FUSE 09 New Year New You (Girl Cover)

NEW YEAR NEW YOU BOLLYWOOD

HOT BABES AND BINDIS

ALTERNATE THERAPIES

HEALING NATURALLY

POLITICAL ALLIANCES RECONSIDERING OUR OPTIONS

DANTE’S COVE

OH MY GAWD!

QUEER WORLD

‘09 IT’S A WRAP

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09

46

12

Are pharmaceuticals making things worse? We ask if natural therapies are a suitable alternative and can they really help?

18

Queer World ‘09 — it’s a wrap! Simon Copland looks at the most important actions, debates and advancements for the world wide queer community.

44 It’s all buff bods, babes and bindis!

The exotic colour and glamour of

Bollywood comes to Canberra.

06

38

FUSE OP.ED 10 Is it time to reconsider our political

alliances? Does the federal ALP

really care about equal rights?

FUSE09 JANUARY 2010

20 How bent can you get? Yoga, a path

to improving your life — you can

even do it in your birthday suit!

CONTENTS

FUSE FEATURES

FUSE REGULARS 04 Editor’s Rant 06 What’s On in Canberra

18

08 The Trap : Local & Gritty

14

14 The Buzz : News, Gossip & Stuff 22 Fab Things : Body Bling

PUBLISHER & DESIGN Lithium Innovation Pty Ltd {www.lithium.net.au}

{

24 Grooming : 2010 Style Report

EDITOR Alexander Thatcher {editor@fusemagazine.com.au}

26 Grooming : Can Sun Worshipping Kill?

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Yasmin Element

PRODUCTION & EDITORIAL Christopher Powell

32 Body Shape : New Year, New You!

CONTRIBUTORS Tony Hamlyn Scott Malcolm Brendan Farnhill Robert William Atcheson Debbie Tonkin

Damien Pratt Rose Pappalardo Robert Henderson Simon Copland Stuart Poole Brooklyn Hulands Chad Wijayatilake Gregory Barnes Lucy Jane

PHOTOGRAPHERS Snez Saravovska Fenkil Abraha

Joe Brock Ann-Marie Calilhan

28 Out & About : Canberra’s Night Life 34 World Stage : US Marriage Update 35 Money Shot : Cash Resolutions 36 Ear Candy : Music Reviews 38 Out & About : Bushdance 40 Footlights : The Canberra Stage 42 Out & About : More Photos of You Douglas Robinson Frank Farrugia

CONTACT Advertising, editorial enquiries or letters Telephone: +61 2 6232 7662 • Email: editor@fusemagazine.com.au Mail: PO Box 3577 Manuka ACT 2603 • ISSN 1836-8387

46 Couch Culture : Dante’s Cove 47 FUSE Business Directory 48 Dear Rose

www.fusemagazine.com.au All rights reserved. No part of the magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher. The appearance, mention or likeness of any person or organisation in editorial or advertising in no way suggests sexual or political orientation. Photographs used to illustrate editorial do not depict the real lives, behaviour or sexuality of the models. Opinions expressed in the magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher. Any health, fitness or dietry advice contained in this magazine is for informational purposes only. Consult your physician and a fitness/health professional before changing your diet, doing any exercise program, or taking any supplements or remedies of any kind.

Submissions of text, photographs or any other material will be taken as consent to publish said material.

FUSE 1

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FUSE 02

Communities in the making

FUSE 03

EDITOR’S RANT

A NEW YEAR

A NEW YOU

Alexander Thatcher FUSE Editor New me, same old photo and a million and one changes to make!

It’s that time of the year when I often hear my friends and family members making new year’s resolutions about how they are going to change this year. Somebody asked me what resolutions I made this year — the answer was none, I’m always trying to change, dammit!

The new year marks rebirth and new beginnings. Psychologically the start of the year seems to initiate thoughts of change. We reminisce over the year that has passed and our thoughts wander to what we could have done better. The “if only” statements flood in and the desire to make resolutions is born out of the hope that we can make positive, permanent changes in our lives.

There is a thing about resolutions I have discovered though: we often set unrealistic goals for ourselves and generally feel we have failed not long after we’ve made them. I’m always going to go to the gym every second day, eat only organic food, write a blockbuster book or make a feature film — inevitably I don’t, and feel I have failed yet again, something which is not actually true.

In reference to change, the concepts of success and failure seem flawed to me. They have ‘ends’ and because change never stops, how can there be an end. We also don’t often see all the positive steps we have made along the way. I might not have made a feature film, but I have written a short film script with my partner, so I was actually successful in that I have made steps to achieving something I have set myself.

Change happens whether we like it or not and rarely goes to plan. I didn’t fulfill my new year’s resolution in ‘09 but I did some amazing things I hadn’t planned. I hope 2010 is filled with fabulous surprises and changes for you all.

I hope everyone has a “successful” new year, whether it’s at work, at play or with love.

Enjoy, Alex

FUSE 04

Send all letters to the editor to editor@fusemagazine.com.au

Yasmin Element Associate Editor

That said, in the spirit of the new year and new beginnings, we have some wonderfully insightful articles this month. Local yoga and natural therapist guru, Gregory Barnes, writes about how you can change your life and gives us a small insight into a new way of living.

Our body shape article, ‘2010 Could Mean a Whole New You’ gives you some SMART tips on sticking to that exercise program this year.

We talk about reconsidering our political positions and look at 2009, the year that was; plus much more. A great line up for the start of the new year, thanks to all our talented and dedicated contributors.

}

The fact is change is constant and I think the key is staying positive and making small steps, one followed by another and another and another.

We can’t change our innate personalities or our flaws simply because it’s a new year. The good new is, it does not have to be a new year to start on a new path. That’s why I didn’t feel I needed to make a new year’s resolution just because it was the first of January. I can work on changing something in my life at any breath.

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WHAT’S ON

at the movies

IN THE LOOP : OPENS 21 JANUARY

THE ROAD : OPENS 28 JANUARY The Road, based on the 2007 Pulitzer Prize winner novel

by Cormac McCarthy, who also wrote No Country for Old Men. A post-apocalyptic tale describing a journey taken by a father and his young son over a period of several months across a landscape blasted years before by an unnamed cataclysm that destroyed civilization and, seemingly, most life on earth. Its less about what happened and more about survival. The book was amazingly descriptive and the film looks to be just as hauntingly visual. It stars the hunky Viggo Mortensen and Guy Pearce and the stunning Charlize Theron. If you love post apocolyptic tales you will love The Road.

IN THE LOOP is a smart new comedy and sundance film festival hit from the acclaimed team behind the awardwinning bbc tv comedy series Thick of it. the film is drawing instant comparisons to great political and absurdist comedies like Dr. Strangelove, Wag the Dog, Thank You for Smoking and Monty Python.

With razor-sharp, truly laugh-out-loud dialogue the film pokes fun at the absurdity and ineptitude of our highest leaders. With everyone looking out for number one, and the fate of the free world at stake (but apparently incidental), the hilarious ensemble cast of characters bumbles its way through Machiavellian political dealings, across continents, and toward comic resolutions that are unforeseeable.

INVICTUS : OPENS 21 JANUARY From director Clint Eastwood, Invictus tells the inspiring true story of how Nelson Mandela (Morgan Freeman) joined forces with the captain of South Africa’s rugby team, Francois Pienaar (Matt Damon), to help unite their country.

NINE : OPENS 21 JANUARY Nine is a vibrant and provocative musical that follows the life of world famous film director, Guido Contini (Daniel Day-Lewis) as he reaches a creative and personal crisis of epic proportion, while balancing the numerous women in his life including his wife (Marion Cotillard), his mistress (Penelope Cruz), his film star muse (Nicole Kidman), his confidant and costume designer (Judi Dench), an American fashion journalist (Kate Hudson), the whore from his youth (Fergie) and his mother (Sophia Loren).

Newly elected President Mandela knows his nation remains racially and economically divided in the wake of apartheid.

Believing he can bring his people together through the universal language of sport, Mandela rallies South Africa’s underdog rugby team as they make an unlikely run to the 1995 World Cup Championship match.

FREE MOVIE TICKETS: FUSE has double passes to give away to Dendy Theatre in Canberra.

Write in and tell us what you think of FUSE, comment on an article or sign up for FUSE EXTRA! and you could win these great Dendy movie tickets • email: hello@fusemagazine.com.au • www.fusemagazine.com.au

Free movie passes were kindly supplied by Dendy Cinemas Canberra Level 2, North Quarter Canberra Centre, Bunda Street, Canberra City

www.dendy.com.au

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WHAT’S ON Mardi Gras photos thanks to Ann-Marie Calilhan and Frank Farrugia

WHAT’S ON A NEW YEAR

{

Check out fusemagazine.com.au for a full list of what’s happening in Canberra including local and national GLBTQ events

QUEER CHARITY COCKTAIL PARTY Saturday 13 February at The Hush Lounge The night will be a variety entertainment and queer community information event, hosted by local queer community identity, Johnathan Davis.

Tickets are $15 at the door and money raised will go to the Kids Help Line. More on p30.

AUSTRALIA DAY LIVE Monday 25 January 6.00pm to 10.30pm Parliament House Federation Mall

MARDI GRAS 2010

Australia Day Live is a national tribute to everything that is great about Australia and being Australian bringing together the Australian of the Year Awards and some of the hottest homegrown music talent in Australia. More info at www.australiaday.org.au

Mardi Gras 2010 officially launches at the amazingly fabulous community picnic in the park, Fair Day. This kicks off two weeks with almost one hundred cultural, sporting and social events to appeal to every taste. Check the event calendar online at mardigras.org.au or grab a guide available at the Hush Lounge and Westlund House.

19 February till 6 March 2010 — Sydney

ACT QUEER ONLINE

groups.yahoo.com/group/actqueer

REGULAR QUEER EVENTS!

Want to find out what’s going on in the GLBTQI community or have something to say? ACTQueer is a confidential and free email list for queer people.

SATURDAYS Q RADIO 7pm – 9pm 2XX, 98.3FM Canberra’s own GLBTQ radio show.

RAW FM 87.6 : GIRL THING Wednesdays & Sundays from 7pm For girls who like girls. Presented

by Tori Mac, an hour of sexy house and electro served up girly style.

