Published August 20, 2024
A Vocal Performance Student Makes a Difference Through Drag
In many ways Toby Chernesky exemplifies the quintessential NYU student. He’s a rising junior in the Vocal Performance program at the NYU Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development. He’s also a driven, multitalented student engaged in many campus activities.
At Steinhardt Toby’s schedule is packed with experiences both inside and outside of the classroom. As a Steinhardt student leader, he takes pride in mentoring first-year students and sharing wisdom gleaned from his own journey. He also works at the Steinhardt Costume Shop—a role that complements his artistic pursuits and fuels his passion for creating costumes. What’s more, he’s a vibrant performer, dedicated leader, and creative spirit all rolled into one.
Life Is a Cabaret
Growing up in suburban New Jersey, Toby cut his teeth gigging in Italian restaurants and performing in musicals. So by the time he developed his drag persona, Toast, he was already equipped with the basics like mic technique and working a stage.
Toby’s drag journey began at NYU during his first year. While attending a drag karaoke event at the NYU LGBTQ+ Center, Toby decided to hit the stage. “I thought, ‘This is my moment. This is my time to shine,’” he shares.
A few months later, the LGBTQ+ Center sought a drag performer to cohost Drag Bingo at NYU Welcome Week alongside RuPaul’s Drag Race star Tatianna. Toby jumped at the chance to apply. “I felt like if I were going to try, that was the time,” he says. “I thought I’d just throw my hat in the ring—no expectations.”
After the LGBTQ+ Center named him Drag Bingo cohost, Toby was thrilled to perform as Toast. During the show he channeled his creative energy into an art form that blends his vocal performance talents with his flair for theatricality and costume design. “There’s nothing more magical or fulfilling than taking the experiences you’ve had and what you’ve learned to help yourself and others,” Toby shares.
Ultimately, the event was a resounding success. It showcased Toby’s ability to engage and entertain a large audience while staying true to his authentic self.
“The audience was so receptive,” Toby says. “For many of them, it was their first drag show ever. The LGBTQ+ Center was able to give me a platform I’m not necessarily sure I would’ve had otherwise.”
Thinking Ahead
So, what’s next for Toby? As he prepares for his junior year, he continues to embrace every opportunity to grow as a performer.
“Part of the reason I love the Vocal Performance major so much is because there’s no other performance program in the country like it,” Toby says. “I grew up doing musical theatre, and as a teenager, I got into contemporary music. I didn’t want to give up one or the other, and I can pursue both simultaneously at NYU. Any performing experience is a learning experience.”
Whether he’s preparing for his upcoming role as The Wolf in NYU Steinhardt’s fall production of Into the Woods, performing with musical trio MTN, or rehearsing for Steven Universe, his self-produced cabaret debuting this August at 54 Below, Toby’s passion for performance remains undiminished.
“There’s someone thinking about going to NYU, and the possibility of helping them means a lot to me. Even supporting the smallest part of their journey is significant,” Toby reflects. His commitment to helping others, whether through mentorship or performance, underscores his dedication to the NYU community.
From the costume shop to the stage, Toby’s story is one of creativity, resiliency, and boundless enthusiasm. It’s a testament to the vibrant, supportive environment at NYU that nurtures students’ passions and helps them shine—in the spotlight and beyond.
Related
A Performance Studies Major Helps and Heals LGBTQ+ Youth
Tisch student Garet Weissenborn supports LGBTQ+ youth by merging performance studies and health education.
Find Your Community: NYU’s LGBTQ+ Clubs
Discover welcoming spaces for students to connect and find a sense of community.
Quench: A Space for the NYU LGBTQ+ Community
Queer + Lunch = Quench. Come talk about the LGBTQ+ experience with people who are engaged and supportive.