Night of 1000 Stevies 2008 - "NIGHTBIRDS"

[JazmenFlowers]

http://i177.photobucket.com/albums/w211/chiffonhead/nots18_temp-360.jpg

THE JACKIE FACTORY NYC PRESENTS
NIGHT OF A THOUSAND STEVIES 18:
"NIGHTBIRDS"
FRIDAY MAY 9, 2008
THE HIGHLINE BALLROOM
431 WEST 16TH STREET NYC
DOORS OPEN 9 PM - 4 AM
www.mothernyc.com/stevie

Greetings from downtown New York City to our beloved Gypsies, and all who have joined our newsletter since last year's NOTS. Thanks for all of your correspondence and posts, emailed bouquets and critiques of last year's edition at HIRO BALLROOM. This year we are "back out on the road again", but only a few steps west of Hiro - at a spanking-new venue called HIGHLINE BALLROOM. This year's show NOTS 18: NIGHTBIRDS will be held on Friday, May 9, and tickets go on sale this weekend. We are thrilled to be announcing the date early enough to let our far-flung Gypsies make travel plans.

We think you're going to LOVE our latest venue - it combines the larger size of Hiro with the rock-and-roll feel of previous venue THE KNITTING FACTORY. The stage is huge, high, and gorgeous, the lighting and tech is awesome, drink prices are a bit more reasonable, and best of all, we can once again admit 18-21 year olds. (We sorely missed our under-21 Gypsies last year, and that was a big item on our wish list for 2008.)

Check out THE HIGHLINE BALLROOM here

Our next mail will have lots more details, including confirmed performers, more about the theme, and box office information. We wanted to get the date out today so you can begin to make plans, and will be back in touch when the box office opens this weekend. News will also be available on the ENCHANTED GYPSIES forum on THE MOTHERBOARDS NYC.


A NOTE TO PERFORMERS
All performers who have played at NOTS in the past, let us know your intentions for this year as soon as possible. Look out for a separate email in the next week or so with more information about this year's theme and how we'd like to bring it through performance-wise this year. We do NOT need song requests this early, but you are welcome to send them along.

If you are a new performer who would like to apply to perform at NOTS 18, please email us now at [email protected] and we will send you full instructions on how to apply.


BOX OFFICE AND TICKETS
Advance tickets $20 till February 1 (a thank-you to our longtime attendees)
$25 after February 1 and at the door if available.

Box Office opens Saturday 1/19 on the HIGHLINE BALLROOM site - we'll email you as soon as it does

Night of a Thousand Stevies is probably the best-known Stevie Nicks fan event in the world, a riot of shawls, lace, baby's breath, twirling, tambourines and great performance. This event began at JACKIE 60 eighteen years ago with four performers, and has grown into a true spectacle, featuring countless interpretations over a marathon night. As always, this Enchanted evening will climax in a twirl of shawls and tambourines with the Battle of a Thousand Stevies near morning.

As we once again prepare for a truly magical night, we are humbled by the very special joy and tremendous support that you bring to NOTS every year. Special greetings to all of our friends from the Stevie websites and other online outposts for the Gypsies That Remain. Forward and post freely, and we look forward to twirling with all of you Nightbirds, NOTS Legends and newbies alike, on May 9.

And The Love Remains -

Chi Chi Valenti, Hattie Hathaway and Johnny Dynell
Producers, NOTS



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Photos: Photos of Night of 1000 Stevies 2007 EDGE OF SEVENTEEN by TRICIA ROMANO. Featured gypsies ST. EVE (left) and CHI CHI VALENTI (top photo) * ENCHANTED ATTENDEES (center) and BELLADONNA (bottom photo).







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[xxxmx]

already booked my flight :wavey:

and nightbird... perfection!

[GavinBrown]

omg, and now my roommate wants me to perform at this....LOL

[petep9000]

NOTS is always such a hoot. Loved the grittier feel of the earlier NOTS, but it's still a cool night out. The best is watching some of the out-of-towners' reactions to the drag queens and the lesbionic/spanking go-go interpretive dancers (the 'House of Domination').

[kathy1]

you will have to let us know how it goes.

[kathy1]

omg, and now my roommate wants me to perform at this....LOL
are you in a stevie tribute band?

[skcin]

I always said I'd try to go if Stevie wasn't touring. Hmmmmmm..........

[kathy1]

hi skcin how are you? i haven't seen you on here in a long time.

[GavinBrown]

Im not in a stevie tribute band, but i am a singer and my voice has been compared to as a mix between stevie nicks and phil collins....:lol: soooo I can do a pretty good stevie...

[kathy1]

oh i was just wondering.

[skcin]

hi skcin how are you? i haven't seen you on here in a long time.


I'm fine, kathy, how are you?

[JazmenFlowers]

I am now a confirmed return performer.

[Phoenix]

I am now a confirmed return performer.

GLAD THEY RECOGNIZED TALENT!!:thumbsup: Congrats! We expect more videos for those who cant go!!

[notsfan-nola]

I will definately be attending NOTS this year after missing last. Jazmen I believe you preformed at the last one I went to, the "Alice" themed one? In any case I look forward to catching your act this year.

:angel:

[JazmenFlowers]

^^^
yay! stop me and say hello!

more NOTS 18 news...

THE JACKIE FACTORY NYC PRESENTS
NIGHT OF A THOUSAND STEVIES 18:"NIGHTBIRDS"
FRIDAY MAY 9, 2008
THE HIGHLINE BALLROOM
431 WEST 16TH STREET NYC
DOORS OPEN 9 PM - 4 AM
$25 ($20 TILL FEBRUARY 1)
18 TO ENTER, 21 TO DRINK
BOX OFFICE IS OPEN
NOTS WEBSITE

Hello Nightbirds! We've had a wonderful week since announcing this year's 18th annual edition of NIGHT OF A THOUSAND STEVIES. As promised, here is more early news on this year's show, confirmed performers and theme. The box office is now open for NOTS 18: NIGHTBIRDS, to be held on Friday, May 9 at THE HIGHLINE BALLROOM. This year's ticket price is again $25, but we are offering $5 off each ticket purchased until February 1. Call it an "Early (Night)Bird" discount, or just a small thank you to our devoted Gypsies.

Visit the online BOX OFFICE to purchase tickets

THIS YEAR'S SHOW

NOTS 18: NIGHTBIRDS is subtitled THE ONES WHO SING AT NIGHT, and will take place against a midnight sky onstage, in shimmering faux-moonlight. In just five days, we've confirmed returning LEGENDS OF STEVIE REALNESS including founding performer JOEY ARIAS (back from his six-year stint in Las Vegas with CIRQUE DE SOLEIL), perennial show-stoppers THE HO-HOs (Cathy Cervenka and Jill Pangallo), SHERRY VINE, BILLY O, SWEETIE, GYPSY WILD, returning Enchantresses JAZMEN FLOWERS (Jackson, Miss), MISS GUY, THE DIVINE GRACE, PREL (of Atlanta's "Blue Lamp" events) and JESSICA RABBIT and ABSINTHE DOMINATION. Many, many more will be announced in the weeks to come! Enchantresses of Ceremony CHI CHI VALENTI and HATTIE HATHAWAY are also the show's producers, with JOHNNY DYNELL and THE JACKIE FACTORY NYC. The search is now on for this year's new performers, and NOTS 18 debuts will include legendary firecracker MISTRESS FORMIKA (of M*THER****ER and SQUEEZEBOX fame).

Inspired by the haunting STEVIE NICKS song NIGHTBIRD, NOTS 18 is dedicated to the memory of founding performer DEAN JOHNSON, who died under tragic and mysterious circumstances in late September, 2007.

A NOTE TO PERFORMERS

All performers who have played at NOTS in the past, let us know your intentions for this year as soon as possible. After we confirm your participation, look out for a separate email with more information about this year's theme and how we'd like to bring it through performance-wise. (We are still catching up on email, so expect a short delay.)

If you are a new performer who would like to apply to perform at NOTS 18, please email us now at [email protected] and we will send you full instructions.

THE REST

We welcome questions about and discussion of this year's edition at the ENCHANTED GYPSIES forum on THE MOTHERBOARDS NYC.

Night of a Thousand Stevies is the best-known Stevie Nicks fan event in the world, a riot of shawls, lace, baby's breath, twirling, tambourines and great performance. This event began at JACKIE 60 eighteen years ago with four performers, and has grown into a true spectacle, featuring countless interpretations over a marathon night. As always, this Enchanted evening will climax in a twirl of shawls and tambourines with the Battle of a Thousand Stevies near morning.

