Nov. 28, 2018

THE NEO-FUTURISTS MARK THREE DECADES IN CHICAGO PAGE 6

Cast of the 2014- 15 Neo-Futurist production of Burning Bluebeard. Photo by Evan Hanover Nov. 28, 2018 2

INDEX VOL. 34, No. 10, Nov. 28, 2018 The combined forces of Windy City Times, founded Sept. 1985, and Outlines newspaper, Theater reviews 4-5 founded May 1987. Theater: The Neo-Futurists mark three decades 6 PUBLISHER Terri Klinsky Theater reviews 6-7 8 Books: Transgender man talks of survival, HIV, self-acceptance 8 EXECUTIVE EDITOR Andrew Davis

Books: Ripe: Letters, by Alan Semrow, seeks to redefine relationships 8 MANAGING EDITOR Matt Simonette DIGITAL DIRECTOR Jean Albright Books: Review: Death Checks In 8 ART DIRECTOR AND ASSOCIATE EDITOR Kirk Williamson Music: Lakeside Pride spotlights ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ 10 SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR Scott Duff BUSINESS MANAGER Ripley Caine SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Terri Klinsky, Kirk Williamson, Scott Duff, Kathy Breit, Theresa Santos Volpe, Kevin Siarkowski NATIONAL SALES Rivendell Media, 212-242-6863 THEATER AND DANCE EDITOR Catey Sullivan SENIOR WRITERS Jonathan Abarbanel, Mary Shen Barnidge, Liz Baudler, Charlsie Dewey, Ross Forman, Carrie Maxwell, Rev. Irene Monroe, Jerry Nunn, Tony Peregrin, Angelique Smith, Sari Staver, Sarah Toce, Melissa Wasserman WRITERS Sarah Katherine Bowden, Ada Cheng, Sheri Flanders, Joe Franco, Veronica Harrison, Kelsey Hoff, Aaron Hunt, Eric Karas, Brian Kirst, Paige Listerud, Billy Masters, Scott C. Morgan, Amelia Orozco, Ariel Parrella-Aureli, Kerry Reid, Dana Rudolph, Ana Serna, Karen Topham, 16 Regina Victor, Sean Margaret Wagner, Lauren Warnecke, Steve Warren, Lauren Emily Whalen SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHERS Kat Fitzgerald, Hal Baim, Tim Carroll, Ed Negron, Vernon Hester CIRCULATION DIRECTOR Jean Albright DISTRIBUTION Ashina, Allan, Dan, John, Sue and Victor WEB HOSTING LoveYourWebsite.com (lead programmer: Martie Marro) PRESIDENT Tracy Baim (773) 871-7610 FAX (773) 871-7609 Editorial: [email protected] Sales: [email protected] Calendar: [email protected] Circulation: [email protected] Art/ad copy: [email protected] Theater: [email protected]

Music: Concerts: Eckroth, Wainwright; Jackson, Echo and Bunnymen 10 Copyright 2018 Lambda Publications Inc./Windy City Media Group; All rights reserved. Reprint by permission only. Back Comedy: Melissa DuPrey’s work in the age of reckoning 11 issues (if available) for $5 per issue (postage included). Return postage must accompany all manuscripts, drawings, 10 Questions with Vic: Paula Abdul 12 and photographs submitted if they are to be returned, and no responsibility may be assumed for unsolicited materials. All rights to letters, art and photographs sent to Windy Business: Black-owned store offers beauty items in Westchester 13 City Times will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication purposes and as such, subject to editing Music: 98 Degrees warming holiday season 14 and comment. The opinions expressed by the columnists, cartoonists, letter writers, and commentators are their own Poetry: Nia & Ness use dance, poetry to tell story, analyze identity 15 and do not necessarily reflect the position of Windy City Times. Publication of the name, photograph, or likeness of a person or organization in articles or advertising in Windy Music: Concerts: Queer trance; Glitter Guts anniversary 16 City Times is not to be construed as any indication of the sexual orientation of such person or organization. While Sports: Steve Kasperski: Knocking it out of the park 18 we encourage readers to support the advertisers who make this newspaper possible, Windy City Times cannot accept WCT Holiday Gift Guide: Week one 19-22 responsibility for advertising claims.

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Holiday Approved! ‘Tis the season for spreading good cheer, skating under dazzling lights, telling Santa your greatest wishes, and discovering the perfect gift!

However you holiday, it’s all here in Rosemont.

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tales. With Mary Zimmerman and her artistic team THEATER REVIEW at the helm, Hans Christian Andersen’s The Stead- fast Tin Soldier make good on an unspoken prom- The Steadfast ise to be like nothing you’ve ever seen. Tin Soldier In The Steadfast Tin Soldier, we follow a bro- Author: Hans Christian Andersen ken soldier figurine (Alex Stein) that is discarded At: Lookingglass Theatre Company, by a fickle child, and must then face off against 821 N. Michigan Ave. a maniacal Jack-In-The Box Goblin (Anthony Tickets: lookingglasstheatre.org or Irons), a bureaucratic sewer rat (John Gregorio), 312-337-0665; $45-$85 street toughs, a hungry fish and a no-nonsense Runs through: Jan. 13 Nursemaid (Christopher Donahue) before he is Christopher Donahue, John Gregorio, reunited with the toy ballerina (Kasey Foster) he Alex Stein in The Steadfast Tin Soldier. BY SEAN MARGARET WAGNER loves. The production uses puppets, dance, and Photo by Liz Lauren circus feats to get the story across; everything For the discerning child, or jaded adult, Looking- but words uttered aloud. It’s a Victorian style glass Theatre has managed to avoid a treacly pantomime complete with voluminous wigs and a holiday production and inject some bitterness chamber orchestra, but don’t let that scare away and heartbreak into a slot reserved for fluffy fairy Turn to page 9

long before Hamilton came to town. Q Brothers Yard’s ability to transform. Scott Davis’ set re- ging the guy. Doran is a lot of fun as Scrooge’s THEATER REVIEW Christmas Carol—now in its fifth production with mains a Christmas light-decked thrust, but rather burnout friend Dick, and he radiates good cheer Chicago Shakes—brings comfort and joy to the than surround the actors with stadium seating, as Fred. Hoogenakker is a delightfully sour nerd, Q Brothers audience using clever musical homages, while the directors and designer had cabaret tables in- and it is to the actor’s credit that we easily per- Christmas Carol displaying impressive and heartfelt performanc- stalled, lending a marvelous club energy to the ceive the hidden grief that is often only hinted at By: Q Brothers Collective and Rick Boynton es. performance. It allows the audience to view the in Scrooge’s backstory. At: The Yard at Chicago Shakespeare The basic story of A Christmas Carol remains show as a concert where anything can happen. On the whole, JQ’s musical choices are inspired, Theater, 800 E. Grand Ave. unchanged in this reinterpretation that includes Hoogenakker runs through the tables greeting with the Ghost of Christmas Past combining Tickets: 312-595-5600 or c dancehall music, rock ballads, dubstep, and viewers at the end of the show and, throughout, shades of Run DMC, LL Cool J, and earlier im- ChicagoShakes.com; $30-$52 some great Run DMC beats—all spun by Kiernan the Q Brothers wink and nod at audience mem- presarios, while Scrooge develops smoother and Runs through: Dec. 30 Pereira. Pushed forward into the twenty-first cen- bers who are getting into their groove. more complicated stretches of rhyme over time. tury, Scrooge (John Hoogenakker) is still a tight- The Q Brothers make a fantastic ensemble, The only odd decision is Jacob Marley’s perfor- BY SARAH KATHERINE BOWDEN fisted old miser who won’t let his beleaguered each man jumping from character to character mance of reggae music, mostly because it’s a worker Bob Cratchit (Postell Pringle) turn up the in A Christmas Carol with humor and dedication. one-note joke on his name. But in a story that There was a time when mashing together hip hop thermostat in their office, and he still won’t hear It is particularly fun to see Pringle have to play provides solid holiday cheer, a bit of anarchy, and and theater traditions might have seemed absurd of attending his nephew Fred (Jackson Doran) Cratchit and his daughter Martha in the same a lot of heart, there’s little to complain about— to the Chicago theatergoer. Christmas party. When his long-dead business scene, using the excuse of smelling what’s cook- and much more to celebrate. But thanks to the Q Brothers Collective and Jacob Marley (JQ) visits to warn him he will be ing to hide his face from the audience and play its ongoing creative partnership with Chicago visited by three spirits, Scrooge greets his re- both voices. JQ plays Tiny Tim as a pint-sized c Shakespeare Theater, their high-energy fusion demption kicking and screaming. emcee in the making, and his Ghost of Christmas of the two art forms has been celebrated since Directors GQ and JQ take full advantage of The Present pokes fun at Macklemore without drag- CRITICS’PICKS beautiful dresses, but also explores the cost steps and rolling furniture pieces, and ballroom The Safe House, City Lit Theatre at Edgewater THEATER REVIEW of living large through the eyes of the watch- scenes are beautifully enhanced with Steph Presbyterian Church, through Dec. 16. The oc- ful, sensitive Fanny. Acclaimed playwright Kate Paul’s movement direction and Andrew Hansen’s cupants of the title dwelling may be a three- Mansfield Park Hamill brings this world premiere adaptation original score. The effect is both cinematic and generation white, het Norman Rockwell family Playwright: Kate Hamill to Northlight Theatre, and also acts in the pro- theatrical, embodying the choreography the up- in suburban Michigan on the surface, but author At: Northlight Theatre, 9501 Skokie Blvd., duction as Fanny’s foil, gossipy socialite Mary per class must learn to keep up appearances and Kristine Thatcher’s savvy filial dynamics render Skokie Crawford. Though Mansfield Park’s first act runs keep away demons, with varying degrees of suc- their needs—and solutions—applicable to all Tickets: $30-88; northlight.org a bit long, Hamill’s script coupled with Stuart cess. Izumi Inaba’s costumes are breathtaking, demographics. MSB Runs through: Dec. 16 Carden’s direction eclipses the simple delights particularly symbolic animal disguises for act The Nutcracker, House Theatre at the Chopin, and biting social commentary of Austen’s writ- one’s masquerade ball, the pastel floral gowns through Dec. 30. The House Company’s adapta- BY LAUREN EMILY WHALEN ing, updating certain aspects of the story while of Fanny’s spoiled cousin Mariah (Anu Bhatt) tion transforms E.T.A. Hoffman’s romantic fancy remaining true. and Fanny’s beloved gold heart necklace, a gift into a mythic tale of a household battling the What is the price of passivity? Hamill, one of the most-produced playwrights from her brother and the one talisman she holds sorrow threatening their holiday cheer, their Fanny Price (Kayla Carter) isn’t allowed to in the United States, has previously adapted onto through the years. resistance aided by clever reanimated toys, say no. From childhood, when she’s taken from Austen’s Pride and Prejudice and Sense and As always, Northlight attracts actors who are tuneful musical interludes, thrilling sword fights her squalid home and placed with relatives at a Sensibility. Her love of Austen is apparent in the best of the best. Hamill’s Mary is a stand- and scrumptious cookies. MSB massive country estate, she must talk, walk and every hushed lovers’ conversation and piece of out, as is Nate Burger as Mary’s roguish brother Gypsy, Porchlight Music Theatre, through Dec. dress like the rich. That’s not to say Fanny is witty banter. What sets Hamill apart from other Henry, who decides to pursue Fanny as a way to 29. E. Faye Butler is ferocious yet tender in this accepted by her family: with one notable excep- Austen adaptors is her ability to go one step amuse himself. Gabriel Ruiz’s Edmund, Fanny’s exceptional production of a legendary musical. tion, everyone treats her as a lifelong charity further, setting a feminist tone that the author cousin and ally, is both gracious and gallant, Butler was born to play Mama Rose. JA case. When it comes time for Fanny to make real would likely love. Hamill’s Mansfield Park fur- and Bhatt’s Mariah hilariously shallow. Only Neverland, Prop Thtr, through Dec. 2; Peter choices, does she draw on her carefully guarded ther explores every woman’s limited ability to Carter seems a bit out of her element as Fanny, Pan, Bros Do Prose at the Mercury Theater, morality or continue to be a well-dressed door- say “no” in polite society, as well as the dark se- stumbling through her dialect and emotional arc through Dec. 23. You’ve got two Peter Pan op- mat? crets behind most every wealthy family. Some- as everyone else acts circles around her. Hiccups tions this month, with Prop and Bros Do Prose Maybe not your typical image of a Jane Austen one has to pay for those large houses and pretty aside, Northlight’s Mansfield Park is well worth both telling the story of the boy who refused to story. clothes, after all. the trip to Skokie: lush, gorgeous and surpris- grow up. If you’re a J.M. Barrie aficionado, this But Mansfield Park is exactly that. Austen’s Director Carden stages Mansfield Park like ingly thought-provoking. is your season. CES third novel has plenty of romance, intrigue and an elaborate dance: transitions involve quick —By Abarbanel, Barnidge and Sullivan Nov. 28, 2018 5 THEATER REVIEW (Brittani Yawn), who has a job at the hottest smooth figure-skating movies. theater in town. Can a chance meeting with star The show, though, belongs to Genco. Her Ice SnowGirls— Ice Crystal Connors (Sydney Genco) get Snowmi Crystal Connors would make Gina Gershon proud, out of her seedy strip club gig and into the big from southern-fried dialect to faux-lesbian kiss- The Musical leagues? es. Genco moves through every scene as if she Playwright: Derek Van Barham (book), In the world of SnowGirls, Mrs. Claus (Erin owns it, and in fact she does. Even when she’s David Cerda, Scott Lamberty and Daly) struts around in tight dresses lambasting not spouting double entendres, Genco projects Jeff Thomson (music) her alcoholic, impotent spouse, while Rudolph everything the character is: once an innocent At: Mary’s Attic, 5400 N. Clark St. (Max McKune) guides the new strippers with a youth herself who’s had to claw her way to the Tickets: $20-30; BrownPaperTickets.com highly suspect and admittedly problematic set top to survive. Runs through: Dec. 30 of ground rules. (Hint: they involve keeping Ru- SnowGirls is neither fun for the whole family dolph, er, happy.) Writer Derek Van Barham is nor the faint of heart. For adults who love sex BY LAUREN EMILY WHALEN both intimately familiar with the original Show- jokes and Christmas, it’s a spectacular way to girls—SnowGirls has Versace jokes aplenty—and escape family members or treat visiting friends. SnowGirls—The Musical is parody at its finest. smart enough to emphasize the broader aspects Prepare yourself for reindeer nipples, sultry kicks The latest world premiere from Chicago favorite of what’s essentially a backstage story with more Harper Leander and Grant Drager in SnowGirls. and sociopathy—SnowGirls and its scheming pro- Hell in a Handbag productions hits all the right raunch. Music from Scott Lamberty, Jeff Thomson Photo by Rick Aguilar Studios tagonists are here to stay. notes. There are many allusions to its original and Handbag artistic director David Cerda is fun source material Showgirls, the 1995 film that and catchy, ranging from Ice Crystal’s sultry, pro- quickly progressed from box-office flop to camp fane solos to Snowmi’s soulful ballads. Martinez’s classic. However, the ridiculous nature of Snow- staging and choreography boasts many callbacks Girls, involving pole dancing, erotic coupling and to the original without alienating those who eSPOTLIGHT plenty of backstabbing—where the main players haven’t seen it. are reindeer—makes the world premiere musical SnowGirls’ costumes alone are worth the ticket When you’re pondering which of myriad hilarious to everyone from Showgirls aficionados price, thanks to Kate Setzer Kamphausen’s pen- Nutcrackers”to shell out for this season, don’t to those who have never seen the movie. Direc- chant for tight-fitting crushed velvet, glittery overlook A & A Ballet’s Art Deco Nutcracker, tor and choreographer Jon Martinez and a stellar antlers and platform boots. Though Leander is starring out American Ballet Theatre dancer cast embrace the silliness as only Hell in a Hand- a far stronger dancer than she is a singer, and Jose Miguel Sebastian as the Nutcracker Prince. bag can, and SnowGirls is one hour and forty-five perhaps the composers could have better ac- Featuring Tchaikovsky’s iconic score but set minutes of raunchy holiday fun. commodated her limited vocal range and lack of in the Roaring ‘20s, choreographer Alexis Boston Conservatory graduate Harper Leander breath support, her Snowmi is a lovely babe in Kremnev’s staging includes 175 dancers. Per- is Snowmi Malone, a reindeer who arrives at the the bawdy woods. Daly’s powerful set of pipes formances are Nov. 30-Dec. 2 at the Studebaker North Pole with stars in her eyes (at least, when and onstage fearlessness are an ideal match for Theatre, 410 S. Michigan Ave. Tickets are $30- she’s not throwing an epic tantrum). Snowmi Mrs. Claus, and Grant Drager is sleazy perfection $50; visit Aacenterfordance.org. PR photo of Jose Miguel Sebastian quickly befriends kind Santa Claus groupie Jolly as the scheming Zip, who woos Snowmi with his

By FAMILIAR playwright Danai Gurira of A joy-filled comedy about a wedding Black Panther celebration, an unexpected guest and fame a secret that will change a family forever.

