PERFORMERS: FIT FOR A QUEEN
Marco Arimare - Picture and Bio Coming
Kevin Ayton
A ball of energy since birth, Kevin grew up participating in sports and athletics until he discovered the art of dance at the age of 14. From that moment on, he knew that performing was what he loved to do and would strive to discover new ways to express himself. No stranger to the stage, and always hungry for the spotlight, he always finds ways to bend the rules and think outside the box. This is his first year performing at "Fit For A Queen."
Kristina Cash
Kristina, although relatively new to the scene has established herself as someone to keep an eye on. Awarded the title of Entertainer of The Year 2007/2008 and winning the crown of Miss Odyssey 10, Kristina is definitely on the rise. Love for the spotlight, starting at birth, plus an incredible thrill, derived from entertaining the crowd, has pushed her to newer, bigger, better things each time she hits the stage. She is excited ‘Fit For A Queen’ is one of those chances, Enjoy!
Summer Clearance
Summer Clearance combined her love of glamour, political incorrectness, tongue-in-cheek humour, and everything retro, for her 2000 debut! She is a freelance sound editor/mixer, with clients including many of tonight’s performers. Summer exclusively wears costumes created by Blair Robertson of J-Blair Designs and models the philosophy “the bigger the hair, the closer to God.” Theatre: Jesus Christ Superstar (TUTS), Pharaoh in Joseph & The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (IC Productions), Aladdin, Frankenstein: The Musical, Utopia Ltd (FVGSS) Entertainer: Celebrity Cruises Film: Connie & Carla T.V: The L Word, Miss. Bailey's Pageant (Out TV)
Coco
Coco is definitely one of Vancouver’s most established drag stars. A past Entertainer of the Year, Coco wows audiences with her high-energy dance numbers, and her electrifying beauty. Whether she’s doing Mary J. Blige, Whitney Houston, or Toni Braxton, Coco will fool and woo you with her stage charisma and flawless impersonations. Coco has performed in Starry Night and numerous local fundraisers and is a guest artist in some of the city’s hottest shows.
Kaitlin Chapple
Kaitlin Chapple, an accomplished dancer and model, performs in a variety of styles and venues and is currently producing her own events in the city and is director of the contemporary cabaret group "Rococo Cabaret". She is also performing with Vancouver troupe "Sneaky Kiki's Girlesque", and was a part of their sexy vocal cabaret, "Magic Box". She can most recently be seen as a dancer in feature film 'Gunless' released this past month. She is very excited to be on stage at the RiverRock for this year's "Fit For a Queen"!
Devana DeMille
With over 20 years of performing experience (she started when she was 6...you can stop laughing now), Devana brings fun and creativity to the River Rock stage. Using dance skills and some help from a great choreographer, this year will bring something new to the table. "Thank you for all the support over the years and sit back, fasten your seat belts, and enjoy the ride!"
Dame Hope Diamond
Anyone who has had the privilege of witnessing one of Hope Diamond’s signature live performances knows the thrill of watching true talent. A consummate professional, Hope has performed on stages, big and small, for many years now. Always a crowd favourite, Miss Diamond’s inimitable stage moves have thrilled thousands. And no, this is not simply a beautiful face mouthing the words to a compelling song. It’s style, it’s movement, it’s comedy, it’s fashion, it’s a damn fine coiffure – it’s Hope Diamond!
Heather Dotto
Heather Dotto has been a member of Move: The Company since it’s inception in 2005. She has also performed for Simone Orlando, Amber Funk-Barton, Coriograph Theatre, The New Pornographers, and more recently with mmHop. Her acting credits include various plays, musicals, and the lead role in the dance film “Perceptions. In 2009, Heather made her professional choreographic debut as one of the invited collaborators involved in the creation of MOVE: the company’s “The Cell”. Her newest work includes the upcoming dancers of “ActualPlay”, and will premier at the end of January 2010.
Rita Evenden
Rita has been dancing for many years. She’s classically trained, but in the last 5 years has found her love for hip hop. Currently she trains with SOULdiers hip hop company and is a core member of Kill the Lights Crew. While training she has been able to perform in many shows around Vancouver and Seattle. She is very excited to be a part of Fit for a Queen this year.