As we once again prepare for a truly magical night, we are humbled by the very special joy and tremendous support that you bring to NOTS every year. Special greetings to all of our friends from the Stevie websites and other online outposts for the Gypsies That Remain. Forward and post freely, and we look forward to twirling with all of you Nightbirds, NOTS Legends and newbies alike, on May 9.

And The Love Remains -

Chi Chi Valenti, Hattie Hathaway and Johnny Dynell
Producers, NOTS

[David]

NOTS is always such a hoot. Loved the grittier feel of the earlier NOTS, but it's still a cool night out. The best is watching some of the out-of-towners' reactions to the drag queens and the lesbionic/spanking go-go interpretive dancers (the 'House of Domination').Do they ever have any fights break out, Pete?

I used to want to see a NOTS, but not so much any more. The weird things that I like about Fleetwood Mac, or even about Stevie, wouldn't be highlighted at such an event.

Notice how I always spell "any more" as two words? I follow John Simon's lead on that. I don't know where Jacques Barzun stands on it.

Congratulations to NOTS performers, one & all! :wavey:

[petep9000]

I don't know about fights, but lets see. I do remember a lady from (Boise?, Peoria? Kalamazoo?) who came all the way to NYC to catch the party, oh I guess this was in '99 maybe. And she did herself up in Stevie regalia and got herself one of the lip-sync performance slots. Whatever, I don't remember much else about how she said her performance was but I do vividly remember her ranting on one of the other boards that at the 'EO17' battle finale she was upset because the queens on stage (she possibly may have been the only bio female that night) were just owning every square foot of the performance space and she felt like she was going to get pushed off the stage. This then launched her into how offended she was about the dancers from The House of Domination and their lesbo/bondage act, and about how she felt the drag queens weren't taking the event serious enough and instead were making parodies of Stevie. That's about what I remember, it was a long time ago and it wasn't this board I'm pretty confident. I was just like, "well honey, what did you expect in the West Village at 3 am in the morning in a warehouse club in the meatpacking district?"

What I'd love to see, is more attention paid to Stevie 'eras' but with a touch of lunacy and laughter. For example, a frowzy, kohl-eyed, Jose Eber haircut-from-hell RAL Stevie. Or even better, patched, worn, denim bell-bottoms with embroidered stars, shear silk blouse tied in knot at navel with butterfly collar , brown cork 'clogs' and dark moussy hair for a 1973 post-BN pre-FM 'Aspen' look...things like that. Things that maybe the casual Stevie fan ("oh my gawd, I love that song 'Stand Back'") might not get but us diehards would appreciate. THAT kind of creativity might make the 20 buck entrance and 8 dollar watery drinks in plastic cups worth it.

[HejiraNYC]

What I'd love to see, is more attention paid to Stevie 'eras' but with a touch of lunacy and laughter. For example, a frowzy, kohl-eyed, Jose Eber haircut-from-hell RAL Stevie.

Yes... that is quite a "Timeless" look. :p

[notsfan-nola]

What I'd love to see, is more attention paid to Stevie 'eras' but with a touch of lunacy and laughter. For example, a frowzy, kohl-eyed, Jose Eber haircut-from-hell RAL Stevie. Or even better, patched, worn, denim bell-bottoms with embroidered stars, shear silk blouse tied in knot at navel with butterfly collar , brown cork 'clogs' and dark moussy hair for a 1973 post-BN pre-FM 'Aspen' look...things like that.

Great post petep - I've been chuckling about this concept all day. I think Ive seen the "Jose Eber haircut-from-hell" on one of the preformers - that one who used real fire for "Rooms on Fire" and almost got the party shut down..miss those days, but with the prices of everything in NYC through the roof just glad they still do this show.

[strandinthewind]

I went in 2001 dressed as La Nicks and had a blast. I got ready at some freinds' house in Hell's Kitchen (49th btw 9th and 10th) and when we went to meet the posse, had to walk a couple of blocks down 9th Ave. to a local bar (dressed as La Nicks (top hat, floor length, black chiffon cape, five inch boots, et al)) -- I caused quite a scene on the way, including participation in an all black Christian revival in which the patrons seemed greatly interested in my beglittered/bestreamered tambo, which I was shaking wildly on 49th outside the door of the revival. I got New Yorkers to notice me, which is no small thing :laugh: We had a BLAST at the NOTS and then went out on the town afterward.

I did it again in, I think, 2005, with gldstwmn. I was much heavier and wore essentially the same outfit and this time, I walked though the lobby of the Waldorf Astoria in that get out. Debbie Harry was there on stage at the NOTS and was high as a kite.

I might go again. I certainly rec. it to anyone who wants a campy and great time where you can competely let go and be silly as shiitte and everyone else is as well.

[JazmenFlowers]

NOTS has made its way to myspace!

http://www.myspace.com/1000stevies

[Gypsy0033]

NOTS has made its way to myspace!

http://www.myspace.com/1000stevies


Hiya Jazzy. :wavey:

[JazmenFlowers]

Hiya Jazzy. :wavey:
hey boo! can't wait to see you!

I was just thinking about how I can't wait to sing The Second Time again with you...it's become a tradition! :laugh:

[kathy1]

hi jazmen is there alot of people going? also do you ever think that they will release it on dvd?

[rhiannonrising]

I don't know about fights, but lets see. I do remember a lady from (Boise?, Peoria? Kalamazoo?) who came all the way to NYC to catch the party, oh I guess this was in '99 maybe. And she did herself up in Stevie regalia and got herself one of the lip-sync performance slots. Whatever, I don't remember much else about how she said her performance was but I do vividly remember her ranting on one of the other boards that at the 'EO17' battle finale she was upset because the queens on stage (she possibly may have been the only bio female that night) were just owning every square foot of the performance space and she felt like she was going to get pushed off the stage. This then launched her into how offended she was about the dancers from The House of Domination and their lesbo/bondage act, and about how she felt the drag queens weren't taking the event serious enough and instead were making parodies of Stevie. That's about what I remember, it was a long time ago and it wasn't this board I'm pretty confident. I was just like, "well honey, what did you expect in the West Village at 3 am in the morning in a warehouse club in the meatpacking district?"

What I'd love to see, is more attention paid to Stevie 'eras' but with a touch of lunacy and laughter. For example, a frowzy, kohl-eyed, Jose Eber haircut-from-hell RAL Stevie. Or even better, patched, worn, denim bell-bottoms with embroidered stars, shear silk blouse tied in knot at navel with butterfly collar , brown cork 'clogs' and dark moussy hair for a 1973 post-BN pre-FM 'Aspen' look...things like that. Things that maybe the casual Stevie fan ("oh my gawd, I love that song 'Stand Back'") might not get but us diehards would appreciate. THAT kind of creativity might make the 20 buck entrance and 8 dollar watery drinks in plastic cups worth it.


Im also such a huge fan of seeing more attention paid to the Stevie "eras". I always tried to do that in my NOTS performances. I did Rumours Stevie (complete with a Mick Fleetwood for the perfect photo op) in 2006 and Bella Donna Stevie in 2007. Next time I play I was planning on doing the bell-bottom, silk blouse, mousy hair Stevie. Get out of my brain!

And of course, I always find some way to allude to her coke habit in my act. The first year we played we were scared that the queens would take it too seriously and get offended. They loved it :)

[HejiraNYC]

And of course, I always find some way to allude to her coke habit in my act. The first year we played we were scared that the queens would take it too seriously and get offended. They loved it :)

I think you are okay as long as you refrain from bending over with a straw...

[petep9000]

Im also such a huge fan of seeing more attention paid to the Stevie "eras". I always tried to do that in my NOTS performances. I did Rumours Stevie (complete with a Mick Fleetwood for the perfect photo op) in 2006 and Bella Donna Stevie in 2007. Next time I play I was planning on doing the bell-bottom, silk blouse, mousy hair Stevie. Get out of my brain!

And of course, I always find some way to allude to her coke habit in my act. The first year we played we were scared that the queens would take it too seriously and get offended. They loved it :)


That sounds great. If I were ever to 'do' a Stevie bit, it's already a given that I'd do a 'RAL' era depiction. I'm leaning to performing either 'Mirror, Mirror', 'What Has Rock and Roll Ever Done For You?' or the freaky coked-out demo version of 'Juliet'.

