By Denny Patterson

A proud member of the South Florida drag community, Dee Dee Van Carter is an old school gal that hosts a variety dinner show every Wednesday at Spencer’s Corner Bar in Wilton Manors. Going steady for three years and almost always sold out, the production features local talent with live vocals and plenty of SHEnanigans. 

“As an entertainer and host, my job is to take three minutes of your time to make you smile,” she says. “If I’ve done this, I did my job.”

Hailing from New Mexico, Van Carter is an avid traveler and decided to stay in South Florida after finding herself in Key West. In addition to performing, she works profusely to support local charities benefiting the LGBTQA+ community. 

OutClique caught up with Van Carter and asked her some questions.  

Denny Patterson: Can you begin by telling us when and how you discovered your passion for drag?
Dee Dee Van Carter: I became interested in creating a cabaret style show for newcomers at Monkey Business Bar. I wanted the show to have the feel of the Jewel Box Review, and even though that was ambitious, I studied the show’s history and entertainers who paved the way. 

DP: In addition to your variety dinner show at Spencer’s Corner Bar, where else can we see you perform at?

DDVC: My heart supports our local LGBTQ charities, so you can catch me doing a monthly Mix & Mingle at Wilton Collective benefiting our LGBTQ Youth Work & Career Development Program. As Ms. Gay Florida, Emeritus Imperial Sun Court of All South Florida, you will see me at The Pub, Matty’s, and Lilo’s in Lake Worth.

DP: What makes Dee Dee Van Carter stick out from the hundreds of other South Florida drag queens and female impersonators?

DDVC: As a professional performer, my performance is not only what you see on stage. It’s important to me to arrive performance-ready and connect with the audience before and after my show. As a drag queen that hosts and directs a variety show, it’s vital to stay fresh with new and seasoned talent.

DP: What is your favorite number to perform and why? 

DDVC: My favorite number is a compilation of songs by Carol King including “Beautiful,” “One Fine Day,” and “You Make Me Feel Like a Natural Woman.” I was inspired by the Broadway musical Beautiful, which tells her story.

DP: Your style of drag is old school. What are your thoughts on the newer and more alternative styles of drag?

DDVC: Alternative styles of drag, as well as drag kings and trans performers, are finding their niche. Drag doesn’t have to be all sequins all the time. If your heart is in entertaining patrons where you give and risk, there is a place for you. 

DP: What are some of your interests outside of drag?

DDVC: Professionally, as a teacher, I want to ensure that all students have equitable access, feel safe, and accepted. As an equity liaison, I’m able to ensure all my students are included regardless of race, sexual orientation, or status. Personally, I enjoy my marriage to my husband and what we share to include our fur babies, Tico and Bijou. Ask me to an on-or-off-Broadway musical, I’m in.

DP: What makes the South Florida drag community so special to you?

DDVC: I have had my share of positive and not so positive interactions with the drag community, but luckily, mostly positive. I gravitate and hold dear drag performers and entertainers that put forth effort, supports this gal, and have the passion for the drag art. Specifically, my drag mother, Cathy Craig, has been there for me as a true mentor and support mechanism. All drag mothers have and continue to play a major part in our drag community.

DP: What are some future goals you would like to accomplish with your drag?

DDVC: I would like to continue supporting current local charities, and create an inclusionary drag entertainment organization that gives back to our local talent in need of support.

DP: For anyone wanting to start a career in drag, what motherly advice can you offer?

DDVC: Study the craft and don’t be afraid to risk being different. Show up performance ready, greet your audience before the show, and thank them for their support as they leave.

DP: Before we wrap up, is there anything else you would like to mention or add?

DDVC: I would like to thank OutClique Magazine for keeping this gal in mind!