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the "official" dish by Rip & Marsha Naquin-Delain Email: ripna@ambushmag.com
Southern Decadence Grand Marshals Make it Official: "Decadence Takes The World" The excitement was up to a fever pitch for the annual Southern Decadence Press Party and Sponsorship Drive hosted at the Bourbon Pub & Parade! Your Southern Decadence Grand Marshals XLII: Tony Leggio, Felicia Phillips, Jeffrey Palmquist and Derek Penton-Robicheaux made it "official' announcing the 2016 theme as "Decadence Takes The World" while unveiling the 2016 poster by Barrett DeLong-Church. This sets the tone for the 45th Southern Decadence Celebration of LGBT+ Life, Music and Culture Labor Day weekend in New Orleans. Now visitors and locals alike can plan their costumes for Louisiana's largest LGBT+ parade, the 42nd annual Southern Decadence Parade on Sunday, September 4, 2 pm sharp, at the Home of Southern Decadence: The Golden Lantern, 1239 Royal Street. In addition to unveiling the poster, shot pool side at SDGM Jeffrey Palmquist's Bourbon Street home, "The Jewels of Decadence"" announced the "official" colors: amethyst (purple), ruby (red), sapphire (blue), and pearl (white). The "official" song is a creative mix by DJ of the Year JRB of Ariana Grande's "Break Free", and the "official" charities are New Orleans Advocates for GLBT Elders (NOAGE) and Animal Rescue New Orleans (ARNO). Each grand marshal also introduced their lieutenants and entourage, with Jeffrey Palmquist dubbing his the "Quistadors," and Felicia Phillips dubbing hers "Little Bit's Bitches." The grand marshals would like to thank all of the official sponsors who have joined their efforts including Ambush Magazine, www.SouthernDecadence.com, Skyy Vodka, Bud Light, Mike's Hard Lemonade, Gay Appreciation Awards (GAA), Crescent City Tour Booking Agency, The Golden Lantern, Four Seasons Bar, Cafe Lafitte in Exile, New Orleans Tourism Marketing Corp., Dawn Leggio, SDGM XXVII Errol Rizzuto, June Pennick, and Alexis Grace. There are several levels of sponsorship available including $5,000 Presenting, $2,500 Platinum, $1,000 Gold, $500 Silver, $250 Bronze, and $100 Pearl. Sponsorship forms are available at www.southerndecadence.com/2016/ NOSouthernDecadenceSponsors.pdf. More information is available at www.SouthernDecadence.com.
Upcoming Southern Decadence Events Events continue to be added leading up to Southern Decadence, the largest LGBT+ weekend in Louisiana ranking 5th after Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest, Essence Fest, and French Quarter Fest in New Orleans. The event always falls on Labor Day Weekend, August 31September 5 this year. Fundraisers set include: FRIDAY, June 10th... 7pm, Southern Decadence Dinner & A Show with dinner at 7pm & show at 9pm benefiting Southern Decadence 2016, $10 donation @ Official Home of Southern Decadence: The Golden Lantern; WEDNESDAY, June 15th... 6:30-9:30pm, Cocktails & Queer History: A Southern Decadence Fundraiser begins with a Southern Decadence Grand Marshals reception at the home of SDGM XLII Jeffrey Palmquist. After cocktails, local historian Frank Perez will conduct his internationally famous New Orleans LGBT+ History Walking Tour. This fascinating stroll around the French Quarter will end back at SDGM XLII Palmquist’s Bourbon Street home, where hors d’ouvres and more cocktails will be served. Space is limited and the cost is $75.00. All proceeds go to Southern Decadence and its official charities. Tickets may be purchased from Jeffrey Palmquist, Frank Perez, or Perez’ business, the Crescent City Tour Booking Agency @ 638 St. Ann; MONDAY, July 4th... 3pm, 3rd Annual Potato Salad Contest, $10 to Taste & Judge includes Hot Dogs &
GAA Top 5, 4th of July, Essence Fest issue due out June 21 DEADLINE: Tues., June 14
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45th southern decadence lez talk a community within communities big easy paparazzi/new orleans moments in gay new orleans history celebrazzi/new orleans, mobile snap paparazzi/new orleans 29th gay appreciation awards chop chop/restaurant guide spotlight feature, under the gaydar
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Baked Beans, winner receives trophy & 1/ 2 proceeds, 1/2 proceeds benefits Southern Decadence 2016, (register to enter contest @ GrandPre’s, contestants bring 5 lbs. of their potato salad by 2pm) @ GrandPre’s; SATURDAY, July 9th... 10pm, 3rd Annual Johnny Passion’s Snatch Game with local entertainers impersonating celebrities benefiting Southern Decadence 2016 with auctions, $60 VIP Table’s for 4, $10 door donation @ Allways Lounge; THURSDAY, July 14th... 7pm, Southern Charm Meets Southern Decadence: Enjoy an evening of open bar, passed hors d’oeurvres, live music, and of course, a group of very charming pool boys splashing about for your entertainment! Wear your finest linen and bring your swim suit (or not) and enjoy a fun filled evening of Southern Decadence in a private courtyard just off of Bourbon Street!!! Only 20 tickets will be offered at $100.00 per person, first come, first served (contact Jeff Palmquist or Coca Mesa for tickets) @ The Southern Decadence Grand Marshal XLII Jeffrey Palmquist & Coca Mesa Residence; WEDNESDAY, July 20th... 4pm, Southern Decadence Grill Off, Southern Decadence Grand Marshal XLII Jeffery Palmquist & The Page’s Bar Baron Willie Mackie invite you to a dual of BBQ with SDGMs Tony Leggio, Felicia Phillips & Derek Penton-Robicheaux cheering on the grill masters, $10 a plate to taste/judge including fixings (voting ballot with each plate) @ The Page SATURDAY, July 23rd... 7pm, Ambush Magazine presents 29th Annual Gay Appreciation Awards Gala with “Walking the Red Carpet” with Southern Decadence Grand Marshals XLII Tony Leggio, Felicia Phillips, Jeffrey Palmquist & Derek Penton-Robicheaux 7-7:45pm, followed by the Gala 8-10pm announcing the Winners, benefiting Southern Decadence 2016, $200 VIP Table’s for 4, $10 door donation @ Oz New Orleans. Visit www.SouthernDecadence.com for more information.
Largest Pride Celebration in Louisiana Slated for June 11 in Baton Rouge The 2016 Baton Rouge Pride festival is set for 1 p.m. until 7 p.m. Saturday, June 11, at the Baton Rouge River Center Exhibition Halls, and the 10th anniversary edition of the event promises to break records on many levels. In addition to all new musical acts in its entertainment lineup, Baton Rouge Pride also will have a record number of more than 90 resource fair participants and will include a giant marriage equality celebration as part of its annual blessing of relationships. “Each year we try to offer a family friendly event that promises something for almost everyone who wants to celebrate,” said Tom Merrill, chairman of Baton Rouge Pride Inc. “This year, our 10th anniversary celebration should be even bigger and better than anything we’ve offered before.” The festival, which is the largest indoor family friendly GLBTQ pride celebration in the South (if not the world) kicks off with a free afternoon of fun from 1 p.m. until 7 p.m. on June 11.
