About a decade ago, my duo partner and I booked a private house concert with a charming middle-aged couple who lived in an upscale gated community in the suburbs of our city. On the day of the performance, we arrived at the security gate and told the guard we were there to entertain for the Smiths. He raised an eyebrow and said, “The Smiths are having a party, eh? You all have fun now,” and opened the gate.
We arrived at the house and hauled our instruments and gear to the front door. Our host opened the door—dressed from head to toe in impeccable drag. He took us to a room where we could unload and get ready, after which we set up our instruments and equipment and started tuning. Guests began to arrive, most of them obviously affluent gentlemen in tasteful feminine clothing, hair, and makeup (and not a few of them accompanied by their wives!) My partner and I were rather surprised—nothing had been said when booking the gig—but also rather delighted at this unexpectedly entertaining turn of events.
The concert itself was wonderful; the audience was very appreciative, complimentary, and fascinated by the harp. Afterward, I was besieged by questions and allowed several people to try out my instrument. Best of all, in addition to paying us our agreed-upon fee, our hosts set out a tip jar for us, which was stuffed to the point of overflowing, and plied us with fine wine and food. The hostess did take us aside and apologize for not giving us any warning about the unusual nature of the party. She said she and her husband were afraid we would turn down the gig if we’d known in advance. I told her that, as long-time theatre veterans, my partner and I were among the least likely people to do so. My partner even joked that if they’d given us advance warning, he would’ve worn a kilt so he wouldn’t be the only man there in trousers!
It remains my favorite gig ever. We made new friends and new fans, and I got some great hair and makeup tips. They even had us back for another party the next year! And, yes, my partner wore a kilt. •
