The Directory: A Few of Our Favorites

OperatorNYC's been thinking about the Scissor Sisters since their sold-out gig last night. As they're a favorite band here at The Operator, we decided it would be a good time to revisit some of our other favorites, the entertainers and innovators that are always on speed dial -- never far from our thoughts.

Ann Magnuson -- A virtual den mother of the performance art scene, Ms. Magnuson has conquered all media without losing her unique voice. From her downtown New York days to her work in television and movies and her music career, she's remained an inspiration.

Kiki and Herb -- The awe inspiring, sheer fucking genius of this punk cabaret duo will rip you apart. "People die, ladies and gentlemen, that's all you need to know." Long live Kiki and Herb. FYI, they're playing two "secret" shows at Joe's Pub on May 2nd and 3rd. Call for tickets.

Mike Albo -- Writer/monologist/yoga enthusiast. His book The Underminer hit so close to home it was eery. You can see him naked if you buy the latest issue of Butt Magazine.

Jonathan Ames -- Never afraid to fly his tranny-chasing, sexually dysfunctional, balding, neurotic freak flag for our amusement. And he looks dapper in seersucker.

Laura Linney -- We've loved her since her embodiment of Mary Anne singleton in Armistead Maupin's Tales of the City. Her honest work in The Squid and the Whale only made us love her more.

Michael Cunningham -- We heard a (unconfirmed) story about his tenure at the Iowa Writers' Workshop. He was told his novel The Hours was shite and that he'd never be a novelist. Jokes on them. Cunnigham continues to crystallize the human experience in new and insightful ways; the beauty of his words is unparalleled. You've made us weep openly, which is really embarrassing when you're riding the subway.

Amy Sedaris -- Sister of David, a true chamelon and freak. We eagerly await the big screen adaptation of cult hit Strangers with Candy -- all of us boozers, users and losers.

David Cross -- standing up and telling it like it is. Accept no imitations.

These are just a few of the many, many talented people who've inspired us here at The Operator. We'll feature more in the months to come.