Get Out! GAY Magazine – Issue 560
Featuring content from the hottest gay and gay-friendly spots in New York, each (free!) issue of Get Out! highlights the bars, nightclubs, restaurants, spas and other businesses throughout NYC’s metropolitan area that the city’s gay a population is interested in.
Featuring content from the hottest gay and gay-friendly spots in New York, each (free!) issue of Get Out! highlights the bars, nightclubs, restaurants, spas and other businesses throughout NYC’s metropolitan area that the city’s gay a population is interested in.
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week in pictures >> BY WILSONMODELS / wilsonmodels.blogspot.com
RUPAUL'S DRAG RACE ALL STARS 10 AT GITANO
Voted
#1
Gay Salon
Gay Pride Deals
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COVER: FREEDA KULO
PHOTO CREDIT:
@JUANJONAS_FILES
ISSUE
#560
COVER: NOAH LAMANNA
PHOTO CREDIT:
JAQUELINE SILVA
PUBLISHER MICHAEL TODD
MIKE@GETOUTMAG.COM
DESIGN AGOTA CORREA
AGOTA@GETOUTMAG.COM
CELEBRITY INTERVIEWER EILEEN SHAPIRO
@EILEENSHAPIRO3
NYC’S NIGHTLIFE AWARD WINNING BLOGGER/
WRITER & INTERVIEWER JIM SILVESTRI
NIGHTLIFE PHOTOGRAPHER WILSONMODELS
JEASO86@HOTMAIL.COM
The publications of MJT/GOOTH ENTERTAINMENT, getoutmag.com or any
other related print or Web publications or social media accounts, their images,
quotations or articles should not be construed to be an indication of the sexual
orientation of anyone portrayed therein.
All Content © Copyright 2019
MJT/GOOTH ENTERTAINMENT
25-21 45TH STREET ASTORIA, NY 11103
GET OUT OF THE HOUSE ENTERTAINMENT EST. 2009
week in pictures >> Photo Credit Photo by Mike Todd (Get Out! Magazine)
VANESSA WILLIAMS -DIAMOND & RUBY GALA & BENEFIT
CONCERT - ST. GEORGE THEATRE
TOP 10
DJ EDDIE
CRUZ
Facebook /eddiecruz
Instagram @DjEddieCruz
CURRENT
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
MI MUNDO
RAFAEL DAGLAR
FREDDY SANCHEZ REMIX
VOQUEPUMP2025
MADONNA, STEVE’CHIP-
CHOP’GONZALEZ REMIX
TRUENA EL ABANICO
ERICH ENSASTIQUE & ALAN PILO.
JAUS ORIGINAL MIX.
FIESTA
SUPERIOR
‘TRIBAL MIX’
DIVINA REMIX
EWING MARQUEZ FT. DARWIN
‘PRINCIPITO’
ONE KISS
DUA LIPA
CALVIN HARRIS MIX
ULTIMA
SHAKIRA
WHITE LABEL TRIBAL MIX
NEVER ALONE
RIHANNA
TRIBALISM MIX
FREAK
MEDUSA/GENESIS
FT.AYA ANNE
DREAMING FT. DAYA
DOM DOLLA REMIX
THROWBACK
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
NOAH’S ORGAN
MIKE CRUZ MIX
PLEASE DON’T GO
NAYOBE
CLASSIC 12IN VOCAL MIX
I WANT TO DANCE WITH SOMEBODY
WHITNEY HOUSTON
WHITE LABEL TRIBAL MIX
GYPSY WOMAN- SHES HOMELESS (LA
DA DEE, LA DA DA) CRYSTAL WATERS
TRIBAL MIX
GOOD LIFE
INNER CITY FT. PARIS GREY
LAST NIGHT A DJ SAVED MY LIFE.
LITTLE LOUIE VEGA FT. ANANÉ & TONY
TOUCH
DON’T YOU WANT ME
HUMAN LEAGUE
ORIGINAL CLASSIC MIX
TURN THE BEAT AROUND
VICKI SUE ROBINSON
EXTENDED WHITE LABEL MIX
NO REASON TO CRY
JUDY TORRES
EXTENDED TRIBAL REMIX
SUME SIGH SEY - HOUSE OF GYPSIES
TODD TERRY DOWNTOWN
UNDERGROWN MIX
Resident Dj At Queens Pride (First Sunday of June)
@Friends Tavern/Viva La Heights Stage
For Private Parties contact me at Djeddiecruz6@gmail.com
FREEDA KULO
BY EILEEN SHAPIRO
CELEBRITY CORRESPONDENT
PHOTOS CREDIT:
THE CLAVEL @THECLAVEL ON IG
In a world that too often demands conformity, Freeda Kulo is a blazing
reminder that authenticity is the fiercest form of rebellion. Known
for her razor-sharp wit, commanding presence and show-stopping
performances, Freeda has carved out a unique space in the drag
universe — where glamour meets grit and every strut tells a story.
