This week's Grande Dame is just that...GRAND!!! Yes...Im still sore that Nina got sent home from last week, and I'm in good company as she has gotten personal messages from famous people with the likes of Rihanna about her getting the sashay away. All she wanted to do was make top four, which she should have been. So this week, this title goes to a real sweetheart, funny gal, and good drag sister and acquaintance.... Nina West!!! Nina has a booming voice and a big heart to match. From volunteer opportunities and service projects in high school and college, to becoming involved in the community during his adult life, helping others was, and is, an important part of what makes him who he is today. Nina was originally a native of North Canton and a graduate of Denison University’s theater program, and has called Columbus home since 2001. Looking for an opportunity to be onstage, his friend, drag queen Virginia West, suggested he try drag. Then he saw an opportunity to use his platform to provide a voice for those who needed it, “When I started, I didn’t see myself in the current culture of drag. I wanted to allow people who were like me to know they also had a place in it as well.” Nina West, Andrew’s drag persona, is truly just an extension of himself. And his shows are very fun filled and entertaining, so you will not be disappointed, trust me. He has been performing in central Ohio and around the United States for the last 21 years now, doing regional theatre and of course, drag. As Nina West, he's produced over 35 main stage production shows and raised over two million dollars for local and national charities through his charitable fund The Nina West Foundation. Nina loves all things Disney, cheese, and puppies- particularly his super-pooches, Edgar and Felicity.
The Nina West Foundation.
Nina West, has grown into a legendary figure, creating a platform to lift up and support LGBTQ organizations. He’s done thousands of shows, participates in hundreds of appearances each year, and has given generously in time, talent, and treasure to the community. The charity performance he does at the end of each big show averages about $1,500—an incredible testament to his passion for a drag show, and the generosity of his audience. If your ever inclined to throw some extra cash out the window, I'm sure Nina wouldn't mind a donation. Go to the Nina West Foundation to donate. I'm also excited because she also made my day...she has a show coming here to Glenside at the Keswick Theatre in July on the 17th. If your in the area come check her out if you have a chance. You can see her complete event schdule here.
Her Leigh Bowery inspired look was EVERYTHING. She just recreated it for the Ruvealing the Look video.
ReplyDeleteNow, this is a very smart Queen. She knows her herstory. She’s militant and she’s woke.
And she gives me the tingle to mingle the second she’s out of drag. Give it to me, Nina!
XoXo
I liked her before, but after reading this,I love her.
ReplyDeleteIt was a shocking elimination.
In my opinion, she was the only real true queen on this season that really would have represented the community well and seemed to have any real knowledge of the past, and could really entertain on so many levels. I need to see one of her shows. She certainly is a excellent role model and she harkens the legendary queens of the past who made history.
ReplyDeleteWelcome back camp comedy drag. We missed u! Nina is classic and camp at it's best!
ReplyDeleteWhile most the queens were very stunning this season, Nina was classic drag. Yes queen! There is no one that deserved this chance more than her. And not because she auditioned 9 times, but because Nina is EVERYTHING that is special and wonderful about drag.
ReplyDeleteI was rooting for my Ohio gal. I don't know what's happening to me but this queen does something to my soul, she made me want to cry when she left.
ReplyDeleteShe brought back some traditional drag to the show and I was so excited to see it. She’s a legend!
ReplyDeleteLoves the information about the
ReplyDeleteFoundation. :-)
Not knowing much about drag, Nina was everything I like about the world of drag.I’m absolutely in love with Nina and adore her style. And what a gently kind soul. I thank you and your blog for opening my eyes to the world of drag and these queens.
ReplyDeleteI smell...miss congeniality coming on!
ReplyDeleteI have been waiting for Nina to get on Drag Race ever since I started watching in 2014 and I was never been more excited for a season of ANY show. I will never forget seeing Nina at Axis years ago, not having any idea what drag entailed, and being completely awe struck. She IS Drag, I couldn't think of a more deserving queen to win. I was crushed when she got sent home, and lost a pinch of repsect for Ru and the judges when they sent her home.
ReplyDeleteWith those gorgEOUS bosoms, she was sent home? That's just wrong! Judges must've been jealous. I don't blame you or Rhianna for being sore.
ReplyDeleteIf you're ever in my area, we have some fabulous drag and burlesque shows on Saturday nights, but Nina takes it to another level.
At this point, I dont care who wins...they all have a touch of my ahit dont stink, except yvie. They already sent home who could represent well as a drag ambassador....NINA!
ReplyDeleteAdmirable, inspiring, and spectacular!
ReplyDeleteMost excellent! How I love to hear stories like that. People proving they have heart by their actions, rather than with words lone. Thank you for this bio!
ReplyDeleteIs that polka dot outfit a commentary on anti-vaxxers, LOL?
ReplyDeleteShe Is MY winner of the season!
ReplyDeleteOh Mistress!!!! I am tickled!!! And it is touching so many have sent well wishes to lift the spirits, but it was quite something to have made it that far with such talented queens. Hugs all around, and thanks for the scout out to the foundation.
ReplyDelete