Our Reigning Monarchs

The Imperial Court of New York is proud to introduce Imperial Crown Prince Vanity Society, as Emperor xx Vanity Society, Omnia Vanitas. In this excerpt from an interview with him by David Rabadi, Prince of Media for Splash Magazines, Los Angeles, Vanity shares some of his unique world views, and the philosophy of life that he brings to the ICNY!

David: Congratulations on being newly elected Emperor of the “Imperial Court of New York.” How does having that title make you feel and what does it mean to you?

Vanity: It is an honor to be given the title of Emperor. To wear the crown and represent the ICNY and all the good that we do for those in need. There are a great many organizations that we raise money for and give our support to. I am very happy to help in any way that I possibly can and would continue to do so even without the crown on my head. Although I certainly respect and support all of our beneficiaries, I am partial to those focusing on our youth...our future. It is difficult enough as adults to get through the stresses of daily life. For GLBT youth coming to terms with his or her sexuality, life can seem even harder.

The desire for love and acceptance, dealing with peers and family, searching for a place in society, can be very overwhelming and even scary. I was one of those youths and can relate to what it’s like. I must say however, that although I’ve had my share of difficulties, I want to let them know that they are not alone. “Be True To Yourself”...“Be Strong”...it gets better!!! Look at me...I’m going to be the next Emperor of New York! 

David: Does the desire to constantly change your appearance come from a yearning for attention?

Vanity: No David, not at all. I have always been a very visual person. I am an artist at heart and consider my body a blank canvas. As a designer, I love creating new looks and exploring the many aspects of the decorative and wearable arts. 

David: What advice can you give anyone that is seeking self awareness?

Vanity: Read the books by Dr. Seuss.

  David: What makes you happy?

Vanity: Friends, family, and doing good for others. 

David: If you were on a deserted island, what are three things you would want with you?

Vanity: 1) A boat. 2) Someone to drive the boat. 3) Enough food to last throughout my journey back to civilization.

David: What are your last words for all the readers? 

Vanity: It takes a man to suffer ignorance and smile — be yourself no matter what they say.

Reprinted with permission of Splash Magazines.

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Pepperica Swirl, The Empress of Caftans and Cocktails, was born in a bathroom sink at Studio 54 to proud mother, Rhonda the coat check girl. Liza dropped her spoon, Andy Warhol flipped his wig, and Steve Rubell immediately put the tiny baby, Pepper, on the guest list. By the age of three, Pepper was disco dancing and performing in Parisian nightclubs with Grace Jones… Well, no, but seriously, Pepper made her debut in a small Greenwich Village theater as an usherette in All About Christmas Eve. By the beginning of this century, Pepper had gained fame as a DJ in downtown clubs, and in 2004 Pepperica Swirl joined the Imperial Court of New York.

But those things don’t describe who Pepper is. Pepper really has three personalities. Let’s go meet them!

Pepper #1 is quick-witted with a strong sense of humor. You’ll find this Pepper at monthly ICNY meetings, running committees, selling tickets and making candidacy speeches. This Pepper realizes she is not a real Princess, but that she is a party clown, doing important work for the community. Cynics and Debbie Downers stay away, because to this mild Pepper, we are all contestants in a big game show.

Pepper #2, a real chili, is a very serious gal with a bit of a bite. You will find her in her studio or backstage at our shows and events. She has a pocket full of safety pins and double-sided tape. She can pull you in, zip you up, and push you out on stage. Don’t get in this hot Pepper’s way because she is determined to save the world using only the power of her eyelash glue.

Pepper #3 is a colorful belle with “all style, and no substance.” You’ll meet her at our bar shows and many events. You will recognize her immediately by her long eyelashes and “slightly scaled up” hair. If you approach her, it’s best to have a smile in your heart and a song on your lips, because she likes to swirl around the room and get photographed crushing the competition with a smile.

But all three Peppers can’t wait to see you at our events throughout the year when they will help the Imperial Court of New York spice up your life while keeping the heat on for community organizations in need of some ICNY flavor!

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