Gayety

Tag: Cabaret

  • GLAAD Teams Up with eBay for Star-Studded Pride Month Auction

    GLAAD Teams Up with eBay for Star-Studded Pride Month Auction

    In celebration of Pride Month, GLAAD is bringing the glitz, glam, and generosity with a new celebrity-packed auction on eBay that’s as fabulous as the community it supports. Launching today, June 16, the eBay for Charity auction features one-of-a-kind experiences and signed memorabilia from a dazzling list of LGBTQ+ allies and icons, all to benefit GLAAD’s mission of accelerating acceptance for queer people everywhere.

    From backstage meet-and-greets to custom astrology readings, the auction offers once-in-a-lifetime prizes starting at just 99 cents. The best part? 100% of proceeds will support GLAAD’s groundbreaking advocacy work.

    GLAAD’s Pride Month auction features celeb meet-and-greets, signed merch, and VIP experiences.
    Photo: Instagram (@dylanefron)/MTV/Shutterstock

    Bid on the Bold and the Beautiful

    The auction, live now at eBay.com/glaad through June 26, includes exclusive items and experiences from artists and entertainers who are longtime GLAAD supporters. Think music legends, LGBTQ+ trailblazers, and reality TV crushes, all pitching in to celebrate Pride with purpose.

    Here’s a look at some of the juiciest items up for grabs:

    • Shakira: Win two premium tickets to her Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran Tour on June 28, a VIP experience, and a meet & greet with the queen herself.

    • Orville Peck: See Broadway’s Cabaret starring Orville Peck and meet him afterward in a rare fan experience.

    • Doechii: Own a signed vinyl copy of Alligator Bites Never Heal from the Grammy-nominated and GLAAD Media Award-winning artist.

    • Tom Daley: Get cozy with the Olympic gold medalist during a private knitting session for you and two friends.

    • Aly & AJ: Celebrate 20 years of Into the Rush with VIP tickets and backstage access during their upcoming Silver Deliverer Tour.

    Signed, Sealed, Delivered

    Fans of pop culture nostalgia and collectors alike will swoon over signed items from:

    And let’s not forget the glam squad: hair guru Chris Appleton is offering a private styling session, perfect for anyone craving their own red carpet moment.

    The Gays Give Back

    The auction is part of GLAAD’s larger Pride Month initiatives and represents the powerful intersection of queer joy, visibility, and philanthropy. From chart-toppers like Kesha and Scissor Sisters to comedy greats like Margaret Cho and Sandra Bernhard, this auction is both a celebration and a call to action.

    Whether you’re bidding for a selfie with Andy Cohen on Watch What Happens Live or planning your next cosmic awakening with astrologer Chani Nicholas, this auction has something for every kind of queer dreamer and ally.

    Let the bidding wars begin, and may the most generous fans win.

  • Alan Cumming Embraces Queer Joy, Jockstraps, and Aging Gracefully

    Alan Cumming Embraces Queer Joy, Jockstraps, and Aging Gracefully

    Alan Cumming is the moment yet again. Them has just dropped its third Pride Month cover story of 2025, and this time, it’s the ever-iconic Alan Cumming gracing the spotlight. Known for everything from Cabaret to The Traitors, the Emmy-winning actor, producer, and style renegade proves that queerness, eccentricity, and aging fabulously are not mutually exclusive.

    In a wide-ranging chat with Them’s James Factora, Cumming opens up about his career, fashion as performance art, and what being a proudly authentic queer person means to him, all while reminding us that life post-60 can be as bold, vibrant, and jockstrap-filled as ever.

    The Traitor We Trust

    Cumming is best known to younger fans as the host of Peacock’s The Traitors, a reality competition series made instantly iconic by his high-camp, high-fashion ensembles. But it’s more than just fun and games for Cumming, it’s also a platform.

    @peacock

    Yeah Alan would revive me 😮‍💨 #TheTraitorsUS is streaming now on Peacock. #Traitors #AlanCumming #EmergencyContact

    ♬ Peacock_Traitors_EmergencyContact – Peacock

    “Especially now, when we’re being vilified and persecuted,” he says, “there’s all the more reason to have our presence and representation.” Even in a reality show setting, Cumming believes there’s power in visibility and power in simply existing. “You can do great things just by exposing people to ideas they haven’t seen before.”

