SGN January 22, 2016 - Section 2

Seattle Gay News

Issue 4, Volume 44, January 22, 2016

Arts & Entertainment

Seattle Opera presents Jessica Skerritt: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s A lady about town The Marriage of Figaro

Arthur Woodley (Dr. Bartolo), Margaret Gawrysiak (Marcellina), Nuccia Focile (Susanna) and Shenyang (Figaro) in The Marriage of Figaro – Photo by Philip Newton

by Sharon Cumberland SGN A&E Writer THE MARRIAGE OF FIGARO SEATTLE OPERA MARION OLIVER MCCAW HALL January 16 (Sat/Wed cast) (also 1/20, 1/23, 1/27 & 1/30)

Any production of The Marriage of Figaro would be a gratifying burst of music and light in a rainy January, but Seattle Opera’s new version of Mozart’s marvelous opera is especially welcome. In addition to showing off some of the composer’s most beloved music, this witty production and

Jessica Skerritt – twitter.com

by Eric Andrews-Katz SGN A&E Writer HOW TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESS WITHOUT REALLY TRYING 5TH AVENUE THEATRE January 28-February 21

see jessica skerritt page 13

see Figaro page 4

And the winners of the 2015 Gypsy Rose Lee Awards are…

There’s a good chance you have seen Jessica Skerritt about town. She’s performed on stage extensively at The Village Theatre as well as becoming a fixture in the stable of the 5th Avenue’s repertoire. From Grey Gardens, Little Shop of Horrors, A Christmas Story, or The Producers, Ms.

Disgraced is a powerful and provocative production – the effects of racism, within and without

Emily Chisholm, Sam Hagen, and Tyler Trerise in The Flick – Photo by John Ulman

by Miryam Gordon SGN A&E Writer Broadway-bound new musical, Come From Away, presented by Seattle Repertory Theatre, wins four Gypsys, tying with another new musical, Lizard Boy, also produced by Seattle Repertory Theatre and

also with four Gypsys, a company that has been known for years as a powerhouse dramatic non-musical play playhouse!

Every single actor in the trio of Lizard Boy won in his/her category! Writer/composer/performer (and big Gypsy winner, this year, for Composing and Lead Actor see gypsy awards page 3

Nisi Sturgis (Emily), Bernard White ( (Amir), J. Anthony Crane (Isaac) and Zakiya Young ( Jory) in Disgraced – Photo by Liz Lauren

by Miryam Gordon SGN A&E Writer DISGRACED SEATTLE REPERTORY THEATRE Through February 6

I can totally see what the Pulitzer judges would appreciate in the searing script by Ayad Akhtar, Disgraced. The play not only punches through racism, religion, art, and fear-of-others, it breaks open taboos everysee disgraced page 8

2 Seattle Gay News

January 22, 2016

Celebrating 41 Years!

Gypsy awards continued from cover

- Male) Justin Huertas, with the rest of the team, is back at work refining Lizard Boy for future efforts, which many guess could easily mean an Off-Broadway mounting.

Jeffrey Herrmann, Managing Director of Seattle Repertory Theatre, said that Seattle should definitely expect more musicals from the Rep in the future. He suggested they will be a “Seattle Rep” type of musical, though exactly what niche the musicals will fill isn’t yet clear.

Other standouts on the Larger Theaters side were The Flick at New Century Theatre Company and Slaughterhouse-Five at Book-It Repertory Theatre (5 and 3 awards respectively), and in Smaller Theaters, Water By the Spoonful by Theatre22 and The Art of Bad Men by MAP Theatre (3 and 2 awards respectively)!

The 2015 Gypsy Rose Lee Award winners are: Excellence in Production of a Play (Larger Theaters): The Flick New Century Theatre Company (Smaller Theaters): Water By The Spoonful - Theatre22 Excellence in Production of a Musical Come From Away Seattle Repertory Theatre Excellence in Direction of a Play (Larger Theaters): Josh Aaseng - Slaughterhouse-Five (Book-It Repertory Theatre) (Smaller Theaters): Kelly Kitchens - The Art of Bad Men (MAP Theatre) Excellence in Direction of a Musical TIE!!

Eric Ankrim - American Idiot (ArtsWest) Christopher Ashley - Come From Away (Seattle Repertory Theatre) Excellence in Performance in a Play as a Lead Actor (Male) (Larger Theaters): Robert Bergin/Erik Gratton/Todd Jefferson Moore - Slaughterhouse-Five (Book-It Repertory Theatre) (Smaller Theaters): Tyler Trerise - My Mañana Comes (ArtsWest) Excellence in Performance in a Musical as a Lead Actor (Male) Justin Huertas - Lizard Boy (Seattle Repertory Theatre) Excellence in Performance in a Play as a Lead Actor (Female) (Larger Theaters): Claudine Mboligikpelani Nako Little Bee (Book-It Repertory Theatre) (Smaller Theaters): Kathy Hsieh - Chinglish (ArtsWest) Excellence in Performance in a Musical as a Lead Actor (Female) EmilyRose Frasca Are You There, God? It’s Me, Karen Carpenter (STAGEright Theatre) Excellence in Performance of a Play as a Supporting Actor (Male) any non-lead

Visit us online www.sgn.org

William A. Williams, Justin Huertas, and Kirsten deLohr Helland in Lizard Boy – Photo by Andry Laurence

(Larger Theaters): Sam Hagen - The Flick (New Century Theatre Company) (Smaller Theaters): G. Valmont Thomas Water By The Spoonful (Theatre22) Excellence in Performance of a Musical as a Supporting Actor (Male) William A. Williams - Lizard Boy (Seattle Repertory Theatre) Excellence in Performance of a Play as a Supporting Actor (Female) (Larger Theaters): Emily Chisholm - The Flick (New Century Theatre Company) (Smaller Theaters): Rose Cano - Water By The Spoonful (Theatre22) Excellence in Performance of a Musical as a Supporting Actor (Female) - any non-lead Kirsten deLohr Helland - Lizard Boy (Seattle Repertory Theatre) Excellence in Performance as an Ensemble (Larger Theaters): Come From Away - Seattle Repertory Theatre (Eric Ankrim, Petrina Bromley, Jenn Colella, Joel Hatch, Rodney Hicks, Kendra Kassebaum, Chad Kimball, Lee MacDougall, Caesar Samayoa, Q Smith, Astrid Van Wieren, Sharon Wheatley) (Smaller Theaters): The Art of Bad Men - MAP Theatre (Grace Carmack, Peggy Gannon, Ben McFadden, Ben Burris, Brandon Ryan, Sean Schroeder) Excellence in Set Design (Larger Theaters): Andrea Bryn Bush - The Flick (New Century Theatre Company) (Smaller Theaters): Paul Thomas - Dump Site (Seattle Immersive Theatre)

January 22, 2016

Excellence in Costume Design (Larger Theaters): Deb Trout - Mr. Burns, a post-electric play (ACT Theatre) (Smaller Theaters): Ali Rose Panzarella 99 Ways To Fuck A Swan (Washington Ensemble Theatre) Excellence in Lighting Design (Larger Theaters): Andrew D. Smith - The Flick (New Century Theatre Company) (Smaller Theaters): Lindsay Smith - Mud (New City Theater) Excellence in Sound Design (Larger Theaters): Evan Mosher and Robertson Witmer The Flick (New Century Theatre Company) (Smaller Theaters): Evan Mosher and Andre Nelson Slowgirl (Seattle Public Theater) Excellence in Musical Direction Ian Eisendrath - Come From Away (Seattle Repertory Theatre) Excellence in Choreography or Movement Trina Mills, Shadou Mintrone and Gabe Corey - American Idiot (ArtsWest) Excellence in Local Playwriting Josh Aaseng - Slaughterhouse-Five (Book-It Repertory Theatre) Excellence in Local Composing Justin Huertas - Lizard Boy (Seattle Repertory Theatre) Congratulations to the winners! Go to www.facebook.com/SeattleTheaterWriters to “like” them and see reviews during the year, and watch for the 2016 nominees next January!

Seattle Gay News 3

Loverly My Fair Lady at Village Theatre in Everett Normal, and the highly acclaimed If/Then, Mr. Yorkey proves once again he has a sharp eye for direction as much as for writing. There is no stealing of focus from any of the ensemble, and the entire cast (minor roles as well as leads) are all excellent in their performances.

The Village Theatre’s production of My Fair Lady is appearing at the Everett Performing Arts Center, 2710 Wetmore Avenue, Everett WA. For ticket information, contact the box office at (425) 257-8600 or visit www.villagetheatre.org.

ing. Simply Charming.”

The story – in this case – is usually known by almost every person planning on attending the musical. However, that doesn’t take anything away from this production. Outside a church in London, a poor, Cockney flower girl, Eliza Doolittle, overhears a boast from Henry Higgins, a professor of linguistics and phonetics, saying how in six months, he could change this “squashed cabbage leaf” of a girl into a duchess ready for society. His collegue, Colonel Pickering, accepts the challenge and the two men start off on the magical transformation. After a few mishaps, Eliza is brought to the Embassy Ball and passes, not only as a princess, but also as a newly fully emerged woman.

The main leads of this production do excellent work. Mark Anders is perfect as the stuffy, “confirmed old bachelor” (a term meaning “homosexual” according to the International Movie Data Base), Henry Higgins. His singing voice is well suited for the character, and Anders presents Higgins with a sense of humanity despite the prig attitude (the way its written) of the professor.

Dan Kremer is Colonel Hugh Pickering, and Higgins’ partner in crime for Eliza’s transformation. He is more for comic relief and Mr. Kremer does a great job as “second banana” for Higgins. Allison Standley is the Cockney flower girl, Eliza Doolittle.

Her voice is almost as strong as her stage presence, and that says something in deed.

She handles the songs and lyrics very well, including an awesome High C at the end of “I Could Have Danced All Night.” Ms. Standley brings a slight attitude to Eliza’s transformation giving the role a small nuance of new life; that is how an actor should handle a classical role, by embracing the character and finding subtly different ways to portray her.

John Patrick Lowrie plays the dustman, and Eliza’s father, Alfred P. Doolittle. Mr. Lowrie completely imbibes this lovable, and crowd-pleasing character. His voice is perfect for the role and his comic timing is right on queue. Whether he is clowning it up with “With a Little Bit of Luck,” or leading the group number “Get Me to the Church on Time,” Mr. Lowrie creates this philosophical man of the gutter, and breathes much life into the character. Brian Yorkey is the director of this production.

Pulitzer Prize winning author of Next to

that drives the action. When Figaro sings “Se vuol ballare, signor contino…” (“If you want to dance, little Count…) his anger at being betrayed by the master he has faithfully served fairly boils over.

General Director Aiden Lang makes his stage direction debut in Seattle by remounting his original New Zealand Opera version with many of the same artists, including two Seattle Opera debutantes in major roles: the mononomial baritone Shenyang, from China, as Figaro, and the Slovenian soprano Bernarda Bobro as the Contessa.

I greatly appreciated the heartfelt, almost serious enactment of their roles, which made the comedy swirling around them that much more effective. And with their secure and expressive voices both were energetic companions for the fabulous Nuccia Focile, as Susana. We last saw Focile as Violetta in La Traviata, and I will never forget her performance as Nedda in Seattle Opera’s uniquely extended version of Pagliacci. What a pleasure to see her again in a role that requires clever acting as well as perfectly phrased, flawless singing! And Director Lang continues Seattle Opera’s tradition of providing a supporting cast that is as solid as its stars – an approach not always shared by the major opera companies – led this time by audience favorite Arthur Woodley, playing Dr. Bartolo.

The Seattle Opera Orchestra was a major star of the evening, conducted by Gary Thor Weedow, who has guided this superb ensemble through Handel’s Giulio Cesare and the more recent Semele, as well as Mozart’s darkest opera, Don Giovanni. His choice of the fortepiano for the recitatives instead of a harpsichord (or – horrors! – a modern piano) was an elegant touch. Its rounder, less tinkling sound is still soft enough to need amplification, but gives the production the more contemporary feel that characterizes this production. I had a chat

with fortepianist Phillip Kelsey at the intermission and learned that Mozart preferred this instrument, which was displacing the harpsichord in the late 18th century, and that the original production of Nozze di Figaro in 1786 used the fortepiano. Another lovely dimension to the musical evening that I particularly enjoyed was the way several principal singers used ornamentation in the da capo arias – a baroque practice that is being revived by conductors like Weedow, who encourage vocalists to offer their own extra notes and cadenzas at the end of arias.

Director Lang has also brought the original sets and costumes designed by New Zealanders Robin Rawstorne and Elizabeth Whiting to Seattle, giving a very original look to the 18th century universe. Whiting’s costumes are built on 18th century patterns from contemporary materials, while Rawstorne’s sets are richly abstract with ocular windows in soaring walls. As the audience enters they are confronted with a huge wooden surface – beautifully polished panels – that slide like shoji screens throughout the evening, changing the configuration of the stage with every scene, sometimes in the midst of a scene. It not only creates seamless movement throughout the fast-moving plot, but also, as the program notes point out, creates interior spaces that express the claustrophobic situation of the servants versus the capacious rooms of the aristocrats.

While the elegant simplicity of these sets are meant to diminish distraction from the rapid-fire plot, my only complaint about this production is that some of Director Lang’s choices complicate the action in unnecessary ways. Some of his interpolations seemed to me to be merely pointless (Why is there a mannequin under a veil in Act I? Why does the Count need to kick a serving woman in Act II?) but there was one di-

rectorial choice that undermined a central theme of the opera. In DaPonte’s libretto the Count’s infidelity is counterbalanced by the love and fidelity of his wife, who works with Susana and Figaro to expose her husband with the ultimate (successful) goal of reconciliation. In every production of The Marriage of Figaro I’ve seen (and I’ve seen a lot) the Contessa is true to the wish expressed in her first, heart-rending aria, “Porgi, amor” (Grant, Love...”), in which she begs the god of love to give her back her treasured husband, the Count, or let her die.

But in this production the Contessa engages in a flirtation with Cherubino that has them rolling around on the bed together, suggesting that she, too, is capable of infidelity. This is sheer invention on the part of the director, possibly to demonstrate Cherubino’s unbridled impulses. What is sacrificed, however, is the moral center of the plot. Without the Contessa’s faithfulness to her husband we suddenly find ourselves in the middle of Der Rosenkavelier, with the Contessa playing the Marschellin and Cherubino playing Octavian, her pretty-boy lover. That’s another interesting story, but not this story. Confusing the two reduces the meaning of The Marriage of Figaro to catch-as-catch-can situational ethics. That may appeal to a 21st century audience – if they even notice – but it goes against Mozart’s subtextual optimism and faith in the triumph of love.

But don’t let that keep you from seeing this otherwise delightful production of one of the great operas in the repertoire.

General Director Lang is off to a brilliant start, even if Stage Director Lang is fooling around with the story. It’s a wonderful combination of immortal music, class-conscious politics, hilarious farce, and thrilling singing.

