United Court of Austin
United Court of Austin
Founded in 1994, the United Court of Austin has a rich legacy of service, community, and celebration spanning over 30 years.
The United Court of Austin, Inc. was born in 1994 as a result of many community minded individuals coming together bound by the mutual desire to help our brothers & sisters less fortunate than ourselves. The seeds to start an Empire in Austin began in 1992, sprouted in 1993, and soon withered. New life was breathed into that ominous beginning as a labor of love from all over the State of Texas when all of the existing Empires came to our rescue.
Two sets of Monarchs were put in place for Reign I to reflect the United Court - Emperors I, Colton Courville & Garry Holley and Empresses I Jackie O'Dare & DeShannon. The Reign stepped down with Masks Around the World June 17, 1995.
Reign II began with Empress I, Jose, The Widow Norton crowning Emperor Garry Holley & Empress Billie T - the first elected Monarchs of the United Court of Austin, Inc. The main goal of this Reign was community awareness, interaction and acceptance of UCA as a viable 501(c)3 vehicle for improving the quality of life for people living with HIV/AIDS or breast cancer. The UCA was awarded with the Col. Bob Collins Humanitarian Award for the year.
Reign III began in August of 1996 with the Crowning of Emperor Bobby Barnett & Empress Loni Thomas. Reign III ended with the Coronation IV A Starlight Express in August of 1997.
Reign IV began with the crowning of Emperor John Cummings & Empress Alix Courtnie. The United Court of Austin attended every Texas Coronation, receiving Best In-State Walk in both Corpus Christi and Dallas. Coronation V, A Night of Mythical Dreams & Legendary Futures, was held August 15, 1998 at the Airport Hilton.
Reign V got off to a fast start after the crowning of Emperor Bob Hemby & Empress Cecilia Martay. The monarchs attended over 25 coronations and conducted many fundraising events. In August 1999, Emperor Bob & Empress Cecilia presented Coronation VI The Greatest Show on Earth - one of the largest crowds ever at an Austin Coronation.
Reign VI began with the crowning of Emperor David Pearson & Empress Dee Dee Davis. They concentrated on one large fundraising event each month, incorporating the many talents of line members and College of Monarchs. Reign VI ended with Coronation VII, A Twisted Texas Ho-Down, raising the most money in one year within the Austin Court than ever before.
Reign VII began with the crowning of Empress Bebe Hughes and Emperor Bobby Birchmier. During this reign, the Court suffered the loss of Empress I and Co-Founder Jackie O'Dare. Her life was celebrated with a memorial service and show at Rainbow Cattle Company.
Reign VIII began in August 2001 with the crowning of Emperor Dwight Arnold & Empress Ima Hoot. The UCA received several recognitions including Brother Court to Colorado Springs, Best Production and Best Person in Theme. Reign VIII came to a close with Coronation IX, The Crystal Ball, A Frozen Fantasy.
United Court of Austin Empire residents elected the first lesbian Emperor and first African American Empress - Leigh Bray Rockhopper and Topaz. The UCA won BEST FLOAT at the Austin Pride Parade. Reign IX came to a close with Coronation X THAT'S ENTERTAINMENT: A Celebration of the Arts.
Reign X began with the crowning of Emperor Gregg Dodson and Empress GiGi LaRouge. The Monarchs traveled to a combined total of 29 Coronations, winning best production numbers in Colorado Springs, Dallas, Houston, Corpus Christi, and San Antonio. Coronation XI was presented as An Evening at the White House: A Royal Affair.
Reign XI brought about the resurrection of Chocolates for Charity, the longest ongoing project in UCA history. Over the years C4C has generated in excess of $11,000 for Austin area charities. Coronation XII A Night On Mount Olympus Where Superheroes Clash with the Gods received a standing ovation.
