OutClique Magazine January 2023

Volume 7, Issue 2 January 2023

Marty Childers Island City Stage Dr. Gary Keating Joe Posa as Joan Rivers Visit Lauderdale Food and Wine Festival

Charo Ultra Naté Randy Roberts

Dr. Gary Keating Retires from Fort Lauderdale Gay Men's Chorus

By Denny Patterson

I

n 1986 during the height of the AIDS epidemic, Dr. Gary Keating founded the Fort Lauderdale Gay Men’s Chorus (FTLGMC), the first gay performing arts organization in the state and one of the first in the nation. He was inspired to start the chorus after a business trip to New York, and it has gained respect and admiration from both gay and straight audiences.

Even though Keating is no longer the chorus’ head honcho, he is staying on as Artistic Director Emeritus.

On December 31, 2022, Keating took his final bow as he officially retired.

Additionally, the FTLGMC disbanded and its members merged with the Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida (GMCSF) after Keating stepped down. In recent years, the two choruses have performed together several times.

“I have nieces and nephews, and now great nieces and nephews, and I want to spend some time with them,” he tells OutClique. “They’re growing up without me, and my husband and I have never really had a chance to do a lot of traveling because I had rehearsals, concerts, World AIDS Day, Pride festivals - it took a lot of commitment.”

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“If they ever need my help, I’m there,” he says. “I’m not going away completely. They have two incredibly capable conductors, but if I can do something to support the chorus, I will certainly do it.”

Since arriving in South Florida in 1979, Keating has been an active conductor and has made a mark with his unique approach to choral singing. He received his Bachelor of Music Education from the University of New Hampshire

and earned both his Masters of Music and Doctorate of Musical Arts in Choral Conducting at the University of Miami Frost School of Music.

According to Keating, he did not expect the FTLGMC to be as welcomed by the community in the beginning.

“I saw the New York chorus and thought, South Florida could do this, but I wasn’t sure if there would be an interest,” he says. “We had 100 members for our first concert, and we sold out at the Gusman Center for the Performing Arts in Miami. The following night, we actually had to turn away 300 people from Parker Playhouse. So, obviously, this community not only needed it, but wanted it.”

Out of everything, Keating is proud of what the chorus has achieved over the years.

“I never dreamed of what the chorus could accomplish,” he says. “Every time they performed, somebody in the chorus invited a friend, family member, co-worker, or whatever, and in many cases, used that performance as their way to come out. All those men and women have changed and helped with acceptance for literally millions of people in

South Florida. I mean, let’s face it, there are battles that I thought we had finally won after all these years, but we now have Ron DeSantis and people changing curriculum in schools. At least they passed the Respect for Marriage Act, so we know we have some national support, and we’ve changed enough hearts and minds. The majority of Americans support gay marriage, and we need to keep working. We still have lots of battles to fight, and we still need a nice, safe, creative way for people to come out.”

On Tuesday, December 20, 2022, there was a celebratory “FUNdraiser” at Drynk Bar & Lounge in Wilton Manors to honor Keating’s music legacy and to thank him for his many years of service and dedication to the community.

Appetizers were provided by The Pub on the Drive, along with happy hour cocktails, a silent auction, and 50/50 drawing.

“It has been an incredible honor to stand in front of these dedicated men and women for all these years,” Keating reflects. “They have given up their nights and weekends, being away from their husbands, wives, and families to do this, and it has truly impacted South Florida more than I think most people realize. I look forward to what the chorus will achieve in the future.”

Photos Courtesy of Fort Lauderdale Gay Men’s Chorus

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Jackson Health A Leader in LGBTQ Healthcare Equality

J

ackson Health System provides world-class care— care that’s sensitive to the concerns of the LGBTQ community. For eight years, Jackson Health System has been named a “Leader in LGBTQ Healthcare Equality.”

Jackson is one of a select group of healthcare systems nationwide to receive this recognition by the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Foundation.

Holtz Children’s Hospital/The Women’s Hospital at Jackson Memorial, and Jackson Behavioral Health Hospital –earned top marks for their policies and practices related to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) patients and their families. These policies include patient and employment non-discrimination, visitation and cultural competency training for staff.

It’s because we deliver inclusive, compassionate care to you, your partner, and the rest of your family, always striving to: • Ensure access to culturally competent treatment and prevention services • Address mental and medical disorders with expert behavioral health services • Educate the LGBTQ community on important healthcare issues and initiatives • Enhance special programs, like the South Florida AIDS Network

Visit the www.hrc.org/heiHealthcare Equality Index website for more information or to download a free copy of the report.

Think of us when you need general, specialty, or emergency care, because we’re always thinking of you.

Our Definition of Family Any person who plays a significant role in an individual’s socio-emotional life. This may include a person not legally related to the individual.

Members of ‘family’ may include spouses, domestic partners, and both different-sex and same-sex significant others.

‘Family’ may include a minor patient’s parents, regardless of the gender of either parent.

Jackson: A Leader in LGBTQ Healthcare Equality For eight years, Jackson Health System has been named a “Leader in LGBTQ Healthcare Equality” by the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Foundation.

The Healthcare Equality Index (HEI) report is an annual survey published by the HRC Foundation. Six Jackson facilities – Jackson Memorial Hospital, Jackson North Medical Center, Jackson South Medical Center, the former Jackson Rehabilitation Hospital (now replaced by the Christine E. Lynn Rehabilitation Center for The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis at UHealth/Jackson Memorial),

We also pride ourselves in our community involvement: • Miami-Dade Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce • Winter Party Festival • Miami Beach Gay Pride Festival • Aqua Girl • Point Foundation What You Need to Know Many people today are concerned about the medical care decisions that would be made for them if they become seriously ill and unable to speak for themselves. Florida law allows you to state your wishes and/or choose someone to make decisions for you, using a form called an advance directive.

There are two types of advance directives: living wills and healthcare surrogates. At Jackson Health System, our advance directive form covers both topics. You can fill out our advance directive before admission or fill it out during admission at our hospitals.

Resources at Jackson Advance directive form Designate a healthcare surrogate and describe your living will wishes.

Guest services Whether inpatient or outpatient, from treatment through discharge, all services are delivered in a structured, supportive, and safe environment Jackson Behavioral Health Hospital Jackson Health System provides comprehensive mental and behavioral health services as part of its continuum of care as one of America’s finest academic teaching facilities.

Content Courtesy of Jackson Health System

Leading.

More than 100 years ago, Jackson Health System made a promise to provide quality care to everyone in our community. We’re proud that so many of our goals — to perform groundbreaking research, provide advanced services, and expand county-wide facilities — have been achieved.

Our commitment to the community continues, as we find new, innovative ways to expand these efforts in the new year.

Call 786-746-8522 for a Jackson specialist near you.

Jackson Health System is proud to be recognized as an “LGBTQ Healthcare Equality Top Performer” by the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Foundation. Learn more at LGBTQHealthLeader.org.

To our wonderful readers!

Happy New Year! We hope your holiday was filled with peace, joy, and laughter! We are thankful for each of you this season.

A new year brings new opportunities. New starts. New goals. And yes, even new challenges. Be ready and prepared for all to come.

What do you want this year to be for you, your family, and your friends? Take time to make 2023 your best year yet.

That also means leaving behind what needs to go. This is often easier said than done, but it can happen.

ADULT CONTENT

FEBRUARY 17-19 RINKER PLAYHOUSE Tickets start at $40

Look through our pages at so many exciting things to do and places to go — Pride festivals, the symphony, drag shows, night out at the leather bar, our sunny beach, or a new trip overseas. There is something for everyone.

We at OutClique wish you a successful 2023. May happiness be abounding.1 Dr. Steven 2

For tickets, visit kravis.org or call 561.832.7469 Group Sales: 561.651.4438 All programs, artists, dates, prices and seating subject to change.

1 Dr. Angela Easterday-Holder, former Chair and Professor of Music at Carson-Newman University and choir member Immanuel Baptist Church, Lexington, KY (www.ibclex.org) 2 Dr. Jane McEldowney Jensen, doctoral supervisor. Director of Graduate Studies, Educational

Policy Studies & Education. University of Kentucky, College of Education. Dissertation title: Pediatrics education in an AHEC setting: Preparing students to provide patient centered medicine.

A research study of ways that medical students learn patient centered medicine through their rotations in AHEC clinical settings.

OPEN DOOR. OPEN MIND.

Real Estate Bankruptcy Wills & Trusts Landlord / Tenant Probate & Estates Foreclosure Defense Business Transactions

Dean J. Trantalis, ESQ Attorney at Law 2301 Wilton Drive, Suite C1-A, Wilton Manors, FL 33305

954.566.2226 Dean@trantalis.com | TrantalisLaw.com The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not only be based on advertisements. Before you decide ask the lawyer to send you free written information about their qualifications and experience.

O UTC LIQUE Steven O. Evans, PhD

Publisher and Editor in Chief Steven@OutClique.com

Connie Evans

Chief Copy Editor Mother of the Publisher

Sach AD Group

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Director of Social Media Assistant to the Publisher

Will White

Senior Associate Editor

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Director of Distribution

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Sales Manager

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Denny Patterson

Senior Lifestyle Writer & Assistant Editor

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Director of Photography A publication of OutClique, LLC (954) 294-8560 www.OutClique.com www.Facebook.com/OutClique Info@OutClique.com OutClique, LLC is not responsible for statements or opinions expressed in advertisements or articles.

Welcome

ev eryo n e u n d e r t he s u n Greater Fort Lauderdale invites everyone to enjoy our vibrant community here in Florida’s LGBT+ capital, from cosmopolitan dining and nightlife and the revelry of Wilton Manors to miles of golden beaches and Everglades eco-tours. If you’re welcoming visitors or are ready for a staycation, visit us online to learn more about all of the exceptional attractions and experiences our ever-evolving destination has to offer.

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Candy Cox Stilettos’ Queen Reigns Supreme at Pub On the Drive

By John Hayden

A

little glitz and a lot of laughs prove Mondays can be fun. The ladies of Stilettos have been starting your week off right with a mix of regular entertainers and special guests on Pub On the Drive’s stage.

Every week, Leila Cox, Verandah Lanai, Mercury Rising-Cox, Sharde L Ross, and Candy Cox delight the audience. Each brings their own personality and style to the stage. The Queen of these queens is Miss Candy Cox. “I’m the last of the originals,” she told OutClique backstage before a show. Stilettos began seven years ago as a country show and bounced around a couple of bars before finding its permanent home at Pub On the Drive. “We were called Country Queens, and that put us in a box again. We had to do country icons. Girls around town and guest entertainers don’t do a lot of country.”

Since then, Candy has been the driving force behind the show’s evolution. These days the five permanent hosts also welcome guest queens. “Every week we take turns hosting. [The host] is in charge of the lineup and special guests.” The drag community is large and South Florida is a magnet for new and established queens. Candy says the Stilettos show is a way for fans to see new talent. “The drag queens that are in town are changing.

There are some that leave town and queens that are just starting. There are fantastic new queens that you

see perform, maybe their second or third show ever. You bring them in and they liven up your stage. People fall in love with them. It’s camaraderie back and forth.”

That keeps the show fresh and Candy is fine with letting others do what she wouldn’t even think of attempting.

“You’ve got classic drag queens that have been around forever. You’ve got the young girls that do the death drops. If I did that I’d break my hip and the show would be over.”

A Late Bloomer Candy came to drag late in life. She was 53 when she started her glam career on a dare. She can be a little shy and retiring, but knows what it takes to come out of her shell. “I’m usually kind of quiet and shy until you get a couple drinks in me. I like to stand back and observe. But with drag you can’t do that. It pushed me.”

She quickly became a familiar face on South Florida stages, and says it’s the people that make it worth the effort. “I just enjoy it. I’ve met so many people through drag.”

And she says management knows how to treat a queen.

“I love entertaining. I love the girls I work with. We love this bar. They treat us like royalty.”

Stilettos starts at 8pm every Monday at Pub On the Drive.

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The Pub’s Festive Way to Help Kids In Distress

By John Hayden Photos Courtesy of SRL Media

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few lucky people are going to deck their halls more fabulously than ever, and that means a lot of kids are going to benefit. The Pub on the Drive’s eighth annual wreath auction was a fun, festive, and philanthropic party. Keeping with tradition, Elektra returned to host with a healthy balance of good fun and naughty sass.

Dozens of people created festive, themed wreaths.

Highlights included Susan Czajka’s “Christmas in Paradise” while the team at Drynk Bar designed “Royal Blue Splendor”. Both raised $600 each. Marty Karp donated ten wreaths, including “Love Is Love” in the colors of the rainbow flag. Also making a splash were the

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four wreaths designed by Flockfest, which were adorned by lots of pink feathers and flamingos.

In all, $7,888 was raised (including a $1,000 donation from Tito’s Handmade Vodka), with all the proceeds going to Kids In Distress.

“There were so many creative wreaths this year,” Tim Barton, manager at The Pub, told OutClique. He says he’s blown away by the event’s latest chapter. “This was the best one we have had yet. We will definitely be doing this again next year!” In addition to setting a record for funds raised, a record number of wreaths, 39, were designed and donated.

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Mr. Ramrod 2023 Breaks New Ground

By John Hayden

A

t a time when the trans community is under attack by everyone from lawmakers to members of the LGBTQIA+ family, one pageant is embracing one of our trans brothers. James Tyrcha has just won Mr. Ramrod 2023, becoming a pioneer. “I am the first trans man to run and win Mr. Ramrod. I am just James,” he told OutClique. “I live my life as a gay man that happens to be a transman. I've been fully transitioned for decades, it's not really my platform any longer, it is just a part of who I am.”

Being so comfortable in his own skin is key to Tyrcha rising to the occasion. “I feel zero pressure. However, me being a trans man and Mr. Ramrod is a very big deal and it is extremely inspirational to our South Florida leather community as a whole. I am always available to educate and talk to anyone interested in the background of my transition.”

While he has been a visible member of the leather community for decades, his decision to join the pageant was very spur of the moment. “I decided on the last day to sign up. I had no intention to run. My community kept asking me to run and be their community leader. My only preparation was just being my true authentic self.”

Fellow South Florida leather luminary David Hopkins says Tyrcha’s importance can’t be overstated. “He's an amazing asset to the community who always shows up at events not just to be there, but ready to help. As a military vet, he exemplifies the ‘Old Guard’ of leather while also celebrating the new scenes that have risen in leather and kink.”

Leather Brotherhood South Florida has a large, vibrant, and tight-knit leather community. It’s a bond he says grows stronger among

pageant participants. “As contestants we are all very nervous and excited and we become brothers very quickly. We get naked in front of each other as we change our outfits, usually in a very small space. We help each other get dressed and make sure we look perfect before we go on stage. The entire experience goes by very fast and in the end, there can only be one winner. But no matter who it is, we support that person and become brothers for life.”

As the reigning Mr. Ramrod, Tyrcha will compete at International Mr. Leather (IML) next year in Chicago.

