THE VOICE OF CHICAGO’S GAY, LESBIAN, BI AND TRANS COMMUNITY SINCE 1985 Jan. 28, 2009 • vol 24 no 18 www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com

Martin

Delaney More than 400 gay activists gathered at the Los Angeles Convention Center Jan. 24 to organize and strategize to win back same-sex marriage in California. Photo by Rex Wockner Dies page 7 Calif. Gays Debate Prop 8

by Rex Wockner we’ve turned everything over to political experts fessional, high-paid consultants were not deliv- and political consultants,” said Equality Califor- ering product?” Jean asked. “I’m trying to say LOS ANGELES—More than 400 gay activists nia Executive Director Geoff Kors. “And I would this and not be too provocative, since we have gathered at the Los Angeles Convention Center never ever do that again. You know, when we so many professional political campaign consul- Jan. 24 to organize and strategize to win back started Equality California, everyone was, like, tants in the room. But, you know, there is an same-sex marriage in California. But attend- ‘Hire professional lobbyists to go lobby on LGBT approach that people who are professionals use ees at the daylong Equality Summit spent just issues,’ and I was, like: ‘You gotta be kidding. to do this. And I think one of our challenges as a Rufus as much time looking backward—at the errors We’re going to do our own lobbying because it’s community, given that issues of relevance to our made by the leadership of the No on 8 campaign about our lives and we know what we’re talking community are different than anything else that at MCA page 21 in its failed effort to stop voters from re-ban- about and we know how to do this.’ One thing, goes on the ballot because of the emotion and ning same-sex marriage. you know, that I would never do again ... we the other things that are associated with them, And, for the first time since the Nov. 4 elec- should have been in the strategy room and part we have got to find a completely different way tion, several of those leaders publicly detailed of those (consultants’) conversations, and that than business as usual to do this work.” what they did wrong. was a huge mistake.” The tension between conventional ballot-ini- “When I look at what was the biggest mistake, Los Angeles Gay & Lesbian Center CEO Lorri tiative wisdom and the possibly special nature when I lie awake at night prepping my e-mails Jean, another key member of the No on 8 leader- of gay issues was nowhere more prominent than ship team, was similarly forthcoming. I’m going to send to all of you and I think about Turn to page 6 the biggest mistake that we made, it’s that “How could we have realized earlier that pro- Chicagoans Jensen witness Atwood page 20 history By ANDREW DAVIS

January 28, 2009 #980 Among the millions who made the trek to Washington, D.C., to witness President Barack Obama’s historic Jan. 20 inauguration were nightspots many individuals from the new leader’s home n city, Chicago. LGBTA individuals made up a sizeable part of Painting the White House Black Barack and Michelle make a special appearance at Windy City Black Pride’s pick it up Inauguration Celebration at Sidetrack. the Windy City contingent, as they stood in the page 8 inSIDE Epic TV fail in World Nightspots’ ridiculously Wide Weird. belated Holiday wishes at Mary’s Attic. take it home page 20 page 19 cold to see the swearing-in—and then danced until dawn at different galas, although it seemed that most people went to the Home States Ball, which welcomed guests from Hawaii and Illinois. In fact, one lesbian, Vernita Gray, text-messaged Windy City Times at 1 a.m. to say that she was “still partying” at that particular gala. Although the crowds were huge on Inaugura- President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama are all smiles as they dance at the Home www.WindyCityQueercast.com States Ball on Jan. 20; see and read much more on pages 4-5 and www.WindyCityMediaGroup. Turn to page 5 com. Photo by Patsy Lynch

the in partnership do you have it? with DRIVEDRIVEMONTHLY AUTO SECTION DRIVE 2 Jan. 28, 2009 Jan. 28, 2009 3 EXTENDED BY POPULAR DEMAND! “ …JAW-DROPPING…CAPTURES index A HIT! THE THRILLS OF ELVIS PRESLEY, JOHNNY CASH, JERRY LEE LEWIS AND CARL PERKINS.” NEWS CHRIS JONES, CHICAGO TRIBUNE Inauguration coverage 4 Reactions to history 5 Equality Summit 6 Martin Delaney dies 7 Join the Impact’s talk 8 Roe v. Wade events 8 Crew’s chili cookoff 8 Task force’s agenda 9 Quotelines 9 “THIS QUARTET Wayne Besen; letters 10 CAN ROCK! ENTERTAINMENT Scottish Play Scott 11 RuPaul adds “reality-show hostess” to ...ALTOGETHER Theater reviews 12 her entertainment duties. Read page Entertainment news 14 15. ROLLICKING RuPaul 15 Photo by Emmanuel Garcia Knight at the Movies 16 90-MINUTE Pop Making Sense 17 FANTASIA.” Concert review: LaBelle 17 HEDY WEISS, CHICAGO SUN-TIMES Autos: Detroit show 18 Jensen Atwood talks 20 APOLLO Rufus Wainwright at MCA 21 THEATER 2540 N LINCOLN AVE (773)935-6100 OUTLINES TICKETMASTER.COM Real estate; classifieds 19 Calendar 21 Sports: Bowling, Mackenroth 22 GROUP DISCOUNTS! ( ) Project Runway’s Jack Mackenroth gears CALL 312 423-6612 up for this year’s Outgames. See page MILLIONDOLLARQUARTETLIVE.COM 22.

Photo courtesy of Jack Mackenroth

www. Features include: Windy —World roundup AS SEEN ON TV —Travel: Palm City TM Springs, Calif. (right) ® Media —Community Vaser Hi-Def LipoSculpting Chiropractic opens The Smart LipoSuction Choice Group —Inauguration Barack ‘n Roll: more Safer... Simpler...More Effective .com pics, article CALL NOW FOR A FREE CONSULTATION $1000.00* OFF Expires 02-27-09 GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE GET OUT OF THE COLD & ENJOY OUR TROPICAL PARADISE PAINTING THE HOTEL & GROUND PACKAGES AVAILABLE WHITE HOUSE BLACK Barack and Michelle make a special www.WindyCity appearance at Windy City Black Queercast.com Pride’s Inauguration Celebration at Sidetrack. Photo by Kirk Williamson 4 Jan. 28, 2009 inauguration 2009

The Human Rights Campaign Foundation hosted the Out for Equality gala with more than 20 other LGBT groups. Top left is Sir Ian McKellen. Middle Michelle and Barack Obama at one of their top is Cyndi Lauper, Thelma Houston and Catie Curtis. Above left is Melissa Etheridge. And above right are Chicagoans Alicia Eler and Brenda Schu- numerous Inauguration night galas, this one macher with photographer Amy Moseley, one of the Gay Games Chicago photographers, who lives in D.C. HRC gala photos by Amy Moseley the Home States Ball. Photos by Patsy Lynch

The millions of onlookers mostly saw the inauguration events from big-screen TVs. Photos by Dick Uyvari

People of all ages, races, and sexual orientations joined together to celebrate the historic inauguration of Barack Obama. Photos here are from the cold outdoor event and later Lakeview resident Greg Koeppen attended that night. Bottom pic: Mona Noriega, Vernita Gray, Renae the Home States Ball, where he posed with Ogletree, Mary Morten and Laura McAlpine, all from Chicago, Pat McCombs, Tarrina Dykes and other Chicagoans get their picture with an Illinois State Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias at the Home States Ball. Photos courtesy Brenda Schumacher Obama cut-out figure. Photo courtesy Pat McCombs (top) and out designer Nate Berkus. Photos and Richard Streetman courtesy of Koeppen Jan. 28, 2009 5 —Michael O’ Connor, activist: I’m optimis- tic that President Obama’s transition to power inauguration 2009 will attempt to address the bureaucratic maze that has governed this country for the last eight That is what we wanted to do, we wanted to gether through a mutual respect and shared years. create the same kind of impression about gay humanity. There are many challenges for this I’d like President Obama to sign an executive people in regards to a wider audience, and I incoming administration but, as members of the order that makes the Employment Non-Discrim- think that is what we did. We presented a very LGBT community, we must ensure that, collec- ination Act (ENDA) transgender-inclusive, to positive view of gay people.” tively, all are moving forward and none are left counter the legislation that fell apart in the U.S. Since 1982, the LGBA has been bringing people behind. The voices of our talented and compas- House of Representatives in the fall of 2007. together, solely based on their love of music. The sionate community will help define what hope —Dr. Thomas Gertz, dean of students at The association started with just seven independent means for future generations. Institute for Advanced Study of Human Sexu- bands out of Chicago and over time has grown —David Cerda, Hell in a Handbag Produc- ality: There really is hope! Within minutes after into 34 member organizations from different cit- tions artistic director: My cynical side tried not Barack Obama became the 44th president of the ies and states in America, to various parts of the to hail Obama as the new messiah, like so many United States, his civil-right agenda appeared world. According to the mission statement on others are doing. After all, he is still a politician on the new White House Web site (www.white- its Web site, “LGBA bands are sources of pride from one of the two major parties, but he has house.gov). Listed under the agenda is “Support within their cities, as well as positive symbols an irresistible charm and charisma that I gauge for the LGBT Community,” which includes eight of the same communities. Making music cre- as genuine, so I am very happy for him and the Doug Litwin. Photo courtesy of Litwin important issues for our community he plans on ates a family where affection means more than country. I look forward to Mr. Obama challeng- addressing during his Presidency. affectional preference. By ‘banding together,’ ing the antiquated bipartisanship system and re- Yes, after over 40 years of being a gay activist, LGBA shows that people of different sexes, ages, membering the separation of church and state. LGBT band including having served as president and vice creeds, races, and challenges can build a strong I’m sick of people using God as an excuse to president of Mattachine Midwest in Chicago, I community.” deny others their basic rights as Americans. finally do see hope. Thank you, Mr. President—I marches —Donna Rose, longtime Chicago African- can sleep better now. American lesbian poet/activist: This is so his- —Danny Kopelson, Center on Halsted direc- in parade Reactions to toric/transformative on so many levels, for all of tor of communications and public affairs: I By Paul Marinkovich us ... a true African American, James Brown in am more optimistic about Obama’s leadership Obama’s the White House, maybe on Saturday mornings. ability and the future of the country than I have The Lesbian and Gay Band Association (LGBA), There were all of the marches—our first protests inauguration ever been about any previous president. There a musical organization that provides a network and being harassed for being. I’m not saying COMPILED BY ANDREW DAVIS is, however, caution in my optimism, as Obama for gay and lesbian bands, participated in the that all is immediately well, but I am confident historical president’s inauguration parade, hon- has inherited two wars and the country in the Windy City Times got the reactions of various that there is such a shift in our collective karma oring newly sworn President Barack Obama and worst economic slump since the Great Depres- people to the historic transition that took place as a nation. We can/must live up to our promise! Vice President Joe Biden. sion. last week as Barack Obama became the country’s And no one is so well-suited. Maybe now there “It was exhilarating,” said Doug Litwin, a Chi- Read reactions to the inauguration from newest commander-in-chief: will be a halt on stereotypical depictions of peo- cago native and San Francisco resident who is an others, including Jeannie Tanner and DeMarco —Mike McRaith, secretary of the Illinois ple of color ... a compassionate white house for LGBA board member and participant in the 2009 Majors, at www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com. Department of Financial and Professional people instead of big biz. inauguration. “There were about four or five : Joy. Joy in hope. Joy that truth times throughout the parade that the announc- Regulation ers mentioned how we were making history as matters. Joy that we have an African-American the first openly gay band to have ever performed president. Joy that the sacrifice of generations at the inauguration parade. Every time I heard came to fruition. Joy that Democrats will lead. that, it gave me a little chill. I think we all felt Joy that my friends who worked years for this the same way.” day were celebrating with the beautiful, rich and The LGBA was made up of 177 of its members famous. Joy that the president can speak and I from 26 different states, and marched along can again listen. Joy that the silent voice of the with various citizen’s groups, marching bands, poor and sick can be heard. Joy that the man floats, and ceremony military regiments. (Six illustrating the dignity and nobility of public members of Chicago’s Lakeside Pride Music En- service to the nation and to the world is from sembles marched with the band.) More than 1 Illinois. Joy that the president plays basketball, million people turned out to watch the ceremo- a team sport. —Modesto “Tico” Valle, Center on Halsted ny and an estimated 37.8 million viewers tuned Lambda Legal & the National Museum of Mexican Art Cordially invite you to a free event in through live television coverage. executive director: A theme shared by Center “Representing the gay community was really on Halsted and our new president is the over- 8th Annual amazing,” said Phil Oliver, a trombonist in the arching idea of Hope. Hope for a better future. 2009 inauguration parade. “You can’t think of a Another aspect of our president’s promise that Freedom To Marry Reception marching band and think bad things, so it was resonates loudly with me is the call to build a way to present gay people in a positive light. bridges—bridges that bring diverse people to- A “Cause” for Celebration nightmare of the past eight years was finally The National Museum of Music by DJ Harry T • Cake-Cutting • Bouquet Toss HISTORY from cover Hors d'oeuvres • Open Bar & much more! over.” Mexican Art tion Day in D.C., events and people proceeded Lakeview resident Greg Koeppen added that in orderly fashion. However, there was no de- 1852 West 19th Street Be Part of a Movement! “[a]s we stood 30 feet from the president and Join us as we honor the commitment of local same-sex nying the energy. Dick Uyvari, a gay Chica- first lady at the Home State’s Ball during their Thursday, February 5, 2009 couples and shower appreciation on supportive family & goan, e-mailed that “[i]t was an exhilarating first dance, I couldn’t help but think this is 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. friends. experience. The positive energy of the crowd the man who will lead us to that next level. was infectious. There were Black, white, brown Mistress of Ceremonies, C.C. Carter, Young Chicago Authors Not only is this an exciting time for those of Special performance by GayCo Productions and all colors in between; young, old and not- us from Illinois, but for people around the so-old; women, men and children; and lesbian, World. His message was clear as we watched RSVP Preferred: [email protected] or gay, bi and straight. We were all as one—full of him deliver his speech. The United States is (312) 663-4413 x327 ASL Interpretation Provided hope and joy that this day “at last” had come and always will be number one. This past week along. People, cheered, sang, danced, cried, in D.C. was an amazing experience for me and laughed and enjoyed themselves completely, those I attended with.” Sponsors despite the cold 26-degree weather.” And for those who wanted change, it hap- Calling upon history, Uyvari added that he pened quickly. On Jan. 20, the new adminis- “had not seen this type of euphoria since the tration swiftly revamped the White House Web days of JFK in 1961-63, when I was in my late site, www.WhiteHouse.gov—including a sec- gayco teens. [Jan. 20] was an overwhelming experi- tion that addresses the civil-rights agenda. DJ Harry T • Kathryn Rose Photography • Alderman Rey Colon ence that is hard to put in words. I felt hon- A part of said section focuses on LGBT indi- ored and privileged to have been there. It was 2009 Partner Organizations viduals and what Obama has done and what A Church 4 Me • Advisory Council on LGBT Issues • Advocate, Loyola University Chicago • Affinity Community Services • a once-in-a-lifetime experience, to be cher- he plans to do, such as expanding hate-crimes Allied for Equality • Amigas Latinas • Association of Latino Men for Action • Bi-Social News • Center On Halsted • ished and never forgotten.” laws; opposing a constitutional ban on same- Chances Dances • Chaplain and Dean of Religious Life, Elmhurst College • Chicago NOW • Chicago Rainbow • Political activist Mike Bauer said that “[b] Civilunionsillinois.org • Congregation Or Chadash • Deibel Labs, Inc. • Dignity Chicago • Equal Marriage DuPage • sex marriage; promoting HIV/AIDS prevention; Equality Illinois • Family Equality Council • Freedom To Marry Coalition • Howard Brown Health Center • Human Rights eing present at Barack Obama’s swearing-in and combatting workplace discrimination. Campaign • Illinois NOW • Illinois Safe Schools Alliance • Invisible 2 Invincible: Asian Pacific Islander Pride of Chicago • turned out to be surprisingly emotional for me. Join the Impact, Chicago • LGBTQ Alumni of the University of Chicago • LGBTQ Studies Program, DePaul University • For more on the White House Web site and Madman Productions, Inc. • Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund • Northwest Suburban NOW • To see him take the oath of office as the 44th its section on the LGBT community, see www. Northwestern University GALA • Northwestern University LGBT Resource Center • Office of LGBTQA Student Services, DePaul president of the United States, combined with WindyCityMediaGroup.com. University • Orgullo en Accion • Out Alumni in Chicago • PFLAG Council of Northern Illinois • PinkAgenda • Pow Wow, Inc. watching the helicopter carry off George Bush, • Project VIDA • Radio Arte • Resources Unlimited Foundation • Sankofa Way • UIC's Gender & Sexuality Center • University of Chicago ACLU • UPS Store/Hillside • Yale GALA • Young Chicago Authors • created this incredible feeling that our long 6 Jan. 28, 2009 passage of legislation outlawing discrimination Group: N.Y. senator against transgender people.” Agenda President backs gay marriage Alan Van Capelle issued the statement after he said he talked with Gillibrand about LGBT-relat- New York Gov. David Patterson has selected ed issues Jan. 22. Kirsten Gillibrand, 42, to replace Hillary Clinton Hillary Clinton left the senatorial position to as the state’s newest senator. However, what become President Barack Obama’s secretary of thrill many members of the LGBT community, in state. particular, are her stances on several issues, in- See www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com for cluding same-sex marriage. more national news, and for the world Gillibrand—a member of the U.S. House of roundup. Representatives who was a Housing and Urban Development official in the Bill Clinton admin- istration—voted for hate-crimes legislation and the Employment Non-Discrimination Act in 2007, according to the Washington Blade. Andrea Shorter, Director of Marriage 4 All and co-chair of the summit, with California Sen. Mark However, the LGBT-rights group Empire State Leno. Photo by Karen Ocamb Pride Agenda took things even further when it Kirsten sent out a press release congratulating Gilli- Gillibrand. consultants?” Ocamb asked the panel. No on 8 brand. Part of the release reads, “Finally, the Drama marks leaders have been widely criticized for ceding great state of New York has a U.S. Senator who control of the campaign to professional political supports marriage equality for same-sex couples. Equality Summit consultants. In particular, many believe the de- Kirsten Gillibrand also supports the full repeal of the federal DOMA (Defense of Marriage Act) By Peter DelVecchio cision not to release negative private polls when public polls were inaccurately showing Prop 8 law, repeal of Don’t Ask Don’t Tell (DADT) and Hundreds of LGBT activists from California and losing by wide margins bred complacency in the around the nation gathered for an “Equality LGBT community, and that by the time the inter- SUMMIT from cover problems with how the No on 8 campaign be- Summit” at the Los Angeles Convention Center nal numbers were released in late September, it haved. Jan. 24 to assess the unsuccessful campaign was too late to make up lost ground. Panelists in the $40 million of ads the No on 8 campaign “Communities of color made gestures to the against Proposition 8, to vent frustration at did not disagree, which seemed to placate the ran on TV, said Kate Kendell, executive director No on 8 campaign to help and they were not their leaders’ perceived blunders and to divine room for a while. of the National Center for Lesbian Rights and a well-received—Latino groups and some black the way forward towards marriage equality. “We have got to find a completely different prominent member of the No on 8 leadership. groups,” he said. “I don’t think we took full “It’s a great way to bring everyone together way than business as usual to do this,” Jean In an interview, Kendell said: “One tension advantage of the blogosphere or the ethnic who are working on freedom to marry,” Geoff declared to loud applause. that’s surfacing (today)—and it’s one we faced press and those are very, very powerful today. Kors, executive director of Equality California, “The biggest mistake that we made is that in the No on 8 campaign—is, Do we ignore our ... We also can’t forget the grassroots. There told Windy City Times before the summit began. we turned everything over to political experts campaign consultants and the polls and the fo- is a hierarchy in the community ... but that Equality California was a major participant in the ... and I would never, ever do that again,” Kors cus groups—which will almost always tell us hierarchy is really dependent on your everyday anti-Prop 8 campaign. said to more cheers and clapping. that showing gay couples and families is not rank-and-file person, and they were not includ- “It’s time to regroup and see where we’re go- Panelist Molly McKay of Marriage Equality also the most effective messaging for undecided ed in the way that would have benefited the ing next and put our heads together, and I know drew applause, identifying “a disconnect be- voters—do we ignore all that and show those campaign.” we can get there,” said San Francisco Treasurer tween the leadership and the grassroots,” and families anyway because we instinctually and Many of those attending the summit ap- José Cisneros in a pre-summit interview. saying, “We can do things for free by leveraging viscerally know that people who see gay im- plauded and cheered when various speakers After invocations and brief presentations by the passion and resources that are out there.” ages, who have conversations with gay people, suggested that the leaders of the No on 8 cam- groups that opposed Prop 8, David Binder of Da- But the mood soured again as the Q&A ses- who have LGBT people in their lives are better paign had done the best job they could. But vid Binder Research presented his “Proposition 8 sion ended with many questions unanswered. An on our issues?” that sentiment was far from unanimous. Post-Election California Voter Survey.” audience member’s demand for “a commitment Kendell called that question “a fundamental “Today is about the same people ... taking Binder broke the vote down by regions and from them that they will address the questions choice” for any future campaign on same-sex control of anything that goes forward, being demographic groups. In particular, the widely- and then post them in a public forum” was loud- marriage. in charge, and collecting the money and hav- reported polls that said 70 percent of African ly seconded by others. “Do you sublimate the presence of gay people ing the power,” said Miki Jackson, a longtime Americans supported Prop 8 were wrong, said Attorney Jo Hoenninger of Marriage Equal- in your TV ads in order to move undecided vot- lesbian and AIDS activist in Los Angeles. Binder, whose survey put the Black “yes” vote at ity USA made the commitment, then said, “The ers? Or do we ignore the (consultants’ polling) “These people are control junkies, they are 58 percent, just 6 points higher than statewide. people who worked on the Prop 8 campaign, the numbers because we just don’t believe they’re power junkies, and we are at their mercy,” Binder’s presentation, which also addresses vot- leaders, they did the best they could!” About true in order to continue a narrative about our Jackson said in an interview, singling out Kors ers’ motivations and the effectiveness of each half the audience sprang up for a sustained lives and our relationships in full view?” and Kendell by name. “They’re up at the podium side’s ads, is posted at http://ca-ripple-effect. standing ovation, the other half sat unmoved. Kendell said that all the leaders of the No on and they’re talking at everyone. ... Grassroots blogspot.com. “There’s frustration on the part of some peo- 8 campaign “wanted to have TV ads with gay people can’t even stand up and ask a ques- Out state Sen. Mark Leno, D-San Francisco, ple, and I hope this will be a safe place for them people in them.” tion. It has to be read (from a notecard) by a told Windy City Times he sees Prop 8 as a vic- to express that and to get a reaction,” California “But the polling showed that the more unde- moderator. There isn’t a rift between the grass- tory because it passed by only 4 percent, while state Assemblyman Tom Ammiano, D-San Fran- cided voters saw of images of gay people get- roots and the No on 8 usual suspects—there Proposition 22 finished 23 points ahead in 2000. cisco, told Windy City Times. ting married, the more they were moved to the is a wall they have built. We have a place, and Prop 22 imposed the statutory same-sex mar- Regarding how the anti-Prop 8 campaign had ‘yes’ side.” they want us in it. You can see it here today.” riage prohibition the California Supreme Court fallen down, Ammiano said, “If you saw the Kendell said she would be “completely sup- In addition to the occasionally raucous ple- struck down last May; Prop 8 wrote that prohibi- movie Milk, you saw Harvey actually debating portive” of a strategic decision to dump the nary sessions, much of the summit consisted tion into the state Constitution. the proponents of Prop 6, and we seem to have consultants, pollsters and focus groups in favor of “breakout” sessions in which smaller groups There followed a question and answer session. been divorced from that kind of human interac- of trying a from-the-gut campaign to win over of people focused on topics such as African Moderator Karen Ocamb, news editor for IN Los tion.” Ammiano was also involved in the 1978 Californians on same-sex marriage. Americans, Asians and Pacific Islanders, me- Angeles magazine, presented questions submit- defeat of Prop 6, which would have fired all gay “If we decide to do that, I am completely dia, faith communities, families, government, ted beforehand by attendees to a panel of No on teachers. supportive of that,” she vowed. “But we would labor, Latinos, legal issues, Netroots/Web 2.0, 8 leaders, including Kors and Lorri Jean, CEO of Asked about the criticism after the raucous be moving a campaign forward that breaks ev- transgender issues and youth. the L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center. Q&A, Kors told Windy City Times, “Like with any ery convention of statewide campaigns in Cali- Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa made The fireworks began when Ocamb asked, “Given losing campaign, you have to learn from it and fornia. And there will be campaign experts who an unplanned appearance at the summit, say- what the Obama campaign was doing in terms of get all the input you can and make sure you do will tell us we are making a terrible mistake. ing he’d just heard about it that morning. outreach on the Internet, why weren’t we doing things better next time, and I think this is a And yet, given how many times we’ve lost, it “In 1994, I first began to stand up on the the same thing?” great opportunity to get that input.” may be time to think about a model that is floor of the Legislature and talk about these Chris Malawit, a full-time No on 8 volunteer, “I don’t mind it except when people make provocative and shocking.” issues, and talk about that this was the last answered that 5 weeks before the election, the presumptions that are not factual,” Jean said State Assemblymember Tom Ammiano, D-San frontier of the civil rights movement, that this campaign’s Internet consultant, Black Rock As- answering the same question. “But other than Francisco, was among the summit attendees was the only area where people of conscience, sociates, had “about a staff of one and a half that . . . we need all the good minds and good who criticized No on 8’s gay-free TV ads. people who think they’re not bigoted in any people managing the entire Web presence.” thinking we can get.” “The TV commercials were bland,” Ammi- way, feel like they can discriminate ... feel like An audience member shouted, “Who oversaw Delivering the keynote address, renowned ano said in an interview. “Where were the gay they can say no to you for a job, no for housing the consulting agency that let this happen? civil-rights attorney Eva Paterson of the Equal people? We were missing in action, and that’s ... say no to this community and equality of Who’s responsible?” Justice Society brought the house down with her what this is about. We can be a lot more in- rights when it came to domestic partnerships, “The campaign did not wait until the last 5 humor and restored some sense of common pur- cisive and direct if we are required again to and now equality of marriage,” Villaraigosa weeks to do this,” answered Jean, interrupted pose. “I’ve been watching you all for two hours, have a campaign where there are going to be said. by cries of, “Yes you did!” from the audience. and you all are rough,” she joked, before turn- TV commercials.” “We know it’s time to say: ‘Yes. Yes, we can. Jean went on to describe fundraising difficulties ing serious and adding, “Everybody here in this Ammiano, who worked with gay icon Harvey Yes, we will,’” he said. “I’m going to stand with and the campaign’s disappointment with Black room wanted Proposition 8 to lose. People made Milk on the 1978 campaign that beat back an you every step along the way ... not because Rock. mistakes, but everybody here is your friend, and initiative to ban gay teachers from California it’s popular (but) because it’s the right thing “Why wasn’t there a professional gay person you need to remember this.” public schools, said there also were additional for us to do.” in the room consulting with the professional Jan. 28, 2009 7 ed to San Francisco to avoid the winter winds off “Suddenly everything I knew was scrutinized Marty would spend countless days on the road of Lake Michigan and enroll in an early clinical and criticized by, who is this Martin Delaney?” speaking before groups on the latest develop- trial to treat chronic hepatitis B. It cured him Abrams recalled in a recent phone conversation. ments in HIV treatment. He always had time at of the infection but left him with fairly severe The two began as antagonists but within a few the end to sit down with patients to talk about neuropathy, a painful damage to muscle nerves years were working together in partnership and their individual problems. He never hesitated in and cirrhosis, a scarring of the liver that put eventually as friends. urging patients to demand the best care from him at risk for developing the cancer that finally The system of community advisory boards in their physicians, and to look elsewhere if they took his life. He bore these in silence; only a few clinical trials that evolved in San Francisco and were not getting it. people closest to him were aware of the extent New York soon became the model for all HIV tri- “There will never be another Martin Delaney. of his afflictions. als funded by the National Institute of Allergy He was the first AIDS activist, the trailblazer,” HIV was soon to hit, and the epicenter was and Infectious Diseases (NIAID). It would later said Baltimore activist Lynda Dee. “Marty taught Delaney’s new home, the Castro. We called it spread to cancer research and become standard so many of us in the community how to be treat- “’the look’—gray, loss of weight and wasting practice in international clinical trials. “Marty ment activists. AIDS research would not be at syndrome. The fun that the Castro used to be taught us all,” said Abrams. this successful juncture without his vision and Martin Delaney. Photo courtesy of Project was gone, and now it was like walking in the Delaney served on NIAID advisory committees perseverance. He is one of the true heroes of our Inform graveyard,” he would later tell a PBS documen- from 1991 to 1998 and helped to write the first movement.” tary on AIDS. treatment guidelines issued by the Department “He knew all the data, but could break it down He saw desperate friends trying anything— of Health and Human Services. into common language that schooled me as a PASSAGES faith healing, herbal concoctions, drugs smug- Earlier this month Tony Fauci awarded Delaney young activist in Philly,” said CHAMP founder gled in from Mexico—in an attempt to stave off its highest honor the NIAID Director’s Special Julie Davids. “He was unrelenting on what he AIDS activist the cadaverous wasting of the plague. It was all Recognition Award for “extraordinary contribu- thought was right.” And he was inclusive; “He word of mouth, someone saying that an elixir tions to framing the HIV research agenda, par- would push through the doors of the corridors Martin Delaney made them feel better. ticularly with regard to antiretroviral drugs and of power [and] brought others along with him, by Bob Roehr Delaney began Project Inform in 1985 in an access to treatment; exceptional efforts on be- even if they had disagreements.”

