Written by:
Lynne Jamneck
Photographer:
Jonathan Saunders
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this Issue of Curve:
Vol. 13#3
Mo B. Dick, of Club Casanova fame, is the creation of New York-based actor Maureen Fischer, who offers as a disclaimer on Mr. Dick’s Web site that “any similarity to anyone living or dead is purely unfortunate.” With his slicked-back “Greaser” hairstyle and permanent sneer, Mo B. Dick is the kind of guy that would make most women cross the street rather than come under his leering gaze. But, by taking on the stereotype, Fischer says, “Instead of being an angry woman, I became a funny man!”
Though most of his performances take place in nightclubs, Mo B. Dick has recently branched out, taking the show on the road and even taking a stab at television appearances.
You, along with the Men of Club Casanova, recently finished a tour of the United States and Canada.
We came upon so many drag king troupes, groups and individuals willing to explore and express their “inner” men!
What do straight men make of drag kings?
I think they are uneasy of drag kings, because we are on their turf.
How do straight women react?
They’re confused by drag kings because we are so handsome and they are turned on by us, and then they must question their own sense of desire. It’s thrilling for us!
Tell us about your almost-appearance on the HBO series Sex and the City — and the delectable Sarah Jessica Parker.
It was a lot of fun being on the set. Sarah Jessica Parker wasn’t talkative with anyone — she wasn’t mean or anything, just concentrating on her work. The others were so sweet and relaxed and enjoyable. My scene was left on the cutting room floor. I was dressed in leather, and Kim Cattrall checked me out and made a funny comment. It was thrilling to be a part of it, then disappointing to be left out.
What’s your best come-on line of the moment?
“I think I’m in love: L-U-S-T love.”
What’s your definition of the word “cocky”?
A proud pig — all walk, no real talk.
What do you keep in your bedside drawer?
An Hitachi Magic Wand, Tony & Tina Mind Boost lip balm, Nivea hand cream and Kama Sutra massage oil.
Jockey shorts or boxers?
Freestyle!
People don’t seem to have that big of an issue with drag queens, so why are drag kings so difficult for mainstream culture to accept?
It’ll be slow for the mainstream to accept drag kings because butches are so feared and vilified. A man in a dress is comedy, but a woman in a suit is fearful.
Are people ever surprised when they meet Mo Fischer after meeting Mr. Dick?
Offstage I’m nothing like my character, so most people are shocked to see me behaving like a girly girl. Unlike the crass chauvinist Mr. Dick, I have a voracious appetite for the spiritual realm, which I nurture any chance I can get.
What’s been your family’s response to your career as a drag king?
They have mixed feelings. I come from a large Catholic family with six brothers, three sisters and 22 nieces and nephews. The kids love it and sometimes call me Uncle Mo. Some of my siblings love the show, and others are uncomfortable with the overt sexuality. My parents have never seen my show.
How often do you get mistaken for a man by other men?
When I’m in drag, I get mistaken for a man all the time, which is thrilling, and I always maintain the illusion. When I walk away, I giggle in triumph.
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