Courtney ACt’s Confessions of A DrAg Queen representing rAinbow get reADy for priDe! seth peterson gets his groove bACk
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offiCiAl meDiA pArtner
Courtney Act’s Confessions of a Drag Queen
By Mikkel Hyldebrandt
Beloved drag queen Courtney Act is a world-famous performer, singer, advocate, cultural provocateur – and now author! Behind Shane Jenek’s rise to fame as Courtney Act, a remarkable coming-of-age story and journey of self-discovery is told in Caught In The Act: A Memoir. On a video call to Sydney, Shane spoke with Courtney’s trademark sincerity about the process of writing and baring it all in about 80,000 words.
You’re obviously known as a performer. How has that helped you tell your story and become an author? Writing has always been a part of my performance because my cabaret work involves sharing personal stories. In cabaret, you tell the story in a paragraph, whereas you get 80,000 words with a book. I think being a performer and knowing about the pacing of a live show - a big opening number, building in intervals, a strong number, big finale, and an encore – helped me make the beginning, middle, and end of my own story. And, of course, the ability to articulate stories on a page helped a lot.
Your memoir is more than a coming-of-age story. It chronicles your childhood, youth, coming out, introduction to drag, and fame, and even talks about some of the darker sides of your life. What compelled you to write this book?
After I did Celebrity Big Brother in the U.K., many people asked me about telling my story in a memoir. I eventually found the right publisher, Pantera Press, so that I could move forward. I love storytelling, and a book offers the security and safety of controlling the narrative of self-portraiture. Reality television is also a form of portraiture, but it’s someone else’s portrait
of you, whereas a memoir is a portrait of myself by me. The book felt like a place where I could really take my time to give the backstory, including the darker periods when it came to struggles with drugs and identity.
Suppose you just picked it up and started reading about me doing crystal meth. In that case, you’d be all ‘what?’ but when you get the story about my childhood and my introduction to the drag scene, you can see how those behaviors and struggles emerged and perhaps get a bit more empathy and understanding.
You are also taking a moment to discuss gender identity and sexuality in your book, which goes well beyond your coming out experience. Through your work, you are obviously well-versed in exploring gender identity. Where would you place yourself in the rainbow?
It’s interesting because, when I was 18, I was ‘gay,’ and then as the years went on, other labels like pansexual and gender-fluid really spoke to me. Ultimately, I realized that those labels only help you get so far, and once you get to the most discreet label you can
find, it’s up to you to work out who you are inside that context. I’m definitely socially very gay, but I have sexual relations with more than just cis men, and I see that my gender is very fluid on a spectrum. I don’t identify as trans, I have my male body that I enjoy, and I express femininity in whatever way I want and masculinity in whatever way I want.
Harry Styles said that we should be beyond labels, and that’s all good of him to say, but the reality is that labels are crucial to so many people’s identities, so I think it’s important to talk about labels and how they have an impact. We all want to get to a place beyond labels, but I think it’s a bit too privileged to suggest that we don’t need labels.
When it comes to gender identity and sexuality, what has been an important lesson you have learned and can pass on to others?
Don’t be afraid of any of the labels. I know that I was for a very long time. I would have my own internalized homophobia and transphobia and struggle to even look at those labels because I was scared of what the truth might be. The fascinating thing about the truth is that it will always be better than whatever lie you’re clinging to because you think that’s what society wants you to be. It feels courageous to look at the truth, but ultimately, it’s the smartest thing you can do.
What part of the process of writing your memoir are you most proud of?
I’ve never embarked on anything this big before, so just writing all those words and completing the task has been a real achievement. I started writing on the first day of lockdown when I had just arrived in L.A., and I thought we would have house parties, even if the clubs were closed for a few weeks. I didn’t see another human being until I went to London in June, but weirdly it was brilliant because I was locked in my apartment with no FOMO and no one asking me to come out to play. My publisher would Facetime me, which was almost like therapy because I would send
her what I was writing, and we talked about what was next. That accountability was something I needed because I knew from high school that I like to leave things to the last minute, and you can’t do that with a book.
So, you’re sitting in lockdown, ready and inspired to write. Did you start at the very beginning?
