Nov. 7, 2018

FUNDAMENTAL READING SOME OF CHICAGO’S LGBTQ-FRIENDLY PAGE 14 BOOK CLUBS

Window of Women and Children First. Photo by Sarah Hindmarch

Noah Cyrus. Photo from David Enriquez/Records Marketing Nov. 7, 2018 2

INDEX VOL. 34, No. 07, Nov. 7, 2018 The combined forces of Windy City Times, founded Sept. 1985, and Outlines newspaper, Theater reviews 4-5 founded May 1987. Music: Measure for Measure 6 PUBLISHER Terri Klinsky Theater review 6 5 Film: Conversion-therapy film ‘Boy Erased’ hits theaters 7 EXECUTIVE EDITOR Andrew Davis

Film: Jenna Laurenzo talks ‘Lez Bomb’ 8 MANAGING EDITOR Matt Simonette DIGITAL DIRECTOR Jean Albright Books: Mark Zubro’s A Cradle Song: Part Three 10-11 ART DIRECTOR AND ASSOCIATE EDITOR Kirk Williamson Film: Review: Bohemian Rhapsody 12 SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR Scott Duff BUSINESS MANAGER Ripley Caine SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Terri Klinsky, Kirk Williamson, Scott Duff, Kathy Breit, Theresa Santos Volpe, Kevin Siarkowski, Amy Matheny NATIONAL SALES Rivendell Media, 212-242-6863 THEATER AND DANCE EDITOR Catey Sullivan SENIOR WRITERS Jonathan Abarbanel, Mary Shen Barnidge, Liz Baudler, Charlsie Dewey, Ross Forman, Carrie Maxwell, Rev. Irene Monroe, Jerry Nunn, Tony Peregrin, Angelique Smith, Sari Staver, Sarah Toce, Melissa Wasserman WRITERS Sarah Katherine Bowden, Ada Cheng, Eric Formato, Joe Franco, Veronica Harrison, Kelsey Hoff, Aaron Hunt, Eric Karas, Brian Kirst, Billy Masters, Scott C. Morgan, Amelia Orozco, Ariel Parrella-Aureli, Kerry Reid, Dana Rudolph, Ana Serna, Karen Topham, Joseph Varisco, Regina Victor, Sean Margaret Wagner, Lauren Warnecke, Steve Warren, Lauren Emily Whalen SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHERS Kat Fitzgerald, Hal Baim, Tim Carroll, Ed Negron 13 CIRCULATION DIRECTOR Jean Albright DISTRIBUTION Ashina, Allan, Dan, John, Sue and Victor WEB HOSTING LoveYourWebsite.com (lead programmer: Martie Marro) PRESIDENT Tracy Baim (773) 871-7610 FAX (773) 871-7609 Editorial: [email protected] Sales: [email protected] Calendar: [email protected] Circulation: [email protected] Art/ad copy: [email protected] Theater: [email protected]

Copyright 2018 Lambda Publications Inc./Windy City Media Group; All rights reserved. Reprint by permission only. Back issues (if available) for $5 per issue (postage included). Return postage must accompany all manuscripts, drawings, and photographs submitted if they are to be returned, and no responsibility may be assumed for unsolicited materials. All rights to letters, art and photographs sent to Windy City Times will be treated as unconditionally assigned 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 of Windy City Times. Publication of the name, photograph, or likeness of a person or organization in articles or advertising in Windy City Times is not to be construed as any indication of the sexual orientation of such person or organization. While Music: Olly Alexander: Out British singer on band, queer artists 13 we encourage readers to support the advertisers who make this newspaper possible, Windy City Times cannot accept Books: Some of Chicago’s LGBTQ-friendly book clubs 14 responsibility for advertising claims. Books: Atwood discusses impact of ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ 14 17 WINDY CITY MEDIA GROUP, 5315 N. Clark St. #192, Chicago, IL, 60640 U.S.A Nightlife/Drag: Drag It Up! 15 (MAILING ADDRESS ONLY) Billy Masters 16 Windy City Times Deadline every Wednesday OUT! Chicago’s LGBTQ Visitor’s Guide Online annual The Dish: Return of the MAK; SideDoor brunch 17 Windy City Times Wedding and Events Guide Annual Arts and Theater Weekly Online Nightlife/Drag: Scene photos (Touche, Meeting House Tavern) 17 www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com Calendar 18 Nov. 7, 2018 3 Nov. 7, 2018 4 THEATER REVIEW back-up singers. Gideon has AIDS and plans to Fire”—the shows’ centerpiece number—power- commit suicide, unable to endure the ravages of fully describes one’s body at war with itself from The Last Session the disease and the terrible side-effects of then- AIDS and nearly-poisonous drugs which cannot Playwright: Steve Schalchlin, music/lyrics; available drugs (AZT). His unseen lover of 13 cure. Each back-up singers has several solos— Jim Brochu, book; John Bettis/Marie Cain, years doesn’t know his plan, but Gideon’s studio Gideon is improbably generous in this respect— additional lyrics engineer (Benjamin Baylon) and back-up sing- which allow them to display feelings and emo- At: Refuge Theatre Project @ Atlas ers—two gals and a guy—eventually do and try tions beyond their diva bickering between songs Art Studio, 4809 N. Ravenswood Ave. to dissuade him. (some of which is funny-bitchy but often sounds Tickets: RefugeTheatre.com; $30 Spicing the stew is substitute backup singer artificial). Runs through: Dec. 2 Buddy (Ryan Armstrong), a very young, Bible- The only musical accompaniment is Gideon at carrying Baptist. “A man can’t be a Christian and the piano (Pearson also is the production’s mu- BY JONATHAN ABARBANEL a homosexual,” he says when he learns Gideon— sical director), which is more than sufficient to whom Buddy idolizes—is gay. Even though the drive the powerful vocals by Pearson, Armstrong Four extremely gifted performers power through a show’s world is small, no character is fully-ex- and Darilyn Burtley (as Tryshia) and Elizabeth dozen songs in this gospel-rock flavored chamber plored or developed, not even Gideon, but Buddy Bollar (as Vicki). The women also adroitly deliver musical, written and set in 1997 at the height (or is the least dimensional and believable (no fault most of the laugh lines. Director Christopher Paz- depth) of the AIDS crisis, when tens of thousands of Armstrong’s). A singer-songwriter himself, he’s dernik has staged the show—which has no dance of Americans still were dying each year. Very a gospel star pursuing a crossover career in LA, element and little scenery—very simply in the much of its time period, The Last Session is dated Darilyn Burtley, Liz Bolla and Ryan Armstrong and yet he’s naïve about gays, booze, drugs, sex intimate Atlas Art Studio, the effect being that but still has emotional power, similar to other in The Last Session. and humor. Just a little much. you’re in the session with the artists. “AIDS plays” such as The Normal Heart and As Is. Photo by Rob Riddle of Ghost Light Foto Of course, much exposition and emotion is FYI: The Last Session is heavily autobiographi- Unlike those plays, The Last Session has a re- channeled into the songs and most are gang- cal. Schalchlin was at death’s door in 1997 but stricted setting: one night in a small Los Angeles Wells (Erik Pearson), a self-described one-hit- busters. In Act I, “The Preacher and the Nurse” survived with new medications. He’s 65 today and recording studio where singer-songwriter Gideon wonder, is recording his last tracks with three fills in Gideon’s backstory, while Act II’s “Friendly an ardent LGBTQ activist.

the 1954 European tour of iconic jazz vocalist her fellow Danes, chafing under the Nazi occu- loneliness. THEATER REVIEW Billie Holiday, called “Lady Day” by her fans— pation, the music of Count Basie and Duke El- As archeologists postulate entire civilizations specifically, an incident documented in her au- lington, whether captured on vinyl records or on a minimum of physical evidence, so has Or- Lady in Denmark tobiography describing how, following a concert replicated by local bands in smoke-filled “under- landersmith fabricated a fascinating (if still in Playwright: Dael Orlandersmith appearance in Copenhagen, Denmark, a local ground” clubs, proclaimed a freedom as profound need of some tightening) backstory, replete with At: Goodman Theatre, 170 N. Dearborn St. doctor and his teenage daughter invited her to as that embraced by expatriate artists of color wry humor and unflinching candor transcending Tickets: GoodmanTheatre.org; their house for a post-show dinner, and how fleeing North American injustice. racial boundaries. The only structural flaw in the 312-443-3800; $15-$45 the welcome extended her by these “plain good For young Helene, too, Billie Holiday’s pain, text at its premiere is Helene’s too-frequent bouts Runs through: Nov. 18 people” was so different from the treatment of given voice in songs like “God Bless The Child” of melancholy over her recent loss. A woman who African-Americans in the United States. and “Strange Fruit,” becomes a source of sol- lives as fiercely as the one we have met deserves BY MARY SHEN BARNIDGE All right, so a glimpse of domestic life in a for- ace—especially now, as our hostess pauses in a better takeaway than a lingering farewell by eign country, the celebrity status of the glimpser the cleanup of what would have been an 80th a hospital bed and prognostications of a joyless Historical fiction typically recounts its chronicles notwithstanding, may not represent an earth- birthday party for her beloved husband, who died future. from the vantage of a humble witness whose shaking cataclysm, but to our narrator—whom a mere three weeks earlier (after instructing his proximity coincidentally enables them to ob- we learn is the doctor’s teenage daughter Helene, bereaved wife to continue with plans for the serve—perhaps even participate in—the signifi- now a widow living in Andersonville, Chicago’s anniversary celebration) to share her memories c cant events under scrutiny. gateway district for Scandinavian immigrants— with us and look to her gardenia-bedecked and The event in Dael Orlandersmith’s solo play is the multicultural implications are manifest. For needle-scarred guardian angel for comfort in her CRITICS’PICKS Rock ‘N’ Roll, The Artistic Home, through Nov. zalez-Cadel as the second performer. Wallace in- which makes him a safe guide for the evening, 18. Tom Stoppard’s clever play channels the col- MUSICAL REVIEW formed Gonzalez-Cadel that she was playing the as he asks Gonzalez-Cadel to repeat dialogue he lapse of European Communism through rock mu- father of a little girl who died in a car accident, proclaims, or asks his scene partner to take a sic, centered on a Czech idealist and a British An Oak Tree in which Wallace was the driver. Gonzalez-Cruz seat or stand to the side. Gonzalez-Cadel was By: Tim Crouch Communist. It’s vigorously and intimately staged has appeared during Wallace’s hypnotist show, open and strong in their choices during the per- and performed. JA At: The Athenaeum Theatre, and is looking for a reckoning. formance, no easy feat when one doesn’t know 2936 N. Southport Ave. The Scientific Method, Rivendell Theatre En- Director Jeremy Aluma, who also worked with what emotional experiences will be had during semble, through Dec. 2. Sexism, racism and back- Tickets: RedTheater.org; $20-$22 Red on The Elaborate Entrance of Chad Deity, is an evening. One of the curious things about Runs through: Dec. 9 biting in academic circles may not be big news a good match for Tim Crouch’s discursive script. this performance piece is that Wallace whispers nowadays, but when the arena is a laboratory for Bits of dialogue that involve the actors speak- many directions to the second actor, so the au- BY SARAH KATHERINE BOWDEN scientific research, even a cure for cancer can be ing in character are interspersed with moments dience isn’t actually privy to the full experience held hostage. MSB where the second actor questions motives and being shared. In some ways, we are left in the Red Theater’s An Oak Tree opens with one actor 1776, Porchlight Music Theatre at the Ruth emotions and asks basic script questions one dark a bit about the process, just as we would Page Center for the Arts, Nov. 14-15. Porchlight announcing the concept of the performance. might have in a rehearsal. Aluma keeps Wallace be during the alchemy of a more traditional per- Gage Wallace, also known as The Hypnotist, Revisits presents a concert version of 1776, with confident but light, having him simply and hu- formance. And that confuses the central meta- a killer cast that includes Joseph Anthony Foron- explains that he has memorized and rehearsed morously engage his scene partner with clear phor about belief and creation a bit. the play. The second actor invited onto the da as Benjamin Franklin and Heather Townsend as encouragement about a tough exercise. Aluma Set designer Alex Casillas frames the stage John Dickensen. CES stage has never attended a single rehearsal or keeps the staging simple, with Wallace pan- with red curtains, giving the show a vaudeville, even read the script. At each performance, the Neverland, Prop Thtr, through Dec. 2; Pe- tomining other characters experiencing hypno- punchy feel, while Abby Beggs’ lights and John ter Pan, Bros Do Prose at the Mercury Theater, second actor will be played by a different Chica- sis onstage, and with overturned chairs forming Nichols III’s sound generate an ethereal series go artist. Such high-wire theatricality is a sta- through Dec. 23. You’ve got two Peter Pan op- the obstacles that pop up between the charac- of flashbacks. If the production seems half- tions this month, with Prop and Bros Do Prose ple for Red Theater, but its deployment in one ters. A piano stool comes to mean far more than planned and half-spontaneous, and we must of the Athenaeum Theatre’s small studio spaces both telling the story of the boy who refused to it initially seems by play’s end. jump between the two, it remains worth the grow up. If you’re a J.M. Barrie aficionado, this is makes for an intimate and quizzical experience. Wallace has a good-natured way about him, leap. The opening-night performance saw Cruz Gon- your season. CES —by Abarbanel, Barnidge and Sullivan Nov. 7, 2018 5

