vol 32, no. 35 May 17, 2017 www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com PARTY TIME! ‘PARTS’ TIME CPS wraps up school year with Queer Prom Nightclub personality Amanda Lepore on her new book, Doll Parts. From Queer Prom 2017. STORY ON PAGE 11 Photo by David Nguyen 17 Photo by Vern Hester

Jess O’Connell Tamara Chicago Gender Society Richard E. GranT DNC hires first Trans movie makes local premiere Group marks 30 years. Movie/theater actor is in Lyric Former CGS President Olivia Connors (left) and lesbian CEO. at Chicago Latino Film Fest. President Nicole Richmond. Photo from Richmond Opera’s My Fair Lady. Photo from The Washington Blade 7 Cast/crew8 photo by Jerry Nunn 20 19 8 PR photo 16

@windycitytimes1 /windycitymediagroup @windycitytimes www.windycitymediagroup.com Full scholarship available for transgender veterans to learn coding { SEE PAGE 9 FOR MORE DETAILS 2 May 17, 2017 WINDY CITY TIMES PRIDE ACTION TANK presents SUMMIT ON OUR POSSIBILITIES MAY 23-25 MAY 23 SPONSORS OPENING RECEPTION LEAD SPONSOR FREE AND OPEN TO ALL Lambda Legal Hosted at Affinity Community Services HOST SPONSORS 2850 S. Wabash, Suite 108 AARP | Affinity Community Services MAY 24 | SUMMIT DAY 1 MEDIA SPONSOR Windy City Times Free for LGBTQ older adults (55+) who are not paid OTHER SPONSORS staff of service providers or related institutions Hosted at AARP | 222 N LaSalle Dr, Suite 710 AIDS Foundation of Chicago Chicago Foundation for Women MAY 25 | SUMMIT DAY 2 Renewal Care Partners SAGE - Services and Advocacy for GLBT Elders Open to all but targeted to service providers, researchers, funders, policy makers and others interested in improving REGISTER TODAY! outcomes for LGBTQ older adults Hosted at AARP | 222 N LaSalle Dr, Suite 710 REGISTRATION REQUIRED FOR EACH EVENT BY WEB $35 before May 12 | $45 after May 12 Bit.ly/outaging BY PHONE Call Jackie | 312-922-2322 x 723 Contact: Kim L. Hunt | [email protected] #OUTAGING WINDY CITY TIMES May 17, 2017 3 NEWS State abortion bill passes; column 4 DCFS director signs pro-LGBTQ policy 6 DNC has first lesbian CEO 7 Chicago Gender Society turns 30 8 Gay alderman needs guards after threats 10 CPS prom photos 11 VIEWPOINTS: Sukie; letter 12 ENTERTAINMENT/EVENTS Queer Black choreographer J’Sun Howard 13 HUMAN INDEX FIRST GALA Ž/‘’/“”

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Richard E. Grant interview 16 Amanda Lepore on her book 17 NIGHTSPOTS 18

vol 32, no. 35 May 17, 2017 www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com Trans-centered film at Chicago Latino Film Fest 20 Classifieds 22 PARTY TIME! Calendar Q 22 ‘PARTS’ TIME CPS wraps up school year with Queer Prom Nightclub personality Amanda Lepore on her new book, Doll Parts. From Queer Prom 2017. SToRy on PAgE 11 Photo by David Nguyen 17 Photo by Vern Hester

JESS o’ConnEll TAMARA ChICAgo gEndER SoCIETy RIChARd E. gRAnT DNC hires first Trans movie makes local premiere Group marks 30 years. Movie/theater actor is in Lyric Former CGS President Olivia Connors (left) and lesbian CEO. at Chicago Latino Film Fest. President Nicole Richmond. Photo from Richmond Opera’s My Fair Lady. Photo from The Washington Blade 7 Cast/crew8 photo by Jerry Nunn 20 19 8 PR photo 16 TEN @windycitytimes1 /windycitymediagroup @windycitytimes www.windycitymediagroup.com Full scholarship available ABOVE: WCT reviews the production Paradise Blue. XUBERANT for transgender veterans to learn coding { SEE PAGE 9 FOR MORE DETAILS Photo by Lara Goetsch YRS

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MODEL BEHAVIOR Chicago House held its annual spring brunch and fashion show (left). Photo by Ed Negron

‘may’ I? Gala Co-Chairs Human First 2017 Honoree Duane M. DesParte + John C. Schneider Fred Eychaner Anne Kaplan Celebrate Ten Years and our Robert Kohl + Clark Pelleƒ honoree with a very special Laura Rickeƒ s + Brooke Skinner Rickeƒ s performance by Dionne Warwick , Michael + Cari Sacks dance to Maggie Speaks and THE SOUND OF MUSIC Nan Schaffer + Karen Dixon Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus Artistic more at The Geraghty Chicago Director Jimmy Morehead talks about the group’s upcoming shows. CENTERONHALSTED.ORG/XTRAVAGALA #RISEWITHUS

THAT’S SHOW BIZ Find out the latest about John Waters, Robin Roberts and Frank Ocean. The Legal Council for Health Justice held its annual May Ball. plus Photo by Carrie Maxwell SPARCINC.COM DESIGN: DAILY BREAKING NEWS 4 May 17, 2017 WINDY CITY TIMES Reproductive-rights Open To Thinking measure heads GUEST COLUMN to Rauner’s desk by Ramon Gardenhire By Matt Simonette Congress pulled the plug on our friends, A measure ensuring that access to legal abortions remains viable in Illinois should Roe v. Wade be co-workers, neighbors and loved ones overturned, on May 10, passed the Illinois State Seven years ago, I sat with my friend Kali Trump’s plan, the American Health Care Act Senate and is headed for the desk of Gov. Bruce in his Brooklyn apartment and watched, in (AHCA), couldn’t be more different than its Rauner, who has said he would veto the legisla- amazement and a little bit of shock, as Con- predecessor, the ACA. If passed, the hast- tion. gress enacted into law the Affordable Care ily assembled AHCA would kick 24 million The bill, HB 40, was passed in the Senate in a Act (ACA). On that day, I knew that decades Americans off insurance, allow insurance 33-22 vote. Besides ensuring that a “trigger law” of work from thousands of people toward companies to not cover pre-existing condi- that would again make abortion illegal again in making healthcare accessible to all—not just tions again, cut $880 billion out of Medicaid, the event of a Supreme Court reversal does not to the wealthy, the able-bodied, the people and far worse. come to pass, the legislation also frees up Medic- in power—was worth it. Meanwhile, America already has a health- aid funds to pay for abortions. I watched a livestream of a very different care plan that helps more than 24 million It is that latter component that has been the vote in the U.S. House recently with my col- Americans and over 1.2 million Illinoisans sticking-point with Rauner. His office said the leagues at the AIDS Foundation of Chicago. thrive, including 12,000 people living with Medicaid aspect was “controversial,” so he there- HIV in Illinois! The ACA guarantees things fore would not sign it. Rauner reportedly offered like health insurance coverage for cancer to sign if the bill’s chief sponsor in the House, “If passed, the hastily screenings and flu shots, access to high- state Rep. Sara Feigenholtz (D-Chicago) would quality marketplace plans (and financial as- drop the provision, but she refused. The bill was assembled AHCA would kick sistance to purchase insurance coverage), sponsored in the Senate by state Sen. Heather 24 million Americans off and perhaps most importantly, an incredible Steans (D-Chicago). insurance, allow insurance opening of the doors to better public health Rauner’s opponents and reproductive-rights through the expansion of Medicaid. advocates cried foul on Rauner, claiming that Gov. Bruce Rauner. companies to not cover pre- Despite an outpouring of resistance from he was reneging on campaign promises that he Photo from official website existing conditions again, constituents around the country and in Il- would not govern as a social conservative. Terry linois, the U.S. House, including all seven Cosgrove, CEO of the pro-choice organization Per- cut $880 billion out of options,” said Feigenholtz in a statement. “The Illinois House Republicans, pulled the plug sonal PAC, released a 2014 questionnaire wherein Medicaid, and far worse. on the American people. Several of those Il- Rauner, then a gubernatorial candidate, indicated burden of giving millions of women in Illinois these fair and equal rights now rests squarely on linois House Republicans broke promises they his pro-choice leanings. made to their constituents when they voted “I applaud Sen. Heather Steans and my col- the shoulders of Bruce Rauner.” She added, “After repeated threats from the My feelings couldn’t have been more dif- for the AHCA, saying they would preserve leagues in the Senate for standing up for wom- ferent than they were seven years ago. It’s care for vulnerable Illinoisans while voting en’s rights today. Illinois took another important White House and President Trump’s remarks to strip abortion rights away from women, this leg- depressing and maddening to think that the to dismantle the system that provides that step towards healthcare equality for all women hard work and victories America has made lifesaving care. Shame on them! who deserve access to all reproductive health islation was necessary to safeguard a woman’s right to make decisions that affect her personal over healthcare inequity could be lost for We now turn our attention to the Senate. health in Illinois.” good if the Republican agenda led by Presi- We must make them hear the voices and see HB 40 passed in the House on April 25 with a dent Donald Trump succeeds. I immediately the faces of the 1.2 million Illinoisans who Chuck Hyde vote of 62-55. thought of my late uncle, who died last year rely on the healthcare access that the ACA from AIDS-related complications in Texas be- and Medicaid provide. We will not allow this memorial May 21 cause the state wouldn’t expand Medicaid—a bill to become law. Together, we will save our A memorial for former Sidetrack manager Madigan, others call clear foreshadowing of efforts of Republicans care! Chuck Hyde will be held Sunday, May 21, 1-5 to undermine the health of millions. p.m., at Center on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted for special counsel St. Lisa Madigan and 19 other attorneys general Ramon Gardenhire oversees AIDS Foundation of Chicago’s advocacy and policy work at the Hyde, 55, a longtime general manager of sent a letter to Deputy U.S. Attorney General Rod federal, state and local level. He previously served as AFC’s Director of Government Relations Sidetrack bar in Chicago, passed away April 6 Rosenstein calling for the immediate appoint- from 2011 to 2013, working in Springfield to enact sound HIV/AIDS public policy, defend the in Florida of heart disease. ment of an independent special counsel to in- rights of people with HIV, and advocate for increased services and prevention for people liv- Hyde, who was inducted into the Chicago vestigate possible Russian interference into the ing with and vulnerable to HIV. Before coming to AFC, Ramon worked at the SEIU Healthcare Gay and Lesbian Hall of Fame (now the Chi- 2016 presidential election. Illinois-Indiana, Federation for Community Schools, Young Democrats of America, National Democratic Committee, The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, and the cago LGBT Hall of Fame) in 2001, went to In their letter, Madigan and the attorneys gen- American Academy of Physician Assistants, where he worked on state level political and legis- work at Sidetrack in July 1982, just three eral call the firing of former FBI Director James Comey during his ongoing investigation into lative initiatives. He has a Bachelor’s degree from Slippery Rock University and a Juris Doctor- months after it opened; he was at one point ate from Wayne State University Law School. Learn more at aidschicago.org. a co-owner of the bar as well. After serving possible interference “a violation of the public in various capacities over the years, Hyde trust.” settled into the role of general manager. Joining Madigan in sending the letter were He moved to South Florida in August 2016 attorneys general from California, Connecticut, and had been working at the Hunters Night- Delaware, the District of Columbia, Hawaii, Iowa, @windycitytimes1 /windycitymediagroup club Fort Lauderdale. Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New See “Chuck Hyde Chicago Memorial” on Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Penn- Facebook. sylvania, Rhode Island, Virginia, Vermont and @windycitytimes www.windycitymediagroup.com Washington. T:10” WINDY CITY TIMES May S:9.5”17, 2017 5 S:9.5” T:10”