HANG OUT WITH CANBERRA BEARS Sunday arvos at O’Neill’s Irish Pub, Woolley St, Dickson on the first Sunday of the month 3pm. Bears Dinners: third Friday of the month.

TUESDAYS DYKE DINNER & MOVIE More info on FUSE website or see Canberra Lesbians on Facebook.

MONDAYS GAY & LESBIAN TENNIS 6pm – 9pm. Turner Tennis Club, Cnr McCaughey and Condamine Streets.

Bring a tennis racquet, shoes and $5.

GAY & LESBIAN SQUASH Wednesdays 6.30pm – 7.30pm. National Sports Club, Mouat St Lyneham. Info at: groups.google.com/group/gayactsquas BENT LENSES Canberra’s very own Queer screen culture group. www.bentlenses.org ACTOUT ACTOUT is an informal outdoorsie activities group for Canberra’s gay and lesbian community.

More details on the FUSE website.

BIT BENT : CANBERRA YOUTH GROUP Meet other young people, get support or just hang out. Mondays at Belconnen Youth Centre 6pm - 8pm & Thursdays at the Woden Youth Centre 5pm - 6.30pm.

Email : bit_bent@hotmail.com

HANGOUTS CUBE NIGHTCLUB Canberra’s gay night club. p28.

THE HUSH LOUNGE A chilled out GLBTQ bar. p30.

TILLEY’S DEVINE CAFE Legendary and sumptuous! p33.

BAR32 : WWW.BAR32.COM Alternative gay friendly bar.

FUSE 07

THE TRAP THE TRAP

{By Brooklyn Hulands — Journalist

UN-CEREMONIAL FINISH

PROPAGANDA TO FINISH

I’M A LET YOU FINISH

There’s one big question now haunting the ACT Greens. Would Kevin Rudd really have blocked our civil union laws yet again?

Our taxpayer dollars will be somewhat better protected this year. Downside? Well, it’ll be harder to find out how great ACT Labor is.

She’s won seven already — and that was before she told every man in the world to put a ring on it. Something tells me this year belongs to Beyoncé.

Last time there was an election in Canberra, we all paid to watch ads telling us how well ACTEW was protecting our water supply.

Blue bucket loads of taxpayer money was used to heavily promote the Government-owned corporation.

The self-proclaimed diva is up for ten Grammys at the end of the month — double that of Lady Gaga who, let’s face it, owned 2009.

The much talked about amendment put forward by the ACT Government last year was described as a win for same-sex couples, “locking in” legal civil union ceremonies, while keeping the Commonwealth happy.

Only problem was, before that ceremony could take place, love birds would have to give the “appropriate notice” to someone in an office. The Federal Government would still get the registration process it so desperately needed to stay on the Pope’s Christmas card list.

The Greens saw right through it and threatened to block the change. If K-Rudd still had a problem with two homos holding a ceremony, he’d have to say so publicly.

But in the end, he didn’t have to say anything. The only time a journalist could track him down, Mr Rudd said he was still waiting on legal advice.

The threat of another veto only came from the ACT Government. They told us the Commonwealth didn’t like it.

They told us a change was needed.

They told us the only way to get the PM’s support was to agree to their amendment.

So the Greens unceremoniously gave in at the last minute — and we’ll never know if that legal advice told Kevin to get over it.

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So was it right for politicians to use our money like that, just weeks out from an election?

Newly passed legislation now means any big advertising campaigns will have to be approved by an independent body. It’ll be their job to make sure the ads don’t benefit one political party over another.

To the Government’s credit, it eventually supported the new rules through the Assembly.

Labor, the Greens and the Liberals all agreed to stop the increasing bill from government advertising.

It does mean those in power will have to think of innovative new ways to engage with the community. Such as press conferences. Or media releases.

There’s even a new technology called the internet. And guess what? It’s free!

Even though he could have handled it better, Kanye West confirmed what we were all thinking at the VMAs; the clip for ‘Single Ladies’ really was better than that Taylor Swift song. Beyoncé got jipped.

The 28-year-old has worked hard to become an international superstar. She hasn’t thrown herself on reality TV, shown her breakfast to the paps, or even released a greatest hits album (Britney’s up to her second).

I was lucky enough to see that Beyoncé performance in Sydney last year, where she invited eleven-year-old cancer-patient, Chelsea James to sing ‘Halo’ with her on stage. It was a moment I’ll never forget — even the shaky YouTube footage still makes me cry like a sissy.

So despite my love for Gaga (expect to see more of her in this column as she heads to Canberra in March), I for one will be right behind Beyoncé at the Grammys.

Let’s hope Kanye doesn’t need to get involved.

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FUSE 09

{

By Simon Copland

OP.ED

IT’S TIME TO RECONSIDER OUR POLITICAL ALLIANCES In November 2009, the ACT Legislative Assembly passed Greens legislation providing legal ceremonies for same-sex couples entering a civil union.

Two weeks later, the federal ALP decided that unless changes were made, they would veto the law.

Apparently, ‘legally binding ceremonies’ made them uncomfortable. As Kevin Rudd made this decision, one thing became increasingly clear; the ALP is a conservative, anti-queer party and looks likely to stay that way for the foreseeable future. The only way we can create a progressive future therefore, is through active opposition of the ALP. When the Coalition was voted out of office in 2007, hopes of sweeping changes ran throughout the country.

It seemed as though it was the end of Howardesque policies. Yet, after two years of ALP rule, it has become clear that these changes are not going to occur. Policies on climate change, refugees, workplace relations, and indigenous issues just to name a few, have all shifted very little as our Government has changed.

On queer rights the story is similar.

Whilst the ‘same-sex omnibus bill’ provided often unrecognised gains for same-sex couples in Australia, in other areas the ALP continues to fail.

Whilst one may point out the continued failure to support samesex marriage, the biggest issue here is the continued anti-queer rhetoric coming from ALP members. This has come in the form of Julia Gillard spouting homophobic comments in the House of Representatives, Senate ALP members voting against motions of condemnation against international anti-queer moves and the continued support of the anti-queer religious right by many in the ALP.

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For many the answer to this problem is to change the ALP from the inside. This means voting for ‘progressive’ politicians such as Andrew Barr or Kate Lundy, who will then work from the inside to make the ALP more progressive. Such a strategy however, is fatally flawed.

First, it covers up the lack of principles from progressive ALP members. Key principles of the progressive movement, such as social and economic justice, environmental sustainability etc. should be considered non-negotiable by progressive parliamentarians. Yet, when Barr and Lundy join the ALP and vote against progressive policies, they say to the public that these principles are something that they are willing to compromise over. This is unacceptable.

Secondly, the fight for progressive principles needs to take place out in the open; not behind closed doors.

When it moves into the dark, the conservative movement is allowed to dominate public space, giving them more power and legitimacy. This creates an impression of Australia as an inherently conservative country where progressive goals are unrealistic. This impression is only valid because, by staying silent about progressive issues, ALP politicians and their supporters (including those in social movements) allow it to occur. In the end, this perception becomes the reality.

If we want to make Australia a progressive nation we need a movement that is willing to take the fight out in the open. This involves, amongst other things, both holding our government to account and supporting politicians who principally fight for progressive policies. You will not find these politicians however in the ALP. We therefore must not only voice our anger at ALP positions, but also support a party, such as the Greens, who are principally progressive. As the ACT experiences shows, a strong Green Party can make positive changes in society and this is possible throughout the country. In the end, when given the choice, ALP politicians will always pick their party over their principles, whilst Greens’ politicians will never be given that choice.

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FEATURE

NATURAL THERAPIES {

By Gregory Barnes ~ Natural Therapist & Yoga Teacher

What’s right for you?

Only a few generations ago, people knew a lot more about natural therapies than we do today because this kind of knowledge was passed down from parents to children.

Nowadays, due to a growing reliance on GPs and pharmaceuticals, we have lost so much of this important wisdom.

Natural therapies have become the realm of professionals who spend their lives studying and practising these time-proven healing sciences.

Natural therapies use natural substances such as food, herbs, minerals and manual therapies to boost health and wellbeing so we can overcome sickness. Massage therapy, acupuncture, osteopathy, herbalism, naturopathy, aromatherapy and reflexology are some of the more popular methods and, with a little know-how, these natural remedies can be administered at home. I mean, most of us know at least a few home remedies for clearing a cold or to sooth aching muscles.

Let’s say you have a health problem… the list of available natural therapies seems to be have grown exponentially — from auriculotherapy to yoga and everything in between! So how do you find the right kind of therapy from this seemingly confusing array?

A great book I recommend is Better Health through Natural Healing, Dr Ross Trattler N.D., D.O. (ISBN 1-8651-5259-5).

This publication lists ailments alphabetically and suggests the most beneficial natural therapies for treating each one. And of course there are many other wonderful books available out there and a relaxing quiet afternoon browsing for books is also beneficial for your health and well-being.

Always asks practitioners which professional association they are members of before making an appointment, even if someone you know has recommended them. When you arrive at their clinic, ask to see their qualification diplomas and their association membership certificate (check for currency).

So now you’ve found a therapy you think might be right for you — how do you find the right practitioner? Word of mouth is often best. Ask your friends, family or your community by posting a message on the web.

In the meantime, don’t stress. Health problems are learning opportunities. Try to see what ever you’ve got as an opportunity to learn more about yourself. At the end of the day you will be wiser and can pass on your knowledge to others.

If you don’t already know about ACTQueer it’s is a free email list for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer people in Canberra and surrounding regions. http://groups.yahoo.com/groups/actqueer

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When searching for a practitioner, find one who is registered with a professional association. This is the best way to ensure you get the highest quality service.

Most professional associations like ATMS require their members to have completed at least a diploma level of qualification and continue to upgrade their skills on a regular basis. I suggest going to http:// www.atms.com.au/atmsPrac/Find.asp

Best of health in your search!

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FUSE 13

THE

NEWS GOSSIP & STUFF

BUZZ

*

{

By Tony Hamlyn

TOP BLOCKBUSTERS ~ TOP HEROES ~ TOP ZEROES ~ TOP SCANDAL MAKERS TOP BUZZWORDS AND FADS ~ TOP MOVIES ~ TOP PREDICTIONS FOR 2010 Happy New Year, FUSE readers!

