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the "official" dish by Rip & Marsha Naquin-Delain Email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com
Where The Bears Are Actor George Unda Sets Sights on Mobile’s Upcoming Bleather 5: “The Hunt” Mobile, Alabama - George Unda has known he was a bear. But he didn’t have any idea he was about to become a bear seen in the woods all across America and the internet. The 30 year old Californian now has a starring role in season two of the internet “bear” comedy sensation, Where The Bears Are. Unda is about to be this year’s special guest for Bleather 5, Mobile, Alabama’s annual Bear/Leather/Men celebration, set for July 26-28 in the Port City. His hometown is San Bernardino, just southeast of L.A. in Southern California, and he has a sister (who has a very hot and talented brother.) Ask Unda if he’s “hooked up” and he’ll simply say “I’m not single.” He met his hunky and bearish man while filming episodes of Where The Bears Are. Unda was asked to audition for his role during an actual filming of an episode of season two. Why not, he thought. He’d be lucky to get a minor role. Unda was asked two read for three different roles, but captured the part of Detective Marcus Martinez after his second audition. “The whole idea was fresh,” says Unda. “I think it shows a good example of the L.A. Bear scene. The show also shows guys around the country what Los Angeles is like and what our bears are like.” Also appealing to Unda was the project’s grass root support, mostly donations of dollars from those who enjoy the show. “I believe it is groundbreaking,” he says, “and I can’t believe a network like Logo hasn’t picked up on it yet. Bears are a huge community. We show a good element of gay men outside the Hollywood cookie cutter images. Unda believes the bear community is leading the charge to break the stereotypical image of gay men. “I’m flattered to be part of the movement,” he says. The weekend of July 26-28, 30 year old Unda brings his bearish self to Mobile, Alabama. He’ll be the invited guest for Mobile Bleather Weekend 5, the fifth summer get together of bears, leathermen and, well, MEN on the Gulf Coast. It’s new territory for the man from San Bernardino. Among many “requirements,” Mr.Under will assist with the annual Mr. Gulf Coast Bear Contest. “The South is kind of foreign to me,” says Unda. “I did spend the night in Mobile once. I was in a hotel along I-10, but only slept through the night. To me, the South is another country all to itself. What I’ve seen tells me everybody is
extremely friendly and extremely accommodating.” As far as his anticipation of Mobile Bleather Weekend? Unda seems perfectly willing to adapt to the dual bear/leather mashup. “I plan to bring a few harnesses,” he promises. As we say in the “extremely accommodating” South: “Well bless your heart!” Find out more about Mobile Bleather Weekend, July 26-28 in Mobile, Alabama by visiting their website: www.mobilebleatherweekend.com. You can see actor George Unda in action in the second season of the web comedy “Where The Bears Are” at www.wherethebearsare.tv.
26th Gay Appreciation Awards Gala July 27, 8pm @ Oz New Orleans All roads lead to Oz New Orleans on Saturday, July 27th for the 26th annual Gay Appreciation Awards (GAA) Gala. It will be an exciting evening as Ambush Mag voters find out their winners in the various award categories. Scheduled from 8-10pm, Oz is located at 800 Bourbon Street. Door admission is $10. Mina Hernandez, a leader in the LGBT community for many years, will receive the coveted 26th Lifetime Achievement Award chosen unanimously by the GAA Board of Directors culminating the festivities. The dynamic team of board members Lisa Beaumann and Teryl-Lynn Foxx will once again emcee the affair. Returning Entertainer of the Year Monique Michaels, as well as all Top 5 Show Bar of the Year Finalists (doing production numbers): Bourbon Pub & Parade, Golden Lantern, JohnPaul's, Michael’s On The Park, and Oz; have been invited to showcase their talents. The 26th annual Gay Appreciation Awards voting on-line June 11-17 brought an array of Top 5 Finalists with many first time finalists, with one of those being the winner. Top 5 Finalists (voted by the Gulf South readership of Ambush Mag) include:
GAA Winners/Pre-Southern Decadence issue out Aug. 6th DEADLINE: Tues., July 30th
inside
42nd southern decadence 6 obituary/elwood john richardson 10 moments in gay new orleans history 12 spotlight feature/southern decadence 12 snap paparazzi/metairie, nola, slidell 14 snap paparazzi/metairie, nola, slidell 16 mobile paparazzi 18 5th bleather weekend/mobile 19 a community within communities 20 commentary 20
26th gay appreciation awards pensacola paparazzi travel paparazzi/pensacola ambush paparazzi/new orleans classifieds under the gaydar trodding the boards reVIEW ambush paparazzi/new orleans 30th halloween in new orleans
Gulf South Entertainment/Travel Guide Since 1982 828-A Bourbon St. • New Orleans, LA 70116-3137 • 504.522.8049 marsha@ripandmarsha.com
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Mina Hernandez 26th Lifetime Achievement Award (Photo by Larry Graham)
THE OFFICIAL MAG
Facebook.COM/AmbushMag Gulf South Entertainment/Travel Guide Since 1982 • Louisiana-Florida Official Gay Easter Parade Guide Official Gay Mardi Gras Guide Official Gay New Orleans Guide Official Southern Decadence Guide OFFICE/SHIPPING ADDRESS: 828-A Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116-3137 USA OFFICE HOURS: 10am-3pm Monday-Friday [Except Holidays] Email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com PHONE: 1.504.522.8049 ANNUAL READERSHIP OVER 1 MILLION: 260,000+ in print/780,000+ On-line CIRCULATION: Alabama-Mobile Florida - Pensacola Louisiana - Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Lake Charles, Metairie, New Orleans, Slidell Mississippi - Bay St. Louis, Biloxi Texas - Houston
STAFF: PUBLISHER/EDITOR R. Rip Naquin-Delain, New Orleans PRODUCTION DIRECTOR M. Marsha Naquin-Delain, New Orleans GULF SOUTH/NEW ORLEANS AD SALES Rip Naquin-Delain • 504.522.8049 NEW ORLEANS AD SALES Paul Melancon 504.357.8440 THEATRE/PERFORMING ARTS CRITIC Brian Sands AD REPS/JOURNALISTS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Blanche-Alabama Frankie Fierce, Charles Jenkins, Tony Leggio, Frank Perez, Arthur Severio, Rev. Bill Terry-New Orleans Bob Brunson, MIss Cie & John, Leon WeekleyMobile, AL Lauren Mitchell-Pensacola, FL National Advertising Rep: Rivendell Media 212.242.6863 Ambush Mag is published on alternate Tuesdays of each month by Ambush, Inc., R. Rip NaquinDelain, President. Advertising, Copy & Photo DEADLINE is alternate Tuesdays, 4pm, prior to publication week, accepted via e-mail only: marsha@ripandmarsha.com, except for special holidays. The Publisher assumes no responsibility for the claims of advertisers and has the right to reject any advertising. The inclusion of an individual's name or photograph in this publication implies nothing about that individual's sexual orientation. Letters, stories, etc., appearing herein are not necessarily the opinion of the Publisher or Staff of AMBUSH Mag. Subscription rate is $45 for 1/2 Year; $75 for 1 year. Sample Copy is $3 First Class Mail. ©1982-2013, AMBUSH, INC.,ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. NOTHING HEREIN MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION OF THE PUBLISHER INCLUDINGAD LAYOUTS, MAPS and PHOTOS. AMgrant - AMbush Advertising Grant Donation
Circuit Party/Event of the Year: Gay Easter Parade, GEP Purple Party, Halloween, Oz White Party, Southern Decadence Hair Salon of the Year: Arthur’s, Bobby Blue, Head Quarters, Salon D'Malta, Spa Atlantis Gay Mardi Gras Ball of the Year: Krewe of Amon-Ra, Krewe of Armeinius, Krewe of Petronius, Lords of Leather, Mystic Krewe of Satyricon Neighborhood Bar of the Year: 4 Seasons-Metairie, Cafe Lafitte in Exile, Golden Lantern, Good Friends Bar, Michael’s On The Park Buzzy Fanning AIDS Award: Belle Reve, Toby Lefort, Gay Easter Parade, NO/AIDS Task Force, Project [continued on 8]
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the "official" dish ...from 4 Lazarus Bitch of the Year: Tiffany Alexander, Electra City, Gia GiaVanni, Princesse Stephaney, Persana Shoulders Show Bar of the Year: Bourbon Pub & Parade, Golden Lantern, JohnPaul's, Michael’s On The Park, Oz Donnie Jay Performing Arts Award: Big Easy Sisters, La Familia Variety Show, New Orleans Gay Men’s Chorus, Running With Scissors, Standing On Ceremony Restaurant/Deli/Coffee House of the Year: Clover Grill, Eat, Louisiana Pizza Kitchen Uptown, Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, Verti Mart Dance Club of the Year: Bourbon Pub Parade, Club LAX/Metairie, JohnPaul’s, Michael’s On The Park, Oz Bartender of the Year: Will “Wilhemina” Bennet/Golden Lantern, Matthew Birkhoff/Bourbon Pub & Parade, Chuck Hinkley/4 SeasonsMetairie, Earl Johnson/Oz, Jeff Palmquist/Cafe Lafitte in Exile
DJ of the Year: Jason Emrick/ Golden Lantern, Dominick Kolb/Cafe Lafitte in Exile, Eddie Mitchell, Tim Pflueger/Oz, Jonathan “JRB” Reed/Oz Leather Bar of the Year: Phoenix, Rawhide 2010 Cheridon Comedy Award: Klorocks Bleachman, Big Momma Lavouge, Princesse Stephaney, Persana Shoulders, Tittie Toulouse Fly Fashion Glamour Award: Dusty Debris, Dominique DeLorean, Aubrey Synclaire, Monica Synclaire-Kennedy, Opal Wiley GLBT Business of the Year: Bourbon Pride, Mary’s Ace Hardware, Panda Bear, Rab Dab Clothing & Gifts, Second Skin Leather Leather Person of the Year: Ed Azemas, Bill Naquin, Pat Johnson, Toby Lefort, Gary Vandeventer Transgender of the Year: Regina Adams, Jasmine Essex, Stephanie Lee, Rikki Redd, Chi-Chi Rodriquez Lesbian of the Year: Misti Ates,
Marty Curtin, Mina Hernandez, Pat McArdle, Hannah Napier Gay Man of the Year: Tommy Elias, Bradley Latham, Toby Lefort, Tony Leggio, Bill Miller Marcy Marcell Entertainer of the Year: Dusty Debris, Big Momma Lavouge, Monique Michaels, Johnny Passion, Aubrey Synclaire The Marsha Delain Award of Excellence: The Drag Ambassador Award is presented by Marsha Naquin-Delain. The Board of Directors includes Lisa Beaumann, Teryl-Lynn Foxx, and Rip and Marsha Naquin-Delain. Sponsored by Ambush Mag, the awards thanks those in the Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Community who are often not recognized for the outstanding services and efforts they perform. These individuals and businesses have made the LGBT Community into the viable, successful and powerful community it is today. Visit www.AmbushMag.COM/GAA for additional information.
Avita Drugs Pharmacy to Host First World Hepatitis Day Event in Louisiana July 28 In an effort to help break a Guinness World Record, Avita Drugs Pharmacy is partnering with the World Hepatitis Alliance to host the first World Hepatitis Day event in Louisiana. The theme for this year’s World Hepatitis Campaign is “SEE NO EVIL, HEAR NO EVIL, SPEAK NO EVIL.” Avita Drugs Pharmacy will be the first organization in Louisiana to contribute to the world record. It is set for Sunday, July 28th, 10am – 12 noon at New Orleans City Park: Reunion Shelter, 4 Friedrichs Avenue in New Orleans. The existing 2012 Guinness World Record for World Hepatitis Day drew out over 12,000 people around the world who performed the Three Wise Monkey ‘See No Evil, Hear No Evil, Speak No Evil’ actions within 24 hours of one another. The Monkeys that surround the campaign symbolize the message that Hepatitis is an issue that needs more recognition around the world with the goal to create a call to action for change. Join Avita Drugs Pharmacy on World Hepatitis Day to help break the Guinness World Record! Visit Avita Drugs’ Facebook page to register, and simply “LIKE” and “SHARE” the event to be entered to win an iPad Mini! All event attendees will also be entered in a raffle to win an iPad! Attendees can also register at www.avitapharmacy.com or call the Avita Drugs hotline number 1.888.AVITARX. Hepatitis currently affects over 500 million people worldwide, most of whom are unaware they even have the disease. In Louisiana, over 80,000 people are infected with Hepatitis C, resulting
in roughly 120 deaths per year. Support Avita Drugs Pharmacy and World Hepatitis Day and help us break the world record and put Louisiana on the map!
