Ambush Magazine Volume 36 Issue 02

Volume 36 Issue 02 Jan 16 · Jan 29, 2018 Facebook.COM/AmbushMag

Award Winning

Happy Martin Luther King, Jr. Day! @AmbushMag

Celebrating LGBTQ Life, Music & Culture!

Gulf South LGBTQ Entertainment/Travel Guide · 36th Anniversary 1982-2018 · For Adults Only

New Orleans to host Annual Stonewall Sports National Tournament page 15

Friday Night before Mardi Gras cancels 2018 ball page 19

Gay Mardi Gras Balls & 2018 Mardi Gras Season Parade Schedule page 20

Tulane’s Green Wave Women’s Basketball team announces first ever Pride Night page 19 CrescentCare Sets $4 Million Goal for New Comprehensive Health Center page 23

2 路 The Official Mag: AmbushMag.com 路 Jan 16 - 29, 2018 路 Official Southern Decadence Guide 路 SouthernDecadence.com

GayMardiGras.com · GayEasterParade.com · Jan 16 - 29, 2018 · Facebook.com/AmbushMag · The Official Mag: AmbushMag.com · 3

The “Official” Dish

by Frank Pizzolato, Publisher Email: frank@ambushpublishing.com

So the Christmas and New Year’s holidays are behind us, just in time for Twelfth Night and the opening of Carnival Season. Kudos to Frank Perez for a successful kick off on Twelfth Night with his annual Mystic Krewe du Rue Royal Revelers fundraiser for the Gay Archives Project. The Double Play was a great host location and it’s safe to say a good time was had by all.

I also want to give a special THANKS to Ken GrandPre for his efforts in helping put on our Ambush Relaunch Party at his bar, GranPre’s on North Rampart Street. It was a great venue and he and his staff contributed to the event being every bit a success.

Back in Trump Land-what pass-

es for America after last year’s election-we have a fake president, defending fake Christians against fake attacks on what can at best be described as questionable religious beliefs. The attacks on marriage equality, LGBT employment protection, Family Planning, and a woman’s right to choose have been constant and pervasive in every aspect of this administration since taking office. Trump lied, bullied, and conned his way into the White House.

To have fallen for the lies and the con job is one thing, but to continue to support them is very much another. The threats to reverse, undo, repeal, or outright ignore the gains we have fought so long and so hard for are very real,

Inside this Issue of Ambush Snap Paparazzi

6

Snap Paparazzi

8

New Orleans Pride Schedule 2018

9

Book Review

9

Commentary

10

Announcements

10

Under the Gaydar

12

Snap Paparazzi

15

Stonewall Sports Announcement

15

Snap Paparazzi

18

FNBMG Accouncement

19

Green Wave Women’s Basketball Pride Night

19

Snap Paparazzi

19

Gay Mardi Gras Ball

20

Mardi Gras Season Parade Schedule

20

Moments in Gay New Orleans History

20

Snap Paparazzi

21

Book Review

22

CrescentCare Announcement

23

Upcoming at Oz

23

LGBTQ Owned/Friendly Business Directory

and grow more serious every day this man is in office, shielded and enabled by a rubber stamp congress of likeminded zealots.

His attacks on the free press, on the separation of powers, and on the very role of the office of the President have provided enough cover for him and this congress to get away with an unprecedented attack on the very fabric of our democratic institutions, putting the Republic at greater risk than perhaps at any other time in recent history. The vacuum created by his misfeasance in international affairs and the damage to longstanding alliances and treaties are quickly being filled by other international power players-most of whom are not friendly to the USA. Recently, there was a story about one of the “Nostradamus” type profits who “predicted” the election of Obama and stated in somewhat vague terms how he would be the “last President.” With the rise of Trump and now talk of Oprah as a candidate in 2020, are we one election from having a “celebrity monarch,” a celebrity President to entertain us while a much overly gerrymandered congress slams through any and all hyper partisan measures? There are no good outcomes in this scenario.

The founding principles of this democracy, those that brought us to the heights which we achieved and the greatness for which we were revered the world over cannot be allowed to be brushed aside. We have to be ever watchful and to stand up for our rights and the rights of any minority-however unpleasant-because only together can we withstand the onslaught that is upon us now.

The first priority is to get the religious zealots out of government. Hold on to your right to be you. If it’s not their bed and not their body, it’s NOT their business!

Get ready for Mardi Gras! Eat a lot.

Drink a lot. Love a lot. All of which we do best in NOLA!

24-25

Snap Paparazzi

26

Trodding the Boards

27

Snap Paparazzi

30

Gulf South LGBTQ Entertainment & Travel Guide Since 1982 New Orleans, Louisiana info@ambushpublishing.com 4 · The Official Mag: AmbushMag.com · Jan 16 - 29, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · SouthernDecadence.com

Facebook.COM/AmbushMag Gulf South Entertainment/Travel Guide Since 1982 • Texas-Florida Official Gay Easter Parade Guide© Official Gay Mardi Gras Guide© Official Gay New Orleans Guide© Official Pride Guide© Official Southern Decadence Guide© AWARD WINNING: Saints & Sinners Literary Festival Hall of Fame/2015, Louisiana Excellence Award: Media & Internet/2014, New Orleans Print Media Award/2014, 25th NO/AIDS Task Force Humanitas Award/2013, New Orleans Print Media Award/2013, Krewe of Mwindo Media Honoree/2009, Krewe of Petronius Carnival Spirit of Gay Mardi Gras XLVIII Award/2009, Forum For Equality Acclaim Awards X Media Recipient/2008, NO/AIDS Task Force Prometheus “Torch of Truth” [media] Award/2001 Email: info@ambushpublishing.com ANNUAL READERSHIP OVER 1 MILLION: 260,000+ Print/780,000+ Online CIRCULATION: Alabama - Mobile Florida - Pensacola Louisiana - Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Lake Charles, Metairie, New Orleans, Slidell Mississippi - Bay St. Louis, Biloxi STAFF: PUBLISHER/EDITOR/PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Frank Pizzolato, New Orleans GULF SOUTH/NEW ORLEANS AD SALES Frank Pizzolato, New Orleans THEATRE/PERFORMING ARTS CRITIC Brian Sands AD REPS/JOURNALISTS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Misti Gaiter, Tony Leggio, Hubert S Monkeys, Felicia Phillips, Frank Perez, Rev. Bill Terry-New Orleans Miss Cie-Mobile, AL National Advertising Rep: Rivendell Media 212.242.6863 Ambush Mag is published on alternate Tuesdays of each month by Ambush Publishing. Advertising, Copy & Photo DEADLINE is alternate Tuesdays, 4pm, prior to publication week, accepted via e-mail only: info@ambushpublishing.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. ©1982-2017 AMBUSH PUBLISHING LLC, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. NOTHING HEREIN MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION OF THE PUBLISHER INCLUDING AD LAYOUTS, MAPS and PHOTOS.

CATCH THE KREWE

du Vieux

The Music of

Senator Ken Fridays 7:30–9:30pm

Live Shows Play Girlz

hosted by Gia GiaVanni

Fridays 10–11:30pm

Join us for Krewe du Vieux, Saturday, January 27

The Music of the

Vanessa Carr Band Saturdays 7:30–9:30pm

Golden

The Official Home of Southern Decadence.

Jubilee: Dragging for Jesus with Reba Douglas

Divas R Us starring Monica

Synclaire-Kennedy

Saturdays 10–11:30pm

Sundays 5:00–7:00pm

Best Happy Hour in the Quar ter!

THE

Lantern

1239 Royal St. New Orleans • facebook.com/GoldenLanternBar

HAPPY HOUR 8AM – 8PM DAILY

N E V E R A C O V E R AT THE GOLDEN LANTERN

GayMardiGras.com · GayEasterParade.com · Jan 16 - 29, 2018 · Facebook.com/AmbushMag · The Official Mag: AmbushMag.com · 5

Snap Paparazzi From Oz New Orleans | Photos provided by Persana Shoulders, Christo Babst, Dwain Hertz, Mark David & eyeLucius

6 路 The Official Mag: AmbushMag.com 路 Jan 16 - 29, 2018 路 Official Southern Decadence Guide 路 SouthernDecadence.com

504-838-0358 • Portable Toilets with Solar Lights • Restroom Trailers • Temporary Fence

• • • •

Sani Stands Hand Wash Stations RV Pump Service Assorted Colors

your business. Our purpose.

331 Richard St., Gretna, La. 70053 www.YourRestroomDelivered.com

GayMardiGras.com · GayEasterParade.com · Jan 16 - 29, 2018 · Facebook.com/AmbushMag · The Official Mag: AmbushMag.com · 7

Snap Paparazzi From Oz New Orleans | Photos provided by Persana Shoulders, Christo Babst, Dwain Hertz, Mark David & eyeLucius

8 路 The Official Mag: AmbushMag.com 路 Jan 16 - 29, 2018 路 Official Southern Decadence Guide 路 SouthernDecadence.com

NOLA Pride 2018 New Orleans Pride 2018 Events Friday, June 8 Official Kick Off Party Friday, June 8 - Official After Party Saturday, June 9 PrideFest Presented by The Phoenix Bar Saturday, June 9 – Official Girl Party Saturday, June 9 The New Orleans Pride Parade Saturday, June 9 – Official Parade Post Party Sunday, June 10 Family Equality Day Presented by Longue Vue House & Gardens Sunday, June 10 – Official Tea Dance & Closing Party

Unveiling the Muse: The Lost History of Gay Carnival in New Orleans THE UNTOLD STORY OF A POWERFUL MARDI GRAS TRADITION “In Unveiling the Muse, Howard Philips Smith presents a lively and comprehensive history of New Orleans’s gay Carnival organizations formed in the post–World War II era. In addition, he takes a wider look at the places, people, and non-Carnival annual calendar of events that are allied with it.

His use of archival sources, both public and private, enhances the narrative and adds a stunning visual element to the history of the krewes, clubs, and society that has defined and transformed gay Carnival in New Orleans for over half a century.”

—Priscilla Lawrence, executive director, The Historic New Orleans Collection “Unveiling the Muse is a tremendous addition to scholarship on New Orleans and the history of sexuality. Smith helps move us past elite-driven histories of Carnival and returns the history of Mardi Gras to the libidinal and sexually dissident spaces where it belongs. This book will be tremendously useful for scholars of New Orleans and of urban gay life across the world. For general

readers, the book is full of fascinating stories and beautiful tableaux that will give us all a greater appreciation for the long and diverse history of New Orleans Carnival and the queer people who have shaped it.”

—Thomas Jessen Adams, lecturer in history and American studies at the University of Sydney and author of Working in the Big Easy: The History and Politics of Labor in New Orleans Traditional Carnival has been well documented with a vast array of books published on the subject. However, few of them, if any, mention gay Carnival krewes or the role of gay Carnival within the larger context of the season. Howard Philips Smith corrects this oversight with a beautiful, vibrant, and exciting account of gay Carnival.

Gay krewes were first formed in the late 1950s, growing out of costume parties held by members of the gay community. Their tableau balls were often held in clandestine locations to avoid harassment. Even by the new millennium, gay Carnival remained a hidden and almost lost history. Much of the history and the krewes themselves were devastated by the AIDS crisis.