I’m thrilled about the upcoming twelve months and the gay, gossipy glamour that the world of pop culture will be unleashing upon us all.

But before we dive into Twenty-Ten with gay abandon, let’s take a look back at the Buzzy year that was 2009, with The Year’s Top Stuff!

TOP ALBUMS Whitney Houston : I Look to You — Whitney came back to the fold with a fantastic R&B fusion, reminding us that she is a renowned diva for reasons that go way beyond public drama.

Kelly Clarkson : All I Ever Wanted — Kelly started out 2009 with a bang, reminding us that this gal can sing up a storm and write a pop/rock masterpiece.

Lily Allen : It’s Not Me, It’s You — Proving her substance with one of the surprise albums of the year, this diverse collection of tunes and genres worked brilliantly when it really shouldn’t have.

Black Eyed Peas : The End — It would be hard to talk about 2009 and not talk about this album, which brought together elements of house, hip-hop and pop (Hip-pop? Is that a thing?), managed three number one singles and a much talked about tour of Australia. Like them or loathe them — they owned the year.

TOP SONGS Agnes : ‘Release Me’ — A fun piece of Europop from exSwedish Idol, got us on the dance floors and singing along to our car radios. Best song all year!

David Guetta feat Kelly Rowland : ‘When Love Takes Over’ — Kelly breaks out with a soaring chorus and a killer vocal. Dance anthem of 2009.

Gossip : ‘Heavy Cross (Fred Falke remix)’ — Crossover genius that borrowed from the 80s but proved a masterpiece of any era.

Beyonce : ‘Halo’ — Beautiful, masterful piece of ethereal diva pop. There’s just no stopping her!

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La Roux : ‘Bulletproof ’ — This electro-pop chanteuse brought us a near perfect pop moment and a great album to boot.

TOP TV The United States of Tara — A woman negotiates suburban terrain as a wife and mother, all the while living with multiple personality disorder. Dark and weird, smart and funny, Tara showed us something different and made it all seem so real.

Gossip Girl — It’s hard to go past this FOX8 trash-fest. A tween drama that’s as much Dynasty as it is 90210, this year’s fodder was no exception, even managing a man-toman kiss when Chuck Bass (Ed Westwick) pashed a guy.

Sure, it was on a bet, but it still made me tingle, as does this show, relentlessly.

Glee — It hit the screens like a big, gay sledgehammer and the debris were pom-poms and show-tunes. Quick, brash and camp as Christmas (footballers dancing to Beyonce’s ‘Single Ladies’… a boy vs girl sing-off to ‘Defying Gravity’ from Wicked…), we all sang along with certitude, rooting for the underdog, before we’d even gotten to sectionals. And with a touching coming-out storyline, Glee proved it handles the serious stuff as well as the fluff. Bring on regionals!

Master Chef — I mean, let’s be perfectly honest: 2009 will always be the year that the terms “croquembouche” and “plating” became part of the broader vernacular when Master Chef became THE year’s biggest water-cooler show. Not all of us can sing; not all of us can dance, but presumably we’ve all either cooked or eaten a meal in our lives. So we empathised when Julie’s lamb roast failed, or believed in Po’s odd flavour combinations.

Judges were harsh but fair and more complimentary than discouraging. And the numbers for Ten were mouthwatering, pulling the highest non-sporting audience ever.

TOP BLOCKBUSTERS

TOP DOCOS

Star Trek — JJ Abrahams recreated the Star Trek brand and managed to take us on a white-knuckle rollicking space adventure without pissing off too many diehard Trekkies.

The September Issue — Showed the truths behind the beauty myth of American Vogue and, in Anna Wintour and Grace Coddington, showed a real face to the argument of art versus commerce.

Avatar — A movie-going experience like no other, James Cameron’s long-awaited epic was visually sumptuous without sacrificing storyline. Aussie Sam Worthington’s accent was the only letdown — from the Bronx to Cronulla with every short sentence.

New Moon — Seriously, I can’t stand the Twilight franchise. It would be remiss of me, however, to avoid this second film in the series, easily one of the year’s most successful films. Let’s not focus on the misogyny and abstinence glorified throughout this goth-fest of new vampire mythology, penned by Mormon Church member, Stephanie Meyers. Let’s just say this instead: all the men in this film are great looking, and often shirtless. That, in my opinion, was worth the $17 entry fee alone.

Up — For me it was ‘Film of the Year’.

A simple, beautiful story told through some incredible animation. And containing a four-minute montage, exquisitely detailing the lifelong relationship of the protagonist and his wife, which goes down as one of the most magical screen experiences of 2009 and truly Oscar-worthy.

Every Little Step — A detailed look at the audition process for the 2006 revival of the musical classic, A Chorus Line. This fascinating journey was thrilling and heartbreaking, as young Broadway hopefuls strive for perfection and reflect our own life aspirations.

This Is It — Weirdly prophetic, this rehearsal footage became Michael Jackson’s final legacy and biggest money-spinner in decades. Some found it brilliant, I found it sad, but regardless it was one of the unmissable film experiences of the year.

TOP BUZZWORDS AND FADS GFC —The recession got an acronym!

Grinder — Think Gaydar with a GPS. Apps were the new black, as the iPhone came into general usage here in Australia.

Swine Flu — Cautionary Killer or Common Cold? Who can really say?

Still, travel became difficult and APS absenteeism was out of control.

Susan Boyle — Gobsmacked, we all watched this Ugly Duckling sing ‘I Dreamed a Dream’ from Les Miz and turn into a swan. The most watched YouTube clip of ‘09 and on writing this her album is number one, here and internationally.

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THE BUZZ

TOP HEROES

TOP SCANDAL MAKERS

Ellen Degeneres — I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again, Ellen is outstanding. Publicly and proudly gay, she will not be stopped, with a 2009 ratings assault, which even brought the Oprah juggernaut to its knees. And now the announcement that she will be judging next year’s American Idol, she is officially a lesbian of legend.

Kanye Vs Taylor Swift — Easily the biggest, juiciest scandal of the year! EVERYONE argued over this, passionate debates were raging across the globe, President Obama publicly called him a ‘jackass’ and I know of friends who unfriended people on Facebook because of it all. Whether you think he was a tool, or she’s a talentless dim-wit, one thing is for certain — it was Beyonce who came up trumps in the end, when she gave over her own acceptance speech at the end of the night. Now that’s a lady!

Adam Lambert — American Idol runner-up, Adam Lambert showed guts in 09, coming out with quiet, unassuming eloquence, and then finished off the year with an electric performance at the Amercian Music Awards in which he kissed a boy onstage. The press had a field day, but Adam simply asked why his performance caused such moral outrage, whilst Madonna could kiss Britney onstage without offending? Wonderful!

Michael Jackson — Dead at 50 from a drug-induced heart attack. It was all so awful; His dad taking the media opportunity to promote a new label; Sony’s greedy but inevitable release of his back catalogue; Blanket gripping an MJ doll at the funeral; Madonna’s embarrassingly selfreferential eulogy at the VMAs. As in life, in death it was all just scandal.

Neil Patrick Harris — Talented, funny, gay and cute as a button, NPH hosted both the Tonys and the Emmys of 2009 with style, humour and sophistication. His star is in ascendance people, make no mistake! And wouldn’t he just make the perfect boy to take home to mum and dad???

Lady GaGa — She is the way and the future, entertaining and enthralling, drawing comparisons to everybody from early Madonna to Freddie Mercury. Her bloodletting performance at this year’s VMAs was both subversive and sublime, and this was only one of the many eccentricities she brought us throughout the year. From multi-sex rumours, to dating a muppet, she challenges and intrigues and teaches the kids that it’s cool to be weird. The Fame Monster album is a collection of non-stop fabulousness, with sensational production and relentless melody, and her showmanship is matched by a shrewd pop sensibility and knack of knowing what’s going to work. If 2008 was when she got our attention, 2009 was the year she refused to be ignored.

TOP ZEROES Tony Abbott — Actually, the whole Liberal Party for voting him leader. The antithesis of everything decent and good in this world, and now in a position of… gulp… real power.

Heaven help us all!

Linda the Husband Stealing Penguin — This evil penguin harlot seduced fellow San Francisco Zoo penguin Harry, thus breaking up the six year relationship between Harry and his gay penguin lover, Pepper. Who the hell calls their penguin Linda, for god’s sake???

Chris Brown — King-hit Rhianna, and the night before the Grammys! Dude, you like school on a Sunday — NO CLASS!

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Britney “Live” — Remember when Betty Boo was run out of the country after miming onstage? Now Britney gets paid millions for it. And we pay a couple of hundred dollars for the privilege.

Caster Semenya — She ran the race of her life in the 2009 World Championships and then had to publicly deal with allegations of being a hermaphrodite.

Michael Phelps — Swimmer extraordinaire lost a shedload of sponsorship and shocked the world after a photo of him smoking a bong surfaced in tabloid newspapers.

His drug use wasn’t really a surprise, but A BONG? What are you — fifteen years old???

TOP 2010 PREDICTIONS Lindsay Lohan’s career turn — I predict a big turnaround for Lindsay. Regular readers will know of the love and support I show our favourite redheaded goddess and 2010 will be her year I reckon, with at least two huge comeback films and maybe even an Oscar nod in 2011.

Australian Idol axed — People blamed Kyle’s absence, but this coincided with the producers defiling the franchise’s trusted format at their own discretion (voting before performances, results at the start of the show, Ricki-Lee’s makeup). My guess is what was once our top-rated show will discontinue after the 2010 season — if there is a 2010 season.

Touring — EVERONE is doing it! Liza came, Fleetwood Mac were here, Britney, even Mandy Patinkin and Patti LuPone toured Australia for the first time in twenty years.

Thanks to the world’s financial woes and the Aussie dollar actually doing well, suddenly touring Australia is actually a money-spinner instead of a pain in the ass. George Michael, Whitney Houston, Backstreet Boys, Kelly Clarkson, Ronan Keating, Rob Thomas, Tom Jones, Julio Iglesius, Dianna Krall, and that’s just in the first couple of months of 09.

Expect big names (Taylor Swift), as well as comeback tours (Spandau Ballet are apparently coming with Tears for Fears in April), and bands that you never thought you’d see in this country again (A-ha are slated for possible February shows).