THE OFFICIAL MAG
Facebook.COM/AmbushMag Gulf South Entertainment/Travel Guide Since 1982 • Texas-Florida Official Gay Easter Parade Guide© Official Gay Mardi Gras Guide© Official Gay New Orleans Guide© Official Pride Guide© Official Southern Decadence Guide© AWARD WINNING:
Saints & Sinners Literary Festival Hall of Fame/2015, Louisiana Excellence Award: Media & Internet/2014, New Orleans Print Media Award/ 2014, 25th NO/AIDS Task Force Humanitas Award/2013, New Orleans Print Media Award/ 2013, Krewe of Mwindo Media Honoree/2009, Krewe of Petronius Carnival Spirit of Gay Mardi Gras XLVIII Award/2009, Forum For Equality Acclaim Awards X Media Recipient/2008, NO/AIDS Task Force Prometheus “Torch of Truth” [media] Award/2001 OFFICE/SHIPPING ADDRESS: 828-A Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116-3137 USA OFFICE HOURS: 10am-3pm Monday-Friday [Except Holidays] Email: ripna@ambushmag.com PHONE: 1.504.522.8049 ANNUAL READERSHIP OVER 1 MILLION: 260,000+ in print/780,000+ On-line CIRCULATION: Alabama-Mobile Florida - Pensacola Louisiana - Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Lake Charles, Metairie, New Orleans, Slidell Mississippi - Bay St. Louis, Biloxi Texas - Houston
STAFF: PUBLISHER/EDITOR R. Rip Naquin, New Orleans PRODUCTION DIRECTOR M. Marsha Delain, New Orleans GULF SOUTH/NEW ORLEANS AD SALES Rip Naquin • 504.522.8049 Paul Melancon THEATRE/PERFORMING ARTS CRITIC Brian Sands AD REPS/JOURNALISTS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Misti Ates, Tony Leggio, Hubert S Monkeys, Felicia Phillips, Frank Perez, Rev. Bill Terry-New Orleans MIss Cie, Leon Weekley-Mobile, AL National Advertising Rep: Rivendell Media 212.242.6863 Ambush Mag is published on alternate Tuesdays of each month by Ambush, Inc., R. Rip NaquinDelain, President. Advertising, Copy & Photo DEADLINE is alternate Tuesdays, 4pm, prior to publication week, accepted via e-mail only: marsha@ripandmarsha.com, except for special holidays. The Publisher assumes no responsibility for the claims of advertisers and has the right to reject any advertising. The inclusion of an individual's name or photograph in this publication implies nothing about that individual's sexual orientation. Letters, stories, etc., appearing herein are not necessarily the opinion of the Publisher or Staff of AMBUSH Mag. Subscription rate is $45 for 1/2 Year; $75 for 1 year. Sample Copy is $3 First Class Mail. ©1982-2016 AMBUSH, INC., ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. NOTHING HEREIN MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION OF THE PUBLISHER INCLUDING AD LAYOUTS, MAPS and PHOTOS. AMgrant - AMbush Advertising Grant Donation
The entertainment lineup includes a number of new acts this year, as well as favorites from year’s past. Among them are the Austin Babtist Women, Krewe of Divas, Captain Green, Ms. Silky Sol “The Red Afro Queen,” Jayce Guerin and the international hit duo Jason and deMarco. In addition, the event will include its traditional blessing of relationships, along with a giant marriage equality victory celebration. Organizers also will recognize Kayla Mulford of Capital City Alliance as the honorary grand marshal for the 10th annual BR Pride celebration and hope to bring back
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the "official" dish ...from 4 several of the past grand marshals in honor of the BR Pride anniversary. Admission for Baton Rouge Pride is free to anyone who wants to celebrate thanks to sponsors like Red Stripe ($10,000) donors AIDS Healthcare Foundation and Cox Communications, as well as a host of other sponsors at various levels. Among them at the Orange Stripe ($2,500) donors Capital City Alliance, Lamar, Tom Merrill and Rick Cain, Metropolitan Community Church of Baton Rouge, Tyler & Possa and Visit Baton Rouge. “We always say you can bring everyone from your kids to your grandmother, and we mean that again this year. Everyone who attends should have a great time,” Merrill said. “So bring your friends, neighbors, co-workers and anyone else who would like celebrate with us. After all, what’s better than a free party accompanied by a giant community resource fair and so much more?”For more details, including complete details on the schedule, an advance look at the program and a full list of supporters of the event, visit www.BRPride.org. To volunteer to help with planning or to find out ways your group or organization can become involved, visit that site or email BRPride@bellsouth.net.
Longue Vue Hosts Inaugural Family Equality Day June 12 Longue Vue House and Gardens is excited to announce its first Family Equality Day celebrating the LGBT parenting and family community in New Orleans. Held in partnership with New Orleans Pride, Communify, Forum for Equality and Higher Power NOLA, guests are encouraged to bring a picnic basket, blanket and have lunch in the gardens at Longue Vue. On-site activities include a bounce house, crafting and insect discovery for children, while adults can mingle with other parents, learn about educational offerings at Longue Vue and speak with representatives from organizations providing resources to the LGBT community. Complimentary snowballs will be provided. Free with online RSVP at www.longuevue.com. The event will be held on Sunday, June 12 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information, contact Edna Lanieri at 504.293.4724 or visit Longue Vue online at www.longuevue.com. Founded by philanthropists Edith and Edgar Stern, Longue Vue is a multifaceted historic estate featuring a world-class house museum and eight acres of stunning gardens that include an interactive Discovery Garden for children. This National Historic Landmark serves as one of New Orleans’ premier education and cultural resources. Longue Vue is open seven days a week to the public for tours of the home and gardens, special events and programs. Visit www.longuevue.com for more information.
2016 Gay Appreciation Awards Voting Online ONLY June 7-13 The 29th annual Gay Appreciation Awards voting is set for Tuesday, June 7 through Monday, June 13 online only at www.AmbushMag.com/GAA.
Only one ballot per person is allowed. Installed spam filters will delete any cheating ballots thus disqualifying those participants from receiving an award. Sponsored by Ambush Mag, the awards thanks those in the Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Community who are often not recognized for the outstanding services and efforts they perform. These individuals and businesses have made the LGBT Community into the viable, successful and powerful community it is today. The 29th GAA Gala is set for Saturday, July 23, 7-10 pm, at Oz, 800 Bourbon Street. This year will feature the new "Walking the Red Carpet" from 7-7:45 pm emceed by Southern Decadence Grand Marshals XLII Tony Leggio, Felicia Phillips, Jeffrey Palmquist and Derek PentonRobicheaux. Dress to the nines in your fav 2016 Southern Decadence color: purple, red, blue or white, or a combination. The SDGMs will choose the "best dressed" which will be awarded the Red Carpet Oscar Award during the Gala. The gala runs from 8-10 pm and the 2015 winners are announced at this event. VIP Tables with four seats are $200 and are very limited. Proceeds minus expenses benefits Southern Decadence 2016. Contact Rip Naquin for table reservations at ripna@ambushmag.com or 504.522.8049. Door admission is $10. Award categories up for public voting include: • Circuit Party/Event of the Year • Gay Mardi Gras Ball of the Year • Hair Salon of the Year • Neighborhood Bar of the Year • Buzzy Fanning AIDS Award [organization/individual doing outstanding service in the AIDS arena] • Bitch of the Year • Show Club of the Year • Donnie Jay Performing Arts Award [play, chorus or theatrical group/no individuals] • Restaurant/Deli/Coffee House of the Year • Dance Club of the Year • Bartender of the Year • DJ of the Year • Leather Bar of the Year • Cheridon Comedy Award • Fly Fashion Glamour Award • LGBT Business of the Year [no bars/ restaurants/delis/hair salons] • Leather Person of the Year • Transgender of the Year • Lesbian of the Year • Gay Man of the Year • Marcy Marcell Entertainer of the Year: [female/male impersonator/drag star or entertainer] In addition, the Board of Directors presents the Lifetime Achievement Award. The Board of Directors includes Lisa Beaumann, Teryl-Lynn Foxx, and Rip and Marsha Naquin-Delain. The Top 5 Finalist in each category will be announced in the next edition of Ambush. One of those 5 is the winner which is announced at the GAA Gala on July 23.