Beyond the sequins and spotlight, Freeda is an advocate, artist and
unapologetic force of self-expression who continues to inspire others
to embrace their truth. Whether she’s captivating audiences on stage,
slaying on screen or mentoring the next generation of queens, one
thing is clear: Freeda doesn’t just perform—she provokes.
In this exclusive conversation, we talk legacy, liberation and the power
of drag as both performance and protest. Welcome to the world of
Freeda Kulo — bold, brilliant and always unforgettable.
INTERVIEW
Freeda, for those who are meeting you
for the first time — how would you
describe Freeda Kulo in three words?
Class, sass and ass!
Your name is iconic. Tell us the story
behind Freeda Kulo. How did she
come to life?
Being proud of my Mexican heritage , I
have always loved Frida Kahlo, not just
for her artwork but also for her story. She
used her life experiences of love, life and
loss, which are conveyed in her pieces.
Similarly, I use my drag style to achieve
the same, but with a campy, witty flair.
Plus, I used to be very self-conscious
about having a big butt, and I decided to
leave the shame behind and celebrate,
which explains the play on words.
Drag is such a powerful form of selfexpression.
What was your “aha”
moment when you knew this was your
calling?
It was in 2020, after a period of lockdown,
when bars were finally able to host
drag shows, but the audience had to
be seated. Icon in Astoria had
a Latin night on Wednesdays
called Fiesta Latina, hosted
by Pedro Alvarado, who would
rotate different Latinx queens as
performers. I attended multiple
weeks to introduce myself, get to
know the queens, the audience,
and the whole vibe. I finally
got my chance and there was
a packed house! I remember
curating my set list so I could
tell stories about the numbers or
share funny anecdotes that really
connected with people. I finished
my third set and thought the night
was over, but then the manager
at the time, Dakota West, came
up to me and told me that there
was a line of people wanting to
come in. He suggested I do a
fourth set because everyone was
loving it. Luckily, I had packed
an extra costume and went for it!
The cheering and love I received
that night still brings a smile to
my face. At the end of the night,
I counted my tips and couldn’t
believe I made over 1000 dollars. I was
struggling so hard financially that I felt this
was a sign from the universe to do what
I love!
Every queen has her signature. What’s
the secret sauce that makes a Freeda
Kulo performance unforgettable?
There has to be an element of drama, like
that of a novella, a stunning look that’s
well thought out and then a hard left turn
to humor. Though I strive to have it all put
together, I’m not afraid to laugh at myself.
Who are your biggest inspirations
— in drag, in fashion, in life? Any
unexpected icons?
My landlord pushes me to work hard and
pay rent, lol! But in all seriousness, dragwise,
I admire Trixie for being able to
build an empire, Valentina for her beauty
and style and for being such a class act.
In life, my mother, who immigrated to
California when she was 18, has been so
resilient despite all that life has thrown at
her. One would think that someone who
has endured so much pain and hardship
would be bitter, but on the contrary, she is
the kindest person ever and is so giving. I
wish I could give her the world!
The drag scene has exploded globally
thanks to shows and streaming —
but what do you think people still
misunderstand about drag culture?
At least in some parts of the world, I
don’t think people quite understand
how liberating the art form is. There are
antiquated tropes about what a drag
queen looks like, how she acts and how
recklessly she lives, but in reality, it’s
an artistic profession for some and an
outlet for others. In many Latin countries,
I believe it stems from machismo and
internalized homophobia. There is such
a sense of liberation that drag gives you,
and those who condemn us secretly
have a desire to be that free. It reminds
me of Madonna’s song “What It Feels
Like for a Girl, “ where it says, “Girls can
wear jeans and cut their hair short, wear
shirts and boots, ‘cause it’s okay to be
a boy. But for a boy to look like a girl is
degrading ‘cause you think that being a
girl is degrading. But secretly, you’d love
to know what it’s like, wouldn’t you? What
it feels like for a girl.”