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{

By Simon Copland

09

FEATURE

QUEERWORLD

When asked to write this article, I thought it would be impossible. Summarising a year for the queer movement is a difficult task. One cannot simply summarise everything that has been done and focusing solely on the ‘measurable’ legal changes would leave out a lot.

Yet, at the same time, reflecting on actions and achievements is something that is extremely important. In doing so we can see where we have come and what challenges lie ahead.

So, I thought I better give this a shot. The following is therefore a look at some of the most important actions, debates, legal advancements etc. for the queer movement in 2009. I know I will miss a lot and I apologise for that. I therefore ask that if you know of something I missed, please let us know and I will aim to include it in future discussions. Email Simon at hello@fusemagazine.com.au So, here it goes; a brief summary of the queer movement in 2009.

THE MOVEMENT & SOCIETY I unfortunately cannot provide updates on how society has changed over the year, as it is simply impossible to measure. So, instead I will mention some movement actions and events as well as social issues that have been important.

To start off with, I must acknowledge the great grass roots work done to end discrimination and break down heteronormative society, provide support for queer people and create a bigger, more inclusive and stronger queer movement. Although it doesn’t get the media attention, grass roots action is the driving force behind change. This year has been a year of continued grassroots work around the world; all of which must be congratulated.

Second, it is important to acknowledge the continued diversity of the queer movement. For many in the ‘mainstream’, the queer movement is simply about rights for same-sex couples.

This is a dangerous perception that we must ensure doesn’t stick. Becoming a movement based solely on same-sex rights will isolate many and allow us to lose sight of important long term goals. However, it is through our diversity, which represents what we want to see in society, that we can move beyond this perception. I therefore congratulate everyone in the queer community, whether they are trans*, bi, intersex, asexual, lesbian, gay or queer, for working to increase diversity and space for all within our movement and our society.

Apart from this great grassroots work there has also been many big queer events held this year (many of which are grassroots based). The biggest of these was probably the OutGames held in Copenhagen in July. The games hosted thousands of queer athletes as well as an international conference on LGBTIQ human rights.

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Also annual pride weeks, months and parades in 2009, brought activists and the community together to celebrate our diversity and continue to build the movement. Unfortunately however, in some places pride marches have been forced to be cancelled or have experienced violent attacks from anti-queer conservatives.

In the United States a rally was also held in Washington D.C. in August, attracting up to 300,000 activists demanding full equality. In Australia, a national year of same-sex marriage was launched on the 24th November, following up on protests held in August over the same issue.

Of course however, not everything is great. An issue that must be mentioned is that of violence. Whether it is the reported killings of queers in Iraq by roaming gangs, attacks on athletes at the OutGames (no one seriously injured), attacks on trans* people or bashings on Oxford Street, violence still unfortunately plays a role in the lives of many queer people. We must stand together with those who have experience violence and vow to continue to fight it in the future.

LEGAL With these important social events there have also been many legal changes this year. On the 2nd of July, the High Court in New Delhi, India declared the 148 year old ban on homosexuality unconstitutional. The ban provided a ten year sentence for anyone participating in ‘homosexual acts’. Although not enforced, this ban provided a cloud over the heads of the Indian queer community.

In regards to same-sex couple’s rights, there has been a lot of action. Many countries and states around the world have made significant changes to same-sex laws this year, providing extra rights for many people. This has included the legalisation of same-sex marriage in Sweden, Norway and 5 US states and a range of civil union or similar laws in a number of countries around the world.

9

In Australia the changes related to the same-sex omnibus bill came into effect in July. The ACT Legislative Assembly also continued its debate with the Federal Government over civil unions with the introduction of a legal ceremonies bill.

The debate has temporarily been resolved with the Assembly grudgingly accepting amendments from the federal ALP. For trans* people action occurred in South Africa, where a statute was passed to allow people to legally change their gender without having corrective surgery.

However, changes for trans* rights are still often not

This action is not unique to the region, with similar, although less harsh attacks occurring or planned both in Burundi and Rwanda. An important part of these attacks has been the involvement of the religious right of the United States.

Many right leaders have been linked to politicians introducing this bill in Uganda, including Pastor Rick Warren (famous for giving the invocation at Barack Obama’s inauguration). This is part of a continued internationalisation of the religious right movement, one that needs to be countered by the queer movement. Lithuania also caused uproar this year as it passed a censorship bill. This made it illegal to provide ‘positive images’ of homosexuals (among other things) to people under the age of 18.

Copenhagen OutGames July09

Washington DC Gay Rights Rally Americans demand full equality for all

Lithuania passes an anti-gay censorship bill

Australia Attacks on gay men and trans* people in Sydney

ACT passes new civil partnership laws, however the Fed Govn forces them to water down the legistlation

Uganda Legislation that will enforce prison sentences or the death penalty for homosexuals

Legalisation of same-sex marriage in Sweden, Norway and 5 US states

being met by a serious ‘mainstream’ debate on the role gender plays in our legal system. This must grow as an important issue in the future. Probably the worst situation is 2009 has been in Uganda. The Ugandan government has introduced legislation that would enforce large prison sentences or the death penalty (although this may be removed) for homosexuals, ban all civil society work in favour of queer rights and force all people to report of known homosexuals. The bill is expected to be passed in January 2010 and would become the harshest anti-queer law anywhere in the world.

Australia national year of same-sex marriage rallies held throughout the country Iraq Reported killings of queers in Iraq by roaming gangs

India 148 year-old ban on homosexuality overturned July 2009

There have been many calling for the re-criminalisation of homosexuality in Lithuania, but this looks unlikely to occur in the near future.

So, there it is; my account of queer 2009. As the year ends we must celebrate the work we have done and the victories we have had. As we look forward we can see a picture of a bright future for much of the world’s ‘queer community’. Changes in laws and society are occurring at a rapid pace. However, we must be weary not to forget our goals and narrow the movement to one based wholly on legal reform. Whilst these changes are important, they are only part of a bigger picture of queer liberation.

Let’s keep up the great work in 2010!

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SO WHAT’S YOGA ALL ABOUT?

{

By Gregory Barnes ~ Yoga Teacher & Natural Therapist

FEATURE

When yoga is mentioned some people think of ‘Indian rubber men’ tied in knots or religious cults practising impossible positions! Let me assure you, yoga is not a form of religion and is compatible with any religious practices and, like any skill, you start easy and gradually progress. Everyone is capable of regaining some of their childhood flexibility and vitality.

Yoga means to yoke or unite, referring to the experience of uniting mind and body and coming into ‘oneness’ or ‘present moment awareness’. It encourages a state of natural happiness, free of stress and anxiety. When individuals experience unity they feel more connected to their communities and the natural world.

Historically, yoga traces back about 6000 years to the region now called India, where the ancient yogis devised simple physical and mental exercises that purified the mind and body to assist with meditation.

With the stresses and lightning pace of modern life, the most common draw card for yoga these days is a desire for mental, emotional and physical balance.

Yoga came to the Western world only recently when a few teachers in the 1950s and 60s travelled out of India. The 60s rock band The Beatles also raised awareness of yoga by introducing Maharishi Mahesh Yogi to the Western world. Since then, yoga has gained popularity and teachers in the West have been trained in the various styles.

One of the most practiced forms of Yoga is Hatha, a system of practices that purify mind and body.

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Canberra Yoga Classes www.findyoga.com.au

A class would involve time in relaxation, yoga poses (asanas), breathing exercises (pranayama), mental concentration and meditation (freedom from thoughts).

Recently, practising yoga without clothing has become more popular. Yoga was practised nude by the ancient sadhus (ascetics) to renounce their sexual desires. The first recorded occurrence in western culture was during the 1960s at the Esalen Institute in California, where nude yoga was practised to break down social barriers and form bonds of trust and respect. In 1998 classes started in NYC under the title, Midnight Yoga for Men, where participants practiced, ‘naked before the infinite,’ like the sadhus. Since then, nude yoga has grown in popularity through the US and Europe and since 2005 in Australia. There are a few co-ed and women’s groups in the US, however, men attend the majority of nude classes. This is the case in Canberra and Sydney.

Bryan Harrelson from San Francisco says:

‘There are very few venues where men can come together and connect spiritually, mentally and physically in the absence of sexual tension. This is a great opportunity to experience nonsexual male intimacy.

There are a number of reasons to practice naked. While our society often equates being naked with sex, other cultures have found that being naked removes many social and economic barriers. It is also very freeing to move the body without the restriction of clothing, and yoga provides a great way to deepen body acceptance.

Also, being naked can bring up many of our vulnerabilities. By facing these fears in the context of a safe and supportive community of men, we naturally become more grounded and comfortable with ourselves.’

Whether clothed or nude, it is common for students to report feeling profoundly relaxed and re-vitalised after their class. Other benefits include a stronger immune system, enhanced muscle tone, a slowing of the aging process, increased productivity at work, better sleep and sharper senses.

People of all shapes, sizes, colors, ages and physical abilities can practice yoga.

Whether you’re straight or queer, new to yoga or a returning after an absence, you’re welcome. All you need is a yoga mat and a towel.

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BLING BLING

{FAB}THINGS BODY BLING The queer community has created their own fashion styles and it’s often leading the rest of the world in trends. Over the years we have also created jewellery which identifies us and lets the world know we are proud of who we are. In this months fab things we explore some of the time tested designs and some leading edge bling!

WONDER WOMAN BLING Whether you grew up on the now-campy Wonder Woman TV series, read the DC comic or just a fan of Diana Prince, the Wonder Woman bracelet is fantastic on so many levels.

While the cuff won’t deflect bullets like Wonder Woman’s did (we assume), it’s a cool as hell accessory, bound to elicit smiles and conversations with the girls. The bracelet is 6”long, and fully adjustable.

It’s $20 USD at www.stylinonline.com (Invisible plane not included)

DOT MATRIX WATCHES

GAY PRIDE

These unique leather wristband watches are studded with a matrix of black LEDs that, at the touch of a button, do a funky kind wave scroll effect and then display the time in classic Dot Matrix style; a second press will display the date.

Gay pride jewellery often uses the symbol of six interlocking colored rings as a sign of gay pride. The colours are immediately recognisable as the colours of the gay pride rainbow flag.