Micah Gilbert - Picture and Bio Coming
Tony Giroux
Tony has been professionally dancing for about 2 and has been able to train with the Souldiers company, as well as Kill The Lights crew during the same time, which allowed him to discover both hip hop fundamentals and new skool. Tony also performs and teaches all around the lower mainland including teaching classes at Harbour Dance centre. His personal style is hip hop based, including popping, waving, RnB, and locking. Tony dances with one goal in mind: sharing his love and appreciation for hip hop dance.
Paula Giroday
Paula Giroday began dancing at the age of three and began training professionally at the Caulfield School of Dance at age 12. She has danced professionally with: The Source Dance Company, Move: The Company, and performed weekly with the Candy Girl Cabaret. Paula also dances and acts for film and television. Her credits include: Sorority Wars, Smallville, Caprica, Alice, and Suckerpunch. You can also see Paula in music videos for The New Pornographers, Econoline crush and Michael Buble!
Robyn Graves
Robyn Graves has been entertaining crowds in Vancouver for well over 12 years. Of the many titles Robyn has had the privilege to receive none has made her more proud then being recently crowned empress 37 of Vancouver. Robyn is pleased to add her appearance in tonight’s Fit for a Queen to her long list of accomplishments.
Mackenzie Green
Mackenzie, a sought after teacher, has received scholarships from The Royal Winnipeg Ballet, The Banff Centre, The Source Dance Company and The American Dance Awards. He has also performed and choreographed for artist’s such a Plex and Adaline which have been featured on Much Music. He has performed in numerous projects with MOVE: The Company as well as in projects such as “Relache”, and Kinesis Dance Somatheatro’s production of “Box4”. This is Mackenzie’s second year performing at “Fit For A Queen.”
Anna Hassard
Anna began performing in Saskatoon, SK where she danced for many years. An acting class at the University of Saskatchewan prompted her to audition for the Canadian College of Performing Arts in Victoria, BC where she obtained her Diploma. Since moving to Vancouver Anna has worked as an Actor, Singer, Dancer, Choreographer and of course, a waitress. She will also try her hand at producing in October with the Pulitzer Prize nominated play Boys' Life at Little Mountain Studios. You can also see her in HAIR this July at the Waterfront Theatre on Granville Island.
Pierson Hayes
Being in the spotlight is nothing new for Pierson Hayes. At just 7 years old, he already had an extensive film and television resume including being the Hungry Hungry Hippos kid. From there, he started training in all areas of dance including hip hop, jazz, and ballet, and continued right through his teens training professionally. He also competed in Out TV's hit show "How Far Will You Go" which followed the lives of 12 aspiring gay models. In May 2008, he created a boylicious dance duo called The Go Go experience which eventually toured to Hong Kong, Taiwan and Los Angeles. He is currently dancing for pop star Rosette who just recently was the opening act for Akon at GM place
Jovanna Huguet
Jovanna Huguet loves being a performer and has been doing it since she was five years old. Jovanna was most recently seen in the hit series “Fringe” on FOX. TV credits: Fringe (Fox), Smallville (CW), Supernatural (CW), Blade (SPIKE), Psych (USA), Alice (SyFy). Film credits: Percy Jackson and the Olympians, Chaos Theory, Numb, The Look, What Comes Around, Truth. Some other favorite Theatre credits: The Glass Menagerie (Laura), Joker of the Day (Lisa), Gospel According to the Soul (Chorus), Guys and Dolls (Chorus). Dance Companies: Candy Girl Cabaret, Boston Ballet, National Youth Ballet. Look out for Jovanna in the upcoming web-series : "The True Heroines".
Jaylene
A collection of Vancouver’s finest impersonators would not be complete without this enchanting performer. Be prepared to be dazzled and amazed! As a proud ambassador of the gay community, she is the recipient of many charitable involvement awards having held the positions of Princess 27 to the Greater Vancouver Native Cultural society and Empress 35 of Vancouver, BC. Jaylene now sits on the board of the International Court Council of the International Court System. This talented performer has graced the stages of premiere drag venues through out Canada and the USA and is featured in several ad campaigns. She considers it an honour to be a part of this annual fundraiser in support of the Shooting Stars Foundation.
