Plasma Takes the Stage
By Mikkel Hyldebrandt
Photos: Chad and Steven @thegingerb3ardmen, RuPaul’s Drag Race IG @rupaulsdragrace
Plasma – the self-proclaimed Broadway queen from season 16 of RuPaul‘s Race and a semiprofessional Barbra Streisand impersonator– is touring the land with her signature old-school glamor and incredible stage presence. And you can experience the dazzling drag queen right here in Atlanta. David caught up with Plasma to talk drag race, future (Broadway?) plans, and the show at City Winery in Atlanta.
First, for all the theater kids out there, let’s get these out of the way: Favorite Musical? Favorite musical song? And what would be the role of your dreams?
People love to ask me this question, and I have so many options, but it’s always a difficult choice. That said, I would have to say that my favorite musical of all time is either Sunset Boulevard or Dreamgirls. My favorite song is either The Music That Makes Me Dance from Funny Girl or A Boy Like That from West Side Story, and my dream role of all time - I have to think about this - either the witch in Into the Woods or Louise in Gypsy (until I’m old enough to play Mama Rose).
You have been very open about being a theater kid and getting a BFA, and you even got shaded a little for it on the season. It seems like theater has always been a part of your life. Can you tell us a little bit about that? When did you start doing theater?
My first production role was playing a giant cardboard strawberry when I was four, and that really set the tone for my career trajectory. I did one-act plays in high school, and then, of course, got my BFA from the University of Oklahoma, but I was always watching movie musicals with my family growing up, including the original Broadway Company of Into the Woods filmed on stage with Bernadette Peters. I think that’s really where the dream started.
When did you make the switch from theater to focus more on drag?
When I was getting my undergrad during the COVID shut down in Oklahoma, I had sort of fallen out of love with musical theater, performing behind a mask and a face shield, so I really started doing bedroom Drag more consistently. Then, when I moved to New York in the summer of 2021, I sort of fell head over heels into the drag scene and never looked back. But I was always performing musical theater stuff in Drag in New York. I can’t really escape it.
How has your time on RuPaul’s Drag Race helped propel your (musical) career?
I mean, the exposure of being on TV is wild because before I was on television, I was auditioning like everyone else in New York. Now that I have a platform and I’m known for what I do and how passionate I am about performing, especially in musical theater contexts, it’s really given me the freedom and access to meet the kind of people in the industry that I always dreamed of working with and collaborating with. It’s really been a
Would you consider returning to RuPaul’s Drag Race for an All-Star season?
I consider myself a smart businesswoman, so I would never say no to an awesome opportunity as a performer!
You are now traveling the country performing as Plasma, but have you been involved in other theater productions or shows?
Not recently, just because being Plasma has been my primary focus over the last year of my life. That said, Broadway is still my first dream ever, and I would be honored and humbled to be included in the New York theater scene as a queer artist with a profound respect for the Broadway community and industry.
Now, regarding the show in Atlanta, what can people expect from a Plasma performance? Will there be Broadway songs?
I hate to say it, and by that I mean I love to say it, but there will always be an element of Broadway foolishness in my performances in drag, out of Drag, or otherwise. So, absolutely, y’all should prepare for a Broadway diva takeover!
What are you most looking forward to in Atlanta?
I was born and raised in the South, so I know that the food in Atlanta is not to be compared with anything else on this earth. So, I’m
dream come true.
going to try to look for some barbecue first and foremost. I also can’t wait to meet the legend, icon, and star Drew Friday because I hear that she is similar to the food—not to be compared.
Considering the notoriety you have gained from being on one of the world’s most-watched TV shows, what are your performing and theater aspirations?
Like I said, I’m not in the habit of saying no to good opportunities. Of course, I would love nothing more than to be in a Broadway show and hustle my ass as a New York theater icon. I also have a solo cabaret show called All That Plazz, which has now become my passion project, and another dream would be to take it on the road around the country and possibly the world. It has really inspired me to get back to the root of what I love doing and why I fell in love with performing, which is mid-century music and inimitable glamour, with a couple of good laughs along the way.
Can you disclose any exciting projects you are working on? Is Broadway on the horizon?