LGBT+ Archives Project to Hold its Annual Membership Meeting on June 16 The LGBT+ Archives Project will hold its annual membership meeting on Thursday, June 16 at the Marigny Opera House. The keynote speaker will be Janet
Allured, Professor of American History and Women’s Studies, at McNeese State University. Professor Allured is writing a book on Second Wave Feminism in Louisiana and her keynote address is drawn from her research for that project. The title of her talk is “Hidden Histories of the ‘Lavender Menace’.” According to Allured, the address will be “about the difficulties of documenting lesbian history, since lesbians sought the protection of invisibility, and about how some of that history has begun being recovered. In other words, it will also be a call to action for archival documentation of ‘the lavender menace,’ and the ways in which lesbians found community in event spaces that they created as alternatives to bars.” The LGBT+ Archives Project of Louisiana is a non-profit organization whose mission is to promote and encourage the protection and preservation of materials that chronicle the culture and history of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, & Transgender community in Louisiana. The meeting is free and open to the public. The event begins at 7 pm at the Marigny Opera House located at 725 St. Ferdinand Street in New Orleans.
NOLA Pride: The Whole Gay Weekend New Orleans celebrates Pride beginning on June 12 with Pride weekend itself June 17-19. Congratulations Pride Grand Marshals Sandy Sachs, Robert L. Camina, The Big Easy Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence and Breakout, Celebrity Pride Grand Marshal International singer/songwriter Debby Holiday, and Mr. and Miss Pride Eros Guillen and Vanessa Carr-Kennedy. Catch all of the events here or throughout this issue of Ambush Magazine, your "Official Pride Guide!" Links to all of the events are available only at www.NOLAPride.org. Sunday, June 12th... 10am-1pm, First Family Equality Day celebrating the LGBT parenting and family community in New Orleans, on-site activities include a bounce house, crafting and insect discovery for children, while adults can mingle with other parents, learn about educational offerings at Longue Vue and speak with representatives from organizations providing resources to the LGBT community, complimentary snowballs will be provided, free with online RSVP @ Longue Vue House and Gardens Friday, June 17th... By Appointment, Gay New Orleans Walking Tour, call 504.568.0717 for reservations, $30, departs from 638 St. Ann @ Crescent City Tour Booking Agency 5pm until, Pride Karaoke @ Joann's Kajun's Pub 8pm, New Orleans Pride Kick Off with Bianca Del Rio, Chris Harder, Cherry Brown and More! @ The Joy Theater 10pm, An Evening with Bianca After Party with Mrs. Kasha Davis, Darienne Lake, and Aggy Dune @ Four Seasons 10pm, Clorox Bleachman's The Lady is a Tramp one-woman show @ GrandPre's 10pm, Illusions "Gay Icon" Drag Review with DJ Mike Bryant & GoGo Boys from Montreal @ Bourbon Pub & Parade 10pm, Pride Dance Party with DJ Grind @ Dance Club of the Year Oz New Orleans 10pm, 34th Anniversary Weekend with special Pride New Meat Amateur Dance Contest with $100 cash prize with MC Lisa Beaumann @ Neighborhood Bar of the Year The Corner Pocket 10pm, The Dollhouse Revue hosted
by Nicole Lynn Foxx @ The Golden Lantern 10pm, The Return of Rocco Steele @ The Phoenix 11pm, Dominque's Cabaret starring Dominique DeLorean @ Four Seasons Saturday, June 18th... By Appointment, Gay New Orleans Walking Tour, call 504.568.0717 for reservations, $30, departs from 638 St. Ann @ Crescent City Tour Booking Agency 3-7pm, Official Pride Block Party, meet Chris Harder, Nigel March, Jon Pitcher and more before the Pride Parade rolls @ The Phoenix 4-8pm, Girl Party New Orleans: The Official Pride Dance for the Ladies with DJ Taner @ Bourbon Pub & Parade 5pm, Balcony opens to view Pride Parade set to roll at 7pm @ Dance Club of the Year Oz New Orleans 5pm until, Pride Karaoke @ Joann's Kajun's Pub 7pm, New Orleans Pride Parade led by Pride Grand Marshals Sandy Sachs, Robert L. Camina, The Big Easy Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence & Breakout, and Celebrity Pride Grand Marshal International singer/songwriter Debby Holiday, begins at Washington Square Park, rolling down Decatur, Canal, and Bourbon Streets 7:30-9:30pm, Vanessa Carr Band live @ The Golden Lantern 10pm, 34th Anniversary Weekend All Boy Pride Revue with 15 boys dancing til dawn @ Neighborhood Bar of the Year The Corner Pocket 10pm, Divas R Us Female Impersonators @ The Golden Lantern 10pm, Exotique with Taze Ya Ballz @ Four Seasons 10pm, Lords of Leather Who's Your Daddy Contest @ The Phoenix 10pm, Pride Dance Party with DJ Tracy Young plus a performance by Chris Harder's "Boylesque" Show @ Dance Club of the Year Oz New Orleans 10pm, Pride Dance with DJ Kidd Madonny with Boys on Parade "Pride" Edition @ 12midnight hosted by Billy Francesca, plus cash balloon drop @ 1am @ Bourbon Pub & Parade 10pm, The Return of Rocco Steele @ The Phoenix 10pm, The Southern Barbitchuates starring Coca Mesa, Monalot Fontaine, Sable Nicole Starr & Gia GiaVanni @ GrandPre's Sunday, June 19th... By Appointment, Gay New Orleans Walking Tour, call 504.568.0717 for reservations, $30, departs from 638 St. Ann @ Crescent City Tour Booking Agency 2-5pm, PrideFest 2016 presented by Dance Club of the Year Oz New Orleans & Bourbon Pub & Parade starring Debby Holiday and Jai Rodriguez, plus many performances from local acts, hosted by Persana Shoulders & Billy Francesca @ Corner of Bourbon and St Ann Streets 3-5pm, Vanessa Carr Band live @ The Golden Lantern 4pm, Official Pride T-Dance with DJ Whitney Day @ 4pm & DJ Sean Michael @ 9pm @ Bourbon Pub & Parade 4-9pm, Trash Disco @ Cafe Lafitte in Exile 5pm until, Pride Karaoke @ Joann's Kajun's Pub 5pm, Jubilee starring Miss Golden Lantern Reba Douglas with MC Mr. Golden Lantern Bradley Latham @ The Golden Lantern
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lez talk by Misti Ates Email: Mistimichelleates@gmail.com
Christine Johnson It has been my wish for this column to throw the spotlight on some members of our LGBT community. Maybe you already know them. Maybe you do not. Hopefully by the time you get through each column, you will feel like you know them a little bit better. I enjoy finding out new things about the individuals I interview and for the opportunity of sharing them with you. What started as an idea tossed around among some friends in 2006 has blossomed into a wildly successful monthly get together called, GRRL Spot. It was February 2006, some 6 months after Katrina, people were trying to relocate back to New Orleans, while others decided to start over in other cities. Christine realized there was a need to not only bring everyone back together, but to perhaps change things in how the bar scene is perceived. That was how GRRL Spot was launched. The first event that was more of a get together with about thirty (30) people at Pals Lounge. The concept was to meet in a different bar each month, while reaching out not only to the lesbians, but to make the event comfortable for everyone in our community to attend. It was time to rebuild and instead of waiting on someone else, Christine stepped up and made the change.
the "official" dish ...from 8 6pm, 34th Anniversary Weekend Pride Sunday Zingo with Opal Masters pulling balls @ Neighborhood Bar of the Year The Corner Pocket 8-10pm, 34th Anniversary Party & 9th Annual Sugar Daddy of the Year Contest with food & refreshments with contest hosted by Barry Bareass @ 10pm @ Neighborhood Bar of the Year The Corner Pocket 8pm, Lipstixx "Ladies of Pride" Show @ Bourbon Pub & Parade Visit www.NOLAPride.org for additional information.
