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 bright day. It was broadcast on television and everyone talked about it. ‘Recently I even saw that boat parade 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, New York–born Nicholas Carter quickly builds a career. As a boy growing up in Greenwich Village, he was fascinated by drag performers. ‘When I was seventeen I finally put on the brave shoes myself.’ Nickie discovered the gay bars in New York’s nightlife and soon became a sought-after drag queen.
Hearts
He was just twenty when he left America and moved to Europe. From Paris he discovered Amsterdam on a weekend trip. He fell for the city where back then anything seemed possible and full freedom reigned for lhbtiq+ people. Manfred Langer, the legendary owner of the then wildly popular bar Chez Manfred and the infamous iT nightclub, 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. Several gay bars in the nightlife scene offered him a stage. Names like Exit, Richter and Danscafé Havana came up. The Nickie Nicole Shows became a household name.
Ratings hit
Afterwards Nickie performed for many years at countless small and large festive occasions, receptions and openings — something she still does with heart and soul. In the mid-nineties he gained national fame by appearing on the television programme De Travestie Show. It became a ratings hit. At many office coffee machines the next day the show was discussed at length. In her busy life she also managed to open a clothing shop for travestites called Queens & Co.
In 2000 Nickie appeared as a contestant on the television programme Big Brother VIPS. Besides performing, she later began creating digitally produced paintings, which were exhibited at various locations. Life smiled on Nickie. After the turn of the century he suffered a personal tragedy and returned to the States. 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 passionately promotes that ‘together means more than one’. Alone you may go faster, but together you go further.’ In authentic Amsterdam dialect: ‘Just keep sticking together.’
When we ask her what Pride Amsterdam means to her she doesn’t hesitate for a second. ‘Pride for me embodies Stonewall and the pride of our community, but at the same time also the victories we have achieved in the past, present and future. Especially pride in our loving allies — parents, teachers, neighbours, family and friends. Pride in who you are and in those you love, and to be able to express that love freely as a way of life.’
On the way
Nickie can now be seen as a judge on the popular television programme Make up your mind, presented by Carlo Boszhard. It has proven a resounding success. “This is the fourth season I’ve taken part.’ He receives much admiration. His flamboyant appearance makes a strong impression. Moreover, Nickie never minces his words. ‘This is the third season I’ve taken part. It’s fantastic!’ Nickie is deeply concerned about the rising violence against the lhbtiq+ community.
‘It is sad and painful to have to observe this. Violence is a strong wake-up call that the journey to full acceptance is far from over. Nowadays people and organisations increasingly understand, respect and support us. Still, it is very important that we unequivocally condemn and combat violence. More than ever we must create our safe space together.’ He emphasises: ‘We are on the way, but we are not there yet. I do have faith that in the end things will be fine. Everyone is different — take time for one another. We are stronger when united.’ The theme of Pride 2024, Together, is embraced by Nickie like no other. ‘Together we form one big rainbow family.’
Drag scene
‘Pride means you can give a bold and colourful expression to your personality.’ I do my best as ambassador to bring joy, fun and happiness to the audience. I myself am hugely inspired by the diversity of the drag scene. Proud that I can contribute to it as Nickie Nicole.’ It can be said without hesitation that thanks to Nickie’s efforts drag has become a true art form. Her Pride motto to see the best in yourself will be heard during and after Pride.
Pride ambassador since 2024