If I’m being candid, this year has been awesome, and the calendar is full through the new year, which I’m incredibly grateful for and excited about. I’m doing DragCon in LA as we speak, and then after Atlanta, I’m in Provincetown debuting my solo cabaret, which is a huge honor. I’m also still reeling from the excitement around my music video to Anything Goes, which you can find on YouTube and Instagram. I have a couple of cool things in October. Then I hit the road traveling with a Drag Queen Christmas on tour with some of the biggest stars in the
Drag industry, and that has me busy through the new year. Then we’re off to 2025, which I’m manifesting might include the Broadway debut of one Miss Plasma. Who knows - the future is totally wild and exciting!
In closing, please tell us where we can follow you on social media and on the road.
You can follow me on Instagram, mostly @ PlasmaNYC, and, of course, on TikTok, Twitter, and Facebook. On my YouTube channel, you can find my Don’t Rain on My Parade and Bloody Mary music videos, as well as @Plasma_NYC. I’m always acting a fool on my Instagram story though, so that’s where you can find most of me.
Anything else you’d like to add?
I’m honestly just grateful to be back in Atlanta after such a long time away. It’s gonna be such an incredible night, and I’m looking forward to it with every fiber of my being bitch! Y’all ready for a transfusion?
You can catch Plasma at My Sisters Room on July 27, 8 pm (M&G at 9 pm) and at Broadway Brunch with Plasma presented by WUSSY at City Winery on July 28 at 12:30pm.
Backpacks Filled with Support
By Mikkel Hyldebrandt
For over 20 years, For The Kid In All Of Us has raised funds to support kids all over metro Atlanta. One of the signature fundraising events has been the backpack event, which raises funds for school supplies. This year, the event is being reinvented, but the end goal remains the same: to distribute as many backpacks filled with school supplies to as many kids as possible. We spoke to FTK board president, Brian IsbellGarcia about what’s new about the event, fundraising goals, and how you can otherwise support the organization.
We are very excited about the backpack event coming up soon! It’s a new venue and it seems like the concept has been revamped a little – can you tell us a little bit about it?
We’re excited about all the changes we have planned to this year’s Backpack Party. There’s a new venue: Park Tavern. A new day: Sunday. A new experience: Brunch. All with the same great cause: providing backpacks filled with school supplies to thousands of Georgia’s underserved kids and families.
Can you share what attendees can expect at the “Backpacks, Bubbles & Brunch” event?
Party, and we are taking what worked in the past and adding a few new twists. Everyone loves brunch and a Sunday Funday. So, we decided to lean into that this year with the hopes of reaching a new group of loyal supporters. Attendees are invited to grab a few friends, put on their best brunch outfits, grab a glass of champagne (customize it at the mimosa bar), peruse our silent auction items and bid on items using our app, join in the live bidding with our colorful auctioneer, and have a great time knowing they are helping us fill as many backpacks as possible for kids that need them. We are also finalizing a few other “back to school” entertainment options, along with some fun “bubbles” throughout the event.
This is the 19th year of our Backpack
In terms of school supplies: what is your goal this year?
We know that many families are struggling, and nearly 40 percent of parents say they can’t afford school supplies for their kids. The need this year is great. Our goal is to provide more than 5,000 backpacks to our beneficiary partners that serve Georgia’s underserved communities.
Even if you’re not at the event, it is still possible to support. Can you tell us how we can meet a need?
Of course! We take donations yearround on our website at forthekid. org/donate. You can attend one of our community events in the coming months or our big Toy Party on December 8, 2024. You can also offer your support by volunteering at our events, as well as sharing our social media posts and stories. And if you want, you can help raise money by launching your own Facebook Fundraising challenge.
This event is hosted by the FTK board of directors. Can you talk a little bit about this year’s board members?
Our Board is a group of dedicated professionals that does everything. There’s no staff, just board members who plan and promote the events, raise money and secure auction items, build relationships in the community, and have a great time while doing it. We welcomed five new board members at the beginning of this year, and are always looking for interested community members who want to make a positive impact to join us!
The Toy Party is a highly anticipated fundraiser during the Holiday season – are you able to share any details already?
Our Toy Party will be Sunday, December 8, 2024, at the Biltmore Ballrooms in Midtown. We are just beginning to plan, but if you’ve been to any Toy Party you know we don’t disappoint. There’s a reason we’re known as Atlanta’s Favorite Holiday Fundraiser. Go ahead and save that date, and watch our social media for more details after the Backpack Party.