Whether facing police raids in the 1960s or AIDS in the 1980s, the Carnival krewes always came back each season. A culmination of two decades

Gay krewes were first formed in the late 1950s, growing out of costume parties held by members of the gay community.

of research, Unveiling the Muse positions this incredible story within its proper place as an amazing and important facet of traditional Carnival.

Based on years of detailed interviews, each of the major gay krewes is represented by an in-depth historical sketch, outlining the founders, moments of brilliance on stage, and a list of all the balls, themes, and royalty. Of critical importance to this history are the colorful ephemera associated with the gay tableau balls. Reproductions of never-before-published brilliantly designed invitations, large-scale commemorative posters, admit cards, and programs add dimension and life to this history. Sketches of elaborate stage sets and costumes as well as photographs of ball costumes and rare memorabilia further enhance descriptions of these tableau balls.

HOWARD PHILIPS SMITH, Los Angeles, California, grew up on a farm in rural Mississippi and attended the University of Southern Mississippi and the Université de Bourgogne, Dijon. He began writing about pre-AIDS New Orleans and the gay ball scene during the early 1980s, the so-called Golden Age of Gay Carnival. He lives in Los Angeles with his husband and three cats.

For more information contact Courtney McCreary, Publicity and Promotions Manager, cmccreary@mississippi.edu Read more about Unveiling the Muse: The Lost History of Gay Carnival in New Orleans http://www.upress.state. ms.us/books/2110

GayMardiGras.com · GayEasterParade.com · Jan 16 - 29, 2018 · Facebook.com/AmbushMag · The Official Mag: AmbushMag.com · 9

Commentary

by Frank Perez Email: f.perez@sbcglobal.net

Mid-Term Congressional Elections and Impeachment All 435 members of Congress are up for reelection this year and the Democrats’ chances of recapturing the House are better than they have been in years.

Many are predicting the mid-term elections will be a referendum on Trump although Democratic leaders fear making impeachment a campaign issue could backfire. Their fears are irrelevant as calls for impeachment are gaining momentum.

Environmental activist Tom Steyer has already spent $20 million on a national advertising campaign called “The Need to Impeach.” Steyer recently announced he will spend another $30 million trying to flip the House.

Rep. Al Green (D—Texas) has already twice attempted unsuccessfully to introduce articles of impeachment.

Both attempts were described as premature by leaders of both parties—a tacit acknowledgment that impeachment is necessary if not inevitable.

Congressional leaders’ reticence regarding impeachment is a prime of example of why many people voted for Trump in the first place, namely a disdain for gutless politicians whose pragmatic reelection concerns trump (pun intended) that which is right and good for the nation.

Make no mistake about it—even republican leaders privately acknowledge Trump is mentally unstable, unfit, and dangerous. In addition, they personally despise him but finding someone loathsome is not impeachable.

According to Free Speech for People and RootsAction, the case for impeachment is straightforward: 1. obstruction of justice; 2. violations of the Foreign Emoluments Clause and Domestic Emoluments Clause of the United States Constitution; 3. conspiring with others to: (a) commit crimes against the United States involving the solicitation and intended receipt by the Donald J. Trump campaign of things of value from a foreign government and other foreign nationals; and (b) conceal those violations; 4. advocating illegal violence, giving aid and comfort to white supremacists and neo-Nazis, and undermining constitutional protections of equal protection under the law; 5. abusing the pardon power; and 6. recklessly threatening nuclear war against foreign nations, undermining and subverting the essential diplomatic functions and authority of federal agencies, including the United States Department of State, and engaging in other conduct that grossly and wantonly endangers the peace and security of the United States, its people and people of other nations,

by heightening the risk of hostilities involving weapons of mass destruction, with reckless disregard for the risk of death and grievous bodily harm; 7. directing or endeavoring to direct law enforcement, including the Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, to investigate and prosecute political adversaries and others, for improper purposes not justified by any lawful function of his office, thereby eroding the rule of

law, undermining the independence of law enforcement from politics, and compromising the constitutional right to due process of law.

Trump is a national disgrace and a clear and present danger to not only our democracy but also to world peace. He needs to be removed from office even if making impeachment a campaign issue is risky.

Announcement

by Frank Perez Email: f.perez@sbcglobal.net

Felicia Philips Crowned Grand Reveler IV

Philips was preceded on the stage by a procession of former Grand Revelers Jeffrey Palmquist and Will Antill. The outgoing Grand Reveler, Rip Naquin, passed away in August. Standing in for him was his sister, Cathy Naquin Vaughn.

The traditional Meeting of the Courts followed the coronation. King Cake Queen Monica Synclaire-Kennedy of the Krewe of Queenateenas took the stage and toasted Philips.

The Krewe de le Rue Royale Revelers was founded in 2014 and grew out of Frank Perez’ annual 12th Night Party. The Carnival Season begins on January 6 and culminates on Mardi Gras.

Light Gallery in New York City mounted his first solo gallery exhibition and in 1978, the Robert Miller Gallery in New York City became his exclusive dealer. Mapplethorpe had over 200 solo exhibitions in his lifetime. In 1988, the Whitney Museum of American Art mounted his first major American museum retrospective and in 2016, the J. Paul Getty Museum and Los Angeles County Museum of Art in Los Angeles, which jointly hold one of the largest collections of his work, hosted companion retrospectives. In the year before his death, Mapplethorpe established the Robert Mapplethorpe Foundation in order to protect and extend his artistic legacy, to promote and support photography at the institutional level, and to fund medical research in the fight against AIDS and HIV. George Valentine Dureau, a native New Orleanian, was born in 1930 and

died in 2014. He received a B.A. in Fine Arts from Louisiana State University in 1952 and briefly attended Tulane University where he studied architecture.

In October 2011, the Ogden Museum of Southern Art in New Orleans presented Dureau its highest honor, the Opus Award, in recognition of his contributions to the art and culture of New Orleans and the larger South. In 2012, he received critical acclaim in the New York Times following the first New York exhibition of his photography. His art is included in numerous museum collections, including Le Musée de la Photographie in Paris, the New Orleans Museum of Art, the Ogden Museum of Southern Art and the Morris Museum of Art in Augusta, Georgia. He has two monographs, New Orleans: 50 Photographs, published in 1985 and George Dureau: The Photographs, published in 2016.

Felicia Philips, the Cheese Queen of New Orleans, took on a new title as she was crowned Grand Reveler IV at the Mistik Krewe de le Rue Royale Revelers’ annual Twelfth Night Party on January 6 at the Double Play Bar. A crowd of over 200 revelers packed the bar as Krewe Captain and Lord of Misrule Frank Perez, echoing the words of Aubrey Synclaire, declared, “For giving out hand-jobs at the Phoenix like government cheese, I dub thee The Cheese Reveler.”

Philips was accompanied by his two lieutenants Misti Gaither and Madison Faile. Before the coronation,

Announcement

by Frank Perez Email: f.perez@sbcglobal.net

George Dureau and Robert Mapplethorpe at Arthur Roger Gallery

The Arthur Roger Gallery is pleased to present, in collaboration with the Robert Mapplethorpe Foundation, an exhibition of photographs

by Robert Mapplethorpe and George Dureau. The exhibition will be on view at Arthur Roger@434, located at 434 Julia Street, from January 6 – February 17, 2018. This exhibition is presented concurrent to the New Orleans Triennial, Prospect.4: The Lotus in Spite of the Swamp, through February 25.

The Arthur Roger Gallery is honored to be hosting the first joint exhibition of Robert Mapplethorpe and George Dureau. Mapplethorpe and Dureau were introduced in New Or-

leans in the 1970s by prominent local collector, Dr. Russell Albright. The two artists became friends, endeared by their mutual interests, and their friendship informed their artistic ideals and emboldened their individual contributions. The influence that each artist had on the other is beautifully apparent in this exhibition of almost forty 20x16 inch, black and white photographs.

The images feature male nudes, mostly African American, and were taken between the late 70s and early 90s.

Robert Mapplethorpe was born in New York in 1946 and died in Boston in 1989 due to complications from HIV/ AIDS. He studied Graphic Arts at Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, and left in 1969 before finishing his degree. He took his first photographs in the early 1970s using a Polaroid camera. In 1973, the

10 · The Official Mag: AmbushMag.com · Jan 16 - 29, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · SouthernDecadence.com

Under the Gaydar

by Tony Leggio Email: ledgemgp@gmail.com

Interview: Parker Simon

One of my favorite aspects about writing for Ambush Magazine is getting to interview all kinds of interesting people locals, celebrities, philanthropists and even a scoundrel or two. Recently I was able to interview a wonderfully talented musician named Parker Simon who was in New Orleans performing two acoustic shows at Mags 940 and The Four Seasons Bar. If you are not familiar with this name, you will be soon. Parker’s music meshes a fun rhythm with soulful lyrics that works incredibly well.

On the verge of his second CD being released later this year, he did two shows where he debuted his acoustic version of a fabulous song about New Orleans entitled Absinthe. From Tulsa, Oklahoma, Parker Simon is a pop singer-songwriter, musician and premature baby doctor. Right! The perfect husband material, a rocker and a doctor all rolled up in one.

Known for his electrifying sound, Parker builds from his gospel roots to create melodies reminiscent of cornerstone pop stars of the 80’s and early 90’s.

Parker began singing and playing piano from an early age. He went on to obtain a medical degree but his passion for music remained close to his heart.

His medical practice as a neonatologist parallels with his music creation, both of which he uses as a channel to help and inspire others, the latter providing him with an artistic outlet.

His debut EP Blow It Up, was released in 2013. From that album, his single, “It’s Going Down”, was featured on the Hollister stores Spring Break Playlist in 2012.

I had a chance to speak with Parker over the phone before his New Orleans shows.

TL: What was your primary inspiration for the song Absinthe?

PS: I love New Orleans, it has always been one of my favorite cities in the United States. I happened on one trip to be at the Carousel Bar at the Hotel Monteleone with a friend trying Absinthe for the first time. When we left I had this feeling of being high, hence one of the main lines in the song. You will hear lots of nods to the city such as Harry Connick Jr., the Carousel Bar and Jackson Square.

TL: Could you tell me about your new album?

PS: The new album is called Live Poet and Absinthe is the third single released from it. The album itself has a unique story. I wrote the album with

a friend who died of depression as the album was going into production. I had seen him on a Monday and he died the following day. His twitter account was Live Poet, Die Poet. So to honor him, I named the album Live Poet. This album has been a huge journey with may people from all over the world contributing to it, as far as London and Poland. The album is sort of like a Pheonix Rising form the ashes for me and about recreation.

TL: What do you love about our city?

PS: I have been to New Orleans many times before, mostly for special trips and medical conferences. I have been for Mardi Gras and Halloween also. I love older cities. With New Orleans I love it all form the touristy spots like the French Quarter and the Garden District to all the places the locals hang out. I would definitely love to come down and do a concert here during Southern Decadence.

Check out Live Poet when it releases, as well as sign up on his website for updates and tour information www.parkersimonofficial.com. And the song Absinthe is available digitally.

Book of the Month

I have always loved Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes books and with the popularity of the character still in today’s pop culture in shows like Sherlock on BBC and Elementary, my book of the month for January is a perfect choice. A Study in Charlotte is the debut novel by Brittany Cavallaro. It is the first book in a new trilogy of the teen descendants of Sherlock Holmes and John Watson.

