August sadly, marked the passing of Ariel Maranda Gibbs.  She's one of the few people who Dan/Shaunna talked about a lot, who I never actually met.  When things calm down, I would like to talk to a few people about her, so that I can get some idea of who she really was, and give her a nice "send off."

We're finally getting settled into the new place in Lewiston.  Dan has a car of his own again, for the first time in three years.  And, although it's had a couple of issues, he appears to be less stressed out than he has been in a long time.  Shaunna Rai's drag rooms are still in transition (no pun intended) as Shaunna is still half packed away.  I've claimed myself a corner of the garage for doing my own thing.  I have my drafting table set up for drawing, a 300 disc CD changer set up for music (that I need to update with some newer drag-ish music), and more space than I will be able to use...at least when the car(s) aren't parked in it.

Which brings us to the Midsummer Night Queens.  Last year was a blast...Manila Luzon, Jessica Wild and Joslyn Fox, along with Bunny Wonderland, Shaunna Rai and Miss E,on.  Tonight, August 16th, starts the Ru-Turn...another three part, weekly show.  It starts off with Jujubee (one of my favorites), and will feature Joslyn Fox (week 2) and BenDeLaCreme (week 3), along with Bunny Wonderland, Shaunna Rai, Lili Whiteass, Rainbow Frite, and Cherry Lemonade.  I will again be taking pictures of the three evenings, and am looking forward to sneaking a little bit of backstage time with the queens, to say hi, and geek out...(and hopefully creep BenDeLaCreme out less than I did when I met her after the BOTS tour.)

So, that's been the summer, in a nutshell.  I'll get back in the swing of things.  And, hopefully, be less stressed out about everything.  I managed to get a new job, where it's highly likely that I will have weekends off, and be able to do more with weekend shows...and have a life, like a real person, in a normal job...

I'm Bringing Lobster Back, Yeah...

Shaunna Rai performs a Pink
mix.

One of my favorite events that Shaunna Rai does is a private party for Zumba at Point Sebago.  Of all the many events that she does, this one is probably the most relaxed of them all.

I missed out on a good portion of last year's event, so I made sure to put in for it this time.

Coming down off the Pride! Portland Launch party the night before, I was a little bit dragging (no pun intended). I had a half finished album of pictures to post, and add the rest to. I did that while waiting for Dan to pack Shaunna's bags, so I could load the car.

Apparently, that was the wrong thing to do, as when it was time to go, we still needed gas for the trip to Point Sebago. So, a conversation was had about how I should've been filling the gas tank instead of playing games on the computer.

Prodigy Diamond

Finally, we were on the road. I was texting back and forth with Prodigy Diamond,  as she was going to meet us,  and follow us to Point Sebago.  We got there, checked in and dropped our stuff in the rooms we were staying in.

The fun began then. We walked the grounds, stopping by a few of the Zumba classes. We said hi to Dinah, who hires the girls for this show every year. A few of the other ladies who I have met over the last three years came over to say hi and tell us that they couldn't wait for the show. (And, as usual, with this event, they're looking for me to also be a performer, not just a boring old photographer.)

Miss E,on and The Loophole.

We got lunch, and the lady who two years ago, basically told the girls that they would not be able to stay in drag after their performances,  because it would make people uncomfortable,  came over and was real friendly. Lunch was a barbecue buffet...burgers, hot dogs and BBQ chicken. And with my gluten free diet, I was still hungry after I ate, because a) no bread or dessert,  and b) I didn't want to eat all the food there and have other people go hungry.

After lunch, we headed back to the big house on the island to relax for a bit. On the walk back, discussion turned to why a former performer was not there, and then, to how much fun the evening was going to be.

We got back to the house, and at 2pm, Prodigy started getting her face on, even though the show didn't start until 8. I went on a cigarette run, to the general store, and returned empty-handed, because they didn't have the right cigarettes. So, I took the car, and went for a drive, to find cigarettes.

Shaunna Rai and Joyce share a quick twirl
during Proud Mary.

At the time, I just needed to get out for a bit. But, looking back, a couple days after the fact, I needed to go to try to regain some semblance of calm. With the amount of flack that I got in the morning, and then again after the aborted cigarette mission, and then just for stating that I was taking the car for a bit, I was angry. And, I needed to do something that I haven't done in forever, and just go for a drive to clear my head.

When I got back with food (I'd grabbed a couple of snacky things and eaten them on the way back to Point Sebago, from Raymond) I was ready to start the evening, with a fresh start.

Miss E,on is All About That Bass

A quick cigarette break, with a discussion about new queens and entitlement, and a lack of understanding of how drag, for the Queens I hang out with is a business,  for which payment (for wigs, outfits, etc. and for some gigs) is expected. A word of advice to new queens: unless you have something to offer in trade,  don't expect something for free.

