GED MAGAZINE MARCH 2024

FROM THE EDITOR

THE STREETS ARE ALIVE WITH THE SOUND OF MUSIC!

Spring is almost here and with it comes our music issue highlighting LGBTQ musicians and their talents. From country to jazz to pop, we have some insightful recommendations for your listening pleasure.

We are looking forward to our two-year anniversary of Ethyl’s Place Charity Bingo this month. To celebrate, the grand prize will be a trip to Puerto Vallarta! To date, you’ve helped us raise over $35k for local charities, including the Palm Springs Animal Shelter, Boys & Girls Club of Cathedral City, Brothers of the Desert, Cathedral City Senior Center, Cake 4 Kids, LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert, and many more. Be sure to join us at The Roost Lounge on St. Patrick’s Day for this special anniversary event.

Other exciting news is our partnership with NBC Palm Springs and our new show

PS Unwrapped: GED Edition airing mid-month at 6:30pm on Sunday. (Consult your listings or follow us to get the exact dates.) We will be interviewing the hottest celebrities and visiting the coolest places in the Palm Springs area, all with an eye on highlighting the LGBTQ community. After airing the episodes will be available at gedmag.com and nbcpalmsprings.com and on our YouTube channels.

As always, the GED Magazine Team is committed to bringing you the best in LGBTQ entertainment, travel, and lifestyles. Visit us on the web at GEDmag.com and sign up for our monthly VIP Insider newsletter. Insiders will also be entered into future drawings for trips, event tickets, dinners and more. And for all the updates on social media, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok @GEDmagazine and tag us in your photos - #GEDmag.

GED MAGAZINE is here for YOUR entertainment!

— MICHAEL WESTMAN, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

12 ADVICE FROM AN IDIOT

14 SHANIA SATISFACTION

I Can’t Get No…. Satisfaction

20 KAMERON ROSS

At the Heart of the Texas LGBTQ community

30 ON STAGE

32 DARWIN DEL FABRO Celebrating Brazilian Culture

40 MUSIC TO MY EARS Kandace Springs Kossisko

46 LA, PS, SF DIRECTORIES

COVER:

Model: Kameron Ross

FROM AN IDIOT

Dear Idiot,

A longtime friend of mine has recently stopped drinking. In our younger days we could throw back drinks with the best of them. Later in years, as I slowed down, my friend “kept going.” There were more than a few times, I would find him passed out, or completely wasted. We would talk and things would even out, but this turned into a pattern. Until now, they have stopped drinking. I am explaining this because now that they are “sober,” albeit not actually working the program, he is overly judgmental of me. I am happy for him, and he definitely seems to be on the right path, but other mutual friends have made mention of this as well. I feel a bit like, “you’ve got to be kidding me,” that I’m getting lectured about my social drinking, from a person I literally had to pick up drunk at a McDonalds. Just wondering how you would advise handling it.

Thank you,

Mike

Hi Mike!

You could be the first person to just give me a name!

[Laughs] For starters, all this talk about drinking has made me want a cocktail, but I digress. I totally get it, I think many of us when we reach a certain age, we look back on friendships and see which work and which don’t, however, being preached to by a past train wreck is annoying AF. Yes, I said train wreck. My suggestion is to gently remind this person, “Thanks for the concern, but I’m handling myself.” They could also be searching for common ground since the drinking aspect of your relationship has changed. Each person’s journey with sobriety is truly their own. I have many friends in the “program” and many friends who party like they are 23, it can be a difficult road to navigate. I think when your friend gets too preachy, or too in your face, there is nothing wrong with telling Mary to pump her breaks! No one likes being talked down to, or feel attacked. If I had to guess a lot of this may have some guilt tendencies behind it for your friend as well. Be supportive when you can, listen when you can, and don’t take shit either. You CAN have it all, and a Martini!

How is it already MARCH?!

Sure, I was in a vodka induced coma for most of February, but still…. Fun fact - my LA anniversary is coming up! I arrived here in LALA land 23 years ago on St. Patrick’s Day (I know, right?! How cliche.) I was seven!

Some fantastic e-mails came in looking for some “Advice from an Idiot” and a lot of fun HELLOS, so thank you friends! Let’s get into some questions!

BY BILLY FRANCESCA

Hi Idiot,

I recently broke up with my boyfriend for the third of fourth time. When things are good, they are so good, like magical. And when they get bad, it is really bad. We break up for a while and then something always brings us back together and we fall back into it. My friends are tired of hearing about the drama, and I don’t blame them, it is exhausting. I just don’t know what to do, and came across your column and thought, what the heck, I’ll ask him.

Thanks, in advance. Break Up To Make Up.

Hey Break Up To Make Up!

Did you know that’s a song? If not, get into it! Sorry to hear about your recent breakup, and even more sorry to have to write the words CODEPENDENT. [Laughs] I mean, all relationships (as far as I’m concerned) are a little codependent. I do get it though, it’s hard when you care for someone to just walk away from that. Especially when you have invested time and energy and your heart. A couple things jumped to mind, one is couples therapy, if you haven’t done it, I highly recommend it. Just talking through issues before they arise again is super helpful. Another aspect of being with someone is reviewing your own mental check list, where YOU are. Are you saying what’s on your mind? Are you communicating effectively when your needs aren’t being met? Things like this, before you get to this “Another Breakup” point. All this being said, it seems like you will be talking to your ex, probably by the time this article comes out. [Laughs] No judgement, just being silly. This saying that I read in a book has guided me more times than I can explain, It puts this (and many other aspects of life) into a clearer picture for me - “When you can’t control your emotional state, you are addicted to the results of it.” I just love that so much. Look at the pattern you are in, and see what needs to change. Maybe you are better off apart, maybe this relationship can be worked on and fixed. Either way take some time to look over the past so you can have a happier future. Hope it helps love, hang in there. XO

How am I so WISE and so YOUNG-adjacent! Keep those emails coming in to theadviceidiot@gmail.com I love sharing my thoughts with y’all. Be sure to grab the new GED Magazine each month or visit GEDmag.com online for the latest advice!

