Stace introduced me to the Humans of New York (HONY) Insta page a little while back and I’ve been happily reading real people’s heartwarming, funny and and often tragic stories since then.
In all that time, I’ve never been as transfixed on a tale as the most recent – the story of Stephanie Johnson, AKA Tanqueray, one of NYC’s most sought-after Burlesque dancers back in the 70’s. Tanqueray has lived a LIFE. I mean, a dedicated 32 posts on the HONY page kinda life. It’s a life that is made up of moments that are so spectacularly triumphant, smart, funny and seriously heartbreaking that you won’t believe she’s jammed it all in to her 76 years.
Tanqueray made her HONY debut in November last year with this cracker…
It’s been hard times for the lady with all the sass and smarts to survive and thrive in the city that never sleeps. Last year, Tanqueray had a fall and has been unable to walk since, confined to a wheelchair and living alone in her small apartment. HONY’s creator, Brandon Stanton, recently sat down with Tanqueray to transcribe her life story as part of a fundraiser to help this incredibly fierce lady out.
Brandon said of Tanqueray’s feature: “Stephanie is a born performer, so we were initially going to make a podcast out of it. But unfortunate circumstances have required a change in plans. Stephanie’s health has taken a bad turn, and she’s in a really tough spot.
“So I’m going to tell her story right here, right now. It’s the most ambitious storytelling I’ve ever attempted on the blog. It will unfold over the course of 32 posts. But if there’s anyone who can hold an audience for an entire week – it’s Tanqueray. As her story is shared, we will be raising money to ensure that Stephanie can live the rest of her life in comfort and dignity. Stephanie has a lot of urgent needs, so her care will be expensive. But her story is priceless. If the series adds any value to your life over the next seven days, please consider making a contribution to our fundraiser through the link in bio.” You can donate here.
TRUST ME that you will be drawn into Tanqueray’s life quick sticks. The last instalment was released today, which means you can go back to the first post and binge them all right now… it’s absolutely worth your time.
If you’re keen for more nostalgia and some seriously cool ladies, then have a listen to our latest Blast From The Pre-Corona Past pod ep below. Subscribe here.