Block Talk- Episode 120: Michael Block

Oh my lord how the tides have turned! The interviewer becomes the interviewee! But it's gonna take two to fill these shows! Nicole Onoscopi and Seraphim take the mic to interview Mike!

To listen to the episode, download and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, SoundCloud, or Stitcher!

Drag365: #5- Audrey Phoenix

Name: Audrey Phoenix

Where can we find you out and about?: The Gutter (it’s a night spot). 10 points to anyone who gets that reference.

Why Drag?: I’ve always wanted to sing, dance and act and I unfortunately can’t do any of those things! Somehow drag allows me to pretend I can.

What made you start drag?: It was totally unplanned. Sutton Lee Seymour was having a debutant show at Albatross and I just decided “why not?” and entered. I didn’t expect that many people to be interested or care, but they did and here I am.

Who are you drag inspirations?: As far as actual drag queens: Shangela, Kizha Carr, Brita Filter, Jasmine Rice LaBeija and of course my drag mother Diana Dzhaketov. As far as overall performers: Judy Garland, Kritin Wiig and strangely enough Conan O’Brien.

Your favorite part of drag is _____?:  The sisterhood. I’ve met so many incredible queens this past year who I honestly consider dear friends now. I love these bitches.

What is your number one makeup secret?: If I had any I’d be MUCH prettier!

The three must haves of drag are _____?: Talent, humor, and an ability to know your words in a lip sync. 

Who are some of your favorite drag artists, designers, stylists, producers, etc. to collaborate with?: JAX is pretty gold in all regards. I also love sharing the stage with my sis Pussy Willow.

What has been the most rewarding moment in your drag career?: Anytime I feel like an audience is really loving what I’m doing on stage. There’s nothing like hearing people laugh with you (or at you, I’ll take both).

If you were to do one character on Snatch Game, who would it be and why?: The challenge with Snatch Game is making the character funny. I do a pretty good Eartha Kitt impression, but I haven’t figured out how to make her funny yet. She’s too eloquent and regal!

How can drag change the world?: As long as it can continue to inspire creativity, bring joy and be fun.

What is the biggest tip you can give a queen starting out today?: Be kind and leave your ego at the door. There’s no reason to be mean to your sisters.

Social Media: @audreyphoenixrises on Instagram

To see more of Audrey, follow @titndrag365!

Drag365: #4- Coco Taylor

Name: Coco Taylor

Where can we find you out and about?: I’m at Rockbar every Tuesday at 9pm hosting my show Cuckoo for Coco.

Why Drag?: Because TheaterWorks USA stopped calling.

What made you start drag?: The first bite was the penultimate Fire Island Drag Party. Then New York Comic Con and a handful of local competitions where unwitting audience members paid me cash to act a fool.

Who are you drag inspirations?: The comedy queens of yesteryear: Coco Peru, Varla Jean Merman, Evie Harris and Dina Martina to name a few.

Your favorite part of drag is _____?: When a joke or mix lands with an audience and they scream.

What is your number one makeup secret?: Alcone Stop The Sweat. You don’t know how many eyebrows I lost to perspiration before finding that.

The three must haves of drag are _____?: Mine are all non-physical: wit, intelligence and empathy.

Who are some of your favorite drag artists, designers, stylists, producers, etc. to collaborate with?: I love Perspective Beats for hair. DJ JClef is my rock during my shows. Nicole Onoscopi is always ready to dive clown-feet in first.

What has been the most rewarding moment in your drag career?: Hosting the Miss Rockbar contest and seeing the diversity (and multitude) of queens competing was a huge accomplishment.

If you were to do one character on Snatch Game, who would it be and why?: Katharine Hepburn. Easy to make her funny and I’ve already done her once.

How can drag change the world?: Opening people’s eyes to new experiences and new ideas.

What is the biggest tip you can give a queen starting out today?: Be patient and be selective. You’ll be tempted to always buy another dress, buy another palette, kill yourself to be out every night. Growing yourself and your aesthetic is important.

Social Media: @CocoTaylorNYC. Coco Taylor because of my name, NYC because I often forget where I live.

To see more of Coco, follow @titndrag365!

Drag365: #3- Pussy Willow

Name: Pussy Willow

Where can we find you out and about?: I am at Albatross monthly on Wednesdays for The Pussy Party.

Why Drag?: Because it’s an industry that is ever changing and evolving, which is super exciting.

What made you start drag?: I started drag to change people’s views on female drag and the stigmas beneath it.

Who are you drag inspirations?: Alaska as far as Drag Race girls, but most of my inspiration comes from local queens like Sutton Lee Seymour, Cacophony Daniels, Paige Turner, & Marti Gould Cummings. Just to name a few.

Your favorite part of drag is _____?: Performing for new people and making new connections.

What is your number one makeup secret?: I always contour my neck.

The three must haves of drag are _____?: Wigs, heels, contour.

Who are some of your favorite drag artists, designers, stylists, producers, etc. to collaborate with?: I have yet to find a drag queen that I dislike performing with. As far as stylists go Shelby Late does some incredible hair and Nails for Queens NYC makes killer sets.