If you could collaborate with any
music artist or celebrity on a
performance, who would you choose
and why?
Before drag, I had a huge love for
dancing and used to be part of a few
dance companies. One choreographer I
consider a genius is Parris Goebel. The
first time I saw her work was five years
ago, when she created a dance film for
Justin Bieber’s “Yummy.” The movement
was fire, and I also love how inclusive
she is with her cast of dancers. She is
also well-known for her work with Gaga,
Beyoncé and Rihanna at the Fenty show
and the Super Bowl I mean, the legends
of our time, so it’s only fitting that I dream
of being in that echelon of artists.
Let’s get a little spicy — what’s been
your most outrageous or hilarious onstage
moment?
My most outrageous moment was when
I competed for Miss Paradise 2024 in
Asbury Park. The first category was
“Presentation,” with the theme “Music
brings people together.” While waiting
to go up on stage, the contestants and
former winners gathered in the hotel
lobby of the Empress Hotel, and I was
the last to arrive. Everyone’s head
turned, and the room fell silent. I recall
some former Miss Paradise winners
telling me that the moment I arrived with
that presentation, they said it was over
for the other girls. I had the audacity to
hit the stage with a mariachi band and an
avant-garde custom dress imported from
Mexico, made by Valencia Gonzaga, that
filled up the stage. I sang and remember
the cheers overpowering the host of the
pageant. I was overwhelmed with joy
when I saw my mom, Tia Maria, and my
sister Maria crying tears of joy alongside
Pedro Alvarado, whom I lovingly call my
gay dad.
PHOTOS CREDIT: JONAS @JUANJONAS_FILES ON IG
Drag is glamour, but it’s also hard
work. What’s something about the
grind behind the glitter that people
don’t always see?
Not only is drag expensive, but it is also
time-consuming to maintain. Cleaning
wigs, restyling hair, stoning garments,
hand-stitching feathers, washing
costumes, etc. It’s a lot of maintenance,
and you have to keep up with your looks.
Additionally, something that is greatly
impacting drag artists and the creatives
who support them are these tariffs! A lot
of times, materials are outsourced and
prices have more than doubled. In return,
designers and wig stylists have to take
that into consideration when they are
commissioned.
As a queer artist, how do you see your
role in today’s social and political
climate? Is drag more powerful now
than ever?
It can be very overwhelming to wake
up every day, see the news, or jump on
social media and feel helpless about
everything going on. It’s jarring, and it
feels like things get worse each and
every day. But I realize that people go to
drag shows not only for entertainment
but also because there’s power in
community. Whenever you feel lost or
helpless, it is imperative to find your tribe,
connect, vent, grieve, get angry, and
hold each other up no matter what. The
way we fearlessly captivate a community
to foster queer joy fuels
a liberation that should
be accessible to us all.
Additionally , there are
many things that we take
for granted. For instance,
I always make it a point
at my drag brunch in
Kween Astoria to show
recognition for the kitchen
staff because it reminds
me of the sacrifices
my parents made as
immigrants for me to
have the opportunities I
enjoy today.
What’s next for Freeda
Kulo? Any big shows,
projects, or secret
plans you can tease for
us?
I’m always cooking up
something new, but before I give y’all
a rundown of where you can catch this
Kulo, I want to emphasize that now more
than ever, we have to support queer
creatives, especially those who are local,
POC and trans. Book drag kings, things
and queens! Show support because it’s
really tough right now, and it means the
world to us when you come out. With
that said, I’m cooking up something new
in the kitchen, Hell’s Kitchen, that is on
Saturday nights. Keep your eyes peeled
for this because you don’t want to miss
the first lewk! Every Sunday, I’m at my
home bar, Kween, in Astoria for Drag
Brunch. My hermana Mexicana, Fonda
Koxx, holds it down on Saturdays, and
we always have a different special guest
each week, with seatings at 1 PM and
3:30 PM. On Thursday, June 5th, catch
me at 3 Dollar Bill for the Renaissance
Drag Concert & Dance Party, headlined
by Aja, who is currently on RuPaul’s Drag
Race All Stars, Season 10. I will also
be hosting CUNY Pridefest at Queens
College on Friday, June 6th, from 12
PM to 4 PM, and it’s open to the public!
On Saturday, June 21st, from 5 PM to 8
PM, I’m hosting the Rock the Boat Pride
Cruise, brought to you by Albatross, Icon,
Kween and The 44 Entertainment Group.
