4/17/24 Queer Voices - Ella Perez, Dan Kenechtges and Davis Mendoza Darusman

Send us Fan MailImagine stepping into the sequined boots of a pop culture icon; that's the exhilarating challenge Ella Perez takes on night after night as Babe Cher in "The Cher Show." As I sit with her, we peel back the curtain on channeling Cher's spirit without falling into imitation—no easy feat when you're portraying the Goddess of Pop. Ella's own voyage of musical discovery lends an intimate touch to our conversation, as we marvel at the enduring influence of Cher over generations, and the thrills of performing for diverse fans who find a piece of themselves in her songs.The dynamics backstage can be as captivating as the show itself, and Ella returns to share tales from the touring trenches. The bond between the cast of "The Cher Show" is palpable, a family forged in the spotlight, sharing both laughter and support as they crisscross the country. Our heartfelt discussion doesn't shy away from the show's impact on the LGBTQIA+ community, or the dreams that glimmer on the horizon for Ella and the cast. The universal quest for authenticity, so central to Cher's legacy, rings out as a powerful message for us all.As the episode waltzes through a variety of intriguing topics, we're joined by an ensemble of voices that enrich the tapestry of our conversation. From Dan Knetchges' insights into Theatre Under the Stars' upcoming season to Davis Mendoza Darusman's candid exploration of pansexuality, each narrative thread weaves into the next. Julia Grossman's leap from food trucks to Fusion Eats serves as a delectable side dish to our main course, reminding us of the transformative power of passion, be it under the stage lights or in the bustling heart of a kitchen. Join us for an episode that celebrates the stories that bind us, challenge us, and inspire us to keep reaching for the stars.Queer Voices airs in Houston Texas on 90.1FM KPFT and is heard as a podcast here.  Queer Voices hopes to entertain as well as illuminate LGBTQ issues in Houston and beyond.  Check out our socials at:https://www.facebook.com/QueerVoicesKPFT/ andhttps://www.instagram.com/queervoices90.1kpft/