13th Annual Satchmo SummerFest brings 3 Full Days of Fest The premier American Jazz Festival dedicated to the life, legacy, and music of New Orleans’ native son, Louis “Satchmo” Armstrong will take place August 2-4 at the Louisiana State Museum’s Old U.S. Mint. This year, the 3-day celebration is thrilled to welcome its first ever title sponsor – Chevron. Satchmo SummerFest will feature even more performances from New Orleans’ most talented traditional and contemporary jazz, and brass band musicians. Festival-goers will sample cuisine from local restaurants, attend fascinating Satchmo Seminars about New Orleans music and Louis Armstrong, now with extended hours. Visitors can also enjoy the new Fats Domino exhibit, as well as the ‘Preservation Hall at 50’ exhibit, located on the second floor of the Mint. An Opening Reception will kick off Satchmo SummerFest, Thursday, August 1st at the Hotel Monteleone and reception tickets can be purchased at www.fqfi.org or by calling the French Quarter Festivals, Inc. office at 504.522.5730. This year’s Keynote Conversation, will be presented by renowned musician, composer, conductor and arranger Wycliffe Gordon, named 2013 “Trombonist of the Year” by the Jazz Journalists Association. The Keynote Conversation will take place following the reception and is free and open to the public. Reservations are required for both events. Satchmo SummerFest 2013 Artists include Allen Toussaint, Ellis Marsalis, Preservation Hall Brass Band, Wycliffe Gordon, Connie Jones and Tim Laughlin, Don Vappie & The Creole Jazz Serenaders, The Dukes of Dixieland, Charmaine Neville, John Boutte, James Andrews, Treme Brass Band, Hot Club of New Orleans, Lars Edegran’s Ragtime Orchestra featuring Lionel Ferbos, Meschiya Lake and the Little Big Horns, The Uptown Jazz Orchestra, Yoshio Toyama & The Dixie Saints, New Birth Brass Band, Kid Merv and All That Jazz, Orleans Brass
Band, Kermit Ruffins and the Barbecue Swingers, Jeremy Davenport, Sharon Martin, The New Orleans Jazz Vipers, Topsy Chapman and Solid Harmony, Wendell Brunious, Carl LeBlanc, Original Pinettes Brass Band, Leroy Jones and New Orleans’ Finest, and many more. Between musical sets, dancers of all levels can enjoy free lessons from New Orleans’ best dance teachers at the Cornet Chop Suey Stage each day of the festival. Dance lessons are free and open to the public and are taught and sponsored by NOLA Jitterbugs. Throughout the day on Saturday and Sunday, children and parents can relax in air-conditioning on the second floor of the Louisiana State Museum’s Old U.S. Mint and enjoy an array of educational, entertaining family activi[continued on 10]
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obituary
Elwood John Richardson It was with a heavy heart that Stewart P. Butler, local activist and senior member of Elwood’s large, extended family was informed of the departure from this life of long-time French Quarter resident, artist, model, Elwood Richardson on July 1, 2013. Over a year ago, Elwood left New Orleans to reside in a Texas nursing home to be closer to his two brothers. Elwood’s remains have been sent for use to LSU Medical School, Shreveport and will later be cremated. Elwood leaves behind many who cherish fond and loving memories of this talented, caring man. Announcements of a memorial service will be made afterwards. Condolences may be sent to his brothers, Rodney, 12157 US Hwy 71, Fouke, AR 71837; and Warren, Sunny Acres Nursing Home, 12250 FM1840, DeKalb, TX 75559.
the "official" dish ...from 8 ties, movies, and exhibits. The Satchmo for Kids’ area features a variety of activities including a Satchmo collage project, red beans and rice maracamaking, coconut decorating with the Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club’s Junior Zulus, the Jazz National Historic Park’s Junior Rangers program, a second-line umbrella creation station to get kids ready for the Satchmo for Kids’ second line parades on Saturday and Sunday of the festival. While inside, visitors can also enjoy the Louisiana State Museum’s exhibits, including the debut of a Fats
Domino piano which was flooded in Hurricane Katrina. The Louisiana State Museum has undertaken a restoration of the piece and it will be on display at Satchmo SummerFest. The ‘Preservation Hall at 50’ exhibit is also on display inside the Old U.S. Mint. Co-curated by Preservation Hall and the Louisiana State Museum, Preservation Hall at 50 tells the story of the New Orleans music landmark from the early 1960s to the present through artifacts, photographs, film and audio clips, interviews and oral histories. Adding wider historical context are iconic objects from the Museum’s world famous jazz collection-including Louis Armstrong’s first cornet and instruments played by Preservation Hall jazz greats such as clarinetist George Lewis and bassist Alcide “Slow Drag” Pavageau. The exhibit and children’s area are free and open to the public during Festival weekend. The 2013 Satchmo SummerFest seminars are free and open to the public and will take place all three days inside the Louisiana State Museum’s Old U.S. Mint. An impressive array of speakers will present seminars, discussions, music, and movies about the history and progress of New Orleans Jazz and the life and music of Louis Armstrong. Seminar hours have been extended this year and are scheduled from 11:30am to 5:30pm Friday, August 2nd through Sunday, August 4th. In addition to a weekend full of great music, food, seminars, movies, and children’s activities, Satchmo SummerFest features an array of special events including the annual Jazz Mass at the historic St. Augustine Church in Treme, a traditional second line parade, and the annual ‘Trumpet Tribute’ which closes the festival Sunday night with a Satchmo birthday party. Satchmo SummerFest is scheduled annually to coincide with Louis Armstrong’s birthday on August 4th. The artist often stated in public interviews that he was born on July 4, 1900 (Independence Day), a date that has been noted in many biographies. Armstrong died in 1971 and his true birthdate, August 4, 1901, was not discovered until the mid-1980s. Louis Armstrong was raised in a poor section of New Orleans known as “Jane Alley.” Throughout his career, he entertained millions – from heads of
state and royalty to the neighborhood kids on his stoop in Corona, New York. Despite his fame, he lived a simple life in a working-class neighborhood. The man known around the world as “Satchmo,” short for Satchelmouth, was widely recognized as a founding father of jazz – a unique American art form. In 1932, Melody Maker magazine editor Percy Brooks greeted Armstrong in London with “Hello, Satchmo!” and the nickname stuck. His influence, as an artist and cultural icon is universal, unmatched, and very much alive today. Armstrong was a charismatic and innovative performer whose improvised soloing was the main influence for a fundamental change in jazz. As one of the most famous musicians of the 20th century, he was first known as a cornet player, then as a trumpet player, and toward the end of his career he was best known as a vocalist and influential jazz singer. Sponsors and Community Partners for the 13th annual Satchmo SummerFest include: Chevron, Abita Brewing Company, The Louisiana State Museum, WWL-TV, Ford, the Louis Armstrong Educational Foundation, French Market Corporation, Absolut, Avion, Pepsi, New Orleans Tourism Marketing Corporation, Hotel Monteleone, Rouses, Rhodes Funeral Home, Harrelson Trumpets, Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club, NOLA Jitterbugs, New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park, Associated Office Systems, Aidan Gill, Harrah’s New Orleans, The Joseph K. & Inez Eichenbaum Foundation (Stephen Maitland-Lewis and Joni Berry), OffBeat, WHERE, Louisiana Kitchen, Downbeat Magazine, NOLA Defender, Where Y’at, Pelican Ice, New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Foundation, Inc., Tulane Medical Center, New Orleans Tourism Marketing Corporation, New Orleans Convention & Visitors Bureau, Event Rentals, Rolland Safe and Lock, I.T.S. Fire Alarm Security, The Advocate, The Windsor Court Hotel, Jefferson Variety, Camellia Brand, inthenola.com, WWOZ, WWNO 89.9 FM, and TravelHost Magazine, and more. For more information on all FQFI festivals and events, call 504.522.5730 or visit online at www.fqfi.org. Satchmo SummerFest is produced by French Quarter Festivals, Inc. (www.fqfi.org), the 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization, which also produces French Quarter Festival in April and Christmas New Orleans Style! in December. French
Quarter Festivals, Inc. promotes the Vieux Carré and the City of New Orleans through high quality special events and activities that showcase the culture and heritage of this unique city, contribute to the economic well being of the community, and instill increased pride in the people of New Orleans.
Lords of Leather Garage Sale Aug. 3-4 You’ve all heard the saying “one man’s “junk” is another man’s treasure”? Sure….. Now is your chance to do some serious shopping. Lords of Leather is holding a Garage/Yard Sale on Saturday, August 3 and Sunday, August 4 at 1208 Kingswood Drive in Westwego. Hours will be Saturday from 7am until noon and Sunday from 9am until noon. Some of the items available will be books, furniture, a piano, prints, clothing, ceramic molds, a bicycle, lighting fixtures and a vast assortment of miscellaneous merchandise. So get up early, use your GPS and head over to the West Bank on August 3 and 4 to find your treasures.
Miss Louisiana Leatherette Aug. 10 @ Michael's On The Park What happens when you combine leather, lace and a stage filled with beauties? It can only be the Lords of Leather “Miss Louisiana Leatherette 2014 “ contest. Come on down to Michael’s on the Park at 834 N. Rampart on Saturday, August 10 at 8pm to see who will wear the fabulous sash and win the $100 cash prize. Blanche Debris will be Mistress of Ceremonies. There will be chances to win great prizes and of course, a 50/50 raffle. A $10 donation at the door gets you in for a fun-filled, entertaining evening of camp drag. Admission tickets are also available in advance from any krewe member. Contest is open to both men and women to see who can put together the most outrageous ensemble and requires a $25 application fee. See www.lordsofleather.com for more information and to get your online contest application forms.