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Nottage & Ward Final Output 100% Team Same Sex Bleed 10” w x 10” h Account Manager AH Job # NAW-21782 Trim 10” w x 10” h Creative Director MV Print Ad, 4/C, Windy City Times Safety 9.5” w x 9.5” h Copywriter JM Production Artist AT File Name NAW-21782_Roses_WindyCity_v1.indd Document Path Clients:NOTTAGE AND WARD:JOBS:...:NAW-21782_Roses_WindyCity_v1.indd Version # 1 Links Fonts Inks Date Created 5-12-2017 10:40 AM shutterstock_480167503_Mod_v1.psd (CMYK; 283 ppi; 106%) Slug Font Myriad Pro Family Cyan, Magenta, Saved 5-15-2017 10:59 AM Nexa Bold (Regular), Nexa Light Yellow, Black Printed 5-15-2017 11:06 AM (Regular) Print Scale None InDesign CC 2017 Notes Brides Ad and Text Ad 6 May 17, 2017 WINDY CITY TIMES The ACLU added that it was “pleased that DCFS incorporated nearly all of the changes requested DCFS director signs by the ACLU” and commended “the hard work of DCFS officials who are committed to the safety and wellbeing of LGBTQ youth in the Depart- ment’s care.” pro-LGBTQ policy However, the organization noted that “the pol- icy falls short of being the model-policy we were By Gretchen Rachel Hammond training and will be a requirement to attaining a hoping to see.” child-welfare license. “For example, the Department rejected our rec- After years of negotiations and input from a wide DCFS in Los Angeles County has instituted ommendation that the policy include a reporting range of local and national stakeholders, Illi- similar system-wide training initiatives. Howev- requirement that the ACLU believes is crucial to nois Department of Children and Family Services er, they are not mandatory—something the Los the integrity of the policy and its purpose of pro- (DCFS) Director George H. Sheldon has signed a Angeles LGBT Center, which delivers the training, Director Sheldon signing the document May 6, tecting LGBTQ youth,” the statement continued. landmark revision of DCFS policy centered upon believes is a significant problem. with Jataun Rollins, Claudia Mosier and Jane “We believe that DCFS should require its staff (in- the “Support and Well-Being of Lesbian, Gay, However, in Illinois according to Appendix K, Kelly (right). cluding staff of DCFS contractors) to report to Bisexual, Transgender and Questioning (LGBTQ) “DCFS will require all staff to attend ongoing Photo by Melissa Wasserman the LGBTQ Coordinator any conduct of other staff Children and Youth” within the system. training and education regarding sexual orienta- members that is inconsistent with the policy. The The signing came during a workshop on LGBTQ tion, gender identity and gender expression.” in care,” it notes. LGBTQ Coordinator should refer the noncompli- foster parenting as a part of the 2017 Equality- While Windy City Times has examined DCFS Those who request such intervention while in ant staff for additional training and provide them Con, which Equality Illinois hosted in Springfield. treatment of transgender children who have been care “should be referred to medical profession- with any other resources necessary to help bring Those attending the workshop—which Sheldon, removed from affirming parents and placed into als who are recognized as medically competent in them into compliance with the policy. The ACLU Statewide DCFS LGBTQ Coordinator Jane Kelly and foster care, Appendix K states that “a child or the care of transgender child/youth.” also recommended, in the interest of account- consulting DCFS psychologist Dr. Claudia Mosier youth’s LGBTQ status is not a reason to place The appendix directs all DCFS and outsourced ability, that the LGBTQ Coordinator report to the hosted—were in for a surprise when Sheldon them in congregate care. Most needs of LGBTQ agencies to “provide supportive and affirming Director the details about the number and nature signed the document. children and youth can be met through positive care regardless of one’s personal attitudes, be- of reports of noncompliant staff, the remedial ac- According to one DCFS employee, the revision, caregiver, family support and community peer liefs, preconceptions and/or judgments, if any, tions taken, and the outcome.” filed under Appendix K of services delivered by educational support groups.” surrounding matters of sexual orientation, gender “We have consistently recognized that the the department, faced several barriers on its jour- “In no instance should LGBTQ children/youth identity, and gender expression.” adoption of a good LGBTQ policy is only the ney to Sheldon’s pen. Those barriers were over- be placed with a non-affirming caregiver who is Although the ACLU of Illinois acknowledged starting point for protecting LGBTQ youth in DCFS come through the efforts of primarily African- opposed to sexual orientations that differ from that it had been working with DCFS on the policy care,” the ACLU concluded. “We look forward to American women working within the agency. the caregiver’s own,” it continues. “Nor should revisions, the organization noted in a statement working with the Department to ensure that its Many outside agencies and activists provided LGBTQ children and youth be placed with care- received by Windy City Times that it was “dis- other policies address the needs of LGBTQ youth input on the document, including the American givers who are unwilling/unable to support chil- appointed that DCFS did not inform us that the and that this policy is implemented in a man- Civil Liberties Union of Illinois (ACLU), Pride Ac- dren and youth whose gender identity or gender Director would be signing the policy over the ner that ensures DCFS staff are made aware of tion Tank and more. The ACLU, which has played expression differs from traditional expectation.” weekend [of May 5] or give us an opportunity to it, fully understand its requirements, and comply a longstanding watchdog role of DCFS, especially Appendix K includes extremely specific lan- review the final version.” with them.” wanted approval of the finished product. guage in matters of respecting gender expres- The 17-page document “sets mandatory mini- sion and self-determination “including the child/ mum standards to promote the safety, adjustment youth’s choice of clothes, make-up, hairstyle, Chicago Equality and well-being of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans- friends, and activities within appropriate bound- gender and Queer/Questioning (LGBTQ) children aries. The child/youth’s chosen name and pre- Rally on June 11 and youth in the Department’s care” and prohib- ferred gender pronoun (including gender-neutral The Chicago LGBTQ community and allies will its “discrimination, bias, or harassment” on the pronouns such as “they” or “ze/hir”) must be be gathering Sunday, June 11, at 11 a.m. at part of DCFS employees or those of outsourced respected.” Andersonville Midsommarfest in solidarity with (purchase of service) agencies toward LGBTQ chil- When youths are placed in foster care both the Equality March for Unity and Pride in Wash- dren, youth and their families. DCFS and outsourced agencies “should take into ington, D.C. “Children and youth have the right to be treat- account the child/youth’s perception of where Speakers and musical performances will pro- ed equally, to express their gender identity, and they will be most secure, as well as any recom- mote visibility, unity and pride. Chicago Equality Rally attendees are encour- to have the choice to be open or private about mendations from the child/youth’s health care The rally will be held at the intersection of aged to RSVP via the public Facebook event their sexual orientation, gender expression and provider.” Clark Street and Balmoral Avenue—an inter- (at “Chicago Equality Rally at Andersonville”). gender identity,” Appendix K states. “The Depart- “Individualized placement decisions, as well as section that is home to Midsommarfest’s Pride More information about the rally will continue ment’s policy is to maintain and promote a safe an increase and diversification of placement op- Stage and is anchored by local, gay-owned to be updated on the public Facebook event and affirming environment for LGBTQ children tions available to LGBTQ children and youth is businesses. and at Andersonville.org/equalityrally as it be- and youth in DCFS care, including children/youth critical,” Appendix K states. “Caregivers for LG- The event is being hosted in partnership comes available. who are in DCFS contracted residential facilities BTQ children/youth must understand and support with the Andersonville Chamber of Commerce, and programs, foster care and any other substi- the LGBTQ children/youth’s identity.” Windy City Times and Andersonville merchants, tute care settings.” Affirming medical care for transitioning youth and with the support of 40th Ward Ald. Patrick ‘Queer Prom’ As a part of that commitment, Appendix K is just as critical. O’Connor and 48th Ward Ald. Harry Osterman. “requires that all LGBTQ children and youth be According to the appendix, “LGBTQ appropriate A full schedule of speakers, musical program- May 26 The 12th Annual Queer Prom will take place placed in an affirming safe housing, receive LG- and culturally competent medical care and sexual ming, and partner organizations will be publi- Friday, May 26, at 6:30 p.m. at the National BTQ competent medical and mental health ser- health education and resources shall be provided cized in the near future. Museum of Mexican Art, 1852 W. 19th St. vices, and have equal opportunity and access to to all DCFS child/youth.” In addition, Andersonville Midsommarfest There will be food, music (by DJ OCD) and care.” “If the child/youth reports that they were will give $1 from each individual gate donation information booths. To that end, the policy asserts “any person who prescribed hormones or puberty blocking medi- on June 11 to three Illinois-based organiza- Tickets are $20-$30 each; visit “Queer Prom is involved with DCFS children/youth will com- cations by a licensed medical provider, these tions: Center on Halsted, Equality Illinois and 2017” on Facebook. plete mandatory training in LGBTQ competency.” medications must be continued under appropri- Ava’s Change4Youth. The training will be included in DCFS core ate medical supervision while the child/youth is

@windycitytimes1 /windycitymediagroup @windycitytimes www.windycitymediagroup.com WINDY CITY TIMES May 17, 2017 7 because we are bearing witnesses to the chaos DNC hires ex-EMILY’s and harm to working families that results with Republicans at the helm. List as first Soon after his election as DNC chair, Perez lesbian CEO asked all top level officials who were previously by CHRIS JOHNSON, at the organization to submit their letters of WASHINGTON BLADE Jess O’Connell. resignation. But O’Connell’s appointment isn’t a Photo courtesy of consequence of that action. A DNC spokesperson The Democratic National Committee (DNC) has, The Washington said there was no one in the role of chief execu- for the first time ever, hired an out lesbian at Blade tive officer at the time Perez came to the DNC. its chief executive officer, appointing the former Prior to her work at EMILY’s List, O’Connell was head of EMILY’s List to the top leadership posi- senior vice president and chief of staff for the tion. Center for American Progress and served as a pro- The DNC named Jess O’Connell as CEO after she gressive activist for more than 20 years. She lives served four years at EMILY’s List, which seeks in Maryland with her spouse Holly, a librarian to elect pro-choice women to public office. Her with Montgomery County Public Schools. appointment comes shortly after the election of As CEO, O’Connell will oversee the day-to-day “Jess has an impressive progressive track record This article is from the Washington Blade, Tom Perez as DNC chair. operations and DNC-wide restructuring as the and I am honored that she will lend her talents as part of the National LGBT Newspaper As- “Every single day we are witnessing unprec- organization undergoes a transition after Demo- to rebuilding our party and electing Democrats,” sociation. edented activism and excitement across our cratic losses in the 2016 election. The goals of Perez said in a statement. “She knows that we as Chris Johnson is chief political and White nation,” O’Connell said in a statement. “I am the DNC are to strengthen the organization, in- a party need to get back to basics. We need to or- House reporter for the Washington Blade. thrilled to join the fight at the national party to crease collaboration with progressive partners ganize in every zip code and better communicate Johnson attends the daily White House press make sure we translate this moment into a move- and better serve state parties, territory parties our message of inclusion and opportunity. We briefings and is a member of the White House ment, and a movement into votes. The DNC has and Democrats abroad. know what happens when Democrats don’t win, Correspondents’ Association. incredible potential and, under the leadership of Chair Perez, I’m ready to jump in and help make this organization more inclusive, effective, and Join even chirs influential.” An rew Ar en Hes & Kinle Preson Kick Off Prie Monh in Chicgo s he Huberman named to board of gaming company By Matt Simonette