Bourbon Pride Selects LGBT+ Archives Project as Pride Charity Bourbon Pride has chosen LGBT+ Archives Project of Louisiana for its Pride 2016 charity! According to Joseph Hart, "They do such amazing work and I ask each of you to come by and donate to their cause or purchase one of our items where a percentage of the proceeds will go to them. Donations began June 1st and go through June 30th. Small charities doing great work need our support. Small LGBT charities are often forgotten." Four times a year (Mardi Gras, Pride, Southern Decadence and Xmas) Bourbon Pride chooses a different charity of their choice to support. "Thank you for any support you can give!" Bourbon Pride is not affiliated with any of the New Orleans Pride organizations.
Next Deadline Tues., June 14 - 504.522.8049
Christine Johnson @ May's GRRL Spot event Christine is no stranger to planning and strategizing to reach her goals. Her position as Senior Media Buyer for CPX Interactive has helped turn the internet advertising based business into a major success boasting of some very sought out accounts. Using her skills of advertising
New Orleans Tourism Marketing Corporation Launches LGBT Travel Sweepstakes Heralded as one of the most romantic cities in the world by CNN and other travel publications, New Orleans is the perfect place to spend some quality time with loved ones. In a recent survey conducted by Community Marketing, Inc., a majority of LGBT travelers who had not visited New Orleans viewed it as a party destination and only somewhat romantic and friendly. In response, New Orleans Tourism Marketing Corporation (NOTMC), along with partner agency Communify, launched the #LoveNOLA campaign, which includes a sweepstakes featuring a romantic trip for two that highlights New Orleans’ vibrant LGBT community. “New Orleans (NOLA) is a romantic outpost of love, diversity and acceptance,” said Mark Romig......”For almost 300 years we have welcomed citizens from across the globe to experience one of the most unique, authentic and delicious destinations in the world, and I urge you to follow your NOLA this year and beyond. “ The #LoveNOLA Sweepstakes runs through July 20, 2016 and has a generous prize package including a two-night stay at the new Ace Hotel and roundtrip air to New Orleans. People can enter the sweeps by visiting www.LoveNOLA.com where they can also sign up for NOTMC’s monthly LGBT newsletter. While targeted to LGBT travelers, the sweepstakes is open to anyone who meets the eligibility requirements. See Official
and organization, GRRL Spot has grown into an almost monthly event, attracting 100 to 150 attendees. The idea of mixing the LGBT community into predominately straight bars, has proved to be a success. GRRL Spot donates some of its proceeds to Women with A Vision and the Dyke Bar History project. GRRL Spot’s annual Southern Decadence event has evolved into an attendance of around four hundred (400). Last year’s event was the biggest one ever, with some of their biggest stars ever headlining an amazing show at Eiffel Society in New Orleans. Ben DeLaCreme of RuPaul’s Drag Race fame, Bella Blue, the head mistress of New Orleans School of Burlesque and the internationally known Burlesque couple, Kitten and Lou all brought the house down with their amazing performances. I was honored to be a special guest of the event, as Southern Decadence Grand Marshal XLI, along with the missus and other members of my entourage. We enjoyed the performances very much and loved it when we were taken backstage and got to meet the entertainers in person. Christine’s vision is to have GRRL Spot’s Decadence event be the catalyst and model that will usher in the new era of the lesbian bar. Due to the dwindling number of actual lesbian bars nationally, this idea of a floating “bar” within a different host establishment will no doubt increase attention and attendance at each event. She hopes to expand GRRL Spot into different cities in the near future, especially in areas that do not have a predominately LGBT scene. Be sure to go to the GRRL Spot facebook page and hit “like” to be informed of all future events. Rules for details. Additionally, NOTMC will use the hashtag #LoveNOLA across its social media channels to promote and inspire usergenerated content about LGBT couples experiencing love in New Orleans.
Libraries Stand Firm in Support of GLBT Books In a year when Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender (GLBT) communities are facing divisive “religious freedom” and “bathroom privacy” legislation, libraries are working against legislating discrimination by fostering acceptance through the power of books. The American Library Association (ALA), and hundreds of libraries will celebrate June 2016 as GLBT Book Month™, a nationwide celebration of the authors and books that reflect the GLBT experience. The celebration is consistent with ALA’s commitment to diversity, inclusiveness, and mutual respect for all human beings, as well as recognizing the significant contributions of GLBT authors, with the Stonewall Book Awards, the first and longest-enduring award for GLBT literature, as well as its Office for Intellectual Freedom’s response to the threat of censorship. “We are pleased to continue our celebration of GLBT Book Month,” said ALA President Sari Feldman. “Libraries play a vital role in connecting people with information and resources, and librarians serve a critical need by making the works of authors and publishers of GLBT books available to the public. It is important that these voices be heard, and libraries not only provide a safe space for consumers of GLBT fiction and non-fiction, but a safe place on the
One has to admire Christine for her determination and tenacity to change how the LGBT bar scene is perceived. She saw a need in this area and instead of wishing that things would change or hopefully get better one day, she set out and made her dream in to a reality. Christine says “You have to realize as an individual, that you can do anything that you set your mind to do. If you see something in our community that needs to be better or changed, then get the mindset to be the one to change things.” So, if you have never been to a GRRL Spot event before, mark your calendars for June 18 at the Jazz Café on Decatur Street in their upstairs bar. They will be celebrating Pride weekend with their very own Rouge party. You will be able to party the night away with music from two awesome DJs, DJ Gage and DJ Jenna. Christine Johnson will definitely be there, sipping on her favorite drink an Old Fashioned, dressed in the party’s theme of the color red, smiling and knowing that anything can be success, if you put your mind to it and take that first step in making your own community a better place. shelves for authors serving a critical need in our society.” In 2015, the American Library Association’s (ALA) Office of Intellectual Freedom recorded 275 challenges to books, with the list including books with GLBT content. They included “I Am Jazz, by Jessica Herthel and Jazz Jennings, a picture book based on the life of a transgender girl that faced a number of challenges, among them a proposed reading of the book in Wisconsin that led to threats of a federal lawsuit. “Fun Home: A Family Tragicomic,” by Alison Bechdel, which received the 2007 Israel Fishman Non-Fiction Stonewall Book Award, was challenged as recommended reading for incoming freshmen at Duke University in Durham, North Carolina, because some students objected to the novel’s “depictions of lesbian sexuality, arguing that the book is borderline pornographic and they shouldn’t have been asked to read it.” It was also challenged at the College of Charleston, prompting state lawmakers to threaten defunding the summer reading program. Both the college and the University of Utah stood by the book, which relates the story of a lesbian coming to terms with her own sexuality and discovering that her distant father is gay. Challenges involving GLBT books have even been accompanied by anti-gay slurs, such as when Wasilla, Alaska’s public library transferred its entire young adult non-fiction to the adult stacks in response to a complaint about James Dawson’s sex education book, “This Book Is Gay.” A number of Wasilla residents attacked the book at a city council meeting, accompanying their attacks with such remarks as “they didn’t want ‘gay books’ or books about gay people in the library at all.” During debates on the issue, the library director was called a pedophile. “Libraries are about everyone,” said ALA Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Round Table (GLBTRT) Chair Peter Coyl. “We can create a welcoming environment for all by having a diverse collection of materials of varying viewpoints. It is important for our users to be able to find books that match their lives and their experiences. GLBT Book Month is not just
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a community within communities by The Rev. Bill Terry, Rector St. Anna’s Episcopal Church, New Orleans Email: fr.bill@stannanola.org
