Meet your Miss Gay Maryland America 2018 Nicole James, of Martinsburg, West Virginia. She was thrilled to compete and ever more thrilled and grateful to be crowned. In addition to her fascinating and heartfelt interview below, read her impassioned Facebook post about getting back into the game and what its means to her here. Clearly, Nicole James is yet another one of the appreciative entertainers who "gets it," when it comes to the Miss Gay America system and legacy.
It's always interesting to know how a female impersonator chose her stage name. When asked, Nicole explained, "My legal name is Jimmy, hence James. Nicole is simply a name that I loved for some reason many years ago. And no one else had it, that I knew of. I was and still am still am very focused on trying to find the thing no one has done yet or in creating something no one thought of yet. I put this into my persona when I create costuming, hair and performances. All these things are what make me still love being Nicole James, and now Miss Gay Maryland America."
Now to the interview:
Nicole James in Presentation for the Kinky Boots theme
1 How did you get started, when did you first do in female impersonation?
I began my female impersonation career in 1987. It was at the height of the AIDS crisis and we needed performers in the western Maryland area to participate in the shows to raise funds for the local hospice and individuals that were in need of medications and assistance. I already had an interest, but had not pursued taking my craft to the stage until I was approached and asked to help out.
2 What has being in the Miss Gay America system mean to you personally?
I started in this system. Back in the early days, everyone competed. It was simply what you did back then. I was groomed by a company called The Illusions Company. I began to learn about the system and then I began to love it. Love it for its comradery, how they all worked together, and how everyone looked up to each other while working toward a common goal. To be as excellent and professional as possible in all aspects, so they could be a mentor and inspire people to share their passion.
3 How have you benefited from competing in the Miss Gay America system?
It has taken me to many places across the states I may not have ever seen. I've been fortunate to meet some of the most wonderful entertainers out there and create lifelong friendships that mean the world to me. Most of all, it made me into a mentor and a leader in our community. These were the biggest gifts of all.
My family is extremely supportive. I've had my mother, sister, brother in law, all on stage with me at one time or another performing alongside me. They still all these years later, show up, scream and yell.
5 What is your life out of drag?
My life outside of drag is an Accounts Manager. for a medical practice. My passion however has and always will be fundraising in the community. I've worked with MidAtlantic AIDS Network, Positive Influence, several hospices, Community Free Clinic, Aids Response Effort.
I've recently began working with Hagerstown Hopes. My husband of 25 Years, who is also a Former Miss Gay Maryland America, Ashley Bannks, is the president. Yes we focus on the LGBTQ+ , but do not turn away other individuals that seek assistance as well. We are here to bring our community together as one, to be an ear, counseling for our youth, drug and alcohol abuse, legal, etc. We recently opened our center in Hagerstown, MD, thanks to a VERY generous community of donations and support. We also put together the annual Pride celebration, with the assistance of many volunteers, board and committee members. •
Nicole James Facebook | Instagram
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