Talking PAGE 20 with lili taylor WINDY CITY THE VOICE OF CHICAGO’S GAY, LESBIAN, BI AND TRANS COMMUNITY SINCE 1985 Dec. 11, 2013 vol 29, no.11 www.WindyCityMediaGroup.comTIMES What’s up next for Chicago’s Catholics? by Chuck Colbert dinal’s “virulent anti-gay language and behavior deserves scorn, not honor.” WORLD OF When the Chicago Archdiocese hosts a celebra- In all, there are three events set to mark the CHOCOLATE tion next week for sometime-soon-to-be retiring 50th anniversary of George’s ordination to the PICS Francis Cardinal George, not everybody will be in priesthood. The first is the celebration of an an- a festive mood. niversary Mass at Holy Name Cathedral, followed page 7 Gay-rights activist Andy Thayer, for one, will by lunch at Roy’s, located across the street. The be on the outside protesting. “With bishops and big-bucks reception and dinner are scheduled cardinals coming from around the country, this that evening at the Drake. will probably be one of the biggest assemblages Local mainstream media reported in early Oc- of leaders opposed to equal rights for LGBTs and tober the cost of the anniversary celebration women that our state has seen in many years,” would be paid for by private donations, with he said. dinner tickets ranging from $300 to $10,000 for An activist group, the Gay Liberation Network prime-seat tables. (GLN), of which Thayer is a co-founder, plans The local CBS affiliate also reported as many to picket a reception and dinner, scheduled as 150 bishops and cardinals from the U.S. and Wednesday evening, Dec. 18, at the Drake Hotel. beyond were expected a week before Christmas Along with GLN, Chicago Catholic activist at Holy Name, where in 1997 George first intro- group Rainbow Sash Movement also plans to duced himself as Chicago’s Roman Catholic spiri- protest what GLN terms “a sumptuous feast.” Cardinal George at AGLO in February 2004. Photo by Tracy Baim Rather than celebrate, the group says the car- Turn to page 8

MEL FERRAND AMONG GAY, LESBIAN WINTER MOVIE/MUSIC WONDERLAND POLITICAL CANDIDATES pagE 10

Windy City Times offers you some hot films to get through this cold spell, such as (clockwise from left) G.B.F. (photo by Kate Romero), Reaching For the Moon, and gaga’s fans Four (photo by Max profiled in ‘heal Dworkin). We also this way’ book feature DJ Samantha pagE 23 Ronson and much more. page 13

January 9 –March 2 cadillac Palace TheaTre 800-775-2000 • BroadwayInChICago.Com T ICkeT s avaI laBle aT all Broadway In ChICa g o B ox offICes and TICkeTmasT er reT a I l loC a TIons g roups 10+ 312-977-1710 the spectacular new production

Turn to page 16 WINDY CITY TIMES Dec. 11, 2013 3 this week in WINDY CITY TIMES NEWS ENTERTAINMENT/EVENTS Royster column 4 Dancin’ Feats 13 Progress re AIDS 5 Knight: Mr. Banks, Sondheim 16 IUN controversy; Mandela’s passing 6WINTER MOVIE/TV PREVIEW 16 World of Chocolate pics 7 Film looks at animal rights 18 Next step for Catholics 8 Scott Duff has LGBT radio show 19 IDHS’ trans-related healthcare 9 Lili Taylor; Isaac Mizrahi 20 Gay, lesbian political candidates 10 Samantha Ronson; Chaffin 21 Gay in the Life 11 Dish: Gogi 22 VIEWS: Thayer; letter 12 Books: Heal This Way 23 Billy Masters 25 Photos on cover (left, from top): Photo of Lili Taylor; World of Chocolate photo by Anthony OUTLINES Meade; photo of Mel Ferrand courtesy of Classifieds 22 Ferrand; photo from Heal This Way book by Calendar Q 24 ST. LUCIA FESTIVAL Tracey B. Wilson OF LIGHTS

IAN, GAY, LESB O’S 85 VOICE OF CHICAG PAGE 20 THE OMMUNITY SINCE 19 D TRANS C BI AN 11, 2013 Dec. , no.11 G vol 29 FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13, 4:45 PM Talkin WINDY CITY WiTh lili Taylor TIMESaGroup.com www.WindyCityMedi

ehavior guage and b What’s up next virforulent anti-gay r.”lan rk the inal’s “ t hono t to ma d n, no ents se the serves scor ee ev tion to de ere are thr ’s ordina an- all, th George of an rt In ry of ration d k Colbe bra- iversa the celeb followe y ChuC ele 50th ann rst is dral, b ing od. The fi ame Cathe et. The be retir priestho t Holy N the stre go Archdioceseo hoston-to-s a c n ss a across duled n the Chica etime-s will be i ersary Ma located sche Whe or som erybody niv t Roy’s, inner are SWEDISH AMERICAN MUSEUM, ev h a d rge, not by lunc tion and Chicago’stion next wCatholics?eekna lf Geo ill s recep . rdi , w ck ke rly Oc- is Ca one big-bu t the Dra rted in ea Franc . hayer, for and ing a ia repo ion stive mood Andy T ishops t even med ry celebrat a fe tivist ith b tha instream niversa ith -rights ac . “W ntry, this ocal ma the an ons, w Gay de protesting cou L st o f te do nati for outsi round the lages co y priva DOWNLOAD THIS! e on the from a tober the for b to $10,000 F b ming biggest assemb e p aid D o rdinals co of the LGBTs and would b ing from $300 Worl ca bly be one ts for rs,” ets rang s many laTE proba to equal righ any yea dinner tick s. orted a Co will pposed en in m t table also rep nd Cho ers o has se rime-sea filiate the U.S. a of lead ur state p BS af from that o twork ardinals Christmas PiCS women on Ne The local C ps and c efore Gay Liberati lans 0 bisho a week b rst intro- PAGE 7 ounder, p as 15 pected he said. ist group, the co-f ed were ex 997 George fi c spiri- ctiv ayer is a schedul beyond here in 1 Catholi An a hich Th inner, l. ame, w man n and d ke Hote oly N ago’s Ro (GLN), of w receptio t the Dra at H lf as Chic et a c. 18, a a ctivist ced himse to pick ning, De tholic du ay eve cago Ca ans to Turn to page 8 Wednesd N, Chi also pl w ith GL ovement st.” Along Sash M s fea inbow umptuou car- oup R a says the gr terms “a s group otest what GLN brate, the pr an cele Rather th acy baim Go to r www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com ry 2004. Photo by t Februa onDErlanD o in l George at AGl Cardina ViE/MUSiC W 5211 N. CLARK rranD MEl FE G Gay, WinTEr Mo aMon lESBian Cal PoliTi DaTES CanDi es PAGE 10 ity tim Windy C hot u some fers yo h of et throug to download complete issues of Windy City Times and Nightspots. films to g uch as spell, s this cold left) ise from (clockw ate photo by k G.b.F. ( ing , reach romero) nd e Moon, a For th Max hoto by Four (p ). We also workin tha D Saman ture DJ . fea d much more ronson an page 13 A candlelit, carol-filled procession followed

S FanS GaGa’ hEal ED in ‘ aTre ProFil e The Com y’ Book lac IC ag o. S Wa January 9–MarchCh 2I C a g o Thi ac Pa In I n C h o ns y C a T I E 23 a dwa l l o PAG cadill Broa dwayl l Br o e T a I T a e r r age 16 -2 0 0 0 • Bl e a s T 0 p 775 a I l a k e Tm a 7-171 Turn to 8 0 0 - s av T I C 1 2 - 9 7 C k e T n d 0 + 3 T I C e s a u p s 1 I g r o B ox o f f Then click on any ad and be taken directly to the advertiser’s Web site! uction prod ula r new pectac the s by singing and treats. Admission is $1, or a toy or can of food to benefit Care for Real, Edgewater’s food pantry. online exclusives at LATE-ER NIGHT www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com ANDERSONVILLE ‘x’ marks the spot FRIDAY, DECEMBER 20, 6 – 10 PM An interesting music feature looks at a A second night of discounts, entertainment, playlist inspired by the upcoming film holiday treats and pictures with Santa! X-Men: Days of Future Past. Photo of Vanessa Daou by Olivia Divecchia

WCT spotlights An amazing lesbian Boston ‘wicked’ GAME variety of items blogger Casey Events related to the production Wicked was on sale at Carey-Brown. took place to benefit Broadway Cares. the One of a Kind Photo from Carey-Brown Show. Photo by Andrew Davis THIS HOLIDAY BOSS MAN celebration Anthony Gambino, co-owner of the new SEASON, IT PAYS Lakeview eatery Burger Boss, talks sandwiches and the neighborhood. TO SHOP LOCAL. Spend $300 at locally-owned Andersonville businesses during the THAT’S ENTERTAINMENT 2013 holiday season and receive a Find out the latest about Harry Styles, The Sound of Music Live! and Cher. $50 gift certificate! Learn more at andersonville.org/holiday TPAN held a grand opening for its new space in Uptown. plus Photo of 48th Ward Ald. Harry Osterman, 46th Ward Ald. James Cappleman, TPAN Interim CEO Jeff Berry, Complete holiday listings at www.andersonville.org DAILY BREAKING NEWS Board Chair Joel Bosch, and former board chair Sponsored by the Andersonville Chamber of Commerce Michael Dentato by Joshua Thorne

On the #1108 • Dec. 11, 2013 nightspots Christmas couch with

PLUS Our 2011 Holiday AmyGift Guide and /andersonville Moose’s music gifts (and gaffes). page 10

Peter Pointers’ “12 Ways To Bliss-mas .“ MERRY KRAMPUS! page 25 MitchellPubert’s Favorite Things. pages 28-29

MERRY KRAMPUS Have you been good this year? If not, this little beastie’s gonna get ya. Of course, you may be into that. No judgment. andersonville.org Show #551 @avillechamber Find Nightspots on www.WindyCityQueercast.com 4 Dec. 11, 2013 WINDY CITY TIMES

“The besT-wriTTen, besT-ploTTed, deepesT, mosT daring—and funniesT— Cultural Q’s new play in recenT years.” –The Wall Street Journal by FRANCESCA ROYSTER Persistent Desires: Wish Lists and the Importance of Yearning

now playing! Dream if U can a courtyard, with oceans wish lists, and of thinking concretely of violets in bloom.—Prince about the steps that we need to make the lives that we want. For me, walking in this clever, funny anD moving new play, the only Deaf memBer of a noisy Mid-December, more than a decade ago, in a new city helped me to think about anD cheerfully comBative family searches for a place to Be hearD. I found myself walking the streets of what I needed, and Joan Nestle’s anthol- Washington D.C. I was visiting there ogy gave me the vision to go out and from the university town where I lived make a life. For you it might be cleaning to do some research to write a new book. the house, a hike by the Lake, a heart- By day, I would sit in the musty, to heart conversation with a close friend radiator-heated spaces of the archive, at Metropolis. It might be the persistent reading and taking notes, consulting the blinking of a cursor or the clean white librarians and having coffee with other space of a blank sheet of paper. scholars, building a new and more in- Here are some of my persistent desires dependent scholarly life after graduate that I continue to yearn for as we reach Tribes school. Evenings, I would walk through the end of 2013: By NINa raINe neighborhoods, looking at the colorful 1) I am still celebrating the hard work DirecteD By ensemBle memBer austIN PeNdletoN of activists from across a Featuring ensemble members Alana Arenas, Francis Guinan and variety of political com- mitments in bringing Molly Regan with Steve Haggard, John McGinty and Helen Sadler “Anticipating the New Year, SB10, Illinois’s Marriage I want to write about the Equality Bill into frui- tion. And I am inspired importance of making wish by activist Fresco/Angie TickeTS START AT JuST $20. Brilliance’s analysis that Buy online at steppenwolf.org or call 312-335-1650. lists, and of thinking concretely the deep possibilities about the steps that we need to of this work lie in its transformation of a ho- make the lives that we want.” mophobic culture. For me, this means using public spaces like this one to transform ho- painted townhouses, listening to the mophobia, internalized and externalized. rhythm of my own footsteps. I realized I especially yearn for Chicago to become I had had enough of the college town a space truly supportive of LGBTQ young where I taught, and that I wanted, and people, especially young people of color. needed a more urban life. I wanted to I am committed in the coming year to live in a community of artists and activ- help contribute to building more truly ists and academics. I wanted to build a inclusive queer spaces here in my own home with a partner. I knew that I want- Rogers Park, and to support the work of ed children in my life, though the idea of others in the city. adopting a child hadn’t yet crystalized. I 2) I am yearning for a really well- was yearning for home. written television show centering on the There was something about walking lives of women of color—ones who do in that cool but not yet frigid dusk D.C. not have to be glamorous political fixers air, a place where I didn’t know anyone, or police officers or doctors or even re- that helped those yearnings become ally good singers. I’d love to see a show more clear to me. One night, I visited an about political organizers or maybe a African American lesbian bar, thrilled by show featuring the adventures of Janelle the variety of styles of butch and femme Monae’s android heroine Cindi May- and kiki realness, though too shy to talk weather! to anyone. I remember going to Kram- 3) I yearn to see more of the beautiful er Books in DuPont Circle, finding the faces of my family and friends around my magazines and books on The Life that I dinner table. More space just to talk and couldn’t find in my Central Pennsylvania eat and listen and take our time. Which university town. There I found a copy of reminds me of how much I’ll miss my Joan Nestle’s The Persistent Desire, oral friend and activist Aparna Sharma, one histories and poems on butch and femme of the warm faces I’ve been lucky enough lesbian life. Reading those stories helped to have at my brunch table; I’ll miss my me in my own searching see myself as mother, teller of bawdy inside jokes and part of a history of queers, something my grandmother, Gwen, the wizard of that I needed when I felt so isolated. gumbo. What those D.C. walks gave me was Cesar Chavez once said, “When we are space to think and dream, to come up really honest with ourselves we must ad- with a wish list for the life that I wanted mit our lives are all that really belong to to live. This dreaming led me back to us. So it is how we use our lives that de- Sweet Home Chicago, the place where I termines the kinds of [people] we are.” was born and raised. The first step of owning our lives is to Anticipating the New Year, I want to listen to our yearnings and then make write about the importance of making them real. ASL-interpreted, audio-described and open-captioned performances offered.

Corporate Corporate Major Foundation Francesca Royster is a Professor of English at DePaul University, where she Corporate Presenting Sponsor Production Co-Sponsor Production Co-Sponsor Production Support teaches courses on Shakespeare, Popular Culture, gender, race, sexuality and performance. Her books include Sounding Like a No-No: Queer Sounds and Ec- centric Acts in the Post-Soul Era (University of Michigan Press, 2013) and Be- coming Cleopatra: The Shifting Image of an Icon (Palgrave, 2003).

Windy_Stepp_TRIBES_4.5x7_12-16.indd 1 12/5/13 3:20 PM

WINDY CITY TIMES Dec. 11, 2013 5 A man is not “ “ where he lives, but where he lov���e� s�T.��

Above: Current and outgoing members of Gerber/Hart’s board. Below: Lucas McKeever and in- coming Board President Carrie Barnett. Photos by Tracy Baim Gerber/Hart to reopen, promises transparency

By Matt Simonette The library is in the second year of a seven- year lease at its Clark Street location. It is still Members of the Gerber/Hart Library and Archives formulating a budget, but Barnett estimated board of directors met with the public Dec. 5 to that it is about $100,000 a year. “We have that discuss new directions it intends to take as the money for now, but we’re going to need it for library recovers from nearly two years of turmoil. next year too,” she said. The library opened to the public for the first Barnett also invited community members to time at its new location, 6500 N. Clark St., on consider serving on Gerber/Hart’s board, on Dec. 7, then every Thursday for the rest of De- which there are currently seven open seats. Oth- cember, according to incoming Board President er members of the incoming board include Jack Carrie Barnett. Johnson, Mary Ann Smith, Norman Sandfield, “We’re going to take some baby steps,” Barnett Derek Truesdale, Don Friedman, Charles Katzen- told the several dozen people at the meeting. meyer and Amy McFadden. “… We’re going to start slowly and getting to be Tucker said that Karen Sendziak would remain open as many hours as we need to be in order to with the library in a volunteer capacity: “What serve the community.” that’s going to look like, we’re not certain, but Barnett came back on the board in July after I think there’s a lot of new opportunities and serving as its president more than two decades possibilities as the new board takes over.” ago. Under the leadership of outgoing President Sendziak, the organization’s longtime curator Brad Tucker, the board has been working to re- and a past president, stepped down amid allega- build community trust in Gerber/Hart. tions that the collections had become inacces- Barnett said a key goal for the organization sible to the public under her watch. Barnett and was cultivating greater transparency and com- Tucker both spoke of her long service to Gerber/ munity involvement. She said library represen- Hart, however. “The woman is just tireless and tatives will be readily available for answering selfless,” Tucker said. questions and receiving feedback from patrons After the meeting, Barnett reiterated the li- and volunteers, and will hold public meetings brary’s renewed commitment to engaging more two or three times a year. The organization is with the community. “For the past few years, it also planning three donor events for the first has been almost like a black box, and it height- half of 2014, and is committed to their fall gala, ened distrust. People couldn’t get answers. We which they skipped this year. can’t, and we won’t, go on like that,” she said. Gerber/Hart also needs volunteers and dona- As part of the new transparency, the public was tions, Barnett added. “We know that in the past allowed to tour the archives at the new facility, people have volunteered or donated and we something that was rarely allowed in the past. were not responsive as we should have been, and we promise you that that will change im- mediately.”

MORE EXPERIENCE THAN HOTEL TO BOOK YOUR WEDDING AT TTTTTT VISIT OR CALL �� ��T�TT��T�TTT� TT �� ��T � 6 Dec. 11, 2013 WINDY CITY TIMES that irritate my students,” she added. people, and safe places for everybody,” Balay Overall, the IUN campus is not welcoming said. “That’s what they’re supposed to be like.” IUN professor says for its LGBT students and faculty, according to Balay has legal representation from Christo- Balay. She has served for five years as faculty pher Cooper of Chicago and Roy Dominguez of advisor to its Gay Straight Alliance, for example, Merrillville, Ind. and, now that she’s scheduled to leave campus, Emily Banas, a spokesperson for IUN, said that she was denied the university has had a difficult time finding the university could not offer any comment but her replacement, since she is the last openly gay would address the Dept. of Education complaint faculty member on the campus. “at the appropriate time.” tenure for being gay The last five queer faculty members to come up Balay has completed a book, Steel Closets, for tenure were not retained—four were denied which explores how sexuality and gender over- By Matt Simonette their tenure, and another simply left before she lap in the steel mills of Northwest Indiana. She went through the entire process, Balay said. is speaking about the book April 5 at Lavender A professor at Indiana University Northwest “Students say they don’t feel comfortable talk- University, hosted by Windy City Times and Cen- (IUN), in Gary, Ind., last week filed a complaint ing in class about being gay or [addressing] gay ter on Halsted. with the U.S. Dept. of Education, alleging that issues,” she added. “There are trans students The program described the project this way: she was denied tenure both because of her gen- who come to me and say that there are faculty “Drawing from extensive, detailed oral histories der and because she is a lesbian. that call on them every day when they raise taken of a previously silent and invisible popu- Anne Balay, assistant professor in IUN’s Eng- their hand and laugh. There’s a sort of hostility lation, it investigates how gay, lesbian, and lish department, filed the complaint by email on campus to gay and queer students.” transgender steelworkers interact with their co- Dec. 1. She has also filed a complaint with the Balay will think through her legal options once workers, communities and families in the con- Equal Employment Opportunity Council, alleging the Board of Review decision comes down. She text of their physically demanding, risky work. discrimination on the basis of gender. studied queer steelworkers and their treatment It explains how and why basic steel mills are LGBT residents of Indiana are not protected on for her most recent book, and said that their inhospitable, even dangerous to queers, and the basis of their sexual orientation under state battles inspired her to go forward against the demonstrate that we can’t understand what it anti-discrimination laws. However, entities ac- original decision. means to be GLBT without including working- cepting money from the U.S. Dept. of Education, “Universities should be safe places for queer class, blue-collar voices and stories.” as does IUN, are prohibited from discriminating on that basis. Balay found out in April that her tenure had been denied. After filing a complaint with the Pols, LGBT groups respond university’s Affirmative Action office, she asked for a hearing with the Faculty Board of Review, which was scheduled to convene on the matter to Mandela’s passing Dec. 4. The board will have 30 days to make a As the world took in the fact that former Mandela, thank you.” recommendation to the university president. South Africa President Nelson Mandela died Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel said, “The As at most universities, tenure decisions in Dec. 5, many—including politicians as well world is sadder now because he has died; but Balay’s department are based on research out- as LGBT-focused organizations—responded we are comforted knowing that the world is put, university service and teaching evaluations. via social media and press releases. better because he lived. Twenty years after “At any campus there’s a written set of rules President Obama said Mandela was one of he visited Chicago, his message of peace and that you follow, but there’s also a big subjective Anne Balay. Photo by Riva Lehrer the most “influential, courageous and pro- hope continues to resonate with the people piece anywhere you go,” Balay said. foundly good human beings that any of us of this city, as it does for all people of good- It was the teaching component of Balay’s re- will share time with on this earth,” adding will, and that message will live on.” view that got her into trouble, she said, adding “[w]e will not likely see the likes of Nelson “Nelson Mandela’s life and persistence in that she was informed of a “pattern” of student chairperson overruled them. Then a faculty com- Mandela again.” the face of seemingly insurmountable odds, complaints against her. mittee from the College of Arts and Sciences “Our nation has lost its greatest son,” as well as his steadfast commitment to equal- About 1-4 percent of the students she works also endorsed her, but the dean overruled that South Africa President Jacob Zuma said in a ity, galvanized the global community and will with are “angry and hostile because I’m a les- body. televised address. “His humility, his compas- forever serve as an inspiration to everyone to bian and a feminist—and also because I don’t “So there’s been a pattern of faculty saying sion and his humanity earned him our love.” lead lives that provide hope and opportunity pass people who aren’t passing,” Balay said. that my work is fine, and administration citing In a statement, Human Rights Campaign to the underserved and disenfranchised,” said “When you’re in a targeted minority and people me,” Balay said. “In my case, administration [of- President Chad Griffin said, “Nelson Mandela Chicago Urban League President/CEO Andrea are angry, that’s where they go, so students will ficials]are the people who hear the complaints. tore down oppression, united a rainbow na- L. Zopp. say ‘all she does is talk about sexuality.’ That’s When students are mad at me, and hostile, they tion, and always walked arm-in-arm with Local gay singer Branden James, who once not true. I talk about sexuality as much as any- go to my chair and say, ‘She talks about sexual- his LGBT brothers and sisters—and with all competed on America’s Got Talent, emailed body else.” ity and insults Christians.’ people—toward freedom. Though every man, about his own connection with Mandela: “I Balay added, “If you’ve never had an out pro- “Neither the students nor the chair think woman and child who seeks justice around sang for his family who attended a concert fessor before, and a professor says that they’re they’re biased against gay people—they think the world mourns this loss, his vision of an I was in and was invited to their home for a a lesbian, you hear nothing else all semester. you’re supposed to be fair to everybody—but equal future lives on undimmed.” dinner in Johannesburg—but I didn’t actu- Those are the only words that you retain.” when they freak out, that’s who they attack. The “The great life of Nelson Mandela demands ally sing for or meet Mr. Mandela. He was ill Balay’s colleagues from the English depart- chair doesn’t think [what I’m saying] is hate that, after our tears, we stand up, dry our at the time and didn’t attend our 12 Tenors ment recommended her for tenure, but their speech, he just thinks I should do fewer things eyes and work for justice throughout the concert. world,” said the Rev. Dr. Nancy Wilson, mod- “His daughter took a shine to me and gave erator of Metropolitan Community Churches me a bracelet that he actually wore for years. (MCC), in a separate statement. It has his prison cell numbers on it. Pretty “We grieve for and salute one of the great- cool!“ est leaders in history. Because of Nelson Man- Mandela, who died at age 95, spent 27 years dela, South Africa became the first country in prison after the white minority govern- in the world to include constitutional protec- ment convicted him of treason, only to forge tion for same-gender loving persons,” Wilson a peaceful end to white rule by negotiating added. “As the head of a church with many with his captors after his release in 1990, the gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and queer New York Times noted. Mandela—a supporter members in 40 countries, including South Af- of LGBT rights—led the African National Con- rica, I honor the liberator, Mandela.” gress to an electoral victory in 1994, the first Vignette® Modern Roman Shades Lambda Legal Executive Director Kevin fully democratic election in the country’s his- Cathcart stated, “Every one of us who contin- tory. 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Photos by Anthony Meade. See more photos in this week’s Nightspots.