What can be said that hasn’t already been said, “PRIDE!” You and I have already talked about Stonewall and the roots of PRIDE. We’ve rebelled against the ridiculous laws passed in Mississippi and Carolina and almost in Georgia. What we all know is true is that battles have indeed been won but the war for justice, freedom, and the liberty to love and be who one is…well it’s not over yet. There are other small victories but the need for advocacy and PRIDE still remains. Yes, the Governor signed an order to protect the working rights of LBGTQ persons. Good stuff! But the work must go on. So beyond what I have already shared and beyond what you may have already speculated about what is left to say here? Today is the “Feast of the Visitation” an ancient day in traditional Christianity set aside to remember the moment that Mary, the mother of Jesus, visited Elizabeth, her cousin, when both were pregnant. One with was pregnant with Jesus the other with John who would be called the Baptist later in his life. Just a note John did not sing Gospel Songs nor did he pound a pulpit and yes he called almost everyone “a brood of vipers” but hey maybe they were. I guess that I might be a bit short if I only ate locust and honey as well. But the point of this story is an Epistle or Letter written by Paul (who started off hating the new Christians). He wrote to the underground and subversive church in Rome; way before the nice buildings and great artwork. I don’t always agree with what Paul said, but that is between me and him, but he said this: “Let love be genuine; hate what is evil, hold fast to what is good; love one another with mutual affection; outdo one another in showing honour. Do not lag in zeal, be ardent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints; extend hospitality to strangers. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with one another; do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly; do not claim to be wiser than you are.” PRIDE is an outward sign that actually begins to call into our society and culture much of what Paul is suggesting. Indeed it responds to persecution with a gay parade that says, “I am who I am and I am beautiful in the sight of the Lord.” Yes, even if some of the parade folk are a bit scantily clad, it is a way of in your face, but does so in a way that does not use violence but wit and humor and says “I hate evil.” Yes, in this case the “evil” is not us or those who march but those who hate. Hate is evil. As Paul says and so we shall, “Rejoice with those who rejoice…” I am pretty sure he had something else in mind but the words still ring true. You see, Christianity properly worked out seeks fellowship and community and even more “hospitality.” We are called upon and indeed so often asked to show hospi-
tality to strangers. I have been a witness to such so many times. A few weeks ago a couple of German guys walked into The Friendly Bar and you’d think that they just landed home….hospitality. I’ve seen the same at Mags and other watering holes that are neighborhood bars. Hospitality, no matter where you are from, or who you define yourself as, our communities within the larger community are one of the most welcoming communities around. It all makes sense that an abused and rejected group will either become hostile and segregated or warm and welcoming because they have been there. It is sad when the former is the case and we certainly see that in New Orleans. That is why, in part, I write this column so that we can break into that community, wherever it is, and extend hospitality in the face of hostility: “bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them.” Such means more than despising bigots it means taking the risk, on occasion, to reach out of a safe place and to do acts of charity, mercy, and yes hospitality: PRIDE. One of the most powerful statements in the faith that we claim, we Christians, was said by a child mother, yes a “baby Momma” who was in meager circumstances if not poor. She set the stage for a new way to believe, have faith, and how that faith should be worked out. Yes, this Christian faith can certainly be criticized, it can be called a scandal, it can be demonized even but that is the abuse of power my subsequent men (almost always males) who turned this radical faith into something less so. But please set that aside for one moment and at least give the following words some consideration: My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour, for he has looked with favour on the lowliness of his servant. Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed; for the Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is his name. His mercy is for those who love him from generation to generation. He has shown strength with his arm; he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts. He has brought down the powerful from their thrones, and lifted up the lowly; he has filled the hungry with good things, and sent the rich away empty. He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy, according to the promise he made to our ancestors, to Abraham and to his descendants for ever.’
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If that promise is not yet fulfilled it is up to us to work with this divine force to make it so. To lift up the lowly and to scatter the proud in their arrogance: PRIDE march for dignity, integrity, individuality, and hope for those who stand in the dark…so we say, “come out because you are loved.”
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Karaoke Nightly "Where Everyone Is A Star!" @ Kajun's Pub ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Ashly Rose
PRIDE
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moments in gay new orleans history by Professor Frank Perez E-mail: f.perez@sbcglobal.net Photo by: Larry Graham, GrahamStudioOne.COM
“A Brief History of Pride in New Orleans” Most readers of Ambush are familiar with the police raid, and subsequent riot, of the Stonewall Inn in New York on June 28, 1969. What may not be so familiar to readers is the Eastern Regional Conference of Homophile Organizations (ERCHO) meeting held a few months later in Philadelphia. At that conference, Craig Rodwell, his partner Fred Sargeant, Ellen Broidy, and Linda Rhodes introduced a resolution that read in part, “We propose that a demonstration be held annually on the last Saturday in June in New York City to commemorate the 1969 spontaneous demonstrations on Christopher Street and this demonstration be called CHRISTOPHER STREET LIBERATION DAY. No dress or age regulations shall be made for this demonstration. We also propose that we contact Homophile organizations throughout the country and suggest that they hold parallel demonstrations on that day. We propose a nationwide show of support.” The resolution was enthusiastically adopted and the first Gay Pride Parades were held the following year. The first Gay Pride Parade in New Orleans did not occur until 1980. This may seem odd given the size of the gay population in New Orleans and the fact that New Orleans unequivocally loves a parade. But it’s important to remember that New Orleans has never been a hotbed of political activism, gay or otherwise. New Orleanians are prone to organize socially rather than politically, a fact evidenced by the phenomenon of Gay Carnival which dates to 1958 and the incredible popularity which started rather humbly in 1972. The first event locally to call itself “Gay Pride” occurred in 1978 when the very radical Pink TriangleAlliance hosted a Gay Pride Rally at Jackson Square on June 25. The following year saw the birth of “Gay Fest,” organized by Mark Gonzalez, Charlene Schneider, Rich-
the "official" dish ...from 10 about celebrating authors and writers who are GLBT, but about showcasing to our community that GLBT customers and families are welcomed and wanted in the Library.” In addition to providing materials, libraries are also a safe space for GLBT students. A study published in the Journal of Research on Libraries & Young Adults examined how school librarians created bully-free zones and collected GLBT and anti-bullying materials, collaborating with guidance counselors and teachers and suggesting particular books for students. Originally established in the early 1990s by The Publishing Triangle as National Lesbian and Gay Book Month, this occasion is an opportunity for book lovers and libraries with the very best in GLBT literature. GLBT Book Month™ is an initiative of the American Library Association, and is coordinated through its Office for Diversity, Literacy, and Outreach Services and the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Round Table.
Lords’ Bathhouse Beer Bust June 10 Feeling Dirty?? Come to the Lords of
ard O’Connor and others. Gay Fest produced the first Gay Pride parade in New Orleans. The first two Gay Fests were held at Washington Square; the third, which featured Ellen DeGeneres, was held at Armstrong Park. By the mid-1980s, Gay Fest was plagued by financial difficulties and in 1988 “Gay Fest” was changed to “Gay Pride.” A look back at the parade participants from those early years provides a glimpse of not only how the parade has changed but also at what our community was like in those years. Consider the participants in the 1989 parade: Bourbon Pub/Parade, Community Gospel Church, Grace Fellowship in Christ Jesus Church, Happy Hunters, Knights d’ Orleans, Krewe of Olympus, M&M Productions, Metropolitan Community Church, Midtowne Spa, MonLeather’s Annual “Bathhouse Beer Bust” on Friday, June 10 at 9 p.m. at the Phoenix (941 Elysian Fields Ave. in the Marigny). “Coat” check available on-site, with towels provided (or bring your own) and of course, $10 gets you all the lite beer (keg) you can drink between 9 p.m. and midnight! As usual, the krewe will also have snacks, sodas, $1 jello shots for sale, and Leather, Love and Laughter! All proceeds go toward our 2017 Mardi Gras Ball XXXIV.
