A candid chat with

Miss Shonna Day

(Julius Caesar Graves)

I first discovered the extraordinary talents of female illusionist Miss Shonna Day on myspace and through a video posted on Youtube.  I was captivated by the energy and poise of this very talented artist from that first moment.  He is incredibly intelligent and his intelligence is evenly matched with compassion for the world and community that he is a significant part of.

 

Julius Caesar Graves was born in Tyler, Texas January 23, 1950.  He credits his parents for a very blessed childhood.  "They gave me what I needed and the things I wanted."  They also gave him an abundance of love that reflects outward through the beautiful, bright brown eyes of the legendary Miss Shonna Day, today, at age 59. 

 

Julius is a retired school teacher and an activist for quality education and better benefits for teachers.  At night, he transforms into 'Shonna Day' as he graces the stage and leaves the crowds hungry for more Shonna, after an energetic performance in drag.

 

The Official Miss Texas International Emeritus

and

Miss Lonestar Texas at Large

 

My name is Jim Lawson, Speak Out reporter for WVAS QUEER NEWS, and, this week  I am honored to introduce you to the extravagantly bold, beautiful and multitalented female illusionist, Miss Shonna Day!

 

Jim:  Describe how your career as a female illusionist got started.

 

Julius: I started performing in May of 1983, going on 26 years now.  I started at the Capri Club in Odessa, Texas by entering an amateur contest on a dare from a close friend.  I won the contest and the dare.  I could not believe that I could actually get paid for something that I enjoyed doing so much.  That night opened up lots of opportunities for me.

 

Jim:  Where is home now?

 

Julius:  I live in Midland, Texas.

 

Jim:  Who are your  role models and inspiration in the biz?

 

Julius:   First and foremost, my mentor and namesake is the late Diva, Miss Donna Day of Dallas, Texas, and my career would not have been possible without the teaching and guidance of Miss Celeste Williams and the late Heather Daniels. Without them my talent would not be what it is today.

 

Jim:  Is there a partner?

 

Julius:  I am single and very happy.  I am extremely blessed to have so many dear friends.

 

Jim:  Describe how you feel when you are performing on a stage in front of a large enthusiastic audience. 

 

Julius:  OMG! It's truly Amazing  to do what you love and to look out and see the faces of your fans sharing their joy and happiness when you are on stage.  They make me want to work harder as a performer for them.

 

Jim:  I know that you have worn many crowns and titles over the past 26 years and received  a Recognition Award for Twenty five Years of Service in the Performing Arts.  That is a real honor.  What were some of the titles you held in the past? 

 

Julius:  To name a few:  Miss Gay West Texas, Miss Mid-Texas US of A at Large, Miss Permian Basin, and West Texas Entertainer of the Year.

 

Jim:  Wow!  That is truly a list of honors.  Congratulations!  What titles do you currently hold?

 

Julius:  I am the Official Miss Texas International Emeritus 2010, and Miss Lonestar Texas at Large.

 

Jim:  Let's touch on politics for a moment.  Tell me about the issues that are dearest to your heart.

 

Julius:  Aid and better health insurance for the elderly, and, of course, being a retired teacher, better funds for The Teachers Association.

 

Jim:  What single issue do you think the LGBT community should make as a priority in 2009-2010?

 

Julius:  We should continue our work with Aids organizations and establish an 'open door policy'; letting individuals know that we are there for each of them and that we do care.  Above all else, we should strive to strengthen the LGBT community.

 

Jim:  Entertainers are asked to lend their talents to support a diverse, and seemingly endless, list of charities.  Which charities do you lend your support and talent to?

 

Julius:  I am involved in funding for Aids foundations, Toys for Tots, Nursing and Children's Homes.

 

Jim:  Everyone has a favorite quote that inspires them at times, what is your favorite quote.

 

Julius:  "All things are possible through Christ, who strengthens me..."

 

Jim:  Who is your favorite artist?

 

Julius:  Patti Labelle and my favorite song to perform to is "You Are My Friend/ Over The Rainbow".

 

 

   

 

 

Jim:  How has the art of female illusion or drag changed over the years for you?

 

Julius:  I believe, in general, as a performer it has lost its togetherness.  When I first started in the 80's everyone wanted to help each other.  We would all meet at a certain place and get ready; helping each other.  It was such a joy.  However, today everyone is out for themselves and that really takes the joy from the performance.

 

Jim:  Do you have a home bar?

 

Julius:  Yes, Club Passions in Odessa, Texas.

 

Jim:  Who do you credit for helping you the most over the years with the success of your career?

 

Julius:  Well, of course I have to say my home bar, Club Passions; Ron Reid;Chris Crawford, and my many, many dear friends.  Without their support none of this would be possible.

 

Jim:  What words of experience and encouragement can you give to newcomers in the drag business? 

 

Julius:  Have fun and enjoy the ride.  Always remember that there is much that can be learned by listening and watching others.  Never, never feel that you are too grand to take advice from others.

 

Jim:  It has been a true honor to chat with you on Speak Out this week!  Keep us updated with your performance schedule and events.  Your energy and enthusiasm is an inspiration.

 

*You can make a request to be added as a friend of Shonna Day, message her, and read more on her career and life on myspace at:   http://www.myspace.com/shonnaday1983