Cavallaro has created a wonderful world as we meet a new crime fighting couple. With nods to all the characters we know and love with some unique plot twists, this clever novel draw the reader in quickly. Jamie Watson has been a distant fan of the mysterious Charlotte Holmes. Their great-greatgreat-grandfathers were the most infamous crime solving partners in history.

He comes to meet her at a boarding school in America and immediately gets drawn into a murder mystery.

As if by a planned coincidence Charlotte Holmes also attends the school and he sets off to discover more about her. She proves to be like her ancestor in her volatility and dark vices. When a student they both have a skirmish with dies under suspicious circumstances, ripped straight from the most terrifying of the Sherlock Holmes stories, they have to team up to uncov-

er the culprit. With each step closer to the killer the danger ramps up to a very satisfying climax.

What I love about this book, is the back stories of Watson and Holmes and their current families. The authors has made it a point to make the main characters multi-dimensional with lots of run to grow the series. I highly recommend this fast-paced mystery thriller. For more information on this author and her other books in the series, go to www.brittanycavallaro.com.

Party Down

After Christmas I spent the entire week laying low and enjoying the holiday week. I was off of work so it was time to connect with my home and end the year being with friends and family.

But from New Year’s Eve on, all I cared about was the parties, King Cake and football.

My only outing that week was when King Armeinius 49 Paul Metoyer hosted a Kings Party in celebration of the incoming king Ned Pitre at the Corner Pocket. The boys were plentiful as the monarchs toasted each other and

12 · The Official Mag: AmbushMag.com · Jan 16 - 29, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · SouthernDecadence.com

had cake. This party goes to show that it is definitely good to be King.

Happy New Years! A dozen of my closest friends joined me in celebrating the end of 2017 and the start of 2018 at Marche along the river. It may have been cold outside, but the atmosphere was on fire inside. The mood was high as many people were ready to get rid of the baggage of the past year and start afresh. Marche pulled out all the stops for guests from some of the most delicious cuisine to the open bar with free flowing champagne, noisemakers, hats, a live band (The Benchwarmers) and a front row seat for the fireworks. I love a party atmosphere in an elegant setting, the ideal combination to begin the next 365 days.

On the first day of 2018, I celebrated the incoming new year at the New Orleans Fairgrounds Race Track with Mama Leggio and friends as we enjoyed the Sport of Kings. The races are such a fun and exciting place and we had premium seat along the window at the clubhouse. And even though I broke out even, it was a grand Continued on Page 13

Continued from Page 12

way to spend the day.

As we move into the Carnival season, the events are plentiful. On Thursday, I attended the Queens party of Armeinius at the exceptional (and very pink) new restaurant in the Warehouse District Flamingo A Go Go. Past Queen 49 Beaux Delong Church threw a dinner to honor the new incoming queen, Brent Durnin. I came in at the dessert part of the meal, but it was wonderful to see a krewe keeping a long standing tradition alive. And I love their nickname – The Vipers Club.

It is Mardi Gras and on 12th Night (January 6) I rang in the holiday right by attending two very fun events. The first was a second line (more of a sashay) through the Quarter with the Krewe of King Arthur. I am a new member to this krewe and look forward to riding during the day on February 4, 2018.

After the strut, we had a after party upstairs at the Pub where we ate, drank and just conversed with the members.

My second stop of the night was Frank Perez’s 12th Night Party. Frank is not only a wealth of all things Mardi Gras, he started this event four years ago in his home and now has grown so much that it has moved to the Double Play.

There was food, flowing libations, costumes, gaiety and the announcement of the new exalted Grand Reveler IV who is none other than Felicia Philips, who looked dazzling in her gold outfit.

With such an amazing start, this Carnival season should be stellar.

Sunday was about kings, queens and Saints! I began my day by attending the Lords of Leather’s Royalty Appreciation Party at Café Lafitte’s in Exile. There was so much bling and jewels in the place, a person could go blind. This festive fundraiser gives a nod to all the current and past royalty of the gay carnival krewes. There is lots of good eats and excitement as everyone is talking about the balls that are about to happen. As always, the Lords show that they live up to their motto of leather, love and laughter!

Afterwards, it was all about the Saints! What a nail biter of a game that was! Xcc And one of my favorite places to watch the game is at The Friendly Bar in the Marigny that has lots of great food and pudding shots when we score a touchdown! A Saints win is the perfect way to have ended my two weeks of parties. Bless you boys!

Hot Happenings

Welcome to the New Year! Let’s hope 2018 is filled with peace, joy and lots of hot happenings. Here are just few events to kick your year off right.

Tuesday, January 16, 2018 Country Dance lessons: GrandPre’s; 834 N. Rampart Street; 8 p.m. Tuesdays are Country Dance lessons with dancing from 8 - 11 p.m.

Bourbon Boylesque: Oz; 800 Bourbon Street; 8:00 p.m. See the men of Oz like you have never seen them before. The show stars Atomyc Adonis, Bobby B, Franky, Phathoms Deep and other special guests. Hosted by Trixie Minx.

Tacos, Tequila and Tiaras: Buffa’s Bar and Restaurant; 1001 Esplanade Avenue; 8 p.m. Tacos, Tequila, and Tiaras is a one of New Orleans’ only family friendly drag shows! Join hostess Vanessa Carr Kennedy every Tuesday, have a taco or two, and learn a little bit about the art of drag.

Wednesday, January 17, 2018 WednesGays at LPK Uptown: Louisiana Pizza Kitchen; 615 South Carrolton Ave.; 5 p.m. Join us every Wednesday to celebrate diversity.

See old friends or make some new ones and find out what’s happening in the Nola community. All this while enjoying 1/2 price drinks from the bar. Invite your friends...

You Better Sing Karaoke; Lafitte’s in Exile; 901 Bourbon Street; 7 p.m. Join DJ Kory and DJ Derek as they play Karaoke at Lafittes in Exile.

Behind the bar slinging your drinks for you are Jeremy, Ryan, and Tim. Oz Show Night: Oz; 800 Bourbon Street; 10:30 p.m. This popular drag show is hosted by Persana Shoulders and features Nicole Lynn Foxx, Lisa Beaumann, Connie Hung, Anastascia Davenport; Chichi Rodriguez and

Dominique DeLorean.

Game Night: GrandPre’s; 834 N. Rampart Street; 7 p.m. Wednesdays are Game night with Honey Bee at 7 p.m. with free jello shots and Bar Tabs.

Thursday, January 18, 2018 Honey Bee Trivia: GrandPre’s; 834 N. Rampart St.; 7 p.m. Thursday is Honey Bee Trivia at 7 p.m. Four rounds with jello shots to the winner of each round and a Bar Tab to top person/team of the night.

Girl | Crush: Oz New Orleans; 800 Bourbon Street; 9 p.m. Girl | Crush is bringing you a weekly event for girls who like girls, and their friends! This flavor of CRUSH entitled DTF is exclusive to New Orleans’ #1 Dance Club, Oz and happens every Thursday night.

The Jeff D Comedy Cabaret; Oz; 800 Bourbon Street; 10 p.m. The Comedy Cabaret stars Jeff D. featuring Gia Giavanni. Enjoy hilarious comedians, amazing talent and the Ladies of Oz. Strip Off: Oz; 800 Bourbon Street; midnight Persana Shoulders hosts the Strip Off every Thursday night. Sign up begins at 11 p.m. and the show features a spotlight performance by Miss Gay Louisiana America 2013 Mercedes Ellis Loreal. Winners receive 1st PLACE - $100 Cash • 2nd PLACE - $50 Bar tab Coven: Santos Bar; 1135 Decatur St.; 9 p.m. - midnight COVEN is a Continued on Page 16

NEWCHEF NEWFOOD NEWVIBE IT’S A WHOLE NEW FEEL! 535 Franklin Ave., New Orleans, LA 70117 504-446-0040 feelingsmarigny@gmail.com GayMardiGras.com · GayEasterParade.com · Jan 16 - 29, 2018 · Facebook.com/AmbushMag · The Official Mag: AmbushMag.com · 13

14 路 The Official Mag: AmbushMag.com 路 Jan 16 - 29, 2018 路 Official Southern Decadence Guide 路 SouthernDecadence.com

Snap Paparazzi From Krewe of King Arthur Events | Photos by Tony Leggio & Elliot’s Facebook

New Orleans to host 5th Annual Stonewall Sports National Tournament The annual Stonewall Sports National Tournament & Summit is on the move! Hosted in Washington, D.C. for the past four years, Stonewall Sports is excited to announce that the 5th Annual Stonewall Sports National Tournament & Summit will be hosted in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 13-15, 2018.

Each year, the Stonewall Sports National Tournament & Summit has experienced incredible growth and received participation from players and spectators from across the country. In 2017, more than 1,000 individuals traveled to attend the tournament and over 25 city leaders joined the summit to

enhance their leadership skills through networking, collaborating and sharing best practices. New Orleans will provide a unique tournament experience, players and spectators will enjoy the rich and culturally diverse history of the city. The tournament will offer several popular sports, including kickball, dodgeball, and volleyball.

Andrew Palermo, Commissioner of Stonewall Sports - New Orleans, is excited to host the tournament and showcase the city of New Orleans; he stated, “we are excited to welcome the Stonewall Sports family to New Orleans this July! The city, like gumbo— one of our most famous foods—is often cited as an example of the melting-pot nature of Louisiana. We are a blend of so many cultures and peoples, and everyone brings their own unique contri-

bution to the mix. We are sure that you will feel at home here, as New Orleans offers something for everyone: great food, beautiful architecture, music, festivals, plenty of history and culture, and a laid-back, fun vibe. - Laissez les bons temps rouler!”

Our organization is excited for continued growth of the tournament, and the opportunity to host the tournament in different cities. In 2019, the Sixth Annual Stonewall Sports National Tournament & Summit will be hosted in Raleigh, North Carolina. For more information, visit us at stonewallsports. org.

Stonewall Sports is an LGBTQ and Ally not for profit sports league, operating in: Boston, MA; Charlotte, NC; Chicago, IL; Cleveland, OH; Greensboro, NC; Minneapolis, MN; Phila-

delphia, PA; Pittsburgh, PA; Raleigh, NC; Richmond, VA; Washington, DC; Wilmington, NC. We strive to develop a well-connected and diverse community through organized competition and social or fundraising events. Our vision is that every person should have the ability to feel comfortable playing organized sports and that we have the responsibility to give back to our community.

GayMardiGras.com · GayEasterParade.com · Jan 16 - 29, 2018 · Facebook.com/AmbushMag · The Official Mag: AmbushMag.com · 15

Continued from Page 13

New Orleans drag show like no other!

Witches! Vampires! Voodoo! Ghosts!

All the dark, creepy, sexy vibes that make this town the town we love! Featuring performances from our core cast members: Apostrophe, Franky, Garlic Junior, Visqueen and Haus DJ Vinsantos with Card Readings by The Mexican Witch and, of course, our EVOO stage kitten: Bennigan Applebee McFridayz. $10 admission Gear Party: Rawhide 2010; 740 Burgundy Street; 9 p.m. - 5 a.m. It’s finally time to break out of the box, and bring your kinks to the front of of the line! There’s a $5.00 cover unless you’re sporting your gear (leather, rope, floggers, cuffs, heels, masks, etc.). Rawhide is open to frolic in the dark with as many tools as you can carry!