a clearer view of the twisty, thorny Gordian knot woman could advance so far and wishing to “pro- of gender discrimination that threatens to choke tect the brand” of his lab, he refuses to allow Amy’s hopes for progress, let alone graduation, her to apply for a prestigious fellowship and, in- within her field. stead, accuses Makayla of cheating on her exams. After six years doing cancer research for her Makayla’s crisis of status within the department, Ph.D. thesis, extended an extra 10 months by her not Amy’s, brings on the unraveling of Julian’s head professor Julian Millard (Josh Odor), Amy’s judgment and authority. It opens the way for work is “scooped” by a competing lab publishing Danny to reveal that Julian may have shared before her. Julian tries to solace her by dismiss- Amy’s research with the principal investigator ing her setback as the risks of their field, but fur- who “scooped” her at the competing lab, who ther action slowly reveals his bias. He consigns just happens to Julian’s old pal and roommate Amy to a study that the rest of the lab jokingly from Stanford. refers to as the “white mice mess,” meanwhile, Of course, nothing is provable and real help promoting Danilo, or Danny, Bayani (Glenn Ob- from Marie Healy (Carmen Roman), the lone ten- rero) a hot new graduate addition to the lab, to ured female scientist in the department, is not a much more prestigious study which is much forthcoming, other than cautioning Amy against closer to Amy’s research--and maybe all for bond- becoming known in their small scientific commu- ing with Julian over basketball and appletinis. nity as a “troublemaker.” When Amy’s meltdown Julian wields schmoozing as his weapon and in front of Julian finally happens, Neal unloads a art form, cultivated, no doubt, during the per- most brilliant release of emotional fireworks--ac- petual conference-hopping he engages in while knowledging her culpability in Julian’s belittle- Amy takes over his teaching load. Indeed, one ment of previous female researchers as “worker of the kudos to Josh Odor’s portrayal of Julian bees” and confronting him with her most desper- is his ability to render him smooth and charm- ate plea, “When did I stop being your hotshot?” ing, even at his dastardliest. Julian’s eye is al- Devon de Mayo has crafted a tight and well- ways on the ball and that ball is always about balanced ensemble of her cast. Indeed, the only money. Meanwhile, Ashley Neal’s performance character that seems slightly underdeveloped is deftly glides Amy’s decline into depression and Marie Healy and that is certainly no fault of Car- isolation, checked only by a possible collabora- men Roman, who gives her an august, yet wry tion and/or affair with Danny, as well as her push and bemused edge, especially in her encounters to support a promising student in Makayla Lozada with Julian. It’s just that 20 years being the lone (Courtney Williams), blossoming well beyond her female scientist in a more intractably sexist cul- Courtney Williams in The Scientific Method. initial hesitancy in taking Amy’s class. ture than Amy or Makayla have endured—surely Photo by Michael Brosilow Indeed, it’s Makayla’s success that threatens to there are many tales to be told there, for another pull away the veil of Julian’s suavity and tear it day, for another play. THEATER REVIEW of a small, inbred, competitive scientific commu- asunder. Incredulous that an African-American nity, scrambling for funding, assured of its ex- The Scientific ceptionalism, and entrenched in male-dominated hierarchy, and you have the domain of Rivendell Method Theatre Ensemble’s world premiere production, By: Jenny Connell Davis The Scientific Method, directed by Devon de At: Rivendell Theatre Ensemble, Mayo. 5779 N. Ridge Ave. Playwright Jenny Connell Davis explores this Tickets: RivendellTheatre.org, $28-$38 world without the more egregious crisis of sexual Runs through: Dec. 2 harassment and, for the most part, that is an extremely wise choice. Her heroine, academic BY PAIGE LISTERUD cancer researcher Amy Lee (Ashley Neal), must contend with the subtle and not so subtle profes- Scientific research within academia is going sional sabotage dealt her by male colleagues and through its own #MeToo moment, as surely as its heads of the department. Reserving the focus on counterparts in entertainment, politics and the sexual harassment for another day, especially for corporate world. Add to that the complications this hothouse academic environment, allows us

eSPOTLIGHT

A transatlantic partnership 10 years in the making comes to fruition with Ekili Munda (What Lies Beneath), a collaboration between Kampala Uganda’s Keiga Dance Company and Chicago’s Red Clay Dance Company. Red Clay’s Vershawn Sanders-Ward and Keiga’s Jonas Bya- ruhanga’s creation explores personal identity and how it is influenced by history, culture, the physical body and spiritual practices. Per- formances start at 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 8-10 at the Dance Center of Columbia College, 1306 S. Michigan Ave. Tickets are $10-$30; visit dance. colum.edu. Photo by Mbogo Moses Nov. 7, 2018 6

maintains a series of neighborhood ensembles (al- Ricardo Muti. though they all sing together from time to time) Photo by Todd Rosenberg MUSIC and several of them are performing in November. period instrument ensemble that will accompany The CCC Austin Neighborhood Choir performs Nov. them to Chicago. Tickets ($35-$135) and info are 11 at the Third Unitarian Church and again Nov. at HarrisTheaterChicago.org. FYI: French Baroque 29 at the Austin College and Career Academy. The composer Marc-Antoine Charpentier is not related CCC Rogers Park Neighborhood Choir will perform to 19th-20th-century French composer Gustave Nov. 15 at the annual tree-lighting festival at the Charpentier. 900 N. Michigan Avenue shops. The CCC Pilsen/ Voice of Chicago, the premier mixed-voice en- Little Village Neighborhood Choir will lift its semble of the larger Chicago Children’s Choir, voices Nov. 17 at the Peter Cooper Dual Language opens its concert season Nov. 14 with a FREE Academy. Finally, on Thanksgiving morning (11 concert at the Chicago Cultural Center’s Sidney a.m.), the CCC Hyde Park Neighborhood Choir will R. Yates Gallery. The concert is at 7:30 p.m., with join the Allegro and Vivace singers for an inter- tickets available at the concert venue one hour faith Thanksgiving service at the University of earlier. Chicago’s Rockefeller Chapel. All these are FREE The Chicago Children’s Choir (CCC) uniquely events; visit ccchoir.org.

