Well hello there Marilyn Monhoe! Are you prepared with this snowstorm that is allegedly coming tomorrow? Do you have your bread, eggs and milk?
*laughs* Well heya Miss Ma’am! I’m DEFINITELY not as prepared as I should be! I DID just pickup a fresh bottle of poppers in case I got caught stuck snowed in!
I’m not sure what it is about potential snow that makes people want to get ingredients to make french toast but I digress. How is your 2024 treating you so far?
I’m more of a pancake and sausage girl myself… more sausage if you catch my drift! **laughs** My 2024 is shaping up to be a pretty BIG year! New opportunities, new cities, and new collaborations in the works! What a way to start this New Year!
Let’s hop in the Delorean in head back in time a bit! Where does your story begin?
Well *laughs* I love this story, because folx don’t really know or realize that I didn’t want to pursue a career as a drag artist. This opportunity sort of just fell into my lap! Once upon a time… (circa 2017) little Miss Marilyn was born, sitting in the very back row of the Al Hirschfeld Theatre, watching some queer black performer belt their face off in the ICONIC red thigh high platform heels that I’ve come to know and love. I’m a musical theatre actor, and being a method-actor, I wanted to know what it was like to have (some) experience working and performing as a drag artist here in the city, prior to booking the role on Broadway. Now, I didn’t book the role (on Broadway; later regionally and internationally) but learned that there were more opportunities for a biPOC Drag Queen, whose specialty WAS Musical Theatre (being extremely niche) THAN on a stage where there’s 50 of us fighting DAILY for that one role. One thing led to another, and I decided to continue working and performing as a Drag Queen, and with that, my love for theatre and live theatrical performance art merged, giving you all what you know and love NOW as THE Marilyn Monhoe!
What was it about musical theatre that drew you to it?
The “thing” was how magical it was… how it can pull you in, and inspire you. You’re leaving a space with a newfound energy to go out and either make or create change… and that’s bloody beautiful. I’ve always wanted to be on a stage, and look into the audience, and see a young queer black person who resembled a young Marilyn… just to know that this was me… this is where I started. And if I can do it… God knows you can too.
What was your first exposure to drag?
I’m actually extremely embarrassed to admit this. But we all remember the Bruno Mars’ song “Billionaire”? Well, Willam (the Drag Queen) ended up putting out a cover, and I had heard only a snippet of it, and was super intrigued but because I was at school, I couldn’t access it due to the school’s browser restrictions. So I downloaded some software to go around their security settings, just to watch Willam be their extremely problematic self, and FELL IN LOVE. I was extremely confused, and didn’t “get it” at the time. But being one of my earliest exposures, this one definitely takes the cake.
How long did it take you to realize the connection between drag and musical theatre? This city is filled with musical theatre students currently paying their rent thanks to sequined bodysuits.
OOOH! A fun question! I was REALLY lucky to realize the connection about my first month into performing/competing full-time. I was unbelievably lucky to begin my “journey” at Polish The Queen: Drag Competition, back when it was at Stonewall Inn, and getting to watch and be mentored by some INCREDIBLE elder folx in our community, who reminded me that Drag is an ARTFORM which really instilled the mentality that this, like theatre, is a dedicated sport. It takes one’s focus and determination, and your hard work only pays off once the lights go down. What you leave on that stage, is up to you, and only you. So, I tend to only perform show tunes, which really allows me to blend my love for live musical theatre, and drag, and bring this niche art form into spaces where folx exposure to high-quality theatrical performances aren’t always common.
What is your dream theatre role?
This is a really hard question and it’s certainly layered. Currently, (out of drag) I stand at about six feet, seven inches, and identify as someone who is non-binary. The “type” of roles that I’m suited for (principal/leading – types, with larger than life personalities and comedic relief), are few and far between, and access to performing in those specific roles, while also being a person of color, really limits what I’m able to do; at least on a professional level. All that’s to say, when it comes to big black queer leading roles, and what my “dream role” looks like. I’m actually quite privileged to say that I’ve done and played her, and would play “Lola/Simon” in a production of “Kinky Boots” until the day I die. That’s a show I can do 8 times a week, 52 weeks a year, and NOT lose interest, or love, or passion for this character, story, or people I get to share the stage with each and every night. It’s a show that’s filled with heart, and one that leaves room for conversations surrounding a variety of topics, and I’m quite blessed to have been able to bring those conversations to light through post – show discussions, and college tours over the past two years.