    Queer Authenticity, No Uniform Required

    The Scottish-born actor has never been one to follow the rules, and that rebelliousness is part of what bonds him to the broader LGBTQ+ community. “I’m really fascinated by the idea of feeling like a freak because you’re being authentic,” he explains. “I relate to trans people and anyone not conforming to what society tells us we should be doing.”

    That ethos spills over into his personal style, too. “I kind of don’t like being made to wear a uniform in any way,” he says — which might explain why he’s spent part of his career trying to “normalize jockstraps.”

    Fashion as Storytelling

    For Cumming, clothes aren’t just costumes, they’re collaborators. On The Traitors, his outfits are more than fabric and flair. “The clothes have become such a part of the DNA of the show,” he says. “I act the clothes in a way.”

    It’s this kind of playful, performative elegance that’s helped solidify Cumming as one of the most joyfully unclassifiable figures in queer entertainment.

    Alan Cumming 'Them' Cover Story
    Photo: Jeremy Liebman/Them
    Alan Cumming 'Them' Cover Story
    Photo: Jeremy Liebman/Them

    Defying Definition

    Cumming’s career has zigzagged across genres, formats, and expectations. “I do sometimes do things that are a little unusual and surprising,” he says, pointing to his shift from classical theater to reality TV. “But I’ve always done things like that. I hate the idea of being defined.”

    This refusal to fit into a neat category has made him a beacon of queer creativity: never predictable, always refreshing.

    Sixty, Sexy, and Self-Assured

    Turning 60 hasn’t slowed Alan Cumming down, it’s just given him a sharper lens. “I wish we would see beauty in aging,” he muses. “Youth is beautiful, but you know what? It’s not all that.”

    And he’s not just saying it, he’s living it. “Everything’s still working,” he laughs. “I don’t feel impeded by my age in any way. But at the same time, I have wisdom, and I have something to say.”

    And say it, he does… in style.

    Pride, Continued

    Cumming’s cover is part of Them’s ongoing Pride celebration, which has already spotlighted The Last of Us star Bella Ramsey, Severance’s Tramell Tillman, and a special WorldPride DC event featuring drag superstar Sasha Colby. More features are expected to drop throughout the month, but Alan’s whimsical, thought-provoking reflections are already a standout.

  • RuPaul’s Drag Race to Honor Liza Minnelli with Lifetime Achievement Award at Season 17 Finale

    RuPaul’s Drag Race to Honor Liza Minnelli with Lifetime Achievement Award at Season 17 Finale

    Liza Minnelli, the iconic singer, actor, and performer, will receive the prestigious Giving Us Lifetime Achievement Award during the RuPaul’s Drag Race season 17 finale. The announcement celebrates Minnelli’s enduring legacy as a trailblazer in entertainment, and follows the recognition of previous honorees such as fashion legend Bob Mackie and horror icon Cassandra Peterson, also known as Elvira, Mistress of the Dark.

    Liza Minnelli: A Legendary Career

    Minnelli, the daughter of Hollywood star Judy Garland, is one of the most celebrated performers of all time. Her career spans decades of unforgettable performances in both film and music. She won an Academy Award for her portrayal of Sally Bowles in Cabaret (1972), cementing her status as a cinematic legend. Minnelli also earned an Oscar nomination for her role in The Sterile Cuckoo (1969).

    Liza Minnelli in Cabaret. Photo: YouTube
    Liza Minnelli in Cabaret. Photo: YouTube

    Beyond film, Minnelli has achieved incredible success in television and live performances. She won an Emmy Award for her concert special Liza with a Z, which featured unforgettable musical numbers like “Say Liza (Liza with a ‘Z’)” and “Son of a Preacher Man.” The performance not only showcased her immense vocal talent but also her ability to captivate audiences with her dynamic presence.

    A Life of Iconic Honors

    Minnelli’s accolades extend far beyond the screen. She has two Tony Awards for Best Actress in a Musical, earned for her performances in Flora the Red Menace (1965) and The Act (1977). In 1990, Minnelli was honored with the Grammy Living Legend Award, further solidifying her as one of the most significant figures in entertainment history.