World of Chocolate Hundreds of people attended AIDS Foundation of Chicago’s annual World of Chocolate, a sweet event (literally) that commemorates World AIDS Day. This event was different in at least a couple ways this year. It was held on a different day (Dec. 6, a Friday—as opposed to the usual Thursday) and at another venue (The Great Hall at Union Station, as opposed to the Hilton Chi- cago). Among other things, the event featured dozens of chocolatiers with wares that local celebrity judges and the dining public rated. The winners were as follows: —Best Sweet Sample: Peninsula Hotel —Best Savory Sample: Mercat a la planxa —Best Libation: prasino LaGrange —Top Overall – Business Class I (small businesses): Uptown Brownie —Top Overall – Business Class II (large businesses): Chicago365 Hospitality —People’s Choice Award: Terry’s Toffee For more about AIDS Foundation of Chicago, see www.aidschicago.org. 8 Dec. 11, 2013 WINDY CITY TIMES Wilton D. Gregory of Atlanta; Archbishop Jerome He needs to be able to listen to people who CATHOLICS from cover E. Listecki of Milwaukee; Bishop Thomas J. Pa- he may not either agree with or like, but this tual leader. procki of Springfield, Illinois; and Archbishop is what the Gospels call us to do. Loving each The late Pope John Paul II appointed George, Gustavo Garcia-Siller of San Antonio, Texas. other is a messy business, but in that messiness a Chicago native, cardinal in 1998. He served Both Gregory and Listecki are former Chicago is wonder and hope.” as president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic seminarians. Paprocki, who offered prayers of Similarly, Francis DeBernardo, executive direc- Bishops (USCCB) from 2007 to 2010. supplication and exorcism on the same day Il- tor of the Maryland-based New Ways Ministry, George, 76, is nearly two years past the linois Governor Pat Quinn signed the marriage offered his thoughts. church’s mandatory retirement age for prelates. equality bill into law, is a Blackhawks fan, nick- “After Cardinal George’s tenure as archbishop He turns 77 on Jan. 16. named “Holy Goalie.” Garcia-Siller, a former Chi- of Chicago, what is needed is a pastoral, lis- Since he submitted his retirement letter two cago auxiliary bishop, learned to speak Polish tener. Cardinal George’s heavily theological and years ago to then-Pope Benedict XVI, moreover, enabling him connect with the region’s large political tone has caused many in the LGBT com- speculation has swirled around his likely succes- Polish-American population. munity to be alienated from the Catholic Church. sor, as well as if and when George would step Gregory is African-American. He served as We need a healer and reconciler to undo the down. president of the USCCB from 2001-2004, was damage that he caused by insensitive remarks As recently as Nov. 11, his spokeswoman told Bishop of Belleville, Ill., from 1993 to 2004, and and aggressive political involvement,” said De- the Chicago Sun-Times, “The cardinal has no auxiliary bishop of Chicago from 1983 to 1993. Bernardo. plans to retire soon,” said Colleen Dolan. “He A decade ago, moreover, the late Timothy J. Not only has George’s tenure rankled local gay- submitted his perfunctory resignation in 2012 Russert, on Meet the Press (June 16, 2002), rights activists and LGBT’s among the faithful, and has heard nothing.” asked Gregory about a controversial comment he but also his stridency has alienated others in But two years ago, Benedict XVI was pope. made regarding gay priests. pastoral ministry with gays and lesbians. Now Francis is pontiff. Said Russert, “Homosexuality—a few months “In 1999, in a welcome address to the National All of which raises key questions: When will ago you made a comment which got a lot of Association of Catholic Diocesan Lesbian/Gay the new pope move to replace George? What is attention about homosexuals in the priesthood, Ministries, Cardinal George warned this group of the appointment process? And what would Chi- and I’ll show you exactly what you said and give professional ministers not to discuss that year’s cago gay-rights activists and LGBT’s among the you a chance to respond to it. I think we have Former Dignity/Chicago President Chris Pett. Vatican directive which attempted to ban Sis- faithful like to see in a new spiritual leader in it there on our screen. ‘It’s most importantly a Photo courtesy of Pett ter Jeannine Gramick and Father Robert Nugent the nation’s third largest Roman Catholic arch- struggle to make sure that the Catholic priest- from ministering with lesbian and gay people,” hood is not dominated by homosexual men.’ Ex- DeBernardo explained. diocese? justice and recognizing that this teaching is Those questions have gained considerable plain that.” “George’s action revealed an authoritarian Gregory replied, “One of the things that I think dis-ordered and willfully ignorant of what the small-mindedness that feared disagreement and traction as George has battled cancer twice now. human sciences tell us. Nor is denying women Speaking to heath concerns, his spokeswoman that this moment calls for is that the church discussion. After his long tenure in Chicago, must look carefully at the caliber of priests that their rightful place in the ministry and leader- Catholics need someone who will not only listen told the Sun Times last month, that George is ship of the church an injustice and in opposition “tired, doing well, watches his health careful- serve us, and the caliber of candidates who seek to their concerns, but will encourage, not dis- to enter the priesthood. It’s a call for holiness to Gospel imperatives.” courage, them to voice their opinions to church ly, works too hard, and maintains the regular For his part, Dignity Chicago’s media coor- schedule he has for the last 10 years,” adding, and integrity of life. And that statement was leaders on the crucial topics of sexuality, LGBT made in that context, that this is a moment of dinator Martin Grochala offered a perspective. people, and ministry.” “The reports of his death were greatly exagger- “Someone who is not only willing to converse, ated.” purification and introspection. We need healthy, Longtime gay-rights activist Rick Garcia, who holy priests, who live the promises that they but also who is also willing to listen. Someone is Catholic, said concern for anti-violence mea- Meanwhile, in a few words, the selection pro- who takes to heart the Pope’s focus on justice, cess for a new bishop or archbishop is delib- make with integrity.” sures and the poor should be a top priority for In a follow-up question Russert asked, “Can a service and love. Without those three values, the next spiritual leader. erative and orderly—and highly secretive, with doctrine is a dry and empty shell,” said Grocha- little to no input from the laity. homosexual be a healthy, happy priest?” “We need an archbishop who, unlike Cardinal Said Gregory, “I think we have some who are. la. George, will speak out about the number of chil- As the Rev. Thomas Reese, a Jesuit priest who Marianne Duddy-Burke, executive director of is an expert on the appointment process, ex- I think we have men who have embraced the dren and others who have been victims of gun promise of celibacy irregardless of their sexual DignityUSA, went further, expanding on local violence in Chicago. A bishop who will focus plained in some detail Nov. 12, in the National Dignity spokespersons’ hopes for new leader- Catholic Reporter: orientation and they’ve lived it with integrity.” on the needs of those who are poor, the un- Any other strong candidates to replace George? ship. documented immigrant, those who are victims “The appointment process begins when a “This will be the first appointment of a U.S. bishop turns 75 or dies. The nuncio, the pope’s The local CBS affiliate reported the strongest of domestic violence, those who are oppressed contender might well be Archbishop J. Peter Sar- archbishop since Pope Francis’ election. It is and those who have no voice of their own,” said representative to the U.S. church, is responsible an opportunity for the Pope to send a strong for drawing up a list of three names [called a tain of Seattle, Washington. Another possibility Garcia. is Bishop Kevin Farrell of Dallas, Texas. message by appointing someone with a strong, For Thayer and GLN, an end to archdiocesan terna] that is sent to the Congregation for Bish- clear record of pastoral leadership. If, instead, ops in Rome. The nuncio usually consults with Meanwhile, what are local gay-rights activists opposition to LGBT civil rights would be a wel- and LGBT’s among the faithful looking for after the new leader of the Archdiocese rose to promi- comed change. Over the years, he said, the all the U.S. cardinals and the archbishop of the nence by attacking LGBT people, same-sex mar- province containing the diocese, as well as the George, who over the years has been an ardent archdiocese could be “counted on to virulently opponent of LGBT rights, especially marriage riage and women’s health care, and continues oppose every move for LGBT social equality in retiring bishop. along those lines without being called on the “The Congregation for Bishops reviews the equality? Illinois. Now that we have largely won legal One thing is clear, nobody wants another anti- carpet, it will cause many to question how the equality, we want LGBT-affirming education in terna and the nuncio’s report. If they do not like pope’s words and actions relate to each other,” the names, they tell the nuncio to submit a new gay general in the culture war against LGBT’s. our public schools” and “social services deliv- Oddly enough, like many Catholic families with she said. ered in a non-sectarian manner where people of list. Ultimately, they vote on the list, and the “DignityUSA members hope that Chicago’s new prefect of the congregation takes three names to LGBT family members, even his own, Cardinal all faiths—or no faith—will receive them with- George acknowledged his oldest nephew is gay leader will be someone who is deeply rooted in out favor or discrimination.” the pope, listed in order of preference. The pope the sense of the Church as the living Body of makes the final decision.” and a “fine man.” Thayer added, “As the African-American civil- Earlier this year, in a wide-ranging interview Christ, and who sees himself (and, of course it rights movement learned more than a generation Reese also says that the newly elected vice will be ‘himself’) as shepherd and minister rather president of the USCCB, Cardinal Daniel DiNar- with America magazine, a Jesuit publication, ago, winning formal legal equality is just one Pope Francis said the Roman Catholic Church has than enforcer-in-chief. We want him to recog- important step on the road to full equality, with do of Galveston-Houston, Texas, may well be a nize love and commitment between couples as “kingmaker” in the appointment of bishops in been overly “obsessed” with condemning same- many battles that still need to be won.” sex marriage, abortion, and contraception and reflecting the Divine Spirit, especially as legal For their part, Mary Ellen and Casey Lopata, the United States. same-sex marriage becomes a reality in Illi- Reese cites attributes like DiNardo’s service as should shift its focus, emphasizing compassion co-founders of Fortunate Families, a Rochester, and mercy rather than “small-minded rules.” nois,” Duddy-Burke added. “He should help all N.Y.-based ministry with parents of LGBT chil- former staffer in the Vatican Congregation for members of our Church greet this reality with Bishops and his “knowledge of the process, key Chris Pett, a past president of the local Dignity dren, their families and siblings, offered yet Chicago chapter, hopes the new leader heeds a peaceful spirit, and ensure that Church insti- another perspective. “A clone of Pope Francis players and the politics of episcopal appoint- tutions respect the legal commitments couples ments.” Francis’ words. would work for us,” they said. “Oops, church “My vision and hope for the new archbishop have made to each other.” teaching won’t allow that.” And DiNardo, Reese said, can on his many vis- For Joe Murray of the Rainbow Sash Movement, its to Rome “make his recommendations known would be that he reflects the perspectives and ©Copyright. Chuck Colbert. All rights re- world view of Pope Francis, who envisions a openness and humility are necessary character- served. to the right people, including Pope Francis.” istics of a new leader. Another advantage: DiNardo is fluent in Ital- church of inclusion, justice, focused on the poor and marginalized, and injustices of all kinds “The Rainbow Sash Movement hopes the next ian at the same time Francis is not “at home leader of the Archdiocese of Chicago is both in English,” according to Reese, who adds that such as racism and economic inequality,” said Pett. humble and a servant. He needs to be open to the pope has “little personal knowledge of the a diversity of opinions; and ‘Yes,’ we think he Ricketts on United States.” He added, “While we want this new shepherd to share Francis’ worldview and clarification of should sit down with the LGBT Chicago political Therefore, the pontiff will need to depend leadership to really understand those concerns. Kennedy board the church’s true mission, this leader could also Laura Ricketts is among the newest group on others to advise him. And while the closest This would go a long way to opening up com- be a shepherd who will help the local church of individuals President Obama appointed U.S. prelate to Francis is Boston’s Cardinal Sean munication between these two significant com- of Chicago and national church to address some to key administrative posts. The president O’Malley, Reese says, “O’Malley is a saint not a munities in Chicago with possible ramifications of the disconnects that still are not recognized appointed her to the board of trustees of politician,” who “will not push favors or even nationally,” said Murray, who also voiced sharp by Francis, such as how can you put forward a the John F. Kennedy Center for the Per- give his advice unless the pope asks.” criticism for what he termed George’s “extrava- worldview focused on injustice and inequality forming Arts. Who emerges from the appointment process gant retirement parties” saying they “are both and not see the connection with challenges to Ricketts, an out lesbian, is director and as Chicago’s next archbishop is anybody’s best out of place and clueless when it comes to the LGBT Catholics and the leadership role of women part-owner of the Chicago Cubs, and is CEO from cover guess. poor.” Local media (CBS Chicago) and beyond have in the church; that the church’s moral teach- board chair of Chicago Cubs Charities. ing that LGBT sexuality is ‘intrinsically evil and Murray added, “The key attribute for George’s speculated on several strong candidates with lo- replacement is he has to be a good pastor first. cal ties to succeed George. They are Archbishop morally disordered’ is not seen in itself an in- WINDY CITY TIMES Dec. 11, 2013 9 bate on the rights of transgender detainees. Sachnoff said he believes Kobi-Burks will able But Levasseur and others are hard-pressed to undergo sexual-reassignment surgery while in IDHS providing trans find cases of transgender people detained in custody, but he said he will also be arguing for prisons and mental health centers that have her release. Kobi-Burks was the victim of family been allowed to undergo surgery or receive other abuse, he said, and she has not acted violently healthcare to detainee healthcare beyond hormone therapy. in 17 years. “I haven’t heard of anybody getting gender- Kobi-Burks said, thus far, the staff and other confirmation surgery in any place without a patients have been relatively supportive of her BY KATE SOSIN court order,” said John Knight, LGBT project di- transition. rector at the American Civil Liberties Union of “I still struggle with some of the staff wanting A transgender woman detained in an Elgin men- Illinois. to call me ‘he’ or whatever because of some of tal-health facility has secured access to gender- Kobi-Burks is believed to be the first trans- their comfort issues,” she said. affirming healthcare, possibly setting a prec- gender person detained in DHS custody to ac- Overall, however, she said, she feels the staff edent for transgender people detained in jails, cess transgender healthcare. Her case, however, has been well-intentioned. She remains housed prisons and mental health centers throughout could be significant for those detained in jails in with men, she said. They, too, have been sup- Illinois. prisons in Illinois as the same case law applies. portive of her, she said. Mia Kobi-Burks, 37, has been transitioning to female over the last year, after her attorney argued that the Illinois Department of Human Aon Corp., Baker & McKenzie LLP, BMO Bank- Services (IDHS) was legally obligated to provide Celebration of corp Inc., Boeing Co., Chapman and Cutler her with transition medical services, he said. LLP, Exelon Corp., Groupon Inc., Hinshaw & According to experts, her case may pave the William ‘Feathers’ Culbertson LLP, Huron Consulting Group Inc., way for others who are detained in mental Gary’s life Jan. 18 Hyatt Hotels Corp., Jenner & Block LLP, Kat- health facilities, jails and prisons in Illinois, as There will be a celebration of William ten Muchin Rosenman LLP, Kirkland & Ellis advocates continue to push for gender-related “Feather” Gary’s life Saturday, Jan. 18, 2014, LLP, Kraft Foods Inc. (Northfield, Ill.), Leo healthcare for transgender inmates throughout at Driftwood, 1021 W. Montrose Ave., at 5 Burnett Company Inc. and Mayer Brown LLP. the country. p.m. There were also McDermott Will & Emery Kobi-Burks was charged in 1993 with the Gary tended bar for many years, notably at LLP, MillerCoors LLC, Navigant Consulting slaying of her mother, father and sister. She Bulldog Road, Granville Anvil, and Buddies Inc., Northern Trust Corp., Orbitz Worldwide was found not guilty by reason of insanity and Restaurant and Bar, which was inducted into Inc., Schiff Hardin LLP, Sears Holdings Corp. has since been held in custody at Elgin Mental the Chicago Gay and Lesbian Hall of Fame in (Hoffman Estates, Ill.), Seyfarth Shaw LLP, Mia Kobi-Burks. Photo from Kobi-Burks Health Center. 2003. Sidley Austin LLP, Starcom MediaVest Group, For years, she has been trying to medically “Feathers was a larger than life figure in the United Airlines, Walgreen Co. (Deerfield, Ill.), transition to female, she said. Januari Smith, communications manager for community, known for his antics and special- and Winston & Strawn LLP. “I think they just didn’t understand it because IDHS, said that the department is unable to ty customer service, he leaves a memorable View the full report at www.hrc.org/cei. they didn’t have a working understanding of comment on Kobi-Burks’ medical care due to pa- legacy,” Heartland Health Outreach Food Pro- what transgender was,” Kobi-Burks told Windy tient confidentiality laws. But she did confirm gram Coordinator Lori Cannon told Windy City City Times. “It’s exceedingly difficult to get peo- that DHS could be legally required to provide Times. Former Illinoisan ple to understand that trans is not gay.” prescribed transgender-related healthcare. A memorial service took place Nov. 26 at running for mayor But civil-rights attorney Lowell Sachnoff ar- “We are mandated to provide medically nec- Barr Funeral Home. gued her case. essary treatment,” Smith said of transgender of Providence In 2006, Lambda Legal and the American Civil healthcare. If a physician prescribes transgender Openly gay small-business owner Brett Smi- Liberties Union of Illinois filed a federal law- medical care, Smith said, the department is le- HRC releases ley has formally announced he’s running for suit in Wisconsin on behalf of three incarcerated gally obligated to provide it. newest Corporate mayor of Providence, R.I., according to The transgender women. The case challenged state Dru Levasseur of Lambda Legal was among the Providence Journal. law banning access to gender-affirming health- lead attorneys on the Wisconsin case. He said Equality Index Smiley, 34, announced his bid to succeed care like hormone therapy and sexual reassign- that case was intended to set precedent for Il- A historic number of corporations earned gubernatorial candidate Mayor Angel Taveras. ment surgery. The case went up to the Seventh linois and that it might hold weight in states the top score in Human Rights Campaign’s During the news conference, Smiley said a Circuit Court of Appeals, and the court found outsides the Seventh Circuit. (HRC’s) 2014 Corporate Equality Index (CEI), statewide supplemental tax on guns and am- that the state was obligated to provide medi- “It shouldn’t matter why someone is in [custo- according to a press release. munition should be established to pay for cally necessary transgender care. dy],” Levasseur said. “The constitution protects This national benchmarking tool on corpo- nonviolence programs. The Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals encom- them.” rate policies and practices related to LGBT He grew up outside of Chicago, moving to passes Illinois, and Sachnoff used that case law Transgender people on the outside are regu- workplace equality found that 304 major Rhode Island in 2006. to make an argument for Kobi-Burks, he said. larly prescribed surgery and other healthcare businesses—spanning nearly every industry Windy City Times covered a fundraiser for “It’s legally absolutely necessary,” he said, interventions to affirm their gender identities, and geography—earned a top score of 100 Smiley back in September that was held at adding than denying Kobi-Burks care would be but getting that care behind bars has been slow- percent and the coveted distinction of “Best the home of Eric Nelson and his husband, Jess cruel and unusual punishment. going work for transgender prison advocates. Places to Work for LGBT Equality.” Jose. (See www.windycitymediagroup.com/ According to Sachnoff, Kobi-Burks is undergo- High-profile cases like that of WikiLeaks infor- The Illinois companies that achieved a top lgbt/Out-RI-mayoral-candidate-has-fundrais- ing hormone therapy, laser hair removal, psy- mant Chelsea Manning, who came out as trans- 2014 CEI score of 100 are A.T. Kearney Inc., er-in-Chicago/44389.html.) chological treatment and is looking into sexual gender earlier this year, have stirred public de- reassignment surgery.