2 FOR 1 TICKETS NOV 28-30 USE CODE: WINDYCITY Nov. 28, 2018 6

ing things and having them fail.” Cast of the 2014- In the viral digital age, even the short topi- 15 Neo-Futurist THEATER cal pieces that go into The Infinite Wrench each production of process.” week run the risk of feeling stale. Chiang said The Neo-Futurists Burning Bluebeard. The first Neo-Lab show, Tif Harrison’s Saturn Re- “You have to change the nature of your vitriol. To Photo by Evan turns, opened in 2016. Since then, the company make quote-unquote political work or a play that Hanover mark three has presented Kirsten Riiber’s Tangles & Plaques, is speaking toward the greater world situation; based on her work with Alzheimers patients. (The you’re not the smartest quote anymore. You’re not show recently won an NEA grant to tour colleges the first response by a long shot.” decades and healthcare training institutions.) Next up, Instead, the work in The Infinite Wrench of- in March, is Nick Hart’s Remember the Alamo. ten focuses on what managing director Kendall Meantime, Ida Cuttler’s Comfortable Shoes, which Karg calls “creating imagery you’ll go home with combines running and the narrative structure of it.” In a recent performance, the ensemble sat in 1,001 Nights, gets a public workshop presenta- a line and passed handfuls of water to one an- tion on Thursday, Nov. 29. other while meditating on how much easier it is The interests of the ensemble drive the prime- to opt out of the political process when one has time eclecticism. “As far as prime-time shows, privilege. It created an apt metaphor for “trickle- because of our aesthetic and the fact that we’re down” power—those who have the most “water” not playing characters, that lends itself in a way don’t think about preserving access for people to talk about history or ideas,” said Chiang. struggling to get just enough to survive. Over the years, the performers have also drawn Those politics are also reflected in how the upon a wide range of styles in creating their short company is run. Karg told Windy City Times, “One pieces and the prime-time work. Lisa Buscani, of the first things the board president and every- one of the earliest “Too Much” ensemble mem- body interviewing me said was ‘You have to really BY KERRY REID sion of sport, poetry and living newspaper.” The bers who still performs with The Infinite Wrench, be ready to collaborate with the artists. They’re Neo-Futurists also have branches in New York City was a National Poetry Slam champion in 1992. your boss. They’re going to impose consensus Thirty years ago, the Neo-Futurists opened a late- and San Francisco performing their version of The Her recent pieces in Wrench felt reminiscent of model techniques when you work with them.’” night show that became first a cult favorite, and Infinite Wrench. poetic monologues she did in the earlier days. Today, that model still guides the company and then an institution. And though Too Much Light Current artistic director Kurt Chiang, who joined Jay Torrence, a former ensemble member, brought its larger commitment to the neighborhood. “This Makes the Baby Go Blind changed its name two the ensemble in 2008 and took his current posi- an interest in physical theater and clowning, as place is always spoken of as the center of com- years ago after a dispute with founder and former tion in 2015, said “We’re the granddaddy of the seen in his full-length devised piece about the munity,” said Karg. “People feel that they’re at artistic director Greg Allen, the Neos continue to indefinable theater.” Indeed, it’s always been 1903 Iroquois Theatre fire, Burning Bluebeard. home here. They meet up with their friends here. churn out more new scripts (albeit super-short easier to describe the Neos in terms of what they (The show, first produced in 2011, plays Dec. 26- We have proposals on that stage all the time.” ones) than any other company in town. are not: namely, NOT a sketch or improv company. 31 at the Neo-Futurists in a co-production with “We’re a baffling place,” said Chiang with a The late-night show, now called The Infinite They’re also not solely defined by the late-night the Ruffians.) laugh. Perhaps. But the Neo-Futurists have every Wrench, largely follows the template set by show. For many years, they’ve presented prime- “When you do a full-length work, you really are intention of keeping audiences baffled for an- “Too Much...”: thirty short plays, all created by time shows created within the ensemble (which allowed to bring to the table all of these dif- other 30 years. the ensemble in an ever-changing line-up, to has encompassed more than 70 people since ferent influences you’re exploring already,” said The Neo-Futurists will offer a special 30th- be performed within one hour. The aesthetic is the company’s founding). More recently, they’ve Torrence. Cuttler, who was in the lab process for anniversary performance of The Infinite Wrench randomness (the running order is determined by started fostering these shows through the Neo- Riiter’s Tangles & Plaques, said “It’s definitely a on Sunday, Dec. 2, 7 p.m. at the Neo-Futurist audiences shouting out the numbers next to the Lab, which offers one ensemble member per newer thing, when you’re used to making shorter Theater, 5153 N. Ashland Ave. Information and titles in the program, and the admission price by season a commission to develop work through plays with a quick turnaround, to sit with an idea reservations at 773-878-4557 or NeoFuturists. rolling dice), risk and realness. The goal is a “fu- what Chiang called “a long-term public-facing and actually be able to work on devising and try- org.

THEATER REVIEW brothers (and their father), an eight-person chil- up. Thomas’ Pharoah may not be the best Elvis dren’s choir, a five-member female dance chorus, impersonator ever to shine on a stage, but he’s Joseph and the a five-piece orchestra, two narrators and a par- certainly a ton of fun. Speaking of beards, one of tridge in a pear tree (Kidding!) on a stage that is the most wonderfully unexpected visual gags in Amazing Technicolor nowhere near expansive enough to accommodate Estrin’s repertoire comes when the children’s cho- them. rus dons fake beards to become the “hairy bunch Dreamcoat Somehow Estrin and choreographer Jake Ganzer of Ishmaelites” to whom the brothers sell Joseph. Playwright: Andrew Lloyd Webber even manage to get a couple of raucous dance He also does some fabulous things with the “fab and Tim Rice scenes going but, for the most part, there is a lot five,” as the female chorus is dubbed. Go, go, go At: Citadel Theatre, 300 S. Waukegan Rd, of standing on stairs and platforms, though that Estrin! Lake Forest doesn’t detract at all from the quality of the show, The whole thing plays out on a nicely designed Tickets: 847-735-8554, ext. 1, or for this is one show that is all about the music. set by Eric Luchen that takes full advantage of Citadeltheatre.com; $45 Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor And Citadel comes through with shining (techni) Dreamcoat. the available space and is flexible enough for var- Runs through: Dec. 23 colors. As the titular dreamer, Jacob Barton is ied looks. Diane D. Fairchild’s lighting design is Photo by North Shore Camera Club thoroughly impressive. His mellifluous singing stellar, and Bob Boxer’s sound design is flawless BY KAREN TOPHAM voice, his everyman appearance, his solid acting, rest of the cast. Both actresses have remarkable (though one mic—unfortunately Joseph’s—did and his congenial attitude serve him well, and he get a bit wonky the night I saw the show). Sarah You’ll never get me to agree that the small stage voices, which is a hallmark shared by this entire even plays guitar (one of several cast members cast. The brothers and father Jacob (JP Thomas) Lake Rayburn’s costume design takes cues from of Lake Forest’s Citadel Theatre is a great space to add to the orchestra). Barton is simply perfect past productions of the play but adds some nice for putting on large cast musicals, but if you’re have a lot of fun with such numbers as “One More even in such dichotomous songs as the cheer- Angel in Heaven” and “Those Canaan Days,” and touches. And Ryan Brewster’s music direction is going to do one, Joseph and the Amazing Tech- ful “Any Dream Will Do” and the plaintive “Close top-notch. nicolor Dreamcoat is an excellent choice. I honestly couldn’t envision composer Andrew Every Door.” Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice ever expecting a cast This is a Joseph that ought to provide a well- Director Robert Estrin obviously thought so, In addition to Parker, Estrin has cast not one deserved huge holiday hit for Citadel. And when and he has brought us a Joseph with a top-notch to enjoy these signature songs more. but two narrators, and both Carmen Risi and Lau- But when Thomas steps out from behind his they bring out the dreamcoat one last time, you’ll cast that has enough talent to help us to over- ra Thoresen are wonderful, whether telling the be cheering right along with everyone else for look the necessity for repetitive and sometimes a (intentionally) ridiculous beard to become story to the children’s choir, leading us through Pharoah, that’s when things really get all shook this powerful cast and this delightful production. bit stagnant staging that comes with fitting 12 the various scenes or dancing along with the Nov. 28, 2018 7

as the citizens of Bedford Falls. THEATER REVIEW Shawn Goudie, Camille Robinson and This show has a fair amount of schmaltz sprin- It’s a Wonderful Brandon Dahlquist in It’s a Wonderful Life. kled in. (The phrase “Capra-corn” exists for a Photo by Johnny Knight reason.) But dark times require light and love, and that is what the American Blues ensemble Life: Live provides in abundance, along with holiday songs in Chicago! and 1940s pop standards. Camille Robinson, who Playwright: Adapted from the 1946 film also plays Mary Bailey with easy charm, brought (screenplay by Frances Goodrich, Albert down the house before the house lights went Hackett, Frank Capra and Jo Swerling), down with Someone to Watch Over Me and Dara based on the short story The Greatest Gift, Cameron, who plays Violet and Zuzu, found wist- by Philip Van Doren Stern fulness amid the cheer with I’ll Be Seeing You. At: American Blues Theater, Stage 773, Brandon Dahlquist’s George doesn’t go quite as 1225 W. Belmont Ave. dark as past incarnations I’ve seen. But he and Tickets: 773-654-3103; the rest of the cast do a fine job of honoring the AmericanBluesTheater.com; $19-$59 original roles without resorting to mere mimicry. Runs through: Jan. 5 John Mohrlein, the only cast member to have been with the show every year, delivers a delight- BY KERRY REID ful double whammy as sneering Mr. Potter (who to my ears has more than a little Dick Cheney in It’s somehow fitting that American Blues Theater’s his demeanor) and as fluttery Clarence. Ian Paul annual radio-play presentation of It’s a Wonderful Custer and James Joseph fill out most of the rest Life is second only to the Goodman’s A Christ- of the male roles, including Harry and Uncle Billy, mas Carol as the longest running annual holiday respectively, with quicksilver aplomb. Matt Ed- show in the city. Charles Dickens may have been monds’ announcer/pianist and Shawn J. Goudie’s first out of the box with a holiday narrative about solid foley work keep the radio-play conceit in an unhappy man finding out the real meaning high gear without overpowering the story. of life—with supernatural assistance—but Frank Ironically, George’s financial problems are Capra’s film covered it in American tropes. solved mostly by his millionaire pal Sam Wain- Gwendolyn Whiteside’s staging hews closely to wright coming through. Capra wasn’t advocating the company traditions, from the “audiograms” socialist revolution, even though George says, that audience members write for loved ones to “There’s enough in the world for everyone’s need, be read during the show, to the milk and cookies but not everyone’s greed.” But the spirit of radi- served by the cast in the lobby afterward. Jingles ComEd and Fahlstrom’s Fresh Fish Market) and a the fictional radio station is called) is as invested cal compassion that saves George’s soul is some- by Michael Mahler promoting sponsors (including shout-out to a veteran remind us that WABT (as in good old American capitalism and patriotism thing we can all use this time of year.

One citizen. AND FRIENDS One ward. One election that will change Chicago. JUNE 8 RIGHTLYND WORLD PREMIERE PLAY BY IKE HOLTER

DIRECTED BY LISA PORTES

TICKETS ON SALE FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30 AT 10AM TICKETS AVAILABLE AT THE CHICAGO THEATRE BOX OFFICE OR MSG.COM/CHICAGOTHEATRE NOW–DEC 23 The Chicago Theatre provides disabled accommodations and sells tickets to disabled individuals through our Disabled Services department, which may be reached at 888-609-7599 any weekday from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Ticketmaster orders are subject to service charges. GET TIX: 773.871.3000 or VICTORYGARDENS.ORG Nov. 28, 2018 8

contribution that I can make. Thank god I can remember it all.” Transgender BOOKS Belovitch said parents today should support the life he is living today. their children and let their children discover their man talks of “From early on, in my own innocence, I thought identity at their own pace. “Let them figure it out it was great that I felt different, or looked differ- and take a step back and only intervene when ent, or acted differently than most other boys my you have to.” survival, HIV, age, but later on in my life it turned against me,” Looking back, he said he doesn’t really have he said. regrets, but he does wish he’d had support early self-acceptance Belovitch said by puberty the negative mes- on so maybe he could have avoided the pain that BY CHARLSIE DEWEY sages were so strong that he also began to think he went through. there must be something wrong with him. “I’m the perfect example, if someone had just When listening to Brian Belovitch recount the “It was definitely a combination of messages guided and supported me and listened and let me first 30 to 40 years of his life, it’s hard not to I was barraged with from my parents, siblings, be who I was, maybe I could have avoided the wonder how he survived it all. He admits that his teachers, friends, etc. I just kept receiving this problems later on if I’d had more support.” journey almost killed him. message from those people that some how there Trans Figured: My Journey from Boy to Girl to It’s ironic because so much of that journey was must have been a mistake about my gender, or Woman to Man is available now through Sky- about survival, making choices based on how to whatever it was, I was wrong,” he said. horse Publishing. stay safe and also trying to make those around By his mid to late teens, Belovitch had begun him comfortable with his identity. calling himself queer, but he did not fit into the He spent his teens identifying as queer and “macho” image adopted by many gay men at the experimenting with drag, ultimately deciding to time. And he definitely didn’t feel safe in the transition to a woman and living the next decade world around him. and a half as Natalia “Tish” Gervais, and even- Ultimately, Belovitch decided to transition to tually retransitioning and settling back into his female, believing it was his best chance at being life as Brian Belovitch. Today, Belovitch uses the able to be himself and also at survival. At the Brian Belovitch. pronouns he, his and him “out of convenience.” time he committed fully to the decision, begin- Image from Skyhorse Publishing More assured about his identity and with the ning hormones, growing out his hair and eventu- wisdom of many decades, Belovitch set out to ally getting top surgery. scarier than becoming trans and then coming out write a memoir about his life and the identities His years living as a woman did not bring the as a gay man at 30 something,” he said. he adopted along the way, with the ultimate hope relief he had hoped for. “I’d gone and done al- Belovitch’s decision to write about his journey of helping others struggling with their identity. most everything I wanted and thought I should had a lot to do with wanting to ensure future In Trans Figured: My Journey from Boy to Girl to do as that person, and every road led to a dead generations don’t forget the struggles of the past Woman to Man, Belovitch talks about recogniz- end, which was completely frustrating and ex- and to help those who are struggling with their ing he was different as a child, struggling with tremely disappointing,” he said, adding, “I spent gender identity today. that difference in his teen and young adult years, an incredible amount of time and energy trying “That is one of the reasons I wrote the book, for making the decision to transition to female and to be something that I wasn’t.” historical accuracy and to include my own per- the efforts he undertook to live his life as fully While struggling with his identity once again, sonal experiences about my gender transitions, as he possible, and inevitably discovering that Belovitch was diagnosed with HIV. He said living and also so that parents and kids and anyone no matter what he did he always ended up feel- as a trans woman with HIV was the scariest time questioning their gender could look at my jour- ing “frustrated and disappointed.” In the end, of his life. ney and take whatever they need from it. Is it his retransition back to male and social progress “As a trans women in the ‘80s, testing positive a cautionary tale, a heroic tale? Whatever they helped him discover his identity and settle into for HIV, that was the most frightening. That was need to take from it. I think it’s an important