Women of Soul. Photo by Alan Davis

Measure for Measure BY JONATHAN ABARBANEL of 1930s-1940s big band jazz. This outfit, which sometimes includes a featured vocalist, is some- The Hindu celebration of Diwali, the five-day thing to savor. The modest cover charge is $8; festival of lights, will be marked by the Chicago vist GreenMillJazz.com. Sinfonietta with concerts in Naperville (Nov. 10 Chicago Symphony Orchestra (CSO) music direc- at Wentz Hall) and Chicago (Nov. 12 at Symphony tor Riccardo Muti returns to the Symphony Center Center). podium Nov. 8-10 to lead the orchestra, the Chi- an equal-opportunity demand. Indeed, the roster Diwali celebrates light conquering dark and cago Symphony Chorus and distinguished soloists THEATER REVIEW of iconic compositions embodying this ethos, as good conquering evil, and also coincides with the in three performances of the massive Verdi Re- evidenced by the nine treble-range vocalists (and Hindu New Year. Typically, Hindu, Sikh and Jain quiem. Muti and the CSO won two Grammy Awards Women of Soul one baritone) in Black Ensemble’s musical caval- households will light traditional lamps during the for their 2010 recording of the work. Most seats (With a Tribute to cade, emerges as nothing less than a pantheon of festival, wear their best clothes and keep the already are gone for these concerts so move fast women bearing witness to the precepts of inde- house doors open so the gods may enter. They if you want to attend, and be prepared to take Aretha Franklin) pendence, both in their music and in their own also celebrate with nightly fireworks. Even some scattered seats if there are two or more in your Playwright: Daryl D. Brooks lives. Buddhists, it’s been reported, honor Diwali. group. Tickets ($65-$316) and info are at CSO. At: Black Ensemble Theater, 4450 N. Clark St. These encompass such gospel luminaries as The Chicago Sinfonietta concert, entitled “Sea org. Tickets: BlackEnsemble.org; Mahalia Jackson and Mavis Staples, rhythm-and- of Light, Reflections on Diwali,” will juxtapose Another Grammy-winning group, the Soweto 773-769-4451; $55-$65 blues pioneers like Etta James and Jill Scott, and European classical music with compositions by Gospel Choir, takes over Symphony Center for a Runs through: Jan. 27 boom-generation idols like Diana Ross and Donna contemporary American and Indian-American Nov. 16 concert of African gospel music, Songs of Summer, all the way up to such recent headliners composers. Sinfonietta musical director Mei-Ann the Free, honoring Nelson Mandela. This vibrant BY MARY SHEN BARNIDGE as Anita Baker, Whitney Houston and, of course, Chen will conduct, with sitarist Gaurav Mazumdar choral group, accompanied by African drums, the late “Queen of Soul” Aretha Franklin. White- as guest soloist. The program features works by has developed a global following over almost 20 Federico Garcia Lorca once defined “duende” as girl soul is given its due, too, in Texas-born Ja- Mazumdar, Indian-American composer Reena Es- years. In addition to authentic South African mu- “a mysterious power that all may feel and no phi- nis Joplin and British crooner Amy Winehouse mail, American composer Eric Whitaker (a 2012 sic, the choir also will perform Amazing Grace and losophy can explain.” (covering Ruby and the Romantics’ “Our Day Will Grammy Award winner) and concludes with De- Leonard Cohen’s Hallelujah. Tickets ($20-$65) The same enigma may be applied to the con- Come”). Hip-hop warblers get their moment in an bussy’s La Mer. and info: www.cso.org. cept of “soul music”—a predominantly (though old school/new school sing-off, while songwriter The Chicago Sinfonietta, now 30 years old, is Lovers of baroque music are in for a rare treat not exclusively) African-American artistic genre Rick James redeems a long line of bossy male one of America’s most diverse professional or- with the Nov. 15-16 visit of Toronto-based Opera associated with individual expression of intense spouses and sidekicks. chestras, long noted for its eclectic mix of stan- Atelier at the Harris Theater for Music and Dance, emotion arising from personal or tribal experi- Two-and-half hours (plus intermission) is not dard classical repertory with multiethnic and mul- offering a double-bill of rarely-seen operas, both ence, typically manifested in embellishments enough to honor to all those deserving thereof— ticultural contemporary music. Complete info and inspired by classical mythology: Marc-Antoine such as key changes, cadenzas and spoken-word a shortcoming acknowledged by emcees Rhonda tickets ($10-$62) are at Chicagosinfonietta.org. Charpentier’s early-Baroque Acteon and Jean- asides. What distinguishes the female voice of Preston and Cynthia Carter—and many playgoers FYI: The next Chicago Sinfonietta event is its an- Phillipe Rameau’s late-Baroque ballet-opera Pyg- soul, however, is the subtext of defiance injected may lament the absence or abbreviation of their nual tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on Jan. malion. Tenor Colin Ainsworth will perform the ti- into even the most docile of lyrics. favorite anthems or the often fast-and-furious 20-21 in Naperville and Chicago. tle roles in both works. Opera Atelier, founded in Take for example, the classic “Hound Dog”— renditions offered by a cast sprinting through a An orchestra of a different kind has a stand- 1983, specializes in fresh, visually-arresting new written by Tin Pan Alley composers Jerry Leiber marathon array of costumes and wigs. All that ing gig at Uptown’s Green Mill Lounge every productions of 17th- and 18th-century repertory. and Mike Stoller, but when delivered by Big Mama notwithstanding, author/director Daryl D. Brooks’ Thursday night (including Thanksgiving), 9 To judge by the website, Opera Atelier manages Thornton, transformed into a diatribe worthy of revue may be viewed as a chronicle of feminine p.m.-1 a.m. That would be Alan Gresik’s Swing to expose a good deal of skin in many of their royal decree—or “Respect,” Otis Redding’s mas- progress, in addition to a showcase for some of Shift Orchestra, maintaining the great tradition productions (if that’s your idea of a good time). culine whine converted by Aretha Franklin into Chicago’s most auspicious rising stars. It partners with Tafelmusik Baroque Orchestra, a Nov. 7, 2018 7

that both of these films exist in the same year. It feels like a real moment for conver- sion therapy to become mainstream. FILM From what I have heard about Boy Erased from survivors that it is extremely ac- Conversion- curate depiction of what many of us have gone through. It is basically having your soul murdered and not a good experience. For that reason alone it is a document that happened to us and our community needs this. It is a therapy film roadmap for people that have been around LGBTQ youth and messed up. What do they do next? Through Nicole Kidman they see they messed up, but can change things. JE: Love is the strongest weapon in her instance. She may seem frail, but there is ‘Boy Erased’ such a strength in her because she picked up the weapon of love and wielded it. There is also a chance that this will lift up the rock that places are hiding under. It has gone underground and this will point at them. hits the GC: Because of this movie, an actor from the film David Craig has done a podcast that looks at the whole history of conversion therapy. It is called UnErased and comes out Nov. 2. It feels like there is a branching out effect to this whole thing. big screen WCT: Joel, after starring in Kinky Boots as Charlie, why do you think that story BY JERRY NUNN still resonates with audiences? JE: That is because it is a perfect odd couple story about acceptance. A peacock The new film Boy Erased tells the story of Jared Eamons, walks into a blue-collar factory and purely by the empathetic experience of contact the son of a Baptist pastor, who goes under conversion and understanding they create something wonderful. It is a simple, colorful contrast- therapy after being outed at age 19. ing tale. I am proud that it continues on. The head therapist is played by Joel Edgerton, known for his Golden Globe performance in Loving and for di- recting The Gift. He directs and wrote the screenplay for Boy Erased inspired by Garrard Conley’s memoir titled Boy Erased: A Memoir of Identity, Faith, and Family. CULTURECULTURE CLUBCLUB Edgerton and Conley sat down at their hotel to discuss the movie that opens in theaters Nov. 9. Windy City Times: How was bringing your memoir to life on film, Garrard? Garrard Conley: It was a dream come true to educate the rest of the world on this issue. This is an expansion of my message thanks to Joel. It is a tool for advocacy that is Garrard Conley and Joel Edgerton. also art. In the end people can walk away thinking how Photo by Jerry Nunn can they end this. That is the best gift for me personally. WCT: Were there big differences from the book to the it just put its talons in me. I have never had a project that screen? picked me before this one. GC: Not a whole lot. There is no internal monologue that WCT: Did the bible beating happen to you, Garrard? exists in the memoir, but Joel focused wisely on the family GC: That was one liberty Joel took. I had mentioned that quite a bit. happening to a friend of mine. We wanted to show how bigotry in conversion therapy JE: I took that liberty because I wanted to tell the story erases everyone who touches it, not only the person who of the worst part of conversion therapy that touches on goes through it, but the parents that make the unwise suicide. decision to send their kid there. GC: It is actually using the bible as a weapon against WCT: Isn’t the father a car salesman in the book? people. GC: Yes and he is in the movie, but it is brief. He has the WCT: I am familiar. My mom is a lot like Nicole Kid- ability to sell cars and souls. man in the film. Correcting her son for hanging his arm Joel Edgerton: We go there twice. The tough thing was out of the car window rang true. how long could he stay in that environment. JE: There were big reasons where I felt unqualified to WCT: Why did you take on so much in one film, Joel? make this movie, but there were things I could relate to. JE: I did the same thing in The Gift. The producing side I grew up in a small town where homophobia was its own of it is just gathering the team, bringing Nicole, Russell conversion of sorts. My mom and dad have a similar dy- and Lucas onboard. Writing came about because I became namic. My dad is no preacher, but he is the loudest voice in obsessed with the book after reading it. I wanted to be the family. My mother hovers over me and loves me almost involved. No one else was trying to make the movie and I too much. wanted to direct it. GC: She and my mom got along insanely. They are almost I became interested in the character of Victor Sykes. the same person. Even though we don’t go behind the curtain in his psy- JE: I had a Catholic upbringing where I had a deep feel- chology, it is such a conflict. Other facilities had a similar ing about God toward my actions. Still to this day I live theme with most of the staff identifying as ex-gay. There is with guilt. I am fearful of my father’s opinion. If he told a whole story about my character to make. I had to focus me to do something at 19 I would have done it. on Garrard’s story. I don’t think the majority of people have the agency to WCT: What made you want to make this movie in the leave their town and rebel at a young age. This movie is for first place? people like that. JE: I still find that hard to articulate. It is like making GC: It felt like kismet when I met Lucas Hedges. He told a second album. I was terrified. I loved making my first me about a crush he had at basketball camp on a guy. He LUX. BY JOE MAZZA-BRAVE PHOTO AND JENNIFER LATIMORE. KYRI PICTURED: DANIEL film. I didn’t want to do it again until I felt very passion- told his mom and she was so supportive. He identified with ate about something. I didn’t want to do the same thing that part. Everything fell into line almost perfectly. again. WCT: Why do you think movies like Boy Erased and NOW PLAYING I wanted to work with actors in a dramatic way and put The Miseducation of Cameron Post are important now? 847-242-6000 | WRITERSTHEATRE.ORG something positive into the world. When I read the book GC: I was a consultant on that. I think it’s so important Nov. 7, 2018 8

Caitlin Mehner and Jenna Laurenzo in Lez Bomb. Photo courtesy of Gravitas Ventures