He’s a Windy City native and says there’s one part of the contest he anticipates the most: food. But once he has his fill of deep dish pizza, Tyrcha will focus on the matter at hand. “To do my best at IML and bring back the title of International Mr. Leather to South Florida. There are two Mr. Ramrod's (1998 and 2005) that won IML and many Mr. Ramrod's that placed in the top 3. Let's see if I can be the 3rd Mr. Ramrod to become International Mr. Leather!”

Lifelong Love of Leather Tyrcha has been attracted to leather and uniforms since he was a kid. “When I was a teenager, I began wearing leather which was probably the beginning for me.” He has talked about hanging out at the local Marines recruiting station and doing pushups and embracing that vibe. He enlisted in the US Army as a Military Police officer when he was 22.

While he would have loved to have stayed in longer, another priority was calling. “I got out in 2006 and pursued my physical transition. Immediately. I then immersed myself into the leather community and I was welcomed and really built my true authentic self. I have always had a strong desire for leather, sex, authority, uniforms, structure, and camaraderie.”

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ALWAYS LOOK FOR A BETTER BUSINESS. BECAUSE THEY’RE LOOKING OUT FOR YOU. BBB® Accredited Businesses are committed to operating with integrity, honoring promises, and telling the truth. Makes you wonder why all businesses aren’t BBB Accredited?

Always look for the BBB Accredited Business Seal, because it’s looking out for you. That’s why it’s The Sign of a Better BusinessSM. Find a Better Business anytime at BBB.org.

Find a Better Business

Become a Better Business

Ten New Year’s Resolutions for Your Small Business Here are ten business New Year’s resolutions that you may want to consider for a successful 2023.

Ten New Year’s Resolutions for Your Small Business 1. Continue Building a Strong Digital Footprint

Aside from having a website, make sure you are building out a solid content marketing strategy that will help you create valuable content pieces that will drive engagement as well as sales.

2. Promote Your Business Consistently

Find ways that you can creatively promote your business throughout the year. This ensures that you stay top of mind for your target customers. In fact, 62% of consumers share online deals with friends1, exposing your brand to a broader audience.

3. Personalize the Entire Buyer Journey

71% of consumers feel frustrated when a shopping experience is impersonal2. Therefore, personalize the buyer journey by offering products/services based on your customers’ purchase behavior along with complimentary items they can consider as well.

4. Embrace an Effective Technology Stack

From social media to email marketing, know that every single piece of technology you leverage to communicate with your customers must effectively impact your business goals.

6. Have a Positive Workplace Culture

From the quality of the people you hire to the loyalty of your consumers, culture is critical to practically every facet of your long-term success. In fact, more than 94% of executives stated that a distinct business culture is important to business success.4 7. Push Customer Reviews

When making a purchase, buyers have a plethora of options at their disposal. 79% of consumers say they trust online reviews just as much as personal recommendations from friends or family5. Positive reviews help give your small business a step up over the competition.

8. Exercise Transparency

Always be transparent, from admitting missteps and correcting them, to inviting your customers to engage with you online and through social media. Approximately 85% of Americans report that they would stand by a business during a brand crisis if the company had a transparent history.6 9. Be Purpose-Driven

66% of consumers are willing to switch from their regular product to a new one from a purpose-driven company7.

Share moments on social media, and don't be shy about showing how your brand is committed to helping make a difference.

10. Establish Trust

5. Reduce Costs

Roughly one-third of small businesses fail because the owner runs out of money3. Reducing cost doesn’t mean that you focus merely on just overhead. There are various ways you can go about cutting back spending while also pushing for growth.

Approximately 81% of consumers say that they must trust a brand before buying a product or service.8 You want to tell customers that your business is trustworthy, ethical, and transparent and what better way to illustrate that than by applying to become a BBB® Accredited Business.

Visit BBB.org for more business tips and to learn more about BBB Accreditation.

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https://wpforms.com/the-ultimate-list-of-online-business-statistics/ http://grow.segment.com/Segment-2017-Personalization-Report.pdf https://www.bls.gov/bdm/us_age_naics_00_table7.txt https://www.fuqua.duke.edu/duke-fuqua-insights/corporate-culture https://www.statista.com/statistics/315751/online-review-customer-opinion/ https://www.zdnet.com/article/9-out-of-10-consumers-will-stop-purchasing-from-brands-that-lack-transparency/ https://www.conecomm.com/research-blog/2018-purpose-study https://www.edelman.com/sites/g/files/aatuss191/files/2019-07/2019_edelman_trust_barometer_special_report_in_brands_we_trust.pdf

Content Courtesy of Better Business Bureau

Marty Childers Island City Stage

By John Hayden

F

rom managing a large regional theatre company in Eastern Kentucky to leading Island City Stage in the heart of Wilton Manors, Martin (Marty) Childers has had an unlikely journey. But each unexpected step along the way has brought him to this moment.

As the theatre’s Managing Director since 2016, he has overseen productions that tell LGBTQIA+ stories that don’t always get a lot of attention in many mainstream theatre companies.

“It’s evolved over time,” he told OutClique. “We want to do new works and continue to tell stories not everybody has heard.” Some are comedies, other dramas. Many are a little of each. Managing a small theater with only a few dozen seats means simultaneously producing, networking, fundraising, marketing, and more. Childers makes it look effortless but looks are deceiving. His background is a story of perseverance and his success is a product of passion for the arts.

Small Town Start “I’m from Hindman, KY, and it’s in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains.” If you actually have heard of Hindman, it’s likely because of the disastrous flooding this year and not its theater scene. Nestled on the edge of Appalachia, a region not known as a hotbed of openness for LGBTQIA+. But that is where Childers began his career in musical theater in the neighboring city of Prestonsburg, KY. “I always liked theater and liked singing. I sang a lot back then.”

He was coaching a friend for an audition at their local regional theater and believed that he could do as well as the other people he saw there. The next production that came around he put together an audition and got the part. “I performed over the next six years at that local theater company. Some roles were ensemble, some were leads. Eventually, Childers was playing roles on

stage and off. “I got involved with their board after they invited me to join and was president of the organization for 2 years. That’s where I learned how to fundraise. I learned a lot by being on the board.”

Eventually he left for the “big city” of Lexington and was in a relationship. But his work in Eastern Kentucky wasn’t finished. A few board members called and asked him to return and run the company. “I was with a partner at the time and I was not really excited about going back to Eastern Kentucky. My partner was moving to Phoenix but I still needed a job. So, I worked there for the next 14 years. When I came back, it was kind of a mess. I got a new artistic team and we started doing great stuff.” He dove into even more foundational work. “I spent my time raising money and making sure we had the right kind of talent. It was a great run.”

Greener & Sunnier Pastures Eventually doing everything exhausted Childers. “The theatre company never pulled back to do smaller shows, even when the budgets were bursting at the seams.

Everything just kept getting bigger and bigger and there was a lot of pressure to raise funds in a community that seemed to not value the arts.” He felt it was time to move on.

While perusing jobs in late 2015, he saw the opening for Managing Director at Island City Stage. “I just applied and they called me the next day. We did a Zoom meeting and then I came down to meet with the board. They offered me the job and I arrived for work on January 2, 2016.”

Like many, Childers had vacationed in Wilton Manors and South Florida, but soon realized that visiting here and living here are two very different things. “It was very much a culture shock when I first came here. I had been

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here on vacation but when you live here, you’re not doing any of the vacation things.

You’re working. All the things people come to do in Wilton Manors and Florida, you’re not here for that.”

He dove into the arts community well beyond just running Island City Stage. It paid off professionally and personally. “I became involved in things because I needed to meet people. The best thing that happened for me is I joined the Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida (GMCSF). I met the Artistic Director, Harold Dioquino, and we began quietly dating. In 2019, we tied the knot.”

The people he met in the chorus really helped him connect with the community. “I met all my friends there and they connected me to so many people in South Florida and Wilton Manors. It’s a great organization. I cherish that experience and the leadership there. And even though I am no longer in the chorus, we continue to have a very close relationship.”

Childers knows his move here changed the direction of his life in a way he couldn’t imagine. “I never in my life thought I’d be living in Florida, but here I am. I had sworn off being in a relationship long ago and now here I am married to Harold and I’m happy.

Were it not for adversity, I probably would not have moved here, I never would have met Harold, or had this job. I’d still be in that little apartment in Eastern Kentucky, doing my best to keep that theater alive. I’d still be the same closeted guy in Eastern Kentucky, being quiet about that part of my life.”

Story Telling Island City Stage’s mission is to tell LGBTQIA+ stories that need to be told.

This month they’re producing Rotterdam, a story of sexuality and gender identity.

“Two women in a relationship, one just acknowledging she is Lesbian to her family and the other confessing that she wants to transition to a man. It is all about how that

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relationship evolves in this scenario. It was produced in New York and recommended by a few of our Board Members who had seen and liked this show. It’s going to be a really interesting show to see in our community.”

Childers believes if you tell a quality story, people will support you. “Our mission is to create quality theater productions with a LGBT focus. We do shows that we feel are important to our community and beyond. We’re not here just to sell tickets. We’re here to tell stories about the LGBT community, all of it.”

Diversity has become a greater focus over the years and the 2022-23 season is no exception. “This year we’ve focused on some racial issues because that is really important. Our community is primarily white, gay men over the age of sixty. We want to make sure we have material that’s good for all audiences.”

Bringing diverse stories to the stage isn’t just a job, Childers says it’s a responsibility he takes very seriously.

“It’s men, it’s women, it’s white, it’s black. All different aspects of the LGBT community. If we don’t take that on to do it, who will? Isn’t that what theater does? They show you the narratives by putting these stories in front of you.”

Other shows that stick out to Childers are The Time Keeper, a story about the holocaust and how the Nazis treated gay men, and The Radicalization of Rolf. “It’s a look inside how Rolf from The Sound of Music was radicalized. It tells the story from his point of view. In this story, Rolf is gay and is being manipulated behind the scenes to do the things that he does.”

Staging A Pandemic Comeback By 2020, Childers and Island City Stage were really hitting their stride. Shows were packed, season ticket sales were up, and people were talking. But while the community was buzzing, the world stopped. “Right before the pandemic, we had two season eight shows under our belt. Looking back to season seven, a pinnacle year for us with record subscriptions and tickets sold, and then everything went to heck.”

Unlike a play, no one knew what to do or how the ending would be scripted. “We waited, like everyone did, and we opened season nine with a one person show and took all the precautions and produced all of our season.” The theater monitored ever changing guidelines and safety protocols. That meant turning stage productions into video productions. “We did it all in person and online. We filmed each show at great expense. We filmed them really well. No one was gonna watch it if it looked bad.”

By the time large gatherings were declared safe, things took off again. “People really came to the shows and we did well because they were ready. By the end of the season, we were adding extra shows to make sure we could meet the demand.”

Looking To the Future Bigger isn’t always better, but it may be inevitable. While the creative team’s imaginations are limitless, their capacity for larger productions is somewhat limited. “There are shows we’d like to do that are bigger than our space, so we’re taking a hard look at other spaces. It’s time to think about that and how we get the funding to do it.”

“There’s a lot of competition out there.” He’s referring to The Foundry, which hosts Ronnie Larson’s production and Erynn Dalton’s Infinite Abyss shows. “We have a great working relationship. What’s good for one is good for the other. We support each other.”

While the theaters produce different shows, they often serve the same audiences. However, when The Foundry needs something, Island City helps where they can and vice versa. Childers says when one thrives, everyone thrives. “Ronnie and Erynn are both producing next door, and they’re friends. We call each other and ask for help.

That’s always positive.”

No matter what the future holds or where, Childers says the one thing that won’t change is the commitment to diverse LGBTQIA+ stories. “There are so many stories to be told and we want them to be told well. That’s why we do it.”

For tickets and more information, visit IslandCityStage.org.

Cover and Article Photos Courtesy of Matthew Tippins | Instagram @mattjonphoto

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It’s a New Year

Want to Lose Weight?

Knowledge is Power No two people will accomplish their weight-loss goals in quite the same way.

Shed those extra pounds efficiently and permanently with a plan as unique as you are.

Losing weight takes time and patience— precisely what Dr. Cabrera has been offering for two decades. He knows well the most common culprits of weight gain.

Need a little help?

The Genesis Health Institute weight loss program starts with medical testing of your body composition, hormone levels, and nutrient deficiencies—areas of the body ignored by most diet plans.

If you’ve tried everything but still can’t lose weight, it’s time to schedule a consultation with Dr. Cabrera and start your journey to a lighter, happier, and healthier you.

Unretouched photos. Actual Genesis patient.

(954) 561-3175 1001 NE 26th Street, Wilton Manors, FL 33305

ghinstitute.com

Photo Courtesy of Baxter Martin

I Want to Lose Weight. What to do?!

OH EM GEE! I ate so much in December... I told myself I was going to be good, but in the end, I couldn’t resist the temptation and gave in to pies, cookies, gravy, mashed potatoes (with extra butter—yum!), and every ice-cream topping imaginable.

For the past week I have been regretting each morsel of crust that touched my lips. I’ve been planning to hit the gym “first thing on Monday” and those jeans I had promised myself to get into by January 1st are still hanging in the back of the closet.

What to do?!

I happened to still have the October issue of OutClique and came across an article from Genesis Health Institute with a headline that made me pause.

Want to Lose Weight? Knowledge is Power.

The article first acknowledged that there is no quick-fix miracle diet that will make you lose the weight in a week-something most of us who need to shed some pounds constantly hope for.

It also explained that losing weight takes time and patience—precisely what Dr. Cabrera has been offering

for two decades. “He knows well the most common culprits of weight gain,” it said, adding: Once he understands you and your body, regardless of age, Dr. Cabrera will craft a custom weight loss protocol that usually follows a multi-pronged approach combining: • Nutritional planning • Intermittent fasting • Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) • Exercise/Movement planning • Body contouring I called Dr. Cabrera’s office and scheduled an appointment.

I’m really excited about the prospect of speaking with an expert that can help me start my journey (this time for real!) to a lighter, happier, and healthier me.

Here’s the info in case you want to schedule a complimentary consultation like I did: Genesis Health Institute, Wilton Manors, 954-561-3175, ghinstitute.com.

I can’t wait to share my progress with you guys! :-) Pablo

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Content by Baxter Martin, courtesy of Genesis Health Institute | Sponsored Editorial

If you are a person with HIV (PWH), you have the power and responsibility to shape your care. Results from previous surveys guided patient care lead agencies and planning councils in prioritizing community unmet needs and determining where to distribute financial resources.

The survey is available online and will remain open through March 31, 2023.

All responses are confidential.

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English

Spanish

Creole

Advancing and Developing Childhood Milestones

T

he pediatric department at Care Resource’s midtown Miami Health Center located at 3510 Biscayne Boulevard officially opens on December 1, 2022.

Pediatric medical services include well-childcare, pediatric hearing, vision care, dental care, immunizations, routine health screenings, behavioral health, and adolescent care.

Regular doctor’s visits are especially important for children and teenagers. “It is important for children to be treated by pediatricians in an environment that is equipped to meet the needs of children. Your family’s pediatrician is an important partner in keeping your child happy and healthy, from birth through adolescence.