and although their time together is notably brief none had what I wanted.” Semrow found that and long-distance, he acknowledges it with the letter-writing seemed easier than typical prose or Ripe: Letters, by Alan Semrow, same kind of respect often accorded long-term a novel. “I wrote a letter for Chosen Magazine relationships: “Even if it was the last time, it was and the editor, Christopher Hyde, encouraged me the perfect ending.” Semrow gives respect to his to go with them,” he said. “So I did.” seeks to redefine relationships feelings and candidly admits that yes, he may When asked if the men who anonymously ap- BY JOE FRANCO Alan Semrow. have fallen in love and that’s okay. pear in Ripe would be reading the letters, he “I noticed the moments we share with people,” said, “They are aware of it and will likely be read- People live in a world of relationships. Photo from Semrow told Windy City Times. “Many men I know ing them,” adding as a joke, “Here’s my Taylor When one hears “relationship,” that person may Semrow could be very flippant about their one-night Swift song.” Yet, Semrow’s work is nothing like think boyfriend, spouse or girlfriend. Alan Sem- stands, but I just didn’t see that as being real- a Taylor Swift song. They are positive tributes to row’s latest book seeks to expand one’s under- istic.” Semrow admitted that he could not disre- men who have made an impact on his life during standing of what a relationship actually is. gard others in that way, saying, “We are going to a time of significant Ripe: Letters is a collection of missives to have those real moments. They should be human- self-discovery. Ripe’s men—actual men, fantasy men, men Semrow izing and vulnerable.” narrative arc follows knows, men Semrow wished he’d known. Begin- Semrow added, “Even in very brief interactions a man looking for his ning with a letter to “Birthday Guy,” Semrow with another, you have some kind of feeling. This voice. Both the author immediately invites the reader deeply into his collection of letters is just how I felt.” of these letters and own life. His description of a liaison the morning The inspiration for Ripe was not a singular Semrow himself seem of his birthday is honest and says exactly what event, saying, “I had read Dear Mr. You by Mary- to have found it. many others might think but never admit—even Louise Parker, a book where she writes letters Ripe: Letters is though this is a one-off meeting, they really like to the men in her life that have changed and currently available the guy. influenced it, and I liked that style.” Semrow ac- on Amazon. Alan Semrow’s letters seem to grow in maturity right knowledged that after his first book he felt mis- Semrow’s work can along with him. Later, we meet the “Great White understood and out of place, “I wrote three books also be read at Cho- Buffalo.” Whoever this man is, Semrow is smitten in between my first book, Briefs, and Ripe—and senMagazine.com. Nov. 28, 2018 9 BOOK REVIEW Death Checks In BOOKS CULTURECULTURE CLUBCLUB by David S. Pederson $18.95; Bold Strokes Books; 235 pages REVIEW BY TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER

It’s a nice little getaway. That’s all you wanted: two days alone, just you and your amour, with nothing to do but follow your whims. It would be perfect, idyllic—until it wasn’t, and Responsible You won out over Romantic You. As in the new novel Death Checks In, by David S. Pederson, it’s back to work. Detective Heath Barrington had it all planned out: he and his boyfriend, Officer Alan Keyes would take the train from Milwaukee to Chicago, grab a cab to the downtown area, check into the Edmonton Hotel, and enjoy a wonder- ful weekend. It was 1947 and being gay could get a man in trouble, but Heath knew there’d be more anonymity for him and Alan in a larger city. The weather would be perfect for exploring nightclubs and sightseeing; there was plenty of entertainment nearby and a live show with a band inside the Edmonton . That, of course, meant that Alan would need a tuxedo so Heath offered to purchase one for him— which was when the men met Victor Blount, haberdasher. Blount was a small man with a French accent and a dra- matic way about him. He said he was an expert tailor, that he dabbled in photography, and that he could secure “dis- creet” entertainment for Alan and Heath. That was odd, but Blount wasn’t the only character at the Edmonton : the hotel’s assistant manager was a blustery guy who had his eye on one of the regular guests, a “full-figured,” flirty widow from New York . A dotty old lady from nearby came Charming, in other words. to the Edmonton often enough for waitstaff to know her But tedious also describes this novel just as equally since preferences. And the one-eyed piano player and his song- a lot of its action comes through dialog, of which there too stress-wife left an impression on Heath by arguing loudly much and in too much fussy, stiff detail. It’s wordy and it with Blount, who seemed to be overcharging them. feels like filler. It doesn’t help that author Pederson add- Two days. That’s plenty of time for a romantic rendez- ed an eccentric old woman in this story, who constantly vous, had Heath left work alone. But when Blount was clucks like a chicken. found dead in his back room with “W” scrawled on the Yes, that’s written into numerous sentences. floor in his blood and a spool of green thread in his hand, No, it’s not fun. two days was also long enough to solve a crime… Overall, if you can avoid doing that “speed it up” move- Strictly looking at “Death Checks In” as a mystery, it’s ment with your hand, or if you like noir mysteries that are not bad. That it’s a noir whodunit is nice, the main char- more on the light side, only then will this book fit. For you, acters are familiar from past books, it has that old-black- then, “Death Checks In” is a worthwhile getaway. and-white-movie feel you know you love, and it’s sweetly Want more? Then look for Death Comes Darkly and Death chaste, in a late-1940s way. Goes Overboard, both by David S. Pederson.

REVIEW from page 4 is in a class all his own as the stoically fussy Nursemaid who’s grimace goes unbroken except to fend off a smit- your digitally-connected youngsters. These players have ten fishmonger. Anthony Irons and John Gregorio are apt some modern Thriller-claws, Moonwalks and more in their clowns, puppeteers, and uproarious villains in their many back pocket. iterations, and Alex Stein and Kasey Foster are masterful Puppet designers Blair Thomas and Tom Lee have set as the broken soldier and ballerina, just trying to find their loose a stunning array of foam creatures and masks that stride in an awkward, but supportive dance relationship. evoke slippery fish and giant reaching toddler hands. Di- This production takes a lot of risks in a season that rector Mary Zimmerman and Props designer Amanda Her- tends to be overly saccharine for all tastes, but there’s rmann have translated tougher-to-grasp concepts into one notable risk the artistic team didn’t take: handing a narration monogrammed into handkerchiefs or spelled on differently abled role to a differently abled actor. There’s childrens alphabet blocks, and it’s nothing short of de- whimsy in stiching “Missing” on a character’s pant leg, but lightful. Actors bound quickly from portraying tree orna- I’d argue there’d be even more whimsey (as well as power PICTURED: DANIEL KYRI AND JENNIFER LATIMORE. PHOTO BY JOE MAZZA-BRAVE LUX. BY JOE MAZZA-BRAVE PHOTO AND JENNIFER LATIMORE. KYRI PICTURED: DANIEL ments to guard rats in nimble and colorful costumes by and inclusiveness) in seeing performers unite to physically Ana Kuzmanic. support an actual differently abled actor. But, as Hans The story rests largely in movement—dancing, preening, Christian Andersen might say, life does not guarantee you NOW PLAYING slow-motion battles, and sometimes just the biggest ma- the ending you want, so you’d better learn to make the niacal grin a performer can muster. Christopher Donahue best of things. 847-242-6000 | WRITERSTHEATRE.ORG Nov. 28, 2018 10 Lakeside Pride show spotlights ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ BY VERNON HESTER

On Nov. 17, The Lakeside Pride Music Ensemble MUSIC presented “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” a symphonic wall Riots, in June 2019. The first concert, “Love concert celebrating LGBTQ soldiers and veter- and Marriage,” was held Oct. 13 and celebrated ans who served during the time that policy, also wedded bliss for people of all genders. The DADT known as DADT, was in place (1993-2011). event also featured a raffle and a silent auction. The event—which took place at DePaul Univer- After a presentation of colors by representa- sity’s Holtschneider Performance Center—was the tives from the Chicago chapter of American compositions by gay and lesbian composers. semble Board Chair Bradley Fritz and Vice Chair- second in a series of concerts by the ensemble to Veterans for Equal Rights, there was a presenta- Among the out composers on the program were woman Melissa Terrell. acknowledge the 50th anniversary of the Stone- tion of a military-themed repertoire with select Aaron Copland (Hoedown from “Rodeo”), Julie Upcoming Lakeside Pride Ensemble performanc- Giroux (“Hands of Mercy”) and Samuel Barber es regarding the anniversary of the Stonewall Ri- (“Sure on This Shining Night”), along with Ot- ots include “Pay it No Mind” (The Lakeside Pride torino Respighi (“Pines of Rome”), Gustav Holst Chamber Ensemble featuring ResonaTe, Chicago’s (“Second Suite in F”), John Williams (“Hymn to transgender choir honoring Marsha P. Johnson) the Fallen”), John Philip Sousa (“Black Horse on Jan. 6; “New York New York” (The Lakeside Troop”), Robert Lowden (Armed Forces Salute”) Symphonic Band in celebration of the culture and Claude T. Smith (“Eternal Father, Strong to and heritage of New York City) on April 6; “Fi- Save”). Much of the evening was conducted by esta de Baile” (The Lakeside Ensemble Latin Band music director Kyle Rhoades, with some segments acknowledging the Latinx population as a major led by assistant conductor Nick White and guest part of the LGBTQ-rights movement) on May 5” conductor “Moe” McPherson. and “Stonewall: Love and Liberation” (The Lake- Left: Lakeside Pride vice-boardmember Melissa Terrell, conductor Kyle Rhoades and board chairman Just before intermission, Rhoades received The side Ensemble Jazz Orchestra) on June 1. Bradley Fritz. Right: AVER Chicago color guard. Founders Award from the Lakeside Pride Music En- Photos by Vernon Hester

Rachel Eckroth.

Rufus Wainwright. Photos by Vernon Hester Echo and the Bunnymen.

CONCERTS Moon (on BMG Records) while tossing in a mix of hits and favorites from their 35-plus-year career. Passionate solo artist Jonathon Jackson had the misfortune of being the opener since, regardless Rachel Eckroth, Rufus Wainwright; of his compelling and hypnotic performance, the audience loudly ignored him and talked through Jonathan Jackson, Echo and the Bunnymen his set. Offering a hearty helping from his new BY VERNON HESTER sophomore album (Poses, DreamWorks Records, displayed a queer flair with his wardrobe, which EP, Enation-A Shock to the System (available via 2001), and gave him the chance to entertain a included coats made from unidentifiable materi- band camp), he managed to leave a positive im- As November drew to a close, we witnessed a tor- sold out house for two and a half hours. als. (One floor-length coat looked like it was en- pression despite his having to fight the audience rent of old-school queer favorites coming to town Wainwright told stories about his family (folk tirely made of crow feathers while another looked to be heard. for a pile up of sentiment and nostalgia far re- singers Kate McGarrigle and Loudon Wainwright like it was made of a variety of bits of Christ- Heads up!!! During December, look for shows moved from the homey vibe of Thanksgiving and III), his admiration for Leonard Cohen, writing mas gift wrap.) Opener Rachel Eckroth started by William Elliott Whitmore (Thalia Hall, Dec. Christmas. an opera, and visiting sites around Chicago the the evening off with songs from her new album, 13), Esperanza Spaulding (The Vic, Dec. 5), queer First through town was out troubadour/com- previous afternoon. (He enjoyed The Art Institute When It Falls (available through band camp), joke-punkers Bev Rage and The Drinks (with gay poser Rufus Wainwright on his All These Poses of Chicago, where he got turned on by a painting which highlighted her subtle though melodious faves Bleach Party at The Sleeping Village, Dec. Tour, which hit The Vic Theater on Nov.r 20. and indulged in Swedish meatballs at Ann Sath- and intense vocals. 18,), and celebrated guitarist Richard Thompson The show focused on his self-titled debut (Ru- er.) Apart from singing many favorites and one On Nov. 24, ‘80s Brit New Wave rockers Echo for a two-night stand (Thalia Hall, Dec. 7-8). fus Wainwright, DreamWorks Records, 1998) and new song (“The Sword of Damocles,” which he and the Bunnymen filled The Vic Theater in sup- dedicated to President Trump), Wainwright also port of their new The Stars, the Ocean, and the Nov. 28, 2018 11 On her own terms: Melissa DuPrey’s work in the age of reckoning BY ADA CHENG In this new version of her solo performance, DuPrey aims to deconstruct the myths about fe- Melissa DuPrey—whose work has always been male sexuality and sensuality. It ventures into about centering disfranchised communities and “intimacy, sexuality, sensuality, and navigating who recently emceed 2018 Chicago Women’s the dating world as we have it now dominated by March—will be bringing her solo performance, the apps. It is out of the lens of an intersectional “SEXomedy 2.0: The Second Coming” to Chicago women of color perspective,” DuPrey said. Dramatists, 1105 W. Chicago Ave., on Nov. 29-30. DuPrey said she intends this performance to be For DuPrey, SEXomedy 2.0—a response to cur- in direct conversation with various movements rent debates on female sexuality, body positivity of our time: “I am trying to elevate the idea of and identity politics—is a long journey marked dismantling the patriarchy and male privileges. with the need for healing, coming to terms of What we are seeing is men in power, specifically oneself, and the celebration of female sexuality cis white men in power and the kind of silenc- and sensuality since returning to Chicago from ing that comes along when people are abused. Houston in 2010 after a traumatic event. ‘SEXomedy 2.0’ has always been about empower- “SEXomedy 2.0” reflects almost a decade of ing women, for women to say I am in control growth as a human being, an activist and a per- of my sexuality, I am in control of my circum- forming artist. Extending some of the themes she stances, and I have the power to define consent explored in the original “SEXomedy” in 2013, Du- in relationships.” Prey delves deeper into more pertinent issues in How does DuPrey deal with queer topics differ- response to the particular demands of our time. ently in this version? She said, “I have always As she told Windy City Times, “‘Sexemedy 2.0: The been politically pro-queer. If you look at my art, Second Coming’ is a hybrid of different things. It my track records, I have always been, first and takes the best of the original SEXomedy, a hyper- foremost, most welcome the queer community. In Melissa DuPrey. sexual, hyper-liberatory body positive, sex-posi- this version, I will explore queerness differently, Photo by Joel Maisonet tive anthem to female liberation. ‘SEXemedy 2.0’ with more embeddedness as opposed to proxim- is the version 2018 wants to see and it ventures ity. At the end of the day, my art is about inter- into queerness, kinks, hook-up culture dominated sectionality and this is the layer that I haven’t by male power, [sex] inclusive of trans people, been able to bring in yet. This performance is a [a] critique of porn shaped by heteronormativ- reflection of my growth these past five years on ity, and centering woman at the forefront of the this aspect.” pleasure as opposed to a body that the society For tickets: https://sexomedy2.brownpaper- pushes us to and defined by porn.” tickets.com/.