Plus, I’ll be back in Jersey City for Drag
Me to Dinner on Thursday, June 26, at
the Rooftop at Exchange Place, located
in the Hyatt hotel. On Saturday, June
7th and June 28th, you can find me at
Balcon Salon for Bacon Brunch, hosted
by the iconic Jasmine Rice LaBeija at 2
PM. On Pride, Sunday, June 29th, I will
be performing at the boat party brought
to you by Friends Tavern and Viva La
Heights.
And finally–for anyone out there who’s
dreaming of stepping into their own
spotlight but feels afraid, what would
Freeda Kulo tell them?
I know it can be nerve-racking and feel
very vulnerable to expose yourself to
the light, but know that all that energy
can be used to propel your passion, to
improve, and it can ignite a talent and
beauty that have always been inside you.
It’s not always easy and it takes a lot of
work, but you will have those moments
when the universe gives you a wink and
a nudge to tell you that you’re on the right
track and this is meant for you.
BY EILEEN SHAPIRO
CELEBRITY CORRESPONDENT
MEET NOAH LAMANNA
A Multifaceted Talent on the Rise
Toronto-based actor Noah Lamanna is
making waves across screens big and small
in 2025. Known for their dynamic range
and captivating presence, Noah appears
in the highly anticipated second season of
HBO’s The Last of Us, premiered April 13,
portraying Kat—a pivotal figure from Ellie’s
past. Fans can also catch them in season
three of Netflix’s hit series Ginny & Georgia,
debuting June 5, where they play Tris, a
whip-smart skateboarder and trusted friend
in the world of Wellsbury.
With a recent Best Principal Performance
nomination for their role as Eli in Let
the Right One In at Berkeley Repertory
Theatre, and screen credits including
Dream Scenario, The Umbrella Academy
and Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, Noah
continues to carve out a distinct path in
the industry. Beyond acting, they are an
emerging voice behind the
camera, currently prepping
their first original short film.
Blending backgrounds in
musical theater, puppetry and
drag, Noah brings a singular
creative perspective to every
role—and they’re just getting
started.
PHOTOS BY JAQUELINE SILVA
INTERVIEW
So, my first question is: How
did you prepare for your
role in The Last of Us? Both
physically and mentally. I
mean, within such a complex
and beloved video game
universe.
The character Kat wasn’t actually built
out in the game. She was just referred
to. So I had the space to bring myself
into it rather than being tied to a
portrayal that already existed. So it
gave me some freedom. Most of my
preparation happened on a horse. I
rode when I was a kid, but it has been
quite a while since I was on a horse,
so I had to brush up my skills. So that
is a lot of what I was doing before I
went out there.
That’s a little bit scary if you don’t
know how to ride a horse.
Well, they are TV horses. So they
are pretty well tamed.
Your role brought visibility to a
trans universe, a narrative, in
a post-apocalyptic world. What
drew you to the project and
what made you connect with
the role?
It’s one of the biggest shows on
TV. Everyone is watching and
everyone is sort of eager to be
part of it. I would have jumped
on board to do literally anything.
I just got lucky. Obviously, the
characters themselves are queer,
but I do think it’s cool and sort of
an extra level of representation
that Ellie (Bella Ramsey) and I
are both non-binary. I think for
the queer fans, that adds another
little t-for-t expansion.
Was there a particular scene or
moment that stayed with you
long after the movie wrapped?
I did have a kind of profound
and out of body moment when I
was shooting a scene. Bella and
Pedro were both there. They were
in costume, talking to each other in
character in rehearsal, and I had an
out of body moment watching them,
thinking, “Oh, wait, I watched the
show. How did I get here?” Sort of
looking around and thinking, “This
doesn’t make sense. Why am I
in the show that I watched? How
did I get teleported here?” It was
something that I’ve not experienced
before. I have been in shows before
that I watched. But that was very
specifically impactful.
What kind of feedback have
you been getting from viewers?
Especially queer fans who kind of
saw themselves reflected on the
screen.
I’ll be honest with you. I really try to
stay out of the comments. It could be
a fraught place. I know some of the
actors on the show have really been
dealing with a lot from the comments
section. From those people that I
maybe know more intimately, the
feedback has been a very lovely
reception. The first time that I think
I’ve had fan edits made. I did see a
few of the fan edits. Which was fun.
