I know I’d said I wasn’t going to compete again for a while, and I really did mean it. I’ve been in semi-retirement since earlier this year, and it’s been a good thing. A few people asked me if I would compete for Mr Cash, so that I’d have the chance to compete for Mr Gay Pride. I went back and forth about it for quite some time, ran the idea by a few people, and decided what the hell. I wish I’d had time to really go all out, but I sort of had to make do with what I had. It seemed to work though, because I won. I think I had some decent competition too, as I was competing against a king who had recently made 1st Alternate in the Mister Arizona USofA MI pageant. His talent was pretty hot and I’d say his evening wear was better than mine. I fully expected to lose to him, but as we all know judging is more subjective than objective, and I guess that night I just happened to be what the judges were looking for.
Why did I decide to compete? Because, despite all the crap and the bullshit that goes with it, I love drag. I love performing. The rush of being on stage, even just at a bar, the looks on the audience’s faces when they’re having fun, the costuming, everything. And being able to use drag as a way to give back to community is just an added bonus. THAT’S why I decided to compete. I want another shot at being Mr Gay Pride because I know I could do some great things. I know it’s not a state title and it won’t take me to Nationals, but sometimes the local titles mean more. To me, winning a Pride title isn’t a feather in my cap. It’s not an ego boost. It’s not a “hey look at me! I just won another title!” title. It’s a chance to really do something in and for this community. So many of us do so much already and fly so low under the radar that our efforts never really get recognized. Now, I’m not necessarily talking about me. There are so many others, people that some take for granted when it comes to doing fundraisers and helping out. I would love to see these kings and performers get credit where credit is due.
For me, there’s more to holding the Pride title than just fundraising. You are now THE face of the Phoenix LGBTQ community, not just in Phoenix but outside of Phoenix and all over the country. That’s an incredible opportunity. Yes, there are individuals within this community, as with any community, that have a tendency towards creating drama and stirring the pot, but generally they are few and far between. Most of the people I’ve met and worked with have been incredible and supportive and just good people. It is for them, and for the love of the art of male impersonation, that I’m giving this one more shot. If I win in March, great. If not, no big deal. It’s not worth getting bent out of shape about.
Wish me luck! :)