attempt to make sense of it all. “Our question half of HIV-infected people; and wise counsel “It’s hard to imagine what if would have been Martin Delaney was a giant of AIDS activism. He was, is this helping them, is it hurting them, or while serving on NIAID advisory committees.” like without Marty’s guiding hand,” said Peter helped to forever change how clinical trials are is it just a waste of money?” Delaney worked on the inside to get the FDA Staley, an early member of ACT UP New York conducted and how patients interact with physi- Soon the phone was inundated with requests to speed up its drug approval process for life and founder of AIDSmeds.com. “He’s indirectly cians. The founder of Project Inform died of liver for information as word spread within the com- threatening conditions. He pressed both the FDA helped tens of thousands of people by shaping cancer at his home in San Raphael, Calif., Jan. munity in San Francisco, then around the coun- and industry to offer dying patients expanded clinical trials, the development of HIV drugs, 23; he was 63. try. Project Inform became one of the first and access to drugs that had demonstrated some ef- and policies affecting treatment access and Delaney didn’t shout through a bullhorn or best organizations to educate and empower pa- ficacy but were not yet approved. And he worked the price of drugs. And much more personally, “die” in a street protest. He readily acknowl- tients in making healthcare decisions. It served with pharmaceutical companies to rein in the he’s helped thousands of people one-on-one. edged the importance of those activities but he as a model for other diseases. price of new drugs and offer assistance programs He prophesized hope when there seemed to be was more comfortable on the inside. He worked to those who could not afford them. none.” with scientists and policy makers, driven by Changing the medical establishment “It’s important to honor his achievements, but an insatiable curiosity, a tenacious but good- Donald Abrams was a gay physician just es- Grassroots activism it’s also important to honor his humanity.” humored persistence, a quest for fairness, and tablishing his practice in San Francisco in the Delaney was a peer to the leading researchers Treatment advocates are pressing for creation a belief in the essential humanity of every indi- early 1980s. Kaposi’s sarcoma was a principle and policy makers in the nation, yet he never of a lecture in Delaney’s honor at the annual vidual he met. AIDS-defining condition at the time and as an lost touch with the grassroots. Community fo- retroviral conference meeting in February. The Chicago native tried the seminary but re- oncologist he saw many of those patients. He rums were a cornerstone of patient education Read local reactions to Delaney’s passing alized it didn’t jibe with the growing sense of also was steeped in the then ruling paradigm of and empowerment in the pre-Internet days, and and a tribute to Delaney from Dr. Daniel Berg- his sexual identity as a gay man. He taught el- an all-knowing paternalistic physician; the pa- they remain an important part of the mix to- er at www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com. ementary school. tient was supplicant. day. A turning point came in 1978 when he relocat- IN

WindyCityMediaGroup.com NEW QueerTVNetwork.com ‘09 NEW NIGHTSPOTS XCLUSIVE premieres online (starting 2/4/09)NEW NIGHTSPOTS bulks up with super-sized BI-WEEKLY ISSUES (startingNEW 2/11/09) NIGHTSPOTS debuts vibrant video coverage with QueerTVNetwork.com 8 Jan. 28, 2009 strategies. Sidney Stokes—president of Com- Join the Impact mon Ground, the Columbia College LGBTQ stu- Events AFC urges Burris dent organization—spoke about the challenges to aggressively holds lively of organizing a largely youth-led constituency. commemorate He was hopeful because, despite the continu- fight HIV/AIDS town hall ing stigma of young voters as “unreliable … we Roe v. Wade Last week, the AIDS Foundation of Chicago BY YASMIN NAIR found that people will come to the protest even BY YASMIN NAIR (AFC) issued a press release congratulating Ro- if they don’t organize online.” He also said that, land Burris on being installed as the Illinois’ ju- Following the passage of Proposition 8, several “There is still an excitement on campuses. The This past week marked the 36th anniversary of nior senator—but also encouraged the politician groups and community organizations mobilized focus is getting it while it’s hot.” Keeanga Tay- Roe v. Wade, the landmark decision on abortion to fight aggressively for HIV/AIDS prevention. across the United States and held mass rallies lor, a member of the International Socialist Or- in the United States. Several events, organized “Illinois AIDS advocates look forward to work- and protests last Nov. 15. The November rally, ganization, said that the fight for marriage “is a by local pro-abortion rights groups, were held ing closely with Senator Burris to fulfill Presi- which drew approximately 5,000 in Chicago genuine civil-rights movement” and that “while across the city. On Jan. 22, the Chicago Abortion dent Obama’s comprehensive plans to aggres- alone, came about in part because people across the issue of marriage equality is not the be-all Fund organized a rally at Federal Plaza, at Adams sively fight HIV/AIDS in the U.S. and abroad,” the country visited a Web site, www.jointheim- and end-all of human history, actual material and Dearborn. said AFC President/CEO Mark Ishaug. “As the pact.org, to send out calls for action. At this benefits are especially important in the midst of Director Gaylon Alcaraz said, “We elected a sole African-American in the U.S. Senate, Mr. point, the national Join the Impact is a blog a financial crisis.” very pro-choice president, and we’re hopeful Burris has a unique opportunity to educate his and Web site, but several local groups using the Audience members raised questions about the that our voices will be heard and not silenced colleagues in Congress about the ongoing crisis name and appending the names of their cities, group’s operating structure and its politics, and as we continue to make our agenda visible.” The of HIV/AIDS in the U.S., which disproportion- have sprung up. Among these is Join the Impact provided suggestions for future campaigns and rally focused on the Hyde Amendment, in place ately affects people of color.” Chicago, which organized its first town hall Jan. actions. Sam Finkelstein, of Gender Just, which since 1975, which, Alcaraz said, “prohibits poor In filling the seat previously occupied by now- 24, at the Merlo Library, 644 W. Belmont. he described as a “grassroots youth organiza- and low-income women on Medicaid paying for President Barack Obama, the organization is Approximately 40 people attended. Six speak- tion” raised several issues, including the lack abortion procedures with their medical card. asking Burris to continue the fight against the ers sought to answer questions and address is- of transgender representation in the group and This is an injustice because poor women should pandemic, adding that “Obama has a long his- sues raised by audience members. Corrine Mina its emphasis on marriage equality as a way to be able to access a full range of reproductive tory of support for the fight against HIV/AIDS.” spoke about her role as one of the founding assure economic justice, including healthcare: health care; abortion happens to be one of those members, along with Nik Maciejewski and Mis- “Why have a relationship be the basis for health options. By denying these women their medical sy Lorenzen. According to Lorenzen, who also care, which should be granted to all people, not rights, you take away their legal rights.” Protesters rally in serves as the group’s media coordinator, this is just for people in civil unions and marriages?” Caroline Gordon was there in support with her Federal Plaza the first local chapter to organize such a meet- [Note: This reporter has had preliminary discus- young children because, “I have a daughter and By Paul Marinkovich ing. sions with Finkelstein about volunteering with I have a son, who could get someone pregnant. The discussions were enthusiastic, but it ap- Gender Just.] I’m also here because even if abortion is legal, The Campus Antiwar Network and Join the Im- peared that the nascent group has yet to resolve Finkelstein’s comments drew several respons- many women can’t access it.” Speakers empha- pact Chicago hosted a “Our Vote, Our Voice” rally some questions and terminology. Mina spoke es, with 10 people addressing him directly. Ma- sized the need for access to women in a range Jan. 17 outside President Barack Obama’s for- about the “board” of the national organization ciejewski, acknowledging the dearth of transgen- of communities. Alicia Amador, from Mujeres mer transition office at Federal Plaza in order Join the Impact, but there is no evidence that der representation, said that “we need to reach Latinas, spoke about the issues facing Latina to voice their hopes and demands for the new the group has official non-profit status. Loren- out and help them.” He also said that “we’re women. Alcaraz, who has served on the board of presidential administration. zen spoke about donations needed to continue two months old. This is a learning process.” An- Affinity, said that “women’s sexuality shouldn’t About 60 people stood underneath the 53- the group, saying, “Once we become an official drea (no last name given) said that her partner have anything to do with [whether or not they foot-tall “flamingo” statue in freezing cold tem- non-profit organization, you can donate,” as is trans, and that there had been an attempt support abortion rights]. We need reproductive peratures, holding up signs that read: “Rights or well as about seeking votes from state legisla- to reach out to the community. Finkelstein said health care for everyone who has sex. We’re go- Revolution,” “Bucks Not Bombs” and “Hope,” all tors; however, an audience member pointed out that the group needed to take “constructive ing to be partnering with Affinity community the while shouting chants that challenged issues that a 501 (c)(3) status prohibits/restricts lob- criticism…Don’t run away or get defensive when services to do reproductive justice training.” regarding civil rights for the LGBTQ community; bying efforts. someone kicks your ass, and grow from that,” On Jan. 21, the Chicago Foundation for Wom- the wars in IRAQ and Afghanistan; immigration Mina also said that the “movement fueled by saying he had learned this from experience. en hosted “Roe v. The Real World: Our Voices, rights; and the rising cost of healthcare and col- Proposition 8 showed that marriage rights was Participants discussed possible future actions, Our Choices” at the Center on Halsted, 3656 N. lege tuition. at the forefront of our struggle.” Maciejewski including participation in Pride and a mass June Halsted. On Jan. 23, President Barack Obama re- According to the mission statement on the spoke about the group’s plans to work “in a more wedding. Jim Madigan, interim director of Equal- pealed a 1984 policy that has prohibited foreign Join the Impact Chicago Web site, “students broad sense, [look] for social change.” Lorenzen ity Illinois, praised the group but cautioned that nongovernmental family-planning organizations with mounting debt, workers facing layoffs, addressed what she considered the invisibility an organization “can’t be all things to all peo- from receiving U.S. funds if they either provided gays and lesbians denied equality, immigrants of the group’s work in the media, saying that ple … [don’t] be nibbled to death by ancillary abortions or lobbied for abortion rights in their threatened by deportation; these are the regu- “we need to get more people out to protests.” cases. Try your best to come up with a mission respective countries. lar people whose energetic rejection of George As part of this effort, she said, strategies like and [just move forward.]” State Rep. Greg Harris Bush and John McCain have ushered in this new, canvassing in more neighborhoods would be un- was also present and spoke about the upcoming hopeful era of American politics. We have de- dertaken. civil-rights bill. mands to make of the new administration as we The group also plans to attend Creating Change After the meeting, people were asked to con- celebrate the end of the old.” in Denver this month to learn about organizing tinue with planning efforts. “Change can never come from above,” said Kathleen, a representative of the Campus Anti- war Network. “It comes from a social revolution. We need to make sure that we are out on these streets, so they will be able to hear us!” Wednesday, February 11 7:30 p.m. Jayne Anne Phillips Lark and Termite