What is it about Lola that you relate to?
THIS IS THE MONEY MAKING QUESTION RIGHT HERE! Completely coincidental, Marilyn + Lola, are one and the same. We’re both individuals with a LOT of heart, and that’s evident in our art, and the people we surround ourselves with. We’re unbelievably passionate about the goals that we set, and making sure that we include everyone that’s involved in that journey. When we love, we love hard, and that opens us up to heartbreak. We’re able to forgive and use that lesson to then educate those who may not be as open minded. We don’t let our past define who we’ve become, but we do acknowledge and give thanks to those who instilled those life lessons in us, giving us the words of encouragement when we didn’t have the strength to go find them ourselves. And we both love those god damn boots!
So let’s talk about costuming challenges at your size.
*cackles* Bring it on!
I’m guessing all of your pieces need to be custom made? And I’d wager at your height, you don’t have the best selection of heels either.
I mean, let’s be real. Being this tall is a real f*cking challenge. I feel like I keep mentioning this show, but my life is basically the plot of “Kinky Boots”! I have an UNBELIEVABLY hard time sourcing stock garments, and usually outfits have to either get custom tailored (ordered at LEAST 3-4 sizes larger than my frame to attempt some sort of shape) or custom made. When it comes to shoes, it comes back to “Kinky Boots”. Quoting the show for a second, “It’s next to impossible to find properly built to last women’s shoes for women who are men… Yes? No?” I measure out at a Women’s 18… WHICH DOES NOT EXIST. So, I pop some Tylenol, rub some menthol ointment on my feet, and cram into a Women’s 16, praying that the shoe lasts through the number/performance, or that I don’t pass out from the pain. On top of just the struggles of comfortability is the sheer COST of what it takes to constantly stay at the top of my game, especially in this city, working in this industry. If you’re ever lucky enough to catch me doing a pop-up show here in NYC, the first thing the girls LOVE to call me is “RuPaul”, as I tend to be pretty close in not only proportions, but height as well. I’d rather call myself Ru-Poor… but alas.
Can you talk about some special things or moments that make you proud to be a musical theatre drag queen?
One of the many special things about being a musical theatre drag queen, is that I actually get to work with people from the industry! I’m so lucky to get to partner with Bra Tenders NYC, which is an undergarment/ hosiery shop located in Midtown Manhattan, that supplies products to theatrical productions on and Off-Broadway, Tours, and International Productions, as well as film and TV! Being a person of color, I’ve always struggled to find tights that matched my exact skin tone. Luckily, Lori (the owner of BraTenders NYC) and I have been able to work together to create custom tights, and even expand into darker and lighter shades for not only dancers, but nightlife performers and DRAG QUEENS! Even more exciting, BraTenders NYC and I, have also partnered with Planet Pepper NYC, which is a hip-pad company based out of upstate NY, and have been working as their spokeswoman for the past 3 years! It’s honestly quite amazing knowing that I get to work with people who not only work on productions like “Wicked” and “Phantom of The Opera” but also “RuPaul’s Drag Race”! PLUS! I’m also helping to create and build sustainable relationships with local businesses, keeping them queer friendly, and open for the foreseeable future!
You’ve been a successful queen in this city for a while now but you did have an issue with a competition you did a few years back. How do you feel like you’ve grown as a person since then?
You know… this is a really cutthroat city, and the pressures surrounding local competitions can get out of hand. Quite truthfully, I didn’t handle the situation well. And looking back, I can definitely take ownership of that. You know, I think because I had lost out on that opportunity to show off my performance package, I was forced to reflect, and find a way to use this as a lesson; and a tough one at that. Since then, we’ve had more losses, but we’re able to bounce back quicker because of the fact I’ve done it more than once, and there’s always another event, there’s always another performance, and there’s always an audience for you… as long as you’re gracious, and humble.