Friday, January 19, 2018 Simply The Best - The Tina Turner Story featuring Anais St. John: Joy Theatre; 1200 Canal Street; 8 - 11 p..m. Joy Theater and Jonathan Mares Productions are teaming up to present the debut of “Simply the Best: The Tina Turner Story” - a live tribute event featuring award winning singer Anaïs St. John. The follow up to producer Mares and singer St. John’s critically acclaimed Donna Summer Tribute which played at Joy Theater and Marigny Theater, the event will include performances of more than 15 of Tina Turner’s greatest hits, including What’s Love Got to Do With It, Simply the Best and Proud Mary. The event will also feature a 7 piece band, backup singers and dancers to help tell the dramatic story of the queen of Rock-n-Roll, Tina Turner.

Anaïs St. John is an award winning vocalist, notable for her performances in her Donna Summer tribute. For tickets, go to http://bit.ly/SimplyTheBestNOLATix. New Meat Amateur Dance Contest: Corner Pocket; 640 St. Louis Street; 6:30 p.m. Hosted by Lisa Beaumann, anyone can enter - $100 cash prize.

F*@k It Up - A Lit AF Drag Experience: The Goat; 1301 St. Bernard Ave.; 11 p.m. – 1:30 a.m. Come out to F*@K IT UP: A Lit AF Drag Experience featuring a super special line up of some of your favorite DRAG QUEENS - Laveau Contraire, Franky, Auda Beaux Di, Gayle King Kong and hosted

by Nicole Lynn Foxx. Doors at 11PM / Show at MIDNIGHT / $10 cover Saturday, January 20, 2018 It’s Showtime on Rampart: GrandPre’s; 834 N. Rampart St.; 10 p.m.

This free drag show stars Moanalot Fontaine and Sable Nicole Starr who are the fabulous Southern Barbituates.

Exotique: The Four Seasons Bar; 3229 N. Causeway Blvd.; 10:30 p.m.

This month’s themed is WHITE TRASH

BASH. Free entry. Stars Taze-Ya Ballz, Morgan LeFay, Monique Michaels Alexander, Giselle Trivianni and Ashlee Ballz.

Sunday, January 21, 2018 NOLA Softball League Opening Day Party: Good Friends Bar; 740 Dauphine Street; 3:30 - 5:30 p.m. Plan to come out for drinks and fun, as well as a 50/50 raffle and an auction to benefit the league charity.

You Better Sing Karaoke; GrandPre’s; 834 North Rampart St.; 7 p.m. Join DJ Kory and DJ Derek as they play Karaoke at Good Friends Bar. Behind the bar slinging your drinks for you are Jeremy, Ryan, and Tim. Zingo: Corner Pocket; 640 St. Louis Street; 6:30 p.m. Play Bingo with hosts Opal Masters followed by the Barry BareAss Dancer of the Week Contest.

Oz Show Night: Oz; 800 Bourbon Street; 9:30 p.m. This popular drag show is hosted by Persana Shoulders and features Nicole Lynn Foxx, Lisa Beaumann, Connie Hung, Anastascia Davenport; Chichi Rodriguez and Dominique DeLorean.

Monday, January 22, 2018 S.I.N. Night: The Corner Pocket; 940 St. Louis Street; Starting at 9 p.m.

Come drink with Ashlee. Get your SIN card and receive $2.50 canned beer or well drinks and $1.50 draft.

Margarita Mondays: Grand Pre’s; 834 N. Rampart St.; 7 p.m. From 7 p.m. till close enjoy margarita specials with your bartender Michael Tuesday, January 23, 2018 Country Dance lessons: GrandPre’s; 834 N. Rampart Street; 8 p.m. Tuesdays are Country Dance lessons with dancing from 8 - 11 p.m.

Bourbon Boylesque: Oz; 800 Bourbon Street; 8:00 p.m. See the men of Oz like you have never seen them before. The show stars Atomyc Adonis, Bobby B, Franky, Phathoms Deep and other special guests. Hosted by Trixie Minx.

Tacos, Tequila and Tiaras: Buffa’s Bar and Restaurant; 1001 Esplanade Avenue; 8 p.m. Tacos, Tequila, and Tiaras is a one of New Orleans’ only family friendly drag shows! Join hostess Vanessa Carr Kennedy every Tuesday, have a taco or two, and learn a little bit about the art of drag.

Wednesday, January 24, 2018 WednesGays at LPK Uptown: Louisiana Pizza Kitchen; 615 South Carrolton Ave.; 5 p.m. Join us every Wednesday to celebrate diversity.

See old friends or make some new ones and find out what’s happening in the Nola community. All this while enjoying 1/2 price drinks from the bar. Invite your friends.

You Better Sing Karaoke; Lafitte’s in Exile; 901 Bourbon Street; 7

p.m. Join DJ Kory and DJ Derek as they play Karaoke at Lafittes in Exile.

Behind the bar slinging your drinks for you are Jeremy, Ryan, and Tim. Oz Show Night: Oz; 800 Bourbon Street; 10:30 p.m. This popular drag show is hosted by Persana Shoulders and features Nicole Lynn Foxx, Lisa Beaumann, Connie Hung, Anastascia Davenport; Chichi Rodriguez and Dominique DeLorean.

Game Night: GrandPre’s; 834 N. Rampart Street; 7 p.m. Wednesdays are Game night with Honey Bee at 7 p.m. with free jello shots and Bar Tabs.

Thursday, January 25, 2018 Honey Bee Trivia: GrandPre’s; 834 N. Rampart St.; 7 p.m. Thursday is Honey Bee Trivia at 7 p.m. Four rounds with jello shots to the winner of each round and a Bar Tab to top person/team of the night.

Girl | Crush: Oz New Orleans; 800 Bourbon Street; 9 p.m. Girl | Crush is bringing you a weekly event for girls who like girls, and their friends! This flavor of CRUSH entitled DTF is exclusive to New Orleans’ #1 Dance Club, Oz and happens every Thursday night.

The Jeff D Comedy Cabaret; Oz; 800 Bourbon Street; 10 p.m. The Comedy Cabaret stars Jeff D. featuring Gia Giavanni. Enjoy hilarious comedians, amazing talent and the Ladies of Oz. Strip Off: Oz; 800 Bourbon Street; midnight Persana Shoulders hosts the Strip Off every Thursday night. Sign up begins at 11 p.m. and the show features a spotlight performance by Miss Gay Louisiana America 2013 Mercedes Ellis Loreal. Winners receive 1st PLACE - $100 Cash • 2nd PLACE - $50 Bar tab Friday, January 26, 2018 New Meat Amateur Dance Contest: Corner Pocket; 640 St. Louis Street; 6:30 p.m. Hosted by Lisa Beaumann, anyone can enter - $100 cash prize.

Saturday, January 27, 2018 Krewe of Stars Show Ball 2: Jefferson Performing Arts Center; 6400 Airline Drive; 7 p.m. The mission of the Krewe of Stars is to encourage, nurture and promote the talents of the New Orleans performance arts community. The Krewe of Stars shall produce a star-studded evening of Mardi Gras fun, in the tradition of a Mardi Gras Tableau Ball, where “stars of the community” are recognized by their peers for outstanding contribution in theater, music, media and the arts.

This year’s King and Queen is Irma Thomas and Al Carnival Time Johnson. For tickets, go to www.kreweofstars.com.

Sunday, January 28, 2018 King Cake Festival: Champion Square; LaSalle Street; 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Presenting the fourth annual King

16 · The Official Mag: AmbushMag.com · Jan 16 - 29, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · SouthernDecadence.com

Cake Festival – a celebration benefitting Ochsner Hospital For Children.

Spend the day strolling Champions Square and sampling Louisiana’s finest King Cakes from the greatest bakers in the area! The Festival is Free and open to the public!

For more information regarding tasting tickets, VIP tickets, the Gladiator Rep Run and Family Fun Run, or all things King Cake Festival, please visitwww.kingcakefestival.org You Better Sing Karaoke; GrandPre’s; 834 North Rampart St.; 7 p.m. Join DJ Kory and DJ Derek as they play Karaoke at Good Friends Bar. Behind the bar slinging your drinks for you are Jeremy, Ryan, and Tim. Zingo: Corner Pocket; 640 St. Louis Street; 6:30 p.m. Play Bingo with hosts Opal Masters followed by the Barry BareAss Dancer of the Week Contest.

Oz Show Night: Oz; 800 Bourbon Street; 9:30 p.m. This popular drag show is hosted by Persana Shoulders and features Nicole Lynn Foxx, Lisa Beaumann, Connie Hung, Anastascia Davenport; Chichi Rodriguez and Dominique DeLorean.

Monday, January 29, 2018 S.I.N. Night: The Corner Pocket; 940 St. Louis Street; Starting at 9 p.m.

Come drink with Ashlee. Get your SIN card and receive $2.50 canned beer or well drinks and $1.50 draft.

Margarita Mondays: Grand Pre’s; 834 N. Rampart St.; 7 p.m. From 7 p.m. till close enjoy margarita specials with your bartender Michael.

Tuesday, January 30 - Sunday, February 4, 2018 An American In Paris: The Saenger Theatre; 111 Canal Street AN AMERICAN IN PARIS, the most awarded new musical of 2015 and winner of four Tony Awards, will play in New Orleans at the Saenger Theatre. Presented by the New Orleans Theatre Association, AN AMERICAN IN PARIS is part of the East Jefferson General Hospital Broadway in New Orleans 2017-2018 season. Tickets for AN AMERICAN IN PARIS start at $30 at the Saenger Theatre Box Office (1111 Canal St., New Orleans, Louisiana, 70116), BroadwayInNewOrleans.com, all Ticketmaster outlets and by phone at (800) 9822787.

Inspired by the Academy-Award winning film, AN AMERICAN IN PARIS is the romantic story about an American soldier, a mysterious French girl and an indomitable European city, each yearning for a new beginning in the aftermath of war. Directed and choreographed by 2015 Tony Award-winner Christopher Wheeldon, the show features the music and lyrics of George Gershwin and Ira Gershwin, and a book by Craig Lucas.

The score of AN AMERICAN Continued on Page 17

steve richards __________________ properties 504 258 1800 steverichardsproperties.com ____________________ 504 948 3011 712 orleans new orleans, la 70116 licensed by the louisiana real estate commision Continued from Page 16

IN PARIS includes the songs “I Got Rhythm,” “Liza,” “’S Wonderful,” “But Not For Me,” “I’ll Build a Stairway to Paradise,” and orchestral music including “Concerto in F,” “Second Prelude,” “Second Rhapsody/Cuban Overture” and “An American In Paris.”

AN AMERICAN IN PARIS won four 2015 Tony Awards, four Drama Desk Awards, four Outer Critics Circle Awards, the Drama League Award for Best Musical, three Fred and Adele Astaire Awards, and two Theatre World Awards.

Tuesday, January 30, 2018 Country Dance lessons: GrandPre’s; 834 N. Rampart Street; 8 p.m. Tuesdays are Country Dance lessons with dancing from 8 - 11 p.m.