THE REGENCY REIGN
Visiting courtiers and dignitaries witnessed the crowning of Talor Barin as the elected Empress at the conclusion of Coronation XII held at the Red Lion Hotel on Saturday, August 13, 2005. There being no candidates for Emperor, the Board of Directors and the College of Monarchs jointly agreed to allow Empress Talor to reign as a sole Monarch for three months at which time they would address the possibility of appointing a Regent Emperor. At the Investiture XII, Empress Talor appointed Jamie Coley and Diane Benjamin to serve as her Imperial Crown Prince and Princess.Empress Talor committed the court to the weekly production of the ongoing event known as Chocolates for Charity; an event normally conducted on a monthly basis. In November, the Board of Directors decided to appoint a Regent Emperor to assist Empress Talor. After letters of interest were submitted, the Board chose past Emperor IX, Leigh Bray Rockhopper, to be installed as Regent Emperor XII during the Regent’s Investiture held at Charlie’s Club on November 26, 2005. His Majesty appointed Mel Mills as his Imperial Crown Prince to serve along side the ICP’s appointed by Empress Talor. Regent Emperor Leigh assumed responsibility for the weekly production of Chocolates for Charity which by the end of Reign XII generated in excess of $6,400.00 for local charities.In February 2006 a motion was brought to the General Membership from the Board of Directors for removal of Empress Talor. The motion carried and The Board of Directors requested Letters of Interest for a Regent Empress, resulting in Empress IX Topaz being appointed as Regent Empress XII. The new Regency Reign decided to forgo any new investitures; instead, focusing on moving the Reign forward.The theme of Coronation XIII became: IT’S ALL ABOUT THE SOUNDTRACKS, Let the Music of the Movies, BLOW OUR MINDS.Coronation XIII was held at The Woodward Hotel; which proved to be a tremendous asset in the production of Coronation. Visiting courtiers enjoyed our poolside Hospitality Suite which was solely for the use of our guests. Coronation Set Designers Emperor Bobby Barnett and Empress Dee Dee Davis received a standing ovation with the “Reveal” of the set with our stepping down Regent’s standing before their thrones at the opening of Coronation XIII. The male line member for Reign 12 was Buddy Allen and the female line member for Reign 12 was Saffire Trinity-Barin.The Regents of Reign XII were elevated to full monarch status in a recrowning ceremony during Coronation. Their Majesties shall be known as Emperor IX and XII Leigh Bray Rockhopper and Empress IX and XII Topaz.
BACK TO BASICS: THE REIGN OF FUNDAMENTALS THE ABC’S OF FUNDRAISING: ANGEL | BIANCA | COMMUNITY
At the end of Coronation XIII visiting dignitaries witnessed the crowning of Empress XIII Bianca Fairchild and Regent Emperor XIII Angel, marking a history making event for the United Court of Austin. Being there were no candidates for Emperor, the Board of Directors appointed a Regent. This was the first time in UCA history a Regent was crowned at the same time as the duly elected Monarch. At Investitures the monarchs appointed Jake Dean Stone as Imperial Crown Prince and Simone Riviera as Imperial Crown Princess.Regent Emperor Angel, Empress Bianca and all of Reign XIII were off to a fast start with several fundraisers. Keeping the momentum going of raising money for their community, with support from Charlie’s, Chain Drive and ‘Bout Time, the UCA continued with the weekly Chocolates for Charity as well as monthly cookouts at Chain Drive and several other shows and events.Angel and Bianca were very grateful and fortunate to have a very active line of succession as well as a very active College of Monarchs. Especially one monarch in particular, Empress Mona littleMore who has either produced or co-produced events that generated in excess of 7,000 dollars for the Austin community.The Monarchs represented Austin in a total of 18 coronations nationwide within the International Court System winning “Best State Walk” in both Corpus Christi and San Antonio respectively.On August 11, 2007 Angel and Bianca saw the fruits of their labor at CORONATION XIV: “An Evening at the USO — Where the Soldier Meets the Geisha: A Salute to War-time Glam.” From the beautiful dais done by Emperor Bobby Barnett and Empress DeeDee Davis to the wonderful production numbers and other entertainment, Coronation XIV was a hit with 20 visiting courts from the International Court System in attendance along with numerous representatives from our local charities. Angel and Bianca thanked their line for all their hard work and recognized Crown Prince Royale Dr. Earle Lewis as Male Line Member of the year and Crown Princess Royale Rachael St. James as Female Line Member of the Year.Angel and Bianca were inducted into the College of Monarchs. Also, Regent Emperor Angel was elevated to full Monarch status and His Majesty shall be known as Emperor XIII Angel.