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Complete Birkenstock_12.2.13.indd 1 12/6/13 1:29 PM 10 Dec. 11, 2013 WINDY CITY TIMES A guide to gay, lesbian political candidates

By Matt Simonette Melanie “Mel” Ferrand James Crawley Race: Illinois state Representative (40th Dis- Race: Cook County Circuit Court Judge (Pamela The next primary elections, to be held March 18, 2014, feature a number of openly gay and lesbian trict) E. Hill Veal vacancy) candidates. The following individuals have publically stated that they were a member of the LGBT com- Website: melferrand.org Website: crawleyforjudge.org munity and had filed with the Illinois State Board of Elections by the Dec. 2 deadline. The skinny: Ferrand is vying for the seat that The skinny: Crawley, a native of Joliet, attend- was this year vacated by lesbian state Rep. Deb ed Loyola University Chicago and received his Mell, and that is currently occupied by Jaime M. law degree from St. Louis University, where he Kelly Cassidy Andrade Jr., who is also running. Ferrand is an started doing legal work on HIV/AIDS issues. He Race: Illinois state Representative (14th elementary school teacher and a longtime activ- has had his own practice for more than 12 years, District) ist in LGBT, labor and women’s issues. She and and has developed a specialty in food poison- Website: CitizensForKellyCassidy.com Andrade each face a number of other opponents ing personal injury cases. Also running for the The skinny: Cassidy, who defeated another in the Democratic primary, among them Bart vacancy are Andrea Michele Buford and Kelly Ma- lesbian candidate, Paula Basta, in March Goldberg, Aaron Goldstein, Nancy Schiavone, loney Kachmarik. 2014, is this time running unopposed in the Wendy Jo Harmston and Mark Pasieka. Democratic primary. Republican candidate Denis Detzel, a consultant, is also running unopposed in that district. Before taking of- fice, Cassidy was an activist and a staffer for state Sen. John Cullerton.

Right: State Rep. Kelly Cassidy. Photo by Matthew C. Clark

Sam Yingling Greg Harris Race: (62nd District) Race: Illinois state Representative (13th Dis- Website: SamYingling.com trict) The skinny: Yingling, running unopposed in Website: GregHarris.org the primary for his second term, is a native of The skinny: Harris, who was chief co-sponsor central Lake County and lives in Round Lake of SB10, the legislation that will bring about Beach. He is the first openly gay House member marriage equality in Illinois beginning in June, from outside metropolitan Chicago. The night 2014, has a district that includes Uptown, Ra- Melanie “Mel” Ferrand. Photo courtesy of James Crawley. Photo from Crawley after SB10 passed, Yingling proposed to his venswood, Lincoln Square, North Center and Ferrand longtime partner, Lowell Jaffe, at a party in the Bowmanville. He was first elected in 2006 and is executive mansion. Republican Rod Drobinski of currently running unopposed in the Democratic Wauconda is also running unopposed in the race. primary. Republican Jon Joseph Hartmann is Linda Pauel running unopposed as well. Race: Cook County Circuit Court Judge (10th Subcircuit, additional judgeship A) Website: pauelforjudge.com The skinny: A graduate of Chicago-Kent College of Law, Pauel has worked for several years at the City of Chicago’s Law Department and served on the boards of LGBT organizations. If she were to be elected, she would be the first open lesbian of color to serve as judge in Cook County. She is run- ning against Anthony C. Kyriakopoulos, Katherine A. O’Dell and Michael O’Malley.

Right: Linda Pauel.

LGBT workplace Dec. 15 brunch to Sam Yingling. Photo from Yingling State Rep. Greg Harris. Photo by Matt Mills forum in the mark Vital Bridges’ Loop Dec. 12 25th anniversary Egalite Chicago—the LGBT network for Pub- Heartland Health Outreach will hold its an- CeLebrate licis Groupe agencies—in partnership with nual holiday brunch—commemorating the GLAAD’s Chicago Leadership Council, will hold 25th anniversary of Vital Bridges Center on Marriage equaLity its first-ever “Four Color Process: An Evening Chronic Care—on Sunday, Dec. 15, at the Four of Networking and Reflection on the Theme of Seasons Hotel, 120 E. Delaware Pl., 11:30 Prepare for your marital Being Out in the Workplace.” a.m.-3 p.m. living trust estate Plan The event will start at 5 p.m. on Thursday, Guests will partake of entertainment, Four now! Dec. 12, at 35 W. Wacker Dr., 21st Floor, in the Seasons’ cuisine, live and silent auctions, and Leo Burnett Room. Admission is free. A talk a cash raffle. 50% LGBT fee discount will be followed by drinks at Leo’s Star Bar and Tickets to the brunch start at $250, or if you sign up before 12/25/13 time for networking. $2,500 per table of 10. For tickets or more information, visit www.heartlandalliance.org/ •Locks in fee for future use vital/or call Vital Bridges at 773-271-9161. •Free Consultations

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LIFE Naturally, Tara immediately moved to the top of Danni’s list, and the two soon started dating. Crystal ‘Danni’ Webber This past May, they were married in front of the Stonewall Inn in New York. and Tara Webber Webber and Webber now call Chicago home … actually, northwest suburban Hoffman Estates. Danni, 32, is a registered dietitian and food scientist, specializing in functional By ROSS FORMAN beverage development. Tara, 36, is an assistant principal at a charter school serving underprivileged youth in Chicago. “I really like Chicago so far,” Danni said. “We have met some really incredible people and had some really incredible food.” Tara added, “I really enjoy the kindness of the people here. I have joined a very welcoming women’s soccer league that has helped me feel less homesick. The food here is Hobbies very comparable to New York City, but the cost of living is much better.” Danni: Yoga, Pilates, following the Crystal ‘Danni’ Webber (left) and partner Tara Webber. Photo Tara said the key to their personal success staying together is, without question, honesty, Pittsburgh Steelers around the country, from Webber cooking for groups, reading, and watching followed by communication and “keeping the passion alive.” Tara often sends flowers Investigation Discovery while drinking to Danni and leaves her unexpected noted on Post-it paper. Danni said she “tolerates wine with Tara. ungodly high sleeping temperatures because I’m always cold … that’s love,” she said, Tara: Playing soccer and basketball, laughing. “Even when we disagree or have days where we are too busy to connect as much snowboarding, reading, watching NFL as we like, I love knowing that we have this great foundation that will bring us back to football, and traveling normal soon enough and I would not trade that reassurance for anything.” Tara said there is a lack of resources for LGBT use in the schools, thus, “it’s important for Favorite movie me to connect with the LGBT youth,” she said. “I would love to be a role model for them Danni: Lola Rennt and encourage others to be role models as well.” Tara: The Breakfast Club “I want to get involved in the LGBT community for all ages,” Danni said. “I absolutely Dream vacation destination love the great things SAGE (Services & Advocacy for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual & Transgender Danni: A Mediterranean cruise Elders) is doing in New York City and believe that as same-sex relationships become more Tara: Egypt normalized nationwide, the aging LGBT population will need more support than ever to Pizza topping(s) navigate the legal and financial landscapes in planning for retirement. These pioneers are Danni: Minced garlic, fresh tomatoes, heroic to me and did so much to pave the way for younger LGBT generations, [so] it is the spinach and ricotta least I can do to support them in finding equality later in life. Tara: Spinach or pineapple Danni was active in the Philadelphia Dyke March for years, which she calls, “by far my most favorite LGBT annual event.” She also has participated in the annual New York City Dyke March, even as part of its planning committee. “I love that it is a grassroots protest march, as opposed to a parade,” Danni said, “and I like that they do not ask for permission to take over the streets. Serving as a marshal in the March in various cities for the past 10 years or so is something I am very proud of. “The hour before the March, when women from all walks of life come streaming through the streets to the meeting place, is often the most excitement I feel all summer. The moments we stand as marshals, while negotiations with the police take place, are electric. The feeling of celebration when nearly 20,000 people safely navigate the march is indescribable. I asked Tara to marshal the Dyke March with me a couple years back and it was one of my favorite memories of us as a couple. We got to lead the march and protect the banner. It was an amazing day and the pictures were incredible.” That’s So GAY! Featuring more than 2,400 questions about LGBtq history from across the centuries and around the world. (But don’t worry, there are plenty of current celebrity, sports, TV, film, music and theater questions, too!)

Available exclusively in Chicago at: A new game Women & Children First Books You win bingo chips for each correct by tracy Baim 5233 n. Clark st., 773-769-9299 answer, and the winner is the first to Gaymart build a rainbow flag. 3457 n. Halsted st., 773-929-4272 or online at Great for parties and events. http://thatssogaygame.com/ Just $24.99 For details, email [email protected] www.facebook.com/thatssoGayGame 12 Dec. 11, 2013 WINDY CITY TIMES VIEWPOINT WINDY CITY TIMES and seven-figure incomes and are very politically governments’ and businesses’ failure to pro- VOL. 29, No. 11, Dec. 11, 2013 connected. These self-selected “leaders” share a vide decent living conditions for their citizens. The combined forces of Windy City Times, ANDY political agenda that serves their own social and While some gays in the U.S. may either ignore founded Sept. 1985, and Outlines newspaper, economic interests. Their drive to be “equal” is or adopt patronizing attitudes towards LGBTQs founded May 1987. THAYER to be equal with others of their own class—not facing desperate situations in places like Russia, to be truly equal with their maid, rent-boy or Honduras and Africa, they would do well to have PUBLISHER & EXECUTIVE EDITOR Tracy Baim other employee. This is why it’s accurate to call the humility to realize that they may be seeing a these organizations and their social networks hint of their own future, as the U.S. slowly slips ASSISTANT PUBLISHER Terri Klinsky “Gay, Inc.” from being the dominant economy in the world. MANAGING EDITOR Andrew Davis Gay, Inc. is closely tied to the Democratic Par- In an era of budget cuts, pension “reform” and BUSINESS MANAGER Ripley Caine What’s next for DIRECTOR OF NEW MEDIA Jean Albright ty; in fact, it’s such an intimate relationship that other attacks on working class living standards, ART DIRECTOR Kirk Williamson Gay, Inc. can be said to be a mere adjunct to the most LGBTQs will need to recognize that their SALES Terri Klinsky, Amy Matheny, Kirk Williamson, the LGBTQ Democrats. But so is the leadership of labor, and erstwhile, self-selected “leaders,” as well as the Chris Cheuvront so are many of the organizations that claim to Democratic politicians we are urged to support, PROMOTIONAL SUPPORT Scott Duff NATIONAL SALES Rivendell Media, 212-242-6863 movement in advocate for all African-Americans or women or are ineffective at best, and hostile at worst. SENIOR WRITERS Bob Roehr, Rex Wockner, Marie immigrants. The top brass of these groups has LGBTQs will need to make common cause with J. Kuda, David Byrne, Tony Peregrin, Lisa Keen, Illinois? its primary allegiance to the Democratic Party others if we are to preserve, let alone improve, Yasmin Nair, Erica Demarest, Matt Simonette, Kate and that is why they are willing to sell measures our living standards. We will need to realize that Sosin THEATER EDITOR Scott C. Morgan While most states still do not enjoy full legal billed as “reforms”—pension “reform,” educa- while reforms like formal legal equality can be CINEMA WRITER Richard Knight, Jr. equality, in Illinois we now have largely crossed tion “reform, “immigration “reform,” welfare won, they can also be taken away. Moreover, re- BOOKS WRITER Yasmin Nair that threshold and, so, face a crucial juncture in “reform,” etc.—that throw masses of the people forms that cost real money—massive youth jobs SPORTS WRITER Ross Forman our movement. they claim to represent under the bus. They tell programs, free healthcare for all, free higher ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT WRITERS Mary Shen Barnidge, Steve Warren, Lawrence Fer- Today, our situation recalls that faced by the us: “Leave it to us, we’ll get the job done, we’ll education, etc.—can only be won with renewed ber, Mel Ferrand, Jerry Nunn, Jonathan Abarbanel African-American movement following the pas- service your needs, you just sit back and let it determination and even greater effort during COLUMNISTS/WRITERS: Yvonne Zipter, Jorjet sage of the great civil-rights legislation of the happen...” times of economic crisis. Harper, Meghan Streit, Charlsie Dewey, Carrie mid-1960s. Formal legal equality has been final- We follow and believe in this strategy of And not only will greater effort be required, Maxwell, Billy Masters, Sarah Toce, Dana Rudolph, Sally Parsons, Melissa Wasserman, Jamie Anne ly achieved, but entrenched social discrimina- “change” at our peril. The historic gains for civil but a fundamentally different strategy than has Royce, Matthew C. Clark, Joe Franco tion persists. Illegal discrimination is disguised rights—for all groups of people—have always prevailed in our community over the past few SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHERS Mel Ferrand, Hal Baim, by euphemism and deceit and is still abundantly come about thru masses of people forming their decades. We will need to reject a narrow “gay Emmanuel Garcia, Tim Carroll, Ed Negron, Susan harmful. own organizations and acting on their own be- rights only” approach to winning justice, and Mattes In 1968 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was tragi- half—not leaving it to Democratic politicians to instead make common cause with all people, CIRCULATION CIRCULATION DIRECTOR Jean Albright cally cut down as he was trying to lead his do it for them. It is no accident that the “Repre- gay and non-gay, who face discrimination and DISTRIBUTION: Ashina, Allan, Dan, John, Renee, movement into the new era. Radical organiza- sentatives” in the Democratic-controlled Illinois attacks. This is required not only to promote the Sue and Victor tions like the Black Panther Party took up the General Assembly only got on board for marriage internal strength of our rainbow LGBTQ commu- WEB HOSTING: LoveYourWebsite.com (lead pro- torch and articulated the need to go beyond for- equality well after a majority of Illinoisans al- nity, but also to win the support we as LGBTQ grammer: Martie Marro) mal legal equality by addressing poverty, a rac- ready did—and then only because of threats of people will need from others when the inevi- ist justice system and persistent unequal access political retribution against House Speaker Mike table attempts to scapegoat us occur. Copyright 2013 Lambda Publications Inc./Windy City Media to jobs, education and health care. The job of Madigan and his allies. This means that we must embrace and actively Group; All rights reserved. Reprint by permission only. Back issues (if available) for $5 per issue (postage included). King and his more radical colleagues remains un- Over the past few decades, the dependence on promote real immigration reform to rapidly “le- Return postage must accompany all manuscripts, drawings, finished. Racist discrimination today, shocking Democratic politicians to protect past gains has galize” undocumented immigrants, both within and photographs submitted if they are to be returned, and no responsibility may be assumed for unsolicited materials. and undeniable, persists in almost every facet of produced tragic results: a severe erosion of abor- our LGBT community and outside it. We must All rights to letters, art and photographs sent to Windy American life. tion rights in state after state, no significant actively involve ourselves in struggles against City Times will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication purposes and as such, subject to editing LGBTQs of all races are at a similar juncture. new pro-labor legislation since the 1935 Wagner racism, such as racist police violence, whether and comment. The opinions expressed by the columnists, Trans people face rampant employment and oth- Act, mass incarceration of African-Americans, a the victims are LGBT or not. We must oppose cartoonists, letter writers, and commentators are their own and do not necessarily reflect the position ofWindy City er discrimination and face open violence on our “reform” immigration bill in Congress that makes the attempts to limit women’s control over their Times. Publication of the name, photograph, or likeness of streets. LGBTQ youth suffer disproportionately Reagan’s 1986 law look progressive by compari- own bodies thru restrictions on abortion, con- a person or organization in articles or advertising in Windy City Times is not to be construed as any indication of the from homelessness and suicide, their schools son, to name just a few. There has been growing traception and sex education. We must support sexual orientation of such person or organization. While anything but LGBTQ-affirming and often out- income inequality for the past four decades un- efforts to stop the growing income disparities in we encourage readers to support the advertisers who make rightly hostile, and the programs for our seniors der Democratic and Republican administrations our country, and the wars and military spending this newspaper possible, Windy City Times cannot accept responsibility for advertising claims. are meager at best in major urban areas and ut- alike, as most people in this country, including abroad that serve to unjustly control fates of (773) 871-7610 FAX (773) 871-7609 terly lacking elsewhere. most LGBTs, have lived through a downward other nations around the world. e-mail: [email protected] or In short, we have light-years to go. Nor will economic spiral of stagnant wages, disappear- In short, only by supporting the justice strug- [email protected] our enemies go away. Powerful forces like the ing living-wage jobs, and unmanageable debt. gles of “other” movements, can we expect and Catholic leadership and evangelical Protestant Even Business Week and the Wall Street Journal deserve support from non-LGBTQs. www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com churches will continue to block every pro-LGBTQ regularly quote wealthy financial industry execs Andy Thayer is a co-founder of the Gay Lib- podcast: WindyCityQueercast.com program in Illinois and re-double their efforts in worrying about the social and political impacts eration Network (www.gayliberation.net), WINDY CITY MEDIA GROUP, surrounding states that lack even formal legal of growing income disparity…while they con- which began organizing for equal marriage 5315 N. Clark St. #192, Chicago, Illinois 60640 protections. tinue to line their own pockets. rights in the year 2000. He can be reached U.S.A A minority within our community have from Times of economic stagnation and crisis have at [email protected] Thanks to Roger (MAILING ADDRESS ONLY) the start opposed working for equal marriage also historically been times of increased bigotry. Fraser and Bob Schwartz for their help with Windy City Times Deadline every Wednesday. rights arguing that family life, whether tradi- Ruling elites around the world use the time-hon- this article. Nightspots Deadline Wednesday prior to street date. tional or non-traditional, has a conservatizing ored technique of blaming minorities for their OUT! Resource Guide ONLINE influence on people and draws them away from www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com www.WindyCityQueercast.com politics into private life. But these opponents doesn’t seem to be kind of a stampede to do have a mistaken notion of where the real threat Letters: this,” Dolan responded. “I regret that.” “Windy City Media Group generated to our movement lies now. Dolan along This is the first time a prince of the Church enormous interest among their readers Yes, some people will drop out of our move- has recognized that the Catholic bishops are in this year’s LGBT Consumer Index ment now, thinking that their work is done, just To the editor: losing the fight over the issue of marriage Survey. Out of approximately 100 as some dropped out of the civil-rights move- equality, and publically admits it. print and online media partners who ment in the late 1960s after the achievement I must say the U.S. Conference of Catholic This statement comes as gay-rights issues participated in the survey, Windy of formal legal equality. Sheer exhaustion after Bishops continue to amaze me with its clue- are winning victory after victory, with Illinois, City was the best performing regional facing years of violent racist repression was less nature. New Jersey and Hawaii the most recent states media in the U.S. Only survey partners one reason; the trauma and depression caused Let’s take, for instance, Cardinal Timothy to grant marriage equality. In every state with a nationwide footprint were by King’s assassination was another. But there Dolan’s recent comment on NBC’s Meet the where gay marriage has passed, it has been able to generate a greater number of was another reason some people retired from Press. The Cardinal said the Roman Catholic the local Catholic Conference of State bishops responses.” ­­—David Marshall, Research the struggle. It’s embarrassing to talk about Church is losing the fight because it’s been who have mounted and aggressive and vis- Director, Community Marketing, Inc. and therefore doesn’t get the attention it de- “caricatured as anti-gay.” In my opinion, it cous campaigns against the issues. serves. But it is as pertinent to today’s LGBTQ has been caricatured as anti-gay because that Cardinal Dolan, I say this in charity: You movement as it was to the civil rights movement is, in fact and truth, what it is. need to get a grip and accept that you are then, and it can be expressed in one little, ugly Meet the Press host David Gregory inter- bigot—and the clerical closet will not save word: class. viewed Dolan in a segment that aired Dec. 1. you from that descriptive title. You are losing The LGBTQ community, like all minority groups, “Regardless of the church teachings, do the marriage-equality battle not because you has a small number of rich people who use their you think this is evolving in such a way that are anti-gay, but rather because you are anti- wealth to have a disproportionately large ef- it’s ultimately going to be legal everywhere?” reasonable. fect on the political life of the community. Most Gregory asked. Joe Murray boards of LGBTQ organizations and newspapers, “I think I’d be a Pollyanna to say there Chicago as well as their executive directors, have six- WINDY CITY TIMES Dec. 11, 2013 13 GOINGS-ON WINDY CITY TIMES’ ENTERTAINMENT SECTION