Who’s Your Daddy? Contest June 18 The Lords of Leather ask…”Who’s Your Daddy?” Come find out on Saturday, June 18 at 10 p.m. at the Phoenix. Yes, it’s the annual Lords’ “Who’s Your Daddy?” Contest in honor of Father’s Day (as well as daddies and boys). Watch the contest and enjoy a $10 beer bust starting at 9 p.m. or, ENTER THE CONTEST YOURSELF! (For information regarding contest applications, contact lordconsortxxxiii@yahoo.com ). Winner receives a sash and prizes. So after watching the Pride Parade, come to the Phoenix to see who wins “Daddy 2016”. All proceeds go toward our 2017 Mardi Gras Ball XXXIV.
ster/Dixies/Refuge, MRB/Wolfendales, NO/AIDS Task Force, Phoenix/Country Club, Twenty-Six-0-One, Wood Enterprises. In recent years gay friendly churches still have a presence in the parade but gay bars do not, which is odd considering the prominent role they play in LGBT+ community. By the 1990s, “Pridefest was being sponsored by the New Orleans Alliance of Pride. Notable Parade Grand Marshals in the 1990s include Alan Robinson (1993), Mark Gonzalez, Charlene Schneider, and Richard O’ Connor (1994), Father Bill Richardson (1995) and Rip and Marsha NaquinDelain (1996). Robinson was a longtime activist who owned the bookstore on Frenchmen Street and a co-founder of the Gertrude Stein Society. Gonzalez, Schneider, and O’Connor were the original organizers of Gayfest in 1979. Richardson was the priest at St. George’s Episcopal Church in 1973 when an arsonist set fire to the Up Stairs Lounge. After the fire, which occurred on June 24, Reverend Richardson, over the objections of the community in general and his parishioners in particular, allowed St. George’s to be used for a memorial service. The Naquin-Delains were the first samesex couple to register a domestic partnership with the city of New Orleans and the owners of Ambush Magazine. Rip Naquin-Delain recalls, “Marsha and I first became involved with Pride in 1985 when we moved from Baton Rouge to New Orleans. In subsequent years, Ambush Magazine would become involved as well, helping promote the celebration in conjunction with the Pride organization. Our community struggled for inclusion, and in 1991, New Orleans made it unlawful to discriminate in commercial spaces, employment, housing accommodations, private clubs, and public accommodations on the basis of age, color, creed, gender or sex, marital status, national origin/ancestry, physical condition/disability, race, religion, or sexual orientation. Gender identification was added in 1997. In 1996, we were chosen as the 17th Pride Grand Marshals and the first couple to serve together. That same year saw Chastity Bono reign as Celebrity Pride Grand Marshal, and ‘disco queen’ Thelma Houston live on the Pride stage at Washington Square Park. In 1998, Pride moved to Armstrong Park where the largest New Orleans Pride celebration would ever be held.” One could argue that pride celebrations (even if they were not called that) in New Orleans date back to 1971. The very first gay identified public event in Louisiana took place on February 6 at City Park. The event, sponsored by the newly formed local chapter of the Gay Liberation Front, was a picnic called a “Gay In.” On February 20, 1971, three days before Mardi Gras, the G.L.F. presented “Gay In II” at Washington Square Park in the
Marigny. In June of 1971, the Gay Services Center and the local chapter of the Daughters of Bilitus organized a “Gay Day Picnic” at Popp Fountain at City Park. In 1971, the G.L.F. staged a march on City Hall demanding an end to police harassment of lesbians and gays. This was the first public demonstration on behalf of LGBT+ rights in New Orleans. Six years later it was announced that Anita Bryant, homophobic superstar and darling of the religious right, was coming to New Orleans in June to perform a concert. The announcement came just after Bryant had led a successful campaign in Miami to overturn a gay rights ordinance. Local activist Alan Robinson spearheaded an alliance of several groups and businesses called H.E.R.E. (Human Equal Rights for Everyone) to protest Bryant’s appearance in New Orleans. The organizers hoped a few hundred people would show up in Jackson Square for a rally and march. The turnout was more like a few thousand. It was the first significant demonstration on behalf of LGBT+ rights in New Orleans. Although the event took place in June, it was not technically a “Pride” event. Throughout the 1980s and into the early 1990s, annual “Celebration” events, usually held in June, were also popular. Celebrations featured dinners, musical concerts, ecumenical religious services, and workshops. Nationally known speakers were also brought in. Celebration 1983, for example, featured two keynote speakers. Barbara Gittings, founder of the Daughters of Bilitis, gave a talk entitled, “Gay and Smiling: Tips from Twenty-Five Years in the Trenches.” Bruce Voeller, a biologist and early AIDS activist, spoke on “AIDS: Everyone’s Issue—Where Are We Now?” Workshop titles from that year include “The Crime Against Nature Law: A Crime Against Gay People” (Cynthia Lorr), Coming Out / Self Esteem” (Richard Devlin and Linda Bush), “Lesbian Visibility, Or, I know One When I See One” (Barbara Gittings). Other topics included alcohol and drug addition, gay unity, the Bible’s stance on homosexuality, and N.A.M.B.L.A. (the North American Man Boy Love Association). Historically, there is a sense among many that Pride in New Orleans has never quite lived up to its potential. The reasons why are the subject of another article but surely the heat and humidity don’t help (indeed, Pride was briefly moved to October for this reason). Neither does the enormous popularity of Southern Decadence, which many people erroneously assume to be our version of Pride. And at various times throughout its history, New Orleans Pride has also been plagued by financial troubles and personality conflicts. Nevertheless, the LGBT+ community in and around New Orleans has much to be proud of. With that in mind, Happy Pride!
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celebrazzi Southern Decadence Grand Marshals XLII Jeffrey Palmquist, Felicia Phillips, Tony Leggio and Derek Penton-Robicheaux presented the official poster (right) culminating the 2016 Press Party hosted at the Bourbon Pub & Parade in New Orleans. The theme is "Decadence Takes The World," colors: amethyst (purple), ruby (red), sapphire (blue), and pearl (white), song: a creative mix by DJ of the Year JRB of Ariana Grande's "Break Free", and charities: New Orleans Advocates for GLBT Elders (NOAGE) and Animal Rescue New Orleans (ARNO). Photo by Rip Naquin. (www.SouthernDecadence.com)
Oz bartender Mark, Wood Enterprises' Tom Wood, and emcee Coca J. Mesa kicked off the 17th annual MASCARa Race, sponsored by Wood Enterprises and Bud Light, bringing 13 teams to the competition this year at the Clover Grill in New Orleans. From the Clover Grill, the racers traveled to Cafe Lafitte in Exile, Rawhide 2010, Good Friends Bar, Bourbon Pub & Parade, Oz, ending back at the Clover Grill. Photo by Rip Naquin. (www.WoodEnterprises.com)
Oz proprietors Madeline Schwartz and Cindy Lou Simpson join legendary Blanche Debris for her return to Sunday Funday as the Dingo diva pulling those balls for fab prizes at Oz New Orleans. You can catch Blanche every Sunday 6-8 pm. Photo by Paul Melancon. (www.OzNewOrleans.com)
Wood Enterprises' Chris Ward and emcee Coca J. Mesa present $4,943 to NOCCA Institute's Richard Reed following the end of the 17th annual MASCARa Race at Rawhide 2010 in New Orleans. Since 2002, the race has raised over $126,153 for the institute. Good Friends' contestant won "Most Money Raised" and "Fastest Time," The Golden Lantern won "Best Drag," Cafe Lafitte in Exile won "Miss Congeniality," and American Eagle "Ugliest Drag." Photo by Paul Melancon. (www.WoodEnterprises.com)
B-Bob’s proprietor Jerry Ehlen welcomes Regine Phillips, direct from the Baton Show Lounge in Chicago, to the stage at B-Bob's in downtown Mobile, Alabama. Photo by Leon Weekley.
