Meet Ian Townsley | A.K.A. Ian Syder-Blake, director of the HTown Kings Show and owner of Houston Queer Events and Entertainment, LLC.

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ian Townsley and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ian, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
For over a decade I’ve had the privilege of working with and growing a community of performers that were unable to see themselves on a Drag stage. This allowed me to get to know many people on a personal level, many of whom I was able to help navigate their own lives by sharing my experience. Our community grew so quickly that I found myself teaching the same things over and over, which led to my Drag Boot Camp classes, which recently saw its 9th session completed with more than 15 students! Long story short, I have planned and officiated weddings, directed large group trips, and made a career as a host and show director. It was time to allow the hobby to evolve into something sustainable, that hopefully will keep growing for many years and give financial stability to myself and those that I employ.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Houston Queer Events and Entertainment was named purposefully, and with the intention of communicating who we are clearly. I wouldn’t want to work for anyone that doesn’t support the LGBTQIA+ community, and at the same time, resources for us are hard to find. This, to me, seemed to be the simplest way clients can be sure they’ll be treated with respect. Because my business has multiple facets, each with a unique purpose, it’s clear that I set out to create a “one-stop shop”. Whether you’re planning a wedding or birthday party, looking to hire a DJ or musician, or just want to hang out in public without worrying about your safety, you’ll find what you need with us. My experience with group meetups hasn’t been the best, and I wanted to create some excitement, an opportunity to experience things many aren’t comfortable doing. Camping trips, haunted house tours, rage rooms, and so much more. Just because we’re different doesn’t mean we should be confined to a circle of chairs in a clinical room talking about our troubles.
Starting a business isn’t easy for anyone, and I still have so much to do. Getting the word out there is crucial, and I’m working hard to make sure people know about all we can offer. More than just finding clients, the talent and skills of the people I work with are phenomenal! Giving people opportunities, whether it’s for fun or for work, really is at the core of what I do.

If I had to pick one thing I’d want people to know, it would be that whether you hire us for your event or attend ours, it’s worth it in more ways than one.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
The great thing about Houston is that there is such a variety of cultures, food, art, entertainment, and more! There are so many wonderful museums and theatrical options, but if I really wanted to show someone Houston I wouldn’t go to any of those.

First, breakfast would be donuts and coffee in the tunnels under downtown, watching the people hurry to their corporate jobs in suits and heels. Then, a walk through Buffalo Bayou Park before renting kayaks and going out on the water. In the evening we’d head over to the waterwall behind the Williams (but we still call it Transco) Tower and have a picnic under the water while it’s beautifully lit.

For a long visit, there would for sure be an overnight stay at Sam Houston State Park, or maybe on High Island on the beach.

Without fail, the one place everyone should go is to Pearl Bar on Washington Ave, Wednesday nights to catch the HTown Kings show! The first and only drag show in Houston directed, hosted, and primarily spotlighting AFAB entertainers!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
The list is so long, but I can try to summarize! The cast of the HTown Kings show, all of whom take equal part in the work behind the scenes at a weekly Drag show.
The Kings of Houston, comprised of all performers who started on my show’s stage and helped build the community.
The Space City Sisters, our Houston chapter of the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, who have supported us without separating us from other Drag artists.
Kofi, who gave me my first stage and taught me that I was enough.
The USofA pageantry system, where I learned so many lessons, but most of all I learned about brother and sisterhood among artists.

Website: www.htxqee.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/houstonqueercamp/ https://www.instagram.com/kingsofhoustonentertainment/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/houstonqueercampevents https://www.facebook.com/ian.syder.9/

Image Credits
Ryan Mueller, Zee Cassadine, Daniel Nolan