THE REIGN OF FAIRYTALE BEGINNINGS AND FUTURISTIC DREAMS
Imperial Crown Prince and Princess XIII Jake Dean Stone and lifemate Simone Jewel Riviera ascended the thrones of Emperor and Empress XIV ushering in a reign of hope and adventure. Witnessed by the United Courts of Texas and the Austin community Their Majesties invested Earle Lewis and Rachael St. James as Imperial Crown Prince and Princess as well as their reign line members.Jake and Simone were tireless in their efforts to reach out to the community by encouraging area organizations to participate in joint fundraising efforts. Emperor Jake and the male line’s monthly cookouts at the Chain Drive where relations with the Central Texas boys of Leather, Lone Star Leathermen and the H.O.T. Bears grew strong; their combined efforts proved most beneficial. New relations were formed with organizations such as: Kings N Things, TGRA and OutYouth. Jake and Simone continued their outreach opening and renewing relations with Austin bars such as: Charlie’s Austin, ‘Bout Time, Rainbow Cattle Company, Rain, Chain Drive and the Cock Pit (formerly known as Dick’s De Ja Vue) a long time favorite birthday spot for Jake and Simone.Emperor Jake and Empress Simone were delighted to receive their first invitation to be Command Performers as a duet. Their Majesties were present for the historic Adornment of the Barony of Oklahoma. Their popularity on the international court coronation circuit was obvious by the presence of in and out of state courtiers at Night of the Living Dolls, A Celebration at Studio 54 headlined by the presence of Jake’s biological Dad, Tinker Downing, and Mama Jose` herself! Mama had such a good time celebrating Jake and Simone’s stepping down she extended her stay for a week as guest of Emperor Bobby Barnett and Empress DeeDee Davis.Jake and Simone continue to share their “futuristic dreams” of a better tomorrow for everyone.
Absolute Empress XV Jaycie Beringer set a goal of raising $10,000 via Chocolates for Charity - and exceeded it, setting a new standard. Coronation XVI Forever Young, A Regal Victorian Vampire's Ball attracted dignitaries from 22+ chapters including Vancouver, Toronto, San Francisco, and Las Vegas. Reign XV raised over $45,000 for local charities.
Reign XVI established the Mona littleMore Memorial Scholarship to help further higher education goals of Texas GLBT youth. Despite the tragic loss of Empress Rona's partner Mona littleMore, Reign XVI raised over $40,000 to help the Austin community.
THE RENAISSANCE REIGN: THE REIGN FO HOPE, FAITH AND DREAMS
At the end of Coronation XVII, the ICS and the Austin Community witnessed the crowning of Empress XVII Bianca Fairchild and Regent Emperor XVII Bobby Barnett. At Investitures, their Majesties named Carlotta Silkstone and Shayne James as Imperial Crown Princess and Imperial Crown Prince. The reign was off to a fast start with a cabaret show at El Sol y La Luna. There were several monthly big cabaret shows along with numerous themed shows and the reign also kept up with the tradition of weekly Chocolates for Charities. Their Majesties traveled throughout Texas and several out of state coronations including Oklahoma, Modesto, Nebraska and Las Vegas. The year ended with a bang with Coronation XVIII – An Evening at the Cabaret- Welcome to a Burlesque – A Black Tie Affair. The ballroom was set as an elaborate cabaret and the Dias was set as a stage showcasing hot talent from The Capitol City Showgirls performing the opening number with the UCA membership and several entertainers performing illusions of Cher, Diana Ross and Dolly Parton. Both Majesties returned to the College of Monarchs and were inducted as Empress XIII & XVII Bianca Fairchild and Emperor III & XVII Bobby Barnett.
