Finocchio's (San Francisco, California) - Revision history

Archiveadmin at 05:47, 2 March 2025

2025-03-02T05:47:13Z

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	Offstage, Russell was described as warm and full of personality. Holly White recalled him as ''"300 lbs. of joy,"'' and de Alba remembered their dressing room covered in posters of icons like Greta Garbo and Mae West. Between shows, Russell kept a large pitcher of ice water, claiming it was key to a flawless complexion, though he also kept plenty of snacks on hand, joking that they helped him stay in character. His big personality and dedication to entertaining made him a standout figure in Finocchio’s history.		Offstage, Russell was described as warm and full of personality. Holly White recalled him as ''"300 lbs. of joy,"'' and de Alba remembered their dressing room covered in posters of icons like Greta Garbo and Mae West. Between shows, Russell kept a large pitcher of ice water, claiming it was key to a flawless complexion, though he also kept plenty of snacks on hand, joking that they helped him stay in character. His big personality and dedication to entertaining made him a standout figure in Finocchio’s history.

	~~=== Wacky Jackie Phillips ===~~

	== External Resources ==		== External Resources ==

Archiveadmin: /* Performers */

2025-03-02T05:46:24Z

Performers

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	== Performers ==		== Performers ==
	~~This is an incomplete list of the~~ many ~~talented~~ performers who ~~entertained~~ audiences ~~at Finocchio’s over the years~~.		Finocchio’s was home to many incredible performers who dazzled audiences with their talent and showmanship. While not all entertainers identified as LGBTQ+, they all played a role in challenging gender norms through their art, comedy, and performances that defied expectations.

	=== Bobby de Castro ===		=== Bobby de Castro ===
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	=== Wacky Jackie Phillips ===		=== Wacky Jackie Phillips ===


	== External Resources ==		== External Resources ==

Archiveadmin: /* Marlo Adame */

2025-03-02T05:40:53Z

Marlo Adame

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	Beyond his talent, Marlo was known for his kindness and generosity. De Alba recalled a moment backstage when Marlo shared a homemade avocado dip with fellow performers, demonstrating the warmth and camaraderie that defined his personality. Many years later, in 2000, de Alba reconnected with Marlo through their mutual friend René de Carlo, and they had a reunion in Las Vegas.		Beyond his talent, Marlo was known for his kindness and generosity. De Alba recalled a moment backstage when Marlo shared a homemade avocado dip with fellow performers, demonstrating the warmth and camaraderie that defined his personality. Many years later, in 2000, de Alba reconnected with Marlo through their mutual friend René de Carlo, and they had a reunion in Las Vegas.

	Marlo continued his career in entertainment, going on to lead his own successful revue in Mexico, Marlo Travesti Show. There, he not only performed as a dancer but also emceed and delivered stunning impressions of famous stars. His ability to blend classical dance with the art of female impersonation cemented his reputation as a versatile and gifted performer.		Marlo continued his career in entertainment, going on to lead his own successful revue in Mexico, ''Marlo Travesti Show''. There, he not only performed as a dancer but also emceed and delivered stunning impressions of famous stars. His ability to blend classical dance with the art of female impersonation cemented his reputation as a versatile and gifted performer.

	=== Reggie Dahl ===		=== Reggie Dahl ===

Archiveadmin: /* Reggie Dahl */

2025-03-02T05:40:20Z

Reggie Dahl

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	=== Reggie Dahl ===		=== Reggie Dahl ===
	Reggie Dahl was a striking performer at Finocchio’s, admired for his elegant stage presence and graceful dance skills. With a beauty often compared to Hedy Lamarr, he combined a slim, refined look with dynamic high kicks and precise movements. According to David de Alba, Reggie was dedicated to his craft, often warming up on the ballet barre before performances, much like a classical dancer. His rendition of ''"Call Me"~~'' became a signature song~~, ~~making audiences momentarily forget it was~~ originally a Petula Clark ~~hit~~.		Reggie Dahl was a striking performer at Finocchio’s, admired for his elegant stage presence and graceful dance skills. With a beauty often compared to Hedy Lamarr, he combined a slim, refined look with dynamic high kicks and precise movements. According to David de Alba, Reggie was dedicated to his craft, often warming up on the ballet barre before performances, much like a classical dancer. His rendition of "Call Me", originally popularized by Petula Clark, became a defining part of his act and was well-received by audiences.