They come in tan leather with yellow lights, or black leather with red lights, display both 24hr and 12hr time, and have a built-in power saving mode, so the time or date is automatically switched off after three seconds. You can get your hands on these online for around $AU100 at www.iwantoneofthose.com

ANKLETS They have been popular with surfies and hippies for quite some time now, but are now becoming mainstream. Anklets are fun pieces to wear, my BF has one and it’s hell sexy. You usually notice them more during the spring and summer months when girls and guys are wearing shorts or skirts.

The Indian anklet have taken fashion designers by surprise in their mounting popularity in the Western World among both women and men. Traditionally quite delicate in nature and made out of silver or gold, now you can find anklets in leather, plastic, string or nylon in a fantastic range of beautiful designs.

They’re still a bit of a fringe item, so get in quick while it’s not too trendy to have one.

Anklets shown under ten bucks www.ijitsa.com, but you’ll find anklets everywhere.

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During the late 80s and early 90s, wearing rainbow coloured jewellery, like freedom rings was extremely popular and now in the naughties it’s making a come back.

Designer David Spada came up with the idea of ‘Freedom Rings’ (variation above) as a symbol for the struggle for gay freedom. He incorporated the six colours of the rainbow flag — red for life, orange for healing, yellow for sun, green for nature and blue for harmony — into six interlocking aluminium rings to represent the many different people coming together to fight for gay independence and tolerance.

You’ll find freedom rings all over the internet and at pride festivals.

Be proud and show the world.

Right: Handmade rainbow bracelet liquidsandstudio.com

BOYS BODY BLING Like all trends throughout history, jewellery has done quite a bit of gender hopping. For quite a while it has been mostly the domain of women in mainstream society, but it seems things are swinging back around.

The contemporary emergence of men’s jewellery is not an isolated phenomenon. Early monarchs and noblemen wore extravagantly bejewelled items — clothes lavished with diamonds, pearls and gold buttons; fashionable pearl stickpins; ornamental timepieces; ornate diamond necklaces; and swords set with decorative gemstones.

In the 60s and 70s love beads and gold medallions were dangled provocatively on open shirted, hairy chests.

As often the case with fashion and style, this new shift is driven largely by the gay community. Our fashion influence is so highly regarded that they have even made popular mainstream TV shows about it. Think shows like Queer Eye for the Straight Guy. Sometimes I fear we are turning all guys into the gay clone archetype, but then I go to my little home town and my fears are all squashed.

This phenomenon seems to be somewhat isolated to the metrosexual and coastal boys, but you do see it leaking out in unexpected places more each year.

HAMMERED This is a stunning stainless bracelet by Hammered called Golden Screws — mind you this boy would good with string around his wrist. A handsome bold link stainless steel bracelet is accented with gold vermieul screws.

Over the past few years designers (a lot of them gay) and retailers are devoting more time, energy, attention and store space to men’s jewellery than ever before. Gone are the days when cuff links and watches were all that was available for men. While these stylish standards remain a big part of today’s selection, there are also now earrings, rings, bracelets, necklaces and pendants to choose from.

Men from all walks of life today are showing the same desire to show their identity to the world.

Men’s fashion is becoming more varied, with men themselves making purchases and becoming more conscious of their style and the image they project.

Bracelets, for instance, have become almost as common as watches thanks to new, masculine designs made of wood, shell and alternative metals, ranging from gold and platinum to anodized aluminium. Designers are mixing and matching materials into fashionable items that work with corporate looks as well as more casual ensembles.

The versatility of stainless steel, titanium and tungsten carbide designs continues to emerge as a selling point.

Men are expressing a desire to show their identity to the world, and they are often at ease and confident enough to wear a watch with a bracelet, necklace or ring. As more varied forms of jewellery have become socially acceptable, new questions arise such as, what kind of jewellery do modern men — gay and straight want?

What catches the modern man’s eye?

Jewellery for men has become a fashion norm and an area of personal style that will surely continue to develop in design and grow in popularity. So boys, get your bling on.

MALIBU For the boy in all of us. This is a hand crafted necklace made of deep amethyst coloured hand pulled fire beads. All strung on a necklace of hematite and black onyx tube beads with sterling silver spacer beads and black glass seed beads. A great recipe.

What boy (or girl for that matter) would not look good in this gem. gaymensjewelry.com have much more where this comes from and you won’t be disappointed with the way they show it off.

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2010 GROOMING

STYLE REPORT

{

By Chad Wijayatilake from Form Haircutters

When I think of 2010 and the upcoming trends, I feel that it’s going to be a very laid back and relaxed year. The ‘it’ style of 2009 was structured cuts, such as the ‘bob’ and for the guys, the military crew cut was back and is still very much happening. It is a classic, let’s not forget.

If you’re blonde, or maybe thinking of going lighter, honey blondes will be the ‘it’ tone, they are very beachy and suit a lot of skin tones. What’s more, a honey, dewy blonde will just get better as it grows out, another emerging trend is designer regrowth, or ‘shabby chic’.

After the recent GFC, a lot of girls have been putting off getting their roots done, which I think has started a great trend in ‘lived-in colour’. A few years ago dark roots weren’t that hot, but now it’s the ‘it’ look. Major celebrities, such as Cameron Diaz and Nicole Richie were seen sporting these styles in the summer just past; the hair should look textured and well kept, not dry and dull. If you do rock out your roots, make sure you get conditioning treatments done to make sure your hair remains glossy, you can have a semi-permanent clear gloss put through on your next visit to the salon. For all you brunettes out there, think cooler tones and try to stay away from reds. Cooler tones will bring in a whole new look for winter 2010.

Your haircut should make a statement about who you are and also reflect your lifestyle. Make 2010 a year where you rule your hair and don’t let your hair rule you. Keep it simple with long layers and less structured cuts. If you have a fringe, but it never sits the way you want it to sit…

YOU’RE JUST NOT MEANT TO HAVE A FRINGE; accept it and move on.

For the guys, it’s about two looks: ‘surfer hair’ and ‘preppy chic’, natural wavy or curly hair is hot, so work with what you’ve got. There are some amazing products now that fight frizz, lock out humidity and soften the most unruly hair-types. ‘Fresh Curls’ by Redken is a product specifically designed for the challenges of curly hair.

‘Preppy chic’ — short and swept back off the face with just a bit of product, will be the look for winter. This Super-cool and effortlessly put-together style is one your grandparents would be proud of.

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GROOMING

YOUR QUEST FOR BEAUTY COULD KILL YOU

Getting that perfect tan came in vogue during the 1920s when fashion icon Coco Chanel turned it into a desirable fashion rule. Now-a-days you see guys and girls everywhere in their skimpy swim wear, shamelessly working on their tans in the name of beauty. Look in any beauty magazine and a good tan it seems has become a must — despite all the warnings — especially in our sun burnt country.

Tanning involves the exposure of the skin to ultraviolet (UV) rays in order to darken it. A suntan can happen naturally, or by using artificial aids such as suntan lotions, sprays or tanning beds. Acquiring the perfect look is not easy and the process is further complicated by the number of myths that are commonly associated with tanning — myths that need to be busted.

SUN PROTECTION IS UNNECESSARY ON CLOUDY DAYS Most people believe that clouds offer some sort of natural protection against tanning or sunburn. NO! Sunlight is made of UVA as well as UVB rays and clouds offer only partial protection against UVB rays, the main cause of sunburn and skin cancer.

Besides, UVA rays are present even in cloudy weather, so it is necessary to get adequate protection from the sun.

A TRADITIONAL SUNTAN IS MORE DANGEROUS THAN TANNING BEDS One of the most prevalent misconceptions about suntan today is that getting one naturally can result in sunburn and/or skin cancer, while tanning beds are perfectly safe. This belief is based on the fact that UVA rays, which are considered to be safer than UVB rays, are used in tanning beds. The truth is that both kinds of radiation are equally dangerous for the skin.

PORCELAIN WHITE SKIN IS JUST AS BEAUTIFUL

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TANNING IS GOOD FOR YOU Many people believe that tanning offers protection from sunburn because it blocks UV rays from penetrating the skin and works as a natural barrier. In reality, tanned skin is defenseless against UV rays in the absence of an external protection layer. Tanned skin is nothing but darkened skin and is as susceptible to sunburn as any unprotected skin. Tanning is also often associated with good health but there is no scientific evidence to support this belief. Exposure to sunlight helps convert inactive Vitamin D in the body into active form. Vitamin D boosts immunity and prevents certain kinds of cancer. But only 10-15 minutes of daily exposure to the sun without sunscreen is enough for this.

Tanning usually requires more time and increases the risk of getting skin cancer.

SUNBURN IS NECESSARY FOR GETTING A GOOD TAN Sunburn that fades away to reveal a perfect suntan is a myth that usually results in cases of severely burnt skin and very little else. Sunburn causes tremendous damage to the skin in the form of wrinkled, aged and rough skin. It can also cause freckles and blotches. While it is necessary to get the daily dose of Vitamin D, it is equally necessary to get adequate sun protection while doing so. UVA and UVB radiation should be avoided at all costs, even if a tanning bed is being used.

ALL SKIN TYPES NEED THE SAME TIME FOR TANNING There are various skin types, each has different requirements and needs to be handled differently. Getting a suntan is desirable but different skin types have different levels of tanning abilities within the same time frame.

A particular type may require a few minutes to acquire that perfect bronzed look, while others may not be affected by hours in the sun. A few sensitive skin types may even come out in blotches or freckles instead of tanning evenly. For instance, olive skin is more susceptible to suntan while fair skin takes a much longer time to tan.

THE WRAP Sunshine is good for you if your sensible about it. Sun exposure raises the level of Vitamin D in the body, which improves bone health, reduces risk of heart disease and bowel cancer and can enhance mental health and helps with depression.

However — and it’s a big one ­— excessive exposure to sunlight has detrimental effects and it has been conclusively proved to cause sunburn and more importantly, skin cancer.

So be careful before you seek out that golden look, because your our quest for beauty could kill you.