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moments in gay new orleans history by Frank Perez E-mail: f.perez@sbcglobal.net
“BreakOUT! A Transgender Voice” Most people assume police harassment of the LGBTQ community is a thing of the past. A group of young people in New Orleans has taken issue with that assumption. In December of 2010, the U.S. Department of Justice was investigating corruption and inefficiencies in the New Orleans Police Department. In the course of its investigation, Justice officials met with representatives from Women With a Vision (a community-based nonprofit organization founded in 1991 by a grassroots collective of African-American women in response to the spread of HIV/AIDS in communities of color), Brotherhood Inc. (a nonprofit group that aids young black males avoid the criminal justice system and reenter society after being incarcerated), and the Juvenile Justice Project of Louisiana. Also at the meeting were a group of young glbtq people, mostly black transgendered women. On May 17, 2011— the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia— BreakOUT was born. The group’s founding members were Lhundyn, Amhari, Dee, Kenisha, Milan, Jonathan. Reflecting on why she became involved with BreakOUT, founding member Milan Alexander, who now serves as one of two full-time youth organizers for the group, says, “I’ve experienced racial and gender profiling myself. It actually became the norm of my life. Getting involved with BreakOUT helped me realize that I’m more than just transgendered; I’m a human being.” The group’s founding was also aided by Wesley Ware, who had just received a Soros Justice Fellowship, a monetary grant awarded to individuals who spearhead projects to reform the U.S. criminal justice system. Ware had served as the GLBTQ Youth Director for the Juvenile Justice Project of Louisiana. In that capacity, Ware authored an insightful report entitled Locked Up and Out: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Youth in Louisiana’s Juvenile Justice System. In addition to serving as Director of BreakOUT, Ware also serves on the Advisory Board of the Equity Project, a national initiative which advocates for glbtq youth in the juvenile justice system. Although only a little over two years old, BreakOUT has already amassed an interesting history and established itself as an effective arm of glbtq political activism. One of the group’s first undertakings was a survey of local African-American transgendered women. Of the fifteen people surveyed, every one of them reported being approached by a New Orleans police officer for sex. This finding confirmed to the group the need they felt for reform in the NOPD was indeed genuine. The following month, three members of BreakOUT attended the Allied Media Conference in Detroit, Michigan. According to its mission statement, “Allied Media Projects cultivates media strategies for a more just and creative world. From the unique intersection of media and communications, art, technology, education and social justice, we share and develop models for transforming ourselves and our communities.” Shortly after the conference, the group held its first “story-circle” with allies at the Congress of Day Laborers. Discussion topics included police profiling, access to
jobs, and access to public space. Also in 2011, BreakOUT presented testimony from members who had been in incarcerated in the Orleans Parish Prison to the Department of Justice and in front of the Prison Rape Elimination Panel in Washington, D.C., met with representatives from the NOPD regarding the adoption of an lgbtq policy, was interviewed by the Office of Victims of Crime about lgbtq abuse in prison, sent members to participate in not only the Center for Third World Organizing Community Action Training, but also the LGBTQ youth of color IGNITE media camp. That’s quite an impressive list of achievements for a group not even a year old. BreakOUT did not slow down in its second year. In 2012, the group participated in a memorial vigil for two deceased members (Brenting and Githe), gave the NOPD a training video called “We Deserve Better,” testified before the New Orleans City Council’s Criminal Justice Subcommittee, had a member accepted into the Brown Boi Project, sent members to a leadership retreat in Oakland, California, as well as another Allied Media Conference and the IGNITE Southern LGBTQ Youth of Color convention in Atlanta, Georgia. In July of 2012, the U.S. Department of Justice issued its consent decree to the NOPD, which deployed language specifically proposed by BreakOUT prohibiting profiling based on gender expression. Thus far in 2013, BreakOUT members have attended the School to Prison Action Camp, held a rally at NOPD headquarters (with Vietnamese American Young Leaders Association, Safe Streets Strong Communities, the Congress of Day Laborers, STAND with Dignity, Voice of the Ex-Offender, and the Independent Police Monitor). On June 29, the 40th anniversary of the Stonewall riot that sparked the modern gay rights movement, BreakOUT scored a huge victory when the NOPD issued policy 402, which includes protocols for stopping and searching transgender individuals and mandates that officers be trained on issues pertaining to the gay community. Most significantly, the policy specifically states, “Officers shall not use an
Spotlight feature Southern Decadence Reps Meet with City Department Heads In an effort to insure a smooth transition towards the success of Southern Decadence this year, the City of New Orleans made contact with Greg Manogue some months back. Manogue was Southern Decadence Grand Marshal XXV known in the LGBT community as Miss Love. He did a huge amount of leg work to find out exactly what was expected of Southern Decadence, and should definitely be commended on what he accomplished for Decadence. Armed with all of the information on what was required by the city, Manogue met with new Southern Decadence Grand Marshals XXXIX Tami Tarmac and Venus Santiago right after their selection. In addition to city input, they all wanted to safeguard Southern Decadence making it accountable for moneys raised minus expenses to benefit charity. Tarmac and Santiago met with James Garner, and Rip and Marsha NaquinDelain requesting their assistance. The non-profit New Orleans Southern Decadence Inc. was formed by Garner, and the Naquin-Delains to oversee the funds raised by the grand marshals, paying expenses, with profits benefiting charity each year with the approval of Tarmac and Santiago. The grand marshals were very happy that the three stepped up to the plate to help maintain the future of Southern Decadence. Last week the City of New Orleans Event Support Team scheduled a meeting with representatives of Southern Decadence. The Event Support Team is a multiagency process team that provides a standard forum for decision makers from every municipal department involved in and/or affected by the production of events in the City of New Orleans. During the monthly meeting, event operators have a chance to share the specifics of their proposed events. Participants review near and long term scheduled events, mitigate operational issues and provide counsel to event operators where necessary. The Event Support Team improves customer service within the City of New Orleans by working with event organizers to develop and promote safe, dynamic, and accessible events that celebrate the richness and diversity of this great city. By ensuring that all appropriate City agencies communicate and problem-solve with external event producers, the city hopes to enrich the quality of life for residents and continue to attract world-wide tourist audiences. Southern Decadence reps included Southern Decadence Grand Marshal Tami Tarmac and SD Parade Captain Chad Boutte; past SDGM Greg Manogue (Miss Love); New Orleans Southern Decadence Inc.'s James Garner, and Rip & Marsha Naquin-Delain; Knights of Decadence Parade's Toby Lefort; Bourbon Street Extravaganza's Chuck Robinson; and Golden Lantern's Rikki Redd. City departments represented included One Stop Shop, Mayor’s Innovation Delivery Team, CAO Office, Office of Cultural Economy, Homeland Security, Bureau of Revenue, EMS, NOFD, NOPD, NORDC, Parks and Parkways, Public Works, Safety and Permits, Sanitation, Taxicab Bureau, and City Council. Rip Naquin addressed the Event Support Team first on New Orleans Southern Decadence Inc. discussing the new non-profit and an overview of the 42nd Southern Decadence celebration of Gay Life, Music & Culture. Toby Lefort followed with information on the 4th Knights of Decadence Parade. James Garner and Rikki Redd discussed the Home of Southern Decadence Golden Lantern and events tied into the 39th Southern Decadence Parade. Chad Boutte and Tami Tarmac gave an overview of the 39th Southern Decadence Parade. Chuck Robinson presented information on the 10th Bourbon Street Extravaganza. The support team asked questions of each speaker, and made suggestions on what might be needed to make everything run smoothly. The city is working diligently to make all aspects as smooth as possible. Many cost will be covered by the city, as it normally does. It requested that the three major events: 39th Southern Decadence Parade, 10th Bourbon Street Extravaganza, and 4th Knights of Decadence Parade work closely together. While each event is responsible for its own permits, police details, and insurance; the city has lumped all three together for the sanitation fee of $8,600. The city is paying for normal sanitation. The $8,600 is what will be needed for additional cleanup according to Sanitation Acting Director Cynthia Sylvian-Lear. Divided by three, that would give each major event a payment of $2,866.67. For more information, visit www.SouthernDecadence.COM. individual’s actual or perceived gender identity or sexual orientation as reasonable suspicion or probable cause that an individual is or has engaged in any crime.” (NOPD Policy 402.4). The voice of the “t” in our glbt com-
munity is too often unheard. Thanks to BreakOUT, that voice is finally finding a willing ear. And if the last two years are any indication, that voice is only going to get louder.
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Tone snagged by SDGM Tami Tarmac @ Corner Pocket
New 4 Seasons bartender Kimberie works Tuesdays & Wednesdays in Metairie
Good times @ Billy’s in Slidell Bartender Brandon (HoneyB) welcomes you to 4 Seasons patio bar
Celebratin’ on the patio @ 4 Seasons
Coach does Kamikaze Karaoke @ Michael’s On The Park
Enjoying the weekend @ Billy’s in Slidell
New Orleans Bears join Kamikaze Karaoke @ Michael’s
Barry Bareass Summer Dance Contest with Kyle @ Corner Pocket
Michael Printy (blue shirt) in the 4th of July Pie Eating Contest @ Good Friends Bar
4th of July Pie Eaters @ Good Friends Bar
Cocktailin’ @ 4 Seasons in Metairie
4 Seasons, Billy’s & Double Play GM John @ 4 Seasons
Ben, Dr. George, Easy Earl & Alberto @ Golden Lantern The Oz crew: Kyle, Derek, Adrian, JRB, Joe, Wayne, Earl & Frankie
Steven & John bartending @ Golden Lantern
Felix, Anthony, Ryan & Hunter @ The Corner Pocket
Happy 4th of July Birthday to Darwin Reed & Paul Melancon
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La Scène Des Clubs (The Club Scene) ~ Metairie, New Orleans, Slidell ~ Photos by Frankie Fierce, Chuck Hinkley, Charles Jenkins, Jeremy
DJ @ Billy’s in Slidell
Kamikaze Karaoke DJ Chris Yeager & proprietor Michael @ Michael’s On The Park
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Lana O’Day & Lauren Brown in Crescent City Divas @ 4 Seasons
Crescent City Divas’ Barbara Ella, Lauren Brown & C. Alice @ 4 Seasons
Princesse Stephaney @ Billy’s in Big Momma’s Show
Paris Manchester & Miss Gay USofA Classic Amy Demilo in Lipstixx @ Bourbon Pub & Parade
Venus in Lipstixx @ Bourbon Pub & Parade
GAA Top 5 Entertainer of the Year Finalist Big Momma Lavouge headlines Big Momma’s Show @ Billy’s in Slidell
All smiles @ GAA Top 5 Show Bar of the Year Finalist Bourbon Pub & Parade
Big Momma’s daughter on stage @ Billy’s in Slidell
Miss Gay Vieux Carre’ America Monique Michaels & Reba Douglas
B-Bob’s Show Director Miss Cie in for Lipstixx @ Bourbon Pub & Parade
Jewel Box Revue special guest Barbara Ella @ Michael’s On The Park
Queen Amon-Ra Deja, Tittie & president Safonda @ Amon-Ra’s Christmas in July
Cookie St. Ann in the Jewel Box Revue @ GAA Top 5 Show Bar of the Year Finalist Michael’s Coca Mesa kicks off her Miss Gay Louisiana America fundraiser @ Oz
Queen Amon-Ra Deja Deja-Vue’ in the Jewel Box Revue
Electra City & Tittie Toulouse hosted Amon-Ra’s Christmas in July @ Michael’s On The Park
Big Momma emcees Coca’s MGLA fundraiser @ GAA Top 5 Show Bar of the Year Finalist Oz
Raven Kennedy joins Coca’s MGLA fundraiser @ Oz
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Out With The Stars ~ Metairie, New Orleans, Slidell ~ Photos by Chuck Hinkley, Charles Jenkins, Arthur Severio
Miss Louisiana Leatherette C. Alice in Crescent City Divas @ 4 Seasons in Metairie
Ida Claire, SDGM Tami Tarmac & Kookie Baker @ Amon-Ra’s Christmas in July
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mobile
Alton & Michelle sharing a warm moment Poseiden & Eros Sea @ B-Bob's
Southern Decadence Grand Marshal Tami Tarmac performing @ B-Bob’s
Miss Gay America’s Nicole Dubois & Raquel Chevallier @ B-Bob’s
B-Bob's Tuesday night Drag Bingo is so much fun!! Eros Sea @ B-Bob's
FlipSides’ Eric, with David & Criss
Poseiden Sea @ B-Bob's
Josi Cotton & New Orleans’ Reba Douglas performing @ B-Bob’s, "Love Can Build a Bridge" benefit for Amber Douglas
Biloxi’s Miss Toni Dee
Jason, Timothy & Aaron @ Mobile’s new club FlipSide Marty & Koo with the Girls in Biloxi Poseidon & Eros Sea doing their thing on top of the bar @ B-Bob's
Ana Matronic performing @ B-Bob’s Miss Cie with Justin & Friends
Bears night out @ B-Bob’s with Darwin, Josh, Scot & Leon, happy birthday Scot!