Dan Kremer (Colonel Pickering), Allison Standley (Eliza Doolittle), and Mark Anders (Henry Higgins) in My Fair Lady – Photo by Mark Kitaoka © 2015 (Property of Village Theatre)

by Eric Andrews-Katz SGN A&E Writer MY FAIR LADY VILLAGE THEATRE EVERETT PERFORMING ARTS CENTER Through January 31 My Fair Lady is one of the true classics of musical theater. Not only does it provide a beautiful version of the rags-to-riches story, but it also gives audiences the wonderful works of book and lyrics writer Alan Jay Lerner, and the impresario composer, Frederick Loewe. Although quite familiar to most audience members, it is – in the words of the “Queen of Transylvania” – “Charm-

figaro

continued from cover marvelous cast give comic consideration to a serious subject: droit du seigneur, the ancient right of an aristocrat to deflower vassal brides on their wedding night.

Based on a rabble-rousing farce by the French playwright Beaumarchais, The Marriage of Figaro centers on the determination of Figaro, valet to Count Almaviva, to foil the Count’s plan to seduce, Susana, Figaro’s bride, before their wedding.

Though droit du seigneur is out of fashion and the Count has publicly renounced his right to it, he has moved the newlyweds to a room in the palace that makes Susana vulnerable to rape during Figaro’s absence.

As the Count’s nasty purpose is frustrated by plots and counter-plots to thwart or support his ardor, the lowly Figaro’s triumph in humiliating his aristocratic master was so revolutionary in its own time that Napoleon called the play “Revolution in action.”

Mozart’s librettist, Lorenzo DaPonte, lightens Beaumarchais’ plot into a frothy comedy of marital infidelity and sexual passion, especially through the complications of Cherubino, a handsome young fellow who personifies the unmanageable aspects of love. Yet Mozart’s composition articulates the emotional subtext of sorrow, anger, and anxiety without losing the musical excitement we all know so well. (If you don’t think you know this music, just listen to the overture – one of the most enticing pieces of music ever written and used in countless films, commercials, and concert settings). When Cherubino sings his plaintive aria “Voi che sapete” (“You who know what love is…”) or when the Contessa sings “Dove sono” (“Where are the beautiful times we once knew…”) we feel their poignant longing for the peace and stability in love rather than the chaos of passion

4 Seattle Gay News

January 22, 2016

My Fair Lady is truly one of the great musicals from the “Golden Age.” First opening in London (with Julie Andrews as Eliza Doolittle, Rex Harrison as Henry Higgins, and Stanley Holloway as Alfred P Doolittle), the show moved to Broadway on March 15, 1956 with almost all the leading actors recreating their roles. The show would run on Broadway for over six years and 2717 performances. The musical was originally nominated for 10 Tony Awards in the 1957 Season, winning six of them including Best Actor in a Musical for Rex Harrison (Julie Andrews would lose to Judy Holliday in Bells Are Ringing), and Best Outstanding Musical of the year.

The 1964 film version had both Rex Harrison and Stanley Holloway recreating their London/Broadway roles, but (controversially) passed over Julie Andrews for Audrey Hepburn’s playing of Eliza. Adding to the further controversy, Ms. Hepburn’s singing voice was dubbed, unknowingly to her until the film’s release, and the voice of Marni Nixon was used instead.

Celebrating 41 Years!

Lively, lovely Marriage of Figaro

by Alice Bloch SGN A&E Writer THE MARRIAGE OF FIGARO SEATTLE OPERA MARION OLIVER MCCAW HALL January 17 (Sun/Fri cast) (also 1/24 & 1/29) My name is Alice, and I’m a Marriage of Figaro addict. Figaro has been my favorite opera since I first discovered it in an undergraduate Music Literature class many years ago. I bought a set of LPs and listened to Mozart’s gorgeous music every night in my dorm room, and soon I was so far gone that I began studying Italian in the hope of understanding Lorenzo da Ponte’s witty libretto.

If you’re not already in love with the Mozart-da Ponte operas, the delightful production of Figaro now at Seattle Opera might just be your gateway drug. Conducted by Gary Thor Wedow and directed

by Seattle Opera General Director Aidan Lang, this production is thoroughly satisfying. It’s beautiful both visually and musically, as well as being hilarious, thoughtprovoking, and emotionally rich.

Sharon Cumberland’s review (in this week’s SGN) of the opening-night performance provides an excellent summary of the opera and of the main elements of this production. I agree with her on all counts.

The performance I attended featured a number of marvelous singers making their Seattle Opera debuts in this tale of a wild and crazy day in the household of Count and Countess Almaviva. Most notable was

soprano Laura Tatulescu in the demanding role of Susanna, the feisty, adorable, intelligent chambermaid who conspires with Figaro and the Countess to humble the arrogant, philandering Count. Tatulescu proved herself a supremely talented comedic actor and singer. I hope she’ll return to Seattle Opera soon and often.

Soprano Caitlin Lynch, a former Seattle Opera Young Artist, excelled as the Countess. Her rich, fluid voice is perfect for this role, and she delivered a lovely performance in her two big solos, in her duet with Susanna, and in the ensemble pieces with which this opera abounds.

Bass-baritone Aubrey Allicock also sang and acted well as Figaro, giving the character an endearing, childlike quality that added to the charm of the performance.

As his boss, the Count, bass John Moore made an impressive company debut, highlighting the comic aspects of the role and singing with admirable expressivity.

Another talented alumna of the Young Artists Program, mezzo-soprano Elizabeth Pojanowski, gave a fine performance as Cherubino, the hormone-stricken young man who sows chaos throughout the opera.

Bass Arthur Woodley as Dr. Bartolo and mezzo-soprano Margaret Gawrysiak (yet another former Young Artist) as Marcellina rounded out the principals in style.

One mark of the excellence of this production is that even the smallest roles are filled by outstanding singers: Charles Robert Austin as Antonio the gardener, Steven Cole as Don Basilio, Alasdair Elliott as Don Curzio, and former Young Artist

Laura Tatulescu (Susanna) and Aubrey Allicock (Figaro) in The Marriage of Figaro – Photo by Philip Newton

Amanda Opuszynski as Barbarina. (Please, Mr. Lang, bring back the Young Artists Program!)

Kudos to Maestro Wedow for keeping orchestra and singers together in the mayhem of this opera, a particularly difficult feat during the scenes in which characters pile onto the stage, interrupting the action as a duet becomes a trio, the trio becomes a quartet, and so on, until there’s a septet plus the chorus.

Figaro is considered a revolutionary opera not only because the servants are smarter than the masters and the women are smarter than the men, but also because Figaro and Susanna are granted the respect of accompaniment by strings and fort-

epiano during their recitatives. (In earlier operas, only noble characters’ recitatives were accompanied by strings.) The most recent previous production at Seattle Opera accompanied the servants by harpsichord only, so it was gratifying to hear this error rectified in the current production.

Special praise is due dramaturg Jonathan Dean, who always provides splendid English captions but who outdid himself in his captions for Figaro. His translations are clever, accurate, and perfect in tone.

If you attend this opera, I guarantee that you will leave McCaw Hall in a better mood than you had when you entered. Seriously, how many operas can promise that?

Find out who The Motherfucker with the Hat is at Washington Ensemble Theatre

by Miryam Gordon SGN A&E Writer THE MOTHERFUCKER WITH THE HAT WASHINGTON ENSEMBLE THEATRE Through February 1 Maybe you shouldn’t trust an addict…

When, in recovery, do you think you could start trying to trust an addict? Do we ever really know what someone is thinking or feeling? These questions, and a focus on humans relating in general, are the kind raised by Stephen Adly Guirgis’ play, The Motherfucker with the Hat. It’s being produced by Washington Ensemble Theatre at 12th Avenue Arts. While the language is blunt and crass, with lots of “fucks,” the fundamentals of love and trust and relationship are really what’s at stake.

Jackie (Erwin Galan) is a recovering addict with a girlfriend, Veronica (Anna Lamadrid), who waited for him while he was in the joint, a jerky, narcissistic sponsor, Ralph (Ali Mohamed al-Gasseir), and a cousin who used to adore him, Julio (Moises Castro). He’s proud of himself, having gotten out of jail and found a job. He wants to celebrate with Veronica, until he sees a man’s hat on the table, and instantly decides she’s been cheating on him. Just who is the motherfucker with the hat?

Part of what we can guess is that Jackie is projecting, knowing that if Veronica

found a female garment, it would mean Jackie had really cheated on her. Part of what we can guess is that Veronica is still doing drugs, as Ralph insistently points out, and nothing she says can be counted on.

The actors are so engaging that part of us probably wants it to be a random hat that doesn’t belong to anyone doing anything wrong, so they don’t have to fight.

Jackie is a hot head and makes some rash decisions, then comes to his cousin to help him manage. Castro, as the slightly effeminate cousin who loves his wife, is a ton of fun and gets to be the most honest and truth-telling character in the show. Julio is always there for Jackie, though, even as he astutely measures his cousin and finds him sadly lacking.

Jackie stays with Ralph and Ralph’s attractive, but weary wife Victoria (Meg McLynn), which poses another dilemma to Jackie. We see Jackie struggle with a badly working internal compass, trying to stay sober, and somehow true to himself.

Directed with a sure hand by Valerie Curtis-Newton, the small cast dances through the play (everyone participates in meticulous scenic changes), and inhabits the fully realized characters beautifully.

Each character avoids clichés and each gets a moment of clarity when sound advice and true understanding are uttered.

Galan shows every emotion on his facile face and compels watching at every moment. Lamadrid does some lovely understated acting, almost flatly delivering her

Visit us online www.sgn.org

Erwin Galán as Jackie in The Motherfucker with the Hat – Photo by Chris Bennion

lines, in a way that totally avoids what could have devolved into over-acting. al-Gassier is both repellant and attractive. McLynn takes a small role and makes the most of it.

Pete Rush creates an intricate 3/4 thrust set, where every different apartment is quickly remade, while making the audience feel like we’re part of the walls. Evan Anderson’s lighting highlights characters to help display their emotions.

The play has a lot of heart. The playwright likes his characters. Part of the second act does seem to go on a bit too long,

and the ending is a bit abrupt. Still, the production is a solid one.

Note that there is smoke, stage violence, and nudity, and be advised if those are problems for you.

For more information, go to www.washingtonensemble.org.

January 22, 2016

Seattle Gay News 5

Discuss your opinions with sgncritic@ gmail.com or go to www.facebook.com/SeattleTheaterWriters. More articles can be found at miryamstheatermusings.blogspot. com.

Stop-motion Anomalisa a visually imaginative melodrama

by Sara Michelle Fetters SGN A&E Writer ANOMALISA Now playing Michael Stone (voiced by David Thewlis) is the best-selling author of a service industry manual entitled “How May I Help You Help Them?” currently on a business trip in Cincinnati to deliver a speech at a gathering of customer service representatives. He is going through some form of psychological disrepair, unable to figure out what is wrong other than he’s feeling depressingly distant from his wife and child back home in California. He calls an old flame, offering to buy her a drink at his hotel, but the meeting hardly goes as well as he wanted it to, so when the reunion unceremoniously comes to an end he tromps back up to his room to call it a night.

But in the hallway he runs into two young women attending the next day’s conference. Each is a big fan of his book and proclaim to be eagerly anticipating his keynote address. Michael offers to buy them a drink in the hotel bar, and while he finds himself drawn to both women, there is something about the quiet, demure Lisa Hesselman (Jennifer Jason Leigh) that captures his attention in a way he hasn’t known in quite some time. When the two retire back to his room, sparks soon fly both emotionally and psychologically, the author learning more about himself, as well as why it is he’s become so withdrawn and sullen, than he was by all accounts prepared to know.

The stop-motion animated drama Anomalisa is the latest oddity born from the mind of celebrated screenwriter and director Charlie Kaufman (Being John

Anomalisa – blogs.indiewire.com

Malkovich, Adaptation). Co-directing with celebrated animator Duke Johnson, the man behind Adult Swim’s “Moral Orel” and “Mary Shelley’s Frankenhole,” as well as the Abed’s “Uncontrollable Christmas” episode of NBC’s “Community,” the movie is every bit as idiosyncratic and imaginative as one would naturally assume it was going to be. Safe to say, family-friendly this animated melodrama is not, the narrative diving headfirst into murky sub-textual psychological waters that are as dense as they are complex.

Yet, while Anomalisa is certainly good, I honestly don’t have the first clue if it’s anything remotely close to the masterpiece so many who saw it during last year’s Venice Film Festival – where it won the prestigious Grand Jury Prize – instantly proclaimed it to be. Maybe I just didn’t get it. Maybe aspects of it were just too far beyond me.

Maybe Kaufman is just too esoteric for my own personal comfort because, goodness knows, I felt very much similar after watching his first directorial endeavor, the Philip

Seymour Hoffman-starring Synecdoche, New York back in 2008.

This movie, as weird and as unusual as it might become, is many ways fairly cut and dry, following a tired, rundown man as he learns through trial and error that his life isn’t as devoid of love and light as he for some reason believes it to be. All of which is fine, but once one strips away the visual veneer, gets past the eye-popping animation and the more surrealistic narrative beats, there’s not all that much actually going on. Or, at least, not much that I could see. As such I kept trying to find more layers hiding within the cracks, elements of depth and nuance I frustratingly, for whatever reason, was never quite able to find.

The thing is, as thin as I found the central story itself to be, the combination of the superlative performances and the astonishing animation ends up making Kaufman and Johnson’s opus something somewhat special all the same. Visually, I can’t think of any other motion picture, even other stop-motion ones, which Anomalisa can be

compared to. The way director of photography Joe Passarelli’s camera glides through the environs that have been created, the exquisite way in which editor Garret Elkins has assembled things together, there is a hypnotic quality developing throughout that’s impossible to dismiss and even more difficult to resist.

As for the actors, both Thewlis and Leigh are superb, adding dimensionality and nuance to Michael and Lisa that’s wondrous. But the real star of the show is veteran character actor Tom Noonan. He doesn’t just portray every other character in the film, young and old, male and female, he also manages to craft individualistic personas for every one of them no matter who they are, what their backgrounds or what part it is they are playing – big, small or inbetween – inside the story itself. It’s a masterful, close to brilliant piece of vocal acting, deserving of recognition and acclaim, Noonan adding just the right component that allows the surrealistic energy fueling the drama to resonate far more intriguingly than it otherwise would have.

Anomalisa is fascinating, and I cannot say I was ever bored by anything that Kaufman and Johnson were choosing to show me. Same time, I do admit to wishing I found more of substance to latch on to; and while I freely admit that possibly some of the cryptic intellectual arguments the filmmakers were attempting to navigate might have flown a little over my head, I’m fairly certain this was not the case. Still, this is as distinctive and as one-of-a-kind an endeavor as anything there is currently in theatres, and as such I do hope intrigued potential viewers seek the film out and give it a long, hard look.