THE MOD COUPLE The relationship film The Happy Sad is part of the winter movie roundup. Read more on page 16. THEATER DISH RADIO In a ‘Daze.’ There’s the beef. Duff enough. Page 15 Page 22 Page 19 Photo of yukhoe at Gogi Photo of HoliDaze Photo of Scott Duff by Michael Brosilow by Brandon Dahlquist

DANCIN’ FEATS that immediately followed a presentation on knee retrievals in Turin, Italy). Now December, Knowlton is undergoing che- motherapy through a chest port, which, ironi- Christopher Knowlton: cally, is a newer development in cancer treat- ment created by biomedical engineers. A short outpatient procedure implanting the chest port A Renaissance man will preserve his peripheral veins and evade some of the side effects of cancer treatment. Having been on the production side of these sort by Lauren Warnecke plants. His preliminary defense is scheduled for of devices is of some small comfort now that he’s next spring, and he hopes to finish his disserta- on the patient, or customer side. “[The chest Christopher Knowlton, 27, is a biomedical en- tion a year and a half from now. All the while, port is] scary to think about, but in practice... gineer, Ph.D. candidate, and artistic director of Knowlton continues to run The Dance Team and it’s your best friend.” a Chicago-based dance company known as The has pursued freelance opportunities with per- Knowlton feels that his background in both Dance Team. In one year, Knowlton put together formance artist/choreographer Erica Mott, Mark fields have played a key role in the detection of an evening-length show (his first), was a finalist Jeffery of ATOM-R, and Synapse Arts. cancer, and also in the healing process. “Dance in the 2013 Dance Your Ph.D. contest (which It may appear like he leads a double life, but has been a real affirmation of recovery,” he says. includes a nod in the prestigious Science Maga- not really. With his background in engineer- Knowlton performed just five weeks after sur- zine), and made appearances at TEDx-Windy City ing and long-time interest in dance, Knowlton gery, which served as catharsis and also tangible and One State Together in the Arts (a biennial has found ways to connect his two passions. evidence of recovery. Each rehearsal served as a arts conference in Moline, Ill.). He navigates the seemingly large gap between test of how his physical strength was improving. Hailing from a small town near Moline, the the arts and sciences by translating informa- Did his scientific rationale and kinesthetic young Knowlton excelled in the sciences, first tion through dance. As with the Dance Your PhD awareness better prepare Knowlton emotion- exploring dance as a high-school student at project, Knowlton often focuses less on creation ally for cancer? “I don’t know… There’s a the reputable Illinois Mathematics and Science and more on communication in his work, aug- sound logic the doctor is working through that Academy in Aurora, Ill. Perhaps because he was menting and articulating sometimes difficult I totally relate to… but then, two days later… away from his rural hometown, coming out to concepts through his choreography. By using Christopher Knowlton. Photo by Katie Graves [I’m] a mess… of course!” While a background his friends and family wasn’t particularly event- creative methods to explain scientific principles, in biomedical engineering may have appealed to ful. “I came out to my Dad crossing a parking he hopes to serve as an ambassador between his logic, “it’s like training for first aid in boy lot... it’s not terribly interesting. My siblings the scientific and artistic communities, and to to future members of the workforce. Biomedi- scouts…” All the sudden he was thrown into a were like, ‘uh, duh.’ Coming out has been pretty propagate interest in scientific career paths. cal engineering addresses real issues, improves situation he’s prepared for, yet that no one can easy.” After his Ph.D., Knowlton wants to stay in people’s lives, and has a clear impact on our fully prepare for. After high school he spent a year abroad and Chicago, and his ideal job looks like an artist- economy, so the need for future biomedical en- Throughout surgery and treatment, Knowlton studied hip-hop dance in Germany before return- in-residency at the Museum of Science and In- gineers cannot be overestimated. says the support of the dance community has ing to the states for college. He went on to study dustry: “...working with museum staff and exhib- Knowlton’s career, however, is not at the fore- been overwhelmingly strong, as is the support general engineering at the University of Illinois- itors to develop live performances that augment front of his current day-to-day life. “The Dance from his colleagues at Rush and UIC. But his Champaign/Urbana, but was no stranger to the and translate ideas, while working on original Team is on hold due to ‘hashtag life,’” he says. In relationships within his academic lab and the dance department. He wanted to figure out a research surrounding movement. I haven’t August, 2013 Knowlton was diagnosed with tes- rehearsal studio are quite different. He’s “fos- way to study the body as an engineer would, and looked into the specifics... it’s kind of just a ticular cancer. Diagnosis and surgery happened tered a different relationship” with the people a fortuitous internship with Johnson & Johnson dream right now. There’s a dirth of enrollment in on the same day. In September, doctors decided in his lab, but his team members at Rush have first introduced Knowlton to bioengineering. It STEM career paths [i.e. science, technology, en- he needed additional treatment. Based on the rearranged his commitments to allow for time was love at first look. gineering, and math]... those jobs are extremely fact that he is young, low risk, and his case was off, created work that can be done from home, As a current Ph.D. candidate in bioengineer- important.” Knowlton believes that the arts can caught so early, Knowlton stuck a deal to delay and refused any sort of financial recourse for the ing at the University of Illinois-Chicago (UIC), actively promote these professions to young treatment in order to keep some professional Knowlton works with a lab at Rush University commitments (which included an international adults. The work he’s done with translating ideas Turn to page 26 studying the effectiveness of orthopedic im- helps make professions in the sciences relevant tour to London with choreographer Mark Jeffrey 14 Dec. 11, 2013 WINDY CITY TIMES THEATER REVIEW cal magic—think thunder, lightning and snow- storms—as well as an army of ostriches. (If you Once Upon a People: don’t think an ostrich is scary, look one of Col- leen Werle’s masked puppets in the eye at close A Dancesical range.) After assorted complications reflecting a Playwright: book, music and culture where queens outrank kings and where lyrics by Rueben D. Echoles princesses must rescue princes, the folly of el- At: Black Ensemble Theater, evating ambition over humanity and vengeance 4450 N. Clark St. over forgiveness is evidenced, justice is done Tickets: 773-769-4451; and peace reigns once again. www.ticketmaster.com; $45 This scenario is the pretext for pageantry com- Runs through: Dec. 29 mencing with a jubilant terpsichorean display in the lobby pre-curtain, its no-fourth-wall aes- BY MARY SHEN BARNIDGE thetic continuing in the auditorium where flow- er-sellers roam the aisles welcoming the arriving The largest part of what we call a “musical” patrons. Storytellers provide the framing device nowadays tends to be singing, closely followed for scenes spotlighting the Studio One artists, by spoken dialogue, accompanied by short epi- whose kinetic stylings encompass old-school sodes of dance or synchronized movement and ballet-en-pointe, post-Martha Graham orchesis, maybe a single all-dance number in the second and exuberant gamboling to the percussion-fu- act. Once Upon a People, however, is not one of eled rhythms of the four-piece stage band. The these, being instead a “dancesical”—the term We Three Lizas. Photo by Michael Brosilow pop-oriented vocal score spans romantic duets coined by Pamela Avery, director of Studio One for Jazelle Morriss and Eric Lewis as the hesitant Dance Theater. Currently running in repertory lovers and dueling-diva turns for Claudia Alex- with the extended hit Curtis Mayfield Story, this THEATER REVIEW over the role of Liza Always who appears as an andria Cunningham’s intrepid hag and Alexis J. off-night spectacle represents a collaboration all-knowing and sparkly puppet eye-ball. Rogers’ wise monarch (whose high note has the between Studio One and Black Ensemble—spe- We Three Lizas The supporting cast also get to take on a num- power to, literally, paralyze her enemies). cifically, hoofmaster Rueben D. Echoles, who Book and lyrics: Scott Bradley; ber of starry cameos in addition to their listed The script (90 minutes with intermission) was serves as author, composer, lyricist, director and Music and additional lyrics: Alan Schmuckler program roles, including such luminaries as still a bit fuzzy at its debut, but Black Ensem- choreographer for this innovative alternative to At: About Face Theatre at Grace Jones, Andy Warhol and Lorna Luft. Au- ble’s flagship production, The Other Cinderella the Eurocentric fare dominating the holiday cal- Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont Ave. thor Bradley has also surrendered his role last (still going strong after 30-plus years), wasn’t endar. Tickets: 773-327-5252; year as Liza Is to Mark David Kaplan, offering built in a day, and this smart all-ages fantasy The story is based in an African folk tale, www.aboutfacetheatre.com; $20-$45 him a golden opportunity for a hilarious drag already boasts the charm, the warmth and the, its plot involving such universal archetypes as Runs through: Jan. 5 performance. well, legs, to endure for many more seasons to naive young royals, misguided parents and an And then there the amazing performance of come. BY SCOTT C. MORGAN Danielle Plisz as Liza Was, showing Minnelli in ill-tempered sorceress armed with meteorologi- her effervescent prime in the 1970s with her Once again, About Face Theatre is utilizing razzmatazz Bob Fosse-styled moves and duo of THEATER REVIEW multi-award-winning gay icon Liza Minnelli to great backup dancers played by John Francisco help queer up the holidays with a remount of and Andrew Swan. They all move in fabulous Christmas Dearest Christmas the musical We Three Lizas. Only this time, We synchronicity to choreographer Patrick Andrews’ Playwright: David Cerda Dearest. Three Lizas at Stage 773 has been thoroughly angular and slinky choreography. At: Hell in a Handbag Productions Photo by revamped over its debut version last year at the However, the move of We Three Lizas to the at Mary’s Attic, 5400 N. Clark St. Rick Steppenwolf Garage. far-less-cozy Thrust space of Stage 773 also has Tickets: 800-838-3006; Aguilar The basic notion of Liza Minnelli appearing its drawbacks. In particular, its muddy acoustic www.handbagproductions.org; Studios in the various guises of “Liza Was,” “Liza Is” makes many of the song lyrics indecipherable at $15-$25; $35-$100 VIP and “Liza Always” is still intact and obviously times. Runs through: Dec. 29 inspired by Dickens’ Ghosts of Christmas Past, The opening number is also slightly disorient- Present and Future from A Christmas Carol. But ing, with a trio of bearded fates (similar to the BY SCOTT C. MORGAN those who caught We Three Lizas last year will three witches of Macbeth) opening the show and note how the cast has been streamlined down confusingly appearing to an increasingly desper- “Here it comes! Here it comes!” spoke a glee- from 11 to eight people, and how a number of ate Conrad Ticklebottom and his harried lesbian ful opening-night audience member at Hell new songs by authors Scott Bradley and Alan designer assistant, Reggie (Dana Tretta), and in a Handbag Productions’ world premiere Schmuckler have been introduced into their the no-nonsense auditing consultant, Donna comedy Christmas Dearest. Of course, the mo- thoroughly revised script that is rightly cen- (Sharriese Hamilton). ment was the much-anticipated scene when tered more around its fictional Scrooge-like gay But if one can get past the inauspicious begin- Faye Dunaway as Joan Crawford (played by designer known as Conrad Ticklebottom (Scott ning and the occasional garbled lyric, We Three Jeremy Trager) screams out the Mommie Dear- more script development (particularly MGM Duff). Lizas most definitely rewards with its message of est catchphrase “No Wire Hangers!” mogul Louis B. Mayer as the Ghost of Joan’s Many of these changes are for the better, being true not only to one’s creative impulses, It seems that the reputation of late Hol- Present). though We Three Liza still has some plotting but to the loved ones around you who offer sup- lywood icon Joan Crawford will forever be But for the most part, Christmas Dearest of- quirks. Gone is Sean Blake’s extremely enjoy- port and encouragement. We Three Lizas may tarnished by that unintentionally campy fers the diligent cast a chance to show off able, if overpowering, bitchy drag queen Mys- not be the only queer take on a holiday classic film based upon her adopted daughter’s vi- its campy comedy skills in a number of roles tique who appeared as both the “Queen of this season, but it certainly is one of the most cious tell-all book. So even die-hard fans who while donning outrageous costumes that run Wishes” and the future persona of Liza. Now the improved. profess to love Joan Crawford’s film oeuvre, the gamut from Biblical pageantry to 1940s powerhouse-voiced Bethany Thomas has taken like Christmas Dearest author and Crawford- film star finery by designer Kate Setzer Kam- drag specialist David Cerda, have to deal with phausen. Supporting Cerda’s arch and diffi- Christina Crawford’s unflattering take on her dent Crawford are some noteworthy perfor- CULTURE CLUB mother’s personality and parenting skills. mances overseen by director AJ Wright. But in a comedy like Christmas Dearest Christopher Lewis is a find as an always- where Joan Crawford becomes a 1940s Eb- hungry, high-pitched-voiced child Christina, enezer Scrooge-like taskmaster, that Mommie while Michael Hampton is demanding as the Dearest bitchiness that legions of gay men adult Christina. The invaluable Ed Jones im- have come to love becomes a hilarious as- peccably takes on a lower-key role as the les- set. Cerda also uses Christmas Dearest to give bian assistant Carol Ann in love with Vernita Joan the chance to take a number of potshots (Jamie Smith), while Caitlin Jackson is es- at Christina in the process. pecially cutting as the embittered Ghost of Christmas Dearest shows Crawford in de- Joan’s future. structive-diva mode as she insists that cast In Joan’s past, Steve Love is especially at- and crew work through Christmas to finish tractive and wry as Flapper Joan, playing well filming Oh Mary!, a wildly inappropriate mu- off of the sloppy lush flapper Olive LaLake of sical extravaganza based upon the life of the the excitable Alex Grelle. Virgin Mary. And like Scrooge, Crawford gets Designers Lolly Extract and Amber Marsh’s visited by four spirits who try to show her aid to the tatty glamor of the show with their the error of her ways in the past, present and postage stamp-sized sets and extra puppetry a darkly sparkly musical with NOV 27-JAN 5 book and lyrics by future. to help with special effects and to swell out 7:30pm Thu-Sat / 3pm Sat and Sun Scott Bradley For fans of past Hell in a Handbag spoofs, the ranks of the cast. tickets: $45 Adult/$20 Student/ Group Rates Available music and additional lyrics by Christmas Dearest shows the company in top Chicago is certainly awash with campy holi- reservations: 773.327.5252 Alan Schmuckler or aboutfacetheatre.com directed by camp and gender-bending drag form again. day shows this season, and Christmas Dear- or stage773.com 1225 W. Belmont Ave, Chicago Scott Ferguson True, the script could have used some judi- est is certainly one that delivers what fans cious trimming. Not all of the comic zingers want. But Christmas Dearest also shares some are as choice as they could be, and some of holiday love that doesn’t clash with all of the the minor characters could do with some delicious Crawford bitchiness. WINDY CITY TIMES Dec. 11, 2013 15 THEATER REVIEW to Christmas (sentiments regarding family ob- ligations or romantic imperatives, for example), HoliDaze but the professional expertise brought to this Playwright: Steven Simoncic, Tate A. anthology by the 13 actors and five directors Geborkoff, Joshua Rollins, Lisa is undeniable. Gina Taliafero and Nadirah Bost Dillman, Nambi E. Kelley portray a memorable pair of feisty matriarchs SPOTLIGHT At: Step Up Productions at (the latter of whom departs this temporal world the Athenaeum, 2936 N. Southport Ave. Tickets: 773-935-6875; www.athenaeumtheatre.org; $30 Runs through: Dec. 22 HoliDaze. BY MARY SHEN BARNIDGE Photo by Michael Being introduced to five 15-minute plays by five Brosilow authors in a show billing itself “HoliDaze”—a banner leading us to expect a sketch-comedy revue—is not unlike meeting strangers at a cocktail party. Social protocol dictating barely a glimpse before each new person dutifully dis- appears into the festive swirl/scrum, our imme- diate response usually runs to three questions: Barrel of Monkeys’ That’s Weird, Grandma: The Holiday Special is just like other editions of What were these people previous to this mo- following a last meal of her favorite forbidden the family-friendly sketch show that draws its inspiration from writing workshops conducted ment? What will happen to them afterward? Do foods—you go, girl!), while Andy Luther and with elementary students in underserved Chicago Public Schools. Except there’s a holiday spin we care? Amanda Dahl Powell deftly evade the stereo- to the lineup of interchangeable sketches with names including The Crazy Reindeer, Snowmen Lisa Dillman’s contribution to the roster re- types associated with faith-based matchmaker from Pluto, Santa and Taco Bell and more. That’s Weird, Grandma: The Holiday Special continues quires little such contemplation, being a Re- services to lend their blind date dynamic a kind- at 8 p.m. Mondays through Jan. 13 at the Neo-Futurist Theater, 5153 N. Ashland Ave. Tickets are naissance Faire-style slapstick skit involving a ness and sensitivity rarely seen in scenarios of $12 and $6 for kids ages 12 and under; call 312-409-1954 or visit www.barrelofmonkeys.org for predictably lovesick Fool and saucy Wench, its this genre, spurring us (me, anyway) to wonder tickets and more information. Photo by Maggie Fullilove-Nugent sole purpose to end the evening with a merry how their story turned out. revel. Joshua Rollins’ more ambitious dialogue proposes a couple whose relationship undergoes crisis when a furry urban scavenger invades their apartment, but concludes with the lovers’ and the unidentified critter’s dilemma unresolved (the play’s title, just in case the metaphor isn’t obvious enough, is “The Intruder”). Resolution, on the other hand, is what drives Nambi E. Kelley’s densely textured drama of sib- lings estranged by the death of their mother, whose ghost returns on Christmas Eve to com- fort, entreat and nag her offspring into filial harmony (or a first step thereto, at least). At Tate A. Geborkoff’s holiday gala, the bickering u.s. tour premiere mother and boyfriend of the gay host, after hurl- ing champagne at one another, renew their truce nc. “MORE THAN A BROADWAY SHOW.

