www.ExpressGayNews.com • September 15, 2003 Q1 Q_COVERstory Scene from Sordid Lives Queer TV Is here! New Pay-Per-View Gay Channel Is a Hit By Mary Damiano we’re involved with, the care and love we give Arts & Entertainment Editor to our community, the care and love we give “I know a lot of gay men with bad taste,” to each other and our families. These are the says filmmaker Paul Colichman, referring characteristics of our community that I’d like to the unreality of the reality show Queer to see.” Eye for the Straight Guy. In fact, Colichman There has been a lot of buzz in the last isn’t thrilled by most of the gay images year or so about a cable channel with all gay currently on TV, especially on Queer Eye programming. Showtime and MTV were and its Bravo companion, Boy Meets Boy. going to start one, but that project has been “By advancing these stereotypes that gay shelved for now. “We were looking at doing men are out to redecorate the world and sleep a gay and lesbian full-fledged channel,” says with straight men, you are going to upset Colichman, “but the costs for a full-fledged people and cause a backlash.” channel are so high, we decided that rather risk. “Trevor stands for all the values we gay and lesbian film festivals, including Colichman considers such programs as than wait two or three years, we would get the stand for, which is building self-esteem in Outfest in Los Angeles, and scouts the shows designed for straight people, not the service started, show everyone its success and our community and fighting stereotypes,” festival circuit for new independent films. gay community. That’s where here! Pay Per then expand it to a channel later on.” Colichman says. Colichman says that here! has a high View comes in. Although at the moment the service is Colichman seems the perfect person to standard for its programming. Movies must The channel, which debuted last month available only on the DirecTV, Colichman head up this groundbreaking channel. He has not have been already shown on television, on DirecTV, features all gay and lesbian says that within six months, here will be been involved in the production of over 125 and films must have high-production values. programming designed for gay and lesbian available everywhere. “DirecTV was the first feature films, including Gods and Monsters, Adult films will not be shown. “We’re audiences. The network, which can be found distributor, and I think they get major points Tom and Viv, Twilight of the Golds, One looking for high-quality motion pictures that on DirecTV channel 170, hit the airwaves in the community for signing up first,” False Move and My New Gun. In addition to are of interest to our community either with the television premiere of the cult Colichman says. his position at here!, Colichman is president because of gay characters, or gay people comedy Sordid Lives. Current movies So far, the channel is a success. “The and partner of Regent Entertainment, a behind the scenes or because of the include It’s in the Water and The Night Larry response has been quite extraordinary,” says leading independent film company, and at sensibilities of the movie,” Colichman says. Kramer Kissed Me and upcoming films Colichman. “We don’t know yet if it’s just the age of 25, co-founded I.R.S. Media and Here! is most interested in films that include Circuit, Friends & Family, Food of the initial flurry of interest or if its long-term served as that company’s president. show people in the real world. “We want to Love and The Brotherhood. Subscribers to massive success, but we are significantly Colichman also produced MTV’s first series, see people’s interactions with families, like DirecTV, which services over 11 million exceeding our expectations. We really need The Cutting Edge, and the Emmy-nominated Sordid Lives, and how their sexuality affects homes, can order movies on here! Pay Per everybody’s support to show the straight Sting at the Hollywood Bowl, which was the their interaction in the greater world,” View for $3.99 per film. community that our community will get first satellite broadcast in high-definition Colichman says. “We try not to treat people Colichman, president of the channel, says behind gay products and gay ventures and technology. in a ghettoized or isolated way.” that the main reason for beginning here! Pay make them successful.” Here! is building its movie library in There are also special events in the Per View is to show positive images of the Here! will be giving back to the several ways. In addition to producing their works, beginning in the spring of next year. gay community. I want to see our community community as well. Its Christmas promotion own films, they acquire rights to films, and Original series are also planned. being recognized for all of the wonderful work will benefit the Trevor Project, the only 24- sometimes simply serve as a service to show See Queer TV on page Q8 that we do, men and women——the charities hour hotline to help gay and lesbian teens at the films. Here! has already sponsored major