	At one point, Mrs. Eve Finocchio placed Reggie in charge of the chorus line, ''The Eve-ettes'', though he accepted the role with some hesitation, knowing the dancers had a mind of their own. Fellow performer Holly White remembered Reggie as a close friend and a talented dancer with a style reminiscent of Ann Miller. His striking appearance placed him among the most visually captivating performers of the era, ~~drawing comparisons~~ to Lavern Cummings.		At one point, Mrs. Eve Finocchio placed Reggie in charge of the chorus line, The Eve-ettes, though he accepted the role with some hesitation, knowing the dancers had a mind of their own. Fellow performer Holly White remembered Reggie as a close friend and a talented dancer with a style reminiscent of Ann Miller. His striking appearance placed him among the most visually captivating performers of the era, and he was often compared to Lavern Cummings.

	While Reggie was known for his passionate personality, his commitment to performance and his ~~impact on the~~ Finocchio’s stage ~~remain his true legacy~~. ~~He brought both~~ elegance and energy to his routines~~, earning~~ his place ~~among~~ the ~~club’s most memorable entertainers~~.		While Reggie was known for his passionate personality, his commitment to performance and his contributions to Finocchio’s stage were well recognized. His ability to blend elegance and energy in his routines secured his place as a notable entertainer at the club.

	=== René de Carlo ===		=== René de Carlo ===

Archiveadmin: /* Lavern Cummings */

2025-03-02T05:38:54Z

Lavern Cummings

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	=== Lavern Cummings ===		=== Lavern Cummings ===
			Lavern Cummings was known for his breathtaking stage transformations, from expertly applied makeup and elegant gowns to personalized musical arrangements that showcased his falsetto soprano voice. He began performing at Finocchio’s in 1956 and remained a staple of the club until his retirement in 1982. Throughout his career, Lavern left a lasting impact as both a singer and an actor, captivating audiences with his seamless transitions between vocal registers. Toward the end of his time on stage, he surprised audiences by dropping from a traditionally feminine tone to a deep baritone, making his transformation all the more dramatic.

			In addition to his success in live performance, Lavern was featured in the 1979 television movie ''The Golden Gate Murders'', a milestone in his career that held personal significance for him. His dedication to his craft extended beyond his time at Finocchio’s, as he later worked on a project that reimagined his past performances through Paul Cummings’ act.

			Lavern’s ability to blend vocal talent, elegance, and theatricality made him one of Finocchio’s most celebrated performers. His artistry continues to be remembered by those who worked alongside him and by fans who admired his exceptional skill.

	=== Lucian, "The Male Sophie Tucker" ===		=== Lucian, "The Male Sophie Tucker" ===

Archiveadmin: /* Marlo Adame */

2025-03-01T19:54:44Z

Marlo Adame

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	=== Marlo Adame ===		=== Marlo Adame ===
			Marlo Adame was a classically trained dancer from Mexico who brought elegance and technical skill to the Finocchio’s stage. Unlike most members of ''The Eve-ettes'', Finocchio’s chorus line, he also had a solo act, where he showcased his ability to dance ''en pointe''—a rare and impressive skill. According to David de Alba, Marlo’s refined technique and graceful stage presence made him a standout performer during his time at the club.

			Beyond his talent, Marlo was known for his kindness and generosity. De Alba recalled a moment backstage when Marlo shared a homemade avocado dip with fellow performers, demonstrating the warmth and camaraderie that defined his personality. Many years later, in 2000, de Alba reconnected with Marlo through their mutual friend René de Carlo, and they had a reunion in Las Vegas.

			Marlo continued his career in entertainment, going on to lead his own successful revue in Mexico, Marlo Travesti Show. There, he not only performed as a dancer but also emceed and delivered stunning impressions of famous stars. His ability to blend classical dance with the art of female impersonation cemented his reputation as a versatile and gifted performer.

	=== Reggie Dahl ===		=== Reggie Dahl ===

Archiveadmin: /* Reggie Dahl */

2025-03-01T19:50:27Z

Reggie Dahl

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	=== Reggie Dahl ===		=== Reggie Dahl ===
			Reggie Dahl was a striking performer at Finocchio’s, admired for his elegant stage presence and graceful dance skills. With a beauty often compared to Hedy Lamarr, he combined a slim, refined look with dynamic high kicks and precise movements. According to David de Alba, Reggie was dedicated to his craft, often warming up on the ballet barre before performances, much like a classical dancer. His rendition of ''"Call Me"'' became a signature song, making audiences momentarily forget it was originally a Petula Clark hit.

			At one point, Mrs. Eve Finocchio placed Reggie in charge of the chorus line, ''The Eve-ettes'', though he accepted the role with some hesitation, knowing the dancers had a mind of their own. Fellow performer Holly White remembered Reggie as a close friend and a talented dancer with a style reminiscent of Ann Miller. His striking appearance placed him among the most visually captivating performers of the era, drawing comparisons to Lavern Cummings.

