Holiday Hullabaloo with Chicago Gay Men’S Chorus and Other Lgbtq Performance Groups

Dec. 12, 2018 HOLIDAY HULLABALOO WITH CHICAGO GAY MEN’S CHORUS AND OTHER LGBTQ PERFORMANCE GROUPS

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Photo by John Stadelman Dec. 12, 2018 2

INDEX VOL. 34, No. 12, Dec. 12, 2018 The combined forces of Windy City Times, founded Sept. 1985, and Outlines newspaper, Theater reviews 4-5 founded May 1987. Dance: Hyde Park has the season’s biggest, coolest Nutcracker 6 PUBLISHER Terri Klinsky Theater review 7 Theater: T.R. Knight talks baout upcoming ‘Dream’ role 8 6 EXECUTIVE EDITOR Andrew Davis Book review: Honor Girl/Lost Soul, Be at Peace 9 MANAGING EDITOR Matt Simonette DIGITAL DIRECTOR Jean Albright Actor John Barrowman part of team that spins a Celtic tale 10 ART DIRECTOR AND ASSOCIATE EDITOR Kirk Williamson Film: Windy City Times’ Winter Movie Preview 11 SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR Scott Duff BUSINESS MANAGER Ripley Caine SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Terri Klinsky, Kirk Williamson, Scott Duff, Kathy Breit, Theresa Santos Volpe, Kevin Siarkowski NATIONAL SALES Rivendell Media, 212-242-6863 THEATER AND DANCE EDITOR Catey Sullivan SENIOR WRITERS Jonathan Abarbanel, Mary Shen Barnidge, Liz Baudler, Charlsie Dewey, Ross Forman, Carrie Maxwell, Rev. Irene Monroe, Jerry Nunn, Tony Peregrin, Angelique Smith, Sari Staver, Sarah Toce, Melissa Wasserman WRITERS Sarah Katherine Bowden, Ada Cheng, Sheri Flanders, Joe Franco, Veronica Harrison, Kelsey Hoff, Aaron Hunt, Eric Karas, Brian Kirst, Paige Listerud, Billy Masters, Scott C. Morgan, Amelia Orozco, Ariel Parrella-Aureli, Kerry Reid, Dana Rudolph, Ana Serna, Karen Topham, Regina Victor, Sean Margaret Wagner, Lauren Warnecke, Steve Warren, Lauren Emily Whalen SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHERS Kat Fitzgerald, Hal Baim, Tim Carroll, Ed Negron, Vernon Hester CIRCULATION DIRECTOR Jean Albright DISTRIBUTION Ashina, Allan, Dan, John, Sue and Victor WEB HOSTING LoveYourWebsite.com (lead programmer: Martie Marro) PRESIDENT Tracy Baim (773) 871-7610 FAX (773) 871-7609 Editorial: [email protected] Sales: [email protected] 11 Calendar: [email protected] Circulation: [email protected] Art/ad copy: [email protected] Theater: [email protected]

Books: Mark Zubro’s A Cradle Song: Part Eight 12-13 Copyright 2018 Lambda Publications Inc./Windy City Media Group; All rights reserved. Reprint by permission only. Back Sports: The Sporting Life: Drew Ladochi 14 issues (if available) for $5 per issue (postage included). Return postage must accompany all manuscripts, drawings, Music: Gay chorus, LGBTQ groups mark holidays 15 14 and photographs submitted if they are to be returned, and no responsibility may be assumed for unsolicited materials. All rights to letters, art and photographs sent to Windy Books: Thom Bierdz talks about sex—and more—in new book 16 City Times will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication purposes and as such, subject to editing Theater review 17 and comment. The opinions expressed by the columnists, cartoonists, letter writers, and commentators are their own and do not necessarily reflect the position of Windy City Music: Carlo Chappelle: Born to sing 18 Times. Publication of the name, photograph, or likeness of a person or organization in articles or advertising in Windy Nightlife/Drag: Drag It Up!: Aura Mayari 19 City Times is not to be construed as any indication of the sexual orientation of such person or organization. While Billy Masters 21 we encourage readers to support the advertisers who make this newspaper possible, Windy City Times cannot accept The Dish: ’Pie in the Sky’; Heartland closing; Yugen opening 22 responsibility for advertising claims. Nightlife/Drag: Scene photos (Santa Speedo Run at Sidetrack) 22 WINDY CITY MEDIA GROUP, 5315 N. Clark St. #192, Chicago, IL, 60640 U.S.A Nightlife/Drag: ‘STRUT’ show marks World AIDS Day 23 (MAILING ADDRESS ONLY) Calendar 24 Windy City Times Deadline every Wednesday OUT! Chicago’s LGBTQ Visitor’s Guide Online annual Cartoon: Kyle’s Bed & Breakfast 24 Windy City Times Wedding and Events Guide Annual Arts and Theater Weekly Online www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com Dec. 12, 2018 3

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costumes (Mara Blumenfeld, costume design). in an interpretation in which grand emotions— THEATER REVIEW There is silliness, yes, but little frivolity. especially, but not only, love—are madness and Perhaps it’s the slightly disturbing set, with its self-deception; madness in which thunder and Twelfth Night stark row of white arches crying for paint and lightning are music, sexuality is ambivalent (long Playwright: William Shakespeare suggesting (it must be intentional) the surreal- recognized in the play), gender is fluid, the great At: Writers Theatre, 325 Tudor Ct., Glencoe ist architecture of Giorgio de Chirico’s paintings. of society seem slighter and less worthy than Tickets: 847-242-6000; Perhaps it’s the famous opening lines of Duke those they rule, and life never seems to strike the WritersTheatre.org; $35-$80 Orsino (Matthew C. Yee), “If music be the food of right balance between black sobriety and florid Runs through: Dec. 16 love, play on; Give me excess of it, that, surfeit- extremity (so brilliantly represented in the cos- ing, The appetite may sicken, and so die,” spoken tumes). Even composer Josh Schmidt’s wonder- BY JONATHAN ABARBANEL not to music but to a violent storm, maybe the ful, Spanish-flavored original music—much of it very storm that shipwrecks twins Viola (Jennifer feelingly sung by Brown—prefers languid tempi In Shakespeare’s mostly rollicking romantic com- Latimore) and Sebastian (Luce Metrius). and long melody lines over peppy tunes and up- edy As You Like It, a country maiden resisting an Perhaps it’s the matter-of-fact, controlled de- beat rhythms. ardent suitor is warned, “Sell while you can, you livery of most dialogue, almost never giving voice So this isn’t the vivacious, often-boisterous are not for all markets.” to the emotions being expressed, and deliber- comedy many regard as the defining quality of This caution might apply to Michael Halber- ately avoiding comic business and raucousness. Twelfth Night, and probably not the production stam’s radical interpretation of Shakespeare’s Perhaps it’s the clown, Feste, richly portrayed for 10- or 12-year-olds who’ve never seen it be- other mostly rollicking romantic comedy, Twelfth by William Brown (in a long-hoped-for return to fore; but you’ll be rewarded if you go with that in Night, which won’t be for all tastes despite im- acting) as older and definitely more world-weary mind and let it “play on” for you, although you peccable and thoughtful execution. Its somber than usual. Perhaps it’s the chilling narcissism might experience a tinge of sadness at the end. temper generally eschews frivolity, despite bright of Sean Fortunato’s brilliantly (and literally) Other principals in the fine cast are Kevin Gu- and sunlit lighting (John Culbert, lighting de- buttoned-up Malvolio, all the more incongruous dahl (Sir Toby), Scott Parkinson (Sir Andrew), Jennifer Latimore, Matthew C. Yee in Twelfth sign) against a vibrant blue ocean framed by a buffoon in his devastating self-deception. Andrea San Miguel (Olivia) and Karen Janes Night. classical arches (William Boles, scenic design) It’s all these things, actually, and more besides Woditsch (Maria). and sporting a dozen colorful floral-patterned Photo by Michael Brosilow

this glitching software … specifically, someone presence. (It’s the mustache.) Emma Pope arrang- THEATER REVIEW from the audience. es sweet girlfriend and romance author facades Director Matt Hovde has crafted a virtually non- just to watch them crumble under mountains of The Second City stop performance that keeps the seams between human oddness. Kimberly Michelle Vaughn is a each segment airtight. You’ll barely have time to bolt of lightning with the ideal energy to pull off 107th Mainstage blink before the next performer is onstage mug- spunky tweens, White House interns and unstable Revue: Algorithm ging in a sequined jacket. This production ad- dancing brides. Nate Varrone won’t stop until he’s heres to that important Arrested Development inspired a potent mix of disgust and pity, no mat- Nation or tenet of rewarding attentive audience members ter who he plays; talk show host, man fulfilling with call-back bits and returning characters. And, his ultimate sexual fantasy, etc. Tyler Davis has The Static Quo if you’re sitting somewhere handy, chances are a way of luring you in with sweet & sensitive Writers: Ryan Asher, Tyler Davis, Jeffrey you’ll be given a task, like shouting out a place, energy, then adding a steady drip of incredulity, Murdoch, Emma Pope, Nate Varrone, Kimberly solving a word jumble, or taking the reins of the urging you to swim in deep intellectual waters. Michelle Vaughn show entirely—no pressure! Finally, can I gush about Ryan Asher? She is so At: The Second City Mainstage, 1616 N. Wells This troupe is woven tighter than an accent distinct, it’s going to make you double over and Tickets: 312-337-3992 or SecondCity.com; rug, and each of them are integral; Jeffrey Mur- wet yourself. It’s the kind of madcap joy that is Cast of Algorithm Nation or The Static Quo. $31-$58; Open run doch is a perfect creepy middle-school boyfriend, great on it’s own, and elevates everyone around Photo by Todd Rosenberg creepy stepdad and all-around weird, clammy her. BY SEAN MARGARET WAGNER

Exceptional sketch comedy is a painstaking gift. and noise, with their bodies and the wood and mor and creating music with unexamined ob- Think about why your favorite comics are so en- THEATER REVIEW bristles becoming vital instruments. This sound jects, the relationship between the actors and deared to you; they are some combination of experiment evolves into play with rubber tubes, the audience remains paramount. After sweep- fearless, present and vulnerable, which are hard Stomp metal sinks, shopping carts, plastic bags, and in ing across the stage with brooms and turning qualities to maintain, just ask Dave Chappelle or By: Luke Cresswell and Steve MacNicholas one surprising turn, a banana peel. matchboxes into maracas, the performers inte- (gulp) Louis CK. The team behind Second City’s At: Broadway Playhouse at Dancers Kayla Cowart, Jonathan Elkins, Des- grate the viewers into the theatrical event. One newest Mainstage Revue are exactly the vulnera- Water Tower Place, 175 E. Chestnut St. mond Howard, Alexis Juliano, Guido Mandozzi, cast member claps out a rhythm, and gestures ble luminaries we need, and their work is inviting Tickets: BroadwayInChicago.com; $39-$84 Artis Olds, Jeremy Price, Crystal Renée, Ivan expectantly at those seated in the dark until and generous. Algorithm Nation or The Static Quo Runs through: Dec. 30 Salazar, Cade Slattery, Steve Weiss and Joe those in the seats clap back. The audience be- is a reminder that sketch comedy can be touch- White form an exuberant ensemble, allowing comes part of the resulting dance routine, cre- ing, disturbing and cognizant of our fraught, BY SARAH KATHERINE BOWDEN their individual personalities to shine through ating a theatrical experience with the artists dumb world. in moments of humor and surprise. onstage. In this comedic onslaught, a HAL-style artificial Stomp is a symphony of sound made out of Much is made of a dancer completing a cross- The magic of Stomp is heightened because intelligence with a soothing voice is prompting items stretching from industrial oil drums to word while others make music with their mouths we see the effort with which the performers ply scene after scene, based on information scrubbed household objects like matchboxes. The show and their own crumpled newspapers. One mem- their craft. They collapse in the performance’s from the Second City audience, but there’s a bug has been touring for almost 20 years, and its ber of the ensemble constantly muscles his way final moments, after drumming on every avail- in the system, and sketches have begun taking continued success likely comes from the per- around the others. Another does half-baked able surface on the set. In the opening number, on violent, wildly inappropriate qualities. This formers’ theatrical explorations of mundane, magic tricks. Still another vies for the atten- I spotted bristles flying off the push broom of machine is finding the humor in white allyship, everyday objects. tion of a fellow musician by blowing air into one dancer. When sawdust is spread on the floor, police violence, anti-feminists, and instagram Developed by co-directors Luke Cresswell and a plastic bag and squeaking a straw stuck in a it calls to mind a meatpacking plant or lumber shills; it’s turning beloved characters like Charlie Steve MacNicholas, Stomp features performers soda cup. The purpose of the piece is to play, mill, and the intense physicality on display re- Brown into cold-blooded assassins, or a gather- who at first casually move about the warehouse- and each performer brings a distinct creativity wards the viewer with exhausting creativity and ing of Lost Boys (from the movie Hook) into mal- like stage space, using push brooms to sweep and timing to their Buster Keaton-like bits. innovation. nourished cannibals. What a hilarious nightmare! up dust, before organically discovering dance As much as the show is about discovering hu- Someone is going to have to take action to stop Dec. 12, 2018 5