for the sake of the boy they both love. Finally, ecordings, i r

Steven Simoncic brings together a pair of dam- A CELEBRATION OF MUSIC THAT aged singles on a Christian Mingle-sponsored ark of UM g date—neither of whom is especially pious, but TRANSFORMED AMERICA!” simply looking to make a new start in life. —CBS Sunday Morning is a registered trade M Whether these characters pique your inter- ® est will likely depend on your own approach Motown CRITICS’ PICKS

u.s. premiere A Christmas Carol, Goodman Theatre, through Dec. 28. The refrain to Andrew Hansen’s “Angels Are Singing Noel” may

possibly be the most beautiful musical Starring phrase ever written for the Chicago stage, Diana DeGarmo aS the narrator but you can only hear it at this time of year and in this production, so go listen for it. MSB ace YounG aS JoSeph La Traviata, Lyric Opera of Chicago, The Neverland You Never Knew through Dec. 20. The director and design photo oF danieLLe Wade BY CYLLa Von tiedeMann team may be largely young and hip New Yorkers, but this new take on Verdi’s clas- sic tragic romance is refreshingly traditional pre-broadway world premiere and emotionally involving from start to fin- ish. SCM Port Authority, Writers’ Theatre, through Feb. 16, 2014. Exquisite acting, and com- monplace speech elevated to poetry, infuse this tender and introspective piece about Book by and Choreographed by Directed by three Irishmen of different generations who Music and Lyrics by John Brian Steven Joe bare their rueful souls about the women STING loGaN YorkeY HoGGeTT MaNTello who got away. JA The Seafarer, Seanachaí Theatre Com- pany at The Den, through Jan. 5. The Se- anachaí company’s trademark plot-focused ensemble acting lends intimacy to Conor McPherson’s suspenseful Christmas Eve par- able of a pack of losers at a friendly poker game that suddenly takes on a significance BROADWAYINCHICAGO.COM beyond money or even blood. MSB 312.977.1717 • GROUPS CALL 312.977.1710 —By Abarbanel, Barnidge and Morgan 16 Dec. 11, 2013 WINDY CITY TIMES Film notes: wit, wisdom and candid sexuality while blurring —One of 2013’s Best LGBT Films: For me, one gender boundaries and expectations in the pro- of the most anticipated films of 2013 easily had cess. For those who missed the film’s recent area to be The Happy Sad, from out director Rodney premiere at the Reeling Film Festival you’re in KNIGHT Evans. Nearly a decade after Brother to Brother, luck: The Happy Sad is playing at the Music Box AT his winning movie about the Harlem Renais- Theatre, 3733 N. Southport Ave., on Wed., Dec. sance that provided Anthony Mackie with his 18. https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehap- THE first starring role, Evans finally returned to fea- pysadfilm/ MOVIES ture filmmaking this year. —The Northwest Chicago Film Society has The Happy Sad is a provocative romantic unearthed another rare oddity with 1970’s Co- drama adapted for the screen by Keith Urban lossus: The Forbin Project, a futuristic thriller from his play of the same title. It focuses on about an evil supercomputer, with Eric Braeden a gay Black couple (LeRoy McClain and Chicago (the longtime star of the soap opera The Young Fire’s Charlie Barnett) and a straight white duo and the Restless) as the computer’s brainy but By (Cameron Scoggins and Sorel Carradine) whose sexy enabler. It plays Sunday, Dec. 15, at 7:30 Richard lives intersect when both decide to open their p.m. at the Gene Siskel Film Center, 164 N. State Knight Jr. respective relationships. The film examines the St. http://www.northwestchicagofilmsociety. politics and protocols of open relationships with org/ Saving Mr. Banks; Six by Sondheim; Winter LGBT movie/TV preview By Richard Knight Jr. themed TV series finally arrives. Indie film star Jonathan Groff stars in what looks to film notes The Chicago holiday movie season is in full be a West Coast queer version of Sex and swing with an embarrassing amount of cin- the City. The pilot was shot by out director Those who read the Mary Poppins novels by Stephen Sondheim in Six by Sondheim. Photo ematic riches to choose from, this also being Andrew Haigh, who helmed the tremendous P.L. Travers as a child (or had the books read by Jerry Jackson/HBO to them) knows that the magical nanny of the awards season. Fans of LGBT films can look 2011 gay-themed indie Weekend. Jan. 19 books is not nearly the mostly sweet, “spoonful forward to seeing many of this year’s festival I, Frankenstein—Aaron Eckhart has bulked entries—including a batch that debuted last up considerably to play Frankenstein’s crea- of sugar” character portrayed in the 1964 film had affairs with women and men, was a friend classic by Julie Andrews in her Oscar-winning month during Reeling—to find their way to ture in this latest attempt to reboot the clas- of Yeats and a devotee of the mystic Gurdjieff.) Video on Demand or in home release as we sic Universal horror monster series, this time debut. And the books have no animated, comical The glamorous, nostalgic, behind-the-scenes penguins; no singing, dancing chimney sweeps; move into 2014. given a modern update and of course, based elements of the making of Mary Poppins—the Here’s a quick rundown of some of these and on a graphic novel. Jan. 24 and certainly no made-up words like “supercali- movie’s undeniable drawing card—is surpris- fragilisticexpialidocious,” either. But as John a few other notable films (and a few queer- ingly leavened by an underlying and insistent themed TV shows) to tide you over during the February Lee Hancock’s Saving Mr. Banks movie posits bittersweet tone. in one of the year’s most pleasing and thought- long winter freeze ahead. Unless otherwise Pit Stop—Yen Tan’s slow-moving but ef- On that score, Saving Mr. Banks brings to mind noted, the opening date listed refers to at fecting romantic drama about two lonely, ful movies, although the inflexible Travers was Finding Neverland and Miss Potter—two other determined to hold the line with Disney on her least a one week theatrical run. middle aged gay men in a small Texas town fine films detailing the genesis of classic fantasy looking for love won acting awards for its two beloved creation, the process set loose long- stories (Peter Pan and Peter Rabbit) whose cre- buried, bittersweet memories that threatened to January leads during its festival run and arrives on ations also helped their authors transcend the Jason and the Argonauts—This 1963 ef- DVD Feb. 4. derail the entire production at the outset. sometimes tragic circumstances of their lives. Written by Kelly Marcel (and polished up by fort from special-effects expert and director Hawaii—Sexual attraction runs rampant Ray Harryhausen is generally acknowledged when two men—former childhood friends Sue Smith) the movie shifts between 1961, After decades of tribute concerts—many of when Disney was preparing to turn Mary Poppins to be his best film, a retelling of the ancient who meet again as adults—slowly discover them televised on PBS—HBO is finally going Greek myth. And aside from being a fun ac- their attraction for one another over the into a big-budget musical, and Travers’s child- beyond the songs and giving us a long-over- hood in Australia in 1907. At the outset Mrs. tion fantasy filled with memorable creatures, course of a long, sultry summer in the Ar- due biographical look at legendary Broadway memorably scored by Bernard Herrmann, it’s gentine countryside. Yet another gay film fest Travers—as she insists on being called—is just composer and lyricist Stephen Sondheim. Six about broke and after decades of royalties from also filled with a nice assortment of male fave, this one arrives on DVD Feb. 4. by Sondheim, directed by longtime Sondheim beefcake. Jan. 2 at 6 p.m. at the Gene Siskel Reaching for the Moon—The sensual, trag- her novels, the public has moved on. Begrudg- collaborator and dear friend James Lapine, os- ingly, Travers (a tremendous Emma Thompson in Film Center (164 N. State St.) ic romance of poet Elizabeth Bishop (played tensibly gives us the backstory of a half-dozen Chozen—Following the enduring success of by Miranda Otto from the Lord of the Rings a part tailor-made for her) is, at last, ready to of the maestro’s songs—“Something’s Coming, consider the idea of Disney, who has pursued their tongue-in-cheek animated series Archer, trilogy) and her Brazilian lover is one of the “Send In the Clowns,” “Being Alive,” “Opening the network is debuting this new animated best lesbian movies I’ve ever seen. Set in the the rights for 20 years, making a film from her Doors,” “I’m Still Here” and “Sunday.” While book. She agrees to travel to Hollywood to com- comedy about a gay white rapper fresh out 1950s in the upper strata of society in Rio, artfully detailing the circumstances of the cre- of prison on their new FXX channel. Several this lusty, lush biopic will also have its share mence negotiations—forewarning anyone with- ation of these musical masterworks with a blend in earshot that she will have none of Disney’s indie film vets provide the voices, including of theatrical bookings in early 2014 (though I of vintage interview and performance footage, Bobby Moynihan, Hannibal Buress, Michael don’t yet see Chicago on the list). Regardless, pixie dust sprinkled on her beloved creation and along with dazzling, innovative, newly filmed withholding her written permission until she is Penna, Nick Swardson and Kathryn Hahn. the film will be available on DVD Feb. 14. performances, Lapine weaves in Sondheim’s life January 13 Stranger by the Lake—Winner of the queer creatively reassured. story as well. Arriving in California, it seems that nothing Four—Wendell Pierce co-stars and produced Palme d’Or, this French thriller, unabashedly As expected, the 80-plus-year-old legend this offbeat relationship drama with queer explicit, focuses on a gay cruising spot near a will thaw the twist in the panties of this ultimate is funny, acerbic and tremendously insightful crabby pants. Not Ralph, the sunny chauffeur as- themes and characters that played the fest secluded lake. Franck falls hard for Michel but about his process and many of his profession- circuit and had a theatrical run here last fall. after witnessing Michel commit a horrendous signed to squire her around (Paul Giamatti); not al relationships, and is almost embarrassingly the young and enthusiastic songwriting team, The film is available for download now and is crime, his passion only increases. The Music forthcoming about the difficult relationship with on DVD Jan. 14. Box Theatre, 3733 N. Southport Ave., brings the Sherman brothers (Jason Schwartzman and his hateful mother. However, although we see a B.J. Novak); and not even Walt (Tom Hanks, who The Happy Sad—Out director Rodney Evans this queer and straight festival fave to Chi- brief segment that offers a glimpse of Sondheim follows up this acclaimed debut Brother to cago Feb. 21. subtly conveys the power behind the benevolent with partner Jeff Romley, the film doesn’t delve father image), who goes so far as to give her Brother at long last with this sexy romantic into the impact being gay has had on his cre- drama. It’s screening at the Music Box Wed., March a personal tour of Disneyland himself. Nothing ative life—a deficit that I would hope the once seems to make much of a dent in Mrs. Travers’ Dec. 18, with Chicago Fire star Charlie Barnett 300: Rise of an Empire—A sequel to the reticent genius will expound on in the future. in attendance and will be available for down- computer-generated uber-violent sword and tough veneer. That’s a small quibble in the face of a movie As the film’s creative team plows ahead, trying load Jan. 14. sandal hunkfest 300, this looks to up the ho- that offers such a rich portrait of this great Sole Survivor—Lesbian director Ky Dickens moerotic undercurrent about tenfold. March 7 to keep Mrs. Travers (or Pamela, as Walt insists treasure of the American musical. There’s also on calling her) happy, they’re unaware that she’s follows her acclaimed LGBT-themed Fish out Grace of Monaco—Naomi Watts’ portrayal the bonus of three new short films—“Opening of Water documentary with this thought-pro- of the late Princess Diana was a flop on all also confronting childhood memories centered Doors” directed by Lapine like a Technicolor mu- on her handsome but ne’er-do-well father, an ir- voking look at four lone survivors of horrific counts but perhaps Nicole Kidman, playing sical of yore featuring Darren Criss, America Fer- plane crashes, members of what Dickens has another princess, the Oscar-winning movie resistible, charming Irish alcoholic with a fierce rera and Jeremy Jordan; “Send in the Clowns,” temper (played with heartbreaking gentleness insightfully termed “the loneliness club in the star Grace Kelly, will have better luck in this gorgeously sung by Audra McDonald; and the world.” Expected theatrical release in January biopic that was original slated for a holiday by Colin Farrell), and her aunt—a real-life, no- most eye-opening, “I’m Still Here,” sung against nonsense Mary Poppins. Disney’s growing impa- (Chicago dates TBA) followed by CNN broad- release. March 14 type by Jarvis Cocker in deadpan style and di- cast Films to watch for—HBO’s eagerly await- tience and frustration reach a climax that ulti- rected by Far From Heaven’s Todd Haynes. The mately reveals a crack into this difficult woman’s G.B.F.—Mean Girls meets Clueless meets ed adaptation of Larry Kramer’s The Normal single most powerful performance in a film filled Heathers in this delightful gay twist on those Heart, directed by Ryan Murphy and featur- interior life—a crack that, at last, points the with them is Dean Jones’ moving and surprising- team in the right direction. beloved high school teen flicks. A big LGBT ing an all-star cast; Michael Urie (Ugly Betty) ly powerful rendition of “Being Alive,” captured festival hit (and Reeling’s opening night se- and Randy Harrison (Queer As Folk) as a gay On a very basic level, Saving Mr. Banks offers during the recording session of 1970’s Company. a familiar and very satisfying collision of art lection), this audience friendly comedy stars couple in the screwball comedy Such Good Six by Sondheim is playing throughout the a raft of young Hollywood up and comers and Friends; and John Lithgow and Alfred Molina versus commerce or lowbrow, mainstream taste month on HBO and is a must for any fan of the (those animated dancing penguins and the crass vets like Megan Mullally and Natasha Lyonne. in Love Is Strange, the latest gay-themed dra- musical. http://www.hbo.com/documentaries/ Jan. 17 (VOD with DVD release to follow) ma from Keep the Lights On writer-director familiarity of the sunny Californians Travers en- six-by-sondheim counters) versus highbrow sophistication. (Trav- Looking—HBO’s eagerly anticipated gay- Ira Sachs ers, who her biographer Valerie Lawson claims WINDY CITY TIMES Dec. 11, 2013 17 BOOK REVIEW in the gay-romance genre on Amazon for six with Horn Gate. Suede is a member of the Ro- months. He has written for DC and Marvel com- mance Writers of America and serves as the 2013 Bad Idea ics, and worked in film for 20 years. He is also president for the Rainbow Romance Writers. by Damon Suede publishing a Scratch series of novellas, starting $16.19; Dreamspinner Press; 334 pages ‘Happy Holi-GAYS by SALLY PARSONS and Straights’ Bad Idea is full of many bad things—bad-ass sex, clever badinage and several seemingly bad Dec. 13 decisions, some of which lead to good things. Mark Ortega Entertainment and Paula All set in the two worlds of comics creation and Sinclaire will present “Happy Holi-GAYS and FX makeup creation. Balls and boyfans, man! Straights”—a show featuring holiday music Trip Spector is the comics artist and the char- and comedy—at M7 Nightclub (inside Circuit, acter whose outcome we care most about. He 3641 N. Halsted St.) on Friday, Dec. 13, at 9 is an accomplished craftsman, allergic to ev- p.m. erything, well-endowed, and reclusive. What a Along with Ortega and Sinclaire, enter- waste! Silas Goolsby is the FX makeup artist, tainers will include comedian Carmela Nudo Trip’s love interest. A hunk and charming, he as well as 2013 Windy City Gay Idol Final- gets around. A lot. They meet at a gay Zombie ists Timothy Willy, Jonathan Smallwood and run in New York’s Central Park on New Year’s Eve. James Gavin. The night will also feature sing- They spark. er Britney Warren and pianist Peter Storms. The first third of the book provides plenty For more information, visit “Happy Holi- of specific detail about their sex life. Bad Idea GAYS and Straights” on Facebook. then settles into the story, which is compelling ‘Sound of Music enough. Tired of drawing comics for pre-teens, Live!’ DVD Dec. 14 ‘Slo ‘Mo’ Trip yearns for an adult subject. Inspired by his trouble speaking but lots to say. new love, Trip sketches Scratch, an incubus with The last third of Bad Idea serves up some wise out Dec. 17 show to benefit an insatiable sex drive. Scratch fills the bill and nuggets on how to grow up, live a satisfying The Sound of Music Live!—which recently Silas convinces him to pitch the character for a life, and build a relationship. Because, in the aired on NBC—comes to DVD Dec. 17, courte- LGBTQ youth graphic novel at a comic con in Chicago. What end, that is what makes Bad Idea a satisfying sy of Universal Studios Home Entertainment. In partnership with WBEZ, “The Slo ‘Mo unfolds brings Trip’s struggles with his insecuri- read. We care about Trip and Silas and what hap- Six-time Grammy-winning recording artist Spectacular: A Soulful Holiday Shindig” will ties to the foreground, where he is forced to deal pens to them. Some of the author’s insights are Carrie Underwood stars as Maria, the young feature jazz/R&B/hip-hop collective Sidewalk with them, once and for all. even wrapped neatly in the world he describes in governess who brings the joy of music back Chalk and special guests playing holiday fa- Suede punches up the book with a circle of these pages. “The secret seed of all superheroes: into the household of Captain von Trapp and vorites from Stevie Wonder, Wham!, Donny slightly off-kilter characters. In Trip’s corner are falling apart. Everyone who had survived child- his seven lively children. Among the others in Hathaway, Mariah Carey and more. the Stones: Jillian, who is known on occasion hood ended up tattered and terrified. Locked the cast are Stephen Moyer and Tony winners The 17-and-over show will take place Satur- for lying prostrate on the floor as though dead; in a kryptonite dungeon, bound with their own Audra McDonald, Laura Benanti and Christian day, Dec. 14, at the Bottom Lounge, 1375 W. her husband Ben, a secret fan of an obscure magic lassos, mutated and mutilated.” A wry Borle. Lake St., at 8 p.m. comics superhero; and their son Max. In Silas’ observation. But wait, it gets better! Trip tells The DVD also includes the NBC special “The Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the corner is Kurt, savvy entrepreneur who honchos Jillian’s and Ben’s son, “Everyone is fictional! We Making of The Sound of Music Live!,” giving door, and benefit Project Fierce, a new orga- a video game company and is Silas’ best friend. all invent ourselves, shitwit. That’s what being fans an inside look. nization aiming to provide transitional hous- Cliff is Trip’s boss, a sleezebag on whom Trip alive is.” The movie’s official website is www.nbc. ing and resources for homeless LGBTQ youth. has had a crush for years. Then there’s Ziggy, An entertaining, sweet gay romance that com/sound-of-music. See http://bottomlounge.com. a wheelchair-bound game programmer who has proves monsters aren’t necessarily all bad. Suede’s first novel, Hot Head, was number one

BY LARRY KRAMER directed by Nick Bowling

This holiday season, make merry with NOW Sir John Falstaff, the bawdiest, naughtiest PLAYING rogue to ever appear on stage! “Another formidable TimeLine production” – Chicago Tribune “Breathtaking” – Chicago Sun-Times HHHHH – Time Out Chicago by WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE directed by BARBARA GAINES NOW PLAYING AT STAGE 773 312.595.5600 • chicagoshakes.com 1225 W. Belmont Avenue, Chicago