    Her career continues to inspire, and her contributions to the LGBTQ+ community, in particular, have made her a beloved figure within drag culture. Her performances, especially in Cabaret, have influenced countless drag queens who often cite Minnelli as a major inspiration for their own work.

    RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 17 Finale

    The RuPaul’s Drag Race season 17 finale, set to air on Friday, April 18 at 8 p.m. ET/PT on MTV, will not only celebrate Minnelli’s achievements but also crown this season’s winner. The final five queens—Sam Star, Suzie Toot, Onya Nurve, Jewels Sparkles, and Lexi Love—are competing for the crown in a thrilling season finale.

    This season of Drag Race has captivated fans with fierce competition, and Minnelli’s award ceremony promises to add even more excitement to the finale. The Giving Us Lifetime Achievement Award, a notable honor, recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the entertainment industry and LGBTQ+ culture.

    With the finale just around the corner, fans can look forward to watching a dazzling tribute to a true legend as RuPaul’s Drag Race season 17 crowns its champion and honors Liza Minnelli’s lasting legacy in the arts.

    RuPaul’s Drag Race was recently awarded Outstanding Reality Program – Competition at the 36th GLAAD Media Awards, further solidifying its influence and impact on the LGBTQ+ community.

  • Peck’s Big Reveal: Singer Drops Mask for Broadway’s ‘Cabaret’

    Peck’s Big Reveal: Singer Drops Mask for Broadway’s ‘Cabaret’

    Country singer Orville Peck, known for his signature fringed mask, has offered a glimpse of his face in a new photo shoot for The New York Times, coinciding with his upcoming Broadway debut in “Cabaret.” Peck will step into the role of the Emcee at the Kit Kat Club, replacing Adam Lambert, and has announced he will forgo his iconic mask for the production.

    “The mask is part of my expression personally as an artist and a very big personal part of me,” Peck, 37, told the Times during a masked interview. “But I’m here to play this role and to bring respect and integrity and hopefully a good performance to it. It’s not about me. I’m not trying to make it the Orville Peck show.”

    The partial reveal in the Times photograph shows Peck smiling, with one eye and part of his forehead visible, while leather gloves still obscure the lower portion of his face. This marks a significant departure from his public persona, which has been defined by the elaborate masks that have become synonymous with his stage presence.

    Peck explained his decision to abandon the mask for “Cabaret,” citing his deep admiration for the musical. “I wouldn’t have necessarily done this for just anything. But this is probably my favorite musical of all time,” he said.

    Fans reacted positively to the partial reveal and the news of his Broadway role. “So cool! Books flight to New York” wrote one Instagram user, while another commented, “He’s gorgeous! Just as I suspected.”

    Peck’s portrayal of the Emcee takes on added significance given the musical’s historical context. Set in pre-World War II Berlin, “Cabaret” explores themes of political upheaval and social decay as the Nazi party rises to power. Peck told the Times that the story resonates strongly with him in the current political climate.

    “Regardless of whatever your politics lean, I don’t think anybody can come see the show and not agree that it is frighteningly similar, if not exactly what is happening at the moment,” he said, drawing parallels between the musical’s depiction of a society in flux and contemporary political events. “It doesn’t feel like we’re doing a period piece, a throwback.”

    The Emcee, a character known for his flamboyant and morally ambiguous nature, serves as a master of ceremonies at the Kit Kat Club, a decadent nightclub that embodies the hedonistic atmosphere of Weimar-era Berlin. The role requires a performer with charisma, stage presence, and the ability to navigate complex emotional terrain. Peck’s background as a musician and performer, combined with his unique artistic vision, makes him a compelling choice for the part.

    “Cabaret” is playing at Broadway’s August Wilson Theatre. Performances featuring Orville Peck begin March 31. The musical, known for its iconic songs and provocative themes, continues to captivate audiences with its timeless relevance.

    Peck’s decision to reveal a portion of his face and step away from his signature mask for this role signals a new chapter in his career. It also highlights his commitment to the art of performance and his willingness to take on challenging and meaningful projects. The production is expected to draw attention from both Broadway enthusiasts and fans of Orville Peck’s music.

