The Divine Miss M in Performance

In the early 1970s, a phenomenon emerged in the world of entertainment – a flamboyant, charismatic performer who shook off conformity and defied the norms of the time. This individual was none other than Divine, a name that would become synonymous with unapologetic self-expression and the liberation of one's true self. Born Harris Glenn Milstead, Divine was a force to be reckoned with. He burst onto the scene with his unbridled energy and outrageous style, leaving a trail of curiosity in his wake. With his partner, cult film director John Waters, Divine embarked on a journey that would take him to new heights and push the boundaries of what was considered acceptable. The DVD "Art or Bust" is a testament to Divine's captivating stage presence, and it takes the viewer on a journey through three pivotal moments in his career. The program begins with his "De Tour" in Minneapolis on September 10 and 11, 1983. Recorded live at the Orpheum Theatre in Minneapolis, this segment showcases Divine's signature blend of humor, wit, and drama as he performs a series of monologues, songs, and dance numbers. During this performance, Divine tackles topics ranging from the complexities of identity to the perils of fame and the pursuit of art. With his quick wit and razor-sharp tongue, he skewers the pretensions of those around him, leaving no one untouched. From the high priests of high society to the hypocrisy of the mainstream, Divine spares no one, yet his humor is so biting and clever that he leaves the audience in stitches. The Minneapolis performance is a masterclass in comedic timing, with Divine using his sharp tongue and quick-witted banter to eviscerate the pretentious and the stuffy. At the same time, he reveals a deep vulnerability and sensitivity, exposing the inner workings of his own psyche and the insecurities that come with fame. The "De Tour" segment also showcases Divine's remarkable range as a performer. From his powerful monologues to his sassy one-liners, he effortlessly shifts gears, conveying multiple personas and emotions with ease. He moves seamlessly from the world of comedy to the realm of drama, demonstrating a profound sensitivity and depth that is all too often overlooked in the face of his outrageous stage antics. The "De Tour" in Minneapolis, however, is just one part of the "Art or Bust" program. To add further context to Divine's career, the DVD also includes footage from the Continental Baths in New York City in 1971. Recorded at a relatively early point in his career, this segment offers a fascinating glimpse into the formative years of Divine's artistic development. At the Continental Baths, a popular gay bathhouse in New York City, Divine performs a series of songs and stories, showcasing his remarkable ability to entertain and captivate an audience. This performance is a reminder that, even in the early days of his career, Divine had a magnetic stage presence that could draw in and hold the attention of even the most skeptical of audiences. The Continental Baths footage also reveals Divine's fascination with the world of drag and his own experiments with identity. As he performs, he takes on a series of personas, each one blurring the lines between reality and fantasy. This blurring of the lines is a hallmark of Divine's performances, and it allows him to push the boundaries of what is considered acceptable and challenge the dominant norms of society. The final segment of the "Art or Bust" program is a live recording of Divine's appearance on the UJA Telethon of 1973. This performance is a remarkable example of Divine's ability to transcend his own persona and connect with a wider audience. Performing in front of millions of people, he effortlessly brings his characteristic wit and humor to the show, yet at the same time reveals a deep sense of empathy and compassion. As he takes on the task of hosting the telethon, Divine proves himself to be a natural performer who can adapt to any situation and make even the most mundane tasks entertaining. He moves seamlessly from one challenge to the next, always keeping the audience entertained, engaged, and laughing. Through the three segments of the "Art or Bust" program, we see a performer who is constantly evolving and pushing the boundaries of what is possible. Divine is a true original, someone who defies categories and conventions, and who leaves an indelible mark on the cultural landscape. As a testament to his remarkable talent and artistic vision, "Art or Bust" is a must-see program that showcases one of the most fascinating and enigmatic figures in the history of popular culture.