Growing up, my dad always said, “Yes, ma’am, no, ma’am, yes, if you please. Can I stuff the duck’s ass with the rest of the peas?” Neither of us knows the context of the phrase, but if we have peas with dinner, you know it will be said all night long. 

Pumpkin Patch is an exploration of masculinity and a love letter to my dad. Being transgender, masculinity never slotted into my life the way that worked for me. However, since coming out, I have been able to take that much-needed step back. My dad, John O’Donoghue (b.1954, Ireland), is my best representation of it. He is the embodiment of hard work, dedication, and kindness. 

My drag is based on our conversations about “old times and the price of butter.” From stories about evil fairies to his experience moving to America, his love and care are translated through my drag.

“He came from the beach of poor gobshite and Aran.

The skin of his ass was as hard as a drum

He sat by the fire while the praties were boiling

Saying, ‘Oh Mother! Oh Jesus! Will they ever be done?’”

-John O’Donoghue