Hana L. Anderson poses next to her piece, Power to the People. Photos by Brooke Nagler Black Panther art exhibit now open Following exhibitions at American Steel Studios in Oakland, California, and Gregorio Escalante Gallery in Los Angeles, SEPIA col- lective hosted the third exhibition of “ICON- IC: Black Panther,” at Chicago’s Stony Island Arts Bank, complete with an opening Nov. 2. The exhibition is curated by Rootwork Gal- lery founder Tracie D. Hall; co-presented by FILM Center for the Study of Race, Politics and Cul- Jenna Laurenzo short film. He asked to see the feature script and ture UChicago and Rebuild Foundation; and he really responded to it because he has a daugh- produced by SEPIA collective. ter that also came out. He thought that the way This exhibition will be taking place in con- talks ‘Lez Bomb’ in which the story was being told with something junction with the 50th anniversary of the BY DANIELLE SOLZMAN JL: It’s been wonderful! We premiered it at Gee- [was something] he hadn’t seen before. … He’s Black Panther Party’s Illinois chapter. The na Davis’ Bentonville Film Festival in Arkansas. such a comedic legend so I was so grateful that heartland exhibition of “ICONIC” will feature Lez Bomb writer-director-actress Jenna Laurenzo A lot of people had encouraged me to do that he got involved. I learned so much from him. He a mix of local emerging and established art- recently spoke with the Windy City Times ahead because they thought it would be a great place became an incredible mentor who’s a very hands- ists. of the release of her new film. If you’re looking that we could have very impactful Q&As. People on executive producer. for a dysfunctional family comedy set during have been really warm and receptive, and a lot of WCT: Cloris Leachman and Bruce Dern are Thanksgiving with an LGBTQ twist, Lez Bomb is laughter. But people have found the end moving some of our cinematic treasures. How were you quite the hysterical treat. Gravitas Ventures will in a way that has created a lot of interesting able to bring them on board for your feature open Lez Bomb in the Chicago area at AMC Loews dialogue after the film. People are continuously debut? Woodridge on Nov. 9. The film will also be avail- sending me messages on social media or writing JL: They both very much responded to the script, able the same day on VOD platforms. me emails. and they very much liked the message within the Windy City Times: When did you first get the WCT: I remember my first Thanksgiving af- script and the themes that were being explored. idea to make this film? ter coming out as transgender—it was brutal. On their first day on set, they both wanted to Jenna Laurenzo: I wrote the first draft of the Is your own coming out story similar to what talk to me about the script and moments in the script eight years ago, and it took me six years to happens in the film? script and they were just very excited from the get it made. JL: Yeah, it was a challenge for me because I start. … Even looking back, I think it’s miracu- WCT: During such a dark time for many of us never wanted to disappoint my parents. I felt like lous that every time I watch the movie—I see it in the LGBTQ community—this will likely run by coming out to them, it was going to disap- now a lot—they talk on screen and I’m like, “Oh after the midterms—I just want to say how point them. In looking back, I felt like I wasted my God, I can’t believe this happened!” much I appreciate this light-hearted comedy so much time in not telling them because I had WCT: What’s the big message that you want that focuses on sexuality with a mix of family this assumption of they were going to react. It people to take away from viewing the film? Black Panther member speaks. dysfunction. sat there and made me angry at them for not JL: I was really interested in the theme of self- JL: Sometimes I want to laugh, and it was understanding something that I never gave them acceptance. Sexuality aside, we often assume important for me to create something that has permission or room to understand. By the time I that the pressures of stepping into ourselves some levity to it and has a message in there, but did come out for them, I was angry. They were have had to do with the pressures from externali- David Jay Collins was [also] something that could bring people to- so supportive. They just needed to readjust their ties. Sometimes, it’s an internal thing. I am hop- gether and laugh, because I think it’s necessary expectations because my future wasn’t what they readings Nov. 9 ing the idea of self-acceptance is explored, not Chicago author David Jay Collins will read sometimes. had imagined. They were very supportive and just with my character coming out, but with all scenes from his locally set novels Gaybash WCT: Were there any specific films that influ- they just wanted me to be happy. There’s a line the other family members. …People should have and Summerdale on Friday, Nov. 9, at 6:30 enced Lez Bomb? in the movie that my mom actually said to me, the permission to be who they are and not be p.m., at The Leigh Gallery, 3306 N. Halsted JL: When I was growing up I really loved the which meant a lot: “A parent is only as happy as fearful of that and not be their authentic selves. St. dysfunctional family stories like The Family Stone their unhappiest child.” I think that, in leaning into our true authentic- Collins will sell and autograph books after and Little Miss Sunshine and Meet the Parents. WCT: Bobby Farrelly is one of the film’s pro- ity, that’s where we find the greatest gems that the readings and Q&A. There’s something interesting about coming ducers. How did he get involved with the proj- we’re capable of offering the world. We have to For more about the author, visit https:// home and bringing any news. ect? give people permission to do that, or we’re going davidjaycollins.com/. WCT: What has the reception been during the JL: Bobby was at a festival where my short to miss out on so many tremendous gifts. film-festival screenings? film, Girl Night Stand, played. He really liked that Nov. 7, 2018 9

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

Chapter Four: Matthew thew thought it was altogether a magical thew was just an invisible hopeless bum. his most important wishes to have his dad, Part Two sound. Few paid attention to his size or age. Most mom, and sister back, he hoped someday Most of the people who passed by the avoided eye contact and didn’t want to see that he’d have a dog that beautiful and Over time, he refined his routine. musicians smiled. On warmer days, some- him. gentle. His favorite corner was near the train sta- times passersby would stop. They got more At emergency shelters and warming cen- Too often, strange dogs snarled and tion. The intersection was always trapped donations on warm days. As it got colder, ters, they asked too many questions. yipped at him. Luckily, he’d never been in the shadows of the hovering majesty of each of the musicians dressed in more lay- He saw police take people away. The po- bitten. the turrets and walls of the train station. ers of clothes. lice were most often rough and unsympa- Traffic flew by, back and forth in front of A few of the people who passed by were thetic. They tried to get the homeless to Chapter Five him. mean. Matthew didn’t understand this. move along. Or at least go to part of the Sometimes on the corner, there were They were so beautiful together. One man park or the street where they wouldn’t be As Matthew searched for his mom and people making music. Some had guitars, or stood and yelled at them to get jobs. noticed quite as much. He knew when the sister, hunger and thirst ruled his days. clarinets, or harmonicas, others a recorder, The guitar playing man had smiled and police on the beat made their rounds. He He began to know particular dumpsters one had bells she played. Matthew often said, “That’s the best advice I ever got.” knew when to be out of the way or to be behind restaurants, the best times of the stopped and listened. He wished he could But the horrible man kept screaming al- gone long before they came by with their day to go to certain ones. Matthew dis- play, but he couldn’t afford any kind of in- most like it was a chant. Matthew knew swagger, their solid-wood batons, and covered that certain dumpsters behind strument, and he had no one to teach him. there was something wrong with the man, guns attached to thick black belts. particular restaurants were treasure troves, He envied the mounds of coins they col- but he didn’t know what to do. That day, One day while he’d waited at a corner, but others had learned the same. He had lected. He could live for a long time on the couple walked away early. The scream- a wheelchair scrunched on the pavement to be quick and clever to get some of the what looked to him like a fortune. ing man had then noticed Matthew and behind him. A service dog, who wore a merest scraps. One day, one of the guitar players no- begun to advance on him. Matthew ran. It harness and leash, walked along next to it. He watched, observed, and took great ticed Matthew and smiled at him. was a few days before he went back, but The animal stopped. So did the wheelchair. care. Still, he got chased away. Sometimes He was a tall, thin man with a guitar. the singers had returned. The boy glanced at its occupant. It was a by people from the restaurants themselves. Matthew enjoyed hearing his music. Some- The man and the woman noticed him huddled old man with white hair sprouting Other times by people scrabbling for the times a tall, slender woman with a violin over time. They both smiled at him. Mat- from random spots on his ears, dangling same remnants. joined him. Matthew would crouch on a thew feared being noticed, so he didn’t from his nostrils, and jutting out from his When he went depended on what he nearby bench and listen. It was a mysti- come around much after that. But late one eyebrows. His rheumy eyes watered. The could get at the mostly likely times during cal moment, childhood wrapped in warm day, Matthew had gone back, and another man gave him a brief smile. the day. Some he got to very early in the memories. He knew he loved his mom and awful person kicked the man’s guitar case. Matthew hung his head. He felt a tear morning, to get scraps from the breakfast dad, but if they were gone, he wished Matthew had rushed to keep some of their at the corner of his eye. He tried to sniff rush. this couple would adopt him. They always coins from falling into a sewer drain. He’d it back and shake it away. He knew little Trash cans were another possible trove smiled at each other. Matthew liked it best gathered them and brought them back. boys weren’t supposed to cry. Not if they of treasures. He had to be careful though. when they played soft, sad songs. The guitar man had stooped down so he wanted to be men. Other adults shooed him away from spots could be at Matthew’s eye level. He thought The beautiful golden retriever dog put they considered their own. These homeless the man had the most deep blue eyes and his muzzle on the boy’s shoulder. His nose people would make regular journeys, as a kindly smile. That time, he’d handed Mat- nuzzled the boy’s chest and chin. The little if they were trash picking collectors on a thew a quarter and said, “Thank you.” boy could feel the warmth of the canine. fixed schedule. More than once, he’d got- Matthew had given him a brief smile. He wanted to put his arms around the ten shoved out of the way. He took care The man had said, “We’re glad that you golden retriever and bury his face in that to study the routes of the people on the come listen to our music. Do you sing or thick fur. streets nearest to him. play an instrument?” The boy let fall one tear. He couldn’t help Over time, Matthew was able to tell when Matthew had shaken his head and hurried himself. big adults were approaching. They smelled away. It took a week before he had gone The tear landed in the center of the dog’s bad. So he could often get a head start on back again. He’d found several quarters on nose. The animal looked him in the eye. them. his bench that day, and every day after. He The light changed. The man spoke in a At times, he wondered if he smelled the thought maybe they were leaving them for soft voice, “Tawny, cross.” The dog and the same as these people. It was kind of awful. him. However, as it got even colder, they wheelchair moved forward. Matthew hung But after a while he didn’t notice. He just came less often. He hadn’t seen them in a back. had to time when he was in the back of Once in a while, one or the other would while. He guessed they had moved some- Matthew only saw the dog, Tawny, and which restaurant. put their instrument aside and they would where warmer. the man with the wheelchair about once a One day, Matthew found a new restaurant sing while accompanied by the other. Mat- To the vast majority of passersby, Mat- week. Most often at a distance. Right after that had just opened and that people lined Nov. 7, 2018 11 up out front to get into. so hungry and grateful for warm food that recognized him. Matthew thanked the man one was a synagogue, one an Episcopal From listening to the waitstaff in the he began devouring it before he ran away. for the food which was warm and delicious. church, and across from them down at the alley, he learned that a Mr. Schermerhorn He’d felt a hand clutch onto his jacket. Matthew had seen that same policeman other end, a mosque. was the owner of the restaurant Too Chic to Mr. Schermerhorn had caught him. Mat- shoving at people with his horse, break- He could often sneak into them for Eat. He was also the head chef. And he was thew squirmed and fled at top speed. Mr. ing up sleeping spots. Now, the officer just warmth. He had to be careful because the mean. His food was divine. His employees Schermerhorn screamed after him that he’d watched. When the line was done, he tied adults watched their congregations and hated him. Mr. Schermerhorn thought cash call the police if he caught him again. up his horse. He joined Schermerhorn. Po- might ask questions. was king, and he must make more than After that, Matthew timed his appear- liceman and proprietor ate together. They When the churches were open but empty, anyone else. He believed that everything ances to that alley later and later. He’d talked softly. he sat in the last pews of the church. He had to be a competition. Competition be- about given up even making the attempt, Matthew took a place on the other side crouched down. In a couple of them, he tween employees, competition between but very late one night he gave it one last of the horse so he would be hidden, but he saw soft candle lights flickering up front. foods, a competition between restaurants. try at Schermerhorn’s back door. Before he could still hear their conversation. In the middle of the block was a blank He threw out any food that didn’t meet his even got there, Matthew had had to hide They talked about the weather and a pos- space amongst all the tall buildings. It had standards. Matthew heard the employees from a gang of teenage boys and a shout- sible storm and more snow. The policeman been turned into an urban garden. Many talking about all this as they smoked ciga- ing man who made no sense. said, “How come you don’t let your em- people labored long hours to keep it green rettes in the alley behind the restaurant’s Through the front windows of the res- ployees know what you do out here?” and thriving. Then the city had decided to back door. taurant, he watched the last lights flick “Same reason you don’t shag them away.” kick people out and to put it under lock The restaurant was on the poshest street off. The last of the pot washers left. When The policeman’s voice was deep and gruff. and key. The owner who didn’t live in the in town. The alley behind it was too Matthew had finally crept around the cor- “After they eat here, they calm down. The city didn’t want people using his land, no good to stink. The poor and homeless got ner to the alley, he saw a line of sitting food’s good.” matter what their goal or how kindly their shooed away. and shuffling people. He was surprised at Schermerhorn said, “If my employees work was meant. Matthew could slip between the shad- so large a group, but even more startled knew, they’d expect more from me. I can’t The churches had banded together with ows. He found some rolls one night that to see the back door opened. By the light afford that.” their shared purpose of feeding the needy. were sweet and wonderful. Thrown away leaking from the interior, he could see Mr. “You can afford this.” They fought the city. Hoses were gathered from tables of diners who didn’t want to Schermerhorn standing next to a steaming “A vat of soup and leftover bread? What to stretch down back alleys to provide fill up on bread. He figured out if he got vat. difference does that make?” water from different churches on differ- there just a minute or so after the restau- Matthew joined the line. As he got up “To some of these folks a lot.” ent days when there wasn’t enough rain. rant closed, and just after the last busboy close, he saw that each person got some “But not to me.” Congregants shared the duties of planting, threw out the trash, he could sometimes soup in a plastic bowl and a generous hunk Matthew finished and slunk away. His weeding, and harvesting. Others gave the get good morsels. of bread. Instead of hustling away with belly felt full and that was rare. He was produce away or toiled in the kitchens to Sure, he got chased sometimes, but the their bounty, most of the people sat on surprised that Mr. Schermerhorn was actu- provide meals for those who needed them. restaurant employees concentrated on the ground and ate. ally kindly but didn’t want to acknowledge This time of the year the garden was sparse shooing away adults. Matthew waited until When it was Matthew’s turn, he saw a it. so there was little use in Matthew making they went back inside and the other trea- mounted police officer turn the corner of Matthew fell asleep marveling. At least, the dangerous climb over the walls. Some sure hunters had been frightened away. the alley. Matthew prepared to run, but he this night, his belly was warm. big kids did that and Matthew never went Then he’d creep from his shadow. noted the others only looked up and then Every day, Matthew passed an old church near them anyway, so he avoided the gar- Matthew had been so hungry one night resumed eating. on a corner. Its sides were old, dirty brick, den. he’d grabbed some food that was still Matthew took his bowl and piece of depressed with age. Down that same street End of part four. Part five coming next warm. He couldn’t help himself. He was bread. Mr. Schermerhorn gave no sign he there were three other churches. He knew week.