Back to “Backpacks, Bubbles & Brunch”: Tell us when and how we can participate. It’s simple. You can R.S.V.P. on our Facebook event page. Or you can just show up to our event on August 4, with a backpack full of school supplies or $40 for the event, which is our cost to provide one backpack. You can get a list of supplies on our website at forthekid.org/backpack-party. Please share, invite, and bring your friends!
Anything else you’d like to add?
For the Kid in All of Us has been around since 2003. We couldn’t do what we do without the generous support of the LGBTQ+ community. So, we thank you and look forward to many more years together helping provide school supplies and toys to kids who wouldn’t receive them otherwise.
Please join For The Kid In All Of Us for Backpacks, Bubbles & Brunch on Sunday, August 4th, 2024, 12 – 4 pm at Park Tavern in Piedmont Park. Admission is a $40 donation at the door, or you can bring a backpack filled with school supplies.
The Great Outdoors Right Here in Atlanta
Edited by Mikkel Hyldebrandt
Atlanta, the bustling heart of the South, offers a delightful mix of traditional attractions and hidden gems. Whether you’re a visitor looking to explore the classic landmarks or a local seeking out-of-the-ordinary adventures, this guide will help you discover the best outdoor destinations in Atlanta.
For Visitors:
Classic Atlanta Experiences
Piedmont Park
Piedmont Park is Atlanta’s version of Central Park, offering a green oasis in the middle of the city. With sprawling lawns, beautiful walking paths, and a picturesque lake, it’s perfect for a leisurely stroll, a picnic, or even a game of frisbee. Don’t miss the Atlanta Botanical Garden located within the park, which boasts a stunning array of plants and flowers.
The BeltLine
The Atlanta BeltLine is a must-see for any visitor. This former railway corridor has been transformed into a vibrant trail lined with art installations, parks, and trendy eateries. Rent a bike or simply walk along the Eastside Trail to soak in the local culture and enjoy some of the city’s best murals.
Centennial Olympic Park
Created for the 1996 Summer Olympics, Centennial Olympic Park remains a central gathering spot in downtown
Atlanta. The park features beautiful fountains, spacious lawns, and the iconic Olympic Rings. It’s an ideal place to relax after exploring nearby attractions like the Georgia Aquarium, the World of Coca-Cola, and the National Center for Civil and Human Rights.
Stone Mountain Park
Just a short drive from the city, Stone Mountain Park offers a mix of natural beauty and historic significance. Hike to the top of the mountain for breathtaking views, or enjoy a scenic train ride around its base. The park also features a famous laser show that’s perfect for a family outing.
Atlanta Botanical Garden
Nestled next to Piedmont Park, the Atlanta Botanical Garden is a horticultural paradise. Wander through themed gardens, including the Rose Garden and the Japanese Garden, and marvel at the tropical rainforest housed in the Fuqua Conservatory. The garden also hosts seasonal events and exhibitions, making it a delightful visit year-round.
For Locals:
Off-the-Beaten-Path
Adventures
Arabia Mountain
For a unique outdoor adventure, head to Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area. This hidden gem offers a striking landscape of granite outcrops, rare plant species, and scenic trails. The Arabia Mountain Path, a 33-mile multi-use trail, is perfect for hiking and biking, and the area’s tranquil lakes and forests provide a peaceful retreat from city life.
Oakland Cemetery
Oakland Cemetery is more than just a final resting place; it’s a historical and cultural landmark. This beautifully landscaped cemetery is the resting place of many notable Atlantans, including Margaret Mitchell and Maynard Jackson. Join a guided tour to learn about its rich history, or simply enjoy a peaceful walk among the ornate tombstones and lush gardens.
Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area
Escape the urban hustle with a visit to the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. This extensive park system offers numerous outdoor activities, including kayaking, fishing, and hiking. The river’s cool waters and shaded trails provide a refreshing break, especially during Atlanta’s hot summers.
Grant Park and Zoo Atlanta
Grant Park is one of Atlanta’s oldest parks and home to Zoo Atlanta. The park itself is perfect for a leisurely day out, with plenty of green space for picnics and playgrounds for kids. At the zoo, you can see a wide variety of animals,
including giant pandas and African elephants. The historic Grant Park neighborhood surrounding the park is also worth exploring, with its charming Victorian homes and local eateries.