THE REIGN OF GROWTH, HOPE & CHARITY
Once back on our feet and ready to go again, five members of the originWith no qualified candidates available to run for the office of Emperor and Empress, Emperor VII, Bobby Birchmier and Empress VI, Dee Dee Davis volunteered to take the lead and reign as the Regent Monarchs for Reign XVIII. During Investiture, Anastasia Fabre Davis was bestowed the title of Imperial Crown Princess. Their Majesties appointed Emperor Eric Beringer as King Father and Empress Jaycie Beringer as Queen Mother. Reign XVIII started with many hurdles. Two of our primary performance venues had recently closed and we desperately sought to find new locations to conduct the fundraising events. Regent Emperor and Empress XVIII appointed ICP Anastasia Fabre Davis and Clay Davis as Coronation XIX Coordinators who produced an outstanding event at the Airport Hilton Hotel. Empress Dee Dee Davis and ICP Anastasia Fabre Davis created and constructed a set based upon the theme with portraits of the Glee characters and giant pompoms and mega phones. The opening production number featured the United Court of Austin performing to Lady GaGa’s Born this Way and was greeted with a large applause from the audience at the beginning of Coronation XIX. The Empire of the Royal Sovereign and Imperial Court of the Single Star (Houston) was awarded Best Court Production with Anastasia Fabre Davis being recognized as Reign XVIII Outstanding Female Line Member and DP Throats as Outstanding Male Line Member.
THE REIGN X-PANSION, INNOVATION, AND X-RATED SHOTS
Reign XIX began in August 2012 with the crowning of three time elected Monarch,
Emperor Chad Fairchild, and first time elected Monarch, Empress Kari Hardwood.
Reign XIX faced many hurdles and difficulties as one bar after another closed their
doors during the year. The line members, COM and the monarch were very busy
throughout the year finding venues in which to hold our events. Reign XIX brought a
unity to the community that had long been missing. Through the production of shows
and Chocolates for Charity, Reign XIX raised much needed money for Project
Transitions, Wrighthouse Wellness Center and the community. The visibility of the
UCA was bolstered within the State of Texas and throughout the International Court
System by attending many various Coronations and events to help out other courts in
the system. Both monarchs traveled to out of state events including Denver, San
Francisco, Nebraska, and Oklahoma, not to mention all over the state of Texas to events
for the United Courts of Texas. Emperor Chad and Empress Kari were both very visible
by producing and performing in numerous shows throughout the year.
During Reign XIX, the line members worked extremely hard to make the year the best it
could be despite the set-backs it faced. Reign XIX came to a close with Coronation XX,
“Let’s Get Wicked! A Stop off on Broadway on the Way Back to Oz.” With
representation from all over the country attending, Coronation XX was an event enjoyed
by all! With Broadway inspired table decorations and a Wizard of Oz backdrop, it was
an affair fit for a king...or wizard. Emperor Chad and Empress Kari thanked the line
members for their dedication to their community and named JJ Walsh as Best Male line
member of the year; and Pannica Tack as Best Female line member of the year. The
proceeds from Coronation XX were distributed to two beneficiaries: Project Transitions
and The Wright House Wellness Center.
REMEMBERING OUR PAST TO REUNITE AND REBUILD. TURNING OUR DREAMS AND GOALS INTO A REALITY
Reign XX began in August 2013 with the crowning of Empress Anastasia Fabre Davis, who reigned as a sole Monarch. Empress Anastasia bestowed the title of Imperial Crown Prince to Hartdeaux Tack and the title of Imperial Crown Princess to Pannica Tack. Reign XX continued the fundraising efforts of the previous 19 years by producing stellar shows, chocolates for charity events and working with community partners such as The Wright House Wellness Center, Project Transitions, and OutYouth. On August 8, 2014, The United Court of Austin put on Coronation XXI–A Night of Hunger Games in the Capitol’s Imperial Garden, at the Hilton Airport Austin. During Coronation, the College of Monarchs welcomed Empress Anastasia into the College and was named Absolute Empress Anastasia Fabre Davis; as she had successfully completed her Reign as a sole Monarch. Also, during Coronation festivities, ICP Hartdeaux Tack was named Best Male Line Member of the Year, ICP Pannica Tack was named Best Female Line Member of the Year.
