Member Focus: Debbie with a D
Tell me about yourself!
My name is Debbie with a D, and I'm a professional drag queen. My spin on it is that I'm a public health queen. I do a lot of work with the American Cancer Society, with HIV and aids service organizations, as well as PrEP delivery services.(If you’re looking for PreP check out “PrEP on Demand in the French Quarter and tell them I sent you!) I love my job - I have a masters in public health, and I managed an STI testing clinic for 9 years. I loved doing that work – But during that time I started playing around with drag to scratch that theater itch I’ve always had. I could book a show on a night or a weekend and make it work! Eventually doing drag started paying the bills so I took it on full time! I’m going on two years now. I feel like I'm living the dream. I feel so lucky to be in a city that has such a notable culture, where I am able to do drag.
What’s the tea on the drag scene in New Orleans?
The tea about the drag scene in New Orleans is that it's incredible. It is so diverse and eclectic. I think if you don't book a drag king, you're only getting part of the story. You can see all sorts of different types of drag here. You can see sideshow drag, you can see pageant, stunts, ballads, even drag wrestling! The tea is that the scene is so diverse it is just a microcosm of what people think of New Orleans as a whole. It's a vibrant city full of culture, full of life, and talent, and costuming and - just put that on a smaller scale and you have the New Orleans drag scene.
What are you working on right now?
Besides working on brunch at Common House, I'm working on a lot of things. I host a show every Tuesday at OZ, it's an open talent night. It's a place to try out new acts if you're looking to get into drag. We also take live vocals, comedy, drag kings, drag queens, burlesque, anybody! Sign up here.
I am also currently working with the American Cancer Society hosting the Allies Against Cancer Benefit the Thursday before Southern Decadence on Aug 29th. We will be raising money with a fantastic show featuring Rupaul’s Drag Race superstar Jujubee. More info here. You can also catch me performing with another Drag Race legend Alyssa Edwards at House of Blues, Friday August 30th. I’ll sleep when Southern Decadence is over! You can also follow me over on Instagram @Debbiewithd to stay up to date on all my upcoming shows.
What is your vision for brunch at Common House?
Oh mama - have you seen the space? It's GORGEOUS! The stunts we will be able to pull and the drama that you will be able to witness will be unparalleled! I will be pulling together some of the best New Orleans drag queens. Ones that have headlined at Jazzfest, ones that host their own shows and even queens you may have seen on the screen or stage will be making appearances. The food is also going to be delicious. This brunch is going to be one for the books - Hope to see you there!