Take care of each other and have FUN! XO BF

SPRING CONCERT 2O24

MODERN MEN’S

SATURDAY, APRIL 20 | 7PM & SUNDAY, APRIL 21 | 3PM

PALM SPRINGS CULTURAL CENTER | TICKETS $25/$40/$50

DR. STAN HILL ARTISTIC DIRECTOR

KURT JORDAN PRINCIPAL ACCOMPANIST

PRESENTED BY

Creating vibrant community by helping LGBTQ+ people along their way.

SHANIA SATISFACTION

I CAN’T GET NO…. SATISFACTION

BY

ALEXANDER RODRIGUEZ

“We all started somewhere and I’m sure craved mentorship and sisterhood and probably still do! ”

The Rolling Stones did NOT have Shania in mind when they sang “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction.” Shania Satisfaction has been serving it up and providing satisfaction for audiences from coast to coast as well as the military. Having spent a good amount of time in the San Diego area, she now calls the Coachella Valley home.

Originally from South Carolina, she went right into the Navy after high school. With orders to go to San Diego, she sashayed her way to Southern California and while starting her service in the Navy, she also started her entertainment career.

What was once a hobby has now become her life. Cutting her teeth on local events, drag shows, competitions, and pop-up performances, she has adapted to a wide variety of audiences appearing

at all types of venues, stages, and Pride Events from the East Coast to the West Coast. She also is a staple of Out of the Fair’s County Fair gay day takeovers all around. She brings glam to Out at the Fair’s Glam Show, she can rock the house down with her punk rock performances, can make you laugh with her comedy skills, can put the “B” in bingo, and even style your wig on the side. She is a jill of all trades. She provides complete Satisfaction to any audience, and we are thrilled she is our March Drag Queen of the Month!

We caught up with her backstage at Riverside County Fair as she WERKED it for this year’s Out at the Fair. She was a flurry of costume changes, wigs, and eyelashes.

What was your first exposure to drag?

My first ever exposure to drag was when my mama showed me To Wong Foo, Thanks For Everything Julie New-

mar. I was so enthralled and intrigued and I had no idea what I was looking at, but I loved it! Also, I saw RuPaul perform on MTV’s Spring Break back when she was promoting her hit single “Supermodel (You Better Work): and fell in love with her at that point.

What was your first professional drag gig? How did it go?

My first professional drag gig, and my first time ever performing in drag, was for my birthday back in 2010. I was obsessed with Rihanna and her Loud album era. The red hair was a vibe! So I performed her hit song “Only Girl In The World” & her collab with David Guetta’s “Who’s That Chick?” Lol. It was so much fun and I fell in love with performing and entertaining at that moment. However, looking back it was a hot mess of a performance. [Laughs] I spray-painted a blonde wig red, instead of dying it & wore off-the-rack clothing,

and had CoverGirl makeup on. Like they say CoverGirl doesn’t Cover Boy!

How did you come up with your drag name?

I came up with Shania because of my idol as a kid, Shania Twain, and Satisfaction had a nice ring to it and seemed sassy and saucy so I went with it!

Favorite part about doing drag?

I have two favorite parts of doing drag – first is entertaining. I love touching someone’s heart or having them connect or relate to something in my performance. Plus, who doesn’t like feeling like that B on stage?! Secondly, I love painting my face and seeing the character of Shania Satisfaction come alive! The

creative process is so much fun!

Least favorite part about doing drag?

My least favorite part would be putting the body on; I wish I could just slide on something, and it all be cinched and snatched with curves ready to go in one go! Also, if I have to be in it for hours on end or all day, by like hour 6 I’m ready to get it all off of me!

How did you come to live in the Palm Springs area?

I moved out here because my roommate and me literally got priced out of San Diego. It’s gotten so expensive, and I prefer an area that is not as hectic. I have performed at Toucans before and had been to AMP Sports Lounge before,

but that was my only experience with Palm Springs. We found affordable living in Yucca Valley, where we now reside, and I have started performing at Hunters and the Riverside County Fair in Indio so far. Excited to extend more of a performance reach.

What sets your drag apart from other queens in the business?

My drag is very conceptual and fun. I have a lot of edge to my looks and numbers. I like to blur the lines of gender and utilize my hairy chest in my looks. I can alter my look in so many ways that you just aren’t sure what you’re going to get, but when I step out on stage it’s polished, it’s exciting, commanding, and stunning.

I like to pull inspiration from different eras, predominantly the ‘80s and ‘90s, my love of Pokémon, video games, comics, and movie/TV characters. I always have a well-thought-out presentation from head-to-toe, down to the music selection.

What have you learned the most from the drag community in Palm Springs?

So far, it’s been welcoming and a seemingly smaller community. A few queens have made me feel right at home and there is a drive here to be great but not act grand and like they’re better than someone else.

You have served in the military. How did you balance that life with drag?

Yes, I served 5 years in the Navy. I didn’t start drag until my last year but at that time they hadn’t repealed the Don’t Ask Don’t Tell Policy so I had to make sure if I had been in drag the night before to remove any and all traces of makeup, hide my wigs, makeup, and any kind of drag and keep it in my car or locked up in my barracks room in case of inspections. It was a bit of a task, but I wanted to perform and keep doing it and I wasn’t going to stop because of them. I was on my way out honorably and ready to take on the world, so I was going to do what needed to be done regardless.

What was your experience in the

military like as a gay man?

Life in the military being gay/queer was a little different than most people would think. A good percentage of the military is already full of trans and queer folk. I was shocked to find that out after boot camp. So many individuals that were just like me we are serving and are actually out. Coming from the rural South I hadn’t come across many gay folks, so it was such a great thing to meet people in the community. We stuck together and what most people wouldn’t know is no one cared. Our higher-ups and teammates didn’t care. We all showed up to do a job and took the same oath. As long as we didn’t flaunt it and get ourselves in trouble, we were taken care of. I’m so happy for the people serving now without being afraid of being let go or being taken to Captain’s Mass to lose everything simply for being who they are.