Only one problem: I have no talent for performing, and look goofy enough as a man so forget about my dressing like a woman. I'd look something like the MC of NOTS, Hattie Hathaway.

[strandinthewind]

I think you are okay as long as you refrain from bending over with a straw...

Okay, that phrase is open to interpretation and number of people/enablers involved - just sayin :xoxo:

[strandinthewind]

. . . I'd look something like the MC of NOTS, Hattie Hathaway.

shudders :shocked: :eek:

[SuzeQuze]

I want to go. I've been reading about this thing since '95 but haven't gone. Jazzy, where's a good place to stay for this event? Congrats on your reappearance! I'm sure they were pleased with your performance last year.

[notsfan-nola]

Just go this years NOTS dress code and wanted to share it here

Nightbird Glamour In Black And Blue, Capes, Cloaks And Enchanted Eveningwear, Eye Makeup Dark And Careless, Hand-Held Decorated Birds, Stevie Nicks Boot Fetish (All Summer Long), Black Glitter Tambourines, Coq Feathers And Cokespoons, Midnight Blue Velvet, Moonstone Amulets, Lindsey Or John McVie Prince Of Darkness Interpretations, Victorian Mourning Hankies or Black Chiffon Wings

[JazmenFlowers]

^^^
sounds cool, right! I can't wait to see the backdrop.

here's the full release:

NIGHT OF A THOUSAND STEVIES NEWS
THE JACKIE FACTORY NYC PRESENTS
NIGHT OF A THOUSAND STEVIES 18:"NIGHTBIRDS"
FRIDAY MAY 9, 2008
THE HIGHLINE BALLROOM
431 WEST 16TH STREET NYC
DOORS OPEN 9 PM - 4 AM
$25
18 TO ENTER, 21 TO DRINK
BOX OFFICE
NOTS WEBSITE
Greetings to all our beloved Enchanted Gypsies, Stevie Nicks fans everywhere, and a special welcome to those who have joined our newsletter recently. Full show details on our 18th annual NIGHT OF A THOUSAND STEVIES follows after these announcements:


PERFORMERS UPDATE
We've had such a huge response this year from performers - both Returning Legends and New Faces - that the NOTS 18 bill is now closed except for three remaining debut slots. If you would like to apply for one of these three slots and have never performed at NOTS before, read down for instructions. (If you've already applied, you will be hearing back by the first week in March.)


NOTS 18 DRESS CODE
We know you'd like to start planning those outfits, so here we go. As always, it is not mandatory to dress up, but you'll have a better time if you do!

Suggested Dress: Nightbird Glamour In Black And Blue, Capes, Cloaks And Enchanted Eveningwear, Eye Makeup Dark And Careless, Hand-Held Decorated Birds, Stevie Nicks Boot Fetish (All Summer Long), Black Glitter Tambourines, Coq Feathers And Cokespoons, Midnight Blue Velvet, Moonstone Amulets, Lindsey Or John McVie Prince Of Darkness Interpretations, Victorian Mourning Hankies or Black Chiffon Wings


THIS YEAR'S SHOW
NOTS 18: NIGHTBIRDS is subtitled THE ONES WHO SING AT NIGHT, and will take place against a midnight sky onstage, in shimmering faux-moonlight.

Our largest and highest NOTS stage EVER will host a record number of Enchanted performers this year, in three sets. Returning LEGENDS OF STEVIE REALNESS include founding performer JOEY ARIAS (back from his six-year stint in Las Vegas with CIRQUE DE SOLEIL), perennial show-stoppers THE HO-HOs (Cathy Cervenka and Jill Pangallo), "Shortbus" star JUSTIN BOND, master puppeteer BASIL TWIST and "LITTLE STEVIE", SHERRY VINE, BILLY O, SWEETIE, BELLADONNA (Santa Barbara), GYPSY WILD and returning Enchantresses JAZMEN FLOWERS (Jackson, Miss), MISS GUY, D.D. SPARKS (Des Moines), THE DIVINE GRACE, PREL (of Atlanta's "Blue Lamp" events), CHARLENE CORAN (Reno), JESSICA RABBIT and AMBER RAY DOMINATION. Our "Stevie Total Method Go-Go" troupe includes ABSINTHE and VANGELINE DOMINATION, MISS KELLY WEBB, PAIGE STEVENSON and DARLINDA JUST DARLINDA.

The search is now on for this year's new performers and features. NOTS 2008 debuts will include choreographer JULIE ATLAS MUZ, legendary firecracker MISTRESS FORMIKA (of WIGSTOCK and SQUEEZEBOX fame), rising trans-stars LINDA JAMES and OUR LADY J and singer/songwriter ADAM JOSEPH. The evening features four "All-Stevie, All-Fleetwood DJs" - longtime NOTS rockers CRAIG SPENCER and POISON EVE, DJ JOEL (Harrisburg, Pa) and NOTS newcomer SAMMY JO (SCISSOR SISTERS tour DJ and MOTHER alum). Enchantresses of Ceremony CHI CHI VALENTI and HATTIE HATHAWAY are also the show's producers, with JOHNNY DYNELL (Art Director) and THE JACKIE FACTORY NYC.

Inspired by the haunting STEVIE NICKS song NIGHTBIRD, NOTS 18 is dedicated to the memory of founding performer DEAN JOHNSON, who died under tragic and mysterious circumstances in late September, 2007.


A NOTE TO PERFORMERS
Our bill is now closed to returning performers, due to a flood of response!

If you are a new performer who would like to apply to perform at NOTS 18, please email us now at [email protected] and we will send you full instructions on how to apply. We are accepting applications through March 1.

If you have contacted us regarding NYC auditions, look out for an email in the next few days with the dates. Thank you for your patience, as you can imagine it's a busy time for all three producers.

[JazmenFlowers]

I want to go. I've been reading about this thing since '95 but haven't gone. Jazzy, where's a good place to stay for this event? Congrats on your reappearance! I'm sure they were pleased with your performance last year.
sorry, I just saw this.

I am so excited to be back. and this year, I'm performing one of my absolute favorites.

as for hotels, I always stay at the Holiday Inn near Canal and Mott just because it's near the 6 and everything, but it's booked up this year so I'm on the hunt for somewhere to stay too. lol.

[JazmenFlowers]

http://www.mothernyc.com/news/newspage3.5.08.html

[JazmenFlowers]

sorry I'm a little late with the updates...
___________________________________________________

http://www.mothernyc.com/stevie/08images/jazmen08-3.jpghttp://www.mothernyc.com/stevie/08images/nots18_temp-240.jpghttp://www.mothernyc.com/stevie/07images/hoho_tamb-240.jpghttp://www.mothernyc.com/stevie/08images/justin-nots17.jpg

NIGHT OF A THOUSAND STEVIES NEWS
THE JACKIE FACTORY NYC PRESENTS
NIGHT OF A THOUSAND STEVIES 18:"NIGHTBIRDS"
FRIDAY MAY 9, 2008
THE HIGHLINE BALLROOM
431 WEST 16TH STREET NYC
DOORS OPEN 9 PM - 4 AM
$25
18 TO ENTER, 21 TO DRINK
BOX OFFICE
NOTS WEBSITE
Greetings from snow-frosted Manhattan to our beloved Enchanted Gypsies, Stevie Nicks fans everywhere, and a special welcome to those who have subscribed recently. It's a busy time for all of us at NOTS, as we prepare to close the bill and announce this year's new performers. We'll be holding our NYC auditions this coming Tuesday, and wanted to make sure everyone knew about those. We've also updated our Hotel Suggestions, focusing on rooms for under $250 a night - quite a feat these days. Thanks for all the excitement you continue to share on our forums, MySpace page and everywhere else Enchanted folk are roaming these days. Without your joy, hard work and presence, May 9 would just be another night!


PERFORMERS UPDATE AND NYC AUDITIONS
We've had such a huge response this year from would-be performers that the NOTS 18 bill is now closed except for three New Performer slots. If you would like to apply for one of these and have never performed at NOTS before, we MUST receive your application package or email by March 1st. (If you've already applied, you will be hearing back by the first week in March.)

