Bella Da Ball

Bella da Ball, Palm Springs social ambassador and hostess with the mostest, is one busy lady!  She currently hosts a weekly Trivia Night at the Ace Hotel every Monday at 9:00 p.m.; she produces, hosts and emcees a weekly Bella da Ball Cabaret Variety Revue show at Azul every Tuesday at 7:30 p.m.; is Hostess of the annual Arenas Halloween Show, Party and Costume Contest on Thursday, October 31^st; is Hostess of the Broadway in Drag pageant at Palm Canyon Theatre on Friday, November 1^st; and she will receive a star on the Palm Springs Walk of Stars Saturday afternoon, November 9 at 4:00 p.m.  We caught up with the busy drag personality for a quick chat.

GED: You’ve become a famous drag personality inside, and outside of, Palm Springs.  Do you feel any obligation to be a role model?

BELLA: Thank you for that thought and compliment.  I enjoy being a part of the community and beyond and appreciate the words from guests and show attendees and people I run into out and about at events.  It’s certainly nice to be recognized and appreciated.

GED: Obviously you have given a lot back to the Palm Springs community.  How important do you think it is to give back to the community that embraced you?

BELLA: I am thrilled and honored to be a small part of this community and love to be involved in various events, activities and organizations.  I grew up in a small town and learned from my parents the importance of being involved, adding support and working together.

GED: Do you feel there is difference between the term “drag queen” and “female illusionist”?  And, if so, which would you prefer?

BELLA: There are many wonderful ‘girls’ who fall into the female illusionist category and transform themselves into Lucy, Tina, Cher, Patsy, Gaga, and numerous others. There are also many who like to dress for fun and going out, but don’t appear on stage.  It’s a great mix.   I like to classify myself as a drag personality.

GED: Drag is so mains tream now; do you feel that acceptance has helped your career/causes?

BELLA: Drag has certainly come a long ways since Milton Berle and Flip Wilson and others in between and after.  With RuPaul and Dame Edna and so many included in television shows and movies, it is great to see it warmly embraced and how people from all age groups and all persuasions flock to the shows and want to partake in the fun.

GED: What else keeps you busy when you are not “Bella”?

BELLA: I participate in many activities and events also as my male side, Brian, and love working with the Palm Springs International Film Festival, Modernism Week, AAP, DAP, Desert Winds Freedom Band, and many others.  I love being a promoter, doing PR and marketing.

GED: What is it about Palm Springs that keeps you happy and content?

BELLA: The people, the fun events and activities; the small town, yet big city atmosphere of things to do (theatre, museums, casinos, festivals, attractions).

GED: Would you ever want to move from PS?

BELLA: I love the Palm Springs area.  The people, the weather, the surroundings, the fun and exciting things to do……so great!  Do you have a jet fueled up and ready to fly me some place?