Miss Gay USofA Classic Amy Demilo with Miss Cie
Rivers Brown Webb Family @ FlipSide
Hello Boys @ B-Bob’s
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Excitement on the Gulf Coast ~ Mobile, Alabama; Biloxi, Mississippi ~ Photos by Leon Weekley & Cie Ann & John
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a community within communities
by The Rev. Bill Terry, Rector St. Anna’s Episcopal Church Email: fr.bill@stannanola.org
Blowin’ in the wind. Yes, how many years can a mountain exist Before it’s washed to the sea? Yes, how many years can some people exist Before they’re allowed to be free? Yes, how many times can a man turn his head Pretending he just doesn’t see? The answer my friend is blowin’ in the wind The answer is blowin’ in the wind. These remarkable words by the poet laureate of the movements of the sixties, Bob Dylan, still ring true don’t they or do they? These are exciting and daunting times my friends. Complacency is the social blue plate special it may seem; or is it? “Yes, how many times can a man turn his head pretending he just doesn’t see?” Jesus says, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” This piece is often used to raise money. We all know that churches are about money and control; right? Wrong! Like some institutions there are good, average, and bad. Discern, tolerate, and act upon your faith even if just a little. The quote about storing treasures is an interesting piece it follows on the heels of the Sermon on the Mount which is more than “The Beatitudes” oh much more so much more. For in his preaching he says that he does not change the law but then reworks the Law to its completeness. This Rabbi teaches us that one must be engaged and active in our faith and working it out “Salt and Light” (Matt 5:1316); he talks about murder and says that the act of anger and hatred are tantamount to murder; he talks about adultery and lustfulness over and against chastity; he condemns divorce because women were all but dead in his time if they were divorced; he talks about forgiving ones enemies over and against “An eye for an eye;” he talks about the mandate to give to the needy without a requirement for gratitude or humiliation to the recipient (Matt. 6:1-4); he teaches how to pray in humility NOT as a show of public piety but in sincerity (Matt 6:5-15); again he talks about Fasting as a self discipline not a public display leading to hypocrisy; finally he talks about Treasure in heaven, that if our focus is on the disposable things of this world we will have missed all that he has taught. All of what I have just summarized – those are the Treasures in Heaven: humility, chastity, charity, generosity in the face of hatred, injustice, and after his Treasure in Heaven talk he offers hope rather than anxiety (Matthew 6:2534) and he replaces anxiety with dignity. WOW! Something is blowin’ in the wind my friend. DOMA struck down; Voter Rights Act struck down; Treyvon case – not guilty, yes, something is in the wind. They question my friends is this will we pretend not to see? Solidarity is the by-word today and that means going into dangerous territory. I explained it to a dear gay friend of mine, “It may even mean going to straight bar <gasp>
to meet and greet someone who needs you.” It may mean serious work on reconciliation between the traditional Black church and LGBT community. It may mean showing up at a venue to raise funds for children who are now at risk but offer the potential to be powerful black business persons or scientists or doctors but who now have little chance to do it. Yes, I am talking about things like Anna’s Arts for Kids. Will you join and go to a “non-gay fund raiser?” Will straight folks mingle amongst gay folk with common cause? The answer is blowin’ in the wind. I have recently had several experiences that point toward the fear of engagement. I was recently invited to an Essence/ Urban League Dinner with some of the most powerful Black leaders in our city. I was one of two white guys there. I was racked with “white guilt” intimidated and trying to be on my best behavior. The only table left was a single 4 top and so I sat there, “the white guy” by himself. Thinking, “Oh I must appear to be aloof or withdrawn – that’s not good (white guilt working).” Then the most delightful woman approached me from one of the most prominent of these celebrated guests and offered me hospitality, “would you like to join our table?” How arrogant I was to think I was so important to wrap myself up with “white guilt and paranoia.” Jesus spoke through her – generous hospitality. Equally, our church has a large percentage of LGBT members. Yet, last night only a few of those members showed up for a fund raiser for Anna’s Arts for Kids, it was in a Lakeside Church far from the “lavender line.” What is that about; fear? If so, dump it, it should be about the children and solidarity. Why we even offered gourmet chocolate, champagne, a Chamber Quartet, and classical vocals by soloist Tanya Boutte and the Treme Choir. You will be valued for where your treasure is not what or who you are. Those that attended were astounded and charged up about the potential power of black children as our future leaders instead of drug dealers, street kids, and miscreants. They have power that is just waiting to be tapped. On the same note I recently got a THREE PAGE text message from a dear friend who happens to be gay absolutely distraught about the Treyvon Martin decision. His words went beyond disappointment to profound sorrow and hurt; as if he himself had been slapped in the face. He expressed what we all should be expressing over the Voters Rights repeal and Treyvon Martin, and Guantanamo incarcerations without benefit of trial or adjudication; or creating a society that encourages and indeed protects vigilantes like the Florida Stand and Fight Law or the “Right to carry a concealed weapon” laws permeating our cities. Given our rampant fear and trepidation Treyvon was going to happen. It was going to happen to a young black man, or perhaps a Latino, or perhaps a Gay boy in Middle America. Two children stand side by side now: Emmet Till AND Matthew
Shepherd and perhaps now Treyvon. Where is your Treasure? I am angry, yes indeed; I hope that you are two. As a citizenry we should all be outraged of these injustices of our inclination to legalize vigilantes, deprive the benefit of habeas corpus, and trample on the Magna Carta and Constitution. Play lose and fast with dignity, and the “Right of all persons [men] to live in the pursuit of happiness.” We have had a breather from the 60s and 70s. There is a
whole new generation where AIDS is not a killer but inconvenience; where the right to Gay assembly is not against the law; maybe even marriage equality is on the table; voting rights are in the wind. BE THE COMMUNITY WITHIN COMMUNITIES start the conversations and break out of our cocoon of safety and tread on dangerous group. These are heady times and something is in the wind. For where your treasure is that is where your heart is.
commentary It’s Time to Celebrate and to Redouble Our Efforts! What a special day it was, June 26, 2013, the day the U.S. Supreme Court found part of DOMA unconstitutional and refused to intervene in California’s Proposition 8 battle, effectively allowing same sex marriages to resume in that state! Who could have imagined even a couple of years ago that we would live to see gay marriage legal in the largest state of the union, along with twelve other states and the District of Columbia? It is indeed time to celebrate! For a while…. Then it is time to get back to work and to redouble our efforts. “Why should we work harder?” you ask. We should work harder because the Promiseland, where gay marriage is legal in all 50 states, is within sight and the proponents of hatred can see the writing on the wall. Just as countless people are responsible for the recent achievements that we have made over the years, there are just as many working tirelessly to deny members of the LGBT community of our basic human rights. Because, as Hillary Clinton recently acknowledged, that’s what we are demanding… the basic human right to love the person of our choosing, to be able to marry that person and to have our government recognize that union. We are not asking for special rights, just the same rights that our heterosexual brothers and sisters enjoy. The DOMA decision opens the door to hundreds of federal benefits to married gay couples living in states where gay marriage is legal. Among them, they can apply for their foreign-born spouse or fiancé to join them in the United States and they can file joint federal tax returns. What the DOMA decision means for married gay couples now living in states where gay marriage is not legal is uncertain, although most expect some benefits to flow. What any of this means to gay couples wanting to marry in states where gay marriage is illegal is even more uncertain. But there is reason to hope…. The Supreme Court struck down a section of DOMA as a violation of the Constitution’s guarantee of equal protection and due process. In doing so, it cited Loving v. Virginia, the 1960’s landmark Supreme Court decision that struck down a state law against interracial marriage as unconstitutional. While the DOMA Supreme Court did not declare a constitutional right for gays to marry, gay advocates see a significant hint that the Court is prepared to do so. So, what do we do now? We, gay couples living in states that have outlawed gay marriage, must apply for marriage licenses in these states. We will be turned down and that decision can be appealed and ultimately, hopefully lead to the legalization of gay marriage nationwide. But we must do this immediately. Why? Because some states, such as Indiana, already have laws on their books that would make simply submitting a marriage application by a gay couple a Class D felony, carrying a possible penalty of 6 months to three years in jail and a possible fine of up to $10,000. And by now we know from experience, that when one state passes laws that discriminate against a certain segment of society, many other states will quickly follow suit. In this last civil rights struggle in which we are involved, we must not become discouraged by acts of others such as the Indiana legislature or Russia’s recent antigay laws. Instead, we must put aside our differences, stand together, keep our eye on the prize and continue to push forward using our hearts, our brains and the powerful knowledge of what is just and right. And, possibly, it is time to consider the use of nonviolent resistance tactics, which were so effectively advocated by Dr. Martin Luther King, in order to achieve equality for all. (These are the personal views of Troy A. Tureau, and nothing therein is intended to be legal advice of any kind. I invite your comments and questions.) Troy A. Tureau, J.D., L.LM., Attorney at Law, Tureau Legal 8303 Pritchard Place, New Orleans, LA 70118, thelawprofessor@comcast.net 504.602.9511 Born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Mr. Tureau obtained his Bachelor of Arts from Louisiana State University in 1987 with a major in Broadcast Journalism and a minor in Political Science. He obtained his Juris Doctorate in 1992 from Loyola Law School, New Orleans and his L.LM. in Environmental Law from Lewis and Clark Law School in 2008. He has been a member of the Louisiana State Bar since 1992 and is in solo practice at the New Orleans law firm, Tureau Legal, which caters to the LGBT community. He is an Associate Professor at Ashford University and held adjunct faculty positions at the College of the Desert and Kaplan University. He is the author of many written works, both fiction and nonfiction. He is married to his partner Michael of 10 years ,and they are the proud parents of 10 year old Cole and their 3 year old Pekingese, Ginger.
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Excitement @ Emerald City ~ Pensacola, Florida ~ Photos by Lauren Mitchell
pensacola
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Lauren Mitchell emcees Wet Boxer Contest @ Emerald City
Cabaret proprietor Paul & friends Max & DJ Dominic
travel
King & Queen Amon-Ra John Zeringue & Deja Deja-Vue’
Travel Paparazzi ~ Pensacola, Florida ~ Photos by Frankie Fierce
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Bartender John @ the Cabaret Safonda Peters & Stuart Nettles Ronnie aka Rhonda Roget, Pete & David
Emerald City’s Wet Boxer Contest
Boys on the side line Monica Heart & Ben
Joining the festivities
Mr. Bill & Daniel Green
Michael’s On The Park bartenders Scott & Patrick
Robert, Captain John & Opal
Cocktailing @ Cabaret
Fun @ the bar
Ready for our closeup Mr. Demille
Roundup proprietor John Thomas & Travis
Friendly bartenders welcome you to the Roundup
