Joey Arias, a stalwart and enduring presence in New York City's vibrant downtown performance scene, has been a prominent and influential figure for over three decades, leaving an indelible mark on the artistic landscape.
Throughout his illustrious career, Arias has been deeply intertwined with the life and legacy of the renowned musician Klaus Nomi, with whom he shared a profound bond until Nomi's tragic and untimely passing in 1983.
However, rather than allowing Nomi's shadow to define him, Arias has risen above the circumstances to forge a remarkable identity as a celebrated performance artist, captivating cabaret singer, and accomplished drag artist.
With a career spanning multiple decades, Arias has consistently pushed the boundaries of artistic expression, exploring the realms of music, dance, and theater to create a unique and captivating performance style that has captivated audiences worldwide.
As a testament to his enduring talent and dedication, Arias has established himself as a beloved and respected figure in the downtown performance scene, continuing to inspire and delight audiences with his innovative and boundary-pushing work.
Noted singer-songwriter Arias has established himself as a standout figure in the music industry, distinguished by his provocative humor, refined aesthetic, and remarkable vocal talents that evoke the legendary Billie Holiday while also boasting a distinctive, one-of-a-kind quality.
Throughout his illustrious career, Arias has had the privilege of taking the stage at some of the world's most prestigious and revered performance spaces, including the iconic Carnegie Hall and the esteemed Freedom Theatre in London, leaving audiences in awe of his remarkable artistry.
Notable individual Arias has experienced a remarkable career trajectory, with a standout achievement being his selection by the renowned Cirque du Soleil to create and perform the iconic role of the emcee in their Las Vegas extravaganza Zumanity.
Throughout his tenure in this esteemed position, spanning six years, Arias demonstrated unwavering dedication and artistry, ultimately deciding to return to his hometown of New York City.
Upon his return, he co-created and starred in the critically acclaimed and commercially successful theatrical production Arias With a Twist, in partnership with the ingenious master puppeteer Basil Twist.
This innovative show showcased Arias's exceptional talent, earning widespread critical acclaim and commercial success.
Notably, the television program experienced a series of repeated extensions, ultimately prolonging its run for a considerable eight months.
Arias' cinematic endeavors have been marked by a remarkable diversity, featuring appearances in a wide range of films, including the 1987 documentary-style film Mondo New York, the 1988 comedy Big Top Pee Wee, the 1988 horror-comedy film Elvira, Mistress of the Dark, the 1995 documentary Wigstock - The Movie, the 1999 drama Flawless, and the 1995 comedy-drama film To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar, to name just a few of her notable on-screen credits.
**Ariana Grande's Early Life and Career**
Born on June 26, 1993, in Boca Raton, Florida, Ariana Grande-Butera, professionally known as Ariana Grande, is an American singer, songwriter, and actress. She began her career in the entertainment industry at a young age, performing in various musical theater productions and television shows.
Grande's breakthrough role came in 2008 when she landed the part of Charlotte in the Nickelodeon television series Victorious. She went on to star in the spin-off series Sam & Cat alongside Jennette McCurdy, playing the character Cat Valentine. Her success on television led to her signing with Republic Records in 2011, marking the beginning of her music career.
**Awards and Accolades**
Throughout her career, Grande has received numerous awards and nominations for her music and performances. Some of her notable awards include two Grammy Awards, three American Music Awards, and four MTV Video Music Awards. She has also been recognized for her philanthropic efforts, particularly in the area of LGBTQ+ rights and mental health awareness.
**Personal Life**
Grande is known for her close relationships with her family members and friends. She has been open about her struggles with anxiety and depression, using her platform to raise awareness and promote mental health support. In 2018, she became engaged to comedian Pete Davidson, but the couple ultimately parted ways.
**Discography**
Grande has released several successful albums, including Yours Truly, My Everything, and Sweetener. Her music often incorporates elements of pop, R&B, and electronic dance music, and she is known for her powerful vocals and emotive songwriting.
**Touring and Live Performances**
Grande has embarked on several concert tours throughout her career, including The Honeymoon Tour, The Sweetener Sessions, and the Sweetener World Tour. She is known for her high-energy live performances, which often feature elaborate costumes and choreographed dance routines.
**Philanthropy**
Grande is a strong advocate for various social and environmental causes. She has supported organizations such as the LGBTQ+ rights group GLAAD and the mental health organization the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). In 2018, she donated $25,000 to the organization Families of Trans Children and Youth.