Q2 www.ExpressGayNews.com • September 15, 2003 Q_CULTURAL COCKTAIL By Mary Damiano Cultural Scene Is Something to Celebrate Miami Book Fair Announces Authors; Singers Present Cabaret Last week, I attended students and seniors. To purchase Toast to Spain Fundraiser “Invitation to the Arts” at tickets and for more information, The film KmO will receive a special the Jackie Gleason Theatre, call 305.673.2440 or e-mail advance screening and party this Tuesday, an event which showcased [email protected]. Sept. 16, at Cinema Paradiso in Fort the many arts organizations Lauderdale. KmO is a comedy about how Miami-Dade County, and Womenfest Wrap-Up the lives of 14 people all converge one especially Miami Beach, I spent last weekend in Key evening in Spain. After the 7 p.m. has to offer. There were West, taking in the parties, events screening, enjoy Toast to Spain, a food dozens and dozens of and eye candy that is Womenfest. and wine pairing party featuring Spanish booths spotlighting Local recording artist Bev wines, paella, as well as experts who will upcoming museum McClellen delivered a spectacular explain to guests how to make paella and exhibits, film festivals, new performance at She magazine’s how to pair the perfect wine with a meal. theatre seasons, the opera, annual Sunset Beach T-Dance, so The evening is a fundraiser for the Fort ballet as well as the myriad much so that guys were coming Lauderdale International Film Festival of other wonderful cultural up to the gate of the women-only and Toast to Humanity. Tickets are $20 arts that South Florida has party just to listen and see if they for film fest members and $25 for non- to offer. After the could buy Bev’s CD. Other treats members. To reserve tickets, call showcase, there were of the weekend included the 954.760.9898 ext. 107. For more performances by the performance by Distant Echo, a information, visit www.fliff.com. Miami City Ballet, Live in Central Florida trio who got the Color and a mini-concert party going at She’s Beach Nunsense Fundraiser by the great Arturo Blanket Butch and Beach Blanket If you’re looking for a way to see a Sandoval. Mark Akens, Elliott Pilshaw and David Vance have teamed Babe contest, and Suzanne fun piece of theatre and help out a great up for the musical revue Taking a Chance on Love Now, I know how Westenhoefer’s sold-out organization, buy your tickets now for lucky we all are to live in a performance, which was going on AIDS Project Florida’s theatre night place where the cultural at the same time at Halcyon’s concert. Another benefit of the classic hit comedy by Dan landscape is energetic and vibrant, yet there Spiritual Messages on Sex and Love, crowd-pleaser was the Pirate’s Ball, featuring Goggins, Nunsense. The event, which will was still a unique electricity in the air at the Creativity and Wisdom), Tatiana de la Tierra DJ Pride. One of the most popular sights feature a wine and cheese reception before Gleason that night, when all of these diverse (A Lesbian Phemonenology) former Q cover during Womenfest were the T-shirts sported the play, takes place at the Broadway people came together and shared their boy Augusten Burroughs (Running With by some girls from Orlando, which featured Theatre, 1455 SE 17 St. Causeway in Fort passion for the arts. And you know that story Scissors) David Leavitt (Collected Stories the photo of the -Britney kiss framed Lauderdale. Nunsense is a funny play and we ran a few weeks ago, “69 Ways to be of David Leavitt) and Karen Yapalater (An by a “Wanted” poster with several different APFL is a terrific organization, so how Entertained”? Well, that was just a taste of Hour to Kill.) For more information on the captions, including “Slave 4 U” and “Girl can you go wrong? Tickets are only $25 what’s in store to keep you busy and happy Miami Book Fair International, visit Toy.” I wonder if Christina Aguilera, who and can be purchased by calling in the next few months. www.miamibookfair.com. Madonna kissed seconds after Britney, is 954.537.4111 ext. 108. See you at the feeling slighted by all the attention. theatre! Calling all Book Lovers An Entertainment Bet This is the 20th anniversary of the Miami Sure to Pay Off Book Fair International, and the organization You know Mark Akens, Elliott Pilshaw celebrated in a big way last Wednesday night and David Vance from their performances at the Britto Gallery on Lincoln Road, with the South Beach Gay Men’s Chorus, announcing their author lineup and unveiling but here’s your chance to see them in a new the poster for the Miami Book Fair, an way. The three have teamed up for the original work by pop artist Romero Britto. musical revue Taking a Chance on Love, The Book Fair is earlier this year, Nov. 2-9, Friday and Saturday, Sept. 19 and 20, at St. and will kick off a week of literary events John’s Church, 4760 Pine Tree Drive in with acclaimed author Toni Morrison on Miami Beach. The three are wonderful Nov. 2, followed by Garrison Keillor on singers with true vocal prowess, and Taking Nov. 3 and Mitch Albom on Nov. 4. This a Chance on Love will give them a chance year the fair will feature pavilions from to concentrate on music and show their different countries to spotlight each people what they can do with a song. The country’s literary arts. And with over 250 cabaret-style show will be reminiscent of old authors confirmed for this year’s Book Fair, New York supper clubs and will feature there are many of special interest to the gay diverse musical selections, including community, including advice columnist and , Nat King Cole, Jim author Dan Savage, (Skipping Towards Croce and The Beatles. While I love all three, Gomorrah: The Seven Deadly Sins and the I must say that David Vance, who also takes Pursuit of Happiness in America) Edmund stunning photographs, has a voice that could White (Fanny, A Fiction), Brad Gooch make angels weep. Don’t miss this special (Dating the Greek Gods: Empowering concert. Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for