Ron Huberman—an openly gay man who, at times, headed both Chicago Public Schools and the Chicago Transit Authority, and worked in sev- eral other official capacities for the city during the Richard M. Daley administration—has been named to the board of Pinnacle, a gaming com- pany that runs casino properties mostly in the Midwest and South. Pinnacle Board Chair Anthony Sanfilippo said in a May 2 statement, “We … welcome Ron Hu- berman as a newly elected member of the Pin- nacle Board, who, with his extensive experience in the public and private sectors, provides signifi- cant insight and expertise in technology, man- THURSDAY, JUNE 1, 2017 agement, operations and government relations.” The company appointed Huberman to its board VIP EVENT 5 in March. He also serves as a trustee of Rush Uni- GENERAL ADMISSION 6  8 versity Medical Center. Huberman is currently a senior advisor with Negron/WCT Pics by Ed VIP Recepion hose PeopleAdmin, a firm specializing in K-12 teacher The GODFREY Rooftop b he placement. In May 2016, PeopleAdmin acquired 127 W. Huron at LaSalle, Chicago BENEFITING TeacherMatch, of which Huberman was founder Don’t MISS Enjo sponsore cockils, and CEO. the PARTY! csh br n ligh re. Among Huberman’s posts when he worked for the City of Chicago were the chief of staff to May- ONLINE TICKETINGVISIT NOW OPEN or Richard M. Daley; executive director of the City tinyurl.com/OUTOFTHEOFFICE17WCT or go to of Chicago Office of Emergency Management and PREMIERE VIP SPONSORS Communications; and various roles at the Chi- Eventbrite.com SPONSORS cago Police Department. Huberman announced and search “Out of the Office” Early Bird pricing ends he would step down from CPS post shortly after on 5/30 at 5 p.m. Daley announced that he would not be seeking re-election. He also worked for the equity-capital FRIENDS firm Prairie Capital during 2011-2016. 8 May 17, 2017 WINDY CITY TIMES Chicago Gender Society marks three decades By Carrie Maxwell sary,” said Karen. “CGS has given all a place to meet others at either their meetings, monthly so- The Chicago Gender Society (CGS) will celebrate cials or events. CGS is an extension of my family.” 30 years of social, charitable and educational Not only are Nicole and Karen Richmond CGS outreach Saturday, May 20, at their Glitz and leaders, but they are also a married couple. Glam event at the Sheraton Suites Elk Grove. “In 1993, I wandered into a CGS meeting alone Transformations by Rori is co-hosting the event and vulnerable,” said Farber. “I wandered out with CGS. accepted and less alone. In all the years since, CGS’ membership encompasses the entire LG- I knew that I could walk into a meeting and it BTQ community as well as allies to the commu- would be like a warm, affirming hug. My life has nity. Currently, CGS has about 80 members. been incredibly enhanced by the support and Monthly meetings have taken place since CGS’ love that I have felt there.” inception in May 1987. For the past 26 years, CGS has had a presence in Chicago’s Pride Pa- CGS’ meetings have been held in Chicago’s Jeffer- rade since 1985, the first two years under the son Park neighborhood. This location was chosen National Gender Alliance banner. to accommodate members from as far as Wiscon- “Over the years, the parade has become more sin and Indiana as well as the Illinois cities of phenomenal,” said Nicole. “During the first years, Joliet and DeKalb. the group walked the route, then we progressed CGS’ monthly newsletter, The Primrose, is also to a convertible, then a truck with flat trailer and celebrating its 30th anniversary. The newsletter now a float. The reception of the crowds is truly got its name at one of the first meetings when amazing. We are looking forward to being a part Former Chicago Gender Society President Olivia Connors and President Nicole Richmond. someone said, “Don’t be led down the Primrose of this years’ parade.” Photo courtesy of Richmond path.” Past CGS events have included annual holiday The organization’s current leadership includes parties as well as bowling and golf outings. In here. That is its continuing legacy.” tion has provided to all who have come and gone. President Nicole Richmond (board member for the prior years, CGS also had garden parties and pic- Jacquiline Anne Perry (former CGS president) CGS has given me courage, confidence and resis- past 11 years), Vice President Audry Farber (for- nics at members’ homes. The group also held Miss told Windy City Times that she has been a witness tance and as I said, opportunities beyond belief. mer vice president and treasurer), Treasurer and CGS pageants for a number of years. to many wonderful experiences that have been I cannot believe it has been 30 years. Congratu- Primrose Editor and Publisher Karen Richmond CGS was also a key player in the now defunct afforded to so many because of CGS. lations to all who have been and all who still are (former vice president and current board member Be-All conference for many years (beginning in “That’s what CGS has to offer anyone who making CGS happen.” for the past three years), Secretary Jennifer and 1982). The conference moved around each year needs support in coming out, enjoying every day In terms of the society’s future Nicole said, “We Representative at Large Juanita. to a different city, including Chicago. A number experiences and finding a place to fit in,” said would like to see CGS continue to grow. Even with “In 2002, I became a member of CGS and the of CGS members were also on the Be-All board Perry. “In 30 years, we have seen so many people all of today’s modern technology, we still get LGBTQ community which has allowed me to be and many others volunteered during the confer- take advantage of what we have to offer so they first-timers seeking acceptance and guidance. We my true self,” said Nicole. “I was terrified when I ence. could move on with their lives. Thirty years ago, will continue to reach out to the LGBTQ commu- came out in 1999 but that all changed when I got “CGS was the only transgender group at its in- some of us would have just stood at the doorway nity, doing outreach and educating the public.” involved with CGS. They welcome everyone with ception that welcomed everyone, no matter their in fear and wondered if there was anything out To purchase tickets for the Glitz and Glam open arms and provide a safe haven and a place sexual orientation or how they gender identi- there for us but times have changed. It is hard event, visit http://www.transformationsbyrori. to gather. CGS will always hold a special place in fied,” said Gloria Wright (former CGS president). to count all the great friendships and shared ex- com. my heart.” “Remember, this was 1987. People who had lost periences, and there truly are, because of CGS. I See http://chicagogender.com/ for more infor- “Congratulations to CGS on their 30th anniver- everything and everyone always found a home would like to thank all of those that shared in the mation. leadership of CGS that allows us to continue our commitment into the future.” Katie Thomas (former CGS president) explained that she found CGS 17 years ago when she was Fund to support just coming out of the closet. “Time flies when you are having fun,” said women of color, Thomas. “The fun began the second Tuesday of April 2000. That was when I attended my first trans people meeting, stood up and said my name out loud Groundswell Fund—self-advertised as “the and answered the ‘dumb question’ for which [for- largest funder of the U.S. reproductive jus- mer CGS president] Olivia Connors was so famous. tice (RJ) movement—announced the launch With the encouragement and support of the of a new national “Liberation Fund” to sup- wonderful girls (and an occasional guy) at CGS port grassroots organizing efforts that wom- I learned about love, friendship and selflessness. en of color and transgender people of color The personal growth that followed; volunteering, will lead across social-justice sectors. holding office and working on The Primrose for Advisor Alicia Garza, co-founder of Black many years, all helped make me the confident, Lives Matter, said in a press release, “The happy woman that I am today. For this I will be Liberation Fund will make it easier for donors forever grateful to CGS.” and funders to identify and resource some of “I joined CGS in November 1990 and it literally the most effective and innovative organizing changed my life,” said Olivia Connors. “CGS gave at the grassroots.” me opportunities I never thought I would have The fund is accepting donations; visit had. I have been part of so many people’s lives it https://groundswellfund.org/donate/. is hard to comprehend what this solo organiza- WINDY CITY TIMES May 17, 2017 9

1 /* 2 a full scholarship for Full scholarship 3 codeplatoon available for 4 */ transgender veterans 5 { to learn coding 6 if 7 { No experience 8 transgender { necessary 9 veteran

10 want a career in Information about the 11 software development scholarship can be found at: 12 } 13 http://codeplatoon.org/ 14 /* how-it-works/ 15 hurry up! applications tuition-funding/ 16 are due july 2017 17 */ 18 19 if (interested) 20 { 21 goto codeplatoon.org If you are transgender or GNC and not a veteran, 22 hit ‘apply’ please email [email protected] to be put on a list for potential upcoming coding courses. 23 } 10 May 17, 2017 WINDY CITY TIMES Garcia, member of the Illinois Committee of the PRCC leads LGBTQ United States Civil Rights Commission (Chicago); Reports: Alderman delegation to Cuba John Zmuda, senior partner at Foremost Strategy (Chicago); Janet Namer, Trans Latin@ Coalition Mariela Castro—daughter of Cuban President (Chicago); Ronny Manuel Hernandez, Morgan Raúl Castro and president of the National Center Elementary School (Holyoke, Massachusetts); under guard after for Sex Education (CENESEX)—invited the Puerto Veronica Tirado, PRCC; Lee Vaasjo, research assis- Rican Cultural Center of Chicago (PRCC) to lead a tant, University of Chicago; Dr. Karriem Watson, delegation to Havana. The delegation went May University of Illinois at Chicago; and Shawn Prem 9-15. Malhotra, business owner (Chicago). gang threats The goal is to create an ongoing transna- tional dialogue around HIV/AIDS transmission; By Matt Simonette the relationship between transmission rates and ‘OUTAging’ confab homophobia and transphobia; and the confron- Ald. Ray Lopez (15th) is still under guard from tation and eradication of homophobia and trans- May 23-25 Chicago police after receiving threats following phobia in Cuba as well as the Puerto Rican/Latino “OUTAging: Summit on Our Possibilities” will gang shootings throughout his ward the weekend communities in the United States. take place May 23-25 in Chicago. of May 6-7. Lopez is one of the five members of PRCC Chief Operations Officer Juan Calderon is With Pride Action Tank hosting, the summit will the City Council’s LGBT Caucus and an outspoken coordinating the effort on this side. He has gath- open with a free reception at Affinity Community opponent of gang activity. ered 18 LGBT activists, community organizers, Services, 2850 S. Wabash Ave. The remainder of Lopez told Windy City Times May 15 that Chi- elected officials and business owners from New the event will take place at AARP Illinois, 222 N. cago Police Department is still assessing the level York, Massachusetts and Illinois. LaSalle St. of threat directed against Lopez. The delegation members were: The summit is being organized by a small, di- Eleven persons were shot—three fatally—in Juan Calderon (Chicago); Melissa Mark Viverito, verse planning committee that includes LGBTQ Lopez’s ward over the weekend of May 5-7. Two speaker of New York City Council (New York City); older adults. local police officers were shot there the previous Nelson Roman, city councilor of Holyoke, Mas- Guest keynote speakers include Barbara Satin, week. sachusetts; Dr. Roberto Sanabria, PRCC; Andreas transgender activist and assistant faith work Several members of the Satan’s Disciples gang Heuser, community activist (Chicago); Ricardo director for The National LGBTQ Task Force, and gathered for a memorial late May 8 to pay tribute Jimenez, Vida/SIDA (Chicago); Dr. Gabriel Go- Imani Woody, Ph.D., founding director and presi- to a member killed earlier that day. Members of a mez, Chicago State University (Chicago); Daniel dent of Mary’s House for Older Adults in Wash- rival gang, whom police said is the Latin Saints, G. Harris, executive director of Illinois Network ington, D.C. shot at the gathering, wounding eight and kill- of Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies (Chi- Registration is $45. Breakfast and lunch will be ing two. cago); Liz Gardner, community activist (Chicago); provided May 24-25. To register for activities and On May 7, Lopez told reporters that he was Darren Horne, community activist (Chicago); Rick learn more, go to bit.ly/outaging. grateful “no innocent lives had been lost” in the Ald. Raymond Lopez. shootings, a comment many regarded as a veiled Photo courtesy of Lopez swipe at the Satan’s Disciples. Lopez was interrupted by two women who said 15th ward #Raymond Lopez”. they were related to two of the shooting victims Lopez said that “overall the reaction has been at a May 8 rally at the shooting site at 46th positive” to his remarks, adding that many in Street and Rockwell Place. the community had been in touch with his office “They’re not animals,” one woman shouted. about problem locations and activity. “That is ex- “They were people. They mattered and you’re actly what we wanted people to do,” he added. talking about them like shit.” Chicagoans should not be afraid to contact Some remarks directed towards Lopez and his authorities about local gang activity, since they husband, Hugo Lopez, have been of a homopho- often have a better knowledge of their neighbor- bic nature. A woman at the rally referred to Hugo hood than police, according to Lopez. as a “faggot” in a video that Hugo captured of “It’s better to speak out and err on the side the incident. Another individual posted on Face- of repetition than just assume that police know book: “We seriously need that fagget [sic] out something,” he said.

