Beloved comedian Drew Droege is well-known for his hilarious YouTube videos playing Chloë Sevigny, perhaps making him more recognizable than the real-life actress he impersonates.
But Droege—pronounced “dro-gee,” with a hard “g” like “glamorous”—is well-known on stages throughout Los Angeles, most recently playing Mrs. Garrett in La Casita del Campo’s popular sitcom parody, The Factz of Life. (He also performed as himself while intoxicated on Comedy Central’s Drunk History.)
Droege trained with the Groundlings comedy school, and his one-man show Bright Colors and Bold Patterns ran Off-Broadway in NYC to critical acclaim. He has a new solo show, Happy Birthday Doug, being workshopped at Dynasty Typewriter at the Hayworth Theatre, which will open to audiences June 11 and 12.
Wanderlust chatted with Droege between rehearsals for his new show at Dynasty, about living in LA and why he is looking forward to Los Angeles Pride this 50th anniversary year of Stonewall.
Why is Los Angeles a great place to live?
Los Angeles is equal parts disgusting, glamorous, stupid, exhausting, exciting, and delicious. A mecca for the beautiful and the broken.
What is your favorite neighborhood?
I love my neighborhood, Franklin Village. It has a perfect strip with an actual book/record/video store, Franklin & Co. is the best hangout for locals, and Upright Citizens Brigade is great for great comedy. Plus there are dogs everywhere.
Why are pride celebrations important?
We need to be reminded of our history, celebrate the size and diversity of our community, and foster our new members. And a yearly dose of Smirnoff slushees, butt-lifting undies, and Crystal Waters is an important must.
What is your favorite bar in LA?
Hands down, the best bar in LA is Akbar. Neighborhood realness festooned with Moroccan garnish and fading headshots of local freaks (including me!) Good strong cheap drinks served by the sweetest and sexiest.
And what do you get to drink there?
I love old man cough syrup elixirs that bite me back. Negronis, Manhattans, Boulevardiers, or just straight Laphroaig scotch or Bulleit rye on a few rocks.
You said LA is “delicious.” What’s the best place in LA for brunch?
Hugo’s! I love the chipotle scramble, and a classic spicy Bloody Mary, without sliders or lobster or filth hanging off the sides.
What’s the best place to see-and-be-seen?
I’ve lived here long enough that I hate seeing or being seen. But I guess if you’re into that, put on your raunchiest frocks and skip on down to Pump, where you can slurp cotton candy shots with saucy Real Housewives and the twinks that love them.
If someone is coming to town for pride, what’s the best hotel?
Chateau Marmont. Because the tiny European rooms are haunted by glitter and despair. Because the Chilled Wedge outside on the patio is divine. Because you will run into at least 3 Lohans.
Which pride party is a must?
Akbar hosts Bears In Space a few times throughout the summer, including Pride. DJ Chris Bowen and his friends spin psychedelic dirty disco trips, while hot and friendly dudes of all sizes have an all-day blast.
With all those great beaches and pools in Southern California, what’s your advice for wearing a Speedo?
What’s a Speedo? Please send me lots of pictures.