			While Reggie was known for his passionate personality, his commitment to performance and his impact on the Finocchio’s stage remain his true legacy. He brought both elegance and energy to his routines, earning his place among the club’s most memorable entertainers.

	=== René de Carlo ===		=== René de Carlo ===

Archiveadmin: /* Coquis */

2025-03-01T19:46:42Z

Coquis

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	=== Coquis ===		=== Coquis ===
			Coquís was a talented and energetic dancer from Mexico who performed at Finocchio’s during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Hired as part of the ''Eve-ettes'' chorus line, he was known for his high leg lifts, splits, and powerful stage presence. Despite his dynamic movements, he retained a sense of elegance, swaying his arms and moving with fluidity to fast Latin jazz rhythms. His combination of athleticism and grace made him a standout among the club’s dancers.

			Offstage, Coquís was known for his kind and encouraging nature. According to David de Alba, he enjoyed experimenting with stage fashion and once convinced de Alba to try a disco-inspired look for a special performance. Watching from the wings, Coquís and fellow dancers Marlo Adame and René de Carlo smiled as de Alba took the stage in a platinum wig and sequined outfit, embracing the bold style Coquís had envisioned.

			Coquís left Finocchio’s in the early 1980s and sadly passed away at a young age. Though his time at the club was brief, his talent and warmth left a lasting impression on those who performed alongside him.

	=== David de Alba, "The Male Judy Garland" ===		=== David de Alba, "The Male Judy Garland" ===

Archiveadmin: /* Rene de Carlo */

2025-03-01T19:42:48Z

Rene de Carlo

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	=== Reggie Dahl ===		=== Reggie Dahl ===

	=== ~~Rene~~ de Carlo ===		=== René de Carlo ===
			René de Carlo, born in Mexico, was a highly skilled and versatile dancer who captivated audiences at Finocchio’s with a wide range of dance styles and character portrayals. Known for his impeccable costumes and wigs, he brought elegance and precision to every performance. One of his most celebrated routines was the "Double Cape" dance from Spain, which showcased his ability to blend movement with dramatic flair. His transformation from male to female on stage was striking, further enhancing the magic of his performances.

			René was married to Jeannie, a cocktail waitress at the club, who proudly pointed him out to customers, saying, "That’s my husband on stage," often leaving them both impressed and bewildered. According to David de Alba, René was kind-hearted and had a close friendship with him, affectionately calling him "Chula" (a pretty girl) and "Tómbola", a nod to a song de Alba frequently performed. Between shows, René and some of the Mexican entertainers known as the Eve-ettes would relax in his dressing room, sharing corn tortilla chips, salsa, and Mexican beer, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of a lively fiesta.

			René later moved to Mexico City, where he continued performing at private events. In 2002, he sent de Alba one of his beautifully beaded Charleston costumes as a memento of their long friendship. Holly White also remembered René as a kind and genuine presence at the club, noting that he and his wife made her time at Finocchio’s especially enjoyable. His talent, warmth, and dedication to his craft remain an enduring part of the club’s history.

	=== Russell Reed ===		=== Russell Reed ===

Archiveadmin: /* Russell Reed */

2025-03-01T19:41:32Z

Russell Reed

← Older revision		Revision as of 19:41, 1 March 2025
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	=== Russell Reed ===		=== Russell Reed ===
			Russell Reed, billed as ''"The Ton of Fun,"'' was a larger-than-life comedian at Finocchio’s, known for his self-deprecating humor and high-energy performances. According to David de Alba, Russell embraced comedy as part of his act, often joking about his size and performing a playful striptease down to red pajamas, complete with cherry embellishments. He frequently closed his segment with a humorous take on ''"King Solomon and His Wives,"'' using exaggerated facial expressions and gestures to entertain the audience.

			Russell’s enthusiasm for the stage extended beyond his own performances. Whenever he had the opportunity to emcee, he seized it with excitement, eager to prove himself just as capable as Carroll Wallace. His introductions were delivered with eloquence, and he had a habit of bursting onto the stage mid-applause, encouraging the audience to cheer with him—sometimes before the previous act had even finished! His love for performance was evident, and his presence brought a lively energy to the club.

			Offstage, Russell was described as warm and full of personality. Holly White recalled him as ''"300 lbs. of joy,"'' and de Alba remembered their dressing room covered in posters of icons like Greta Garbo and Mae West. Between shows, Russell kept a large pitcher of ice water, claiming it was key to a flawless complexion, though he also kept plenty of snacks on hand, joking that they helped him stay in character. His big personality and dedication to entertaining made him a standout figure in Finocchio’s history.

	=== Wacky Jackie Phillips ===		=== Wacky Jackie Phillips ===