Showbiz Spitfire Paige Turner has been working the NYC scene for the past few years - with a little retro flair and a whole lot of showstopping theatrics. She is everybody’s girl, not to mention the ultimate Barbie!
Her trademark phrase “Slurp!” has become an epidemic, and she currently headlines at Vlada, Stonewall and Splash. Her hosting skills have landed her with Logo, the Grammercy Club, Gotham Comedy Club, Pride, Fire Island and corporate events for Rite-Aid and Microsoft. Michael Musto of the Village Voice says “Paige is the Holly Golightly of drag,” and the NY Times says “Paige ALWAYS gets everyone to sing along.”Paige is also the host of “So You Think You Can Drag” at New World Stages, showcasing the hottest new queens on the scene.
"So You Think You Can Drag" is coming up on its finale (Wednesday, October 26th at 10:30 PM). How has the competition been this year?
Incredible, we've had to turn contestants away. The response has been overwhelming, and everyone who has competed has come to win this thing! I'm very proud of everyone involved both onstage and behind the scenes.
Any highlights that particularly stand out in your memory?
I have to say what stands out is the dedication and the spirit. You know sometimes you forget why you do drag or maybe why you should be doing it. There has been a lot of joy and celebration this year in watching people not only improve each time, but consistently give it their best! It has really been about the performing and entertaining aspects this year.
Who will be judging the finale?
Cast members from Priscilla Queen of the Desert! How perfect right? Emily Mcnamara is our resident judge and my partner in crime throughout the season, and they will join her.
What can the audience expect for the finale?
They can expect a group number with me and the girls, lots of outfits and quick changes, not to mention show stopping performances from last season's winner and other special guests!
I think the audience won't know who to vote for because the final five will be in it to win it! There have been about a dozen girls competing weekly since the start, but we narrow it down to five for the finale.
How did SYTYCD get started?
The producers of New World Stages had an idea for a drag competition -- they have a very successful karaoke competition every year. I judged that and they started talking to me about hosting the drag competition. They brought in promoter Austin Helms from 21st Century Life and we started meeting and discussing how we can make something fresh and different and still celebrate the spirit of drag. Doing it in a theater venue really helps that.
What else is coming up for you this year?
Sleep hopefully! I was just nominated for a GLAMMY Award for Best Comedy Performer! These next few months will be crazy. I have several weddings I'm doing, my 1-year anniversary show for SLURP! at Vlada. Many Halloween shows, then I will be back at New World Stages December 10th for A Paige Turner Christmas with lots of guest stars and special performances. Very much like a retro Xmas TV special! You can find me at www.paigeturnernyc.com or sit on my facebook and watch my demo!
So You Think You Can Drag - Finale
Wednesday, October 26th at 10:30 PM
Lower Theater Lobby of New World Stages
340 W. 50th Street
$5 COVER at the door
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