Scott Jaeck with Heidi Kettenring and Kelli Fox, photo by Bill Burlingham by photo Fox, and Kelli Jaeck with Heidi Kettenring Scott 773.327.5252 timelinetheatre.com MAJOR PRODUCTION 2013/14 SEASON SPONSORS SUPPORTERS 18 Dec. 11, 2013 WINDY CITY TIMES WINTER MOVIE SPECIAL ‘Ghosts’ film at Music Box focuses on animal rights by tracy baim and then more recently on environmental-rights issues. It was actually my partner, LP, who really The Ghosts in Our Machine is a powerful new challenged me to tackle it. feature documentary about animal rights, made For years it was incubating, she was always the accessible through the photos and personal person I would debate the most with, and use as journey of well-known international photogra- a sounding board. My last project did well, and pher Jo-Anne McArthur. I knew I wanted to make another feature film Directed, written and produced by lesbian film- documentary, and I knew I wanted it to be this maker Liz Marshall, this is a haunting yet beau- one. But I didn’t know what I wanted the story tiful movie I highly recommend you see on the to be—I didn’t want it to be an “issue” film, I big screen. wanted it to be a story, grounded in a human The film was among the 151 eligible, quali- story. That’s when I decided I wanted to focus it fying documentaries for the Academy Awards, on [photographer] Jo-Anne McArthur. but it did not make the top-15 list. It has been Baim: Had you worked with Jo-Anne before? playing at festivals and theatrically, and runs Marshall: I knew Jo-Anne for years, through my throught Dec. 12 at the Music Box Theatre, 3733 partner, and I noticed her images. I felt inspired The Ghosts in Our Machine director Liz Marshall. Photo by Jo-Anne McArthur N. Southport Ave. by them. For two reasons. One, I felt a sort of As you might expect from a film about animal kinship to her, because we’re both documentar- rights and abuses, it can sometimes be difficult ians. But I’d never met anyone who was solely to address. In the movie, Jo-Anne says she believes ev- to hear and see what is happening across the focused on the animal issue in documentary Marshall: The film doesn’t address that; that’s eryone is innately compassionate, and given the world. But one of the more powerful comments form. I found that quite interesting. Second, her a whole other thing. My partner has rescue cats. opportunity to care, they will. I think that’s a is about the abuse in the United States, based images invite the viewer to consider non-human [The film features people who have rescued bea- great moment in the film. It comes at a time, on the large factory farms and billions of ani- animals as individuals, and I think that’s quite gles from research facilities.] … Rescue cats, near the end, in the final act, where the thesis mals that are “processed” in those places each revolutionary. I wanted the film to invite view- that’s the other lesbian cliché. of the movie, the animals themselves and Jo- year. Another fact hard to digest is that the ani- ers to consider that animals are sentient beings. Baim: About this connection of civil rights Anne’s journey, has been fully expressed. I think mals that are not killed—those that are worked Baim: How long ago did animal rights be- and human rights: Is the LGBT community the average person watching it feels pretty im- for milk, eggs and other products—actually face come an issue for you? more sensitive, or just like the mainstream pacted by those words. a longer life of abuse, especially those that are Marshall: I’ve had my own journey with it. I on this, with various levels of understanding? Baim: What has been the response from used as breeding animals. really do think it’s a journey, and that is an ac- Marshall: I don’t think the LGBT community PETA, People for the Ethical Treatment of Ani- As a relatively new vegetarian myself, I have tive word, a key word to describe it. It’s not necessarily embraces other social issues. Cer- mals? often thought about how we make decisions something that happens over night. I know for tain pockets do, for sure. But as a whole, I don’t Marshall: They love it. Ingrid Newkirk, the on what rights to fight for. I’ve worked a long myself it’s been a layered process. But it started think it necessarily does. I am more philosophi- founder of PETA, wrote an endorsement equating time on civil rights, but have felt torn about for me when I read Diet for a New America [by cally in my life at the point where I think the the film to Uncle Tom’s Cabin [the anti-slavery the animals right in our midst. This is not about John Robbins] when I was 19. That’s an amazing intersectionality of all of it matters the most. I novel]. People are really saying that the film is just gorillas in Africa, or dolphins in Japan. It is book that makes the connection between hu- was one of those human-rights focused people an incredible tool, because it’s able to commu- also about pigs, cows and chickens right in the man rights and environmental rights and ani- was looking through glass, on the other side of nicate with a broader audience. United States. mal rights. It really struck a chord, and it really the glass, when it came to the animal-rights is- Baim: For those who work on LGBT rights, Our interview was appropriately conducted at drastically changed the way I eat. I became a sue. and see how much there is still to do, it can the Chicago Diner, a vegetarian diner on Halsted vegetarian at that time. I wanted to make a movie that would shatter be frustrating at times, deciding what issues Street in Boystown. But it was also something that I didn’t neces- that divide. Break it down and unpack it for peo- to focus on, including animal rights. Tracy Baim: How did this subject interest sarily hold on to. I needed to be reminded. I ple in a way that was accessible. It is all con- Marshall: Why does it have to be either/or? you? You have done documentaries on wa- think with this issue, it’s easy to want to forget, nected. Some people misread or misunderstand Why can’t we redefine what that means, to be ter rights, HIV/AIDS in Africa, etc., so what or ignore it. So I wanted to make a movie that what I mean when I say that. I have had people an active participant in social justice? One of is something specific that drew you to this could reach people that were like me. What I say: “So you’re saying animals should have the my favorite quotes is by Martin Luther King subject now? mean by that is people who already care, but I same rights as people?” I don’t know what that Jr.; he said, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to Liz Marshall: I had always been sympathetic think need to care in a deeper way. means, but it’s not the right question to ask. The justice everywhere.” I totally agree with that. to the issue and interested in exploring it, but Baim: I became a vegetarian because my right question is, “Do animals also matter?” The There’s a major disconnect happening. I am a very, very preoccupied for years, one project af- partner and I drove next to a pig truck, and answer is “Yes.” The movie focuses on our in- social issues filmmaker. I go from issue to issue, ter the next focusing on human-rights issues, we could see all the pigs’ snouts, just like the dustrialized, globalized world that uses animals film to film. What I’ve arrived at is that most of tragic scene in your film. We looked at each as products. For our use. So it’s really raising those things become their own insular bubble. other and became vegetarian on the spot. awareness and posing the question about that, You could be sitting, eating a ham, and fight- 2 013-14 That scene was incredible. What was interest- as opposed to what is a hunting-and-gathering ing for the rights of people overseas, because of ing to me is what you said: It’s a journey. But society. the suffering of those people. But what about SEASON the film shows there is no degree. An animal Baim: The film deals with Jo-Anne as she the suffering of what you’re eating right now? is an animal, whether used for research or discusses the placement of her powerful im- I think it’s important to recognize what King HOLIDAYS IN UPTOWN food or clothes. ages of animals into mainstream media. Some said, that it’s all connected. It’s like when a Marshall: In the movie, all four main animal outlets would not want to show the brutality revolutionary leader in the human-rights move- LAKESIDE industries are explored in an equal way. The animals face. ment doesn’t treat women with the same respect PRIDE moral question posed is really if animals are to SYMPHONIC Marshall: Jo-Anne’s been published all over and dignity, who doesn’t believe in the rights of be used at all, consumed and co-modified, or do BAND the world. I wanted to feature that story in women but believes in the eights of men. … they have an inherent worth that we’re not see- the movie, because it parallels the challenge in I wanted to also mention the intersectionality & ing, collectively, that needs to be acknowledged SHHH...OUT! mainstream society, for mainstream media to re- with animal rights and queer issues. Some of the OFFICIAL and taken seriously as a significant moral-social ally take this seriously. That was the purpose most inspiring people who are doing this work LAKESIDE PRIDE JAZZ dilemma. and meaning of those scenes. On a grassroots happen to be queer women and men. Really in- Donation Location ENSEMBLE Whether it’s research or a fur coat, it’s the perspective, she’s been published all over the spiring, cutting-edge analysis, bringing all the Don your gay apparel! same. All of these industries have reduced ani- world. And her book is out, We Animals. pieces together. For example, Nathan Runkle, We’re decking the halls Preston Bradley mals to tools for production and bits and parts Baim: The film also shows how this work who founded Mercy for Animals. with style. The merry musicians Center of ingredients. In my view, and what the film can emotionally impact people, including Jo- Showtimes for the Music Box run are listed of the Lakeside Pride Symphonic 941 W Lawrence, is trying to communicate, is that the continu- Anne. here: http://www.musicboxtheatre.com/fea- Chicago Band and the shhh…OUT! Jazz um is all connected, and what we’re seeing in Marshall: I think that highly empathetic peo- tures/the-ghosts-in-our-machine . Marshall mainstream culture is an emergence toward new Ensemble join forces to warm your ple can run the risk of burning out, because the was at the screenings this weekend, includ- Dec 14 | 7 pm technologies, new ways of manufacturing and heart with holiday hits – old and degree in which you feel connected is I think ing a Q&A Dec. 8 at the 2 p.m. screening. creating food, that are alternatives to using ani- Tickets: $20 amplified. You have to develop coping mecha- the film will be available for community new – and tickle your tonsils with mals. That’s really a revolutionary thing that’s Seniors & Students: nisms. This connects to the article I wrote for screenings and video on demand starting in a HOLIDAY SING-ALONG. $12 happening now. The film is part of a zeitgeist of you about empathy. I am genuinely curious February. See www.theghostsinourmachine. awareness that’s happening and starting to take BUY YOUR TICKETS NOW! about the capacity for empathy and how that com. root. They’re hand-in-hand, the whole thing is Go to LakesidePride.org gets developed. I have always been empathetic, See an essay by Marshall here: http://www. connected. but my empathy for this issue has grown. I think windycitymediagroup.com/lgbt/Ghosts-in- MEDIA COMMUNITY Baim: The pet industry, people owning ani- you can develop it, I think everyone can develop Our-Machine-film-Empathy-Gene-and-To- SPONSORS PARTNER mals, is probably the most difficult situation it. fu-/45415.html. WINDY CITY TIMES Dec. 11, 2013 19 He said the show is about bringing together all now, but this is something that I think is really RADIO the various groups of Chicago. bold of Chicago Progressive Talk to actually take “We’re tying to focus on as much of the queer two hours out of the week to devote just to LGBT Multifaceted scene as possible, trying to get a variety of per- issues,” he said. “It’s been such a crazy, excit- spective in there, people of all shapes, sizes, ing year for us—especially with marriage equal- colors and orientations,” he said. ity that’s happening and all of the stuff with Scott Duff Duff said he was excited about the prospect DOMA—it’s just really wonderful that they’re after being approached, and is looking forward realizing that this is a voice that needs to be hosting LGBT to the opportunity. heard. That we’re no longer marginalized, that talk show “There are a ton of podcasts out there right we should be in the mainstream.” change SongShare, $1 goes to the Trevor Project, which aids LGBTQ youth. (Every share of “Coming Out for Christmas” includes a free iTunes download of the song. This offer is good through Dec. 31.) SongShares start at $20 each, and started shipping Dec. 6. Bowersox co-wrote the song with Maya Scott Duff. Photo by Brandon Dahlquist Sharp.

By Matthew C. Clark of stuff—all filtered through a queer lens.” Duff said Progressive Talk’s Michael Damsky Chris Isaak show at It’s hard enough to peg down actor, About approached him about the prospect of an LGBT- Genesee Dec. 13 Face Theatre Co-Founder, and Laugh Factory’s focused show, and the two began sitting down NiteLite Promotions is presenting singer “Chigaygo” stand-up host Scott Duff, who is cur- and brainstorming together. Chris Isaak at Waukegan’s Genesee Theatre, rently starring in About Face Theatre’s We Three “He’s worked in radio all in his life, so we’ve 203 N. Genesee St., Friday, Dec. 13, at 8 p.m. Lizas at Stage 773, with all of his professional got some really good credibility behind this, Isaak shot to prominence with the Top 10 hats. But Duff is about to add another to his and some good chops,” he said. “We’re going to song “Wicked Game.” His gold and platinum- collection: talk radio host. make the show as amazing as possible.” selling albums feature hits such as “Baby Did Beginning Jan. 5, WCPT 820 AM—advertised Duff said the show will primarily have a local a Bad, Bad Thing,” “Somebody’s Crying” and as “Chicago’s Progressive Talk”—will add an LG- focus, including theater, music and restaurants, “Forever Blue.” BT-specific talk show to its regularly scheduled but will address national issues as they come up. Crystal Bowersox. Photo by Kat Fitzgerald Tickets are $35.50-$95.50; visit www.Tick- programming. “Out Chicago” will air 11 a.m. to “We want to make it kind of like Fresh Air etMaster.com or call 800-982-2787. 1 p.m. every Sunday, with Duff and a rotating meets Andy Cohen without Andy Cohen,” he roaster of guest co-hosts. said. Proceeds from Duff, who has been billing the two hours as Duff did reveal a few features of the show. Pro- McBride show “Sunday brunch with your gay best friends,” told fessional harmonica player Ellen Miller will be a Bowersox single Windy City Times he wants it to be fun, enter- regular appearing co-host. Actor and playwright Dec. 21 taining and informative. Paul Oakley Stovall will co-host as well. The pro- help Trevor Project NiteLite Promotions is presenting “Martina “We’re going to be talking about politics, en- gram will also include a regular segment called American Idol alum Crystal Bowersox has McBride: The Joy of Christmas” at the Rose- tertainment, a little celebrity gossip thrown in “Outstanding in the Community.” released a new Christmas single, “Coming Out mont Theatre on Sat., Dec. 21, at 7:30 p.m. for good measure,” he said. “We’re going to have “We’re going to focus on either an organiza- for Christmas,” on iTunes. This will be the final show of this season’s some regular features that include a health seg- tion or a person who’s just doing good in Chi- For each purchase of a New York Rock Ex- tour. See www.ticketmaster.com. ment, real estate, personal investment, all sorts cago for the LGBT community,” he said.

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Joffrey dancers: Anastacia Holden and Aaron Rogers I Dancer photo by: Christopher Duggan I Background photo by: Roger Mastroianni 20 Dec. 11, 2013 WINDY CITY TIMES NUNN ON ONE: TELEVISION in the characters or in the relationship then the ger than the actual thing. It’s the imagination I context doesn’t really resonate for me. What I’m think that is sort of one of the fuels for an actor. finding interesting about this is it feels charac- In a way it’s great because we can find them a ter driven and so then the context becomes in- lot freer in attaching whatever I want and find- Lili Taylor shows teresting to me because it has meaning. It’s not ing my own meaning with the scene. just sort of props and cool gadgets and stuff like I also have a freedom because nobody can say, that or techno speak. It’s all sort of coming from “Well, that’s not how it is,” because it hasn’t her ‘Human’ side some deeper place, and that’s why it’s working happened yet. For example I’m trying to use for me. pencils as much as I can in the show or any kind nex thinks outside the box. It’s frustrating but WCT: When stories are fiction, how does that of objects that we are using presently today. I it’s also what makes him special because he’s impact your acting? imagine someone saying, “I don’t think there’s sort of the renegade, a maverick, intuitive, and a LT: In a way it’s great because it really lets the going to be pencils in 2050.” How do you know? risk taker. That’s also his blessing and his curse, imagination go, and I think it’s the same thing There might still be pencils. I feel like it’s an but especially these days with the robotic nature with horror. The thing that you can’t see is that open playing field, and I really love it. It gives of things that the more kind of someone who’s a which is really scary because your imagination me a lot of freedom and permission. little bit like unpredictable for me is important. is going on. Imagination is usually much stron- Almost Human airs on Fox every Monday. WCT: The Kennex and Dorian characters are dealing with a tough situation. What does your character do during that time? NUNN ON ONE: TELEVISION LT: Well, I’m the captain so I’m at the precinct, and I’m sort of overseeing the whole situation at base camp. So it’s a very tense situation. I have Isaac Mizrahi talks to control a lot of elements. I’ve got my men and women who are out there in harm’s way. by Jerry Nunn The background is that we suffered a tremen- ‘Project Runway: All Stars’ dous loss. I lost over 13 of my men and women by Jerry Nunn Actress Lili Taylor comes straight from the heart so I think it’s almost like Maldonado is having a of the Chicago suburbs being born in Glencoe, little PTSD. It’s very intense but she has to stay Isaac Mizrahi has created fashion lines for de- Illinois and raised at New Trier High School in in control and get through it. So that’s what my cades and has become an icon in the process. Winnekta. point of view is in that situation. He presented his first collection in 1987 and She studied at the Piven Theater Workshop and WCT: Has your perception of a cop changed? hasn’t stopped since. He has worked for Cha- worked in the drama program at DePaul Univer- LT: I’m a captain so I think the experience is nel, Liz Claiborne and Xcel Brands as creative sity to hone her craft. After moving to New York more boring than I thought because I’m always director. she was immediately cast on a off-Broadway in the precinct, and I don’t get to go out much. The 1995 movie Unzipped was about his fall show that led to indie movies such as Mystic I’m dealing more on like an administrative, po- fashion line, and he has appeared on Sex in Pizza and Say Anything, where she stood out in litical level, and I’d love to be able to get out the City, Spin City and The Apprentice. After the ensembles. She has played a lesbian in sev- and do stuff, but the realities of a captain is running two seasons of Bravo’s The Fashion eral projects, including I Shot Andy Warhol and they just don’t get to have as much fun, that’s a Show he moved to become the head judge for Ready to Wear (Pret-a-Porter), and then fright- light word, but excitement, adventure and dan- Project Runway: All Stars on Lifetime along- ened audiences in horror films like The Haunting ger. and, most recently, The Conjuring. side Marchesa designer Georgina Chapman. Taylor had a recurring role in HBO’s Six Feet The spinoff of Project Runway is now in its Under, guest-starred in The Good Wife and now third season and features 13 designers who returns to television in the sci-fi Fox hit Almost were on the original show. Human, playing Captain Maldonado. We gave a call to New York to catch up with Windy City talked with Taylor about the part the fashionista who always has a great line and how she developed it from scratch. no matter what. Windy City Times: Hi, Lili. I’m calling from Windy City Times: Hi, Isaac. I read that your hometown—Chicago! How did you be- you started fashion at a young age and come involved in Almost Human in the first studied at Parsons School of Design— Isaac Mizrahi. Photo from Lifetime place? where Project Runway is filmed. Lili Taylor: Well, for me it was kind of inter- Isaac Mizrahi: I did. It was such a long time esting because Maldonado was originally written ago. It was in the ‘80s. Things were so differ- Let’s face it each season is kind of a col- as a man, and my manager suggested, “What if ent then. lective in that room. They live, sleep, and eat you thought of Maldonado as a woman and what WCT: How does it feel to give designers together. They even create an aesthetic all if it was Lili?” They were open to that, and I advice at the school now? together and each one individually. There is went in and read. I thought it felt really like an IM: I have very mixed emotions about it. something about this particular group that is interesting way to go for everybody. I was inter- Being from a certain period, I am married to amazing. You won’t believe the clothes you ested because of J.J. Abrams and Joel Wyman. processes that are essential. Being on this are about to see over the next seven weeks. They are very creative and have a lot of creative panel puts a modern kind of approach to Also, Jerry, let me say there a surprise that autonomy as well, so all that combined made it things. It is an eye-opening experience for takes place—you don’t see it coming. Last interesting for me to join up. me and a constant struggle. time, I have to be perfectly honest with you, WCT: Since the character was originally writ- I think creativity and design is nothing with Armando on last season I saw him from ten for a man, how did you research the part? more than the struggle between the past and the first week. I knew he was someone to LT: I watched—I’d already seen but I re- the future. That makes a present. I didn’t just watch and he wound up winning. With this watched—a lot of Prime Suspect with Helen Mir- Lili Taylor. quote somebody. I just thought of that and round I didn’t see the final three at all. It is ren, the original BBC one, and that helped a lot. said it because it is really true. I wonder how they don’t know how to do this or that but really interesting. You will see... Of course, Aliens and anytime anything that had WCT: What else can we expect of your char- then again they do need to learn all of these WCT: I was worried Viktor Luna might be a woman in charge in that sort of patriarchal acter this season? new thing that I don’t know a damn thing voted off too soon. context was interesting to me. I went back and LT: Well, here’s the thing: It’s the first season about. That is what actually creates the pres- IM: Oh, Victor. What about that dress? It looked at all of the old Lethal Weapons and you and so the focus really has to go on Kennex and ent moment. was so beautiful and delicate. know some of those classic cop buddy shows. Dorian. I think if the show gets picked up and WCT: What do you think about the new WCT: There is a mention on the show this The Wire, of course, helped a lot. I love The does well then more supporting characters’ stuff season of All Stars as compared to past season about one of the designers copying Wire. It’s one of my favorite shows, but I love is going to come out in a second season. Over- ones? your style. Is that flattering to you or not? it because that show has a level of veracity all, for me what’s it’s been is just like more just IM: The first two seasons that I worked on What do you think about that? that was so strong that that helped a lot, just watching the development of the relationship the show were so different than each other. IM: Well, you know, I don’t think about it in terms of the humanity and just kind of the between Kennex and Dorian and how that has The third season is even more different. I am because I get accused of copying people and messiness of it. become much more poignant. They push each not kidding you or trying to be hyperbolic and I accuse people of copying me sometimes. I had to remember that Maldonado is a human other’s buttons and what comes out of it is this I am not sure if there will be a fourth season It is bullshit. Everybody does things and are being and not this kind of this person in charge friction but this poignancy that I haven’t really or not but I do think this is the most exciting visited by muses. They have styles that they who is just one dimensional but has a lot of di- seen. season there has been. There is something have acquired from someplace. Certain people mensions. I also just tried to bring the qualities I didn’t know it was going to be to that extent about the cast and it is thrilling to see what emerge and you can tell who they are and of kind of a more receptive leader as opposed but I’ve seen it happen as the episodes have they can do and on such a level. where their influences come from. It is too to an aggressive, you know—I don’t know what gone on. That’s been one of the main things Me and Georgina Chapman have been there short a life to give that too much credence. the opposite of receptive is, but just more of a that I think people are going to find interesting since day one for the All Star Franchise. We Everyone influences everybody else I am listener and a collaborator instead of a sergeant. as they view the shows. have been blown away and can’t believe what convinced. It is hard to trace what came from WCT: Your character seems to have Detective WCT: What do you like or dislike about they are showing us week after week. It may where. Who needs to do that anyways? Even John Kennex’s back. Why is that? working in the sci-fi genre? sound like I am saying this is the best season the rights of fashion critics or scholars don’t LT: Well, I think one thing that’s specific to LT: It’s more interesting for me when it’s ever because it is this season but that is not care. Maldonado and Kennex is that they share a bond grounded in relationships. I’m a little sci-fi illit- it. I am really saying there is something very Read the entire interview online at www. because they went through a tragedy together. I erate, actually, so I need to like educate myself dynamic about this group of designers. WindyCityMediaGroup.com. think Maldonado really appreciates the way Ken- on that for sure. If it’s not connected somewhere WINDY CITY TIMES Dec. 11, 2013 21 NUNN ON ONE: MUSIC used it. I am sure there are 90-year-olds think- how to spell... ing it was okay to speak about Jewish people us- WCT: You could write a song about that. ing derogatory terms. People do it with Asians. SR: When I am making music I like to get a We live in a different time now so I don’t think message across. I wish it wasn’t coming from a Samantha Ronson it can be justified. It is crazy. Just because Emi- place where I’m a minority. It has more of an im- nem says it does not make it right. It makes pact when it is a straight person telling people people feel bad. You want to call someone the that it is not alright to treat others that way. speaks about bullying, F-word because they are lame? Then go fuck Sometimes I wish I had the voice without be- yourself, man! People need to learn better. ing pigeonholed into saying something because WCT: It is a tough word for me because it I am a lesbian and it is politically correct. When family and gigs was used a lot in my generation. can I eat Chick-fil-A? SR: I get called “you fucking ugly dyke” and WCT: We have to keep taking a stand about by Jerry Nunn the ugly part bothers me the most. That is like it until they change their policies. calling me “fucking ugly Samantha.” I hope they SR: I was struggling with my identity when Samantha Ronson knows how to be the life of feel better for throwing that out there. It is I was young there wasn’t anyone to look up to the party. The songwriter and DJ from California like someone calling me a “kike” because I am that wasn’t butchy or rainbow flag flying. It is a continues to spin records with appearances all Jewish. I think we are in an age where people different time now and I think it is important for over the world. should be held accountable for the things they people to take that stand and tell people that it She has a very talented family, to boot. Her say. is okay to be whomever the hell you are! brother—Grammy-nominated Mark Ronson—is WCT: Do people bully you on Twitter? To book Samantha Ronson, go to skamartist. a star in his own right, and has made several SR: I get some of that but I usually just cor- com and follow her on Twitter @samanthar- albums of its own and produced artists like Amy rect their grammar, like “Your an ugly dyke” and onson. Visit www.theundergroundchicago. Winehouse and Lily Allen. Her twin sister, Char- there is no apostrophe R E. They need to learn com for more artist appearances. lotte Ronson, is a fashion designer. The Ronsons’ mother married Foreigner guitarist Mick Jones, creating a musical household. WINTER MUSIC SPECIAL She released the album Chasing the Reds on her own label Broken Toy Records with such guests as rapper Wale and rocker Slash. She ap- Philip Chaffin: peared in the videos for artists like Usher and N.E.R.D. as well as her own brother’s video for “Ooh Wee.” Gay singer talks about Windy City Times stayed up late to talk to the music innovator one night at The Underground for a recent disc jockey gig. musical-theater label Windy City Times: Hi, Samantha. You are lo- cated in Venice, Calif., these days? by David-Elijah Nahmod Samantha Ronson: Yeah; I live out on the West Samantha Ronson. Side. The lives of Philip Chaffin and his husband, WCT: How do you like it? Tommy Krasker, are immersed in music. To- SR: I love it. It is Santa Monica but it is right gether they own PS Classics, a small, indie SR: I just did a remix for Natalia Kills. on the border so I call it Venice because it feels record label dedicated to musical theater. WCT: She’s a doll. We just met up at the cooler. I walk everywhere so it is convenient. Chaffin is also a singer in his own right. club. WCT: How did you get involved in the DJ A regular performer on the stages of various SR: You did? She just came up to me at a party scene in the first place? theater companies, he’s just released Some- in London. I had never met her but I did a remix SR: It was 15 years ago. I always loved music thin’ Real Special, a CD devoted to the music for “Saturday Night” on her new record. I told and one night the DJ didn’t show up at the place of lyricist Dorothy Fields. her I loved her record and she said that she had I used to hang out at. I was asked to go on last “My husband Tommy is a big fan of Fields,” been playing my remix at the last few shows she minute. One thing led to another! Chaffin said. “For a long time he kept saying had been playing at as opposed to the original. WCT: Did you start out with records? ‘Dorothy Fields, Dorothy Fields’, he collected I felt so validated and it felt great. SR: I did all vinyl for seven years but I still use all of her music. So I started listening. Her WCT: I think I heard that remix when she vinyl with the Serato equipment. lyrics were something I connected to.” played at Spin Nightclub recently. WCT: Who are you listening to these days? Fields (1905-1974) won an Oscar in 1936 SR: Awesome! You like the new Lily Allen song? for co-writing (with Jerome Kern) “The Way WCT: What else are you doing right now? SR: [Sings] “It’s hard out here for a bitch!” I You Look Tonight,” the classic song from the SR: My main focus is writing songs for other love her. My brother worked with her years ago Fred Astaire/Ginger Rogers film Swing Time. people. I worked with Madison Beer. She is a so I met her back then. She is so clever. When By then she’d already made a name for herself young girl that Justin Bieber signed. She is she speaks her sarcasm, wit, and melodies are on Broadway. Until her death nearly 40 years amazing, sweet, and lovely. She has a beautiful fantastic. later, she wrote regularly for film and for the voice. She’s mature for her age but still acts like WCT: It sounds like a different road for her stage. One of the most notable works toward a 14 year old. to go down with this one. the end of her life was the Bob Fosse musical WCT: When are you coming out to the gay SR: I listen to lyrics first when I listen to Sweet Charity, which was adapted into a 1969 Philip Chaffin. Photo by Leslie Van Stelten bars to perform? songs. She is saying that women are selling film starring Shirley MacLaine. SR: When I am not under contract at these themselves too short. It’s a good message! “It was unusual for a woman to write songs lesser known titles from off-Broadway and venues. When I come to town it is always to WCT: Who else? during that era,” said Chaffin. “Yet she wrote smaller theater companies. work for somebody else. That’s where I have to SR: The Arctic Monkeys record is bonkers! for fifty years. A lot of people don’t know who “Since we’re a gay couple, we gravitate to- go for the night. WCT: You have spun at so many private par- she is, yet her lyrics are very familiar.” wards gay shows,” said Chaffin. Their exten- WCT: What’s in the future for you? ties for celebrities. How was Ellen DeGeneres? He pointed to the line “pick yourself up, sive catalog includes Zanna Don’t!, a “musi- SR: I just worked with the Trevor Project and SR: She is so awesome. I’ve been doing parties dust yourself off, and start all over again” cal fairy tale” in which homosexuality is the Adam Shankman last year. He directed Hairspray, for her over the years. She loves music so much from Pick Yourself Up, another song Field and norm, while heterosexuality is the taboo. The Rock of Ages and is a choreographer. He’s an that it makes her one of my favorite people to Kern co-wrote for Swing Time, as an example show starred Jai Rodriguez of Bravo’s Queer amazing human being. He got me involved. It spin for. She loves to dance and have fun. I defi- of a Fields lyric that was well known, even if Eye for the Straight Guy. is basically setting up hotlines for kids that are nitely sweat when I DJ for her. Fields’ name was not. President Obama para- They’re also preparing to record Fun Home. suicidal. It is not always in the major cities but WCT: How is your brother? phrased that lyric during his 2009 inaugura- Based on a graphic novel by Alison Bechtel, the suburbs where they really need our help. SR: He’s great. He was actually just staying tion speech. author of the comic strip Dykes to Watch Out That is my favorite project I am working on. with me for a few weeks and working on his new “Her lyrics are how you talk,” said Chaffin. For, the well-received musical is currently WCT: That’s a great project. record. I stayed with him in London this past “She wrote like human speech, but poeti- running at New York’s Public Theater. It’s an SR: I just did an event the other night in New week. He’s fucking amazing, just lovely and in- cally.” autobiographical tale about a young lesbian York about bullying. There were athletes there spiring. The singer acknowledged that it’s tough to who comes out, only to find out her father speaking out. I just think bullying is so foul on He’s humble but I hate using the word humble sell those old songs in today’s market. “I’m is gay. Bechtel wrote the story based on her any level. Coming from a family with a lot of kids because there is no reason anyone shouldn’t be. not Michael Buble,” he said. “So I don’t have own life experiences. we bullied the shit out of each other. Working with different people in music I wonder millions of people following me. It’s hard to “We don’t have much in the way of lesbian In some ways I think kids should get bullied about their egos sometimes. We are not curing get this material across to people, but it’s CDs,” said Chaffin. “We’d like to do more. We’ll on some level because society can’t have every- cancer, there should be no ego! what I like to sing.” do anything if it’s good. I only do recordings one saying how great they all are but when it My brother is really good at personifying what When he’s not singing or performing in that I like because it takes me out of audi- is based on who you are and things you can’t music is really about. shows, he and husband Tommy are hard at tions and away from stage work. It’s a niche change I think it is really important to speak WCT: Your sister is in fashion. work on producing recordings for PS Classics. market, but I’m living a dream, and our fans out about it. SR: Forever yeah. The label’s repertoire of more than 100 CDs are very vocal.” WCT: What do you think of artists who use WCT: What a talented family. includes Broadway hits, such as the recent Philip Chaffin Chaffin: Somethin’ Real Spe- derogatory words in their lyrics? SR: Well, we work really hard. [Laughs] That is cast recordings of the Fiddler on the Roof re- cial, is now available via PS Classics. Visit SR: Here is my issue with Eminem: He is trying what we do. We ain’t getting no sleep! vival with Alfred Molina. The label also offers www.psclassics.com. WCT: What are you working on right now? to justify the use of the F-word. He says that when he grew up battling this and that they 22 Dec. 11, 2013 WINDY CITY TIMES