“A Cradle Song is my “A Cradle Song Mark Zubro is the very favorite of Mark is a wonderful, author of thirty-six books Zubro’s books. Tender, heartwarming story, and seven short stories. full of insight and love, and just right for He has won the Lambda it made me cry—but Christmas. Open this Literary award for A they were happy tears.” present and enjoy!” Simple Suburban Murder and been nominated —Jeanne M. Dams, —Barbara D’Amato, eight other times. All author of the Dorothy Martin author of the Cat Marsala are available as ebooks mysteries series and the recent and most as paperbacks Other Eyes online or at Unabridged Bookstore in Chicago A Cradle Song will be available soon as an ebook and as and Outwords Books in a paperback online and from Unabridged Bookstore Milwaukee. in Chicago and Outwords Books in Milwaukee. Nov. 7, 2018 12

Bohemian Rhapsody. Photo by Alex Bailey

MOVIE REVIEW Flawed ‘Rhapsody’ features champion Malek performance

BY JERRY NUNN away from her, eventually developing a regular the forming of the band in 1970 until Mercury’s relationship with the band’s second manager, death in 1991 and has a lot to cover in the over Freddie Mercury is figuratively thrown under the Paul Prenter, later in the film, and takes part in FILM two-hour biopic. The soundtrack separates the tour bus in the new biographical film about the orgies until the big bad breakup. who later became Freddie Mercury, and seeing storyline with unforgettable songs, giving some legendary band Queen in Bohemian Rhapsody, Mercury’s sexuality was not clear-cut or easy to him transform into the icon, complete with pros- behind-the-scenes to the creative process. The but still comes out a champion. define. This was during a time when many gay thetic teeth, may pay off during awards season. lesser-known tracks are not included because of The cast and crew were plagued with prob- musicians insisted they were also bisexual, so Mercury’s extravagant outfits and extreme talent the long running time. It’s a shame, as the die- lems from the beginning of the creation of this this possibly was Mercury’s way of dealing with a are on the screen for a whole new generation to hards might leave feeling a bit frustrated. Where project after several shakeups. When the trailer harsh society. The lead singer didn’t care for the see. was “Bicycle Race?” for the film was first released, many people in press, as depicted in one scene where the band is Trying to fill Mercury’s shoes must have been a Director Bryan Singer and replacement Dexter the community voiced concern that Mercury’s promoting the album Hot Space. The reporters try daunting task but Mr. Robot goes for it with gus- Fletcher both elevate the final scenes by recreat- sexuality might be ignored or straightwashed. It to pry answers out of him, but he is not having it to. Malek said he didn’t know much about Queen ing a full on rock concert for Live Aid. This is is included—in a PG-13 type of way—and the and plainly doesn’t want to talk about his private until making the movie and now is a fan. I think where Bohemian Rhapsody shines and makes it band decided early on during production that life. the fans will be impressed by his performance, es- worth the price of seeing it at the theater. Malek they wanted a family-friendly approach. That’s Many LGBT moviegoers may take issue with how pecially the ones that didn’t know about him be- chews up the stage and spits it out for the mas- a shame, because the most entertaining bits in the rest of the band Queen treats him. They la- fore this project. The movie needed a strong actor sive crowds to witness. An exact replica of the the movie are when Mercury is in your face and ment that he won’t settle down like them and like him and he earned that paycheck. He worked 1985 Wembley Stadium set was brought to Bo- flamboyant. note how they return to their stable families with a vocal coach and channels Mercury’s inner vingdon Airfield for the final scenes and it was Mercury claimed to be bisexual, but his exploits while he continues his wild lifestyle. The party is self instead of just impersonating the theatrical worth the effort. were all with men, aside from the female love over when Mercury contracts AIDS and, suddenly, singer. It pays off big-time. The parts finally all click together at the end, interest Mary Austin, according to the film. Mer- everyone is sympathetic toward him. We as the The rest of the cast of Bohemian Rhapsody is showing why Queen ruled back then and still will cury’s girlfriend makes excuses for him and ex- audience are then finally allowed to feel bad for also very good. Sing Street’s Lucy Boynton plays rock you today. plains that he just can’t help himself. He seems him, as he struggles with a failing voice and a Mary Austin adequately, and Joseph Mazzello—as Bohemian Rhapsody is currently playing in the- to have no will power when out on the road and lonely life with his loyal cats. John Deacon—really stands out. The story spans aters. Rami Malek is outstanding as Farrokh Bulsara, Nov. 7, 2018 13

Santo? Olly Alexander. OA: The songs are inspired by personal experi- Photo by Ed Cooke ences. It’s a collection of emotions during the 18-month period writing the album. I wanted to make individual concepts creating a world called Palo Santo. It is a fictional world that is science fiction. It has androids and a Judi Dench voice over. What more could you want? WCT: How did she get involved? OA: I worked with her a while ago because I used to be an actor. We were in a play together so I had her number. She’s an amazing human being. WCT: Where did the fashion come from in these videos? OA: It has been a process. I work with a stylist named Nick Royal. We pulled clothes that almost cyber punk, Victorian goth, space-alien outfits. WCT: You are really into collars from what I have seen. OA: I love a collar and a bondage nod with an S&M reference. [Laughs] WCT: There’s a lot of dancing in the videos. Was that a challenge? OA: Definitely. I did dance when I was in col- lege so I had a tiny bit of experience. I liked challenge to pull off some dance routines. If the girls can do it, then why can’t we? WCT: What are your thoughts about the re- cent National Coming Out Day? OA: There are people that can’t come out in their home countries or places in the world where NUNN ON ONE it is not safe. I think it is great to reflect on that. I have a slight triggered reaction to National Coming Out Day where people might feel forced to come out. It is a problematic message. It is Olly Alexander: not really meaning that now, but I would never want to force anyone to come out. I just want people to live their authentic selves. Out British singer on WCT: What do you think about the wave of out artists? OA: The last few years have had queer artists band, queer artists breaking through. Some of our most influential artists have been gay like Freddie Mercury and George Michael. With these new artists hopefully they can feel safe to be out from the very begin- ning and build a fanbase that is very connect- ed to that. Now they can access that audience through social media. I am excited to see how that develops in the future. WCT: Do you think the world is ready for a trans pop artist like Kim Petras to get major radio airplay? OA: There is a tendency to group together LGBT artists, but each artist is so different. When you measure success it is so much more than some- one’s sexuality or gender identity. It is hard to predict, but I would hope that it’s not as big a barrier as we think. You never know until it hap- BY JERRY NUNN Windy City Times: Hi, Ollie. When was the pens. last time the band was in Chicago? MUSIC WCT: Young artists are making videos in their British pop band Years and Years is composed of Olly Alexander: We opened for Ellie Goulding for bedrooms, then playing Lollapalooza the week Olly Alexander, Mikey Goldsworthy and Emre Turk- her Delirium World Tour and also played Lolla- Originally we were five members. We toured for after. men. Their sound is mix of electronic, pop and palooza two years ago. years before putting out a single and getting OA: Exactly. It is a volatile time to be discov- dance music. WCT: I remember I saw you perform at a lit- management. ered in music. There are winners and losers. On The first album, Communion, had a hit single tle hotel show in the past here in town. WCT: Is everyone involved in the songwrit- my side of things, I am just trying to have fun. with “King” and their latest record, Palo Santo, OA: Yes, at the W Chicago. ing? WCT: What do you want people to know about continues that trend with “Sanctify” and “If WCT: How did Years and Years begin? OA: It depends, but mostly just me. The lyrics you as an artist? You’re Over Me.” OA: We met in 2009. I had just moved to Lon- have always been me. Some of the songs we all OA: We make unique pop music and there is Alexander—the out and proud lead singer of don the year before and was making new friends. collaborate on. Emre plays guitar and keys. Mikey something for everybody. Check it out! the band—still lives in London when not travel- A girl I moved in with was working with Mikey, plays all forms of bass. Follow more of the tour and music at Yearsan- ing around the world on tour. who is the bassist. He wanted to start a band. WCT: What was the concept of the album Palo dYears.com. Nov. 7, 2018 14