www.ExpressGayNews.com • September 15, 2003 Q3 Q_CONCERTreview Lottapianos: a whole lot of Singer electrifies the Sound Advice Amphitheatre By Peter Aymonin works such as “Crucify” from Little Entertainment Correspondent Earthquake and “” from her The stage lights dimmed to a total . blackout at the Sound Advice Ampitheatre For Amos, it’s all about the fans, and Thursday, Sept. 4, and a hush of expectant she has a great connection with them. During voices silenced the air. A lone angelic voice her performance of “Virginia,” Amos raised echoed off stage, reciting the opening words her arms above her head and swayed to the to “.” The crowd roared to life Tori Amos as melodious guitar rifts emanated from the blackened stage. A wispy figure moved center stage, ascending to a piano- seat-throne. She touched the piano keys and suddenly, a searing spotlight illuminated an angelic Tori Amos, as the singer brought her Lottapianos tour to South Florida. In an instant, Amos’s strong voice drumbeat before placing her hands on her and fiery piano resonated throughout the almost sacred keyboard. Her fans got into amphitheater. At times, Amos played two the act as well. One fan, dressed in a tank pianos at once, uttering her characteristic top and form-fitting pants, undulated in the multilevel intonations of a single word. For aisles, letting the music wash over her. more than two hours, Amos entranced her Amos puts on a great show. An fans with introspective songs gathered from enchantress of prose, you don’t need to know her numerous . Classics such as the words to get caught in her spell, but it “Muhammed My Friend” and “” helps if you want to digest her wisdom. Die- from joined her earlier hard fans are truly blessed.

Q4 www.ExpressGayNews.com • September 15, 2003 Q_THEATERreview Is a Tasty Treat Production of Dark Musical Triumphs By Mary Damiano Arts & Entertainment Editor Rape, murder, madness, self- flagellation, cannibalism—not your typical fodder for a musical—but that’s Stephen Sondheim for you. The complex composer’s master work, Sweeney Todd, is now being given terrific treatment by the Pembroke Pines theatre of the Performing Arts in a production that runs through Sept. 28 at the Sweeney Todd is a deliciously wicked River of Grass Arts Park in Pembroke Pines. musical, and this production is engrossing The musical, which takes place in 1890s and entertaining. James Cichiewicz is fun London and tells the tale of Sweeney Todd, and creepy as the murderer hell-bent on the demon barber of Fleet Street, is not an revenge. Cindy Pearce is an absolute delight easy piece to do. It features Sondheim’s as Mrs. Lovett, and provides a perfect comic trademark music and lyrics, which are both balance to Cichiewicz’s desperate, single- operatic and full of rolling rhythms. The minded character. Michael Torok and songs require substantial vocal dexterity, and Bianca Raborg are perfect as the young the fine cast of this production is up to the lovers of the piece. Young Gary Entin does challenge. a nice turn as a young man who stumbles Sweeney Todd opens as the title upon too much of the truth. And Marc Lewis character, newly escaped from prison and gives a new dimension to what could have using an assumed name, lands in London been a one-note villain. determined to take revenge on the sicko Director Alvin Entin keeps things judge who destroyed his family and ruined moving and creates a haunting atmosphere his life. He sets up a barber shop above the with his sullen-faced chorus and simple sweet shop of Mrs. Lovett, who recognizes staging. This is a fine production of a him from the old days. Smitten with the modern classic, and should not be missed. crazed barber, she assists in his plans for revenge. When an old colleague recognizes Sweeney Todd runs through Sept. 28 Sweeney and threatens to expose him as the at the River of Grass Arts Park, at convict, Sweeney kills the man. But how Sheridan Street and 172 St. in will he dispose of the body? Let’s just say Pembroke Pines. Tickets are $12 for that Mrs. Lovett’s meat pies begin featuring adults, $13 for seniors, $12 for a brand new, unusual flavor that becomes students and $6 for children. For more all the rage in London. information, call 954.437.4884.