Craziest drag story?

Most of the crazy things in drag are pretty wild so probably shouldn’t mention them here, but one I can mention would probably be the time I got tipped joints by an audience member in the South.

Your strangest hobby or talent?

I don’t exactly have any strange talents or hobbies but I’m just a nerd who loves video games, Pokemon cards, zombies, and pro wrestling.

What celebrity most needs a drag makeover?

I would love to see the Rock in drag. He’s such a stud but it would be hilarious to see him in full glam.

What is the best way we can support the drag community?

I think the best way to support the drag community is to GO TO THE LOCAL SHOWS! So many people have asked this question and I say the same thing every single time. Yes, I get the draw and the desire to go see Drag Race and Dragula contestants you love, but you never know when one of your local entertainers could be the next one on those shows. Support us when we are starting out, when we are struggling to keep a show alive, and when we need your help

to donate. Go out to see your local girls and TIP! Who cares if you may have seen them wear the same outfit before or do the same number/schtick? Your support and tips go to help them evolve and get better, trust me. We love any and all support from our community!

Favorite cocktail?

Though I don’t drink much anymore; my favorite cocktail, or at least my go-to, would be a good old Jack & Coke. No one can screw that up anywhere!

What would the name of your biography be?

Oh lord, well I guess it would have to be something like The Life of Shania: Satisfaction Isn’t Always Guaranteed.

Favorite song to perform to?

That is such a tough one! There are so many specific ones I love to perform, but if I had to pick one, I know that I could eat up every single time it would be “Lovergirl” by Teena Marie.

What is your after-drag ritual?

Usually after drag I will stop and eat, take off my makeup, shower, and play a video game or two or watch something I can stream on TV. Most importantly REST. Gotta have your beauty sleep, Henny!

What’s your favorite pickup line?

Someone knew I was into Pokémon one time and said “Are you a Pokémon? Cause I have some PokéBalls I would love to catch you with!” I laughed so

hard at that, it was cute but hilarious. [Laughs]

What is your message to the drag community?

My message to the drag community at large is to be more supportive of each other, especially with younger queens and entertainers. We all started somewhere and I’m sure craved mentorship and sisterhood and probably still do! Also, and this may ruffle feathers, but I think it’s important that we stop being so closed-off and gate-keeping shows. What I mean by that is to fairly book and not just have your best friends in the shows you run. Now I know to most it’s less of a challenge to book your friends and people who you know that have a draw or can count on being on time etc. However, you never know unless you give someone a chance. Give a new girl a tip spot. Give someone who isn’t what you would normally book but is still an excellent performer a shot! They may just surprise you!

You can find and follow

Shania Satisfaction at shaniasatisfaction.com and on social media platforms:

Instagram @shanisatisfaction

Twitter/X: @shaniasatisfxn

Facebook:

Shania Satisfaction Like Page TikTok @shanisatisfactionM

GED Magazine presents

GRAND PRIZE: trip to Puerto Vallarta (condo stay + flight gift card)

Benefiting:

SUN MAR 17, 2024 • 12:30PM

The Roost Lounge 68718 E Palm Canyon Dr #203, Cathedral City

WOULD YOU LIKE FRIES WITH THAT?

KAMERON ROSS

AT THE HEART OF THE TEXAS LGBTQ COMMUNITY

BY ALEXANDER RODRIGUEZ

It has been almost three years since we featured country singer Kameron Ross in GED Magazine. Hot off the heels of getting a unanimous “yes” from the panel of America’s Got Talent (yes, even from Simon Cowell), his star was quickly on the rise. Well, glad to report that his journey has not slowed down. He has been growing his brand in the music industry as well as the LGBTQ community, with appearances and media coverage throughout the nation. With a new album on the horizon and a major life announcement, he’s ready for the next stage of his career.

Having been inspired by seeing Shania Twain perform and starting a country music career early on, Kameron took his experience and auditioned for America’s Got Talent with his debut episode premiering in 2020. In some ways, his AGT journey seems like a faraway memory, and in other ways, it is still very fresh in Kameron’s mind and how he approaches his career in the present day.

The most important lesson I took away from my experience on America’s Got Talent is the importance of living in the moment. It taught me to fully immerse myself in each opportunity as they come, recognizing that they can often be a once-in-a-lifetime type of thing. I learned to manage nervousness and perform to the best of my ability, leaving no room for regret. Rather than allowing the pressure of highlighting my known strengths to overshadow the unfolding moments, I focused on embracing each moment as it unfolded, allowing the magic of the experience to shine through.

Breaking out of his shell from his home in Texas, his journey has taken him around the United States, with Pride appearances, concerts, award ceremonies, and pop-up nightclub performances, his boots have had little time to rest. All his journeys have changed the way he sees music.

This experience has been transformative, boosting my confidence and comfort level in expressing myself through my music. I’ve noticed a shift in my musical style and craftsman-

ship—it’s become more authentic to who I am. Drawing inspiration from a diverse range of artists and genres, I’ve honed my sound, allowing me to create and perform music that resonates deeply with my passion and identity.

Since gaining traction, my approach to writing music has evolved. Feeling more confident, I’ve learned to express myself freely and authentically. Whether it’s writing about love or personal experiences, I prioritize staying true to who I am. Making music isn’t just about me; it’s about creating something that resonates with others. I believe in the power of representation and connection, and I aim to offer a voice that people like me can relate to.”

His early hit, “If I Could Go Back,” is a bittersweet look at small-town living and loving. The hit has been remixed and followed up with other singles such as “Sway,” “Sounds Like Love,” and his fresh off the mixing board single, “I Can’t Forget Him.” Being a fresh hit on the scene may seem easier than having to follow up a hit with more successes. Does he feel the pressure to one-up himself music-wise?

Yes, there’s definitely a bit of pressure to keep raising the bar creatively, but hey, that’s the name of the game! Keeps things interesting! I guess you could say I’m always on my toes, creatively speaking. Gotta keep those creative juices flowing and avoid get-

ting too comfy in the old routine!