So there is an enthusiastic queer
audience out there that is shipping
the Kat and Ellie storyline.
Do you think the entertainment
industry is starting to evolve in
how it writes, cast and supports
queer and trans characters and
actors?
I do think so. Yes. A few years ago,
there was sort of this big wave or
big push of trans visibility in casting.
Not everybody was getting it right.
But, you know, good on them. You’ve
got to start somewhere. I think the
more that we’re seeing, at least I
hope to see it even more, but more
queer and trans people are in writers’
rooms and are producing. That’s why
we have the authenticity that really
makes a difference when you’re
watching a show. You can tell when
there is a queer person behind the
story. I look forward to seeing more
and more of that.
What kind of roles or projects are
you most excited to explore next?
The adventure of being out like in
the mountains. Riding horses on
location. Really, truly, I would love
to do more of that. Especially after
this project. I have really had my
eyes on trying western genre stuff.
Horror. Anything where you really get
sort of pushed outside the reality of
everyday experience.
Are there any artists or writers or
producers or directors that inspire
you that you could name? Or that
you feel like naming?
I was actually on your Instagram
page and I saw Sasha Velour
on a carpet. She is a big artistic
inspiration.
I really respect her. She’s so
multifaceted and is such a profound
artistic voice that carries through
everything that she does. Such clear
storytelling.
I heard that you did something with
Star Trek. Is that true?
Yes.
Is there something you wish more
people understood about you as an
actor or creator or just even as a
person?
That is an interesting question. I
guess the sort of interesting push and
pull with being in this job is having
it be such a public facing role. The
desire to actually be believed and not
perceived. I think a lot of people are
very confused by that–your whole
job is to be visible. But there is a big
difference between being perceived
on camera in character and being
perceived as yourself
in the world. So I think
there is an interesting
relationship to “fame and
visibility”. I think that’s
a little not-so-secret
secret about me. That I
mostly move through the
world surprised when I
get perceived because I
try to move through the
world incognito.
Tell me a little bit about it.
It’s about this band that accidentally
discovers this song that, when you
hear it, it transports you to another
dimension. And also, in doing so,
makes your head explode. It’s very,
very campy. But it’s so fun. When I
read the script, I thought, “This is so
specific and it’s so funny.” I can’t wait
for the audience members to see it.
Because I think it’s really fun and really
unique.
So, you’re going to be in the next
season of Ginny & Georgia, which
is great. How did you prepare for
that role?
In part, I prepared by taking
skateboarding lessons. Which is not
something I ever saw for myself. In
this job, you are always learning new
things. It was a fun and funny aspect
of the preparation.
That’s kind of
mysterious, but fun. I
like to make everything
fun or I won’t do it. Is
there anything that I
didn’t cover that you
would like to speak
about?
Well, there is a film
that I’m in that I think
the queers will love.
It’s called Turn It Up!
It is a horror comedy.
It is actually screening
partially at the “Frontieres
Platform” at Cannes.
What character do you
play?
I play a student. Their name is
Tris. They are a skateboarder
and a tutor. They really walk
the line very well of being
studious and laid-back.
They bring a very cool and
balanced energy.
What was your biggest
challenge, aside from
skateboarding?
I was lucky. I had a stunt
double. So I didn’t have to
train too hard.
So, from that episode, what
did you take away with you?
What do you remember
most?
It was really lovely working
with that cast. They were
also welcoming. We had a lot
of fun together. I was really
grateful to just be embraced
and brought in like that in the
third season. It seemed like
a seamless transition. It was
nice having a thorough arc
throughout the show. To really
get comfortable and know
everybody and have a place
to play. That was really nice.
Is it weird when you come
in on the third season?
Is it strange or weird or
uncomfortable?
It can be. Everybody already
knows each other. They have
established relationships
and quiet politics that exist
on set. Who gets along and
what director does people like
working with? So when you
come in on a third season,
you kind of have to suss that
out as you go. But as I said, I
was really lucky on this one.
They made me feel really
welcome. Really went out of
their way to make me feel at
home.
BY BEN NELSON
Big Wigs in the Catskills
The Catskills are more than just a
picturesque escape. They’ve long been
a cherished haven for LGBTQ+ New
Yorkers, rich with queer history and
cultural significance.