I should warn you that we have reached…….THE LIGHTNING ROUND! *lights flicker*
Let’s do it!
Must have makeup item?
Fenty Stunna Lip Paint (The red one from the SuperBowl!)
The best part of drag?
Getting to sleep afterwards!
The worst part of drag?
Having to deal with rug burn from my corset…
4 AM post show food craving?
PANCAKES!
Most surprising thing about you that people might not know?
My favorite color is actually black… not red.
Drag artist you would pay the most to see?
Last movie to make you cry?
Pride + Prejudice
Streaming Binge recommendation?
It’s A Sin (Netflix TV Series)
Disney character you relate to the most?
Olaf.
In the movie of your life, who plays you?
James Majoos (Australian Actor)
Final question, most embarrassing song on your phone?
“Hearts On The Line” from Gordy: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack. NO I DON’T WANT TO TALK ABOUT THAT CHOICE!
*lowers horn rimmed glasses and stares*
Listen… it was a great Disney Movie and a big part of my childhood. SO… do I still listen to it on a weekly basis? *sips coffee*
So congratulations, you have indeed survived the lightning round!
WHOO!
So in any artform, growth and evolution is a key to longevity. You’ve begun to move beyond the bar scene and into new ventures. What is next for Marilyn Monhoe?
You know, I’m actually super terrified of leaving the safety and comfort of the nightlife scene. But this past year and change, I’ve begun getting back to the stage, and with that, I’m actually excited to announce that I’m collaborating with some really amazing musical theatre artists, alongside Danny Bristoll Photography to put out my first music video, just in time for NYC Pride 2024! This project is slated to be a labor of love, as it’s combining my love for musical theatre, all things drag, and you might see some VERY familiar pieces from Broadway Shows making a surprise appearance! This music video is a preface to my career shift, as I’ll be transitioning to hopefully becoming a traveling “Lola” for productions of “Kinky Boots” both here in the States and internationally, which is absolutely CRAZY! I was pushed creatively last year, when I only had an hour to learn an entirely new production of the show, and since then, it’s been my mission to work with as many productions of “Kinky Boots” as I can! So fingers crossed! Marilyn’s headed out into the world with her suitcase full of dreams, her bag of wigs, and her rhinestoned Kinky Boots!
That better be a big suitcase with those size 16’s gurl!
Oh! We’re going full “AJ and the Queen” style for this venture! Hashtag RV Queen!
With your drag name, do you have a connection with Marilyn Monroe or was a just a good play on words for you?
Funny Story… I had absolutely ZERO connection to Marilyn Monroe. Being a theatre kid, I was actually re-watching the NBC TV show “SMASH!”; which is about the struggles of an upcoming broadway musical about the life of Marilyn Monroe, called “Bombshell”, and how it dealt with having two leading ladies, a mild mannered brunette, and an over the top diva blonde.
And because this blonde who played “Marilyn” was just absolutely everything I wanted to be, just this voluptuous big breasted beltress with a resume and costumes that made your mouth water… AND she was played by the INCREDIBLE Megan Hilty? Yeah. Marilyn Monroe wasn’t just a star. She became a hoe. Marilyn Monhoe.
I should have guessed it was “SMASH!” I want them to reboot that show and do it the justice it deserved!!
RIGHT?! AND it’s about to come to Broadway! So, Win-Win!
Well Marilyn, we have just about reached the end of our time together, but I want to wish you the best of luck with the next phase of your career. I’m eager to see what’s to come. Do you have any final words of wisdom to leave the WERRRK. com Universe with?
Firstly, thank you for having me. It’s always a pleasure getting to share the space with other queer identified people, especially other drag queens, and having a platform to share and spread love, awareness, and education!
If I can leave ya’ll with some words of wisdom… the incredible Tony Award winner Andre De Shields said it best…
“… the three cardinal rules for sustainability and longevity in the arts are:
1. Surround yourself with people whose eyes light up when they see you coming.
2. Slowly is the fastest way to get to where you want to be.
3. The top of one mountain is the bottom of the next, so keep climbing.