With offices conveniently located throughout South Florida, where your family lives, works and plays, Care Resource’s pediatric services are right for you,” said Douglas Steele, Director of Medical Care Services.

There are important advantages to pediatric care.

As children grow, they reach certain health stages and developmental milestones around specific times.

Regular checkups are recommended from infancy to age 21.

These periodic visits help ensure that everything is on track with a child’s development. It also allows medical professionals to catch any potential issues from asthma to scoliosis early. In some cases, early treatment can make a big difference in your child’s outcome as they age.

Care Resource’s health centers are staffed with boardcertified pediatric staff that are dedicated to developing advances in pediatric care, promoting the well-being of children and families, and serving as advocates for children’s health related issues.

About Care Resource: Care Resource is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) with locations in Miami-Dade and Broward Counties. Care Resource provides pediatric care, comprehensive primary medical and preventive care, including dental care, in-house pharmacy services and behavioral health/substance abuse services to all individuals in South Florida’s diverse communities. For more information, please visit www.careresource.org, or call 305.576.1234.

Content Courtesy of Care Resource

Photo Courtesy of Memorial Healthcare System

Memorial Health Commits to Diversity Nurse Henry Aneyro

By John Hayden

A

s a young boy, Henry Aneyro wanted to be a superhero when he grew up. He succeeded.

“A good nurse is a superhero,” he told OutClique. “I have had the privilege of helping my patients at their most vulnerable time, and I have also had the honor of helping them heal and helping their families feel at ease. Like superheroes, nurses build trust, make people feel safe and protected and comfortable.”

As a nurse with Memorial Health, Aneyro’s brought attention, care, and comfort to thousands of patients.

He’s also brought another important quality: LGBTQIA+ representation. In a place where co-workers must quickly work in concert and patients can be in unfamiliar and often scary situations, seeing yourself represented is important.

Memorial Health has long had a commitment to diversity in the workplace, and Aneyro is a shining example of their successful policies. He became a nurse in 2003. It would have been earlier, but anachronistic gender stereotypes held him back. “None of them looked like me. I am a tall, gay, Latino man, and nurses were supposed to be women.

At the time, I chose not to rock the boat and became a laboratory technician. This way, I was still in the medical field and could help people, but I didn’t feel uncomfortable because of my gender.”

As a first generation American with a Cuban father and Spanish mother living in New Jersey, he was worried about coming out. Even though he had a live-in partner, Aneyro didn’t tell his dad. The couple moved to Florida in the 1990s. He joined Memorial Health in 2000, and soon they let him keep his full-time benefits while he went to nursing school, an act that earned his gratitude and loyalty.

Family First Male nurses are common these days, and Aneyro says

Memorial Health’s positivity makes it a great place to work and be a patient. “At Memorial, our staff represents the community we serve, we come in all shapes, sizes, colors, and orientations. It is important that people have open hearts and minds and accept people for who they are and what they can do.”

Aneyro doesn’t just take care of his patients, he takes care of their families. The ones that spend hours worrying by the bedside or in lobbies. Their concerns are as big as the ones being treated. “It’s about the little things that help the families trust you. I speak with the family member and I ask them if they are ok, how their day is going. I also ask about the patient, if they have questions, and I explain to them my plan of action with their loved one.” He knows in this job, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. The little things are what can make a big difference. “When I was in ICU, I walked around with a basket, lovingly known as ‘Henry’s froufrou basket,’ filled with nice shampoos and lotions, so I could bathe my patients and help them feel relaxed and fancy, even if they were in the hospital. The families truly appreciated the extra effort, because I was treating their loved one like my own family.”

The Next Generation These days, Nurse Henry has his own health issues and isn’t a bedside nurse anymore. Despite having a primarily administrative role he is still making invaluable contributions to patient care. Now he hopes to pass on his knowledge and empathy to the up-and-coming nurses. “I’d love to teach tomorrow’s nurses. I want to help nurses be excellent. To be excellent they must show compassion.”

And by teaching, Aneyro will keep Memorial Health’s rich diversity going for years to come. “I want to teach an entire generation of nurses from all backgrounds, all walks of life, all preferences that they can make a difference in the lives of their patients and their families.”

World AIDS Day

World AIDS Museum & Educational Center Galleria Mall

Photos Courtesy of SRL Media 68 | OutClique.com

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More photos at www.Facebook.com/OutClique

Photos Courtesy of SRL Media

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More photos at www.Facebook.com/OutClique OutClique.com | 69

Photo Courtesy of Holy Cross Health

Holy Cross Health Adds LGBTQ Internist

J

ason Ceavers, M.D. has joined Holy Cross Health,

certificate from Temple University. He graduated with a

a multi-specialty physician employed group of

Bachelor of Science in Biology from Florida International

more than 160 physicians providing services throughout

University, where he also completed research at the

Broward and Palm Beach Counties.

Benjamin Leon Family Center for Geriatric Research & Education.

Specializing in internal medicine, Dr. Ceavers provided care for the LGBTQ community at the Holy Cross

Dr. Ceavers is a member of the American College of

Health Wilton Manors office during his residency at

Physicians and is licensed in both Advanced Cardiac and

the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine at

Basic Life Support.

Holy Cross Health. Dr. Ceavers’ goal is to continue to give back to underserved communities by engaging in

Active in the community, Dr. Ceavers is a board member

community outreach and creating a safe place for his

of his childhood church, St. Andrew Greek Orthodox

patients to receive the appropriate care, regardless

Church in Miami. He serves as chairman of the annual

of social situation, sexual orientation, and gender

Miami Greek Festival, a position he has held since 2018.

identity.

Since 2019, Dr. Ceavers has chaired the St. Andrew Greek Orthodox Church Golf Tournament.

A native of Miami, Dr. Ceavers earned his medical degree from the Florida International University Herbert Wertheim

Dr. Ceavers’ office is located at Holy Cross Medical Group,

College of Medicine and a ACMS post-baccalaureate

1402 NE 26th Street in Wilton Manors, Florida.

ABOUT HOLY CROSS HEALTH A member of Trinity Health, Fort Lauderdale-based Holy Cross Hospital, dba Holy Cross Health, is a full-service, non-profit, Catholic, teaching hospital operating in the spirit of the Sisters of Mercy. Holy Cross has been recognized for 8 Types of Care and ranked #8 in the Miami-Fort Lauderdale metro area in U.S. News and World Report's 2022-23 Best Hospital rankings. Through strategic collaborations and a commitment to being a person-centered, transforming, healing presence, the 557-bed hospital offers progressive inpatient, outpatient, and community outreach services and clinical research trials to serve as our community’s trusted health partner for life. Holy Cross Health also encompasses Holy Cross HealthPlex outpatient facility, urgent care centers and more than 50 Holy Cross Medical Group physician practices. To learn more about Holy Cross Health, visit holy-cross.com.

Content Courtesy of Holy Cross and Pierson Grant PR

OutClique.com | 73

Tony Lima

SunServe Helps Heal Mental Health Issues

By John Hayden LGBTQIA+ is under stress, under served, and under attack like never before. Many internalize and ignore unprecedented levels of stress.

SunServe has a message for everyone: you don’t need to suffer in silence. We are here to help you.

While they offer a wide variety of programs (substance abuse treatment, youth services and a homeless shelter, trans services, senior services, and housing to name a few), SunServe is putting unprecedented resources into its youth, senior, and adult mental health services. “We are stronger than we have ever been. We are staffed with excellent clinicians and case managers that are truly dedicated to helping the LGBTQ+ and allied community,” Tony Lima, SunServe’s CEO told OutClique.

Ryan Papciak, the Director of Mental Health Services, says the need is especially acute in the LGBTQIA+ community.

He cites a study that shows LGBT adults struggle more with mental health than non-LGBT adults. ”LGBT adults ages 18 and older reported roughly twice the rate of mental health challenges as non-LGBT adults. Obviously, mental health issues are prevalent and the need for treatment is not declining.”

The problem is even larger for LGBTQIA+ youth. While many are aware of the issues in an abstract way, statistics frame it in a startling way. Sixty-two percent of LGBTQ youth reported symptoms of major depressive disorder in the past two weeks, including more than 2 in 3 of transgender and non-binary youth. Even more alarming, more than 60% of LGBTQ+ youth have deteriorated

OutClique.com | 75

Dr. Susan Gritz

because of recent efforts to restrict access to things like gender-affirming care for transgender youth.

SunServe’s team has seen the types of problems change over the past few years, in part due to the stresses of a pandemic and legislative attacks. “New traumas have appeared from the racial reckoning our country has been going through as well as the recent anti-LGBTQ+ legislation facing our nation and, more specifically, Florida,” Papciak said. “Our trans youth clients that thought they would be able to start hormone replacement therapy are being turned away as a result of the current political landscape. It is devastating to see them struggle with the news that they must wait until they turn 18 to start hormone replacement therapy. When the Board of Medicine ban gets instated, there will be a higher level of acuity for young trans clients that feel hopeless, depressed, and potentially suicidal.”

Concern At All Levels SunServe has overhauled its board of directors and leadership over the past year. That includes adding Tony Lima as CEO, who in his reorganization of the agency,

76 | OutClique.com

brought founder Dr. James Lopresti back in an expanded role. Lima also added Ryan Papciak as the new Clinical Director and Dr. Susan Gritz as the Director of Academic Affiliations and Clinical Supervision, further strengthening the Clinical Core of SunServe which oversees the work of all in house therapists and the student interns and field placements who come to SunServe to perfect their craft.

The new team instantly saw South Florida’s LGBTQIA+ mental health crisis growing at an alarming rate. “From the beginning, the Board of SunServe adopted the mission for Mental Health Services to provide high quality professional care to the entire LBGTQ+ community in our area,” Lopresti said. “We knew from the beginning that there are many implications to taking on such a mission, and 20 years in, especially with our new leadership, we are more committed to that mission than ever before.”

Much of the work in 2022 meant making SunServe a desirable placement for graduate school clinical trainees.

That improves their network, increases the ability to serve clients (regardless of their ability to pay), and introduces the grad students to the nuances of the community.

Ryan Papciak

Lopresti says it’s working. “We have become that coveted placement for students from various universities, and not just in Florida, but nationwide. Now we can select the best of the best among new clinicians seeking placement.” He says increasing personal resilience lowers stress levels and the anxiety and depression stress exacerbates.

Group therapy is also important. But quality group therapy needs quality facilitators, which don’t grow on trees. “Our community is not always getting that quality of facilitation.

Hence, SunServe gathered professional group trainers in graduate programs in South Florida universities to form the Florida Institute for Group Facilitation. That offers a comprehensive program that leads to certification as a Group Facilitation Specialist. The program is growing.”

How It Works Often, the hardest step is the first step. In this case, it’s recognizing you need help and asking for it. When you

contact SunServe, someone will immediately assess your needs and get your case going. From there you’ll start getting appointments, in person or via Telehealth. They even work to make sure transportation isn’t an issue. Often in the case of young clients, therapists will go to them.

But taking those first steps isn’t easy, especially if there are cultural stigmas or barriers to asking for help. Papciak says “I would say to clients that are reluctant to seek care, that therapy can be very effective in prevention. You work to get ahead of issues. At SunServe, a lack of insurance or financial barrier should not get in the way of you being seen for therapy.”

Dr. Gritz echoes those sentiments. “The main thing that people who are starting to seek help should know is that they are not alone. The prevalence of mental illness has long been established. Those individuals facing a mental illness don’t have to suffer in silence. SunServe is here to help.”

To access SunServe’s mental health services, please visit SunServe.org.

Photos Courtesy of Steven T. Shires

Photo Courtesy of Jam

es Gray

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es G

f Jam

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oC Phot

ChildNet Helps LGBTQIA+ Build Families

By John Hayden

A

s Michael Jordan once noted, just being a parent can be an act of heroism. “My heroes are and were my parents. I can’t see having anyone else as my heroes.” That is especially true for people who foster and adopt. They make a conscious, concerted, yearslong effort to become a dad or mom.

For generations of openly LGBTQIA+, parenthood was an unattainable dream. With the expansion of equal rights, including marriage equality, many find it easier to make the dream a reality. “For me I think it's important to give back when and where you can,” newly adoptive dad James Gray told OutClique. “Most folks, when you start talking about giving back, usually think of money. However, with adoption of mentoring, it's the direct opposite. These kids are in need of emotional support and folks who are genuinely interested in them and their well-being.”

Gray spent years knowing he wanted to be involved in a

84 | OutClique.com

child’s life, be it through adoption, fostering, or mentoring.

Eventually he discovered ChildNet, an organization in Broward and Palm Beach counties helping abused and neglected kids find a stable home. This autumn, Gray adopted Peter, a pre-teen young man who had been in the foster system for about seven years. He first tried surrogacy. When that didn’t work out, Gray began exploring other options. “I started researching state level foster adoptions. At that time, I had a family member who had adopted from ChildNet and shared his experience. I reached out and got started with the process.”

Responsibility & Necessity Gray had a difficult childhood himself, and that history is part of his drive to want to help kids. “Helping guide a kid towards a favorable outcome is icing on the cake for me.”

Part of that guidance is providing stability, something that is often missing as kids are shuffled from one home

Larry Rein, CEO and President of ChildNet | Photo Courtesy of ChildNet

to another. “Peter has several household chores. Not just the usual chores like cleaning his bedroom and bathroom, but things like the daily care of our dog, Baxter. Making sure he has food and water every morning and giving him a bath every other week.

Knowing and feeling he's needed in our home gives him a sense of pride. Most mornings he verbally reminds himself, ‘Oh, I need to give Baxter some food and refill his water bowl, right quick.’”

Peter also has agency over his life decisions, such as remodeling his bedroom. “He is a part of the design process. We also allow him to make decisions on things like mattress firmness for his new bed to what type of underwear he prefers to wear. While that may sound odd to mention, the reality is many kids in foster homes have very little say in small decisions such as that. Most decisions are made for them and usually with a budget in mind, as opposed to the child's preference.”

Together Forever Both Gray and Peter are foodies, so they spend a lot of time bonding over culinary curiosities. Peter’s grades have also dramatically improved. Their relationship began with Gray mentoring Peter. Eventually they began having longer visits and began the adoption process. That led to an important moment: the first time Peter called him Dad. “I was actually amused the first time, because I was not expecting it. He was in another room and calling out ‘Dad’. I heard him but it didn't dawn on me that he was actually talking to me.

After the surprise of the moment, there was this feeling of soothing comfort. I started down this road wanting to help and ended up with this little soul wanting to call me Dad!” Now they are looking forward to many more firsts together in 2023. “Getting Peter on a plane and out of the state. Both are things he has yet to experience.”

For more information on how to help kids in need, visit ChildNet.us.

OutClique.com | 85

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Our Fund’s Health & Wellness Grant Reception

Photos credit: Steven Shires Photography 90 | OutClique.com

Lips’ Annual Drag-A-Licious Brunch and Holiday Toy Drive Tradition Was a Huge Success for Children’s Diagnostic and Treatment Center

L

ips, the ultimate in drag dining, hosted a not-yourordinary Holiday Toy Drive to benefit Children’s Diagnostic & Treatment Center (CDTC) during its Drag-alicious Brunch on Sunday, December 11, 2022. Attendees brought a huge collection of toys and Lips made a $2,500 donation.

