Swank; Kent, WA – Swank Idol qualifiers underway
By Ty Hughes
Karaoke Host, DJ Lorrie is workin’ the crowd at Kent’s premier alternative gay and lesbian bar every Monday, Wednesday and Thursday night. If you’re on the hunt for a crazy fun night of singing and real characters, Swank is the place for you!
Now is the time for you to get in there and qualify to become the very first Swank Idol! On Wednesday nights, KJ Lorrie is still taking sign ups for those that feel they deserve to be designated Swank Idol for 2010. But, you had better bring your “A” game, because these guys can really sing!
We popped in for a looksie one Wednesday night in January to find a towering drag queen, Mama Monalot, carousing the bar, stirring up as much activity as she possibly could. Her pint-sized sidekick, Renten, was at her side, dwarfed by comparison and sporting a cowboy hat and painted on soul patch that looked incredibly real. Both were handing out raffle tickets for the giveaways later.
Travis, Swank’s Manager, Matty and Shaun were holding down the bar, serving up some swanky cocktails, lubing the crowd for the amazing night of competition that lay ahead.
Swank is laid out in a very unique way. There are two levels separated by the bar. From the upper level, the bar is sunken, but still accessible from all sides. There’s a living room setting, complete with coffee tables and several big couches in a semi-circle, where Swank patrons will relax and enjoy each other’s company over a tasty cocktail. Very relaxing, like a home away from home.
There are two pool tables and two dart boards on the upper level, plus a bunch of tables to sit and catch up with friends.
On the opposite side of the bar is where most of the entertainment takes place. DJ Lorrie’s got her professional and extensive sound system set up on backside of the massive dance floor. Towering speakers loom over the gathering audience. The back wall of the dance floor is covered in mirrors, making the room look twice as big as it is. Lorrie had several tables set up on the dance floor, plus the judge’s table off to the side. The bar began to fill up, and by 9pm, she was ready to kick off the contest. Normally she’d have nine or ten contestants, but tonight there would only be six. Nonetheless, someone was going to advance to the finals.
It was country theme night. Shaun the bartender, sang I Wanna Live. Lupe sang Independence Day, Lolo did I Feel Like A Woman, Sabrina was Here For The Party, Jonathan, our old karaoke friend, sang Fourth Of July, and Dee rounded out the competition with Harper Valley PTA. Everyone totally rocked it, and the audience applauded loudly for each of them. In the end, it was Sabrina who barely beat out Dee for the opportunity to move on. But, I have a feeling all of them will be back for another try. The finals aren’t until Wednesday, March 3rd, so y’all have plenty of time to qualify throughout February for Swank Idol. The judges chime in with their own thoughts after each performance, offering a fun twist to the whole night. The next week would be a 70’s disco theme – could be interesting.
Swank is just a real fun place. These guys really cut loose and have a great time. Come on out and join the fun, you’ll absolutely love the people whether you’re gay or straight, Swank is a blast!
Find them at 24437 Russell Road in Kent, WA 98032 (253) 854-2110.
