Arnaldo started as a soloist with the Seattle Men’s Chorus and has performed with SMC in some of the major concert halls in the US, Europe, New Zealand and Australia. In 1999, Arnaldo started a solo cabaret show to sold out runs in Seattle’s trendy Capitol Hill and has since performed his one person cabaret in Portland, OR, Las Vegas, Palm Springs, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, New York and Philadelphia. Arnaldo has also collaborated with various directors, choreographers and songwriters in the Seattle area. In 2005, he completed the Cabaret Summer Conference Workshop at Yale University. 2007 marked Arnaldo’s New York cabaret debut and in 2008, Arnaldo is honored with a NY Backstage Bistro Award .
What is a drag chanteuse? When I started performing in drag, I was not sure what to call what I do. I am performing in drag and not lip-synching – so being a “drag queen” does not describe what I really do. Others suggested using “drag diva”, but my persona is more subtle and intimate. So in 1996, I decided to combine the words “drag” and “chanteuse” after my name. The “!” came when a friend suggested that I add that as a joke … well it stuck! I then performed for various fundraisers and smaller cabarets; and in 1999, I started my one person cabaret shows in Seattle.
Why am I a drag chanteuse? The drag aspect of my performance all happened by chance. And now for me, performing in drag is the theatrical element of my cabarets. I have many women singers I admire and I of course perform their repertoire. I also do not imitate them and at most, I emulate these women I admire by arranging my songs to do renditions out of my own vocal styling
WHO I'D LIKE TO MEET:
People who are artistic, funny, passionate, kind, compassionate, adventurous ... anyone who has an open heart and an open mind ...
MY INTERESTS:
Cabarets; theatre; music; gardening; my partner Steve who is an incredible artist and human being; my family; cooking; dinner parties; manhattans; wine; travel ...
MY HEROES:
my mom & dad; my family who are immigrants; my friends who are extremely loyal and open-minded; performers who are passionate to be onstage and share their talents to the world; anyone who makes a difference ... You are my heroes ... .
MY VIDEOS:
"SOMETHING COOL" @ 2005 Cabaret Conference at Yale Recital
Hello there, Arnaldo! :-D You are so beautiful and talented... I just love your profile... I look forward to getting to know you! ;-D
If you haven't already joined, I would love to invite you and your friends to join the group I started here as sort of an extension of my profile, "Boys Who Become Beautiful Babes: Transformation or Illusion? (and Women Who LOVE It!)." You don't even have to be a boy to join! lol! ;-D I just have a feeling you'll get a good giggle out of some of the pix, and I hope you'll also enjoy participating in some of the discussions, as well. I would love to hear what you think! ;-D
In the meantime, I hope my pix will give you a smile and inspire some of your gorgeous girlfriends the next time they're heading out for a girls' night out to take a boy... like you or me! lol! Muahhh!
Just stopping by to send you some love! Muah! I'm so looking forward to when our paths cross again, Arnaldo. When are you heading down this way again? Take care of your gorgeous self. xoxo
5th Annual ICON: a celebration of drag, art & life! A benefit for Seattle Counseling Service Hosted & directed by Aleksa Manila
Saturday, September 6 Town Hall, 8th & Seneca Seattle, Washington
$55 Reserved Seating, $500 per Table Call 206.323.1768 for reservations
Cocktail Reception at 6:00 PM Hors d'oeuvres by Herban Feast Piano Entertainment by Brian Buck
Show begins at 7:00 PM Featuring the Northwest's finest entertainers! The Shanghai Pearl Sylvia O'Stayformore Lady Chablis The Legendary Smokee Mr Sean Paul of Les Faux The Swedish Housewife Royal Knights Nina Maxwell Layla Manila Arnaldo! featuring Timmy Pavino Jesse Volt Miss Indigo Blue Jaylene Tyme Rhythm Night Dancers featuring Sara Michelle Plus SURPRISE PERFORMANCES!
With Special Guest Speaker, Louise Chernin of the Greater Seattle Business Association
I am very proud of you! I can't wait to see your show when you come to NYC! Congratulations on winning the Bistro Award! Your show is well crafted and to the heart! Love, Maria
As always, my dear... you never cease to amaze me! In addition to the piano accompaniment, the trumpet and solo dancer truly complemented your magic onstage last night! And THANK YOU for opening the door for me at SEAF! Could not have done it without YOU! Your fan and friend, Aleksa
