Emperor XXXlll Jeffrey ll

The Lion-Hearted Emperor of Theatrics & Decor Talks About The 38th Annual “Night Of A Thousand Gowns”

The reigning Emperor XXXlll, Jeffrey ll: The Lion-Hearted Emperor of Theatrics and Decor, is excited to celebrate this year’s “Night Of A Thousand Gowns”, hosted by The Imperial Court of New York on Saturday April 5 from 6-11 PM at the Edison Ballroom. This year’s beneficiary for the 39th annual Night Of A Thousand Gowns is Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. The theme for the evening is a masquerade ball. 

In a shared question and answer, the Emperor describes the festivities in detail to Get Out while also shedding light upon the organization, what they are about and what his emperorship meant to him. 

INTERVIEW >>>
 
While I’m sure being Emperor came with many rewarding experiences, what stands out in your mind as an experience you will remember always? 

There so many that come to mind: Being a part of our organization and the community during the NYC Pride Parade; being part of the Invasion at Fire Island and all the history of that event; and being able to present on behalf of the ICNY and the LGBT Community Center three scholarships to the next generation of our youth! 

What was most important to you having the title of Emperor and how were you able to use this platform to benefit others? 

The title has not been as important as the opportunity to represent the Imperial Court at events, functions and fundraisers. We travel and educate the community on our mission–on the amazing charity organizations in the NYC area and the work they do.

What made you decide you wanted to hold the title of Emperor?

I have been a member of the Imperial Court system since 1999 in San Francisco. Since moving to NYC in 2003, I have  been a member of the Imperial Court of New York, but my growth as a person and work schedules have made this an opportunity at this time.

What are you most looking forward to this year at Night of A Thousand Gowns?

EVERYTHING! The excitement, the unity, the energy, our entertainers, everyone dressed to the nines–all coming together for our fundraising gala.

Please tell us briefly about the organization’s that will benefit this year.

This year, our reign charity is Broadway Cares/Equity Fights Aids – an amazing organization that is the philanthropic heart of Broadway. Their support provides groceries and medication, health care and hope to those in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and Washington, D.C., affected by HIV/AIDS, COVID-19 and other life-threatening illnesses.

Please share with those who aren’t yet familiar the prestigious history of Night Of A Thousand Gowns.

From the first Night of A Thousand Gowns at the Waldorf Astoria 38 years ago – we have evolved to an event that the community looks forward to every year. Each year, we raise funds for one or several charities, while dressing up in the highest drag or best ensembles. We have amazing entertainment; great food and it’s the social event of the year.

What do you think will make this year’s celebration different from the others?

This year, our NOATG is a Masquerade Ball! Our guests can wear their most outrageous and creative masks for an amazing event.  

Briefly describe what the public will experience this year at the event. 

Our guests will experience a pre cocktail hour with passed hors-d’oeuvres and a fabulous three course dinner featuring filet mignon and New York cheesecake – nothing more New York than that! We will have performances from BETTY, Sabel Scities, the Boy Band Project, and the handsome Claybourne Elder from Broadway and the “The Gilded Age” to take the evening over the top. Buy your tickets now!