After coming out professionally, his gigs came to a standstill and his management left him. His career post-AGT is all him, his hustle, hard work, and commitment to living his truth. The music video for his single, “Sway,” includes a number of drag queens, including Alyssa Edwards, in the middle of Dallas, Texas. The video also encourages fans to give to the ACLU Drag Defense Fund. Kameron no longer has trepidation in losing fans in order to support his community. This video didn’t pull punches as it celebrated the heart of

the Texas LGBTQ community. Drag queens are such a staple part of the queer community. With society being a little different lately they’re sticking their necks out every single day to push forward as a community and do what they love. I aspire to be a trailblazer like that. Having my good friend Alyssa Edwards be in the music video with the DFW community staple Cassie Nova as the “mother figures” of the music video was so perfect! I couldn’t imagine it having been any more perfect, I am so grateful to every queen, cowboy,

and crew member who helped bring it to life, especially my Director Daniel Egnal and Director of Photography Gabriel Lee! And of course, The Round Up Saloon for being such amazing hosts to us, always!

His new single “I Can’t Forget Him,” shows us a Kameron Ross a bit more grown up. His voice, well-grounded and mature, shares a pathos and skill that has grown since Kameron first hit the scene. For Kameron, it is a song that has come full circle regarding his sexuality.

I wrote this song with two friends of mine years ago when I was still dating women, lol! Me being in a different place in life I obviously changed the pronouns in the song. It’s a love song about no longer being with someone and traveling to all these amazing places trying to forget/get over this person and not being able to. Then when creating the music for the song we took inspiration from the folk/country side of Taylor Swift. I have always been very passionate about my relationships, and I feel that it’s a song that everyone will be able to relate to. It just dropped on February 23rd!

This summer, Kameron will release his new album. Kameron could only spill a little tea as to what to expect.

Get ready for an exciting journey with my upcoming album! This project is shaping up to be some of my best work yet. I’m aiming to create a diverse musical experience that resonates with a wide audience, blending elements of country with flavors from EDM, Latin music, Pop, and beyond. Collaborating with my producer, Dave Tough, and new songwriters has been incredible—we’re pushing boundaries and exploring new sounds that will captivate listeners. Plus, this album is close to my heart as I’m weaving in lyrics that advocate for the queer community, adding a powerful layer of authenticity and connection. Overall, we’re having a blast in the studio, and I can’t wait for everyone to experience the magic we’re creating.

Country music is getting more and more boosts from the mainstream music

community. Beyoncé caused quite a stir when she announced during the Super Bowl that her new album would be country music inspired. Younger generations are finding a liking to country music, and it is a genre that is growing in popularity.

I think what’s drawing new audiences to country music nowadays its storytelling aspect and the increasing diversity within the genre. Compared to a decade ago, there’s a wider range of artists and styles, making it easier for people to find

something they connect with. Beyoncé’s move into country music is exciting; it adds to the genre’s rich history, considering its roots in Black music. I’m eager to hear what else will be on this album.

Even with the allure of bigger cities like Los Angeles calling upon Kameron to join the ranks, he remains a devoted Texan, through and through, even despite the strong conservative ties and the current political struggle for the LGBTQ community.

We’ve got deep roots here, with all our family close by, and we love being near them, especially as some are getting older. I’ve been Texan my whole life, from Houston originally and now settled in Dallas for the past five years. Here, I’ve found an amazing support network and a tight-knit community. It’s like we’re in our own little world of creativity and support, surrounded by friends who feel more like family. What’s great about Texas is that you’ve got everything within reach. In just a short drive, you can be in the hill country, chilling on a beach, or exploring another vibrant city. It’s a mix of family, friends, and endless adventures that keep us loving Texas.

It’s tough at times, but it only fuels our determination to stand tall and proud. We’re all about keeping that visibility high, showing that despite the challenges, we’re not backing down. It’s about letting them know we’re here, we’re not going anywhere, and we’re not afraid to fight for our rights.

In addition to Kameron’s star rise and purchase of a new home since the last time we spoke with him, he also got engaged to his partner, Lio, who, in addition to his own lucrative baking career, serves as quasi manager and agent for Kam. They are an undeniable force of nature.

Getting engaged has really changed the game for me, both personally and musically. I honestly don’t think I could do what I do without my fiancée by my side. He’s been my biggest cheerleader, pushing me to be the best singer, songwriter, and performer I can be. Having that rock-solid support has boosted my confidence and helped me find my groove. It’s also helped me strive to be a positive role model, especially in the LGBTQ+ community. It’s all about having that constant source of love and encouragement that keeps me going strong.

Maintaining his travel schedule and working on new music can be daunting and exhausting, how does he focus on his engaged relationship and mental health?

Maintaining a healthy relationship with a busy schedule definitely requires a lot of communication and patience. While my partner is incredibly supportive of my music career and helps a ton, there are inevitably moments of frustration when our visions don’t perfectly align. We’ve learned the importance of keeping an open line of communication about both my music and our personal life. Balancing our corporate jobs with our shared passions adds another layer of complexity. With something happening every day, it’s crucial to prioritize our mental health and carve out time for ourselves. Sometimes that means saying no to outside commitments and focusing on quality time together, just the two of us.

Taking care of my mental health while navigating a rising career in the spotlight has been a journey. I’ll be honest, it’s something I grapple with daily, and while I’m making strides, there’s still much work to be done. The pressure can be intense, and I tend to be quite hard on myself, striving for perfection in everything I do. When I fall short of my own expectations, it hits hard. My aspirations for my music career are sky-high, and managing those expectations can be overwhelming. I’ve realized the importance of trusting myself and acknowledging that I’m doing my best with the resources and time I have. Sometimes, I need to pause, take a step back, and reflect. What could I have done differently? How can I approach things more effectively? Time feels like a precious commodity lately, and it’s essential to carve out moments for self-care and relaxation. Taking breaks and giving myself permission to recharge is crucial in maintaining balance and preserving my mental well-being amidst the whirlwind of responsibilities.