and Mantello’s adaptation (directed by Goodman Artistic Associate Steve Scott) is a fast-paced, 70-minute deep dive into the gritty side of holiday cheer. Scott never misses an opportunity for an uncomfortable laugh or a teeth-sucking, cringe-inducing moment. CHRISTOPHER Only a few bits don’t translate to the 2018 audi-

ence: At one point, Crumpet compares Christmas- WHEELDON’S NUTCRACKER THE hungry New Yorkers to the special-needs population, and uses the “r”-word to do so. Though Scott had the decency to have actor Matt Crowle wince repeatedly when he said the word, he and Mantello would have done better to cut the bit altogether. Sedaris wrote the essay in a different era, but older scripts must accommodate the time “RADIANT the audience is living in now. Despite this hiccup, The Santaland Diaries is and altogether a fun fit for Goodman’s “alternative” Christmas show: edgy enough for younger audiences, with INGENIOUS” Matt Crowle in The Santaland Diaries. a few gentle moments for the older. Though the Photo by Eric Scanlon one-actor show can be produced with practically no budget, Kevin Depinet has a grand time with THEATER REVIEW the set design, creating a textbook winter won- “visually derland with giant candy canes, twinkling lights The Santaland and a velvet throne for Santa, of which Crumpet STUNNING” makes liberal use. —WTTW Diaries Chicago actor Matt Crowle is a worthy Sedaris Playwright: Steve Scott, adapted from substitute. Displaying the charisma he’s shown the essay by David Sedaris throughout the city and on Broadway, Crowle At: Goodman Theatre, 170 N. Dearborn St. shuffles around in ridiculous green velvet slip- Tickets: $15-45; GoodmanTheatre.org pers, lighting a smoke as he details everything Runs through: Dec. 30 from flirting with fellow elves to dealing with the casual racism of parents who want an “American” BY LAUREN EMILY WHALEN Santa. (Three guesses as to what that means.) Crumpet may be worlds away from Bert in Mary Ebenezer Scrooge has nothing on Crumpet the Poppins, whom Crowle portrayed at Mercury The- Elf. ater Chicago last season, but the actor’s inher- In 1992, David Sedaris debuted his essay ent charm and impeccable timing still translate. “The Santaland Diaries” on National Public Ra- All in all, The Santaland Diaries, which Goodman dio to thunderous acclaim. Even if you’ve never warns is “for mature elves only,” is just over an thought—or don’t care—about what really goes hour of welcome Christmas sarcasm. Fair warning: on behind the scenes of department store Santa Those who’ve worked in holiday retail will need a displays, this dark, witty piece based on the post-show drink—or six. author’s real-life experience remains positively magnetic. After over two decades, Joe Mantello’s hit adaptation of the Sedaris essay makes its way c to Goodman. Though a few jokes haven’t aged well, to put it mildly, The Santaland Diaries is a hilarious, dirty, worthy counterpoint to Good- CRITICS’PICKS man’s Christmas Carol. Buttcracker: A Nutcracker Burlesque, (Sub) As a broke actor and new New Yorker with an version Productions at Reggie’s Music Joint, GREAT SEATS AVAILABLE encyclopedic knowledge of soap operas and no through Dec. 26. Fan-dancing snowflakes, a discernible skills, Sedaris needed a job but didn’t glass-eating “Calavera Catrina” and a Tim Curry- want to “dress as an object and hand out leaf- ish Drosselmeyer highlight this just-for-adults lets.” On a dare from his roommate, he called gender-fluid body-positive spoof of the classic PURCHASE TODAY! Macy’s in Herald Square to answer a job ad. When ballet. MSB asked “full time or evening and weekend elf?” The Revolutionists, Strawdog Theatre, through Dec. 29. Lauren Gunderson deconstructs the Sedaris answered the former, and was thrust into PERFORMS AT: a world of windowless rooms, vomit-infested mir- French Revolution with feminist fury, artful NOW–DECEMBER 30 rored corridors and a brightly-lit hellscape of cry- analyses and enough insider comedy for a dozen JOFFREY.ORG ing children and obsessive parents. time-travel epics. MSB Simply put, Crumpet the Elf was born: a snarky Gypsy, Porchlight Music Theatre, through Dec. 312.386.8905 50 East Congress Parkway, Chicago green velvet-clad sprite who made wry observa- 29. E. Faye Butler is ferocious yet tender in this tions over cigarettes on his breaks and directed exceptional production of a legendary musical. tourists to pop superstar Phil Collins, visiting Butler was born to play Mama Rose. JA THE NUTCRACKER Macy’s Santaland with his daughter. The Q Brothers Christmas Carol, Chicago PRODUCTION SPONSORS 2018–2019 SEASON SPONSORS Now a best-selling essayist and renowned Shakespeare Theater, through Dec. 30. Even in speaker whose engagements regularly sell out Year Six, this 90-minute rap/hip-hop version of worldwide, Sedaris has honed his razor-sharp, the holiday classic still is a cheeky, edgy, mile-a- oddball sense of humor. The Santaland Diaries is minute delight. You’ll smile and tap your toes. JA Special thanks to Live Music Sponsors Sandy and Roger Deromedi and The Marina and Arnold Tatar Fund for Live Music. a precursor to the forthcoming literary legend, The Joffrey Ballet. | Photo by Cheryl Mann. —By Abarbanel, Barnidge and Sullivan Dec. 12, 2018 6 Hyde Park has the season’s biggest, coolest Nutcracker BY SHERI FLANDERS

The holiday season is here, which means the ar- DANCE rival of The Nutcracker, the ubiquitous holiday young girl travels to a fantasy land filled with classic staged by dance companies around the dancing sweets from around the world. Dance in- world. structor and choreographer Jonathan St. Clair is Beloved as Tchaikovsky’s popular music may be, responsible for the Battle scene, which unfolds bringing something new to the same, rote per- between the titular toy and a host of feisty mice.. formance year after year can be a challenge. This St. Clair has infused the scene with hip-hop ele- year, however, the Hyde Park School of Dance has ments. a few new tricks hidden in its satin pointe shoes The traditional war scene between the Mouse for its Nutcracker this weekend at Mandel Hall. King and the Nutcracker has been reimagined as To celebrate its 25th anniversary season, this a dance-battle, set against a version of Tchai- year’s Nutcracker will feature a 175-member com- kovsky’s score combined with a Hip-Hop beat that Hyde Park Nutcracker. pany and will feature a blend of hip-hop, ballet St. Clair mixed himself. Ty says that they wanted and modern dance, infusing the piece with new to send the message to youth that “you don’t Photo by Marc Monaghan have to solve a problem with swords and guns. excitement and style. on an inventive, investigative process. ... Plan, said. We still hit the mouse with the shoe, though!” “Some of these older stories need to be ad- do, repeat,” St. Clair said. Dance has helped him The large cast is representative of the Hyde For the uninitiated, the dance elements of hip- dressed in a current context for them to survive.” as a parent, as a teacher, and with skills such as Park neighborhood and the legacy of the dance hop include breaking (which consists of acrobatic says Hyde Park School of Dance Founding Artis- drawing and cooking, St. Clair added. When he school, featuring students from all different moves tied together with toprocks, downrocks tic Director August Tye, who is also the ballet tried to make a low-sugar version of peanut-but- backgrounds, including young dancers who per- and freezes), and popping and locking (which mistress and choreographer for the Lyric Opera ter cups from scratch, for example, his hip-hop form pre-show, and senior dancers who have contrasts sharper, jerky movements with smooth- of Chicago. Initially worried that traditionalists training helped him investigate the cooking pro- passed through its doors over the years. er moves.) St. Clair said he loves “seeing young might dislike the change, Tye pushed boundar- cess until it worked correctly. “You get a feel for The school lets the diverse student population people manifesting their greatness…learning to ies nevertheless. “People are ready for something process. You don’t always need to have a teacher. know that dance could be a career. When asked cultivate their skills and talents at a young age.” new, something culturally current,” Tye said. Separate your identity from your performance. about the success of Misty Copeland, Tye says “Breaking is self-driven. It doesn’t happen the Under Ty’s direction, various choreographers are Separate your identity from your outcomes,” he that two of her most exceptional dancers of color same way ballet happens. With Breaking, you go responsible for different scenes that unfold as a did not get accepted to prestigious companies, even though they were great candidates. “The world has not changed even though there is Misty Copeland [the first African-American female prin- cipal dancer with the American Ballet Theatre]. Companies are looking for diversity, but it is still not enough,” Tye said. Olivia Gotsch, 18, started taking lessons with the Hyde Park School at age 4 and worked her way up through the ranks. She’ll dance as the Snow Queen in this year’s performance. “Dance and ballet get a negative reputation because of the narrow-minded definition of what makes a dancer,” Gotsch said, noting the restrictions on body size and the fact that ballet’s traditional pink tights and shoes aren’t representative of every skin tone. The Walter Peyton High School Senior said she finds the Hyde Park Dance School’s program more inclusive, as well as a place of incredible community. “I’ve met some of my closest friends here, the people I rely on the most, who are predominantly women,” she said. Her favorite part of the Nutcracker? “When we’re onstage warming up before the show with our stage makeup half-done…we’ve gotten here, we’ve put in the work, and now we’re here to enjoy it.” The Hyde Park School of Dance’s Nutcracker will be performed at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 14; 1 and 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 15; and 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 16 at Mandel Hall, 1131 E. 57th St. Tickets are $10-$40 each; visit HydeParkDance.org or call 773-493-8498. Dec. 12, 2018 7

livering a series of highly energetic, intense and THEATER REVIEW fast-paced short performances. Some plays were The Infinite Wrench cast. emotional, thoughtful and reflective, such as Lily Image by Joe Mazza-Brave Lux Best of The Infinite Mooney’s “My naked play.” Others (including Ma- lic White’s “How to Remove a Diva Cup”) were Wrench 2018: 30 highly comical and metaphorical. Years with The Neo- The audience was not a passive observer. While the plays were rooted in ensemble members’ per- Futurists sonal history and biography, performers also find At: The Neo-Futurists Theater, ways to engage audience members by bringing 5153 N. Ashland Ave them on stage and integrating their personal sto- Tickets: 312-932-9950; Neofuturists.org ries. In Kurt Chiang’s “Native Planting in prog- Special performance: Dec. 31 ress…. Please watch for changes” and Nick Hart’s “Dialogue,” an audience member is invited to BY ADA CHENG answer some questions, so their narrative can be incorporated into the plays. Who would have thought that the host of a 30th The lineup was inclusive and diverse in terms birthday party had prepared the best gift for all of demographics, identities and backgrounds. It’s in attendance? particularly fantastic to see the alum Lisa Bus- That’s what’s happening with the Neo-Futurists’ cani’s vintage plays, which breathe life into his- Best of the Infinite Wrench: 2018. tory and add depth to the evening. The number 30 is the key in multiple ways: The Neo-Futurists ensemble deliver a fantas- The Neos debuted their signature 30-plays-in- tic performance with The Best of The Infinite 60-minutes production 30 years ago (Friday, Dec. Wrench. It’s their birthday, but the audience got 2, 1988 to be exact). Three decades later, the the gift. Best of the Wrench included playlets with titles The Neo-Futurists will host a New Year’s Even such as “This play has some kinks,” and “the best version of Infinite Wrench on Monday, Dec. 31 part about spending the night in central indiana at the Neo-Futurarium, 5153 N. Ashland Ave. in a mansion built by and for the Ku Klux Klan (as VIP tickets for New Year’s Eve performances are a Black person on Black History Month).” (sic) $75 and include a 7 p.m. performance of Burning The evening featured Ida Cuttler’s “Letter to My Bluebeard followed by food drink and poetry, fol- Grandfather,” a touching and thoughtful piece lowed by an 11 p.m. performance of the Infinite Cuttler wrote to her grandfather about speak- Wrench. The evening closes with a champagne ing different languages. The ensemble then took toast. For more information, go to Neofuruturists. the audience on an emotional rollercoaster, de- org.