Frankie Fierce & new friends @ the Roundup
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Krewe of Amon-Ra Christmas in July @ Michael’s On The Park ~ Photos by Frankie Fierce, Rip Naquin, Darwin Reed
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New Orleans, LA [504] Littlefield Law LLC, Attorney R. Kelp Littlefield, 639 Loyola Ave., Suite 1820, 504.525.1328 Tureau Legal, Troy A. Tureau , Attorney at Law, 8303 Pritchard Place, 70118, 504.602.9511, thelawprofessor@comcast.net
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attonreys
New Orleans, LA [504] FAB - Faubourg Marigny Art & Books, 600 Frenchmen St., 947.3700
Lafayette, LA [337] BOLT NIGHTCLUB, 116 E. Vermillion, 524.1380 TONIC, 2013 Pinhook Rd., 269.6011 Lake Charles, LA [337] CRYSTAL'S, 112 W. Broad, 433.5457 Metairie, LA [504] 4-SEASONS / PATIO BAR, 3229 N. Causeway, 832.0659, 4seasonsno.com CLUB LAX, 2301 N. Causeway, 834.7979 New Orleans, LA [504] 700 CLUB, 700 Burgundy, 561.1095, BIG DADDY'S, 2513 Royal, 948.6288 BOURBON PUB & PARADE, 801 Bourbon St., 529.2107, BourbonPub.COM CAFÉ LAFITTE IN EXILE, 901 Bourbon Street 522.8397, Lafittes.COM CORNER POCKET, 940 St. Louis, 568.9829, CornerPocket.NET COUNTRY CLUB, 634 Louisa St., TheCountryClubNewOrleans.COM, 945.0742 CUTTER'S, 706 Franklin, 948.4200 THE DOUBLE PLAY, 439 Dauphine, 523.4517 THE FRIENDLY BAR, 2301 Chartres, 943.8929 GOLDEN LANTERN, 1239 Royal, 529.2860, Facebook.COM/GoldenLanternBar GOOD FRIENDS BAR, 740 Dauphine St, 566.7191, GoodFriendsBar.COM JOHNPAUL'S, 940 Elysian Fields Ave., 948.1888 KAJUN'S PUB, 2256 St. Claude Ave., 947.3735, KajunPub.COM
Aug. 28-Sept. 2, 42nd Official Southern Decadence Celebration of Gay Life, Music & Culture, end of Summer Blowout including the Southern Decadence Parade & loads of activities, bringing over 125,000 revelers to New Orleans, LA, sponsored by Ambush & SouthernDecadence.COM Oct. 24-27, Halloween 30: I3OO, benefiting Project Lazarus, New Orleans, LA, sponsored by AmbushMag.COM, HalloweenNewOrleans.COM Dec. 27, 2013-Jan. 1, 2014, Gay New Year's in New Orleans, New Orleans, LA, GayNewOrleans.COM Feb. 28-Mar. 4, 2014, Official Gay Mardi Gras, New Orleans, LA, sponsored by Ambush, GayMardiGras.COM Easter Sunday, April 20, 2014, 15th Official Gay Easter Parade, New Orleans, sponsored by Ambush, GayEasterParade.COM May 23-26, 2014 Memorial Day Weekend, Pensacola, FL, sponsored by Ambush, GayPensacola.COM
costumes New Orleans, LA [504] QT PIE BOUTIQUE - 241 Dauphine St., 581. 6633 SOUTHERN COSTUME COMPANY - 951 Lafayette St., 523.4333, SCCNOLA.COM
florists Baton Rouge, LA [225] FOUR SEASONS FLOWERS & GIFTS, 3482 Drusilla Ln., Drusilla Shopping Center, 924.1386, 1.800.237.5381
framing New Orleans, LA [504] ANGLE CUSTOM FRAMES, 4422 Magazine St., 269.3726
guides America Damron Travel Guide, 800.462.6654, www.damron.com
Gulf South/United States AMBUSH Mag, 828-A Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116-3137; 504.522.8049, AmbushMag.COM; marsha@ripandmarsha.com International GayBars.COM, 828-A Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116-3137; 504.522.8049, marsha@ripandmarsha.com
groceries/delis New Orleans, LA [504] QUARTERMASTER DELI, THE NELLIE DELI, 1100 Bourbon, 529.1416
hair salons New Orleans, LA [504] BOBBY BLUE CONTEMPORARY BARBER & BEAUTY PARLOR, 906 Bourbon St., 527.5100 HEAD QUARTERS HAIR SALON, 900 Rue Dauphine, 522.2666 MICKEY NOLAN'S SALON, 815 Toulouse St., 587.7782 SALON D'MALTA, 1233 Decatur, 565.5555, SalonDMalta.COM
hardware New Orleans, LA [504] MARY'S FRENCH QUARTER HARDWARE, 732 N. Rampart, 529.4465
lodging/accommodations New Orleans [504] AARON INGRAM HAUS, 1012 Elysian Fields, New Orleans, LA 70117, PHONE: 504.949.3110, E-mail us at ingramhaus@yahoo.com. Condos with queensize beds, private entrances; located only six blocks from Bourbon Street and walking distance to most New Orleans attractions. Several favorite bars are within one block. [0713] BURGUNDY BED AND BREAKFAST, 2513 Burgundy St., New Orleans, LA 70117, PHONE/FAX: 504.942.1463, Toll Free (Continental US only): 1.800.970.2153, theburgundy.com, E-mail us at theburgundy@cox.net. Gay owned and operated in newly renovated 1890's double. Four guest rooms with private baths, guests' parlor and "halfkitchen", courtyard and half-open tubhouse with spa (hot tub/whirlpool). Clothing optional in sunbathing and hot tub area. Walking distance to French Quarter. Immediate vicinity of gay and lesbian bars/venues. [0813] Chateau LeMoyne French Quarter 301 Dauphine St., New Orleans, LA 70112, Phone: 504.581.1303, http:// www.hiclneworleanshotelsite.com/gay-hotelsnew-orleans. Enjoy a stay enriched with the culture and history of New Orleans at Chateau LeMoyne. Our historic building features all the best of old-time architecture and our prime location allows guests to stay just steps from the French Quarter, while still at enough distance to enjoy a peaceful night’s rest. Versatile guest accommodations include charmingly appointed suites and cottages, while on-site amenities include drinks and dining, a scenic courtyard area and pool, and meeting and event space. When you’re ready to explore, top New Orleans attractions are only moments away. We look forward to welcoming you to the “Big Easy.” THE FRENCH QUARTER GUEST HOUSES, 1005 St. Peter, New Orleans, LA 70116, Phone: 877-681-5087 frenchquarterguesthouses.com. Email: info@stpeterhouse.com. Four meticulously restored boutique Inns located in the heart of the French Quarter’s most popular LGBT neighborhood. Each building’s individual character and charm provides an unforgettably authentic French Quarter experience! FRENCH QUARTER SUITES HOTEL, 1119 North Rampart St, New Orleans, LA 70116, Phone 504.524.7725, Toll Free: 800.457.2253,FrenchQuarterSuites.COM. Email us at Reservations@bpmhotels.com. Official Host Hotel of OZ New Orleans. A locally owned and operated French Quarter hotel that has been beautifully transformed into spacious multi-bedroom suites. Several historical townhouses are
26 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • J uly 23-August 5, 2013 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide • Sout her nDec adenc e.COM
also available to accommodate larger groups of up to 26. Just 3 blocks from Bourbon St., free WiFi, swimming pool, and continental breakfast included. Off street parking is available. MAISON DE MACARTY BED & BREAKFAST, 3820 Burgundy St., New Orleans, LA 70117, PHONE: 504.267.1564, MaisonMacarty.COM, Email us at kurt@maisonmacarty.com. Luxury gay owned and operated bed and breakfast. 8 bedrooms with ensuite baths, pool, sun deck and beautiful courtyard. Sleep, eat and play at Maison de Macarty. Book it now! MARIGNY MANOR HOUSE, 2125 N. Rampart St., New Orleans, LA 70116, PHONE: 504.943.7826, Toll Free: 877.247.7599, marignymanorhouse.com, E-mail us at info@MarignyManorHouse.COM. 1840’s Grand Greek Revival guest house, large spacious bedrooms, private baths, antique 4 poster queen beds, wireless internet access, tv/vcr/dvd/cable, telephone, complimentary continental breakfast and off street parking. [0114] NEW ORLEANS COURTYARD HOTEL, 1101 North Rampart St, New Orleans, LA 70116, Phone 504.522.7333, Toll Free: 800.457.2253, NOCourtyard.COM. Email us at Reservations@bpmhotels.com, Official Host Hotel of OZ New Orleans. A 19th century home that has been historically restored and transformed into a locally owned and operated hotel. Experience the rich history and hospitality of New Orleans at an affordable price. Just 3 blocks from Bourbon St, free Wi-Fi, swimming pool, and continental breakfast included. Off street parking is available. BON MAISON GUEST HOUSE, 835 Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116, 504.561.8498 BOURGOYNE GUEST HOUSE, 839 Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116, 504.524.3621
marketing & printing New Orleans, LA [504] SIR SPEEDY, 343 Carondelet, 586.9812, 586.9817, offering printing and marketing services including web design and hosting. info@sirspeedyneworleans.com, sirspeedyneworleans.com
massage New Orleans, LA [504] RIGHT TOUCH MASSAGE -- Christopher - Full body therapeutic massage (Swedish/Deep Tissue); heated table; private studio; tropical garden; Faubourg Marigny Area, French Quarter. Upgrade (Salt Scrubs Bodywork & Thai/Sport Stretching massage). Call/text 504.458.5996 / website righttouchnola.com for pictures, location & special. License #LA4553 [is2613]
media New Orleans, LA [504] AMBUSH Mag, Official Gay Easter Guide, Official Gay Mardi Gras Guide, Official Gay New Orleans Guide, Official Gulf South Guide, Official Southern Decadence Guide, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 522.8049, AmbushMag.COM; email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com AMBUSHonLINE, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137; 522.8049, ambushonline.com, email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com
museum/arts Baton Rouge, LA [225] LOUISIANA ARTS AND SCIENCE CENTER / RIVERSIDE MUSEUM, 100 S. River Road, 344.5272 LOUISIANA GOVERNOR'S MANSION, 1001 Capitol Access Rd., 342.5855 LOUISIANA STATE ARCHIVES, 3851 Essen Ln. LOUISIANA STATE CAPITOL, State Capitol Dr. LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY HILLTOP ARBORETUM, 11855 Highland Rd., 767.6916 LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY RURAL LIFE MUSEUM, I-10 at Essen Lane, 765.2437 LSU MUSEUM OF NATURAL SCIENCE and MUSEUM OF GEOSCIENCE, LSU Campus, 388.2855 MAGNOLIA MOUND PLANTATION, 2161 Nicholson Dr., 343.4955
OLD ARSENAL MUSEUM, State Capitol Complex, 342.0401 OLD BOGAN FIRE STATION, 427 Laurel St., 344.8558 OLD GOVERNOR'S MANSION, 502 North Blvd., 344.5272 OLD PENTAGON BARRACKS, State Capitol Dr. at River Road, 342.1866 OLD STATE CAPITOL, 100 North Blvd. at River Road, 342.0500 or 342.4479 USS KIDD/NAUTICAL HISTORICAL CENTER, Government St. at River Rd., 342.1942 New Orleans, LA [504] BEAUREGARD-KEYES HOUSE, 1113 Chartres, 523.7257, Mon-Sat 10am-3pm CABILDO, 701 Chartres, Jackson Square, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm CAC [Contemporary Arts Center], 900 Camp St., 528.3805, cacno.org EDGAR DEGAS HISTORIC HOME, 2306 Esplanade Avenue, tours by appointment: 504.821.5009, the house tour lasts one hour, is led by a great-grand-niece of Degas, and includes the award-winning documentary video, Degas in New Orleans: A Creole Sojourn 1850 HOUSE, 523 St. Ann, Tues-Sun 10am5pm GALLIER HOUSE, 1132 Royal, 523.6722, Mon-Fri 10am-3:30pm GERMAINE WELLS MARDI GRAS MUSEUM, 2nd Floor Arnaud's, 819 Bienville HERMANN-GRIMA HISTORIC HOUSE, 820 St. Louis, 525.5661, Mon-Fri 10am-3:30pm HISTORICAL PHARMACY MUSEUM, 514 Chartres, 524.9077, Daily 10am-5:30pm HISTORIC NEW ORLEANS COLLECTION, 533 Royal, 523.4662, Tues-Sat 10am-4:45pm LONGUE VUE HOUSE AND GARDENS, 7 Bamboo Rd, Metairie, 488.5488, Mon-Sat 10am4:30pm, Sun 1-5pm MUSEE CONTI HISTORICAL WAX MUSEUM, 917 Conti, 525.2605, Daily 10am-5:30pm NATIONAL D-DAY MUSEUM, 945 Magazine, 527.6012 NEW ORLEANS MUSEUM OF ART, City Park, 1 Collins Diboll Circle, 488.2631, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm OGDEN MUSEUM OF SOUTHERN ART, 925 Camp St., 539.9600 OLD U.S. MINT, 400 Esplanade, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm PRESBYTERE, 751 Chartres, Jackson Square, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm ST. LOUIS CATHEDRAL, Jackson Square, Mon-Sat 9am-5pm, Sun 1:30-5pm
music New Orleans [504] SKULLY'Z RECORDZ, 907 Bourbon St., 592.4666
organizations Mobile, AL ALABAMA PRIDE FEST, MobileAlabamaPride.COM GULF COAST BEARS & LEATHER ASSOCIATION, b-bobs.com/gcbla.htm THE SOUTHERN RENEGADES, a Levi/ Leather Club, southernrenegades.com Pensacola, FL [850] APPETITE FOR LIFE, INC., provides 2 nutritionally balanced meals a day-lunch & dinner, for some 60 men, women and children living with HIV/AIDS, 1842 West Cervantes St.; Mail: P.O. Box 308, 32592-0308; 470.9111, Fax: 470.0201, gaypensacola.com/appforlife GULF COAST TIDE, INC. w w w. G u l f C o a s t T I D E . o r g ; info@GulfCoastTIDE.org Alexandria, LA [318] CLASS [Central Louisiana AIDS Support Services], 103 Bolton Ave., 71301; 1.800.444.7993, 442. 1 0 1 0, FAX: 443.5216 Baton Rouge, LA [225] AIDSLaw of Louisiana, 4560 North Boulevard, Suite 118, 302.5968, AIDSLAW.org HAART (HIV/AIDS Alliance for Region Two), 4550 North Blvd., #250, 927.1269, Fax: 927.7367, haartinc.org, haartinc@aol.com GBLSU [Gays, Bisexuals, Lesbians & Supporters United], glsapres@unixl.sncc. Isu.edu, Kristy Price, President, 388.5160 KREWE OF APOLLO / BATON ROUGE,
