The closure of local bars and restaurants put thousands out of work overnight. Kansas City’s live entertainment scene is at a stand still, including the drag community. Queens rely on tips at their weekly gigs, but with the lockdown, they are getting creative on how to turn a coin. Daisy Buckët, took to Instagram and Facebook Live performing hour-long shows weekly to remind the community, she’s here, she’s queer, she accepts Venmo & PayPal.
Billy:
The live entertainment industry has been hit hard, how can a digital presence be key for those whose normal income depends on regular gigs at bars, tips, etc?
Daisy:
If anything, I think it serves as a reminder of how much society depends on entertainment! Whether it’s from watching a movie, listening to music, or watching a TV show. We all do it. But many of us all rely on the live experience and seeing something unfold on stage is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. My goal in streaming these live shows isn’t to replace what I do, but to remind people that when this is all over, to get back out there and take in some live entertainment.
Billy:
You had your first digital show on Tuesday Night What kind of a response did you get? Did you get tips relative to what you’d get on a Tuesday night at Missies?
Daisy:
The response was jaw dropping for me. This is not my medium but I do know how to put on a show and interact with an audience, so this has been eye-opening seeing how well it’s been resonating with people. The tips have been sublime. I am of the mindset that if I’m not working on a stage, I’m not making money and I would not ask for support if I wasn’t providing some kind of service. I’m over the moon with the results so far.
Billy:
You have themed nights, like trivia questions, movie commentary, etc. – How did you conceptualize your programming? And what can we expect from you in the future?
Daisy:
Truthfully, I hit a panic button in my mind this last Monday. I knew things were shutting down, that many of my gigs were about to be cancelled, and things were looking bleak. In this business, I’ve felt I never come out on top –there is always an obstacle or a brick wall just ahead. When I reach that point, that’s when I shake off the burden and I start thinking creatively. My livelihood depends on it and I can’t afford to wallow in doubt and pity.
After this week, I’ll evaluate and see what other type of creative outlets I can delve into that I might not have had the time for in the past. I’m currently working on some music collaborations. My mom and I have tossed the idea back and forth of doing a QVC like infomercial where I sell off some of my dresses, jewelry, and accessories while having my mom model them (!).
Billy:
Kansas City is all about live entertainment, how do you see this impacting our city in the short term ( 1 month) and the long term ( 3+ months).
Daisy:
I think when this all passes and we hear the voice of Glinda singing “Come out, come out, wherever you are”, we’re going to have one helluva party. I’m looking forward to seeing everyone in person again and I will have the music and material at the ready. When that will be, I can’t say. I’m taking this day-by-day and just trying to provide a little relief for people.
Billy:
You chose the song “Rainbow Connection” to sing from The Muppets – Why did you choose that as your first song and how does it relate to our current situation in Kansas City, The US, and the world?
Daisy:
I’ve always loved celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in Kansas City and I wanted to tie a little something in to that. It’s also such a sweet song that is universally adored. I thought that song would be a lovely way of my saying “Hey, everyone –you’re going to get through this, I’m here, you’re here… the lovers, the dreamers, and me.”
Daisy is performing one woman shows every Tuesday-Thursday at 7:30pm on Instagram and Facebook Live.
She accepts tips at:
Venmo: @missdaisybucket
PayPal: missdaisybucket@gmail.com
CashApp: $missdaisybucket