NO LIMITS: Charlie Kaufman and Duke Johnson battle convention with stop-motion Anomalisa

by Sara Michelle Fetters SGN A&E Writer ANOMALISA Now playing Anomalisa was never intended to be a movie. Writer Charlie Kaufman always meant the story to be a one-time thing, a stage audio play performed before a live audience with composer Carter Burwell providing the music and actors David Thewlis, Jennifer Jason Leigh and Tom Noonan delivering the performances. For his part, he imagined that was all there was to it, never thinking in a million years it would ever be performed again, let alone be the basis for a motion picture presentation. Enter Duke Johnson.

“I was working at an animation studio,” says Johnson. “Working in stop-motion with [producer] Dino Stamatopoulos, who is the creator of a number of stop-motion shows, and we had talked a lot to do some stop-motion, but stop-motion for adults, finding more adult stories that could be told using this form of animation. Wanted to tell specific stories, and he mentioned he had

6 Seattle Gay News

this script for Anomalisa.”

“Now, there was nothing about this script that initially lent itself obviously to stop-motion, and that’s what I liked about it. It had compelling characters that seemed to have real authentic emotional experiences that we could connect with. That excited me.”

The resulting motion picture has been released to theatres earning acclaim from critics as well as an Academy Award nomination for Best Animated Feature. The day after the Oscar nominations, I sat down with Kaufman and Johnson, the former still seemingly a little surprised it exists, let alone has met with almost universal praise, especially considering he wasn’t certain Anomalisa should have been transformed into a feature in the first place.

“I was reticent because it was meant not be seen,” Kaufman admits candidly. “But, at the same time, I knew Dino, I’d worked with him as a writer before and I really like and respect him, and I was additionally desperate to get stuff made, so, why not?

Let’s try to do this to. I told them, if they could raise the money then we would do it,

January 22, 2016

and subsequently I never expected to hear from them again. But they raised the money. And here we are.”

It took a Kickstarter campaign to raise that money, but once it was done the Oscarwinning screenwriter behind Being John Malkovich and Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind had no problem jumping into the production with both feet, the fact it was going to be animated not worrying him one little bit. “I like stop-motion,” he happily states. “It never scared me the movie was going to be in stop-motion. What made me reticent was, like I said, was that it was going to be visualized, and that was never supposed to be the case when I original wrote the play.”

“First thing I had to do was throw away that idea, the idea that [Anomalisa] would never be seen. The second thing I had to do was to talk to Duke, to brainstorm concepts as to what we wanted the film to be. We also got the same actors back and we recorded them together, as if it were the play, which is also somewhat unusual for animation. But by working with them in this way we were able to get this performance from

all of them that we loved, and that in turn helped inform what the tone and the visuals would be for the finished film. But, most of all, Duke and I just talked, and that’s what we did throughout the entire production.”

For Johnson, these moments of conversational collaboration were key, allowing him to see the evolving feature in ways he never could have otherwise. “Our conversations about tone and the characters and the visualizations of certain things, those were everything,” he declares. “I’m a big fan of Charlie’s, but I was also able to bring my skills as a filmmaker and animator to the table, so our collaboration in that sense was something special. For me, though, it was a great experience to sit down with Charlie, to work with him, because I came into the production with so much respect and admiration for him, looked at him as something of a hero, which is also kind of intimidating.”

“But it’s also exciting, at the same time, and I discovered so many things about myself as a filmmaker I don’t think I would have had we not collaborated. It was great.”

One of the more spectacular elements

Celebrating 41 Years!

of Anomalisa is its production design, not typically an aspect of an animated feature most single out for praise. But the glory of the film is that it looks like every hotel a person has ever had the fortune – good, bad, in-between – to stay in at some point in their lives, yet somehow manages to utilize that mundane banality in a way that is fascinating and immersive. It gives the characters a believable playground to live within, and thus adds an extra layer of authenticity to the proceedings that never could have existed otherwise.

“We looked at a lot of hotel rooms,” laughs Kaufman with a crooked smirk.

“It’s like anything. You do your research.

We looked at a lot of hotel rooms online.

Duke and I stayed in some rooms overnight and took a bunch of pictures of every little thing. We talked to production designers trying to pick things out. Those are the idiosyncrasies you’re looking for. You have to know where the smoke alarms are. Where the hairdryer is. These things might seem minor but in reality they are anything but.

If the hotel isn’t believable as an environment, then how can we expect audiences to accept the characters as real?”

“I think you hit the nail on the head,” adds Johnson. “We wanted the hotel to be specific. The color of the walls. Where the lights were. The pictures on the walls. And none of those things, like the pictures, existed in any actual hotel in the real world, but you have a sense as you watch the movie that they do, that you’ve stayed in a similar hotel room at some point in your life.”

All of which adds an extra layer of surrealism for the duo as they’ve spent the past few months going around the world talking about Anomalisa, staying in hotel rooms that remind them of the very ones they helped design for the film. “It’s very meta,” says Johnson with a goofy shrug. “It can get a little strange at times.”

“We have all of the experiences,” says Kaufman. “We have the experience with the shower. We have the experience with the malfunctioning key card. We have the room service experience. It’s been kind of, well, creepy. Definitely odd.”

“I had a new one today,” claims Johnson. “The bathroom lighting in every hotel room is different. I fix my hair. Fluff out my eyebrows. But sometimes the light is this extreme spotlight that casts these weird black shadows, so I have to get real close to the mirror, or I have to dim the lights or raise the lights depending on what I’m trying to groom. I look totally different in every bathroom. You watch the movie and you realize our main character Michael Stone has that same exact experience, and after staying in so many hotel rooms I can only imagine how often he’s had it.”

All of this plays into a greater discussion regarding the film’s humor. While Anomalisa is a comedy, it’s comedy born from some tragically heartfelt and emotionally intimate places. The film features an emotionally crippled hero who for no concrete reason appears to be estranged from wife and child, and while on a business trip ends up pondering having an affair with a woman attending the conference he’s scheduled to speak at. It’s bleak, yet also very funny, striking the proper balance between comedy and drama, the fine line the directors tasked themselves to walk.

“When I’m writing stuff I’m always trying to figure out what the balance is between the scripted gag and what is organically funny in the moment,” says Kaufman.

“There are always things where we feel like, we know this is funny, we know this is going to get a laugh, this is intended to be humorous, scenes like Michael in the shower or the guy masturbating at the window.

Those moments are intended to be funny.”

Anomalisa co-directors, Duke Johnson (l) and Charlie Kaufman – Ricardo DeAratanha/Contour/Getty

“But there still should be something creepy about them. Something real. Something that makes you feel like they would exist within this world we have created.

And they’re born out of real things. Not to keep going back to the guy masturbating at the window but, thinking about it now, it’s funny, but there’s also something really sad about it to me, too. The guy is sitting in an empty office all alone [getting excited] in front of a computer. Why is he doing that?

Who is he? It’s sad.”

Which brings things back again to the protagonist Michael Stone. He’s not an inherently likeable character, and it’s easy to imagine some viewers will be turned off by him and his actions to the point they’ll not be interested in spending much in the way of time with him. Not that this was a thing that concerned Kaufman. “I don’t spend a lot of time worrying about that,” he admits.

“I choose not to think about that. The first movie that I wrote the main character locks his wife in a cage with an ape, which isn’t a very likeable thing to do. But it is understandable, at least I hope it is, and that’s all I care about. You get why he did it even though it was a horrible thing to do. If you make characters likeable then you’re only obsessed with success with an audience and not with doing something honest; I try to avoid that.”

“Although, I do like success with an audience. Who doesn’t? But if I’m going to get success with an audience I want it to come from something that feels true to me.”

It’s one thing to collaborate with Charlie Kaufman. It’s another to realize you’re going to be going into this production with, not only the creative force behind the play, but also the three talented actors who originally brought it to life in the first place. “It was kind of a package deal,” says Johnson with a grin. “These are like, phenomenal actors. I love all of them. I love them for many of the same reasons that Charlie does.

We had some different favorite references as far as Tom Noonan was concerned, but we both surprisingly had similar ones for both Jennifer Jason Leigh and particularly David Thewlis. We’re both big fans of Naked and David’s performance in that film, and the character of Michael Stone just feels so perfect for him.”

“But, yeah, I was like, David Thewlis?

Jennifer Jason Leigh? Tom Noonan? Are you kidding. Sure. They work. I’m OK with that. I was super-excited.”

“I honestly don’t know what I would have said about making the film had any of them said no to us,” adds Kaufman. “I

Visit us online www.sgn.org

might have said no had they not all be available. I knew that they would want to do it, but schedules are tricky, and had it been a scheduling thing leading to their being unavailable, I had no idea how I would go about casting their replacements. These characters were created with them in mind.

I had such a good time doing the play with them. And then to replace them? To have someone replace David or Jennifer or Tom? I think I would have rather not have done the movie.”

As wonderful as Thewlis and Leigh are in the film, the true breakout star ends up being Noonan, the veteran character actor tasked with playing every single supporting character in the entire story other than the two being portrayed by his two costars.

“We could talk for hours about the genius of Tom Noonan,” says Kaufman with matter-of-fact certitude. “He does it all here in real-time, keep that in mind. For example, during the scene at the end, he’s playing the mother and the son, as well as all of the extras, one right after the other. There was no pausing so Tom could collect his thoughts.

It’s amazing. And he obviously did that when we performed the play, as well. He’s just great.”

“It was good,” adds Johnson half-jokingly. “No. Seriously. The man is amazing.

Like you just said. Tom’s a genius.”

“The voice records were the easiest and most immediately satisfying part of the process, and I’m so glad we did that first. It set the tone for everything else. The moment that always pops into my head is Jennifer singing “Girls Just Want to Have Fun,” because it was originally a different song in the play, it was “My Heart Will Go On,” and we couldn’t get the rights to that one. So Jennifer came there prepared to do other songs, and then she sang that one and afterwards, it was very quiet. She was like, how’s that, and we were all thinking to ourselves, maybe this is going to be an amazing movie? Maybe we’ve got something here? And it was because of moments like that when were recording the audio.

The kind of magic David, Jennifer and Tom were creating? It blew us all away.”

Running out of time, there was one technical aspect of the film I wanted to quickly touch upon, and that was director of photography Joe Passarelli’s expressive and immersive camerawork. “It’s one of the biggest challenges,” admits Johnson. “We set out to make this movie cinematic. We didn’t want to be confined by the perceived limitations of animation. If a character was going to walk down a hall, if a character

was going to walk into an elevator, if this was going to be a steadicam shot in a liveaction film, how do you do that in animation? There was no immediate answer. Joe and the rest of us, we had to figure those things out. You have to make it happen. It’s real intricate and beautiful. The stuff they had to do in this was amazing.”

As for general audiences, both filmmakers are eager to see how the film performs for them. “We sort of make it a point that we don’t want to dictate what people are going to think about the movie,” says Kaufman. “We made it, and what we hope for is that they are engaged with it and that it interests them, but their interpretations of all that transpires should be theirs and theirs alone. We hope that it reflects aspects of their lives, that they can relate to it; but we’ve also learned from hearing from those that see it that they all get different things from the experience, that they all feel different emotions. We want to keep that field open.”

“I do want them to be open to experiencing something new,” appends Johnson. “They think of animation, they think of Pixar and Disney. When they think of Kaufman and drama, they think of liveaction. I want them thinking, what is this?

I want them to realize that this is something different. I want them to be open to the experience of Anomalisa, that they connect with it, that they don’t limit themselves to the conventions of what animation or drama are supposed to be. That would be great.”

January 22, 2016

Seattle Gay News 7

Luis Bravo’s Forever Tango an exciting evening of tango music and dance

by Sharon Cumberland SGN A&E Writer LUIS BRAVO’S FOREVER TANGO BENAROYA HALL January 17 This exciting evening of tango music and dance featured two Russians, Ana Trebunskaya and Dmitry Chaplin, “Dancing with the Stars” performers who wowed the audience with three appearances during the evening of a particularly acrobatic form of tango using lifts, flips, and throws. But it was the company consisting of six pairs of bailarines argentines who showed the audience what real tango looks like: the catlike approach of the dancers, the intense gaze, the passionate embrace, the stylized walking full of 180° turns of the head and hips, the sudden changes in angle and direction. Each couple displayed a different variation on this catalogue of tango movements, but when all the couples stalked the stage together you felt transported to a dance hall in Buenos Aires, circa 1930.

It was a generous evening of group tangos and single couple dances performed to live music that took the audience from the tango’s origins in the bordellos of Buenos Aires to the modern ballrooms of international competitive dance. There were several set pieces of dance drama and comedy, all in costumes that were worth the price of admission – men in fedoras and pin-striped suits, women in sparkling satin and velvet gowns, or fringed skirts that showed off their gorgeous legs and pretty feet in “Fme” spiked heels.

Yet all of these great dancers served as accents to the heart-wringing, breath-taking music of Horacio Romo on the bando-

disgraced

continued from cover where it turns. Now, Seattle gets to experience it in an airtight production at Seattle Repertory Theatre that barely lets anyone breathe after the first 20 minutes until the end.

The play is by no means flawless. In fact, the drive toward the ending demonstrates the youth of the playwright in playwriting – it’s his very first play. To my mind, the ending becomes “undeserved” in terms of the development of the characters and what we have learned about them. But it is undeniably brave and strong.

Seattle Rep announced it was extending the run by a full week, which suggests that it is indeed a production striking a chord with the public and drawing an eager audience. That’s a good sign, because theater producing this strong a reaction sometimes lands a theater in the difficult position of staging what they believe is a vital part of their mission, yet losing money from audiences staying away.

A short synopsis follows: Amir (Bernard White) is a successful PakistaniAmerican lawyer with a beautiful, blonde artist-wife, Emily (Nisi Sturgis). Emily loves Islamic art and blends it into her paintings. Amir is so irreligious that he is hostile toward his Muslim upbringing and family traditions.

Amir’s African-American attorney-colleague, Jory (Zakiya Young), has a husband (Isaac, played by J. Anthony Crane) who

8 Seattle Gay News

Anna Trebunskaya and Dmitry Chaplin – Courtesy of Forever Tango

neon, leading a band of eight that included Luis Bravo on cello, Hector Pineda on bass, and the awe-inspiring pianist, Jorge Vernieri. To Google any of these musicians is to discover a whole world of fame and admiration in the Argentinian music scene.

I’ll bet three-quarters of the audience that packed Benaroya Hall knew exactly who they are, while the other quarter, including myself, were discovering the magic of these virtuoso players for the first time.

I was especially fascinated by the bandoneon, a kind of giant concertina that the players held on one knee while expanding and contracting the snake-like bellows and playing keyboard buttons on the panels of each end. Horacio Romo sat in the center of this small orchestra conducting the two violins, viola, cello and bass with his head, while wringing out of his bandoneon the

passionate sounds we associate with tango dancing. Jorge Vernieri sat at a grand piano weaving sounds together that made the orchestra seem as though it was twice its size. I had to count noses several times to assure myself they hadn’t smuggled ten more players onto the stage, though the featured Russians used some recorded music.

The Russians were also the only dancers who smiled, so that they seemed like visitors from another planet among the solemn, ardent Argentinians.