The faces start going on. A few of the ladies come back down to the house and start watching the girls put on their faces. This is where I have the most fun. At this point, they've seen the girls with no makeup,  and so getting to watch the transformation, they're in a bit of awe. Questions are asked about how did you learn to do makeup and how long ago did you start.

Prodigy was dancing with the crowd.

One of the ladies, Carol, brought out Pinot Noir, and sang it out,  when asking I'd anyone wanted any. This turns into a discussion of the most popular shows on Netflix, The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, and the new Grace and Frankie. And, I get my moment to shine when I can show off my random useless knowledge of actors' names.

Normally, I follow the lead of the Queens for the rest of thr day, which usually means no dinner, and then a lot of drinking on an empty stomach. But, Shaunna talked me into going to get some food, and bringing lobster back.

I went down to get dinner with Carol, and we got there a tad bit too early. So, we had a seat in the hallway and waited for the door to open. I learned a lot about how she came to be in Maine, of all places, and about her family. And, I actually opened up and had a conversation with her. If you've been following me for any amount of time,  you know that this is a huge step for me.

Miss E,on

Finally, they motioned for us to come get dinner. The doors were opened.  We got tickets for lobsters, and headed to get our meals. I was sad about the food choices,  because I'm not keen on rare beef, and I don't like lobster. But, I ate the beef and I took the lobster.

Now, for a person who has lived in Maine, for his whole life, it's almost ridiculous to say that I have not ever opened up a lobster. Up until this weekend, that was true. Carol walked me through the process, being cheerleader the whole way. I may have put some blood and sweat into it...no tears, but I was proud of myself in the end.

At some point, another diner gave us her lobster tickets. At this point, I spilled the T that I needed to find a way to smuggle out at least one lobster for Shaunna. My first thought was that I could shove a (paper) salad bowl in my pocket, filled with lobster. Only, that didn't work.  My pocket was too small. And, begging to bring a lobster back for the entertainment didn't work either. Finally an idea hit. Opaque coffee cups would be a perfect hiding place for a de-shelled lobster and some butter.

Shaunna Rai Just Wants to Dance

And, at the table next to us, we found a Co-conspirator. The theme for the evening was Fantasy Island, or something like that, and so our neighbor at the table was an older lady, who was already in costume, as a (self-proclaimed) Oriental Hooker. She went on to tell us a story about having gone to Asia (I think) when she was younger, and that her costume was inspired by belly dancers, who were, well, quite unattractive.  All the while, she was making lobsters disappear into a cooler that doubled as a purse.

Dinner was over, and I walked out of the restaurant with my "coffee". The girls were almost ready. I started to reload the vehicle for the show. I also had a couple drinks, to get me ready for the time that I would be on my own.  As an unofficial stage hand, and official photographer, I tend to get all kinds of busy...which is great.  I love being busy.  But, sometimes, it's not so great.  After bringing in all the luggage and music for the girls, I went out to grab a seat so I'd have a good place for pictures.  And, then, I was summoned out back, to make sure that the DJ knew what song to play when...and a group of Zumba ladies, in sashes and homemade crowns took my seat.  

After writing on my hand the order of the show, because otherwise, I never would've been able to get the proper order to the DJ, because I kept having Miss E,on go on twice in a row, with no gap for Prodigy to fill in, where she actually went.  

So, I went back out to find my seat taken, and grabbed my camera bag, and went in search of a new seat.  I started out in the back of the room, taking pictures, and quickly realized that it just wasn't going to work for me.  I've gotten so used to taking pictures in venues where no flash is allowed, that from the back of a room, no flash, means no picture.  And, when I was flashing, I was reflecting off people's heads, and, still not getting the desired pictures.  So, I moved again.  Ideally, I should've just asked if I could crash a table in the middle of the front row, because, well, I'm the photographer for the night, AND Shaunna Rai's partner...But, I try not to get all snobby like that, because, well, it  makes people look bad...look at Kris Jenner...

Shaunna Rai opened the show, with a P!nk mix, followed by Prodigy Diamond with a Beyonce song.  Next up was E,on, with Garfunkle and Oates's Loophole...if you've never heard it, look it up...but be forewarned, it's dirty-ish...and totally hilarious.  Shaunna was back with Proud Mary...in a totally unplanned, but totally appropriate nod to Joyce, who had done a class with it earlier in the day, when we stopped in to see what was going on.  And, Joyce had spotted me and gave me a big smile, like somehow I made it happen that Shaunna "just happened" to use her song.  E,on did Meghan Trainor's All About That Bass, which the women loved...so many of them got into the songs and were singing along with them.  Then, Prodigy was back, with another Beyonce song...although it was slowed down, and quite a bit different than what I normally see out of Prodigy...she tends to be more dancy.  E,on was back with her final song, which, I unfortunately, don't recall what it was...and finally Shaunna closed out the show with I Just Wanna Dance, knowing that the DJ would mix into regular dance music, and then the Zumba ladies would get up and dance.