Bourbon Boylesque: Oz; 800 Bourbon Street; 8:00 p.m. See the men of Oz like you have never seen them before. The show stars Atomyc Adonis, Bobby B, Franky, Phathoms Deep and other special guests. Hosted by Trixie Minx.

Tacos, Tequila and Tiaras: Buffa’s Bar and Restaurant; 1001 Esplanade Avenue; 8 p.m. Tacos, Tequila, and Tiaras is a one of New Orleans’ only family friendly drag shows! Join hostess Vanessa Carr Kennedy every Tuesday, have a taco or two, and learn a little bit about the art of drag.

Wednesday, January 31, 2018 WednesGays at LPK Uptown: Louisiana Pizza Kitchen; 615 South Carrolton Ave.; 5 p.m. Join us every Wednesday to celebrate diversity.

See old friends or make some new ones and find out what’s happening in the Nola community. All this while enjoying 1/2 price drinks from the bar. Invite your friends.

You Better Sing Karaoke; Lafitte’s in Exile; 901 Bourbon Street; 7 p.m. Join DJ Kory and DJ Derek as they play Karaoke at Lafittes in Exile.

Behind the bar slinging your drinks for you are Jeremy, Ryan, and Tim. Oz Show Night: Oz; 800 Bourbon Street; 10:30 p.m. This popular drag show is hosted by Persana Shoulders and features Nicole Lynn Foxx, Lisa Beaumann, Connie Hung, Anastascia Davenport; Chichi Rodriguez and Dominique DeLorean.

Game Night: GrandPre’s; 834 N. Rampart Street; 7 p.m. Wednesdays are Game night with Honey Bee at 7 p.m. with free jello shots and Bar Tabs.

Razzle Dazzle: Hi-Ho Lounge; 2239 St. Claude Ave.; 9 – 11:30 p.m. Come out for a night of GLITZ and GLAMOUR featuring a stellar cast including Roxie Le Rouge, Lune Noirr, Juno Bilquis, Darling Darla James and hosted by Nicole Lynn Foxx! Showtime @ 10pm / $10 Cover / 21+ Thursday, February 1, 2018

Honey Bee Trivia: GrandPre’s; 834 N. Rampart St.; 7 p.m. Thursday is Honey Bee Trivia at 7 p.m. Four rounds with jello shots to the winner of each round and a Bar Tab to top person/team of the night.

Girl | Crush: Oz New Orleans; 800 Bourbon Street; 9 p.m. Girl | Crush is bringing you a weekly event for girls who like girls, and their friends! This flavor of CRUSH entitled DTF is exclusive to New Orleans’ #1 Dance Club, Oz and happens every Thursday night.

The Jeff D Comedy Cabaret; Oz; 800 Bourbon Street; 10 p.m. The Comedy Cabaret stars Jeff D. featuring Gia Giavanni. Enjoy hilarious comedians, amazing talent and the Ladies of Oz. Strip Off: Oz; 800 Bourbon Street; midnight Persana Shoulders hosts the Strip Off every Thursday night. Sign up begins at 11 p.m. and the show features a spotlight performance by Miss Gay Louisiana America 2013 Mercedes Ellis Loreal. Winners receive 1st PLACE - $100 Cash • 2nd PLACE - $50 Bar tab Friday, February 2, 2018 New Orleans Radical Faeries Brigid Ball; Cafe Istanbul; 2372 St. Claude Ave.; 8 p.m. - 1 a.m. This year’s costume themed ball is Haute Hot Pink Mirror Ball.

New Meat Amateur Dance Contest: Corner Pocket; 640 St. Louis Street; 6:30 p.m. Hosted by Lisa Beaumann, anyone can enter - $100 cash prize.

Saturday, February 3, 2018 Krewe of Petronius Annual Gal Masque: The Pontchartrain Center; 4545 Williams Blvd.; 6:30 p.m. Join the Krewe of Petronius for a SPECTACULAR EVENT! It’s their 57th Annual Ball Masque - BRAZILIAN DRAGONS, MOVING TO THE BEAT OF A DIFFERENT DRUM! From Elaborate Costumes, to Casa Samba, to Celebrity Entertainment, this is going to be a Night you won’t forget! We will dazzle and promise to entertain! For tickets, go to www.eventbrite.com.

It’s Showtime on Rampart: GrandPre’s; 834 N. Rampart St.; 10 p.m.

This free drag show stars Moanalot Fontaine and Sable Nicole Starr who are the fabulous Southern Barbituates.

Sunday, February 4, 2018 Krewe of Barkus 2018 - Game of Bones; Armstrong Park; 2 p.m. Come roll with the Mystic Krewe of Barkus!

They start their reign of terror (or terriers) at Armstrong park at 2pm. Register for a spot to walk with the Krewe atbarkus.org.

You Better Sing Karaoke; GrandPre’s; 834 North Rampart St.; 7 p.m. Join DJ Kory and DJ Derek as they play Karaoke at Good Friends Bar. Behind the bar slinging your drinks for you are Jeremy, Ryan, and Tim. Zingo: Corner Pocket; 640 St. Lou-

is Street; 6:30 p.m. Play Bingo with hosts Opal Masters followed by the Barry BareAss Dancer of the Week Contest.

Oz Show Night: Oz; 800 Bourbon Street; 9:30 p.m. This popular drag show is hosted by Persana Shoulders and features Nicole Lynn Foxx, Lisa Beaumann, Connie Hung, Anastascia Davenport; Chichi Rodriguez and Dominique DeLorean.

If you want to make sure your upcoming event is listed, email the information to me at ledgemgp@ gmail.com.

Job Opportunities Ambush Magazine is growing!

Freelance & Contributing Writers Wanted

We want to hear from you if you are a working or aspiring journalist interested in covering topics meaningful to the LGBTQ community.

Snap Paparazzi Photographer Wanted

Do you frequent the LGBTQ bars and events? We want to hear from you if you are interested in regularly covering the bars and events.

If you are interested, please email your resume, cover letter, and portfolio to info@ambushpublishing.com

GayMardiGras.com · GayEasterParade.com · Jan 16 - 29, 2018 · Facebook.com/AmbushMag · The Official Mag: AmbushMag.com · 17

Snap Paparazzi From the Lords of Leather Royalty Appreciation Party at the Lafittes in Exile | Photos by Tony Leggio

18 路 The Official Mag: AmbushMag.com 路 Jan 16 - 29, 2018 路 Official Southern Decadence Guide 路 SouthernDecadence.com

Friday Night before Mardi Gras Announcement

Dear Supporters, FNBMG Ball Attendees, and Friends,

We are writing to inform you that the Friday Night Before Mardi Gras Board has made the difficult decision to cancel our 2018 Ball. We are going to take this Carnival season to think about how best to serve you, the community, and continue the organization in the tradition in which it was founded.

We determined that, based on current projections for ball revenue and expenditures, it would not be responsible to continue on the current course.

The purpose of our organization is to raise funds for local LGBTQ+ nonprofits. In the past two years, we have distributed funds to Crescent Care, Food For Friends, BreakOut Youth, NOAGE (New Orleans Advocates For LGBTQ+ Elders), the MCC Church in Baton Rouge, and Leonel Melendez - a Pulse Nightclub survivor from New Orleans.

At this time, we have decided to reevaluate our activities, as we do not believe we will raise adequate funds to make a true community impact.

Additionally, we feel that the needs

Snap Paparazzi

From the Armeinius Queen’s Party at Flamingo A-Go-Go | Photos by Tony Leggio

and desires of the community are changing and this presents an opportune moment to reset. We are evaluating the needs of the NOLA and Gulf South LGBTQ+ community, and assessing how we can be most impactful in the future. While we are in the very early stages of this process, we know already that we need greater community involvement. So, if you are interested in getting involved, now is an excellent time!

Your feedback, along with input from key constituents and members of the broader community, will allow us to hone and tailor our approach as we reground and brainstorm over the coming Carnival season and months following.

You can provide any feedback here: fridaynightbeforemardigras.com/ contact-us/ Also, follow us on Facebook and our website for upcoming and future developments.

Thank you for your ongoing support, Friday Night Before Mardi Gras Board

Pride Night: Green Wave Women’s Basketball Reserve tickets by contacting Andrew at (504) 314-7096 or by email at awingard@tulane.edu.

Tickets are $3 for the special night. First 200 fans will receive rainbow sunglasses Free Parking is available within the Loyola Garage (Large Red Brick Parking Garage) across from the arena on Freret Street.

Physical address for the basketball arena is 6811 Freret Street, New Orleans Louisiana 70118.

GayMardiGras.com · GayEasterParade.com · Jan 16 - 29, 2018 · Facebook.com/AmbushMag · The Official Mag: AmbushMag.com · 19

Gay Mardi Gras Ball Schedule Visit www.GayMardiGras.com for More Information

Saturday, January 20, 2018 Amon Ra @ Sigur Center Chalmette

Friday, January 26, 2018 Krewe of Stars @ JPAS Metairie

Friday, February 2, 2018

Mardi Gras Parade Schedule Visit www.GayMardiGras.com for More Information

Saturday, January 27, 2018 Slidell Krewe of Bilge 11:00am Krewe of Poseidon 6:00pm French Quarter Krewe du Vieux 6:30pm krewedelusion Follows

Petronius @ Pontchartrain Center Kenner

Saturday, February 10, 2018 Armeinius @ Mardi Gras World

Sunday, February 11, 2018 Lords of Leather @ Alario Center

Moments in Gay New Orleans History

by Frank Perez Email: f.perez@sbcglobal.net

Bienville’s Wet Dream

Carnival 2018 takes on special significance as New Orleans celebrates its tricentennial. Many parades will draw inspiration from the city’s 300th birthday, but none as irreverently as Krewe de Vieux, whose theme this year is Bienville’s Wet Dream. Bienville, the founder of New Orleans, lived to be 87 and never married. Just saying.

Although Krewe de Vieux is a relatively new krewe (founded in 1987), it exemplifies the essential spirit of 19th Century Creole Carnival and is the only parade to still roll through the French Quarter.

In 1979 a group of artists formed the Krewe of Clones and staged a walking parade in which participants dressed as cockroaches. In subsequent years, the Krewe of Clones grew and before long sub-krewes began to develop. The parades staged by the Krewe of Clones were so impertinent that in 1986, the city revoked the krewe’s parade permit because the parade was scheduled the night before Super Bowl XX (which was in New Orleans that year) and officials feared the parade would embarrass the city in the national media.

Consequently, the Krewe of Clones split up, some factions wanting to make the Krewe “more respectable,” while others insisted on keeping it low-brow.

In a 1995 Offbeat Magazine article, Jack Jackson observes: “It was then that Don Marshall, one of the instigators of the original Clones and at the time a director of Le Petit Theatre du Vieux Carre, suggested parading in the Quarter. ‘Nobody had any parade in the French Quarter since they’d been

banned in the 1970s,’ Kern says. ‘But they hadn’t banned marching clubs.’

