A local homeless man, known as Julio, hit the jackpot when he performed at the famous New York strip club, Sapphire 39. Typically, the club hosts popular musical acts from the ’90s on Monday nights, but this week they decided to give Julio a chance to showcase his vaudeville comedy act. Julio, who has been a familiar face on the streets for over 15 years, has always entertained passersby and received generous donations.
Owner Richie Romero, a longtime friend of Julio, attested to his talent and popularity, stating, “You know your night is great if Julio is there because he has his ears to the street. He knows what venues, what nights, and he entertains guests. Everyone knows him and gives him money to help him out.”
An Unforgettable Performance
With the support of Sapphire and Romero, Julio’s street act was brought indoors. The club even organized a photo shoot, provided him with gear and clothes, and conducted a one-on-one interview with him. Two of the club’s strippers escorted Julio onto the stage, where he used a Target basket to collect tips. He addressed the clubgoers, saying, “Put your money in the basket bitches!”
Julio’s act included jokes and a one-handed push-up contest. His most famous joke is, “Who wants to go home with a homeless guy? We’ve gotta go to your place though.” Jonas Young-Borra, the club’s creative and programming director, remarked, “He was one of our biggest draws on a Monday. We had more turn-out from New York hospitality people and regulars than we’ve seen in a long time. There wasn’t one person in the club who didn’t tip him.”
Even comedian Kevin Hart, who visited the club last summer, was impressed by Julio’s act and gave him $500 before entering the club. Young-Borra conducted an interview with Julio, a former marine, after his performance, and the club plans to release the video this week. Young-Borra described Julio as a “native New Yorker, who served in the military – and got into some sideways business, as a lot of us do, out of necessity – and now he’s one of many who need work.”
A Chance for Julio’s Future
While it remains to be seen if Julio will take his act to other clubs, Sapphire is fully supportive of him. Romero believes Julio represents the pulse of New York, stating, “Even in hard times, he’s still there entertaining people and exposing the fact that we should be more accepting.”
Anthony Ramoutar, the club’s executive VIP host, played a significant role in organizing this special night for Julio. With the success of his performance at Sapphire 39, Julio’s future as an entertainer seems promising. This unique and inspiring story showcases the talent and resilience of a homeless New Yorker who served his country and is now getting the chance he deserves.
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