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work at the box office of a theater that I really T.R. Knight. wanted to work at in Minneapolis and I even- Photo courtesy of the tually got onstage there. Like Chicago, though THEATER Chicago Shakespeare Chicago’s theater scene is much bigger, theater apolis who has since died, sadly, Richard Iglews- Theater in Minneapolis is respected. I got to watch and ki, who everyone called Julio, was our Bottom learn from a lot of amazing people and also from in the production. I grew up watching him on people coming up from Chicago. the Guthrie stage. I remember when Joe initially WCT: What does working onstage do for you asked me about this, I thought about how Julio that you don’t get from film or television? was so perfect. He was an actor I’d admired both TRK: Theater was almost exclusively what I did as an audience member when I was younger and until Grey’s. I’m 45. So that is still the majority then when I actually got to act with him for two of my life. If I’m lucky enough to do something seasons as a company member at the Guthrie. He and have the time, and there’s a pull, I hope to was an acting hero of mine. It’s just like one of be lucky enough to do it. those actors where you think “No one can ever do T.R. Knight There are also things that just can’t be repli- that role again.” He was so brilliant. I just didn’t cated or duplicated in a filmed performance. At think I could do it. How do you approach some- the Court Theater, I saw Frankenstein by Manual thing when one of your heroes plays the role? talks about Cinema. It’s unlike anything I’d ever seen before. Luckily, I am very different in size. I’m a short I’d never seen Manual Cinema’s work and I still little hobbity guy. Julio was very tall and a very upcoming can’t get over it. It’s magnificent. striking figure. Physically, that helped. I think WCT: How did doing Midsummer with Joe so much of my fear about doing it went away ‘Dream’ role come together? because creating the world with your fellow me- TRK: With Joe, we last worked together 15 chanicals is what’s so fun about this. There are years ago, when we went to New York and we thousands of actors in Chicago who could do as did Tartuffe. When you do a network show with good or better and I’m very aware of that and 22 episodes or whatever per season, you get a very thankful. two-month break. We had talked about a couple BY KERRY REID or whatever, to work with the people that you WCT: How do you think the landscape in Hol- admire. of things, but schedulewise, it never worked out. lywood is changing for LGBTQ artists? I’d done Midsummer’s with him 22 years ago T.R. Knight might still be best known for his five- So that’s kind of how I tried to proceed. I did playing a different character. An actor in Minne- season run as Dr. George O’Malley on ABC’s Grey’s Turn to page 9 Anatomy—and for the infamous 2007 off-camera incident in which a homophobic slur from fellow cast member Isaiah Washington prompted Knight THEATER REVIEW to come out as gay. However, he got his start at an early age onstage Hershel and the in his hometown of Minneapolis at the Guthrie Hanukkah Goblins Theater, playing Tiny Tim in A Christmas Carol. Author: Michael Daily, from the book by Eric (Chicago actor Robert Scogin, who died recently, Kimmel played opposite him as Bob Cratchit one year.) At: Strawdog Theatre, 1802 W. Berenice Ave. Since leaving Grey’s Anatomy, he’s done several Tickets: strawdog.org; $20-$25 plays in New York and elsewhere. Knight—who Runs through: Jan. 5 (weekend matinees lives in Los Angeles with his husband, Patrick only) Leahy—now makes his Chicago stage debut as Nick Bottom in A Midsummer Night’s Dream at BY JONATHAN ABARBANEL Chicago Shakespeare, directed by the Guthrie’s former artistic director, Joe Dowling. We caught Hanukkah is over but Hershel and the Hanukkah up with him to find out what his life in the the- Goblins plays into early January, a refreshing new ater has been like, and how he thinks Hollywood flavor in the large stew pot of holiday theater. It is dealing with LGBTQ issues now. joins a limited subset of shows suitable for young Windy City Times: Your career in the Twin children, as long as they can muster an attention Cities started when you were five. What ini- span of about 50 minutes (probably as young as Jon Penick and Harmony Zhang in tially drew you to doing theater? three). And you needn’t know anything about Ha- Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins. T.R. Knight: It wasn’t a decision I made, be- nukkah except that it lasts eight days and you Photo by Collin Quinn Rice cause I was too young. But I think for a kid with light candles, making Hershel about as religious not the best homelife at the time, I think it kind as The Grinch Who Stole Christmas. kah and also wins himself a pot of gold. and performed by six actors clearly enjoying of had the allure of becoming another home. I re- Indeed, much like Dr. Seuss’s celebrated story, The brief play begins and ends with sprite- themselves, without the least bit of condescen- alized I could escape life a little bit and become Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins began life (in ly original music and song by Jacob Combs in sion towards kids. The good guys win and there someone else. It still has its claws in me. 1989) as a prize-winning illustrated children’s klezmer style, which has been likened to Jewish are bagels and cream cheese in the lobby. What WCT: You were at the Guthrie during the last book. Similar to Grinch, it concerns meanies who Dixieland, played on guitar, clarinet, violin, flute more could anyone want? few years of their repertory company. How did want to shut down the holiday and steal its joy. and tambourine. The players engage the audience This world premiere adaptation could turn into working there shape your ideas of what you These particular goblins reside in Chelm, a leg- with bits of tumbling, juggling and clowning, an annual holiday presentation if Strawdog would wanted to do in theater? endary town of Jewish folklore where each citizen presenting themselves as a rag-tag band of trav- slightly enlarge it. There could be a touch more TRK: One of the people who taught me talked is wiser and more clever than his/her neighbors, eling players asking to present the tale of Hershel story—it will be fine if it’s 10 minutes longer— about that when you’re a young actor, there’s meaning it’s a town of fools. They ponder long in exchange for a night’s food and lodging. The and adding some special effects and stage magic that question of you want to work, but where do and hard over such profound philosophical ques- rest is easy from there as Hershel tricks a differ- would help a lot. Another song or two would be you work and how do you start going about it? tions as “What happens to the hole after you eat ent goblin for each night of Hanukkah. However, great, especially some type of signature music for There’s the school of thought that you take any the bagel?” Fortunately, the goblins of Chelm are the adapters are too smart to portray all eight the goblins and for Hershel. job at all you can get just to learn. And he said on par with the humans and so they easily are days, and so condense it to days 1-3 and 8. NOTE: Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins is per- one shouldn’t take any job. You should work with tricked by a real trickster, Hershel of Ostropol (a As directed by Jacqueline Stone, it’s all child- formed at weekend matinees ONLY, Saturdays and the people you want to work with and try in some hero of many Jewish folktales), who saves Hanuk- way, in any way, whether it’s in the box office like in wonder, occasionally childish in action Sundays at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Dec. 12, 2018 9 BOOK REVIEW Honor Girl/Lost Soul, BOOKS CULTURECULTURE CLUBCLUB Be at Peace by Maggie Thrash $14.99; Candlewick Press; 267 pages (Honor Girl) $18.99; Candlewick Press; 190 pages (Lost Soul, Be at Peace) REVIEW BY LAUREN EMILY WHALEN

There is no loneliness like teenage loneliness. Even those who experienced their “glory days” in high school often admit to frequent feelings of isolation, even depression. For Maggie Thrash, high school was far from glorious. The daughter of a federal judge and a genteel housewife, she had everything.”a beautiful home, finan- cial stability, opportunities galore.”but as a closeted queer girl in the South, Maggie felt like nothing. Her first book, Honor Girl, is a graphic memoir that vividly illustrates her flirtation with an older counselor at her exclusive Chris- tian summer camp. Honor Girl was a finalist for both the Lambda Literary Award and the Los Angeles Times Book Prize, garnering positive reviews from award-winning au- thors and celebrities like Ira Glass. Lost Soul, Be at Peace, is Thrash’s new follow-up, taking place eighteen months after the events of Honor Girl in Thrash’s Atlanta home. Before penning graphic memoirs, Thrash worked as a staff writer for Rookie, Tavi Gevinson’s wildly popular on- gie’s interactions with her counselor crush Erin, and her line magazine geared at teen girls. It’s safe to say Thrash near-obsessive attachment to her gray cat, Tommi. always had the experiences of her younger self on the Maggie is intelligent, but never quite lives up to her po- brain. In both Honor Girl and Lost Soul, she does the artis- tential, flunking her Honors English class and disappoint- tic equivalent of ripping open her own heart. Parts of each ing both her parents with her lack of ambition. She earns are so relatable they’re cringe-inducing, especially Mag- top marks in riflery in summer camp, only to keep one of her father’s guns under her bed in Atlanta.”just in case. When Tommi disappears, literally inside the massive family home, Maggie is at a loss, and begins to experience visions of a boy her age named, yes, Tommy. In recounting these memories, Thrash mines the depths of her tormented teen self and emerges with buried treasure: relatable moments for every adult who, back in high school, felt like they just didn’t belong where they were. As an artist, Thrash favors thick black lines and bright colors: Maggie’s purple hair in Lost Soul is a sharp contrast to the darkness of her thoughts. Images of Maggie’s sweet gray feline, the glow of a lantern at her Kentucky girls’ summer camp, passed notes from her secret high school girlfriend, practically jump off the page, begging the reader to notice. Thrash’s pictures pair perfectly with the voice of her high school self: smart, but desperate and sad, wanting more than anything to be understood and accepted. Really, didn’t we all feel that way once? Both Honor Girl and Lost Soul are fast-paced and addic- tive, easily devoured in one or two sittings. Thrash’s books are a shining example of the graphic memoir as an innova- tive way of storytelling. Each book can be read separately or out of order, but read together, both convey the unique experience of queer teens: the knowledge that they’re on the verge of something big, and the glimmers of under- standing as to what that something is.

KNIGHT from page 8 As far as representation—it’s changing. But like anybody who is in the minority, none of us is represented the way TRK: The more people that come out publicly, I think we should be. Even women, who are NOT in the minority, that is what changes the landscape. I respect that every- aren’t being fully represented. It’s changing slowly. I’m an one has to do it on their own time and everyone has their impatient bastard. I sometimes wish we could all get to- own story. But it’s got to be a wonderful release to finally gether – we groups that are not represented accurately or be able to be honest. enough – in some magical way and change things quickly. Dec. 12, 2018 10

John Barrowman. Billy Porter in Pose. Photo courtesy of Barrowman Photo by Pari Dukovic/FX