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SDGMs XLII present 2016 Southern Decadence Press Party & Sponsorship Drive @ Bourbon Pub & Parade ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Rip Naquin
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chop chop by Rip & Marsha Naquin-Delain Email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com
Bayou Scampi (shrimp sauteed in wine, garlic & fresh tomatoes with jazzmen rice) @ Chef Ron's Gumbo Stop, 2309 N. Causeway Blvd., Metairie
Get Your Pride on with Great Eats! Celebrate Pride month by enjoying some great eats across the city. Our community can be proud of the incredible culinary array available to us, not only in the French Quarter, but the Marigny and Bywater, and out in Metairie, as well. Ambush recommends these great eateries to curb any hunger desires you may have, and of course, many serve up cocktails!
Metairie Restaurant Guide Chef Ron's Gumbo Stop & Pub, 2309 N. Causeway Blvd., 835.2022, GumboStop.com, is a quaint eatery serving five different gumbos, New Orleans favorites, house specials, specialty sandwiches, daily specials, appetizers and desserts all prepared by award winning Chef Ron Iafrate. Open Mon-Sat. 11am-9pm, closed Sunday.
New Orleans Restaurant Guide Boudin Scotch Eggs - soft cooked egg wrapped with Cajun boudin, served on a nest of braised collard greens @ The Bombay Club, 830 Conti St.
The Bombay Club, 830 Rue Conti, www.bombayclubneworleans.com, 577.2237. The Bombay Club is host to an eclectic menu of British-Cajun fare, quality craft cocktails & unique martinis. Enjoy live music showcasing the most talented jazz musicians in New Orleans. Dining hours 4-10pm Sun.-Thur., 4-11pm Fri.-Sat. Broussard’s Restaurant & Courtyard, 819 Rue Conti, 581.3866, http://broussards.com. A favorite fixture in New Orleans for nearly 100 years, Broussard’s is located in the heart of the French Quarter, featuring classic French and Creole food, old architecture, and tradition. Dining hours 5:30-9pm Tues.-Thurs. & Sun., 5:30-10pm Fri.-Sat., 10:30am-2:30pm Sunday Brunch. Cheezy Cajun, 3325 St. Claude Ave., www.TheCheezyCajun.com, 265.0045, is NOLA's newest full restaurant and deli serving a variety of Cajun foods including Boudin and Cracklins’ mixed with a variety of Wisconsin Cheeses, plus fab party trays. Open Lunch & Dinner 11am - 8pm Mon., Tues., Thurs. and Fri., closed on Wed., Brunch & Lunch 10am - 4pm Sat. & Sun. Clover Grill, 900 Bourbon St., 598.1010,
House made Cracklin's, Boudin Balls & Pickles Party Tray @ Cheezy Cajun, 3325 St. Claude
World Famous Hamburger @ Clover Grill, 900 Bourbon St.
Shrimp, Andouille & Stoneground Grits @ The Country Club, 634 Louisa St.
Chargrilled Oysters: Plump Louisiana oysters topped with Parmesan butter cheese filling & grilled to perfection @ Royal House Oyster Bar, 441 Royal St.
Breaux Bridge Benedict ~ house made boudin, ham, American cheese, poached eggs & hollandaise on French bread with fried oysters @ Stanley, 547 St. Ann St.
CloverGrill.COM, is open 7 days, 24 hours. and features breakfast including build your own omelettes. But let’s not forget their fab burgers grilled right under a hub cap and then there’s all those sandwiches, sides, desserts and shakes. Country Club Restaurant, 634 Louisa St., 945.0742, TheCountryClubNewOrleans.COM. The chef has paid attention to detail and ingredient, and focused on a more contemporary menu at an even more affordable price point. Still the best food, but at even more unbelievable value! Serving 7 days 11am-10pm and Sunday Brunch 11am-3pm. Gene's Po-Boys & Daquiris,1040 Elysian Fields Ave., 943.3861, www.genespoboys.com, is famous for its New Orleans style po-boy sandwiches chockful of ingredients. Open 24 hours. Ilys Bistro, 1040 Elysian Fields Ave., 947.8341, www.Facebook.com/ILYSBistro, offers home cooking and friendly service, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner featuring plates, poboys, and daily specials. Breakfast Mon.-Sat. 6am11am & Sun. 11am-1pm; lunch and dinner 11amclose. Kingfish Kitchen & Cocktails, 337 Chartres St. 598.5005, www.KinfishNewOrleans.com,"brings customers back to the Huey P. Long era with vintage-inspired cocktails & unique Creole and Southern dishes. Join us for dinner, or meet up with friends to relax at our cocktail bar.” Mona Lisa Restaurant, 1212 Royal St., 522.6746, features Italian specialties including salads, pizzas, sandwiches and both lunch and dinner entrees. Open Mon.-Thurs. 5-10pm, Fri.Sun. 11am-10pm. Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, 1100 Bourbon St., 529.1416, www.QuartermasterDeli.net, voted Restaurant/ Deli of the Year, is open 24 hours 7 days. Serving breakfast, lunch, dinner and late night menu, the deli offers free delivery. Royal House Oyster Bar, 441 Royal St., 528.2601, www.RoyalHouseRestaurant.com, is a casual classic, offering fresh-shucked oysters and fresh local seafood in a setting that follows the best traditions of dining in the heart of New Orleans’ French Quarter. Stanley, 547 St. Ann St., 587.0093, www.StanleyRestaurant.com, conveniently located on historic Jackson Square, the view from Stanley’s provincial yet elegant dining room provides a beautiful backdrop of St. Louis Cathedral and downtown New Orleans. With all day breakfast and brunch, delicious sandwiches, a soda fountain, house-made ice cream desserts, and The Stanley Burger there’s something guaranteed to please anyone’s tastes in this charming French Quarter locale. Open 7am-7pm daily.
New Orleans Muffuletta @ Restaurant/Deli of the Year Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, 1100 Bourbon St.
Filet Mignon Broussard - jumbo lump crab meat stuffed Portobello mushroom cap, grilled asparagus, Yukon Gold mashed potatoes with mustard cream glaze @ Broussard's, 819 Rue Conti
Stuffed Bell Pepper Special with Mac & Cheese, Potato Salad, Peas & Texas Toast @ Ilys Bistro, 1040 Elysian Fields Ave.
BBQ Shrimp & Waffles: Toasted garlic, poblano pepper jelly, and hopitoulas cream @ Kingfish Kitchen & Cocktails, 337 Chartres
Special Combo Pizza (pepperoni, Italian sausage, ham, onions, mushrooms, green peppers & black olives with jalapenos & anchovies optional) @ Mona Lisa Restaurant, 1212 Royal St.