Joan-E (Host)
Joan-E is the creation of Entertainer Robert Kaiser. Joan-E has hosted Vancouver’s longest running drag show, “The Feather Boa Show”, which celebrated its 15th Anniversary in December. The show is every Sunday night at the Odyssey Nightclub. Joan-E also hosts Bingo for Life every Wednesday at Celebrities. She continues to do film and television work and is a past nominee for the “Leo Award”. She is a regular contributor to pinq.ca and V-rag and has MC'd the Vancouver Pride Parade for over a decade. Joan-E’s charity work has resulted in a U.S. Congressional Award, a 2010 Jose honour and the “Golden Jubilee award of Merit” from Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
Ella Jotie
Ella is elated to be part of FFAQ for another year! She has spent the last 12 years of her career entertaining audiences worldwide as a dancer, choreographer and actor for both stage and screen and has been blessed with the opportunity to work with many of the industries best Including: ABC, Disney, MTV, Nickelodeon, NBC, the NBA, and along side the choreographers of such artists as Madonna and Janet Jackson. This year, Ella is proud to announce her latest endeavor, The Barre Fitness Studio, opening in Yaletown, July 2010!!! www.barrefitness.com
Mandy Kamp
This girl is truly one of Vancouver's premiere entertainers! Best known for her brilliant impersonations of Bette Midler, Liza Minnelli and tonight - Dolly Parton, Mandy is a frequent guest performer on this city's show circuit. A past Empress (twice!) and Entertainer of the Year, Mandy has dedicated herself for over two decades to fundraising for numerous charities and organizations. Thank you for your continued love and support. Have a "Fan"tastic evening! XO
Kiki
The 30th reigning “Queen of Hearts”, Kiki is an outrageous, rhinestone-wearing showgirl! Her extensive dance training is displayed in her performances, with choreography that no one else but Kiki would do. Her stage performances wow local club audiences AND the guests at Fit for a Queen. Be ready to be blown away, Kiki is coming to town!
Jordan Kilik
Even from a very young age, Jordan knew he was meant to be an entertainer. Being able to bring a smile and joy to an audience through dance and performance has been and always will be his life long goal. After many roles in local community theatre and high school productions, Jordan got his first Vancouver stage experience as part of the ensemble in Theatre Under the Stars' Anne of Green Gables. The following year he would pick up a the Role of Garvin in Footloose to rave reviews by local critics. After completing his high school education, Jordan jumped at the opportunity to be featured in elaborate production shows on the high seas for Royal Caribbean Cruiselines. 16 months later he would be wooing the hearts of thousands of Japanese fans as Prince Charming, and Captain Hook in Tokyo Disney Resort's "One Man's Dream". Jordan is currently working and living in a Vancouver, and would like to thank you all for coming to support such great local talent, and such a great cause.
Lava and Sisters of Alchemy
Vancouver performer Lava has been performing and teaching bellydance since 1999, both nationally and internationally. She's the director of her tribal fusion bellydance troupe “Sisters of Alchemy”. With a diverse background in theatre, music, film studies, and many dance forms, Lava has developed (SOA)'s style into its "rockin-lockin" & "smooth-groove". Lava produces the ATS event "Sisters of Alchemy's Tribal Soiree" (performance dance party) and is currently producing new works, for Sisters of Alchemy's full length show "Dark Arts & Parlour Tricks". For more info - www.lavastudio.ca
Milan
Milan is an exciting, expressive artist known for lavish productions, choreography, and technical content. A past Ms. Gay Vancouver and Imperial Crown Princess 30, Milan is best known for her impersonations of Janet Jackson, Jennifer Lopez and Toni Braxton. Milan has been a part of Starry Night and has performed in Fit For A Queen since it’s inauguration!
Joanna Pastorek
Joanna is excited to be dancing with the fabulous Kiki for the second year in a row! Other credits include Judy in A Chorus Line (Royal City Musical Theatre), and ensemble in Anything Goes (Metro Theatre) and 42nd Street (RCMT). She also tap danced (with pink hair) in the Opening Ceremonies of the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics. Joanna holds a B.Sc. in Chemistry from SFU, an Associate Diploma in piano performance from the Royal Conservatory of Music, and is currently working towards a B.Ed. in high school science. Enjoy the show!