www.ExpressGayNews.com • September 15, 2003 Q5 Heard It Through the Gayvine Queers, Quotes and Quips of Interest

‘Queer Eye’ the Subject of Protest Apparently not everyone is enamored by the Fab Five from Queer Eye for the Straight Guy. The Montana Family Coalition has announced a campaign of protest against the hugely successful Bravo show, and will target companies who advertise on the show. Julie Millam, the coalition’s executive director, doesn’t believe that Queer Eye, in which five gay men give a straight man a makeover, is a reality show. “To me, that’s not a reality show about gay people,” Millam said. “A really good reality show for gay people would be five gay men dying of AIDS.” Hey Julie, how about joining us all in the 21st century—anyone can get AIDS, even conservatives. And it doesn’t look like you’ve ever watched the show, which is all about people helping each other out to make lives better and dreams come true. Isn’t that sort of like that whole concept of Christian charity? And here’s another idea, and stay with us now Julie, because this is really revolutionary: If you don’t like what’s on TV, turn the channel. There are, like, 60 channels on the average cable TV system, so that leaves about 59 other stations to watch while Queer Eye is on. And just a word to all the Queer Eye fans out there: Next time you’re watching the show, make a note of the commercials and drop the companies a letter or e-mail telling them how much you appreciate their sponsorship of Queer Eye for the Straight Guy. Counteract the letters they receive from Julie and her coalition cronies. Show them you’re queer and you’re here to stay.

Tab Hunter Confirms He’s Gay Movie heartthrob Tab Hunter, 72, has acknowledged that he is gay and will tell all about his secret life in Hollywood in his upcoming autobiography, due to be published by Simon & Schuster in 2005. The star of the film Damn Yankees!, who set many hearts aflutter back in his 1950s heyday, has decided to set the record straight (pardon the pun) and make sure anyone interested in his story gets the truth “from the horse’s mouth.” Tab Hunter Among the tidbits featured in the book will be details about Tab’s relationship with Anthony Perkins, and how Tab hated the measures they had to take to hide from the public and make their relationship seem platonic. Gee, Rock Hudson, Richard Chamberlain, Tab Hunter—were there any gorgeous straight men in Hollywood in the ’50s?

No Wedding Bell Blues for Melissa and Tammy Lynn Let Jen and Ben sort out their whole wedding mess. and Tammy Lynn Michaels are simply getting married. The pair, who have been together for two years, are scheduled to be joined in a ceremony this month in Malibu. (Isn’t it a shame we can’t use the phrase, “making it legal”?) The high-powered guest list includes Al and Tipper Gore.

New Hedwig Album to Benefit Harvey Milk School Hedwig and the Angry Inch creator and star John Cameron Mitchell has tapped Daniel Nardicio to produce a concert album of the cult musical. Yoko Ono and Cyndi Lauper are a few of the stars who have so far signed up to sing live tracks on the CD, which will benefit students at the Harvey Milk High School. And don’t forget that Hedwig and the Angry Inch will be presented at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts in Fort Lauderdale, Oct. 29 to Nov. 2.

‘Express’ Exclusive Queer Guy Sighting While in New York this past week, Express writer Andy Zeffer swung by Beige, the ultra-trendy Tuesday night party at Bowery Bar. After getting his cosmo at the bar Zeffer swung turned around to see non other than “Queer Eye For The Straight Guy” star Kyan Douglas chatting on his cell phone a few feet away. After gabbing for a few minutes the show’s resident stud and beauty expert disappeared into the sea of sexy hipsters who packed the outside garden on a gorgeous New York evening. Also in attendance was Richard Jay-Alexander, Miami resident and producer of the smash hit play “Nature of The Beach”. Alexander is excited about plans for making “Beach” into a film, with non other than acting legend Richard Chamberlain rumored to be cast in a lead role. Alexander chatted with Zeffer about his plans for the next evening to speak at Amy Irving’s 50th birthday bash. Alexander counts Irving as a dear friend, just as he does Barbra Streisand, with whom he works frequently. Kyan Douglas