This June, the mountains will sashay
back into the spotlight as Drag Me to the
Catskills returns for its second annual
celebration, taking place June 13–15,
2025, at the Forestburgh Playhouse
Tavern. The three-day extravaganza
promises a fabulous fusion of fierce
performances, music and camp, headlined
by drag royalty including Lady Bunny,
Mrs. Kasha Davis, Thorgy Thor, Joey Arias
and music diva Inaya Day.
The weekend kicks off Friday with the
return of Comedy Queens of the Catskills.
Then on Saturday, the glam dial turns up
to 11 with a revival of NYC’s legendary
Wigstock festival. Wigstock in the
Catskills, hosted by Lady Bunny, begins at
7 p.m. and will feature an all-star lineup of
iconic performers.
The grand finale is the crowd-favorite Drag
Me to Brunch at 11 a.m.: a decadent blend
of eggs and eleganza.
For those looking to escape NYC in style,
a party bus package is available, hosted
by the incomparable Kiki Ball-Change. The
ride includes roundtrip travel, live drag
performances, trivia, karaoke and overthe-top
entertainment from the moment
the wheels start rolling.
We caught up with Thorgy Thor and Kiki
Ball-Change to talk about drag, deer and
doing karaoke on the highway.
Wigstock in the Catskills?! Tell us, how big is
the hair going to get on Saturday?
Thorgy Thor: Well, let’s start by saying that no
one’s hair is as big—or disgusting!—as Lady
Bunny’s. I’m offended already, and it hasn’t even
begun! I’m planning some colorful looks for sure…
guaranteed to infuse the ‘drag camp’ vibe into the
evening!
Are you bringing the violin to Wigstock or is it
strictly wigs and wackiness?
Thorgy Thor: I am juggling ideas back and forth
and can’t decide!!! Should I bring my violin? Who
knows? (wink)
If Wigstock had a dress code, would it be
“camp chic,” “drag disaster” or “Thorgy
realness”?
Thorgy Thor: Is there a difference between the
three?! Just kidding, but honestly, that’s a good
title for my book: Thorgy’s Really Campy-Chic
Drag Disaster, which I guess would be a chooseyour-own-adventure
Young Adult fiction fantasy.
What’s your pre-show ritual before
storming the Wigstock stage? Meditation
or margaritas?
Thorgy Thor: Did someone say tequila?!
(Laughing) Meditation is for an ashram!
INTERVIEWS
What makes performing in the Catskills
different from a big city gig?
Thorgy Thor: I’ve only performed in the Catskills
one time, and that was last year’s event. It was
literally in the middle of the woods! The quietness
was deafening, until the show started. Let me tell
you, the audience showed up and showed out!
We gave them one hell of a show. I’m hoping I can
harness a family of wild deer to pull a wagon for
me to ride in on! The deer will obviously be in full
drag and paid handsomely! No deer were hurt in
the process of this ridiculous comment.
Finally—if someone only makes it to one event
this weekend (though they should go to all),
why should it absolutely be brunch with you?
Thorgy Thor: Are you kidding me? Bring
electrolytes and get your ass to all the events!
Kiki, you’re hosting a
party bus headed to the
Catskills. Should we
pack glitter, vocal cords
or both?
Kiki Ball-Change: Bring
cash because I’m
performing!
What kind of chaos can guests expect the
moment they step on board?
Kiki Ball-Change: I’ve never performed on a
moving bus traveling down the highway before, so
expect me to wear a nice chunky heel to keep my
balance.
Finally, once you all roll into the Catskills,
what’s the post-bus vibe? Are you more “Let’s
go hiking in heels” or “Get me a cocktail and a
chaise lounge, dahlin’”?
Kiki Ball-Change: Me?! Hiking in heels? Who
do you think I am, Pattie Gonia?! I am looking
forward to walking off that bus and right into a bar,
then back to my hotel for a little post-ride ride…if
you know what I mean.
Visit DragMetotheCatskills.com.
What’s more challenging: delivering a
snatched lip sync while dodging potholes or
keeping everyone’s attention when the drink
cooler starts making the rounds?
Kiki Ball-Change: Definitely the potholes! I
hope the potholes don’t bump me onto some
unsuspecting handsome man’s lap!
Give us a peek inside your party bus playlist.
What songs are guaranteed to turn a sleepy
morning rider into a full-on dancing diva by
exit 12?
Kiki Ball-Change: Oh, baby. We gotta have some
Pride classics! Diana Ross, Lady Gaga, the
Weather Girls, Charli XCX, Sylvester…the list
goes on!