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OUT & ABOUT

Thanks 33 Petrie Plaza Civic, Canberra City www.cubenightclub.com.au

To everybody that has joined the Cube family this year and to all of you that have been clubbing with us for much longer, we would like to say a huge, thank you. Thank you for spending your weekends with us. Thank you for been a constant source of entertainment and keeping the smiles on our faces. And most of all thank you for choosing Cube to celebrate all of your special moments.

It’s been a wonderful year and we’re looking forward to spending the next one and many more after that with all of you.

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}

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OUT & ABOUT

THE

Corner of Launceston & Irving Streets Phillip www.hushlounge.com.au ~ 02 6282 1944

}

HUSHLOUNGE WEDDING AT HUSH Jen and Kathy de Rooy recently celebrated their nuptials at the Hush Lounge in Woden. They said it was perfect for the occasion and the day went off without a hitch.

Both brides were elegantly dressed in white and the ceremony, lead

by Carol Moon, their celebrant, had very intimate personal touches including the involvement of family and close friends. The wedding entertainment included music by Leisa Keen and a performance by unforgettable drag kings.

The girls said that a special moment they will always remember was their wedding dance to ‘ìI Surrender’ by Laura Pausini — beautiful lyrics for two amazing women.

Jen and Kathy out-lasted most of their guests and finally called it a day at midnight, the first day of their new life.

We all wish you the very best ladies — have a wonderful and fulfilling life together wherever it may lead you.

COME ALONG TO THE INAUGURAL CANBERRA QUEER COMMUNITY CHARITY COCKTAIL PARTY The night will be a variety entertainment and queer community information event, hosted by local queer community identity, Johnathan Davis on Saturday 13th February, from 7pm till late. Tickets are $15 at the door and money raised will go to the Kids Help Line.

Kids Helpline is a free 24 hour counselling service for young people aged 5-25 years.

Counselling is offered by phone, email and over the web. Counsellors respond to more than 6,000 calls each week about issues ranging from relationship breakdowns and bullying, to sexual abuse, homelessness, suicidal thoughts and drug and alcohol use.

Kids Helpline is an important service and it will be great to be able to help. So please come along, it will be a great night with some fabulous entertainment for everyone.

www.kidshelp.com.au Free Call 1800 55 1800 More details call Johnathan 0437 309 680

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BODY SHAPE

{

NEW BEGINNINGS 2010 COULD MEAN A WHOLE NEW YOU! So another year has passed... 2010 is here and for most of us, we are starting to unwind from the partying. Now it’s time for us to start working on our New Year’s Resolutions.

Returning to, or even beginning a new exercise routine, involves a lot more than just joining the gym and planning your workouts. As a Personal Trainer, I see a lot of people who join the gym and end up paying for a membership they never use, which, despite all the rumours about gyms, is not what we want to see.

To help you get the most out of your new years resolutions and the most out of your gym membership, I’m going to give you some tips to plan your new fitness routine and to help you make sure you stick with it.

One of the hardest parts of getting into an exercise routine is... getting into an exercise routine. This is why it is important not to try and go too hard too fast. Meaning, when you are just starting out, or returning to your exercise routine, it is important to make sure your goals are realistic. Look at how much time you have, and plan to start off your routine with one to two 30-minute sessions a week to begin with. This helps you to start feeling better and helps you to begin to see some of the benefits of regular exercise, including better sleep and more energy.

Going in to the gym can be extremely scary and intimidating, which can also be a big deterrent for people who are starting out. But don’t stress out, there are a few ways around this. The first way is to book in to see a Personal Trainer and get them to write you a fitness program. With this, they will also show you how to use the equipment and help get you set up on your way to achieving your goals. Another option here is group fitness. There is a massive range of group fitness classes out there that can help you ease into a fitness routine. If you are just starting out in the gym for the first time, classes such as Group Active are fantastic as you get a cardio workout and begin to learn excellent resistance training technique and balance skills. Group classes have a very supportive and motivating environment as well.

As humans, one of our biggest motivators to do something hard is reward; Whether the reward be an extrinsic (tangible) reward such as new clothes, or intrinsic (a feeling of accomplishment and success), rewards are a great way for us to help stick to our goals. Set your goals small and set yourself some small rewards along the way. Smaller goals are a lot easier and more achievable. However, this does not mean that you are never going to achieve the big goal. Break you bigger goals down to the smaller ones, which will help them appear less daunting. For example if your ultimate goal is to lose 20kg in twelve months, that can seem like a lot of hard work. But if we break this down and start aiming to lose 2kg a month, or even 1kg a fortnight, we are able to achieve slowly and feel a lot better about ourselves when we achieve these small goals.

SO NOW THAT YOU HAVE SET YOUR GOALS FOR THE NEW YEAR, MAKE SURE THAT THEY ARE SMART.

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By Brendan Farnhill Alive! Health & Fitness

SPECIFIC Make your goals smaller and more specific.

MEASUREABLE Your goals should have some way of measuring achievement.

eg. a number of kgs.

ACHIEVABLE By breaking your goals down to make them a little smaller,

you also make them more achievable.

REALISTIC Think seriously about your goals and make sure that they

are real. Don’t set yourself a goal of losing 20kg in a month,

because it’s not going to happen.

TIMELY Make sure your goals have got a time put to them, to make

sure that you don’t just keep putting them off.

Tilley’s

Devine Café Gallery

TILLEY’S IS NESTLED IN TREE LINED LYNEHAM JUST 4KM FROM THE CITY For over 26 years Tilley’s has been famous for it’s breakfasts, lunches, and dinners... and of course its fabulous coffees. Tilley’s attracts not only ‘regulars’ but visitors from overseas and interstate who enjoy the all-day menu specials, and oh such lovely cake!

Internationally renowned for legendary blues, jazz and classical concerts, Tilley’s continues to attract artists of international calibre who prefer the intimacy of a warm theatre atmosphere clad in red velvet, brass and dark timber booths.

With a fully licensed bar, one can enjoy Champagne with breakfast, or in the evening savour our broad range of wines, spirits or boutique beers on tap.

@

OPENING HOURS

9am – 10pm Monday to Saturday 9am – 6pm Sunday

Brian Kennedy THURSDAY 25th FEBRUARY

Tilley’s

Tilley’s is proud to welcome one of Ireland’s most loved and successful ambassadors of music, as he returns to Australian shores for a national tour in march 2010. If there were a special award for being multi-gifted, then Brian Kennedy would surely walk away with it. A critically acclaimed singer/songwriter and proven radio/television presenter, he is now acknowledged as an author of considerable worth, having produced a series of short stories and two novels (with a third on the way) not surprisingly, for a lyricist of his calibre.

Tickets available at Canberra Ticketing 02 6275 2700

To reserve your favourite table or booth phone us on 6247 7753 Corner of Wattle & Brigalow Streets, Lyneham • www.tilleys.com.au FUSE 33

WORLD STAGE

US

{

By Robert William Atcheson

GAY MARRIAGE UPDATE

Late last year, the National Equality March was held in Washington, DC to raise awareness for federal equal rights recognition from the US Government.

In the spirit of this event, it is worth taking a look at some US legal cases which have the potential to dramatically alter the recognition of gay marriage.

First up is a divorce case recently filed in Texas.

At this point you might be asking yourself, ‘Wait a minute, I didn’t think those crazy Texans allowed same-sex marriages’. Well they don’t and therein lies the issue. The two men were residents of Massachusetts and became married while living there. Several years later they relocated to Texas and found themselves desiring to end their marriage. Since they are no longer residents of Massachusetts, they had to file their divorce in a Texas court.

At the preliminary hearing, Justice Callahan had every reason to dismiss the case on constitutional grounds under the recent Defense of Marriage Act passed in Texas, banning gay marriage. However, Callahan decided not only did she have jurisdiction to hear the matter, but stated in her decision that ban on gay marriage in Texas was unconstitutional under the 14th Amendment to the US Constitution.

The matter is set to proceed in early 2010, and if it is upheld on what will more than likely be an appeal from the State Attorney General, then the Texas legislature will undoubtedly have to rethink its Defense of Marriage Act. In New York, two cases are set to be heard in the New York Court of Appeals this year. Both will be challenging whether state and local governments in New York can recognise same-sex marriages solemnised in jurisdictions where such unions are legal. In 2006, the same court ruled that samesex couples do not have a constitutional right to marry in New York as a result of their decision in Hernandez v Robles. The good news is that two of the justices who helped to decide Hernandez are no longer on the bench. With the injection of new faces, and hopefully a new perspective, we just might see New York recognise samesex marriages from other jurisdictions, which should lead to the state legislature legalising gay marriages within New York.

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For California, who has been embroiled in a power struggle on the issue, Governor Schwarzenegger in October 2009 signed into law SB 54. No doubt this is in response to the highly controversial Proposition 8 approved by voters in 2008, banning gay marriage. SB 54 provides for a middle-ground between gay marriage proponents and their detractors in two important ways.

First, it declares same-sex marriages performed both inside and outside of California prior to the passage of Proposition 8 are legally valid in California. Secondly, it clarifies that same-sex couples who married in another state after 5 November 2008, must be given the same rights and benefits as opposite-sex spouses, although their unions will not be called marriages.

As we have seen, there are several big cases on the horizon in the US which have the ability to start a domino effect across the country in terms of recognising gay marriages performed in other states eventually leading to the legalisation of gay marriages within those states. With more and more dominoes falling, one has to wonder how long it will take before the US Congress will do the right thing and repeal its ban on gay marriage, and afford the same rights and benefits to gay couples as they do to straight couples. If the conservative US can recognise gay marriage, maybe Australia won’t be too far behind.

CASH

RESOLUTIONS I work with people to help them focus on achieving their goals. Some of these goals may have a financial consequence; however people generally want similar things — the difference? It’s in the detail.

Do you want to be financially comfortable? Do you want to spend life doing the things you enjoy with the people you enjoying being with? Yes please! But these are very general.

The more specific your goals are the more achievable they become.

I call this part ‘Your Plan’. The what, when, who and where of the things you want in your life. This takes a little time but the reward is worth it in the long run.

MONEY SHOT

This time of year often gets people thinking This time of yearabout oftenNew getsYear’s resolutions.

Wikipedia defines this people thinking about New Year’s as a commitment that an individual resolutions.

