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
Although my contact with Johnathon Crawford had been reduced to facebook messages over the past few years, the memories of days gone by are as vivid as though they were yesterday.
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.
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.)
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.
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")
So, one my dear old friends has made his way to a bigger & better stage. Johnathon Crawford (my Mama) lost his battle to cancer. My first meeting of Mama was years and years ago - he was tending bar at some little dive in St. Catharines, down in a basement as I recall. It was very casual, my friend said "This is our bartender, Johnathon, say hello." (I was fresh & new back then lol) Funny how sometimes a moment like that sticks with you.
But that's the way my Mama was, a true "Presence" that stayed with you always. Several years later I ended up at Gustos Lounge, and there was a Drag Show going on. "Please welcome to the stage, Mariah !!" And WOW, what an amazing performance. I'll never forget watching Mariah do toe spins, the splits, and an impeccable lip sync to "Miss Otis Regrets".
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
Express Your Condolences, Memories of Johnathon and Thoughts about our Tribute & Vintage Video in 'Comments' section below...
30 comments:
Lovely Ken. The article you wrote in scribbles was perfect. From Gustos days to when he lived with Ginny, to trips to the Cottage, and trips to the London bars, and working with him at the Pen, I have so many great memories of Johnathon!!! What a wonderful, talented person. When I think of him now, I think of his great hugs
What a great tribute Ken...the old pics are great
Way cool [Video] Kenny. I totally remember that performance by Misha as well. LOL - sidenote - i'm pretty sure she's wearing my navy blue "michael jackson jacket" LOL And i think we spent the night before dying her hair blonde for that night. Awwwwwww memories !!"
You did a fantastic job Ken [on video], thanks for the memories. Those certainly were the days......."
"Wonderful Ken! Thank you so much for sharing this [video]."
"Wow, that was a emotional wallop. I remember Jonathan so well from those Gusto days. Such a sad loss."
"This [video] is amazing"
"OMG!!! truly awesome [video] Kenny nice job..."
so sad and so young
Seems like a "Life Time Ago" that I shared the stage and a Friendship with Johnathon Crawford, I Cherish those memories we shared! Sometimes Life takes us on different paths, but True Friendship always remains.
:(
I'll never forget dancing with Johnathon at my brother's wedding over 20 years ago!
Lovely Ken. The article you wrote in scribbles was perfect. From Gustos days to when he lived with Ginny, to trips to the Cottage, and trips to the London bars, and working with him at the Pen, I have so many great memories of Johnathon!!! What a wonderful, talented person. When I think of him now, I think of his great hugs.
Ken the pics are great, Johnathon was a very Talented Man and very special to many.
What a great tribute Ken...the old pics are great
Very nice Ken! Way too young and way too soon!!
So many memories eh? I have been up all night, searching for pix, writing the tribute, you know, doing what Kenny does to pay his respects to someone very special.
Last night we lost a dear friend. Johnathon Crawford was not only an amazing talent, but a great man. There will be a void left in so many of our lives as he touched each of us in some way. Sing with the angels Johnathon, it is your time to rest. XXO
Johnathon Crawford was a mentor to so many people in our community. His talent and voice were incomparable. He will be truly missed. I will cherish the memories I have of our laughs, our shows, our friendship. R.I.P my friend. XXO
Today we lost another truly amazing and inspirational man my friend and LGBT voice/ ambassador Johnathon Crawford. Johnathon taught me so much about making personal connections with people, loyalty, tradition and the ICS. How to take something that at first glance seems so simple and showcase its beauty and fabulousness. That heart mind and talent shines brighter than and stone or costume. RIP my friend….I will never forget you and I will never let your lessons and love be forgotten. God Bless
"wow such great vid...good to have to look at and reflect back on old times with old friend, specially those that aren't with us any longer... again great Job Ken...."
Thank you so much for sharing this [video] it brought back alot of memories and i feel a loss for a dear man
You're welcome Peter. I was having a hard time putting that video together, hard to be creative with eyes filled with tears. I did enjoy watching your dance routine "Pedro Peter" (I had to make it sound like you were authentic) some parts you have a look on your face like "OMG what am I doing??" Really were great times and sad tosee Johnathon leave us so soon.
Gil wrote: "thanks for sharing that [video] Kenny , those were good days and times, gonna miss that big lovable teddy bear."
Great video Ken! How strange, I haven’t seen Johnathon in like 1000 years, but he looks exactly like I remember him! :)
My heartfelt condolences to you and his theatre 'family'. I know how strong that bond is!
No, I did not know Johnathon...although I think I may have met him at one of our variety/drag shows. So sad, that's far too young. He had a great impact on many lives from what I've been reading...
Way cool [video] Kenny. I totally remember that performance by Misha as well. LOL - sidenote - i'm pretty sure she's wearing my navy blue "michael jackson jacket" LOL And i think we spent the night before dying her hair blonde for that night. Awwwwwww memories !!"
Very sorry to hear about Johnathon, i met him 14 years ago when i joined the barony of st catharines, he mc'd the first pageant i ever ran in, rest in peace mr sister :)"
Bravo for posting this great [video] tribute. Sadly i was not around during Gustos or when Johnathon was very active in performances on stage. I missed out....but through this post i am able to look and witness what so many others have said about this person/performer GREAT! Ken...bravo once again and thx you for letting me travel back in time to witness your fond memories. Luvs and hugs
"Johnathon gave me my 1st opportunity to perform my magic at a gay club, and although due to work and my magic performance schedule ( ie : hard to do sundays ) I have never forgot that chance, and to this day I still do at least one magical performance a yr for charity at a gay club , usually a show in assoc with the court sys, but sometimes not. His memory will live with me every and any time I take the stage, gay or not."
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