PO Box 3591, 70821; kreweapollobr.org KREWE OF DIVAS, kreweofdivas.com, 343.0380 LAMBDA GROUP, 2937 Greenwood Dr., PO Box 82775, 70884-2775, 907.3665, www.lambdabr.org, info@lambdabr.org METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY CHURCH OF BATON ROUGE, 7747 Tom Drive, 70806, Worship Sunday, 11am, Bible Study Wednesday, 7pm, 225.248.0404, mccbr.org PFLAG Baton Rouge, President Harold Truax, 225.218.8320 Lafayette, LA [337] ACADIANA CARES [Concern for AIDS Relief, Education, and Support], PO Box 386, Lafayette, LA 70502; 203 W. 3rd St., 70501; 233.2437, FAX: 235.4178; 800.354.2437 KREWE OF APOLLO / LAFAYETTE, PO Box 53251, 70505 PFLAG/LAFAYETTE, PO Box 31078, 70503 ROYAL ORDER OF UNICORN, PO Box 3985, 70502 Monroe, LA [318] GO CARE 2121 Justice, 71201, 325.1092 New Orleans, LA [504] ACLU and ACLU Foundation of Louisiana, P.O. Box 56157, New Orleans, LA 70156, 504.522.0628 x25, Fax: 888.537.0384, laaclu.org AIDS HOTLINE, 821.6050 in New Orleans, 1.800.99.AIDS[2437]-9 toll free statewide AIDSLaw of Louisiana, 3801 Canal St., Suite 331, 568.1631, AIDSLAW.org ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS, 838.3399 BELLE REVE NEW ORLEANS, AIDS Residence for Families, PO Box 3305, 70177; 945.9455 BROTHERHOOD, INC., To decrease the spread of AIDS and HIV among African Americans, 1661 Canal St., Suite 3230, 70112; 566.7955 COMMUNITY ACTION NETWORK, a project of the NO/AIDS Task Force which works with the gay community to implement HIV prevention activities, 507 Frenchmen St., 945.4000, noaidstaskforce.com COPS 8 (Citizens' Organization for Police Support in the 8th District), 840 N. Rampart St., #51, 70116; 588.COPS (2677), cops8.org FOOD FOR FRIENDS, 944.6028 FORUM FOR EQUALITY, 336 Lafayette, Suite 200, 70130; 947.2981, ForumForEquality.COM FRIDAY NIGHT BEFORE MARDI GRAS (FNBMG), PO Box 791376, New Orleans, LA 70179-1376; 733.3311, fridaynightbeforemardigras.com, fnbmg@cox.net GAY APPRECIATION AWARDS, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137; 522.8049; AmbushMag.COM/GAA GAY COUNSELING LINE, 833.1500 GAY EASTER PARADE, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, info@gayeasterparade.com, GayEasterParade.COM GAY MARDI GRAS, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, GayMardiGras.COM GAY NEW ORLEANS, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, GayNewOrleans.COM GULF GENDER ALLIANCE [GGA], NonProfit Support Group for Transgender persons. Monthly meetings, socials and political activism. Privacy respected and expected. Interview required. Nondiscriminatory. Call 504. 324.4035 or write PO Box 56836, New Orleans, LA 701566836; gga.org, E-mail: info@gga.org HALLOWEEN IN NEW ORLEANS, INC., PO Box 52171, 70152-2171; halloween neworleans.com/ambush HATE CRIMES NATIONAL HOTLINE, 206.350.HATE (4283), National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800.799.SAFE (7233), Hate Crimes Hotline at the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights 800.552.6843 KREWE OF AMON-RA, PO Box 7033, Metairie, LA 70010, KreweOfAmonRa.COM KREWE OF ARMEINIUS, PO Box 56638, New Orleans, LA 70156-6638, kreweofarmeinius.org KREWE OF MWINDO, PO Box 51031, 70156; 913.5791, KreweOfMwindo.ORG,
krewe@kreweofmwindo.org KREWE OF PETRONIUS, 1701 Frenchmen St., New Orleans, LA. 70116 KreweOfPetronius.ORG, petronius1961@cox.net KREWE OF QUEENATEENAS / KING CAKE QUEEN ROYALTY CLUB, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 522.8049, GayMardiGras.COM/KCQ KREWE OF URSUS, kreweofursus@aol.com LaCARP [Louisiana Community AIDS Research Program], 584.1971 LA-LIFT, Social Club for Lesbians, age 50+, who have fun together on weekends. E-mail: armyvet20@webtv.net LAMBDA CENTER, 831 Elysian Fields Ave., 70117 LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS OF NEW ORLEANS, 234 Loyola, Suite 421, 70112; 581.9106 LORDS OF LEATHER, P.O. Box 770435, New Orleans, LA 70117-4035, LordsOfLeather.COM Metropolitan Community Church of New Orleans , Interim Pastor Gail Minnick , Service time: Sundays 5pm, 1333 South Carrollton Ave., New Orleans, LA 70118, 504.270.1MCC, www.MCCNewOrleans.COM, Pastor @MCCNewOrleans.com MCLNO HOP Clinic, 136 S. Roman Street, 4th Floor, New Orleans, LA 70112; Appts.: 504.903.6959, www.hopclinic.org MYSTIC KREWE OF SATYRICON, 2443 Halsey Ave., New Orleans, LA 70114, 504.906.7990 Todd J. Blauvelt / Secretary, krewe.of.satyricon@gmail.com, MysticKreweOfSatyricon.COM NEW ORLEANS BEAR AND BEAR TRAPPER SOCIAL CLUB, P.O. Box 57756, New Orleans, LA 70157-7756, 504.452.3564, theneworleansbears.com NEW ORLEANS GAY MEN’S CHORUS, 322.7007, nogmc.com; nogmc@aol.com NEW ORLEANS JAZZ & HERITAGE FESTIVAL, nojazzfest.com NO/AIDS TASK FORCE, 2601 Tulane Ave., Suite 500, 70119; 821.2601; NOAIDSTaskForce.COM N'R Peace, 3201 Gen. DeGaulle Dr., Suite 201, 70114, 364.1950 PEOPLE OF SUBSTANCE, INC. (POS), 7210 Arbor Dr., 70126, 244.1920, posnola.com PFLAG/NO [Parents & Friends of Lesbians & Gays/ New Orleans], PO Box 15515, 70175; 895.3936, 392.0001, pflagno.org, info@pflagno.org PRIDE NEW ORLEANS CELEBRATION NOLAPride.ORG PROJECT LAZARUS, A Residence for PWAs, PO Box 3906, 70177-3906; 949.3609 REGIONALAIDS INTERFAITH NETWORK [RAIN], 523.3755 RENEGADE BEARS OF LOUISIANA, PO Box 3083, New Orleans, LA 70177; renegadebearsoflouisiana@gmail.com SOFTBALL LEAGUE – Great fun for all skill levels, beginner to advanced. Visit nolasoftball.com for full details and find us on Facebook. SOUTHERN DECADENCE, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, SouthernDecadence.COM ST. ANNA'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH, 1313 Esplanade Avenue New Orleans, LA 70116 947.2121, stannanola.org Until It Is OVER, Inc., Executive Director Don S. Evans, Sr., 5837 De Bore Drive, New Orleans, Louisiana 70126, Phone 504 722 1694, Fax 504 286 5784 VOLLEYBALL NEW ORLEANS, PO Box 13306, 70185-3306; volleyballneworleans.com, postmaster@volleyballneworleans.com WILLIAM J. FANNING FOUNDATION [Buzzy’s Boys & Girls], 2301 Chartres, 70117; 943.8929 Shreveport, LA [318] PHILADELPHIA CENTER, PO Box 44454, 71134-4454; 222.6633 YWCAAIDS MINORITY COMMUNITY OUTREACH, 700 Pierre Ave., 71103; 226.8717
pets New Orleans, LA [504] DR. MIKE'S ANIMAL HOUSE, 1120 N.
GayMardiGras.COM • NOLAPride.ORG • J uly 23-August 5, 2013 • Facebook.COM/ AmbushMag • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 27
under the gaydar by Tony Leggio Email: ledgemgp@gmail.com Photo by: Larry Graham, GrahamStudioOne.COM
Book of the Month I am a huge Stephen King fan so when I heard that Under the Dome was going to become a mini-series, I was ecstatic. But alas, I have been burned by King’s novels turned into bad movies either on the big or little screens. Hello, remember the Dark Half, because that is one I would like to forget. That being said, I decided to read Under the Dome first and as I hoped it was quite an entertaining read. At just under 1,100 pages it is a little unsettling to start. Some novels can be grueling to get through, and when confronted with one that is two inches thick (who knew two inches would make me nervous), you wonder if you are ever going to get through it. That being said, I flew through the book in one week. Under the Dome is an
intense and exhilarating story. The main premise is on a bright Saturday afternoon in the little town of Chester’s Mill, Maine, an inexplicable occurrence has happened. A giant domed force field has dropped down sealing the town off from the rest of the world. Planes and cars crash into it, animals and people’s appendages are severed as it falls like a guillotine. Families are separated; and then the fear and panic set in. From that moment on when the dome descends, the novel becomes a roller coaster ride as the approximately 2,000 townspeople fight for survival against an unseen force. King paints a vivid picture of the town and its residents including pets, describing them in detail. As tempers flare, the trapped
Rampart, 523.4455
LATTER & BLUM, Agent Brian M. Pawlowski, brianrealtor@aol.com, Agent Stace McDonald, stacerealtor@aol.com, 840 Elysian Fields, 451.2495
pharmacy Baton Rouge, LA [225] AVITA DRUGS SPECIALIZED PHARMACY, free discrete delivery serving Louisiana, Mississippi & Texas. Certified pharmacists caring for HIV/AIDS, new-to-market & hard-to-find medications including Serostim. Local pharmacy that supports the LGBT community. www.AvitaPharmacy.COM. New Orleans, LA [504] MUMFREY'S PHARMACY, 1021 W. Judge Perez Dr., Chalmette, LA 70043, 504.279.6312, www.MumfreysPharmacy.COM. Supporting & serving the LGBT Community for over 20 years. Local pharmacy offering personalized family-like service, automatic refills & free metro wide confidential pickup & delivery. Also offering shipping for out-side our delivery area. When you call us you speak to a person, not a machine. See our ad.
photography New Orleans, LA [504] Arthur Severio Photography, 834 Chartres, New Orleans, LA 70116, 917.318.4300, ArthurSeverio.COM GRAHAM/STUDIO ONE NEW ORLEANS, by appointment, grahamstudioone.com
plumbers New Orleans, LA [504] PIPES "R" US PLUMBING, “Let us PEEP in your pipes”, 140 N. Carrollton Ave., Office 504.866.2730, Fax 504.484.0907, PipesRUsNewOrleans.COM
real estate New Orleans, LA [504] Gay-Owned Agency — New Orleans Relocation LLC, Mark Boline, Realtor/Broker, mark@nolarelo.com, 504.273.0088, 1027 Touro Street, New Orleans, LA 70116. Visit NOLArelo.com to search all NOLA properties for sale. Latter & Blum INC/French Quarter, Steve Richards, LGBT Realtor, 712 Orleans @ Royal, Cell: 504.258.1800, Office: 504.529.8140, Website: www.SteveRichardsProperties.com, Email: SRichards@LatterBlum.com
restaurants Mandeville, LA [985] The Po-Boy Shack, 1703 N. Causeway Blvd., 626.1303 New Orleans, LA [504] Borracho @ Kajun's Pub, 2256 St. Claude, 267.6108. Clover Grill, 900 Bourbon St., 598.1010, CloverGrill.COM Country Club Restaurant, 634 Louisa St., TheCountryClubNewOrleans.COM, 945.0742 Deanie's Seafood, French Quarter: 841 Iberville, 581.4141; Bucktown: 1713 Lake Ave., Metairie, 831.1316; Deanies.COM Fatoush Mediterranean Grill, Coffee House & Juice Bar, 2372 St. Claude Ave., #130, FatoushRestaurantNOLA.COM, 504.371.5074 Gene's Po-Boys, 1040 Elysian Fields, 943.3861 Krystal, 116 Bourbon at Canal, 523.4030 Lil Vic's Rosticceria, 719 Toulouse, 304.1238 Louisiana Pizza Kitchen, 95 French Market Pl., 522.9500 Mona Lisa Restaurant, 1212 Royal St., 522.6746 Organic Banana, 1100 N. Peters, Bay 27, 587.7903 Orleans Grapevine Wine Bar & Bistro, 720 Orleans Prime Grille, 3162 Dauphine, 301.1740 Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, 1100 Bourbon St. , 529.1416, QuartermasterDeli.NET
retail/shopping New Orleans, LA [504] BOURBON PRIDE, 909 Bourbon, 566.1570 BUNGALOWS, 719 Royal St., 522.9222 HIT PARADE, 741 Bourbon St., Facebook.COM/HitParadeNOLA LA MINA STERLING, 840 Royal St., 324.3423 MARY'S FRENCH QUARTER KITCHEN & BATH, 732 N. Rampart, 529.4465 PANDA BEAR, 415 Bourbon St., 529.8064 QT PIE BOUTIQUE - 241 Dauphine St.,
occupants of the dome soon discover it is a race against time for their existence. Under the Dome is the ultimate summer tome, and I highly recommend reading the book before seeing the TV show. I checked out the first few episodes and I am not quite sure if the people who made this even read the book themselves. Under the Dome will keep you riveted as you try to figure out who is behind this event. The book sucks you in almost immediately and never lets the reader go. You become intertwined with the lives of these people and their story. It is a horror/science fiction/drama and disaster flick all rolled into one tidy package. King has scored a home run with this novel; unfortunately I am not sure I can say the same about the mini-series. It is not that it is 581. 6633 RAB DAB CLOTHING AND GIFTS, 918 Royal St., 525.6662 SECOND SKIN LEATHER, 521 St. Philip, 561.8167
spas New Orleans, LA [504] Club New Orleans, 515 Toulouse, 581.2402, www.the-clubs.com Planet Beach, A Contempo Spa, 301 Burgundy St., 525.8266, PlanetBeach.COM Skin Science, 3213 17th St., Metairie, LA 70002, 504.309.7048, SkinScienceLLC.COM
theatres New Orleans, LA [504] ALLWAYS LOUNGE & THEATRE, 2240 St Claude Ave., TheAllwaysLounge.NET CAFE ISTANBUL, 2372 St. Claude Ave., #140, 504.974.0786, CafeIstanbulNOLA.COM MAHALIA JACKSON THEATRE OF PERFORMING ARTS, 801 N. Rampart, Armstrong Park, mahaliajacksontheater.com, 525.1052 MID-CITY THEATRE, 3240 Toulouse, 488.1460, MidCityTheatre.COM NEW ORLEANS FRINGE FESTIVAL, NOFringe.ORG Slidell, LA [985 CUTTING EDGE THEATER, 742 Robert Blvd., 649.3727, CuttingEdgeTheater,COM
tours New Orleans, LA [504] Bicycle Tours by bikenola, City tours are daily at 9am & 2pm and are three hours in duration. Local, licensed, tour guides. Call reservations at 504.309.1113 Creole Queen Paddlewheeler, 1 Poydras @ Riverwalk, 529.4567, CreoleQueen.COM Gay New Orleans Walking Tour, Crescent City Tour Booking Agency, 638 St. Ann St., 568.0717. follow Gay New Orleans Walking Tour @ Facebook.COM
bad; it is just not a faithful adaptation of the book. But then again, neither was Carrie or The Shining and I still loved them. To find out more about Under the Dome or any of King’s other works, go to www.stephenking.com.