BOOKS Atwood discusses Some of Chicago’s impact of ‘The LGBTQ-friendly Handmaid’s Tale’ at Northwestern book clubs BY MATT SIMONETTE BY KELSEY HOFF suggest books and vote on future reads. Author Margaret Atwood spoke before an at- Leader Kris Mayer said, “Members of the group capacity audience on Northwestern Univer- Reading is a solitary act, and sometimes a lonely are generally past feminism 101,” regarding the sity’s Evanston campus Oct. 30 to discuss the one. discussion level. “The group is dedicated to inter- implications of her classic 1985 dystopian A number of individuals have gone the extra sectional feminism, and our membership matches novel The Handmaid’s Tale. The book was mile to start book groups for readers in the city. that.” The group will not meet in November; the chosen as part of the university’s “One Book, Meetings in bookstores, community centers and next meeting is Sunday, Dec. 9, at 4 p.m., when One Northwestern” book club program. restaurants give book lovers a place to find each attendees will discuss Trainwreck: The Women We The popularity of The Women and Children First. other, share their thoughts and talk about the Love to Hate, Mock, and Fear... and Why, by Sady Handmaid’s Tale, which stories and ideas they’ve spent hours perusing on Doyle. Meetings are posted on WomenAndChil- Photo by Sarah Hindmarch details one woman’s tribu- their own. drenFirst.com. lations after the United The following are just a few of the most LGBTQ- —Social Justice Book Group at Women & both love YA, as do many of their adult mem- States reconfigures into a friendly groups open to new members. Some stick Children First: The #BlackLivesMatter movement bers who did not have access to queer lit grow- fundamentalist theocracy, to topics of gender and sexual orientation, and inspired Alex Wolfe to start this group in 2016, ing up. They meet the third Friday of the month has enjoyed a resurgence some are wide open to anything members are and Anne Bradley has recently taken over leader- at the Gerber/Hart Library & Archives, 6500 N since the book was adapt- interested in. Most have fewer than 10 in atten- ship. She said, “We strive to learn more about Clark St., with varying attendance up to seven ed into a television series dance each week including regulars and newcom- the world outside our own bubbles. We read both or eight people. At their next meeting—Friday, by the streaming service ers, perfect for introverts looking to connect over nonfiction and fiction on timely topics and in our Nov. 16, at 7 p.m.—they will discuss Guapa by Hulu. Furthermore, numerous critics and ac- great reads. discussions try to challenge our own assumptions Saleem Haddad as part of an ongoing effort to tivists have pointed out that the novel and —Trans & Gay Authors Book Club at Volumes without judging one another.” read books by non-American and non-Western series are effectively an allegory the nation’s Bookcafe: This small group started this summer The group votes on member suggestions to authors. Meetings are posted on the Gerber/Hart embattled political climate and the freedoms and meets the second Thursday of every month select titles, tending towards nonfiction, and Facebook page. that have been questioned by the right. with a mix of regulars and newcomers. They focus meets the third Sunday of each month. Six or —Chicago 20-30 Something GLBT Book Club Toronto-based Atwood, for her part, said on books authored by transgender people. Group eight members attend each month, sometimes Meetup on Meetup.com: “Whether you are an Oct. 30 that the scenarios illustrated in the leader Doe Parker says “We talk about likes/dis- more. The next meeting will be Sunday, Nov. 18, avid reader, or US Magazine is your literature of book were all inspired by “patterns we had likes within the text and what the author wants at 2:30 p.m., when they will read Asking for It: choice, this book club is for you,” said founder seen before—I didn’t include anything that us to be taking away as actions to do out in the The Alarming Rise of Rape Culture--and What We Darren. “My intention is that this book club be a hadn’t happened before.” world.” The group’s next meeting is Thursday, Can Do about It, by Kate Harding. Meetings are place to ignite friendship, thoughtful conversa- She said that in the ‘80s she longed to Nov. 8, 6:30-9 p.m., when attendees will dis- posted on WomenAndChildrenFirst.com. tion and an opportunity to connect over some write a dystopian novel, something that up cuss Amateur: A True Story about What Makes a Selections for book groups at Women & Children really good books.” Members share thoughts on until them had only been the province of Man by Thomas Page McBee. Volumes hosts three First, 5233 N Clark St., are always available at books they love, then vote and save nomina- male writers, so she was eager to tell the other monthly book clubs at their location, 1474 the store at least a month in advance so that the tions that did not make the cut for future reads. story from a female point of view. Now, nu- N Milwaukee Ave.: Book of the Month, Sci-Fi/ next month’s selection can always be purchased The group meets every other Wednesday at vari- merous other female writers are trying their Fantasy and Feminist. Details are posted on their at the current meeting. Book group members get ous locations on the north side and often splits hand at such stories. website and Facebook. 10 percent off and members of the bookstore get books up to discuss a few chapters at a time. A “Why? Because they can,” she added. —Gay Men’s Book Group at Center on Hal- 20 percent off. Other groups that meet at WCF “longread” of 1Q84 by Haruki Murakami is under Atwood explained that a society often acts sted: This group welcomes male-identified indi- include a Women’s Book Group, Family of Women, way, meeting Thursday, Nov. 8 in addition to the in effect as a slow-boiling pot, slowly erod- viduals of all ages who are interested in reading Women’s Classics, Women Aging with Wisdom & main group, which will discuss Devil in the White ing the liberties and freedoms of its members and discussing gay-related literature. They meet Grace and Teens First. City by Eric Larson on Wed., Nov. 14. Details on when they do not notice. She was quick to every third Tuesday at Center on Halsted, 3656 N —BTQ (Bi-Trans-Queer) Book Discussion upcoming titles and locations will be posted on note that that was not out of their willful Halsted St., reading books that span fiction and group at Gerber/Hart Library & Archives: This the Meetup.com page. ignorance either. nonfiction, new and old, classics and debuts and small group meets on the second Friday of the —Diverse Books/Eclectic Readers- LGBTQ “A lot of people are living day-to-day,” she many prize winners with gay themes and poten- month and reads a balance of fiction and nonfic- and Friends Book Club on Meetup.com: This said. “They don’t have a lot of speculative tial for good discussion. tion books that “touch on topics of gender and group is all about variety: they read fiction and time. … Unless the hurricane is blowing off On the group’s personality, leader Steve Wroten sexuality that tend to fall outside of the standard nonfiction, often choosing books that deal with the roof of your house, you don’t think it’s told Windy City Times, “We don’t always agree, gay or lesbian norm: books where bi, pan, queer, issues of race and history. Their description going to happen to you.” we’re passionate about what we read, we are GNC, trans, ace, kinky and polyamorous folx can states “Our book club is a place where we learn Atwood further detailed her very limited open to everyone’s perspective and it’s always find representation,” according to facilitator Stef from each other and freely express our views. We involvement with the television series, not- enjoyable and engaging.” The group has been Potter. Reading work by queer and non-queer select thought-provoking, challenging, but also ing that she only acts as a sort of consultant, meeting for over 10 years with anywhere from six writers sparks discussions about how accurately fun books.” especially since the series’ story has long ad- to over a dozen attendees each month. Their next these identities and relationships are portrayed. More than 10 members, new and regular, show vanced past the original novel’s narrative. meeting is Tuesday, Nov. 20, 7- 9 p.m., when they Their next selection is Reign of the Fallen by Sar- up each month according to organizer Armando, “I have said a couple of times, ‘Don’t kill will discuss The Naked Civil Servant by Quentin ah Glenn Marsh, to be discussed Friday, Nov. 9, with a significant range of ages, orientations and this person, don’t kill that person,’” she Crisp. Meetings are posted on the Gay Men’s Book at 7 p.m. at the Gerber/Hart Library & Archives, ethnicities. They discuss the book of the month joked. “So far, they’ve listened.” Group-Chicago Facebook page. 6500 N Clark St. Meetings are posted on the Ger- for an hour and then go to a restaurant nearby Helen Thompson, a professor in Northwest- —Feminist Book Group at Women & Children ber/Hart Facebook page. to eat dinner and socialize. The group meets at ern’s Department of English, interviewed At- First: This small group is open to feminists of —Queer Genre Fiction Discussion Group at Our Lady of Mt Carmel Church, 708 W. Belmont wood. all genders and focuses on various social issues Gerber/Hart Library & Archives: This group be- Ave.. At the next meeting—Monday, Nov. 12, at Pictured: Margaret Atwood. through a feminist lens. Meetings take place the gan as an outlet for members to read queer ro- 7 p.m.—members will discuss The Argonauts, Photo courtesy of Northwestern Univ. second Sunday of every month with a book selec- mance, sci fi, fantasy, horror, mystery and other by Maggie Nelson. Meetings are posted on the tion meeting every six months in which members genres. Facilitators Brigid Potter and Louise Tripp Meetup.com page. Nov. 7, 2018 15