Or, just attend our NYC AUDITIONS this Tuesday at RAPTURE CAFE.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 26 AT 8 PM SHARP
RAPTURE CAFE & BOOKS
200 Avenue A (Between 12-13 Streets) NYC
rapturecafe.com

Nearest Subway Stop: L train to 1st Avenue

There is a small stage, microphone, and CD player - please bring either a CD with your track or an acoustic instrument if you use one in your act. Please come to the back of Rapture and sign up with Chi Chi or Hattie any time from 7:30 on.

Either wear a Stevie Nicks-styled outfit or bring us pictures, web links of your performance persona or other "show and tell" items.

Like performance slots in the show itself, auditions are limited to six minutes or under.

Feel free to write back with any questions or concerns to events @ jackiefactory.com - you do not need to let us know if you are coming, just show up.

You are welcome to bring friends for moral support - there is coffee/tea and a full bar at Rapture, as well as books for browsing.



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RECOMMENDED NYC HOTELS FOR NOTS 2008
At the JACKIE FACTORY, we've been delighted through the years how many travelers come to New York City to attend our nightclubs and spectacles, especially NOTS. We are often "nightclub tourists" ourselves in other cities, and always appreciate pointers to hotels that are reasonably priced and fun headquarters for this kind of trip. We've updated this page over the years to point you towards lodging options in downtown New York City, as the neighborhoods of Chelsea, the East Village and Tribeca most often host our events.

If you have $300 a night or more to blow on a room, you don't need our help - there are countless resources to help you search - the venerable CHELSEA HOTEL close by, always pricey but worth it or The MARITIME HOTEL, mere steps away from this year's NOTS venue, THE HIGHLINE BALLROOM. If you have a budget of $125-250 a night, don't despair! There are still options available for you at some really fun hotels, but we would suggest booking them SOON. Here are some current rates for the evening of May 9, 2008, and links to their websites.

For our comments and reviews on these, please visit the NIGHTCLUB TOURIST HOTELS page on MOTHERNYC.COM (our mothersite).


GERSHWIN HOTEL
7 East 27th Street NYC
May 2008 rate: From $119 for a double room with wireless internet
gershwinhotel.com

HOTEL 17
225 East 17th Street NYC
May 2008 rate: $200 for a double room with private bath
hotel17ny.com


THE LARCHMONT HOTEL
27 West 11 Street NYC
May 2008 rate: $119-135 for double with shared bath,
$229 for a large "family" room with private bath
larchmonthotel.com

THE CHELSEA PINES INN
317 W. 14th Street NYC
May 2008 rate: $175 with queen bed and shared bathroom,
$239 with queen bed and private bath
chelseapinesinn.org


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THIS YEAR'S SHOW
NOTS 18: NIGHTBIRDS is subtitled THE ONES WHO SING AT NIGHT, and will take place against a midnight sky onstage, in shimmering faux-moonlight.

Our largest and highest NOTS stage EVER will host a record number of Enchanted performers in three sets. Returning LEGENDS OF STEVIE REALNESS include founding performer JOEY ARIAS (back from his six-year stint in Las Vegas with CIRQUE DE SOLEIL), perennial show-stoppers THE HO-HOs (Cathy Cervenka and Jill Pangallo), "Shortbus" star JUSTIN BOND, master puppeteer BASIL TWIST and "LITTLE STEVIE", SHERRY VINE, BILLY O, SWEETIE, BELLADONNA (Santa Barbara), GYPSY WILD and returning Enchantresses JAZMEN FLOWERS (Jackson, Miss), MISS GUY, D.D. SPARKS (Des Moines), THE DIVINE GRACE, PREL (of Atlanta's "Blue Lamp" events), CHARLENE CORAN (Reno), JESSICA RABBIT and AMBER RAY DOMINATION. Our "Stevie Total Method Go-Go" troupe includes ABSINTHE and VANGELINE DOMINATION, MISS KELLY WEBB, PAIGE STEVENSON and DARLINDA JUST DARLINDA.

The search is now on for the final three new performers, and NOTS 2008 debuts will include choreographer JULIE ATLAS MUZ, legendary firecracker MISTRESS FORMIKA (of WIGSTOCK and SQUEEZEBOX fame), rising trans-stars LINDA JAMES and OUR LADY J and singer/songwriter ADAM JOSEPH. The evening features four "All-Stevie, All-Fleetwood DJs" - longtime NOTS rockers CRAIG SPENCER and POISON EVE, DJ JOEL (Harrisburg, Pa) and NOTS newcomer SAMMY JO (SCISSOR SISTERS tour DJ and MOTHER alum). Enchantresses of Ceremony CHI CHI VALENTI and HATTIE HATHAWAY are also the show's producers, with JOHNNY DYNELL (Art Director) and THE JACKIE FACTORY NYC.

Inspired by the haunting STEVIE NICKS song NIGHTBIRD, NOTS 18 is dedicated to the memory of founding performer DEAN JOHNSON, who died under tragic and mysterious circumstances in late September, 2007.

Suggested Dress: Nightbird Glamour In Black And Blue, Capes, Cloaks And Enchanted Eveningwear, Eye Makeup Dark And Careless, Hand-Held Decorated Birds, Stevie Nicks Boot Fetish (All Summer Long), Black Glitter Tambourines, Coq Feathers And Cokespoons, Midnight Blue Velvet, Moonstone Amulets, Lindsey Or John McVie Prince Of Darkness Interpretations, Victorian Mourning Hankies or Black Chiffon Wings



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


ONLINE HAUNTS FOR NOTS
myspace.com/1000stevies

Nots Videos on YouTube

Enchanted Gypsies (The Night of 1000 Stevies Nook) forum on THE MOTHERBOARDS NYC.



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Till next time, still Hopelessly Enchanted

Chi Chi Valenti, Hattie Hathaway and Johnny Dynell
Producers, NOTS



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Images: JAZMEN FLOWERS * NOTS 18:NIGHTBIRDS poster and invitation by JOHNNY DYNELL * HO-HOs JILL PANGALLO and CATHY CERVENKA * JUSTIN BOND AT NOTS 17 (photo by MAKI)

[jannieC]

One more NOTS I can't make it to :(. I am graduating the week-end after NOTS, dammit. One of these days...:o

[mikeschmike]

http://www.mothernyc.com/stevie/08images/jazmen08-3.jpg

Now that is hot.

Can't wait to go!

[DavidMn]

http://www.mothernyc.com/stevie/08images/jazmen08-3.jpg

Now that is hot.

Can't wait to go!Are you going this year mike?

[JazmenFlowers]

http://i177.photobucket.com/albums/w211/chiffonhead/untitled-2.jpg

[JazmenFlowers]

latest news from Chi Chi.
___________

http://www.mothernyc.com/stevie/08images/HohosDressWhites-240.jpghttp://www.mothernyc.com/stevie/08images/jd46-240.jpghttp://www.mothernyc.com/stevie/08images/jazmen08-167-240.jpg

NIGHT OF A THOUSAND STEVIES NEWS:
FOR THE GYPSIES WHO REMAIN, A WHIRLWIND BEGINS!
With just under a month remaining till NOTS 18 opens its doors, production is in full swing here, the show's 25 songs have been chosen, and the excitement is growing. Here at NOTS headquarters, we hear the sounds of sewing machines and rustling ribbons more clearly than the cry of The Nightbird, but we know that will change as The Night 2008 grows nearer. To begin this newsletter, answers to some frequently asked questions about this year's show. Read down for full show details, and have fun getting ready for our favorite Night of the year!


FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Do I need to dress up like Stevie to gain admission?

No, but you will have a better time if you do - consult this year's suggestions below, or just throw on your best Stevie shawl or cloak. Boys - you have alot of options too - think Fleetwood Mac poet shirts and vests, or top hats!

What is the minimum age for entry?

You must be 18 to enter, 21 to drink. ID is now (sadly) required at the door of most city venues, so please bring yours even if you haven't been proofed in years!

Is there a walk-in box office this year?

Advance tickets can be purchased in person at The Highline Ballroom box office from noon till doors close every night, as well as online at their website

HIGHLINE BOX OFFICE

Can I take pictures or shoot video?

As a full-on fan event, we permit all cameras and flash. You may not bring additional light into the room (for video) without permission of the producers, nor come on or backstage. All other public areas are fine to shoot in - please ask permission of anyone you are shooting close up - its the polite thing to do.

After the show, we will open this year's photo topic on the ENCHANTED GYPSIES forum, please come and post your NOTS 18 photo links and best shots there..