The story of how Shaunna Rai got involved in the Moosestock Zumba Weekend was the lead in to one of the songs, and it's such a funny story, that I get a kick out of it every time that I hear it.  Shaunna had done the Dragapalooza on a Sunday, and the following Wednesday, she got a call from an unknown number.  Shaunna/Dan doesn't answer unknown numbers, but for some reason picked up for this one.  On the other end, as the story goes, was this crazy woman, "Hello, is this Shaunna Rai?"

Dinah, the lady in charge of Moosestock.

"Yes?"  "A friend of mine saw you at Dragapalooza and said that you're amazing.  I would like to hire you for a women's retreat this weekend, because, my entertainment cancelled on me."  (I'm paraphrasing here, because I wasn't actually part of the conversation...)  Shaunna agreed, and got another performer to go with her, but never expected it to be what it was.  Shaunna totally believed that she was going to be performing for a group of lesbians camping in the woods.  And, had some reservations about it, because in general, lesbians and drag queens don't get along so swimmingly.

So, anyway, Shaunna and the girls came back out to start mingling, and then Shaunna asked me to go backstage and undo her corset, because she wasn't feeling so hot.  So, I did, and then, for the first time, that I've seen, she got sick.  Which immediately, sends me into caretaker mode, even though, I know that neither Shaunna NOR Dan like being waited on hand and foot when they don't feel well.  So, we gathered Shaunna's stuff up, and I ran her back to the big house on the island, so she could rest up and start feeling better.  

And, then, I did something that I, until this point in time, never would have done before.  I went back and mingled.  I bought myself a drink, and then went to talk to all the ladies that I knew from previous years.  And, I talked to a few people that I hadn't met.  I didn't die.  I didn't have a heart attack.  I didn't even have an anxiety attack.  In fact, I was more anxious about the fact that Shaunna was back at the house, and didn't have anyone to take care of her, than I was about the fact that I was talking to people.  

It was, probably one of the most freeing nights of my life...aside from the night that I went out after I first moved to Portland, to escape my old life officially.  It was also the night that I learned that you don't take Excedrin Extra Strength on an empty stomach, because that's what made Shaunna sick.  

Anyway, it was such a fun night, and it's always a fun weekend.  And, I can't wait until next year, when it happens again.

Take Me To Church...

Marcus Bennett, for whom the benefit was held.

 The period between December, and June, seems to be the busiest period for drag, in Shaunna Rai's booking schedule.  This is great for her, but it kind of sucks, as far as when shows happen.  Because, any time between December and (to be safe) April, there's a good chance of snow.

Sheneeda Diet opened the show.

At work, they're getting frustrated with me, I think, because, I ask for a lot of time off, for shows.  However, I make it up to them, most of the time.  We had an overnight person, who has given his notice, and so, there's overnights open.  Since I've been going crazy dealing with some of the behaviors, recently, at work, I decided that some overnights, might not be a bad thing...although, they might kill me, because the lack of sleep makes it really hard to recover...

So, Friday night, I did the overnight.  Which is fine.  However, Saturday, the day of the show, when I left work, it had started snowing.  I hate snow.  Yeah, it's pretty, yeah, it's cool.  But, yeah, I suck at driving in it.

Jacinda

The entire drive home from work, all I could think of was, "I hope the storm is over, before we have to leave to go to Lewiston for the show."  When I finally got to sleep, it was still snowing.

It was still snowing, when I woke up a few hours later.  And, texts were flying furiously, about whether or not the show was going to be cancelled or not.  It was finally determined that the show must go on.

I was half relieved that it was still going to happen...and at the same time, I was irritated, because, it meant that I was going to have to drive in the crappy snow, to a show that Shaunna wasn't getting paid for, for a person who I didn't know.

Shaunna Rai

While I processed all that, I realized how much of a jerk that made me.  The show was a benefit, to "Pay it Forward," to the family of a young man who was known for "Paying it Forward."  Really, I didn't have any right to be angry...because Shaunna gave me the option of not going to the show.  I had a perfect excuse...I had worked the overnight, and so, I needed to sleep.  I was the one who chose to go to the show.  If I was going to be mad at anyone, it needed to be myself, not the show.

Leanna Love

I've been getting better, about having things ready to go, before Shaunna is ready to walk out the door...because I've gotten flack for that, in the past.  And, so Saturday night, I was on top of things again.  The car was loaded, and I just had to make sure that Shaunna's door was unlocked before she got to the car.  So simple.

Finally, it was time to leave.  And, the panic started to set in.  I don't consider myself a good driver, in the best of conditions, much less, when there's three inches of slush on the road, and half of the traveling I have to do before I get to the highway is uphill, because, let's face it, Portland is built on a hill, that we live in the middle of.

