This month I interviewed Chadwick Brooks, whom many of you probably know from his activity in the LGBTQA community around Kansas City. He has been involved with SAVE Inc., drag, acting and photo styling. Brooks is a true renaissance man who appears to have done it all, and I’m excited to share what he had to say.
1. How did you become involved with SAVE Inc.?
I was first introduced to SAVE Inc. through AIDS Walk, then attending Corroboree for years.
2. You are the event coordinator for this year’s SAVE Inc., which was called “HomeComing: A Mad Affair” and followed the theme of the popular television show Mad Men. Why did you and the great people at SAVE Inc. choose this theme?
SAVE Inc. and I are so excited for the new event, “HomeComing.” We think it’s a great mission-driven event title, and it gives us the flexibility to change themes each year. This year’s theme was selected by the steering committee. It is a great choice to get our guests dressed up, and I have to say everyone at the event looked smashing!
3. I heard that SAVE Inc. raised over $45,000. That is great! How does the organization use those funds?
You heard correct! The funds are unrestricted, unlike many of their grants. The funds go to help SAVE Inc. resident programs and to keep the doors open so they can serve their clients.
4. We have to discuss your work in photography styling. You styled the wonderful covers for the November 2013 issue of Camp. How long have you been doing this work, and how did you start?
Such a great cover! I love that project! Working with a great creative team is amazing. I got into photo styling eight years ago because of my passion in theatre, interior design, fashion and production. It’s a true combination of creativity.
5. What was the biggest challenge in styling the November covers?
A. Scheduling all that talent! When was that last time you had Ron [Megee>, Missy [Koonce">, Josh [Minnis">, Spencer [Brown">, Jessica [Dressler">, and DJ around one table?