What has been the most rewarding moment in your drag career?: When I placed third in Ultimate Drag Pageant, the entire room started chanting my name and the validation/ love was so overwhelming.

If you were to do one character on Snatch Game, who would it be and why?: On UDP I did Dolly Parton for Snatch Game and I wouldn’t hesitate to do her again. However, my original first choice was Katherine Hepburn, because of her quick wit and “I give no fucks” attitude.

How can drag change the world?: Drag is so monumental for the LGBTQAI+ community because the more it is normalized the closer we get to being less ostracized from those who have no knowledge of queer culture. Because it is ever changing and growing, drag is an expression of who you are no matter your gender, race, sexuality, etc. Drag is for everyone.

What is the biggest tip you can give a queen starting out today?: Connect. Connect with your audience, connect with other queens, connect to yourself.

Social Media: Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, & Venmo all @willowthatpuss.

Follow @titndrag365 to see more of Pussy Willow!

Block Talk: Episode 88- RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars 4 Episode 3 Recap

It's a DC invasion as Venus Valhalla and Brady Watson join me to go through everything that happened in the Snatch Game of Love episode of RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars 4!

To listen to the episode, visit iTunes, SoundCloud, or Stitcher!

And don't forget to become a patron today at patreon.com/theaterinthenow

Drag365: #2- Novaczar

Name: Novaczar

Where can we find you out and about?: I perform in Queens, Manhattan and Brooklyn! Icon for open stages in Astoria, Marci Park in Williamsburg, Offside Tavern on 14th street in Manhattan to name a few!

Why Drag?: Drag allows me to get more in touch with my creative side and live out my leading lady fantasies I was always told I’ve never be able to live out growing up.

What made you start drag?: Seeing Sasha Velour compete on RuPaul’s Dragrace Season 9

Who are you drag inspirations?: Sasha Velour and Vander Von Odd

Your favorite part of drag is _____?: Being able to be my own director, producer, choreographer, costume designer

What is your number one makeup secret?: I don’t set my entire face with powder

The three must haves of drag are _____?:  Charisma, Uniqueness, nerve and TALENT! HA! That’s four.

Who are some of your favorite drag artists, designers, stylists, producers, etc. to collaborate with?: Madelynn Hatter when it comes to hair, my good friend Ryan Ward when it comes to costumes, my roommate Mikey Dallas too, Jonathan Vasquez when it comes to photography, Gilda Wabbitt when it comes to one of my favorite queens to work with and same with DJ JCLEF

What has been the most rewarding moment in your drag career?: Being embraced, respected and supported by the entire NYC nightlife community

If you were to do one character on Snatch Game, who would it be and why?: Probably something out there like “Old Gregg” because no one would expect it AND his one liners are HILARIOUS!

How can drag change the world?: Drag can change the world because it’s an artform that can bring together almost any artform if you use you creative mind set enough

What is the biggest tip you can give a queen starting out today?: Have a vision and no matter what anyone says, keep that vision and drive alive and well. Don’t let anyone tell you you can’t do something

Social Media: Instagram/Facebook/Venmo: @novaczar Cashapp: @novaczarqueen

Follow @titndrag365 to see more of Novaczar!

Block Talk- Episode 77: Halloween Special

Halloween is only days away and to prepare you for all things ooky spooky and spoopy, I'm joined by Cicatrix!

To listen to the podcast, visit iTunes or SoundCloud. And don't forget to subscribe and leave a five star review!

Plus, visit patreon.com/theaterinthenow to learn about becoming a patron today!

Block Talk- Episode 76: Block Talk Live!

We had a blast back in August with the first ever Block Talk Live! I was joined by four incredible guests who each gave mini interviews and lots of shows! The audio quality is not my favorite, and I apologize for that, but still, give it a listen!

To listen to the episode, visit iTunes or SoundCloud! And leave a review while you're there!

Plus visit patreon.com/theaterinthenow to become a patron today!

Block Talk: Episode 74- Adriana Trenta

She's sassy, so it's fitting that her latest endeavor is called the Grapes of Sass. I sit down with Adriana Trenta as we chat about her new cabaret, life in NYC, and how drag came into her life.

To listen to the podcast, visit iTunes or SoundCloud. And don't forget to leave a five star review!

And head to patreon.com/theaterinthenow to learn about becoming a Patron today!

Block Talk: Episode 73- Witti Repartee

Another year, another birthday! And this year, she's celebrating with a tinge of politics. I sat down with Witti Repartee to talk about her incredible career and what we can expect to see at her annual birthday bash!

To listen to the podcast, visit iTunes or SoundCloud! And make sure you leave a five star review while you're there!

And check out patreon.com/theaterinthenow to become a patron today!

Block Talk: Episode 71- Robby Rice

He's the cutest thing to appear on Block Talk! It's Robby Rice! We got to chat before we sailed away on a cruise contract about everything nightlife, drag, working as an actor and dancer AND choreographer!

To listen to the podcast, visit iTunes or SoundCloud! And leave us a five star review while you're there!

And don't forget to check out patreon.com/theaterinthenow to become a patron today!