(Wed.-Thursday, Dec. 26-27; $38-$52). City Winery’s See CityWinery.com. December shows: Macy Gray, more Kahlo works at Glen Singer Macy Gray and former American Idol Ellyn campus in 2020 finalist Kris Allen are among those slated to College of DuPage, in partnership with the perform at City Winery, 1200 W. Randolph St., McAninch Arts Center and Cleve Carney Art Gal- in December. lery, expanded upon the plans to host the larg- Gray—whose signature raspy voice is fea- est private collection of works by Frida Kahlo tured in “I Try,” one of the biggest singles of at the Cleve Carney Art Gallery and throughout 1999—will perform Friday-Saturday, Dec. 28- the Glen Ellyn campus in summer 2020. 29. Her most recent album is entitled Stripped. The exhibition, entitled “Frida Kahlo—Works Tickets are $55-$75 each. from the Dolores Olmedo Collection,” will be Allen is bringing his second holiday album, the most comprehensive presentation of Kah- Somethin’ About Christmas, to City Winery on lo’s work displayed in the Chicago area since Tuesday, Dec. 4, and is hosting a VIP meet-and- 1978. greet. Tickets are $25-$35 each for the show, The 26-piece collection, on loan from the and $50 each for the meet-and-greet. Museo Dolores Olmedo, features an array of oil Some of the others scheduled to perform at paintings and works on paper spanning the life City Winery include Grammy-nominated singer/ of Kahlo. Best known for self-portraits high- songwriter Syleena Johnson (Friday, Dec. 7; lighting themes of identity, politics, sexuality $35-$55 each), Los Lobos (Sunday-Thursday, and death, Kahlo channeled her childhood and Dec. 9-12; $65-$78), Art Garfunkel (Friday- personal struggles into her art and became an Saturday, Dec. 14-15; $85-$125), jazz vocal- iconic figure and symbol of female empower- ist Kurt Elling (Wed.-Thursday, Dec. 19-20; ment, individual courage and Mexican pride. $45-$58) and blues singer Shemekia Copeland Nov. 28, 2018 12

years getting better, then this show came along, American Idol. In fact, I had one of my surgeries while judging on American Idol. WCT: Millions have been your fans since the beginning of your career, and whole new younger generations love you from Amer- ican Idol too. Did you have to focus on a particular demographic

Gerami headshot by Stephen Blaha when planning your show? PA: When I was recording and doing shows, I had a very diverse demographic fan base. Then I had an accident that forced me to disappear for seven years. Then came this show, American Idol, and I got a whole new wave of young fans, so it’s cyclical. WCT: What can audiences expect to see in the show? Any sur- prises? PA: They get to see a great show, have fun and a good time. I do a mix of retro stuff that people like but also new material too. WCT: Tell me about your fans. PA: They are great, you know, I so grateful and lucky to have people who have been with me throughout my career, so I wanted to do this show and connect with them again. I love my fans. questions WCT: I would be remiss if I didn’t ask you about your gay fans. PA: I wouldn’t have my career if it wasn’t for my gay fans. I have always been very close to the community, as a dancer, a choreogra- pher and musician. They have been there with me through thick and 10BY VIC GERAMIwith Vic thin and stayed with me, always loyal. I love the (gay) community. WCT: Do you miss American Idol? Paula Abdul is a rare superstar. Despite her remarkable career, im- PA: American Idol was a great experience, even with the dysfunc- mense talents and global popularity, she is as accessible as she is tional family that we were. I had a great time with Simon Cowell, iconic, as sweet in person as she is on TV, and as authentic as she Randy Jackson and all the talented people that came through the Paula Abdul show. You know I never had a big brother, so I learned a lot from is extraordinary. So it’s no surprise that her fans are ecstatic to see Studio 10 Australia her first solo tour in 25 years. Simon. He taught me how to go deeper and be strong. I was always It’s been 30 years since her first mega-hit, seven-time plati- strong, but he helped me a lot. In fact, we had a mini-reunion a and reconnect with my fans. num album “Forever Your Girl” captured us, with singles such as couple of weeks ago at Simon’s house. WCT: With an extraordinary career that includes two multi- “Straight Up,” “Forever Your Girl,” “Cold Hearted” and “Opposites WCT: Should we look forward to a new album in the near fu- platinum albums, six #1 singles, two Grammy Awards, five MTV Attract.” But Paula was no stranger to the entertainment industry ture? Awards, four American Music Awards, two Emmy Awards, two before becoming a mega-star. Her mother was a concert pianist and PA: I’m waiting to see the response to this tour and how things People’s Choice Awards, a Teen Choice Award and two Kid’s she studied ballet and jazz at a young age. While in college, she was turn out, so maybe. I’m starting to work on a few things. Choice Awards. Is there less pressure on you now as a performer a Los Angeles Lakers cheerleader, which led her to be discovered by WCT: Tell me a secret—a good one! or more so because of your icon status? the Jacksons. She was signed to do the choreography for the video PA: I know, I have a huge fear of elevators. I think because I was PA: I think the pressure is more from me to do a great show, you to their single “Torture” and eventually several videos for Janet stuck in one with my mother when I was a little girl. What happens know most of the dancers are almost half my age, so I have to be in Jackson and various other artists. is that I start laughing uncontrollably where I have to face the wall. top shape. Paula graciously made time for my interview while rehearsing for One time, I was overseas and staying at this hotel, even though I WCT: What made you decide to do this tour? her tour, fine-tuning every detail and preparing to perform for her had asked to be on one of the lower floors, they put me on the 33rd PA: It was time to go back on the stage and do what I love. You excited fans. floor. I got into the elevator with my assistant and started laughing know, at the height of my career, I had to disappear for seven years Windy City Times: How does it feel to be touring again? again, all of sudden a heard a voice say, “Paula?” I turned around to recover from a plane crash. I was touring and it was toward the Paula Abdul: Right now, I’m just trying to put the last minute and it was my dad, halfway around the world, at the same hotel and end of my tour, we were leaving St. Louis to go to Denver on a touches and tweaks on the show. I’m at a dance studio rehearsing at the same time. 7-seater private plane. I wasn’t wearing my seat-belt and we crash- with the dancers. I really enjoyed touring last year with New Kids For more information about Straight Up Paula tour including landed and part of the plane went in flames. I sustained multiple on the Block and Boyz II Men, so I thought it’s time to do a show tickets, please visit www.tour.paulaabdul.com injuries and had to have many surgeries and rehab. So I spent seven

Nov. 28, 2018

THE NEO-FUTURISTS MARK THREE DECADES IN CHICAGO PAGE 6

Cast of the 2014- 15 Neo-Futurist production of Burning Bluebeard. Photo by Evan Hanover artsandtheaterweekly.com Nov. 28, 2018 13

BUSINESS That’s when Dempsey realized that Black wom- en needed a Black-owned beauty supply. So, Dempsey decided to take her business to West- chester, where she had already opened her other two businesses. “I like doing business in Westchester because the town leaders are not all about politics. Some of these towns are pay-to-play—and that is not good business,” said Dempsey. Princess Delights Beauty Supply celebrated its grand opening this past summer. Neighbor- hood people were so excited to be a part of the opening and Dempsey reported that before noon that day, she sold more than $1,000 in products. Many locals suspect that her store was one of few Black owned beauty supply stores in Proviso Princess Township—but either way, a Black-owned store Dempsey in carrying these items was rare. Dempsey said her front of her store stands for something huge. store. “It’s time for African-Americans to open up Photo courtesy their own, run their own and spend money with of Dempsey their own. It’s nothing bad about that,” Dempsey said. “That’s why opening up this store in an area I grew up in was so important to me. That is why Princess Delights Beauty Supply is important to this neighborhood.” Dempsey is a mother of four boys and said one thing she hopes her sons understand is the im- portance of business. She encouraged today’s generation to become business owners in their own neighborhoods. She advised all young peo- ple to study other business owners and learn from them. “Don’t be cheap; otherwise, you’ll get cheap re- not respect us.” sults,” Dempsey said. “Step out on faith and trust Dempsey said the most shocking factor of it all me, nobody can come against you.” is that Black women spent their money at many Princess Delights is at 1907 Mannheim Rd. Black-owned store of those beauty supplies. in Westchester. The store is open for business “I realized that we were being forced to shop at Monday through Friday at 11 a.m.-7 p.m. and other owned beauty supplies because we didn’t Saturday at 9 a.m.-7 p.m. The store is closed have anything that was carrying our products we on Sundays. Visit princess-delights.com or call offers beauty items 708-938-5427 for more information. in Westchester needed as Black women.” BY VEE L. HARRISON “I’ve gained so much discipline and knowledge.” She recalled waking up early as a child to work, Activism meet-ups, Princess Dempsey was born and raised on the not play. South Side of Chicago and attended high school “As a child, I watched my grandfather build personal book recommendations, in Hillside. She’s a resident of Broadview and a his own store,” Dempsey said. “I had a work life, weekly events, Kids Storytime, and more! businessowner of three businesses in nearby while other kids my age were playing jump rope Westchester. and jax. I would be shelving products and open- There are so many reasons to support Growing up she knew one thing for certain, she ing up for business.” didn’t have to be into glamour to be beautiful. She remembered growing up on the southside Chicago’s only feminist bookstore. She remembered being a tomboy as a kid and get- of Chicago and having exposure to business ting into lots of fights. She graduated high school before some were even exposed to elementary at Proviso West in Hillside in ’86 and has done a school. She learned from her grandfather, good great deal of business as an adult in the Proviso business versus bad businesses. She grew up into Township area. For years she’s owned one of the a woman and held on tightly to the things she few minority and women owned staffing firms in learned from her grandfather. the entire country. Dempsey realized growing up and shopping at These types of businesses were important to certain beauty-supply stores (where she said she Dempsey because they helped people in her experienced discrimination) was not good busi- neighborhoods who needed help the most. ness. “The owners would follow you through their Dempsey said when she was only 7 years old, store as if you were a criminal,” said Dempsey. she assisted her grandfather whom at that time “Media has given them a bad image of African- owned a store in Chicago. Americans, and they didn’t seem to trust us in “I’ve worked hard my entire life,” said Dempsey. their beauty supply stores. Those storeowners did Nov. 28, 2018 14

98 Degrees. Photo courtesy of ABC

98 Degrees warming holiday season

BY JERRY NUNN us as well. ties. Over the past six years, I have worked for WCT: How has it been going so far on the the Greater Cincinnati Homeless Coalition. I re- Vocal group 98 Degrees is made up of brothers tour? MUSIC cently stepped away from that. I was trying to Nick and Drew Lachey, Justin Jeffre and Jeff Tim- JJ: It has been great. The audiences have been before they even broke in the United States. We make some policy changes for those [who] were mons. amazing. We are having a good time. I think we met them in Germany when we were on tour to- less fortunate. Formed in California and were later picked up get along and have more fun than we ever did in gether. WCT: What is your stance on LGBT rights? later by a record label, the quartet went on to the past. We did what did back in the day and We thought it would be fun to have a silly video JJ: We have always been very clear that we sup- major success. They sold more than 10 million have had a break for everything. We all came back with him and asked him to do it. port LGBT rights. We went to a performing arts records and have had eight top-40 singles. together. I think we appreciate things a bit more WCT: It’s an original song? school where it was very much a part of the cul- In 1999, 98 Degrees released a Christmas al- and have more experience. We know what to ex- JJ: Yes. We all helped put it together. We did a ture. Our school was founded because of a civil bum titled This Christmas and a second holiday pect and how to deal with little hiccups along the lot of classic covers so we wanted to have some- rights lawsuit and we have always fought for so- album, Let It Snow, in 2017. The “At Christmas way. thing original on the album. We wanted some- cial justice in general. LGBT rights are included in Tour” lands them in Illinois this month and next. WCT: You originally started the band with thing new and fresh. all of that. Band member Jeffre called in from Modesto, Cali- Nick? WCT: Do you have a favorite holiday song? WCT: Usually a boy band has one gay mem- fornia, to talk about the group’s lengthy career, JJ: Yes. Nick, Drew and I all went to school JJ: It is hard to pick one, but our version of ber… LGBT rights and more. together. Drew was younger than us. Nick and I “Silent Night” is from The Temptations arrange- JJ: No we don’t have any gay members in the Windy City Times: Where is the group 98 De- sang in a barbershop quartet, then doo-wop at an ment. It has always been my favorite Christmas band, but have lots of gay friends. grees located these days? amusement park and through a mutual friend we song. It is a part of the show that I very much WCT: What are you plans after the tour? Justin Jeffre: Drew and I both live in Cincin- wound up meeting Jeff. Jeff was a founder of the enjoy doing. JJ: We have been focused on making this show nati. Nick lives in LA and Jeff lives in Las Vegas. group, but Nick and I had some history. Drew was WCT: There were ugly Christmas sweaters in as good as we can. I don’t know if we will make WCT: You are currently in the middle of the the final piece of the puzzle, as Nick’s brother. that video. Do you have some at home? new music right away, but it is something we love tour? WCT: Did you ever think you would be per- JJ: We do. In the show last year we wore some to do. A new album is unlikely but we would like JJ: Yes. This is our ninth show. We started up forming this long? ugly Christmas sweaters. Nowadays ugly Christ- to record some new stuff because we are very in Canada and are making our way down the West JJ: We always hoped to have longevity. In this mas sweater parties are such a thing that you passionate about that. Coast. business you never know. When we got back to- need to have them in your wardrobe. We have been getting busier and busier this WCT: Is it weird to perform Christmas songs gether we weren’t really sure if the fans would be WCT: What do you like or dislike about the year. That is why I had to step away from the early in the year? there or still care. Fortunately they showed up holidays? coalition because I was being spread too thin JJ: In the past we have done two different and continue to come. JJ: It is the time of year where people are gen- trying to do both. Christmas albums. We typically record those WCT: How were the fans during the New Kids erally a little nicer. You get together with people I am focusing on my first love and passion with songs in July. We get used to having everything tour that you went on together? that matter the most to you like your friends and this group. The guys seem to be having a great ready for the actual season. Normally, I wouldn’t JJ: It was a lot of fun. It was cool to be on The family. time. The fans have been there for us, so we want be listening or singing to Christmas songs this Package Tour with our idols Boys II Men and New Usually it is cold and snowy, which is nice in to continue to build on our brand, go out there early. Kids on the Block is one of the biggest groups of theory—but being in Cincinnati, it is not my fa- and do what we love to do! WCT: Does a set list have your regular cata- all time. We got to jump back into the swing of vorite time of year. Feel the heat of 98 Degrees at the Virginia logue mixed with holiday music? things on a major tour. It pretty much sold out WCT: What led you to get involved in poli- Theatre, 203 W. Park Ave., Champaign, Illinois, JJ: Yes. There are the classic 98 Degrees hits. and we were in good company. tics? on Nov. 28 and Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N. We do songs from both our Christmas albums, WCT: How did Joey Fatone from NSYNC get JJ: We all felt like we had been given so much Chicago St., Joliet, Illinois, on Dec. 20. Ticket then we also have things we have not performed involved in the video for “Seasons of Love?” that we wanted to be involved in our communi- information can be found at 98Degrees.com. before. we try to keep it fresh for our fans and for JJ: We have been friends with those guys since Nov. 28, 2018 15

