Yesterday was a fantastic first. Lightning in a Bottle, a California-based gathering that’s always wowed IRL (but was forced to cancel the 2020 physical iteration because of COVID), is hosting its first virtual festival this weekend and, aside from a few expected technical glitches (and awkward transitions), is proving itself a serious contender in the virtual festival space. Western-themed interactive environment Grand Artique hosted a virtual version of its annual talent show on day two (Saturday), and I got the distinct honor of being a contestant. Denver video guru and fellow musician Danny Fantastic hooked up a beautiful set, relevant visuals and mood lighting for my acoustic performance of original hydration mantra “Water is Your Friend” - complete with gargle solo. I rarely get nervous these days, but I definitely had butterflies. Turns out there were 1600 plus viewers tuned into LIB’s Twitch stream at the time. Although there were other incredible performances, including acts from Sethward, Honeycomb, Human Fountains, Star Leopard, Sootsie and more, The Grand Artique’s panel of judges crowned your favorite singing, guitar-slinging Nemo impersonator the virtual victor. As the French-accented judge Dr. Joy put it, “In Paris, there is nothing better than sex. Actually, maybe one thing: stinky cheese. I give you stinky cheese, my friend!” I could not have been more elated with the entire experience.

Image/Set/Lighting: Danny Fantastic
Costume: Premium Aquatics
Guitar: RainSong