My publisher asked me to start thinking about my stories and write about the one that excited me the most. I started with a story about Oscar, a boy I met from the Midwest in 2014 post Drag Race, touring around the U.S., doing club and Pride gigs. I wrote 20,000 words about the 12 hours with him, so it was a little overkill, but it’s chapter 13 now, I think.
At first, I was kind of disinterested in writing about my childhood and wanted to jump straight to Sydney when things got exciting. But when I got into writing about my parents and how wonderful they were as parents, it really connected me emotionally in a powerful way.
There were lots of moments where I reframed memories and experiences. I think we store memories – and even trauma - with the capacity and capability we have at the time they occur, so they can rattle around for years and years without us understanding them completely. So later in life, we can reexamine them and see them in a new light.
Can you tease a few instances from the book where you were actually ‘caught in the act’? There are lots of lewd stories. There’s one from childhood that involved a banana. There’s everything from bathroom stalls to hotel rooms. Lots of fun sexcapades in there! I actually didn’t realize until my twenties that being caught in the act referred to sex, but my mother pointed that out.
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I’m currently watching season 2 of Drag Race Down Under, and you are referenced a LOT. What do you think of the ‘local’ version and the queens? Season 1 of any franchise is always kind of rickety. RuPaul’s Drag Race certainly was and Down Under certainly was, too. Season 2 has gotten better, and now they’re at the top 3, and I love Kween Kong, Hannah Conda, and Spankie Jackzon. Earlier in the season, I remember thinking,’ is this really what represents Australia and New Zealand?’ But when the girls did the challenge where they had to write the lyrics and perform the song with choreography, the season changed gears. There’s a cultural thing between American drag and Australian drag; like the reading challenge Down Under is horrible to watch because it’s just not something we do culturally, so it feels mean and doesn’t have the levity and wit of the American one. But when you watch the girls lip-sync and dance, you are wowed because they are really great performers.
We don’t have the industry here yet created by Drag Race, so there aren’t that many people to make 12 runway outfits and costumes. Even when the girls come off the show, they’re not making the same money as American girls that are touring and making lots of money. The economics aren’t there, but hopefully, the show will build, and the industry will build around it.
Speaking of point of reference: your two best Judys and AAA Girls sisters, Willam and Alaska, make it a point to mention you at least once in every episode of the Race Chaser podcast, where they also talked about a AAA Girls documentary. What’s the status on that?
The documentary is out now, and in that tour documentary, you will see when we get to Atlanta –and it’s not a high point in the documentary. It was a big theatre. I don’t remember which? We had been sold out in each city, but when we walked out on stage, there was only a smattering of people! We included it to show the contrast of touring. To deal with the tragedy, I took all of the tip money and spent it at Swinging Richards. “Put your finger in my culo”, the stripper said to me. I said no thank you.
What projects are you involved in right now? In the U.K., I’m a judge on a new show called Queens For The Night, kind of like Masked Singer but with drag. I’m also about to start rehearsing an arena tour in Australia, and I’m talking to my publisher about more books.
… and when will we see you stateside again? I’ll be back in the states in October for work and then going to the U.K. I’m a resident of the U.S., so I can come and go as I please. I actually sold my apartment in L.A. and London because I think Covid changed my perspective on many things. I decided to come back here to live. Sydney is a lovely place, so I’ll stay here for now – or until someone gives me a better offer!
Caught In the Act: A Memoir By Shane Jenek aka Courtney Act, is out now everywhere books are sold!
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Seth Peterson Gets His Groove Back
By Mike Bahr
Seth Peterson always dreamed of being an adult movie star, but his boyfriend wouldn’t allow it. Luckily, when they split, Seth wasted no time in pursuing his dream. He joined the team at Helix Studios and has already appeared in several of the studios biggest productions including Helix Academy Wrestling and Stealing Hearts
When he’s not working alongside the biggest names in adult film Travis Stevens, Derek Shaw and Josh Brady, to name a few Seth enjoys being by water, either on a boat or swimming. He also enjoys traveling, experiencing gay nightlife around the world, and discovering cute cafes where he can sip on Matcha Tea and make new friends. He’s made plenty of friends at Helix Studios and has found a replacement for the controlling boyfriend who tried to keep him from his dreams. Seth is dating his Helix co-star Aiden Garcia.