Thursday, February 12 7:30 p.m. Many Mountains Moving Press Reading Featuring Anne-Marie Cusac, Have your Jeffrey Ethan Lee, Patrick Lawler, Maureen Alsop premiums increased

5233 N. Clark recently? (773) 769-9299 See me: Charles T. Rhodes, Agent 2472 N. Clark Crew gets hotter than usual Crew Bar & Grill, 4804 N. Broadway, held its 3rd Annual Customer Chili Cook Off Jan. 24, 1-3 [email protected] 773.281.0890 p.m. The winning chili was cooked by Drew Ferguson (left), who was awarded $100 in cash. www.womenandchildrenfirst.com State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company Parking Available (not in NJ) He, in turn, donated the money to Care for Real—the charity that benefited from the event— Wheelchair Accessible State Farm Indemnity Company (NJ) increasing the amount raised for the night to $590. Photos by Kirk Williamson Home Offices: Bloomington, Illinois Jan. 28, 2009 9 QUOTELINES Q BY REX WOCKNER “As far as LGBT rights is concerned, again. That ended up working out for that very we can and should hold (Obama’s) feet embattled administration of A Thousand Days. to the fire to make good on his prom- Which was why we were so devastated when he ises, particularly given the transparent insults was taken from us so quickly. Any person who to the community with the McClurkin and can say of our current economy that it ‘hasn’t Warren political maneuvers. Of course, there had adult supervision in quite a while,’ seems Center holds kickoff party is much he personally cannot do—he has to to me to be sensible enough to help full GLBT The television station WTTW-11 hosted Center on Halsted’s Human First Gala Table Captain Kick- use the bully pulpit to influence a Congress rights eventually get on his lists of things to off Party Jan. 15. On Saturday, March 21, Center on Halsted will hold its annual Human First Gala in that is gun-shy about our issues even when do. Even if he doesn’t get around to it until the the Hyatt Regency Hotel’s Grand Ballroom, 151 E. Wacker. This year’s honorees include Illinois State the national polls are clearly on our side (such very last year of his eight-year term.” — Gay Reps. Sara Feigenholtz and Greg Harris; Joe Loundy; and the Night Ministry. For more information, as with) DADT (and) hate crimes. ... There may author Felice Picano to this column, Jan. 15. visit www.centeronhalsted.org or call 773-472-6469. be a Democratic majority on the Hill, but we’ve To learn more about supporting the Center by becoming a table captain, contact Leslie DeMonte got enough Blue Dogs up there that it will “(I feel) optimism that we’ll have at [email protected] or call 773-472-6469, ext. 251. Photo of (from left) Greg A. take every bit of the persuasive and charis- someone from another oppressed mi- Thompson, Sarah Schmidt and Greg Cameron courtesy of Danny Kopelson matic charm Barack Obama possesses—as well nority going to bat for us on a regular ba- as hardball politics—to successfully move our sis. Hopefully, the Rick Warren thing will be issues. He knows full well that the far-right, remembered as just a blip on his record and Task force ALCC seeking well-financed social conservatives are desper- Obama will stop pandering, quickly dropping nominees ate to protect institutionalized bigotry and the idea that there’s any kind of reasonable sets agenda The AIDS Legal Council of Chicago (ALCC) is will begin their political assaults on him—and debate about whether gays deserve fair and BY YASMIN NAIR accepting nominations for the 2009 Advocates us—from day one of his presidency. I would be just treatment. Ring fingers crossed. (I expect of the Year Awards, which will be held Tuesday, pleasantly surprised if he did anything proac- Obama will) drop ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,’ pro- The Chicago LGBT Task Force on Substance Abuse May 5, at the Playboy Foundation, 680 N. Lake tive related to equality issues in his first 100 mote civil unions ... and pump up our image met to discuss its agenda for the upcoming year Shore. The Awards celebrate the outstanding days, given the mountain of economic prob- as respectable American citizens. But he can’t and to hammer out the details of forthcoming achievements of men and women in Illinois who lems to tackle right now, but I’d like to see him work magic—we have to do all the rest our- conferences and publicity campaigns. The meet- are making a difference in the lives of people open up a formal dialogue with the American selves.” — Gay Village Voice columnist Michael ing was held Jan. 21. with HIV. people to discuss why discrimination holds Musto to this column, Jan. 15. The group discussed Web-based projects de- To submit a candidate for consideration, our country back. Part of signed to provide more online and interactive download the nominating form at www.aidsle- what we need from this information for people. These projects included gal.com/Documents/Nominating_Form_2009. president is leadership— the “Peter Pointers” section on the lifelube blog pdf and return it with letters of support to ALCC to take the responsibility I am thrilled (www.lifelube.blogspot.com), maintained by by Friday, Jan. 30. of educating and commu- to see an Project CRYSP and “soft-launched” the previous If you have any questions, please call Ricardo nicating effectively about end to the week. Here, users can pose questions, and they Cifuentes at 312-427-8990 or ricardo@aidsle- issues of equality rather Ocamb Karen by Photo are answered by a member of a team of experts. gal.com. than leaving it a matter of completely The responses are sent to questioners’ personal an oppressed group having disastrous e-mails to ensure confidentiality, and are also to make the case for equal- Equality Illinois ity on its own. It’s time for Bush years. posted online (without any information that —Lorri Jean identifies questioners) so that others might use gala Feb. 7 allies, current and poten- them as a resource. Equality Illinois will hold its annual “Justice tial, to step up to make Community mobilization in the past year has for All” gala Saturday, Feb. 7, at the Hilton Chi- that case for our issues to consisted of forums like “Sex and the Superhigh- cago, 720 S. Michigan. become a reality, and Ba- way.” The group also discussed an upcoming The event is the largest LGBT-related black-tie rack Obama has publicly declared his ally sta- public conference titled “Hermanos de Luna Y gala in the Midwest. tus during the campaign to obtain our dollars “Having lived through Mitterrand’s Sol: Addressing Stigma and Promoting Communi- The cocktail reception and silent auction start and votes. The spotlight is on him now, and inauguration in France, where everyone ty Involvement as HIV Prevention for Gay Latino at 6 p.m., while the dinner and program begin we’ll be watching to see what he does when on the Left was overjoyed, and the same ex- Men,” to be held Jan. 28 at La Estancia, 2753 W. at 8 p.m. the rubber hits the road and it’s time to talk citement in England over Tony Blair, I’m a bit Division, at 6 p.m. A panel discussion featuring Tickets start at $250 each. Visit www.eqil.org, about legislation.” — Popular lesbian blogger skeptical though also eternally hopeful. I think Dr. Rafael Diaz, from San Francisco State Uni- or contact Joey McDonald at jmcdonald@eqil. Pam Spaulding (PamsHouseBlend.com) to this that Obama is so intelligent—and so confident versity, and Dr. Jesus Ramirez-Valles, from the org or 773-244-3373. column, Jan. 17. as a man—that he’s probably predisposed to- University at Illinois-Chicago, will be followed wards gays, but he’s also such a realist that I by a performance by Nuestro Tambó. For more, ROTC looking for “I’m hoping for the best (from Obama) doubt he’ll waste any of his high cards bet- visit www.lifelube.org, or call 312-334-0939. and expecting the worst, as one must do with ting on just five percent of the population.” Another conference that was discussed is the new members any politician, and indeed with life.” — Vet- — Celebrated gay author Edmund White to this 2009 LGBTI National Health Summit, which will Righteously Outrageous Twirling Corps (ROTC) eran gay and AIDS activist Larry Kramer to this column, Jan. 15. mark the 40th anniversary of Stonewall. It will Chicago is seeking new members as it embarks column, Jan. 15. be held in Chicago Aug. 14-18. The organizing on its 16th season. “Of course, I am thrilled to see an committee is currently working on registration ROTC Chicago has been a crowd favorite at Mid- “Relief (is what I feel about Obama’s end to the completely disastrous Bush and a call for abstracts. For more information, summerfest, Market Days and Pride events since inauguration but) I expect nothing from years. And Obama’s election is an historic ad- contact Cat Jefcoat at [email protected] 1993 and they are looking for new members. national politicians; I expect a lot from us. We vancement of monumental proportion in which or Jim Pickett at [email protected]. There will be an informal rehearsal at Ebenezer are the ones we’ve been waiting for. And we all of us should revel. But, the ... inexcusable The group also talked about a forthcoming Church, 1650 W. Foster. have work to do.” — Gay writer Andrew Sul- invitation to Rick Warren to speak at the in- social marketing campaign entitled “How are Go to www.rotcchicago.org or e-mail info@ livan to this column, Jan. 15. augural ruined it for me both as a feminist You Healthy?” According to attendee Jim Pick- rotcchicago.org. and lesbian activist. ... I can only hope that ett, most health campaigns tend to focus on a “I’m very skeptical that President it is not a portent of things to come regarding “deficit,” exposing people’s lack of health or re- Forum for Latino Obama will actually follow through what the LGBT community can expect from the lated knowledge. This new “holistic” campaign on the promises he made during the campaign. Obama administration.” — Los Angeles Gay & will focus on what diverse LGBT communities are gay men Jan. 28 We may get hate crimes or other minor legisla- Lesbian Center Chief Executive Officer Lorri Jean doing right, with images and messages about “Hermanos de Luna y Sol: Addressing Stigma tion, but I seriously doubt that (the) ‘Don’t to this column, Jan. 15. healthy aspects of their sexuality, religious prac- and Promoting Community Involvement as HIV Ask, Don’t Tell’ (repeal) or ENDA will get signed tices, nutritional habits and relational matters. Prevention for Latino Gay Men” will take place into law during the next four years. I don’t “My sense is that our communities The campaign will consist of Red Line interior Wed., Jan. 28, at La Estancia, 2753 W. Division, think Mr. Obama will be willing to use the po- will see an inclusive ENDA passed and signed rail posters as well as messages on the backs of at 6 p.m. litical capital required to get this legislation by Obama in the next two years as well as re- buses, and will be unveiled in March or April. The event will feature Dr. Rafael Diaz of San passed.” — Log Cabin Republicans President peal of ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.’ Those giant leaps Francisco State University, Dr. Jesus Ramirez- Patrick Sammon to this column, Jan. 15. forward are now possible. Federal protections Valles of UIC and a performance by Nuestro for all 50 states against discrimination in Tambo. “I’m old enough to remember John F. housing and employment have been 30 years Interested persons must RSVP for this event; Kennedy taking office and though I was a in the making.” — Seattle Gay News owner visit https://afc.aidschicago.org. kid then, there was the same sense of getting George Bakan to this column, Jan. 15. rid of those old guys and moving the country out of a big ditch and getting it going forward —Assistance: Bill Kelley 10 Jan. 28, 2009