Nia & Ness. Photo by Jo Chiang

Nia & Ness use dance, poetry to tell story, analyze identity

BY JOHN STADELMAN know that I can say and dance and be in my were looking for music out there.” POETRY/SPOKEN WORD shoes. It wouldn’t be our work if we weren’t in a The result is an organic accompaniment that Brooklyn-based dancer-poet duo Nia & Ness will relationship.” enriches the performance. “The music [is] driving bring their unique storytelling experience, run., with us, we will have lesbians who connect with “For me working with Shand has become much enough for my movement, but not overpowering to Chicago in four shows during the first week us … and there are some people of color who more expressive and [I] use only the words that where you can’t hear what White is saying. It’s a of December. might not connect with us. … For example, a are really necessary,” said White. really beautiful collaboration.” The intersections of identity play a key element Black male might not.” However, run. doesn’t just use dance and poetry Most of the time, the duo performs in small ven- in run., as Nia & Ness describe and analyze their This awareness of the identities being brought as two separate elements—each performer and ues such as bars, rooftops and even apartments. experiences and struggles as a Black lesbian cou- to the performance interacting with a multi- her work play off the other, shifting and meta- This preference aids the performance, utilizing ple in New York City. They hope to have their au- tude of other identities showcases a profound morphosing run. into something new. They know the space of the “stage” to further the experi- dience question how they see and move through thoughtfulness on their part. Not everybody will how to rely on each other while performing. ence. the world, for their own betterment. see themselves within the performance, but the “[It helps] the audience,” Shand said, “because “It makes our work feel more real,” said Shand. “[We] definitely want people of color to feel connections can be surprising. if they can’t understand or interpret what White “The experiences that we have gone through … empowered,” said Nia Shand, “and for white After some discussion, Shand related back a is saying they can get it with my body and vice [and] the trauma we deal with constantly hap- people we want them to feel empowered to do situation from New York that shows the connec- versa. We each have the strength in what we’re pens in places like that.” They are “reclaiming something to be seen as better allies.” tive power of shared experience with people they doing and the power with each other in our me- these space when we’re performing in a noncon- Accurate, honest representation is also impor- wouldn’t initially expect to reach. diums. For me, as a dancer, I’ve been able to work ventional place.” tant. “When it comes to the people of color in “A random guy from our building came up to with White and find my voice as a mover and as The Chicago shows mark their first time in the the audience I want them to feel like their sto- me and asked if I had weed just because of what an artist for my truth and our truth.” city. ries are being told,” said Ness White. “Sometimes I look like. … I had straight male friends go A third element, music, is provided by friend, “We’re really excited about performing in Chi- [their stories] are being told but not by the right through similar situations.” collaborator and musician Garrett Miller, who cre- cago!” Shand said. “That’s really exciting, per- people and not in the right way, so I want them Their unique blend of dance and poetry, of ex- ated an entirely original score for run. forming in a new state. I feel like the audience to feel like, ‘Okay, our stories are being told cor- pressive movement with powerful words, show- “It makes our work even feel more intimate,” is probably very receptive and open and ready for rectly by people that need to be telling them.’” cases not only the strength that each woman said Shand. Originally, they would “create some our work.” And although establishing connections with draws from the other, but their strong mutual content and then I would go find the music, and Nia & Ness will be performing run. in four their audience is important, they understand the trust from being in a committed relationship. now instead we have someone who we know … shows on the first week of December. Informa- complexities that come from creating an empha- “We work with each other so well,” said Shand, [who] sits in our conversations, and he’s also our tion can be found at https://www.niaandness. sis on intersecting identities. “and when there’s a trust in each other’s stories friend and he’s also really passionate about our com/tour/. “I don’t mind when they find themselves within that are being told through each medium. I feel work. So having someone who loves us as people For a preview of their work, check out their our stories,” said White, “because we have all like there’s a whole layer to it because we love and … as artists come and create something for pre-run. performance of “blind spot” at this intersectionality, because we are Black les- each other so deeply. I feel safe when I perform us, [there’s a] level of just love and passion in https://youtu.be/XFIjXQDUp2k. bian women so we’ll have women who connect because I know I have White by my side and I the music that wouldn’t be happening when we Nov. 28, 2018 16

Jake Vogds at The Burlington. Photos by Vernon Hester

This photo: Glitter Guts portraits. Below: Tribble Tribble performs at the Glitter Guts anniversary. Concerts: Queer trance, Glitter Guts anniversary

BY VERNON HESTER

The start of the holiday season brought a wealth MUSIC of queer music and celebration to close out 2018 punk photo-entity Glitter Guts threw itself 10th- with a bang. anniversary party with performances from popu- First, The Burlington hosted a night of queer lar burlesque artists Sally Marvel and Josephine flavored electronic trance music Nov. 13. Queer Shaker, DJ All the Way Kay, out comedienne composer/fashion designer/vocalist Jake Vogds Tribble Tribble, rapper Show You Suck and pop presented a solo set featuring music from his singer Alex Grelle. On top of all this, there was an just released EP Pocket Monster (available via his ongoing slide show featuring a decade’s worth of website) and from his musical collaboration with Glitter Guts portraits, an elaborate birthday cake Edwin Days at the New Birth Collective. Out model/video art- and a buffet with Ruffles and Flamin’ Hot Chee- The Burlington. ist/vocalist Edwin Days closed the show with a tos. Among the partiers on hand to help founders selection of music from his recently released full- Eric Strom and Sarah Ketzer celebrate were the length album, Vaporise (available on bandcamp). Chicago Reader’s Gossip Wolf and Slo Mo Produc- Five days later, at Reunion Chicago, queer/ tions’ Kristen Kaza.

From the Glitter Guts anniversary. Left: Sally Marvel. Center: Megan Stalter and Alex Grelle. Right: Kristen Kaza of SloMo and Sarah Ketzer and Eric Strom of Glitter Guts. Nov. 28, 2018 17 32 March 7, 2018 WINDY CITY TIMES

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First-time riders only. Not valid on UberCAB Expires 12/31/18. Nov. 28, 2018 18

had a pretty good idea of most C-Division player’s hitting tendencies, which made me a good de- SPORTS fensive player. I also made wonderful friendships Steve third base. [Sure enough,] I joined his [softball] over the years from softball. We would travel to team that spring and have played in softball [multiple] tournaments a year and have a blast.” leagues ever since. Kasperski also has played tennis, basketball Kasperski: “After that first year on Annex 3, I played on and volleyball in gay leagues—and he truly cher- MSA Sidetrack. In 1992 while playing for Side- ishes the fields of play. track I had to work at a horse track in Kentucky. “Sports creates social opportunities. Tourna- Knocking I would drive seven hours from Kentucky every ments offer a chance to travel, room with and get Karamo Brown. week to play softball in order to keep my spot to know people better. There are so many guys Photo courtesy of Royce Carlton on the team and go to the [Gay Softball] World [who] I got to know better [through sports],” it out of Series.” Kasperski said. “Some of my favorite moments in- Kasperski’s softball career also included time clude winning our first tournament the first time Karamo Brown in with Chicago Hunters, and he coached that team I went to one with Annex 3 in Birmingham. There Evanston Dec. 5 the park at time, too. were other good moments too, including win- Queer Eye culture expert Karamo Brown “I like changing things up, playing with differ- ning as a manager. Beating other Chicago teams will give a talk, “Know Thyself: Using Your BY ROSS FORMAN ent players,” he said. “At one time, I thought I in tournaments and playing on Saturday in the Uniqueness to Create Success,” on Wed., World Series [also are fond memories]. Dec. 5, at 7 p.m at Evanston Township High Steve Kasperski had a memorable summer on the “My nephew, who is straight, played a couple School Auditorium, 1600 Dodge Ave., Evan- softball fields, claiming championship medals in of tournaments with my team last year. He fi- ston. two of the most prestigious international events. nally got to experience the fun that I always talk Brown began his television career in 2004 The 56-year-old Kasperski—who lives in Hyde about. One of the best things about softball is as a housemate on the MTV reality series The Park and Melrose Park, and has been playing gay when my son comes to the games. He loves to Real World, becoming the first openly-gay softball in Chicago since 1991—went to the Gay support us and has his favorites on my old team, African-American on reality television. In Games in Paris in early August with a San Fran- [the] Sidetrack Black Widows. He often gets my 2014, he joined the Oprah Winfrey Network cisco team, with the squad winning the bronze glove ready for me when it’s time to go back into to host and produce its first digital show, medal. Then in early September, he was playing the field after batting. He offers me a review of #OWNShow. Brown then became a host and for the Philadelphia Triple Play Master’s Division my play after the game just like I do with him. producer for HuffPost Live, and a recurring team in the annual Gay Softball World Series in He adopted some of our team slogans and sense guest host of Access Hollywood Live. Tampa Bay, and his team was named co-champi- of quick wit. Each team I played on welcomed He then joined the “Fab Five” cast of Net- ons after the final game was rained out. him into the dugout and included him in an age- flix’s 2018 reboot of Queer Eye, a makeover “I had mixed emotions when we won the Mas- appropriate way. series set in Atlanta that won three Emmy ter’s [Division] this year. I was happy that we “I will always be grateful to all of them as well awards this year, including Outstanding won, but disappointed that we were denied play- as opposing players who did the same. I have a Structured Reality Program. ing the final game due to rain,” he said. picture of when he was 2-years-old at my games. The event is sponsored by Family Action Kasperski was born in Chicago and grew up in He says he remembers that day. I am sure it is the Network (FAN), in partnership with Counsel- Cicero. After living out of state for almost 20 love and fellowship expressed regularly before, ing Center of the North Shore, Countryside years, he returned to Chicago in 2001—and he during and after our games that he remembers.” Day School, Fusion Academy, New Trier High now works in the justice system for Cook County. Kasperski’s softball career dates back longer School D203, the New Trier Parents’ Associa- “I [started] in [the] Windy City Athletics [gay than some foes in CMSA’s Open Sunday Softball tion and The Family Institute at Northwest- sports league] in 1991 when my partner then League were even born. Heck, this was his 24th ern University. played tennis and volleyball,” Kasperski said. Gay Softball World Series. See FamilyActionNetwork.net. “One day they needed a volleyball player and I “Winning [the Series title this year] was good, was the on the court diving for balls. Jim Flint, Steve Kasperski. but the run in Chicago on the Spin team was even of Annex 3 at the time, asked me if I ever played Photos from Kasperski better for me,” he said. CGMC’s ‘Hullaballoo’ Now batting … Steve Kasperski Nov. 30-Dec. 2 —Favorite baseball team: Chicago White Sox. “I still recall my gramps Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus (CGMC) will cel- taking me to a bat day [at old Comiskey Park] when [Dick] Allen was the ebrate 35 years of making music with its [team’s] star. They broke my heart chasing the Oakland A’s in 1972. I loved upcoming holiday show, “35th Anniversary the Sox in 2005,” when the team won the World Series. Holiday Hullabaloo.” The show will take place —On pro athletes: “I’m not really impressed by athletes in general. I Nov. 30-Dec. 2 at three different venues. don’t remember getting an autograph [as a kid]. I admired those men and The chorus will be joined by 10 additional women who overcame barriers to succeed. I loved to watch Tiger Woods Chicago-based LGBTQ+ performing arts orga- when he was on top of his game, [and] am enjoying his comeback. I can nizations, including About Face Theatre, Al- appreciate Jim Abbott, too. “ legrezza, Artemis Singers, Chicago Spirit Bri- —In the stands: Kasperski has attended the U.S. Open and White Sox gade, Chicago Tap Theatre, GayCo, Lakeside playoff games. Pride Music Ensembles, Lakeview Orchestra, —More softball memories—on flights to, from tournaments: “Mark Pride Films & Plays and Windy City Gay Cho- Vild would do a recap of the tournament on flights. Once, he and I made rus. With 22 musical numbers performed by little dolls representing each player. He brought his out on the plane and members of 11 organizations, CGMC will con- did impressions of our team play. Travelers and flight attendants wanted some talented players. Beside growth in numbers, the tournament play has tribute 150 singing voices with 20 dancers. to know more about the dolls. I should have known this was no ordinary really expanded. There are tournaments throughout the year. Finally, like “Holiday Hullabaloo” will be performed group of guys during my first tournament. Once, on the plane, I went to pro sports, the equipment is better, which helps player’s performance. And, Nov. 30 at 8 p.m. at the Harris Theater for the bathroom, and when I came out, the guys on Annex 3 were passing my the players are fitter and stronger.” Music & Dance; Saturday, Dec. 1, at 8 p.m. at boxers around the plane.” —No gay, but play: “There is disagreement regarding the number of Skokie’s North Shore Center for the Perform- —Speaking softball: “The level of [softball] play has really improved straight players allowed on a team [in the gay leagues]. I’m of the opinion ing Arts; and Sunday, Dec. 2, at 7 p.m. at [over the years]. We used to have a competitive and non-competitive that we should have no restrictions; we should be as inclusive as we can Chicago’s Beverly Arts Center. Visit cgmc.org/ division. Now we have six divisions. The top-tier (B and C Divisions) have be.” holiday for more information and tickets. Nov. 28, 2018 19

WINDY CITY TIMES’ 2018 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE WEEK ONE

Rebel yell All the world’s a stage As many know, the 50th Chicago’s Steppenwolf Theatre Company has anniversary of the Stonewall brought back its highly popular holiday gift-card Riots is next year, and this special—and it’s just in time, as upcoming produc- cool “Rebel” T-shirt—which tions include Familiar, written by Danai Gurira (of The out Oscar-winning screen- Walking Dead and the film Black Panther); La Ruta, writer Dustin Lance Black de- written by Isaac Gomez; and Ms. Blakk for President, signed—marks the occasion in by ensemble members Tina Landau and Tarell Alvin a colorful way. ($27; https:// McCraney. (Various prices; steppenwolf.org/holiday) www.omaze.com/made/ dustin-lance-black-rebel-tee)

Watch it No doubt you’ve heard of those subscription clubs in which new items are sent to you each month. Watch Gang sends cool timepieces to choose from—and, yes, watches are back in style. Also: A big bonus with this great present is that for no additional fees, the recipient will also have the chance to win a Rolex, Tag Heuer and Seiko every week. (Starting at $29; https://app.watch- gang.com/members)

Sing a song Audra McDonald brings her rich voice to the CD Sing Hap- py—her first solo release with a full orchestra (in this case, the New York Philharmonic) and featuring her singing Broadway numbers she’s never recorded. ($12.59) Pop life Snacks rarely gets better than what Chicago mainstay Garrett Popcorn offers. This holiday, make someone’s day with the Hot Cocoa Caramel- Crisp® Mix, which features Cocoa CaramelCrisp covered in fine Belgian milk and dark chocolate and mixed with classic CaramelCrisp; or the O Christmas Trio Gift Set (three petite tins filled with Garrett Mix, Hot Cocoa CaramelCrisp® Mix and Buttery items). ($35-$39.95; https://www. garrettpopcorn.com/) Nov. 28, 2018 20 Hot dates The naughtiest calendar So fresh, so clean is out yet again (for the Think about this: The typical cellphone has 18 times more bacteria than a public rest- seventh year). Yep, the room. This is why PhoneSoap is practically essential—during the 10-minute cycle it works 2019 Orthodox Calendar on your phone, the device kills kills is here, and the theme this 99.99 percent of household germs. I time is “Equal Rights. We don’t know how I lived without this. can Do It!”—and there are (Starting at $59.95; https://www. some hunky guys through- phonesoap.com) out the calendar to make sure the sights are pleas- ant as we persevere. (Ap- proximately $22; Ortho- dox-Calendar.com)

Book it Nina Barrett’s The Leopold and Loeb Files includes a history of Chicago’s 1924 Leopold and Loeb murder case, and includes a variety of source materials, including court tran- scripts, psychological transcripts, evidence photographs, and more ($35; https://www. amazon.com/Leopold-Loeb-Files-Intimate- Americas/dp/1572842407).