“Children’s Diagnostic & Treatment Center is grateful for Lips which has been committed for years to our organization in support of our kids,” said Ana E. Calderon Randazzo, Ph.D. of Children’s Diagnostic & Treatment Center. “Lips always offers a great time and our supporters enjoyed it while helping collect toys for our families in need!”

Attendees to this festive brunch had two reasons to enjoy Lips’ show palace experience. One was to celebrate Lips’ show hostess, Nicolette’s birthday and the other to support CDTC. Show-goers experienced soulful and uplifting music performed by the ladies of Lips who also served Lips’ world-famous all-inclusive Sunday brunch with bottomless Bloody Marys, mimosas, and Champagne.

“We remain committed to collecting toys and raising funds for Children’s Diagnostic & Treatment Center,” said Yvonne Lamé, Lips founder and co-owner. “Now, especially, we’re embracing the spirit of giving and we

encourage the community to provide local kids with hope for the holidays.”

Children’s Diagnostic & Treatment Center (CDTC) is a not-for-profit that serves more than 10,000 clients with special healthcare needs in Broward County annually.

As a facility of Broward Health, CDTC’s mission is to promote the optimal health and well-being of children with special healthcare needs by providing comprehensive prevention, intervention, and treatment services. CDTC is a recognized National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) offering a unique system of care for infants, children, youth, and women with chronic illnesses, disabilities, and developmental delays. For more information, visit ChildrensDiagnostic.com.

Six nights a week and every Sunday afternoon, Lips serves up delicious food and Las Vegas- style drag entertainment. Lips is the perfect place for a bachelorette party or to celebrate a birthday, anniversary, or even a divorce with an amazing cast of characters, including show hostesses Amanda Austin, Daisy Deadpetals, Nicolette, London Adour and Velvet LeNore. The fun never ends at Lips, with sister locations in New York, San Diego, Atlanta, and Chicago. Lips is located at 1421 East Oakland Park Blvd. in Oakland Park. For more information about Lips, call (954) 567-0987 or visit www.lipsusa.com.

Content Courtesy of Goodman PR | Photo Courtesy of Lips Fort Lauderdale

“Broker Joe” Grano, REALTOR®

954‐931‐0031

I am responsive. I do have agents, but, I am the Broker.

“Joe is great. Takes his job seriously. Dots the “i’s” and crosses his “t’s”. Never hesitated to graciously answer my questions. Made me feel good about the process and continued to stay in contact through the closing. You get to feel a connection with Joe. His smile, his attitude, just brighten up the task!” ‐ John Gregory, Ft Lauderdale “No one compares to, Joe. I just hope you know that you really are the best in the business and I could tell the world how great you are.” ‐ Dr Riggs, Ft Lauderdale “Joe is trustworthy, knowledgeable, responsive and dependable. I have used Joe in several real estate transactions.” ‐ S Lovci, Ft Lauderdale “Joe. You are a PRO.” ‐ L Polcari, Toronto

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First Atlantic Realty, Inc. 1881 NE 26th St Suite 212 Wilton Manors, Florida 33305 Licensed Real Estate Brokerage

WORLDWIDE ROAR CALENDAR SPORTSMEN STRIP AS ALLIES!

Photo Courtesy of Angus Malcolm

www.WorldwideRoar.com

•

The Worldwide Roar launches its new 2023 range of calendars, digital subscriptions, art prints and more.

•

The Roar enables athletes of different ethnicities, ages, sexualities, and body types to get naked together to promote equality and inclusion.

•

The Roar has arrived in American Football! The Pinto Goldbats is a Madrid-based team who were very happy to get all that kit off for the Roar!

•

The Worldwide Roar inspired, founded and still funds the registered charity Sport Allies, currently in the UK news as recipients of a £5000 donation from comedian Joe Lycett, who threatened to shred the money in protest at ‘ally’ David Beckham’s central role in promoting the World Cup in Qatar.

•

Worldwide Roar has also raised £5k for Sport Allies through its first virtual exhibition, Seeing Men – don’t miss it!

www.WorldwideRoar.com Content Courtesy of WorldWide Roar | Photos Courtesy of Angus Malcolm

Joe Posa and Seth Sikes to Debut Tributes

By Denny Patterson

T

he stars will align as Joe Posa and Seth Sikes unite to perform Tributes, a one-night-only loving homage to female leading legends. The event will take place on Saturday, January 14, 2023, at the Sunshine Cathedral Center for the Performing Arts.

Produced by the leading men themselves, Tributes will bring two worlds of performance art together: female impersonation and live song. Posa will impersonate Joan Rivers, Barbra Streisand, and Liza Minnelli, while Sikes will dazzle audiences with his soulful voice singing nostalgic tunes made famous by Judy Garland and Bernadette Peters, among others.

“I’m thrilled about this show,” Posa exclaims. “I love the venues and this show is just going to be amazing. There’s comedy, there’s lip syncs, there’s that aspect of old school drag, and Seth is an amazing vocalist.”

“I saw Joe’s show as Joan Rivers this summer in Provincetown, and I laughed so hard for like an hour and a half,” Sikes adds. “So, I’m looking forward to being on stage with him, and I’m looking forward to not having all the pressure be on myself!”

This is the first time the duo is performing and collaborating together.

“We talked about doing something together when we ran into each other in Provincetown while working separately,” Posa explains. “So, we’ll see where this goes. We each do our own thing separately, but I think this concept is really going to be great because it involves all different aspects of these legendary women. I’ve been around forever, and the way Seth commands the stage as a vocalist, it’s shown that he’s like a true showman, and I was very impressed with his talent. So, I’m thrilled to work with him. And we’re performing in a cathedral, so maybe this is a blessing.”

Posa has made a name for himself in show business, starting his career in musical theater as a performer/dancer featured in the international touring company of West Side Story, plus other musicals including Anything Goes, Grease,

A Chorus Line, and South Pacific. In 1993, he found his wings as a sought-after female celebrity impersonator.

“South Florida knows me mostly as Joan Rivers, but I started out performing in An Evening at La Cage in New York as Barbra Streisand, Liza Minnelli, Gloria Estefan, and even Michael Jackson,” he says. “That’s how I really started, and then I took my act to Provincetown and other areas. Then, the more I did Joan, I kind of put Barbra and Liza on the shelf because I’ve been doing them for a long time, and I loved being live and making people laugh, especially post-pandemic. I knew Joan and she loved what I did, so I felt like I just wanted to keep that ball rolling.”

Sikes, on the other hand, is one of New York’s most popular young nightclub performers. Hailed as “the best male singer of his generation” by Theatre Scene, he has been selling out venues since his 2014 debut of Seth Sikes Sings Judy Garland. The show recounted how Garland inspired Sikes as a young boy in Paris, Texas, while he belted the legend’s greatest hits backed by a seven-piece band.

Reviewers were equally enthusiastic toward his follow-up show, Seth Sikes Sings Liza Minnelli.

“I’ve been performing since I was like five years old,” he says. “At church, I was the kid who would get up and sing, star in the Christmas musicals, etc.”

Since this is the debut performance of Tributes, both Posa and Sikes hope audiences simply have an enjoyable time.

“I always sort of feel like it’s my mission to keep these songs alive,” Sikes says. “Not that I think Judy and Liza are going anywhere, but I always get excited when people come up to me and say, you know, I’ve never heard that song before.

I assume they’re going to go home and look into it. Maybe there will also be some young people who don’t know some of these songs, and they’ll go home and listen to them. We hope to keep these ladies’ legacies alive a little longer.”

And if successful, the pair would be more than happy to turn Tributes into a long-term production.

For more information and to purchase tickets for Tributes, visit SunShineCathedral.org.

To stay up-to-date and connect with Posa, follow him on Instagram @Joe.Posa, or visit JoePosa.com.

Sikes can be found on Instagram @SethSikes, or visit SethSikes.net.

ONE NIGHT ONLY! jocular and joyous, a “ Jovial, true entertainer and star.

Rivers extolled that he is the best act to impersonate her.

Stephen Vowles

Boyz Publication, London

Sikes sings Judy, “ SethLiza, Barbra, etc.

”

A hit with audiences & critics.

N.Y. Times

”

Starring Joe Posa as Joan Rivers and Seth Sikes Don’t miss this amazing tribute to the legends we love: Barbra Streisand, Liza Minnelli, Judy Garland & more!

Saturday, January 14, 2023 • 8pm Sunshine Cathedral Center for Performing Arts 1480 S.W. 9th Avenue, Fort Lauderdale

Tickets: $35 - $65 • SunshineCathedral.org/arts

City of Fort Lauderdale’s Famed Aquatic Center Earns Top Architectural Design Award for World-Renowned Dive Tower

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he City of Fort Lauderdale Aquatic Center continues its legacy of excellence earning the coveted American Institute of Architects (AIA) “Honor Award” in built category for its distinguished 27-meter dive tower.

The structure is the tallest 27M dive tower in the Western Hemisphere and is the first in the world to incorporate diving and high diving for competition in one concrete structure. The dive tower is part of a multifaceted revitalization of Fort Lauderdale’s world-renowned

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Aquatic Center on A1A between the Atlantic Ocean and Intracoastal Waterway.

“Our city is absolutely proud to be home to such a rare and unique structure. The rejuvenated aquatic center will be known around the world and benefit the swimming and diving community,” said Mayor Dean Trantalis, who attended the ceremony on November 4 at the NSU Art Museum in Fort Lauderdale. “This distinction for the architectural beauty of the dive tower comes from years

of hard work and dedication to upgrade our remarkable Aquatic Center,” he said.

The dive tower rises to the sky with fluid curves to emulate the nearby water and ocean. The tower includes an iconic sculptural form that has nine platform levels; high diving platforms of 15M, 20M, 24M, 27M and diving platforms of 1M, 3M, 5M, 7.5M, 10M. The tower is also designed to accommodate up to five springboards (two 1-meter and three 3-meter).

“Fort Lauderdale’s Aquatic Complex is creating an incredible buzz throughout the state, nation, and world.

We will once again lead in the fields of swimming and diving,” said Commissioner Steven Glassman who has long been passionate about this internationallyacclaimed City landmark.

Justin Architects (previously known as Cartaya and Associates, PA) worked in partnership with the City to help earn the AIA “Honor Award” which recognizes design that elevates the human experience while addressing the project’s practical needs. Award requirements include sustainable design practices.

“This project was a collaborative effort between the City and the Hensel Phelps Design Build Team from the conceptual design through the final installation of the dive tower,” said Senior Project Architect Teen Woon.

“We are grateful to the City for the opportunity to work on this significant iconic landmark project,” Woon said.

The 27M platform will only be available to experienced divers, but the public can get a tour of the tower which is slated to open January 2023.

Content and Photos Courtesy of the City of Fort Lauderdale

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Circle of Life_ Limelight Projection Mapping

IGNITE Broward Announces 2023 Dates and New Website

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he Cultural Division and Mad Arts are excited to announce the award-winning IGNITE Broward festival of art, light, and sound is doubling in size when it returns to South Florida in January. Showcasing 11 spectacular light-based installations by eight artists, IGNITE 2023 promises even more immersive and interactive art experiences, bringing today's most innovative talent and cutting-edge technology to audiences in Broward.

The third annual family-friendly festival will take place January 25-29, 2023. For five days and nights, visitors can experience immersive light and sound-based art created by top national and international artists and designers from France, Canada, United Kingdom, and the United States. Large-scale 3D projection mapping, interactive light sculptures and installations will transform

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two locations in Fort Lauderdale and Dania Beach.

Admission is free and open to the public.

"Along with adding more exciting activations for 2023, visitors can expect to see incredible artworks presented on a much larger scale than in the last two years," said Phil Dunlap, Director of Broward County Cultural Division.

"We've also launched IGNITEBroward.com, a website where people can learn more about the festival by watching videos and exploring the artworks and artists behind them."

Kick-Off Event Wednesday, January 25, 7PM Museum of Discovery & Science Atrium (401 SW 2 St., Fort Lauderdale) Join the countdown and celebrate the beginning of IGNITE Broward.

Transcending the physical, this year's festival will also include theVERSEverse's NFT gallery for crypto-native poetry in the metaverse, live poetry readings, and MF Dynamics' 3D motion capture creations incorporating her musical performances on the marimba. Stay tuned for exclusive artist meet-and-greets, upcoming features, and special events. For more information, visit IGNITEBroward.com.

Produced by the future-forward creative solutions agency, Mad, and presented by the Broward County Cultural Division, IGNITE Broward brings innovative technology and unique artworks by nationally and internationally renowned artists to Broward visitors.

The festival, sponsored by Visit Lauderdale and the City of Fort Lauderdale with additional support from Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale and the Museum of Discovery & Science, coincides with Fort Lauderdale Art & Design Week.

The Broward Cultural Division advances arts and culture throughout greater Fort Lauderdale by investing in the creative sector and providing capacity-building that fuels Broward’s creative infrastructure. For more information, visit @BrowardArts on Instagram.

Content and photos Courtesy of Broward County Cultural Division and Mad Arts

Mother Tree and Friends_ Akiko Yamashita Sound Sculpture ©2023 MASARY Studios photo by Aram Boghosian

Nightly 6-10PM: Downtown Fort Lauderdale will feature five spectacular outdoor, digital, light-based art and 3D projection mapping installations at the Museum of Discovery & Science (401 SW 2 St.) and Esplanade Park (400 SW 2 St.). Artworks by Limelight Projection Mapping, Akiko Yamashita, Daniel Iregui/Iregular, and Seeper will be on display.

Talking Heads_ Limelight Projection Mapping

Daily 10AM-8PM: Six interactive light sculptures and installations will take over the gallery and exterior spaces at Mad Arts in Dania Beach (481 S. Federal Highway) with extended viewing until 10PM on Friday and Saturday. Artworks by MASARY Studios, NONOTAK, Daniel Iregui/Iregular, Seeper, theVERSEverse, and MF Dynamics will be on display.

As Water Falls_ Daniel Iregui

IGNITE Broward January 25-29, 2023 Schedule and Locations

P RE S E NT S

TEA DANCE SUNDAY, JANUARY 22ND | 3 PM – 6 PM

DJ Anna de Ferran All White Attire | Bottle Service: party@dunebylt.com

Register Now: https://WinterWhiteTeaDance.eventbrite.com 2200 N. Ocean Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33305 dunebylt.com | @dunebylt

Photo Courtesy of Randy Roberts

Key West’s LaTeDa Celebrates 25 Years of Randy Roberts

By Denny Patterson

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rag queen and female impersonator Randy Roberts has been entertaining audiences for over 30 years, and 25 of them have been at Key West’s infamous LaTeDa. His signature show at the hotel is a live, multimedia tribute to some of the world’s most loved performers. Roberts’ uncanny impersonations of Cher, Bette Midler, and several other iconic and original ladies have kept him in the spotlight for all these years, and he closes every show with a mini-lounge act, allowing him the chance to get up close and personal with his audience.