It appears from the Forever Tango program that tango is a dance form that depends entirely on sex differentiation, with the women in revealing outfits, the men in tight-fitting suits with the very masculine fedora tipped over one eye, and gestures of domination and submission on the parts of both men and women in the course of the

produces art shows. Oh, and he’s Jewish.

Amir has encouraged Isaac to see his wife’s artwork to consider including her in a show.

Politics has intruded into the family by way of a local imam who has been arrested on terrorist-related charges, and Emily urges Amir to get involved on his behalf. Amir feels wary of how it might impact his standing in his conservative, Jewish law firm, but his cousin, Abe (Behzad Dabu) chimes in, as well. When Amir attends a hearing, a newspaper article implies he is one of the defense attorneys, even though he explicitly says he is not.

The table is set, then, for a lot of stereotyping and breaking of stereotypes during the course of an intense dinner party with Amir, Emily, Jory and Isaac. By that point, we have learned a lot about each character in this jam-packed 90-minute script.

Amir is a very complicated American.

He is bright, educated, aware, political, and verbally, violently rejecting of Islam, pointing to it as a violent religion and also rejecting his parents’ strict adherence to associating only with Muslims. He also is self-aware enough to admit, reluctantly, to unbidden feelings of resonance, sometimes, with other Muslims in world events.

He feels he is “tribally” connected, though he hates that as well.

But he is also aware enough of American antipathy to Pakistan and Islam that he’s changed his last name from a more Muslim one to Kapoor, a more Indian-resonating surname. He has also busted his butt

at work, yet is not secure enough to know if they will reward him with a partnership.

Each of the other characters is also smart, educated, political, and aware. The conversation is elevated and argumentative, though mostly civil for a good while, until alcohol and anger cause the evening to spin out of control.

That is when both the relationships and, essentially, the script go over the edge, where the script needn’t have pushed quite so hard. But as over-the-top as it goes, the script is so taut and well-written up to that point that it is well-worth weathering the controversial explosion.

The actors have all already performed together in both Chicago at the Goodman Theatre and Berkeley at the Berkeley Rep (co-producers), so all of them have blended seamlessly into relationship, and Seattle has the benefit of a well-seasoned cast.

They are all top-notch talent, and director Kimberly Senior has directed every iteration of this play from its beginning. All the technical elements are gorgeous, particularly the set (John Lee Beatty) and the lighting (Christine A. Binder).

I have had the pleasure of seeing all three of Akhtar’s plays. His second, The Invisible Hand played at ACT Theatre in 2014, in a searing production about an American finance expert held captive by Arabs until he can create his own ransom by showing them how to manipulate the stock market. I also attended his third, The Who and The What in Chicago at Victory

January 22, 2016

highly erotic dance. I found myself wondering if there was any place in this dance style for gender fluidity, or if the men could be women and the women men. There was a brief scene in which two men “fought” by dancing together and I thought “What a shame that they have to be in a fight to embrace each other.” In discussing these thoughts with the SGN editor, I was happy to learn that Seattle has its own Queer Tango group (now called Open Role Tango) that offers, as their website says, “a safe and welcoming space for learning and dancing tango for GLBT-identified individuals and couples, anyone who enjoys dancing with same-sex partners, people everywhere on the gender spectrum, and everyone who appreciates the opportunity to dance outside narrowly defined traditional gender roles.” (Check out queerseattletango. com or visit https://www.facebook.com/ groups/518503851526087/ for current information. NOTE: The next session starts this coming Monday, January 24th, at 7 p.m. at the Phinney Neighborhood Center, 6532 Phinney Ave. N., Room 7. People are welcome to drop in for the first class to check it out for $15. The five-week series is also affordably priced at $65. No class on President’s Day.) As Forever Tango demonstrated in their intense and fascinating performance, this is a dance for anyone who wants to feel and express passion for another – in other words, it’s a dance for everyone. Because of its origins as dance for regular people, regular people – no matter their orientation – can learn how to do it. Or the more sedentary among us (including myself) can have a marvelous time watching others do it, as I did watching Luis Bravo’s Forever Tango at Benaroya Hall.

Gardens Theatre, which is a dark comedy about a young Muslim-American writer who decides to write a book about Mohammed, even though it could put her family in difficult straits.

Akhtar deals in each with an uneasy relationship with modern-day Islamic religion and being an American descended from immigrants. As with many authors, he seems to be trying to come to some personal conclusions by writing the conflict into his plays. He does so with passion, smarts, and beautiful writing. But in his first and third plays, the more personal, individualized stories, his manipulation of the stage concepts is not as sure. Still, there is every artistic reason to see his plays and admire his attempts to tackle these difficult emotion-producing subjects.

The Rep is concerned enough and perhaps curious enough about the impact of the play that they are holding a post-play discussion after every performance. That may well be a highlight of your attendance.

Certainly, it’s an opportunity to hear from fellow audience members before you all leave, and to vent about many strong feelings, if you wish.

For more information, go to www.seattlerep.org or call 206-443-2222.

Discuss your opinions with sgncritic@ gmail.com or go to www.facebook.com/SeattleTheaterWriters. More articles can be found at miryamstheatermusings.blogspot. com.

Celebrating 41 Years!

Visit us online www.sgn.org

January 22, 2016

Seattle Gay News 9

10 Seattle Gay News

January 22, 2016

Celebrating 41 Years!

Visit us online www.sgn.org

January 22, 2016

Seattle Gay News 11

12 Seattle Gay News

January 22, 2016

Celebrating 41 Years!

jessica skerritt continued from cover

Skerritt has been in it and captured notice.

Coming off the 5th Avenue’s record-breaking run of The Sound of Music, the Seattle Gay News caught up with her as she prepares for How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying.

Eric Andrews-Katz: Who were your earliest influences in becoming a performer?

Jessica Skerritt: Goodness gracious!

I loved Bernadette Peters growing up. For my 13th birthday I asked for tickets to the Bernadette Peters concert at the Paramount Theatre. My parents were awesome, so they took me and it was a great night. I’ve always been a fan of the funny people; Steve Martin, and I’m infatuated with Diane Keaton. Lucille Ball was amazing, goofy and silly all at once.

Andrews-Katz: What was the show that gave you the theater bug?

Skerritt: My first musical outside of school was a production called Searching for Father Christmas, written by Mark Nichols – a prominent composer around Seattle. It was performed at the King Cat Theater when I was 10 – downtown Seattle during the holiday season. I grew up with The Village Theatre’s “Kid Stage” program and performed in the summer stock productions either that summer or the following one. My folks are incredible and started introducing me to live theater when I was young. We were ticket holders to The 5th Avenue Theatre as far as I can remember.

They have stuck with me and it’s really special to be here now, on the other side of the curtain. I pinch myself on a daily basis.

Andrews-Katz: Does having other actors in your family help or hinder your career, or does it have no influence at all?

Skerritt: I don’t think it has a lot of influence on my career. Tom is a wonderful actor and has had an incredible career. He’s been a wonderful influence on the community. I primarily pursued theater and there have been times when I’ve gone out for commercial or film work that the last name is a trigger. Maybe it has helped by association, but I don’t believe it has gotten me

any special treatment. He’s a lovely one to watch and learn from, with a lot of integrity. That’s something that can lack in this business.

Andrews-Katz: Originally, you wanted to train in opera; what changed your mind?

Skerritt: Growing up I studied classical voice. My voice teacher in Maple Valley was Nancy Gregory and she primary focused on opera. For vocal competitions in high school, it was centralized on classic Italian art songs and various similar pieces.

It’s how I initially learned to sing. I’ve done musical theater most of my life, but I had it in my head that if I was going to sing, opera was where I needed to live. I auditioned for opera programs across the country and decided to go to Boston Conservatory. Two weeks before leaving, I got doubtful and my folks were amazingly supportive. They convinced me to take a year off to figure it out. Anne Evans in Seattle (another vocal coach) taught me other aspects of my voice, how to tap into it and a whole, new world of singing. That opened my eyes to other musical venues. It turns out I didn’t go to school at all when I started to audition for shows.

Andrews-Katz: You played Little Eddie in Grey Gardens, the musical. What is it about the Beales’ decline that fascinates us?

Skerritt: I think they are incredible people. Personally, I feel there is bravery there, a fierceness that makes me in awe of them. When I worked rehearsals, I had the documentary playing in the house nonstop.

My husband finally had to leave. They (the Beales) are really so intriguing. I think the fact that they stayed in that chaos and mess, and still were somehow themselves. There was nothing apologetic in the documentary.

Fierce. Fierce. Fierce women, and I think we could all learned lessons from both of them – for better or for worse. There is a survival about them, which I think is intriguing and beautiful in their own weird and kooky way.

Andrews-Katz: You’ve played roles such as Ulla (The Producers), Audrey (Little Shop of Horrors), Kira (Xanadu). Is it easier or more difficult to play a presumed vapid character?

Skerritt: I love that “dumb blonde” role. I think there is so much more to them

Visit us online www.sgn.org

than on paper. There is a unique challenge to make them three-dimensional, and find the different layers underneath. I loved these characters my whole life, and I get so delighted when I play these silly goofy wide-eyed characters. It’s a lot of fun. The challenge is that the style of comedy has to come from an honest, grounded place. The biggest mistake is made when they give in to the stupidity of it, and the goofiness without a solid foundation for who they are.

They are grounded, that’s what makes them real and honest, and delightful. My character in How to Succeed…, Heady LaRue, is one of those “Bucket List” roles I’ve always wanted to play. She’s a little bit of a villain, but enters and changes the dynamic of the office. She’s a female “Finch,” using what she has and what she can. She craves money and power as much as anyone else.

I like that she is a bit more contriving and manipulative. It’s a fun color to play.

Andrews-Katz: Do you prefer to perform in classical or more modern musicals?

Skerritt: I love it all! There is something to be found in both. It’s always special to get to originate a role. It’s also satisfying to revisit these classic musicals that have stood the test of time, and there’s a reason why people keep coming back to them. You get to put your own stamp on these characters.

Andrews-Katz: How to Succeed… was first produced in 1961. How is it still relevant today?

Skerritt: Our corporate world is just as corrupt and terrifying as this one is. This office is where there is one of these things that no one knows what anyone else is doing, in any department. The way people play games and work their way up in the system is the same. There are a lot of similarities. Ours is all done “tongue-in-cheek”; it’s Mad Men meets musical comedy.

There’s a lot of fun being poked at it. The hook is fast paced and it’s a great score. I’ll leave rehearsal and find myself singing the songs.

Andrews-Katz: How are you alike and dislike the character you play?

Skerritt: I think she has a very bubbly personality. She’s very liked in her demeanor and dealings with people. I think that may be where our similarities stop. She

is much more … outgoing than I could ever be; she knows what she has and knows how to work it. “Ulla” was similar, and it’s fun to get to play these women. There’s an attitude of “Here I am, and what are you going to do about it?” I wish I had more of that spunk. She’s great. She’s ridiculous and not the brightest of people, but she still gets the job done – whatever that is, and however she needs to do it.

Andrews-Katz: Do you like playing the seductress roles?

Skerritt: I do. Again, it feels so different from who I am on a day-to-day basis.

Putting on these incredible late 1950s/ ’60s wiggle dresses … It’s a transformation when you slip into her skin and wardrobe, and everything is a little larger than life. It’s a little gaudy and tasteless at times, but it’s OK because it is who she is. It’s fun. In this show, my husband plays “Dash” and he gets fired because of my character.

Andrews-Katz: If you could play any role – regardless of any limitations – what would it be, and why?

Skerritt: I’m the worst one ever to ask; I can’t answer without giving several answers. Off the top of my head, again more of a “Bucket List” type, I regret that I never got to do a Sondheim show, yet. I’d love to do any of the female roles in Into the Woods or A Little Night Music. Marion, the Librarian, is one of my favorite characters in The Music Man. Aldonza in Man of La Mancha, but I’m not the right type potentially.

She’s amazing and that score is incredible.

Man of La Mancha and A Chorus Line, my dad had the records when I was growing up. I would listen to those. I’d love to do A Chorus Line, but I’m not a strong enough dancer. It would be an incredible show.

CHICAGO, I’d love to do, but again, my dancing chops are limited.

January 22, 2016

Seattle Gay News 13

Jessica Skerritt has performed in many Seattle productions, along with being in the full-length, featured film, Driver’s Education. As beautiful as she is talented, Ms. Skerritt will be currently playing Heady LaRue in the 5th Avenue Theatre’s production of How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, which runs January 28 to February 21. www.5thavenue.org or 206625-1900.

Meetings Events Activities

FOR A CALENDAR LISTING: Send details to: SGN, Attn: Community Calendar, 1605 12th Ave, Ste 31, Seattle, WA 98122. SGN phone: 324-4297. Fax: 3227188. E-mail: sgn2@sgn.org. INCLUDE: Date, time, location, contact phone # for publication (if possible), brief description of event & sponsoring organization.

DEADLINE: Tuesday 5pm.

ACCESSIBILITY: Is your event accessible to LGBTQ people with disabilities? See Jean’s List webpage www. scn.org/activism/calendar/disabilities.html for Marla Nonken’s disabilities accommodations lists.

NOTE: Phone numbers accompanying listings are within area code (206) & locations of meetings/ events are in Seattle unless otherwise noted.

community calendar

MONDAY - January 25

Seattle Frontrunners Fun Run. 9am. Greenlake (outside Evans Pool). Every Saturday. GLBT running & walking club sponsors weekly runs, monthly potlucks, track & field activity, annual Run With Pride. 448-8518. www.seattlefrontrunners.org.

Yoga With Andrew Conner. 9:30-11am. Amor Spiritual Center, 2528 Beacon Ave, Suite B. Meets every Saturday. A love offering is suggested but no one will be turned away.

Crystal Meth Anonymous. 10:30am. Capitol Hill Presbyterian Church, 1729 Harvard Ave. Also meets Mon @ 6:30pm, Thurs @ 6:30pm, Sun @ 6:30pm. More info: crystalmeth.org.

Oasis Youth Center in Tacoma - For Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender & Questioning Youth, Ages 14-25. 6pm-12 midnight. Call for location & details. Every Saturday. (253) 671-2838. www.oasisyouth center.org.

(Also meets Thursdays & Fridays 4-10pm.)

Rainbow Duplicate Bridge. 6pm. Bus-accessible Central Area location. Every Saturday. Games also on Tuesdays & Thursdays. $4 fee includes coffee & snacks.

For more information visit www.rainbowbridgeclub.org or email rainbowbridgeclub@gmail.com “Queerz: We’re Hilarious” (01/14-17 & 01/21-24).

6:30-8:30pm. QUEERZ is a showcase of some of our most fashionable and funny local queer comics. If you’re bored by heteronormativity or even just long words like that, you’ll be refreshed by our collective goofiness, wit and general charisma. You’ll walk away all shiny with inspiration for new outfit combinations and the glow of gorgeous humor of people using jokes to fight back in the most charming of ways. Tickets: $15 general; $20 sponsor; $12 students & seniors. www.gaycity.org/ arts-season.