New York, New York Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS is out with a Choosing my religion new holiday two-CD compilation featuring stars from Industry West—known for furniture—has added the leading shows on Broadway. This newest edition Chanukah items like the Marmol Radziner dreidel to features 28 tracks from the companies of Mean Girls, its collection. A collaboration with the Jewish Muse- Dear Evan Hansen, Hamilton, My Fair Lady, Pretty um in New York, the unique dreidel is crafted in solid Woman and more. ($25; BroadwayCares.org) walnut with graphic cutouts of Hebrew letters and in- cludes a brass stand for display. ($100; https://www. industrywest.com/marmol-radziner-dreidel.html)

A cut above One of the best-known knife companies in the world, Wusthof has items for the chef in your life. The three-piece plum charcuterie and cheese set includes a 5” soft-cheese knife, 5” sausage knife and 4” pate knife; and the then there’s the Clas- sic Santoku Hollow Edge 7-inch, which is great for starchy vegetables. Martha Stewart would be proud. ($99.99-$139.99; wusthof.com)

Left: Ariana DeBose of Summer: The Donna Summer Musical. Right: Ben Levi Ross and Taylor Trensch of Dear Evan Hansen. Photos by Genevieve Rafter Keddy Nov. 28, 2018 21

Simply the chess Chess, you say? Absolutely, especially with Square Off chess board—a magical/spooky item in which you can play against anyone around the world, as the pieces move by them- selves. Players can also compete solo against the board’s AI mode, selecting from 20 skill levels ranging from beginner to grand master. ($369 and $449; Amazon and SquareOffNow. com)

Hair apparent When it comes to hair care, YANTRA products are pretty cool. All YANTRA products are made to be unisex and for- mulated for use on all hair types. In addition, 10 percent of Smooth like SILQ every purchase going to one of YANTRA’s charity partners of Office furniture (including those for the home) have come the customer’s choosing, ($40-$60; https://yantrabeauty. a long way—and just in time to save your back. Steelcase’s com/) SILQ chair has been advertised as the first chair designed to intuitively respond to the human body—and after testing it at the spot at Merchandise Mart, I’m a believer. You find yourself instantly sitting correctly. (various prices; https:// www.steelcase.com/products/office-chairs/silq/)

Pet stop Brew-hoo Think of Pawscout as a smarter pet tag. Among other things, Your favorite coffee lover will go crazy Pawscout alerts owners on their smartphone if a pet gets out for the newest Keurig items, such as the of the designated area, and even lets all users in the area Keurig® Special Edition K-Café Single know if your pet goes missing so they can help you find it. In Serve Coffee, Latte & Cappuccino Maker addition, it keeps and the Keurig® K-Mini PLUS Single Serve a digital profile of Coffee Maker. Eventually, he/she/they medical records, may stop going to that popular coffee owner informa- shop, saving some money. ($99-$199; tion, behavioral https://www.keurig.com) issues and other items. (Starting at $9.95; https:// pawscout.com/) Playing footsies When the weather outside is frightful, your Footsac recipient will be toasty, thanks to this blanket that has an 18- inch pocket in which they can tuck Comics relief their feet. And you can choose varieties With the box-office receipts of superhero movies such as owl phur, mousse swirl phur and showing no signs of declining, it’s likely you know more. (Starting at $112.50; https:// someone who’s into Superman, Wolverine, Wonder www.lovesac.com/search/accessories/ Woman, Black Panther or some other world- throws-blankets-footsacs) saving character. Graham Crackers (advertised as the number-one comic-book store in Illinois) has hundreds of selections to satisfy your inner (or outer) nerd. (Various prices; https://www. grahamcrackers.com/) Nov. 28, 2018 22

Maestro, if you please The coffee-table book Leonard Bernstein 100: The Masters Photograph the Maestro features the out cul- tural icon through the lenses of photographers such as Richard Avedon, Felicitas Timpe and Henri Cartier-Bres- son. ($40; out Dec. 11)

How sweet it is Gigi’s Cupcakes knows how to make some delicious cupcakes (in sizes of signature, classic and mini)—but it also has cheesecake cupcakes, brownies and more. By the way, there is a Wilmette loca- tion if you want to shop locally. Climb every mountain (various prices; https://gigiscup- Certain truths are unavoidable—including the fact that slews of people start the new year with fitness cakesusa.com/) goals. (Whether they stick with them is another matter.) Chicago’s Brooklyn Boulders Chicago offers a wide range of rock-climbing and fitness classes, including yoga and mat-based courses. It’s an innovative way to tackle the, ahem, two pounds one might gain over the holidays. (Various prices; https://brooklynboulders. com/chicago/)

Spirited away You can’t go wrong with serving Mionetto’s classic Prosecco DOC Treviso Brut this holiday season. With notes of honey, , and acacia blossom, this wine can be served chilled on its own or used to create your own holi- ‘Style’ guides day cocktails—and it seems that so many people enjoy Icons of Style: A Century of prosecco throughout the year, and there are also Mionet- Fashion Photography, by Paul to’s signature DOC Treviso Brut Prosecco in mini-bottles Martineau, is an informative, as cool stocking stuffers. ($4-$14; https://usa.mionetto. lavishly illustrated survey of one com/) hundred years of fashion photog- raphy, including more than 300 photographs, including Man Ray and Herb Ritts. However, another book that warrants buying is Fe- male, in which Chilean photo- journalist Pilar Vergara captures the uniqueness and diversity of transgender women and their vital contributions to the world from a human-rights perspective. ($45-$65; https://shop.getty. edu) Lullaby the way The CD Rockabye Baby! Who Runs the World serves a dual purpose: It provides lullaby versions of songs by Beyonce, Taylor Swift, Missy Elliott and more, and it instills girl power at an early age. ($16.98; https:// www.rockabyebabymusic.com/products/who-runs-the- world) Nov. 28, 2018 23

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

Chapter Eight: on all the shelves. the other toys. When those toys talked far Luke was seized by the armpits and stood The Music Store Some of the instruments in the music into the night after their shop owners had up. After they bound his hands and feet, store, like many toys in other stores, came left, they often boasted about how tough they dragged him to the back of a truck The store Erik lived in was on the Isle from the manufacturers broken, battered, they were. That all the other toys were and threw him in. They tossed his medic of Misfit Toys. On the day he was brought or torn. Some had suffered from years of wimps, and then bragged about the chil- bag and the stolen drugs in with him. here, Erik managed to see that a multi- abuse in cruel or indifferent homes. Some dren they’d hurt and maimed. They openly Other wounded men from the enemy were tude of stores lined the landward side of had been rubbed shiny by tiny hands of laughed at the toys that were on the ten tossed in with him almost as roughly as he the road that spiraled from the glittering boys and girls now all grown up. Some most safe toys list. had been. bridge and wound around and around the had been used to make mesmerizing and The little harmonica rarely had anything As they drove through the night, he could massive pile of rock up to the mighty cas- beguiling music by loving hands and lips. to do with them. There weren’t that many hear the men around him moaning and tle that rose from the peak of the island. Many of the instruments were now just dangerous toys in the music store, but over calling out in pain. His own head ached The music store with Erik in it was about tired and wanted to rest. the years when he’d encountered them, from where he’d been struck. He touched two-thirds of the way up the path. To en- The little harmonica knew they were all he’d been very afraid. He didn’t know what the spot with his hand and it came back ter, you walked through an oaken door the same in their deepest hearts no matter the mean toys were capable of. daubed with blood. He shook his head to that was carved on both sides with musical their kind or current dysfunctions. Inside Erik had never been picked, barely ever try to clear it. He thought it likely that he notes, scales, clefs, sharps, and flats. each instrument, no matter how well hid- been noticed. He had been huddled on his had a concussion. He willed to keep him- den by time or suppressed by misuse or shelf so long that some days he had a hard self awake. exhausted by joy given, was the heart of time remembering how happy he’d been in music and the desire to bring harmony to the hands of the last little boy. the world. These days, he tried to comfort the The proprietor of the store was a spry old frightened little car, make things better man, thin and tall, almost cadaverous, his for the tiny little thing. cheeks sunken, his chin pointed. The scruff of his goatee around his chin and mouth Chapter Nine: was snow white as were the last few wisps Luke of hair on his head. He had sharp brown eyes that knew things about the ways of A horde of fighters from the other side the human heart, both good and bad. It rushed out of the night. In seconds, the Inside, the lights hung from the ceiling lent him wisdom and an ocean of sadness camp was overwhelmed. and were covered with lampshades that as if his knowledge had bent his heart the Once captured, Luke lay on his face on caused soft yellow emanations to bathe way it had bent his bones over the many the ground. He understood their language. the scene in golden light. The wooden years. But you didn’t see despair in his Some of them bragged about killing and Wherever his body touched the bed of the floors matched the oak of the door. Aisles eyes, just the twinkle that came with the winning the night. A few talked about truck, he felt the blood from his compan- branched off at sudden angles, as if trian- profound joy of living. how clever they had been. One kept warn- ions in misery seeping into his clothes. If gles, circles, ovals, and odd-shaped poly- The proprietor’s favorite day of the year ing them that they’d better leave before a he was unbound, he’d have tried to help gons were the guiding light of the builder. was Christmas Eve. Because on the Isle of counterattack began. them. His wounded leg throbbed. Sometimes, the aisles inside the store Misfit Toys the day before Christmas was They’d come to the medical compound Through the night, they drove on rough seemed to extend as far as the road from different. All the other days, anyone could and seized all the drugs and medicine they and rutted roads. Each wild jostle caused bridge to castle. As if the stores could ex- come and purchase a toy, but on this day, could find. Luke saw that they were begin- the men to cry out. Luke could see that pand forever so there was always space as any poor, abandoned, or needy child could ning to leave. He tried to raise himself up some around him slept. Or maybe they’d the poor, unused, and unwanted toys ac- come to the Isle and choose a toy to take on his elbows. The nearest attacker bashed died. He dare not think about them or cumulated. with them. A free toy to cherish for as long Luke with the butt of a gun. Luke fell back. what might happen to him next. The shelves in the music store stretched as they wished. He saw the killer raise the rifle to hit him Captured and frightened, what got Luke from floor to ceiling from the front of the In the music store, the children most again. through the night was thinking about his store to the back. All were at least a foot always took the shiny ones, even if their Then the tent was filled with shouts. He wife and two children. He imagined their and a half deep. music was twisted, warped, and awful. heard them begin to fight about killing any faces and promised himself and them a Innumerable drums cluttered the aisles And still the bullies among the instru- prisoners or taking them as hostages. million times that he would return to so it was almost impossible to walk ments brayed on in hopes of being chosen. One of the enemy reminded the others them. straight down an aisle, and sometimes you Some of them were from the lists of toys about the band of cloth on his arm that All night long, they drove without stop- had to strain to reach over or around them dangerous to children. These were in a identified Luke as a medic. Another one of ping. He could hear the rumble of other to catch a glimpse of all the instruments special category and were meaner than all them shouted orders. trucks. None of them turned their lights Nov. 28, 2018 25 on. Above him, he could see stars and a in fits and starts. He used what he had sickle moon. on hand. Some of the locals taught him a Luke didn’t remember falling asleep. He few techniques of their own folk medicine. awoke with a jerk as dawn was breaking. He was grateful when these procedures From his prone position in the bed of the worked. truck, he looked over the edge. On all four But every day, Luke thought of his wife sides tall mountains loomed. They were in and children. In a corner of his heart, some distant valley. he hoped against hope that he’d be res- When the trucks turned off their engines, cued somehow and brought back to them. Luke found the silence the only comforting Through the cold nights and meager provi- thing. The bitter cold seemed to penetrate sions, he struggled on. his very bones. As the bitter days wore on, he knew it Luke worked for months, thinking every was getting close to Christmas. On normal day would be his last. Since they were days, Luke tried to greet the world with shorthanded, they made him use his medi- kindness. He knew that you had a choice cal skills on military and civilian alike. His when you met people. With his family, he wounds sometimes ached. His knee often was always most patient. Although they stiffened in the cold. For a long time, ev- were poor, Luke had always tried to make ery once in a while, he felt dizzy. But he this holiday special for them. healed better than many he treated. He He wanted to gather them together on was grateful for even being alive. their shabby old couch in their little apart- With the leader were his usual henchmen was his son? What if he couldn’t cure him? His conscience racked him with the no- ment. As Christmas neared, he missed the toting their dark and deadly weapons. This Would they really kill him? He’d seen oth- tion that he was fixing these men up to preparations, the warmth, the closeness. time, the leader also had a woman and ers dispatched on the whims of some of go out and kill more. But he’d had enough He wished he could sit with them and a child with him. Luke saw that it was a the guards. He suspected he’d only been training to know that healing was his vo- watch the lights on their little tree. little boy about Matthew’s age. The leader spared because of his knowledge. cation, not killing. Eventually, they came Each day that passed seemed to be an- held the boy in his arms. He brought the Luke quickly realized he was likely only to trust him enough that they brought lo- other eternity that made the dream more child to a cot and motioned Luke over. a few bits short of the medicine that the cal people to him. Men, women, and chil- and more impossible. The days began to The leader said, “My son is very sick. The boy desperately needed. He thought the dren who had no other medical services. blur together in pain and agony. While locals cannot cure him. You must do so.” boy had Indigenous Fever. A local disease After they learned he spoke their lan- somewhat better, his leg wound hadn’t He took his gun off his shoulder and point- the natives had never been able to combat guage, Luke was often given the task of healed completely. ed it at Luke. “Cure him or you die.” or cure. If he told them what he needed, translating. One day when Luke thought it must be Even in the cold, Luke began to sweat. would they raid some village or compound It was always cold in a camp where he a week before Christmas, the leader of He said, “I will do my best.” and kill to get a cure? When they raided, now helped all the wounded and ill. the forces holding him entered the medi- “Better than your best.” did his captors care which side of the fight The nights were the worst. Few lights cal tent. He’d learned over time who the “All that I can.” the attacked people were on? Would peo- were lit for fear of an attack. The same leader was. They stretched out the child on a cot. ple die as a result of some decision of his? thin blankets served for prisoners, wound- Outside, the wind howled. The tent sides Luke examined him carefully. The child was End of part seven. Part eight coming ed, or warriors. The rations for prisoners shuddered and flapped. Nearly horizontal very sick. His body was alarmingly warm. next week were slim. Medicines and drugs appeared snow rocketed by. Luke imagined many things. What if this

