"Thinking of the day,
When you went away
What a life to take,
What a bond to break
I'll be missing you." - "I'll Be Missing You" by P. Diddy feat. 112 and Faith Evans
I’ve resisted writing this post for several months. It never seemed like the right time, and
honestly, I’ve struggled to process all the loss that happened over the
summer. Three beloved members of the
Dallas burlesque and drag scene left us, and I had the unexpected death of my
grandfather on top of that. Only one was
related to COVID-19 so I couldn’t direct my emotions at the pandemic (even
though it was upsetting to not be able to go to any services). I do want to pay homage to them, and as we
approach the anniversary of two wonderful performers, I hope whatever is beyond
this mortal realm that there’s a stage and lots of glitter.
Rudy Garland had always been a supporter to Tuesday Tease, as
well as other queerlesque productions, and he made his stage debut in the
beginning of 2020, one of the last shows I did before quarantine. As he had mentioned being on the aromantic
spectrum, I asked him if he wanted to be a part of a Tease dedicated to
aromanticism and basically all other forms of non-romantic love. His act was beautiful and heartfelt. Even though his new performance career had to
go on pause, Rudy was upbeat about other aspects of his life. Some unexpected circumstances led to his departure,
and I’m sad we didn’t have more time together.
However, I will cherish the memories we did make and the representation
and heart he brought to Tuesday Tease.
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Tease with Benefits: an Aromantic Affair
cast and crew. Photo by Jessie C.
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Joe Rekhart wasn’t a performer, but he was a dedicated fan
of burlesque and even a producer at one point.
He drove Fuego Danza Company to the San Antonio Burlesque Festival, and
our last conversation actually shed some insight behind the troupe dissolving
and an uncomfortable trip back from the festival. I’m glad I got that peace, and I’m only sorry
I didn’t realize his support was genuine much sooner (experience has taught me
to be wary of possible ulterior motives some fans may have). He offered companionship and assistance to
many performers, and Joe’s loss is felt every day.
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Viva Dallas Burlesque: Festivus Follies 2019
Photo by Nico
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I only knew Fantasha Suggs from helping out with a Tease she
performed in. I’m not even sure we
really spoke, but she was stunning on-stage.
She brought so much energy, embodying Tina Turner and Whitney
Houston. It was obvious why she was a
star in the Dallas drag scene. Dallas
Voice wrote a great tribute to her.
It’s been a rough year for many of us, and I know other communities
have experienced loss too. Plus our time
with burlesque legends is always precious.
My place as a burlesque and drag performer remains uncertain; it’s
making me keep my distance. However, I
want to cherish the time I do share with my fellow performers because
regardless of how our relationships are defined off-stage, we do have a connection
in sharing the spotlight and the realm behind the curtain. That's what sticks when someone is gone.