  • Orville Peck Reveals One Steamy and Unmasked Silhouette in First Look at ‘Cabaret’

    Orville Peck Reveals One Steamy and Unmasked Silhouette in First Look at ‘Cabaret’

    Orville Peck, the gay country singer known for his unique blend of haunting melodies and masked persona, is set to make his Broadway debut as the iconic Emcee in Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club this March. The announcement has stirred excitement among fans, with a first-look image recently shared that reveals his character silhouette — notably without his signature mask.

    Peck, who has spent much of his career cultivating an air of mystery by wearing a fringe-covered mask, has slowly shed this enigmatic persona in recent years. While he began his musical journey with his face hidden, by the time his 2024 album Stampede was released, Peck had noticeably adopted a more open, unmasked style. His role in Cabaret marks a significant milestone as he steps into the shoes of the beloved Emcee, a character previously portrayed by Academy Award-winning actor Eddie Redmayne in the current Broadway revival.

    On social media, both Peck and the official Cabaret Instagram accounts shared the highly anticipated first-look image, giving fans a glimpse of the singer in character. Though the image primarily shows Peck’s silhouette, it hints at his unmasked appearance, creating intrigue around how the star will portray the Emcee. The caption accompanying the post reads: “If you had a secret, you bet I would keep it. Orville Peck is the next Emcee. See him live from March 31 at the #KitKatClub.”

    Peck’s unmasked look is a significant departure from his earlier years when his mask, often a signature part of his style, was central to his public identity. Fans are now eagerly anticipating how he will present a more intimate and unfiltered version of the character.

    The role of Emcee, which is central to Cabaret’s exploration of Weimar-era Berlin, has been portrayed by several renowned actors in the recent revival, including Redmayne and Adam Lambert, who stepped into the role for a limited run. Additionally, RuPaul’s Drag Race season 15 star Marcia Marcia Marcia — who performs as Marty Lauter outside of drag — has been the understudy for the role since Redmayne’s departure. Lauter also plays Victor in this production, offering an inside look into the unique dynamics of the Kit Kat Club.

    Orville Peck’s casting in the role of Emcee represents more than just a Broadway debut; it is also a “face reveal” of sorts for the artist, who has kept his true identity under wraps for much of his career. A few days before the first-look image was revealed, Peck shared an Instagram story celebrating his inclusion in a New York Times crossword puzzle. “Y’all I’ve done the @nytimes crossword every day for YEARS [crying emoji],” he wrote, showcasing his appreciation for the moment. The New York Times puzzle, which included questions referencing Peck and the Cabaret production, was also shared by the official Cabaret account.

    Photographer Gina Gizella captured the striking silhouette image, which was quickly reposted by both Peck and the Cabaret social media channels. The cryptic shot only adds to the buzz surrounding Peck’s performance, leaving fans to eagerly speculate on what they can expect from his portrayal of the Emcee.

    In another Instagram story, Cabaret also shared a promo image of Eva Noblezada, who will take on the role of Sally Bowles. The caption accompanying her image reads, “Something’s bound to begin. @livevamaria is the next Sally Bowles. See her live from March 31 at the #KitKatClub.” Noblezada’s casting has also drawn attention, with many anticipating her portrayal of the iconic character alongside Peck’s Emcee.

    The Cabaret revival, directed by Rebecca Frecknall, has generated significant buzz since it opened in 2024. The production brings a fresh, modern perspective to the beloved musical, set in the 1930s during the rise of the Nazi regime in Germany. The Kit Kat Club’s immersive atmosphere, along with the dynamic performances, has earned rave reviews.

    For Peck, this new role is not just about stepping onto Broadway for the first time; it represents a full-circle moment in his career. From his debut album Pony in 2019, where he maintained a fully masked identity, to his most recent album Stampede, where he embraced a more unguarded persona, Peck’s evolution as an artist is mirrored in his portrayal of the Emcee.

    Broadway’s Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club offers audiences a chance to experience a more intimate and personal take on the musical, while also featuring a talented cast that includes not just Peck and Noblezada, but a diverse ensemble that reflects the production’s inclusive ethos.

    As Cabaret fans prepare for the next chapter in this Broadway revival, Peck’s unmasked debut in the role of Emcee is sure to be a defining moment for both his career and the production itself. The show is set to open on March 31, 2025, at the Kit Kat Club, with tickets already in high demand.

    For updates and more information on Orville Peck’s performance, follow Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club on social media and sign up for exclusive news.