‘Versace,’’Rhapsody,’ ‘Pose’ get Golden Globe nods The nominations for the 76th annual Golden Globes were announced Dec. 6 at the Beverly Hilton, with 25 categories spanning films and TV shows involving drama, comedy and animation. In the TV categories, The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story NUNN ON ONE received nominations in several categories, including Best Television Limited Series or Motion Picture Made for Television, and Best Performance by an Actor in a Limited Series Actor John Barrowman or Motion Picture Made for Television (Darren Criss). Penelope Cruz and Edgar Ramirez also garnered nominations for supporting roles. part of team that Debra Messing scored a nod in the Best Performance by an Actress in a Television spins a Celtic tale Series—Musical or Comedy category for Will & Grace. Other nominees in that category include Kristen Bell (The Good Place), Candace BY JERRY NUNN ole and I did the Merlyn comic for DC, we wanted objectify the men in this, which is kind of fun. Bergen (Murphy Brown), Alison Brie (Glow) to do another series. Erika and I met when I was We tried to cover everything. I am outspoken for and Rachel Brosnahan (The Marvelous Mrs. Legendary Comics and Webtoon are running a new hosting the G4 Attack of the Show! While I was the LGBTQ community in anything that I do. Any- Maisel). comic series called Acursian rooted in Celtic lore. running around working, Carole and Erika were thing we put out is going to represent the com- Ryan Murphy’s ‘80s transgender-focused Fresh from the minds of storytellers John Bar- having wine and talking about Celtic stuff. We munity in any way we can. drama Pose was nominated for Best Televi- rowman, Carole Barrowman and Erika Lewis, this decided to collaborate on something together. WCT: How do people keep up with this se- sion Series—Drama. It will compete against new endeavor is stimulating readers who can Carole and I were born in Glasgow, Scotland. I ries? The Americans, Bodyguard, Homecoming and watch it on an app on their various devices. have a passion for legends that happen on that JB: We are on chapter eight right now. It is free. Killing Eve. Pose’s Billy Porter also received a “Acursian” means “one consigned to destruc- side of the pond. It is based on the battle of They download the app and subscribe. They will nod. tion, misery, or evil by a curse.” Charlie Stewart, Culloden and centers around Bonnie Prince Char- get it every week. Regarding movies, Vice (about George W. played by Barrowman, falls victim to a curse on lie. It has Celtic gods and we have created our WCT: When did you start reading comics? Bush’s second-in-command, Dick Cheney, and his birthday. He sets out on adventure after dis- own characters. JB: I started when I was living in Aurora, Il- starring Sam Rockwell and Christian Bale) led covering his ancestor made a deal with a god of The life of Charlie Stewart is ruined at one of linois. I used to go to the Town & Country Drug the way with six nods. The Freddie Mercury- war creating this curse. his birthdays. It goes back to Bonnie Prince Char- Store and there were three spinning racks in the centered film Bohemian Rhapsody was nomi- Many will know Barrowman from Doctor Who lie who made a deal with the Celtic God of War, middle. There was one DC, one Marvel and the nated for Best Motion Picture—Drama and and the spinoff Torchwood on BBC1, where he Bregon. it changes the course of time. Every one other was independent stuff. I would take them for its lead actor, Rami Malek. The movie played Captain Jack Harkness. His role as Mal- of Charlie’s descendants at their primary birthday home, read them and put them in plastic sleeves. itself will compete against Black Panther, colm Merlyn in the CW drama Arrow, The Flash has their life collapse around them because of WCT: I felt like a nerd buying a dirty maga- Black KKKlansman, If Beale St Could Talk and and Legends of Tomorrow landed him more loyal this curse. That is why it’s called Acursian. zine in my hometown drugstore when I would A Star Is Born, which also scored nods for fans over the years. WCT: I don’t want this curse! purchase comic books as a kid. leads Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper. Cooper His cinematic roles include Zero Dark Thirty, The JB: You don’t, because if you have this curse JB: I am a nerd myself and a geek. We would was also nominated for best director, and the Producers and De-Lovely. Musical theater credits three very powerful women will come into your play in the basement with our Mego action fig- movie’s tune “Shallow” was among the Best include Sunset Boulevard, Anything Goes and life and destroy everything around you. You will ures. We would hide when we played unless it Original Song nominees. Miss Saigon. have no clue why. was sports, which was accepted by people at the Also, Lucas Hedges and Nicole Kidman were He just released a new movie called Fireman WCT: Are there plans for other seasons? time. among those nominated for leads in a film Sam for children, playing a villain, and is cur- JB: Depends on how successful it is. We have I am thrilled to go to conventions where it is drama for the conversion-therapy movie Boy rently in the middle of releasing Acursian to the decided to add to music to it and created a score. not embarrassing anymore. I see thousands of Erased. masses. Also, Barrowman is slated to be at the My hope is that it jumps to the television or cin- people celebrating their nerdishness on a weekly Comedy-film nods went to Vice, Crazy Rich Chicago pop-culture expo C2E2 next March in Mc- ema. basis when I travel all over the country. It is just Asians, The Favourite, Green Book and Mary Cormick Place. WCT: What LGBT characters are in it? amazing. Poppins Returns. The Favourite (which has Windy City Times: Where in the world are you JB: One of the main characters, Nate, is best WCT: Any crazy requests from fans? an LGBT-inclusive plot) also received nomi- calling from? friends with Charlie—and is gay. JB: The amount of threesomes I have been in- nations for Best Screenplay—Motion Picture John Barrowman: I am sitting in my kitchen in You don’t know the sexuality of the sisters be- vited to is unbelievable. It’s always the wife that and for lead actress (Olivia Colman) as well Palm Springs. cause what we wanted to be ambiguous with the instigates it with their husband just standing as supporting actress (Emma Stone and Ra- WCT: Talk about this new comic series Acur- rest of the characters. We have tried to make the there in disbelief. Lesbians have come up to me chel Weisz). sian. sisters genderfluid. They are not all skinny waifs and said they would turn just for me. I love that Sandra Oh and Andy Samberg will co-host JB: It is a collaboration between myself, my sis- either. Not everyone has muscles. they respect the work I do, but still want to do the awards ceremony, which will take place ter Carole Barrowman and Erika Lewis. After Car- We flipped the cards a bit because the women me! Sunday, Jan. 6. Dec. 12, 2018 11

Brie Larson in Captain Marvel. Photo by Marvel Studios MOVIES Women Want that starred Mel Gibson and Helen Windy City Times’ Hunt. On the same release date, Orange Is the New Black’s Taylor Schilling plays a mother in Prodi- gy, trying to save her son’s soul. The week after, a third female leading film is again smacked in the head, this time turning WINTER Rebel Wilson’s life into a romantic comedy with Isn’t It Romantic, also starring the hunky Liam Hemsworth, with Brandon Scott Jones as her gay sidekick. This movie will be out for Valentine’s MOVIE Day on Feb. 14. March Tyler Perry’s A Madea Family Funeral—in which Perry has said is his last film as the title character—will be out March 1. PREVIEW Captain Marvel looks marvelous already from the trailer, with Brie Larson joining the Avengers franchise as the character with a mysterious past on March 8. Unplanned has one of the youngest Planned Parenthood clinic directors in the nation changing her mind after being involved in almost 22,000 abortions. It will be out March 22. Captive State is set in a Chicago neighborhood taken over by an alien force, and stars John Goodman and Vera Farmiga. It will be out March 29. BY JERRY NUNN starring as the comedy duo Laurel and Hardy. February The spring brings a whole new crop of films, so Glass brings together several of M. Night Shya- What Men Want opens Feb. 8 with Taraji P. be sure to read Windy City Times for upcoming Escape the cold weather by hitting the warm malan’s past projects Jan. 18, with out actress Henson as a sports agent who, after being hit in coverage concerning the cinema. movie theater, where sunny comedies, strong su- Sarah Paulson leading the cast of quirky charac- the head, can suddenly hear men’s thoughts. The perheroes and unbelievably true stories can all ters. movie is a gender reversal of the 2000 film What be seen on the big screen. Many of the award- winning movies are out already as the holiday movie season winds down. The strength of women in cinema continues to be celebrated in the months ahead, with a smat- tering of LGBT characters along the way.

December Sexually fluid actor Lucas Hedges bounces back from Boy Erased with Ben Is Back on Dec. 14; the same weekend the new flick Vox Lox has Natalie Portman singing songs by Sia. Rob Marshall brings the magical characters back for Mary Poppins Returns with Emily Blunt, Lin- Manuel Miranda and Dick Van Dyke opening on Dec. 19. This nanny has audiences divided on whether it will be the worth the wait. Aquaman swims out solo from The Justice League and Jennifer Lopez struggles as a working woman in Second Act, both out Dec. 21. On the Basis of Sex shines a spotlight on gender discrimination, as Felicity Jones plays Ruth Bader Ginsburg; the movie is out Christmas Day, Isn’t It Romantic?, Dec. 25. She falls in love with Marty, played by with Rebel Wilson, Armie Hammer, who enamored viewers in Call Me Liam Hemsworth. By Your Name. Photo by Michael Parmelee January Bathtubs Over Broadway opens Jan. 4 with guest stars such as Chita Rivera and Florence Henderson in a documentary about the hidden world of industrial musical theater. Stan & Ollie finally have their big-screen biopic out Jan. 11, with Steve Coogan and John C. Reilly Dec. 12, 2018 12

AWRITTEN BYCradle MARK ZUBRO; ILLUSTRATED BY W.S.Song: REED Part Nine A Cradle Song, written by Mark Zubro and illustrated by W.S. ber 17 to December 19 and will also be available for gift giving Reed, debuts in the Windy City Times as the new holiday clas- as an e-book and as a paperback. For the true joy and meaning sic. Filled with travail and woe, warmth and great joy, it is a of the season, this is the book you want to read. story for the ages. It will appear in ten installments from Octo- Today A Cradle Song: Part Nine.

Chapter Eleven: Matthew wrapped?” His voice was deep and sono- Part Two rous. Matthew shook his head and said, “No, Matthew entered the flower store. He thank you.” He placed the little doll in the wandered up and down the aisles. The same pocket as the red rose. woman at the counter smiled at him. Mat- Matthew continued on past so many thew found a beautiful metal red rose in a stores filled with children’s delights. It vase by itself. He gave it a gentle touch. seemed to him that they were all magical. The woman was beside him. Matthew They were a little bit like the toy store that hadn’t noticed her walk up. He yanked was a portal to the island, but these were a his hand away, but the woman gave him a zillion times better. He didn’t know if he’d gentle nod, yes. She spoke in a soft voice. ever have time to visit them all. “Here, it’s okay to touch as long as you are He stopped at the one with toy trains. He gentle.” pressed his nose to the window. There was Matthew nodded. He understood gentle a miniature mountain with trains chuffing because that’s the way his dad always was. around different levels. And vast tracks The woman continued, “You can take one with Super Chiefs and the Zephyr pulling gift for your mom.” long lines of cars behind their glitter- “I don’t have any money.” ing engines. The tracks seemed to travel The woman repeated what he’d learned in miles of ovals, and swirls, and straight from the first woman who wore the spar- lines. But they were too grand for his little kling crystal dress at the end of the bridge. hovel. So he moved on. face, with black hair, dark brown eyes, and He hoped the child would try to make mu- “On this day, it is also true that each gift Then he came to the music store. In an a look of curiosity and warmth around his sic. you pick for someone else is free. Only one instant, he fell in love with the minia- lips and eyes. Then a hand reached toward Matthew clutched Erik tight. He thought for each person. You can take one gift for ture instruments in the window. He eased him. the little baby harmonica was the most your mom, one for yourself, one for your himself through the door. Inside, many of As Matthew peered inside each shelf, he perfect thing in the whole world. In the baby sister, and one for your daddy. Don’t the shelves were almost barren. A few had hunted for small toys. He touched differ- store’s light, he saw it was a little bruised, take more, they’ll all disappear. Pick care- been picked clean by the throngs of chil- ent instruments but left each one without and one end was worn, and there might be fully and take only what you can carry.” dren on this special day. picking them up. a bit of rust on the other end. “This would be for my mom.” Matthew Matthew found himself peering into He came to Erik’s shelf. Matthew’s gaze Matthew brought it to his lips and blew hesitated. He felt a tear in his eye. He the depths of each shelf, reaching in and searched into the dimness. His hand a note. A tiny sound emerged, the most sniffled it back. “I don’t know where she touching gently. Sometimes, he had to groped forward but missed Erik and Regi- gentle and warmest he’d ever heard music is.” stretch and stand on tiptoes. nald. make. The woman said, “If you take it, when Matthew neared the back of the store. He Erik watched the little boy’s sad eyes. He took his lips away and glanced around. you do see her, you will have it to give to peered into the last shelf near the bottom Matthew looked and began to move away. The white-haired woman who was behind her.” of a tall stack that soared to the ceiling. Erik wished and wished for the boy to take the register looked over her eyeglasses and With warmth and gladness in his heart, one more look, to reach in one more time. peered down the long aisle at him. he put the rose in his deepest pocket and Chapter Twelve: Matthew glanced back at the shelf. Mo- She smiled and nodded. left. Five stores up beyond the flower Matthew and Erik ments later, Matthew returned close up, Matthew put his lips to the baby harmon- store, he came to one with dolls: pretty and he looked as carefully as he could. ica again. ones, plain ones, exotic ones, ones that Many of the other instruments on the There was a glint in the dimness. He The little boy played a few notes and the looked like they came from foreign coun- shelf had been chosen as night deepened opened his eyes wide and reached in. little harmonica sang with all his might. tries with different features and colors. on Christmas Eve. It was the time of the Matthew stretched and leaned as far as And the music they made filled the store Matthew saw a tiny doll with a lace dress year that the most light leaked back into he could. He touched something of metal with joyful noise. and golden hair. It would be perfect for his Erik’s little space. and wood and pulled him forward. Erik’s heart trilled with happiness. Then sister. He went inside. A portly man with a The little baby harmonica heard the soft Carefully, he picked it up and brought it great fear overtook him. What if he got put white beard smiled at him. padding of small feet. He wondered who toward him. back? Every toy feared the same. Chosen. Matthew silently pointed out the little was left this late on Christmas Eve. He The little harmonica felt himself lifted Thought about. Returned. doll. Now, the man beamed and nodded. waited and hoped. up. A thrill ran through him. Moments lat- The boy stopped and glanced away, and The clerk asked, “Do you need a bag, Then a shadow fell over his shelf. er, Erik blinked in the bright light. He felt waited, and then placed his lips back on young man? Or a box? Maybe you’d like it In the opening, Erik could see a child’s so thrilled to be moved at all, but now to the harmonica. be in the hands of a little boy, joy indeed. And they played a song together for a Dec. 12, 2018 13 few moments. Christmas to be perfect, he’d have to have hovel. He added the tiny doll, Reginald, pressed hard to the floor. He stared out at Erik trilled so mightily even some old his family, someone to give these to. He and the steel rose to his cache in the hol- the brown earth racing by far below. The trombones and tubas in the back of the clutched his treasures closer as he stepped lowed out brick. plane couldn’t possibly go as quickly as he store woke up. off the near side of the bridge. Matthew sat up against the wall that had wanted. The little harmonica had never felt such He walked back through the mainland toy warmth. He brought the harmonica to his They made stops on continents and warmth and happiness. Now, he could fi- store and out into the street. Once out- lips and together they made joyful music in countries, he didn’t care to know the nally sing for someone. side, Matthew realized he was back in win- that drove back, at least for a little while, names of. Men and women came and went. Matthew stopped playing, enfolded Erik ter cold. Stray flurries stung the night. all the loneliness and fears of the night. Then the plane was in the air again. This in his hand, and turned to go. A block from the store, he saw three of As Erik and Matthew sang together, the time, they’d be passing through deep night Then Erik thought of Reginald. He wished the bigger boys who had robbed him be- little harmonica felt this was right. He be- with lights far below. with all his might for the little boy to fore. He clutched at his presents and be- longed here. At long last, the plane landed in his city. check again. gan to run. The late afternoon darkness descended Matthew hesitated. Once more, he gazed The boys chased him. They were very Chapter Thirteen: on him. He had only one bag so he didn’t deep into the shelf. He saw a little yellow fast. Luke have to wait. glint and reached. His hand came out with At the next corner, the traffic was heavy. Luke took several packed buses. He the little toy car. Matthew had to stop. Despair poured into On the plane ride back from the war, crowded his small ditty-bag under his Matthew looked at it in his open palm. It his soul. After the glory and kindness of Luke dozed fitfully. Most of the time he seat. At his home, his key didn’t work. would be perfect for his dad. Now, he had the island, he would lose what little he sat, wide awake, worried. He’d tried to He knocked, and a woman he didn’t know one gift for each person that was impor- had. contact his wife, but he’d had no luck. He answered. Beyond her, he didn’t recognize tant to him. He heard a soft creak behind him. Mat- should have been able to. The connection any of the furniture. The smell of cooking Reginald joined Erik in Matthew’s hand. thew turned. had gone through. The lines were clear, that was unfamiliar wafted through the Reginald shouted, “Oh, joy! Oh, bliss!” It was the man in the wheelchair and but he’d gotten no answer. As the plane door. They both snuggled deeper into Mat- Tawny. neared its destination, Luke’s fear grew Luke said, “This is my home.” thew’s grip. They placed themselves between the ad- that something was very wrong. The woman carried a tiny baby in her The harmonica felt himself being carried vancing boys and Matthew. While sitting in his seat, Luke found him- arms. She said, “I don’t know who you are. close to the boy’s heart. Erik snuggled in The large boys laughed but slowed down. self pushing his right foot down on a non- We’ve lived here for quite a while. You bet- as best he could. He was ready to play and The man said, “No.” existent gas pedal to try to make the plane ter talk to the landlord.” sing for as long as forever. Tawny took a small step toward the at- go faster, desperate in his hope for more Luke trudged to the basement. Matthew carried them to the counter. The tackers and growled. speed as the aircraft bucketed and swung “Gone,” the landlord said. “They came woman smiled and nodded again. She said, The boys came to a complete stop. They through the night, more like Tarzan on a and took them. She was sick.” “Perfect,” in a low and kindly voice. looked to each other. vine than an arrow to its target. “The children?” Matthew smiled back. He tucked the little The man said, “Go.” Tawny took another After each jolt, rattle, or dip, he might “They aren’t my children.” harmonica in his shirt pocket. He nestled step toward them. doze for a few moments. After a brief, Luke didn’t know how he kept his temper. the little toy car down next to it. All four They turned and ran. disturbed nap, he’d jerked himself awake “Where did they take them?” gifts were now together. Matthew reached out to pat Tawny. The to find he’d once again been holding his “She was sick. Try the hospitals.” The Matthew had great joy in his bit of odd- dog let him for a moment. Then dog and foot down to the floor. He knew nothing landlord slammed the door in Luke’s face. ments. The only shadow on his heart grew man trundled away. he did could make their flight go faster. He End of part nine. Part ten coming next on his passage back over the bridge. As Matthew whispered, “Thank you.” would ease up on his foot, and then a few week. he got nearer the far end, he knew for his Minutes later, Matthew crawled into his minutes later note that it was once again