SUNDAY - January 24

14 Seattle Gay News

Integrity/Puget Sound. 7pm-Worship & Fellowship. St. Mark’s Cathedral, Thomson Chapel, 1245 10th Ave E. Integrity is an international ministry of Gay & Lesbian Episcopalians, their friends & families, dedicated to education, support & service within the Church & the GLBT community. (425) 226-2746.

Noche Latina - Latino Night. 10pm. Neighbours, 1509 Broadway. Every Sunday.

SOBER - On Meds. 1-2pm. SASG, 115 15th Ave E, Suite 201. Every Monday. 12-step group open to anyone in recovery & living on a medicine regimen. 322-2437.

Strength Over Speed. 2-3:30pm. SASG, 115 15th Ave E, Suite 201. FREE drop-in support group (not a 12 step) for Gay & Bi men who desire recovery from meth. For information visit www.strengthoverspeed.org. SASG 322-2437; www.sasgcc.org Crystal Meth Anonymous. 6:30pm. Capitol Hill Presbyterian Church, 1729 Harvard Ave. Also meets Thurs @ 6:30pm, Sat @ 10:30am, Sun @ 6:30pm. More info: crystalmeth.org.

Pozitively Me! 6:30-8pm. Gay City Health Project, 517 E. Pike St. Every Monday. A group and conversation about HIV for Gay & Bi men newly diagnosed and for Gay & Bi men facing the challenges of living with HIV longterm. www.gaycity.org.

Freely Speaking Toastmasters. 7pm. FredLind Manor, 1802 17th Ave. Every Monday (except holidays & the last Mondays in August & December). Seattle’s only LGBT speaking club. www.FreelySpeaking.org Orca Swim Team Workout. 7-8:15pm. Seattle University, Connolly Athletic Center, 14th Ave & E Cherry St. (See Sunday listing at 5pm.)

PFLAG/South King County Monthly Meeting. 7pm.

Unitarian Universalist Church, 25701 14th Pl S, Kent.

Meets 4th Monday each month. PFLAG/Puget Sound: 325-7724.

Trans Youth Group. 7-8:30pm. Lambert House, 1818 15th Ave. Every Monday. A chance for youth to talk with others about their experiences & concerns related to identifying as Transgender. www.lamberthouse.org Lambert House Art Night. 7:30-9:30pm. 1818 15th Ave. Every Monday. Bring your ideas & let’s have some fun.

322-2515, www.lamberthouse.org Unity Gay Men’s AA Group in Tacoma. 7:30pm. New Heart MCC, 759 S 45th St. Tacoma. Every Monday.

(253) 474-8897.

Washington Gender Alliance Support Group Meeting in Shoreline. 7:30pm. Center for Human Services, 17018 15th Ave NE, Shoreline. Meets every Monday. For information email info@washingtongender alliance.com Queers, Crackpots & Fallen Women AA. 8-9pm.

SASG, 115 15th Ave E, Suite 201. Every Monday. Open women only AA group. 322-2437; www.sasgcc.org.

SATURDAY - January 23

For information on GLBT-friendly religious/spiritual organizations in the Greater Seattle area, call or email Rick at the SGN office: 206-324-4297; sgn2@ sgn.org.

Center for Spiritual Living. Services 8:25, 9:45, 11:30am. 5801 Sand Point Way NE. Blessings & we hope to see you soon! Info 527-8801 ext 203, www. cslseattle.org Ravenna United Methodist Church. 5751 33rd Ave NE. 8:30am. 525-7988.

Seattle Unity Church. 9am & 11am-Sunday Services.

200 8th Ave N. 622-8475; www.seattleunity.org.

Seattle Soto Zen. 9:15am-Zazen Instruction, 9:30amZazen. 101 Nickerson St, Lower Level. Follow the traditional forms of the Soto school of Zen in a spirit of warmth & inclusion. Anyone interested in meditation, whether new or experienced in Zen practice or other traditions, is welcome. 323-1659, www.seattlesotozen.org Gay Men’s Bowling in Lynnwood. 9:30am. Brunswick Majestics Lane, Lynnwood. 9:30am Every Sunday.

Spectators welcome. Join us for lunch afterwards!

Sponsored by the Snohomish County Gay Men’s Task Force. For info email John at johndmarsh@mac.com; www.gaysnohomish.org Tacoma First United Methodist Church. 9:30amWorship, 11am-Adult Education. 423 Martin Luther King Way, Tacoma. (253) 627-0129, www.fumctacoma.org Central Lutheran Church. 10am-Worship. 1710 11th Ave (just north of E Pine St). All are welcome. 322-7500.

East Shore Unitarian Church. 10am-Sunday Service.

12700 SE 32nd St, Bellevue. An open & affirming congregation. (425) 747-3780.

Gethsemane Lutheran Church. 10am-Worship. 911 Stewart St. A downtown faith community centered in justice. An open & affirming congregation. 682-3620.

Unity Church of Kent. 10am. 218 State Ave S, Kent.

A welcoming congregation open to people of all races, religions, creeds & lifestyles. 253-854-9747.

University Congregational United Church of Christ.

All ages education 9am, Worship 10am. 4515 16th Ave NE. 524-2322; www.universityucc.org.

Wallingford United Methodist Church. 10am-Worship.

2115 N 42nd St. A progressive congregation. 547-6945 (office); 285-5077 (George).

All Pilgrims Christian Church. 10:30am-Worship. 500 Broadway E. Come as you are. All are welcome. 3220487, www.allpilgrims.org Living Water Fellowship. 10:30am-Worship. 7204 NE 175th St, Kenmore. All GLBT welcome. Pastor Susan George. 963-0807. www.livingwaterwa.com Seattle Sunday Bowling. 10:30am. West Seattle Bowl, 4505 39th Ave SW (at SW Oregon St). Open bowl every Sunday for the GLBT community & friends. You don’t

January 23 thru January 31

have to worry about how you bowl! $6.50 + $2 shoe rental. (425) 785-4725.

Westside Unitarian Universalist Congregation.

10:30am. 7141 California Ave SW. 935-0418, office@ wsuu.org, www.wsuu.org Emerald City Metropolitan Community Church Seattle. 11am-Worship. Chapel at University Temple United Methodist Church, 1415 NE 43rd St. 325-2421, www.mccseattle.org.

Meditation for GBT Men. 11am-1pm. Cal Anderson House, 400 Broadway. Suitable for beginning & experienced meditators. Sponsored by Dharma Buddies.

Contact Forrest Rode, 920-6117, Mike Chin (509) 990-0007, or Doug Allison, doug.l.allison@gmail.com. www.dharmabuddies.org. (Women may wish to contact our sister meditation group at www.LotusSisters.org.)

St Paul’s United Church of Christ. 11am-Worship.

6512 12th Ave NW. 783-6733; www.stpaulucc seattle. com.

Holy Covenant International Christian Community Church. 12pm. 4525 19th Ave NE. Outreach to the LGBT community. holycovenantccc@gmail.com Just for Today. 12-1:30pm. SASG, 115 15th Ave E, Suite 201. Every Sunday. Drop-in 12-step (Narcotics Anonymous) group open to anyone in recovery. 3222437; www.sasgcc.org Paths to Recovery Al-Anon Family Group. 12-1:30pm.

Seattle University Student Center, 901 12th Ave, Room 122. Every Sunday. LGBTQ supported. The Al-Anon Family Groups are a fellowship of relatives & friends of alcoholics who share their experience, strength & hope in order to solve their common problems. We believe alcoholism is a family illness & that changed attitudes can aid recovery. Greater Seattle AIS 24-hour number 625-0000; www.seattle-al-anon.org Rain City Soccer Club - Ripple Effect. Sunday afternoon. Location varies. Ripple Effect soccer team plays an almost weekly recreational scrimmage game for LGBTQ players in Seattle. Perfect for individuals looking for more relaxed play, who are just getting back into soccer, just learning the game and/or want to supplement their competitive play with a recreational team. To sign up visit www.raincitysoccer.org Seattle Prime Timers Rap Group. 12:30pm. NEW SASG House, 115 15th Ave E, Suite 201. Subject: Share what’s on your bucket list. Metro routes 8, 10, 12, 43. www.seattleprimetimers.org No Safeword Writers Group. 1pm. Meets 4th Sunday each month. NSWG exists to provide mutual support for members’ efforts. Support is in the form of critique

January 22, 2016

& commentary on each other’s work, information about publishing opportunities, & discussion of issues facing writers. NSWG’s primary focus is erotic writing - but they welcome anyone who writes. The only requirements are to write, to attend, & to be respectful. For info & location, NSWG@sexpositiveculture.org; www.nosafeword writersgroup.org (Also meets 2nd Tuesday, 7pm.)

Rain City Jacks. 4th Sunday each month at 1pm; 1st & 3rd Tuesday each month at 7pm. West Queen Anne/ Interbay. Location & membership details provided upon request. RCJ is a traditional jack-off club. Friendly, sexpositive, non-profit and private. Membership required.

Adult men only. Enroll at the door. www.raincityjacks. org, email info@raincityjacks.org or call 1-888-809-5035.

Grace Gospel Chapel. 2pm-Worship. Gift of Grace Lutheran Church, 2102 N 40th St. Oldest independent church ministering primarily to the Gay & Lesbian community. An exciting fellowship ... a place to believe, a place to belong. 784-8495.

Orca Swim Team Workout. Sun: 5-6:15pm; Mon/Weds/ Fri: 7:30-8:45pm. Seattle University, Connolly Athletic Center, 14th Ave & E Cherry St. Every Sun, Mon, Wed & Fri. Pre-registration required. Orca Swim Team workouts are for both competitive & recreational swimmers. www.orcaswimteam.org Shame to Grace Sunday SAA. 6-7:30pm. SASG, 115 15th Ave E, Suite 201. Every Sunday. SAA is a fellowship of men & women who share their experience, strength & hope with each other so they may overcome their sexual addiction & help others recover from sexual addiction or dependency. Seattle SAA helpline 237-8828, SAA International Service Organization 1-800-477-8191.

SASG 322-2437; www.sasgcc.org Crystal Meth Anonymous. 6:30pm. Capitol Hill Presbyterian Church, 1729 Harvard Ave. Also meets Mon @ 6:30pm, Thurs @ 6:30pm, Sat @ 10:30am. More info: crystalmeth.org.

Pride League Bowling. 6:30pm. West Seattle Bowl, 4505 39th Ave SW. Every Sunday (except during the summer). Regular league bowling. Jeff, 932-3731.

“Queerz: We’re Hilarious” (01/14-17 & 01/21-24).

6:30-8:30pm. QUEERZ is a showcase of some of our most fashionable and funny local queer comics. If you’re bored by heteronormativity or even just long words like that, you’ll be refreshed by our collective goofiness, wit and general charisma. You’ll walk away all shiny with inspiration for new outfit combinations and the glow of gorgeous humor of people using jokes to fight back in the most charming of ways. Tickets: $15 general; $20 sponsor; $12 students & seniors. www.gaycity.org/ arts-season.

TUESDAY - January 26

Lesbian & Gay Child Care Task Force Monthly Meeting. 12 noon-2pm. Call for location. Meets 4th Tuesday each month. The Task Force, in conjunction with Child Care Resources of King County, offers referrals to GLBT-welcoming child care centers & provides training, support & curriculum materials to child care providers. (To access this, call 329-1011 & ask for the “Gay-welcoming” child care programs in your zip code area.) The task force meets monthly to assess their progress in achieving their goals.

Amor Open Meditation. 5-6pm. Amor Spiritual Center, 2528 Beacon Ave, Suite B. Meets every Tuesday.

LGBTQ Questioning & Allied Youth Drop-in Group in Renton. 6-8pm. Renton Area Youth Services (RAYS), 1025 S 3rd St, Renton. Meets every Tuesday. Confidential. Snacks provided. Bring friends or come alone - anyone 12-18 is welcome. Questions? Call Sarah Hardin, 425-271-5600 ext 155, or email sarahh@rays.org Strength Over Speed. 6-7:30pm. SASG, 115 15th Ave E, Suite 201. FREE drop-in support group (not a 12 step) for Gay & Bi men who desire recovery from meth. For information visit www.strengthoverspeed.org. SASG 322-2437; www.sasgcc.org Diverse Harmony. 6:30-9pm. Seattle First Baptist Church, 1111 Harvard Ave. Every Tuesday. Diverse Harmony is the nation’s first Gay/Straight Alliance Youth Chorus. Youths ages 13-22 are welcome regardless of sexual orientation. www.diverseharmony.org LGBTQ MS Connection/National MS Society. 6:308pm. Swedish Conference Center, Cherry Hill Campus, James Tower, 550 17th Avenue, Room E, 1st Floor.

Meets the 2nd & 4th Tuesday each month. MS Connection is a support group with the goal of providing a safe environment for the LGBT community to express their experiences and the impact of MS on their lives and the lives of their loved ones, as well as provide support for one another. Contact Shelly at 206-250-5002 or LGBTMSConnection@gmail.com.

Queer Young Females Group - For Female-Identified Youth, Ages 22 & Under. 6:30-7:30pm. Lambert House, 1818 15th Ave. Every Tuesday. Topics range from family issues to school happenings to like/lust/love relationships. All Queer females welcome. Come discuss how smart. strong Queer women live their lives. 322-2515, www. lamberthouse.org Tuesday Night Sex Addicts Anonymous (GLBTQI).

7-8:30pm. All Pilgrims Christian Church, 500 Broadway E (enter at 509 10th Ave E; buzz in, Dickson room). Every Tuesday. SAA is a fellowship of men & women whose

Celebrating 41 Years!

primary purpose is to stop addictive sexual behavior & help others recover from sexual addiction. Seattle SAA helpline 237-8828. SAA International Service Organization 1-800-477-8191.

Over 40’s Group - For Lesbian Women 40 & Older.

7-8:30pm. University Congregational Church, 4515 16th Ave NE, Pilgrim Room. Every Tuesday. Open group for Lesbian women, 40 & older, in every stage of coming out or being out. Lots of social activities in addition to Tuesday meetings. 545-3521.

Rainbow Duplicate Bridge. 7pm. Bus-accessible Central Area location. Every Tuesday. (See Saturday listing at 6pm.)

Different Drummers. 7:15-8:30pm. Every Tuesday.

Hand drumming classes for Gay men. Learn traditional African & Afro-Caribbean rhythms & basic hand drumming techniques. Drums are provided. For info & location call Dennis at 363-4500 or www.outdrum.com What About Me? 7:30-9pm. SASG, 115 15th Ave E, Suite 201. Every Tuesday. Drop-in social, support & discussion group for Gay & Bi men of all ages. 322-2437; www.sasgcc.org Here & Now Gay & Lesbian AA Meeting in Tacoma.

7:30pm. Christ Episcopal Church, 310 N “K” St, Tacoma.

Every Tuesday.

