It’s Sunday night, and ever since the restaurant in Midtown,10th & Piedmont, started doing their big Flashback Sundays show (created by the Lady Shabazz) back in May, it has become the place to be at 8 p.m. I was running just a couple minutes behind fooling around across the street at the Flying Biscuit, but once I realized what time it was, I stared flying myself across the street to get ready (with glitter flying everywhere and camera phones snapping as I crossed that street). Once I got in the dressing room, I was greeted by the tallest drag performer ever, Diamond DeDe Dupree, formally known as Diamond Monroe. She may be a giant, but sister girl always bring it with her shows and her wigs! You know what, I haven’t “seent” her in awhile, let’s chit chat.
You’ve always taken your wigs seriously, now how much did you pay for that one? (When she was damn Diamond Monroe, she didn’t mind telling me.)
This one was only $120
Only?!?
That ain’t nothing, child. I spent $150 for the other one.
Lawd, why so much? I mean, I realize diamonds are expensive, but that’s just your name gurl.
It’s an investment, Brent. I love what I do and in this business, your hair got to be right. My top got to be right and my bottom (her pumps) got to be right. I take pride in my appearance for my audience.
I love you for it, and I’m glad you’re back! I want to tell the readers you’ve been doing drag for more than 10 years but absent for almost three and just like Patty LeBelle, you’ve come back with a new attitude! You’ve even changed your name. What’s the difference between Diamond Monroe and Dupree?
Oh, that’s just a part of my whole new attitude, it’s a new me. As Diamond Dupree, I feel more seasoned and mature. I know how to listen more, stay quiet, and keep calm. And it’s actually Diamond DeDe Dupree.
Okay for all those Ds… I want to hear more, but the show is about to start. Two more questions: Where else can the readers catch you and what advice do you have for these new entertainers?
Club Rush in October and three things: One: know who you are. Two: listen when someone is trying to help. Three: have fun, child.
Thanks Diamond, and for you readers, 10th & Piedmont is starting a new show on Saturdays starting Oct. 5. Check it out!