Kameron’s music has become more than a career, it has become his life calling. What does he want his audience to get most from his music?

I want my music to hit people right in the feels, you know? Whether it’s a song that makes you smile, cry,

“Making music isn’t just about me; it’s about creating something that resonates with others. ”

or just nod along, I want it to feel like I’m singing your story. My aim is for listeners to vibe with it, to feel understood and connected. It’s all about creating those moments where you’re like, ‘Yeah, that’s exactly how I feel!’ and sharing those experiences together.

And his message to the LGBTG community?

My message is to keep showing love and support for one another. We ARE making a difference. The world can seem

so dark at times and there are a lot of people threatened by the progress we are making, so we must keep supporting and loving each other while continuing to push for equality for every beautiful part of our community.

Follow everything Kameron at KameronRoss.com

Highlighting the LGBTQ community!

Highlighting the LGBTQ community!

Chloe Carlson

Alexander Rodriguez

ON STAGE

BY STAN JENSON

WE LOVE BOY BANDS: Next stop, Los Angeles, and the LA Gay Men’s Chorus. Now in their 45th year, Gay Men’s Chorus of Los Angeles (GMCLA) is one of the most respected and in-demand gay choruses in the country, having appeared in many public events, parades, movies, television, and ads. This month they are presenting We Love Boy Bands at the beautiful new Saban Theatre in Beverly Hills. They tap into the songbooks of NSYNC, Backstreet Boys, Boys II Men, Jackson 5, The Beatles, One Direction, BTS, the Bee Gees, and plenty more. There’s a certain excitement when 200+ men cut loose on these classic tunes we love, and you know there will be a lot more glitter because it’s 200+ GAY men. Saban Theatre 3/23-24 www.GMCLA.org

FOOTLOOSE: And popping over to Burbank, let’s drop in on a much smaller theatre. The Colony Theatre has been in operation since 1974 when it was formed by a group of young television actors, eager to return to their theatre roots. This month they are presenting Footloose, the Musical, which is a 1998 musical based on the 1984 film that most of us saw (even if we won’t admit it). It’s not an amazingly good nor amazingly bad musical – it’s fun for the moments you’re watching it, though you might not remember much of it by the time you get home. The songs include the titular “Footloose,” “Let’s Hear it For the Boy,” and “Holding Out for a Hero.” The reason I want to see this production is that many of the 99-seat theatres in the Los Angeles area are populated with actors, singers, and dancers who were at the top of the lists in Idaho or Iowa or Podunk and they are now trying to find agents or producers in Hollywood. Actors’ Equity allows professional actors to appear in 99-seat houses without demanding full pay, and I often leave these little theatres thinking, “Why aren’t they on Broadway?” Many of these Hollywood hopefuls can sing like Josh Groban, dance like Derek Hough, and show dazzling white teeth as they do acrobatics across the stage with their shirts off. Of course, that’s not always the case. You sometimes must kiss a few frogs, but the rewards are so great when you finally find a jeweled crown that I still love the gamble. The Colony Theatre is a comfortable little house with only seven rows of seats, situated in a slight semi-circle so the actors are almost within arm’s reach. 3/1 – 17 www.ColonyTheatre.org

UNPACKING IN P’TOWN: First of all, San Francisco’s New Conservatory Theatre Center is a jewel. Hidden in the basement of an office building on Van Ness, they are worth finding. Now in their 29th season, they present new works, classics, boy stories, girl stories, musicals, local tours, and a whole lot more things. The common thread is that they are all done with incredible style and production values. Their newest production is a world premiere called Unpacking in P’Town by Jewelle Gomez. In her story, every summer, former vaudevillians Buster, Lydia, Minty, and Scottie reunite in Provincetown to drink, dance, and forget about the real world. But this year is different. It’s 1959, the fight for Civil Rights is heating up, and a restlessness hangs heavy in the humid air. In between the reminiscing, this chosen family is forced to face changes they’ve been hiding from for so long. The production is sponsored by the Queer Women of Color Media Arts Project. 3/1 – 31 www.nctcsf.org

BRIAN SCOTT (SELECT WED 6-9P)

(THURSDAYS 6-9P) GENNINE

(SATURDAYS 6-9P)

BILL (FRIDAYSRAMIREZ 7-9P)

DARWIN DEL FABRO CELEBRATING BRAZILIAN CULTURE

BY ALEXANDER RODRIGUEZ

Talking to Darwin Del Fabro is like talking to the embodiment of a bona fide muse. With an ethereal beauty, they celebrate their non-binary side, and with well-crafted words of artistry, they inspire with every phrase that lilts out of their mouth. An old soul in a youthful body, their manners and grace are from yesteryear, while their modern ideas and work ethic make them a present-day mover and shaker in the entertainment field. There is little left that they haven’t accomplished. A successful singer, actor, producer, fashionista, and more, they live and breathe entertainment with a resume that most other artists don’t even come close to in a lifetime. We, in the US, are just getting to appreciate the person who has come to us via Brazil.

“But I think the good and bad (parts) of being born in Brazil made me the person that I am today.”

Born into a family of entertainers, both of their parents met in New York while modeling and eventually went into acting, returning to Brazil. Getting into the business very early on, Darwin won their first singing competition at age 3. At the very center of their art, is the celebration of Brazilian culture.

Everything, every single piece of my body, my blood, is because I was born with that culture and those elements that made me have bigger dreams to be in America and construct an international career. I like the word global more than international because I still want to be able to work in other countries and know other cultures as well. But I think the good and bad (parts) of being born in Brazil made me the person that I am today.

Their parents, even though entertainers themselves, did not force Darwin into an early career. Darwin took that up for themselves and does not regret getting into the biz so early. For them, a childhood spent acting and singing was normal. Constantly challenging themselves to the next project is also a normal part of their life.