Q6 www.ExpressGayNews.com • September 15, 2003 www.ExpressGayNews.com • September 15, 2003 Q7 Queer TV from Q2

Although there’s been a of dated. It seems like an ’80s seeing the lowest common denominator surge in gay programming in nightclub to me.” Colichman stuff. That’s what we’re trying to change.” recent years with Queer as points out that there are good Colichman believes that if more Folk, Will & Grace and this images on Queer as Folk as well, positive and realistic images of gay life are summer in particular with Boy such as people in relationships. shown on television, gay youth will grow Meets Boy and Queer Eye for “I really love the lesbian couple up with a better sense of self, and straight the Straight Guy, Colichman is on the show, and I love that youth will grow up with a greater quick to point out that just they’re raising a child and all the understanding and acceptance of gay because it’s gay, doesn’t mean issues they’re dealing with.” people, seeing more commonalities than it’s good. The benchmark for differences. “I consider Queer Eye for regular gay programming on “What we’re trying to provide on our the Straight Guy and Boy Meets television, in Colichman’s service are validating images of the Boy basically series for straight opinion, is HBO’s Six Feet community for the community, so that people, not gay people,” says Under. “It has excellent writing, young gay and lesbian men and women can Colichman. “I think they wonderful characters—-Six Feet turn on our network and see images of enforce a lot of stereotypes, and they are straight men.” Under is primo. That is the standard we are themselves that show people in not necessarily things I would put on our Colichman is no more fond of Will & aiming for. Everything else is very relationships, that show people dealing with network. Queer Eye for the Straight Guy Grace, saying that if a gay man in real life disappointing.” their families, that show people growing and leaves everyone with the impression that gay was as good-looking, smart and successful Colichman has an easier time finding changing and living fulfilling lives,” men are the arbiters of good taste, and we as Will Truman, he’d have no problem recent movies that offer good images of gay Colichman says. “These are the images of are there judging people and changing them. getting dates. He has mixed feelings about life, and points to Big Eden, Urbania and our community.” It’s soulless in its own way, when you think Queer as Folk. “The fact that it shows gay Before Night Falls as several examples. For more information, visit about it. Boy Meets Boy plays into the fear sexuality is good, but a lot of what we see “Ironically, there is a lot of good stuff out www.directv.com/here. To subscribe to that gay men are all out trying to sleep with on Queer as Folk is a bit exploitive, and kind there, but people aren’t seeing it. They’re DirecTV, call 1.800.DIRECTV (347.3288.)

Q8 www.ExpressGayNews.com • September 15, 2003 Q_TRAVELprofile

Watch tower overlooking the island of Ibiza and Sitges: Muy Caliente Es Vedra in the Southwest of Ibiza Spain’s Premier Gay Resorts Offer 2 Different Experiences By Paul Stalbaum Barcelona. Ibiza is known for simple, white stucco Travel Correspondent buildings similar to Mykonos, while Sitges’ Often when international travelers think buildings are ornately decorated with colorful of planning their next exotic, hedonistic beach tiles, wrought iron and bas reliefs. vacation, Ibiza, Spain is usually at the top of Ibiza has had a long and varied history, and people’s list—and for good reason. Ibiza offers influences from each period are found throughout excellent weather (from May to September), the island. Ibiza was part of the Carthaginian reasonably priced hotels and a wild, wild Empire before being conquered by the Romans. nightlife. Ibiza has been an attractive The Moors conquered Ibiza, and ultimately the destination for both gay and straight travelers island fell to the Catalans in medieval times. The for years. Sitges, however, is far less known most prominent feature of Ibiza is Dalt Vila, the and may be even more appealing to the gay old walled fortress on top of the hill. Just below traveler. the fortress, facing the sea, is the gay Physically and geographically, the two are neighborhood known as Sa Penya. quite different. Ibiza is a fairly large island located The beaches in both resorts are not the in the Mediterranean Sea about an hour’s flight finely granulated white sand that we find in five miles out of town, you need to drive or have my favorites, such as the Romantic and from Barcelona. Sitges is a quaint and compact the Caribbean. They tend to have gravel and bus about one-half hour and then hike 20 to Hesperia Calipolis in Sitges. The Calipolis is seaside town located only a 25-minute ride from be either brownish or gray. Some beaches are 30 minutes through woods and dunes. What a a first-class, modern gay-friendly hotel. The pebbly while others are even schlep, but well worth the effort. Naked hot Romantic is a quaint tourist-class hotel Sitges is a lovely village 35 km rocky (particularly in Ibiza). None guys and girls are everywhere. comprised of three 150-year-old villas. Los South of Barcelona of this seems to matter to the The nightlife in Ibiza and Sitges differ Molinos in Ibiza is a bit away from the bars hoards of Europeans and quite a bit as well. The bars in Sitges, although (yet close enough) but is located by one of the Americans who flock to these fun all in walking distance to each other, are gay beaches. resorts. The gay beach in Sitges is scattered around town. In Ibiza, all the gay Either destination would be an excellent located in front of the towns’ best bars are located on one street, Calle de la choice. Sitges is certainly the more convenient hotel, Hesperia Calipolis, and Virgen. What an oxymoron—Gay men and of the two, yet Ibiza might be more active and there is a nude beach located a few virgins in the same sentence! One other adventurous. Summer months are packed and miles out of town. difference is that most of the bars in Sitges temperatures are high. I personally prefer the In Ibiza, the two main gay have dance floors, while in Ibiza they tend to end of May, June and after Labor Day. beaches are not conveniently be very small with no dancing and much of So dust off your passports, pack those located but are worth the effort. the socializing is done in the street in front of thongs, and start making that call to your travel Los Molinos is a tiny strip of sand, the bars. To conserve space, I will not list the agent. but to get to it, one must maneuver bars and clubs. Suffice it to say, there are plenty tricky and slippery rocks. The to choose from. Paul Stalbaum has been a travel agent for second beach, Cavellet, is an As for hotels, many budget-oriented and 30 years. He can be reached at Rita Olwell adventure for sure. Located about plain gay-friendly hotels exist. Of course, I Travel at 954.764.8747.