VOL. 24, No. 18, Jan. 28, 2009 VIEWPOINT The combined forces of Windy City Times, founded Sept. 1985, and Outlines newspaper, Two African Americans (Michael Steele and In a sign of how lost Republicans truly are, the founded May 1987. Kenneth Blackwell) are also contending for the New York Times reported that several operatives PUBLISHER & Executive EDITOR WAYNE prize, hoping to change the party’s image. But, said that the party should “seek to recover its Tracy Baim even if the GOP somehow manages to overcome standing among Hispanic voters.” I’m not sure BESEN its poor reputation on race, it is still hostage to how this will occur. The GOP base is virulently Assistant Publisher Terri Klinsky the whims of social conservatives. For example, anti-immigration and mentions “The Wall” more MANAGING Editor Andrew Davis Business manager Cynthia Holmes Steele, former lieutenant governor of Maryland, often than Pink Floyd. Director of New Media Jean Albright may not get the job because he, while anti- As if to confirm that the Republican Party is ART DIRECTOR Kirk Williamson choice, favors an exemption in cases of incest or plunging to new depths, there are rumors (in account managerS: Amy Matheny, Kirk when a woman’s life is in jeopardy. jest for now) that “Joe the Plumber” may run Williamson, Terry Wiegel Log Cabin blues Promotions director Cynthia Holmes In obsessing over such parochial issues, the for the U.S. Senate seat in Ohio. And, speak- NIGHTSPOTS MANAGING Editor Kirk Williamson Republican Party has chosen the revival tent ing of raw sewage, Ann Coulter has a detestable The gay Log Cabin Republicans are broke and National Sales Rivendell Media, 212-242-6863 over the Big Tent, at the very moment they need new book, Guilty, which reminds the nation why TheatER Editor Scott C. Morgan their party is seriously broken. The group’s to appeal to moderate swing voters. Those on conservatives have fallen out of favor. Cinema WRITER Richard Knight, Jr. $100,000 debt comes at a time when the GOP BOOKS WRITER Yasmin Nair the party’s delusional wing are flirting with for- The gay and lesbian community is poised to is indebted more than ever to extremists. In- SENIOR WRITERS Bob Roehr, Rex Wockner, Marie mer Ohio Secretary of State Kenneth Blackwell, a make an enormous amount of progress. Rep. stead of learning from Election Day, the party J. Kuda, David Byrne, Cathy Seabaugh, Tony conservative African American, to chair the RNC. Barney Frank, D-Mass., told The New Yorker that Peregrin is pandering to those who believe in the “End Blackwell once compared gay people to “arson- he expects Congress to pass laws outlawing em- ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT WRITERS of Days,” which will only expedite the party’s Mary Shen Barnidge, Jim Edminster, Steve Warren, ists and kleptomaniacs,” described their lives as ployment discrimination, addressing hate crimes political apocalypse. Lawrence Ferber, Mel Ferrand, Tim Nasson, Catey a “transgression against God’s law,” and believes and ending the military’s disastrous Don’t Ask, Changing demographics have transformed Sullivan, Zachary Whittenburg, J. S. Hall that they can “change.” In 2004, Blackwell led Don’t Tell policy. Columnists/Writers: Yvonne Zipter, Susie Day, America into a high-definition flat screen, while the campaign to amend Ohio’s constitution to I wish I could say that this will be a biparti- Jorjet Harper, Lee Lynch, Steve Starr, Joe Rice, Republicans resemble a bulky, black-and-mostly- Dan Woog, Marie-Jo Proulx, Lisa Keen, Chris Crain, prohibit recognition of same-sex marriage or san effort—but it won’t be. It will be a major- white television set. With twisted antennas they Charlsie Dewey, Michael Knipp, Karen Dixon, Mark civil unions. ity of Democrats, with a few exceptions, over- can’t get clear reception, and they rotate the Corece, Sabine Neidhardt Those who support Blackwell foolishly believe riding the objections of a Republican minority PHOTOGRAPHERS Kat Fitzgerald, Mel Ferrand, dilapidated dial in search of a meaningful mes- that public relations can repair race relations in lockstep with the religious right. Even if we Steve Becker, Steve Starr sage. Only two channels seem to break through: ARTISTS/CARTOONISTS Alison Bechdel, Mikeoart and give the party a modern facade. This cynical do achieve legal equality, we will still have to UHF reruns of Leave It To Beaver and the Chris- CIRCULATION strategy will not work any better now than it did endure the continued verbal abuse, humiliation tian Broadcasting Network’s 700 Club. This may Circulation director Jean Albright when the Republicans elevated Clarence Thomas and lies spewed by some Republican members of appeal to those stuck in the past or the party Distribution: Ashina, Allan, Crystal, Dan, John, to the Supreme Court. It also seems self-destruc- congress. Sue and Victor “faithful,” but it’s no way to tune into tomor- tive for a party to consider a man as its leader While gay Republicans were building a Log row. who lost his 2006 Ohio gubernatorial race by a Cabin, social conservatives built a skyscraper A microcosm of GOP madness is the race to 24-point margin. That is not exactly “a winner.” that blots out the sun. Until this monstrosity choose a Republican National Committee chair- Furthermore, as the first African-American RNC implodes, Log Cabin will remain in the shadows. man. One candidate, Chip Saltsman, the Tennes- chairman, Blackwell would be compared to the Whether Log Cabin has money in the bank is ir- see party leader, handed out a Christmas CD at a far more eloquent and historic Barack Obama. relevant, as the Christian Coalition drove them holiday party that featured the song, Barack the While Obama focused on issues such as health- out of business a long time ago. Magic Negro. Saltsman told the New York Times care and the economy, Blackwell—if the past is © 2008 Wayne Besen. All rights reserved. that he believes those voting for a chairman indicative—would fixate on homosexuality and See www.waynebesen.com. have “gotten past it.” No doubt they have—and Copyright 2009 Lambda Publications Inc./Windy City Media abortion. For most Americans, Obama would Note: According to very recent news reports, Group; All rights reserved. Reprint by permission only. this is the problem. Back issues available for $3 per issue (postage included). provide inspiration, while Blackwell would be a donors are stepping in to help the Log Cabin Another candidate, Katon Dawson, head of the Return postage must accompany all manuscripts, drawings, cause of division and irritation. If the GOP were Republicans organization with its financial and photographs submitted if they are to be returned, and South Carolina GOP, had to quit his membership trying to commit suicide, electing Blackwell crisis. no responsibility may be assumed for unsolicited materials. in an all-white country club to run for chairman All rights to letters, art and photographs sent to Windy would be the perfect poison pill to swallow. City Times will be treated as unconditionally assigned of a nearly all-white country club—the RNC. for publication purposes and as such, subject to editing and comment. The opinions expressed by the columnists, cartoonists, letter writers, and commentators are their own and do not necessarily reflect the position ofWindy City Times. Publication of the name, photograph, or likeness of a person or organization in articles or advertising in Windy LETTERS City Times is not to be construed as any indication of the sexual orientation of such person or organization. While CORE or less Chicago/Cook County area. Then, like now, HIV/ sted and Lakeview Men’s Shelter. we encourage readers to support the advertisers who make AIDS disproportionably impacted gay men. AGLOChicago (The Archdiocesan Gay and Les- this newspaper possible, Windy City Times cannot accept The initial HIV primary-care program was, in bian Outreach of Chicago) needs to be applauded responsibility for advertising claims. I am writing to you in response to the Dec. 10, (773) 871-7610 FAX (773) 871-7609 2008, Windy City Times article, “Black LGBT fact, the vision of a gay physician, Dr. Ron Sable, for this wonderful work. However, many LGBT re- e-mail: [email protected] group calls for facility’s investigation.” who eventually died of an AIDS-related infection ligious and non-religious organizations, includ- For the record, I am a staff person at the Ruth himself. My point is that the center’s staff and ing corporations, do as much as AGLOChicago, www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com M. Rothstein CORE Center as well as a long-term environment are inclusive, non-judgmental and and possibly more. This, in no way, is meant radio: WindyCityQueercast.com recipient of the services that have been provided welcoming to all people regardless of race, gen- to diminish the wonderful work AGLOChicago’s video: QueerTVNetwork.com der, religion or sexual orientation. volunteers have done and Joseph Ferrallo, the there since its opening in October 1998. In both WINDY CITY MEDIA GROUP, my roles—as the consumer development and I can say a great deal about the diversity of organization’s co-director, should be comple- 5315 N. Clark St. #192, Chicago, IL 60640 USA advocacy coordinator and client—I was com- the CORE Center staff—in particular regarding mented. (MAILING ADDRESS ONLY) pletely taken back by these charges, as they did race and sexual orientation as well as our cli- However, I am somewhat confused that entele—but would prefer to invite you to hear AGLOChicago says it engages in social justice Windy City Times Deadline every Wednesday. not represent my experience in either role, i.e., Nightspots Deadline Wednesday prior to street date. provider/consumer. those perspectives for yourself. There are a num- while it remains silent on such issues as same- Identity (BLACKlines and En La Vida): Now In this article, Mark Loveless of the Coalition ber of people ready and willing to offer more sex marriage, LGBT-related suicide rates and online only for Justice and Respect and Marlon Thompson, balanced perspectives to the abovementioned Cardinal Francis George’s homophobic attacks on Deadline The 10th of month prior. story, and I would be happy to facilitate a meet- the LGBT community. OUT! Resource Guide ONLINE a former CORE Center employee, made very spe- www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com cific charges about the CORE Center, including ing so that those stories can be shared with your One vexing issue is AGLOChicago’s silence on “the use of racial and homophobic slurs by man- paper. There is, in fact, much more to this story the issue of abortion. It is amazing, given the agement and employees.” Needless to say, these than what has been offered by Mr. Loveless and fact that Cardinal George is instructing all of www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com Mr. Thompson. Sadly, in this day and time when Chicago’s parishes to take part in a national ef- www.WindyCityQueercast.com are serious charges that are now being thor- www.QueerTVNetwork.com more and more young African-American gay men fort to pressure President Barack Obama not to oughly investigated. I am confident that once this investigation has been completed that the are at risk for HIV or already infected, distor- sign the Freedom of Choice Act. Will AGLOChi- charges will be determined to be without merit. tions of the facts such as those presented by cago oppose this effort, or will they distribute However, even if I am correct and a investiga- these two gentlemen waylay efforts to reduce these post cards? barriers to care and opportunities so people can Good works are very important, and should be tion shows that these charges are false, I worry “Windy City Media Group generated about the potential impact on not just African- receive the quality care they need and deserve. applauded, but good works alone cannot cor- —Peter McLoyd, Chicago rect the social injustices the LGBT Community enormous interest among their American gay men but all same-gender-loving readers in this year’s LGBT Consumer people in need of the type of services that have is faced with, more should be expected from any Index Survey.Out of approximately been provided at the CORE Center for the past Altared state organization that claims to be part of the social 100 print and online media partners decade. I might add that even prior to the open- justice struggle in the LGBT Community. who participated in the survey, ing of the center, these HIV-related primary care I am responding to your Jan. 21 article, Is it possible for us to join together in chal- Windy City was the best performing and social services had been provided since 1983 “AGLOChicago completes challenge.” As a gay lenging homophobia, racism and sexism in the regional media in the US.Only at the old Cook County Hospital. In these earli- Roman Catholic, I am always heartened when Church? I realize this subject might be a com- est days of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, Cook County any donate their time and talents to the won- bustible topic among the leadership of AGLOChi- survey partners with a nationwide Hospital (and, now, the CORE Center) stood as a derful work of 20 different agencies, including cago to include the cardinal, but Catholics need footprint were able to generate a beacon of light and an oasis for the most dis- Howard Brown Health Center, Broadway Youth to be able to speak publically to each other on greater number of responses.” said enfranchised people living with HIV/AIDS in the Center, Lesbian Community Care Project, Bo- matters that impact our community. ­­—David Marshall, Research Director, naventure House, Chicago House, Center on Hal- —Joe Murray, Rainbow Sash Movement Community Marketing, Inc. Jan. 28, 2009 11 GOINGS-ON WINDY CITY TIMES’ ENTERTAINMENT SECTION

COMMON FENCE Michelle Williams (above) is a little meshed up in the film Wendy and Lucy. Read page 16. THEATER TRANSNATION PROFILE

The ‘Shore’ thing. ‘Race’ case. ‘Arc’ angel. page 17 page 15 page 20

Photo by Emmanuel Garcia

surprised about the audience demographic that Scottish turned out for Xanadu’s Broadway run. “I thought that 40-year-old gay people would Play Scott be its original target audience, but a lot of busi- BY SCOTT C. MORGAN ness women and executives came to see the show own their own because they loved Olivia Wicked has flown away from Chicago. The Broad- Newton-John.” way blockbuster racked up 1,500 performances over more than three years at the Ford Center Chicago theater making good elsewhere for the Performing Arts, Oriental Theatre, 24 W. President Barack Obama isn’t the only note- Randolph, grossing more than $200 million in worthy Chicago import in Washington, D.C. Both ticket sales. Redmoon Theatre’s Hunchback and Robert Falls’ Of course, civic boosters are unhappy with 2006 Goodman Theatre production of King Lear Wicked’s departure (and all the extra tourist dol- are scheduled as part of Shakespeare Theatre lars it helped to bring in). There’s also the point Company’s current season in D.C. of pride with Wicked, since it proved naysayers Chicago theatergoers can also trot out “we saw wrong by showing that the Windy City could him first” boasting rights when it comes to actor support a long-running stand-alone Broadway Michael Shannon. On Thursday, Jan. 22, Shan- musical. non was nominated for an Academy Award for The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee his supporting performance in the Sam Mendes followed into Chicago, lasting an impressive year film Revolutionary Road. at the Drury Lane Theatre Water Tower Place, 175 Locals will remember Shannon as a longtime E. Chestnut. Then there’s Jersey Boys, which has stalwart of A Red Orchid Theatre and an original shown that it too has long-running legs at the Xanadu. actor in such Tracy Letts plays like Killer Joe, Bank of America Theatre, 18 W. Monroe. (A new Bug and Man from Nebraska. Shannon’s last ma- jor Chicagoland appearances were in The Pillow- block of tickets just went on sale through July sales. This was a blow to the theater’s new in Honey Drown), he pointed to a whole slew of man at Steppenwolf in 2006 and Lady at North- 12.) owners, Madison Square Garden Entertainment, factors why Chicago might embrace Xanadu. light Theatre in 2007. So will lightning strike a fourth time when the which no doubt would also like to tap into Chi- “When [Chicago-based director] Gary Griffin And then on the West Coast, Berkeley Reper- Broadway musical Xanadu attempts an open run cago’s lucrative touring show market. saw Xanadu, he came up to me said, ‘This show tory Theatre continues to give prominent place at Drury Lane Theatre Water Tower Place? It re- At first glance, it wouldn’t seem like the odds has to play Chicago,’” Beane said. “And it has to artists with Chicago ties. A revival of director mains to be seen if Chicago will be as welcoming are stacked in Xanadu’s favor. It is, after all, to play this theater called the Drury Lane Water Mary Zimmerman’s Arabian Nights just finished as New York was with this campy and tongue-in- based upon what is generally regarded to be Tower, because it’s perfect for it.” up a run there. Berkeley Rep is also staging the cheek 2007 stage adaptation of the flop 1980 one of the worst films ever made. (Its plot is all Indeed, Xanadu played over a year in one of world premiere of In the Next Room (or the vi- film musical starring Olivia Newton-John. (Check about an otherworldly muse that inspires a guy Broadway’s most intimate playhouses—the Hel- brator play) by former Chicago playwright Sarah next week’s Windy City Times for a review.) to build a roller disco.) en Hayes Theatre—so, naturally, the cozy Drury Ruhl. Xanadu opens just on the heels of some disap- Xanadu was also shut out of the 2008 Tony Lane would be more than suitable. Since Chicago saw major recent productions pointing theater news for Chicago. Awards, although it did win accolades from crit- Also working in Xanadu’s favor is a lot of built- of Ruhl’s Euridyce, The Clean House, Dead Man’s The Windy City tryout run of Rob Roy: The ics and the Outer Critics Circle Award for Best in room for improvisational comedy, courtesy Cell Phone and Passion Play: A Cycle, don’t be Musical was cancelled, though its Toronto run Musical. of the evil muses Melpomene and Calliope (re- surprised if Ruhl’s vibrator play starts making is still going ahead. (Rob Roy was supposed to But Xanadu does at least have a famous score spectively played by Sharon Wilkins and Joanna some noise here soon. help bring back the Arie Crown Theater as a host of hit songs by the Electric Light Orchestra. Glushak). And in these tough economic times, Please send theater news and other tidbits of big Broadway-sized shows again.) Xanadu also has a big subscriber base of Broad- Xanadu should be a welcome piece of campy es- to [email protected] and An- Then, the national tour of the musical Chitty way in Chicago to initially draw upon. capism. [email protected]. Chitty Bang Bang cancelled its stint at the Chi- But talking to Xanadu playwright Douglas “There are pointed references to the show’s cago Theatre, 175 N. State, due to poor ticket Carter Beane (The Little Dog Laughed, As Bees big gay following,” Beane said, though he was 12 Jan. 28, 2009 THEATER REVIEWS The Sum of Us CRITICS’ PICS Playwright: David Stevens Look, What I Don’t Understand, Athe- At: 1027 Productions at Piccolo Theatre, naeum through Feb. 1. Young actor Anthony 600 Main, Evanston Nikolchev plays 20 characters in a one-man Phone: 773-334-2765; $15-$20 tour de force retracing the outbound journey Runs through Feb. 7 of his grandparents from Soviet-era Bulgaria to the West. He has power to spare. JA Monty Python’s Spamalot, Auditorium Stop/Kiss Theatre of Roosevelt University, through Playwright: Diana Son Feb. 1. Star Richard Chamberlain could At: Gift Theatre, 4802 N. Milwaukee bring a bit more zest to the role of King Ar- Phone: 773-283-7071; $20-$25 thur, but he rightfully remains the essential Runs through March 14 “straight man” to all of the wonderfully per- formed wackiness surrounding him in this BY SCOTT C. MORGAN fun (if derivative) musicalization of Monty Python and the Holy Grail. SCM It’s interesting how certain “gay plays” date. These Shining Lives, Rivendell Theatre Due to societal changes, these plays can sound Ensemble at Raven Theatre, through Jan. quaint and overly preachy. Or they can be rel- 31. No one suspected that anything so pret- evant depending upon where you live and what’s Stop/Kiss. ty could be deadly—until a brave factory happened in your own life. girl warned the country of radium’s dan- Take for instance two 1990s LGBT plays now The rapport between Michael D. Graham as the As the lovers Callie and Sara, Anna Carini and gers in Melanie Marnich’s smart docudrama, appearing around Chicago: 1027 Productions’ dad, Harry, and Joel Gross’s snarky son, Jeff, Amy Speckien respectively do good work, but I featuring this season’s rising star, Rebecca The Sum of Us and The Gift Theatre’s Stop/Kiss. is loads of fun, as is their spot-on Aussie ac- wanted more trepidation and befuddlement from Spence. MSB The Sum of Us is a sentimental comic drama cents. Also very entrancing is how Gross as Jeff them. Particularly from Carini as Callie since she Tristan und Isolde, Lyric Opera of Chi- about a straight father and his grown gay son and Matt Hays as his potential boyfriend, Greg, has to cope with not only her lover’s near-death cago, through Feb. 28. Richard Wagner may each looking for love in Melbourne, Australia. flaunt their good looks (you can positively get injuries, but an uncomfortable public outing. have been a horrid man in life, but the the- Stop/Kiss is a New York City-set drama that al- lost in Gross’ dimples). The supporting performances here are all great, atrical art he produced was revolutionary ternates between scenes of two women falling The only weak link is Mary May Johnson as from James D. Farruggio’s bossy Detective Cole and remains transcendent. See Wagner’s ode in love and with their aftermath as victims of a Harry’s love-interest Joyce. Johnson makes a to Alexandra Main aggravated Mrs. Winsley. Paul to obsessive love vividly illustrated in this vicious hate crime. game stab at the Aussie accent, but falls short. D’Addario and Kyle Zornes are great as the boy- acclaimed David Hockney-designed produc- But both plays deal with the coming out If the preaching in The Sum of Us doesn’t feel friends. tion. SCM process—from the first steps of acknowledging dramatically organic, the calls for gay accep- Though both The Sum of Us and Stop/Kiss —By Abarbanel, Barnidge and Morgan one’s same-sex feelings to the life-long issue of tance in Stop/Kiss just play out in the dramatic aren’t perfect, they remain timely and relevant. when it’s appropriate to out oneself. situations. It just depends on where you are with who you The Sum of Us would be the perfect play to Director Michael Patrick Thornton delivers a are. take one’s parents after coming out, since large any patriarchy on the planet. It is also a scath- capable production of Stop/Kiss, though he and swaths of it are about love and acceptance. So ing depiction of Capitalism at its most treacher- his cast are ultimately hindered by Son’s back- much so that it becomes an old-hat lecture to THEATER REVIEW ously, ruthlessly amoral. and-forth structure (too much time feels spent those already out and proud. Graceful exposition lets us know that all of moving scenery). Designer Courtney O’Neill’s out- The Little Foxes 1027’s take on The Sum of Us is worthwhile the Hubbard family fortune went to Regina’s side-inside set no doubt was meant to symbolize Playwright: Lillian Hellman thanks to a set of great performances under brothers. They are Oscar (Don Bender, making an the private-public dichotomy, but it comes off as At: Shattered Globe Theatre Robert D. Estrin’s direction. uncharacteristic misstep by glowering a bit too too PBS Kids for me. at the Greenhouse Theater Center, 2257 N. Lincoln broadly as a despicably domineering husband) Phone: 773-770-0333; $$15-$35 and Benjamin (Kevin Kenneally, slippery under- handedness gleaming through his gentlemanly :?@:8>FËJ=8MFI@K<E;4CC8 Adapted by A>18=70F3>= certainly not giving away here, the piece ben- K?<8LK?FIF=K?< efits hugely from a massive staircase. (When 1—and there will be plenty of fare for LGBT )''/KFEP8N8I;žN@EE9F<@E> Directed by 9>7=C8;;8=64A was memorably dominated by blood-red, spiral One of the scheduled productions if Ralph steps that arched a good two stories over the (until Feb. 21), described as “[a] mythic story Starring stage.) That’s a design element that’s simply not of love, loneliness and liberation, told by a 9455A4H feasible in the Greenhouse’s tiny upstairs studio gay schizophrenic living on the edge.” 3>=>E0= space. But while frustrating, (and scenic design- Another is Big Goddess Pow Wow: From the and er Melania Lancy has done a terrific job creating Ashes, a one-time event occurring Saturday, a luxurious plantation interior), the restrictions Feb. 7, at 8 p.m. Co-curators Paula Killen and ?0CA8280 on the set are not a deal breakers. The cast, led Lisa Buscani will be joined by Pow Wow veter- :0;4<14A by the chameleonic Linda Reiter, is far too good ans Cin Salach, Marcia Wilkie, Jenny Magnus, Cheryl Trykv, C.C. Carter and Naomi Ashley. KL<K?<8KI< narchal here—in the Machiavellian rather than Messing with Friends. The Goddesses have Tickets call*()$0//$0'''orK@:B

Great Here’s reasons to shop at

The Other Shore.