Activism meet-ups,

personal book recommendations, Andrew Hayes (third from right) and Fifth Third Bank volunteers at La Casa Norte on 5/3 Day weekly events, Kids Storytime, and more! (May 3). Photo courtesy of Hayes There are so many reasons to support Chicago’s only feminist bookstore. Fifth Third Bank fighting hunger in May CHICAGO—Fifth Third Bank has increased up its efforts to give back to the community that started on Fifth Third Day (May 3, or 5/3, on the calendar). Hundreds of Fifth Third Bank employees in Chicago will spend time throughout the month volunteering at area food banks and shelters and collecting donations of food from the public is all Fifth Third Bank branches. The day of service for employees kicks off Fifth Third Bank’s annual “Feeding Our Communities” food drive. The goal is to provide 1 million meals to families in need throughout the bank’s 10-state footprint. The public can help by stopping into any Fifth Third Bank location during May to donate non-perishable food items that will go to Chicago area food banks and pantries. Area organizations benefitting from the bank’s monthlong efforts include the Greater Chicago Food Depository, Heartland Alliance, Northern Illinois Food Bank, Food Bank of Northwest Indiana, Deborah’s Place, La Casa Norte, United Way, Mothers & Children Nutrition Warehouse, Lakeview Pantry and the Salvation Army. WINDY CITY TIMES May 17, 2017 11 CPS closes year with queer prom by Vernon Hester stage and introduced Khloe, who engaged the students by including them in her performance. On May 14, Chicago Public Schools (CPS), in part- After the students took a quick dinner break, the nership with GSA Network and The Egalite Group, prom got in high gear as the students danced, presented the annual LGBTQ Prom at Allcott Col- stepped and competed in a lip-syncing contest. lege Prep. The annual event featured customized prom The event, celebrating its sixth year, played portraits provided by Jolie Images. Top: Precious Brady Davis (center) gets the crowd moving. Bottom left: Co-founders AJ Wieselman host to LGBTQ high school students from as many and Noa Padowitz. Bottom right: Prom portrait as 26 schools in Illinois and one in Milwaukee. Photos by Vern Hester Precious Brady Davis emceed, with Khloe provid- ing entertainment. Co-founder and Dean of Students and Commu- nity Noa Padowitz, LCSW, said the annual event is “a safe space for kids to come and have a safe, fun time with others like themselves and allies.” The event kicked off with DJ Jennefa setting the mood amidst intricate prom decorations with a dance oriented soundtrack as students gath- ered and engaged in dialogue with organizations represented in the tabling section. Among the organizations participating were Planned Parent- hood, Howard Brown Health Center, The Illinois Safe Schools Alliance, Fab 400, Healthy CPS [The Office of Student Wellness] and Chicago Wears Condoms.com. The night took off once Brady Davis took the

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Celebrating 20 Years — Founded 1996 (773) 342-7211 • 2041 W Division St. BETANCOURTREALTY.COM 12 May 17, 2017 WINDY CITY TIMES viewpoints

verse group of people, all nationalities and from all One step forward, a punch in the kisser, one step walks of life. My greatest disappointment has been back, cha-cha-cha.” that after years of trying to convince society at I’m not advocating violence. However, when WINDY St. Sukie large that homosexuals are just the same as every- dealing with stupid people, a carefully applied DE LA CROIX one else, I’ve come to realize that we are. We have shovel to the back of the skull can leave a deep the same prejudice and phobias as everyone else. and significant impression on their minds. Just kid- CITY This goes some way toward explaining the Log ding! (Role model for LGBT youth? Not me). Senior moments Cabin Republicans and Caitlyn Jenner’s support of I’ve always believed someone coming out of the No. 45. I have strong opinions about Jenner that closet should fight for the rights of other LGBTs. TIMES VOL. 32, No. 35, May 17, 2017 I was recently described as being a role model for are best left on the cutting room floor. Otherwise, what use are you? No use at all. It’s LGBT youth—nice compliment, but a role model I The combined forces of Windy City Times, It’s a little disappointing when LGBTs don’t sup- your duty to campaign for that trans-person in a founded Sept. 1985, and Outlines newspaper, am not. Neither do I want to be. It makes me sound port LGBTs: Elton John performing at Rush Lim- small town in Kentucky, that gay boy in a lunatic founded May 1987. cuddly and safe, like a bunny rabbit. I’d rather be baugh’s wedding; Jodie Foster and Barry Manilow, Christian household, and that Mormon lesbian im- a rabid fox. closeted their whole life, then married their part- prisoned in a cell by nonsense. PUBLISHER & EXECUTIVE EDITOR As the next generation of LGBTs flies out of the ners, after the rest of us fought for the right to It’s not about politics. It’s about love, diversity Tracy Baim closet, I’m sitting back and taking a breather. How- marry. It’s hard to know what they were thinking all and being a human being. It’s about waking up ever, it’s not for long, as much work needs to be ASSISTANT PUBLISHER Terri Klinsky those years. What were they frightened of? and embracing new ideas in this beautiful world MANAGING EDITOR Andrew Davis done to rid this country of fascism and an educa- It’s disheartening. As the next generation of ac- we live in. ASSOCIATE EDITOR Matt Simonette tion system that has clearly failed. Just for today, tivists will find out, we have always danced the Reflection over. Sometimes we need to take a day BUSINESS MANAGER Ripley Caine I’m lying by the pool in the California sun with a DIRECTOR OF NEW MEDIA Jean Albright Two Steps Forward, One Step Back Cha-Cha-Cha. off—otherwise, we burn out. Now back to the pool, ART DIRECTOR Kirk Williamson jug of orange juice, a copy of The Memoirs of Sher- “Two steps forward, one step back cha-cha-cha, the California sun, The Memoirs of Sherlock Holmes SENIOR REPORTER Gretchen Rachel Hammond lock Holmes, and enough marijuana to bring down Two steps forward, kick ‘em in the balls, one step and marijuana. (For sure, I’m a terrible role model Senior Account Executives Terri Klinsky, a charging buffalo. (Role model for LGBT youth? I Kirk Williamson, Amy Matheny, Gretchen Rachel back, cha-cha-cha. for LGBT youth.) Hammond, Scott Duff, Monika Pickett, David think not.) Two steps forward, sucker punch to the stomach, Strzepek, Dawn Dewald It’s time for me to reflect. As a senior gay activ- one step back, cha-cha-cha. NATIONAL SALES Rivendell Media, 212-242- ist, my greatest joy has been meeting such a di- 6863 SENIOR WRITERS Bob Roehr, Tony Peregrin, Lisa Keen, Yasmin Nair THEATER EDITOR Scott C. Morgan duce arrests: The city should create or expand tions, such as public schools, clinics, etc. CINEMA WRITER Richard Knight Jr. SPORTS WRITER Ross Forman Letters programs and diversion programs that provide an Chicago gang databases feed into national da- ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT WRITERS Seeking sanctuary effective alternative to charges before arrest or tabases that are routinely used by DHS and im- Mary Shen Barnidge, Lawrence Ferber, Mel before conviction for a variety of offenses. These migration enforcement to select their deportation Ferrand, Jerry Nunn, Jonathan Abarbanel programs, which could be diversionary, could start targets. But being listed in the gang database does COLUMNISTS/WRITERS: Yvonne Zipter, Jorjet The following statement on policy demands was is- Harper, Charlsie Dewey, Carrie Maxwell, Billy sued by Mijente, Black Youth Project 100 and Orga- with de-criminalizing or creating alternative forms not necessarily mean that the individual is part Masters, Sarah Toce, Dana Rudolph, Melissa nized Communities Against Deportations: of accountability for: of a gang. In reality, the ways in which individu- Wasserman, Joe Franco, Nick Patricca, Liz —Driving under the influence (DUI); als are recorded into a gang database are vague, Baudler, Rex Wockner, Angelique Smith SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHERS Kat Fitzgerald, Hal 1) Protect all Chicagoans from immigration en- —Crimes of survival, such as theft and sex work; inconsistent, rely on the discretion of individual Baim, Tim Carroll, Ed Negron forcement: The City should strengthen the Welcom- —Drug-related offenses; police officers, including in police districts under WEBSITE LISTINGS VOLUNTEER Gene Naden ing City Ordinance, the policy that makes Chicago —Loitering and disturbing the peace charges; investigation for civil rights violations and exces- CIRCULATION DIRECTOR Jean Albright and sive use of force. In addition to the there are grave DISTRIBUTION Ashina, Allan, Dan, John, Sue a “Sanctuary” city by limiting communication be- and Victor tween the Chicago Police Department (CPD) and —Offenses that take place in public schools or concerns about civil rights violations and due pro- WEB HOSTING LoveYourWebsite.com (lead Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). other public educational facilities. cess, including that across databases, there is no programmer: Martie Marro) The city of Chicago has a bad record of over- way for an individual to find out whether they are A strong policy would remove all of the excep- Copyright 2017 Lambda Publications Inc./Windy City Media tions listed in the ordinance that currently allow policing and criminalizing communities of color. in the database, and no mechanism to challenge Group; All rights reserved. Reprint by permission only. Back issues (if available) for $5 per issue (postage included). for CPD to turn Chicagoans over to ICE when they A 2015 series of Chicago Tribune Articles, for ex- the information. Return postage must accompany all manuscripts, drawings, ample, documented that 80 percent of driving un- Continuing the use of a gang database that crimi- and photographs submitted if they are to be returned, and have a felony charge (regardless of what the charge no responsibility may be assumed for unsolicited materials. is, or whether they have been convicted or not), der the influence checkpoints were taking place in nalizes youth and other people of color effectively All rights to letters, art and photographs sent to Windy City Times will be treated as unconditionally assigned have a felony conviction (regardless of what it is, Latino and Black neighborhoods in Chicago. funnels Chicagoans into deportation lists to be for publication purposes and as such, subject to editing Under a Trump administration where people with pursued by the Trump administration. and comment. The opinions expressed by the columnists, or when it took place, or any exigent circumstanc- cartoonists, letter writers, and commentators are their own es), if they are listed in the gang database, or if any criminal record or arrest may be considered 4) Divest police funding and invest in commu- and do not necessarily reflect the position ofWindy City Times. Publication of the name, photograph, or likeness of they have a warrant for arrest. The protections from priority for deportation, and in a city where the nities: Across the country, cities allocate a large a person or organization in articles or advertising in Windy Department of Justice has found that the police percentage of their budget and resources to po- City Times is not to be construed as any indication of the immigration enforcement should include all Chica- sexual orientation of such person or organization. While routinely violate the 4th Amendment, decriminal- lice departments. In Chicago, it is over 40% of our we encourage readers to support the advertisers who make goans. this newspaper possible, Windy City Times cannot accept In addition, the Welcoming Cities Ordinance izing charges like these could have a big impact in city budget. A more effective tool for increasing responsibility for advertising claims. the safety of communities of color. These are also community safety and reducing crime is to invest (773) 871-7610 FAX (773) 871-7609 should be amended to include recommendations e-mail: [email protected] or from Chicago’s immigrant-rights groups, includ- the types of charges and crimes that funnel youth in community programs and community organiza- [email protected] ing: mandating that no agency or city employee of color, transgender people, and other vulnerable tions. The City of Chicago must find ways to divest communities into incarceration. from police enforcement, push back on the Trump www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com will accept requests by immigration enforcement podcast: WindyCityQueercast.com agencies to assist in civil immigration enforce- Decriminalizing drug possession and other crimes agenda to militarize Chicago law-enforcement as listed above and investing in community initia- part of creating a Sanctuary city that is safe for WINDY CITY MEDIA GROUP, ment operations, such as “check-points” or traffic 5315 N. Clark St. #192, Chicago, IL, 60640 U.S.A perimeters; barring the city from entering into any tives, harm reduction services, or treatment can everyone. (MAILING ADDRESS ONLY) agreements that permit local government entities, also improve public safety and health and is good Links: public policy. —http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/ Windy City Times Deadline every Wednesday. including local police departments, to enforce im- OUT! Chicago’s LGBTQ Visitor’s Guide Online migration laws; prohibit the use of city equipment 3) Eliminate use of the gang database by Chicago watchdog/ct-dui-checkpoints-chicago-met- www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com for immigration enforcement; require any informa- Police and law enforcement officials in schools and 20150507-story.html . tion regarding citizenship or immigration status be other public institutions: Eliminate the use or city —http://time.com/4649311/donald-trump-chi- deleted from all applications, questionnaires and participation in any database tracking supposed cago-crime-feds/. interview forms used in City documents. gang affiliation, including by local police and any 2) Institute policies that decriminalize and re- law enforcement or security guard in public institu- WINDY CITY TIMES May 17, 2017 13 WINDY CITY TIMES DIVERSIONS THEATER • FILM • ENTERTAINMENT • SPORTS

14 18 18 A sporting chance WCT reviews Tight End. Joy District. Rent event at Sidetrack. Photo by kClare McKellaston