Spiritual Empowerment. 7:30-9pm. SASG, 115 15th Ave E, Suite 201. A group for all LGBT & friends of any spiritual belief to explore how spiritual practice can enrich their life. 322-2437; www.sasgcc.org Seattle Otters Water Polo Team. 8-9:30pm. Medgar Evers Pool, 500 23rd Ave E (at E Cherry St). Every Tuesday & Thursday. GLBT & GLBT-friendly co-ed water polo team is open to all who want to play. Beginners & experienced players welcome. Check our website for up to the minute details, or call the Otter Hotline 414-8797. www.otterpolo.com.

Seattle Poetry Slam. Doors 8pm, Show 8:30pm. Rebar, 1114 Howell St. Every Tuesday. A spoken word poetry event that features a weekly open mic, feature poet, and slam (poetry competition). Come out and express yourself. LGBTQ- & QTPOC-friendly; all genders welcome. $5. 21+. seattlepoetryslam.org

community calendar

FRIDAY - January 29

WEDNESDAY - January 27

LGBTQ Support Group in Renton. 10am-12noon.

Renton Senior Activity Center, Special Services Room, 211 Burnett Ave N. Meets the last Wednesday of every month. This newly-formed group will address issues while providing support & information that may be unique to the LGBTQ community. Topics of discussion may be legal issues, housing, medical needs, bereavement, acceptance & other topics of your choice. 425-430-6633; Renton Community Services Department, rentonwa.gov Mature Friends Morning Exercise/Health & Fitness Get-Together. 10am. Ballard Odd Fellows Hall Bldg, 1706 NW Market St. Every Wednesday. An hour of health-related activities, followed by a walk around Greenlake & lunch at a local restaurant. MF is a social group for Gay men & women, 40 years & over. www. maturefriends.org Mature Friends Dining Out Luncheon. 12:30pm. Call for details, location & to make reservations. Meets 2nd & 4th Wednesday most months. MF is a social organization for Gay men & women, 40 years & over. www. maturefriends.org True Colors: Connecting LGBTQ Teens in Shoreline.

4-5pm. Every Wednesday. Discussing your important issues, building a supportive community. For information, location & to REGISTER call Lindsay Bagley 362-7282 x 8018 or email lbagley@chs-nw.org Music of Remembrance “Art from Ashes” Concert.

5pm. Illsley Ball Nordstrom Recital Hall, 3rd Ave & Union St. A concert to mark International Holocaust Remembrance Day. FREE. Advance reservations strongly recommended. www.musicofremembrance.org GSBA Women on Top. 5:30pm. Olive 8 Condos, 737 Olive Way. Seattle’s premier cocktail hour for LGBT professional women. Strengthen connections with colleagues you haven’t seen for a while, make new connections & take some time to enjoy friendships with other professional women. Hosted by Justice Mary Yu, sponsored by Seattle Storm. GSBA members $15, nonmembers $20, students $15. www.thegsba.org GLOBE (GLBTQ Loving Ourselves, Becoming Empowered): A Support Group & HIV/STD Prevention for Youth (14-20) in Everett. 6-8pm. CCA Building, 3331 Broadway - Bottom Floor, Everett. Every Wednesday.

Sponsored by PFLAG Everett chapter. David/Brenda, (425) 263-2908. globeleaders@hotmail.com POZSeattle Second Monthly Social. 6-8pm. CC Attle’s, 1701 E Olive Way. Meet us in the “Olive Room” for drinks, light fare of tasty food provided by CC’s kitchen, socializing, and a whole lot of fun. The event is offered at no cost (no one turned away for lack of funds), but to help with overhead costs, a $5 donation is suggested.

Beverages are at-cost from CC’s bar, and is for all HIVpositive men and their friends, regardless of age, shape, size, color, or gender identity.

The Rowing Team Peer Recovery Group. 6-7:30pm.

All Pilgrims Church, 500 Broadway E. Meets every Wednesday. This peer recovery group provides a safe & supportive faith community to share your recovery journey with, God answers our prayers & sends us a boat.

Sometimes rowing furiously for yourself & sometimes for others. All are welcome.

Seattle Gay & Lesbian Book Club. 6-7:30pm. SASG, 115 15th Ave E, Suite 201. Every Wednesday. Discuss the best LGBT novels with other book-lovers in a safe, comfortable conversation. Come once or come every week. Check our website for this month’s book. http:// faculty.washington.edu/swittet/SGLBookClub/ SASG 322-2437; www.sasgcc.org Lotus Sisters Meditation & Dharma Discussion North. 6:15-8pm. Ravenna Bryant neighborhood. Meets

Lesbian Human Rights Commission. RSVP to howard@ gaycity.org PFLAG/Tacoma Monthly Meeting. 7pm. St Andrew’s Episcopal Church, 7410 S 12th (at Jackson), Tacoma.

Meets 4th Thursday each month. PFLAG/Tacoma: (253) 383-2318. PFLAG/Puget Sound: 325-7724.

Rainbow Duplicate Bridge. 7pm. Bus-accessible Central Area location. Every Thursday. (See Saturday listing at 6pm.)

Buddhism & Recovery. 7:30-9pm. SASG, 115 15th Ave E, Suite 201. Every Thursday. A meditation/recovery group. 322-2437; www.sasgcc.org Gay Fathers Association of Seattle. 7:30-9pm. Group Health, 201 16th Ave E, Central Bldg, Lower Atrium.

Every Thursday. Support meetings for Gay fathers & Gay men who are currently or previously married. Safe, anonymous, non-judgmental environment of caring fathers & friends. You are not alone. For information, community events & “questioning” visit www.gfas.org or our message board at http://groups.yahoo.com/groups/ gayfathersseattle Gay Male Sexuality & Relationships. 7:30-9pm.

SASG, 115 15th Ave E, Suite 201. Every Thursday. A discussion group that is strictly focused on sexual topics and relationship issues related to being a Gay male.

322-2437; www.sasgcc.org Amor Chorale Rehearsal. 8-9pm. Amor Spiritual Center, 2528 Beacon Ave, Suite B. Meets every Thursday.

Calling all sopranos, altos, tenors & basses. The Amor Spiritual Center currently has openings for singers in its Chorale group.

Seattle Otters Water Polo Team. 8-9:30pm. Medgar Evers Pool, 500 23rd Ave E (at E Cherry St). Every Tuesday & Thursday. (See Tuesday listing at 8pm.)

every Wednesday. Call 525-7295 for location. www.

LotusSisters.org.

Center for Spiritual Living. 6:30pm-Meditation, 7pmService. 5801 Sand Point Way NE. Blessings & we hope to see you soon! Info 527-8801 ext 203, www. cslseattle.org Seattle Frontrunners Fun Run. 6:30pm. Volunteer Park (in front of Black Sun across for museum). Every Wednesday. (See Saturday at 9am.)

HIV/AIDS Support Group. 7-8:30pm. SASG, 115 15th Ave E, Suite 201. Every Wednesday. Please arrive by 7:00pm. FREE peer-facilitated emotional support group for HIV+ men who are newly diagnosed or newly dealing.

322-2437; www.sasgcc.org Hermanos Trans Latino & Foreign-Born Support Group. 7pm. Entre Hermanos, 1105 23rd Ave. Bilingual (Spanish/English) Transsexual support group meets 2nd & 4th Wednesday each month to provide information, counseling, healthcare, sisterhood & social activities for Latino & foreign-born people in their transition.

For more information contact Abby 322-7700, www. entrehermanos.org Ingersoll All-Trans Drop-In Support Group. 7-9pm.

Seattle Counseling Services, 1216 Pine St, Suite 300.

All Transgender, Gender Variant, Gender Queer, Gender Questioning, allies, family & friends are welcome. This is a drop in group to get & give support, social interaction & information for the whole Gender community. www. ingersollcenter.org Mature Friends Weekly Bridge Group. 7:30pm. Call for location. Every Wednesday. All levels welcome. MF is a social organization for Gay men & women, 40 years & over. www.maturefriends.org Orca Swim Team Workout. 7:30-8:45pm. Seattle University, Connolly Athletic Center, 14th Ave & E Cherry St. (See Sunday listing at 5pm.)

Washington Gender Alliance Open Support Meeting in Everett. 7:30-9pm. Everett United Church of Christ, 2624 Rockefeller Ave, Everett. Every Wednesday.

Trained peer facilitators lead a structured support meeting helping people deal with issues of gender identity & expression. All adults are welcomed, including those who are questioning, allies, or identify as FTM, MTF, Transgender, Queer, or Intersex, among others. (360) 445-2411; www.washingtongenderalliance.com.

THURSDAY - January 28

Alcoholics Anonymous “Safe & Sober Group.”

12noon-1pm. SASG, 115 15th Ave E, Suite 201. Open meeting of AA. 322-2437; www.sasgcc.org.

Visit us online www.sgn.org

BABES Women’s Support Group/Lunch Meeting.

12 noon-2pm. Call for location. Every Thursday. The BABES Network is a peer led agency; a sisterhood of women facing HIV together. 720-5566 or 888-292-1912; www.babesnetwork.org.

Oasis Youth Center in Tacoma - For Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender & Questioning Youth, Ages 14-25. 4-10pm. Call for location & details. Every Thursday. (253) 671-2838, www.oasisyouthcenter.org (Also Fridays 4-10pm & Saturdays 6pm-12 midnight.)

Everett-Snohomish County Friendship Dinner for Persons Living with HIV/AIDS. 6pm. Grace UMC (formerly Firs United Methodist). Meets last Thursday most months. FREE. Everyone welcome. Sponsored by the Evergreen AIDS Foundation & SNOCO Gay Men’s Task Force. For information call (425) 252-7751.

Shifting Gears. 6-7:30pm. SASG, 115 15th Ave E, Suite 201. Every Thursday. Drop-in support group (non 12-step) for anyone of any orientation or gender who desires recovery from drugs or alcohol. 322-2437; www.sasgcc.org B-GLAD (Bisexual, Gay, Lesbian, Trans & Questioning Adolescent Drop-In Group). 6:30-8pm. Call for location. Every Thursday. Sponsored by Youth Eastside Services, which offers many programs for GLBT youth.

(425) 747-4937.

Crystal Meth Anonymous. 6:30pm. Capitol Hill Presbyterian Church, 1729 Harvard Ave. Also meets Mon @ 6:30pm, Sat @ 10:30am, Sun @ 6:30pm. More info: crystalmeth.org.

Westside Unitarian Universalist Congregation - Contemplative Service. 6:30pm. 7141 California Ave SW. 935-0418, office@wsuu.org, www.wsuu.org Boys’ Group - For Male-Identified Youth, Ages 1422. 7-8:30pm. Lambert House, 1818 15th Ave. Every Thursday. Youth take the opportunity to talk about issues that relate to their everyday lives, with the facilitation of a male volunteer. 322-2515 ext 16. www.lamberthouse.org Film Screening: “Call Me Kuchu.” 7-9pm. Gay City Calamus Auditorium, 517 E Pike St. In Uganda a new bill threatens to make homosexuality punishable by death.

David Kato, Uganda’s first openly Gay man & retired Anglican bishop Christopher Senyonjo work against the clock to defeat state-sanctioned homophobia while combatting vicious persecution in their daily lives. But no one is prepared for the brutal murder that shakes their movement to its core & sends shock waves around the world. Screening sponsored by OutRight Action International, formerly IGLHRC, the International Gay &

January 22, 2016

AA Ageless in Recovery. 12noon-1pm. SASG, 115 15th Ave E, Suite 201. Meets every Friday. A drop in AA group for older & wiser people 55+. www.sasgcc.org Re-Parenting Ourselves. 12noon-1pm. SASG, 115 15th Ave E, Suite 201. Meets every Friday. A peer support group for adult children of any addiction. www. sasgcc.org SLAA Road to Recovery. 12noon-1:30pm. SASG, 115 15th Ave E, Suite 201. Meets every Friday. Ongoing 12 step group for sex & love addicts. www.sasgcc.org Oasis Youth Center in Tacoma - For Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender & Questioning Youth, Ages 14-25. 4-10pm. Call for location & details. Every Friday.

(253) 671-2838, www.oasisyouthcenter.org (Also Thursdays 4-10pm & Saturdays 6pm-12 midnight.)

LGBT Board Gayme Social. 6-9pm. Gay City Michael Henson Conference Room, 517 E Pike St. Weekly social night centering on board games. Open to all LGBTransQueer persons. Hosted by Radical Fairies.

Strength Over Speed. 6-7:30pm. SASG, 115 15th Ave E, Suite 201. FREE drop-in support group (not a 12-step) for Gay & Bi men who desire recovery from meth. www.strengthoverspeed.org. SASG 322-2437; www.sasgcc.org Mature Friends Monthly Potluck. 6:30pm-appetizers & socializing; 7:30pm-dinner. Ballard Odd Fellows Hall Bldg, 1706 NW Market St. Meets last Friday most months. MF is a social organization for Gay men & women, 40 years & over. www.maturefriends.org Lambert House Queer Movie Night. 7-9:30pm. Lambert House, 1818 15th Ave. Every Friday. Lambert House is a nationally-recognized activities & resource center for GLBT & questioning youth, ages 14-22. 322-2515, www.lamberthouse.org Rain Country Dance Night. 7-11pm, lessons at 7:15pm.

The Cuff, 1533 13th Ave. An evening of country-western dancing for the LGBTQ community. FREE. www.raincountrydance.org.

Destiny Gay AA Group in Tacoma. 7:30pm. New Heart MCC, 759 S 45th St, Tacoma. Every Friday.

(253) 474-8897.

Orca Swim Team Workout. 7:30-8:45pm. Seattle University, Connolly Athletic Center, 14th Ave & E Cherry St. (See Sunday listing at 5pm.)

LGBT Friday Night Al-Anon Family Group. 7:45pm.

Seattle Counseling Service, Rainbow Room, 1216 Pine St at Melrose Ave. Every Friday. The Al-Anon Family Groups are a fellowship of relatives & friends of alcoholics who share their experience, strength & hope in order to solve their common problems. We believe alcoholism is a family illness & that changed attitudes can aid recovery. Greater Seattle AIS 24-hour number 625-0000; www.seattle-al-anon.org

SATURDAY - January 30

(See previous Saturday for ongoing activities.)

Birthday Tribute to Nina Simone. 8-10:30pm. Royal Room, 5000 Rainier Ave S. Presented by Seattle Women in Jazz with vocalist/composer Eugenie Jones. Tickets $12 in advance, $15 at the door. www.strangertickets. com/events/30638544 Decadence: Celebrating 1920s Queer Berlin. Doors 8pm, Show 8:30-10pm. Neighbours Nightclub, 1509 Broadway. Hosted by Jeffrey Robert from “The Gay Uncle Time.” Starring Bella Lunacy, Little Bear the Bearded Lady, Maggie Bloodstone, Whisper De Corvo, Areola Borealis, Miko, Jack Mozie & Mac S McGregor. $10 tickets available at the door. 100% of ticket sales benefits Equality Coalition for Housing & Opportunity (ECHO) & Social Outreach Seattle (SOSea).

SUNDAY - January 31

(See previous Sunday for ongoing activities.)

