Palm Beach Pride hit a few bumps in the road when its first day washed out - literally (after a flash flood). But it came roaring back on Sunday with its parade, festival and rising out country star Brooke Eden. OutSFL caught up with this year’s Grand Marshal, Chris Rhoades, for a brief interview.
Chris, can you tell our readers a little about yourself?
My name is Chris Rhoades, but most know me by Chris “Ab Fab” named after my favorite British comedic TV show “Absolutely Fabulous.” I was born and grew up in New Jersey and after graduating from LaSalle University in Philadelphia, I moved to Charlotte, N.C. for two years and then have found the rest of my life here in beautiful West Palm Beach. I am most known for having produced the drag shows at the Tea dances at Camelot nightclub in downtown WPB. Since COVID, I have been producing drag shows all over Palm Beach County, a majority for Subculture Group, EVERY FRIDAY NIGHT WITH HIGH HEELS AT HULLABALOO, but also out in Wellington during equestrian season for Maxwell's Plum as well as pop up Pride events in Delray Beach and Northwood.
What message do you have for those who may still be struggling with their LGBTQ identity?
Coming to grips with one's LGBTQIA+ identity is not always easy or a walk in the park. My advice to the youth or adults also struggling is just to worry less about what others think, and just blaze a path for yourself. I have always been very certain of who I am, but in my environment growing up, it was less than accepted and practically frowned upon. So I had to blaze a path the hell out of there so I could live my life as my true, authentic self.
What was the most memorable moment of this year's Palm Beach Pride?
The entire day, start to finish, was so memorable as Grand Marshal of this year's PB Pride. If I had to focus on something, it would be the outpouring of love and support for me and the queens. I guess I never realized just how many people were “paying attention” to what I was doing. I think if you just go about what you are doing with a true, genuine heart behind it, and not out for any “said recognition,” I think you end up accomplishing more and catching the attention of so many more individuals.
What would be your top three picks for next year's Grand Marshal of Palm Beach Pride 2025?
Toughest question of all, my top three picks for next year's Grand Marshal of Pride? I say that jokingly, because when I received my beautiful letter from Julie Seaver, announcing my recognition, my first reaction was they have the wrong guy/girl. So to answer your question, it takes a lot of consideration. Last year, right around this time, is when I ended up taking a much more passionate stake into the drag community. New laws were unfairly being passed against our community, and someone had to act. Before that, I couldn't have predicted that I would have become as much of a strong voice for the drag community. So I know you want names, so my three names are Seaver, Adrienne Percival, and Michael Riordan. Go ahead and try to argue any one of those names!