Shawna Parry
Shawna is tickled pink to be backing up her friend and fellow artist, Kiki! A Vancouver performer, choreographer, and instructor of Musical Theatre and Dance, her favorite credits include: Adelaide in Guys and Dolls (Metro Theatre), Eve in The Diary of Adam and Eve (little apple equity co-op), a cheerleader in High School Musical (URP), Connie in A Chorus Line (VIVA Musica), a dancer/Choreographer for The Yellowpoint Christmas Spectacular (Razzle Dazzle) and Swing/Assist. Choreographer for Olympic WinterSports Showcase (West Vancouver 2010/URP).
Rina Pellerin
Born and raised in Vancouver, Rina was put in Ballet as a little girl to correct posture and promote poise. Never really enjoying herself, she quit once she entered highschool. There, she joined the school dance team and found out about SOULdiers - a local Hip Hop company. After graduation she ended up working different restaurant jobs, making enough money to take classes at dance studios and join the group. Ever since, she has immersed herself in Hip Hop culture, and rigorously trained in all aspects of Hip Hop dance including Funk styles like Locking, Waacking, and Popping. Hungry to make it in the dance industry, Rina also trains in Jazz, continues with Ballet, Dance Hall, and is always looking for more styles to incorporate into hers.
Tami Sinosich - Bio and Picture Coming
Conni Smudge
The Unstoppable Conni Smudge is a past Entertainer of the Year, Miss Odyssey 2006/2007, Wonderlust Queen #1 and Mother to the House of Opulence. Wowing crowds with her over the top interpretations is still one of Mz. Smudge’s biggest thrills. Performing for the masses all over this great planet is the her finest achievement. After finally finding her niche Conni/Chris is now Manager at Large for the best Costume house in Canada! Carol's Costume Corner in North Vancouver is feeding this performers creative spirit and the customer's seem to be enjoying it.
Antonio Somera
Antonio has been dancing for 6 years. He began his dance training at PraiseTEAM studio in Surrey, practicing in hip-hop, street jazz, and tap. While in PraiseTEAM, Antonio has competed locally and also internationally, joining competitions such as International Dance Challenge and MaxtOut. He is currently training with SOULdiers Dance Company in Vancouver, where he is expanding his dance vocabulary. Antonio is also taking his Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in Dance at the Contemporary Arts program up at Simon Fraser University. In the future, Antonio hopes to be a professional dancer.
Nicol Spinola
Nicol is thrilled to be a part of Fit For A Queen! Past credits; Connie in A Chorus Line, West Side Story, Joseph, 42nd Street, and Peter Pan (RCMT) Pepper in Annie and Winnie Tate in Annie Get Your Gun (TUTS), YellowPoint Christmas Spectacular (Razzle Dazzle Prods.), Pink Floyd's The Wall (Live Stage Performance) Emily (Gateway Theatre), Cabaret, Jesus Christ Superstar and Joseph (URP) and a west coast tour of Franklin the Turtle (Paquin Entertainment). Nicol had the privilege of performing in the Opening Ceremonies for the 2010 Olympic Winter Games.
Raye Sunshine
With a million-dollar smile and a heart of gold, Raye Sunshine dominates the stage with elegance and ease like no other queen has done before her. After being discovered by her second father, DJ Jules, her career skyrocketed with eight years of modeling on runways and drag shows all over North America. Known internationally as "Busy Drag Queen" and most recently "The SuperModel Empress"she has showcased at all the crème de la crème events in Vancouver, found working her magic at the ALL the hottest spots. She has held many titles and is now the current reigning 39th elected Empress of the Dogwood Monarchy Society. Raye Sunshine is definitely a bright, brilliant star in the milky way of entertainers.
Symone
One of Vancouver’s premier gender illusionists, Symone has been entertaining the masses from Vancouver to Paris and beyond for almost 2 decades . A past Entertainer of the Year who’s dinner show "Dressing on the Side" sold out for five years. Symone has graced the stages of the world, in addition to performances in Vancouver at the Stanley Theatre, Vancouver Art Gallery, Plaza of Nations, the Westin Resort & Spa and was the dazzling opening act for INXS during one of their Vancouver Shows. She has also hosted several fundraisers such as Fashion Cares Vancouver and the VPS Pride Ball. And there is more...She is a featured columnist for LOV Magazine. Tonight she is pleased to captivate, entertain and perform for you!
