Miss Foozie

From a birthday party gag 10 years ago to radio, TV, film and her own line of limited edition post cards, Miss Foozie is Chicago’s response to New York’s Lady Bunny—but without the crass and sass. Named the city’s Goodwill Ambassador by fellow entertainer Circuit Mom and The Best Female Impersonator in the City by the Chicago Free Press for four straight years, Miss Foozie’s charm and finesse is admired by all her peers and loved by all her admirers. After a decade, Miss Foozie is her own institution. Original and loving, her affectionate form of entertainment infects with viral persistence, and no one wants the cure.

JF: How does Miss Foozie define herself after owning her persona for 10 years?

MF: Foozie is not your regular drag queen—people say that, and that’s fine—but I like the idea of dressing up for fun. I like being Fun-loving, caring and out-going. I love everyone for who they are, despite race, body or place in life. We’re all human beings. We’re all people. I don’t want to see others moving away from people because they look different then they do, or of whom he or she is. I want to see things as natural, true and honest. I don’t swear. I don’t believe in that. I like to feel and spread love: love of life and love of people. I get upset sometimes, but not really. Ultimately, I bring in love. I want to live and give people life. People don’t realize how anyone you can talk to can touch your life and make a difference. I want all who meet me to walk away feeling good about themselves, and hopefully make the world a better place.

JF: Has anyone been resistant or angry toward the Foozie love?

MF: I’ve met some really rude people. Not everyone likes the hugs that I am compelled to give whenever I meet someone. Sometimes, they push away and you have to respect that. I try not to get too much glitter on them. But when they come into a club that I’m hosting at, I want them to feel like they’re in my home, and welcome. But more often than not, they’ll come back and apologize for being resistant, and thank me for showing them a good time.

JF: Anyone in Chicago who hasn’t heard of you is either a big hermit or dead. What do you think of all the attention and notoriety you receive?

MF: I never thought this would happen to me. From just dressing up as a joke, to all the sudden becoming a character with so many people appreciating, supporting and giving me strength is like a dream.

JF: Everyone knows your favorite pet names for people are “pineapple” and “hot dog.” Where did you get these staple phrases?

MF: Those came from my Mom. She used to call to my brothers and sisters and say, “You ready hot dog?” and “Come on Pineapples!” I come from a very loving family. I’m the oldest of five, and I have 11 nieces and nephews. They’re all very happy for me. I get a lot of got support from them and a lot of love.

JF: So, what’s next Foozie? Where do you go from here?

MF: I’m looking to expand the character concept with new programs, live performances and original music and variety acts. I want to give 200 percent. My goal is to pursue the Foozie mentality full-time.

Miss Foozie celebrates her 10 year anniversary all week long, April 1-7, 2007. (Full Details)

Photo: Miss Foozie with Anthony