Party with the Queens! What better way to spend a Sunday afternoon then rolling on the river with drag queens. The Paddlewheeler Creole Queen is presenting some of the most talented drag entertainers around as they host an illusionist cruise on the Mighty Mississippi River on Sunday, July 28. Enjoy a lively drag show with entertainers, a DJ, dancers and much more. There will also be a New Orleans style brunch buffet with bottomless mimosas and Bloody Marys. Tickets are $60 and advanced tickets are available. The brunch begins at 12:30pm and cruise from 1 – 2:30pm. You board the Creole Queen at #1 Poydras at the Riverwalk entrance. For more information or tickets, go to www.creolequeen.com or call 504.529.4567.
It Is Good To be King An exciting event is coming up in August that I cannot wait to check out. It is one of the liveliest shows each year and now you have the opportunity to experience two weeks of entertainment. Kings for a Cause brings together Drag Kings, Male Impersonators, Drag Queens, Femme Performers and many other entertainers from all over the entire country for two weeks of incredible charity performances. The 2013 event will be the 5th year in which Kings For A Cause has been held and I congratulate them on their milestone. New Orleans Kings for a Cause will be held on August 9th and August 16th, both at Club LAX in Metairie, with a different cast both weeks. Their national charity is Broadway Cares/Equity Fights Aids and their local charity is The PFLAG Scholarship Fund. The show begins at 10pm and there is a $5 admission. For more information, check them out on Facebook. [continued on 29] Next DEADLINE Tuesday, July 30th
504.522.8049 marsha@ripandmarsha.com
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under the gaydar ...from 28
Blow Armeinius a Kiss! The Krewe of Armeinius is hosting the opening show of Kiss Me Kate, the final production of Tulane Summer Lyric
on Wednesday, July 31 at 8pm. Come spend the night with this wonderful group of guys for a magical evening of theatre. The ticket price is $30. For more information, go to www.kreweofarmeinius.org.
Seeing Red Put on your red hot dress and get ready for one of the craziest gender bender events in our city, the New Orleans Red Dress Run. This year’s event will take place on Saturday, Au-
gust 10 starting at Armstrong Park. With over 50 local charities supported by this event, the streets of this city will flow red with men and women in their most festive red ensembles. [continued on 30]
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trodding the boards by Brian Sands
Email: bsnola2@hotmail.com
Romeo and Juliet at Tulane’s Lupin through July 27 If you want to see a worthy, traditional Romeo and Juliet, by all means go see the Tulane Shakespeare Festival’s production. It is intelligently done, the beautiful language shines through, and there’ll be no reason to continue reading this critique. That said, some opinions and musings. —Ben Carbo’s Romeo is one of the finest I have ever seen, reminding me of a young Michael Cerveris. Carbo emphasizes, without ever going overboard, the young Montague’s lovesickness and self-dramatizing aspects, finding subtle humor in his
whinings. Yet he also spins forth Shakespeare’s poetry with aching lyricism and personifies the rashness of a young man who can fall in love at a glance, forgetting the other woman he’d just been pining over. Carbo, who impressed me in last year’s Wolves, seems to have the brightest of futures ahead of him. —Leah Farrelly’s set well-demarcates the Capulets’ property from the Montagues’ while nicely serving for the other locations as well. —Having Romeo and Juliet speak the Prologue is an inspired stroke. —James Bartelle brings to perfect life Mercutio’s description as someone who “loves to hear himself talk” even [continued on 33]
reVIEW...books, movies, cds by Blanche Email: ambushreview@aol.com Photo by Larry Graham, GrahamStudioOne.COM
Grown Ups 2 Adam Sandler’s Grown Ups 2 is now in theatres across the country. It is his first sequel, a follow-up to 2010s hugely successful Grown Ups, which critics panned but audiences loved ...it grossed $271 million on an $80 million budget. Surprise, now the critics don’t care much for Grown Ups 2, but it grossed $48 million in it’s opening weekend. Grown Ups 2 was written by Adam Sandler, Tim Herlihy and Fred Wolf. It was directed by Dennis Dugan and produced by Sandler and Jack Giarraputo. It is from Happy Madison Studios, distributed by Columbia Pictures. It is rated PG-13. Most of the cast from Grown Ups are back ...Adam Sandler, Kevin James, Chris Rock, David Spade, Salma Hayek and Maya Rudolph. Rob Schneider did not return. The cast is full of alumni from SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE- Andy Samberg, Taran Killam, Cheri Oteri, Ellen Cleghorne, Jon Lovitz and Tim Meadows. It features Steve Buscemi. Stone Cold Steve Austin, Georgia Engel, Taylor Lautner (as Frat Boy Andy), Patrick Schwarzenegger (yes, son of...) and Shaquille O’Neal. Most people have worked with Sandler before ...director Dennis Dugan, producer Jack Giarraputo, writers Tim Herlity and Fred Wolf and actors Allen Covert and Peter Dante. Grown Ups 2 picks up 3 years after Grown Ups. Lenny Feder (Adam Sandler) has moved his family back to the small town where he and his friends grew up. All the action takes place in one day, graduation day. The humor is base and sophomoric, full of lots of below the waist humor about poo, pee, puke and gay panic ...it’s crude
and tasteless. It’s an Adam Sandler movie ...don’t go expecting anything else. Theatres are full of action movies and computer generated animation films... Grown Ups 2 is rude, crude, and socially unacceptable ...but it’s laugh-out-loud funny.
Coming Attractions As always, dates are subject to change. JULY July 26th “The Wolverine”...this epic action adventure takes Wolverine to modern day Japan...with Hugh Jackman, Will Yun Lee and Jessica Biel “The To-Do List”...a Type-A overachiever comes up with a “to-do list” featuring all the risqué activities she missed out on in high school...with Andy Samberg, Aubrey Plaza, Bill Hader and Connie Britton July 31st “The Smurfs 2”...sequel to the 2011 worldwide hit...with Christina Ricci, Neal Patrick Harris, Katy Perry and Sofia Vergara AUGUST August 2nd “2 Guns”...two operatives from competing bureaus on the run together...with Mark Wahlberg, Denzel Washington, James Marsden, Bill Paxton and Edward James Olmos August 9th “Elysium”...a Sci-Fi drama set in the year 2159...with Matt Damon, Jodie Foster and Diego Luna “We’re The Millers”...Jason Sudeikis and Jennifer Aniston become big-time drug smugglers...with Sudeikis, Aniston, Will Poulter, Ed Helms and Emma Roberts August 16th “The Butler”...about an African-Ameri-
under the gaydar ...from 29 It is always a major party every year and this year is no exception with more beer than you can fathom, great food from Corky’s, Barefoot Wine, Cordina Cocktails and entertainment from dash Rip Rock and Cowboy Mouth. You can register online at www.NOLAreddress.com.
Party Down Let me begin this section with apologizing for its brevity. Unfortunately, you will not be so lucky next issue, but since I am heading to Chicago for almost a week, I wanted to get this issue out early, so I really only have one week’s worth of events. But you would be amazed about living in New Orleans, you miss one weekend and it seems that everyone and I do mean everyone has their event over that time period. Of well, if I waited for a slow time in the Crescent City, I would never leave. The week of the 4th of July was kind of slow for me since my mom had her knee surgery, I played nursemaid for most of it. I was able to have a slight reprieve on Thursday night to attend Albert Carey’s soiree on his rooftop for the holiday. His Warehouse District Condo is a great spot to watch the fireworks and his rooftop lends itself to the perfect party atmosphere. It was a great night surrounded by friends and can man who served as butler to eight Presidents in the White House for over 30 years...with Oprah Winfrey, John Cusack, Forest Whitaker, Jane Fonda and Terrence Howard “jOBS”...the biopic of Steve Jobs...with Ashton Kutcher, John Getz, Lesley Ann Warren and James Woods August 23rd “The World’s End”...part of Edgar Wright’s trilogy of comedies, 2004s “Shawn of the Dead” and 2007s “Hot Fuzz”...with Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, Paddy Considine and Eddie Marsden August 30th “One Direction: This Is Us”...about the London based band in 3D...with One Direction “Getaway”...a race against time...with Selena Gomez, Ethan Hawke and Jon Voight “Random”...not your ordinary Thanksgiving....with Haley Bennett, Ashley Greene, Lucus Till and David Jensen
Legal News Harper Lee, who wrote the 1961 Pulitzer-Prize winning novel To Kill a Mockingbird, will be going to court in August to wage a public legal battle over royalties she was duped out of by a literary agent. Harper Lee is the pride of Monroeville, Alabama, published only one book which has sold nearly 50 million copies, won the Presidential Medal of Freedom and was friends with Truman Capote. She helped him do research for his book In Cold Blood. At age 87 she has trouble with her sight and hearing, but understands what is going on around her. Let’s hope justice prevails and the media stays home.
my mood was lighter once I knew my mom was doing better. Friday night, I had a well-deserved cocktail at Philip’s Bar after work before resuming my medical detail at mom’s house. Philip’s may have shifted their gay night to Tuesday, but Friday night is still going strong. On Saturday night, I decided to do something I had not done in a while. I went to the gallery walk on Julia for the first Saturday of the month. Even though it was a light crowd and most of the galleries were closed; there had a handful of places that brought the crowds. The CAC, Ariodante, George Schmidt and Jean Bragg all had interesting shows. If you are looking for an enjoyable and inexpensive date night, these gallery walks on the first Saturday (with the exception of art For Arts Sake and White Linen Night) is a great way to see some amazing art and have free wine. So that recaps my first week, pretty uneventful, but stay tuned for the next issue, when Ambush goes on the road to Chicago.
