The video quality is far from perfect. It was re-recorded from a video tape by pointing my iphone at my old-school tube-style TV while playing the tape. As such, there are portions that don’t quite occupy the full screen area and the “occasional” audio issue that sounds somewhat like a fireplace crackling in the background. Please bear with it. This 16 minute vintage footage contains some very enchanting and racy performances and is Scribbles way of honouring and saying goodbye to a very special friend.
JOHNATHON CRAWFORD | JUL. 22, 1962 - NOV. 19, 2013
The Final Curtain

I first met Johnathon when I was a bartender at Gustos Lounge. As Niagara's only LGBT club, it was the place to be and for many reasons. You could come during the week to shoot pool or join in the weekly euchre tournaments, put your dancing shoes on and groove to the sounds of the weekend DJ's and probably most memorable, you could try to squeeze your way into a building filled beyond capacity to take in live plays, drag shows and fundraisers.
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CLICK PIX FOR LARGER VIEW |
Sometimes he was Johnathon Crawford, singing live or hosting a fundraiser or themed event. Other times he was Mariah - flawless in appearance - but quick to point out, despite taunting, 'Flawless' was not part of Mariah's pseudonym.
Foreign to most clubs, Gustos was also known for live stage productions. Johnathon landed a plum role in 'Murder in the Magnolias' and was make-up artist "extraordinaire" for the bar's most elaborate production 'The Rocky Horror Show' which was directed by someone named Darryl Bell (who struck an uncanny resemblance to Chris Snow.)
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CHILLIN' AT GINNY'S -CLICK PIX FOR LARGER VIEW |
Johnathon's laugh was infectious and he wore his passion for his art on his sleeve, always willing to help others master their craft.
Of course, Gustos was only one of the places Niagara would get to enjoy Mr Crawford's talents. He worked with Garden City Productions (GCP), with one of his favourite plays being Sugar Babies.
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MARIAH & DALE 'I GOT U BABE' CLICK PIX FOR LARGE VIEW |
Johnathon left Niagara several years ago where he continued to make new friends and find someone special to share life's adventures with.
In his interview with us over two decades ago, Johnathon Crawford concluded with this statement: "Don't sit in the background complaining that something should be done. Get your buns up front and do something for your community and you".
Wise words from a man who subscribed to that philosophy and who will always be remembered with great fondness and admiration.
Rest in peace Johnathon.
Love,
Kenny
Visit Scribbles Photo Album Remembering Johnathon -Click Here
Chrissy Snow Recalls Johnathon Crawford (His "Mama")


Right then and there I knew that all my secret bedroom singing to Barbra Streisand had now led to this moment. Soon after, we became friends and realized we had a common love and passion for music, the theatre and arts.
He introduced me to all his friends - Dale Betts, Virginia Marie Eckert, Ken Leavoy, my Ex, Michael, Rhonda Richards, Faron Gough and a countless slew of raggabaggers LOL.
Those were the best days of my life back then. And, as was Johnathon's nature, he Mothered us all. He introduced me to Drag, did my makeup (for a long time), dressed me, lent me his wigs and jewelry. In fact, it wasn't till a few years later at one of my annual Christmas part's in Dunnville, where he "accidentally" shaved off my eyebrow that I finally decided I needed to learn to do my own makeup. He taught me that as well.
I was lucky enough to see Mama several weeks ago, a chance visit in his hospital room. It was like old times. We were able to tell each other how much we loved each other, had big hugs, and caught up on lives. How lucky I was to be able to have that moment. I even helped him put in his eye drops - cause that's how well we blended together, like no time had passed LOL.
So to you Mama - Thank You - for letting me be a part of your wonderful life.
My thoughts and prayers go out to Dennis, and friends and family.
Chrissy Snow
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