THEATER REVIEW is forced by the other players to renounce his victory. A Brechtian snake-oil peddler persuades The Other Shore a gullible crowd to drive off the hoochie-coochie Playwright: Gao Xingjian, dancer distracting his customers. A pilgrim translated by Gilbert CF Fong comes upon a field of immobilized residents At: Halcyon Theatre at the Berry Memorial (the “human sculpture” exercise) who, once 2009 Rabbit 2 Dr. United Methodist Church, 4754 N. Leavitt re-animated, demand that he share their confu- Phone: 312-458-9170; $15-$20 sion. Another is mocked by his own shadow. In Runs through: Feb. 21 this universe, the only deliverance from death 2009 Jetta S is intervention by a character identified as the BY MARY SHEN BARNIDGE Heart. In a repressive society, it takes courage to If you remember that Chinese playwright Gao champion individual autonomy and to employ Xingjian is a survivor of the “Cultural Revolu- Grotowskian touchy-feely techniques in doing tion,” his parables of lone dissidents brought so. (Yes, the tribe strips off their shirts for the Come in and to their knees by charlatans and thugs repre- inevitable group-orgy exercise.) It’s also true ask for me, Omar sent his rebellion against a totalitarian state. that those techniques can be entertaining to Or, if you’re inclined, you could view its hero’s audiences witnessing them for the first (few) journey as an allegory of the Buddhist quest for times. But ultimately, this Halcyon production spiritual perfection. But if your mind strays mo- emerges as more fun for its cheerfully whole- mentarily from these lofty subtexts—as it easily some participants than for its spectators, and as might when confronted with a bevy of black- such, offers little of note to American playgoers FREE INDOOR PARKING clad young athletes in a church basement—you in 2009 beyond a youth-program lesson on re- may think that you have inadvertently stumbled sisting peer pressure. RIGHT ACROSS THE STREET! upon an acting class engaging in creative exer- cises now almost a half-century old. What gives this initial impression is the atmo- About Face to run sphere of faux-childlike playfulness that greets ‘Kids’ adaptation us as we enter the room to find the performers About Face Theatre’s second show of its OUR BEST PRICE GUARANTEE bouncing around to modern pop music. The first 2008-2009 season is a multimedia adaptation See, It’s Not More Expensive to Buy in the City! scripted episode is comprised of “theater games” of Stupid Kids by the late John C. Russell. The involving lengths of rope manipulated in various production will be presented at the Center on ways to illustrate philosophical principles. The Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted. next drill is the one where the ensemble clumps About Face has launched the Stupid Kids ALL CARS STORED together to suggest a single being—in this Stuff Blog (http://stupidkidstuff.blogspot. case, a party of explorers fording a stream (for com/), allowing visitors to share their per- INDOORS UNTIL DELIVERY a change, not suggested by waving a blue silk sonal stories about being a “stupid kid” and banner). to participate in the Stupid Kids Multimedia Try and Find That Anywhere Else! But after they arrive on—whattaya know?— Art Contest. the other shore, a teacher advocating empathet- “Kids” runs Feb. 12-March 8. Tickets start at ic ideals is lynched by a hostile mob, and so it $20; visit www.aboutfacetheatre.com or call NICE, FRIENDLY, NO goes for the rest of The Other Shore’s 75-minute Ovationtix at 866-811-4111. WOW! running time: The winner of a rigged card-game PRESSURE SALES STAFF BEST INVENTORY IN THE MIDWEST SPOTLIGHT Quantity Doesn’t Mean Quality... We Have the Cars In Stock That You Want!

Orpheus was the world’s first composer, on the web at www.fjvw.com according to Greek myth. His love was so strong for his deceased wife, Euridice, that he was able to use his musical skills to woo his way into the underworld to try and fetch her back to life. Now, the new Chicago Opera Vanguard brings Or- pheus and Euridice, written by Ricky 1111 N. Clark Street Ian Gordon following the loss of his lov- er to AIDS in 1996. The production has music, dance and costumes by designer 1-866-432-5442 Steven Rosengard (left) from TV’s Proj- ect Runway. Orpheus and Euridice plays From Anywhere You Call Home... 8 p.m. Thursdays through Sundays until Feb. 8 at the AV-aerie, 2000 W. Fulton. All Roads Lead To Fletcher Jones! Tickets are $20-$25; call 312-342-6280 or visit www.chicagovanguard.org. 14 Jan. 28, 2009 THEATER REVIEW attention of his wife and adolescent daughter. THEATER REVIEW a rationalist, his speculations on their imminent Ekdal was set up in photography and aided in liberation based in scientific principles. Valdez The Wild Duck marriage by a wealthy manufacturer, once the The Unseen has an escape theory, too, based in mysticism— Playwright: Henrik Ibsen, translated business partner of Ekdal’s now-ruined father. Playwright: Craig Wright binary opposition engendering the inevitable by Richard Nelson The rich man’s son, and Ekdal’s friend, now re- At: A Red Orchid Theatre, 1531 N. Wells epistemological debates. At: Court Theatre at the turns to town after a long absence and reveals Phone: 312-943-8722; $20-$25 Over 75 minutes of Pinteresque patter—phil- MCA Stage (Museum of Contemporary Art) his father’s machinations in Old Ekdal’s ruin and Runs through: March 1 osophical rambles, alphabet games, a burst of Phone: 773-753-4472 (Court) or Ekdal’s marriage. Ill and estranged from his fa- violent imagery as Smash vents his frustrations 312-397-4010 (MCA); $32-$60 ther, the son is a warped idealist who purges BY MARY SHEN BARNIDGE on his charges—both of their anticipated plans Runs through: Feb. 15 his own guilt believing that Ekdal and his wife prove futile. Instead, a curious synchronicity possess the heroic spirituality to embrace and It’s the problem every writer of fiction must emerges to implement their release. Ah, but BY JONATHAN ABARBANEL rise above unpleasant truths. Instead, the truth face: how do you prevent your story’s characters with the collapse of their carefully-constructed destroys their lives and happiness. from walking away when the going gets rough? cosmologies, a new void opens up, its frontiers Henrik Ibsen lives! This one’s for you if you re- Sporting a massive red-brown hairpiece, Kevin One easy way is to put them in prison. And if the steeped in uncertainty into whose darkness the spect Ibsen as the progenitor of theatrical mod- Gudahl is remarkable and engaging as Ekdal, prison is located in an unidentifiable country friends hesitantly venture together. ernism, but attend his late 19th-century plays smoothly managing split-second mood swings during an unidentifiable historical period, and So is our theme the evolution of religion, the (if at all) out of obligation rather than desire. and easily conveying Ekdal’s affable self-decep- the captives incarcerated for likewise unnamed psychology of isolation, the inhumanity of de- This world premiere translation makes The Wild tions. Do-no-wrong veteran Mary Beth Fisher has crimes, then distracting details based on our tention, or the triumph of fellowship? The play- Duck plain-spoken, vigorous, theatrical and ab- less range yet conveys just as much as Ekdal’s previous knowledge of such institutions are con- bill cites all of the aforementioned, escalating solutely clear about plot details and character smart and dedicated wife who holds the house- veniently eliminated and the range of possible the commendations due director Dado and her relationships which Ibsen himself—writing hold together. Laura Scheinbaum is a high-spir- conflicts diminished, leaving our jailbirds with ensemble of storefront-circuit veterans—Keith in circumspect times—left opaque. Translator ited knockout as their daughter. Jay Whittaker the leisure to wallow in the existential anomie Kupferer, Danny McCarthy and Steve Key—for Richard Nelson eschews slang and too-contem- plays the dour, do-gooder friend in a cadaver- that has beguiled playwrights ever since Waiting keeping the interpersonal dynamic always im- porary syntax yet sweeps away the fustian—real ous, almost-Dickensian turn. When he’s finally For Godot premiered. mediate and engaging, even when the dialogue and perceived—that so often encumbers Ibsen’s properly throttled, you want to shout “Kill him!” Our comrades-in-shackles this time are Valdez takes on the cutesiness of boys sharing bunk work and its sometimes-stilted rhetoric. John Reeger, blending the look of Lincoln and and Wallace. The latter shows traces of superior beds at summer camp. He makes the play funny, too, or at least pro- Ibsen himself, provides his customary gravitas upbringing—referring to the occupant of the Wright’s nebulous exercise seldom exceeds the vides opportunities of which director Charles as the industrialist. adjoining cell as “Mister Valdez”—though their limits of its well-worn genre. But in a dramatic Newell and his brilliant veteran cast take full Leigh Breslau’s vast old industrial loft setting ten years of incarceration and torture at the universe where survival, both physical and spiri- advantage. Yes, Ibsen with laughs, yet the yuks is sculptural, detailed and grittily handsome and hands of the warden they call “Smash” have ren- tual, is dependent upon the unceasing perpetu- never come at the expense of the drama but aptly serves Newell’s bohemian take on Ekdal and dered their social differences mostly negligible. ation of empathy in times of stress, audiences blossom organically out of character and irony his friends, who certainly are less reputable than Nevertheless, this kind of play mandates con- will find comfort in the supply of that precious in the manner of Chekhov’s work 12 years later. Ibsen would have wished. This new version also trasting personalities, so Wallace is presented as commodity generated by the intimacy of the Red The symbolism of the title—The Wild Duck— eliminates Ibsen’s more symbolist and overtly Orchid space. and the closing incident of self-sacrifice also psychological flights of prose. Rather than mar- shouldn’t have, according to the Daily Mail. summon up obvious parallels to Chekhov’s The ring, these changes make this production and Entertainment Perry picked up the Best International Song Seagull. reinvigorate Ibsen’s tale about the dangers of award, but the show’s host later announced The Wild Duck concerns Hialmar Ekdal, a pho- moral certitude. news that Rihanna’s Disturbia actually had taken the tographer in a small Norwegian town about 1885. honor. However, Perry did win Best Interna- No more than 40 and happily married, Ekdal is The doctor who performed surgery on Donda tional Album for her CD, One Of The Boys. clever if unoriginal, and is the spoiled center of West, rapper Kanye West’s mother, the day be- Troy Thomas has been arrested for his in- fore she died in 2007 has been sentenced to a year in jail for driving while under the influ- volvement in a jewelry raid on Paris Hilton’s CULTURE CLUB ence, according to US Magazine. Last June, Dr. home, according to IMDB.com. Thomas, 45, Jan Adams pled no contest to a misdemeanor supposedly has been behind more than 150 DUI. thefts in three years in the Los Angeles area, Actor Josh Brolin, who played Dan White in targeting celebrities such as Hilton and Duran the biopic Milk, and actor Jeffrey Wright will Duran guitarist John Taylor. have charges relating to a 2008 Shreveport, A year after Heath Ledger’s passing, his La., bar brawl dropped after striking a deal family gathered on an Australian beach to with prosecutors, according to E! Online. Bro- remember the actor, IMDB.com reported. Led- lin and Wright were at a wrap party for the ger’s elder sister, Kate, said, “We are still all movie W—Oliver Stone’s take on the life of nursing broken hearts. Like anyone who loses a President George W. Bush—when the actors family member, it has opened our eyes to the were arrested when they attempted to stop an intense suffering and painful journey that is officer from arresting a drunk crew member at death.” Ledger just received an Oscar nod for the Stray Cats bar. his turn as The Joker in last year’s blockbuster Celebrity couple Lindsay Lohan and DJ Sa- The Dark Knight. mantha Ronson—who have been the subjects A nude photo of Madonna taken in 1979 of constant break-up rumors—were allegedly will be auctioned Feb. 12 and is expected to also the subjects of “sexist and homophobic fetch at least $10,000, according to a Chicago remarks” on the BBC show The Most Annoy- Tribune item. The full-frontal black-and-white ing People of 2008, according to Peter Tatch- image—taken when the superstar was 20—ap- ell of the British gay-rights group Outrage! BBC peared in Playboy magazine in 1985. Radio 5 Live presenter DJ Spoony 5 reportedly Out musician Patrick Wolf has claimed that said of lesbians “Let the munters and mingers bouncers at a Madonna concert in England get each other. ... No one really wants them roughed him and his partner up after other ones,” and of Ronson and Lohan said, “But people complained about the couple making when they’re hot and fit ... they should be out, according to Pink.co.uk. Wolf also said saved ... for other guys.” that he was handcuffed by security and severe- Actress Eliza Dushku—probably best known ly beaten up; as a result, he said he’ll never THE MAIDS listen to her music again. BY JEAN GENET TRANSLATED BY MARTIN CRIMP DIRECTED BY JIMMY MCDERMOTT for her role as Faith on TV’s Buffy the Vampire PERFORMED AT 664 VERNON AVENUE Slayer—has signed on to produce a biopic about controversial gay artist Robert Map- “THE ACTRESSES ARE plethorpe, according to Black Book Magazine. MAGNIFICENT.” In doing so, she has cast brother Nate Dushku, – CHICAGO SUN-TIMES a onetime yoga instructor, in the lead. Map- plethorpe died of AIDS in 1989 at age 42. $40 TICKETS STILL AVAILABLE. An Italian soccer player, Marco Borriello, has claimed that he cannot wait to see David ORDER TODAY! Beckham naked when Beckham temporarily plays with Borriello’s team, AC Milan, this year, according to Pink.co.uk. Borriello said, “I have WRITERSTHEATRE.ORG a dressing-room curiosity. I want to see if he is equipped as he is in the Armani underwear 8 47 - 242 - 6000 WRITERS’ 2008/09 Season Sponsor: Mary Winton Green Media Sponsor: THEATRE ads.” I Kissed a Girl singer Katy Perry had a good Heath Ledger in The Dark Knight. time at the recent NRJ Music Awards—until it turned out that she picked up an award she Jan. 28, 2009 15 TRANSNATION It’s dangerous because if people accepted that drummer.” The result, RuPaul’s Drag Race, pre- message or really took it in, they would have to mieres on Logo Monday, Feb. 2, at 9 p.m. CT. deconstruct who they are and…a lot of people Excited that “the time is right for me to be Bush is out, don’t have the guts to do that.” heard and be seen again,” Charles also narrates “Drag will always exist,” Charles insists, de- the Starz channel documentary Ladies or Gentle- RuPaul is in spite the rise of gender bending and increasingly men, a history of cross-dressing in film, which By Jacob Anderson-Minshall fluid self-identities. “It’s really an enlightened premiered earlier this week and of featured com- state; that’s why some of the gods in different mentary by the once controversial lesbian au- “We all played a part in the Bush fiasco,” main- religions have always had that duality. It’s al- thor Camille Paglia. tains supermodel RuPaul Charles, remarking on ways compelling to see someone who is both A career retrospective featuring Charles’ most the outgoing administration. “We can’t just strong and also nurturing. Drag [queens and memorable gowns and ensembles is part of the point the finger at what they did; we have to kings] have always been the myth keepers of RuPaul Drag Race art show—the largest exhi- take responsibility for our part. That’s the only every culture, the witch doctors, the shamans.” bition by and about drag queens every assem- way we can advance and expand.” For years Charles dodged the spotlight to fo- bled—currently on display at the World of Won- Back in the limelight with a new dance song/ cus on his family, and kept his distance from der Storefront Gallery, in Hollywood, California. music video, “Cover Girl (Put the Bass in Your reality television, because, “I didn’t want to do Trans author Jacob Anderson-Minshall is Walk),” and a new reality show, RuPaul’s Drag it if it were mean-spirited or derogatory.” the author of Blind Faith, the latest Blind Eye Race, Charles credits his new visibility to the Then Charles teamed up with the people be- mystery, which is already garnering rave re- Obama presidency. hind his VH-1 show and says, “I knew that I was views. To view the book trailer and find out “I thought it was time after these eight years in safe hands. I knew that they felt the same more, check out blindeyemysteries.com. with the Bush administration, these eight years way I did, that they would like to celebrate the of fear, that a new generation be introduced people who dance to the beat of a different to drag, because…anything to do with gender experimentation in a fear-based period of time has to go underground because it’s too scary. So RuPaul. Photo by Emmanuel Garcia Saltimbanco soars re-introducing drag to a younger generation was Cirque du Soleil’s Saltimbanco—which, important for me.” translated from Italian, means “to jump Already a chart-topping musician (“Supermod- Lucy Lawless, Jenny Shimizu and Tori Spelling. on a bench”—had the crowds leaping el (You Better Work)”), a seasoned actor (Starr- What sets the show apart, Charles maintains, out of their seats throughout the open- booty), a well-heeled talk show host (VH1’s The is the courage the contestants display. “Anybody ing show Jan. 21 at the Sears Centre in RuPaul Show), a cosmetics spokesmodel (for who’s ever decided they’re going to leave the Hoffman Estates. This show marks the MAC), a Barbie substitute (as the RuPaul doll), a house in high heels, lipstick and a plastic wig first time the classic version of Cirque du memoir author (Letting it All Hang Out) and the on…[when] they’re a boy, is so courageous! It Soleil is in arenas, as it tours over 40 world’s most famous drag queen, Charles adds takes so much chutzpah to do that.” venues in Canada and the United States. the roles of reality-show host, mentor and judge In fact, Charles argues, simply by suggesting The various acts in this version include with RuPaul’s Drag Race. our identities are malleable, drag is downright Russian swing, boleadoras, juggling, tra- In the series, nine professional female imper- dangerous. peze, bungees and Chinese poles. Saltim- sonators are vying for the chance to be “Ameri- “Throughout the ages, [cross-dressing] has banco with be in Rockford, Ill., at the ca’s next drag superstar.” reminded our culture that...you are not who MetroCentre Feb. 24-March 1. For more Charles, who self identifies simply as Ru, you think you are. This is just a temporary pack- information, swing over to www.cirque- appears as both his masculine and feminine age…and it’s not to be taken seriously. Now, dusoleil.com. Text by Jerry Nunn personalities on Drag Race. He’s joined at the that knowledge threatens a lot of people who judges’ table, by fashion journalist Merle Gins- are so invested in their identity as a Christian berg, Project Runway designer Santino Rice, and or a Jew or as a black or as white or male, fe- a dozen guest judges, including queer favorites male, this, that. Drag is the antithesis of that.

