Impersonators
Brian B. 38; actor, singer, dancer, karaoke MC/DJ, celebrity impersonator; Long Island City, Queens
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“Back when I was working as John Travolta at Polly Esther’s, I’d get phone numbers every night. Some women just wanted to ‘kiss Travolta,’ and they would enjoy reliving dialogue from Grease or Saturday Night Fever. Like any good impersonator, I love transporting my audience to a special time or place in pop culture. But when I’m out of costume, please call me Brian.”
Where to find ’em…
Private parties …though you’re probably not invited. “I’ve got a Brad and Angelina flying in for a bar mitzvah in March,” says talent booker Elaine “Marilyn Monroe” Chez. N.B.: You’re unlikely to find a costumed cluster like the one in Mister Lonely.
B.B. King Blues Club & Grill That said, this venue regularly books impersonators and mirror-image cover bands. Coming up: Strawberry Fields (the Beatles) on Sunday 15 and Ring of Fire (Johnny Cash) on February 19. 237 W 42nd St between Seventh and Eighth Aves (212-997-4144, bbkingblues.com)
The Blue Room Poster dude Brian B. hosts a karaoke night on Tuesdays, and says he’s attempting to attract his look-alike buddies; they generally stay connected via MySpace. Says Brian, “I’ve gotten many friend requests from women who seem to like Travolta, or impersonators in general. Half the time I decline, but if they write a nice note or they’re really cute, I might accept.” 1140 Second Ave at 60th St (212-688-4344, myspace.com/blueroomkaraoke)
Singing telegrams Of course, you’re guaranteed a tête-à-tête with an impersonator when you hire one. Prices start at $175; phonegrams start at $25. Big Apple Singing Telegrams (212-260-2229, singingtelegramsnyc.com)