I think it’s in the blood. I think you’re born an artist. Fortunately, I’m very privileged to be able to do that. There’s something about having pleasure and happiness in all the things that you do, that they don’t become work. I am a workaholic. I love to be working. But I don’t see it as work, that’s the thing. My pleasure is my work. I can’t stop, and it always has been that way. It’s never enough, you are always like, okay, I need to do the next thing, I need to improve on this or improve on that. And that’s the fun of doing what I do. As a producer, a singer, writer, actor, you need to do a little of everything. It’s always nice to be passing through all of those things and never stagnate.

In Brazil, Darwin enjoyed a full career on the stage and screen. In known musicals like Shrek, Fiddler on the Roof, and The Wizard of Oz, they also cut their teeth on dramatic and cultural fare. At 19, they produced, directed, and starred in Be Careful, It’s My Heart, a musical

that was adapted into an album. Going on to appear in a miniseries based on Dangerous Liaisons and a soap opera. Coming to terms with their queerness, they knew that Brazil would no longer be a safe home and moving to New York was inevitable. Without speaking any English, they enrolled in the musical theater program at the Broadway Dance Center while learning the language.

I always had that dream; I always loved the culture. I loved the pace, especially here in New York, and how Americans work. I always thought that I wanted work that is more global, with a wider range of people - especially when talking about queerness with the world. Right now, we’re seeing that sometimes we are not very aware of things that are happening close to us. I think art in general in Brazil, would be limited to spread all those things and put that image (out there) and be that person who would be able to work on a bigger scale. I’m still working on that.

I can say that I really started from zero because I couldn’t speak a word of English. It was challenging, still is, and I think it always will be. But also, it made me understand better. And today when I see foreigners and I see people arriving - I don’t have great English, if I’m doing a movie or something I have to have my three coaches, but that gives me pleasure - it makes me a little more generous and understand others’ perspectives when they arrive in this country. We weren’t born with the same advantages sometimes that some other people were born with and schools and things.

Music has a great strength, and I think I ended up going more to music during my years living here because I also wanted to have communication still with Brazil and music in English or Portuguese, whatever it is, it’s something that everyone understands. They might not understand the lyrics of this new album. That’s why I went back to doing it in Portuguese. But they understand the feeling, the hope at least, that they understand the feeling, or it brings them some, any kind of, feeling. To me, that’s worth it, the art that I’m doing.

Darwin’s latest album, Revisiting Elis Regina, is an homage and celebration of Brazilian singer Elis Regina. Darwin’s voice soars in an upper register as they interpret the singer’s music and make it their own. Regardless of your knowledge of Portuguese, there is a pathos and storytelling that fills your ears. Making this album was more than a career project. It was a milestone in their life.

I recorded this album after eight years away from Brazil. Being non-binary using he/they pronouns - it’s some-

thing still unknown. And unfortunately, it’s still the place that most kills LGBTQ people in the world. So, forcing myself to bring that image and that conversation was important, we have a long path to go. It’s much better than when I left, but it’s a challenge that excites me to have this conversation. It’s something that once you feel safe, you are more able to express yourself, have more confidence, and, within that, be able to do your work better.

I felt that it was time to embrace a

Darwin that was left there years ago - a young Darwin. The idea was just to play with being non-binary - bring that question, bring that image to the country, and open that conversation. So, I took all my favorite songs of Elise and I started to play with the gender of it. I changed some pronouns, and I brought a new fresh identity for 2024. She recorded this album in 1964 - we’re talking about the sixties in Brazil, we’re talking about dictatorship, we are talking about a place where everyone was being trapped and denied to make art. We still have some issues like that in today’s world. But this is another person singing and it’s another experience. Of course, I always honor those composers and Elise as much as I can, but I want to bring something a little different to that sound.

Returning to Brazil and being in the studio would be life-changing for Darwin. Listening to this album is like listening to a mythical siren. The emotion, the drama, the storytelling, it is all there shrouded in their crystal-clear notes and quiet interpretation.

I think every album kind of makes me walk five steps more than the last one because. The same as I believe that we become better actors with age, I think it’s the same with music. You put in a little here, you’re putting a little there, you’re discovering new things. For this album, I chose ten songs and if you ask me if I have a favorite one, I don’t because I put my heart into every single one of them. The studio became therapy.

I wanted to bring something where people will always call me the female pronoun, and I try to correct them and say, I use he/they, and they didn’t know what that was. I don’t like the feminine and masculine, I don’t like this binary kind of world. Elise was a singer who had so much power and I thought I would be the same and doing all of that in this album. And I went to the studio, and I just whispered, and I wanted to whisper in people’s ears. I want them to stop and pay attention. I don’t want them talking loud. I’m not screaming with you.

I’m going to speak in a very whispery voice so you can lower your voice to listen and hope you get the message that I’m trying to tell in this album.

Darwin made their US film splash in the Blumhouse slasher film They/ Them, starring Kevin Bacon, Theo Germaine, and Carrie Preston. The film tells the tale of an LGBTQ conversion camp gone awry as a masked killer makes their rounds slashing people up left and right. Darwin didn’t even have to audition for the film’s writer and director Tony and Golden Globe winner John Logan of Gladiator, The Aviator, and Bond films fame. In true Darwin form, he reached out to Logan after being a fan of his Tony Award-winning play Red and invited him to attend a project that they were workshopping. The two would start to work together on adapting Darwin’s play which led to the horror film casting. The role of Gabriel that Darwin plays, is a complete turnaround from his latest album. His performance is visceral, with a bit of a sexual and evil side. Being a horror film fan, Darwin was hooked.

It’s hard to create a queer movie. We are in moments where we need to do everything right, the right moments to say certain things, and be very careful with what we put on the screen. But it’s tricky when we talk about horror because I want a horror film! As a horror fan, I want to produce more things when I have a little more of that liberty to really go harder on those elements with queer actors and crew as protagonists of a story.

And then there were challenges that were just very personal. I wanted to play with the delicacy and how strong those things can be. There was the lake scene before the whole crazy thing (spoiler alert!). I wanted to bring beauty and a queer element, but I also don’t consider myself sexy and I challenged myself when I saw that (in the script). So that was a challenge as an actor that I wanted. There’s something about showing the body and queer love that I didn’t grow up seeing much.

