Texas native Jade Esteban Estrada has been called by some the “master

entertainer.” He’s performed in 33 countries and in seven different languages. His music has been heard on FX’s “The Shield.” He was named the Funniest Amateur Comic in New York in 1994. He was even connected to Madonna’s lead dancer during her Blonde Ambition Tour.

     Now he’s the star of his one-man show titled “ICONS: The Lesbian and Gay History of the World, Vol. 1,” portraying gay and lesbian characters throughout time. Watch out Ellen DeGeneres!

     “I’m a history buff, because of my job I’m in constant contact with human rights activists all over the world,” said Estrada. “So I’m going to hear a lot about Matthew Shepard [who was murdered in Laramie, Wyo. in an anti-gay crime]. I’m going to hear a lot about same-sex marriage. So I can’t help but think about the historical perspective.”

     Estrada’s show presents depictions of Michelangelo and Oscar Wilde to Gertrude Stein and DeGeneres through song, dance and perfect comedic timing.

     “My shows have brought me closer to American history and American culture,” he added.

     Estrada isn’t a stranger to Jersey City Pride. He hosted the event in 2003 and 2004 and performed his "ICONS 2" show in 2005.

     “There are a couple of cities I keep coming back to,” said Estrada, “Jersey City is one of the top ones.”
 

©2006 Exit Weekly