“A Cradle Song is my “A Cradle Song very favorite of Mark is a wonderful, Mark Zubro is the Zubro’s books. Tender, heartwarming story, author of thirty-six books full of insight and love, and just right for and seven short stories. He has won the Lambda it made me cry—but Christmas. Open this Literary award for A they were happy tears.” present and enjoy!” Simple Suburban Murder

and been nominated —Jeanne M. Dams, —Barbara D’Amato, eight other times. All author of the Dorothy Martin author of the Cat Marsala mysteries series and the recent are available as ebooks Other Eyes and most as paperbacks online or at Unabridged A Cradle Song is available now in paperback from Bookstore in Chicago Unabridged Bookstore in Chicago, Outwords Books and Outwords Books in in Milwaukee and also as an ebook or a paperback Milwaukee. online at Amazon.com Dec. 12, 2018 14

SPORTS THE course. “It was awesome being able to see all that energy at the parade,” he said. “It was entertaining SPORTING watching the people on the CMSA float trying to get beads into people’s windows and on balco- nies where people were watching the parade. Tar- LIFE: get-practice was the new sport we were playing that day.” Ladochi said his best sport is kickball, with bas- Drew ketball being his worst. “I’ve become more confident in myself and have grown to love playing sports,” he said. Ladochi Ladochi said he prefers to play third base in BY ROSS FORMAN softball, but is willing to play anywhere, including on the bench, he said. Win or lose, Drew Ladochi always has fun playing “I’m just here to have fun and get a couple gay sports—always. games in,” in the CMSA open Sunday softball Take, for instance, the registration parties for league, he said. gay softball tournaments. Ladochi’s teams are the “I started coaching in Chicago [in] 2012 with ones wearing blue wigs. beach volleyball, followed by fall softball. I “I wanted something we could do that would ended up coaching for dodgeball, kickball, [open be fun and start our weekend off right,” said La- Sunday] softball, and indoor volleyball over the dochi, who has 14 blue wigs in storage—for safe Drew Ladochi. years. I try to give people a chance on my teams keeping. Photos from Ladochi if they want to join a league or try a sport. The Wigs have escalated into bubble guns, sidewalk only problem is making room for a new player eight years, moving here from Michigan. for a team. I was able to put all of my friends on chalk, crazy legging Sundays, and whatever blue when you already have a full roster. I am always His gay sports journey includes softball, kick- one team, but I didn’t really know what I was thing they can find, he said. “My team knows I willing to try and help a player find a team with ball, beach volleyball, indoor volleyball, dodge- doing,” Ladochi admitted with a smile. “We had prefer for us to have fun and this keeps us in the people I’ve met.” ball and ultimate—all through the Chicago Met- several practices before our season started that good spirits.” ropolitan Sports Association (CMSA). He also has helped us learn how to play. Ladochi, 33, lives in Chicago’s Andersonville played bocce with Stonewall. “I started playing gay sports after I witnessed neighborhood and is an operations partner for a “I managed a [softball] team my first year play- the fun I could be having. My friend played on Pearle Vision franchise that will be opening this ing because I was concerned I wouldn’t be picked a team that was really friendly and all LGBT. I winter in Chicago. He has lived in Chicago for wasn’t comfortable playing sports growing up because I was bullied by the other boys. [But] I saw this as an opportunity to participate and have fun. “My favorite thing about gay sports is that I’ve been able to meet some really great people. I moved to Chicago and didn’t really know anyone. I took a chance on joining a random volleyball team that turned into my new crew here. We do a lot together now, including ‘family’ vacations and dinners.” Ladochi’s sporting journey also has included walking with CMSA in this year’s Pride Parade— with one of his blue wigs and crazy leggings, of

Extra innings with … Drew Ladochi —Favorite pro sports team: Chicago Cubs. —Favorite pro athlete: Javier Baez —Favorite pro sports stadium: “I don’t really have one.” —If you could attend any pro sports event/ game, what would it be? “[The] Olympics, if that counts.” Dec. 12, 2018 15

Gay chorus, LGBTQ groups mark holidays CUSTOMER APPRECIATION BY JOHN STADELMAN MUSIC Dec. 2 marked the finale of the Chicago Gay Men’s Charles May regaling the woes of Christmas shop- HOLIDAY Chorus’ (CGMC’s) three-day “Holiday Hullabaloo” run. Partnering onstage with 10 other LGBTQ ping; a humorous take on “Waltz of the Flowers;” performing-arts groups at the Beverly Arts Cen- a routine by the Chicago Spirit Brigade to “Go ter to deliver covers of classic holiday tunes with Tell It On the Mountain;” and, with The Lakeview Orchestra, an absolutely hilarious performance BAR CRAWL playful theatrics, an ensemble of more than 200 voices (and bodies) celebrated the holidays and of “Hallelujah Chorus” featuring clumsy placard- community. wielding “silent monks.” Highlights included “Wishing You A Drag Queen The scope of this show was impressive and stag- SUNDAY, DEC 16TH Christmas,” performed by Micah McCain, Michael gering in the number of bodies on stage, the wide McGraw and Reggie Owens in blue, green and variety of routines and set and costume design. red attire; “We Three Kings,” with solos by three The show ended with all 11 organizations team- $3 YOU CALL ITS stylish card-bedecked kings; “Dance of the Sugar ing to perform “This Christmastide,” followed by Plum Fairy,” featuring dancing by chorus mem- “A Wish” for the chorus alumni in the audience. FREE CHICAGO bers in tutus and tuxedo shirts with monologist 3-6 PM STYLE HOT DOGS (WHILE THEY LAST!) 4923 N CLARK ST

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$3 You Call It special excludes big beers, martinis, specialty cocktails, Red Bull cocktails & doubles Dec. 12, 2018 16 Thom Bierdz talks about sex—and a lot more— in ‘Young, Gay & Restless’ BY ANDREW DAVIS