DANCIN’ FEATS J’Sun Howard. J’Sun Howard: Photo courtesy of Howard Learning to excavate joy BY JOANNA FURNANS and discover his own approach to making dances. After leaving Columbia, Howard dove into the J’Sun Howard did not grow up dancing—or he Chicago dance community and eventually began did, but not in a traditional dance studio. Raised to hit his choreographic stride. Things especially in Tennessee, the young, introverted Howard gelled for him after meeting dancer, choreogra- taught himself to dance by feverishly studying pher and teacher Darrell Jones. In Jones, Howard the choreography in hip-hop and R&B videos. found a fellow Black, gay male dancer, using a Originally thinking he would pursue a college mixture of contemporary dance techniques along degree in accounting or biochemistry, Howard with vogue and hip hop vernaculars for choreo- eventually declared to his mother that he was go- graphic expression. Working together, Howard ing to get a degree in dance. It was a last-minute was exposed to a new world of creative processes decision to apply to Columbia College in Chicago and potential in dance composition. but, in 2001, he applied and he went. In 2009, with Jones as a mentor, Howard re- With no previous formal training, Howard ceived a LinkUP residency at Links Hall, a pro- diligently immersed himself in the dance depart- gram that supported emerging artists through a ment at Columbia College. He studied the forms, six-month creative process, and which cemented learned to execute the techniques and practiced Howard’s presence as a choreographer to watch the improvisational scores, but something was in the coming years. He later received the pres- The instinct to uncover and express emotional How does it burn?” He has also been considering missing. “I don’t feel like I was taught to pull tigious Chicago Dancemakers Forum Lab Award truths through movement might come naturally ways in which his own dancing might potentially out depth or learned how to excavate stuff,” in 2014 and, more recently, the Sybil Shearer to Howard because, in addition to making a name “match or surpass the light in a room.” One can Howard said. Residency Fellowship Award at Ragdale and an for himself as a choreographer in Chicago, he is either be stumped or stimulated by such lyrical The “stuff” he was thinking about as a young invitation to participate in the emerging artist a published poet. In fact, the two forms of ar- prompting; Howard and his dancers are definitely dancemaker were serious sociopolitical issues laboratory at the nationally renowned Maggie Al- tistic expression are inextricably connected for the latter. like the aftermath of the recent 9/11 terrorist lesee National Center for Choreography (MANCC) this artist. Howard uses writing alongside the Howard’s latest work-in-progress, a trio en- attacks, homelessness or the realities of being in Tallahassee, Florida. choreographic process as a tool to access inner titled “Working on Better Versions of Prayers,” a Black, queer person in the world. Howard was The questions he is asking himself now are: depth and as a way to “make the choreography is part of the process and performance residency craving guidance on how to express concepts “What is ‘joy’ as a queer Black person?” and “How last offstage.” series “SET FREE” at Links Hall, 3111 N. Western outside of formal methodologies. “Instead of just do I make a space for people to feel joy?” Wish- Because it is often easier to communicate with Ave., on Monday, May 22, at 7 p.m. See LinksHall. making a phrase, let’s take a risk and try to do ing to provide an opportunity for audiences to words than it is with movement, Howard said his org. something that is totally not traditional … so immerse themselves in alternative environments ultimate goal is to master the choreographic craft Howard is developing this piece, which ex- there are more options and more ideas generated or dream worlds, Howard said he hopes to offer a so “the movement can be as communicable as the plores a cultivation of charisma, freedom and in- instead of being stuck in a frame,” he said. While “release from distraction and a release of peace.” written word.” Nevertheless, he already possesses timacy between three gay Black men, with fellow some students find great freedom and possibil- He added that he wants to excavate expressions a natural gift for using poetic language to in- dancers Dedrick “Deddy” Gray and Damon Green. ity within the confines of classic compositional of authentic emotional depth from his dancers, voke physical vocabularies. In a recent movement An iteration of this work will be performed this techniques, Howard used those restrictions as hoping to depict performers who are “alive, tin- workshop, he gave dancers the following prompt: fall at Dancespace Project in New York City and motivation to think outside the pedagogical box gling and bubbling from the inside.” “Pick a feeling to rid yourself of. Set it on fire. the final work will premiere in Chicago in 2018. 14 May 17, 2017 WINDY CITY TIMES THEATER REVIEW ate, the greater the number of lies incorporated tion is whether falsehoods born of necessity can into your daily existence. Who would shoulder the ever be discarded without bringing harm upon Objects in burden of such a responsibility unless their very those privy to their origins. Shedrick’s desire to survival hinged on just such deception? forge a new life on his own terms engenders con- the Mirror The real-life quest of Shedrick Kennedy Yarkpai flicts exposing the futility of separating fact from Playwright: Charles Smith to reclaim his birth name propels this microcos- fiction. At: Goodman Theatre, 170 N. Dearborn Ave. mic saga beginning in West African tribal wars The rain forest jungles of Liberia are unimagi- Tickets: $20-$75 driving thousands of native citizens to flee the nable distances from our world, but Mike Tutaj’s Runs through: June 4 prospect of death, dismemberment and enslave- cartographic projections, Eva Breneman’s dialect ment at the hands of partisan terrorists. Making instruction and Jonathan L. Green’s dramaturgical BY MARY SHEN BARNIDGE the long trek between refugee camps in a laby- notes (read your playbill before the show, okay?) rinth of post-colonial nations, accompanied by ensure that we never succumb to gratuitous exo- Our play’s author is Charles Smith; its director is his uncle and cousins, Shedrick finds himself in- tification. Daniel Kyri conveys, with unaffected Chuck Smith. If you confuse these two names, creasingly forced to adopt the ages, kinships and poignancy, the agony of our hero caught between you will probably find yourself addressing the names of family members lost or dead. Resettle- gratitude and opportunity, as exemplified in Al- wrong person. This illustrates the importance of ment in the Australian sanctuary city of Adelaide len Gilmore’s tradition-bound patriarch and Ryan names, long before the house lights signal the delivers them from the horrors left behind, but Kitley’s Aussie advocate, his indecision further start of our fable. 10 years are still not enough to banish the fear complicated by the choices of his steely mother More important than the names we assign oth- keeping exiles always prepared for flight. and reckless cousin, both rendered complex and ers are the names we assign ourselves. Calling Every immigrant (and we are all immigrants in fully formed personalities by Lily Mojekwu and yourself by a name not your own will compel you this country, however many years off the boat) Breon Arzell. Try as you might, you will not forget to live the lie engendered by your theft of anoth- Daniel Kyri in Objects in the Mirror. arrives with a secret past, often remaining undis- them. er’s identity, and the more names you appropri- Photo by Liz Lauren closed even to their closest relations. The ques-

THEATER REVIEW make sure we know that, since the story they are bestie, quarterback Sam Jones, who must conceal tions.” about to recount points toward trouble from the his gay tendencies or face the wrath of his intrac- Playwright Rachel Bykowski and director Kal- Tight End very get-go. table father. lie Noelle Rolison are to be commended for their Playwright: Rachel Bykowski The daughter of the aforementioned champ, A major factor distinguishing “sports” from refusal to traffic in propagandistic caricature, in- At: Twenty Percent Theatre Company young Ashley Miller (or “Ash,” as her beloved fa- “games” is their analogies to battlefield skills— stead striving for the tragic inevitability of noble at the Pride Arts Buena, ther preferred to address her) is determined to running, jumping and proficiency with weap- intentions undone by obsessive hubris. Erich 4147 N. Broadway follow in her sire’s cleatsteps and play for the ons—exhibited by warriors at what we now know Peltz, Rachel Mock and Patrick Pantelis (whose Tickets: $20 Titans—not as a cheerleader, or a towel-slinger, as Olympic competitions. Even that definition, rejection of Vince Lombardi-wannabe mannerisms Runs through: June 3 or even as a kicker, but as a fully empowered however, offers no rational justification for the in his portrayal of Coach D is palpably manifest) collision-sport athlete, charging and toppling amalgamation of football and war in the minds of deftly circumvent stereotypes to create person- BY MARY SHEN BARNIDGE adversaries with the fearlessness of horseless those rendered bloodthirsty by spectator fantasy. alities flawed, but never malicious. At the cen- jousters. At first, her goal meets with skepticism, The injury that will end Ash’s dreams of gridiron ter of the action, however is Bryce Saxon’s Ash, “I’m a physical education teacher. My job is to but her willingness to train alongside her male glory, ironically, does not arise from the mascu- proclaiming her ambitions with heroic defiance protect the students,” declares the coach of the comrades eventually renders her so valuable an line values associated with her arena of endeavor, while reveling in the pain and the passion that Westmont High School Titans. “In a small town end receiver (where speed and agility count more but from the hostility generated when these val- will prove her undoing. like this, football is life,” insists the widow of than stopping power) as to overcome their cul- ues are misrepresented to clash with outdated former champion Adam Miller. They both want to tural biases—a license not extended to her boy- gender-linked social prejudices revered as “tradi- c CRITICS’PICKS to their portrayals, particularly Kristin E. Ellis The explosive situation doesn’t need a propel- Firebirds Take the Field, Rivendell Theatre En- THEATER REVIEW as vulnerable, poetic Pumpkin and Al’Jaleel Mc- lant but Morisseau provides one anyway, Silver semble, through May 27. Linebackers grapple and Ghee as Blue, the demanding central role. Blue (confident and sultry Tyla Abercrumbie), a so- sweat, but cheerleaders smile, and go crazy-sick Paradise Blue is the play’s greatest acting challenge, with an called “Black Widow” with money, style, experi- in Lynn Rosen’s incisive play about the dangers Playwright: Dominique Morisseau emotionally raw breakdown scene in Act II that ence and not male-dependent. Silver’s side story of unacknowledged stress in economically-de- At: TimeLine Theatre, 615 W. Wellington Ave. McGhee handles admirably, but Blue also chal- provides the means for the play’s unexpected pressed communities. MSB Tickets: 773-281-8463; lenges the audience because the roots of his ending, which took me by surprise but made Into the Beautiful North, 16th Street Theatre, TimelineTheatre.com; $38-$51 crisis aren’t clearly explained, hinted-at only via perfect sense. Berwyn, through June 3. A young woman travels Runs through: July 23 impressions such as hallucinatory episodes for Plays about musicians notoriously avoid hav- north seeking heroes to protect her dusty Mexican Blue. ing them play. How many actors also have ad- village of Tres Camarones (three shrimp). Karen BY JONATHAN ABARBANEL Blue is a trumpet man who inherited the Para- vanced instrumental chops? Paradise Blue is Zacarias’ adaptation of Luis Albert Urrea’s comic dise Blue Club from his father. It’s a mainstay of graced with original incidental music by great picaresque novel blends fancy and contemporary Paradise Blue is a challenging play that Time- Detroit’s historic Black Bottom ghetto, sched- Chicago jazz man Orbert Davis. It’s mostly re- truth, colorfully staged with vigor and charm. JA Line meets admirably—if not quite perfectly— uled for urban renewal (reflecting actual Detroit corded, but McGhee does deliver several live She Loves Me, Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire, under veteran director Ron OJ Parson. The play history). Will Blue sell to the city and hasten riffs in a close-but-no-cigar effort. McGhee no through June 18. Two sparring co-workers are ac- seems part realism and part impressionism, with the ‘hood’s destruction? If he sells, will Blue es- doubt will improve during the run, but at open- tually romantic pen pals in director Aaron Thiel- characters who are moods as much as real peo- cape the ghosts—notably his father’s—almost ing the audience had to use its imagination as en’s marvelous production of this guaranteed ple. As Paradise Blue concerns late-1940s jazz literally haunting him? Blue also is mean, angry he rendered the play’s ultimate musical mo- musical comedy charmer by Fiddler on the Roof musicians, and is dependent on atmosphere and and controlling with his beautiful and uncom- ment, meant to be triumphant for Blue.Christine songwriters Jerry Bock and Sheldon Harnick. SCM music, the use of impressionism is not inappro- plaining woman, Pumpkin, and the sidemen Pascual designed the sleek, handsome late-40s Threesome, The Other Theatre Company at priate. who long have worked in his shadow. Although costumes, while scenic/lighting designer Brian Greenhouse Theater Center, through May 21. Sex However, characters painted with impressions we don’t fully understand what’s churning Blue, Sidney Bembridge’s new stage configuration ending in conversation happens more often than are not quite complete, requiring the audience one knows intuitively that it won’t dissolve with transforms the TimeLine space with a richly- we’d suppose, so don’t be surprised when Yussif to fill in details between what people do and Detroit’s $10,000 in his pocket. detailed two-level nightclub setting. El Guindi’s bare-ass bedroom tryst finishes with a who they are. I don’t mean to discredit the Blue is opposed by sidemen P-Sam and Corn Paradise Blue offers passions and impressions smart symposium on gender issues. MSB actors in any way. They are a phenomenal lot (equally satisfying Charles Andrew Gardner and aplenty. —By Abarbanel, Barnidge and Morgan who bring honesty, passion and even delicacy Ronald L. Conner) and significantly by Pumpkin. WINDY CITY TIMES May 17, 2017 15