GET OUT! MAGAZINE
NAMED ONE OF THE TOP GAY MAGAZINES
AND BLOGS IN THE WORLD RANKED BY
FREESPOT.COM
New York, NY — Get Out! Magazine, a vibrant staple of LGBTQ+ nightlife,
culture, and entertainment in New York City, has officially been recognized
as one of the top LGBTQ+ publications and blogs in the world. The
magazine has earned the prestigious distinction of being ranked #5 among
the top gay magazines on the planet, and #19 among the world’s top
LGBTQ+ blogs, a testament to its growing global reach and cultural impact.
Founded in the heart of NYC by publisher Mike Todd, Get Out! has been a
go-to source for the city’s LGBTQ+ community—covering everything from
club events and celebrity interviews to community issues and emerging
artists. Its bold editorial style, edgy photography, and finger-on-the-pulse
content have made it a standout voice not just locally, but worldwide.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to be recognized on a global level,” said a
representative from Get Out! “This community has always been our focus—
from the grassroots to the glamorous—and we’re thrilled to see that work
resonate across borders.”
The recognition comes at a time when LGBTQ+ media continues to
play a critical role in both
representation and advocacy. As
mainstream platforms expand
their coverage, niche outlets
like Get Out! remain essential
for capturing the authenticity,
diversity, and energy of queer
life from the inside out.
Whether in print or online,
Get Out! continues to push
the envelope, highlight
the underrepresented, and
celebrate LGBTQ+ culture with
unapologetic flair.
BY JIM SILVESTRI
Drag Performer of the Month
LANYÉ ARMÖN
The Glam Winning BigGirlz co-founder has shows all over the city
this summer... including Fire Island!
where I gotta pretend to be basic,
meek or quiet—that ain’t in my spirit.
PHOTO CREDIT: @DANNYBRISTOLLPHOTO
Best description of my drag: The
Ghetto Glamorous Diva of NYC—Afro-
Latina excellence served with soul,
sass and a side of sequins. I’m what
happens when high fashion meets the
block party.
How many years I’ve been at it: Five
years and counting—still evolving, still
elevating. Forever the student.
Original hometown: Bronx, New
York—the birthplace of hip-hop and
the blueprint of my boldness.
Favorite number to do: If you know
me well, you know anytime I put on
“Disco Inferno” (Burn, Baby, Burn!)–
Amber Riley version–it’s time to
BUCK!!
A number I will NEVER do: Anything
Favorite cosmetic product: Black
Radiance True Complexion Contour
Palette—because the cheekbones
must cut like betrayal.
Reason I started drag: To show little
Black and Brown girls (and myself) that
our voices, our stories and our magic
are center stage—not the side act.
Most important diva ever: Beyonce.
Raw. Revolutionary. Real. A voice and
vision that made me believe artistry
could be a weapon and a healing.
A drag performer I admire: I admire
a multitude of drag performers, but
the one I’m obsessed with right now
is Lushious Massacr! She is hilarious
and a great makeup artist.
The man (or etc.) of my dreams: Tall,
hood-smart, emotionally intelligent,
knows how to pray and throw it down.
Bonus points if he knows how to steam
a wig.
Drink of choice: A BigGirlz! Yes, we
have a drink named after us, lol, but
it’s a tequila with lime pineapple and
orange juice.
Best thing about drag: It’s the freest,
fiercest, most fearless version of me. A
world where I write the rules and break
‘em just as fast.
Worst thing about drag: How much
we give and how little we’re sometimes
respected for it. But baby, we still show
up and show out.
Proudest drag moment I’ve had:
Creating the Big Girlz and winning a
Glam Award for Best Group with my
sisters, all in the first year of our career
as a girl group. We are thankful and
grateful.
Weirdest drag moment I’ve had:
A guy walked on stage during my
number and was standing directly in
front of me and said nothing.
Best advice to a new queen: Find
your why, protect your peace and
never forget that your drag is your
power—don’t water it down for nobody.
I love telling people that “Everybody
gets the same five minutes on stage,
so make it count. “
Where to find me: On stage at
Cherry’s on the Bay (Tuesday 8pm),
Playhouse (Thursday 8pm), The Ritz
(Friday 8pm), Hardware (Saturday
8pm) and turning the party anywhere
glam meets grit. Follow me @
LanyeArmon on everything.
week in pictures >> Photo Credit Photo by Mike Todd (Get Out! Magazine)
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