Wikipedia defines this makes to a projectthat or the as a commitment an reforming individual of a habit, a lifestyle change makes to aoften project or the reforming that is generally as of a habit, often ainterpreted lifestyle change advantageous. that is generally interpreted as advantageous.

Being a numbers person I love statistics : somearesearch theI love UK found that Being numbersfrom person statistics: 52 perresearch cent of participants a resolution some from the UKinfound that 52 study were confident ofinsuccess with per cent of participants a resolution their goals, however only 12 per with cent study were confident of success actually achieved them. their goals, however only 12 per cent actually achieved them.

My thoughts behind this are that you need accountability Now My thoughts behindand thisstructure. are that you everyone is differentand so it’s important to need accountability structure.

Now look at what has worked you in the everyone is different so it’sfor important to past at and usehas thisworked to your for advantage. look what you in the past and use this to your advantage.

The How? This is ‘the strategy’ and depending on your goals, outcomes and whether there is a financial consequence will depend on the complexity. But that is where teaming up with a professional and getting quality advice can come into play.

My challenge to you for 2010 is to not put it all on a resolution. Set some clear goals and break them down into specific, measureable and achievable chunks or get your friends on board so that you are accountable.

Want to know more about goal setting or getting your money in order for 2010 check out fido.gov.au for information on getting quality financial advice.

Scott Malcolm (scott@money-mechanics.com.au) is Director of Money Mechanics (ph: 6257 5557) who are authorised to provide financial advice through PATRON Financial Advice AFSL 307379.

The information provided on this document is of a general nature only. It has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs.

Before acting on this information you should consider its appropriateness having regard to your own objectives, financial situation and needs.

}

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{

By Damien Pratt

EAR CANDY

SO HERE WE ARE IN 2010 AND THE ONLY QUESTION I FIND MYSELF ASKING IS THE SAME QUESTION THAT I HAVE ASKED SINCE 2000. WHY ARE WE NOT GETTING AROUND IN FLYING CARS LIKE THEY PROMISED? BULLETPROOF : LA ROUX So the song ‘Bulletproof’ is track number four on La Roux’s debut self titled album and went straight to the top of the charts in the UK and peaked at number five here in OZ earlier last year. For me this track is pretty amazing and I have been busted on more than one occasion singing, drumming and seat dancing at the traffic lights to this one, pretty embarrassing but totally necessary.

So until such time when I can purchase my first flying vehicle, guess I will just have to continue entertaining myself with some schweet tunes.

For this edition of FUSE I have made things easy for all you people who, for one reason or another, may have glossed over my page in previous editions. I have narrowed down all the wicked tracks released in 2009 to come up with my top five. These tracks all struck a special chord with me and I feel that these songs will hold a place in my heart for the rest of my life. So without further bullshit here they are:

RAMONA WAS A WAITRESS PAUL DEMPSEY

HELP I’M ALIVE : METRIC ‘Holy shit!’ is the only phase that comes to mind when listening to this gem and to be given the opportunity this year to see it performed live at the Sydney ‘Parklife’ festival was an absolute dream come true, I think that I may have even cried. ‘Help I’m Alive’ is track number one from the band’s fourth studio album, Fantasies and if you haven’t heard of Metric you really should give them a go as I can almost guarantee that this band fits everyone’s taste and the lead singer, Emily Haines is shmoking hot!

This year saw Paul Dempsey give a solo album a shot and we are so lucky that he did. Not that his band, Something for Kate is not brilliant, but his work as a solo artist is nothing short of perfect.

The track ‘Ramona was a Waitress’ is pure bliss.

It’s dark, emotional and at times somewhat depressing, but in saying that, there are times when a little bit of dark and depressing music matches your mood and what it does for me is almost hypnotic.

PARLEZ VOUS FRANCAIS? ART VS. SCIENCE

LISZTOMANIA : PHOENIX The track ‘Lisztomania’ is track number one from Phoenix’s fourth studio album, Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix and for me was the track of the year! It’s absolutely sensational in every way.

I don’t think that I will ever forget this track for as long as I live and it will always bring a smile to my face and a little tap to my foot. Even now I don’t think that I go through a day without having this track on replay in my head.

FUSE 36

Last year saw the release of Triple J Unearthed winners, Art vs. Science, first EP. For a band that only formed in 2008 they have done some extraordinary things this year. The track ‘Parlez Vous Francais?’ is the second track on their first and so far only EP and is something out of this world. It is electro at its finest and its insane baselines and bizarre but totally catchy lyrics are what keep me coming back to this song time and time again.

Enjoy and Happy New Years Boys and Gals!

looking out

out there!

gay? bi? under 26?

gay? bi?

a free workshop for gay and bi men in Canberra aged over 25

a free workshop for guys under 26 attracted to other guys

February 4th - 25th 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm

January 21st - February 11th 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm we discuss relationships, sex, coming out, and getting involved in the community... more info: keiran@qnet.org.au or 6257 2855

we discuss relationships, sex, coming out, and getting involved in the community... more info: david@aidsaction.org.au or 6257 2855

book now!

FUSE 37

OUT & ABOUT

Canberra Bushdance09

Bush dancing is one of those things you either love or hate. Being a typical Libran, I’m still quite un-decided but I can see how it could be fun. I love crowds, dancing and gay folk — plus progressive dances are a great way to meet new people. But (and it’s a big but) I just can’t get passed the music — country music, is just not my bag. Having said that however, I must say that the Canberra Bush Dance is always a HOOT and a really great night out! I’m so confused.

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The very popular Canberra Bushdance is held each year in the historic Yarralumla Woolshed. For over thirty years, it’s been run by the local GLBTI Tennis Club (yeah team!) and is now Canberra’s largest gay event.

The 2009 Bushdance in November was a fun night of boot-scooting, dancing and loads of silliness. If you’re like me and not a real fan of bush dancing, there was still plenty of fun to be had hanging out, meeting new people, chomping down some food and having a few drinks with friends.

With over six hundred men and women of all flavours, the money raised from the night went to GLBTI community groups and charities. Bushdance 2009 was another great success, well done!

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FOOTLIGHTS

THE WHARF REVIEW: PENNIES FROM KEVIN FEBRUARY 9 – 13 : CANBERRA THEATRE

After ten years of sell out shows in Sydney, the latest Wharf review comes to Canberra mercilessly parodying the generosity and foibles of Kevin Rudd. Johnathon Biggins and Drew Forsythe join gay writer, satirist, pianist and singer Phillip Scott, author of Gay Resort Murder Shock, with such characters as Penny ‘K.D.’ Wong and Kevin Potter and the Lower Chamber of Secrets. Scott told Fuse some of the more risqué and outrageous jokes too hot for Sydney would be used in the up-to-date Canberra show.

{

By Robert Henderson

2010 HOT SEASON PICKS

Bookings 6275 2700 | www.canberratheatrecentre.com.au

FUSE 40

WE UNFOLD

MAY 5 – 8 : CANBERRA THEATRE Sydney Dance Company’s productions are always highly stimulating to the eye with their sexy ensemble of dancers. This new work by Rafael Bonachela is inspired by the music of Ezio Bosso and his own feelings in leaving Europe. With full floor to ceiling projections of star journey, at times the dancers seem to be dancing in space.

Bookings 6275 2700 www.canberratheatrecentre.com.au

THE BURLESQUE HOUR

FEBRUARY 11 – 20 : STREET THEATRE Utterly every seat sold out for their last season in Canberra but if you get in quick you can see them with the legendary Toni Lamond, for their freaky blend of striptease, vaudeville, circus, sideshow and mayhem.

Those raunchy girls will get everyone in their seat screaming for more of their magic, song, strip and surprise. It’s a lesbians dream night out — but we’re thinking that the guys will love this one too. It’s hot, it’s sexy and has some fabulous legs that go all the way up!

SHAKESPEARE’S R & J JUNE 8 – 12 : THE Q

‘A show which takes the cabaret form back to its origins, presenting pointed, political, intelligent, funny, grotesque and deeply sexy explorations of femininity, stereotype and gender.’

Bron Batten — Australian Stage

Four boys secretly study Romeo and Juliet after it’s been banned at the repressive all male catholic boarding school they attend. They play out its scenes, first for laughs, but becoming more moved by the work, discovering secret and forbidden love. As in Shakespeare’s day, a young man plays Juliet and is there anything more powerful than two young men kissing?

Bookings 6247 1223 | www.thestreet.org.au

Bookings 6298 0290 | www.theq.net.au

Would you know what to do if the condom broke?

Information about PEP (Post Exposure Prophylaxis) is available from the Canberra Sexual Health Centre, your GP or the AIDS Action Council

aidsaction.org.au/pep

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FUSE

42

OUT & ABOUT

By failing to rule out a veto against the ACT’s legislation, the Rudd Government has again confirmed their discrimination against same sex couples and their disrespect for the ACT Parliament.

Shane Rattenbury — ACT Greens MLA

It must have been a difficult decision for the Greens and Labor to reluctantly support changes to our civil ceremonies legislation. There has been lots of different opinions and some heated debate amongst the gay and lesbian community on this issue.

So what did the ACT Government have to change in order to avoid a veto by the Labor Federal Government — which we might add would have been (once again) an interference with democracy and our rights to be treated equally. Remember that Howard and the Liberals vetod this legislation twice.

Existing declaration process as of 19 November 09

Amended declaration process as at 10 December 09

1 Couple give notary (i) notice of intent and (ii) statutory declaration.

1. Couple give notary AND registrar-general (i) notice of intent and (ii) statutory declaration.

2. Notary gives couple notice setting out legal effect of a civil partnership.

2. No change

3. 5 days to 18 months pass

3. No change

4. Declaration before notary and 1 witness

4. No change

5. Within 2 weeks notary gives to registrar-general (i) notice of civil partnership (ii) original notice of intent

5. Within 2 weeks notary gives to registrar-general (i) notice of declaration (ii) original notice of intent

6. Registrar-general registers the civil partnership by entering the details and date of the declaration

6. Registrar-general registers the civil partnership by endorsing the notice provided to registrar-general at stage 1.

Civil partnership has legal effect from the time the declaration is made.

Civil partnership has effect from the date entered in the register by the registrar-general at 6. The date entered must be the date indicated in the original notice of intent unless the registrar-general is satisfied the declaration occurred on another date.

