Night of a Thousand Gowns

Night of a Thousand Gowns was a star-studded, glittered extravaganza, exploding with glamour, radiance and dazzle. The triumph of a charity event is hosted annually by The Imperial Court of New York, and this year’s event was an extraordinary phenomenon that will live in the hearts of those in attendance forever…or at least until next year!

Adorned in unsurpassed splendor, the members of the court walked the red carpet with an enchanting grace, dazzle and royalty. In addition to the mesmerizing presence of the Imperial Court and President Gary Cosgrove, who did an astounding job as master of ceremonies, the Marriott Marquis was infused with an array of celebrities and icons.

Included in this A list of artists was the sexy Christian Campbell, known for his leading role in “Trick,” accompanied by his beautiful wife, America Olivo, an accomplished actress and member of the band Soluna. The pair were both overjoyed to be a part of the festivities. Also on the red carpet, all greeted by Jason Galka of “The Jason Galka Show,” were Candis Cayne, the group Chic and freestyle singer Rockell, best known for the song “In a Dream.” All were equally honored to take part in raising money for the National LGBTQ Task Force and the LGBT Center of NYC.

Next came Cheyenne Elliot, an amazing new pop and dance music artist and the granddaughter of Dionne Warwick, as well as the cousin of the late Whitney Houston.  The cast members of the smash Broadway hit Avenue Q also walked the carpet along with their puppets. Amanda Lepore, the most famous transgender person in the world, joined as well.

Then, in all her elegance and glory, the performer of the evening, iconic superstar Jody Watley, paraded majestically upon the red carpet looking beautifully magnificent. She was probably one of the nicest people I’ve ever met as she mingled with everyone and posed for pictures with those who asked. Her on-stage live performance was nothing short of remarkable, full of high energy. It was overwhelmingly captivating.

Lastly, the epic and legendary guest of honor Debbie Harry (Blondie) took the red carpet by force as all gathered to get a glimpse of her – and, like myself, a quick photo.

Finally, the pièce de résistance, the crowning of Emperor Opi N. Yated and Empress (my sister) Madison Mansfield. Their coronation was both dramatic and heartwarming.

The entire royal gala was bombarded with opulence and rapture.  Each aspect of it, from the red carpet to the silent action, was tastefully executed with style and class.

Eileen Shapiro

Best selling author of "The Star Trek Medical Reference Manual", and feature celebrity correspondent for Get Out Magazine, Louder Than War, and Huffington Post contributor, I've interviewed artists from Adam Ant, Cyndi Lauper, and Annie Lennox to Jennifer Hudson, Rick Springfield, LeAnn Rimes, and thousands in between. My interviews challenge the threat of imagination....

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