WEEKLY DINING GUIDE IN

pork, marinated chicken, and for the truly ad- venturous carnivore, veal intestines. The pork belly is undoubtedly worth a try. Two foot-long strips that look like the biggest, juiciest slices of bacon you’ve ever laid eyes are slapped down on the sizzling grill and cooked to tender, suc- culent perfection. The bulgogi, thinly shaved marinated beef, is also flavorful and cooks up Gogi nicely, but it’s not the most memorable grilled meat I’ve ever eaten. I would have preferred BY Meghan Streit to try the more tempting sounding short steak marinated with sesame oil. But, the pork belly There’s been so much buzz lately about Gogi, a and short steak, I was informed, can’t be cooked new Korean barbeque restaurant in Rogers Park, on the same grill, so it was one or the other. so I couldn’t resist venturing out one bitter cold Tough choices. That’s why I’d recommend bring- night to check it out. I can’t say I am bowled ing several friends to Gogi so you can sit at a over by the place, but I certainly can see what larger table with multiple grills and try a bunch all the fuss is about. of different meats. With oversized black leather booths and mini- As is customary, the barbeque meals at Gogi malist Asian-inspired décor, the space is argu- are served with banchan, traditional Korean side ably sleeker than many restaurants of a similar dishes. As soon as you place your meat order, ilk. And the meats, which are the stars of the tiny bowls filled with cucumbers, bean sprouts, Yukhoe at Gogi. Press photo show, are fresh, well seasoned and served in tofu, radishes and kimchi will begin arriving at ample portions. So, it’s not surprising that Ko- your table—and they won’t stop until there’s rean barbeque fans are buzzing about Gogi. It’s hardly an inch of space left. The side dishes are clearly a cut above its competition. all tasty and they make cool, fresh-tasting an- The fried dumplings are crisp and golden brown ing. In addition to a few American beers and There’s no denying that the traditional Korean tidotes to the grilled meats. But, truth be told, on the outside and stuffed with a savory mix- wines, there are also a couple of Korean versions barbeque dining experience is just plain fun the banchan gets lost in the flurry of hot meat ture of meat—they’re as good as any I’ve had of each, as well as soju and sake. The soju is (unless, of course, you are a vegetarian). You being placed on your plate. Once that grill gets in Chicago. If you dine at Gogi on a busy night, served without ceremony in a small bottle with get to cook or watch someone else cook your hot, the barbeque comes at you fast and furious. when it might take a bit longer for your bar- a couple of shot glasses. I recommend ordering meat over blazing hot coals right in the middle Amid the frenzy, two side dishes managed to beque to come out, keep your appetite at bay a Korean beer and adding a shot of soju to it, of your table. The friendly and engaging staff make an impression on me. One was what tasted some pajeon, savory Korean pancakes. The sea- which is, I’m told on good authority, what the at Gogi definitely adds to that experience. They like a Korean version of the jalapeño popper, a food pajeon is a colorful treat. It’s packed with cool kids are doing these days. will cook your meat for you and are on hand to plump and sweet pepper fried in tempura bat- so much fish and fresh green chives that it’s Gogi is located at 6240 N. California Ave.; identify unfamiliar foods and offer suggestions ter. The other was a dish of thin rice noodles more like fillings coated in batter than a pan- call 773-274-6669 or visit www.gogichicago. for creating tasty bites (Psssst! Dip the pork coated in a cold creamy mayonnaise-like sauce. cake stuffed with fillings. I thoroughly enjoyed com. belly in the sesame oil!). It reminded me of cole slaw, and was the perfect Gogi’s pajeon, but I can’t say it was better than Do you need some more Sugar & Spice in Gogi offers a mouth-watering smorgasbord of crunchy addition to a forkful of pork. the tofu scallion pancake at Jin Ju, the reigning your life? Follow me on Twitter: @SugarAnd- raw meats for grilling—brisket, short ribs, spicy While the barbeque is the main attraction at champion of Korean pancakes in my book. SpiceMS—for inside scoop and commentary Gogi, there are also some noteworthy sideshows. Gogi’s cocktail list is short but interest- on Chicago’s dining scene.

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/ nightspots / WINDY CITY TIMES Dec. 11, 2013 23 BOOKS TBW: I believe Gaga is doing an excellent job empowering youth and bringing to light im- portant social issues including bullying, accep- tance, and suicide prevention. Her Born This Way Gaga’s fans make Foundation is an excellent charity for people of all ages to find resources in their areas. A por- tion of the profits from Heal This Way have been pledged to her foundation. voices heard in WCT: We are winning marriage equality in more states than ever before. Which issue(s) will be next on our radar as a community? TBW: I believe that—as a society—once we ‘Heal This Way’ have moved into full acceptance and equality, there is a next step. I don’t want to see just By Sarah Toce they fit in—they are the most beautiful of all “tolerance,” but encouragement. It’s time to and they don’t seem to know it. It is a joy to rally behind each other. To cheer each other on Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta (more fa- watch people react to seeing themselves in the as people! It’s time to embrace that we are all mously known as singer Lady Gaga) measures a photos I take of them—to finally get an idea of in this together and let’s make this life the best petite 5’1” in stature, but her personality is dis- their beauty and watch them radiate joy! My experience it can be. proportionate, to say the least. A case in point goal is to empower people one by one the way WCT: If you could tell your younger self is Madison Square Garden, Feb. 22-23, 2013. The Gaga does to the whole crowd. three things, what would they be? words “Lady Gaga: Cancelled” were unapologeti- WCT: In your opinion, why is a book like TBW: I would tell my younger self how much cally dished out across the Internet. The “Born this needed? cooler 30 is than 17. That when you are an adult, This Way” eccentric singer was out of commis- TBW: Heal This Way is needed because it illus- you get to choose who you surround yourself sion for a hip tear and her remaining concert trates what so many people are going through with, and are not forced to sit next to some A- dates were kaput. Zilch. Sayonara, Gaga. right now. What so many young people are hole in math class. I would say that it gets bet- But then, picture it: New York City, 2013. Little struggling with: being bullied, coming out, ter because you get better. You come to realize Monsters are in a studio writing their hearts out thoughts of suicide, loneliness, wanting to fit in, that very often, when people say stupid things for a woman they’ve never even met, but have wanting to not feel outcast—and it is in their to you, it’s usually about them—their own in- shared intimate moments with nonetheless. Not own words. securities or issues that they are taking out on swayed by the concept of missing their favorite This book is needed until parents are accept- you. You learn to feel sorry for them, instead of celebrity at a larger-than-life concert stop, they ing of their children no matter what. This book taking it personally. (But yes, it can still hurt, would flock to the scene of her missed show is needed to show that encouraging each other Heal This Way fan, as pictured in book. but it’s different, there is more understanding). anyway—to commiserate, create and communi- is crucial. Helping each other flourish in life is I would tell myself that for every one person cate—and a new project would be born (in an necessary! My goal is that if I am a young per- so rampant. Kids don’t always think. They get who made fun of me in high school for being egg, at an awards show…). son, reading this will help me to understand I caught up in peer pressure, and trying to fit in. president of the drama club, or drum major of Windy City Times: How was the idea of Heal am not alone, and it will give me some peace. They do things I am sure as adults they will be the marching band, there are 20 people in New This Way—A Love Story conceived? And if I am a parent or adult, it will help me to mortified by. They are not all taught empathy. York City hiring me for being creative, talented Tracey B. Wilson: I have been giving rock- understand what kids are going through right They do not all understand what their words are and energetic. Don’t hide your passions and your star photo shoots to Lady Gaga’s biggest fans now. I even hope that if I am a kid who has bul- doing. A goal of Heal This Way is to put faces and energy—no matter what anyone says. What on all her North American tours in a pre-show lied someone, I will read this book and have a stories out there. To use the book as a teaching makes you different is your gift. In high school, performance art event since the fall of 2009. I better understanding of the consequences of my tool to make the bullies understand that these differences are ridiculed. In the real world, your have a special relationship with her fans, the thoughtlessness. are other human souls they are torturing. differences are your gold. Little Monsters. The Born This Way Ball tour was WCT: Is it your intention to open doors for WCT: In your opinion, how does Gaga em- Heal This Way is at www.healthisway.com, abruptly cancelled in February, just before com- discussion that might otherwise have been power the youth? Is there more she could do Amazon.com and BarnesAndNoble.com, and is ing to Madison Square Garden in New York City closed in the family structure? with her fame to highlight the issues brought on iTunes. due to Gaga tearing her hip. Since so many of TBW: Heal This Way is needed because it is a up in the book? her most dedicated fans from around the world way in to conversation. It is a way in to discus- would be in New York City without a concert sions that are not easy to have, but must be to go to, and were desperate to give Gaga get had. A parent can give it to their child as if well messages, I rented a studio and gave photo to say, “I know you are going through some- Russian crew shoots Mayor, city council shoots like I would before the concert. Only this thing, and you don’t talk to me about it, but pilot of LGBT series recognize ‘Too Much time, I had Little Monsters bring a get-well let- maybe something in this book will make you feel The pilot for Moonlight People—a Russian ter for Lady Gaga, and told them I would make a better.” A book like this [puts a face] on these series about LGBT individuals—has been Light’ special book called Heal This Way for her. issues in a wrapping of pop culture. It’s not a filmed. Mayor Rahm Emanuel and the City Council of I would compile their photos and letters in textbook. It’s hip and artsy, and user-friendly, Ekaterina Polyanskaya is the director and the City of Chicago have issued a resolution a special coffee-table book just for her as a but the topics inside are crucially important. screenwriter. recognizing the 25th anniversary of Too Much get-well gift. But the act of helping heal Gaga WCT: How much was Gaga involved in this There are two parallel stories about a boy Light Makes The Baby Go Blind: 30 Plays in 60 helped Little Monsters heal themselves and each project? and a girl in the center of the series’ plot. Minutes and its status as the longest running other. Helped them to speak their truths and TBW: Gaga is the vessel. It is her words that They live in different parts of the country, are original show in Chicago theater history. own themselves. Claim who they really were. encouraged and inspired the people in the book. of different ages and have varied socioeco- As part of this resolution, The Neo-Futurists This became a very powerful work of art that It is her messages of love and acceptance that nomic backgrounds—but are both members are honored “for their ongoing contributions needed to be shared. I then contacted everyone we must universally own. The book itself was of the LGBT community. to making the arts part of daily life in Chicago in the Heal This Way project, and we moved for- self-published. A trailer is at www.gay.ru/news/rain- for 25 years and counting.” ward with making this public version. WCT: Can you share one or two of your fa- bow/2013/11/26-27617.htm. The official The first performance of Too Much Light WCT: Who was chosen to contribute and vorite excerpts from the book here with us? website is www.MoonlightPeople.com. Makes The Baby Go Blind: 30 Plays in 60 Min- what was the approval process like? TBW: I love the picture of a young boy that utes—created by Greg Allen, written and per- TBW: For the original book we made just for simple says, “I am 11 years old and you have formed by The Neo-Futurists—was on Dec. 2, Gaga, I promised that anyone who showed up already changed my life. I love you because ‘Music Box 1988 at the old Stage Left theater. for the shoot would be included, whether or not you support people who are bullied every- Christmas Show’ they submitted a letter. (Many were from other where.” [It’s] so necessary to feel like we can Hyde Park’s countries and did not speak English.) We put a have an ally in this life. [It’s] so necessary to Dec. 13-24 sign-up sheet online, and it was filled almost feel that we are not alone. The 30th annual Music Box Christmas ‘Nutcracker’ immediately. For the public version, I kept that And then there is the page, next to an epically Show—featuring White Christmas and/or It’s same promise. Everyone who was in the orig- important letter, where a Little Monster’s picture a Wonderful Life—will take place Dec. 13-24 Dec. 14-15 inal book for Gaga was part of the spirit and was. But there is not a picture now. In the public at the Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Southport Hyde Park School of Dance (HPSD) con- energy of this project, and would be included version it says, “The Little Monster pictured here Ave. cludes its 20th-anniversary season with in the published version. Due to the expense of asked to be removed. Even though he was of Families that want to be part of the holiday Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker. self-publishing a color photo book, it had to be age, and a gorgeous human being, he was afraid fun can send a photo from past years at the Performances are Dec. 14-15 at Mandel Hall much smaller than Gaga’s original copy, so not his parents would ‘find out.’ It breaks my heart. Music Box Theatre with the names of those on the University of Chicago campus, 1131 E. 57th St. every letter was included, and not everyone has That is why we made this book.” That is why this in the picture to boxoffice@musicboxtheatre. Each year, HPSD casts a Chicago VIP as the a full page spread, but everyone’s voice is there. book is important. Until we accept ourselves and com and the theater will add them to the pre- honorary Mother Ginger. This year, 5th Ward Everyone’s love is there. And everyone’s beauti- each other, this book matters. show slideshow on the big screen. Ald. Leslie Hairston and Hyde Park Chamber of ful faces are there. WCT: Why do you feel bullying is such a Tickets are $12 for a single feature; $17 for Commerce Executive Director Wallace Goode WCT: What can you tell us about working huge problem in our society still even after a double feature; or $10/single or $15/double take on the role. behind the scenes with Gaga? “It Gets Better” and all of the other top-level feature for under 13. Tickets are $20; $10 for children ages five to TBW: Working on Gaga’s tour is incredible. I initiatives? Visit www.musicboxtheatre.com/ 18, seniors and students with ID; and free for have been so proud to be the tour photographer TBW: Unfortunately, I feel that bullying has collections/30th-annual-music-box-christ- children younger than 5. Call 773-493-8498 of the Little Monsters. It is my honor and privi- taken on epic proportions due to the increase mas-show or call 773-871-6607. lege to show people how beautiful they are— in texting, and cyber bullying. It was one thing or visit hydeparkdance.org/events/nutcrack- especially when you are talking about a crowd to write a note that got passed around, but the er.html. of people that is often bullied, or don’t feel like reach of social media and online bullying is Turn to page 26