POLITICS

CIVIL UNION ME

Is this the same as a straight wedding — No. Can we still get ‘married’ — Kinda. Is this discrimination — Absolutely.

Do we have recognised civil unions for gay and lesbians in Canberra — Yes. Is it a step in the right direction — Yes!

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THE MERCHANTS OF BOLLYWOOD

FEATURE

THE EXOTIC COLOUR AND GLAMOUR OF BOLLYWOOD RETURNS TO CANBERRA

The Merchants of Bollywood features a cast of over forty performers and plays out like a full length musical in that it tells a story integrating musical numbers into the plot — oh and did we mention the boys are hot and the girls are total babes.

The story follows the conflict between Shantilal Merchant, a former Bollywood choreographer and the last teacher of the classical Kathak dance and his granddaughter, Ayesha, who leaves the desert to become the reigning queen of choreography in Bollywood. The clash between classical and modern dance is played out through the story.

The Merchants of Bollywood has been produced by Mark and Tony Brady in collaboration with many of Bollywood’s film and stage artists. The show premiered in 2005 and since then has been staged in over twenty countries including a hit season in London. The show reveals the working of cinema live on stage in a lavish production capturing the essence of India, its rich and diverse culture, and its people in a world of Technicolor brilliance.

The cast are gorgeous. To western eyes, the men’s costumes may look outrageously camp, with their taught bare bodies draped scantily with brightly coloured silks and beads. But are there any more gorgeous men on earth than Indian men?

Ten years ago, few western people knew much about the Hindi-language film industry based in Mumbai, India. Now it’s ubiquitous and has taken the world by storm.

The Indian film industry rivals that of Hollywood for size and number of films produced. The term Bollywood comes from joining Bombay, the former name for Mumbai, and Hollywood.

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HIGH-OCTANE PLEASURE

THE BOYS ARE HOT AND THE GIRLS ARE TOTAL BABES! When Merchants of Bollywood first played in Canberra in 2005, it had a sell-out extended season and launched a number of Bollywood Indian dance classes around the ACT, which continue with unfaltering popularity today.

Considered the best touring Bollywood dance musical around, I’m sure many people will return to see it again so get in quick before you miss out.

CANBERRA THEATRE SHOW DATES 1 - 7 March 2010 | Bookings 6275 2700

A Bollywood film is always a musical with the song and dance numbers interwoven into the plot. Unlike many Hollywood musicals of the 30s and 40s, the setting isn’t about putting on a show, but more integrated to the, often melodramatic, plot. Indian audiences expect value for money in a film so they must have romance, songs, dances, action scenes, the lot.

{

By Robert Henderson

So think more like Rogers and Hammerstein on steroids with James Bond action scenes. Indian dance has always told stories. Classical Indian dance depicted religious stories of the various exploits of many gods and goddesses of the Hindu pantheon. Dance is said to have originated from Nat raja (Lord of Dance and Drama), one of the many forms of Shiva. Today, Bollywood dance is a form all of its own. Borrowing generously from Western free-form and Indian Classic styles, Bollywood dancing is all about energy, vibrancy and, above all, telling a story.

The Merchants of Bollywood features choreography by the internationally famed Vaibhavi Merchant, regarded as one of Bollywood’s top young choreographers, and has choreographed all of Bollywood’s biggest. Over 3,800 glittering and lavish costumes and 2000 pieces of jewellery are used in the production. Swirling colours in costumes and sets and high-energy music are used in this lavish production featuring the smash hit songs from the biggest Bollywood blockbusters.

Dance and song are incredibly important and often the songs are released before the movie to increase its popularity. The music is written and arranged

by Salim and Sulaiman Merchant and also features songs and dances from Bollywood movies from the Oscar-winning composer A.R. Rahman, composer for Slumdog Millionare. The set designed by Sabu Cyril who was recently awarded Best Art Design in Bollywood cinema.

FUSE 45

By Alexander Thatcher

COUCH CULTURE

{

DANTE’S {VAPID} COVE WRITTEN BY 12 YEAR OLD GIRLS — BUT I CAN’T HELP LOVING IT! Kevin: Toby: Kevin: Toby: Kevin: Toby: Kevin: Toby:

You know, this summer has really been awesome, it’s been the best ever.

The best is yet to come.

We’ll still see each other, won’t we?

What do you want to do?

What do you want to do?

Well, how do you feel about us?

How do you feel?

If things get bad at home again, you know you’ve got a place to stay.

As season one begins, Kevin Archer (the hot boy) leaves an abusive home to follow his boyfriend, Toby, to Dante’s Cove — a remote tropical island populated by beautiful young residents, gay, lesbian and straight. Unbeknownst to Kevin, Dante’s Cove has a dark and dangerous history, and he is unwittingly (and tediously) being drawn into a web of supernatural intrigue.

And yes girls, there is some hot lesbian action — I close my eyes during those bits. Apart from the girls wearing way too much eye shadow, they are not too bad. As for Thea Gil (Lindsay from Queer as Folk), what was she thinking? But hey, she can act, maybe it will rub off the rest of the cast. I heard season two gets better.

When Dante’s Cove started on GO! 10.30 on Mondays, facebook was all a flutter with excited boys and girls. It sounded like it was going to be very hot. I was expecting Queer as Folk on the beach with witches and magic. I was pretty excited to see it too.

But the worst thing about the show is... I can’t drag myself away from the bloody thing. I love it! I find myself totally mesmerised. Is it the soft-porn sex scenes? Maybe it’s the hot guys strutting around completely naked — often with absolutely no relationship to the story line. Sometimes it’s like, ‘Hey, let’s cut a naked guy in now.’ Hilarious! I think I love it because it’s just so, so bad and so cheesy — I can’t stop laughing while getting a woody at the same time.

So I lay there on the couch, beer and chips on the table, all excited like a pubescent school boy; I was about to be a very disappointed boy though. Oh my gawd! If you could have seen my face, I just looked at my boyfriend sitting next me and burst out laughing. It was bad; Very, very bad. It must have been written by twelve-year-old girls — Days of our Lives has a better script. And as for the acting and direction, I’m not sure where to even start. It’s lucky Kevin, (played by Gregory Michael,) looks so damn hot with his clothes off, because if he had to rely on those acting skills, he’d be waving a squeegee at you when you stop at the lights. To be fair though, the guys in general are all pretty ordinary actors and are covered in so much baby oil you’d think they have shares in Johnson & Johnson.

FUSE 46

So if you’re happy to forego quality TV in exchange for some ridiculously good looking bodies, and you like watching silly, over-the-top American soap operas, then Dante’s Cove is definitely worth some of your time — especially if you see the funny side of the whole thing. Dante’s Cove definitely has potential as a “camp classic” — think Ed Wood.

FUSE 47

DEAR ROSE

Dear Rose, I’m a young guy and have feelings for other guys (I think). Do you think people are born gay? Some of my mates think I just need to find the right girl and get laid. Is it just a phase or maybe just curiosity?

CH Dear CH, Whilst lots of people will tell you this and advise you of that, in the real world you have to have your own experiences to really understand what is best for you. Whilst the popular belief out there is that people are “born gay”, the view that I have adopted is that sexuality is a fluid thing.

I have met men and women who form samesex relationships on the basis of their own life experiences and I have met people who have told me that they absolutely believe that they were born gay. I always thought I was different but could never put my finger on what it actually was until much later in life. Some people will say that they don’t care about a person’s sexuality at all, and they are attracted to a person rather than their body parts.

Maybe you are curious, maybe it is a phase, but you will never know if you don’t try and see if it is really for you. I can tell you this, when you do meet that person who ignites a passion within you, you will not care what bits they come with. I can tell you that on the greatest authority!

Dear Rose, I really like this guy — but he confuses me. He says he’s not gay, but his body language, the way he flirts and touches me when we are together tells a whole different story. What do you think is going on?

Tim Dear Tim, Mixed messages from someone are a hard thing to work out. It could be that your lovely young man is merely flirting with you because he enjoys your company, or perhaps he is not sure whether he is gay or not. He could, for all you know, be on his own discovery of his sexuality and is looking for someone safe to explore that with. You could be the lucky fellow to help him out with that.

Either way, my advice would be to let him be the leader on this journey, he will tell you soon enough if this is something that he would like to explore with you. Be the best person that you can be and allow him to feel safe in talking to you. It’s a hard thing to come out, especially if coming out means that he might lose lots of the people that he loves and cares about.

FUSE 48

Rose

Dear

If you would like to write to dear rose please email her at dearrose@fusemagazine.com.au ~ letters are placed either here or on the Fuse website fusemagazine.com.au

Dear Rose, I have been married for over ten years. I’m now divorced and dealing with being a gay woman. It’s difficult coming out at 43, I feel I have to start all over. Any tips?

Tina Dear Tina The first thing that you must do is repeat in a mantra like state, “I am not starting over again, I am beginning a new chapter in my life”. Whilst you might find the prospect daunting at 43, the greatest advantage is that you know yourself, you have life experience, and you have a basic idea on how you want to live your life.

There are a few things that I would suggest you consider before leaping into the lesbian world. You need to form a lesbian friend-base; I don’t mean lovers… I mean friends.

Join an organised social group or volunteer for events or queer happenings. A lot of people start off in internet chat rooms, which are fine for some, but I like meeting people face to face as I can get a real sense of a person’s sincerity.

There are lots of groups here in the ACT you can join or volunteer for and a good place to start would be ACTQUEER notice board, which is a free Yahoo group where you can check out what is going on in the community.

My other big tip is research, research, research! Get onto the internet and check out websites such as AfterEllen.com or if you are able to afford it Lesbians on the Loose (LOTL), they will give you a base of information on films, books, what is hot and what is not. The most important thing to remember is to be yourself when you are out there and trust your instincts. Welcome to the club!

Dear Rose, I’m just writing to say I read ‘Dear Rose’ every issue and love it. Thanks for all the advice you give the community every month. I think you help a lot of people. Keep the good work up!

Mark Dear Mark, Thank you for your lovely note; it is my pleasure in issuing the Dear Rose pearls of wisdom, which I have gathered by making many, many, many mistakes of my own. It’s lovely to get emails like yours — it makes it all worth it!

Cheers and much love, Rose

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