In addition to drag, Roberts is also an accomplished lyricist, writer, actor, and producer. His talents are not just reserved for the stage.

Roberts took some time to catch up with OutClique and talk about celebrating 25 years with the LaTeDa and the evolution of his career. When we spoke with him last, the COVID-19 pandemic threw everything out of whack, but fortunately, everything seems to be back on track.

Denny Patterson: Let me begin by asking, how does it feel to celebrate 25 years performing at Key West’s LaTeDa? Randy Robert: It’s hard to believe! It still feels like I just started. I feel very lucky to have had this wonderful place to be creative and have people continue to come to see it!

Denny Patterson: What does it personally mean to you to know that you are a staple within the Key West community?

Randy Robert: Key West has such a communal, familial feel to it.

The motto is “One Human Family,” and I’m thrilled and somewhat humbled to be considered one of the family. As for being a staple, I think survivor is more like it. Key West has changed over the years.

Somehow, I’ve survived the changes. I think the core stays the same here! It’s the people that make it so special.

Denny Patterson: How did the relationship between you and the LaTeDa initially begin?

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Randy Robert: I was performing at a club called Divas, now known as Aqua. The owner, Sal Rapisardi, also owned LaTeDa. He asked if I would mind moving to the LaTeDa to try to drum up more business in their Tree Top bar. He said if it didn’t work out, I could always come back to Divas. I said sure, and in August 1998, I started at LaTeDa - and never left!

known for your portrayals of Joan Rivers, Bette Midler, Cher, and many others. Do you have a favorite?

Randy Robert: I’m partial to my Randy Roberts character.

I like that I don’t have to think about sounding or moving like someone else. The audiences tend to love Cher. They know her. She’s a lot of fun. If they’re not fun for me, I don’t do them.

Denny Patterson: And how has your drag evolved throughout that time?

Randy Robert: I think more than anything, I’ve become more comfortable onstage. My look hasn’t changed that much. I still wear red-ish hair for my Randy Roberts character, and I still lean toward classic beaded/sequin gowns and costumes. I think I know what works on my body. I’m not afraid to let a designer know if I don’t like something. If anything, it’s become more polished. I also no longer lip sync at all. When I first got to Key West, I still lip synced as Cher. Everything else was live. Once I started singing live as Cher, I never looked back.

Denny Patterson: Is there someone you would love to impersonate but just haven't nailed it down yet?

Randy Robert: I tried Lady Gaga, but it just didn’t work.

I’d love to do Celine, but I can’t sing like her! I’m having more fun doing myself. And get your mind out of the gutter!

Denny Patterson: For those visiting Key West, why should they check out the LaTeDa? Randy Robert: It’s a one-stop venue! A great restaurant, a lovely hotel, three great bars, live music downstairs, a live drag cabaret show upstairs, and it’s all right on Duval St. The main drag!

Denny Patterson: What can audiences always expect from a Randy Roberts performance?

Randy Robert: Something new. I’m always changing songs and costumes, and the interaction with the audience is different every night. I also try to never cross the line into gross or vulgar. I’ve had every age at my show, every denomination, religious leaders - you name it. They’ve all been to my show. I try not to offend, or at least not too offensive. You can’t please everybody all the time, but you can make most of them laugh!

Denny Patterson: As a female impersonator, you are

Denny Patterson: Have you always had a passion and love for drag?

Randy Robert: I grew up with two older sisters and my Mom. My dad died when I was 11, so I was surrounded by women. I think the passion came from that, and the fact that I wore my mother’s shoe size for a while. I didn’t really know about drag until I saw Jim Bailey on The Jerry Lewis Telethon. That’s when a little bell went off.

Denny Patterson: You are also an accomplished lyricist, writer, actor, and producer. Do you have any projects in the works that you would like to talk about?

Randy Robert: I’m working on a new show for myself.

Trying to revamp the whole format. It’s daunting. I’ve gotten really comfortable with my show, so it’s time to challenge myself. No promises as to when it will be ready though.

I also did some pops/symphony concerts in November.

Hoping to do more of those. There’s nothing like singing with an orchestra!

Denny Patterson: What are some future goals you hope to accomplish with your career and platform?

Randy Robert: I’ve been very lucky, so far. I’ve done TV, movies, I’ve been able to sing with orchestras, and I’ve traveled with my show internationally, but if there was one goal left, it would be to do a show on Broadway. That was always the dream. So, you never know.

Stay up-to-date and connect with Roberts by following him on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok @ItsRandyRoberts, or visit his official website, RandyRoberts.net.

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Prepare to be moved!

FEB 5

Photo by Ben McKeown

FEB 25

Christopher Taylor. Photo by Nir Arieli

MAR 8

TICKETS ON SALE NOW 305.949.6722 • arshtcenter.org

Symphony of the Americas 2022 - 2023 SEASON Pablo Mielgo Artistic Director & Conductor

14

MAR

9

Schumann & Brahms Bridging – Musical Genius

MAY

APR

21

Dancing Across Borders: The music of Aaron Copland and Astor Piazzolla

FEB

11

Spain… Further Beyond! Exploring Spainʼs Musical Excellence

JAN

10

The Father Of The Symphony…

Franz-Joseph Haydn

Stephen Sondheim… A Tribute! Featuring Liz Callaway

Celebrating its 35th Season In Concert With You!

See you at the Symphony!

Buy tickets now!

SOTA.ORG

(954) 462—0222

Photo Courtesy of Zak Bennett

Symphony of the Americas' January 2023 Performance Conducted by Artistic Director Pablo Mielgo Celebrates the Music of Franz-Joseph Haydn

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ymphony of the Americas performs the music of Franz-Joseph Haydn, conducted by Artistic Director Pablo Mielgo, on Tuesday, January 10, 2023, at 7:45 pm at Amaturo Theater. Considered the father of the symphony orchestra, Haydn’s musical tools went beyond form, style, and substance. His unquestioned creative genius was the foundation for all symphonic composers of the future. The creator of the classical era, his influence on other masters like Beethoven and Mozart is unrivaled.

Soloists include Concertmaster for Symphony of the Americas Scott Flavin on violin, Principal oboe Robert Weiner, Principal cello Aaron Merritt, and Ethan Shuler on bassoon.

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Flavin maintains a busy and versatile career, whether conducting classical symphonies, accompanying the world's greatest jazz stars, or premiering new works.

He is Resident Conductor for The Henry Mancini Institute and has appeared on the podium with such diverse artists as soprano Denyce Graves, the Beach Boys, Chick Corea, and Dave Grusin, among many others.

An avid educator, Flavin is Professor of Violin and Chamber Music at the University of Miami's Frost School of Music, where he also teaches orchestral conducting.

He is the newly-appointed Artistic Director of the Pine Mountain Music Festival in Michigan. Scott Flavin was born and raised in Boston, where he received his early

Scott Flavin | Photo Courtesy of Zak Bennett

musical training, and then attended the Eastman School of Music.

Aaron Merritt is currently the principal cello for Symphony of the Americas and performs with Miami’s Nu-Deco Ensemble, the Palm Beach Opera, and the Naples Philharmonic, and has performed with the Florida Grand Opera and New World Symphony under Michael Tilson Thomas from 2004-2008.

Robert Weiner joined The Symphony of the Americas as principal oboist in the fall of 2022. He has been the Professor of Oboe at the University of Miami’s

Frost School of Music since 1998. Additionally, he has performed as Guest Principal Oboe with the St. Louis Symphony, Florida Philharmonic and New York City Ballet Orchestra, among others. Past teaching positions have included Cornell University, the University of Oklahoma and the Conservatorio Ollin Yolistli in Mexico City.

Bassoonist Ethan Shuler is a graduate of the University of Colorado-Boulder where he studied music performance and computer science. Mr. Shuler is an active member of the International Double Reed Society, working on the film/live-streaming crew for the conferences.

The Program Franz-Joseph Haydn – Il Mondo della Luna Overture, Hob. XXVIII:7 (The World On The Moon).

Franz-Joseph Haydn – Sinfonia Concertante for violin, cello, oboe and bassoon in B-flat major, Hob. I:105 Franz-Joseph Haydn – Symphony No. 101 in D major, Hob. I:101 The Venue: Amaturo Theater at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts at 201 SW 5th Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312 Tickets are available at www.sota.org Content Courtesy of SOTA and Jan Mitchell PR

Conducting an Interview with Symphony of the Americas’ Pablo Mielgo

By John Hayden

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ights dim, chaotic warmups give way to silence, and the maestro raises his baton. A moment later, an evening of world class music begins. Symphony of the Americas (SOTA) is in the midst of its 35th season bringing outstanding music to South Florida.

At the head of the massive, and massively talented, ensemble is Pablo Mielgo, SOTA’s Artistic Director and Conductor. He joined the organization in 2020 and has seen it through the tough times of COVID and led its members into ‘the new normal.’ Mielgo talked with OutClique about the season, why music is the family business, and the future of the organization. Spoiler alert: it’s bright.

John Hayden: We’re halfway through the first unrestricted

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post-COVID season. What can fans expect for the winter/ spring performances?

Pablo Mielgo: We have planned a great variety of styles and international soloists. A mixture which will elevate Symphony of the Americas to an international level. I am so happy the audience is coming back enthusiastic and joining back our mission.

John Hayden: What are you most excited about?

Pablo Mielgo: Every program is designed to have special ingredients. I am so excited to see the reaction of the audience and I am thrilled to see the enthusiasm of the musicians. Their excellence was showcased during our first concert and will be throughout the rest of the season. It’s a thrilling time!

John Hayden: Your wife is also a very talented musician and played violin in the season opener. That must have been a very special moment for both of you.

Pablo Mielgo: It was really a great experience. It was the first time we shared the stage together as a conductor and violinist and it was really such a pleasure. The reaction from the audience was amazing. I’m so proud of her.

John Hayden: How’d she do?

Pablo Mielgo: Amazing. Though it was double the pressure for her to work with me, especially in an orchestra where I am the Artistic Director. But her talent speaks for itself.

John Hayden: One of the things that makes SOTA so special is the variety of music. What is your favorite genre for South Florida audiences?

Pablo Mielgo: I have to say the audience is really open to all styles. During our time, it is crucial to give an opportunity to the audience and musicians to experience diversity and variety. All music is connected somehow and we need to offer a connected content with a sense of what Florida is: an incredible melding of cultures.

John Hayden: Which is your favorite style of music?

Pablo Mielgo: Difficult to say. I have learned to enjoy

many styles, absolutely convinced they are connected as I mentioned earlier. Music brings oneness and new generations are enriched by old generations. We need to be able to recreate the image of history through their sounds.

John Hayden: You work, and are in demand, around the world. What makes South Florida so special as a community that you like to call home?

Pablo Mielgo: I love the people, the diversity, the weather, the sea, and especially the room for improvement. I love challenges and Florida is perfect for exploring them.

John Hayden: What does the future hold for SOTA? Pablo Mielgo: We are trying very hard to grow as an organization. I want to thank all the supporters of Symphony of the Americas who have continued their support year after year. Without them, our continued mission would be impossible. Just the same, I want to mention the administrative team, led by Steven Haines.

We musicians always get all the credit, but without a great administrative team, our job as an orchestra to showcase the incredible sounds of world-class music would be made that much more difficult. And last, thank you for this wonderful opportunity to speak to your audiences and share my passion!

For more on their upcoming shows, visit SOTA.org.

Photos Courtesy of Zak Bennett

Photo Courtesy of Steven Shires Photography

How The Our Fund Foundation, South Florida’s Only LGBTQ Community Foundation, is Making a Difference

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he Our Fund Foundation exists to make South Florida the most livable and thriving place in the country for LGBTQ people. Our mission remains the same: promote philanthropy, manage enduring investments, and conduct meaningful grant-making to improve the lives of LGBTQ people in our community. In 2022, The Foundation distributed more than $2 million in meaningful grants.

As our region changes over the years – along with the people we serve – The Foundation must also evolve. We are introducing a brand refresh, complete with a new logo and visuals which are modern, progressive, and

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uplifting. The refined and refreshed messaging will help us communicate more clearly about the essential work we do.

What hasn’t changed is our commitment to our mission.

As socio-political forces in Florida and beyond have aimed to reverse the advances towards full equality that our community has made, we remain steadfast in our commitment to not relinquish those hard-fought gains.

Throughout the past year, The Foundation successfully rallied support on issues that matter most to our community and took action to protect and uplift LGBTQ

people, especially vulnerable.

those

most

marginalized

and

Weeks before the “Don’t Say Gay” bill was signed into law, The Foundation partnered with The Miami Foundation and The National LGBTQ Task Force to create the South Florida Youth Equity Fund. This fund provided fast-track grants to LGBTQ youth-serving agencies, knowing that support services and programs would be crucial in the coming days, weeks, and months.

On the heels of the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, there were growing doubts about the Court’s position on marriage equality. In response, The Foundation convened national and local legal experts to help couples and families identify opportunities to protect and preserve their legal and financial rights should federal recognition of same-sex marriage be revoked.

In the spirit of and inspired by the Black Lives Matter movement, The Foundation worked with the Community Foundation of Broward to provide grants that support diversity and establish pathways for Black participation and leadership in South Florida’s LGBTQ community.

When the threat and uncertainty of Monkeypox loomed over South Florida - with a preponderance of cases affecting gay men – The Foundation partnered with The Pride Center to ensure that communities at high risk of infection had access to medical experts and to potentially lifesaving information.

Time and time again, The Foundation has met challenging moments with financial support, leadership, and ingenuity. We have not done it alone. Our success is made possible through the generosity and planning of our stakeholders. Countless volunteers, partners, community members, and allies have come together to help position South Florida’s LGBTQ community for a thriving future.

There are many more obstacles ahead, and The Our Fund Foundation is ready to lead the way as we strive to lift up South Florida’s LGBTQ community. We encourage you to visit our website our-fund.org and peruse The Foundation’s 2022 Annual Report for a more in-depth analysis of how together we are making a difference.

David Jobin, President & CEO

|

Scott Bennett, Board Chair

Content Courtesy of Our Fund and Pierson Grant PR

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WITH LEGACY GIVING, WE ENSURE THAT A DONOR’S EXPRESSED VALUES + WISHES ARE ALWAYS MET. THE OUR FUND FOUNDATION is South Florida’s LGBTQ community foundation.

We help individuals plan their estates, so that their philanthropic giving can continue for years—even generations—after passing away.

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT HOW THE OUR FUND FOUNDATION CAN HELP YOU ESTABLISH A LEGACY PLAN, EMAIL LEGACY@OUR-FUND.ORG.

1201 NE 26TH ST. SUITE 108 WILTON MANORS FL 33305 954.565.1090 | OUR-FUND.ORG

LIFTING UP SOUTH FLORIDA’S LGBTQ COMMUNITY

Fashionably Late?

That’s OK! No More Late Fines!