So, the Krewe of Underwear and the Seeds of Decline were joined by Mid City White Trash (now the Krewe of L.E.W.D.—Loose Ensemble of Whacked Degenerates), Wigs of the World (now Krewe of the Mystic Inane), and the Krewe of C.R.U.D.E. for their first march through the Vieux Carre as the Krewe Du Vieux, on Valentine’s Day 1987. The theme: ‘Get a Heart On,’ with Charmaine Neville for Queen and an effigy of Sheriff Harry Lee for King.”

Of the aforementioned sub-krewes, the Krewe of the Mystic Inane has always had a strong contingent of gay members and has been described as Krewe de Vieux’s first “gay sub-krewe.”

According to Le Monde de Merde, the club’s annual newspaper, “the Krewe du Vieux’s 17 subkrewes include the Krewe of C.R.U.D.E., Krewe of Space Age Love, Krewe of Underwear, Seeds of Decline, Krewe of Mama Roux, Krewe of L.E.W.D., Krewe of Drips and Discharges, Krewe of K.A.O.S., Knights of Mondu, T.O.K.I.N., Krewe Rue Bourbon, Krewe de C.R.A.P.S., Mystic Krewe of Spermes, Mystic Krewe of Comatose, Mystic Krewe of Inane and Krewe du Mishigas.”

Krewe de Vieux rolls in the French Quarter on Saturday, January 27.

Sunday, January 28, 2018 Metairie Krewe of Little Rascals 12:00pm Slidell Krewe of Slidellians 1:00pm Krewe of Perseus Follows Friday, February 2, 2018 French Quarter Krewe of Cork 3:00pm Uptown New Orleans Krewe of Oshun 6:00pm Krewe of Cleopatra 6:30pm Mandeville Krewe of Eve 7:00pm Metairie Krewe of Excalibur Follows Saturday, February 3, 2018 Slidell Krewe of Paws 10:00am Krewe of Titans 6:30pm Westbank The Mystic Knights of Adonis 11:45am Madisonville Krewe of Tchefuncte 1:00pm Chalmette Knights of Nemesis 1:00pm Uptown New Orleans Krewe of Pontchartrain 1:00pm Krewe of Choctaw Follows Krewe of Freret Follows Knights of Sparta 6:00pm Krewe of Pygmalion Follows Marigny ‘tit Rəx 5:00pm Krewe of Chewbacchus 7:00pm Metairie Krewe of Caesar 6:00pm Covington Krewe of Olympia 6:00pm Sunday, February 4, 2018 Uptown New Orleans Krewe of Femme Fatale 11:00am Krewe of Carrollton Follows Krewe of King Arthur and Merlin Follows Krewe of Alla Follows Slidell Krewe of Claude 1:00pm Krewe of Dionysus Follows French Quarter Krewe of Barkus 2:00pm Wednesday, February 7, 2018 Uptown New Orleans Krewe of Druids 6:30pm Krewe of Nyx 7:00pm Thursday, February 8, 2018 Uptown New Orleans

20 · The Official Mag: AmbushMag.com · Jan 16 - 29, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · SouthernDecadence.com

Knights of Babylon 5:30pm Knights of Chaos 6:15pm Krewe of Muses 6:30pm Friday, February 9, 2018 French Quarter Krewe of Bosom Buddies 11:30am Uptown New Orleans Krewe of Hermes 6:00pm Krewe d’Etat 6:30pm Krewe of Morpheus 7:00pm Slidell Krewe of Selene 6:30pm Metairie Krewe of Centurions 7:00pm Mandeville Original Krewe of Orpheus 7:00pm Saturday, February 10, 2018 Westbank Krewe of NOMTOC 10:45am Uptown New Orleans Krewe of Iris 11:00am Krewe of Tucks 12:00pm Mid-City Krewe of Endymion 4:15pm Metairie Krewe of Isis 6:30pm Sunday, February 11, 2018 Uptown New Orleans Krewe of Okeanos 11:00am Krewe of Mid-City 11:45am Krewe of Thoth 12:00pm Krewe of Bacchus 5:15pm Metairie Corps de Napoleon 5:00pm Krewe of Athena 5:30pm Monday, February 12, 2018 Uptown New Orleans Krewe of Proteus 5:15pm Krewe of Orpheus 6:00pm Tuesday, February 13, 2018 Uptown New Orleans Krewe of Zulu 8:00am Krewe of Rex 10:00am Krewe of Elks Orleans Follows Krewe of Crescent City Follows Metairie Krewe of Argus 10:00am Krewe of Elks Jefferson Follows Krewe of Jefferson Follows Covington Krewe of Lyra 10:00am

Snap Paparazzi From Frank Perez’s 12th Night Party at the Double Play | Photos by Tony Leggio

GayMardiGras.com · GayEasterParade.com · Jan 16 - 29, 2018 · Facebook.com/AmbushMag · The Official Mag: AmbushMag.com · 21

Book Review

by Frank Perez Email: f.perez@sbcglobal.net

Bobby Kennedy: A Raging Spirit. Chris Matthews. Simon & Schuster, 2017. ISBN: 9781-5011-1186-0.

396 pages. $28.99.

On the night Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., was assassinated, Bobby Kennedy was giving a campaign speech in Indianapolis to a largely African-American crowd. Upon being notified of King’s death, Kennedy interrupted his speech to break the news. In his impromptu remarks following the announcement, Kennedy suggested we ask, “What kind of a nation we are and what direction we want to move in.”

The answer to those questions would be foreshadowed a few months later when Kennedy himself was assassinated. It would also reveal itself in future elections.

Bobby Kennedy and Dr. King and other progressive-minded liberals believed the Federal Government had a role in improving the lives of American

citizens—whether it was civil rights (like being able to vote) or environmental protection (like having clean water to drink).

Conservatives, Ronald Reagan chief among them, disagreed and argued government was the problem.

While Reagan and other conservatives of his era may have been sincere in their belief government was evil, they were sincerely wrong. Their conservative ideology was gradually usurped by fringe elements of the far-right and became code for racists and bigots of all stripes.

What kind of nation are we? We’re the kind of nation that can elect Barak Obama President and follow him up with the likes of Donald Trump. In other words, we’re a nation still dealing with racism and prejudice. Donald Trump would have never been elected President if Obama was not black.

One of the insights in Chris Matthews’ new book about Bobby Kennedy is that he (and his brother Jack),

like many progressive whites, were latecomers to the true plight of African-Americans and the civil-rights struggle.

The sub-title of Matthews’ book is “A Raging Spirit”—a reference to the moral compass and visceral commitment Kennedy had to social justice, qualities utterly lacking in the current Administration and which are needed now more than ever. This is a timely book.

This book is a must read for anyone disheartened, disillusioned, or just plain pissed off at the current political climate.

Chris Matthews is the host of MSNBC’s Hardball. He is the author of Hardball: How Politics is Played—Told

by One Who Knows the Game; Kennedy & Nixon: The Rivalry that Shaped Postwar America; Jack Kennedy: Elusive Hero; and Tip and the Gipper: When Politics Worked.

22 · The Official Mag: AmbushMag.com · Jan 16 - 29, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · SouthernDecadence.com

CrescentCare Sets $4 Million Goal For New Comprehensive Health Center

Job Opportunities Ambush Magazine is growing!

54,000 Square Foot Health Home at 1631 Elysian Fields is Being Constructed to Revolutionize Health Outcomes in New Orleans.

January 10th 2018 – CrescentCare, a Federally Qualified Health Center which grew out of the NO/AIDS Task Force, has grown at an exponential pace in the past few years. To meet growing need, the agency made plans to build a new health center which will more than double its capacity to serve the community. The new site is going up at 1631 Elysian Fields, and by early 2019 will be offering primary medical care, dental care, behavioral health, and other supportive services for the greater New Orleans area. To complete the building, the agency needs $4 million more of the total cost, approximately $32 million. CrescentCare is turning to the community for this vital funding.

To a room of about a hundred long-time advocates and supporters, CEO Noel Twilbeck introduced the campaign, dubbed Deeply Rooted / Branching Out at Ralph’s on the Park Wednesday evening. An ask for funding was made, but he also requested help in spreading the word and enthusiasm about the necessity of this health center.

Twilbeck States, “This project will ultimately make an incredible impact on the community. As the campaign title suggests, we are poised to offer high-quality services we’ve cultivated

over our decades of serving the community to thousands more—every contribution to this campaign will change lives, without question.

CrescentCare’s health homes present valuable opportunities for individuals and families in the neighborhoods surrounding them to access quality services which might otherwise be out of reach. Additionally, the centers operate at various hours that make it possible for workers in the service industry to be seen outside of traditional business hours. The 8th Ward neighborhood and the community at-large stand to reap significant benefits from this facility.

Rodney Thoulion, Director of Development for CrescentCare Remarks: “We are in a great position because sometimes campaigns like this have to start completely from scratch and it can take a long while for the facilities to go up. Because of our incredible partners, we’ve already got work started, so anyone can see where the efforts are going—just drive past the building on Elysian Fields and you can see the future of CrescentCare.”

The new facility is funded in part

by New Market Tax credits provided by the Primary Care Development Corporation, Hope Enterprises, and Chase. Gould Evans serves as the artchitects and contractors. Donahue-Favret have been instrumental in the project.

At the conclusion of the event, one

donor provided a $50,000 contribution to get the ball rolling. CrescentCare hopes to have more soon.

“We’re going to need a lot more like that,” said Alice Riener, Chief Legal and Policy Officer for CrescentCare, “Just like in the healthcare setting, there’s more work to be done, but it’s worth it, and we’re excited to share this project with the community. In the current policy environment, accessible, high-quality healthcare for everyone needs to be a whole-community priority.”

Individuals and groups interested in contributing to CrescentCare’s mission and the building of this new facility are encouraged to contact Rodney Thoulion, Director of Development at rodney.thoulion@crescentcare. org or 504.821.2601.

Freelance & Contributing Writers Wanted

We want to hear from you if you are a working or aspiring journalist interested in covering topics meaningful to the LGBTQ community.

Snap Paparazzi Photographer Wanted

Do you frequent the LGBTQ bars and events? We want to hear from you if you are interested in regularly covering the bars and events.

If you are interested, please email your resume, cover letter, and portfolio to info@ambushpublishing.com

Upcoming at Oz Super Bowl Sunday, Februay 4th Join us for all Super Bowl festivities. Whether you’re into tight ends or wide receivers, we’ve got the game playing on all TVs throughout the bar.

Come and have a drink so you can go deep. And long....

Wednesday, February 7- Tuesday, February 13 Oz New Orleans presents MARDI GRAS 2018! We are very excited for a fabulous MARDI GRAS! Fabulous shows!

MARDI GRAS SHOW NIGHT Starring the Ladies Of Oz, hosted

by Persana Shoulders, Wednesday @ 10:30!

and fabulous special guests. Thursday @ 10 MARDI GRAS STRIP OFF Hosted by Persana Shoulders, Thursday @ midnight! $300 in cash and prizes for the winner! Sponsored by: Swiss Navy Our fabulous resident DJs (DJ Kyle D, DJ Tim Pflueger, and DJ JRB) spinning all weekend long!

Sexy gogos dancing on top of the bar for your viewing pleasure.