Syren
Having debuted in December of 2007, she has since starting carving a name for her self with her incredible appearances, amazing costumes, and out of this world performances! Her shows are always full of high-energy music, incredible choreography, gorgeous dancers and of course...the DIVA herself!
Willie Taylor
Although Florida born, Willie has made Vancouver his home and stage for most of his life. This popular and energetic drag entertainer stars in the weekly cabaret every Wednesday at the Odyssey Nightclub. He has appeared in feature films such as the Showtime Production of “Holiday Heart” and he won best actor for his role in the TUTS Production of “La Cages Au Folles”. Willie is guaranteed to blow his audiences away with his spot-on impersonations of Patti LaBelle, Jennifer Holliday, and Aretha Franklin.
Kamelle Toe
Kamelle Toe has been doing drag for about 7 years. She hosts 2 shows in the city Frequeency, Tuesday nights 11:30 at the Odyssey, and a charity show called Faux Girls, Wednesdays 11:30 at the Odyssey. She imperonates such greats as Wynonna Judd, Dolly Parton, Jann Arden, Natalie Maines of the Dixie Chicks and Tracy Turnblad from Hairspray. Thank you for being here and giving us the chance to perform for you! Hope you enjoy the amazing show we've put together for you!
Trampolina
At the mere age of 3, Trampolina's momma would bribe her with chocolate to sing "What's Love Got To Do With It". Since then, she's developed a taste for bright lights and even bigger hair and accessories! One of Vancouver's only real female drag performers, Trampolina brings fun, excitement, humour and a whole lot of rack to the stage.You can catch her performing at various events around town. She is very proud to be taking part in this year's Fit For A Queen. Bouncy bouncy!
Joe Tremblay
Joseph Tremblay has performed in the BC Children's Hospital Gala, Whiplash, Shall We Dance and numerous shows with the PNE. He has traveled around the world working for Celebrity Cruise lines and an Army Show Tour to Egypt and Israel performing for the soldiers over seas. He can be seen in the films Dr. Dolittle 3, the remake of Reefer Madness and was a principal dancer in the productions of Close Enough and Zero by Josh Beamish. Joseph is currently with Move: The Company and has returned home from touring B.C. performing in school shows educating students on dance and its many styles.
Chuck Tuttle
Hailing from Boston, Massachusetts, Chuck recently planted in Vancouver and instantly found a place for himself on local stages performing with favourites such as Jaylene Tyme and Joan-E. He entered the club scene in Boston at an early age and ever since has been ripping it up all over the Eastern seaboard. A hair stylist by day, Chuck lives with his partner in downtown Vancouver and is honoured to be part of Fit for a Queen for the first time its many styles.
Vivian Von BrokenHymen
VIVIAN VON BROKENHYMEN enjoys Acting up a storm, Dancing in the dark & Singing in the rain. She has performed with both "Gateway Theater", "Arts Club Theatre", "Dunbar Musical Theater" and (TUTS) in numerous Musical Theater and Dance roles. VIVIAN holds the titles of "Imperial Crown Princess 27", "Miss Odyssey II" ,"Entertainer Of The Year 2004" & "EMPRESS XXXIV" for "The Dogwood Monarchist Society" VIVIAN has taken some time off of performing recently and is currently teaching children Dance & Chorography at The Kitsilano Figure Skating Club and is loving every minute!! VIVIAN is excited to be returning to the River Rock Stage and to support the Shooting Stars Foundation!!
Iona Whipp
Iona Whipp was born in a van on a Saskatchewan highway not so many years ago. Since then, she has skyrocketed to performe extraordinaire. Iona has a deep love for the stage and 11 years of musical theatre training behind her. Last year her role in the successful run of "A Chorus Line" with Royal City Musical Theatre met with rave reviews. Dance has been, and always will be her true passion. Iona is a model, actress, dancer, singer and most importantly...wife. She is celebrating a full year of LEGALLY married life!
Alison Wright
Alison most recently performed in Royal City Musical Theatre’s 2010 production of Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. Her training in performing began at a young age and has given her the opportunity to study Ballet at The Banff Centre and Musical Theatre at The Broadway Theatre Project in Tampa, Florida. Alison is proud to have been a member of the kick line in the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Closing Ceremonies. Enjoy the show!