Broward.org/Library

Foundation Board members: Robert Lochrie, Ann Burris, George LeMieux, Lisa Kitei, Dev Motwani | Photo Courtesy of Little’s Photography

Broward Performing Arts Foundation’s Annual Reception Celebrates a Return to the Theater

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he Broward Performing Arts Foundation officially kicked off the 2022/2023 performance season with its Annual Reception in October. The event, which featured a cameo performance from the Broadway show, SIX, scored a ten among the guests who were celebrating their return to the theater.

From the balcony overlooking the Waste Management Lobby, Jasmine Forsberg, who played Henry VIII’s third wife, Jane Seymour, captivated all in attendance with her mesmerizing vocal range as she performed two songs from the award-winning musical which opened the following night at the Broward Center’s Au-Rene Theater.

Welcoming guests, Lisa Kitei, president of the Foundation, noted that it had been three years since the last Annual Meeting was held at the Broward Center, and she credited the Foundation’s supporters for helping to secure the Center during that time. “Thanks to our donors and sponsors, we have achieved the goals set for us – especially over the last three years. We have positioned the Broward Center for growth.” Introducing the Foundation board chair, Senator George LeMieux, she

thanked him for his advocacy role in securing significant government funding for the Broward Center and other hard-hit arts organizations under the federal Shuttered Venue Operators Grant program.

LeMieux spoke of the important impact that the Broward Center had on the South Florida community, citing its annual activity of 700 events for 700,000 visitors, and more than 100,000 students. “The role of the Foundation is to keep this level of activity going – to support the programs and ensure the future of the Broward Center.

Thanks to everyone here, we are succeeding,” he said.

Before introducing Jasmine Forsberg, Broward Center President & CEO Kelley Shanley spoke to the impact of the Broward Center and shared some of the highlights of the coming season. “We are delighted to see audiences filling the theaters, guests enjoying Marti’s Bistro, education programs at full capacity, and an exciting calendar of performances at all of our venues,” he said.

And to underscore the point, he presented a list of coming attractions that read like a “who’s who” of the entertainment world.

For more information about the Broward Performing Arts Foundation, call 954-468-3284 or email Foundation@BrowardCenter.org.

Content Courtesy of Broward Performing Arts Foundation

Zoetic Stage and the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County Present American Rhapsody

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“American Rhapsody is a wonderful homecoming for Michael McKeever, and I can’t think of a better play for that to happen other than this one,” said Zoetic Stage Artistic Director Stuart Meltzer. “American Rhapsody is complex, effortless, funny, inspirational but mostly, hopeful. Its structure and themes are what Michael enjoys writing about most — family, the American landscape, history, and hope. I expect audiences to walk away reflective and reminded of the power of theatrical storytelling, and maybe even eager to hug someone.”

Over the course of some 60 years — starting in 1969 and ending in 2032 — the Cabot family tries to keep up with the world as it evolves around them. Epic in scope yet intimate by nature, American Rhapsody weaves the lives of its main characters through the everchanging landscape of the American zeitgeist as it speeds through the last half of the 20th century into the turbulence of today and well beyond: civil unrest, the feminist movement, the greed of the ’80s, the horrors of 9/11, the 2008 financial crisis, same-sex marriage, the COVID-19 pandemic. As the family evolves into a new America, so does its cultural identity as members of other races and sexual orientations marry into and redefine what the family thought it was.

American Rhapsody is the sixth full-length play written

by Miami native Michael McKeever for Zoetic Stage and the Theater Up Close series. McKeever has written 35 full length plays throughout his career, many of which have been produced off-Broadway and internationally. He is

Michael McKeever | Photo by Chris Headshots

oetic Stage (@ZoeticStageMIA) and the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County (@arshtcenter) are proud to present the world premiere of American Rhapsody, an epic yet intimate exploration of the evolution of one family throughout the last half of the 20th century into the turbulence of today and well beyond. Written by five-time Carbonell Award winner and Miami based playwright Michael McKeever, the play continues the Arsht Center’s Theater Up Close series for the 2022-2023 season.

the recipient of the prestigious George Abbott Award for Outstanding Artistic Achievement and has won numerous Carbonell and Silver Palm Awards, in addition to three Florida Individual Artist Fellowships. McKeever and his husband, Stuart Meltzer, are co-founders of Zoetic Stage. Since its inception in 2010, the company has won numerous honors and citations and has become a leading force in the region’s artistic landscape. Several plays developed at Zoetic Stage have gone on to receive celebrated productions around the world.

American Rhapsody features a local and nationally recognized cast, including Alex Weisman, a Ft. Lauderdale native who recently starred on Broadway in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child and currently stars as Frank, the first LGBTQ+ character on Sesame Street; Miami native and two-time Carbonell Award winner Lela Elam who has appeared in Zoetic Stage’s productions of Moscow and Clark Gable Slept Here; Lindsey Corey, a Carbonell Award winner who was recently in Million Dollar Quartet Christmas at Actor’s Playhouse; Aloysius Gigl, whose previous Zoetic Stage credits include Sweeney Todd and Side by Side by Sondheim; Stephen Trovillion, who was recently in the Actor’s Playhouse production of Now and Then, as well as part of City Theatre’s Summer Shorts festival; and Miami natives Laura Turnbull, Carlos Alayeto and Stephanie Vazquez.

Tickets to American Rhapsody may be purchased at the Adrienne Arsht Center box office by calling (305) 949-6722, or online at www.ArshtCenter.org.

Content Courtesy of Zoetic Stage and the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts

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Seeing Stars An Interview with Singer/Songwriter Mary Gauthier

By Gregg Shapiro

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f you’ve been listening to out singer/songwriter Mary Gauthier for any length of time, say since the release of her 1997 debut album Dixie Kitchen, you know that you are in for an emotional journey. This continued throughout her recording career, with examples such as 2005’s Mercy Now (featuring the devastating title cut and “I Drink”), as well as 2010’s deeply personal The Foundling and 2018’s Grammy-nominated Rifles and Rosary Beads (a project created via Songwriting with Soldiers). While her new album Dark Enough to See the Stars (In The Black/Thirty Tigers) has its share of poignant moments, Gauthier will astonish you in unexpected ways. The album features honest and beautiful love songs, inspired by her relationship with musician Jaimee Harris (a gifted singer/ songwriter in her own right). As it turns out, love, like a comfortable pair of boots, is a good fit for Gauthier who is a natural at writing these kinds of songs. Mary was generous enough to make time for an interview shortly before the release of the new album.

Gregg Shapiro: Mary, I saw you and Jaimee in March 2022, when we were panelists and speakers at the annual Saints and Sinners LGBTQ+ literary festival in New Orleans. What was your experience at Saints and Sinners like for you?

Mary Gauthier: Oh my God, I loved it so much. I wish we could do that every weekend.

Gregg Shapiro: I agree.

Mary Gauthier: It was so much fun. It’s the community I’m looking for. It felt so good. I loved the panels. I loved the books. I loved the authors. I loved the insights. I loved hanging out with everybody after. I loved sitting up there with Rickie Lee Jones. We became friends after that.

Started to hang out a little in Nashville when she came to play here. We’re in communication. It built a lot of bridges for me to people that I am just grateful to know. It's an extraordinary event. Wow, is all I can say.

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Gregg Shapiro: Would it be fair to say that some listeners might be surprised, even delighted, by the Mary Gauthier they hear on songs such as “Fall Apart World,” “Thank God For You,” “Amsterdam,” and “About Time,” from your new album Dark Enough to See the Stars?

Mary Gauthier: Yeah, I mean, I hope they're delighted.

It's going to be startling, that's for sure. Because I've never chased down straight-up happy songs before. I tend to be broody and moody. Life has been hard, and my songs have reflected it. But I've got this beautiful relationship with Jaimee, and we're in our fifth year together. It's incredible to me that this is working. I've been in love, but it hasn't been the type of love we knew. It would slowly sort of drain out. I'm sure that's probably because of my own behaviors and my own inadequacies and my own dysfunction. But I've done a lot of work to prepare myself for this and grow and become a person who could have this. Prior to Jaimee, I intentionally stayed single for five years and did some hard work on myself to prepare for either I'm gonna’ be single or if I do get into a relationship it has to be different. I guess I laid the groundwork for this by doing that. I can't believe it, but it works. It's incredible to experience this later in life for the first time.

Gregg Shapiro: Well, we’re very happy for you, for sure.

Mary Gauthier: Thank you Gregg Shapiro: In some ways, Dark Enough to See the Stars is also a pandemic album, particularly in the way it addresses life after loss and trauma on “How Could You Be Gone” and “Where Are You Now.” Please say something about the impact of the pandemic on your songwriting.

Mary Gauthier: Yeah, that's right. I think you’ve got it.

We’re on the same page. It's a collection of songs about the transformative power of love, and it's also about grief and loss, and all of this is happening inside a single heart at the same time. I'm looking at a list of people that I love that have died in the last two years. (Mary counts) eleven

people. The only other time I've ever been through this was in the early days of the AIDS crisis.

Gregg Shapiro: I was just going to say that. I think for a lot of queer people, we can see so many of these parallels between COVID and AIDS. Mary Gauthier: So many parallels! If you're a queer person of a certain age, this is also familiar. This is not your first rodeo. The unfolding of it just rings so familiar.

Mary Gauthier with special guest

Jaimee Harris

Gregg Shapiro: I’m a longtime fan of Beth Nielsen Chapman with whom you co-wrote the title cut for “Dark Enough to See the Stars.” Beth is someone you’ve collaborated with in the past. What makes her a good songwriting partner?

Mary Gauthier: She's very meticulous, thorough. She's one of the great melody writers of our time. She’s got an incredible amount of wisdom around music and songs and patience. She's also just like magic. That's not an exaggeration. The woman is magic, and she knows. It's not like she knows it in a way that’s arrogant. She just knows how to be a conduit for it. I love writing songs with her because she's really committed to getting it right.

Gregg Shapiro: That sounds like a good creative partnership. You are embarking on a multi-city concert tour in support of Dark Enough to See the Stars. What are you most looking forward to about performing live again?

Mary Gauthier: I just love it. I love being on stage. I love connecting. I love that I get to have Jaimee with me right now, and so we get to do this together. She's gonna’ be coming out with her own record soon, and then she'll be doing her thing. This is special because I get to have her with me. Also, I just feel right when I'm out there working instead of talking about the work or doing all the things to get there. I'm a troubadour by nature. I like hopping around, town to town, meeting folks, and hotel rooms. The whole enchilada. I like it. I go around the world. It's a real privilege to have this job.

Gregg Shapiro: The title of the album comes from a Martin Luther King Jr. quote, “Only when it is dark enough can you see the stars.” Do you think there’s any chance that during these dark times, there will be stars bright enough to illuminate the way to a better future?

Mary Gauthier: I absolutely have to believe that, yes.

January 7 • 8pm Abdo New River Room Hailed by the Associated Press as “one of the best songwriters of her generation,” Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter, Mary Gauthier’s first nine albums presented extraordinary confessional songs, deeply personal, profoundly emotional pieces.

As she has so eloquently accomplished over the past 25 years, Gauthier has used her art once again to traverse the uncharted waters of the past few years.

TICKETS at BrowardCenter.org Ticketmaster | 954.462.0222 Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office Group Sales | 954.660.6307 Performances at the Broward Center and The Parker are supported by the Broward Performing Arts Foundation.

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T I C K E T S M A K E G R E AT G I F T S !

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THE HIT BROADWAY MUSICAL

Visit Lauderdale Food and Wine Festival Announces Complete Event Lineup and Headline Chefs Jason Smith And Ingrid Hoffmann Along with Headline Musical Talent Alexander Starr

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he Visit Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival (VLFWF) coming January 9-15, 2023. Proceeds from VLFWF will benefit Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital.

The Timeline Taking place during an epic, week-long festival offering culinary events for ‘Everyone Under the Sun,’ the VLFWF co-founders Kate Reed and Phillip Marro have curated a tantalizing schedule of chef-to-chef battles, master mixologist showdowns, educational opportunities for aspiring chefs of all ages, and an impressive line up of featured talent for the Grand Tasting.

Not to bite off more than any guest can chew, each event is an individually ticketed experience, allowing cookingclass-seekers and foodies-on-the-find-for-their-nextfaire-fix the opportunity to mix-and-match their preferred tasting schedule.

The full schedule of events as follows: Monday, January 9th | 6:30pm Culinary Class: Empanada Party at Culinary Convenience with Chef Jorge Montes.

Tuesday, Jan 10th | 6:30pm Culinary Class: The Art of Charcuterie at Sistrunk Marketplace with Chef Jorge Montes.

Tuesday, Jan 10th | 6:30pm Culinary Class: Southern Cooking 101 at TRP Taste with Chef Chris Miracolo.

Wednesday, January 11th | 6:30pm Culinary Class: Topless Tapas at Sistrunk Marketplace with Chef Jorge Montes.

Wednesday, Jan 11th | 6:30pm Culinary Class: Cake Decorating… in a galaxy far, far away at New River Café and Bakery with Chef Sabrina

Courtemanche, winner of Sugar Rush Christmas on Netflix.

Thursday, Jan 12th | 6:30pm Culinary Class: Korean Vegan at Sistrunk Marketplace with Chef Jorge Montes.

Thursday, Jan 12th | 6:30pm Culinary Class: The Art of Pizza at Pizzeria Magaddino with Chef Tom Magaddino.

Sunday, Jan 15th | The Kids Can Cook™ Culinary Classes taking place during Picnic in the Park (a family fun affair), led by Chef Dario Stephen.

12pm | Ravioli Making - 1pm | Candy Sushi Making 2pm | The Art of Cupcake Decorating The Talent As if the line-up of culinary-masterminds and mixologyconnoisseurs wasn’t enough to impress any discerning palette, VLFWF has added a few featured guests to spice up The Grand Tasting, to be hosted on Saturday, January 14, 2023, from 12pm – 4pm.

Famed Chef Jason Smith – a “Triple Crown” winner in the competitive kitchens of Food Network; winning Holiday Baking Championship (season 3), Holiday Baking Championship: Kids vs Adults (2016), and the ultimate title of Next Food Network Star (season 13) – along with Chef Ingrid Hoffman – author, and host of Top Chef Estrellas (Telemundo), Simply Delicioso (Cooking Channel), and Delicioso (Univision) – will take to the main stage to host incredible culinary demonstrations.

Also on the main stage, local South Florida talent Alexander J. Starr – an Emmy-nominated songwriter, performer, and impact activist – will be performing, beginning at 1pm with sets throughout the day.

To purchase tickets for any of the events, please visit: www.VLFoodWine.com or follow us at @VLFoodWine on Facebook and Instagram (#VLFWF).

Content Courtesy of Visit Fort Lauderale and Susan Penrod PR | Photos Credit: Visit Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival

Benefiting

January 9-15 Culinary Experiences for Everyone Under the Sun .

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Autumn Horne

Suzanne Ankron

Island City Stage Presents Rotterdam from January 19 – February 19

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e all face life challenges and seek to find our way in life which is why Rotterdam by John Brittain, a modern play with a different perspective, will be part of Island City Stage’s 11th South Florida season starting January 19, 2023. The four-actor ensemble will awaken audiences through February 19, 2023.