COMMUNITY RESOURCES Seattle Gay News 15

Allyship - an organization of LGBTQ individuals fighting for economic and social justice. www.LGBTQ Allyship. org, allyship@yahoo.com, 279-8169.

American Veterans for Equal Rights - www.aver.us Another Gay Social Club! - www.meetup.com/AnotherGay-Social-Club/ Bellingham/Whatcom County - www.theslowlane. com/guide.html BiNet Seattle is a mixed gender, social group for Bisexuals, their partners & other Bi-friendly folks - www. binetseattle.org.

Bremerton/Kitsap County - www.outwestsound.org Capitol Hill Alano Club - www.chacseattle.org Central Washington University GALA Hotline: (509) 963-1994.

DIFFA/Seattle (Design Industries Foundation Fighting AIDS). 763-8885; www.diffaseattle.org DOMESTIC VIOLENCE & SEXUAL ASSAULT: Crisis Clinic, 461-3222 (24 hour line); King County Sexual Assault Resource Center (KCSARC) - 24-hour crisis line for information, support, & medical & legal assistance: 1-888-99-VOICE; Northwest Network - support & advocacy for Bisexual, Trans, Lesbian & Gay Survivors of Abuse & Dating Violence, 568-7777 (voice), 517-9670 (tty), www.nwnetwork.org; Pierce County Domestic Violence Helpline: Teresa, (253) 798-4166; Seattle Counseling Service for Sexual Minorities - offers on-going support groups for men: 323-1768; Seattle Police Dept Domestic Violence Unit, 684-0330; State Wide Domestic Violence Hot Line, 1-800-562-6025.

In an emergency call 911. Report domestic violence and sexual assault.

Equal Rights Washington - 324-2570; www.equal rightswashington.org Everett/Snohomish Cty - www.gaysnohomish.org Freely Speaking Toastmasters - www.freely speaking.org Gay City organizes events & activities for Gay & Bi men & offers anonymous & confidential HIV/STD testing at the Center for LGBT Health, 517 E Pike St. More info or to schedule an appointment, 860-6969. www.gaycity.org Gay & Lesbian National Hotline (GLNH): 1-888-THEGLNH (1-888-843-4564). Non-profit, peer-counseling, information & local resources telephone hotline for GLBT people across the country.

GLSEN/WA - Gay, Lesbian, Straight Education Network - 330-2099; www.glsenwa.org Greater Seattle Business Association (GSBA) - 3639188; www.thegsba.org HIV/AIDS Program, Seattle/King County Dept of Public Health, provides confidential/anonymous information about & testing for HIV/AIDS. 205-7837. For a comprehensive list of HIV/AIDS service organizations see the GSBA Guide or visit www.thegsba.org or call Lifelong AIDS Alliance, 328-8979.

Imperial Sovereign Court of Seattle & the Olympic & Rainier Empire - www.facebook.com/ISCSORE; www. imperialcourtofseattle.com Lambert House - 322-2515; www.lamberthouse.org LGBT Library - 517 E Pike St. Open Mon-Fri 2-8pm; Sat 2-5pm.

LGBT MS Connection - 250-5002; LGBTMS Connection@gmail.com. Support group for LGBT persons with MS and their partners and their caregivers.

Lifelong AIDS Alliance - 328-8979, www.lifelongaids alliance.org MEN: Gay City: 860-6969, www.gaycity.org; Knights of Mantra: 329-0886, www.jetchapterkofm.com; Mature Friends: Gay men & women 40 & over, www.mature friends.org; Northwest Bears: www.nwbears.com; The Olympians: www.TheOlympians.net; POZSeattle: www.pozseattle.org; Q-Squared: www.qsquared.org; Rain City Jacks: 888-809-5035, www.raincityjacks. org; Seattle Gay Couples: www. seattlegaycouples. org; Seattle Men in Leather: www.seattlemeninleather. org; Seattle Prime Timers: Gay & Bi men 40 & over, www.seattle primetimers.org.

MUSIC: Diverse Harmony: www.diverseharmony.org; Rainbow City Band: 1-866-841-9139 ext 2126; rainbowcityband@onebox.com; www.rainbowcity band.com; Seattle Men’s Chorus and Seattle Women’s Chorus: 388-1408, 323-0750. www.flyinghouse. org.

Northwest Lesbian & Gay History Museum Project - gayhistnw@aol.com Northwest Rainbow Alliance for the Deaf - www. nwrad.org Olympia/Thurston County: www.RainbowCenterOly. org Out & Equal Workplace Advocates/Seattle Regional Affiliate supports the work of LGBT employees and the growing number of ERGs (Employee Resource Groups) making a difference within local companies. www.outandequal.org/affiliates/seattle PARENTHOOD: Families Like Ours provides a gateway for LGBT families interested in adoption: 441-7602, www.familieslikeours. org; Family Works offers support, information & activities for LGBT families: 694-6727, www.familyworksseattle. org; Gay Fathers’ Association of Seattle offers support groups & social activities: www.gfas. org; Proud & Loud Families - Northwest, www.meetup.com/proud-and-loud-families-northwest, plfnorthwest@aol.com; Queer Parent Networking Dinners: 568-7777, info@nwnetwork.org; Rainbow Families of Puget Sound: www.rainbowfamiliesps.org PFLAG is the national organization for parents, families, allies, and LGBTQ people united for equality with chapters in Seattle, Bellevue/Eastside, the Puget Sound region and across Washington state. PFLAG Seattle: 206-325-7724, info@pflagseattle.org, and www.pflag seattle.org; PFLAG Bellevue/Eastside: 425-4836642, info@bellevue-pflag.org, http://community.pflag. org/PFLAGBellevue; PFLAG Pacific Northwest:

16 Seattle Gay News

community calendar

www.pnwpflag.org; PFLAG Washington state: www. pflagwsc.org.

PEOPLE OF COLOR: African Americans Reach & Teach Health Ministry (AARTH), 850-2070; Asian/ Pacific Islander Queer Network Program at API Chaya, 467-9976; Center for MultiCultural Health, 461-6910, www.multi-culturalhealth.org; Entre Hermanos, GLBT Latinos/as, 322-7700, www.entrehermanos. org; Ile LaiLai, 781-3565, iya@ilelailai.org; Men of All Colors & Cultures Together (MACCT), 923-8313, macctseattle@yahoo. com, www.macctsea.org; Nubian Pride Productions, nubianpride@gmail.com; People of Color Against AIDS Network (POCAAN) offers rapid HIV testing, M-F, 10am-5pm, 322-7061, www.pocaan. org and on Facebook; Seattle Two Spirit, SeattleTwoSpirit@ hotmail.com; Sistah 2 Sistah, LBT women of African descent, 322-7061, 255-8951; Sistah Sinema, www.sistahsinema.com, info@sistahsinema.com; Trikone-Northwest, GLBT South Asians, (425) 9854376, www.trikonenw.org; Two-Spirit Honor Project, 1-866-685-0164; U.T.O.P.I.A. Seattle.

Pride Foundation - 323-3318; www.pridefoundation. org Project NEON is a program of Seattle Counseling Service providing FREE information & services to Gay & Bi men to reduce health risks associated with methamphetamine use. 323-1768. www.crystalneon.org Public Health-Seattle & King County Online Comprehensive Health Information for Sexual Minorities: www.kingcounty.gov/healthservices/health/personal/ glbt.aspx Q Law: The GLBT Bar Association of WA - 682-6711; www.q-law.org; Q Law GLBT Legal Clinic - 235-7235.

Resource & Referral Line can connect you to LGBTfriendly resources throughout Puget Sound and beyond.

Call 323-LGBT Mon-Fri 2-8pm; Sat 2-5pm. At other times leave voice mail and your call will be returned. Or visit www.gaycity.org to view list of resources online or through Facebook.

Safe Schools Coalition - www.safeschoolscoalition. org; 451-SAFE (451-7233).

SEAMEC interviews, researches & rates candidates for public office on issues of concern to the LGBT community. 905-9941, www.seamec.org Seattle Area Support Groups & Community Center (SASG) is a non-profit organization that builds community and cultivates powerful, healthy lives by providing emotional support and personal development services to those affected by HIV/AIDS, the Queer communities, and those who love them. 322-2437; www.sasgcc.org

January 22, 2016

Seattle Commission for Sexual Minorities - 684-4503.

Seattle Counseling Service for Sexual Minorities is a community mental health service for GLBT persons & their families. 323-1768.

Seattle Out & Proud - 206-322-9561; www.seattle pride.org Seattle Police Department Sexual Minorities Community Advisory Council: kim.bogucki@seattle.gov Seattle PrideFest - www.seattlepridefest.org Servicemembers Legal Defense Network - (202) 328-3244; www.sldn.org SHIFT: A Peer Recovery Network - www.shift recovery.org Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, The Abbey of St. Joan - 860-3666; www.theabbey.org Snohomish Health District HIV/AIDS Program provides free confidential/anonymous HIV counseling & testing 9am-5pm Monday-Friday, until 7pm Tuesdays.

(425) 339-5298.

Social Outreach Seattle (SOSea) - www.facebook. com/socialoutreachseattle South Sound Q Calendar - LGBTQ events in Tacoma, Olympia & Sound Puget Sound area; www.South SoundQCal.com Spokane/Inland Northwest - www.outspokane.com; www.stonewallnews.net SPORTS & RECREATION: Bent Car Guys: www. bentcarguys.org; Border Riders Motorcycle Club: www.borderriders.com; Bottom Dwellers Scuba Club: www.bottomdwellers.org; Capitol Hill Cyclers: join their Facebook group or email capitolhill cycling@ groups.facebook.com or jordan.l.simonson@ gmail. com; Cascade Flyers: www.cascadeflyers.org; Different Spokes Bicycling Club: www.different spokes. org; Emerald City Mudhen Rugby: www.mudhenrugby. com; Emerald City Softball Association: www.emeraldcitysoftball.org, www.eteamz.com/womensecsa; Ethyl Forever Car Club: ethylforever@ hotmail.com; Olympic Yacht Club: www.oycnw.org; OutVentures: outdoor education & recreation activities, www.outventures.org; Pacific Northwest Gay Rodeo Association: www.pacificnwgra.org; Puddletown Squares: www. puddletownsquares.org; Rain City Soccer: www.raincitysoccer.org; Rain Country Dance Association: a country-western dance organization catering to the LGBTQ community but open to all, www.raincountrydance. org; Sea Dawgs: LGBT ice hockey - SkateSeaDawgs@ gmail.com and on Facebook; Seattle Frontrunners: www.seattlefront runners.org; Seattle Gay Basketball

Association: www.seattlegaybasketballassociation. com; Seattle Orca Swim Team: www.orcaswimteam. org; Seattle Otters Water Polo: www.otterpolo.com; Seattle Quake Rugby: www.quakerugby.com; Seattle Tennis Alliance: www.seattletennisalliance.org; Seattle Unified Bowling Association (SUBA): magee98106@ aol.com, www.teamseattle.org/bowling.htm, www. theprideleague. com, Century 21 League; Seattle Volleyball Club: www.seattlevolleyballclub.com; Ski Buddies: www. skibuddies.org; Team Seattle Gay Sports Network is an umbrella organization for a wide range of local GLBT sports activities, 367-4064, www. teamseattle.org (see website for comprehensive list of sports clubs); Triangle Recreation Camp at Bender Creek: recreational camping for GLBT folks. Must be 21; ID required. trc@camptrc.org, www.camptrc.org, 1122 E Pike St #1069, Seattle 98122-3934.

Strength Over Speed - www.strengthoverspeed.org Tacoma/Pierce County - Rainbow Center, 2215 Pacific Ave, Tacoma, a resource center for the LGBTIQA community of Pierce County, (253) 383-2318, www. rainbowcntr.org TRANSGENDER: Emerald City Social Club: (425) 827-9494; Gender Alliance of the South Sound: www.

SouthSoundGender.com; Gender Diversity: www. genderdiversity.org; Gender Justice League: www. genderjusticeleague.org; Gender Odyssey: www.genderodyssey.com; Hermanos Trans Latino & ForeignBorn Support Group: 322-7700; Ingersoll Gender Center: 329-6651, www.ingersollcenter.org; The New BoyZ Club: www.olympiaftmgroup.webs.com; Olympia Trans Discussion Group: www.facebook.com/pages/ Olympia-Trans-Discussion-Group/262449878114; Washington Gender Alliance: (360) 445-2411, www. washington genderalliance.com WOMEN: Aging Lesbians in South Seattle (ALISS): Fai, 722-0729, alissquestions@gmail.com; BABES: support groups for HIV+ women. 720-5566, 1-888-2921912; Festival of the Babes: www.festivalofthebabes. com; Lesbians Over 40: 722-0729; Mature Friends: Gay men & women 40 & over, www.maturefriends.org; Older Lesbians Organizing for Change/WA State Chapter: gloria@oloc.org, mary@oloc.org, www.oloc. org; Pacific Northwest Lesbian Archives: www. pnwlesbianarchives.org; RainshadowWomen: RainshadowWomen@aol.com; Seattle Girls of Leather: www.sgol.org; Tacoma Lesbian Concern (TLC): www. tacomalesbianconcern.org; Women of West Seattle (WOWS): a fun, member-driven social group for Lesbians, http://groups.yahoo.com/group/womenofwestseattle; YWCA Women’s Health Outreach: providing low or no-cost mammograms for income eligible 40+ LBTQ individuals. Follow us at http://lbtqhealth-ywca.blogspot. com, twitter.com/ingridWHO or email lbthealth@ywcaworks.org, 461-4493.

