Limelight

I get out of the taxi on 20th Street and 6th Avenue, the southeast corner. The first thing I hear is the thunderous boom of the sound system from within, while the crowd of young hopefuls wait outside in the cool spring air drenched with anticipation. In the midst of horns honking, people talking and beggars begging, I get my first whiff of the coal and burning flesh emanating off the venders’ cart.
Before me stands the magnificent four-story cathedral. Once an Episcopalian chapel, it is adorned with a giant stained glass window of Jesus. As our Lord and savior gazes down upon me, I utter the words, ”Please forgive me lord, for I am about to sin.” My VIP status allows me to saunter past the long line up to Kenny Ken, the gatekeeper. Kenny, the drag queen who holds court ...