In a word, Cathy Craig is a legend.
At a young age, she was left to fend for herself in her hometown of Cleveland, Ohio. While other kids were attending prom, Craig was working to keep a roof over her head. By the grace of the drag gods, she found a career that has brought her great joy.
“Cathy Craig is a persona I created and it’s gone on for 51 years,” she said. “I have the showbiz bug in my blood.”
Craig has been and remains on the frontlines of the gay rights movement. She has lent her time and talent to a variety of charities including Mother’s Cupboard, where she joined forces with Melissa St. John and other drag luminaries, in raising funds to support those living with HIV/AIDS at a time when many doors were slammed in the faces of those who tested positive. Craig has also been an ardent supporter of Poverello, Undercover Santa and numerous other LGBTQ organizations.
Whether she was performing solo or sharing the stage with Tiny Tina, the duo were famous and always in demand.
“We performed in every club and worked the condo circuit for many years. We were a team,” Craig recalled of her late friend.
When not performing, Craig operates a jewelry booth at the Wilton Collective. “I don’t believe in sitting around and becoming old,” Craig said.
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