“Although politics and media seem focused on the trans community, we don’t often hear personal stories about those who seek to transition and the effect that can have on those closest to them,” said Andy Rogow, artistic director of Island City Stage. “Rotterdam is a bittersweet comedy whose characters are in transition in one way or another.”

Rotterdam with co-producer Sue Wilder is a moving and sensitive exploration of gender identity and relationships.

Rotterdam tells the story of lesbian couple Alice (Suzanne Ankrum), who is struggling to come out to her parents, and Fiona (Autumn Horne) who tells Alice that she has always identified as a man. What happens next is a bittersweet comedy about gender, sexuality and being a long way from home. The show also features Abbie Fricke and Robert Koutras. Set sponsors are Doug Pew and Don Croxton, costume sponsors are Thomas Nichols and Dan Chadburn, and lighting and sound sponsor Scott Bennett.

Island City Stage will present its introspective Behind the Red Curtain public forum series tied to this show on January 9 (‘‘Living the Truth-Seeing the Trans Community Through a Different Lens”), as well as its popular Women’s Night at the Theatre. Additionally, the second Sunday performance of all 11th anniversary season shows will be Mimosa Sunday which includes a pre-show complimentary Mimosa (21 and over), a light bites reception and a post-show talk back. Seating limited and subject to availability based on confirmed ticket reservation on a first-come basis. Mimosa Sunday for Rotterdam will be on January 29.

Creating quality professional theatrical experiences focused on the LGBT+ community for a universal audience, Island City Stage’s 11th South Florida season offers thought-provoking productions that explore bittersweet longing, gender questions, loneliness, the ins and outs of friendship, the magic of random human connection, and ethnic conflict within the generational divide. Upcoming shows include I Wanna F@#king Tear You Apart by Morgan Gould from March 2 – April 2, Tracy Jones by Stephen Kaplan from May 18 – June 18, and Springfield Pride Commissioned by Island City Stage from August 3 – September 3.

For more information and tickets, please call (954) 928-9800 or email md@islandcitystage.org.

Facebook at facebook.com/IslandCityStageFL, Instagram @islandcitystage1.

Content Courtesy of Island City Stage and Goodman PR | Photos courtesy of Island City Stage

Photo Courtesy of Steven Shires

South Florida Symphony Orchestra’s 25th Anniversary Season Continues to Shine With Shostakovich, Ocklawaha - A Florida-Inspired World Premiere, and Great Opera Arias

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happening in Ukraine today. And, in Gottsch’s latest, he similarly reflects on the plight and culture of Native Americans. Finally, who can resist the sheer power of some of the world’s most beloved arias?”

outh Florida Symphony Orchestra’s (SFSO) 25th anniversary season continues to shine with Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 9, the world premiere of Ocklawaha by composer-in-residence John Gottsch, and a selection of great opera arias from Puccini, Verdi, and Lara. Led by Music Director Sebrina María Alfonso with guest soloists Catalina Cuervo, soprano and tenor Adam Diegel, the Masterworks programs are scheduled for 7:30 p.m., respectively, on January 24 at New World Center in Miami Beach, on January 25 at The Parker in Fort Lauderdale, and on January 26, opening the season at Tennessee Williams Theatre at The College of the Florida Keys in Key West.

Originally intended to be to a grandiose piece that would glorify Stalin’s regime and Russian victory over the Nazis in 1945, Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 9 rendered a more complex, thoughtful, and sometimes carefree composition. The composer was known for his resistance to the Soviet rule and his subversion tactics, often promising to compose the piece the regime wanted while actually giving it something else.

“This rich and varied program aims to take our audiences on a musical journey,” said Alfonso. “Shostakovich opposed a totalitarian regime in his time delivering a neoclassical work that was considered more of a rebuke than a celebration of ultimate strength and power. His Ninth Symphony certainly resonates with what is presently

SFSO’s composer-in-residence John Gottsch will present the world premiere of Ocklawaha. The Ocklawaha is a river originating in the lakes of central Florida and flowing north through some of the most mysterious, wild, and breathtakingly beautiful parts of the state. As a young boy, the composer traveled the Ocklawaha with his father,

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learning the history of the river and surrounding lakes, that brought to life on passing shores, the escaped slaves, Seminole warriors, and a Civil War battle. The musical narrative brings to life the storied struggles of Florida’s Native American ancestors through thoughtfully arranged orchestral movements.

In addition, the program includes a selection of great opera arias performed by Catalina Cuervo, soprano and Adam Diegel, tenor – Puccini’s “O Mio Babbino Caro,” “Un Bel Dì, Vedremo,” and “O Soave Fanciulla,” Agustín Lara’s “Granada,” Verdi’s “La Donna è Mobile” and “Brindisi” (The Drinking Song from La Traviata).

“We are thrilled to bring these masterful works to our audiences,” said Jacqueline Lorber, president and CEO of South Florida Symphony Orchestra. “Coming off a soldout holiday Messiah performance at The Parker, we’re energized to perform these pieces at our new home at Miami Beach’s renowned New World Center and we look forward to opening our season at the iconic Tennessee Williams Theatre in Key West where the Symphony first formed.”

Upcoming SFSO concerts include Brahms, Sibelius and Berlioz on February 15 and 18, an all Dvořák program on March 22, 23 and 25 and season closer Rachmaninoff and Bruckner on April 26.

Catalina Cuervo | Courtesy of Catalina Cuervo

John D. Gottsch | Courtesy of Halle von Kessler

John D. Gottsch was born in New Orleans, Louisiana and moved to Florida with his family shortly thereafter.

He spent his youth in the lake country of the Sunshine State traveling extensively and observing natural habitats.

These explorations of Florida gave him an enduring love for its beauty and wildlife. He has been a lifelong composer and a number of his compositions reflect his deep appreciation of the outdoors. Last year, SFSO premiered the live performance of Gottsch’s original composition Princess Yurievskaya to glowing reviews, and in 2020, SFSO premiered Sunset, both of which were featured on Gottsch’s 2020 debut album released by Naxos Records, the world’s leading classical music label. SFSO also performed Gottsch’s Bagatelles for Violin & Piano as part of its Summer With the Symphony Series in June 2021.

His piano suite, Homosassa, premiered in Palm Beach in 2020. His piano quintet, Maryland Hunt, premiered at the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in

Washington, DC in 2018 and has been performed in Philadelphia, Vienna, Rotterdam, and Baltimore. Gottsch splits his time between Baltimore and Key West.

Tickets may be purchased by visiting southfloridasymphony.org/2022-23-season or by calling (954) 522-8445.

For additional information, visit southfloridasymphony.org, call (954) 522-8445, or email info@southfloridasymphony.org.

Content Courtesy of SFSO and Goodman PR

EXPERIENCE THE MUSIC

Celebrating South Florida Symphony Orchestra’s 25th Season!

SHOSTAKOVICH | GOTTSCH WORLD PREMIERE | GREAT OPERA ARIAS Jan. 24: New World Center • Jan. 25: The Parker Jan. 28: Tennessee Williams Theatre at The College of the Florida Keys BRAHMS | SIBELIUS | BERLIOS Feb. 15: The Parker • Feb 18: Tennessee Williams Theatre DVOŘÁK MASTERWORKS March 22: The Parker • March 23: New World Center March 25: Tennessee Williams Theatre RACHMANINOFF | BRUCKNER April 26: The Parker Concert Venues:

The Parker Ft. Lauderdale

New World Center Miami Beach

Tennessee Williams Theatre Key West

TICKETS FROM $15 ON SALE NOW!*

southfloridasymphony.org | 954.522.8445 *Tickets from $15 at The Parker and $25 at New World Center and Tennessee Williams Theatre

Photo: AndrewMeade.com • Caiti McKinney, French Horn; Imanuel Sandoval, Violin; Sebrina María Alfonso, Music Director; Huifang Chen, Concertmaster; James Drayton, Oboe.

Photo Courtesy of Alice Soyer

Photo Courtesy of Pompano Beach Arts and Sypro Gyra

Spyro Gyra and David Sanborn Headline Two-Day Jazz Fest Pompano Beach

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ompano Beach Arts has announced the complete lineup for the much anticipated second annual Jazz Fest Pompano Beach taking place Friday, January 20 and Saturday, January 21, 2023. The headlining act for Friday night’s concert on the Great Lawn by the beach is 13-time Grammy Award-nominated jazz fusion band Spyro Gyra.

Performing Saturday afternoon in Old Town Pompano Beach is a stellar selection of jazz artists including Nanny Assis, Fanni Sárközy, Yanier Horta, Julio Montalvo and the Fabulous Dixie Kings, and the FIU Jazz Big Band with the FIU Student Vocal Studio. Topping off this incredible Saturday lineup is the already announced headliner, sixtime Grammy Award-winning jazz saxophonist David Sanborn. Tickets and details at www.pompanobeacharts. org/jazzfest “We are honored to bring these world-class musicians to our city,” said Ty Tabing, Cultural Affairs Director. “During this two-day ‘jazz-takeover’ of Pompano Beach, we will be showcasing almost every style of jazz there is. This event is a tremendous opportunity to enjoy incredible music and explore the beauty of our city!”

due to its relentless schedule of 48 years of performing.

To date, they have logged more than 10,000 shows on six continents and released 35 albums, garnering platinum and gold records along the way. Spyro Gyra rose from humble beginnings in Buffalo, New York in 1974 to their current international prominence in the jazz world. Every year, they continue to exhibit how to remain among a relative handful of artists who will be able to say that they have worked constantly in their 50-year career in the year 2024. Their energy and joy in concert match their unmatched musicality.

Day 2 - Saturday, January 21 | 2pm - 10 pm VIP $65 | GA free | RSVPs requested

Old Town | 41 NE 1st St, Pompano Beach, FL 33060 Tamara G. from 101.5 LITE FM Florida will be hosting:

Great Lawn by the beach

Fanni Sárközy Sárközy is a multi-award-winning pianist, singer and composer, proficient in jazz and classical music, and highly regarded in her native Hungary. Her composition "No Time to Lose" won the Grand Prize at the International Songwriting Contest in France. In 2012, she won the Best Jazz Album of the Year in Hungary's Fonogram Awards (often dubbed the “Hungarian Grammys”) with the Mrs. Columbo Band.

Spyro Gyra Spyro Gyra has long been known to its peers in the contemporary jazz world as a “well-oiled road machine”

Yanier Horta Cuban-born Grammy-nominee Horta is a versatile saxophonist, multi- instrumentalist, bandleader and

Day 1--Spyro Gyra - Friday, January 20, 2023, 7pm - 10 pm VIP $65 | GA free | RSVPs requested

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composer. His music has been featured in recordings, festivals and world tours, sharing studios and stages with great artists including Gonzalo Rubalcaba, Ricardo Arjona, Juan Gabriel, Aymee Nuviola, Francisco Céspedes, Luis Enrique, Cristian Castro, Manuel Mijares and many more.

Since 2008, Horta has also been a Music Director for Miami television, with stints on Esta Noche Tu Night and El Show de Alexis Valdés, both hosted by Alexis Valdés, and El Arañaz, hosted by Omar Moynelo.

Julio Montalvo & The Fabulous Dixie Kings Montalvo is one of the leading trombonists from the island of Cuba. Collaborating with The Fabulous Dixie Kings, he brings his special magic to meld seamlessly with authentic traditional New Orleans Dixieland jazz music at its finest. The Fabulous Dixie Kings create toe-tapping, swinging and infectious music that creates a fun, upbeat and immersive atmosphere. Their repertoire includes all the classic Dixieland standards and New Orleans jazz favorites!

FIU Jazz Big Band and FIU Student Vocal Studio The FIU Studio Jazz Big Band is one of the most visible artistic groups at Florida International University. With major performances annually both as a featured group and with world-renowned guest artists, the band has been internationally recognized as one of the premier college jazz ensembles in the world. The FIU Student Vocal Studio will accompany the band, under the direction of Dr. Lisanne Lyons.

Nanny Assis Assis is a Brazilian-American percussionist, singer, composer, and guitarist based in New York city. He has collaborated with many renowned musicians, including Janis Siegel, Vinicius Cantuária, Eumir Deodato, Joao Donato, Kenny Baron, and Paul Simon. In both 2011 and

2017, he was the recipient of the prestigious Brazilian International Press Award as “Best Singer of the Year.”

Assis is also a composer of the musical Rio Uphill, with 16 original songs that fuse Brazilian music such as samba, forró and funk carioca with contemporary musical theater, rock and rap. The show was a 2021 Richard Rodgers Award finalist, presented Off-Broadway in 2020 in The York Theatre Company’s Developmental Reading Series and in the 2019 ASCAP Musical Theatre Workshop led by Stephen Schwartz.

David Sanborn Universally known as one of the most iconic saxophonists of the current age, David Sanborn is a jazz musician at heart, but has transcended genres and musical boundaries throughout his entire career. Sanborn has released 24 albums, won six Grammy Awards, and has had eight gold albums and one platinum. He continues to be one of the most active musicians of his genre and an inspiration to countless other musicians.

Rolling Stone has stated, “Among the great saxophonists of the past four decades, David Sanborn has earned an identity all his own. He’s jazz, he’s funk, he’s soul, he’s pop, he’s blues, he’s rock. Most remarkably, he excels in each of these genres with a voice that is forceful and tender, sensuous and subtle.”

Tamara G. from 101.5 LITE FM Florida will be hosting the Saturday afternoon performances, and T. Mark Ruffin from SIRIUS XM Jazz Radio will be hosting headliner David Sanborn’s show.

Festival experiences will include up-close-and-personal performances, artist conversations, multiple outdoor stages with seasoned and emerging artists, as well as drink, food, and art vendors.

For more information: www.pompanobeacharts.org/jazzfest About the City of Pompano Beach Cultural Affairs Department The mission of the Cultural Affairs Department is to provide cultural programming that includes visual arts, digital media, music, film, theater, dance and public art for the enjoyment and enrichment of residents and visitors to Pompano Beach, Broward County, and the greater South Florida area. The department programs and manages the City’s premiere cultural arts venues, including the Pompano Beach Cultural Center, Ali Cultural Arts Center, Bailey Contemporary Arts Center, and the Blanche Ely House Museum. The department also oversees the City’s Public Art Program and the prestigious National Endowment for the Arts’ Our Town grant awarded to the Pompano Beach Crossroads place-making arts initiative.

Content Courtesy of Pompano Beach Arts and Kay Renz PR

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Photo by Karl Giant

Friday, January 20, 2023 The Parker

The Very Definition of Ultra An Interview with Ultra Naté

By Gregg Shapiro

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very time house and dance music legend Ultra Naté releases a new album, it’s a cause for celebration.

Her latest, simply titled Ultra (Peace Biscuit), is no exception. Maintaining the house and club vibe we’ve come to associate with her, Ultra Naté unfurls a set of irresistible bangers that are sure to have even the most determined wallflowers heading for the dance floor. More than 30 years into her career, Ultra Naté continues to find ways to speak to us, moving us both physically and emotionally. And her appreciation for her LGBTQ+ fans goes without saying, but it’s nice to hear what she has to say about us nevertheless.

