Steve Lawrence

In this podcast episode, the interview, conducted by Gareth Watkins, dives deep into the experiences and insights of Steve Lawrence, a participant in the "Queen of the Whole Universe" beauty pageant—a notable event in Auckland, Aotearoa New Zealand. Recorded on March 11, 2012, the interview provides a rich, 37-minute glimpse into the flamboyant world of drag performances, costume design, and stage presence from the perspective of a seasoned entrant.

The pageant is described as not just a simple beauty contest; it’s a theatrical extravaganza where contestants embody various national stereotypes and perform in drag. Throughout the interview, multiple aspects of the experience are touched upon: the elaborate and at times uncomfortable costumes like tight corsets, the exhilaration coupled with terror of performing onstage, and the details of producing a successful act including the sourcing of professional dancers and costume creation.

One recurring theme in the interview is the dedication and effort that goes into each performance. Lawrence recalls starting the practice for routines about six weeks prior to the event and the associated costs of putting on a show of such magnitude, often reaching upwards of thousands of dollars. This preparation involves a meticulous transformation process, from extensive makeup routines to elaborate costuming—which Lawrence often designs and creates.

Lawrence shares anecdotes of various performances where technical mishaps occurred, but the show went on regardless, appreciated by audiences, many of whom were unaware of the detailed planning behind each number. While the process can be stressful, the individual recounts both the joy and the recognition that comes from winning on stage—a distinction they have enjoyed on multiple occasions.

A notable aspect of the pageant is its function as a fundraiser, primarily supporting causes related to HIV/AIDS—a cause personally important to Lawrence. While the event is not overtly centered on HIV/AIDS awareness, the underpinning goal is to generate funds for related charities with the wider community's support, helping to keep the importance of the cause in the public eye.

Discussing the technicalities of judging future pageants, the interviewee emphasizes the criteria used to evaluate performances and the discussions that ensue amongst judges. Lawrence also acknowledges the challenge that new contestants face due to the ever-rising standards set by their predecessors.

Despite the immense time, financial commitment, and emotional investment required to participate, Lawrence cites a sense of giving back to the community as a key motivating factor for involvement. It plays a crucial role in combating the ongoing HIV/AIDS epidemic. The interview ends on a contemplative note with Lawrence expressing sadness over the final Queen of the Whole Universe pageant, suggesting perhaps an annual frequency would prolong its vibrancy.

As a testament to the legacy of the event, the interview culminates with a call for the audience to remember the profound causes behind the vibrant performances—a reminder of the blend of entertainment, community support, and awareness that characterizes the Queen of the Whole Universe beauty pageant.

This summary is created using Generative AI. Although it is based on the recording's transcription, it may contain errors or omissions. Click here to learn more about how this summary was created.

Steve Lawrence

drag, performance, queen of the whole universe, steve lawrence, theatre

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