Isa Arciniegas in We’re Gonna Die. Photo by Austin D. Oie

THEATER REVIEW tobacco-abstinent sire’s diagnosis of lung can- cer to his demise on the very eve of receiving a We’re Gonna Die miracle cure. Playwright: Young Jean Lee Don’t haul out your hankies yet, though. Lee At: Haven Theatre at the has more to share than slam-poem eulogies. Her Den, 1333 N. Milwaukee Ave. spoken-word narrative is accompanied by songs Tickets: $18 designed to extend us comfort, and unlike the Runs through: June 4 play’s premiere that featured the author declaim- ing in delicately gentle tones, narrator/singer BY MARY SHEN BARNIDGE Isa Arciniegas and the band assembled for this Haven Theatre production proceed to rock out Whether you think that life is a “walking shadow” right into the Grim Reaper’s bony face. For ev- like in Shakespeare, or a “vale of tears” like in ery soothing lullaby promising “You will sleep, by the Bible, or just an old-fashioned unvarnished and by,” the score delivers twice as many angry, bitch, there’s no disagreement on its ending. Oh, head-banging, hair-thrashing, knee-springing, sure, we may invoke the D-word in everyday ca- f**k-you-sickle-boy assurances that we are not sual conversation—as in “I could just you-know- alone, that nobody is exempt from pain (“Who do what”—but do you remember the moment when you think you are/to be immune from tragedy?”) you first realized, down deep, that one day, we and that the ravages of old age will make dying will dddddiiiiieeeee? less scary. (“If we got old/and we didn’t feel like Well, playwright Young Jean Lee does, and she dying/we wouldn’t want to go.”) wants to tell us not to be afraid of the inevitable. The finale—replete with disco lights, balloons, To that purpose, she recounts significant events confetti, drill-formation dances, American Sign in her own life that led her to contemplate the Language translations, screaming guitar, crash mystery of imminent oblivion—a creepy uncle cymbals and floor-percussion filling every corner crippled by self-loathing, a childhood game in- of the Den’s cabaret-sized Bookspan room—in- volving images of quasi-telenovela murders, the vites us to join in a fist-shaking marching-tempo snubs of classmates, the breakup with a live-in anthem to defiantly proclaim our eventual expi- boyfriend (who considerately rearranges the fur- ration. Even if you accept the earplugs offered niture to minimize the evidence of his depar- to playgoers before the show (which you won’t ture). These experiences are merely the preamble really need), the catchy refrain of “We’re gonna to the most difficult confrontation of all—her die/we’re gonna die someday/Then we’ll be gone/ father’s death, fraught with grim irony from her and it will be okay” will persist in your memory for weeks. eSPOTLIGHT

In Token, actress/comedian Kaye Winks shares lifelong tales of being that lone Black person in a world of white. This 60-minute one-woman show features Winks portraying family, friends, strangers, foes and more to examine what it can feel like to being a token Black person. Token plays 7:30 p.m. Fridays through June 9 at Judy’s Beat Lounge on the second floor of the Second City Training Center, 230 W. North Ave. Tickets are $13; call 312-337-3992 or visit Caption: Kaye Winks in her one-woman SecondCity.com. show Token. Photo by Joel Maisonet

16 May 17, 2017 WINDY CITY TIMES NUNN ON ONE: OPERA ing Jackie Kennedy, who is larger than life, that humor was needed because it was so serious and heavy duty in the way it was made. WCT: How did you wind up on HBO’s Game Richard E. Grant: of Thrones? REG: They had written a part for me because they were Withnail fans. They wanted to find a way to get me into the thing. They came up with Movie/theater actor a bitter and twisted actor touring in that time period. It was irresistible; when someone writes a part makes ‘Fair’ case for you, you can’t say no—it would be very rude! WCT: I read that you exposed an AIDS scam by Jerry Nunn the first night I was here, I went to the Steppen- in the past? wolf Theatre to see Tracy Letts’ play. I saw Hamil- REG: A neighbor of mine in London contact- English actor Richard E. Grant tackled his first ton, I went to the Art Institute, an architectural ed them to ask if I would be patron to an AIDS musical ever with the role of Henry Higgins in My tour on a boat and every restaurant people have charity. They claimed to have discovered a cure Fair Lady first at the Opera Australia; now, he is recommended to me. for AIDS. Swaziland has the highest rate of HIV in the sam production at the Civic Opera House. WCT: How were you cast in My Fair Lady? per capita than any country in the world. That is He began his career in his native South Africa, REG: You would have to ask the opera company where I grew up and I am a citizen there. I think where he founded the multiethnic Troupe Theater that, but possibly since I had done it 10 years 65 percent of the population are HIV-positive. Company. before in Australia. Lisa O’Hare had done it in When I started investigating, I discovered the His first film, Withnail & I, was a study of ec- Chicago before. She had done a tour of America guy running it was an ex-mercenary who had centric actors of the ‘60s. With more than 80 and England with it 10 years ago, when she was been involved in a failed coup in West Africa. He movies on his resume, some standouts include 20. was a complete reprobate. The Player, L.A. Story, Henry & June, Penelope, I think they needed people who had done it I got a hold of journalists that I knew at the Gosford Park, The Player and Bram Stoker’s Drac- before, because the rehearsal time was only three BBC. They went undercover and exposed him. I ula. His television credits range from portraying weeks. For a three hour show that is highly pres- then had a meeting with him face to face and it Doctor Who to being on Downton Abbey. surized. was secretly recorded. I challenged him on every- Grant’s writing and directing debut came with WCT: Were you nervous about this being your thing. He walked out. I found my tires slashed the autobiographical piece Wah-Wah, which is first musical? subsequently. about growing up in Swaziland in the time of in- REG: I was because I am not a trained singer. I Richard E. Grant. He tried to pull a $19-million scam with the dependence. knew it was written for Rex Harrison’s very limited PR photo Swaziland government. I stopped that. At 60, he shows no signs of slowing down, with speak-singing range. I really only think he should I have many friends who have died from AIDS, several new projects in the works. sing during “I’ve Grown Accustomed to Her Face” decision more. so I felt strongly about it. Just the idea of some- Windy City Times: Your fellow actor Eugenio at the end. It is when his emotion is exposed for REG: That is what Shaw wanted, also. Shaw one trying to hijack the most vulnerable people Derbez told me to tell you, “Hi!” How was the her. The rest of the time he is speaking. wanted her to marry Freddy. It was Robert Car- in the world made me want to stop him. experience working on The Nutcracker and the I have seen productions where the person has son’s idea for her to come back. WCT: Have you played gay in any past roles? Four Realms together? sung all of the songs and it just doesn’t sit right. It ends with a line, “Where the devil are my REG: In Pret-a-Porter, I played gay male ver- Richard E. Grant: It was amazing. Since it It was odd. slippers?” It makes one wonder why she comes sion of a Vivienne Westwood designer for Robert was Disney, it was done on an incredibly lavish I let people that have got brilliant voices do back. Altman. scale. Lasse Hallstrom is the director. I played the singing. WCT: Are you exhausted after performing My I just played a man who was HIV-positive in the regent of winter and he played the Flower WCT: Had you worked with Lisa before? Fair Lady? a true story called Can You Ever Forgive Me? The Realm King. He was very effervescent while I was REG: I had not worked with any of the people REG: It is a big workout, but it is not like I work title might be changed to Lee. It is about a bi- covered in icicles. We were the opposite of each before. Lisa and I had instant chemistry. The per- in a coal mine or on a hospital shift. I have a day ographer named Lee Israel, played by Melissa Mc- other. We were the comic relief! son she had played it with before was more than to rest after a few double shows. Carthy. I just finished shooting it in Manhattan WCT: Do you prefer comedy or dramatic double her age. He played it as a very old, upper- WCT: How was your Music Box Theater ap- before I came here. roles? crust bully—much like Rex Harrison did. That is pearance, where they screened Withnail & I Lee Israel was a lesbian writer who wrote the REG: It doesn’t matter. If the script is good not how the character is described in the play recently? biography of Tallulah Bankhead and Estee Lauder then I am swayed by that, even though I have or Alan Jay Lerner’s adaptation. It was certainly REG: It was amazing. It was packed. I had no and fell on hard times. She started forging fa- done Spice World the movie. My daughter was not how Leslie Howard played it in the Pygmalion idea that a film I made 30 years ago would have mous dead people’s signatures. She got so good eight when I was offered that and told me I had film version, which Shaw had seen and done the any kind of awareness or cult following in Amer- at it that got facsimile typewriters and antique to do that more than anything in the world. I screenplay for. ica at all. It did very well in England. On a daily letter paper to pretend she was Dorothy Parker, got to be in HBO’s Girls as a result because Lena The choice is to do a poor man’s imitation of basis people quote this movie at me wherever I Noel Coward, and Lillian Helman. She wrote in Dunham knew me from Spice World. She loved Rex Harrison or what is written down. I went for am in public. collusion with her good friend Jack, who is my the movie. Who knew? So did Adele, the singer… the latter. I never expected that turnout to be in Chicago. part. He’s an ex con and kleptomaniac. They had WCT: You met her? WCT: The show is long. Did they cut any of It was an out of body experience to see 900 peo- a weird love/hate relationship. At the end of the REG: Yes. I got tickets to go see her show in it? ple packed into a theater saying it line for line in story you know he is dying and she is caught by London. We share the same birthday. She just REG: They cut about 15 minutes of the text. a theater. It was surreal. the FBI. turned 29 and I turned 60. I was really amused Some of the things that were misogynistic or ver- WCT: Any thoughts on the movie Logan? WCT: I want to see this movie. It sounds by the fact she knows me from Spice World. bally abusive have to be rationed in. They cut it REG: I loved working with Hugh Jackman. I had good! WCT: Do you have a favorite Spice Girl? down to keep it in the limit that the Opera has worked with Patrick Stewart before. Stephen Mer- REG: I hope it is. It is a dramedy. Melissa was REG: I can’t possibly tell you because I would required. chant is hilariously funny. Elizabeth Rodriguez wonderful to work with. It is directed by Marielle be in trouble. I would have one of their platform I think they could have cut more. They cer- was a great location companion to hang around Heller, who wrote Diary of a Teenage Girl. The boots up my backside! tainly could have cut the song “Hymn to Him.” I with; she is so feisty. I know why she was cast as movie will be out the end of the year or early They were all so ebullient. I had just turned 40 think we already know all of that so just take it the character in Orange Is the New Black because next year. and they were around 21. They were an absolute right out. That would cut 10 minutes of the show. she takes no prisoners! Don’t grow too “accustomed to Grant’s face” scream! We have a week to go, so what do I know? WCT: How was the film Jackie? as My Fair Lady closes Sunday, May 21, at Lyr- WCT: Have you spent much time in Chicago? [Both laugh.] REG: I loved working with Natalie Portman. She ic’s Civic Opera House, 20 N. Wacker Dr. Ticket REG: I have never been to Chicago in my life. WCT: It ends so abruptly, with her coming was so focused and dedicated, but also had an information can be found at LyricOpera.org/ I have been everywhere since I have arrived. On back to him. I wanted her to wrestle with the incredible sense of humor. In the midst of play- myfairlady or 312-827-5600. WINDY CITY TIMES May 17, 2017 17 BOOKS AL: When people starting writing about me as the “girl of the minute,” and when we did the Joan Rivers Show. WCT: What does Amanda Lepore, the “girl of ‘Doll Parts’: the minute,” do on an evening at home? AL: Rhinestone my outfits and accessories with Swarovski. Talking with Amanda Lepore WCT: You mention wanting to live a glamor- ous life like a movie star. What has been your By OWEN KEEHNEN WCT: Reading Doll Parts, you seem so self- biggest Hollywood moment in the limelight? assured at a young age regarding your gender AL: Any time I am surrounded by tons of pho- Nightclub superstar and trans-visibility pioneer identity—asking for gender-confirmation sur- tographers and flashes going off, it feels like a Amanda Lepore has just released her heavily il- gery at 10 and having your operation at 17. Hollywood moment. lustrated and visually luscious new memoir, Doll What advice would you pass on to a young WCT: What about you that makes you an ide- Parts. person, maybe not so self-assured, facing the al subject and muse for photographer David In the book, Lepore tells the harrowing story same issues? LaChapelle? of being a New Jersey child growing up with a AL: Self-confidence is important no matter who AL: David said that I was what he envisioned mentally unstable mother and absentee father you are. If you are transgender, there may be a lot as his ideal woman, before he even met me. When who trusts the vision she has of herself from a of harassment. It is very important to stay strong I work with him, I listen to what he wants and very young age. no matter what and stay true to yourself. follow directions well in order to carry out his Windy City Times: Wonderful meeting you, WCT: You also mention that beautifying visions. Amanda. I really enjoyed Doll Parts. What takes up 90 percent of your time. What is the took away from that entire experience? WCT: What is something that is always in made this the right time to write your mem- other 10 percent? AL: Don’t become a drug addict and don’t kill your refrigerator? oir? AL: Yoga. anyone. AL: I don’t have a refrigerator. I order in. Amanda Lepore: Thank you! I was actually ap- WCT: In Doll Parts, I was impressed by your WCT: You refer to yourself as a preservation- WCT: How would you describe yourself in a proached to write my memoir about four years toughness. You’ve endured a lot—a mentally ist. Would you care to explain? personals ad if you couldn’t use any physical ago by an author, it was not something I was unstable parent, bullying, being kicked out of AL: Taking care of myself really well, physically descriptors? thinking about at the time. school, domestic abuse, eating disorders, be- and mentally. It’s something that is very impor- AL: Independent, hard-working, very knowl- WCT: What is the biggest misconception ing surrounded by addiction, some scares as a tant to me. edgeable in cosmetics and the plastic-surgery people have about you? dominatrix, etc. How do you view those hard- WCT: When did you first realize you had ar- industry. AL: I think they focus more on my looks—the ships now and what makes you a survivor? rived as a nightlife celebrity? plastic surgery—and they don’t think or realize AL: I just deal with situations at the moment, how down-to-earth I really am. I am the opposite so I do not have to stay focused on anything of what people generally think. negative. I stay away from negativity and bad WCT: You mention in the book that early on people, and keep myself surrounded with positive you wanted to physically be a combination influences and happy people. Jayne Mansfield, [an Alberto] Vargas girl and WCT: An exception was you were in the orbit Jessica Rabbit. Has that composite of yourself of the Disco Bloodbath/Party Monster murder changed at all in the passing years? by being in the employ, as well as a friend of, AL: No. Michael Alig. What was the biggest lesson you