www.ExpressGayNews.com • September 15, 2003 Q9 Q_CULTURALevents

Through Friday, Sept. 19: Novena for Peace— required. Call Elaine at 954.564.9232. The Sunshine Cathedral’s Prayer Ministry Team is Sunday, Nov. 2: South Florida Dance for Life— holding a daily prayer vigil for peace. There will be a Save the Date for the American Red Cross of Greater 30-minute prayer vigil at 12:10 p.m. and a 45-minute Miami & The Keys South Florida’s Dance for Life. 7 prayer vigil again at 7 p.m. at the Robert Graham and p.m. at the Gusman Center for the Performing Arts, Paul Fasana Chapel, 835 S.W. 15th St., Fort Lauderdale. 174 E. Flagler St., Downtown Miami. Featured Various musicians and speakers will participate, and performers include: Maximum Dance Company, Miami lead in the time of prayer. All are invited. For Contemporary Dance, Ballet Florida Principal Dancers information or directions call 954.462.2004 or visit and Ife-Ile Afro-Cuban Dance and Music Ensemble, www.sunshinecathedral.org. Mid Eastern Dance Exchange. For tickets and Through Thursday, Sept. 25: Lambda Chorale information call 877.877.7677 or visit Fall Auditions—Come out and audition for the fall/ www.tixops.com. winter season of South Florida’s premiere, gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and “Straight-Friendly” chorus, Live Theatre and Dance The South Florida Lambda Chorale. Auditions are Friday and Saturday, Sept. 26 and 27 and Oct Thursdays at 7 p.m. at the Goodwill Center, 2104 W. 3 and 4: Vampire Lesbians of Sodom— Commercial Blvd., Fort Lauderdale. Call Carmine dates by popular demand. Fridays at 8pm and Saturdays Martorilli at 954.563.7377 for information. at 11p. Admission: general/$20, students/$15 and Monday, Sept. 15: Open Casting Call—WIN seniors/$12. Sol Theatre Project, 1140 N. Flagler Dr., is producing an original creation that was inspired by Fort Lauderdale. Reservations Required. 954.525.6555 the musical Menopause. The WINners’ Circle has a or www.soltheatre.com. happy plot, lots of songs and characters of all ages. To Through Thursday, Sept. 21: Patriot Acts— audition or help behind the scenes, RSVP to Two engaging and thought-provoking plays: The Value [email protected], put “WIN Play” in of Names and Words of Mass Deception are at the subject line. You will receive further information Hollywood Playhouse, 2640 Washington St., and directions. 7:30 p.m. at 301 N.E. First St., Pompano Hollywood. 954.922.0404 or Beach. www.hollywoodplayhouse.com. Thursday, Sept. 18: Oakland Park and Wilton Through Sunday, Sept. 28: Men Don’t Go to Manors Chamber of Commerce Luncheon Heaven—A comedic southern tragedy. Thursdays – Meeting—Noon at Simply Delish, 2287 Wilton Dr., Saturdays, 8pm; Sundays, 2:30pm. Presented by Wilton Manors. The guest speaker is Rick Abedon of Alchemy Theatre Company at On The Boards Theatre, Brenner Realty Group. Open to all interested business 56 N. Federal Hwy., Dania Beach. For tickets and persons. $15. For information call Mike Levy at information call 954.351.0144. 954.568.7755. Thursday - Sunday, Sept. 18 - Oct. 5: True Thursday, Sept. 18: Chorus Auditions—The West—This comedy by Pulitzer Prize Winning Gay Men’s Chorus of the Palm Beaches is holding Playwright, Sam Shepard, tells the story of two brothers: auditions for its inaugural season in West Palm Beach, Austin, a Hollywood Screenwriter, and Lee, a small- 6 – 9 p.m. Bring your business-related resume, a piece time criminal. Thursdays - Saturdays, 8 p.m.; Saturdays of favorite music and be prepared to sing. For and Sundays, 3 p.m. $23/adults, $17/seniors and $13/ information, directions and appointments please contact students. American Heritage Center for the Arts, 12200 Steve or Preston at 561.540.4165. W. Broward Blvd., Building 3000. 