Tony’s Tidbits of Gay Wisdom If you ever want to know the meaning of true patience and compassion, become a nursemaid for a sick friend or family member. Recently my mother had a knee replacement and even though she went through it with flying colors, it had been awhile since I spent a long period of time in a hospital. Watching someone you love go through any painful procedure is just heartbreaking, you feel so powerless. But you put your trust in the doctor’s (God or whoever you believe in) capable hands and wish for the best. This is where the compassion comes in, knowing there is nothing you can do sometimes except sitting with them is the best medicine in the world. The patience comes in when they start feeling better and they need your help to get around and do things. Not everyone makes the best patient, although I have to give it to my mom, she was pretty good, but you can always tell when she started walking and felt pain. Words would come out of her mouth that would make Bianca del Rio’s toes curl. All I can say is when dealing with a person going through a painful procedure, have their Percocet close by. On the really bad days you may want to pop one of them yourself, just to take the edge off. But I learned many things when I was with my mom over the past few days after surgery. You will be amazed at the tasks you are capable of doing for the ones you love, like redressing bandages and doing crazy leg exercises with them so they do not feel like they are going through things alone. You also learn just how selfless people are as you watch nurses, physical therapists and aides take extreme care and patience with the sick person. It is inspiring and life affirming to see. And sometimes if you are really lucky, your mom’s physical therapist will be a hot dude with great hands. Every cloud has a silver lining. If you have an event, story or idea, you want covered, contact me at ledgemgp@gmail.com.
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ambush
paparazzi
Easy Earl, Glen & Frankie back together again @ Oz
Joshua & Travis @ 700 Club
Festive Rob @ Ninth Circle
Oz’s Glen & Tommy welcome Pensacola’s Q, Johnny & Ted to the Land of Dance
Catch Scott behind the bar @ Michael’s On The Park
Partners Ernie & Patrick join French Quarter Suites/New Orleans Courtyard’s Blake Miller @ Bourbon Pub & Parade The Pussy Footers stop in @ Oz
Former SDGM Misael & Posse @ Oz Host Frankie Fierce with the stars Deja, Bootsie & Cookie
DJ Tim, DJ JRB & DJ Art @ GAA Top 5 Dance Club of the Year Finalist Oz
Greg all smiles @ Voodoo
Bourbon Pub & Parade manager Joe Palafox & owner Sandy Sachs @ Bourbon Pub & Parade
Dingo with Blanche Debris & Frankie Fierce @ Oz
Shane & Frankie @ Michael’s On The Park Manager Rene @ Rainbow Room
Halloween’s Dustin & Blanche join Halloween Host Party @ sponsor Oz
Lil Matt bartending at 700 Club
Ron, Tim, Regina & Eva Las Vegas celebrating Regina’s Birthday @ Michael’s On The Park
Dancer Stephen @ Rainbow Room
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Nightlife ~ Photos by Frankie Fierce, Larry Graham, Paul Melancon, Rip Naquin
Good Friends’ Cha Cha snaggin’ glasses from Cafe Lafitte’s for Good Friends Bar
trodding the boards ...from 30 when he’s dying. —That said, while it makes sense to have Bartelle portray both Mercutio and Verona’s Prince, since they’re kinsmen, it’s a little disconcerting to see the actor who’s just been killed as Mercutio
come back alive moments later as the Prince. Just takes something away from death’s finality. —Shakespeare really did an awesome job of capturing how a privileged 13-year-old girl would speak. —Silas Cooper is fine as Friar Lawrence, but, man, the Friar rambles on. A few lines judiciously cut would not
have been missed in this two-and-ahalf hour, though well-paced, outing. —In his one scene, the Apothecary looks like he wandered in from Spamalot. —Sam Dudley (Benvolio), Danny Bowen (Lord Capulet), Casey Groves (Lord Montague) and Stephen Eckert (Paris) are others who are meritorious
in their roles. —Emily Russell, generally matches Carbo’s performance in the first act but tends to become a bit shrill later on, causing the audience to become less invested in her fate. It is certainly a challenge, however, for an adult to play [continued on 35]
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trodding the boards ...from 33 a 13-year-old. —Romeo/Carbo’s kiss is pretty passionate to elicit Juliet’s withering “You kiss by the book” response. —Though Diana Shortes is certainly youthful, Lady Capulet is supposed to be about 26. And would Lord Capulet be so much older than she, especially as they’ve only had the one child? Just wondering. —Fight Director Burton Tedesco did an excellent job at making the swordplay exciting and dramatic even if some of the duels went on a tad long. And, as Tybalt, Tedesco gives his best performance I’ve yet seen. —Wendy Miklovic’s Nurse is okay, but a bit on the cliched side with too much mugging substituting for real emotion. Notwithstanding all that, I came away from this R&J with two main thoughts. 1. Having presented a revelatory Romeo and Juliet in 2006, which was nominated for five Ambie Awards, winning two (for Gary Rucker’s keen direction and Sharon London’s dignified Nurse), why must we have it again so soon? I can appreciate its box office appeal, but what of the other plays that TSF has not yet done, even taking into account intern productions? How about Troilus and Cressida orAll’s Well That Ends Well or Pericles or Titus Andronicus, all of which I’ve seen magical productions of elsewhere? Or even Cymbeline or King John or Timon of Athens just to expose them to New Orleans audiences? 2. Amy Holtcamp’s Director’s Note cogently limns various approaches to R&J. Why then did she take such a bloodless one? I’m aware that not everyone is acquainted with Romeo and Juliet and they deserve to see it in a straightforward manner (though I suspect the audience with which I saw it had at least a passing familiarity with it). Still, this is a touchstone of the dramatic canon. We ought to know the tale and look toward the director to bring something new and fresh to it. While R&J was a vast improvement over Holtcamp’s sludgy Julius Caesar of 2011, as I watched this semi-admirable, tradition-bound R&J, unlike Rucker’s, there were no new insights to be gleaned from it, giving me ample time to muse on those items above. I hate to be so harsh as I can view this R&J simultaneously as a glass half-full and half-empty. I hope that next season the Tulane Shakespeare Festival will give cause to see only full glasses.
Killer Joe at The Allways Lounge and Theatre through July 27 Entering the world of Killer Joe you’ll come across a man passing a
joint to his son, a woman who answers the front door half-naked (and not the top half), and a steady diet of tuna casserole, junk food and beer, lots of beer. Playwright Tracy Letts fittingly defines the trailer trash landscape of Texas in his American Gothic-esque first play. His Smith clan (note the generic name) are not only a truly dysfunctional family but each member is really stupid in his or her own way. Okay, maybe not the daughter, but that still leaves three out of four. This ain’t Shakespeare (the onstage body count isn’t as high for one) but it holds your attention due to Letts’ wellcrafted dialog and plotting of this “darkand-stormy-night” nasty noir-ish tale of an insurance con gone wrong. Yet it promises more than it delivers leaving you still somewhat hungry at the end. Not unlike the fast food that its denizens avidly consume. Benjamin Clements directs efficiently and pays meticulous attention to the script (nothing wrong with that) but a little more expansiveness would not have been unwelcome. In other words, given that the script is 20 years old and had a high profile off-Broadway revival 15 years ago, I wished, similar to Romeo and Juliet above, Clements had brought something uniquely “Clement-ine” to thisproduction. Though this is the show’s New Orleans premiere, in the 20 years of reality-laden TV since its debut, what once was shocking, simply isn’t any more. And a killer cop as the depths of depravity? Hey, we did that in NOLA years ago! What then can this production say about the here and now? While John Grimsley’s set, all cheap Formica paneling and tacky venetian blinds, is incredibly authentic, it seemed to me more low class tract housing than trailer park. More importantly, while I’m sure budgetary concerns come into play, some suggestion of an outside world—whether inspired by Edward Hopper or Georgia O’Keefe or Andy Warhol—might have been nice. Don’t get me wrong—Grimsley did an excellent job and Vic Woodward’s lighting is very good, but they lack a sense of the mythic. As the dim paterfamilias, Dane Rhodes brings bigger-than-life passion to every line-reading and scratch of his private parts. Lurking beneath the bluster, however, Rhodes hints at Ansel’s vestigial conscience. If there’s ever a stage version of The Honeymooners, he just might be your Ralph Kramden. Andrea Watson wonderfully makes Sharla, Ansel’s second wife, a toughas-nails sexpot with a practical streak as well. Her outfit and make-up would seem overdone, but judging by some women I’ve seen around here, they’re not. Maxwell Thornton, an actor new to me, is convincingly doltish yet charming in a low-class way; that he’s Ansel’s son is never in doubt. His monolog
about trying to manage a rabbit farm is a hoot and very well done. Lucy Faust, with her innocent eyes and child-like mien, would seem to be the perfect actress for Dottie, Ansel’s sleepwalking daughter. And there was much to commend in her winning performance, alternately pouty and captivating. But, as was the case with her remarkable Juliet in the aforementioned 2006 Romeo and Juliet, she projects a deep-rooted intelligence, that I’m not entirely sure is part of Dottie’s persona. Similarly, James Howard Wright, an innately nice person typically given to playing fatherly types, makes a believable Joe Cooper, a.k.a. “Killer Joe”, in the first act as we’re getting to know him. Flaunting an impressive vocabulary and a shaved head, he plays it polite and low key as is standard for this character; he reminded me of Clint Eastwood in one of his “flinty but decent man” parts. Yet when he has to exude the menace that Letts calls for, Wright simply doesn’t have it in him and Act Two feels somewhat enervated because of that. It didn’t help that Mike Yahn’s climatic fight choreography seemed to be off the night I saw it; let’s assume things have been patched up by now. Ironically, Faust and Wright make the end of Act One, described in the New York Times as “one of the sickest (and...sexiest) seduction scenes ever”, while still bizarre, the beginning of what turns into a truly touching relationship. Sure, there’s an age difference, but at 20, Dottie’s no longer jailbait. And, yes, Joe’s a psychopath but he’s protective of her and not that much worse than the conniving Smiths. Crazy as it sounds, I was kinda hoping Joe and Dottie would ride off into the sunset together. Killer Joe may not be essential theater but, despite its shortcomings, for the price of little more than a movie it offers some fun depravity at the suitably louche AllWays. You have three more chances to observe a family that’ll make yours look completely normal.
Jekyll & Hyde, The Musical at Playmakers Theater, Covington through July 28 Anyone who’s been paying attention to the Great White Way will recall that Frank Wildhorn has had six musicals produced on Broadway in the last 15 years, all of them critical and financial duds. Where he finds his investors, I’d love to know! So it was with lowered expectations and a sense of curiosity that I approached Playmakers’ production of his Jekyll & Hyde, which had a long, if unprofitable, Broadway run spawning legions of Jekkie fans. As it turns out, Wildhorn’s music is not so bad, a kind of cousin to secondtier Andrew Lloyd Webber’s which is still better than most. Leslie Bricusse’s
lyrics, though, are appallingly simplistic with rhymes a sophisticated secondgrader could’ve pulled off. And his book is a reductivist version of the Robert Louis Stevenson classic. Still, having sat through The Wedding Singer and Flashdance, I’ve seen worse. I thus admire Playmakers for taking a chance on this and at least trying something relatively new. And if the results weren’t always Broadway caliber, this might actually be an instance where less is more. Hey, I’ll take unamplified voices over miked ones and imagination over holograms any day! Director Adolfo Rodriguez’s biggest gamble is setting his production in a nebulous world between past and present. Costumes range from Victorian bodices to contemporary jeans, and a small plastic Kentwood water bottle is set against an old-fashioned lectern. I wouldn’t mind this steampunk approach but there didn’t seem to be any consistency to it, as though Rodriguez and his designers hadn’t fully thought it through. Still, it was interesting. Other than that, Rodriguez keeps the show moving forward though set changes involving his black and white panels sometimes slow things down. He inventively deploys the large cast throughout the theater, and while I suspect it’s a challenge to coordinate so many people, his wife Cashel’s choreography doesn’t give them as much to work with as they deserve. The lead roles are double cast. The night I saw it, in the opening scenes Chris Newhouse seemed too young and not possessed of a strong enough voice for Jekyll. But once Jekyll transformed into Hyde, Newhouse was transformed too. His voice became powerful, his coltish energy became focused, and a heretofore missing passion emerged, an investiture in the character separate from Jekyll’s “niceness”. Having seen Newhouse in featured roles at NOCCA, it was thrilling to see him metamorphose into a leading man. More than just flipping his hair up and down (very cool that though), he precisely differentiates Jekyll from Hyde. Calla Harper, with her teardrop face and exquisite vocals, makes Lucy, the prostitute who becomes involved with Hyde, a touching presence, lending heart and immediacy to the show. As for the other actors, their strength lies more in their singing ability than acting. There are some fine voices, notably Karista Filopoulos (Emma Carew), Frank Bonner (Danvers Carew) and even Andrew Aceves in the small role of a newsboy. Best of all is when the whole large cast sings together. Next up at Playmakers, in September, is the 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. I look forward to seeing what they can do with this delightful musical.
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