Miss E,on does "Take Me to Church".

It was actually, kind of funny, Occasionally, I hear Shaunna coming out of Dan's mouth, but it's very rare to have the opposite happen.  Driving up High Street, praying that the car would make it, Dan reminded me (using Shaunna's mouth) not to stomp on the gas, and to pump the brakes, and not slam on them.

Once we finally got to the highway, the roads were clear, and I could relax again...at least, until we made it to Lewiston, where the roads were nasty again.

Sheneeda Diet, with the mane.

I wasn't sure quite what to make of the night, given the weather.  A few people had said that they would try to make it to the show.  So, once we got there, and I brought in the suitcase, and some wigs that Dan had re-worked for Sheneeda Diet and Brystal Kreme, I went to find a place to sit.

When you're early for a show, it's kind of boring, sitting and waiting.  Especially, when it's a show, where people might not come out, because the roads are gross.  So, I found my spot, and waited.  People started to trickle in, in ones and twos.  Shaunna came out to get a drink, and while she was out, a friend from school and his friend came.  So, conversation started.  Eventually, I took them both to my table.

In the meantime, another friend of ours came, with a friend of his, who is a huge fan of Shaunna's.  They sat at my table too.  For a few minutes, I felt special.  I had people sitting with me, who wanted to be there, not because they were assigned to be there.

Jacinda

Shaunna's fan, Andrea asked me what time the show was going to start.  I told her, quite honestly, the poster says 9:30pm, but, it'll probably be later than that.  Drag time is it's own time zone.

Finally, the show started.

The first number was the tribute number, by Sheneeda Diet.  A slow, sad song, but totally fitting, considering the ultimate reason for the show was the death of a young man.

Sheneeda Diet

The show went very quickly, once it started.  Jacinda was up next, then Shaunna Rai, Leanna Love and Miss E,on.  E,on's number floored me.  Hozier's Take Me to Church, only it was a female cover.  (I've spent the week since the show, with the song stuck in my head...Thanks E,on!)  Sheneeda Diet was back out, with one of Shaunna Rai's stand by songs...although, which, I don't remember, at this point.  I loved the hair.  I watched it go from an old wig to the giant mane with blonde highlights that it is now.

Leanna Love

The show took a break.  When people came back from smoking, or buying drinks, or whatever, they did a raffle.  When Shaunna got drinks, she also bought tickets.  The goal was to get one of two gift baskets...one filled with candy and tickets to the movies.  The other, was a gift certificate to Lotus Chinese restaurant, which also included movie theater tickets.  Unfortunately, we won neither.  But, at least the money raised was going to go to the family.

Miss E,on's All About The Bass.

Jacinda started the second half of the show.

Then Sheneeda Diet again, with another of Shaunna's usual songs.  It was interesting to see someone else perform the same song.  It was a little weird, because these are numbers that I've seen so often, that I pretty much know what movements happen when...so when they didn't happen, it was a little jarring.

Leanna Love went next.  She's great when it comes to working the audience...but as a subject to photograph, I got frustrated with her.  Since the emcee told us that there was no flash photography allowed, I had to use the existing lighting for pictures.  (When I asked her about it later, she said that she hated the lights, because they're so bright that you can't see anything anyway...so it made sense that she stayed away from them.)

Shaunna Rai

E'on went again, and shocked me.  I have never seen her in anything other than her black and/or purple hair (and blonde once, but only in pictures.)  She came out in red hair.  She did Meghan Trainor's All About the Bass, a song that I immediately thought of her, the first time I heard it.

 Throughout the course of the night, I played with camera settings, in hopes that at least some of the pictures would come out, since I couldn't use a flash.  And, in the process, I would every so often review what I had just taken.  And, I found, at some point, I had changed the settings, so that I could literally hold the trigger, and it would automatically take multiple pictures.  So, when I reviewed it, it was almost like playing back the show, only minus the music.

Shaunna was next to the last number.  And, as usual, had a couple tear aways.  (Reviewing it in reverse was fun, watching her put things back on, as they flew back at her.)

Brystal Kreme

Finally, it was the new girl, who I had never met, much less seen perform...as it was her first time performing.  Brystal Kreme moves fast, and didn't seem to like the light any more than Leanna Love did.  (Neither of which made for good photos.)  She was very much involved with the audience...so much so, that at one point, while visiting our friends, she actually knocked my camera out of my hands into my lap. (No damage was done, thankfully.)

And, just like that, the show was over.

There was a bit of a meet and greet at the end.  The girls made themselves available for group photos with anyone who wanted them.

The crowds cleared out, and it was time to go home.  Lewiston was still a mess, the Turnpike was fine, and Portland was still a mess.  But, we made it home safe and sound.