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


THE JACKIE FACTORY NYC PRESENTS
NIGHT OF A THOUSAND STEVIES 18:"NIGHTBIRDS"
FRIDAY MAY 9, 2008
THE HIGHLINE BALLROOM
431 WEST 16TH STREET NYC
DOORS OPEN 9 PM - 4 AM
$25 - Advance Tickets Strongly Suggested
18 TO ENTER, 21 TO DRINK (PHOTO ID REQUIRED)
BOX OFFICE
NOTS WEBSITE

NIGHTBIRDS: THE ONES WHO SING AT NIGHT
Our largest NOTS stage EVER will host a record number of performers in three sets, and our bill is now CLOSED! Returning LEGENDS OF STEVIE REALNESS include perennial show-stoppers THE HO-HOs (Cathy Cervenka and Jill Pangallo), "Shortbus" star JUSTIN BOND, founding performer JOEY ARIAS, master puppeteer BASIL TWIST and "LITTLE STEVIE", BELLADONNA (Santa Barbara), GYPSY WILD, SHERRY VINE, BILLY O, LIZZIE DAVIS (Flower Mound, TX) SWEETIE, JAZMEN FLOWERS (Jackson, Miss), MISS GUY, D.D. SPARKS (Des Moines), JONNY TINGLE, THE DIVINE GRACE, PREL (of Atlanta's "Blue Lamp" events), CHARLENE CORAN (Reno), JESSICA RABBIT and AMBER RAY DOMINATION. Our "Stevie Total Method Go-Go" troupe includes ABSINTHE and VANGELINE DOMINATION, MISS KELLY WEBB, PAIGE STEVENSON and DARLINDA JUST DARLINDA.

NOTS 2008 debuts will include choreographer JULIE ATLAS MUZ, legendary firecracker MISTRESS FORMIKA and second-generation STEVIE NICKS performer THE POETESS BROOKE ALYSON from Houston (whose mother was also a STEVIE Songbird). More newness: rising trans-stars LINDA JAMES and OUR LADY J, singer/songwriter ADAM JOSEPH and JOHNNY DARLING and THE POST-MODERN HORROR. The evening features four "All-Stevie, All-Fleetwood DJs" - longtime NOTS rockers CRAIG SPENCER and POISON EVE, DJ JOEL (Harrisburg, Pa) and NOTS newcomer SAMMY JO (SCISSOR SISTERS tour DJ and MOTHER alum). Enchantresses of Ceremony CHI CHI VALENTI and HATTIE HATHAWAY are also the show's producers, with JOHNNY DYNELL (Art Director) and THE JACKIE FACTORY NYC.

Suggested Dress: Nightbird Glamour In Black And Blue, Capes, Cloaks And Enchanted Eveningwear, Eye Makeup Dark And Careless, Hand-Held Decorated Birds, Stevie Nicks Boot Fetish (All Summer Long), Black Glitter Tambourines, Coq Feathers And Cokespoons, Midnight Blue Velvet, Moonstone Amulets, Lindsey Or John McVie Prince Of Darkness Interpretations, Victorian Mourning Hankies or Black Chiffon Wings



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


ONLINE HAUNTS FOR NOTS
myspace.com/1000stevies

Many of our performers and longtime NOTS fans have their own Myspace pages as well. Check the NOTS "Top Friends" for your favorites, from Jackson, Mississpi's JAZMEN FLOWERS to Reno's CHARLENE CORAN. Nots Videos on YouTube

Enchanted Gypsies (The Night of 1000 Stevies Nook) forum on THE MOTHERBOARDS NYC.



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

STILL NEED A HOTEL? Visit the NIGHTCLUB TOURIST HOTELS page on MOTHERNYC.COM (our mothersite).


Till next time, still Hopelessly Enchanted

Chi Chi Valenti, Hattie Hathaway and Johnny Dynell
Producers, NOTS



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Images: THE HoHos JILL PANGALLO and CATHY CERVENKA (photo by WILSON CHAN) * NOTS Producer and Visual Director JOHNNY DYNELL demonstrates "Stevie Style for Men" * Returning Legend of Stevie Realness JAZMEN FLOWERS

[SpyNote]

I can't believe I'm actually going to be in New York when this happens! I can't wait. I can't wait! Finally the Nightbird tonite! :woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo:

[JazmenFlowers]

I can't believe I'm actually going to be in New York when this happens! I can't wait. I can't wait! Finally the Nightbird tonite! :woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo:
wow. I'm so glad you're going to make it.

the venue is amazing and the plans for this year are shaping up to be equally amazing. Chi Chi and the crew truly have outdone themselves.

[kathy1]

are you going to have alot of people there this year jazmen?

[JazmenFlowers]

are you going to have alot of people there this year jazmen?
let's hope so! it's usually a packed house and I'm sure this year will be better than ever.

[kathy1]

will you be posting pictures?

[petep9000]

Its very crowded. I have a little of a 'thing' about being in a crowded mob, so I wind up leaving as soon as the crowd starts to swell. Which is unfortunate, because I miss alot of the good stuff. Like for example, I've never stayed long enough to see the 'Edge' battle. I'm a poor excuse for a nightbird! LOL. I can barely stay up past 2 am now. But still, I may go again. This will be like the 11th year for me. Maybe this year I will meet my One Great Love. If anyone recognizes me, be sure to say "hi". Code word is 'Rock A Little', then I'll know you.

[rhiannonrising]

Im bummed that I wont be performing this year! As it gets closer Im getting more excited for all you guys though. What an amazing time, we always have SO much fun, even when its $9 beer night :(

I started a flickr group (because there wasnt one, can you believe it?!) for NOTS and other tribute event pics. http://www.flickr.com/groups/nots

GOOD LUCK to everyone performing!! :wavey:

[notsfan-nola]

My outfit is done and The Night is almost hear ...

I got this schedule on myspace and notice that you are closing the first act Jazmen!!!! I will be there cheering you on - big hair and a dark purple top hat, please say hi if you see me - would love to meet other ledgies and Stevie fans..

here's the show schedule if you want to be there for Jazmen or another fav tribute artist. Also notice there is food this year at the venue - might be to excited to eat but its nice to have the option.

heres the bulletin and see you Friday :woohoo:

NIGHT OF A THOUSAND STEVIES NEWS:
THE NIGHT IS COMING, LESS THAN ONE WEEK AWAY!

Months of planning are about to take flight, as our 18th annual edition, NIGHTBIRDS, takes over the HIGHLINE BALLROOM this Friday, May 9. We share your anticipation and can't wait for you to see this beautiful new venue for The Night, which offers balcony tables, a high and beautiful stage, and even food upstairs for you marathon twirlers. If you are a first-time attendee, you might want to bring a pair of comfortable shoes and check them, especially if you wear (high-heeled) Boots all Summer Long!

For NOTS fanatics and fans of particular performers and acts, here is this year's planned show order. Those of you who join us year after year know that we do go up ON TIME (or very, very close) for Act One, so be sure to complete your costuming in time to see all of your favorites.

Act One (begins 10:30 PM)

Opening number "Nightbirds" choreographed by Julie Atlas Muz and starring The Pixie Harlots and Lauri Hogan, The Divine Grace, The Poetess Brooke Alyson, Prel, Amber Ray, Lizzie Davis, Linda James, Belladonna, Jonny Tingle and Corey Tut, Jazmen Flowers with M.C. Chi Chi Valenti

Act Two (begins at midnight)

The Ho Hos, Charlene Coran, Miss Guy, Gypsy Wild, Adam Joseph, Jessca Rabbit Domination, Billy O, Justin Bond, Basil Twist and Sweetie with M.C. Hattie Hathaway

Act Three (begins at 1:45 AM)

Joey Arias, Hattie Hathaway, Johnny Darling and the PostModern Horror, Sherry Vine, D.D. Sparks, Mistress Formika, Poison Eve (a tribute to Dean Johnson, NOTS Legend), Our Lady J and the Battle of 1000 Stevies with M.C. Chi Chi Valenti

Please note that order within sets may change slightly, but not the sets themselves.