Mardi Gras 2018 Weekend Passes available online at www.ozneworleans. com Weekend Hostess: SDGM XLIII: Persana Shoulders

MARDI GRAS COMEDY CABARET Laugh at Oz for our special comedy show starring local comic, Jeff D, GayMardiGras.com · GayEasterParade.com · Jan 16 - 29, 2018 · Facebook.com/AmbushMag · The Official Mag: AmbushMag.com · 23

LGBT Owned & Friendly Business Directory

947.3735, KajunPub.COM MAG’S 940, 940 Elysian Fields Ave., 948.1888 OZ NEW ORLEANS, 800 Bourbon, 593.9491, OzNewOrleans. COM THE PAGE, 542 N. Rampart St., 875.4976 PHOENIX/EAGLE, 941 Elysian Fields, 945.9264, www.phoenixbarnola.com Rawhide 2010, 740 Burgundy St., 525.8106, Rawhide2010.COM TROPICAL ISLE: Home of the Hand Grenade, 721 Bourbon St., 529.4109, TropicalIsle.COM VALIANT THEATRE AND LOUNGE, 6621 St. Claude Ave., Arabi, LA, 504.900.1743 Slidell, LA [985] BILLY’S, 2600 Hwy. 190 West, 847.1921 Biloxi, MS [228] CLUB VEAUX, 834 Howard Ave., 207.3271

bookstores

New Orleans, LA [504] FAB - Faubourg Marigny Art & Books, 600 Frenchmen St., 947.3700

circuit/events

Aug. 30-Sept. 4, 2017, 46th Official Southern Decadence Celebration of Gay Life, Music & Culture, end of Summer Blowout including the Southern Decadence Parade & loads of activities, bringing over 180,000 revelers to New Orleans, LA, sponsored by Ambush & SouthernDecadence.com Oct. 20-22, 2017 Halloween 34, benefiting Project Lazarus, New Orleans, LA, sponsored by AmbushMag.COM, HalloweenNewOrleans.com Dec. 29, 2017-Jan. 1, 2018 Gay New Year’s in New Orleans, New Orleans, LA, GayNewOrleans.com Feb. 9-13, 2018, 69th Official Gay Mardi Gras, New Orleans, LA, sponsored

by Ambush, GayMardiGras.com Easter Sunday, April 11, 2018, 19th Official Gay Easter Parade, New Orleans, sponsored by Ambush, GayEasterParade. com

costumes

New Orleans, LA [504] QT PIE BOUTIQUE - 241 Dauphine St., 581. 6633

galleries

bars

Mobile, AL [251] B-Bob’s Downtown, 213 Conti St., 433.2262, B-Bobs.COM Flip Side Bar & Patio, 54 S. Conception St., 431.8819, FlipSideBarPatio.COM GABRIEL’S DOWNTOWN, 55 South Joachim St., 432.4900 The Midtown Pub, 153 Florida St., 450.1555 Pensacola, FL [850] THE ROUNDUP, 560 East Heinberg St., 433.8482 Baton Rouge, LA [225] GEORGE’S, 860 St. Louis, 387.9798, SPLASH, 2183 Highland Rd., 242.9491, SplashBR.COM Lake Charles, LA [337] CRYSTAL’S, 112 W. Broad, 433.5457 Metairie, LA [504] FOUR SEASONS & PATIO STAGE BAR, 3229 N. Causeway, 832.0659, FourSeasonsBar.com New Orleans, LA [504] 700 CLUB, 700 Burgundy, 561.1095,

BIG DADDY’S, 2513 Royal, 948.6288 BIG EASY DAIQUIRIS, 216 Bourbon, 501 Bourbon, 409 Decatur, 617 Decatur THE BLACK PENNY, 700 N. Rampart 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 GRANDPRE’S, 834 N. Rampart St., 267.3615, Facebook.com/grandpres KAJUN’S PUB, 2256 St. Claude Ave.,

New Orleans, LA [504] CASSELL-BERGEN GALLERY, 1305 Decatur St., cassellbergengallery.com, 504.524.0671

guides

AMBUSH Mag, 828-A Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116-3137; 504.522.8049, AmbushMag.COM; marsha@ripandmarsha.com

groceries/delis

New Orleans, LA [504] QUARTERMASTER DELI, THE NELLIE DELI, 1100 Bourbon, 529.1416

hair salons

New Orleans, LA [504] Two Guys Cutting Hair, 2372 St. Claude Ave., Suite 125, appointments: Adikus 215.519.5030, Trent 504.239.2397

hardware

New Orleans, LA [504] MARY’S FRENCH QUARTER HARDWARE, 732 N. Rampart, 529.4465

accommodations

24 · The Official Mag: AmbushMag.com · Jan 16 - 29, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · SouthernDecadence.com

New Orleans [504] AARON INGRAM HAUS, 1012 Elysian Fields, New Orleans, LA 70117, PHONE: 504.949.3110, www.ingramhaus.com/xqey, e-mail us at ingramhaus@yahoo.com.

Condos with queen-size 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. [0118] BLUES60 GUEST HOUSE, 1008 Elysian Fields Ave. New Orleans, LA 70117, Phone: 1.504.324.4311, www.blues60guesthouse.com, info@blues60guesthouse.com. The Blue60 Guest House with 5 suites provides a peaceful retreat in the center of the Faubourg Marigny, just blocks from the French Quarter and Frenchman St. [1115] 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, www.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 “half-kitchen”, 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. [0815] The french quarter guest houses, 1005 St. Peter, New Orleans, LA 70116, Phone: 1.800.367.5858, FrenchQuarterGuestHouses.com, email: Info@frenchquarterguesthouses.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 unforgettable authentic French Quarter experience!

media

New Orleans, LA [504] AMBUSH Mag, Official Gay Easter Parade Guide, Official Gay Mardi Gras Guide, Official Gay New Orleans Guide, Official Gulf South Guide, Official Pride Guide, Official Southern Decadence Guide, 828A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 522.8049, AmbushMag.COM; email: ripna@ambushmag.com AMBUSHonLINE, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137; 522.8049, ambushonline. com, email: ripna@ambushmag.com

organizations

FOOD FOR FRIENDS, 504.821.2601 ext. 254 FRIDAY NIGHT BEFORE MARDI GRAS (FNBMG), 504.319.8261, www.fridaynightbeforemardigras.com GAY APPRECIATION AWARDS, 828A Bourbon St., 70116-3137; 522.8049; AmbushMag.COM/GAA 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 HAART (HIV/AIDS Alliance Region Two, Inc.), 4550 North Blvd. Ste. 250, Baton Rouge, LA 70806, 225.927.1269, www. haartinc.org, offers a complete continuum of care to people living with HIV/AIDS including housing, primary care, medications, case management, and an array of

New Orleans, LA [504] GRAHAM/STUDIO ONE NEW ORLEANS, by appointment, grahamstudioone. com

restaurants

Metairie, LA [504] Chef Ron’s Gumbo Stop & Pub, 2309 N. Causeway Blvd., 835.2022, GumboStop.com New Orleans, LA [504] The Bombay Club, 830 Rue Conti, 577.2237, www.bombayclubneworleans. com Broussard’s Restaurant & Courtyard, 819 Rue Conti, 581.3866, http://broussards.com Cafe Sbisa, 1011 Decatur St., 522.5565, www.cafesbisanola.com Cheezy Cajun, 3325 St. Claude Ave., 265.0045, www.TheCheezyCajun.com Clover Grill, 900 Bourbon St., 598.1010, www.CloverGrill.com Country Club Restaurant, 634 Louisa St., www.TheCountryClubNewOrleans. com, 945.0742 Gene’s Po-Boys & Daquiris, 1040 Elysian Fields Ave., 943.3861, www.genespoboys.com Ilys Bistro, 1040 Elysian Fields Ave., 947.8341, www.Facebook.com/ILYSBistro Kingfish Kitchen & Cocktails, 337 Chartres St. 598.5005, www.KinfishNewOrleans.com Mona Lisa Restaurant, 1212 Royal St., 522.6746 Orleans Grapevine Wine Bar & Bistro, 720 Orleans, 523.1930, www.OrleansGrapevine.com Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, 1100 Bourbon St. , 529.1416, www.QuartermasterDeli.net Royal House Oyster Bar, 441 Royal St., 528.2601, www.RoyalHouseRestaurant.com supportive services. In addition HAART provides HIV prevention education and FREE testing to the Baton Rouge area.

HALLOWEEN IN NEW ORLEANS, INC., PO Box 52171, 70152-2171; HalloweenNewOrleans.COM 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 NARCISSUS, PO Box 3832, New Orleans, LA 70177. Contact: 504.228.9441 KREWE OF PETRONIUS, PO Box 1102, Kenner, LA. 70063-1102, www. kreweofpetroius.net KREWE OF QUEENATEENAS / KING CAKE QUEEN ROYALTY CLUB, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 522.8049, GayMardiGras.COM/KCQ LGBT+ Archives Project of Louisiana, 1308 Esplanade Ave., New Orleans, LA 70116, 504.475.7911, www.lgbtarchivesla.org MYSTIC KREWE OF LORDS OF LEATHER, 1000 Bourbon St #B415, New Orleans, LA 70116, www.lordsofleather.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 NO/AIDS TASK FORCE, 2601 Tulane Ave., Suite 500, 70119; 504.821.2601;

NOAIDSTaskForce.COM NEW ORLEANS PRIDE, info@neworleanspridefestival.com; 504.321.6006; NewOrleansPrideFestival.COM; NOLAPride.

ORG; New Orleans Pride fully embraces the message of “One CommUNITY” as we celebrate our history and promote the future prosperity of New Orleans and the Gulf Coast Region. We use public awareness and education about the LGBT+ community as a way to combat “phobias” and discrimination. Our programs, seminars and events leading up to, and during Pride weekend, are meant to include individuals from all walks of life.

RENEGADE BEARS OF LOUISIANA, PO Box 3083, New Orleans, LA 70177; renegadebearsoflouisiana@gmail.com 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 504.947.2121, stannanola.org

pharmacy

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] Gay New Orleans Walking Tour, Crescent City Tour Booking Agency, (LGBT Business of the Year) 638 St. Ann St., 568.0717. follow Gay New Orleans Walking Tour @ Facebook.COM

Get Listed

Want to see your business, organization, or event in our next issue?

Email Ambush info@ambushpublishing.com

real estate

New Orleans, LA [504] Engel & Völkers New Orleans, Michael Styles, Realtor — Michael specializes in helping first-time homebuyers and real estate investors find the perfect New Orleans properties. 504.777.1773, NolaStyles.com Latter & Blum, Steven Richards Realtor, 504.258.1800, SteveRichardsProperties.com New Orleans Relocation, Realtors — gay-owned boutique real estate agency for locals and newcomers. 504.273.0088 www.NOLArelo.com

retail/shopping

New Orleans, LA [504] BOURBON PRIDE, 909 Bourbon, 566.1570 COK (Clothing or Kinkl), 941 Elysian Fields, 945.9264 MARY’S FRENCH QUARTER KITCHEN & BATH, 732 N. Rampart, 529.4465 QT PIE BOUTIQUE - 241 Dauphine St., 581. 6633 XXXSHOP, 1835 N. Rampart St., 504.232.3063

services

New Orleans, LA [504] Formal Connection, 299 Belle Terre Blvd. LaPlace, LA, 985.652.1195

theatres

New Orleans, LA [504] CAFE ISTANBUL, 2372 St. Claude Ave., #140, 504.974.0786, CafeIstanbulNOLA.COM

tours

GayMardiGras.com · GayEasterParade.com · Jan 16 - 29, 2018 · Facebook.com/AmbushMag · The Official Mag: AmbushMag.com · 25

Snap Paparazzi From the Armeinius Kings Party at the Corner Pocket | Photos by Tony Leggio

26 路 The Official Mag: AmbushMag.com 路 Jan 16 - 29, 2018 路 Official Southern Decadence Guide 路 SouthernDecadence.com

Trodding the Boards

by Brian Sands Email: bsnola2@hotmail.com

An American in Paris at the Saenger Theatre, Jan. 30–Feb. 4

[I had seen An American in Paris on Broadway in March 2016; that production comes to the Saenger later this month. Below is my review, slightly edited, that ran in April of that year.]

