by Meg Baertl Brown
Donny Avery is a man who wears many hats around Beaumont. If it is a production at Beaumont Community Players, he is there directing or acting. If it is a drag show at Kampus Korner, you may know him as Sparkle Motion. But whichever Donny you may know, you know that he is true at heart and loves supporting the arts. He was born and raised in Groves and went to PNG high school. After graduation he went to study acting with a focus in directing at Marymount Manhattan College in New York, New York.
How would you describe your style?
Honestly, I feel as though I still dress like I’m in middle school, so junior high chic? LOL. Now with that being said, I tend to go with something comfortable and usually colorful. I’m attracted to big, bright, bold colors and prints and try to fit those into my wardrobe as much as possible. I HATE wearing pants whether they be dress pants or jeans. I don’t like to cover up my legs, so I try and wear shorts or something short unless absolutely necessary. My favorite color is ORANGE! I LOVE IT! I also don’t mind wearing colors or designs that most people think “clash.” I never understood that. I’ve always worn what I want even if it isn’t “matchy-matchy.” I love a brown and black combination. The 1980’s seemed to be a time of “clashing” fashion and I think that’s why I love that time period so much. So many people scoff at the 80’s as a time for bad fashion and I can understand why in ways, but I just love it overall. Everything was big and fun!
Where are some of your favorite places to shop?
Usually, Amazon or I’ll find really cute things at Target and Ross. I also go to random websites that sell interesting things like printed t-shirts with obscure references, rompers, and fun accessories. I’m always on a budget, but usually those website stores have pretty good deals.
What are some of your memorable pieces who have worn over the years?
Oh I’ve worn some great outfits through the years. In college, we had a class dance and I remember wearing short shorts, a tight fitted orange shirt with a necktie and a sailor hat (cause the dance was on a boat). Back in 2016 when I was a debutante for PFLAG Beaumont’s Pride Coming Out Ball, I wore a suit that was fully orange. I’ve been getting into rompers over the past few years, and I love them! My “onesie” I call them.
What is your style mantra?
Wear what you want as long as you’re comfortable and happy.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
Style is your own interpretation of who you are and how you want to present yourself.
Where can we find you on a Friday/Saturday night?
Depends. On Fridays, I’m sometimes at work, sometimes I’m singing karaoke at Kampus Korner, sometimes I’m at a party, sometimes I’m in Houston dancing at Classic Numbers night, or I might be performing in a play/musical or at least watching one I’ve directed at Beaumont Community Players. On Saturdays, I might be hosting and performing in drag as the fabulous Sparkle Motion at Kampus Korner or one of the other above choices. Love game nights with friends. However, I feel lucky when I get to spend a nice, relaxing evening with my dogs Jester and Jubilee. As much as I love to go out and be social, I really enjoy my nights in to have a much-needed rest.