With so much talent and ambition, it will be fascinating to see what direction Darwin finds next, pretty much the

world is their oyster. Continuing to bring Brazilian culture to Hollywood, instead of playing French or Italian, they want to fight to make roles just as available for a Brazilian character. This summer that adaptation that John and Darwin were working on will find itself Off-Broadway, with Darwin starring and directing. Who knows what’s next? Maybe a Brazilian/ American horror musical film? It could happen!

And Darwin’s message to the LGBTQ community?

We’re coming. We’re coming strong and we have so much power and so much to offer. We not only want respect, but admiration. You’re going to see a lot of us at this moment and in this business.

You can follow everything Darwin at DarwinDelFabro.com

Revisiting Elis Regina is now streaming.

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SPECIAL DRAG PERFORMANCES SURPRISE GUESTS

MUISC TO MY EARS

KANDACE SPRINGS

“WHAT WAS I MADE FOR?”

What’s an internationally acclaimed jazz artist doing recording a pop hit from a blockbuster movie? It’s a question singer/pianist Kandace Springs is bound to be hearing in the coming weeks following the release of “What Was I Made For?” – her surprising version of the GRAMMY®winning, Oscar-nominated song that Billie Eilish and Finneas O’Connell penned for the movie Barbie. And her answer is quite simple: “It’s a great song.” “What Was I Made For?” is a lead-in single to Springs’ first album in four years, Run Your Race, set for April 5 release via SRP Records, which released Rihanna’s first seven albums.

Kandace had no intention of doing a pop cover last fall, when she went to see the film. “This song came on at the end, and it knocked me out, I wasn’t expecting it. It’s so beautiful – the music, the words, her singing, everything. I fell in love with it right away. And when I feel that way about

a song, I’ve got to learn it.”

And, as fans of Kandace know, when she covers a song, she makes it uniquely her own. The result in this case is a gorgeous, jazz-tinged ballad that at times bears only a passing resemblance to the original version. One way in which she changed the song was a particular lyric. Instead of singing “Don’t tell my boyfriend, it’s not what he’s made for,” she sings, “I’ll tell my girlfriend…. that’s what she’s made for.”

“As a woman who has a girlfriend, I didn’t feel honest singing the original lyric,” Kandace explains. “I know that Billie and Finneas wrote it from the point of view of Barbie’s character, but I had to sing it from my point of view. When I do someone else’s song, I’ve got to make it me. It’s not disrespecting the original. It’s actually paying it respect, by showing that it’s such a great song, it can be done in so many different ways.”

While purists may look askance at a jazz artist covering a current pop hit while it is still on the radio, Kandace

knows that she is actually following a time-honored tradition. “People forget that Ella Fitzgerald, Carmen McRae and all the great jazz singers did pop hits all the time, it’s what everybody did back in those days. It’s how they sang it that made it jazz.”

“What Was I Made For?” arrives as an unexpected addition to the album Run Your Race, the creation of which has been a two-year labor of love for Kandace. The album and its title song are a tribute to her late father Kenneth “Scat” Springs, a great singer in his own right who passed away in 2021. “My dad was a track star in college. But he spent the last two years of his life in a wheelchair. After he passed away, I was inspired to write this song, to tell him that I know that he is free now, to run like he used to,“ she explains. The song is the most personal and heartfelt of Springs’ career, and a fitting centerpiece to her new album, which she says is “absolutely the most personal record I’ve ever made, or ever will make.”

GRAMMY-nominated R&B/Hip-Hop artist Kossisko (they/them/ theirs) released their empowering funk single “Rich Bi$h”, alongside a vibrant music video.

“I went out to Vegas to link with Rick James’s band, The Stone City Band and I played them an early version of ‘Rich Bi$h’ and they all flipped out over it,” Kossisko recalls, “The moment was hella surreal for me as a fan. It felt like the funk gods blessed it or something.”

Formerly known as 100s, Kossisko’s infectious pop track declares, “You better work” and emphasizes, “Money can’t buy love.” “The inspo behind the song was basically I wanted to make something that would serve as a soundtrack to a moment when a person is at the height of feeling themselves,” said Kossisko. “To me being a ‘Rich Bi$h’ isn’t even about money, it’s more of just a state of mind where you feel empowered, sexy, confident, and wanna shake some ass.”

The Bay Area rapper invites a visual feast in captivating drag, showcasing a fearless and glamorous persona.

Drenched in bold colors and energy, the clip is a celebration of self-expression and confidence. “Rich Bi$h” not only delivers a pop anthem that’s sure to get listeners moving but also serves as a statement of individuality and self-love, as Kossisko fearlessly embraces their identity and encourages others to do the same.

“The music video is really just about me celebrating all the aspects of myself and getting to truly represent them,” they continued. “It’s been a struggle for me since I was a child to truly accept myself and love myself for all the different aspects of who I am so this video felt extremely empowering and liberating af. Visually I drew inspiration from a lot of people who have really inspired me from Snoop Dogg, Donna Summer, and Pete Burns all the way to artists from the Ivory Coast like Serge Beynaud and DJ Arafat.”

Born of African and Jewish blood, Kossisko was raised in the eclectic air of Berkeley, California. Conversely, when Kossisko was a teen their father sent him

KOSSISKO

to live in the Ivory Coast where they spent two hard years bouncing around between boarding schools and family members. The diversity of these experiences contributed greatly to the singer, songwriter and actor’s unique gifts.

Kossisko is an innovative musical artist, actor and composer in the intersection of film, music and fashion. The gender-fluid artist has appeared in HBO’s wildly successful Euphoria and portrayed themself in two seasons of Netflix’s Sex/ Life plus various television licenses and video game features such as Grand Theft Auto V and Marvel. Additionally, they have been featured in an iPhone 5C campaign and additionally shined as a sought

after model, working for Billionaire Boys Club, Mr. Saturday and Midnight Studios.