Block Talk: Episode 69- Honey Davenport

photo by Preston Burford

I'm so excited to welcome the incredible Honey Davenport to the podcast! She shares all in this episode from summer plans to some tea on her drag family!

To listen to the podcast, visit iTunes or SoundCloud! And be sure to download, subscribe, and leave a 5 star review!

And consider becoming a patron of the podcast today at patreon.com/theaterinthenow

Block Talk: Episode 68- RuPaul's Drag Race Season 10 RuCap Episode 12

Cissy Walken and I break down the latest episode of RuPaul's Drag Race season 10 where the final four become...the final four.

To listen to the podcast, visit iTunes or SoundCloud! And leave a 5 star review while you're there!

And take a peek at our Patreon at patreon.com/theaterinthenow!

Block Talk- Episode 66: RuPaul's Drag Race Season 10 RuCap Episode 11

Elise Navy-Dad and I, and our inner saboteurs, are here to breakdown episode 11 of RuPaul's Drag Race season 10!

To listen to the podcast, visit iTunes or SoundCloud!

Plus, check out patreon.com/theaterinthenow to learn about becoming a patron today!

Block Talk: Episode 65 (RuPaul's Drag Race Season 10 RuCap Episode 10)

Miz Diamond Wigfall and I become social media moguls as we break down the latest episode of RuPaul's Drag Race season 10!

To listen to the podcast, visit iTunes or SoundCloud!

And check out Patreon.com/theaterinthenow to become a patron of the podcast today!

Block Talk: Episode 64- Coco Taylor

Formally, she's Miss Rockbar, but you can call her Coco Taylor! In this episode of Block Talk, we discuss her journey through theater, life in drag, and her upcoming Pride benefit show at Rockbar!

To listen to the podcast, visit iTunes or SoundCloud! And don't forget to leave us a five star review after you subscribe!

And visit Patreon.com/theaterinthenow to learn about the benefits of becoming a patron!

Block Talk: Episode 63- RuPaul's Drag Race Season 10 RuCap Episode 9

Things got weird on Drag Race as we the ladies made their acting debuts on Breastworld. And Haireola Grande and I are here to break it all down for you!

To listen to the podcast, visit iTunes or SoundCloud! And don't forget to subscribe and leave us a 5 star review!

And consider becoming a patron today at patreon.com/theaterinthenow

Block Talk: Episode 62- RuPaul's Drag Race Season 10 RuCap Episode 8

It's time to Cher our thoughts on the latest episode of RuPaul's Drag Race season 10. I'm joined by the lovely Diana Carfire!

To listen to the episode, visit iTunes or SoundCloud! And leave us a 5 star review while you're there!

And visit patreon.com/theaterinthenow to become a patron of the website.

Review: Harmonies Spring Into Greenroom 42

by Michael Block

Unless you’ve been stuck under a rock then you know that Stephanie’s Child is the hottest thing to happen to New York City’s drag scene. They blew up even more after their guest appearance alongside NYC’s own Nedra Belle on "The Voice". And now Stephanie’s Child is back at Greenroom 42 once again to show us why they’re the bee’s knees. Spring Fling is a celebration of our favorite girl groups through the ages. With harmonies that will make you wet, this singing drag trio continues on their road to superstardom.

photo by Michael Block

Comprised of Jan Sport, Lagoona Bloo, and Rosé, Stephanie’s Child may be best known for their transformation of pop songs with a drag twist. And in Spring Fling, they don’t disappoint as they bring their signature sound to the stage. From the Pointer Sisters to Destiny’s Child, Pussycat Dolls to Danity Kane, almost every girl group got the Stephanie’s Child treatment. The vocal acrobatics from song to song keeps the crowd jumping from their stage. On this night, Jan and Rosé paid homage to the Spice Girls with a raunchy rendition of “2 Becomes 1.” Lagoona Bloo was given her moment in the spotlight as she covered The Shirelles’ “Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow.” It’s safe to say that this was one of the most emotionally-driven and breathtaking performances that you can only dream of witnessing. Be fortunate if you were one of the lucky few to hear Lagoona stop the show and bring the house down.
The Stephanie’s Child stage show is a unique animal as it’s a concert placed in a cabaret setting that tries to disguise itself as a bar show. That’s because the dialogue between numbers is similar to something you might find at a typical drag show. However, in this venue, a tighter, more streamlined script may be in order. The audience is here for their vocal prowess, not necessarily the sidetracked banter. A concentrated script will help the show keep moving along and give the audience more of what they desire.
Stephanie’s Child is the real deal. If you haven’t checked them out at Greenroom 42, do it before they’re too big for the stage. They have a monthly residency so be sure to see what’s in store next.

Block Talk- Episode 59: RuPaul's Drag Race Season 10 RuCap Episode 6

The panel is assembled and we're ready to tackle Drag Con! Zalika Parsons and I are here to break down the latest episode of Drag Race!

To listen to the episode, visit iTunes or SoundCloud! And leave us a 5 star review!

Plus, check out patreon.com/theaterinthenow to help the podcast out!