954.577.8243 or Thursday, Sept. 18: Author Reading—James www.mosaictheatre.com for information and tickets. Swain, Author of Sucker Bet, 7:30 p.m. at the Broward Friday, Sept. 19: Nunsense—Dan Goggin’s County Main Library, 100 S. Andrews Ave., Fort original Nunsense is back! 7:15 p.m. wine and cheese Lauderdale. The novel features Tony Valentine, a reception, 8 p.m. curtain up. 1455 S.E. 17th St. hardened ex-cop who nabs casino hustlers. Swain is a Causeway, Fort Lauderdale, 954.537.4111 Ext. 108. Florida resident and a gambling expert. Free, www.apfl.org. $25. Proceeds benefit AIDS Project preregistration required. 954.357.7401. Florida. Thursday, Sept. 18: Hispanics in Baseball— Presented by Juan Martinez, manager of Hispanic Sales & Marketing for the Florida Marlins, 7 p.m. at the South Music Regional/BCC Library, 7300 Pines Blvd., Pembroke Wednesday, Sept. 17: Steely Dan—7:30 p.m. Pines, 954.201.8825. at Sound Advice Amphitheatre, 601-7 Sansburys Way, Friday, Sept. 19: Message from Beyond—Join West Palm Beach, 561.795.8883. Miss Gloria Stone, a well-known South Florida psychic, Wednesday, Sept. 17: Sundown—Country medium and clairvoyant. Everyone is guaranteed a music at the Hollywood Beach Theater, Johnson Street reading. Tickets are limited and must be purchased in and the Broadwalk. 7 – 9 p.m., weather permitting. Free. advance. $45/person. 7:30 p.m. at Embassy Suites, 1100 954.921.3404. S.E. 17th St., Fort Lauderdale. 1.866.616.6698. Saturday, Sept. 20: Flamenco Music—South Saturday, Sept. 20: Congregation Etz Chaim Florida guitarist Eric Hansen performs at 2 p.m. at the Holds Selichot Service & Pot Luck—Congregation Northwest Regional Library, 3151 University Dr., Coral Etz Chaim ushers in the High Holy Days season with Springs. Selichot at the Shore Club, 1901 N. Ocean Dr., Fort Saturday, Oct. 25: Cher The Farewell Tour— Lauderdale. 8:30 p.m., Selichot Pot Luck and social 7:30 p.m. at Office Depot Center, 2555 Panthers Dr., hour; 10 p.m., Selichot Service. For information about Sunrise. 954.835.8000 or TicketMaster. Selichot and to RSVP your contribution to the Pot Luck, call Jesse at 954.424.8449. Exhibitions Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 20 and 21: Instant Through Tuesday, Jan. 12: Frank Lloyd Paradise Travel Tourism Show—10 a.m. – 6 p.m. on Wright Exhibition—Frank Lloyd Wright: An the Hollywood Beach Boardwalk in Hollywood. Free. Exhibition of Books, Artifacts and Art from the 954.923.4343. Collection of Donald Singer will be on display in the Sunday, Sept. 21: WIN T-Dance—4 – 8 p.m. at Bienes Center for the Literary Arts on the sixth floor of Cathode Ray, 1307 E. Las Olas Blvd. Fort Lauderdale. the Broward County Main Library. For information visit $10/members, $13/non-members. www.broward.org/bienes or call 954.357.8692. www.womeninnetwork.com. Through Sunday, Nov. 23: Saint Peter and the Sunday, Sept. 21: Sisterhood of Congregation Vatican: The Legacy of the Popes—The largest Etz Chaim Meeting—Guest speaker Emunah Herzog Vatican collection to tour North America. Seven days will speak about how to reduce stress in your life. a week, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Tuesdays until 9 p.m. at the Luncheon will be served. 2 p.m. at the Sunshine Museum of Art, 1 Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale. Cathedral Social Hall, 1480 S.W. Ninth Ave., Fort www.MuseumOfArt.org, 877.787.7711. Lauderdale. $5 donation per person, reservations