“A Cradle Song is my “A Cradle Song Mark Zubro is the very favorite of Mark is a wonderful, author of thirty-six books Zubro’s books. Tender, heartwarming story, and seven short stories. full of insight and love, and just right for He has won the Lambda it made me cry—but Christmas. Open this Literary award for A they were happy tears.” present and enjoy!” Simple Suburban Murder and been nominated —Jeanne M. Dams, —Barbara D’Amato, eight other times. All author of the Dorothy Martin author of the Cat Marsala are available as ebooks mysteries series and the recent and most as paperbacks Other Eyes online or at Unabridged Bookstore in Chicago A Cradle Song will be available soon as an ebook and as and Outwords Books in a paperback online and from Unabridged Bookstore Milwaukee. in Chicago and Outwords Books in Milwaukee. Nov. 28, 2018 26

design community. The design exhibit takes up one large event hall on “It touches on the Chicago Expo, Sears, Ebony the fourth floor of the Chicago Cultural Center. magazine—institutions that are really important Photos by Ariel Parrella-Aureli for history and Chicago’s place in the world,” O’Hagen said. For Osbourne, the exhibit showed a new per- spective to history of her own lifetime. “It is interesting because it brings a certain amount of history that I was not familiar with,” Osbourne said. “I was alive but I was a kid; I didn’t know about it.” The Great Depression’s effect on Black design- ers was an event she found particularly interest- ing because it showed the difficulty they had in getting jobs after the industries shut down. While that may sound similar to others seeking employment after the Depression, racism toward Blacks and their fear of not being accepted into the mainstream birthed safe spaces for Black de- signers to still be creative. Marjorie Stewart Joyner was one Black artist who used her talent to cater to Black consumers and bounce back from the Depression. Her work was one that struck Osbourne, and the exhibit gives Joyner a whole glass table that showcases her hair-care products to Black women and men with catchy photo of models and loud text. Ac- cording to the brochure, Joyner was the first Black woman to graduate from Chicago’s A.B. Beauty School in 1916, and her hair products in- fluenced the beauty culture industry. O’Hagan said the exhibit reminded him of all the talent in Chicago and its influence past and present. “We were really were and are a manufacturing and design center,” he said. “It goes back many ART decades and African-Americans were part of it Loop historical exhibit in Chicago. “The Negro artisan is losing,” Du Bois and not recognized for their talents.” remarked. The gallery has work from Black SAIC graduates The artistic boom that erupted from Black de- who went on to create different mediums of art spotlights Black designers signers by the middle of the century was due to that impacted the Chicago design community, artifacts made by Black designers—many who BY ARIEL PARRELLA-AURELI design strongholds such as the South Side Com- such as McBride, Charles Dawson and William contributed to Chicago’s culture as a prominent munity Art Center, the Art Institute of Chicago, Knight Farrow. Other notable designers include Margaret T. Burroughs was an instrumental de- place for Black designers in this country. They Ebony magazine and more. The exhibit features Thomas Miller, a designer at Morton Goldsholl As- signer in the South Side Black design community made it somewhere Black designers could expand art from these institutions; Jet magazine and sociates who designed the famous Motorola logo who bridged global divides, design interests and and share their craft, according to the exhibit’s Johnson Publishing Company represented an age and TV commercials for 7Up and Hamburger Help- created nurturing environments for artists and brochure. “This exhibition celebrates the lives of modernity in the Black design community and er. Robert S. Pious, who created posters for the designers to thrive. She co-founded the DuSable and works of African-American designers, who further established Chicago as an empowering American Negro Exposition in Chicago in 1940, Museum in 1961 and was largely a part of estab- created a future for the ‘Negro artisan’ beyond design environment. has posters in the show and Emmett McBain, an lishing the South Side Community Art Center in what [civil-rights activist W.E.B.] Du Bois could Lake View residents Tim O’Hagen and Julie assistant art director at Playboy, designed record 1940, along with William McBride. envision,” it said. That vision, said the brochure, Osbourne visited the exhibit’s opening recep- covers and posters of poems and quotes from These figures are just some of the Black design- was something Du Bois said in 1912: that there tion Nov. 2 and found the exhibit to be a strong prominent Black activists. Another Black designer ers featured in the Chicago Cultural Center’s new were not many skilled African-American laborers historical lesson on the importance of Chicago’s who tied music and art together was Sylvia Aber- exhibit “African American Designers in Chicago: nathy, who designed covers for Denmark Records Art, Commerce and the Politics of Race.” and the Art Ensemble of Chicago. It opened Oct. 27 and will remain until March Curated by Daniel Schulman, Chris Dingwall and 3, 2019. The exhibit is part of Art Design 2018, Tim Samuelson, the exhibit has been 10 years a collection of exhibits and events that celebrate in the making, acknowledged the curators in the Chicago’s design and art community’s past and brochure. They also acknowledged the timing of present. This exhibit brings together art and the exhibit; 10 years ago, design scholars and the design from more than 30 Black designers who public did not give much thought or awareness to started in the 1900s—a time when Chicago, and Black designers. America at large, harbored bias toward Black “Only recently had scholars of African-American professionals. The gallery focuses on influential culture attended to the commercial arts as a site designers creating an alternative narrative to the where Black people intervened in the shaping of design history of the city at a time when white- history—their own and the nation’s— in what is controlled unions and craft guilds prohibited now dynamic field of inquiry,” the curators wrote. Blacks from entering design trades. The exhibit is on the fourth floor of the Chicago The expansive exhibit has rows of glass-covered Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington St. For more tables with advertised posters, cartoons, books, information, see https://www.cityofchicago.org/ magazines, dioramas, architectural signage, Posters from the late ‘30s and early ‘40s by unknown Black designers. city/en/depts/dca/supp_info/designers.html. graphic designs, beauty advertisements and old Photo by Ariel Parrella-Aureli Nov. 28, 2018 27 BILLY MastersMasters

“Me in the clouds searching for @ZacEfron’s nudes.”—Gus Kenworthy’s caption for an Insta- gram shot looking at the sky. Silly boy, you won’t find nudes of Zac Efron up there. You’ll find them on BillyMasters.com. Gossip doesn’t take a holiday—even on Thanks- giving. While your beloved Billy was nibbling on assorted legs and thighs, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade featured two women kissing. And? I mean, it’s 2018 ... there must have been more to it than just that. Nope, apparently that was it. People online were going berserk after a same-sex smooch between two female cast members from the Broadway musical The Prom, a show about a group of actors saving a high school prom after the PTA threatens to cancel the event if a lesbian couple attends (I haven’t seen it yet, but I hear it’s great.) When the ladies locked lips on live TV, life imitated art and a few vocal people expressed their outrage. One tweet tickled me: “Millions of small children just watched two girls kiss and Zac Efron (above) was the subject of a naughty had their innocence broken this morning..” Two Gus Kenwrothy tweet. things: 1) I’d be shocked if the Macy’s Thanksgiv- Photo by Patrick Lewis/Starpix ing Day Parade had 1 million total viewers, let alone millions of children, and b) Are kids really fuse to design a cake that expressed a message shocked by two women kissing? he did not believe, Miss de Havilland has a right In a story that will put the tingle back in your to prevent false words being put into her mouth loins, my pal John Wesley Shipp has winched in a docudrama, just as with any other form of his considerable assets back into tights to once publications.” I hate anyone comparing Olivia to again play The Flash. “Billy,” I can almost hear a homophobic baker, but if it gets her in front of you crying, “doesn’t he play the father of The Ruth Bader Ginsburg, I’ll allow it. Flash?” Oh, how soon they forget. Back when Remember Danny Roberts from The Real James Van Der Beek barely had his first pubes, World: New Orleans? Way back in 2000, he was Shipp was the eponymous Flash for CBS. Yes, now dating someone in the military whose face was he plays the father. But in the ‘90s, our super- blurred—back then you could be drummed out of heroes were much hunkier. For the fifth annual the service for being gay. We hadn’t heard much “Arrowverse.” crossover, “Elseworld.” will feature about Danny in recent years—except for an erect characters from The Flash, Arrow and Supergirl nude photo of dubious veracity which you can in a CW spectacular. The event takes place over still find on our website. Roberts recently slipped three nights, Dec. 9-11, introduces Batwoman back into the spotlight via an interview with org. and Lois Lane, and features Shipp in tights for Entertainment Weekly, where he revealed three Perhaps you’d prefer something you can sink the first time since 1990. Well, there was that things: 1) He’s living in NYC, 2) he’s adopted a your teeth into. Then, I’d recommend the Golden night I spent with him in Toledo back in 2011— 2-year-old girl, and 3) he’s HIV-positive. Appar- Girls Breakfast Cereal. Is there anyone reading but that’s another story. ently he found out his HIV status in 2011 after this column doesn’t have a few people who you’d Someone else used to tight clothing is Jeff passing out and waking up in a pool of blood. like to thank for being a friend? And what better Rohrer, who was a Dallas Cowboy during 1982- While he doesn’t go into detail about the pass- way to thank them than to sit down to break- 89. The former linebacker not only came out as ing out or pool of blood, he said this about his fast with Rose, Blanche, Sophia and Dorothy? The gay, but married his partner of two years, Joshua status: “The last thing I ever want is pity. I just cereal is a multigrain flavor, blue-hued (like So- Ross (facialist on The Real Housewives of Beverly want people to know and be aware. I knew so phia’s hair), and available at Target and Target. Hills). Jeff is the first member of the NFL to be in little myself so I get it.” com. a “known same-sex marriage.”. He told The New Brace yourselves. It’s time for “Billy’s Holiday Speaking of things in a bowl, we hear that Cha- York Times, “If I had told the Dallas Cowboys in Gift Giving Suggestions.” Each week between now ka Khan will be the grand marshal for the Rose the 1980s that I was gay, I would have been cut and Christmas, I’m going to share items that I Bowl Parade. She’s even going to be on the float! immediately. It was a different world back then; think would make great gifts for people on your Of course, I suspect it’ll be hard to tell where the people didn’t want to hear that.” list—both naughty and nice. To kick things off, dress ends and the float begins. You’ll recall that 102-year-old Olivia de Havil- we turn to Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. When everything’s coming up Chaka, it’s time land is fuming at Ryan Murphy and FX Networks Each year, this organization releases a special to end another column. Before we hit New Year’s, over how she was portrayed in Feud. Despite Broadway Legends ornament. In the past, these we’ve got scads of celebrating to do at BillyMas- lower courts ruling with the network, Livvy wants have all been legendary ladies. This year, BC/EFA ters.com—the site that can stuff more than just to take the case to the Supreme Court. FX is try- kinda breaks with tradition by featuring Harvey your stocking. Send your questions to Billy@Bil- ing to block her, saying that her case is unwor- Fierstein. Of course, he’s in his “Hairspray.” rega- lyMasters.com and I promise to get back to you thy of the highest court in the land. Her lawyers lia, so he still fits in. Not only is it gorgeous, but before de Havilland says, “Let them eat cake!” think otherwise, saying, “Like the Colorado baker it helps raise money for this great charity. You Until next time, remember: One man’s filth is an- whose First Amendment rights allowed him to re- can pick up one (or a dozen) at BroadwayCares. other man’s bible. Nov. 28, 2018 28

you do this to me?” [Interviewer laughs.] But the person said, “No—we’re really coming, and we’d like to feature you.” Three months later, it aired. We were very lucky; that pretty much put us on the DISH the map. Weekly Dining Guide in WCT: The restaurant has also been featured in Men’s Journal. Does that mean the food is WINDY CITY TIMES good for you? [Laughs] WS: [Laughs] I guess so! That was a little bit of SAVOR a shock when they said, “We like to feature this burger in Men’s Journal.” Talking with Will Song WCT: How would you describe the cuisine? of bopNgrill WS: It’s just things I grew up eating all the time. At home, I was eating rice and meat. At BY ANDREW DAVIS school, I was eating burgers, hot dogs, pizza and fries. That was kind of how the menu turned out, In Chicago’s restaurant scene, it can be tough to initially. survive with just one establishment. Left: bopNgrill’s Will Song (right) with Guy Fieri. Right: bopNgrill’s kimchi burger. WCT: Does the menu change? However, Will Song has been pretty successful, Photos from Song WS: Yeah—we try to put specials here and with two locations of the fast-casual Korean there. But I think one of the biggest challenges restaurant bopNgrill (https://www.bopngrill. I’ve faced in the last few years is that when com/)—one in Rogers Park and the other in Lake you have more than one location, it’s hard to —Emma Alamo grew up in Florida. She es- View. (Now, he’s also part-owner of the Evanston maintain the quality control. The workforce caped to Chicago by way of Baltimore and has chicken restaurant 10Q, along with Chicago you hire is sometimes entry-level, so you have Sidetrack’s since established herself as a writer, storyteller, clothing store Belmont Army owner David Yoo, to make sure you keep up the quality as you’re and leatherworker. Her stories have been featured according to The Daily Northwestern.) OUTspoken! Series: growing. on the Risk! and Lenny Says podcasts, and her Song recently talked with Windy City Times WCT: For people who have not tried Korean leather harnesses have been featured on the bod- about various aspects of bopNgrill—including a December’s featured food, how do you recommend navigating the ies of babes across the world. legal tussle that took place a few years ago. menu? storytellers —Ada Cheng is a professor-turned storyteller Windy City Times: I can imagine that you’re WS: Even though Korean food is pretty popular and performing artist. She debuted her first solo pretty busy, with all these restaurants. now in the States, it’s still not common for people show, Not Quite: Asian American by Law, Asian Will Song: Yes—I am very fortunate. Emma Alamo to try kimchi or the other basic staples. So one Woman by Desire, in January 2017. Ada is the WCT: Tell me about how bopNgrill came to thing I wanted to push was making some of the producer and the host of the storytelling/pod- be. I understand you sank your life savings traditional ingredients and dishes mainstream, casting show, Am I Man Enough: A Storytelling/ into it. like tofu or bi bim bop, which is like Korea’s Podcasting Show, where people tell stories to WS: [Laughs] Yeah. I was working in different answer to the burrito bowl. If you like it, great— critically examine the culture of toxic masculin- kitchens in Chicago; my last gig was working at maybe you’ll go to a traditional Korean restaurant ity and the construction of masculinity and man- Sunda. I was there for about a year and a half as and try a full onslaught of ingredients. hood. a sous chef, and I decided to try something on WCT: And there was an umami burger that —Shawn Cobb has worn many hats over the my own. Ada Cheng bopNgrill had—but then a legal problem years, working jobs ranging from forklift opera- I looked into opening a restaurant, but realized surfaced. Isn’t “umami” an everyday word? tor to cosmetologist and pretty much everything it’s very expensive. I guess I was kind of naive Shawn Cobb I could see a problem, maybe, if you had a in between. He finally settled in at the railroad thinking that I’d get into this without any real Beyonce Burger. where he has worked as a mechanic for over 14 capital. I thought that dream would die pretty WS: [Laughs] Of course—and “umami” is an years. Also, a published Sci-Fi author, Shawn has soon because I didn’t have any money. everyday word. So that lawsuit was a few years always been passionate about writing and illus- One day I was in Evanston visiting a friend at back. We’re a little dinky restaurant in Chicago, tration; however it was through Toastmasters Northwestern [University]. I took Church Street and this larger spot knocked on our door, saying, that he found his voice as a storyteller. back home and I saw a sign that had “Mr. Burger” “You’re infringing on our trademark.” I asked my —Xander Krohn is excited. He is also a sto- on it, and stopped in because I was hungry. Long attorney and he said, “Don’t worry about it.” ryteller, writer, and graduate student originally story short, after ordering—and t took about 30 So they sued—and I had to hire an attorney Xander Krohn from Texas. minutes to get my food even though I was the and deal with [legal processes]. When you’re a —Roger McCaffrey-Boss has worked in the only one in there—the owner found out what I company that large, you can do whatever you Roger McCaffrey-Boss Chicago LGBT Community for more than 40 did for a living, and asked if I wanted to buy the want to a little dinky place. years, serving the legal needs of individuals, restaurant. When I got home, I started thinking, You can’t trademark “umami,” but you can same-sex couples, and LGBT organizations. Over “Maybe I should do this, because I could probably trademark “umami” and “burger” together. But I the past 30 years, he has published weekly le- get it cheap.” Also, it was across the street from wasn’t calling my [sandwich] “Umami Burger.” My gal advice columns that help members of the Evanston [Township] High School, which has two attorney said, “You have a great case, so how LGBT Community to know what their legal rights or three thousand students there. So I bought much money do you have to litigate this case are and how to defend them. the business for about $10,000 and opened two because they have deep pockets. … I’d advise —Raphael Michael Sangel was born and raised weeks later. you to settle. Yeah, you’d probably win—but at Raphael Michael Sangel in the Philippines and currently works as a nurse So I thought I better brush up my resume what cost?” in Florida. Previously a competitive member of because there was no business at this [Settling] was the hardest thing. We had to restaurant—but, for whatever reason, it got his university’s choral group, he grew up a fan of settle and move forward. I didn’t know I’d have The December edition of OUTspoken! better. [The Evanston location of bopNgrill closed Gene Kelly movies and imagined himself dancing to deal with lawsuits, taxes, payroll, compliance LGBTQ storyteller series takes place in 2012.] to the music in the movies himself. and other things; I just wanted to cook—but Tuesday, December 4, at Sidetrack, WCT: I saw a picture of you with chef Guy that’s just one component. There were so many Fieri. What’s the story behind that? 3349 N. Halsted St. Doors open at 6 pm, issues I didn’t understand at first. Things can get WS: So, that was when the executive producer stories begin at 7. pretty vicious. [of the TV show Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives] WCT: But if you want to name a burger after See www.outspokenchicago.com for called our [Rogers Park] location, saying they’d us, feel free. more info. be in Chicago filming. When I first got the call, I WS: [Laughs] Let’s do it—The Windy City Times thought, “This is the worst prank ever. Why would Burger! Nov. 28, 2018 29

