Text: Paul Hofman
Photo: Leon Hendrickx
Video: Paradox Productions
Nickie Nicole: ‘See the best in yourself’ The first time Nickie Nicole (55) saw the Canal Parade of Pride Amsterdam, he was ‘flabbergasted’. It is etched on his retina. ‘Totally different from the New York Pride I knew.’ ‘I remember it was a sunny day. It was broadcast on television and everyone talked about it. ‘Recently I watched that boat parade again on an old videotape.’ It made a deep impression on young Nickie. “It was pure magic. For me it was one big party: singing, dancing and drinking.’
As his alter ego Nickie Nicole, the New York–born Nicholas Carter quickly builds a career. As a boy he was fascinated by drag performers growing up in Greenwich Village. ‘When I was seventeen I finally dared to try it myself.’ Nickie discovers the gay bars of New York’s nightlife and soon becomes a much‑requested drag queen.
Hearts
He was just twenty when he left America and moved to Europe. From Paris he discovered Amsterdam during a weekend visit. He fell for a city where anything seemed possible and full freedom for lhbtiq+ people prevailed. Manfred Langer, the legendary owner of the then wildly popular bar Chez Manfred and the infamous club iT, discovered him when he saw Nickie perform. He was allowed to take the stage at iT and run with it. From that first performance he stole the hearts of the audience. Shortly after he also appeared in several gay cafés on the popular Regulierdwarsstraat. A number of gay bars in the scene also gave him a platform. Names like Exit, Richter and Danscafé Havana were on the bill. The Nickie Nicole Shows became a fixture.
Ratings hit
After that Nickie performed for many years at numerous small and large festive occasions, receptions and openings — something she still does with heart and soul. In the mid‑1990s he gained national fame by taking part in the television programme De Travestie Show. It became a ratings hit. Around many office coffee machines the next day people discussed the show at length. In her busy life she even managed to open a clothing shop for travestites called Queens & Co.
In 2000 Nickie appeared as a contestant on the TV programme Big Brother VIPS. Besides performing, she later began creating digitally produced paintings which were exhibited in various locations. Life smiled on Nickie. After the turn of the century he returned to the States following a personal tragedy. A death in his family required his full attention.
Together
In New York he missed Amsterdam. Two years later Nickie decided to return and continue her career as a drag queen. As an ambassador Nickie wholeheartedly promotes the idea that ‘together means more than one’. Alone you may go faster, but together you get further. In true Amsterdam style: ‘Just keep sticking together.’
When we ask her what Pride Amsterdam means to her she doesn’t hesitate. ‘Pride embodies for me Stonewall and the pride of our community but also the victories we have won in the past, present and future. Above all pride in our loving allies, parents, teachers, neighbours, family and friends. Pride in who you are and those you love, and the freedom to express that love openly as a way of life.’
On the way
Nickie is now seen as a judge on the popular TV show Make up your mind presented by Carlo Boszhard. It has proven a resounding success. ‘This is the fourth season I’m participating.’ He receives a lot of admiration. His flamboyant presence makes a strong impression. Moreover, Nickie never holds back. ‘This is the third season I’m on. It’s fantastic!’ Nickie expresses deep concern about the rising violence against the lhbtiq+ community.
‘It’s sad and painful to have to acknowledge this. Violence is a strong wake‑up call that the journey to full acceptance is far from over. Today more people and organisations understand, respect and support us. Still, it is crucial that we unequivocally condemn and combat violence. More than ever we must create our safe space together.’ He emphasizes: ‘We are on the way, but we’re not there yet. I do have confidence that ultimately things will be alright. Everyone is different — make time for one another. We are stronger when united.’ The theme of Pride 2024, Together, is one Nickie embraces like no other. ‘Together we form one big rainbow family.’
Drag scene
‘Pride means giving a bold and colourful expression to your personality.’ During his ambassadorship I try to bring joy, fun and happiness to the audience. I am hugely inspired by the diversity of the drag scene. Proud that I can contribute to it as Nickie Nicole.’ Unequivocally, thanks to Nickie’s work drag has become a genuine art form. Her Pride motto to see the best in yourself will continue to echo during and after Pride.
Pride ambassador since 2024