Gregg Shapiro: Did you ever get a chance to meet Byron Stingily from Ten City?

Ultra Naté: Oh my God, yes! We’ve been longtime friends.

We’re like family, basically. We’ve known each other since the beginning of my career. Initially, I was signed to Warner Brothers and was writing my first album. After I wrote “It’s Over Now” and “Scandal,” and was writing for the full album, Byron submitted a couple of songs, and one or two of them ended up on that album. We’ve probably been friends since 1991.

Gregg Shapiro: Because you are closely associated with the house music scene, did you ever have the chance to work with the legendary Frankie Knuckles?

Ultra Naté: Absolutely! That was my big brother, my mentor. Every year, we mark his birthday and as well as his official day, August 25th every year, that was sanctioned by, at the time, Senator Barack Obama. I feel very privileged to be part of a community that was very close to him on an intimate level and to have shared some really beautiful, longtime memories with him, and to have had conversations and have experienced that wonderful bear hug and his loving being. To be a part of his art! He’s remixed songs for me. Some of the work that I was doing with Quentin Harris, back in the mid-2000s when he had come back on

the scene, doing production and remixing again, as well as a couple of projects that I was putting out. He was very influential as one of my mentors in my DJ career.

Gregg Shapiro: 2021 was the 30th anniversary of the release of your debut album Blue Notes in the Basement.

Were you able to do anything special to mark the occasion?

Ultra Naté: Not really. We were unable to pull that all together. We are working on some things behind the scenes, I can’t really say what that is at the moment. We are working on things to actually give “Blue Notes in the Basement” and “One Woman’s Insanity” another day in the sun. It won’t come out this year, but for 2023, hopefully, all that will come together. We’re finally in conversations with Warner Brothers and it looks like that may all come together.

Gregg Shapiro: On January 20, you are one of the featured performers who are part of the concert event A Night at the Disco: Where the Stars Shine. What are you most looking forward to about that show?

Ultra Naté: It sounds like it’s going to be really fun and epic; so much goodwill being put out there. We need every community, everybody, to put 110% effort forward to keep the goodwill out there. We need everyone to connect and keep some semblance of community and reality. I feel like so many things have been dismantled and discombobulated. So many people are dealing with trauma that’s not being addressed. They’re just getting through their day, day after day. I feel like we are in flux on so many levels as a country. So, we need every opportunity to celebrate, every moment. There’s still a lot of trauma from the pandemic that we haven’t dealt with.

The loss of so many people. We just kind of all picked up and started carrying on about our day because we have to, in order to survive. That’s how we have to move. But our brains and emotions are still trying to process what has happened in the last two years.

Ultra Naté performs as part of the concert experience A Night at the Disco: Where the Stars Shine at The Parker in Fort Lauderdale on January 20, 2023.

Sunday, January 22, 2023 | The Parker Thursday, January 26, 2023 | The Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts

Belinda Davids Steps Into the Spotlight as Whitney Houston

By Denny Patterson Are you ready to dance with somebody?

The Greatest Love of All: A Tribute to Whitney Houston is coming to the Kravis Center on Thursday, January 26, 2023. Featuring the breathtaking vocals of South African songstress Belinda Davids accompanied by a live band, backing vocalists, and choreographed dancers, plus stateof-the-art sound, lighting, vision, and theatrical effects, this critically acclaimed and beautifully crafted concert honors the talent, music, and memory of one of the world’s most revered singers.

Denny Patterson: Is there anything in particular you are looking forward to the most about this tour?

Belinda Davids: We haven’t been to Florida in a while.

We loved it here the last time and look forward to it again.

The weather is amazing!

This two-hour production is full of joy, nostalgia, and wonderment, and OutClique caught up with Davids to talk more about it.

Denny Patterson: Have you always had a passion for singing and performing?

Belinda Davids: I have been singing since the age of five, and I loved it then because of the effect I had on people when I sang. When I started singing with my first band at the age of 14, I think I knew this was going to be my journey. And believe it or not, I might be exhausted at the end of a vigorous tour, but everything in my body would do it again and again.

Denny Patterson: Thank you for taking some time to chat with me, Belinda! Can you begin by telling us what audiences can expect from The Greatest Love of All: A Tribute to Whitney Houston?

Belinda Davids: First I need to say that this show is not a lifetime story of Whitney Houston’s life. It’s a concert the way Whitney was on stage in concert. We have an amazing band and stage with an amazing show to watch. We chose most of her number one hits from the beginning of her career all the way to her last album, and we have some costume changes that replicate hers.

Denny Patterson: When did you realize you had a knack for singing Whitney's songs, and what drew you to her music?

Belinda Davids: When I was young, I realized that I had similar range and technique, so I practiced and listened to her to no end. When my friends and neighbors heard me sing Whitney, it’s all they wanted me to sing, and they started calling me Whitney. So, she ended up in all my setlists as I traveled the world. What drew me to her was when I saw her on tour for the first time. I fell in love with how relatable she was. She was bright and young, and the innocence she portrayed was what I wanted to be.

Denny Patterson: You have been performing this show since 2012. How are you constantly keeping it fresh and exciting?

Belinda Davids: We update costumes, swap out some songs, and we bring in an orchestra sometimes. We are always looking for new parts or angles of Whitney's career and essence that we can highlight.

Denny Patterson: Which song of hers is your absolute favorite?

Belinda Davids: It’s hard to say! I could say “The Greatest Love of All,” but I love the I'm Your Baby Tonight album.

Her first album, Whitney, was so good as well. Do you see where I’m going with this? It’s hard to say (laughs). But on stage in the show, I love doing “I Have Nothing.”

OutClique.com | 145

Denny Patterson: Whitney's songs are very vocally demanding. How do you keep your voice healthy and strong enough to sing her music?

Belinda Davids: I think it’s just keeping my body healthy, but there are routines I have when I’m on tour. Lots of water and no acidic foods or drinks. Vocal warmups are also very important, and then I have to pace myself. I have to know which song to hold back on and which to give my all on.

Denny Patterson: What do you think Whitney would be doing if she was still with us today?

Belinda Davids: I would like to think she would have catered to my generation. More mature. I know she lived to sing. She believed it was a gift from God. As a matter of fact, I think she probably would have given us a crazy Gospel album.

Denny Patterson: What is something you learned about Whitney as a performer that you didn't know before starring in this show?

Belinda Davids: That all she really just wanted to do was sing.

Denny Patterson: Are there any future goals you hope to accomplish with this production?

Belinda Davids: I recently did this show in Cape Town in an arena that not a lot of local artists can pull off, and it sold out. It’s only 5,000 full, but I want to do bigger than that. I know what you’re thinking, I'm just a tribute, but I want more people to see this show. I want people to remember her. I know no one will forget her, but when I talk about her, people always go, ‘oh, she died tragically.’ She was also the voice of my generation, and the next and the next. She was so ahead of her time, and I want people to remember that. So, the more people I reach the better.

Denny Patterson: What about in regard to your career overall?

Belinda Davids: Of course, I will release my own music.

I’m going to step away eventually from this show and accomplish my other dream, but being the age that I am, I want to see how long I can do it. It’s a challenge in itself to sing 21 of her songs and dance in high heels five nights a week, but I love it!

Stay up-to-date and connect with Davids by following her on Facebook @BelindaDavidsMusic, Instagram @ImBelindaDavids, TikTok @BelindaDavids76, or visit her official website, BelindaDavids.com. Visit Kravis.org for more information and to purchase tickets for The Greatest Love Of All: A Tribute to Whitney Houston.

Photos Courtesy of “The Greatest Love of All”

146 | OutClique.com

2 0 2 3 S E T H R U D E T S KY ’ S

BROADWAY CONCERT SERIES P R E S E N T E D BY M A R K CO R TA L E Experience three intimate evenings of incredible music and hilarious conversations hosted by Seth Rudetsky, whom The New York Times dubbed “The Mayor of Broadway,” featuring Tony, Olivier and Drama Desk Award Winners.

CHITA RIVERA

HOST SETH RUDETSKY The SiriusXM host interviews each Broadway artist live onstage and accompanies them on the piano as they sing their greatest hits.

West Side Story, Chicago, Kiss of the Spiderwoman

RAMIN KARIMLOO

JESSIE MUELLER

Funny Girl, The Phantom of the Opera, Les Misérables

Waitress, Beautiful-The Carole King Musical, Carousel

February 26

January 29

March 16

SINGLE TICKETS ON SALE NOW! THE MORE YOU BUY, THE MORE YOU SAVE Buy all 3 SHOWS and

SAVE 20%

TICKETS at ParkerPlayhouse.com • Ticketmaster | 954.462.0222 The Parker Box Office • Group Sales 10+ | 954.660.6307 WELLS HALL Performances at the Broward Center and The Parker are supported by the Broward Performing Arts Foundation.

SEE WHAT THE NOISE IS ALL ABOUT!

FEBRUARY 1ST 7:30PM

CORAL SPRINGS CENTER FOR THE ARTS

BOX OFFICE: 954.344.5990 | THECENTERCS.COM

February 5 • 8pm The Parker Wells Hall

2022/2023 2022/2023 Broward Center Dance & Classical Series is in Full Bloom

© Lisa Marie Mazzucco

Experience magic, power and beauty through an array of showstopping performances, from hometown virtuosos, and a legendary icon, to dynamic exhibitions from around the world and the return of an acclaimed family favorite.

Step Afrika February 5 • 6pm The Parker Wells Hall

Itzhak Perlman March 9 • 8pm Broward Center

Malevo March 9 • 8pm The Parker

The Mikado March 12 • 4pm Broward Center

Au-Rene Theater

Wells Hall

Au-Rene Theater

DESIGN YOUR OWN 3+ SHOW SEASON AND SAVE 25%* For more information, visit BrowardCenter.org/ARTS *Subscription processing fees apply. Not valid on previously purchased tickets. No exchanges or refunds.

All artists, dates, times and prices are subject to change without notice. All sales final.

Performances made possible in part by:

Performances at the Broward Center and The Parker are supported by the Broward Performing Arts Foundation.

Photo Credit: Zoran Jelenic

Saturday, February 4, 2023 | The Parker Playhouse

Keep on Trockin’ Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo at The Parker

T

oeing the line between high art and high camp, Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo and its 16 all-male beloved burly dancers vow to “Keep on Trockin” as the company prepares to celebrate its 50th anniversary season in 2024.

A company of professional male dancers performing the full range of the classical ballet and modern dance, the "Trocks," as they are affectionately known, boast a wicked comedic sense of humor which is only outmatched by their panache and technical prowess. Every performance frivolously froths with tutus and testosterone, blushpink ballet pumps, fierce false eyelashes, and prima ballerina attitude.

As the New York Times proclaimed, “Ballet is a completely absurd art — and we love it to pieces: that’s what Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo proclaims with every move.”

The Trocks have established themselves as a major dance phenomenon throughout the world. Their frenzied annual schedule has included appearances in over 35 countries and over 600 cities worldwide since its founding, as well as television appearances and a 2017 feature documentary, Rebels on Pointe. The company was also featured on PBS American Masters in 2021 with a new documentary, Ballerina Boys.

After premiering in the late-late shows in OffOff Broadway lofts, the Trocks quickly garnered reviews in New York that established the

company as an artistic and popular success.

By mid- 1975, the Trocks’ were gaining national and international acclaim through a Richard Avedon photo essay in Vogue as well as articles and notices in publications such as Variety, Oui, and The London Daily Telegraph which raved, “We came to laugh, but we stayed to worship.”

After nearly a half-century of boldly defying classical ballet’s conventional gender classification, The Trocks remain at the forefront as noted in a statement the company released.

“Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo was founded in 1974 in the wake of the Stonewall Riots. Early performances were held on the makeshift stage of the NYC LGBTQ rights organization known as the West Side Discussion Group, an offshoot of the groundbreaking Mattachine Society, one of the first LGBTQ rights groups in the US. This historic backdrop has always underscored commitment to providing a stage for dancers often underrepresented in classical ballet due to their sexual orientation, gender identity, size, social class, race, and ethnicity. While being slyly subversive, the Trock’s global visibility has helped move drag from counterculture to its current place in the mainstream. While we recognize that there is still much to be done to achieve full diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in the ballet world, within our own company, and in the world at large, we strive to build and deepen this work both on and offstage.”

The 2022/2023 Broward Center Dance and Classical Series brings Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo to Lillian S. Wells Hall at The Parker on Saturday, February 4 at 8 p.m. Tickets are available through Ticketmaster.

Content Courtesy of the Broward Center and Pierson Grant PR

FEB 9TH | 7:30PM

CORAL SPRINGS CENTER FOR THE ARTS

BOX OFFICE: 954.344.5990 | THECENTERCS.COM

Photo Courtesy of GMCSF

GMCSF Leader’s Job Just Got Bigger

By John Hayden

S

ometimes bigger actually is better. That’s what the Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida (GMCSF) believes is the case after merging with the Fort Lauderdale Gay Men’s Chorus. Bringing together two powerhouse groups doesn’t just happen. Sounds and styles must be folded in, performances adjusted, and inclusiveness maintained.

A lot of that falls on the shoulders of Gabe Salazar, GMCSF’s artistic director. “For me, growth is extremely exciting,” he told OutClique. “As we grow, the challenges ensure we always hold tight to our core values and mission as a chorus. I always want to ensure we keep the sense of ‘family’ no matter how large we get. We are thrilled to welcome our new members. They bring years of experience and talent with them and will only enhance our organization.”

Auditions for GMCSF’s season 13 lineup will start in a few weeks. You can register at GMCSF.org/Audition.

“The future is so promising,” Salazar said. “Especially since we are growing at a great pace. I look forward to expanding our performance opportunities. In addition, I am excited to explore musical possibilities, including but not limited to collaborations with other organizations and commissions and world premieres for our ensemble.”

Photo Credit: Ginny Dixon Photographics

The merger comes in the middle of the 2022-23 season.

GMCSF just finished a pair of triumphant holiday shows, including one featuring Broadway legend Shoshana Bean at Hard Rock Live. As the second half of the season

starts, Salazar says fans will find the augmented chorus even better than before. “The season will become more focused and less confusing to the public regarding where the chorus has its concert events, where the public finds correct ticket sales, and which audition to attend.” The upcoming 2023-24 season will be a fully merged project from the start. “We just had our first brainstorming meeting around Season 14. So far, there's nothing to share, but we look forward to communicating the concept and vision once it's been developed. There will be an increased level of dedication and musicianship from the membership. As we expand in size, we expect to diversify even more.”

For more on their upcoming shows, visit GMCSF.org.

PERFORMED BY

DISNEY’S BELOVED SONGS REIMAGINED BY THE GAY MEN’S CHORUS OF SOUTH FLORIDA IN A CELEBRATION OF LIFE, LOVE, FAMILY, AND PRIDE

Saturday, June 24, 2023 at 8:00 pm | Sunday, June 25, 2023 at 3:00 pm

in the Lillian S. Well Hall at The Parker, Fort Lauderdale, FL © DISNEY

Tickets at GMCSF.ORG