With its classic story and gorgeous Gershwin songs, it’s hard not to like the stage version of An American in Paris. But with memories of Gene Kelly and the Oscar-winning movie hard to forget, it’s difficult to love, too.

Craig Lucas’ book, “Inspired by the Motion Picture” (curiously, Alan Jay Lerner, who won an Oscar for his screenplay, is not acknowledged in the Playbill), is workable; if its attempts to add some depth to the narrative by recognizing sacrifices made during World War II are admirable, it lacks the film’s fizzy spirit.

Natasha Katz’s lighting, at times Impressionistic, at others abstract, and

Bob Crowley’s set which morphs from one scene to the next, aided by 59 Productions’ sleek projections, are beautiful to look at; both deservedly won Tony Awards.

Acclaimed dancer/choreographer Christopher Wheeldon’s direction brings out the show’s charm but offers no surprises and delivers too few moments that touch the heart. His dances, though, are lovely and advance the narrative; the American in Paris number, especially the lead characters’ duet, particularly stands out as a fabulous creative work unto itself.

Those lead characters, Jerry Mul-

ligan and Lise Dassin, were played

by Robert Fairchild and Sara Esty at the performance I saw. That both are wonderful dancers is not surprising; he’s since returned to NYC Ballet as a principal dancer, she is a former soloist with the Miami City Ballet. He radiated decency and an elegant playfulness; she a poised sweetness and wary gracefulness.

But, as I heard an audience member saying, “He’s good but no Gene Kelly.” And she’s not quite Leslie Caron.

Brandon Uranowitz is marvelously astringent in the Oscar Levant role while Jill Paice, in the Nina Foch role, a wealthy American who has designs on Jerry, may be starchy and soigne but avoids coming off as mean or evil, a smart move.

Old-fashioned, pure entertainment, An American in Paris is the kind of show you can bring your mother to. But be aware--my Mom felt the same way about it as I did.

Old-fashioned, pure entertainment, An American in Paris is the kind of show you can bring your mother to. But be aware-my Mom felt the same way about it as I did.

[Allison Walsh, who played Lise Dassin on Broadway, and McGee Maddox now appear in the lead roles.

Matthew Scott, who played Adam Hochberg (the Oscar Levant role) on Broadway, and Kirsten Scott, who are married, now have the featured roles.]

Curtain Up

A variety of entertainments will play here before the biggest entertainment of all, Mardi Gras, makes everyone a performer. Some of these upcoming works I’m familiar with, some are new to me, and some are kinda in-between.

As we get ready for parades to roll, check out some of the offerings below: --In honor of New Orleans’ Tricentennial, New Orleans Opera will present Tabasco, George Whitefield Chadwick’s comic opera from 1894 at Le Petit Théâtre du Vieux Carré.

Originally performed in 1894, R. A. Barnet’s libretto tells the tale of a Middle Eastern pasha who craves spicy food. Enraged by the blandness of the fare provided by his royal kitchen, the pasha threatens to chop off the head of his French chef (actually a masquerading Irishman). The chef frantically searches the city for seasonings and, well, you’ll have to see the opera to find out what ensues.

Continued on Page 28

GayMardiGras.com · GayEasterParade.com · Jan 16 - 29, 2018 · Facebook.com/AmbushMag · The Official Mag: AmbushMag.com · 27

Continued from Page 27

In 2012, conductor Paul Mauffray discovered the opera’s missing libretto along with other, related historical documents. With great dedication, he reconstructed the score based on the surviving but incomplete sheet music.

In 2014, I saw a delightful concert version of Tabasco that Mauffray conducted and I’m now looking forward to the fully staged version which runs January 25-28.

--Inspired by the famed 1956 recording session that brought together rock n’ roll icons Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins, and, the wild man of the group, Jerry Lee Lewis for the first and only time, Million Dollar Quartet continues at Rivertown Theaters through January 28.

As I wrote after seeing the touring Broadway production at the Mahalia Jackson Theater in 2013, “Even if it was only talented actors playing them, it was pretty amazing to see the four icons together. What a day that must’ve been!

“Though enjoyable, M$Q was more tell than show and fairly drama-free until various secrets came spilling out towards the end. Still, the point of M$Q is the music and what with Blue Suede Shoes, Great Balls of Fire, Folsom Prison Blues, Hound Dog, and 18 other classics, it didn’t disappoint. While my Yankee ears certainly enjoyed these numbers, they’re not quite in my DNA.

Anais St. John as Tina Turner at the Joy Theater

The rest of the audience, however, ate it up.”

--From January 19 until February 4, Slidell Little Theater conjures up the Tony Award-winning Peter and the Starcatcher. When I saw it on Broadway in 2012, I found the first act mostly tedious exposition, but the second act was, as I wrote, “a different, magical show!

“Adapted by Rick Elice from Dave

Barry and Ridley Pearson’s novel, Peter and the Starcatcher provides the backstory for Peter Pan, a prequel if you will. There’s a Lord, his daughter, her nanny, some nasty sea captains and their henchmen, a preening villain by the name of Black Stache, and an orphan boy with no name, called just ‘Boy.’ “Whereas the first act is dark and set amidst dreary workhouses and the

dank holds of ships, the second act is full of light, above and below water, as a shipwreck tosses this patchwork krewe onto an island filled with ravenous alligators and other memorable creatures.

“Whereas during the first act I felt like I was being spoon-fed the story, as though told to eat my vegetables cause Continued on Page 29

Join the

Big Easy Stompers For Country Dancing Tuesdays 8-11

Sunday 1/21

4:30 PM

Margarita Mondays

7– close Happy Hour Daily noon - 9 $3 well and domestic

28 · The Official Mag: AmbushMag.com · Jan 16 - 29, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · SouthernDecadence.com

Specials mixed up by

Michael

Continued from Page 28

‘they’re good for you’, Act Two is a truffle and bon-bon filled delight as the various parts of the story organically click into place to produce a lump-in-yourthroat ending. And how can you not love something that opens with a chorus of ukelele-strumming mermaids?!”

Can’t wait to see if the Slidellians might be able to make the first act as enchanting as the second.

--Goat in the Road has brought back Foreign to Myself, an original show about military Veterans and the difficulty of coming home during America’s period of endless war. Extensively researched, this production utilizes humor, historic accounts, personal interviews, scientific research, and immersive sound design to tell the story of

Alex, a female Marine returning home after three tours of duty in Iraq.

I missed Foreign to Myself last May so am pleased I’ll be able to catch it this time. There are three more performances, January 19, 20 and 21 at 8 pm, at UNO’s Robert E. Nims Theatre.

And tickets to all shows are free.

--Inspired by one of the first black women to join the New Orleans Police Department in the 1970s, Black & Blue recounts the life and career of Chief Yvonne Bechet. Written by Ariadne Blayde and directed by Troy R. Poplous, this drama is produced by the Center for Restorative Approaches and stars the marvelous Carol Sutton, whose recent performances in Camino Real and Our Town were highlights of their respective seasons.

Playing until January 28 at Dillard University’s Cook Theater, after each performance of Black & Blue audiences can participate in a dialogue on police-community relations facilitated by the Center for Restorative Approaches.

I’m sure it will be a thought-provoking discussion.

--Hair & Other Stories, the latest dance-theater piece from the New Yorkbased dance company Urban Bush Women, also sounds thought-provoking. Stemming from personal narratives that derive from conversations in African-American communities, Hair & Other Stories explores perceptions of body image, race, gender identity, economic inequities and what constitutes freedom, liberation and release in our everyday struggles.

The Contemporary Arts Center and Junebug Productions will present this Louisiana premiere at the CAC January 24-28. The Urban Bush Women’s two-week engagement here will also feature workshops, community events and, of course, parties. Complete details can be found at www.cacno.org.

--Though I don’t know much about Tango Fire, a Broadway-style show with 5 world-champion tango couples and a quartet of musicians straight from Buenos Aires, I’m a sucker for all things tango so this presentation by the New Orleans Ballet Association on Saturday, January 27, at the Mahalia Jackson Theater tempts me to forgo Continued on Page 31

GayMardiGras.com · GayEasterParade.com · Jan 16 - 29, 2018 · Facebook.com/AmbushMag · The Official Mag: AmbushMag.com · 29

Snap Paparazzi Pictures from the Corner Pocket | Photos by Jeremy

30 路 The Official Mag: AmbushMag.com 路 Jan 16 - 29, 2018 路 Official Southern Decadence Guide 路 SouthernDecadence.com

Continued from Page 29

the Krewe du Vieux Carre parade that evening.

With its promises of slit skirts, seamed stockings and stunningly tailored suits; the infectious music of tango masters Astor Piazzolla, Osvaldo Pugliese and Carlos Gardel; and lighting-fast, precise footwork that will “ignite the stage,” I just might give in to Tango Fire’s temptation.

--I wish I could give in to the temptation of Simply the Best: The Tina Turner Story at the Joy Theater debuting on January 19 but I’ll be out of town. Starring local vocalist and Ambie award-winner Anaïs St. John, this tribute event will feature a seven-piece band, backup singers and dancers to tell Turner’s dramatic story and will include performances of more than 15 of the Queen of Rock’n’Roll’s greatest hits, including What’s Love Got to Do with It, Private Dancer, and Proud Mary.

Happy Mardi Gras!

Job Opportunities Ambush Magazine is growing!

Freelance & Contributing Writers Wanted

If you want your upcoming show reviewed, contact Brian at bsnola2@ hotmail.com.

We want to hear from you if you are a working or aspiring journalist interested in covering topics meaningful to the LGBTQ community.

Snap Paparazzi Photographer Wanted

Do you frequent the LGBTQ bars and events? We want to hear from you if you are interested in regularly covering the bars and events.

If you are interested, please email your resume, cover letter, and portfolio to info@ambushpublishing.com

GayMardiGras.com · GayEasterParade.com · Jan 16 - 29, 2018 · Facebook.com/AmbushMag · The Official Mag: AmbushMag.com · 31

BY M E A L . BY D R I N K . BY WAT E R .

The time-honored tradition of New Orleans neighborhood dining is alive and well at The Country Club. Think chef-driven cuisine meets casual elegance, and you begin to understand why this hidden gem of the Bywater is a local favorite for great meals, great company and for 40 years – an even greater time.

504.945.0742 | TheCountryClubNewOrleans.com | 634 Louisa St. MUST BE 21 OR OLDER