By Donna Sachet–
The Imperial Court of San Francisco’s calendar of events, although delayed by this pandemic, is now back in full swing with modified events that maintain their decades of tradition. On Sunday, Reigning Emperor William Bulkley and Empress Mimi Osa hosted Imperial Gala and Presentation of Candidates for Emperor & Empress. Traditionally, this event kicks off the season as the Reigning Emperor and Empress are winding down their year and attention turns to the race for the next Imperial Monarchs. When an organization has been active in the community for over 50 years, its events become entrenched in tradition, sometimes making change difficult, but the success of this first ever online Gala is a credit to the leadership and its ability to adapt the challenging circumstances. All the necessary business of the Imperial Court was accomplished in new ways and our season has begun.
Absolute Empress LIV Baby Shaques Munro served as capable and lively emcee, ably supported by the technical expertise of Reigning Grand Duchess Katherine Rose.The Reigning Emperor and Empress delivered personal remarks, each in their own way, on their unprecedented year. Following longstanding tradition, Emperors and Empresses who are celebrating specific anniversaries of the years of their reign are invited to perform at this event. Celebrating his five-year anniversary, Emperor XLIV Salvador Tomas offered a Latin musical video performance that featured friends in various San Francisco locations and backed by slides of various moments from his reign. Absolute Empress LI Emma Peel performed a sassy live version of “Cabaret” in celebration of her five-year anniversary.
Then attention turned to the title-holders from the current reign, starting with Imperial Crown Prince Andrew MunRose singing live and accompanying himself on piano and Imperial Crown Princess The One and Only Rexy accepting her official tiara from her Empress. Throughout the event, Baby Shaques reminded viewers to make online contributions to the Imperial Council to support their ongoing charitable work.
After weeks and months of rumors and innuendos, we finally found out who the officially approved candidates for Emperor and Empress are. Candidate for Empress Juanita MORE! delivered a moving, soulful song backed by black and white images of civil rights struggles. Candidate for Emperor Mr. David Glamamore performed in a staged musical number with smoke and light special effects and fanciful costume accessories in support of Suicide Prevention. Candidate for Empress Ehra Amaya dedicated her upbeat musical presentation to essential health workers, demonstrating great videography, multiple outfits, and a slogan of Essential Ehra 2021! Over the next few weeks leading up to voting on April 17, you are bound to see these three candidates all over town and all over the internet, describing their qualifications, sharing their goals, and reaching out for your support. Two of these individuals will lead the Imperial Court into its fifty-sixth year of charitable fundraising, community development, and outstanding productions.
Gala continued with a reminder of the efforts of the International Court Council to have the U.S. Postal Service issue stamps honoring three drag icons, José Sarria,Founder of the Court System; Marsha P. Johnson;and Sylvia Rivera.The successful campaign for a stamp commemorating Harvey Milk was started by the International Court Council, representing nearly 70 chapters across the continent in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The celebration, including unveiling, at City Hall in San Francisco was an event to be remembered. We encourage our readers to support this latest effort.
The balance of Sunday’s Gala included performances by Mr. Gay Sage Sanchez Munro, Miss Gay SF Linda Summers,Mr. Golden Gate Ashle Blow,Mx. Cowhand Foxxy Blue Snacks, and a personal message from Miss Golden Gate Bernadette.Several of these videos featured spectacular special effects, elaborate costuming, and high energy talent. Gala certainly had a range of entertainment with something for everyone.
Watch this column’s calendar for a complete listing of upcoming Imperial events, leading up to Imperial Coronation 56, Saturday, April 24, 4 pm, available for all to view online free of charge, but welcoming generous contributions. If the professional production of Gala is any indication, the Imperial Court is alive and well and Imperial Coronation 56 will be well worth watching! Don’t miss it!
Important announcement: Krewe de Kinque Founder Gary Virginia tells us that the Grand Marshal for this Saturday’s Bal Masque XVIII is Renel Brooks-Moon,the dynamic and gracious P.A. Announcer for the SF Giants! Great news!
Donna Sachet is a celebrated performer, fundraiser, activist and philanthropist who has dedicated over two decades to the LGBTQ Community in San Francisco. Contact her at empsachet@gmail.com
Saturday, March 27
Krewe de Kinque Bal Masque XVIII: On the Radio
New Orleans-style party on 18th Street and online
Grand Marshal Renel Brooks-Moon, Voice of the SF Giants
Hosted by King XVII Omar Kubian & Queen XVII Diana Wheeler
Benefits Q Foundation
3 pm–5 pm
Free online, limited $20 VIP seating
https://bit.ly/3tK8uh8
Saturday, March 27
Monarchs’ Monthly Fundraiser: Empress Showcase
Reigning Empress Mimi Osa hosts, Empresses perform
Facebook Live
5 pm
Free, donations welcome
www.imperialcouncilsf.org
Thursday, April 8
Nelly Queen: The Life & Times of José Sarria
Online screening of the new film by Joe Castel
7 pm Panel Discussion
8 pm Screening
$10 for pre-registered guests
Free for GLBT Historical Society members
www.glbthistory.org
Saturday, April 10
SF LGBT Center’s Virtual Soirée
Inspiration, entertainment, community
Hosted by Liam Mayclem & Sister Roma
Entertainment by Juanita MORE!
6 pm
Sponsorships available, donations welcomed
www.sfcenter.org
Saturday, April 17
Voting Day for Emperor & Empress
Details to follow
Residents of San Francisco, San Mateo, & Marin Counties
www.imperialcouncilsf.org
Saturday, April 24
Imperial Coronation 56, online
Step-down of Reigning Emperor William Bulkley & Empress Mimi Osa
Crowning of new Emperor & Empress of San Francisco
Special recognition of anniversary Monarchs
4 pm
Free, donations welcomed
www.imperialcouncilsf.org
Published on March 25, 2021
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