Crowd Dazzler,
Janeé Starr
By Stacey Gregory
On Saturday night, you’ll find Janeé Starr holding court at IBT’s (It’s ‘Bout Time), the famous bar on historic Fourth Avenue where she’s reigned supreme since 2001, captivating audiences with her fashion-forward creations and electric stage presence. Her journey to Tucson began in 1990 when she swapped California beaches for Arizona deserts to live with her dad and stepmom.
After surviving that first Tucson summer, Janeé settled in Tucson, where she planted her roots and found a steady supply of some of the best Mexican food in the country. Now, with sequins sparkling and her face painted to the gods, she doesn’t simply perform—she’s living art. But don’t call her a drag queen.
“My career started as a joke on Halloween in 1997,” she laughed. “I do not call myself a drag queen; I consider myself a Gender Bending Technician; it looks better on a resume.”
Known as “Arizona’s Anatomically Incorrect Barbie Doll,” Janeé has become an icon in Tucson’s LGBTQ+ entertainment scene. A two-time titleholder as Miss Gay Tucson America (2003, 2005) and Miss Gay Arizona America 2022, she dazzles audiences with her charisma, creativity, and community spirit.
“What I love most about performing is the freedom of expression. I love fashion, so being able to create wearable artwork is probably my favorite thing,” Janeé said. “I don’t paint, I don’t draw, I can’t sing, but this is how I express myself artistically. I am so grateful people enjoy and share my art and allow me to live my life on stage to the fullest.”
This queen knows how to turn your trip into a show-stopping experience. Let this local legend be your guide.
Of course, you’ll want to witness Janeé’s artistry firsthand during the Saturday Night Starrlets show at IBTs. Reservations are strongly suggested for this must-see experience. Don’t forget to bring cash to tip your performers (drag ain’t cheap!) and your
Drag is the social butterfly of entertainment. It flits here and there, shows up where you don’t expect it, and always provides you with something beautiful to look at! I encourage everyone to go out and support the art of drag and all the many facets in Tucson.
BEYOND THE CLUB
When you’re looking for good places to eat, her first recommendation is the chicken enchiladas from Rosa’s Mexican Food on Fort Lowell Road and Campbell Avenue Make sure you also try the refried beans and house-made salsa, which Janeé says are killer. Her other favorite spot is Saint Mary’s Mexican food on St. Mary’s Road.
“They have the best red chili, and their salsa is so good I order it by the pint!” she said.
As a self-proclaimed cinephile, Janeé loves watching horror and thriller films, period pieces, and historical dramas.
“The AMC Foothills location is my go-to movie theater. I really like that they have a bar inside, and there are big reclining seats with plenty of space, so you don’t feel like people are right on top of you,” she said.
Retail therapy is also high on her to-do list. She’s got a soft spot for the Tucson Mall, a favorite she’s frequented since she was a youngster.
“Sometimes I just go there and walk around. There’s so much to see, lots of food, and shopping!” Janeé laughed.
When you’re ready to get outdoors, Janeé says Wasson Peak is a must. The highest peak in the Tucson Mountains rewards hikers with expansive views of Saguaro National Park and the city of Tucson, and you can see the remains of Gould Mine.
If you’re lucky enough to be in Tucson during the winter, Janeé recommends a day at Ski Valley at the top of Mt. Lemmon. The southernmost ski destination in the continental United States is about a 30-mile drive north of Tucson. When there is snow, guests can ski or snowboard. During the summer, the chair lift becomes the Sky Ride, and a restaurant and gift and fudge shop are open year-round.
“The views at Ski Valley are spectacular from the peak,” she said. “I don’t want to fail to mention that our sunsets are phenomenal!”
