back in February. I started immediate preparations and was always on my computer in contact with various websites, jewelry designers and even a furier in China. I had such a dilema on finding just the right pair of shoes that I was almost willing to pay over $300. But that attention to detail is only a small part of what wins a contest. It comes down to consistency in the pageantry package you deliver and a sincere desire to become better than you are.
When I moved to Saint Louis in December of 1989 I started doing shows immediately through the help of Petrina Marie and Miss Tracy. These individuals saw something in me that I did not and gave me my chance "work" in Saint Louis. I started entering preliminaries to Miss Gay Missouri and although I did not win any that year I was allowed to enter the pageant by the graces of Vicki Vincent. She gave me my first exposure to the world of Miss Gay America in 1988 when I saw her win Miss Gay Midwest America amongst a field of 21 of the finest female impersonators in the country. I was green as the gills but when I saw the magnitude of the beauty and grace on that stage I was hooked. I knew I could do that.
So I entered Miss Gay Missouri in 1990. I believe I was 17th out of 18 contestants, but I watched like a hawk the pageant packages that those top five individuals brought. The next year I went on to be 2nd-runner up. Likewise I was 2nd runner-up in 1992.
I came back to Miss Gay Missouri in 2002 and 2003 each year making top ten. Then in 2006 I won Miss Gay Saint Louis and experienced both one of the highest and lowest points in my impersonation career. I won the city preliminary and then did not make the top ten at Miss Gay Missouri that year. I wasn't prepared mentally, physically or financially. However I learned from the panel of judges and stepped back to rethink my "drag" so to speak.
I came back this year with a fresh look, new hair color and a youthful attitude I thought I had lost in my old age. Some people say you get better with age but I think you only improve if you are willing to be open-minded to all the possibilities your stage persona can offer. Don't limit your ideas, but be realistic to your physical limitations. (you'll probably never see Erica Foxx doing the splits) Learn from your mistakes. Take criticism very seriously. And above all love and believe in yourself and the possibilities are endless.
I would personally like to thank Tumara Mahorning, my drag sister. Ever since we met at Miss Gay Illinois America in 1988 we have shared a kindred bond that few individuals can experience in their lives. She has seen me go through the highest and lowest times but has stayed beside me through it all. Sometimes you have to let a friend fall flat on their face in order to make them stronger. And that, my dears, is a true friend.
A BIG THANK YOU goes out to Chance Pennington, my friend and dresser. Through his guidance, patience and expertise I was able to provide a winning pageant package that was fresh and young. SMOOCH!!!
Here's to Jade Sinclair!! Like the gemstone her name represents she is both rare and unique. Getting to know her over the past several years has been a joy. Her help during this season has been a blessing.
I couldn't forget the lovely Mariah Candy. Although competing herself, she gave her all to my talent number and was absolutely fabulous in every way!
And of course my roommate Bobby Bozeman! He has been so patient with my preparations taking over the entire house and even spilling out into the backyard. His fine workmanship in wig making has always been a true asset.
My fondest best wishes go out to all the contestants this year. You provided a breath of new life into me and it was truly thrilling to see the host of new faces gracing the stage. Start now with your preparations for the coming year. As I can attest, it takes time, sweat and a lot of effort to gather a winning package and don't wait till the last minute when you can start now.
To those entertainers pondering competing, my advice to you is to go for it. Latch onto someone who has competed before. They are everywhere. The sisterhood of entertaining is vast and widespread. No matter where you live throughout our state there is always a friendly hand within reach to give you the necessary advice to get you to the top.
May your careers and lives be filled with all the love and friendships that mine has. And most of all, BELIEVE IT! And you will ACHIEVE IT!!!
All my love
Erica Foxx
Miss Gay Missouri 2009 |