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_dj^[(' ij Y[djkho EXTENDED BY POPULAR DEMAND THROUGH Don’t miss this Global Exploration, where MARCH 1! some of the world’s leading theater companies present their contemporary interpretations of O’Neill’s most daring, innovative dramas.

CARDIFF (BOUND EAST FOR CARDIFF) Companhia Triptal, Brazil DIRECTED BY ANDRÉ GAROLLI | JANUARY 28-31

THE HAIRY APE Produced in association with The Hypocrites, Chicago DIRECTED BY SEAN GRANEY | FEBRUARY 7-21

BRIAN DENNEHY CARLA GUGINO PABLO SCHREIBER ROUW SIERT ELECTRA (MOURNING BECOMES ELECTRA) Toneelgroep, Amsterdam DIRECTED BY IVO VAN HOVE | FEBRUARY 25-28

STRANGE INTERLUDE Produced in association with The Neo-Futurists, Chicago KD:;HJ>;;BCI DIRECTED BY GREG ALLEN | MARCH 6-8

Special group savings for 10 or more! For a complete description of shows WITH BORIS MCGIVER AND DANIEL STEWART SHERMAN Call Kim Furganson at 312.443.3820. and events, visit GoodmanTheatre.org

GoodmanTheatre.org THE ELIZABETH F. KRAFT FOODS, Principal Sponsor of CHENEY FOUNDATION the free Student Subscription Series. PETTERINO’S, Promotional Sponsor for Lead Corporate Sponsor for Sponsor Partner for Sponsor Partner for Corporate Sponsor Partner for Corporate Sponsor Partner for Sponsor Partner for Exclusive Airline of Desire Under the Elms. Image design 312.443.3800 Eugene O’Neill in the 21st Century Eugene O’Neill in the 21st Century Eugene O’Neill in the 21st Century Eugene O’Neill in the 21st Century Desire Under the Elms Desire Under the Elms Goodman Theatre and direction by Kelly Rickert. 16 Jan. 28, 2009 Robert Gant, who both executive-produced the film along with co-star Judith Light (TV’s Ugly Betty)—finds Allen as a gay party boy finding KNIGHT love in an ex-gay camp run by Light (who gives a tremendous performance). It is available now. AT Finally, out actor Alan Cumming directed and THE stars in the odd Ghost Writer, a gruesome dark comedy in which he plays a schizophrenic mu- MOVIES sic teacher fixated on his hunky straight lodg- er, David Boreanaz, a sex addicted writer who wants to sell a book to publisher Anne Heche. But Boreanaz hasn’t counted on the actions of his demented landlord. The cast includes Jane Lynch, Henry Thomas, Carrie Fisher, Karen Black in a black teddy (really) and a torture scene that is not for the squeamish. It is available now. Check out my archived reviews at www. windycitytimes.com or www.knightatthemov- Taken; ies.com. Readers can leave feedback at the Wendy and Lucy; latter Web site. film notes Taken. Photo by Stephanie Branchu By Richard Knight, Jr. is filled with enough familiar action sequences late Chicago director/editor/cinematographer It’s January—which, for film critics who don’t to please fans of the 1985 Arnold Schwarzeneg- Howard Alk on Sunday, Feb. 1, with the world make the trek to Sundance, is the time that the ger vehicle Commando—Neeson could have used premiere of My Friend Vince, a 40-minute docu- junk, the filler, the hard to categorize and the a sidekick with sass, like Rae Dawn Chong, to mentary portrait of a Toronto street hustler from small films which didn’t create enough buzz to liven things up a bit. 1975 that Alk shot, appeared in and edited. The get awards nominations vie for attention with all Oddly, with all the fuss over the recent spate screening will be preceded by And This Is Free, the good stuff that’s still in theaters. Taken, a of dog-themed pictures—Bolt, Marley & Me, Ho- a 1964 documentary about Chicago’s Maxwell kidnap thriller starring Liam Neeson, falls some- tel For Dogs, etc.—Wendy and Lucy is one ca- Street Market. The screenings begin at 5pm. where between the junk and filler categories nine-centered movie that’s a genuine tearjerker. www.siskelfilmcenter.com while Wendy and Lucy, a good example of mini- Its trappings are so undramatic and unstylized —A trio of gay-themed DVD releases are worth malist cinema with Michelle Williams, didn’t get that it seems, at times, to be happening in real noting. Noah’s Arc: Jumping the Broom, the enough buzz for Williams’ nuanced performance time. Williams plays Wendy, a shy loner, heading feature film continuation of the popular LOGO to garner any nominations—at least not yet. to Alaska and the promise of a summer job with series that focuses on a gay African-American In Taken, Neeson, his hair dyed black with red her dog, Lucy. However, a run of bad luck forces male variation of the Sex & the City quartet, ar- highlights, plays a retired espionage agent who her to rely against her nature on the kindness rives Feb. 3. The story follows the tumultuous draws upon his experience when his precious, of strangers—especially when her beloved Lucy ups and downs of the foursome as they travel though estranged, teenaged daughter, Kim disappears after Wendy’s arrested for shoplifting to Martha’s Vineyard for the winter wedding of (Maggie Grace, 17 going on 27), is kidnapped dog food. Williams goes from quiet desperation Noah to his hunky boyfriend, Wade. (Read the by a white slave ring while on vacation in Paris. to indecision and, finally, heartbreak in an un- interview with cast member Jensen Atwood in Neeson heads to the City of Lights, where he forced, unfussy manner. I’m not usually a fan of this issue.) The movie, like the series, is thin tells a former spy buddy-turned-cop, “I will tear minimalist films, but Williams’ work in writer- but lively, and offers enough laughs, insight and down the Eiffel Tower if I have to!” In a series director Kelly Reichardt’s film has given me a outrageous outfits to make it worth a trip down of increasingly unbelievable coincidences (in- new appreciation of the genre. the aisle. cluding the kidnappers being identified by the The more sobering Save Me—a contempla- Wendy and Lucy. sound of their accents), that’s just about what Film notes: tive drama with out actors Chad Allen and Neeson tries to do. (One sequence involves him —Dear Zachary: A Letter To a Son about His single-handedly taking out a brothel.) Soon, Father—one of the most heartbreaking and riv- rector Gus Van Sant have remarkably done is the unshaven villains with their bad teeth and eting documentaries you’re likely to ever see— ‘Milk’ gets eight tell a story that celebrates the man, the era “tick ox-cents” who have his baby know that a plays a return engagement at the Gene Siskel Oscar nods and the greater LGBT movement. Their work Jason Bourne type is hot on their trail but are Film Center, 164 N. State, Jan. 30-Feb. 5. The Milk—the film biopic of the late gay politi- on Milk has the power to inform new genera- still determined to sell her to the highest bidder film follows an amazing, tragic story. After Dr. cian Harvey Milk—received eight nominations tions of the history of our community and our before he catches them. Neeson, big and beefy, Andrew Bagby is murdered by Dr. Shirley Turner, for the 81st Annual Academy Awards Jan. 22. struggles for equality.” adroitly makes with the chop-socky, electronic his spurned lover, she flees to Canada to await Its nods included Motion Picture of the Year, Heath Ledger—who played a lead role in the gizmos and a range of firearms in his quest to extradition on murder charges and the birth of Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role influential gay film Brokeback Mountain—re- reunite with Kim, all the better to repair their the son she conceived with him. Bagby’s par- (Sean Penn), Performance by an Actor in a ceived a posthumous Performance by an Actor relationship. It also helps to introduce Kim, who ents, having lost their only child, now want to Supporting Role (Josh Brolin), Achievement in in a Supporting Role nomination for portraying wants to be a singer, to the Fergie-like pop star be with their only grandchild and, to do so, em- Directing (Gus Van Sant), Best Original Screen- the Joker in last year’s blockbuster, The Dark whose life he saved in the opening sequence of bark on a tricky (to say the least) relationship play (Dustin Lance Black), Achievement in Cos- Knight. However—and some would, shocking- the movie. with the woman who killed their son. See www. tume Design (Danny Glicker), Achievement in ly—the movie was shut out of the other ma- This silly hokum is so full of plot holes that it siskelfilmcenter.com. Film Editing (Elliot Graham) and Best Original jor categories, including Motion Picture of the truly lives up to its title. But having been warned —The Siskel continues its month-long se- Score (Danny Elfman). Year. not to get Taken (sorry)—the dumb-dumb movie ries of retrospective programs dedicated to the Van Sant and Black are openly gay. The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, star- Brolin—who portrayed Milk’s assassin, Dan ring Brad Pitt as a man who ages backwards, White, in the film—said “It wasn’t that I read got the most nominations (13). this character and said, ‘I have to do this The Academy Awards ceremony will air Sun- character.’ It was more about the movie,” ac- day, Feb. 22, on ABC. cording to the Associated Press. Van Sant said, “I didn’t know at first what awards we’d won, and when I finally found out, I thought it was Penn wins SAG pretty great. To have as many as eight is pretty Award for ‘Milk’ good.” The 15th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards The Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defa- took place Jan. 25, at the Los Angeles Shrine mation (GLAAD) issued a press release con- Exposition Center. gratulating the films Milk and Vicky Christina Among the winners was Sean Penn for his Barcelona. In connection with the latter film, portrayal of the late gay politician Harvey Milk Penelope Cruz received a nod for a Performance in the movie Milk. Penn told Entertainment To- by an Actress in a Supporting Role. In the mov- night that he was “surprised” by the win. ie, Cruz plays Maria Elena, a woman who has a Other winners included the late Heath Led- relationship with Cristina, played by Scarlett ger, who won for his supporting role in The Johansson and her ex, Juan Antonio, played by Dark Knight, and best actress Meryl Streep, for Javier Bardem. her performance in Doubt. GLAAD President Neil G. Giuliano said, in part, “What writer Dustin Lance Black and di- Jan. 28, 2009 17 in Washington, D.C., this with Keith Richard’s Expensive Winos; and Patti multi-talented rising star LaBelle at the kept on being Patti. is slated to play favorites Now, 32 years later, we have a new album, from her sizzling R&B- Chicago Theater By vern hester Back to Now (Verve) and a reunion tour. It’s and pop-infused album, not fair, of course, to expect LaBelle to mean Guts & Garbage, as well It’s odd that “Lady Marmalade,” the slightly as much as they did when they did, although as treat the audience risque smash hit single from 1975, is now the new album tries. Thanks to Lenny Kravitz, to new material. Former considered an infectious novelty. An evening Back to Now has some current touches but they Tony! Toni! Tone! mem- in the life of a Creole hooker and her john, it hardly compensate for, dare I say it, an old- POP ber Raphael Saadiq had boldly crossed over from Black radio and [gay] school gravity. his hand in working with MAKING discos, dragging its album [Nightbirds] to gold Thankfully, the Jan. 10 show at the Chicago Price on her debut, giv- status and the group behind it into instant ce- Theatre, 175 N. State, had more punch and al- SENSE ing Freedom its fantastic lebrity. LaBelle [Nona Hendryx, Patti LaBelle most put the new album into context—almost. by david byrne classic soul sound. The and Sarah Dash] had been at it since 1961 as Side-stepping the theatrical blast of vintage with tony peregrin British-born Price’s “Mag- a “girl group” to little success [even losing a LaBelle, this show had segments of spine-tin- ic Tree” can be heard on fourth member—one Cindy Birdsong—to some gling brilliance (the searing opener, Cole Por- TV’s The L Word, and she other girl group]. “Marmalade,” penned by the ter’s “Miss Otis Regrets” and a velvety smooth did a true take on Stevie high lord of New Orleans soul, Allen Toussaint, “Superlover,” for starters), then got mired in Wonder’s “Sir Duke” for a not only heralded their musical arrival but infuriating pacing. “Messin’” with My Mind” Following the much-publicized tragedy surround- Lee Jeans ad campaign. something altogether unexpected. Instead of was loud, rushed and toothless, and forgotten ing the murder of her family members, Jennifer Expect a new video for the dreamy pop gem chiffon, bouffants and gowns, the ‘75 LaBelle gems “Get You Somebody New” and “Come Into Hudson is going to make a triumphant step back “Fall” to be unveiled this spring. Last summer came wrapped in spandex, peacock plumes, My Life” were abruptly snipped mid-song be- into the “spotlight” by singing the national an- marked Price’s first visit to Chicago and she will silver, ornate headpieces, glitter, silver, sky- fore they had a chance to catch fire. The new them at Super Bowl XLIII on Sunday, Feb. 1. I’m be back at The House of Blues Back Porch, 329 high platform boots and Dash’s silver breast- single “Rollout” sounded oddly generic (for predicting the Oscar winner’s chops will be capa- N. Dearborn, on Saturday, Feb. 7. plate (with nipples—oooh, shocking). That them) but “Lady Marmalade” nearly stopped ble of igniting the accompanying fireworks, no Electronica, smooth jazz, drum-and-bass. the three of them had epic voices and blunt the show—for the wrong reason. Plopped at matches needed. The Chicago native has a video Poet, chanteuse, painter. Vanessa Daou is one attitudes made them, well, different. After all, the halfway mark, it came too early; but once to “If This Isn’t Love” from her top 10 self-titled artist who thrives on not being pigeonholed. ‘75 was the era of John Denver, the Captain that groove hit, the audience went apeshit. It debut in the works. On top of being nominated The New Yorker returns with the self-produced and Tennille and Olivia Newton-John. Surely was a sight to see the three of them in full for an impressive seven NAACP Image Awards, Joe Sent Me, her first album since 2001’s Make something had to be done. unified harmonic fury and the way that the Hudson also has four Grammy Award nods. You Love. The absinthe-inspired trance of Daou’s LaBelle, of course, was too idyosyncratic audience reacted. Then ... Patti invited men Fans are in a tizzy with Kara DioGuardi as the vocals is married to the rhythmic typewriter on to pigeonhole although they hit the usual TV from the audience to sing with them on stage, new American Idol judge, making the panel a “Hurricanes,” where she steps forth as the sultri- shows, including Cher’s series. (While glammed and midway it went to pieces. What worked in foursome. Like Randy Jackson, the outspoken est person at a beat café. “Black & White” has a in silver, feathers and rocket boots, the host Patti’s solo show last year nearly killed this DioGuardi has years of industry experience. constant nightclub piano tinkering in the back- still couldn’t hold a candle to the group on one; 13 guys at my count, with varying degrees Write-ups on her frequently mention that she ground that suits her breathless singing in a a duet of “What Can You Do For Me?”). The of talent, trampled the biggest groove of the penned smashes like Christina Aguilera’s “Ain’t higher pitch. On the title track, Daou seizes lis- 1976 album Phoenix (too eccentric) and ‘77’s night. This “Marmalade” sucked all the energy No Other Man” and Gwen Stefani’s “Rich Girl,” in teners with her chiming “strange days” over the Chameleon (too internal/thoughtful/personal) and drama right out of the room and plodded addition to co-writing Kylie Minogue’s 2000 hit interlacing of jazz and electronica. Continuing came far short of Nightbirds’ sales, and they on endlessly, dragging the show down into a “Spinning Around” with Paula Abdul. Few recall to morph her artistic approach with minimalism quietly broke up. rut. that the newly engaged DioGuardi coupled with and spoken word, Joe Sent Me is a comeback Hendryx recorded a rock album and performed Read the entire LaBelle review at www. Dave Stewart of The Eurythmics for the short- for Daou that ought to be celebrated. Daou’s with Talking Heads during its Eno period; Dash WindyCityMediaGroup.com. lived group Platinum Weird. Unfortunately, the sixth solo album is currently available on www. had a disco smash with “Sinner Man,” and sang fictitious story of Platinum Weird being Stew- daourecords.com before its wide release. art’s band from 1974 with vocalist Erin Grace Atlanta-based DJ David Knapp brings out a was loaded with anachronisms that overshad- bright, eclectic mix on Party Groove: White Party owed the group’s musical output. Sounding 9. Charo’s instrumental “Espana Cani” kicks up like Fleetwood Mac on psychedelics, Platinum the tempo with its feisty flamenco guitar and Weird’s under-appreciated 2006 Interscope sole blaring horns. Vocal powerhouse Kristine W. EIGHTH BLACKBIRD with album, Make Believe, is highlighted by “Will You sounds refreshed, young and vibrant as she belts Call THE HILLIARD ENSEMBLE Be Around” and “Love Can Kill the Blues.” out “you can’t steal my joy” on “Never.” Cali- 312.334.7777 Thursday, February 19, 2009, 7:30 pm After lingering on the charts for nine months, fornian Debby Holiday continues to cement her Visit Lady Gaga re-defines the expected gestation status as one of the newest dance divas with HarrisTheaterChicago.org period for a hit. Already a smash abroad, “Just “Joyful Sound.” India’s 1993 club hit “I Can’t Dance” crossed over onto the pop charts and Get No Sleep” is revamped with a remix by Klub- gyrated its way to the number-one spot state- jumpers on this continuous collection. Knapp DON’T MISS GRAMMY AWARD-WINNING EIGHTH BLACKIRD IN side after its release last spring. Behind those knows his female vocalists and can blend mul- THEIR LAST HARRIS THEATER PERFORMANCE THIS SEASON! bejeweled sunglasses, the Starstruck singer does tiple types of music fluidly. Proceeds from Party not pull a “poker face”—Lady Gaga freely speaks Groove: White Party 9 benefit the Florida based about getting her start with her loyal LGBT au- HIV/AIDS-service organization Care Resource. dience. After all, Lady Gaga performed at last On Thursday, Feb. 12, queer-fronted Antony & year’s Windy City Gay Idol finals. After a Euro- the Johnsons will take to the stage at the Vic,

pean tour with The Pussycat Dolls, Lady Gaga 3145 N. Sheffield. The outfit’s latest, The Crying Ratray by Luke Photo returns to Chicago with two shows of The Fame Light, is out now. Lead singer Antony Hegarty’s Ball at the House of Blues, 329 N. Dearborn, androgynous, husky growl is drawn out over on Tuesday, March 24. The White Tie Affair, who sparse piano-based arrangements. Hegarty con- were on board for last year’s True Colors Tour, is tributed his unique vocals to last year’s “Blind” opening. with Hercules and Love Affair and to his duet While taking a break from recording her soph- with Boy George, “You Are My Sister,” which omore outing, Kirsten Price is embarking on sums up so many gay friendships. the Tough Times 09 Tour. Starting off her trek “cutting edge” Chicago Sun-Times

