A woman is drinking from a bottle while laying down.

Tanya Hyde invokes classic TV variety shows with long-running act 


By Johnny Trlica

The television variety show may have fizzled out decades ago, but the concept of putting varying acts on the same stage on the same night has lived on via the drag show. In the early days of television shows like Ed Sullivan’s Sunday night variety hour and the Hollywood Palace presented a vaudeville style show to its audiences. Where else could you see juggling acts or high wire trapeze artists on the same stage with Bing Crosby, Milton Berle or Topo Gigio? 

A few artists hosted their own variety shows where they not only introduced a wide assortment of performers but also participated in skits, comedy routines, duets and dance numbers. Among the most popular were shows starring Carol Burnett, Andy Williams, Dean Martin, Jackie Gleason and Sonny and Cher. 

The Montrose Star Spotlight for March shines on a performer who, in another time, could have hosted one of those variety/vaudeville shows. She is as comfortable on stage singing, dancing, wearing an outrageous costume or performing a comedy sketch. We didn’t ask but, if she hasn’t already, don’t be surprised if one day she dons a tutu and walks across a high wire while juggling dildos.  

Ladies and gentleman, Tanya Hyde! 

Name: Tanya Hyde.  

Zodiac sign:  

Snake (Shé) Chinese zodiac. Among the twelve zodiac animals, the Snake is the most mysterious sign that symbolizes wisdom. These sign individuals are often seen as graceful and intricate. They are usually enduring in nature and can keep going in hard times.  

Home City: Houston is my home at present. Paradise Island in my heart.  

How long have you been doing drag/entertaining?  

I’ve been on some stage or act since before elementary school. My long hair, lady’s slacks and satin western top was a signature look in high school.  

Favorite thing about drag/entertaining?  

The hours, pay and respect from my peers. Sorry, I thought this was a pageant for a minute. Meeting people, helping up-and-coming performers, drinks and just having a good time. 

What is your favorite number/and or celebrity to perform?  

My sets can consist anywhere from classic country, Latin, comedy, gospel, R &B, soundtracks and TV personalities such as Lynda Carter and Cheryl Ladd. 

Who is your inspiration? 

’70s variety shows. There was singing, dancing, costumes, jokes, skits and just lots of fun. I hope my performance reflects and honors that tradition. 

An interesting fact:  

Duckie DeJour just pointed out that I’ve been on the Hump Day Honeys Show for over 17 years. I planned to stop at 9.  

When not on stage what do you do for fun?  

I’ve put a monthly gathering together with my apartment complex neighbors. We potluck, cookout, watch movies, catch up on our lives and we’re adding karaoke this month. If that’s not “bringing your work home with you†I don’t know what is.  

Where can we catch your act?  

Behind the dumpster after the show. Seriously, I’m a Barcode exclusive. Mark Sparks has been amazingly supportive of the three leads and Larry Guerrero, I think, is just trying to get with me. 

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