LGBTQIA communities through a collaborative Dick O’Day’s bingo process of inquiry, advocacy and action. See PrideActionTtank.org. CHICAGO event to benefit Tickets are $15 at the door (if available— Pride Action Tank advance tickets highly recommended); visit After his return to the Annoyance Theater, theannoyance.com/events/event/dick-odays- 851 W. Belmont Ave., in 2015, Dick O’Day is big-lovely-countdown-to-summer-bingo/. back for one show only Sunday, May 21, 5-7 EQUALITY p.m., with a special edition of his one-of-a- HOSTED AT kind bingo experience, “Dick O’Day’s Big, Love- Anne Steele at ly Countdown to Summer Bingo”—the show ANDERSONVILLE Uptown on May 21 MIDSOMMARFEST that has played the heartland (and beyond) for Award-winning New York City singer/ song- RALLY more than 25 years. writer and recording artist Anne Steele is re- Wacky bingo meister Dick O’Day (portrayed turning to Chicago with her ‘80s show, “The SUNDAY, JUNE 11 @ 11AM by Emmy-winning performer Richard Knight Mixtape of My Life,” on Sunday, May 21, at Up- PRIDE STAGE | CLARK & BALMORAL Jr.) and his colorful, daffy assistant Judy Stein town Underground, 4707 N Broadway, at 8 p.m. (portrayed by acclaimed actress Rusty Schwim- Attendees will experience what it was like for $1 from each gate donation on Sunday, June 11 will benefit mer) guide players through multiple rounds and Steele to grow up in small-town Indiana during Center on Halsted, Equality Illinois, and Ava’s Change4Youth. variations of the traditional bingo game, each the 1980s. Steele is known for weaving stories MORE INFORMATION: andersonville.org/equalityrally given a hilarious, unique—and very bawdy— from her life into a setlist ranging from high- spin by the host. energy dance numbers to ballads. This particu- This edition of Dick O’Day’s Big, Lovely Bingo lar show will include songs from Wham, Sheena 2017 MIDSOMMARFEST will benefit Pride Action Tank, a Chicago-based Easton, Janet Jackson and more. june 9, 10 & 11 #ChiEqualityRally non-profit dedicated to addressing challenges Admission is $15-$30; visit https://www.Up- faced by individuals and groups within the townUnderground.net/annesteele.

@windycitytimes1 /windycitymediagroup @windycitytimes www.windycitymediagroup.com 18 May 17, 2017 WINDY CITY TIMES Chicago BearFest weekend announced For many years, bears and their fans from across the country—and even around the world—have the DISH gathered in Chicago over the Memorial Day weekend for fellowship and fun. This year will be no Weekly Dining Guide in exception. WINDY CITY TIMES A group of local businesses—­ Touché, home of the Great Lakes Bears; The Call; Hamburger Mary’s; Mary’s Attic and The Andersonville Brewing Company—have joined SAVOR forces to present Chicago BearFest, which plans to be unique in its approach, in that the weekend of events will Joy District be presented fee-free. Register for free for Chicago BearFest and you will re- BY ANDREW DAVIS Interior of Joy District. ceive a wristband that will entitle you to special offers PR photo and discounts at the organizing venues and many more lo- Ever heard of a “clubstaurant?” cations over the holiday weekend. You may register online Well, that portmanteau perfectly describes lemon and cilantro. A tasty roasted chicken coll through the Chicago BearFest FaceBook page or at any event all weekend. Even if you are unable to Joy District (112 W. Hubbard St.; https://www. came with roasted puree and chimichurri and join the party till Sunday, you can still get in on the fun and deals through Monday. joychicago.com/), which offers everything from even the butter burger skirted the usual, as it Nightly parties are planned, from Thursday, May 25, through Sunday, May 29, wrapping up on Me- inviting eats to multiple spaces to explore. came with black garlic and miso aioli. morial Day with a Farewell Brunch and afternoon cookout. Dances, cocktail parties and the premiere Housed in what was formerly Epic, Chef Mat- However, the food is only part of the reason of the Mr. Chicago Bear and Chicago Cub Contest are just a part of the weekend’s events. thew Wilde has unveiled a new menu that Windy to visit Joy District. The venue contains vari- Follow Chicago BearFest or Twitter as more details are announced and for any last-minute addi- City Times was privileged to try as part of a media ous bars as well as club and lounge spaces that tions to the lineup of events. event—and while there was torrential rain out- sport signs, couches, photos, intriguing lights side, there was nothing but “joy” inside. and other items. Aside from the first floor, there The menu involves a mix of influences, with are the chandelier room, first-floor mezzanine, nearly everything having a twist. Tuna poke second floor, second-floor mezzanine—and the ‘Rent’ leaves a legacy of love cones came in crispy waffle cones (that were 3,000-square-foot rooftop that can allow for even savory, as opposed to sweet, Wilde exclusively By JERRY NUNN more dancing. told WCT) while the local burrata salad featured Jasmine So, whatever your pleasure is—people-watch- roasted baby beets, fig jam and sesame brittle. Many cast members of the Rent 20th Anniversary Easler. ing or dancing—be sure to indulge while sam- Even the grilled edamame offered a little spice Tour were in Chicago on May 8 and stopped by pling some of the more impressive menu selec- Photo (literally), courtesy of yuzu salt and yukari. Musical Monday at Sidetrack for a benefit concert by Jerry tions I’ve tried this year. The hits kept coming, thanks to a kicky citrus titled A Season Of Love. The cast performed cab- Nunn salmon roll with cucumber, jalapeno, avocado, Turn to page 19 aret-style renditions of a variety of songs to raise money for The Legacy Project Chicago. Among the songs were Sting’s “All This Time,” jazz stan- dard “All of Me,” and “It All Fades Away” from hilarious version of Spamalot’s “Diva’s Lament the musical version of Bridges of Madison County. (Whatever Happened to My Part?).” The host of the variety show, Sammy Ferber, Jasmine Easler opened the night, and then kept things moving along for over an hour with closed it down by singing “Maybe This Time” from rotating performers and jokes in between. Cabaret. A trio sang a Spelling Bee song, then the two The night spoke volumes about a cast that used leads from Rent, Danny Harris Kornfeld, and Ka- their day off from the tour to support the com- tie Lamark, drew song choices out of a cup to munity instead of staying on vocal rest. muddle through. Some random tracks they chose The $20 suggested donations from attendees were from hit musicals like Aladdin, Little Shop were put to good use for The Legacy Project, who of Horrors and Phantom of the Opera. They had a is “dedicated to combating anti-gay bullying by special request to sing “For Good” from Wicked to celebrating LGBT contributions in history.” hearty applause. For more on The Legacy Project, see www.Leg- Natalie Lipin brought the house down with her acyProjectChicago.org.

Cerda to receive special Jeff Award More than 200 members of the Chicago theatre community signed a recommendation that the 2017 Non-Equity Special Jeff Award be bestowed on David Cerda, the co-founder and artistic director of Hell in a Handbag Productions, for his theatrical and charitable contribu- tions. The Jeff Awards Committee concurred. Cerda will receive the award at the 44th Annual Non-Equity Awards ceremony on Monday, June 5, at the Athenaeum Theatre, 2936 N. Southport Ave.. Cerda was elected to the Chicago LGBT Hall of Fame in in 2016 for both theatrical achievements and philanthropic efforts. Also, Hell In A David Cerda. Handbag has raised more than $58,000 for local and national causes, Rick Aguilar Studios ranging from the American Cancer Society to The Wounded Warrior Project to Hams 4 Hams, an organization he co-founded with Lori Cannon that provides holiday staples for clients of Groceryland, which feeds those who are HIV positive and living with AIDS. The public is invited to attend; visit JeffAwards.org. WINDY CITY TIMES May 17, 2017 19 Billy MastersMasters

