“America’s Got Talent” 2010 finalist John Quale will bring his extravagant style to Gainesville today.
Quale, known on stage as Prince Poppycock, will perform at 8 p.m. today at the Hippodrome State Theatre.
Tickets for the show are $45 for general admission and $85 for VIP admission, including a meet and greet with Prince Poppycock after the show.
He has been deemed “the male Lady Gaga” by “America’s Got Talent” judge Sharon Osbourne. Prince Poppycock sings and performs opera in a style his fans say is all his own.
Terry Baxter, a 65-year-old Gainesville resident, has been to six of Prince Poppycock’s shows, and she says each one is different.
His onstage outfits range from skin-tight with white, curled wigs to circus-inspired with a large, ruffled collar.
“When he’s made up and in his costumes, he’s like a giant porcelain doll,” Baxter said.
Paul Flagg, a 20-year-old public relations senior, said he finds Quale’s passion inspiring.
“He’s really unique, and I think that’s something Gainesville can appreciate,” Flagg said. “I love his over-the-top personality, and I definitely think he’s going to put on a good show.”
Since Poppycock’s participation in “America’s Got Talent,” he has performed at nightclubs and events across the U.S., as well as international venues such as the Bahamas.
Hippodrome Director of Public Programs Lynda Pasteur said on Wednesday that tickets for the show were almost sold out.
Ricky Carter, a 21-year-old English senior, said he is excited that Prince Poppycock will be coming to Gainesville.
“Gainesville is very accepting and very diverse, so I think it’s the perfect place for him to come to perform,” Carter said.
Baxter said Prince Poppycock appeals to a wide variety of people because of his versatility.
“He is tremendously talented,” she said. “ I think people appreciate the artistry and creativity that he brings. He just connects with his audience.”