  • Orville Peck Reveals Which Marvel Superhero Sparked His ‘Gay Sexual Awakening’

    Orville Peck Reveals Which Marvel Superhero Sparked His ‘Gay Sexual Awakening’

    Orville Peck has been busy promoting his latest album Stampede and preparing for his Broadway debut in Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club. But in a recent Instagram Q&A, the enigmatic country singer opened up about his journey in music, his upcoming stage role, and shared some personal insights that fans were curious about.

    The questions ranged from his marketing strategies for his debut album Pony, to how long he’ll be performing in Cabaret, to what inspires his fashion choices and his “gay sexual awakening.” Here are some highlights from the candid exchange:

    Marketing Strategy for Pony

    When asked about how he reached new listeners with his 2019 debut album Pony, Peck offered a playful and honest take on his approach:

    “1. Focus all your energy on making an album that YOU love; 2. Lie to record labels to get them to listen to it; 3. Convince strangers to play in your band; 4. Book your own tour by begging.”

    Credit: Instagram/@OrvillePeck

    Peck’s humor and resourcefulness reflect his determination to break into the music industry on his own terms.

    Broadway Debut in Cabaret

    Peck was also asked about his upcoming role in Cabaret, where he will take the stage as the Emcee at the Kit Kat Club. The singer confirmed that he will be performing in the production from March 31 through July 20, 2025. For fans looking to catch his Broadway performance, Peck directed them to the KitKat.Club website for tickets and more information.

    Orville Peck Insta Story #2
    Credit: Instagram/@OrvillePeck

    Fan Tattoos and the Orville Peck Log

    Known for his devoted fanbase, Peck was asked whether he still keeps track of the tattoos his fans have gotten in his honor. The singer shared a screenshot of an album titled “Tattoos,” which contained a remarkable 512 images. Peck humorously added, “Lost count a few years back,” showing how much his fans have embraced him through body art.

    Orville Peck Insta Story #3
    Credit: Instagram/@OrvillePeck

    Peck’s Gay Sexual Awakening

    When asked who was responsible for his “gay sexual awakening,” Peck revealed that it was none other than Gambit — the charming Marvel superhero and X-Men mutant. Although the singer gave the candid response, he added a “shrugging emoji” to soften the unexpected answer.

    Peck shared a comic-book/animated image of Gambit, rather than a live-action portrayal of the character, which has been played by actors like Taylor Kitsch in X-Men Origins: Wolverine (2009) and Channing Tatum in the upcoming X-Force film.

    Orville Peck Insta Story #4
    Credit: Instagram/@OrvillePeck

    Horse References in Album Titles

    Fans who have followed Peck’s career know that his album titles often feature equine references, but one fan was curious if he ever feared running out of ideas. Peck responded with a hilarious meme of a horse sitting on a front porch, humorously hinting that he’s not concerned about his creative process anytime soon.

    Orville Peck Insta Story #5
    Credit: Instagram/@OrvillePeck

    Designer Behind Orville Peck’s Outfits

    Peck’s signature style hasn’t gone unnoticed, and fans were eager to know who’s responsible for his dazzling outfits. The answer: Los Angeles-based designer Catherine Hahn. Known for her work with artists such as Post Malone, Lil Nas X, and Sierra Ferrell, Hahn has also collaborated with Peck on memorable looks, including his 2022 Out magazine cover, which referenced Dolly Parton.

    Orville Peck Insta Story #6
    Credit: Instagram/@OrvillePeck

    Does Orville Peck Still Skateboard?

    Another fan asked if Peck still skates, and though the singer posted a picture of himself skateboarding, he responded with the words, “Wrists too important.” It appears that Peck is taking a more cautious approach, considering the risks that skateboarding poses to his career as a performer.

    Orville Peck Insta Story #7
    Credit: Instagram/@OrvillePeck

    Peck’s Favorite Tree in the Forest

    When asked what type of tree he would be in a forest, Peck referenced a scene from the 1999 mockumentary Drop Dead Gorgeous, where a similar question is posed. His answer? “Dogwood.” It seems Peck enjoys embracing quirky, fun questions from fans.