Our DJs play in the following order:

DJ Joel (opening)
Poison Eve (prior to Act One)
Sammy Jo (between Act One and Two)
Craig Spencer (between Act Two and Three, and post-show till 4 AM)

[Enchanted_Stevi]

I would SO go if it wasnt the day before my prom :(

So I guess I'll be going next year

[vivfox]

NYC DRAG HAPPENINGS

NIGHT OF A THOUSAND STEVIES NEWS THE JACKIE FACTORY NYC PRESENTS NIGHT OF A THOUSAND STEVIES 18: "NIGHTBIRDS" FRIDAY MAY 9, 2008 THE HIGHLINE BALLROOM 431 WEST 16TH STREET NYC DOORS OPEN 9 PM - 4 AM $25 - Advance tickets strongly suggested 18 TO ENTER, 21 TO DRINK (I.D. REQUIRED) BOX OFFICE NIGHT OF A THOUSAND STEVIES is the biggest and best-loved STEVIE NICKS fan event in the world, one of those great New York City nightclub spectacles that spark travel from all around the globe. For this year's 18th annual edition, our largest NOTS stage EVER will host a record number of performers in three sets.


http://technorati.com/posts/%2Bceadh9noFXyOXqTkp4Ds11BnKrZbKrGwZdAQBxP%2F%2BE%3D

[vivfox]

Time Out New York / Issue 658 : May, 2008
Old saint Nicks
The beloved Night of a Thousand Stevies reaches the far edge of 17.


By Bruce Tantum


BIG MAC ATTACK The Ho-Hos, click on link to see photo, are among the star attractions at the gigantic Nicks fest.

Photograph: Wilson ChanIt’s hard to imagine now, but there was a time when NYC nightlife was dominated by a polysexual, performance-oriented, creative kind of clubbing, at venues such as the Pyramid, Area and Mother. Giuliani and gentrification largely put the kibosh on that world, but there are still a few people fighting the good fight, including Chi Chi Valenti and Johnny Dynell, who ran Mother from 1996 until its closing in 2000. The pair was also the driving force behind the much-missed Jackie 60 affair, which is where Night of a Thousand Stevies—probably the biggest and weirdest Stevie Nicks–Fleetwood Mac tribute party in the world—was born in 1990. On Friday 9, the annual get-together returns for its 18th go-round with performances from Stevie impersonators old and new, including at least one second-generation Nicks knockoff. One mainstay won’t be there, though: Downtown performance icon Dean Johnson, one the event’s earliest participants, passed away last year, and this edition of NOTS is dedicated to his memory.



When you started Night of a Thousand Stevies, did you have any clue what you were getting yourselves into?
Chi Chi Valenti: She turns 60 later this month. We’re almost a third as old as she is! The first time we did it, we looked at it as just another Jackie theme. But even that night, we could tell something was up—it brought in a whole crowd of people that were so much more into Stevie than we were.
Johnny Dynell: No one usually showed up till 11pm or so, but that night we had a line at 9 o’clock, with tambourines and everything.
Valenti: That was the first Jackie party that we realized we should do annually. But back then, we thought that meant maybe three years, tops.

What is it about Stevie Nicks that inspires such devotion?
Dynell: I think it’s because she’s the exact opposite of someone who tries to reinvent herself all the time. She projects such a consistent image that she seems very true to what she is, which can inspire a serious kind of fandom.

Speaking of serious, this year’s venue, Highline Ballroom, is your biggest spot yet.
Valenti: This is like our dream stage. We’ve gone from baby’s breath sewn on ribbons to Broadway flats covered with white-winged doves. We now have facilities for more performers—we have 105 this year—along with things like a big opening number choreographed by Julie Atlas Muz. Even the back of the house is huge.

It’s probably bigger than some of the fronts of the houses you’ve been in.
Dynell: And bigger than some that we’ve live in!

You have a lot of veteran Stevies performing, but I imagine not having Dean Johnson there will be kind of sad.
Valenti: Oh, yeah. He was always the most controversial Stevie. He would happily portray her darker side to what he called the Stepford Stevies. But he loved Stevie, to the point that he named his cat for her.

Is Nicks aware of Night of a Thousand Stevies?
Valenti: Oh, yeah. Apparently she discovered it when she was on an airplane and her steward showed her pictures of him dressed as her in platform boots. She’s commented on it in interviews, and seems very flattered by it. She’s even given us Stevie memorabilia to auction off.
Dynell: On the other hand, Lindsey Buckingham has called us a bunch of freaks. He seems really bothered by it.
Valenti: Oh, that’s just because there’s no Night of a Thousand Lindseys.

Has she ever come to one?
Valenti: We think she may have come in disguise as just another Stevie the last year it was held at Mother. But we can understand why she would never publicly come—it would be pretty overwhelming.

She does seem like the delicate sort.
Dynell: Well, you know that song of hers, “Too Much Love.”
Valenti: Even as a Stevie substitute at these parties, I sometimes feel overwhelmed from too much love. So I can totally empathize.

Night of a Thousand Stevies: Nightbirds is on May 9, 2008.

http://www.timeout.com/newyork/articles/clubs/29224/old-saint-nicks

[michelej1]

By Erika Martinez, New York Post

http://www.nypost.com/seven/05082008/entertainment/music/they_have_a_nicks_nack_109973.htm

May 8, 2008 -- STEVIE Nicks, the blond whirling dervish of Fleetwood Mac, has a lot of fans. And aside from being rabid about their Stevie, those fans have little in common with each other.

But that won't stop them - preppy jocks, drag queens, suburban hausfraus and gay men clad in leather - from gathering at the HighLine Ballroom tomorrow night to pay homage to the rock icon at the 18th annual "Night of a Thousand Stevies."

Twenty-six Nicks-emulating artists will take the stage and after all the performers are through, the night will culminate in a twirling "Battle of the Stevies."

The kooky concept started in 1990, as a Tuesday night party at Jackie 60, says NOTS founder and club promoter Chi Chi Valenti, where drag queens would dress like their rock goddess.

Over the years, it gained mainstream appeal. "It's crossed into all of these different cultures; mixed racially, ethnically and sexually," says Valenti.

The HighLine will be spruced up for the Stevie-fest with scores of fake birds in a night sky with a low-slung moon. Cloaked fans in big blond wigs and even bigger boots should be commonplace.

Comedic duo Cathy Cervenka and Jill Pangallo, better known as "The HoHos," joined the NOTS lineup in 2000, after they were discovered at a Fleetwood Mac tribute show.

"I am the one who can sing and tries to impersonate Stevie in a more serious fashion," Cervenka explains. "And Jill portrays the crazed, coked-out Stevie of the '80s. "

The pair strive to represent all phases of Nicks' career, from her stellar moments to her cellar moments.

"If you just make fun of her, that won't play at NOTS, your devotion has to shine through," says Cervenka.

One of the many tambourine-toting Stevie devotees debuting at the event is making a 1,630-mile trek from Houston to get her chance in the spotlight.

Brooke Walton, 28, a k a the Poetess Brooke Alyson, grew up listening to Nicks' music and is thrilled she secured a coveted place in the lineup.

"It's so important to me, it's very hard for me to put into words, it brings me to tears," says Walton.

With leather and lace, flowing chiffon gowns and glittery shawls, Night of a Thousand Stevies allows her fans one enchanted evening a year when everyone can be a dreamer, a silly dreamer.

Night of a Thousand Stevies is tomorrow night at 9 at the HighLine Ballroom, 431 W. 16th St.; (212) 414-5994. For more info, log onto mothernyc.com/stevie.

[michelej1]

Next Magazine

http://www.nextmagazine.com/features/1444_1.php

Madonna makes sense, Cher collects a crowd and Bowie is a no-brainer, but Stevie Nicks as a queer icon? You bet! In the hot-today-tired-tomorrow atmosphere of New York clubland, Night of a Thousand Stevies, now in its 17th year (a veritable eternity for a party), continues to be one of the year’s most vibrant nightlife events with fans pouring in from around the country. Todd Stephen’s earlier film Gypsy 83 (before Another Gay Movie) even chronicled misfit fans from Ohio traveling to the event. As a member of Fleetwood Mac and later solo, Nicks wasn’t called the “High Priestess of Rock ’n’ Roll” by Rolling Stone for nothing!

Born as just one of many themed nights at Jackie 60, Chi Chi Valenti and husband DJ Johnny Dynell’s Tuesday night party at the legendary nightspot Mother, the two co- founded the event during what you might call Stevie’s lean years. (And no, we’re not talking about her weight.)

“She was so out at that time,” says Valenti. “She was so far from anyone’s periphery…except the people who just really loved her.”

Valenti got the idea for a Stevie drag night from seeing Nicks on tour in the late ’80s and running into performers like Dean Johnson and Joey Arias at the shows. “I realized that all these really cool, genius drag performers worshipped her!”