Our list of all the regular drag shows in and around Chicago. To include your show in DRAG IT UP! our listings, please submit info to [email protected]. MONDAYS FRIDAYS Chicago’s Best Worst Drag Show, hosted by Arby Barbie, Beauties and Beaus, hosted by Naysha Lopez, Mimi Marks weekly, 2 a.m., no cover. The Jackhammer Complex, 6406 and Mz. Ruff ‘n Stuff, weekly, 9:30 p.m., no cover. Hy- N. Clark St. drate, 3458 N. Halsted St. Vamp, featuring Mimi Marks, hosted by Mercedes Tyler, Dining With the Divas, featuring Angel LeBare and CeeCee weekly, 11 p.m., no cover. Progress Bar, 3359 N. Halsted LaRouge, shows weekly at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m., Hamburger St. Mary’s Oak Park, 155 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, Ill. Lipstick & Mascara, hosted by Mz. Ruff ‘n Stuff, weekly, The Baton Show Lounge, shows weekly at 8:30 p.m., 10:30 11:30 p.m., no cover. Hydrate, 3458 N. Halsted St. p.m. and 12:30 a.m. 436 N. Clark St. Plot Twist, hosted by T-Rex, every 3rd Monday, 10:30 p.m., Berlin, 954 W. Belmont Ave. SATURDAYS Drag Matinee, hosted by T-Rex, weekly, 10:30 p.m., Berlin, TUESDAYS NAME 954 W. Belmont Ave. Killer Babes, hosted by Lady Ivory, every 3rd Tues., 10 p.m. ::MIKKI“My middle MIRAJ name is:: #POPular, featuring 2018 Fan Favorite Tiffany Diamond, @mosphere, 5355 N. Clark St. McKenzie, so I’ve always used hosted by Veronica Pop, weekly, shows at 10:30 p.m., Roscoe’s Drag Race, Chicago’s longest-running amateur Mikki as my online persona/avatar Charlie’s, 3726 N. Broadway PROFILE BY weekly drag competition hosted by Frida Lay, Roscoe’s, name. Miraj is a reference to a mirage Beauties and Beaus, hosted by Naysha Lopez, Mimi Marks 3356 N. Halsted St. TONY PEREGRINDRAGor anPROFILE illusion, as OFwell asTHE Nicki WEEK Minaj.” and Mz. Ruff ‘n Stuff, weekly, 9:30 p.m., no cover. Hy- Dixie Wins a Talent Show (while Alexis Bevels stage-man- WHEN DID YOU START DOING DRAG? drate, 3458 N. Halsted St. ages), featuring Dixie Lynn Cartwright and Alexis Bevels, “I started drag in May 2016 and my first Drag shows at Manuevers: 1st Sat.: Raven’s Ravishing Revue, a showcase for local drag queens, performance artists and performance was ‘Donatella’ by Lady Gaga!” hosted by Raven Samore; 2nd Sat.: The Dymond Standard, comedians, last Tues. of the month, 9:30 p.m., Sidetrack, DRAG INSPIRATION hosted by Diamond Calloway; 3rd Sat.: Diva’s Den, hosted 3349 N. Halsted St. “I draw inspirations from so many places—video games, by Sasha Love; 4th Sat.: Noche Latina, hosted by Aleyna music, anime, theatre—but there is one person who Couture. All shows at 11:30 p.m., no cover. Maneuvers, inspires everything I want to be as a Queen and that is 118 E. Jefferson St., Joliet WEDNESDAYS Lucy Stoole! She pushes the boundaries and breaks the Honeys on Halsted, hosted by Mimi Marks and Mz. Ruff ‘n Stardust, hosted by Natasha Douglas, 1st Sat. (starting Nov. rules and is glamorous, fabulous, and charismatic while Stuff, weekly, 11:30 p.m., no cover. Hydrate, 3458 N. 2018), 8:30-10:30 p.m. @mosphere, 5355 N. Clark St. doing it.” Halsted St. Sofia’s Dragtacular Review, hosted by Sofia Saffire, every All Things Beyonce, hosted by Dixie Lynn Cartwright, featur- FAVORITE NUMBER 2nd Sat., 10:30 p.m., Shakers on Clark, 3160 N. Clark St. “I love to whip out ‘Je Veux Te Voir’ by Yelle. It’s a ing Dida Ritz, Saya Naomi and guest queens, 2nd or 3rd Ashley Morgan Presents A Drag Revue, featuring Coco Sho- French rap song with a great driving beat, a femme at- Wed. of the month, 9 p.m., Sidetrack, 3349 N. Halsted St. Nell, Dominique Diamond, Vivian Dejour and Juan M. titude and overtly sexual flair.” The Baton Show Lounge, shows weekly at 8:30 p.m., 10:30 Wette, hosted by Ashley Morgan, every 3rd Sat., 9:30 p.m. p.m. and 12:30 a.m. 436 N. Clark St. FUN FACT seating, $5 suggested donation, The Call Bar, 1547 W. “I’m a champion of a sexually liberated society and Bryn Mawr Ave. I aim to make people feel fun, flirty, and in control/ 6 Queens 1 Diva, hosted by Muffy Fishbasket, every 4rd THURSDAYS unafraid of their sexuality. But that doesn’t always Sat., 10 p.m., $5 cover, The Call Bar, 1547 W. Bryn Mawr Babes In Boyland, featuring Monica Beverly Hillz, Lila Star, translate into my actual sex life because though I may Ave. Teri Yaki and Otter Chaös, weekly, 1 a.m., no cover. The come off as hedonistic, I’m quite selective about who Dining With the Divas, featuring Angel LeBare and CeeCee Jackhammer Complex, 6406 N. Clark St. gets to visit my temple.” LaRouge, shows weekly at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m., Hamburger Sirens of Splash, featuring Lila Star, Mimi Marks, Aura WHERE CAN WE CATCH YOU? Mary’s Oak Park, 155 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, Ill. Mayari and Silky, weekly, 9 p.m., no cover. Splash Chicago, “Wherever there is drag, you can find me. The first The Baton Show Lounge, shows weekly at 8:30 p.m., 10:30 3339 N. Halsted St. Friday of every month I produce Kink It!, a kinky queer p.m. and 12:30 a.m. 436 N. Clark St. POP ROCKS, dance party with drag from Alexis Bevels and social party with a creative drag twist at The Jack- Saya Naomi, get on stage to Win with Dixie Lynn Cart- hammer Complex. I also perform frequently at Berlin wright, weekly, 9 p.m., Sidetrack, 3349 N. Halsted St. Nightclub, and you can find me dancing there on my SUNDAYS Reinas de la Casa, featuring Windy Breeze, Veronica Pop, Body Beautiful, hosted by Danika Bone’t and Alexandrea nights off too.” Diamond, 4th Thu. of each month, shows at 11:30 p.m., Zafina Hasheesh and Danika Bone’t, hosted by Alexandrea SOCIAL MEDIA Diamond, 2nd Sun. of each month, shows at 11:30 p.m., 12:30 a.m. and 1:30 a.m., no cover. Charlie’s, 3726 N. @mikkimiraj on Instagram/Facebook Broadway 12:30 and 1:30 a.m. Charlie’s, 3726 N. Broadway The Baton Show Lounge, shows weekly at 8:30 p.m., 10:30 Angel LeBare’s Fish Hatchery, contest for aspiring drag p.m. and 12:30 a.m. 436 N. Clark St. queens, every 4th Sun., 8 p.m. @mosphere, 5355 N. Clark St. The Baton Show Lounge, shows weekly at 7, 9 and 11 p.m. Photo by Erik Michael Kommer and Joe Lewis 436 N. Clark St. Creative Nov. 7, 2018 16 BILLY MastersMasters

“God’s greatest gift to me.”—Tim Cook tells Christiane Amanpour how he views being born gay. I couldn’t have said it better myself. Some of our queer celebs had inventive cos- tumes this year. The one that stuck out for me was that of skier Gus Kenworthy, who went as fellow Olympian Adam Rippon. He wore a replica of the skater’s Oscars ensemble, complete with leather harness! Gus called himself “Adam Ripoff,” and replaced the Oscar over the real Adam’s shoulder with a similarly sized penis ... as one does. Rip- Adam Rippon (above) and Gus Kenworthy sort pon applauded the homage, saying, “We finally of got together, Billy says. did each other.” Kenworthy responded, “I’ve been Photo courtesy of Chicago House wanting to do you since we met.” Boys, boys, save it for someplace where same-sex encounters We suspect the split happened a few months ago, are encouraged—like the Olympic Village! since Antoni showed up on the arm of a familiar Fox has announced the cast for its next live mu- fella at some Emmy parties back in September. sical. Rent: Live! will take place Jan. 27 and fea- Back then, people just figured Antoni andTrace ture some familiar faces. Roger will be played by Lehnhoff, from Flipping Out, were professional Brennin Hunt, Mark will be Jordan Fisher, Mimi colleagues. Apparently, it is much more than will be Tinashe, Maureen will be Vanessa Hud- that—the twosome have gone public with their gens, Joanne will be Kiersey Clemons, James coupling. Since the name Trace sounded familiar Leyva will play Angel, Mario will play Benny, (one doesn’t meet many of them), I checked out Brandon Victor Dixon will play Tom, and “Sea- the indispensable archives on BillyMasters.com. sons of Love” will be sung by Keala Settle—this Way back when he was Jeff Lewis’ intern, I ran time without facial hair (presumably). into Trace on Halloween 2010 while he was walk- In case the name James Leyva didn’t ring any ing around WeHo wearing football shoulder pads bells, devotees of RuPaul’s Drag Race most likely and a jockstrap! Of course, we’ll re-post those will know him as his alter ego, Valentina. Ap- photos, along with some of this new pairing. You parently she’s doing quite well since she’ll also know what I got out of this item? That Joey Kri- be in the next season of RuPaul’s Drag Race All etemeyer is single. Stars. So, for those of you keeping track, we have When it comes to bad boys, Cesar Sayoc may be Valentina in Rent: Live!, Shangela in A Star is as bad as they come ... if not the brightest bulb. Born, and Peppermint in Head Over Heels on He’s the guy who allegedly sent defective pipe Broadway. Let’s hear it for the girls. bombs to many people in the Democratic Party. I’m sure many of you are spending sleepless Here’s what I discovered—he has a past as a nights wondering about Colton Haynes and male stripper, and we’ve got the photos to prove Jeff Leatham. You’ll be happy (or sad) to know it! Apparently he wasn’t so stable back then. He that they are officially back together. On their was part of a troupe of guys who traveled around first anniversary, the florist posted a photo from in a van and performed on the road. One dancer Charlie Hunnam. This was a remake of the 1973 their wedding with the following caption: “I claims that when he made more tips than Cesar, flick, with Charlie in the Steve McQueen role and can’t remember what it was like before you, and the future terrorist threatened to stab him with a Rami as a latter-day Dustin Hoffman. His prison I don’t even know how we got here but maybe syringe filled with HIV-infected blood! Someone flick features quite a bit of nudity—like LOTS of that’s exactly what I needed. Someone who could else said that when Cesar got jealous that an- it. In fact, it would be easier for me to point out make me forget where I came from and someone other dancer was getting too much attention, he the scenes where hot men are clothed as opposed who could make me love without knowing how to taped the tops of tuna cans to the bottom of his to when they’re showing skin. Of course, that de- fall.” Colton was a bit more succinct: “Can’t be- boots and threatened to stomp on the rival’s face feats the purpose of such a riveting story ... at lieve it’s already been 1 yr. since we got married. and cut him! Sayoc allegedly said, “Just wait— least, I suppose there was a story. But you can Happy Anniversary my beautiful husband.” I’m gonna take this guy out.” Something tells me look at the pretty pictures on BillyMasters.com. The problem with so many out gay people on he’ll be popular in the pokey. When we’re featuring hot men doing time, I’ve television is that it’s hard to keep track of their With Bohemian Rhapsody opening, I expect I gotta find me a new prison pen pal and end yet ever-changing relationship status. Take Antoni will get several “Ask Billy” questions like this one another column. It certainly would be a crime Porowski from the cast of the revamped Queer from Justin in Rhode Island: “Rami Malek is so if you didn’t check outBillyMasters.com—the site Eye for the Straight Guy. Last week, he announced hot. Is he gay? Do you have nude pics or videos of that has files which will get you off, if not out. he was single. Then, a few hours later, he was him?” If I can perhaps assist in a conjugal way, reach in a new relationship. Well, we gays work fast We got similar questions about Rami after he out and touch me at [email protected] and and, let’s face it—ripped abs have a treacher- won the Emmy for Mr. Robot—and back then, we I promise to get back to you before anyone at- ously short shelf life. Antoni’s revelation was that happily obliged. However, I somehow missed last tacks me with a tuna can. So, until next time, he’d split from the equally hot Joey Krietemeyer, summer’s release of Papillon staring Rami and remember: One man’s filth is another man’s bible. whom he had been dating for about seven years. Nov. 7, 2018 17

