RANSVESTIA

But the best part was that no one thought any strange thoughts about Brother. Just that he had a lot of guts to go on stage in such a manner. Oh, there was a lot of kidding, but no ridicule.

Offers were pouring in for the aet from Magic Conventions throughout the U.S. for next year as well as nightclubs. This was all too good to be true, and I still don't believe it.

The Society of American Magicians had their "Magician of the Year" contest and Brother entered me in it. I won the trophy by unanimous vote. Really, can all these wonderful things be happening to me? If it's a dream don't let me wake up.

Then, about a month ago, I received a telephone call from a large steamship company that runs cruises from Miami to the Carribbean and Mexico. They had heard about the act and wanted it for one of their ships. At first I declined the offer as it meant seven days a week, aboard ship. and no family life.

But the company persisted and the money offers got better and better. Finally we came to terms. A set salary with periodic raises, plus being made assistant cruise director. Also, my own suite, private, aboard ship, and my family could come with me anytime, for as long as they liked. No girl in her right mind could turn down that offer!

I started my first cruise on November 1st. I had a show to do that night. How was I to get the props to the showroom? How would I get up there? There were many problems to figure out. How would the passengers take to a female impersonator, when you all live close together for so many days? I was quite nervous but it was all unfounded.

I set my show up early in the evening and left it backstage. Two hours before showtime I retired to my cabin to get dressed and into make up. I use stage make up which is much easier to apply than regular cosmetics. Also it hides masculine features much better under a spot light.

I was quite nervous the first time as I applied my make up. I wanted to be the most beautiful, talented performer these people had ever seen. Perspiration was pouring down my face. I set my air conditioning to a low temperature.