From there the party ballooned, attracting celebrities such as Courtney Love, Cyndi Lauper, John Paul Jones from Led Zeppelin—even Madonna in ’96—fans from all over the country, as well as some of the fiercest drag queens ever to stamp around a stage in six inch platform boots. That heady mix of fans—Fleetwood frat boys, Stevie lovin’ soccer moms, enchanted trannies, radical faeries—and celebs has made for some memorable moments, like Boy George’s reggae rendition of “Go Your Own Way,” and the time “Page Six” reported that the bathroom lines at Mother were so long that Debbie Harry popped a squat in the hallway and peed right on a Stevie poster.

“There was a year or two that it got…a little too Stevie,” says Dynell. “It was like a little too much of the real Stevie fans being so true to the Stevie image. And we were like, OK, we have to take it back again and make it New York again.”

“Because it is a New York event and that’s really important,” adds Valenti. “There’s always this thing that we try to avoid, which is making it like a karaoke show.”

To that end, Valenti and Dynell book some of downtown’s most dynamic and unexpected performers, setting the stage for way left-field shows like Dirty Martini’s Stevie ballet, Velocity Chyaldd’s striptease to Nicks’s cover of “At Last,” and Cathy Cervenka and Jill Pangallo of the Ho-Hos’ elaborate stage productions—some of which aren’t exactly flattering.

“I think that’s what sets us apart from other fan tribute events,” Valenti says. “We love her and we love the messy moments just as much as the for-publication moments.”

“I think people who come to NOTS expect more,” says Dynell. “They expect performance art as opposed to just somebody lip-synching.”

Although there have never actually been 1,000 Nicks impersonators onstage at once (“I don’t think that’d be possible!” laughs Valenti), this year’s “Edge of Seventeen” anniversary party is taking place in the Maritime Hotel’s super-plush (nay, enchanted) Hiro Ballroom, so at least they’ll all be in same room with no separate dance floor as previous parties have provided. But with performers like Justin Bond, Sherry Vine, Dean Johnson, Sweetie, and the Empress Chi Chi herself, as well as longtime NOTS DJs Poison Eve and Craig Spencer, and a Greek Chorus of Stevie go-gos, where the hell else would you want to be?

As for the future, Valenti says she can’t imagine doing NOTS forever. “I know we’re here for 17. If I had to guess, I would say maybe we’d stop at 20. But I’m just throwing that number out there. Nothing’s been discussed. I think there’ll be an omen and we’ll know it’s time to stop.”

Until then, rock on Gold Dust Woman, and we’ll keep ringin’ like a bell through the night.

[TrueFaith77]

So... what did everyone think? I was there last night. I had a blast. Wish I had taken notes though.

[notsfan-nola]

BEST one yet - i am still twirling:] The new club was great, you could see the show from everywhere and sound, lights wre awesome. People were really dressd, more than ever.even tho it had poured all day and into night.

some great shows were Jazmen Flowers doin Stand Back, the new girl from Texas, forgot her name, and my favorite at the very end Our lady j sang Has Anyone Ever Written with live keyboard and four gospal singers backing her up.Wow - i had chills. missed the opening act but herd it was off the hook!

[SpyNote]

It was a great night. Lots of great outfits, styles, and performances. My faves were the Ho-Hos and, of course, the one and only Jazmen Flowers. :woohoo:

There was an excellent dance version of Nightbird. Anyone have it to share?

[JazmenFlowers]

thanks to all of you that came out and showed your support. it was an incredible night.

I have lots to share. check out my myspace page as I load pictures as they come in from various sources. in the meantime, here's the video. sorry for the less than spectacular quality.

<object width="425" height="355"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/nGDTjLp21eA&hl=en"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/nGDTjLp21eA&hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="355"></embed></object>

[Travis]

You did a great job Jazmen - you twirled your ass off :)

[JazmenFlowers]

You did a great job Jazmen - you twirled your ass off :)
thanks. it was so good to see you again.

here are a couple of pictures by my official photographer, Ms. Carrie.

http://frik.smugmug.com/photos/294518925_pRnuR-M.jpg

http://frik.smugmug.com/photos/294518896_KVWgz-M.jpg

[strandinthewind]

Dynell: On the other hand, Lindsey Buckingham has called us a bunch of freaks. He seems really bothered by it.
Valenti: Oh, that’s just because there’s no Night of a Thousand Lindseys.

:eek: The LB's will being shooting steam out of their ears :laugh:

Jaz - you look and sound magnificent!

[Phoenix]

:lol:Time Out New York / Issue 658 : May, 2008
Old saint Nicks
The beloved Night of a Thousand Stevies reaches the far edge of 17.
By Bruce Tantum
BIG MAC ATTACK The Ho-Hos, click on link to see photo, are among the star attractions at the gigantic Nicks fest.
[B]Is Nicks aware of Night of a Thousand Stevies?
Valenti: Oh, yeah. Apparently she discovered it when she was on an airplane and her steward showed her pictures of him dressed as her in platform boots. She’s commented on it in interviews, and seems very flattered by it. She’s even given us Stevie memorabilia to auction off.
Dynell: On the other hand, Lindsey Buckingham has called us a bunch of freaks. He seems really bothered by it.
Valenti: Oh, that’s just because there’s no Night of a Thousand Lindseys.


Night of a Thousand Stevies: Nightbirds is on May 9, 2008.

http://www.timeout.com/newyork/articles/clubs/29224/old-saint-nicks

BBBBBBaaaaaaaaaaaahahAHAHAHHAAH. So true.:thumbsup:
but good god, could you imagine. a million lindseys playing big love at the exact same time yapping on about "faith in cycles".:shocked:

[HejiraNYC]

:lol:

BBBBBBaaaaaaaaaaaahahAHAHAHHAAH. So true.:thumbsup:
but good god, could you imagine. a million lindseys playing big love at the exact same time yapping on about "faith in cycles".:shocked:

Could you imagine if they did organize a Night of a Thousand Lindseys? Every shop in Chinatown would wonder why their inventory of silk kimono robes has suddenly been depleted. :lol:

[TrueFaith77]

Night Of A Thousand Lindseys???? I'd so be there.

[petep9000]

I'm intrigued by a Night of 1000 Christines. We'd all dress up in shoulder-length bobbed blond haircuts, with tunics, leggings and scrunchy boots. Wine glass in one hand, lit cigarette in another. And practice our whithering British accents.

[HejiraNYC]

I'm intrigued by a Night of 1000 Christines. We'd all dress up in shoulder-length bobbed blond haircuts, with tunics, leggings and scrunchy boots. Wine glass in one hand, lit cigarette in another. And practice our whithering British accents.

I'd wear my tweed jacket with patches on the elbows and my bestest mom-jeans. Oh, and my hair would have that little mutant-tail sprouting from the front:

http://www.gocontinental.com/photos3/mcvie20.jpg

[petep9000]

I'd wear my tweed jacket with patches on the elbows and my bestest mom-jeans. Oh, and my hair would have that little mutant-tail sprouting from the front:

http://www.gocontinental.com/photos3/mcvie20.jpg

and don't forget the white plastic hoop earrings for an authentic TITN look.

[HejiraNYC]

and don't forget the white plastic hoop earrings for an authentic TITN look.

But then again I'm starting to warm up to Mars Attacks-era Christine:

http://nsandeman.teanga.info/artwork/thumbs/Christine-McVie.jpg

[AliceLover]

JAZZ!!!

Stand Back was so great! What an awesome version to choose! Excellent job! I can't wait to see more!!!

[AliceLover]

Time Out New York / Issue 658 : May, 2008
Old saint Nicks
The beloved Night of a Thousand Stevies reaches the far edge of 17.


By Bruce Tantum


BIG MAC ATTACK The Ho-Hos, click on link to see photo, are among the star attractions at the gigantic Nicks fest.

Photograph: Wilson ChanIt’s hard to imagine now, but there was a time when NYC nightlife was dominated by a polysexual, performance-oriented, creative kind of clubbing, at venues such as the Pyramid, Area and Mother. Giuliani and gentrification largely put the kibosh on that world, but there are still a few people fighting the good fight, including Chi Chi Valenti and Johnny Dynell, who ran Mother from 1996 until its closing in 2000. The pair was also the driving force behind the much-missed Jackie 60 affair, which is where Night of a Thousand Stevies—probably the biggest and weirdest Stevie Nicks–Fleetwood Mac tribute party in the world—was born in 1990. On Friday 9, the annual get-together returns for its 18th go-round with performances from Stevie impersonators old and new, including at least one second-generation Nicks knockoff. One mainstay won’t be there, though: Downtown performance icon Dean Johnson, one the event’s earliest participants, passed away last year, and this edition of NOTS is dedicated to his memory.