Atlanta Street Art Map
For art enthusiasts looking to discover the city’s creative side, the Atlanta Street Art Map is a fantastic resource. This interactive map highlights various murals and street art installations throughout the city. Create your own walking tour and explore vibrant neighborhoods like Little Five Points, Cabbagetown, and Old Fourth Ward to see some of the best local art.
Sweetwater Creek State Park
Located just west of the city, Sweetwater Creek State Park is a haven for nature lovers. The park features picturesque trails along the creek, including the popular Red Trail that leads to the ruins of a historic mill. It’s an excellent spot for hiking, fishing, and picnicking, offering a serene escape from the urban environment.
Westside Reservoir Park
One of Atlanta’s newest parks, Westside Reservoir Park, offers stunning views and a unique setting. The park is centered around a massive quarry that has been transformed into a reservoir. With its dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters, it’s a great place for a scenic hike or a quiet moment of reflection.
CLINICAL
Clinical HIV care in a supportive, confidential, and gender affirming environment. Available at three Centers located in Duluth, Decatur, and Marietta.
Photos by: Russ Bowen-Youngblood
Dini
BARS & CLUBS MIDTOWN
BLAKE’S ON THE PARK blakesontheparkatlanta.com 227 10th St NE
BULLDOGS 893 Peachtree St NE
FRIENDS NEIGHBORHOOD BAR friendsonponce-atl.com 736 Ponce De Leon Ave NE
MY SISTER’S ROOM mysistersroom.com 66 12th St NE
X MIDTOWN xmidtown.com 990 Piedmont Ave NE
THE T modeltatlanta.com 465 Boulevard SE
CHESHIRE
HERETIC hereticatlanta.com 2069 Cheshire Bridge Road
BJ ROOSTERS bjroosters.com 2043 Cheshire Bridge Road NE
WESTSIDE
MARQUETTE
868 Joseph E. Boone Blvd NW
840ATL 840 Joseph E. Boone Blvd NW
ANSLEY
ATLANTA EAGLE 1492 Piedmont Ave NE
FELIX’S 1510 Piedmont Ave NE
THE HIDEAWAY 1544 Piedmont Ave NE
MIXX mixxatlanta.com 1492 Piedmont Ave NE
OSCAR’S oscarsatlanta.com 1510 Piedmont Ave NE
WOOFS woofsatlanta.com 494 Plasters Ave NE
EAST ATLANTA, GRANT PARK & EDGEWOOD
MARY’S marysatlanta.com 1287 Glenwood Ave SE
SISTER LOUISA’S CHURCH sisterlouisaschurch. com 466 Edgewood Ave SE DINING MIDTOWN
CASA ALMENARA 991 Piedmont Ave NE casa-almenara.com
HENRY’S henrysatl.com
132 10th St NE
LA HACIENDA lahaciendamidtown. com 900 Monroe Dr NE
TUK TUK THAI FOOD LOFT TUKTUKATL.COM 1745 Peachtree Rd NW
DEKALB
LIPS ATLANTA atldragshow.com 3011 Buford Hwy NE
RETAIL
MIDTOWN
BARKING LEATHER AFTER DARK barkingleather.com 1510 Piedmont Ave NE
CHESHIRE
SOUTHERN NIGHTS VIDEO 2205 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE
ANSLEY
BOY NEXT DOOR MENSWEAR boynextdoormenswear.com 1000 Piedmont Ave NE, Ste A
GCB & PLEASURES brushstrokesatlanta. com 1510-D Piedmont Ave. NE FITNESS MIDTOWN
URBAN BODY FITNESS urbanbody tness. com
500 Amsterdam Ave N
CHESHIRE
GRAVITEE FITNESS graviteeatl.com
2201 Faulkner Rd NE
SPAS/BATHS
ADULT
FLEX SPA exspas.com 76 4th St NW
Photos by: Russ Bowen-Youngblood
Photos by: Russ Bowen-Youngblood
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I hope my botox doesn’t mess up my inner authenticity.
I’m not aging with grace. I’m aging with audacity, mischief, and a good story to tell.
Whoever said that iced coffee an vacation doesn’t solve a lot of problems straight up lied.
LGBT stands for Lady Gaga ft. Beoyncé – Telephone.
Gay nightmare: when your hair stylist moves away, and you have to find a new one!
Oh sorry, I can’t come out tonight. I’m imagining the end of the world.
Sure, there were too many froyo places, but why are they all closed now?
For the next couple of weeks when people ask me what I’m up to, my answer will be “Hard to say!”