In Young, Gay & Restless: My Scandalous On- BOOKS Screen & Off-Screen Sexual Liberations, Thom Bi- saulted him.] erdz—an actor/artist/advocate who is probably TB: Yes. best known for portraying heir Phillip Chancel- WCT: When I thought I couldn’t be any more lor III on the daytime drama The Young and the surprised, there would be another. But the Restless—literally lets it all hang out, as the say- book isn’t just sex; you talk about your family ing goes. [and other very personal aspects]. What was Yes, Bierdz talks about everything from past the most difficult part of this book for you to relationships to even his thoughts about his par- write? ents in detail that is sometimes sexually graphic, TB: Well, I think the chronology always gets and he even includes nude photos of himself. me. But there were no parts that had me cry- (This writer has never seen so many euphe- ing as I was writing them. Regarding sex, I think Thom Bierdz. misms for genitalia, by the way; it was a lesson it was more amusing than anything else. I hope PR photo courtesy in linguistics.) However, it’s also the journey of people stop pointing fingers and saying, “You’re of Harlan Boll someone who has found his way to sexual libera- naughty, and you’re naughty. You shouldn’t have tion—and the book might impart lessons to read- had that sexual fantasy.” I think we should just ers about losing their own restrictions, whether stay away from hurting people. imposed by self and/or society. WCT: I agree. And the reader sees your matu- Windy City Times: So, congratulations on the ration throughout the book. What would you book. tell 20-year-old Thom about life? Thom Bierdz: Thanks! You can see how much TB: Hmmm… Probably not to push as much and And it shows my character back then, be- WCT: With everything that’s in the book, freedom comes from that, right? to look for balance—which I still have to learn. cause… Well, I joke about it, but I went home what do you want readers to take away? WCT: Yes. I was thinking it had to be very I had problems with Amazon KDP [Kindle Direct with a lot of guys—not just for sex, but also for TB: I’d like them to stop repressing others for cathartic to write it. Publishing] publishing another book of mine. I’m career [networking], like the guy I mentioned their sexual thoughts—which is why I brought TB: Yeah. But to get to that point, it was like, not the type to stop after calling for four hours who I played pool with for hours; there was noth- up incest. I’m not around my relatives; it’s not “I’m not trying to fit into Hollywood anymore.” and being put on hold; I can’t sleep. But you ing untoward about that. And there was the guy an uncomfortable issue. I think repression is aw- Few people can live alone in the woods and not don’t get answers that way, so [stop pushing] is I went home with from the grocery store who in- ful—not just in the personal arena, but in the be concerned about what their partners are going what I’d tell young Thom. vited me to join his sex family. I was 21 at the political one as well, and everywhere. It’s silly to to say or what their kids are going to say. WCT: And would 20-year-old Thom listen? time, and I considered it. And there was the gym attack people because they’re naughty. WCT: Why did you feel you had to write this TB: [Laughs] Probably not… Other people tried sex—this is stuff that actors don’t share. Young, Gay & Restless: My Scandalous On- now? to tell me that. And what would you tell 20-year- WCT: That’s true. Are you worried that you’ve Screen & Off-Screen Sexual Liberations is TB: Good question. I didn’t feel I had to write it old Andrew? burned any bridges with this book? available on Amazon. now; it just happened. A couple years ago, peo- WCT: I would tell him to just roll with the TB: I don’t think so. I don’t know. Again, my ple were really talking if Trump committed sexual punches, and that everything works out even- intent is to live artist and pay rent and do what assault and I wrote on Facebook that I thought tually. Moving on, what do you think your I do. I have several books and paintings going, I had been sexually assaulted several times [by mother’s reaction to this book would be? so it’s not like I’m trying to fit in. For so long, I others], and other men wrote about their expe- [Note: Bierdz’s mother was killed in 1989.] tried to fit in; I tried to be that Don Diamont or riences—and I was compiling a book on sexual TB: I never thought about that, but I don’t any of a number of other soap stars. assaults of men, which I also have. think she’d have a problem with it. I don’t know. WCT: Let’s talk about your [current] neighbor So that’s how this started. I started writing She didn’t seem too puritanical way back then, Mary, an older woman. Why did you include her more about myself and going back to child- but I don’t think she’d want to read it. My dad in your book? hood—and it turned out to be 400 pages. It and my sister don’t want to read it. TB: I just let the book happen. She just turned wasn’t planned; it just organically happened. WCT: Your mother didn’t seem that [puritani- out to be someone I’ve interacted with for the WCT: Have you gotten feedback from people cal]. In the book, you said she went with you past couple years. Mary is a way to show how who are mentioned in this book? to a few gay bars. Thom has interacted with people. Also, I’m a TB: I tried to reach out to the people I men- TB: Yeah. mental hoarder while she’s a literal one. tion by name, and I couldn’t find them all. What’s WCT: It was eye-opening when you said in WCT: We get to know Mary well. She said she interesting, though, is that not everyone has the book that you bumped into someone at a was also a victim of sexual assault. the same memories. For instance, there’s the bar who turned out to be [serial killer] Jeffrey TB: Right. Her parents weren’t nice to her, and photographer Greg Gorman; I pretty much say Dahmer. I see she’s still dealing with stuff. nice things about him. But when I say that my TB: Right. You’re from the area, right? WCT: This book is refreshingly candid… manager told me that Greg said [of me], “T.J.’s WCT: I’m strictly Chicago. [Bierdz grew up in TB: I’m pleased that you got that. no mental giant,” he was offended, [adding,] “I Wisconsin.] However, a friend and I were at WCT: …and I think there are some people never said that.” But this was so long ago. the L&L Tavern a little while ago; we looked who might have Thom confused with Phillip I tried to avoid hurting people’s feelings, so up its history, and it turned out that Jeffrey Chancellor III [who was also revealed to be the people I had to speak negatively about, I Dahmer and John Wayne Gacy supposedly fre- gay]. changed their names. quented this spot. TB: Right. I got a horrible book review from one WCT: Like the photographer “L”… [In the TB: Wow… You never know how many serial of my Facebook friends because of that. He went book, Bierdz says that L may have sexually as- killers we pass. on and on and on, and expected me to be Phillip Chancellor. Oh, well. It’s really not my problem. Dec. 12, 2018 17

quite stays that way. Among the suspects: broth- THEATER REVIEW er and sister Thomas and Florence Colleymoore (Peyton Crim and Jamie Ann Romero), the dead The Play That man’s brother Cecil (Ned Noyes), and the butler, Goes Wrong Perkins (Scott Cote). Crim, with a booming voice Playwright: Henry Lewis, Jonathan that would be perfectly at home in coming at- Sayer and Henry Shields tractions trailers at the movies, has a dynamic At: Oriental Theatre, 24 W. Randolph St. presence onstage, a complete contrast with Tickets: BroadwayInChicago.com Noyes, whose “actor” character is in the show by Runs through: Dec. 16 virtue of having donated large sums of money. As “Max,” Noyes happily chews scenery, breaks BY KAREN TOPHAM character, and interacts with the audience when there is applause or laughter (both of which are The conceit of The Play That Goes Wrong is that plentiful), and generally has a good time every a college theatre troupe, the Cornley University minute, as opposed to Crim’s more serious char- Drama Society, is putting on a ‘20s-style murder acter. Romero spends a good part of the play “un- mystery called The Murder at Haversham Manor conscious” in the wings, replaced by Grovey as when (as you’d guess from the title) every awful Annie the Stage Manager, who is terrified to be thing that could possibly go wrong does so. Play- onstage until she finds her mojo and then can’t ers are accidentally knocked unconscious. be pulled away, even fighting with the revived A supposedly dead character can’t seem to stay Romero to keep “her” role. Cote, playing a neo- still. “Whiskey” is accidentally replaced with phyte actor who is only doing drama because he paint thinner. The sound operator (Brandon J. El- failed in tryouts for everything else, has tremen- lis) isn’t paying attention to cues (and he’s lost Angela Grovey, Yaegel T. Welch and Jamie Ann Romero in The Play That Goes Wrong. dous fun with the mispronunciations of words his precious Duran Duran CD, which might be Photo by Jeremy Daniel (“Kyan Niddy” is one of the best) as well as some even worse). The stage manager (Angela Grovey) great physical comedy near the end of the play. can’t get the mantle to stay on the fireplace. a thoroughly professional cast and crew. Every tors playing them are superb (a word not on the And Ellis is a hoot even before the play begins, Props fall off walls. Parts of the set collapse. But, member of the cast is essentially playing two list) and a joy to watch. as he and Grovey seek to fix last-minute issues on no matter what happens around or to them, the roles: the character in the murder mystery and Evan Alexander Smith plays the dual role of the set. brave souls of the Drama Society apparently be- the “actor” playing that character. Director Matt Drama Society’s director and the inspector who Ultimately, The Play That Goes Wrong is an ab- lieve in the motto “The show must go on,” and DiCarlo must have had a grand time working with comes out in a snowstorm (shredded paper flung solutely outrageous, tremendously funny farce on it goes despite more errors than it’s possible all of the nuances of this crazy show; his cast into the air outside of the window) to uncover that will keep you laughing throughout the eve- to count. certainly shines and performances are very bril- the answer to the mysterious death of Charles ning. Honestly, I can’t recall laughing so con- All of this insanity, though, is presented by liant. As much as the “Drama Society” actors are Haversham (Yaegel T. Welch), who is shown dead stantly at anything in a very long time. If you are about the worst thing you could imagine, the ac- from the opening of the play but somehow never looking for a laugh, you can’t go wrong here.

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OUR FAMED CHICAGO CITY MODEL IS NOW BIGGER AND BETTER AT THE NEW CHICAGO ARCHITECTURE CENTER, 111 E. WACKER. Dec. 12, 2018 18

reer since arriving in the United States from the Carlo Philippines almost 30 years ago. Chappelle. “I was just 15 years old,” said Chapelle. “My MUSIC Photo by first professional performance was when I was 14 performances from time to time. The two musi- Ana Serna years old … in the Philippines. I joined this pro- cal colleagues frequently perform, together and fessional group called PPF [People Precious and individually, at Davenport’s Piano Bar. Few Choir] … an established community choir. Chapelle’s most recent show, at Uncommon The year when I joined [1989], I was lucky be- Ground on Sept. 29, was reflective of the niche cause that was the time they decided to get into but dedicated audience that Chicago jazz still recording. So I was able to experience recording holds today. Chapelle was joined onstage by one an album for the first time.” of his childhood idols, Tillie Moreno, the R&B vo- Then, at just 14, Chapelle also toured for the calist known as “Manila’s Queen of Soul.” Accord- first time. According to Chapelle, he knew he was ing to the Uncommon Ground Music and Program- meant to be a singer since he was 10 years old ming Coordinator Rebecca Baruc, it was, by all and watching variety shows on television. It was analytical accounts, a successful show. a dream come true. “On average, we have about 25-30 folks,” said “From 1989 to 1991, [PPF toured] to come out Baruc. The night of Chapelle and Moreno’s per- with an album,” he said. “That’s when we got formance, the Music Room at Uncommon Ground approved to live in the States. So May 14, 1991, had substantially more attendees. is when we first landed here.” Chapelle has been “I think it’s really easy in our spaces to connect singing jazz all over Chicago ever since, including with the audience in our intimate spaces,” said as a regular at the once iconic venue, The Gentry. Baruc. Doing more with less, the Music Room at “I worked at [the gay bar] Gentry for 19 years. Uncommon Ground’s small size and mostly wood- One of the things that I did there for one week en interior allow the acoustics to manipulate the short of 19 years was host a Sunday night open cozy space in a unique way. Obviously aside from mic,” said Menzie. “Gentry was predominantly a a piano and cabaret bar, it was the best setting gay bar, and yet, people came in for the music for Chapelle’s warm tone and high register. “It’s and for the fun of it. There was an enormous a real, high-production concert but the performer sense of community and inclusion there despite gets to connect with the audience in a different what label you chose for yourself.” way.” Carlo Chappelle: “That opportunity has been great for me be- Chapelle has been passionate about singing cause I’ve met hundreds and thousands of sing- since he was four years old, a trait he inherited Born to sing ers,” said Menzie. “I met Carlo from that Gentry from his mother, Cleotilde Centeno Quidlat. With BY ANA SERNA to share his music—or they want to be stars. open mic.” over three decades of experiences, he is an act Carlo loves to sing. He wants to sing.” Gentry eventually closed its doors. Menzie, worth catching in any setting. “Carlo is somebody who loves to sing with every Menzie, a longtime Chicago jazz performer, de- however, continues to host open-mic nights Carlo Chapelle will be performing a special holi- ounce of his body,” said Beckie Menzie. “There scribed her friend and colleague Carlo Chapelle both at Davenport’s and Petterino’s, which Cha- day show at Davenport’s Piano Bar on Sunday, are people who sing because they want to be passionately. Her enthusiasm is matched only by pelle still attends on occasion. Menzie also still Dec. 16 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $15 each, and will heard—and he’s certainly somebody who wants way in which Chapelle speaks of his musical ca- accompanies Chapelle on the piano during his be available for purchase at the door.