Our list of all the regular drag shows in and around Chicago. To include your show in DRAG IT UP! our listings, please submit info to [email protected]. MONDAYS FRIDAYS Chicago’s Best Worst Drag Show, hosted by Arby Barbie, Beauties and Beaus, hosted by Naysha Lopez, Mimi Marks weekly, 2 a.m., no cover. The Jackhammer Complex, 6406 and Mz. Ruff ‘n Stuff, weekly, 9:30 p.m., no cover. Hy- N. Clark St. drate, 3458 N. Halsted St. Vamp, featuring Mimi Marks, hosted by Mercedes Tyler, Dining With the Divas, featuring Angel LeBare and CeeCee weekly, 11 p.m., no cover. Progress Bar, 3359 N. Halsted LaRouge, shows weekly at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m., Hamburger St. Mary’s Oak Park, 155 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, Ill. Lipstick & Mascara, hosted by Mz. Ruff ‘n Stuff, weekly, The Baton Show Lounge, shows weekly at 8:30 p.m., 10:30 11:30 p.m., no cover. Hydrate, 3458 N. Halsted St. p.m. and 12:30 a.m. 436 N. Clark St. Plot Twist, hosted by T-Rex, every 3rd Monday, 10:30 p.m., Berlin, 954 W. Belmont Ave. SATURDAYS BEHIND Drag Matinee, hosted by T-Rex, weekly, 10:30 p.m., Berlin, TUESDAYS THE NAME 954 W. Belmont Ave. Killer Babes, hosted by Lady Ivory, every 3rd Tues., 10 p.m. “‘Coco’ comes from #POPular, featuring 2018 Fan Favorite Tiffany Diamond, @mosphere, 5355 N. Clark St. the lead singer of my hosted by Veronica Pop, weekly, shows at 10:30 p.m., Roscoe’s Drag Race, Chicago’s longest-running amateur Charlie’s, 3726 N. Broadway PROFILE BY ::COCOfavorite girl SHO-NELL group from the:: weekly drag competition hosted by Frida Lay, Roscoe’s, 90’s, SWV (Sisters with Voices); Beauties and Beaus, hosted by Naysha Lopez, Mimi Marks 3356 N. Halsted St. TONY PEREGRINDRAG‘Sho’ PROFILE because I am OF a theatre THE queen WEEK and and Mz. Ruff ‘n Stuff, weekly, 9:30 p.m., no cover. Hy- Dixie Wins a Talent Show (while Alexis Bevels stage-man- I love to put on a show; and ‘Nell ‘ for my drag drate, 3458 N. Halsted St. ages), featuring Dixie Lynn Cartwright and Alexis Bevels, inspiration, Nell Carter.” Drag shows at Manuevers: 1st Sat.: Raven’s Ravishing Revue, a showcase for local drag queens, performance artists and FIRST DRAG PERFORMANCE hosted by Raven Samore; 2nd Sat.: The Dymond Standard, comedians, last Tues. of the month, 9:30 p.m., Sidetrack, “I didn’t start doing drag until 2009, when a friend had hosted by Diamond Calloway; 3rd Sat.: Diva’s Den, hosted 3349 N. Halsted St. a drag king company and they wanted to have a queen by Sasha Love; 4th Sat.: Noche Latina, hosted by Aleyna join their group. That was my year of yes, so if I had Couture. All shows at 11:30 p.m., no cover. Maneuvers, WEDNESDAYS not said yes I would have never explored being a drag 118 E. Jefferson St., Joliet Honeys on Halsted, hosted by Mimi Marks and Mz. Ruff ‘n queen.” Stardust, hosted by Natasha Douglas, 1st Sat. (starting Nov. Stuff, weekly, 11:30 p.m., no cover. Hydrate, 3458 N. DRAG INSPIRATION 2018), 8:30-10:30 p.m. @mosphere, 5355 N. Clark St. Halsted St. “Strong, uncompromising, driven, pillars of the Sofia’s Dragtacular Review, hosted by Sofia Saffire, every All Things Beyonce, hosted by Dixie Lynn Cartwright, featur- community—women like my mom, my aunties, my 2nd Sat., 10:30 p.m., Shakers on Clark, 3160 N. Clark St. ing Dida Ritz, Saya Naomi and guest queens, 2nd or 3rd grandmothers and also women of the stage like Nell Ashley Morgan Presents A Drag Revue, featuring Coco Sho- Wed. of the month, 9 p.m., Sidetrack, 3349 N. Halsted St. Carter, Grace Jones, Phyllis Hyman, Eartha Kitt, Tonya Nell, Dominique Diamond, Vivian Dejour and Juan M. The Baton Show Lounge, shows weekly at 8:30 p.m., 10:30 Pinkins and Audra McDonald.” Wette, hosted by Ashley Morgan, every 3rd Sat., 9:30 p.m. p.m. and 12:30 a.m. 436 N. Clark St. GO-TO NUMBER TO SLAY A CROWD seating, $5 suggested donation, The Call Bar, 1547 W. “It’s a carnivale mix of Nicki Minaj’s Starships/Ring the Bryn Mawr Ave. Alarm: It’s part drag and part burlesque.” 6 Queens 1 Diva, hosted by Muffy Fishbasket, every 4rd THURSDAYS SPILLING T Sat., 10 p.m., $5 cover, The Call Bar, 1547 W. Bryn Mawr Babes In Boyland, featuring Monica Beverly Hillz, Lila Star, “One of the biggest misconceptions about me is that Ave. Teri Yaki and Otter Chaös, weekly, 1 a.m., no cover. The I am younger than I am. People are surprised when Dining With the Divas, featuring Angel LeBare and CeeCee Jackhammer Complex, 6406 N. Clark St. I tell them how old I actually am (38) and I always LaRouge, shows weekly at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m., Hamburger Sirens of Splash, featuring Lila Star, Mimi Marks, Aura say: ‘Black don’t crack but it spreads.’ The other big Mary’s Oak Park, 155 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, Ill. Mayari and Silky, weekly, 9 p.m., no cover. Splash Chicago, misconception is that I am just a drag queen. I am so The Baton Show Lounge, shows weekly at 8:30 p.m., 10:30 3339 N. Halsted St. much more. I sing, I dance, I act in plays and musical p.m. and 12:30 a.m. 436 N. Clark St. POP ROCKS, dance party with drag from Alexis Bevels and and I choreograph for musicals.” Saya Naomi, get on stage to Win with Dixie Lynn Cart- WHERE CAN WE CATCH YOU? wright, weekly, 9 p.m., Sidetrack, 3349 N. Halsted St. Every first and third Saturday at Charlie’s; December 31, SUNDAYS Body Beautiful, hosted by Danika Bone’t and Alexandrea Reinas de la Casa, featuring Windy Breeze, Veronica Pop, Red Tape Theatre for the Champagne Wishes and Caviar Zafina Hasheesh and Danika Bone’t, hosted by Alexandrea Diamond, 4th Thu. of each month, shows at 11:30 p.m., Dreams benefit/NYE event. 12:30 a.m. and 1:30 a.m., no cover. Charlie’s, 3726 N. Diamond, 2nd Sun. of each month, shows at 11:30 p.m., SOCIAL MEDIA Broadway 12:30 and 1:30 a.m. Charlie’s, 3726 N. Broadway Facebook: coco.shoNell.1 Angel LeBare’s Fish Hatchery, contest for aspiring drag The Baton Show Lounge, shows weekly at 8:30 p.m., 10:30 Instagram: @cocoslense p.m. and 12:30 a.m. 436 N. Clark St. queens, every 4th Sun., 8 p.m. @mosphere, 5355 N. Clark Twitter: @cocoshonell St. The Baton Show Lounge, shows weekly at 7, 9 and 11 p.m. Photo by Austin D. Oie 436 N. Clark St. Nov. 28, 2018 30 Thursday, Nov. 29 7853&trid=5c1cba5c-3646-4aa5-9dad- ing those who have passed, supporting Stand Up For Red Indoor Street Fest 4f97dfdb4f60 those living with HIV including family COMMUNITY Sample signature bites from creative World of Chocolate Chicago’s premier and friends. Current state of HIV/AIDS chefs. DIFFA has engaged the creative World AIDS Day event supporting the in the community. All are welcome. community to create site-specific music, AIDS Foundation of Chicago’s efforts. 5:00pm - 7:00pm A Church for Me, CALENDAR perforamnce and art responding to the Signature creations of chocolatiers and 7366 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL http:// HIV/AIDS epidemic. 5:30pm - 9:30pm chefs from over 23 of Chicago’s hottest www.achurch4me.org Center on Halsted 3656 N Halsted Chi- restaurants, hotels and bakeries 6:00pm Vida/Sida 30th Anniversary Gala & Wed., Nov. 28 cago http://diffachicago.org/event/ - 9:00pm Revel Fulton Market, 1215 W. World AIDS Day Commemoration Red Set in Chi- TheT: Web Series Screening E625709206 Fulton http://chocolate.aidschicago. Carpet & Cocktails. 7-9pm: Dinner & cago, the T follows a young trans woman Volledig: Emptied of Shame: Full of Life org/ticketing/ Program. 9-12am: Dancing & Cocktails. and queer Black man as they learn how The stories of the artists in this project Twelve Chicago-based LGBTQ+ perform- Featuring the music of La Orquesta Leal. to be best friends in the wake of their - what they experienced living through ing arts organizations perform to- $40 advance, $50 at door. 6:00pm - romantic relationship, and Jo’s transi- the AIDS Crisis, memories of those lost gether 35th Anniversary Holiday Hul- 12:00am Gallery 3949 3949 W Armitage tion. Hosted by Keeping it LITE. Free 7:00pm Links Hall 3111 N. Western labaloo with Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus Avenue Chicago http://www.puertori- RSVP 5:30pm - 9:30pm Chicago Cul- Ave Chicago http://www.eventbrite.com About Face Theatre, Allegrezza, Artemis canchicago.org/new-events/2018/12/1/ tural Center 78 E. Washington St. Chi- Melissa DuPrey, SEXomedy 2.0: The Singers, Chicago Pride Guard, Chicago vida-sida-30th-anniversary-gala cago http://www.thetwebseries.com/ THE JANE EVENT Second Coming Response to current Spirit Brigade, Chicago Tap Theatre, Tickets: http://www.facebook.com/ debates on female sexuality, body posi- GayCo, Lakeside Pride Music Ensembles, Sunday, Dec. 2 events/2571478436203560/?active_ Friday, Nov. 30 tivity and identity politics, delving into Lakeview Orchestra, Pride Films & Plays, She100 Brunch Presentation Meeting & tab=about Actress Jane Lynch (above) hook-up culture dominated by male and Windy City Gay Chorus. Continues Social Collectively increase the power of World AIDS Day: Past, Present and Fu- power, porn shaped by heteronormativ- through Dec. 2. 8:00pm Harris Theater queer women in the LGBTQ community Some of Chicago’s founding mem- will perform “A Swingin’ ture ity and more. 7:30pm Chicago Drama- for Music and Dance 205 E Randolph Dr by combining our resources to fund and bers in the fight against AIDS speak Little Christmas” with tists 1105 W. Chicago Ave. Chicago Chicago http://cgmc.org/holiday support organizations that empower our about what it was like in the beginning, Kate Flannery. http://www.windycitymediagroup.com/ Jane Lynch, A Swingin’ Little Christmas community. Time:TBA TBD http:// talk about how things have changed and Photo by Jake Bailey lgbt/COMEDY-On-her-own-terms-Melis- Golden Globe- and two-time Emmy- www.she100.org what the future holds. Food and drink. sa-DuPreys-work-in-the-age-of-reckon- winning out lesbian actress Jane Lynch 4:00pm - 6:00pm Rush Hospital, Main ing/64807.html Tickets: http://sexom- (“Glee”) on stage with actress Kate Tuesday, Dec. 4 Lounge Room 500, 1653 W. Congress Joint, 2105 S. State St. http://www. edy2.brownpapertickets.com/ Flannery (“The Office”) First show 7:00. OUTspoken monthly storytelling eve- Parkway http://www.facebook.com/ thebuttcrackerburlesque.com $55/$65/$70/$75 10:00pm City Win- ning OUTspoken occurs on the first Tues- events/315005612660232/ Lakeview East Tree Lighting Ceremony Friday, Nov. 30 ery Chicago 1200 W Randolph St Chi- day of every month, new storytellers, The Buttcracker: A Nutcracker Burlesque Celebrate the holiday season with Lakev- HIV Lunch n’ Learn Gilead for World AIDS cago http://www.citywinery.com/ stories from the perspective of LGBTQ Twist on the original ballet highlight- iew East. Free to the public. 6:00pm Day. Free Program 2:00pm - 3:00pm persons Doors 6pm 7:00pm Sidetrack ing the world of burlesque, boylesque, - 8:00pm 3460 N. Broadway http:// Center on Halsted 3656 N Halsted Chi- Saturday, Dec. 1 3349 N Halsted St Chicago drag, magic, fire spinning, sword balanc- lakevieweast.com cago http://community.centeronhal- World AIDS Day Service World AIDS ing, ballet. $20-$40 plus all you can eat sted.org/pages/lunchnlearn?erid=895 Day Service. Honoring and remember- buffet for $10 8:00pm Reggies Music 31 MAKE IT YOUR BUSINESS Nov. 28, 2018 28, Nov. ©2018 Discover Bank, Member FDIC FDIC Member Bank, ©2018 Discover Pride card. Pride ®

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