apps or entrees. (However, the Chinese five- exterior in nearly a quarter-century.) The interior apiece and black sesame donuts fall a bit short is eclectic and sophisticated, with everything of the desserts found at places like The Bakery at from a large turtle shell on a wall to mysterious Fat Rice.) back rooms and semi-private enclaves. the DISH However, there has been at least one major Brunch takes you away from the weekend Weekly Dining Guide in change at MAK. Jeff Wang (of the Yum Dum food hustle-and-bustle that comes with being near truck) has taken over the spot from his friend and Michigan Avenue. Start with a libation such as WINDY CITY TIMES initial co-owner, Tommy Wang—and, no, they’re the tasty Off the Coast cocktail (spiced rum, not related. (In fact, Jeff joked that he’s the rum agricole, lime, honey, Giffard’s passionfruit, SAVOR “better-looking” of the two Wangs. Relax, guys: Aperol and angostura bitters), or partake of the You both look good.) Jeff did indicate that the many beer and wine offerings. Return of the MAK; restaurant will add items from the food truck to As for culinary items, it’s a test for the SideDoor brunch add even more authenticity to the menu. I can’t indecisive, as there are so many cool-sounding wait to try those. items. Take, for instance, the Horse Shoe—a BY ANDREW DAVIS By the way, there’s no need to treat MAK as concoction of featuring Lawry’s famous prime a BYOB spot, as there are beer and even sake rib with fries, a four-cheese sauce and pickled The chork lives! offered. Please check out this spot. jalapenos, topped with fried eggs. The Southern The chopstick/fork combination is the tool of fried-chicken sandwich is delightful, although the the trade at Modern Asian Kitchen (1924 W. SideDoor brunch bird was slightly overwhelmed by the toppings. Division St.; www.makrestaurant.com), a fast- The history and decor that are part of SideDoor And for those craving something sweet, look no casual spot also known as MAK that I initially Chicken wangs at Modern Asian Kitchen. (100 E. Ontario St.; http://sidedoorchicago. further than the French toast sticks. Regarding profiled a few years ago. com/) can be intimidating to some—but they, apps, my dining companion absolutely loved the Those into health will be happy to know that Photo by Andrew Davis along with some appealing cuisine, are all part of Wisconsin beer cheese, and I was partial to the MAK continues to feature meats that are raised offerings are still delicious. the intrigue. crab-and-spinach dip. naturally—free of antibiotics, hormones and There’s a reason the chicken wangs (not SideDoor, which is next door to the iconic SideDoor is just the break one needs before steroids. Also, no MSG is used in the items, and wings) are popular, as those items are practically Lowry’s, is located in the historic McCormick tackling those weekend crowds. there are gluten-free offerings. addictive. Other very tasty offerings include the Mansion. (Incidentally, the gastropub’s name Note: Restaurant profiles/events are based And those concerned about taste and quality eggplant skillet, pork-fried rice and (especially) comes from the relatively new Rush Street on invitations arranged from restaurants and/ will be relieved to discover that the menu the falafel. You really can’t go wrong with the entrance—he first change in the building’s or firms.

TOUCHE MEETING HOUSE TAVERN A toast to your 41st anniversary! They are the champions at the Joseph Stevens Photography Bohemian Rhapsody afterparty. Joseph Stevens Photography Nov. 7, 2018 18 transformative conversation about aging Saturday, Nov. 10 integrated club scenes of the 1960’s, the in the LGBT community. 6:00pm Vari- PFLAG conference, The Power of Posi- rise of the Miss Continental competi- COMMUNITY ous locations http://www.sagetable.org tivity PFLAG Council of Northern Il- tion in the 1980s. (Drag Show follows at linois hosts full day PFLAG Conference Jackhammer.) 6:30pm - 9:30pm Gerber Friday, Nov. 9 with keynote Gearah Goldstein, founder Hart Library and Archives, 6500 N Clark CALENDAR Orlando Traveling Memorial Art installa- of The Gender Cool Project. Also talks St. http://www.gerberhart.org/events/ tion created by Pulse Nightclub shoot- on Advocacy & Policy: How to Create the-city-that-werqs-opening ing survivors, first responders and family Change, Impactful Public Speaking, Wed., Nov. 7 members, The Orlando Traveling Memo- Creating Thriving Chapters 8:00am - Sunday, Nov. 11 Chicago 00: The 1968 DNC Protests ex- rial (OTM), will make its first stop here. 4:00pm Southminster Presbyterian American Veterans for Equal Rights Exploring a watershed hibit ongoing Through Nov. 23 12:00pm Center on Church 916 E. Central Road Arlington GLBTQ Veterans Day Dinner Speaker moment in U.S. politics-the 50th an- Halsted 3656 N Halsted Chicago http:// Heights http://www.eventbrite.com/e/ will be Vanessa Sheridan, author, per- niversary of the convention protests- www.windycitymediagroup.com/lgbt/ the-power-of-positivity-time-to-thrive- former and Director of Gender Equity and with the new virtual-reality experience. Orlando-Traveling-Memorial-to-debut- tickets-50202326510 Inclusion at Center on Halsted. RSVP From photographs and documents from at-Center-on-Halsted/64350.html Ms. Ruck and Maul 2018 Annual fund- to [email protected] 6:30pm Ann the Chicago History Museum’s archives Gay author David Jay Collins, GayBash raiser for Chicago Dragons Rugby Club, Sather - Belmont 909 W Belmont Ave to the site of the demonstrations. Da- and Summerdale GayBash is set in featuring a drag show by club mem- Chicago 773-752-0058 https://www. vid Farber, Ph.D., narrates the 14-min- WE SALUTE YOU Boystown and Summerdale is a gay hor- bers. $20 pre-sale tickets; $25 day- facebook.com/AVERChicagoChapter/ ute VR tour that can be viewed through ror novel set in Andersonville. 6:30pm of. 5:30 pm, Sidetrack, 3349 N. Hal- YouTube; the Chrome browser; or with Nov. 10-12 The Leigh Gallery 3306 N Halsted Chi- sted St., https://www.facebook.com/ Monday, Nov. 12 Google Cardboard VR glasses. 12:00pm cago 773-472-1865 http://theleighgal- events/2141896296138505/ Trans Military Appreciation The Center’s Chicago History Museum 1601 N Clark Various LGBT-related lery.com Remembrance Ceremony at grave of second such event to honor and dem- Chicago http://chicago00.org/experi- events will salute Author, Out in the Union: A Labor Histo- murdered gay sailor The Chicago Chap- onstrate support transgender military ences.html#dnc. veterans. ry of Queer America Co-hosted by CTU ter of the American Veterans for Equal personnel, transgender veterans, and Author Reading Butch Heros Ria Bro- WCT photo from 2016 LGBTQ LGBQTIA+ Committee and Chicago chap- Rights (AVER) will hold a Remembrance families. Speakers: Master Sgt. Erika dell offers twenty-eight portraits of Veterans Day event ter of Pride at Work, a national organiza- Ceremony at the Steger, Illinois, grave Stoltz, Army Reservist with 33 years of forgotten but heroic figures, each ac- tion representing LGBTQ union members. of Allen Schindler who was murdered by active service, and Dr. Jennifer Cole- companied by a brief biographical note. Author Miriam Frank will speak alongside shipmates in 1992 for being gay. Dorothy man, Rush University Medical Center’s 7:00pm Women & Children First Book- keynotes, themed master classes, in- panelists from CTU, Pride at Work, and Hadjys-Holman, the sailor’s mother, will Road Home Program/Center for Veter- store 5233 N Clark St Chicago http:// formative panels and networking. Con- recently unionized nurses at Howard participate. 2:00pm Cemeterey, Steger, ans. There will also be representation www.womenandchildrenfirst.com cludes Nov. 9. 2:00am Navy Pier 600 Brown. The event is free and open to the IL 773-752-0058 http://www.facebook. from the Jesse Brown VA Medical Cen- E Grand Ave Chicago Tickets: http:// public. Copies of the book available to com/AVERChicagoChapter/?ref=br_rs ter, Edward Hines Jr. VA Hospital, and Thursday, Nov. 8 www.3percentmovement.com/confer- purchase. 6:30pm - 8:30pm Chicago The City that Werqs: A History of Chi- Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health 7th annual 3% Conference Theme is ence/553 Teachers Union Center // 1901 W. Car- cago’s Drag Revolutionaries Chicago’s Care Center. Price: Free Admission “Bring It.” Advertising, marketing, PR, SAGE Table Yearly national event with lo- roll Ave.; http://www.facebook.com/ diverse drag culture, anarchists and 7:00pm Center on Halsted 3656 N tech, nonprofits and more come to- cal tables. Sit down to a meal with other events/731826077173699/ vaudeville queens at the Dil Pickle Club, Halsted St.; http://www.facebook.com/ gether for two days of inspirational LGBT people and allies of all ages for a the legendary Finnie’s Balls, the racially events/296695877595315/

English told Windy City Times in September, best showcases their voice and range. Children “We decided back in the spring that we would should be 9-12; between 52”-57” in height; and Blossom Boys. bring back The Blossom Boys, but it won’t be be able to sing, dance and act to play the Afri- Photo by WCT staff the same Blossom Boys,” adding the original can cubs Simba and Nala. location had a heavy emphasis on “fair trade” Adult dancer auditions will be Sunday, Nov. and U.S.-made goods. English said that while 11 (women at 9-10 a.m., and men at 1-2 p.m.). there will remain “an element of fair trade” in Casting agents want strong male and female the business, that aspect will be “more like a dancers with a modern/ballet dance back- trunk show” with certain merchandise coming in ground—late teens to early 30s. Some male for a set period of time. dancers require strong acrobatic skills. People English added that the new space, which is may be asked to sing, so please bring a contem- a bit larger than the previous location, “won’t porary song (with sheet music). look quite the same as the cute little flower For more info, visit LionKingCasting.com or shop we had before,” with some “high-end” ad- email [email protected]. ditions like a few antique furniture items pur- chased from another florist who recently closed. See TheBlossomBoys.com. Reese Witherspoon in town Nov. 12 Hello Sunshine x Together Live is welcoming ‘Lion King’ musical actresses Reese Witherspoon and Sophia Bush to auditions Nov. 10-11 its Chicago lineup, which will be held Monday, There will be adult singer, adult dancer and Nov. 12, at 7:30 p.m. at the Auditorium Theatre, children’s auditions for Disney’s The Lion King 50 E. Ida B Wells Dr. (50 E. Congress Pkwy.). musical Nov. 10-11 at Hubbard Street Dance, Hello Sunshine x Together Live is a touring 1147 W. Jackson Blvd. live event. At this two-hour event, speakers will Children and adult singer auditions will be share their authentic stories, sing songs and Saturday, Nov. 10, with sign-ins at 9-11 a.m., more. Witherspoon and Bush will join Glennon opened in the Beverly neighborhood of Chicago and auditions starting at 10 a.m. Singers should Doyle, Abby Wambach, Luvvie Ajayi, Cameron Blossom Boys reopens at 1810 W. 103rd St. prepare their best 16 bars (approximately 30 Esposito, Priya Parker and CAM. On Nov. 2, Blossom Boys—a flower shop that The original store closed in 2016 after eight seconds, with sheet music) of a classic R&B, Visit https://www.auditoriumtheatre.org/ Steve English and Ryan Steinbach own—re- years at 99th and Walden Parkway. pop, or rock-and-roll song (NOT Broadway) that shows/hello-sunshine-x-together-live/. Nov. 7, 2018 19

Friday

REVEL FULTON MARKET

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