Out musician/actress Janelle Monae scored a nod for album of go and the Illinois Restaurant Association will collaborate with Janelle Monae. the year as well; other nominees include Cardi B, H.E.R., Post the foundation in its philanthropic endeavors, including student Photo by Jerry Nunn Malone, Kacey Musgraves and the artists behind the Black Panther scholarships, partnering in both Chicago Eats Week and Chicago soundtrack. Restaurant Week, as well as JBF Taste America events, among Among some of the other nominees in various categories are other items. Taylor Swift (who got no major nods), Pink, Meshell Ndegeocello, The 2019 James Beard Awards celebrations will begin in New Chris Stapleton, Kurt Elling, Carlos Vives, Bettye LaVette, Lee Ann York City on Friday, April 26. The events will then move to Chicago, Womack, Chris Rock, Linda Perry, Pharrell Williams and Donald beginning with the Leadership Awards Dinner on Sunday, May 5, Glover/Childish Gambino. followed by The James Beard Awards Gala on Monday, May 6. In the best new artist category, the nominees are H.E.R., Chloe x Halle, Luke Combs, Greta Van Fleet, Dua Lipa, Margo Price, Bebe Rexha and Jorja Smith. ‘Hedwig’ tour The Grammys will be broadcast live from Los Angeles on Sunday, in Chicago in 2019 Feb. 10, on CBS. John Cameron Mitchell—the Tony-winning, Golden Globe-nominated co-creator of Hedwig & the Angry Inch—will bring his rock spectacle to the United States for the first time, a press release Chicago to host noted. Beard Awards For four exclusive engagements, Mitchell and his four-piece band will perform songs from his rock musical and share stories from 20 through 2027 years of Hedwig. Mayor Rahm Emanuel and James Beard Foundation CEO Clare The tour will stop at the Athenaeum Theatre, 2936 N. Southport Carlile, Monae, Lamar Reichenbach announced Dec. 10 that Chicago will continue to Ave., on Feb. 22. Other stops will include Washington, D.C.; Bos- host the James Beard Foundation Awards—an annual event hon- ton; and New York City. get Grammy nods oring the best of the best in the food and restaurant industry—an Mitchell will also preview songs from his upcoming ‘musical pod- The 2019 Grammy nominations were announced Dec. 8—and additional six years. cast’ Anthem: Homunculus, a 10-episode series with more than rapper Kendrick Lamar led everyone with eight nominations. The James Beard Foundation Awards successfully made the move 30 new songs starring himself, Glenn Close, Patti Lupone, Cynthia Drake scored seven, and Brandi Carlile and producer Boi-1da fol- to Chicago in 2015. Currently slated to complete its run in 2021, Erivo, Denis O’Hare, Laurie Anderson and Marion Cotillard. lowed with six nods apiece. Drake, Carlile and Lamar were all rec- today’s announcement ensures that the James Beard Foundation For more on the Athenaeum stop, visit https://athenaeumthe- ognized in the three biggest categories—album, song and record Awards will call Chicago home each year through 2027. atre.org/john-cameron-mitchell/. of the year—for their most recent albums. In addition to the Awards, the City of Chicago, Choose Chica- Dec. 12, 2018 19

Our list of all the regular drag shows in and around Chicago. To include your show in DRAG IT UP! our listings, please submit info to [email protected]. MONDAYS FRIDAYS Chicago’s Best Worst Drag Show, hosted by Arby Barbie, Beauties and Beaus, hosted by Naysha Lopez, Mimi Marks weekly, 2 a.m., no cover. The Jackhammer Complex, 6406 and Mz. Ruff ‘n Stuff, weekly, 9:30 p.m., no cover. Hy- N. Clark St. PROFILE BY drate, 3458 N. Halsted St. Vamp, featuring Mimi Marks, hosted by Mercedes Tyler, Dining With the Divas, featuring Angel LeBare and CeeCee TONY PEREGRIN weekly, 11 p.m., no cover. Progress Bar, 3359 N. Halsted LaRouge, shows weekly at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m., Hamburger St. Mary’s Oak Park, 155 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, Ill. Lipstick & Mascara, hosted by Mz. Ruff ‘n Stuff, weekly, The Baton Show Lounge, shows weekly at 8:30 p.m., 10:30 11:30 p.m., no cover. Hydrate, 3458 N. Halsted St. p.m. and 12:30 a.m. 436 N. Clark St. Plot Twist, hosted by T-Rex, every 3rd Monday, 10:30 p.m., Berlin, 954 W. Belmont Ave. SATURDAYS Drag Matinee, hosted by T-Rex, weekly, 10:30 p.m., Berlin, TUESDAYS NAME 954 W. Belmont Ave. Killer Babes, hosted by Lady Ivory, every 3rd Tues., 10 p.m. “I am known for #POPular, featuring 2018 Fan Favorite Tiffany Diamond, @mosphere, 5355 N. Clark St. ::AURAmy stage MAYARI presence and:: hosted by Veronica Pop, weekly, shows at 10:30 p.m., Roscoe’s Drag Race, Chicago’s longest-running amateur that’s how I got ‘Aura.’ During Charlie’s, 3726 N. Broadway weekly drag competition hosted by Frida Lay, Roscoe’s, my performances, I want people to Beauties and Beaus, hosted by Naysha Lopez, Mimi Marks 3356 N. Halsted St. be mesmerized—even before I start and Mz. Ruff ‘n Stuff, weekly, 9:30 p.m., no cover. Hy- Dixie Wins a Talent Show (while Alexis Bevels stage-man- DRAGactually PROFILE doing something. OF THE I was WEEK born in drate, 3458 N. Halsted St. ages), featuring Dixie Lynn Cartwright and Alexis Bevels, the Philippines and I am very proud of my culture. Drag shows at Manuevers: 1st Sat.: Raven’s Ravishing Revue, a showcase for local drag queens, performance artists and ‘Mayari’ came from the Philippine mythology about the hosted by Raven Samore; 2nd Sat.: The Dymond Standard, comedians, last Tues. of the month, 9:30 p.m., Sidetrack, moon Goddess, Mayari. She has nice grey hair and this hosted by Diamond Calloway; 3rd Sat.: Diva’s Den, hosted 3349 N. Halsted St. is why I [almost] always wear grey wigs.” by Sasha Love; 4th Sat.: Noche Latina, hosted by Aleyna FIRST DRAG PERFORMANCE Couture. All shows at 11:30 p.m., no cover. Maneuvers, “I started drag in November 2017. I did a drag brunch 118 E. Jefferson St., Joliet WEDNESDAYS at Venicci and that’s where my career really started! Yes, Honeys on Halsted, hosted by Mimi Marks and Mz. Ruff ‘n Stardust, hosted by Natasha Douglas, 1st Sat. (starting Nov. I am fairly new to the scene, but there is a difference Stuff, weekly, 11:30 p.m., no cover. Hydrate, 3458 N. 2018), 8:30-10:30 p.m. @mosphere, 5355 N. Clark St. between a new queen and an amateur queen. Don’t get Halsted St. Sofia’s Dragtacular Review, hosted by Sofia Saffire, every it twisted. I am so humble [laughs].” All Things Beyonce, hosted by Dixie Lynn Cartwright, featur- 2nd Sat., 10:30 p.m., Shakers on Clark, 3160 N. Clark St. ing Dida Ritz, Saya Naomi and guest queens, 2nd or 3rd DRAG INSPIRATION Ashley Morgan Presents A Drag Revue, featuring Coco Sho- “My drag comes from so many aspects of my life—I love Wed. of the month, 9 p.m., Sidetrack, 3349 N. Halsted St. Nell, Dominique Diamond, Vivian Dejour and Juan M. mythical characters, goddesses, supernatural, auras, The Baton Show Lounge, shows weekly at 8:30 p.m., 10:30 Wette, hosted by Ashley Morgan, every 3rd Sat., 9:30 p.m. energy, MOON, the power of nature.” p.m. and 12:30 a.m. 436 N. Clark St. seating, $5 suggested donation, The Call Bar, 1547 W. GO-TO NUMBER TO SLAY THE CROWD Bryn Mawr Ave. “‘Why Don’t You Love Me’ (live) by Beyoncé because Pregame!, featuring Abhijeet, Tenderoni and Harlet Wench, THURSDAYS I get to whip my hair 25 times during the number. [I hosted by Aurora Gozmic and Tiffany Diamond, 9-10 p.m. Babes In Boyland, featuring Monica Beverly Hillz, Lila Star, also chose that track] because I am the twin sister of Scarlet, 3320 N. Halsted St. Teri Yaki and Otter Chaös, weekly, 1 a.m., no cover. The Beyoncé when it comes to performing.” 6 Queens 1 Diva, hosted by Muffy Fishbasket, every 4rd Jackhammer Complex, 6406 N. Clark St. FUN FACT Sat., 10 p.m., $5 cover, The Call Bar, 1547 W. Bryn Mawr Sirens of Splash, featuring Lila Star, Mimi Marks, Aura “I was inspired to do drag when I played Angel in Rent. Ave. Mayari and Silky, weekly, 9 p.m., no cover. Splash Chicago, I was terrified and intimidated by drag queens before I Dining With the Divas, featuring Angel LeBare and CeeCee 3339 N. Halsted St. portrayed the character…the things that I was terrified LaRouge, shows weekly at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m., Hamburger POP ROCKS, dance party with drag from Alexis Bevels and of are now the things that I admire, respect and am Mary’s Oak Park, 155 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, Ill. Saya Naomi, get on stage to Win with Dixie Lynn Cart- passionate about.” The Baton Show Lounge, shows weekly at 8:30 p.m., 10:30 wright, weekly, 9 p.m., Sidetrack, 3349 N. Halsted St. WHERE CAN WE CATCH YOU p.m. and 12:30 a.m. 436 N. Clark St. Body Beautiful, hosted by Danika Bone’t and Alexandrea “Splash on Thursdays—I am a hostess there and we Diamond, 4th Thu. of each month, shows at 11:30 p.m., have three guests performing with us every week. We 12:30 a.m. and 1:30 a.m., no cover. Charlie’s, 3726 N. love to see new comers and get them wet on their first SUNDAYS Reinas de la Casa, featuring Windy Breeze, Veronica Pop, Broadway visit! We also play a game in between sets and the Zafina Hasheesh and Danika Bone’t, hosted by Alexandrea The Baton Show Lounge, shows weekly at 8:30 p.m., 10:30 winner gets to untuck me downstairs after the show! Diamond, 2nd Sun. of each month, shows at 11:30 p.m., p.m. and 12:30 a.m. 436 N. Clark St. Who wouldn’t want to enjoy that!?” 12:30 and 1:30 a.m. Charlie’s, 3726 N. Broadway SOCIAL MEDIA Angel LeBare’s Fish Hatchery, contest for aspiring drag Instagram: @AuraMayari Photo by queens, every 4th Sun., 8 p.m. @mosphere, 5355 N. Clark Facebook/YouTube: @Aura Mayari Matthew Steele St. The Baton Show Lounge, shows weekly at 7, 9 and 11 p.m. 436 N. Clark St. Dec. 12, 2018 20 Dec. 12, 2018 21 BILLY MastersMasters

“It would not have been possible without the help of the president, who not only gave us the impetus for this reboot but provided us with fresh fields to plow daily that Diane English and our superb writing staff have cultivated fearlessly and with unique wit.”—Candice Bergen graciously accepts her latest Golden Globe nomination for playing Murphy Brown. As last week drew to a close, Kevin Hart said he was hired as host of the upcoming Academy Awards. Then the gays protested him as host of the Academy Awards. (I’m not going to recap why—look it up for yourself.) Then he resigned Charles Busch (above) beat Faye Dunaway to as host of the Academy Awards. Am I the only the punch, Billy says. one who thinks it a bit, dare I say, queer that all Photo by Michael Wakefield this news has come from Mr. Hart himself and not The Academy? Maybe I should announce that The plus. And Max is a leading man of the first or- Academy asked me to host, but I’ve pulled out (as der. He’s been the stand-by for some great people if). Here’s another thing I’m wondering about: Is (Ricky Martin in Evita and virtually everyone in there a height restriction for hosts? I say if you’re Les Misérables) and, for a while, he was in the not tall enough to ride Space Mountain, you can’t running for the real-life role of Mrs. Neil Patrick host the Oscars. But you can ride me. That’s all. Harris—but that’s another story. Nick, on the I typically wouldn’t have a Fayewatch item this other hand, is more known for his body than his early in the column. But trust me—this is no body of work—although that’s mighty impressive normal Fayewatch. Then again, there is no such as well. So for him to flex his thespianistic mus- thing as a “normal” Fayewatch. For the past few cles in this role is a tantalizing prospect, indeed. years, Miss Dunaway’s professional output has Fingers crossed he’s up to the challenge. With been limited to a curious extended commercial Eden Espinosa rounding out this luxurious cast, for Gucci and shuffling onstage at two consecu- you have a great show that’s not to be missed tive Academy Awards—thus ensuring her spot when it comes to a city near you. when it’s time for the inevitable “In Memoriam” CNN is gonna take another stab at making segment. magic work between Anderson Cooper and Andy That was all a warm-up for her grand return to Cohen on New Year’s Eve. I’ll be DVRing (and Broadway. Ah, the Great White Way. Faye hasn’t scanning) because faithful fans know I always appeared there since 1982—I believe she was ring in the New Year with loved ones watching 82 at the time. And she’s finally found a vehicle not one, but two Lindsay Wagner movies. This to harness her unique talents, such as they are. year we have two new films—the Hallmark Chan- She will star in Tea at Five, a one-woman show nel’s Mingle All The Way (which has virtually the about—brace yourself—Katharine Hepburn! same plot as every other Hallmark Channel flick) Well, when you think of people suitable to play and Samson, in which Lindsay plays the Biblical shopped around? Whatever happened to that?” dead grand dames, who else? hero’s mother. That Bionic Woman’s got range! That’s a good question. Sure, we got quite a The press release indicates that the run will Time for another installment of “Billy’s Holiday fascinating shot of his ass in the air waiting for take place sometime next summer and will be a Gift Giving Suggestions.” This week, we’re deliv- ... well, whomever turned up. And there was that “strictly limited engagement.” (I will refrain from ering the perfect 2019 calendar. I am happy to brief clip of him allegedly fondling his nether re- the obvious joke.) Here’s something the press re- once again spotlight the work of the Warwick gions through underwear. But then, nothing. So lease doesn’t say—the first choice for the role Rowers. This group of hot athletes has been I did a little digging and found quite a few still of Miss Hepburn was the divine Charles Busch! raising funds through their calendar since 2009. shots from a video that allegedly stars Mr. Daley And I should know: I was there. Back in 2011, Obviously the men change, but the standards and a rather hot bald bloke. Now, I cannot say Busch starred in a one-night-only performance remain high. The gay and straight rowers have that this is definitely Tom. For all I know, it could of Matthew Lombardo’s revised play, which was twice been named UK Charity Calendar of the Year be one of those many Tom Daley look-a-likes with a benefit for the Ali Forney Center. Needless to by whomever votes on these things...presumably a strikingly similar body, similar hair and similar say, he was magical. Charles was courted for a a bunch of Brits. This year’s calendar features a ass that is enjoyed with great gusto by a hot bald full run, but Busch marches to the beat of his special guest—two-time Olympic rower Robbie guy. I mean, anything’s possible. Check it out at own drum and declined. So, essentially Faye is Manson from New Zealand. And let’s just say his BillyMasters.com and decide for yourself. replacing a fella in a frock. How curious—usually, openly gay oar is prominently featured. While we When bald men are welcomed “Daley,” it’s time it’s the other way around. will share some of the more sizzling shots on Bil- to end another column. If you’re having trouble I’m more than a bit intrigued by the cast of lyMasters.com, I’d suggest you grab the calendar finding the perfect gift for that special someone, the national tour of Falsettos. One might think quickly at WarwickRowers.org. And HURRY—I why not snag them a membership toBillyMasters. that Christian Borle and Andrew Rannells would was gonna promote the Ben Cohen calendar, but com—the site that’s a great stocking stuffer. If be hard to top—well, not that hard. Then it was it’s already sold out. you have a question, send it along to Billy@Bil- announced that the tour will star Max von Essen Queer athletes bring us to our “Ask Billy” ques- lyMasters.com and I promise to get back to you and Nick Adams, and more than my ears perked tion from Stephen in Anaheim: “Remember all before Faye convinces Warren to play Spencer. up. First off, they’re both gay, which is always a that talk about a sex tape of Tom Daley being Until next time, remember: One man’s filth is another man’s bible. Dec. 12, 2018 22