Yakima: First Fridays - (509) 576-0276. www.gayakima.com/1stfridays.html YOUTH: B-GLAD (Bisexual, Gay, Lesbian, Trans & Questioning Adolescent Drop-In Group): Youth Eastside Services offers many programs for GLBT youth, including B-GLAD, (425) 747-4937; Diverse Harmony: www.diverseharmony. org; GLSEN/Washington State (Gay, Lesbian, Straight Education Network) & Washington State GSA (Gay-Straight Alliance) Network: GLSEN works to create safe schools for LGBT students. WA GSA Network supports youth-led GSA’s to fight harassment & homophobia in Washington state schools. 330-2099; www.glsenwa. org; www.wagsa. org. GLOBE (GLBTQ Loving Ourselves, Becoming Empowered): a support group & HIV/STD prevention program for GLBTQ youth, 14-20, in Everett, (425) 263-2908, www.globeyouth.org; It Gets Better Project: www.itgetsbetter.org; Lambert House: an activities & resource center for LGBT youth, 14-22, in Seattle, 3222515, www.lamberthouse.org; Lifelong HEYO (Health Education Youth Outreach): for LGBTQ youth, ages 16-24: 957-1665; www.llaa.org/HEYO; www.Matthews Place.com; The Mockingbird Society: 323-KIDS (5437), www.mockingbirdsociety.org; Oasis Youth Center: for GLBTQ youth, ages 14-25, in Tacoma, (253) 671-2838, www.oasisyouthcen ter.org; Parents, Family & Friends of Lesbians & Gays (PFLAG)/Puget Sound: 325-7724, www.seattle-pflag.org; Peace for the Streets by Kids from the Streets (PSKS): 7268500; www.psks.org; Pizza Klatch: weekly lunchtime support groups for LGBTQ youth in Thurston County, www.pizzaklatch.org; Prism: for LGBTQ youth, 14-21, in Puyallup - Cherise.Alexander@ multicare.org; www. facebook.com/PuyallupPrism; Proud Out Wonderful (POW!): for LGBTQ youth, 13-21, in South King County, 206-326-9112, www.facebook.com/proudoutwonderful; Q Youth Resources: in Kitsap County - 360-698-3335; www.kchaf.org; Renton Area Youth Services (RAYS): LGBTQ, questioning and allied youth drop-in group, ages 12-18 - Sarah Hardin, 425-271-5600, ext 155; sarahh@rays.org; Safe Schools Coalition: www. safeschoolscoalition.org; 451-SAFE (451-7233) (nonemergency), 1-877-SAFE-SAFE (1-877-723-3723) (crisis line); Seattle Young People’s Project (Queer Youth Resource Board): 860-9606, www.sypp.org; Street Youth Ministries (SYM): 524-7301 ext 111; www.streetyouthministries.org; Teen Link: 461-4922, 1-888-431-TEEN; The Trevor Project: 866-4-U-Trevor; www.thetrevorproject.org; True Colors - Connecting LGBTQ Teens: in Shoreline, 362-7282 x 8018, lbagley@chs-nw.org; Vista Youth Center: for LGBTQ, questioning and allied youth, ages 14-21, in Kennewick, 509-396-5198, www.vistayouthcenter.org; YouthCare/ Isis Program (Transitional Living Home for LGBTQ Young Adults, 18-22): 522-8412; YouthCare/Orion Center: 622-5555; Youth in Focus: 723-1479; www. youthinfocus.org; Youth Suicide Prevention Program (OUTLoud-GLBTQ): 297-5922, ext 116, 1-800-273TALK, www.yspp.org

Celebrating 41 Years!

Volunteer Park

• BACON MANSION

E. PROSPECT ST. • SHAFER MANSION E. ALOHA ST.

12TH AVE. E.

E. ROY ST.

16TH AVE. E.

15TH AVE. E.

13TH AVE. E.

• B&B ON BROADWAY E. ROY ST. • UNDER U 4 MEN

E. VALLEY ST. 14TH AVE. E.

11TH AVE. E.

FEDERAL AVE. E.

10TH AVE. E.

BROADWAY AVE. E.

E. WARD ST.

E. MERCER ST.

MALDEN AVE. E.

BROADWAY E.

• THE CANTERBURY E. REPUBLICAN ST. E. HARRISON ST.

E. THOMAS ST.

10TH AVE. E.

E AV

• UPS STORE

11TH AVE.

E. HOWELL ST.

.

• CLUB Z BATHS

• THE STRANGER

NAGLE PL.

Cal Anderson Park

• LAMBERT HOUSE

BROADWAY

HARVARD AVE. E.

Seattle Central Community College

• LINDAʼS • BILLʼS OFF BROADWAY

C.C. ATTLEʼS• BOYLSTON AVE.

E. DENNY WAY

• CASTLE SUPER STORE

N

RE

T.

ES

PIK

E. JOHN ST.

• NEUMOʼS

• SEATTLE EAGLE

GAY CITY HEALTH PROJECT •

• NEIGHBOURS

.

E AV

• BALTIC ROOM

BO

T.

ES

PIN

• GLOʼS

R

O

AY EW

IV OL

• HOT MAMAʼS PIZZA • TOYS IN BABELAND

IN

W

HO

• R PLACE

.

ST

M

L

EL

BELMONT AVE.

• REBAR

SUMMIT AVE.

• KREMWERK

• STEAM WORKS

A EW

ST

• THE CRESCENT

T.

S RT

• GSBA

DENNY WAY

• SIMPLY FRAMES & MINER GALLERY

NEW YORK EXCHANGE • STUDIO 229 • PANACHE • LAUGHING BUDDHA TATTOO •

BELLEVUE AVE.

• SEATTLE COUNSELING SERVICE FOR SEXUAL MINORITIES MELROSE AVE.

• JULIAʼS

GLSEN ONYX LEATHER • SEAMEC • STOUT • PURR

BATHS

CLUB Z - (men) 1117 Pike near Boren - 622-9958 HOT HOUSE SPA & SAUNA - (women) SW corner of Pike & 11th (stairs behind Wildrose) - 568-3240 STEAM WORKS - (men) 1520 Summit - 388-4818

RESTAURANTS & BARS

88 KEYS - 315 2nd Ave. S. - 839-1300 BALTIC ROOM - 1207 Pine St. - 625-4444 THE BOTTLENECK LOUNGE 2328 E. Madison St. - 323-1098 C.C. ATTLE’S BAR & GRILLE 1701 E. Olive Way - 726-0565

THE CANTERBURY - 534 15th Ave. E. - 322-3130 CHANGES IN WALLINGFORD 2103 N. 45th - 545-8363 THE CRESCENT - 1413 E. Olive Way - 720-8188 THE CUFF COMPLEX 1533 13th Ave. - 323-1525 DIESEL BAR - 1413 14th Ave. - 322-1080 GLO’S - 1621 E. Olive Way - 324-2577 GNOCCHI BAR - 1542 12th Ave - 328-4285 HOT MAMA’S PIZZA - 700 E. Pine St. - 322-6444 JAZZ ALLEY - 2033 6th Ave. E. - 441-9729 JULIA’S - 300 Broadway Ave. E. - 860-1818 KREMWERK - 1809 Minor Ave. #10 - 682-2935 MAE’S CAFE 6412 Phinney Ave. N. - 782-1222 MADISON PUB - 1315 E. Madison - 325-6537 NEIGHBOURS - 1509 Broadway - 324-5358 OUT WEST - 5401California Ave. SW POCO WINE ROOM 1408 E. Pine St. - 322-9463

• POST OPTIONS •WILDROSE • HOT HOUSE

E. PINE ST.

ON

E.

PONY - 1221 E. Madison St. - 324-2854 PURR - 1518 11th Ave. - 325-3112 R PLACE - 619 E. Pine - 322-8828 RE-BAR - 1114 Howell at Boren - 233-9873 SEATTLE EAGLE - 314 E. Pike - 621-7591 SHORTY’S 2222 2nd Ave - 441-5449 STOUT -1530 11th Ave - 397-3825 TOULOUSE PETIT 601 Queen Anne Ave N - 432-9069 WILDROSE - 1021 E. Pike - 324-9210 ZIPPY’S GIANT BURGERS 5633 Airport Way S - 466-5954 9614 14th Ave SW - 763-1347

RETAIL SHOPS

CASTLE SUPERSTORE #17 1017 E. Pike St - 204-0126 DOGHOUSE LEATHERS 1312 E. Pike St. - 257-0231 EMERSON SALON - 909 E. Pike St. - 323-7437 NEW YORK EXCHANGE 231 Broadway Ave E - 726-7978 ONYX LEATHER - 1605 12th Ave. #8 - 328-1965 PANACHE - 225 Broadway E. - 726-3300 STAN’S ADULT SUPERSTORE 9630 16th Ave. SW - 762-3299 TOYS IN BABELAND - 707 E. Pike St. - 328-2914 UNDER U 4 MEN 709 Broadway Ave. E. - 324-6446 WILD AT HEART 1111 NW Leary Way - 782-5538 YOUR CHOICE VIDEO 9811 16TH AVE SW - 768-0711

LOVER’S 193 Telegraph Road - (360) 752-1862 RUMORS CABARET 1119 Railroad - (306) 671-1849

EVERETT

BAR MYX - 1212 California St. - 425-610-4071 LOVER’S - 112 SE Everett - (425) 353-3607 LOVER’S - 3402 Broadway - (425) 252-8754

KENT

LOVER’S 25801 104th Ave. S.E. - (253) 852-1720 THE FANTASY SHOP 604 Central Ave. S. - (253) 850-8428 NASHVILLE’S SPORTS BAR (Drag Shows) 114 - Railroad Ave. N. - (253) 852 - 0909

January 22, 2016

IS AD

ST.

M

• DOGHOUSE LEATHERS

E. PIKE ST. • CHOP SUEY • MADISON PUB • DIESEL BAR • PONY

BELLINGHAM

Visit us online www.sgn.org

• POCO WINE ROOM

• THE CUFF COMPLEX • GNOCCHI BAR

E. UNION ST.

SEATTLE

• THE GASLIGHT INN

E. OLIVE ST.

E. UNION ST.

LA CONNER

THE HERON INN & WATERGRASS DAY SPA 117 Maple Ave. - (877) 883-8899 info@theheron.com

OLYMPIA

DARBY’S CAFE 211 5th Ave. S.E. - (360) 357-6229 LOVER’S 3959 Martin Way E. Suite D - (360) 456-7300 JAKES - 311 4th Ave. E. - (360) 956-3247 URBAN ONION 116 Legion Way - (360) 943-9242

PORT ANGELES MAPLE ROSE INN 112 Reservoir Rd - (800) 570-2007

SPOKANE

ANDY’S 1401 W. 1st Ave. - (509) 747 - 0304 IRV’S (Drag Shows) 415 W. Sprague Ave. - (509) 624 - 4450 NYNE BAR AND BISTRO 232 W. Sprague Ave. - (509) 474 -1621 SPOTLIGHT LOUNGE 321 W. Sprague Ave. - (509) 624 - 0722

TACOMA

CASTLE SUPERSTORE 6015 Tacoma Mall Blvd. - (253) 471-0391 CLUB SILVERSTONE 739½ St. Helens Ave. - (253) 404-0273 THE FANTASY SHOP 2301 6th Ave. - (253) 272-6640 LOVER’S 7002 Tacoma Mall Blvd., #F - (253) 475-2271 THE MIX - 635 St. Helens Ave. - (253) 383-4327 RAINBOW CENTER 2215 Pacific Ave. - (253) 383-2318 SHAKABRAH JAVA CAFE 2618 6th Ave. - (253) 572-2787 TANDEM FOR GEAR, CLOTHING AND ACCESSORIES 3019 6th Ave, Ste. B - (253) 301-3026

TUKWILA

LOVER’S 530 Southcenter Blvd. - (206) 248-5085

WENATCHEE

THE CELLAR CAFE 240 N. Mission St. - (509) 662-1722

Seattle Gay News 17

_______________________________

10 housemates

10 housemates

_______________________________ 11 for rent

11 FOR RENT

_______________________________

12 12 housing wanted WANTED HOUSING _______________________________

13 13 housing for sale

HOUSING FOR SALE

_______________________________

14 Help wanted

14 help wanted

_______________________________ DIRECTOR Generations with Pride has a career opportunity for a fulltime Director. Generations with Pride is a new and innovative project designed to build upon the strengths, and address the growing needs of, LGBTQ older adults in Seattle/King County.

This position requires leadership and administrative skills and the ability to work effectively across multiple communities. Email GenPride16@gmail.com for a job description and requirements.

Cover letter with resume due by January 31, 2016. 04/1 _______________________________

SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER $37.87 - $56.82 HOURLY PLUS EXCELLENT BENEFITS Seattle’s Office for Economic Development is on the search for an experienced Small Business Development Manager. In this role, you will be instrumental in making sure that businesses keep their operations in the city, expand their facilities, hire employees and generate tax revenue for Seattle. Ideal candidates will have a Bachelor’s Degree and at least five years of progressively responsible experience in business development, economic development, or related fields. For more information and to apply, visit http://goo.gl/Ir6648 by 2/2/16.

The City of Seattle is an Equal Opportunity Employer that values diversity in the workforce. 04/1 _______________________________ 19 19 home services

HOME SERVICES

_______________________________

20 20 health & health & well being WELL-BEING

_______________________________ ENERGY/BODYWORK Therapeutic massage. 29 years experience. Relaxation, major/ minor injuries, chronic muscle pain. Small Queen Anne home office/studio. Massage table or massage chair. Convenient parking. (I’m a Gay-friendly straight male graphic artist, web author.)

First session 50% off = $45/1.5 hours (travel extra). By appointment only. References available.

Chris Pringer, Reiki Master, 206286-0899. If you get a voice message mentioning “extension #,” please hang up and call back again. Brochure, testimonials, etc. via chalicebridge.com/BMIBrochure.html. 44/21 _______________________________

18 Seattle Gay News

21

21 licensed LICENSED massage MASSAGE non-sexual

22 for sale

_______________________________ EXCEPTIONAL BODYWORK Given by highly trained LMP. I specialize in injury treatment, acute, chronic, and repetitive stress motion. I have a studio on CapHill, and one just north of the UW. Insurance accepted.

Matt Shafer, LMP, 206-235-7766.

09/12 _______________________________ RELAXATION and DEEP TISSUE massage on Capitol Hill. Last minute appointments w¥elcome until 9 pm. Jeff, LMP, 206-6500542. www.broadwaymassage. com. 05/3 _______________________________

36 escorts

- NON-SEXUAL

January 22, 2016

22 FOR SALE

_______________________________

36 ESCORTS

_______________________________ ULTIMATE PLEASURE 1 addictive Alpha top, 5’9”, 170, 8” cut and 2 extremely talented submissive bottoms: 5’3”, 112 lbs and 5’6”, 150 lbs. No Texts No Pictures. Donations: $125/hr.

725-777-6538. 06/3 _______________________________

37 BODYWORK

37 bodywork

_______________________________ DADDY BEAR Magic touch bodywork.

12 noon-8pm.

206-328-5828. 52/3 _______________________________ EROTICALLY CHARGED nude full body rubdown from playful top, stimulating the senses. Get seduced. Incalls in Renton area.

Scott, 206-355-4469. 03/3 ________________________________

GREAT MASSAGE given by highly-trained, clean-cut, handsome guy. I have two private studios, one on CapHill, and one just north of the UW. Call/text Matt, 206235-7766. In/out calls. 09/12 ________________________________ 38 men

38 MEN

________________________________ RAIN CITY JACKS Seattle’s own JO Club, RCJ hosts three group jack-off events every month. Hot, friendly, safe fun!

Adult men only. 888-809-5035. info@raincityjacks.org; www. raincityjacks.org. 03/12 _______________________________ FREE & ANONYMOUS HIV & STD COUNSELING/TESTING Walk-In or by Appt GAY CITY HEALTH PROJECT 517 E. Pike St. MON-FRI: 3pm-8pm SAT: 12:30pm-5pm More Info & to Schedule Appt 206-860-6969 _______________________________ SEATTLE PRIME TIMERS A social organization for Gay and Bisexual Men over 40 and their admirers. www.seattleprimetimers.org; info@seattleprimetimers. org SGN/ _______________________________

dress for the occasion use a condom to prevent hiv & other stds dress for the occasion use a condom to prevent hiv & other stds

Celebrating 41 Years!

Visit us online www.sgn.org

January 22, 2016

Seattle Gay News 19

20 Seattle Gay News

January 22, 2016

Celebrating 41 Years!