Kossisko’s expression through this new music encourages everyone to not give a damn about what others think about you. Nor be marginalized because of your challenges. So whether it’s mental health issues, anxiety, depression or anything that would hold one back from having agency, his music affirms that we all deserve joy and the space to be who we are without being defined by people who don’t get you. Kossisko believes this attitude is the highest form of self-care, a self-care that lets you take your rightful place in the world.

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DAP HEALTH

1695 N. Sunrise Way, Palm Springs, CA 92262 760.323.2118 daphealth.org

DESERT CARE NETWORK

760.561.7373 desertcarenetwork.com

DESERT OASIS HEALTHCARE

275 North El Cielo Road Palm Springs, CA 92262 760.325.DOHC (3642) mydohc.com

EISENHOWER HEALTH

39000 Bob Hope Drive Rancho Mirage, CA 92270 760.340.3911 eisenhowerhealth.org

MICHAEL’S HOUSE

1910 S Camino Real Palm Springs, CA 92262 844.768.0633 michaelshouse.com

PALM SPRINGS

ANIMAL SHELTER

4575 E. Mesquite Ave, Palm Springs, CA 92264 760.416.5718

psanimalshelter.org

PALM SPRINGS FRONT RUNNERS & WALKERS frontrunners.clubexpress.com

STONEWALL GARDENS

2150 N. Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA 92262 760.548.0970 stonewallgardens.com

LGBTQ COMMUNITY CENTER OF THE DESERT 1301 North Palm Canyon Dr, 3rd Floor Palm Springs, CA 92262 760.416.7790 thecentercv.org

SAN FRANCISCO DIRECTORY

BARS & CLUBS

440 CASTRO

440 Castro, San Francisco, CA the440.com

BEAUX

2344 Market St., San Franciso, CA beauxsf.com

HI TOPS

2247 Market St, San Francisco, CA 415.551.2500 hitopsbar.com

LOBBY BAR

4230 18th St. Unit A, San Francisco, CA lobbybarsf.com

LOOKOUT

3600 16th St., San Francisco, CA 415.431.0306 lookoutsf.com

MAC’S CLUB

39 Post St., San Jose, CA 408.288.8221

MIDNIGHT SUN

4067 18th St., San Francisco, CA 415.861.4186 midnightsunsf.com

MOBY DICK

4049 18th St., San Francisco, CA 415.294.0731

OASIS

298 11th St., San Francisco, CA 415.795.3180 sfoasis.com

RENEGADES

501 W Taylor St., San Jose, CA 408.275.9902 renegadesbar.carrd.co

SF EAGLE

398 12th St., San Francisco, CA 415.200.2002 sf-eagle.com

SPLASH

65 Post St., San Jose, CA 408.292.2222 splashsj.com

THE CINCH SALOON

1723 Polk St, San Francisco, CA 415.776.4162

THE MIX

4086 18th St., San Francisco, CA 415.431.8616 thesfmix.com

WHITE HORSE BAR

6551 Telegraph Ave., Oakland, CA 510.652.3820

HAIR SALONS

HEALING CUTS

2350 Market St., San Francisco, CA 415.286.2970 healingcutssf.com

SPUNK SALON

4147 19th St., San Francisco, CA 415.701.7865 spunksalon.com

THE CASTRO BARBER LOUNGE

2265 Market St., San Francisco, CA 415.678.5942 thecastrobarberlounge.com

COMMUNITY RESOURCES HEALTH/COUNSELING/SUPPORT

API WELLNESS CLINIC

726 Polk St. SF LGBT Center 1800 Market Street San Francisco, CA apiwellness.org

BILLY DEFRANK

LGBTQ CENTER

938 The Alameda, San Jose, CA 408.293.3040 defrankcenter.org

LYRIC CENTER FOR LGBTQQ YOUTH

127 Collingwood St (@ 18th St), San Francisco, CA 415.703.6150 lyric.org

OAKLAND LGBTQ COMMUNITY CENTER 3207 Lakeshore Ave., Oakland, CA 510.882.2286 oaklandlgbtqcenter.org

PACIFIC CENTER FOR HUMAN GROWTH

2712 Telegraph Ave., Berkeley, CA 510.548.8283 pacificcenter.org

QUEER LIFESPACE

2275 Market St, San Francisco, CA 415.358.2000 queerlifespace.org

RAINBOW COMMUNITY CENTER 2380 Salvio St., Concord, CA 925.692.0090 rainbowcc.org

SF AIDS FOUNDATION

470 Castro St, San Francisco, CA 415.437.3400 strutsf.org

SF LGBT CENTER

1800 Market St, San Francisco, 415.865.5555 sfcenter.org

STONEWALL PROJECT

1035 Market St, #400, San Francisco, CA 415.487.3000 stonewallsf.org

THE TREVOR PROJECT 866.488.7386 Text: 678.678 thetrevorproject.org

UCSF ALLIANCE HEALTH PROJECT

1930 Market St, San Francisco, CA 415.476.3902 ucsf-ahp.org

LEGAL

AIDS LEGAL REFERRAL PANEL

1663 Mission St, #500, San Francisco, CA 415.701.1100 alrp.org

OASIS LEGAL SERVICES

1900 Addison St, #100, Berkeley, CA 510.666.6687 oasislegalservices.org

TRANSGENDER LAW CENTER

510.587.9696 transgenderlawcenter.org

HOTLINES

THE GLBT HOTLINE OF SAN FRANCISCO: 415.355.0999

GLBT NATIONAL HOTLINE: 1.888.843.4564

GLBT NATIONAL YOUTH TALKLINE: 1.800.246.7743

TREVOR PROJECT HOTLINE (Queer Youth Suicide Prevention): 866.488.7386

CALIFORNIA AIDS, STD, & HEPATITIS HOTLINE: 1.800.367.2437

SEXUAL ASSAULT - COMMUNITY

VIOLENCE SOLUTIONS: 800.670.7273

CONTRA COSTA CRISIS CENTER for Suicide & Crisis Intervention: 800.273.8255

Sonoma

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