Reserve your space for the performance and Lady tasting together Gaga. for just $30! Mingle with eighth blackbird during the pre-show beer and wine tasting Photo by Candice hosted by Whole Foods Lawler

Spring Season Official Airline of Fifth Anniversary Lead Corporate Sponsor 2008-2009 Preferred Sponsor the Harris Theater Sponsor of the eighth blackbird Catering Sponsor 2008-2009 season 18 Jan. 28, 2009 redesigned MINI Cooper last year, but the drop- It will be available mid-2009. top soldiered on with the old body and power —2010 Jaguar XFR: There is a certain point the plants. The new 2009 MINI Convertible, like the when purchasing an automobile when rational hardtop, doesn’t look much different but enters thought goes out the window and is replaced by this model year with improvements across the pure unadulterated lust. The new XFR is consid- DRIVEdo you have it? board. You can get your hands on this epitome erably north of that point, and not just because DRIVE of adorable starting March 28. The suggested it looks like bad little kitty on wheels. The new MONTHLY AUTO SECTION retail price for the MINI Cooper Convertible is supercharged V8 pumps out 510 hp and a lightly DRIVEta, and doesn’t look much like the Prius either. $24,550, and for the MINI Cooper S Convertible, modified version of the XFR hit over 255 mph on Top 10 vehicles Lexus claims the new Hs250h will get 30 percent it’s $27,450, including a $650 destination and the Bonneville salt flats. Rational? Hell, no. Do better fuel economy than the most fuel-efficient handling charge. I want one? Oh, hells to the yeah! Here kitty, from the 2009 vehicle in their lineup now. It will be available —2010 Chevrolet Equinox: GM has come a kitty. Detroit Auto Show in late summer. long way in what it calls “perceptual quality”— —2010 Buick LaCrosse: You are going to see by Joe LaMuraglia, GayWheels.com —2010 Cadillac SRX: Replacing the much- you know, the feeling you get when you sit down a lot from Buick in the coming years. It started loved but slow selling Cadillac crossover is the in a vehicle and start touching and feeling the with the sexy Enclave last year and the next iter- I attended the 2009 North American Interna- new 2010 Cadillac SRX. The last SRX impressed materials. While past GM vehicles exhibited ation of their revival is the 2010 Buick LaCrosse. tional Auto Show earlier this month and, as is journalists with its driving dynamics but never good quality in terms of things not breaking, Yes, Buick has claimed to take on Lexus in the custom, I chose the top 10 vehicles from the got high points in the looks department. The things like switchgear felt cheap and flimsy. The past but this time they are serious. The sculpted show. Our criteria is that they have to be pro- new 2010 SRX promises to win in both catego- new quality “gurus” around the world are out to exterior looks European and the gorgeous inte- duction vehicles from gay-friendly manufacturers ries (and maybe even the swimsuit competi- remedy that and a perfect example of this new rior is simultaneously classic and modern at the in order to qualify. While some of the concepts tion!). The designs builds on the success of the focus is the new 2010 Chevrolet Equinox. This same time. Most of you reading this wouldn’t be introduced were hot (Cadillac Converj, anyone?), CTS and is the best interpretation of the Art & new small crossover will compete in a fiercely caught dead considering a Buick. Take my word: we stuck to our guns and picked vehicles that Science theme to date. Powering the new SRX competitive segment and does so with a new The 2010 LaCrosse is the first sedan worthy of you’ll be able to drive in the near future. will be a standard 3.0 direct-injected V-6 and a bodystyle, new engines and yes, a new attitude. your attention. It will be available late this —2009 BMW Z4: There are very few main- new 2.8L turbo V-6 as an option. Both promise With great looks, high quality materials, a class- summer. stream cars that elicit jaw-dropping stares V8 fun with V6 fuel economy. The SRX goes on leading 30 mpg with the base engine and stan- See www.gaywheels.com. and unintelligible utterances from me. That all sale Summer 2009. dard technology like OnStar and XM Satellite ra- changed when I walked up to the BMW stand —2009 MINI Convertible: MINI launched its dio, the 2010 Chevy Equinox should do just fine. at the Detroit show. All I could say was “wow, wow, wow” over and over again. The new BMW Z4 has been totally redesigned and skillfully incorporates design cues from the past (think 503 and Z8) in a beautifully modern form. It features a retractable hard-top that retreats to its proper place in 20 seconds—a first for the “Z” series. Engines are the wonderfully familiar inline-6s: the 255-hp in the BMW Z4 sDrive30i and the 300-hp BMW Z4 sDrive35i. It’s on sale this spring. —2010 Ford Taurus: It is always fun to talk about sexy, exotic cars but the fact is that the most significant vehicles are the ones that sell the most, and one of the biggest segments is the mid-size sedan segment. Ford launched its entry, the new 2010 Taurus, at the show and for a four-door sedan starting at $25,995, it is a stunner. It’s new look is “less box, more mis- sile,” but without a compromise on utility. Ford has packed it full of technology that is usually reserved for the luxury segment, and it claims to have the quality to match that segment as well. The 2010 Ford Taurus is available this summer. —2011 Chevrolet Cruze: Yes, you read it correctly, this is a 2011 model that was intro- duced at the 2009 auto show. In light of all the criticism of the Detroit-based automakers, GM probably wanted to show the world that it can, indeed, produce world-class product. The 2011 Cruze is a fantastic-looking sedan that will re- place the Cobalt in Chevrolet’s lineup. Forget PETS FOR ADOPTION everything you know about small cars from GM because the Cruze is finally going to give the WE Cecelia is a big brown lover bunny. She loves company something to go head-to-head with to cuddle and play under the blanket, and she thoroughly enjoys her big salads. Cece’s the the best from Europe and Japan. Available with kind of girl who would like to lay on the couch either a 1.4L or 1.8L four-cylinder engine and a next to you and watch Dancing with the Stars. choice of six-speed manual or automatic trans- Percy is a medium-sized boy bunny who is missions, the Cruze can get up to 40 mpg on the very affectionate. He loves his exercise time, highway. It will be available in mid-2010. and enjoys jumping and running. He will defi- —2010 Toyota Prius: If there is one name nitely demand long periods of petting, particu- that is synonymous with the term hybrid, it is larly on the nose. Prius. Toyota started it all two generations ago Visit Red Door Shelter—a no-kill shelter for and launched its latest iteration at the 2009 De- cats, rabbits and dogs—at www.reddoorshelter. troit Auto Show. With a slew of new technolo- org. gies to keep it ahead of the pack and a refreshed but not unfamiliar design to keep consumers PETS interested, the new Toyota Prius should have no problems continuing their sales success. Toyota BOWSER BEER A non-alcoholic, non-carbonated beer claims a combined fuel economy number of 50 for dogs. mpg. The 2010 Toyota Prius will be available in late spring 2009. Try —2010 Lexus HS250h: Lexus debuted its Beefy Brown Ale or chicken first dedicated hybrid vehicle—the 2010 Lexus flavored HS250h. While many assume it is a Lexus-bod- Cock-a-Doodle Brew. ied Toyota Prius (and who could blame them?), Lexus assures us that it is a new platform unique 100% American made. from the Prius that builds on the technology in- troduced by that car. The HS250h has a larger four-cylinder engine than its cousin from Toyo- www.3busydogs.com Jan. 28, 2009 19 REAL ESTATE FOR SALE CONDO FOR RENT ONE BEDROOM OLD IRVING: 10 new Condos 3952 W. 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JA: Well, I’m glad that I have a voice that I never felt that I truly mattered in this country, people want to hear so I can bring attention to the shade and I took a chance on hope and my faith—and causes that deserve as much attention as possi- BY ANDREW DAVIS cast my very first vote. ble—such as the fight against AIDS and HIV. I’m WCT: Moving to another issue, how do you happy to lend my name to bring more awareness Jensen Atwood is one busy individual. People feel about Prop 8—especially after filming a to the event. can see him in front of the camera in such se- movie about same-sex marriage? Jensen Atwood will take part in a “dating ries as Noah’s Arc (with the related feature film, JA: I feel that equality is deserved by all peo- game” panel discussion presented by the Chi- Noah’s Arc: Jumping the Broom, out on DVD Feb. ple. I think that those who were for Prop 8 did a cago Black Gay Men’s Caucus Thursday, Feb. 3) and Dante’s Cove. However, he is also touring magnificent job of lying to the people. They did 5 (National Black HIV/AIDS Day), at 6 p.m. college campuses around the country reading a magnificent job of putting fear into the hearts at the Amira Restaurant Lounge, 455 N. City- Langston Hughes—and will visit Chicago Feb. 5 of people. They did a great job of miseducating front Plaza. RSVP at 312-566-0285 or dary- as part of a panel discussion to help promote people, and that’s why it passed. I can’t imagine [email protected]. National Black HIV/AIDS Day. it not being overturned. I can’t imagine some Atwood is also slated to appear at a Noah’s Windy City Times: What was your reaction people standing for being told that they’re less Arc: Jumping the Broom DVD release party when you found out Noah’s Arc was going to than the average citizen. It baffles my mind, and the same night at Jeffery Pub, 7041 S. Jef- be a feature film? I look forward to seeing [Prop 8] overturned. fery, 12 a.m.-4 a.m. Jensen Atwood: I was surprised. When we I just took part in a silent protest where this For more about Atwood, see www.JensenAt- started Noah’s Arc—around four or five years great photographer took pictures of me protest- wood.com. ago—it started as something that was going to go straight to DVD, maybe even be a DVD series. I was blown away when I found out it was going ‘Congo’ at Columbia to be a feature film. The international photography exhibition and WCT: Do you feel like the show has been educational campaign “Congo/Women Portraits groundbreaking? Jensen Atwood. of War: The Democratic Republic of Congo”— JA: No doubt about it. Just in terms of tele- which addresses the crisis of the ongoing vision, almost every storyline you can think of sexual violence of that country’s women—will WCT: Another show you’ve been part of... has been done. We’ve seen everything that could take place at Columbia College Chicago, 1006 JA: ...speaking of more... possibly be seen—and then here comes along S. Michigan, Feb. 5-14. WCT: [Laughs]...is Dante’s Cove. Now how Noah’s Arc. People were able to see images they The free exhibition, which comprises 38 im- did you become a part of that show? had never seen before on television. ages, features recent work by award-winning JA: The here! network actually reached to me WCT: However, it wasn’t until I saw the sec- photojournalists Lynsey Addario, Marcus Bleas- because of the work I did on Noah’s Arc, I think. ond-season DVD that I realized what the “arc” dale, Ron Haviv and James Nachtwey. Lauren Lein sketch. I went in for an audition; the next thing I knew, in Noah’s Arc stood for. See www.congowomen.org, www. I was on a flight to Hawaii to shoot the third JA: Right—Alex, Ricky and Chance [Noah’s artworksproject.org and www.colum.edu/ CHM hosting season. best friends]. I thought it was pretty clever of institutewomengender. WCT: You know what would be funny? Mix- fashion contest [creator/director] Patrik-Ian Polk. ing the two, and having the cast of Noah’s Arc The Chicago History Museum (CHM) has an- WCT: Also, I should extend congratula- visit Dante’s Cove. nounced the next stage in FashioNext, a design tions to you and the cast. You all have been ‘Hear Me Roar’ to JA: Oh, yeah—just as a walk-through for one competition featuring established Chicago de- nominated for two NAACP Image Awards. [The episode. That would be hilarious. feature women artists signers who are each creating a couture gar- show is Feb. 12 in Los Angeles.] What’s your The Center on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted, WCT: I’m trying to imagine Alex in Dante’s ment inspired by one of five selected pieces reaction to the [nods], and are you going? continues to focus on LGBT artists by present- Cove. [Atwood laughs.] I don’t think they’d be from the exhibition, “Chic Chicago: Couture JA: I’m still waiting to see if I’m going— ing “Hear Me Roar: Three Perspectives,” which ready for him. Treasures from the Chicago History Museum.” hopefully, I’m going; it would be my first time. showcases the works of female painters Carol JA: I love the idea, though. The designers and design teams participat- My reaction has been the same with the series James, Jordan Kost and Jill Sutton. WCT: I’ve noticed that you’re involved in a ing in this competition include Jermikko Sho- and the feature film; I’m just blown away—it’s The exhibit will open Friday, Feb. 20; stays movie that’s a distinct departure from those shanna, Lauren Lein, Melissa Serpico Kamhout, phenomenal. open through March, Women’s History Month; shows: I.E. Could you talk a little bit about Paul Sisti and Price Walton. Noah’s Arc continues to grow; I still get e- and closes Sunday, April 5. it? The competition will be narrowed down to mails from fans who have just heard of the show, The opening reception will be held on Feb. 20 JA: “I.E.” stands for Inland Empire. As you three designers Feb. 5. The winner will be an- bought the entire series and, now, can’t wait for on the center’s second floor, 6:30-9:30 p.m.; a said, it’s different from what my fans have seen nounced during the FashioNext finale event on the movie to come out on DVD. This whole expe- $5 donation is requested. A cash bar will be me in so far. It’s surrounded by the gang life April 17. rience has just been unbelievable. available. RSVP to Director of Community and that exists in southern California. It stars Snoop For more information on the designers and WCT: For you, what was the biggest differ- Cultural Affairs Tom Ballentine at tballentine@ Dogg, and it’s a departure from the characters to view their design concepts, visit the online ence between filming the movie and the se- centeronhalsted.com or call 773-472-6469, I’ve already played. I hope that I’m able to play gallery at http://chicagohistory.org/planavis- ries? ext. 245. distinct characters; I’m not trying to continue it/exhibitions/chic-chicago/fashionext. JA: Well, we were definitely short on time the roles of Wade or Griffin [from Dante’s Cove] [with the film] and we had to do a lot in that on any other show. [span]. Also, there was a short time to settle ‘Sex, Chocolate...’ Female-only dating WCT: In relation to the shows you’ve done, into the character of Wade and, therefore, Wade do you feel that being on those shows has Feb. 5 site launches settling into himself. “Sex, Chocolate and Your Pelvic Floor” will hindered you from getting role in [more SubVerge.com—a site for women who are When we first started, I don’t think anyone take place Thursday, Feb. 5, at Flirty Girl Fit- mainstream] shows or movies? seeking friendship or relationships with other knew what they were getting themselves into. ness, 1325 W. Randolph, 7-10 p.m. JA: I don’t think so. I have been offered other women—has launched. The site promotes it- I know that Patrik had an idea, but these were The event, sponsored by the Women’s Health roles. I don’t want to be pigeonholed; after I.E. self as being “for women who want to meet all characters that had to be developed. Even Foundation, will include presentations, gourmet wraps up, I don’t want to be the “gang actor.” I new friends or find romance without muddling going into the second season was a huge growth chocolate, champagne, raffle prizes, burlesque don’t want to be the “bisexual warlock” actor on through the pretentious lesbian bar scene.” [experience] for the cast and production. Keep- dancing, mini-spa treatments and more. any show. For the most part, I think it’s up to Registration is free. ing everything the fans love about Wade and the Tickets are $35-$75 each. See www.TotalCon- me. growth he goes through was probably the big- trolProgram.com. WCT: Now, to mark Black History Month, gest [challenge]. Dyke Delicious features you’re taking part in a series of readings of WCT: Do you know if there’s going to be a Langston Hughes works. Hearts, Coffy follow-up? Michigan Womyn’s JA: It’s “Jensen Atwood Reads Langston The classic lesbian movie Desert Hearts will be JA: I don’t know. One thing about Noah’s Arc Music Festival Hughes,” and I will be travelling to different uni- shown Saturday, Feb. 14, at 8 p.m. at Chicago that seems to be consistent is that there’s always versities and colleges. I’m excited to let my fans Filmmakers, 5243 N. Clark, as part of the Dyke some kind of buzz. There was talk about the sec- in Aug. know about my passion for poetry. I write poetry The 34th annual Michigan Womyn’s Music Delicious series. The story follows repressed ond season possibly not happening. Then, there myself, and they’ll also get to hear one of my Festival is scheduled to take place Aug. 4-9. English professor Vivian as she spends some was talk about me not returning. Now that we’re original poems. Most of the dates can be found Among the highlights are entertainment, quiet time on a dude ranch—only to catch the done with the feature film, I find that the same on my Web site, JensenAtwood.com. It couldn’t workshops and networking opportunities (pro- eye and heart of young casino worker Cay. things are starting to happen again. I thought be a more poignant time to read Hughes, after vided within the Community Center complex). Another movie that is part of the series is this was the cherry on top—the end of the party. the inauguration of our first Black president and Slated to entertain are Melissa Ferrick, Emma’s the ‘70s flick Coffy, which will be shown Satur- But now I’m hearing that there could be more. going into Black History Month. Revolution, Poppy Champlin, Leslie and the day, March 14, at 8 p.m. The Pam Grier movie WCT: Well, I’m ready to see more—well, not WCT: Speaking of which, what did you feel Ly’s, C.C. Carter and God-des and She. is considered to be one of the best so-called in terms of skin. when you witnessed the inauguration? See www.michfest.com or www.myspace. blaxploitation films. JA: Right! [Laughs] I don’t think we can show JA: When it was first announced that he was com/michfest. See www.ChicagoFilmmakers.org. any more. our president-elect, I probably said “Wow” 50 Jan. 28, 2009 21 WHAT TO DO? Friday, Jan. 30 Wednesday, Jan. 28 Cocktails; 6:30 p.m. Program Chicago the contest (10 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. Drive. Through Feb. 15. Part of 20th 4 Women Only hosted by Kat Fitzgerald History Museum, 1601 N. Clark www. 31). Contest application and details at annual Rhino Theater Fest, 60 produc- (folk/rock) the only show in Chicago chicagohistory.org www.chicagoleather.org tions in 5 different venues. www.rhi- dedicated to new women artists. 9pm, Women and Children First Books, Kath- Thodos Dance Chicago “Fire & Ice” win- nofest.com/ Uncommon Ground, Devon 1401 W. De- leen Rooney with Lindsay Hunter, ter benefit. $175 - $300. Chicago His- Ultimate Superbowl Party Hydrate 3458 von Ave. 773-465-9801, www.uncom- authors Live Nude Girl: My Life as an tory Museum, 1601 N. Clark, at 6 p.m. N. Halsted, 773 975-9244 monground.com Object Live Nude Girl, lively meditation www.ThodosDanceChicago.org PFLAG Parents, Families, and Friends of Chicago Area Gay and Lesbian Chamber on the profession of nude modeling as The Lesbian Community Care Project Lesbians and Gays Hinsdale chapter Mix & Mingle $20 for members and $30 practiced in history and today. 7:30 (LCCP) a program of Howard Brown meets the first Sunday of every month, for non 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Mary’s Attic, p.m. Women and Children First Books, Health Center, free drop-in night 2-4 p.m., Hinsdale Unitarian Church, 5400 N. Clark St., pre-register at www. 5233 N. Clark , 773-769-9299 for LBT individuals last Wednesday 17 W. Maple, Hinsdale. Bob Berry of glchamber.org of each month , 6- 8 p.m., Howard the Human Rights Campaign will be Hermanos de Luna y Sol. Free com- Friday, Jan. 30 Brown Health Center, 4025 N. Sheri- speaking. Call 630-415-0622 ICE GIRLS munity forum for gay Latino men and A. H. - Before He Changed Our His- dan., http://www.lccp.org Women of All Colors Together a brunch their allies features Dr. Rafael Diaz tory. American production premiere of and social support organization or all Thodos Dance Company will host its “Fire & lesbians and bisexual women. We are of San Francisco State University, Dr. the Israeli show about the Young Adolf Saturday, Jan. 31 Ice” benefit at the Chicago History Museum, Jesus Ramirez-Valles of UIC, and a especially interested in meeting and Hitler, $18,7:30 p.m.,1225 W. Belmont African American History Month Chi- 1601 N. Clark. performance by Nuestro Tambo. Light Ave.,773-327-5252 www.theatrebuild- cago Public Library opening event. befriending each other across ethnici- refreshments 7 p.m. presentation and ingchicago.org Dr. Terry Mason, Commissioner of the ties, ages, incomes, etc. Noon. 773- discussion, Nuestro Tambo 6 p.m. , Gerber Hart Library Cinema Lesbiana Chicago Dept. of Public Health, and 360-5394 La Estancia 2753 W. Division, RSVP women’s film screening group. 7:30 a Health Information Exposition . 11 312-334-0939 http://lifelube.org/ p.m. 1127 Granville 773 381-8030 a.m. to 3 p.m., Avalon Branch, 8148 Monday, Feb. 2 docs/lifelube-solyluna2-flyer-final.pdf www.gerberhart.org/news.html S. Stony Island Ave. Center on Halsted, Men on Mondays. Roe vs. Wade Anniversary Conversation Midwest Gay Ski Weekend. Join Skibudz Mr. Chicago Leather 2009 Contest, 10 Every first Monday, a fun alternative Open to the public and free of charge. at Granite Peak. Through Feb. 1, 2009. p.m. Touche, 6412 N. Clark, 773-465- place for men to meet other men. Each Tuesday, Feb. 3 Refreshments will be provided. 8 p.m. Granite Peak, Wausau, Wis., briand@ 7400 www.touchechicago.com/ month a different theme. 6:00 – 9:00 Jane Addams Hull-House Museum skibudz.org,www.skibudz.org Urban Art Retreat annual dinner. Each p.m. $20 includes 2 drink tickets and Residents’ Dining Hall 800 S. Halsted. Mr. Chicago Leather 2009 Context person will introduce themselves. 5-7 hors d’oeuvres. Center on Halsted, 312-413-5353 Weekend. Includes cocktail parties p.m. Lou Malnati’s Restaurant, 3859 3656 N. Halsted, 773-472-6469 , www. Women and Children First Siddarth Kara and tours of the Leather Archives & W. Ogden at corner of Cermak Rd, 773- centeronhalsted.org author of Sex Trafficking: Inside the Museum, 6418 N. Greenview Ave., 773- 542-9126, www.urbanartretreat.com Business of Modern Slavery. Every year 761-9200 Windy City Rollers Season Opens, millions of women are sold into sexual Nicole Hollander discusses her life in League teams head-to-head. 6. p.m, Tuesday, Feb. 3 slavery with billions of dollars chang- comics, Sylvia’s origins and getting UIC Pavilion, 525 S. Racine, Tix $20 About Face Theatre’s new multimedia ing hands. 7:30 p.m., W&CF Books, syndicated in a benefit 6:30- 8:30 p.m at windycityrollers.com. Doors: 5 p.m., adaptation of Stupid Kids. Set in a sub- 5233 N. Clark St ,773-769-9299 www. for Woman Made Gallery, 685 N Milwau- Bout: 6 p.m. UIC Pavilion, 525 S. Ra- urban high school during the late ‘80s, womenandchildrenfirst.com kee Ave. Tix $150. 312-738-0400 cine classic tale of young love in the churn- Patti Smith: Dream of Life. Smith will Word Bath A deluxe cornucopia of new ing world of adolescence. Regular run: participate in a post-screening discus- and older language-inspired perfor- Feb. 13 through March 8, Tix $20, The Thursday, Jan. 29 sion with the film’s director. $8 North- mance works. Through Feb. 21. 9 p.m. Center on Halsted, Hoover Leppen- Ellen Stone Belic Institute Discus- western students, faculty, staff; $11 Acme Art Works, 2215 West North Ave. Theatre, 3656 N. Halsted St. sion and book signing with South Af- general public. Registration at www. Part of 20th annual Rhino Theater Fest, Homolatte: Queer Words and Music rica Constitutional Court Justice Albie nbo.northwestern.edu required before 60 productions in 5 different venues Hosted by Scott Free , Free, 7:30 p.m., Sachs and Dr. Bronwyn Law-Viljoen purchasing tix online. Claimed at Block through March 1. www.rhinofest.com/ Big Chicks/Tweet 5024 N Sheridan 773- Managing Editor, David Krut Publishing Museum beginning at 7 p.m. January Vital Bridges Strike Out Against Hun- 728-5511 celebrating the publication of Art and 30. Block Museum of Arts, Northwest- ger, $30/indv, $150/team of 6 7 Stitch ‘n’ Bitch Tuesday Evenings in the Justice: The Art of the Constitutional ern, 40 Arts Circle Dr. Evanston 847- p.m. River Rand Bowl, 191 S River Rd, Café, hand-craft creators invited to Court of South Africa. Free. 6-7:30 p.m. 491-4000, www.blockmuseum.north- Des Plaines,773-665-1000www.vital- bring supplies to create and exchange FREE YOUR MIND discussion, followed by book signing western.edu bridges.org/ techniques. Rebecca Ringquist shares Film Row Cinema 1104 S. Wabash, 8th State Ballet Theatre of Russia in Cin- her stitched drawings. first Tuesday of Scott Free hosts Homolatte at Big Chicks/ Floor 312-369-8829 or institutewom- every month, October through April. derella, $25 - $55- $75 Harris Theater, Tweet, 5024 N. Sheridan. [email protected]. 205 E. Randolph Dr., Millennium Park, Sunday, Feb. 1 5:30 - 8 p.m. , Museum of Contempo- Out at CHM: Closets are for Clothes 312-334-7777 www.harristheaterchi- BoyGirlBoyGirl/Nuts and Chews An as- rary Art 220 E. Chicago www.mcachi- Museum curator Timothy Long explores cago.org/ sortment of treats from Chicago’s finest cago.org the lives of gay men and woman that Touche 2009 Mr. Chicago Leather Con- purveyors of group solo performance. help shape style. $12/$10; 5:30 p.m. test. Full weekend events, including SAIC Auditorium, 280 S. Columbus See our online calendar: www.windycitymediagroup.com/calendar