dined on the ledge.) By the way, said dinner is Heartland Cafe closing a three-course meal featuring Giordano’s items, Longtime Rogers Park fixtureThe Heartland including salad, dessert (tiramisu or apple pan Cafe’s last day of business will be Monday, Dec. pie) and, of course, stuffed pizza for up to eight 31. the DISH people. The pizza was delicious, the dessert In a letter to people addressed as “family,” Weekly Dining Guide in was enjoyable—and Giordano’s has some of the owner Tom Rosenfeld wrote, in part. “There has tastiest green tea I’ve ever had. been a lot of uncertainty hanging over us lately, WINDY CITY TIMES However, no experience is perfect, and this with questions on the fate of Heartland. As you one had a couple snags. The night my friend know, the Heartland building has been listed for SAVOR and I dined was particularly chilly, and the heat sale and we are now pretty far along with a sale. wasn’t circulating; when we asked the waitstaff We might be able to come back once the new ‘Pie in the Sky’; about making things warmer, we were told a owners build a new building, but that won’t be Heartland closing; Giordano’s “Pie in the Sky.” different department was in charge and they for some time. So we have been reviewing new Photo by Andrew Davis really couldn’t do much. Worse, we were informed spaces. At this time, there are a few that might Yugen opening the same thing regarding the light—or lack of after hours (starting at 9 or 11 p.m., depending work and we are trying to work out details, but it. I know the darkness helps with romance and BY ANDREW DAVIS on the time of year), so there’s concern about nothing is certain. visibility (of the city lights), but if it’s truly a VIP foot traffic—and there are four tables, max, so “No matter what happens next, we will need to A pizza dinner is a pizza dinner, until there’s a experience, let’s shed a little light on the subject. only a few people get to roam the lofty floor and close down for at least a few months. What we special element added—like dining 1,300 feet (Eventually, one of the friendly waiters procured partake of the Chicago skyline from a vantage know now is that Heartland’s last day of operation high. three candles.) point few people acquire. in our home for 42 years will be December 31. Skydeck Chicago (233 S. Franklin St.; But even with those snafus, this was a lovely The table is not on the ledge, but on its “This has been such a hard moment to arrive theskydeck.com/)—located in the Willis Tower, and unique experience. You won’t soon forget edge, which still provides a magnificent view at. We are so thankful to you, our community, for the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere— it. To make a reservation, call 312-875-9447 or while enjoying dinner. (I personally think a lot the steadfast support and love you have shown to offers a one-of-a-kind dining experience: “Pie in email [email protected]. the Sky.” The VIP dining experience takes place of people would be freaked out if they actually Turn to page 23

SIDETRACK Charity: Check. Underwear: Check check! Debbie Fox and Dixie Lynn Cartwright host the annual Santa Speedo Run, Sat., December 8, to benefit Center on Halsted. Joseph Stevens Photography Dec. 12, 2018 23 DISH from page 22 the Heartland Cafe over 5 decades.” ‘STRUT’ show marks “Financially, I can’t keep up with the building World AIDS Day anymore,” Rosenfeld—also an organic farmer The 10th annual STRUT fashion show took place Dec. 2 at the Promon- and owner of Earth First Farms in Berrien tory. Center, Michigan—told The Chicago Tribune The evening featured a runway fashion show with 14 different designers in September. “We can’t function like a normal and boutiques as well as speakers ranging from AIDS activists to health- restaurant. We’re just spread out all over this care organizations. building in all these small spaces.” Regarding the fashion show, models of all body types and ages wore The 9,600-square-foot building, at 7000 N. street wear, suits, underwear and more. he work was quite creative: One Glenwood Ave., housed the Heartland Cafe, line was made by with the designer’s father’s cut-up sweatshirts, while Heartland Studio Theatre and Red Line Tap. another was structured to fit people of all sizes. More than 300 people attended the event, creating a packed and lively audience for the show. Since its second iteration, the event has been orga- nized by John Fleming, who brought in professional models and partnered with SAIC and Columbia Fashion School to feature the work of graduating seniors. Additionally, there were tables selling accessories outside the fashion show space, and a table inside the show for the Association of Nurses in AIDS Care (ANAC). Photos and text by Brooke Nagler

Executive Chef Mari Katsumura of Yugen. Photos by Leigh Loftus

Yugen opens One of the most anticipated local openings of the year has taken place at contemporary Japanese restaurant Yugen, 652 W. Randolph St.—complete with a Dec. 4 media event. Inspired by Executive Chef Mari Katsumura’s lineage, the word “yugen” means “the power to conjure indescribable appreciation for the simplicity of beauty,” according to a press release. Katsumura has had experience in highly rated local spots such as Blackbird, Grace, Acadia and Entente. Katsumura leads an all-woman team at the restaurant, working with Pastry Chef Jeanine Lamedieu and General Manager Morgan Olszewski. Menu offerings include such items as crab rice, binchotan-grilled octopus, Japanese curry, cheesecake and more. See YugenChicago.com.

Yugen. Dec. 12, 2018 24 Friday, Dec.14 ers. First show 1 p.m. 6:00pm Man- separately. Bring a gift, get a gift. RSVP Queer Genre Fiction Book Group Each del Hall University of Chicago 1131 E. to [email protected] or by phone. COMMUNITY second Friday 7:00pm - 9:00pm Gerber 57th St. Chicago 773-493-8498 http:// 5:00pm Piggery, 1625 W. Irving Park Hart Library and Archives 6500 N Clark hydeparkdance.org/tickets Rd. 312-409-1573 Tickets: http:// St Chicago http://www.gerberhart.org Day With(out) Art 2018, Alternate End- www.afchicago.org CALENDAR 25th Anniversary Nutcracker Hyde Park ings, Ativist Risings. A marquee screen- Pride Arts Center’s “LezFest” showcase School of Dance (HPSD) offers fans of ing highlights the impact of art in HIV/ Presentation and celebration of queer ballet, modern and hip hop its annual AIDS activism and advocacy today with female and non-binary performance art- Wed., Dec. 12 presentation of Tchaikovsky’s The Nut- compelling short videos. Free with RSVP ists 7:30pm Pride Arts Center, 4147 N. Author Reading: Making All Black Lives cracker, featuring more than 175 danc- 7:00pm - 9:00pm Museum of Contempo- Broadway http://web.ovationtix.com/ by Barbara Ransby Reading, con- Matter ers. 7:00pm Mandel Hall University rary Art Chicago 312-397-4010 http:// trs/pe.c/10348755 versation, and book-signing. From the of Chicago 1131 E. 57th St. Chicago mcachicago.org/Calendar/2018/12/ perspective of a participant-observer, 773-493-8498 http://hydeparkdance. Screening-Day-Without-Art-ALTERNATE- Monday, Dec. 17 book maps the movement, the geneal- org/tickets ENDINGS-ACTIVIST-RISINGS Bi/Queer Holiday Social Bisexual Queer ogy, roots in Black feminist politics December OPALGA Potluck Holiday The Evanston Dance Ensemble’s 22nd Alliance Chicago 7:00pm - 9:00pm and Black radical tradition. 7:00pm - showtune singalong welcomes any season A suite of three pieces, Moving Blaze Pizza, 953 W Belmont Ave., Chica- 8:00pm Women & Children First Book- pianists, vocalists or sheet music bear- On, Graduation Ball and “…my breath go; https://www.meetup.com/chicago- store 5233 N Clark St Chicago http:// UNICORN SIGHTING ing participants. Collecting donations away…” 7:30pm Studio5 Performing bisexual-queer-meetup/ www.womenandchildrenfirst.com Saturday, Dec. 15 for Hephzibah children’s Home. LG- Arts Center, 1934 Dempster, Evanston BTQ and straight supportive friends Tickets: http://movingon.brownpaper- Wed., Dec. 19 Thursday, Dec. 13 The Unicorn Ball will take invited. 7:00pm - 10:00pm Private tickets.com Holiday Hootenanny Radio Hour Present Presentation opens exhibit of AIDS place at The Shapiro. Oak Park home. Contact organizers for Unicorn Ball The 2018 Unicorn Ball-Brave A Cricket on the Mantle John and Dot awareness stamps Norman Sandfield, Space Alliance’s largest annual fund- Photo from 2017 ball location https://www.facebook.com/ are expecting a child, Tim and Mae are whose significant collection of Red Rib- raiser has been called the official queer by Ed Negron events/1619030711738019/ getting married, and almost everyone is bon and Rainbow Pride stamps resides “coming out” party of the year, as Brave home for the holidays. All seems calm at Gerber/Hart, will present on the 25th Saturday, Dec. 15 Space celebrates trans liberation and and bright, until a mysterious drifter anniversary of the 1993 Red Ribbon for Frontrunners/Frontwalkers Chicago power in the city. $20-$250. Visit “2018 wanders into town, changing the course AIDS Awareness US postage stamp. Ex- Weekly run/walk. Followed by brunch. Unicorn Ball” on Facebook or Eventbrite. of everyone’s Christmas plans. Pre- hibit through February 2019 includes against an unchecked power leading the 9:00am Kwagulth Totem Pole Addison 9:00pm - 2:00am The Shapiro, 1612 W. performance caroling begins at 7 p.n. AIDS Awareness stamps from around the world to disaster. Through Saturday, Jan. & Lakeshore Dr. http://frontrunnerschi- Chicago Ave. 7:30pm Den Theatre, 1331 N. Milwau- world. Free 6:30pm Gerber Hart Library 19. $20 8:00pm Trap Door Theatre, cago.com kee Ave. http://anarchistfolk.wixsite. and Archives 6500 N Clark St Chicago 1655 W. Cortland Ave. Chicago 773-384- 25th Anniversary Nutcracker Hyde Park Sunday, Dec. 16 com/cricket. http://www.gerberhart.org 0494 http://www.trapdoortheatre.com School of Dance (HPSD) offers fans of Asians & Friends holiday party LGBTA Written in 1969 The Old Woman Broods ballet, modern and hip hop its annual organization annual holiday party with by one of Poland’s most revolutionary presentation of Tchaikovsky’s The Nut- BBQ and comfort food. Be prepared and prophetic playwrights, a dark satiric cracker, featuring more than 175 danc- to split cost of meal and order drinks look at one woman’s grotesque struggle Shop with Pride