When you started Night of a Thousand Stevies, did you have any clue what you were getting yourselves into?
Chi Chi Valenti: She turns 60 later this month. We’re almost a third as old as she is! The first time we did it, we looked at it as just another Jackie theme. But even that night, we could tell something was up—it brought in a whole crowd of people that were so much more into Stevie than we were.
Johnny Dynell: No one usually showed up till 11pm or so, but that night we had a line at 9 o’clock, with tambourines and everything.
Valenti: That was the first Jackie party that we realized we should do annually. But back then, we thought that meant maybe three years, tops.

What is it about Stevie Nicks that inspires such devotion?
Dynell: I think it’s because she’s the exact opposite of someone who tries to reinvent herself all the time. She projects such a consistent image that she seems very true to what she is, which can inspire a serious kind of fandom.

Speaking of serious, this year’s venue, Highline Ballroom, is your biggest spot yet.
Valenti: This is like our dream stage. We’ve gone from baby’s breath sewn on ribbons to Broadway flats covered with white-winged doves. We now have facilities for more performers—we have 105 this year—along with things like a big opening number choreographed by Julie Atlas Muz. Even the back of the house is huge.

It’s probably bigger than some of the fronts of the houses you’ve been in.
Dynell: And bigger than some that we’ve live in!

You have a lot of veteran Stevies performing, but I imagine not having Dean Johnson there will be kind of sad.
Valenti: Oh, yeah. He was always the most controversial Stevie. He would happily portray her darker side to what he called the Stepford Stevies. But he loved Stevie, to the point that he named his cat for her.

Is Nicks aware of Night of a Thousand Stevies?
Valenti: Oh, yeah. Apparently she discovered it when she was on an airplane and her steward showed her pictures of him dressed as her in platform boots. She’s commented on it in interviews, and seems very flattered by it. She’s even given us Stevie memorabilia to auction off.
Dynell: On the other hand, Lindsey Buckingham has called us a bunch of freaks. He seems really bothered by it.
Valenti: Oh, that’s just because there’s no Night of a Thousand Lindseys.

Has she ever come to one?
Valenti: We think she may have come in disguise as just another Stevie the last year it was held at Mother. But we can understand why she would never publicly come—it would be pretty overwhelming.

She does seem like the delicate sort.
Dynell: Well, you know that song of hers, “Too Much Love.”
Valenti: Even as a Stevie substitute at these parties, I sometimes feel overwhelmed from too much love. So I can totally empathize.

Night of a Thousand Stevies: Nightbirds is on May 9, 2008.

http://www.timeout.com/newyork/articles/clubs/29224/old-saint-nicks

WTF is too much love?

[michelej1]

WTF is too much love?

LOL. Usually we can figure out what song they're talking about (like Thunder Only Happens When It's Raining), but with "too much love" I don't even know where to start.

Michele

[[email protected]]

LOL. Usually we can figure out what song they're talking about (like Thunder Only Happens When It's Raining), but with "too much love" I don't even know where to start.

Michele

I would assume "Nightbird". But I could be wrong. ;)

[vivfox]

I would assume "Nightbird". But I could be wrong. ;)

Nightbird is the song that first enters my mind too. Hi Barbara, welcome back and where the heck have you been?:blob2:

[vivfox]

May 13,2008

Fighting Off Wig-Stealing Drag Queens At 'Night Of A Thousand Stevies' [Sisters (and Misters) Of The Moon]


"Sometimes, the most beautiful thing, the most innocent thing - and many of those dreams - pass us by." Well, my friend Bennett Madison and I were determined not to let the 18th Annual "Night of A Thousand Stevies" (NOTS) pass us by, and if you recognize the quote above as a line from the (best) Stevie Nicks song (ever), "Angel," then you already understand why we were motivated to attend an event that brings Stevie Nicks impersonators from around the country to perform in front of an audience full of...Stevie Nicks impersonators. If you don't understand, read on: you just might learn something about one of the greatest artists of all time, and the bizarre, semi-sad, hilariously gay and nerdy and over-the-top cult that has sprung up around the singer.

For starters, it's pretty easy to put together a Stevie Nicks costume in five minutes at any Salvation Army. It's sort of like the adage about what you're supposed to wear for your wedding, except instead of "Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue," it's more like "Something old, something black, something fringey, and some kind of a shawl or cape or corset or top hat or sparkly beret." The theme of NOTS 18 was "Nightbirds," and in the song "Nightbirds" Stevie actually gives specific instructions for how to replicate her signature look:

"And then the summer became the fall/ I was not ready for the winter/it makes no difference at all/Cause I wear boots all summer long ... Eye makeup dark and it's careless ..."

Keeping this in mind, I applied Bennett's makeup very carelessly. After a beer, we headed out to the Hammerstein Ballroom.

My costume was a little bit less dramatic than Bennett's, partly because I had decided to wear my real hair instead of a wig and partly because I was born female.

Once inside, we encountered a few setbacks. The entertainment was not, at first, as awesome as we had hoped. One too many drag queens had elected to lip synch "Stand Back," which has never been a favorite song of mine. (Note from Bennett: "I LOVE STAND BACK!!!") It's from Stevie's second, more disco-y solo album, and I'm more of a fan of her work with Fleetwood Mac and her first solo album, Bella Donna, which was made when she was dating that guy from the Eagles. The great thing about being a fan of Stevie Nicks, though, is that Stevieism is a big tent. Here is my theory about the demographics represented at NOTS:

1) Theater nerd girls who just enjoy wearing capes and corsets and crushed velvet. See also: Renaissance Faire Laydies. Their favorite song is Rhiannon, of course, because it's about a witch from Welsh mythology.

2)The male equivalent of these girls. These dudes would have grown up playing Dungeons and Dragons and reading Lord of the Rings if they were straight, but instead they had to like Stevie Nicks.

3)Gays who are into the coke-addled era of Stevie. Their favorite song is "Stand Back."

4) Heterosexual couples who are into the romance of Fleetwood Mac - the idea of being in a band with someone you're in love with, and then breaking up with them in a messy, druggy, cheating-related way, but always sort of carrying a torch - and singing about it! That is hot. We saw a lot of these couples, including a few who were dressed as Stevie and Lindsay Buckingham. If I ever find a guy who is willing to accompany me to this kind of event dressed as Lindsay Buckingham, or Mick Fleetwood, or even Don Henley, I will have found my soulmate, I think. Extra bonus points if he also wants to learn the harmony to "Leather and Lace."

This couple wasn't dressed up, but they were getting really amorous in a cute way.

Outside, we caught performance artist Julie Atlas-Muz and took a picture of her as though we were the paparazzi, and she gamely played along:

The second setback we encountered was that someone stole Bennett's wig! They just came up behind him and yanked it off his head and disappeared back into the crowd! In a moment of true STEVIE REALNESS, Bennett chased after the thief, felled him with a fierce karate kick, and bit him in the face, leaving a puddle of blood and sparkles in the dance floor. Just kidding! Actually, a frightened and humiliated Bennett just made a pathetic face and turned his cape into a headdress, making him look more like Little Edie than Stevie, but whatever. Later someone complimented the headdress as being "very Timespace" and he was happy again.

Night Of A Thousand Stevies [Mother NYC]

http://gossipfeast.com/fighting-wig-stealing-drag-queens-039night-thousand-stevies039-sisters-and-misters-moon

[[email protected]]

Nightbird is the song that first enters my mind too. Hi Barbara, welcome back and where the heck have you been?:blob2:

Hi Honey Bun!
I pop in now and again, say a few things, or try to help someone out looking for something I may have....then, go on with other business, LOL! Hope you are doing great! The Ledge looks nice, I like the new graphic design!

xoxo Barbara

[AliceLover]

LOL. Usually we can figure out what song they're talking about (like Thunder Only Happens When It's Raining), but with "too much love" I don't even know where to start.

Michele

That really pisses me off. How long have these broads been running this program and they don't know the name of the song Nightbird. Please.