Rufus Wainwright and Maggie Daley.

‘Ice’ and slow with Rufus Wainwright The Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA), 220 E. Chicago, embraced Chicago’s subzero weather, naming its annual benefit “Dry Ice.” The event, held Saturday, Jan. 24, was limited to200 guests for a live art auction and an intimate performance by singer/songerwriter Rufus Wain- wright. The live auction featured art pieces by modern art superstars Jenny Holzer, Jeff Koons, and Olafur Eliasson. The Olafur Eliasson piece raised $92,000, the highest bid of the evening for a single item. The Eliasson item was also a favorite of Mayor Richard Daley, who was present with his wife, Maggie. “This museum always is on the cutting edge, you can see the number of fami- lies, younger families have made a difference in this city. they need it [money] in these hard economic times, shows you a lot of people come through with that auction,” said Daley. For his performance, Wainwright sat at the piano solo. He introduced each song with a joke or a statement, dedicating the song “In My Arms” to his boyfriend—“the German fellow, who is here.” He acknowledged the mayor’s presence by quipping, “...this is great. I’ve cornered [Michael] Bloomberg a couple of times...and he still haven’t come to one of my shows, so I’m moving here: Chicago, the Paris of Illinois.” For more information on future events at the MCA, visit www.mcachicago.org. Photos and text by Emmanuel Garcia 22 Jan. 28, 2009 with another 15 or so substitutes. Of the al- most-110 bowlers in the league, about 100 are Mammoth Gay male. Paquet said about 105 are gay or lesbian. Ski Week in March The bowlers range in age from their early 20s Elevation 2009, the seventh annual Mammoth to 70. Gay Ski Week, will be held in Mammoth Lakes, “The league stuck it out in some tough years, Calif., March 18-22. then started to grow and eventually got it up More than 2,000 people are expected to at- to the level it’s at today. We now have a very tend this event, the third-largest of its kind in strong, very solid league,” Paquet said. the world. Among the scheduled highlights are The league has been filled for each of the past several parties, including The Party @ 10,000 10 years, with action on all 24 lanes. Feet and Cliffhanger, the main gala. But what’s with the league’s name? See www.mammothgayski.com. “I didn’t come up with the original [league] name,” Paquet said, laughing, “But that’s what it was and that’s what we’ve kept it as.” Lesbian group The league now bowls twice a month—on the first and third Saturdays of each month, with the organizing Wis. hike third Saturday the main night. The Chicago Lesbian Brunch Group is organiz- Ironically, the league starts play at 9:15 p.m., ing a hike through South Kettle Moraine State not 9 p.m. Forest. It will take place Saturday, Feb. 14, at Attendees at a past 9 to 12 fundraiser. Photo courtesy of John Paquet The 9 to 12 Bowling League will hold its an- 11 a.m. nual Strike Out Hunger fund-raiser Saturday, The address where the hike will start is S91 W39091 Highway 59, Eagle, Wis. whole premise of the league is to just have fun Jan. 31, to benefit Vital Bridges. The event has SPORTS In case of snow, this will be a snowshoe ex- and enjoy each other’s company. Sure, there’s a raised more than $50,000 over the years, and is pedition instead of a hike. Participants can rent competitive nature [to the sport], but the focus expected to raise up to $8,000 this year. snowshoes from a local REI store for $15/day. Bowling league is just on having fun, a casual time in a relaxed “The event has been very successful,” Paquet Visit www.meetup.com/queergirls or e-mail atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable.” said. “The event has a lot of silly bowling, in- [email protected]. strikes 30 Paquet, 52, a Des Plaines resident, is a vice- cluding different types of bowling, such as Cos- By Ross Forman president at the Chicago Transit Authority. He mic Bowling, partner bowling and more.”

has been the league’s president for 10 years and The fundraiser also includes giveaways and The 9 to 12 Bowling League is in its 30th year— British soccer players an active league bowler for 15 years. raffles. One of the founders of the league, Jim and not only is it the longest-running league at The league has three other officers: Vice- Stubblefield, is the DJ for the evening. to speak out the River Rand Bowl in suburban Des Plaines, President Michael Brady, Secretary Rob Homa Strike Out Hunger is Saturday, Jan. 31, at but also the longest-running suburban LGBT and Treasurer Rick McKay. “This is very much a River Rand Bowl, 191 S. River, Des Plaines, against homophobia bowling league. team effort to keep the league full each year 7-10 p.m. Bowlers of all skills are welcome. The governing body of English UK soccer, the The group was honored by the 2006 Gay Games and manage the activities associated with the Tickets run $30 for an individual bowler or Football Association (FA), has agreed to fund at the “Night of 100 Champions.” league,” Paquet said. $150 for a team of six. A ticket includes three a video/DVD with high-profile league players “The league is a mix of some very good bowl- The current season started last September and games, shoe rental and snack foods. See www. speaking out against homophobia, according to ers to some who, well, aren’t so good,” league goes through May. There are 96 bowlers, along vitalbridges.org. an item on Guardian.co.uk. president John Paquet said, laughing. “The Peter Tatchell of the LGBT-rights group Out- Rage! was among those calling for the video, saying that the FA was “sitting on its hands” Jack Mackenroth: in response to anti-gay chanting a lot of soccer players have heard. Swimming to success Tatchell said he hopes that players such as Da- By Ross Forman vid Beckham and Cristiano Ronaldo will appear in the DVD. Jack Mackenroth is set to make his Outgames debut this summer, and he fully intends to du- plicate the success he’s had at the last five Gay Smucker’s Stars Games, including the Chicago edition in 2006. He swam to golden memories in each of those on Ice at Allstate Games. Feb. 21 “I really want to win a gold medal,” in Co- The Smucker’s Stars on Ice tour will stop in the penhagen, Denmark, said Mackenroth, who will Chicagoland area Saturday, Feb. 21, 2009, when celebrate his 40th birthday April 29. famed figure skaters perform at Allstate Arena, He will participate in Copenhagen in multiple 6920 N. Mannheim, at 3 p.m. breaststroke events—his best stroke—including The all-new production, “On the Edge,” will the 50-, 100- and 200-meter breaststroke, and Jack Mackenroth at the 2006 Gay Games in Chicago; Mackenroth with Project Runway’s Christian feature stars such as Sasha Cohen, Todd Eldredge, the 50- and 100-meter freestyle. Siriano (left) and Tim Gunn. Michael Weiss, Ilia Kulik and special guest skater The swimming competition in Copenhagen Evan Lysacek. that will come later. and get a regular design job. will be the biggest single event in the sports Tickets start at $25. See www.starsonice.com. program at the 2009 World Outgames, according “The show worked out OK. I don’t look back “The economy kind of put a wrench in every- to organizers. The 2009 International Gay and with regrets; there’s no point to that. I do wish thing. All of my friends who were on the show Lesbian Aquatics (IGLA) Championships will be I could have stayed on longer because I think have felt [the economic crunch]. But I’m busy, Softball classic hosted together with the swimming competition I could have done well. But I’m totally glad I and I’m happy to be busy, so I cannot complain at the Outgames. The tournament is arranged in did it. I made some lifelong friends. I had din- too much.” seeks volunteers cooperation with IGLA. ner with [winner] Christian [Siriano recently.] I Well, other than the fact he’s single, again. The Chi-Town Softball Classic will take July “I’m the kind of person who takes my medals talk to Kevin Christiana almost every day. I talk His most recent relationship, about five months 2-5, and event organizers are seeking volun- and just throws them in a box, but I really want to Kit [Pistol] all the time. I talk to Victorya long, ended in mid-January. teers. to win one in Copenhagen,” said Mackenroth, often. About one-third of the cast, I’m still very “You gotta keep going if you want to find Volunteers of all types and talents are being who will be competing in the Masters Division friendly with.” the one,” he said. “I’ll be 40 this year, believe sought in various areas, including marketing, for competitors aged 40 to 45. “I feel, at my In fact, Mackenroth and Christiana, the lone it or not. I’m very self-sufficient. I don’t need hospitality, Web design and graphic design. age, I have to be swimming at least five times straight male the season Mackenroth was on, a boyfriend or a partner, whereas there are a Interested persons should e-mail ChiTown- per week to maintain good aerobic fitness. recently pitched a TV show. Mackenroth wrote lot of other people who have to have one just [email protected]. “I’m really committed to the Gay Games be- it and was one of the executive producers of for whatever reason. But I’m very independent. cause, when I was 20, that was my first experi- the show. Mackenroth also lately has been busy Sure, it would be nice to have someone to come ence. I’m very loyal to the Gay Games, but I’m writing for Star Magazine. home to, to commiserate with, to collaborate Milwaukee to host very excited for the Outgames.” In addition, he is touring the nation on behalf with, but at this point in my life, I’m not going gay softball events of drugmaker Merck & Co., Inc., to help promote to compromise. When I find him, I find him … Mackenroth made a name for himself world- During the week of Aug. 30-Sept. 5, 2009, HIV education. (Go to www.Livingpositive- not that I’m not trying [to find him].” wide on the TV show Project Runway. The hunky Milwaukee and the Saturday Softball League will bydesign.com for more information on his tour So who qualifies as Mr. Right? designer from New York City, who is HIV-posi- host the 33rd Gay Softball World Series (GSWS), schedule.) “He has to have a job,” Mackenroth said, tive, had to leave the show early due to a staph also known as Series 2009. Mackenroth also has had several major photo laughing. “I like to date someone around my age. infection. But he still has fond memories of the In a related development, the city will present shoots lately, and acknowledges that naked pho- I just like someone who is interesting, someone TV spotlight. NAGAAAFest 2009 Aug. 29-Sept. 7. In addition tos of him are now rampant on the Internet. who has a talent that they are really passionate “Life is good and I’m really glad I did [Proj- to the softball tournament, NAGAAAFest will be “The whole thing about post-reality TV life is, about. It doesn’t have to be a visual art talent; ect Runway],” said Mackenroth, who was a de- a series of events, celebrations and parties for it’s actually hard; you have to really facilitate a it could even be IT, just something that really sign director at a menswear company before the the entire community. lot of your own [work]; you have to make a lot gets them going. And if he has a good body too, show. “I’m doing OK, as long as I can pay my See www.nagaaasoftball.org and www.na- of things happen for yourself,” he said. “If the that doesn’t hurt.” mortgage. I don’t care about being a millionaire; gaaafest.com. TV show doesn’t happen, I’ll probably go back Jan. 28, 2009 23

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Download each issue of Windy City Times and Nightspots at www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com 24 Jan. 28, 2009 Begins Next Week!

A heated debate by Yasmina Reza over modern art translated by Christopher Hampton colors this rich directed by ensemble member Rick Snyder comic study of male featuring ensemble members Ian Barford (4/7-6/7), K. Todd Freeman (2/5- 3/13) and Francis Guinan with Joe Dempsey (3/14-6/7) and John Procaccino (2/5-4/5) friendship. Art explores the intricacies of a long-term friendship between three men. When one of them drops a fortune on a piece of modern art, his friends’ surprising reactions touch off a series of personal confrontations. This witty, intelligent and often funny play explores the power of art to engage the imagination and the enduring bonds of friendship.

steppenwolf Production Sponsor of Art buy online at www.steppenwolf.org or call 312-335-1650.