“I don’t think about it. It’s not a thing. I go to work. I manage a lot of people. I cover the news. I deal with holy hell around me. I go home to the man I’m in love with.”—And with that, Fox News anchor Shepard Smith comes out. No time for idle chit-chat. I’ve got twice as many Richard Simmons is fighting back, Billy says. stories as I have room for in print, so we’re gon- Photo by Andrew Davis na dive right in. Patti LuPone—the First Lady of Broadway—had some choice words to share when that he’s suing the publication. His contention is Andy Cohen asked her what she thought of Ma- that the rag chose to accuse him of such a hot-but- donna’s performance as Evita. (Actually, a call-in ton topic to ensure that he wouldn’t sue—because question got the ball rolling.) if he did, it might be construed as being against Patti implied she has never seen the entire film gender reassignment surgery. This is kinda like su- but did see “Buenos Aires” “back when MTV used ing for defamation over being called gay—as if be- to show videos” and thought it was “a piece of ing gay is a bad thing. Wording of the complaint shit.” But she didn’t stop there, adding, “Madon- is quite clear: “Mr. Simmons, like every person in na is a movie killer. She’s dead behind the eyes. this nation, has a legal right to insist that he not She couldn’t act her way out of a paper bag. She be portrayed as someone he is not. Even the most should not be on film or on stage. She’s a wonder- ardent supporter of sexual autonomy and LGBTQ ful performer for what she does, but she is not an rights is entitled to be portrayed in a manner that actress.” How refreshing! When was the last time is truthful.” Pundits have declared that this is the someone was asked for an opinion and actually first-ever defamation lawsuit over published re- gave one? None of that politically correct crap we ports about gender transition. The only other case usually get. I can think of is Caitlyn Jenner—who never sued, Needless to say, this started a holy war on social for obvious reasons. media, with sides being drawn. Many people felt The complaint also describes the mag’s chief Patti’s comments were sour grapes over not getting source, Mauro Oliveira, as “an individual who has the Evita film. I disagree—Patti always speaks her blackmailed, extorted and stalked Mr. Simmons for mind. Earlier in the same episode of Watch What several years with the intent of destroying the ca- Happens Live, Cohen showed guest Christopher reer and reputation of Mr. Simmons.” Two days af- Meloni a scene from Law & Order: SVU in which ter the Enquirer cover story ran, Oliveira allegedly Real Housewife Countess LuAnn had a small role. emailed Simmons, saying that if Richard paid him They came back from the clip, and the first thing off, he would “go on record to discredit the story out of LuPone’s mouth was, “Wow, she SURE can’t and defend Richard Simmons.” Did you follow that? act!” Look, Patti calls ‘em as she sees ‘em. Oliveira tries to blackmail Simmons for money. It It’s that time of year when the networks choose doesn’t work. He tells the Enquirer he has a story. which shows will come back next season and which They pay him for it. Then he goes back to Sim- ones won’t. It’s with mixed feelings I report the mons asking for more money, at which point he’d cancellation of The Real O’Neals. Created by our tell the “Enquirer” that the story they paid him for own Dan Savage, the show was lucky to survive this was a lie? This is not someone I’d consider a cred- long after the outrageous interview star Noah Gal- ible source! According to Simmons’ attorneys, they vin gave to Vulture in a pathetic attempt to dis- sent the “Enquirer” the e-mailed offer to recant DISH from page 18 tance himself from his somewhat-sanitized char- and deny the story if he got paid—surely thinking acter and garner Emmy buzz. It made Noah look they’d issue a retraction. Nope. That’s why it’s now Upcoming wine walk bad, the network look bad, the show look bad—it going to court. And I say, good for you, Fiona ... Andersonville Wine Walk will once again was just bad! The brass came thisclose to cancel- er, Richard. invite guests to walk, sip and shop their way ing the second season, but gave it a half-hearted So, it’s down to this: I’ve got an “Ask Billy” ques- through the district on Sunday, May 21, 3-6 p.m. shot. But, methinks the damage was done. Good tion, and I’ve got a nude. But I only have room for The Wine Walk will feature 26 of Andersonville’s work, Galvin. one. Which one do I tackle? I think the nude—the businesses, including Candyality, Kru Strength + question would take too long to answer. Italian I already told you that The CW would be bring- Fitness, Jerry’s, Martha Mae Art Supplies & Beau- ing a new version of Dynasty to the screen. While soccer heartthrob Federico Varano took some dick tiful Things, Andersonville Galleria, Notice, Or- we have a new Blake, Fallon and Cristal (note the pics which have gone viral. Viral in that you can ange Shoe Personal Fitness, TrueNorth Cafe, and spelling), there is no Alexis—who, as you’ll recall, see them—not viral as if you’ll catch anything Revive Massage Therapy and Spa. didn’t join the original show until the second sea- from them! He’s quite a BIG thing in Italy, as you’ll Tickets to Andersonville Wine Walk include ad- son. I’m sure they’d love to bag Joan Collins, but see on BillyMasters.com. I’m not sure how she could fit into this new series When we’re featuring soccer stars playing with mission, wine tastings and a one-of-a-kind com- where characters who were Alexis’ contemporaries their balls, it’s definitely time to end yet another memorative wine glass. Check-in for the walk will are played by actors roughly the square root of her column. This was such a whirlwind, I barely have begin at 1 p.m. at the Swedish American Museum, age! But if we dispense with mythology, perhaps time to remind you to check out www.BillyMasters. 5211 N. Clark St., on May 21. To purchase tickets Alexis could come back as Blake’s mother. That com—the site even Patti LuPone enjoys! Whether or for more information, visit Andersonville.org. might be too cruel. I answer your question in print or not, I’m always Note: Restaurant profiles/events are based Don’t call him Fiona! That’s what Richard Sim- here for you. So send your queries along to Billy@ on invitations arranged from restaurants and/ mons has to say in response to a National Enquirer BillyMasters.com and I promise to get back to you or firms. cover story which proclaimed him embarking on before Richard Simmons hires Tom Cruise’s lawyer! gender reassignment surgery. Simmons is so pissed Until next time, remember: One man’s filth is an- off about the story—which came out last June— other man’s bible. 20 May 17, 2017 WINDY CITY TIMES Trans film makes splash at Chicago Latino Film Festival by Jerry Nunn themes. I cover people that are excluded or are fighting for their rights. Elia Schneider’s film Tamara closed the 33rd An- WCT: What was the hardest part for you, nual Chicago Latino Film Festival this year. Luis? The film chronicles the real-life story of Ta- LF: The hardest part was not dressing up as a mara Adrian, Venezuela’s first transgender person woman, because I had done that before in the- elected to that country’s National Assembly. In ater, but it was going to be hard to make people the process, she encounters the difficulties of understand that this was not a man dressing up making that decision with a government and as a woman, but a woman who is trapped in a From left: Luis Fernandez, Elia K. Schneider, Prakriti Maduro, Jose Ramon. community that does not support her. man’s body. Photo by Jerry Nunn Venezuelan actor Luis Fernandez plays the lead Elia was very profound and detailed in the cre- role in the film. He is known for performances in ation of this character that was inside my body as character named Ana, Prakriti. How was that? in front of the camera and a crew it is always Caracas, Love onto Death and Francisco de Mi- a man. Our goal was to make audiences feel that Prakriti Maduro: I met her. She was the wife awkward. randa. His love interest in the movie Tamara, Ana, behind my face there is a woman trapped inside of Tamara. My role was about the moment of my I think when you are doing a part of being is played by Prakriti Maduro. wanting to come out. That was the most chal- boyfriend taking off his private parts. It was im- trapped in the wrong body you have to see the Director Elia K. Schneider and producer Jose lenging part to get that on the screen and people portant to have a conversation with her. She told body. We agreed that needed to be seen. Ramon also attended the festival, and they all to understand that was going on. me it was not about sex, but about love. It is a We had to have a scene with oral sex with Ta- spoke with Windy City Times. Elia worked with me very deeply, profoundly, higher way to understand a relationship. This was mara’s first wife because Tomas was fascinated Windy City Times: Where is everyone from? and painfully to find all the sordid little details fundamental for my character. by the vagina. We talked about that at the table Elia K. Schneider: I was born in Israel, then of my private life that will work to create the WCT: Pakriti, you were also in another film at read. I had to do it. I wanted to be real to the moved to New York and LA. I majored in theater character. I found the woman that lived within the Latino Film Festival, playing a lesbian in story. I wanted to make people understand what at Tisch School of the Arts, but moved into film. me. I let her out. That transgender woman you Extra Terrestres. Talk about that. it is all about. Jose Ramon: I was born in Uruguay. I live in see on the screen is who I would have been if I PM: For me, it was interesting because they WCT: What did [the real Tamara] think about Venezuela and did all the work producing the film were transgender. shot it in Puerto Rico. It is a very important mo- this movie? there. We worked in New York and Los Angeles WCT: You don’t particularly look like Tamara ment in any lesbian’s life with coming out. That LF: She liked it. also. Adrian. So no YouTube videos of her manner- was the main reason to do the whole picture. EKS: She is part of the film. She has a cameo. EKS: We have had four years together, so when- isms? LF: Were there sex scenes, Pakriti? WCT: When does the film come out officially ever he directs and I produce or the other way LF: No, and I didn’t imitate her. I am bad at PM: No, this is a family-centered story. in the United States? around, as in Tamara. We have one son who is a imitating, so I did the woman I would have been WCT: Nudity was fine with you in Tamara, JR: We are working on that. We may open in director. He works with us. if I were transgender. She is a character. She talks Luis? Los Angeles soon. WCT: Why did you want to depict this story? in a very particular way. I didn’t do that. LF: Oh, yeah. I have been doing that since I The full interview is at WindyCityMedia- EKS: All the films I go for always have social WCT: You were also portraying a real-life was 18 in the theater. When you have to shoot Group.com. CONNE IONS

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Chicago Outfit Syndicate Sunday, May 21 printer available at Charmers. 7:00pm - against Toronto Roller Derby immedi- Chuck Hyde Chicago Memorial The Chi- COMMUNITY 9:00pm Charmers’ Cafe, 1500 W. Jarvis, ately following. $15 online, $20 at door cago LGBTQ Community is deeply sad- Chicago. 6:00pm Windy City Fieldhouse, 2367 dened by the passing of former Side- CALENDAR W. Logan Blvd., Chicago 773-486-7300 track Co-Owner and General Manager Friday, May 19 Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ Chuck Hyde. Please join us for a Memori- Gilead Lunch & Learn: HIV-1, Mental the-chicago-outfit-roller-derby-vs-to- al Service at Center on Halsted, followed Wed., May 17 Health and Substance Abuse Pre- ronto-roller-derby-tickets-32630141632 immediately by a Celebration of Life Re- Staged reading festival begins with The senter: Paula Teichner, Pharm D., ViiV Human First Gala Center on Halsted will ception at Sidetrack until 5pm. Chuck Boys in the Band “Nearly 50” Pride Arts Healthcare Medical Science Liaison. mark its 10th anniversary. Honoring helped shape Sidetrack for over 30 years Center celebrates its first Pride with a Free lunch will be provided. 2:00pm Fred Eychaner, chairman of Newsweb from 1982-2014. He influenced so much staged reading and series of events. - 3:00pm Center on Halsted 3656 N Corporation and president of Alpha- of what Sidetrack has done as a business $25 VIP or $20 general. Post-show Pride Halsted Chicago Tickets: https://com- wood Foundation. Dionne Warwick is to and as a part of the LGBTQ community. Month Kick-off party 7:00pm Pride munity.centeronhalsted.org/LunchLear perform and Maggie Speaks will dance. Please join us in remembering Chuck’s Arts Center, The Broadway Stage, 4139 n?erid=5752042&trid=d57ee0ae-4cb4- $500. Cocktails and reception 5:30pm. great legacy. 1:00pm - 5:00pm Cen- N Broadway Ave, Chicago 800-737-0984 447d-b791-b9271cf9fb71 7:30pm The Geraghty, 2520 S. Hoyne ter on Halsted 3656 N Halsted Chicago http://www.prideartscenter.com BTQ Book Group 3rd Fridays 7:00pm Ave. http://www.centeronhalsted.org http://www.sidetrackchicago.com All Things Beyonce: 2nd Anniversary IN REMEMBRANCE - 9:00pm Gerber Hart Library and Tickets: http://community.centeronhal- Get in formation for the 2nd Anniver- Sunday, May 21 Archives 6500 N. Clark St., Chicago sted.org/HF Tuesday, May 23 sary of this monthly Beyonce night. http://www.gerberhart.org Dignity/Chicago 45th-anniversary din- OUTAging: Summit on Our Possibili- Dance to Beyonce videos and concert A memorial will be held for SPACE queer variety show Hosted by ner The advocacy organization for ties Opening reception Free recep- footage, plus slay to drag performances former Sidetrack stand up comedians Carly Ballerini and LGBTQI Catholics and their allies will tion to kick off three-day summit. from DiDa Ritz and company. Hosted by manager Chuck Hyde at Shannon Noll with performers who are welcome DignityUSA Executive Director You must register individually for Marianne Duddy-Burke, the guest speak- Michele Williams and Fan Club Presi- Center on Halsted LGBTQIA-identified. Performance is each part of the summit. 6:00pm - rooted in stand up, with featured acts er. VIP reception 5:30-6:30 p.m. $40 dent Dixie Lynn Cartwright. No cover. and Sidetrack. 8:00pm Affinity Community Services 9:00pm - 2:00am Sidetrack 3349 N. including dance, music, drag, storytell- and $75 at the link or by check to Dig- 2850 S. Wabash Ave. #108 Chicago Halsted St., Chicago http://www.side- ing. 9:30pm The Revival Theater, 1160 nity/Chicago, 3023 N Clark St., Box 237, http://events.aidschicago.org/site/ Chicago, IL 60657-5200. Questions to trackchicago.com Pride Parade. Reception 5:30pm. Tickets E 55th, Hyde Park http://www.the-re- Calendar?id=102522&view=Detail Tick- [email protected]. 6:30pm $20, $18 for members. 6:30pm Cen- vival.com/event/ed9ac2a29d3eda16c- ets: http://prideactiontank.org - 9:30pm Francesca’s on Taylor, 1400 Thursday, May 18 ter on Halsted 3656 N Halsted Chicago 4023c30a1f12d28 Equality Illinois LGBTQ Town Hall W. Taylor St. 312-458-9438 Tickets: Out at CHM From New Town to Boystown https://www.chicagohistory.org/ 6:00pm - 8:00pm East St. Louis Com- http://Dignity-chicago.org to Lake View. Explore the triumphs of the New Town Writers’ Workshop Partici- Saturday, May 20 munity College Center, 601 James R. nation’s first officially recognized gay pants are asked to bring copies of their Chicago Outfit Roller Derby’s home Thompson Blvd., East St. Louis Tickets: village, born of activism in 1970 when work so other writers and listeners can opener Chicago Outfit Shakedown vs. http://eqil.org residents marched here in Chicago’s first Kokomo City of Fists out of Kokomo,

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