Reign XXI began with the election and crowning of Emperor Hardeaux Tack and the unanimous election and crowning of Empress Pannica Tack, the youngest elected Empress of Austin at 27 years old. In keeping with the traditions of excellence of The United Court of Austin, Reign XXI set out to expand the membership and expand the venues in which to conduct fundraisers. We were very fortunate to have the support of many of the local bar establishments: ‘Bout Time II, Oil Can Harry’s, Rain on 4th, Iron Bear, Haven, Chain Drive, and Highland Lounge; which allowed us the opportunity to fundraise and further our goals of helping our local community; and representing the International Court System. Additionally, Reign XXI worked with local businesses like Skivvies, Alamo Drafthouse and multiple restaurants to expand the visibility and community outreach of the United Court of Austin. The Monarchs traveled the International Court System Circuit to a combined total of 13 Coronations. On August 8, 2015, Emperor Hardeaux and Empress Pannica presented “Coronation XXII – Haute Couture: A Fashion Forward Affair.” The backdrop of the ballroom was a simple black backdrop with elegant crystal chandelier lighting, to highlight the couture presented by their Majesties and their guests. The Coronation was attended at capacity; as Courts from around the Country; as well as many local business and organizations were represented. Hardeaux and Pannica thanked the line members for their dedication to their community and named Evan Inell as Best Male line member of the year; and Jaydis Codean as Best Female line member of the year. The proceeds from Coronation XXII were distributed to two beneficiaries: Project Transitions and The Wright House Wellness Center. Reign XXI increased funds raised by over 30% over the previous Reign and more than doubled membership.
began in August 2015 with the crowning of Emperor Ashton B. Stone and Empress Anise Monroe. The Monarchs worked hard to build their line of succession and travel the court circuit raising funds for numerous charities. Emperor Ashton appointed the title of Imperial Crown Prince to Tommy Arbizu. In May 2016, Empress Anise resigned from the Court and relinquished all titles bestowed. Emperor Ashton and The United Court of Austin moved forward to produce Coronation 23: A Night of Prohibition at the Swingin’ Speakeasy on August 9, 2016. Emperor Ashton named Best Male Line Member for Reign 22 to Timothy Rollin Stone and Best Female Line Member for Reign 22 to Jaydis Codean.
THE REIGN OF UNITY, BEAUTY AND LOVE
Reign XIII began in August 2016 with the crowning of the 3rd sole monarch, the twenty
second elected Empress, Jaydis Codean. The line members, COM and the monarch were
very busy throughout the year. Reign XXIII brought unity and passion to the
community. Producing shows, underwear auctions, and Chocolates for Charity. Reign
XXIII raised much needed money for Project Transitions, Wrighthouse Wellness Center
and Out Youth. The UCA was promoted in the Austin Pride Parade with two floats. We
raised our visibility within the State of Texas and throughout the International Court
System by attending many Coronations and events. Jaydis traveled out of state events
including Las Vegas, San Francisco and Oklahoma, not to mention all over the state to
events for the UCT! Reign XXIII also had representation in New Mexico and Phoenix for
their coronations. Empress Jaydis was very visible by producing several events and
performing in most of the UCA shows. She was also the driving force behind the UCA
producing shows at Bout Time 2.
During Reign XXIII, the line members worked tirelessly to make the year the best it
could be! Reign XXIII brought out some great additions to the UCA. Reign XXIII came
to a close with Coronation XXIV, “A Masquerade at the Moulin Rouge!.” The line
members took on making the center pieces for the tables and a beautiful backdrop for
HMRSIM Jaydis. Two members personally took on hospitality and presented the UCA
and all of our guests with a full French menu! The night was full of laughs, tears, love
and acceptance. HMRSIM Jaydis’ parents were in attendance and even escorted her into
the ball room for the final set. The entertainment for coronation XXVI was phenomenal!