    Orville Peck Insta Story #8
    Credit: Instagram/@OrvillePeck

    A Personal “Howdy” for a Fan

    In the final question of the session, a fan asked Peck to say “howdy” to their sister, Valerie Jean. In typical Peck fashion, he responded by sharing a picture of his dog with the caption, “Howdy.” It’s clear that Peck’s connection with his fans goes beyond just music.

    Fans can continue following Peck’s journey on Instagram (@orvillepeck) as he prepares for his Broadway debut in Cabaret and releases his highly anticipated album Stampede.

    Orville Peck Insta Story #9
    Credit: Instagram/@OrvillePeck
  • Orville Peck Unveils Mask and Goes Shirtless in First Cabaret Rehearsal Photos

    Orville Peck Unveils Mask and Goes Shirtless in First Cabaret Rehearsal Photos

    Orville Peck, the enigmatic country singer known for his signature mask, is gearing up for his Broadway debut in Cabaret at the August Wilson Theater this spring. The artist, who has captivated audiences with his distinct voice and unique persona, will take on the iconic role of Emcee for a 16-week run, starting this spring.

    On Tuesday, Peck shared a glimpse into his rehearsal process, offering fans a sneak peek at his preparations for the highly anticipated Broadway role. His Instagram post included a mix of images: a selfie of the singer, a photo of his rehearsal binder for Cabaret, a screenshot of an audio file, an adorable shot with his dog, and what seemed like a maskless photo taken while sitting in a makeup chair. Alongside the images, Peck teased his followers with a cryptic caption: “Lots happening [upside-down emoji].”

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Orville Peck (@orvillepeck)

    Fans are eagerly speculating whether new music is on the horizon for Peck or if the singer is hinting at an unmasked appearance in Cabaret. Of course, there’s also the burning question: can we meet Peck’s dog? While Peck didn’t provide answers to these questions, his post has certainly piqued interest as the theater world anticipates his Broadway debut.

    Peck’s casting in Cabaret was officially announced in mid-January, and the news sent waves through both the Broadway and LGBTQ+ communities. The role of Emcee, a charismatic and often provocative character at the center of the musical, is one that has been a dream role for Peck since his teenage years. In an interview with Deadline, he shared his excitement: “The Emcee has been my dream role since I was a teenager. The nature of the character allows for complete freedom of individual expression. It can be portrayed through such a vast range of emotions, perspectives, and performance styles. That kind of freedom is every actor’s dream.”

    Peck, who rose to fame as a country music artist in 2019, has roots in theater. Before his music career took off, he trained as an actor at the prestigious London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA). He also had a brief stint on the West End, appearing in Peter Pan Goes Wrong, showcasing his versatility as a performer.

    “I truly cannot believe I’m getting to make my Broadway debut in one of my favorite shows, and in probably my favorite role in all of musical theater,” Peck shared with Deadline. He reflected on his career journey, adding, “I grew up in the theater. I was a working actor and a dancer for many years before I started making music. I did the hustle, and the struggle, for a long time, trying to make things happen for myself. But it taught me so much of who I am as a performer and a person, so it feels very full circle to be making a return to it at this point in my career.”

    The excitement surrounding Peck’s Broadway debut is palpable, with fans eagerly awaiting his portrayal of the Emcee. The role is known for its complexity, charm, and daring nature, and it is often seen as a perfect fit for an artist like Peck, who blends raw emotion and creative expression in his music. For Peck, Cabaret is not only a professional milestone but also a deeply personal one, allowing him to return to the world of theater that shaped his early years.

    As rehearsals continue, questions about what fans can expect from Peck’s take on the role are growing. Will he keep his iconic mask on during performances, or will he reveal his face? Will there be surprises in store, such as new music or special performances? Only time will tell. What is clear is that Orville Peck’s Broadway debut is one of the most anticipated events of the season, and fans are eager to see how his distinctive talents translate onto the stage.

    Peck’s appearance in Cabaret is more than just a performance—it’s a culmination of years of hard work, passion, and perseverance in both the theater and music worlds. His journey to Broadway is a testament to the diverse paths artists take to reach their dreams, and his upcoming run as the Emcee promises to be an unforgettable chapter in his career. As the date draws closer, one thing is for certain: Orville Peck’s Broadway debut will be one for the history books.

    Fans can stay updated on his Broadway journey and more by following Peck on social media, where he continues to share glimpses of his preparations and the exciting steps leading up to his debut.