NiteLife Exchanges is a streaming video interview show, with hosts Scott Barbarino and Tony Javed. This week they welcome Ray DeForest.
Doris Dear is “America’s Perfect Housewife,” a glamorous, retro individual who loves to entertain, hosts “Gurl Talk” and who also loves to spread joy and laughter as she holds court in her rumpus room. Doris Dear is, in fact, the alter ego of actor Ray Deforest who embraced his drag persona when his mother, Taffy, was slipping away from Alzheimer’s. Over a four-decade career, DeForest worked in musical theatre as a performer and choreographer and then a producer. His other ventures include DeForest Theatricals and his work as a consulting producer at The Dennis & Victoria Ross Foundation (DVRF), an educational, current affairs non-profit foundation designed to promote emerging theater, film, visual arts and musical artists. He is a multiple MAC award winner for “Impersonation/
More recently, troubled by the precipitous political turn to the hard right, with attacks on LGBTQ+ rights in general, and more specifically, anti-drag laws and sentiments, DeForest/Dear has decided it’s a time for action. He addresses the topic of drag in a seven-part YouTube series entitled “Doris Dear’s Story of Drag.” Originally recorded for the ARCADIS Pride Employee Affinity Group 2023, DeForest explains the venerable and ancient history of drag performance, dispelling the misconception that it is a criminal or deviant act. In this powerful series, Doris takes viewers on a journey through the centuries, revealing the rich and vibrant heritage of drag. She highlights how drag has always been an art form, and one practiced by heterosexuals as well as those who identify otherwise. Drag is also a celebration of self-expression, and a means of challenging societal norms. From ancient theatrical traditions to the flamboyant underground balls of the 20th century, drag has continuously pushed boundaries, shattered stereotypes and provided good clean fun and entertainment. Ultimately, Doris Dear’s teachings point out that drag is not only an integral part of the world’s cultural fabric, but also a testament to the resilience and courage of those who dared to defy conventions and embrace their authentic selves.