Performers from Dallas, San Antonio and Las Vegas all wowed the crowd, not to
mention the fabulous opening production number from the UCA! Jaydis and the UCA
were very glad to have such an amazing attendance for coronation XXVI! Jaydis, as per
our ByLaws, was able to be re crowned as Absolute Empress XXIII! Reigning as a sole
monarch is very tough and Jaydis reigned with dignity, respect and passion for the UCA.
The 24 Karat Gold Reign of Glamour and Glitter, Fashion and Fame Emperor and Empress XIV Jake Dean Stone and Simone Jewel Riviera ascended to the throne of Regent Emperor and Regent Empress XXIV. Now married in the real world, they Reigned as Regent Emperor Jake Riviera-St. Stone and Regent Empress Simone Riviera-St. Stone. As with most Regents, they came answering the call during a time of need for the court, ushering in a resurgence of focus on the needs of the local Austin community and the needs of the United Court of Austin. Witnessed by the United Courts of Texas, and the Austin community, their Majesty’s invested Timothy Rollin’ Stone and Anita Nother as Imperial Crown Prince and Princess as well as their reign line members. Jake and Simone were tireless in their efforts to reach out to the community by encouraging area organizations to participate in joint fundraising efforts. Simone’s annual underwear and swimsuit auction, held at the Iron Bear, renewed relationships with Austin’s TGRA chapter and their combined efforts prove to be most beneficial. Jake and Simone continued their outreach opening and renewing relationships with Austin bars such as OCH, ‘Bout Time 2, Rain on 4th, the Iron Bear and the new Sellers Underground as well as Stonewall Warehouse in San Marcus, Texas. As this was also their Majesty‘s 10 year anniversary to Reign XIV, they enjoyed renewed relationships with those they had reigned with 10 years previously and their popularity on the international court coronation circuit was obvious. The presence of in and out of state courtiers at Coronation 25 - The Silver Jubilee of Glamor and Glitter, Fashion and Fame, The Truly Outrageous Music Awards, Welcome back to the 80's! Their step-down was headlined by the presence of Simone’s biological mother Rose Johnson and sister Candy Hawkins. Also in attendance was Jake’s cousin Dave Downing who also attended their step-down 10 years earlier. Renewing relationships within the Austin community and mentoring the membership of the United Court of Austin was a proud endeavor for Jake and Simone. And performing as Jem and Rio from Jem and the Holograms (a favorite cartoon from their childhood) was simply a dream come true for them both.
Reign XXV began with Emperor Timothy Rollin' Stone & Empress Hexa Dulce. This reign focused on respecting the past while embracing the community.
Absolute Empress Anita Nother became the longest reigning monarch in Austin history, navigating COVID-19 by pivoting to virtual shows and auctions. When the world reopened in 2021, UCA set a record fundraising amount of $118,000 - the most ever raised in a single reign.
Reign XXVII began with Emperor Evan Inell & Empress Tasha Simmone Starr. This reign embodied PEACE principles.
Reign XXVIII made history with the crowning of the first Emprex in Texas, Ffire Stone, alongside Empress Talor Brooks-Stone. They raised over $110,000 for charitable organizations and traveled to over 14 coronations. Coronation XXIX A Night at Cinderella's Castle set a record with 36 court chapters represented. Reign 28 raised over $68,000.
Reign XXIX began with Emperor Pup Sora & Empress Ima Hoot. This reign focused on building hope and overcoming darkness.
Reign XXX began with Emperor Todd Garrett & Empress Mama Bunni. This reign celebrated 30 years of UCA legacy.
Reign XXXI is led by Reigning Empress Brianna St. James. This reign looks toward new horizons for the organization.
Ticket submitted!
IT will be in touch soon.