24 Dec. 11, 2013 WINDY CITY TIMES

Boystown for a night out to celebrate re- the-slo-mo-spectacular-hosted-by-kris- lease with Chicago community. RSVP to ten-kaza-and-ike-holter-featuring-side- [email protected] 8:00pm - 10:00pm walk-chalk-jc-brooks-psalm-one-mat- Minibar 3341 N Halsted St. thew-santos-jeanine-otoole-lili-k-koku- CALENDAR Happy Holi-GAYS (and Straights) Mark mo-deja-taylor-rthe-st-james Ortega Entertainment and Paula Sinclaire Boobs of the Dead: A Walking Dead Bur- Brought to you by the present a festive night of holiday music lesque Parody of the popular Walking combined efforts of and comedy and comedic performance Dead television series. 11:45pm Gorilla by Carmela Nudo of Second City fame, as Tango Theatre 1919 N Milwaukee Ave., well as 2013 Windy City Gay Idol Final- 773-598-4549 http://www.gorillatango. Wed., Dec. 11 gillinois.org 7:00pm Center on Halsted ists Timothy Willy, Jonathan Smallwood com/zombies and James Gavin. Free. Over 21. Info via Illinois Academy of Criminology Past 3656 N Halsted http://community.pflag. [email protected] Presidents’ Night Honoring Mary Pow- org/transgender Sunday, Dec. 15 9:00pm M7 and Circuit Nightclub, 3641 “Divalicious” Sunday brunch Diva Mad- ers, of police-accountability activist Seven Stories, The Line Between Monthly N. Halsted St. am X will welcome “Jingle Bell Brunch” group Citizens Alert and a fighter for LGBT reading series hosted by a drag queen who LOVE ON TOP guests with a variety of holiday tunes, rights, and Dennis Drahos. Guest speaker pulls a new skin from her revolving rack musicals and seasonal sing-along favor- Daniel Nagin, respected criminologist and of personalities for each show. Authors Saturday, Dec. 14 Friday, Dec. 14 Holidays In Uptown Don your gay appar- ites. Kit Kat’s seven projection screens authority on what deters street violence. mix in theater, music, and audience par- el! We’re decking the halls with style in will show holiday movies, from hilarious $40. Reservations by phone. 6:00pm Col- ticipation to heighten each story until it Superstar singer Chicago’s historic Uptown neighborhood. (Christmas Vacation, Elf) to heartwarming letti, 5707 N. Central Ave., 773-275-7100 resembles a tiny circus, a short play, or Beyonce is performing Lakeside Pride’s Symphonic Band and the (It’s a Wonderful Life, White Christmas). Jenny Moshak, author of Ice ‘n’ Go Cel- a conceptual performance. Primarily non- shhh…OUT! Jazz Ensemble join forces. To Chef JoAnn Witherell’s brunch menu may at the United Center, ebrated trainer of the legendary Lady Vols fiction, with mind-bending fiction, poetry, include “Christmas Eve Is Coming Soon,” be paired with an optional drink package 1901 W. Madison Ave. basketball team and associate athletic and short plays as well. During intermis- from Scrooge & Marley, written by the for an additional $10 per person. Reserva- director for sports medicine at the Uni- sion, audience members have open mic, to film’s co-writer/ director Richard Knight, tions by phone 11:00am - 4:00pm Kit versity of Tennessee, Jenny Moshak brings tell stories of their own, unscripted. $3-$5 Jr., performed by noted area vocalist Kat Lounge & Supper Club 3700 N Halsted her insight and breadth of knowledge to donation. 8:00pm Martin’s Corner, 2056 Becca Kaufman. $20. $12 seniors and 773-525-1111 this memoir that also serves as a com- W. 22nd Pl. students. 7:00pm Preston Bradley Cen- Burton-esque: The World of Tim Burton mentary on a wide range of sports-related ter 941 W Lawrence Ave., 773-381-6693, brought to life; A Benefit Concert Va- issues, including gender and expectations. Friday, Dec. 13 www.lakesidepride.org riety show featuring favorite characters 7:30pm Women & Children First Book- Project Fierce Chicago Happy Hour Snag a Soft drinks & water are provided by the Las Manos Presents: A Holiday Extrava- from Tim Burton Movies and artwork. store 5233 N Clark St., www.womenand- signature Ferociously Fierce cocktail while Center, but feel free to bring anything else ganza, opening reception A collection Benefits various local charities. 7:00pm childrenfirst.com getting to know our fabulous volunteers. you’d like to share, whether it’s snacks or of present and past works by new as well Stage 773 1225 W Belmont Ave., http:// Static Berlin Every Wednesday Static Join Bring your friends because all drink pro- a good book! 7:00pm Center on Halsted as familiar artists. In the holiday spirit, www.theJproduction.com DJ Pete Augusta and special guests for ceeds benefit PFC. 6:00pm - 9:00pm Mc- 3656 N Halsted http://www.centeronhal- we’ve requested some of our artists to Static. 9:00pm Berlin Nightclub 954 W Fadden’s bar 1206 N. State Pkwy., www. sted.org make “gift sized” pieces, something small- Belmont Ave mcfaddenschicago.com/ Monday, Dec. 16 Luau in December! Polynesian Show & er and easy to take home. Info mail@ Jeannie Tanner CD release party: Joyful lasmanosgallery.com 7:00pm - 10:00pm Season Jeannie Tanner Quartet celebrate Wed., Dec. 18 Thursday, Dec. 12 Dinner Chicago Bisexual/Lesbian Women’s Las Manos Gallery 1515 W Foster Ave., the release of Joyful Season featuring GLAAD Annual Holiday Reception to How Ending Violence Against Women Will Group. Dinner and a show ala tropical. www.lasmanosgallery.com Lisa McQueen (piano); Cory Biggerstaff recognize Chicago LGBT activist Kevin Save the World Dr. Salamishah Tillet, a All Inclusive including tax and gratuity Boyer The reception will celebrate a his- Black, White & Grey Art Exhibition Last art (bass); and Darren Scorza (drums). Special rape survivor, writer, and associate profes- $31.95 per person. Sign up on Meet Up toric year in the LGBT movement and will opening of the year as: local black, white holiday show is being sponsored by our sor at the University of Pennsylvania, will and call Richard and RSVP to Suburban include a presentation to leading LGBT and grey artworks at our Edgewater gallery friends at WDCB. 5:00pm - 8:30pm An- present and local advocates will join in Adventures Meetup Group. 7:00pm The advocate Kevin Boyer for his long stand- location. 7:00pm - 10:00pm Degener- dy’s Jazz Club, 11 E Hubbard St., http:// exploring what rape culture is, and how Tiki Terrace 1591 Lee St. Des Plaines, IL ing service to the LGBT community. $25 ate Art Gallery 5554 N. Winthrop Ave., jeannietanner.com the widespread use of social networks has 60018 847-795-8454 5:30pm Downtown Bar and Lounge 440 http://www.degenerateartgallery.com Chigaygo: The Christmas Balls episode fueled its growth. Local advocates will Loose Chicks Roberta Miles and Jillian Er- N State Tickets: http://www.glaad.org/ Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus 2013 Holiday Don’t miss Gwen La Roka, Candy Lawrence, include UIC Professor Beth Elaine Richie, ickson, the original “Loose Chicks” will be tistheseason show: Making Spirits Bright Bringing to The Fruit Flies, Amy Eisenberg, and host WBEZ’s Natalie Yvonne Moore, Rape Vic- starring in and presenting a performance a close its 30th Anniversary Season, CGMC Scott Duff. Bring an unwrapped gift (val- Health Insurance Open Enrollment event tim Advocates’ Sharmili Majmudar, and based on their experiences through life. To assist with enrollment in affordable reprises 10 of its most popular holiday mo- ued at $15 or more) and get 4 free tickets Claudia Garcia Rojas of the Chicago Task- Guest Chicks Gretchen Rachel Blickens- health insurance. First come, first served. ments, along with 10 new songs, PLUS 10 to the show. 8:00pm The Laugh Factory force on Violence Against Girls & Young derfer, Virginia Marie, & Sheri Redawill be Bring proof of citizenship, proof of resi- pieces created for the occasion by Artistic Chicago 3175 N Broadway. See Facebook Women. Free. Reservations required online featured this month. BYOB 7:15pm Un- dency, social security numbers or docu- Director Patrick Sinozich. Come celebrate for more info. or via email [email protected] 6:00pm charted Books 2630 N. Milwaukee Ave., ment numbers for legal immigrants, em- holiday traditions new and old with the - 8:00pm Experimental Station 6100 S. www.theloosechicks.com ployer and incomes info for every member singing and dancing Chicago’s Most Color- Tuesday, Dec. 17 Blackstone Ave. http://www.prairie.org It’s A Wonderful Life: Live in Chicago! of household who needs coverage, policy ful Chorus! 8:00pm Rockefeller Chapel Christmas a la Downton Walk into the past Laughing For A Change Benefits Fam- Pink Previews, where tickets sales ben- numbers for current insurance plans, and University of Chicago, 5850 S. Woodlawn and celebrate Christmas in Manor House ily Rescue, an organization committed to efit the Lynn Sage Foundation for breast policy info for every job-based health plan Ave., www.cgmc.org/event/2013/mak- Style. Learn Mrs. Eaton’s cooking tech- breaking the cycle of domestic abuse and cancer research, are Friday, Nov. 22 and for which you or household members are ing-spirits-bright niques, enjoy Edwardian delicacies roast- harboring and healing it’s victims. Doors Saturday, Nov. 23 at 7:30 pm. $19-$49. eligible. Info via AffordableCare@howard- Slo Mo Spectacular w/Sidewalk Chalk, JC ed chestnut soups, herbed shortbread, open at 6:30. 6:30-8:30 fun and games. Through Dec. 29. 7:30pm Greenhouse brown.org or by phone. 6:00pm - 9:00pm Brooks, Damon Locks, Psalm One Concert individual duck pie, figgie pudding and 8:30-10:30 performances. Tickets cost Theater Center 2257 N. Lincoln Ave. 773- Howard Brown Health Center 4025 N to benefit Project Fierce Chicago, a new tea. Reservations limited. Tickets $35 ad- $15, or $10 with a donation of needed 404-7336, http://americanbluestheater. Sheridan Rd 773-388-8867 http://www. organization aiming to provide housing vance purchase required. Order by phone. goods. 6:30pm The Public House Theatre com howardbrown.org for homeless LGBTQ youth, with jazz/R&B/ 6:00pm - 8:00pm Lang House B&B 7421 3914 N. Clark St. 800-650-6449 Tickets: Beyonce The Mrs. Carter Show World Tour. hip hop collective Sidewalk Chalk per- N. Sheridan Rd. 773-764-9851 http:// http://pubhousetheatre.com $56-$265 8:00pm United Center 1901 forming holiday favorites featuring over a www.elliepresents.com Parents of Transgender People For decades, W Madison Ave http://ticketmaster.com dozen amazing Chicago artists. 17+ $15 Bi discussion group Every other Tuesday we PFLAG has been proud to be a resource for Launch party for BOYS, an Anthology advance/$20 door. 8:00pm The Bottom get together to chat about upcoming bi- transgender and gender non-conforming The bestselling eBook, BOYS, celebrates Lounge 1375 W. Lake St Tickets: http:// sexual events, concerns, and answer each people, their families, and friends. For print edition with Chicago Launch Party. bottomlounge.com/events-archive/ other’s questions about the community. More Info: parentsoftransgender@pfla- BOYS editors and contributors gather in

BOOK REVIEW Understanding that her role as C.J’s parent Author Duron seemed, initially, to complain a “was not to change him but to love him,” Du- lot in her story. She describes how much work it Raising My Rainbow ron indulged her youngest son’s choices. This was to keep others from finding out about C.J.’s by Lori Duron was familiar territory, in fact: his love of all love of “girl stuff,” and exasperation fairly oozed $15; Broadway things girly reminded Duron of her gay brother. from the pages. Books; 278 pages Throughout most of their childhood, she and Mi- That doesn’t last, though. It’s not long before by TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER chael spent entire weekends building elaborate she layers on the self-depreciating humor while doll kingdoms and pretend-shopping. she teaches readers about patience, acceptance, One in a million... She figured she “knew” what C.J.’s pink fixa- gender, and its fluidity. We’re also treated to a That’s the best way to describe your kid. Not tion meant… wonderful metamorphosis, as Duron turns from that you’re biased or anything, but it’s true. For sure, pinky-girly things made the little consternated parent to confident pillar. That’s He’s smarter than other people’s children, very guy happy and Duron didn’t want to quash that exactly what we need to see. definitely cuter, and he has more talent in his in her toddler. Her husband, a “guy’s guy,” and As it turns out, I was disappointed in one left foot than most adults possess in their entire their oldest son, who’s “all boy,” were also sup- thing here: that this book ended so soon. Yep, bodies. portive, though somewhat flummoxed. I liked it a lot and I think you will, too, so if No child can compare to yours, that’s a fact. The entire family, therefore, was relieved when you know a gender nonconforming child, read Author Lori Duron’s son is absolutely, wonderful- Duron found a reason for C.J.’s boy-stuff aver- Raising My Rainbow. You’ll find a million reasons ly fabulous, too, and in her new memoir “Raising sion: he’s gender nonconforming, and “slides on to love it. My Rainbow,” she’ll tell you about C.J. the gender spectrum at his leisure depending on Want more? Then look for Always My Child: A For the past four years, life in the Duron the day, the outfit, and the occasion.” There was Parent’s Guide to Understanding Your Gay, Lesbi- household has been separated into two eras: a time when he wanted to be a girl when he an, Bisexual, Transgendered, or Questioning Son Before Barbie (BB), and After Barbie (AB). grew up but today, he “self-identifies as a boy.” or Daughter by Kevin Jennings and Pat Shapiro; BB marks the time prior to a closet clean-out, “Ten or twenty years from now,” Duron said, or Gender Born, Gender Made: Raising Healthy when a collector doll was absently tossed on the “will I be the parent of two boys or one boy and Gender-Nonconforming Children by Diane Ehren- bed. AB is what happened when Duron’s 2-and- one girl? I don’t know.” But for now, they’re “go- saft, PhD. a-half-year-old son C.J. spotted Barbie and fell ing to be entering more of the unknown, and… in love. AB, he discovered the “pink aisles of loving our son… no matter what.” the toy department” at a discount chain, and It took me a while to understand what was was awed. going on in Raising My Rainbow. WINDY CITY TIMES Dec. 11, 2013 25 BILLY MASTERS “I have the biggest crush on Jonathan Knight. bly his first same-sex relationship. “Come spring UNLOCK YOUR FUTURE Yes, I know he’s gay and has a boyfriend. But this year, my life changed massively when I met I’m one of those women who waits for the man someone and they made me feel so happy, so A portioN of tHe proCeedS to not have a boyfriend!”—Kirstie Alley reveals safe and everything just feels great—and that beNefit equALity iLLiNoiS her love for a certain New Kid on the Block. someone is a guy,” said Daley in a videotaped This isn’t really all that shocking. It certainly statement that was, reportedly, co-scripted by wouldn’t be the first time Alley’s had a gay love the guy in question. Days later, he told TV pre- interest—onscreen or off. senter Jonathan Ross more. When Tom saw this Do you know how old Mary Martin was when guy across a room at a party, “I didn’t know she starred in the original production of The what to do or if he was gay at first.” Has HE Sound of Music? She was 47. When Florence been living under a rock? Daley approached this Henderson led the first national tour, she was much older man. How much older (and get ready 26. Julie Andrews was 30 when she made the with your collective groans)? When he was Tom’s what film—the same age Carrie Underwood is now. age, Daley wasn’t even born. But I am not going a And yet, these were two very different 30-year- to preach. Please don’t ask me to. YEar! olds. One had oodles of acting experience on Days ago, I finally got to see Bette Midler play- stage and screen and even had an Oscar. The ing legendary superagent Sue Mengers in I’ll Eat You Last. Sue had strong-armed Babs into mak- ing Up All Night, directed by Mengers’ husband, and the film bombed. Someone had to take the S i d E t r a c k S t Y l E fall and it was Sue, who waits for Streisand’s call. In the meantime, she shares great stories from the bygone days of Hollywood, which Midler de- midNigHt CHAmpAgNe toASt • SidetrACk bAbieS livered with panache. As Bette was taking her SidetrACk-Sized giveAwAyS iNCLudiNg bows, I zipped out of my aisle seat to avoid the AN orbitz trip! crowd. But one person was faster than me and was whisked out a side door. Perhaps he did not want to be seen. Perhaps he wanted to avoid tiCketS AvAiLAbLe from people asking him what he thought. Perhaps he your bArteNder & didn’t want his mom to know he was there. But SidetrACkCHiCAgo.Com that person was Streisand’s son, Jason Gould— looking lovely, by the by. Apparently he gave his mom a good report because, three days later, Babs went to see the play herself. In the words ® of Ms. Midler, “Okay! Barbra Streisand came to /SidetrackBar 3349 N.. Hallstted the show! And she liked it!! I was so thrilled. SiidettrrackChiicago..com AND relieved!!” Liimiitted vallett parrkiing avaiillablle It’s time for Billy’s Holiday Gift Giving Sugges- tions. Since we’ve spent much of this column talking about illicit love, I will once again ex- press my undying affection for Sam Harris. Sure, I’m a sucker for his sweet singing, but he’s also Barbra Streisand (above) gave Bette Midler a cute as a button (although I’m not exactly sure thumbs-up, Billy says. Photo by Kevin Mazur how cute I find buttons). He’s just written his memoir, Ham: Slices of a Life. other was in a made-for-TV movie about a shark Sam’s unique storytelling voice comes through biting off a surfer’s arm and had six Grammy loud and clear in this collection of essays which Awards. give you a glimpse into his hilarious and chaotic For someone who had never done a musical life. His story about Liza’s wedding to David Gest (let alone on live TV), Carrie sang well—better alone is worth the price of the entire book (al- than anyone had any right to expect. And her though the story about opening for Aretha and acting was as good as any other multiple Gram- not getting paid is pretty fabulous, too). Aside my-winning non-actress. But most people held from the celebrity dish, there are also touching her to a much higher caliber—one set by Miss stories about his childhood, family, husband and Andrews, to say nothing of what should pass as son. If you love Sam as a singer, you’ll love this acceptable on network television. My expecta- book. And if you don’t know a thing about him, tions were based on the rehearsal footage shown you’ll fall in love with him long before the final in the thoroughly entertaining “Making Of” spe- page. The book doesn’t come out for another few cial. weeks, but you can pre-order it on Amazon.com Carrie was delightful, endearing and at least or check out Sam’s website at SamHarris.com for somewhat warmer than the animatronic “Hall of more details. Presidents” portrayal we all witnessed. In just I never endorse something just because it’s about a week, she became the most aggressive gay—it also has to be good. I was pleasantly Maria in history—as if Eva Braun were play- surprised at how much I enjoyed Old Dogs & New ing the part! All of the natural charm had been Tricks. I thoroughly enjoyed the DVD of the first beaten out of her. And that’s what was missing two seasons of this web series about gay men in from the whole show—charm. Thank heavens West Hollywood nearing 50. In addition to being for the glorious Audra McDonald, who was play- somewhat realistic, it’s also well produced and ing to the balcony. (The fact that there was NO well written. Best of all is the cast. In addition balcony is a minor quibble.) Then there was the to the four leads (one of whom has shared my brilliantly nuanced performance of Laura Bena- bed), there are also great guest stars like the nti as Elsa. (She’s also the youngest Maria in incandescent Ian Buchanan, Thom Bierdz, Pat- Broadway history, having appeared in the 1998 rick Bristow and Greg Louganis (speaking of gay revival when she was 19.) She conveyed more divers). You can grab it—along with many other raw emotion in a four-second cutaway while Ma- gay-themed DVDs—at WolfeVideo.com. ria and the Captain were dancing than anyone When we can start and finish with old dogs else in the three-hour telecast. And when the looking for new tricks, it’s definitely time to end dashing Michael Park stepped on her gown, she yet another column. Once again, a super-sized handled it with aplomb. column. There’s not much more to say, except Of course, I know that’s not the story you’ve to direct you to www.BillyMasters.com, the been waiting for. If I know my readers (and site that never scrimps on size. If you’ve got a I know many of you intimately), you want to question, send it along to Billy@BillyMasters. know the coming out details of sexy UK diver, com and I promise to get back to you before we Tom Daley. In case you’ve been living under a get photographic evidence of what does Daley’s rock, Daley went public last week about being body good. So, until next time, remember, one in a relationship with another man ... ostensi- man’s filth is another man’s bible. 26 Dec. 11, 2013 WINDY CITY TIMES KNOWLTON from page 13 In telling his story, Knowlton hopes to pro- Gay Games part of Ambassador Leigh-Ann Naidoo expressed the mote awareness and transparency about testicu- importance of this meeting for athletes: “The time off. They’ve committed to fully support him lar cancer, and stresses the importance of self- historic meeting first meeting between the IOC and the FGG through treatment. “Diagnosis and surgery were checks. His mother is a nurse, he paid attention The Federation of Gay Games (FGG) an- and other LGBTIQA groups is another big step on the same day, and I was basically in the hos- in health class, he was checking every so often, nounced Dec. 2 that it had facilitated and to ensuring that the IOC recognize the issues pital emailing… ‘yeah, I can’t come in tomor- but he still feels he could have been more dili- participated in a historic first meeting be- facing LGBTIQA sports lovers, including Olym- row’... I cannot say how grateful I am [to them] gent about regular self-monitoring. “Early de- tween the International Olympic Committee pic athletes.” for understanding.” tection is so important. Do it! Don’t be afraid (IOC) and LGBT sports organizations. In anticipation of symptoms from chemo- of your body! And if you don’t know what you’re The meeting followed a promise IOC Presi- therapy, Knowlton’s created pre-emptive cop- doing, ask your loved one to do it, look it up on dent Thomas Bach made during his first of- CMSA social party ing mechanisms such as dying his hair, nail art the Internet... or, I’ve even told people, if you ficial visit last October to Sochi, Russia, the to cover discoloration of his fingernails, and really need to, I will do it for you, and it will not Jan. 25 be weird!” site of the 2014 Winter Olympic and Paralym- The Chicago Metropolitan Sports Associa- “swants.” Knowlton’s latest creations of pants

pic Games. out of ugly sweaters (i.e. swants) are his way Lauren Warnecke is a Chicago-based free- tion (CMSA) will hold its annual membership lance dance writer, contributing to Windy City The meeting took place Nov. 30 in Paris). of thanking his community of friends, dance or social party Saturday, Jan. 25, 2014, at Joe’s Times, See Chicago Dance, Dance Advantage, Present for the FGG were its co-President otherwise, for cooking dinners, giving rides, and Bar, 940 W. Weed St. 4dancers, and the Huffington Post. She is the Emeritus and VP for Diversity Emy Ritt and providing support through the treatment pro- founder and editor of Art Intercepts, and a FGG VP for external affairs Marc Naimark, both cess. “It’s my clever way of getting people to full time faculty member in the Department residents of Paris. hang out with me... those things are good out- of Kinesiology at the University of Illinois at South African Olympian and Gay Games lets. I make plans... almost like a Home Alone booby trap thing!” Chicago. Follow Lauren on Twitter @artinter- cepts.

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