What was life like for young Seth Peterson? I grew up in Southern California. I was a beach boy and very active and outdoorsy but also a bit of a nerd.
When did you come out? I was 15 years old; a sophomore in high school.
That’s young!
It was a little scary because I was afraid of what my friends and family would think, but once I had support from friends, it became easier to imagine a reality where I was open.
Tell us about your firsts.
My first kiss was with a girl in kindergarten. It was an ‘I dare you to, no I dare you to’ sorta thing. My first date was in high school. I hadn’t come out yet and it was all secretive… it was followed with sex.
Were you always good at sex?
(Laughing) No. Bottoming is definitely something that took me a long time to get good at. I think I still have room to improve.
What led you to consider a career in adult film? I graduated with a degree and didn’t know what to do with it. Honestly, I kinda felt like I didn’t want to do anything with it. I needed money, but I also saw
potential for myself in the industry and thought it could be something I loved. And I did.
What is your idea of perfect happiness today? A feast of friends all hanging out at the beach.
Greatest fear? Fear.
Which living person do you most admire? Aiden Garcia.
On what occasion do you lie? Honestly, whenever I think I should.
What do you most dislike about your appearance? I don’t dislike anything about my appearance. Except for maybe the occasional pimple.
What is the quality you most like in a guy? Wit, cleverness, grace.
Who is the greatest love of your life? Aiden Garcia and my dog, Phoebe.
Which talent would you most like to have? I would love to be able to speak multiple languages.
What do you consider your greatest achievement? My degree in Neuroscience.
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? Self-doubt.
If anywhere on the planet were an option, where would you most like to live?
The beach: anywhere that’s got some waves.
What career might you consider pursuing sometime in the future?
I haven’t decided yet, but I always felt that being a firefighter was a calling. My dad is a firefighter and my grandpa on my mom’s side is one. I love the idea of being active and helping people.
What is the one thing you might warn your young self about, if you had the chance?
It’s important to keep connections with friends and family. I’ve been in the industry for two years now and there are times that I feel a little out of touch with the real world. This is not a normal job most people have, and I’m mostly surrounded by people in the industry. (Laughing) I sometimes lose track at what real people are doing.
Who do you consider your closest friend at Helix? Alex Roman. Period. I love that guy so much and I honestly feel like I’ll never meet a soul like him.
If you were to hand out awards to your Helix co-stars, who would get the ribbon for best body? Josh Brady.
Best Top? Aiden Garcia. I may be biased.
Best Bottom? Also, Aiden Garcia.
What would fans be surprised to learn about Seth Peterson?
I can play an entire Beethoven Sonata which is about an hour long.
Visit Helixstudios.com
Let’s Paint the RainbowAnd Get Ready For Pride!
By Mikkel Hyldebrandt
Pride in Atlanta is almost here, so it’s time to paint the city in rainbow colors! Luckily, there are plenty of ways for you to show your Pride now and beyond Pride. Just look at these few items that will prepare you for Pride too. Happy Pride, Atlanta!
Don’t Lose Track of Time
Apple’s Pride Edition braided loop is a stylish way to show your Pride – and you’ll also be timely. Apple Pride Edition Braided Solo Loop, $99
Classic Pride
LGBTQ+ employees created the design at Converse to represent the diversity and unity of the community.
Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Pride, $55
Photo: PR
Proud Nightlife
This upper harness is formfitting and elastic so that you can move all night on the dancefloor. Vaux Playa Harness from Boy Next Door Menswear, $58
Stand United
In these volatile times, we should forget that we have to stand united against hate.
Human Rights Campaign United against Hate Shirt, $29
Flaunt Your Queerness
Pride is that time of year when you can be really in your face about being queer.
Pride Adult Queer T-Shirt from Target, $13
Put Your Foot Down
Stand tall and proud wearing these assorted ankle socks from Bombas. Plus, proceeds from the sale benefit LGBTQ+ communities all across America.
Bombas Pride Ankle Sock 6-Pack $78
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September Socializers
@ There On Fifth | September 29, 6:30 pm
The September meetup takes place in this popular Georgia Tech haunt. Come mingle and get the chance to win VIP tickets to the Pride Kick-Off party at the Aquarium.