Q10 www.ExpressGayNews.com • September 15, 2003 Maximum_Volume Pumping It Up with New Album Releases

Cher: ‘Live—The Farewell Tour’ (Warner) Guess who’s back, with the same old stuff repackaged in a new way. For those Cher fans who can’t get enough of the throaty-voiced diva, who is currently touring the world on her never- ending farewell tour, Live—The Farewell Tour is the CD to have. The CD strives to capture the energy of a live concert, but it misses its mark. It’s really just a lot of live tracks strung together, not a concert experience. There’s no audience patter to speak of, no real improvisation. That diminishes the overall feel of the CD. At first, it may seem like a lot of fun hearing the old classics given new techno treatment. “Bang Bang” is a perfect example—it sounds so menacing, and unexpectedly erotic with its heavy metal beat. Cher also does this extended medley of the trio of songs that gave her new life after Sonny—”Half Breed,” “Gypsies, Tramps and Theives” and “Dark Lady.” The Indian-sounding background during “Half Breed,” however, is way over the top. Cool drumming would have been enough. “Half Breed” segues into “Gypsies, Tramps and Thieves,” and then into “Dark Lady.” Each song is abbreviated, which is a real shame. Cher made her name as the queen of these musical soap operettas, and it really sucks that on this live CD they’re treated as a piece of necessary business that needs to be gotten out of the way so that more lip service can be given to the more current stuff, such as “Believe,” “If I Could Turn Back Time” and “Song for the Lonely,” which is the CD’s best track. I’ll say this for Cher, after all these years, her voice has held up—it’s still strong and resonant—although at times she sounds like a Cher impersonator rather than the real thing. Diehard Cher fans will probably enjoy this CD, but there’s really nothing here that hasn’t been done before, and been done better. —Mary Damiano

Michelle Branch: ‘Hotel Paper’ (Maverick) When bounded onto the music scene last year with her debut CD, , she distinguished herself from the typical gaggle of young female singers. Branch writes or co-writes all her songs, plays guitar and sings with fresh, honest vocals. Branch may be played on pop stations, but she’s a rocker at heart. Hotel Paper is a terrific follow-up to The Spirit Room, and proves that Michelle Branch is no flash in the pan. In only her second release, Branch’s voice and style has reached another level of maturity and resonance. The rock riffs are combined with some bluesy sounds and rolling acoustics. Branch’s songs are original and fresh, and she’s not afraid to try something new. Even on her love songs, she manages poignancy without sappy sentimentality. The CD opens with Branch’s current hit, “Are You Happy Now?”—a great rock tune about breaking up. Another fabulous track is “Love Me Like That,” a duet with , whose voice melds beautifully with Branch’s. “Love Me Like That” is reminiscent of Fleetwood Mac and is one of the highlights of Hotel Paper. Of course, Crow’s appearance on Hotel Paper should be no surprise; Branch has a way of garnering interest from music’s heavy hitters. Let’s not forget her collaboration with , on the catchy tune “Game of Love.” Such associations, as well as Branch’s music, show that she’s a keeper and should never be lumped into the pop tart category. Michelle Branch is in a category all by herself. —Mary Damiano

www.ExpressGayNews.com • September 15, 2003 Q11 Q12 www.ExpressGayNews.com • September 15, 2003