Country Friday
@ Heretic | September 30, 8 pm
It’s time to two-step! Special Friday edition of Heretic Country. No cover, and free dance lessons at 8 pm. It’s time to two-step.
WONDER
@ The Slate Room | September 30, 8-12 pm
Come travel down the rabbit hole to a spectacular spectacle. Over-the-top decor, characters brought to life, various photo ops, hookah lounge, amazing dance music by Brian Rojas, themed drinks, light refreshments, and a variety of incredible auction items. All proceeds go to Atlanta’s Lost-N-Found Youth - suggested donation of $20 at the door, but it’s give what you can.
Hocus Pocus 2 Viewing Party
@ X Midtown | September 30, 9 pm
Join the watch party for the premiere of Hocus Pocus 2. X Midtown will be showing the movie on all screens throughout the bar. Stay after the screening for House of Legends.
Old Fourth Ward Arts Festival 2022
@ Historic Fourth Ward Park| October 1-2
The two-day arts festival has become the perfect celebration of the artistic innovation that the Old Fourth Ward Neighborhood embodies. Visitors will enjoy art from up to 150 local and regional artists carefully chosen to reflect this historic but progressive neighborhood.
Fall Fest
@ Candler Park | October 1-2
Neighborhood art, music, food, and kids’ activities. Plus, back for 2022, the Saturday 5k and Sunday Tour of Homes. Admission is free.
ALP Contestants Q&A Open Forum
@ Barking Leather | October 1, 2-3 pm
If you are interested in running for any of the Atlanta Leather Pride titles at the end of October, get your questions answered at this open forum that will go over rules, scoring systems, expectations of winners, etc.
Hocus Pocus Marketplace: A Spooky Art Market and Pop-Up Shop
@ East Atlanta Village Farmers Market | October 1, 4-10 pm
Get spooky and shop local in East Atlanta Village, featuring 20+ local vendors with handmade goods, arts, crafts, candles, soaps, vintage, and more.
DJ Shane Marcus
@ Heretic | October 1, 10 pm – 3 am
Get ready for high-energy dance beats by a true industry champion that will take you on a musical journey on the dancefloor.
Devon Rex Pride Day Party
@ The Hideaway | October 2, 4 pm
Kick off pride with a Sunday Day Party featuring DJ Devon Rex and special guest Frankie Coma. $6 cocktail specials with Mother, Andrea, Tim, and Spencer. Come dancing, come grooving; the beats will get you moving.
Memorial for Phredd Allen
@ The Hideaway | October 2, 6 pm
Join new and old Bucks to celebrate the life of Phredd Allen with a candlelight vigil. Phredd was instrumental in the formation of the Bucks and an icon of the ATL BIPOC/LGBTQ+ community.
Sibling Rivalry
@ Center Stage - The Loft - Vinyl | October 3, 7 pm
Are you team Bob or team Monét? This Sibling Rivalry has reached a new dimension in a multimedia extravaganza that takes you through the television tubes on a quest to settle the ultimate dispute. Sit back, relax, and don’t touch that remote because this battle royale of lip-syncs, costume changes, and low blows you do not want to miss. Get your tickets at www. obsessedwith.co.
Gear Night
@ The Hideaway | October 5, 8-10 pm
Calling all Doms, Daddies, Sirs, Subs, Boys, and Pups! Join fellow Atlanta Kinksters for a casual night of gear and good times at the Hideaway.
In recent years, I’ve learned that fewer folks want to learn about their LGBTQ history. Many folks I know have no idea what Stonewall is or was, amongst other things. What is your suggestion for making sure that we keep our history alive?
People are going to want to learn only if they want to. Education can be like therapy in the sense that if you think someone might need it, they have to want it for themselves as well. If they want to learn about queer history, there are many resources to help them learn. But we also have to make sure that stories continue to get told. I always like to chat with my queer elders and learn about their com ing out stories, for example, because I know theirs is much different than mine. And while everyone has a different story that is intriguing and unique, if you start to show interest in their story, then they might begin to learn and listen to others as well! Everyone wants to share their story with someone because it can be therapeutic, but it’s a matter of understanding how and when it is appropriate to learn and ask questions.