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spotlight feature Andy Cohen—Man On the Go, Coming to New Orleans by Brian Sands Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen are heading to New Orleans for AC² at The Saenger Theatre on June 24. Billed as an “Intimate Evening of Deep Talk and Shallow Tales,” it promises to be a night of unscripted and uncensored conversation. ”It’ll be like going out for drinks to a bar with me and Anderson,” said Cohen during a recent telephone interview. “There’ll be stuff about pop culture and world events, and we’ll talk about the time we were on vacation right before Katrina.” Cohen has been down to New Orleans many times with Anderson. “He has such a special relationship with the city and the people of the city,” Cohen observed. “I can never remember the places Anderson takes me to, but they’re always great and off the beaten path.” Things have certainly changed for Cohen since his first time in New Orleans, when he was a producer with CBS. “It’s the only time I went out for a beer at 9am.” Born in St. Louis, Cohen spent 10 years at CBS News after college, eventually serving as senior producer of The Early Show as well as a producer for 48 Hours and CBS This Morning. Lin Garlick, who worked with Cohen in the 1990s, commented “As a Senior Producer at CBS This Morning, I was always on the lookout for good interns. Andrew (never Andy then) was a standout, always nicely groomed in a white shirt and suspenders with long, curly hair pulled back in a ponytail. Cheerful, hard working, and with a great smile. ”One day he’d tagged along on a celebrity interview shoot. Knowing that the producer was slammed with work, he asked me if he could write the script. I told him ‘No’ as it was a union shop and only certain people could write ‘for air.’ But I added that if he wanted to take a shot just for practice, I’d offer some critique. As a ‘newbie,’ I expected he would take hours or even a day to do it. ”About 90 minutes later, he strolled into my office and gave me his script. I was speechless—not something I usually suffer from—it was perfect. Tight, witty, accurate, and perfectly interwoven with movie clips. ”Andrew’s script went to air with only a couple of tiny tweaks from the anchor who voiced it. To heck with rules and regulations.” Such talents have served Cohen well as he went on to become executive producer of the Bravo network’s The Real Housewives franchise. But he made history in 2009 when Watch What Happens: Live debuted on Bravo and he became the first openly gay host of an American late-night talk show. As Cohen has become recognizably famous, Cooper has said, “I don’t know of anybody on the planet who enjoys their celebrity more than Andy
Andy Cohen Cohen.” Cohen doesn’t disagree but adds, “This happened over a period of years, so it’s been an organic change in my life and not as dramatic as you might think. It’s exciting and unexpected and really fun, but also not ‘Oh my God–bang!’” Still, though an Endymion ride with Anderson was “amazing and incredible,” celebrityhood has its drawbacks as Cohen admits that it might be “more fun to go out in New Orleans if I wasn’t famous.” Garlick is not surprised that Cohen is now in front of the camera. “When I needed someone for a live hair ‘makeover’ segment on CBS This Morning, Andrew volunteered even though it meant his trademark pony tail would be clipped and his curly hair tamed. He couldn’t wait to be on the air.” Possibly the only time Cohen decided against going on the air was in 2013 when he had been working for Donald Trump as host of the Miss Universe and Miss USA pageants. “Trump was very nice but when I refused to go to Russia because of their anti-lgbt laws, he put out a statement that I had not been offered the job. I haven’t spoken to him since.” Asked about the presidential campaign and the Trump phenomenon, Cohen said, “It’s a crazy, huge reality show. I’m both surprised and not surprised by Trump. He’s really good at manipulating the media which allowed him to get into this position. He was the only candidate who talked to the media. It became irresistible for all these shows to keep having him on saying outrageous things, getting attention for what he said.” Cohen became serious as he added, “I’m concerned for our country.” At the end of each AC² (it’s already had a number of engagements around the country), audience members get
by Tony Leggio Email: ledgemgp@gmail.com Photo by: Larry Graham
Hot Happenings Summer has officially started and there are so many exciting things to do especially now that Southern Decadence and all its events are underway. Don’t let the heat keep you from having a good time this summer, so dive into the deep end of the pool with some of these hot happenings. Thursday, June 9, 2016 Come out to the T.M.I. Talk Show! A LIVE monthly theater show where guests are invited to “overshare” personal stories and real talk about taboo subjects while the cast entertains you with drag, comedy and variety acts! Hosted by LibeRaunchy the BeauxQueen and Eureeka Starfish, ring girl Miss Adrienne and featuring special guest, draguate of the New Orleans Drag Workshop, Kedavra! It is only $8 for entry plus cupcake and discount drink ticket for The Other Bar, next door. Doors open at 8:30. This is an hour-long show starting promptly at 9 p.m. The event is at La Nuit Comedy Theater located at 5041 Freret Street. Friday, June 10, 2016 Join the Krewe of Petronius for a fabulous three course Cajun dinner and cooking demonstration at the world famous New Orleans School of Cooking (524 St. Louis Street) in the heart of the French Quarter. Your $40 donation includes: 3 course dinner, non-alcoholic beverages, and Abita beer. Wine will be available for purchase. Dinner 6:30 p.m., Pre Dinner Social 6 p.m. Talk to any Krewe member or email info@kreweofpetronius.net for tickets. Saturday, June 11, 2016 Come out to the 10th annual Baton Rouge Pride festival from 1 – 7 p.m. It’s going to be bigger and better than ever in its anniversary edition. Loads of participants will be at the community resource fair, great entertainment, food and cash bar, and all in the air-conditioned comfort of the Baton Rouge River Center Exhibition Halls. Bring the opportunity to ask Cohen and Cooper questions. I had many more I wanted to ask Cohen, but he had to beg off as he had other engagements to attend to. I look forward to maybe asking him one more, and hearing all he and Cooper have to say on June 24. It may not have all the wild drama of a Real Housewives episode, but I’ll take witty and insightful talk, along with some shallow tales, from two men of the world any day.
your friends and family to this free celebration. The Baton Rouge River Center is located at 275 S River Road. Saturday, June 11, 2016 Join the Krewe of Amon-Ra for a fabulous evening of fun at their 2016 Prom entitled an Evening in the Red Light District. Enter to win their Prom Queen or King at the fully catered event with live DJ and auctions at Napoleon’s Itch (734 Bourbon Street). Hosted by New Orleans legends Becky Allen and Marshall Harris, this event starts at 8 p.m. Tickets are $20.00. Wednesday, June 15, 2016 Learn about your community at Cocktails & Queer History: A Southern Decadence Fundraiser. This event begins with a SDGM cocktail reception at the home of SDGM XLII Jeffrey Palmquist (928 Bourbon Street). After cocktails, local historian Frank Perez will conduct his internationally famous New Orleans LGBT+ History Walking Tour. This fascinating stroll around the French Quarter will end back at SDGM XLII Palmquist’s home, where hors d’oeuvres and more cocktails will be served. Space is limited and the cost is $75.00. All proceeds go to Southern Decadence and its official charities. Tickets may be purchased from Jeffrey Palmquist through Facebook or Frank Perez at the Crescent City Tour Booking Agency (638 St. Ann). The event begins at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, June 16, 2016 The Gulf South Chamber is hosting a Business Pride Summer Social from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. at the Hyatt Regency New Orleans (601 Loyola Avenue). Join the Gulf South Chamber, our corporate sponsors, local LGBT businesses and professionals for food, drink, networking, and lots of fun! Friday, June 17, 2016 Season 6 winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race, Bianca Del Rio is back home in New Orleans. The “Queen of Mean” will host “An Evening with Bianca del Rio” with performers, Mrs. Kasha Davis, Darienne Lake, Aggy Dune and MILK the Queen for one show only starting at 8 p.m. at the Joy Theatre (1200 Canal Street). Joining them are Chris Harder, Cherry Brown, Miss New Orleans Pride: Vanessa Carr and Mr. New Orleans Pride Eros Sea and Gia Giavanni. Tickets are General Admission $45 (standing), VIP $76.50 (includes balcony seat, [continued on 27]
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book review Bettyville: A Memoir George Hodgman. Penguin, 2015. ISBN: 978-0-14-310788. 279 pages. $17.00.
by Frank Perez Anyone who has ever had to care for an aging parent, or can see that possibility on the horizon, will appreciate this book. Bettyville is a poignant, beautiful memoir written by a man who leaves his life and career as an editor in Manhattan to return to his tiny hometown in Missouri to care for his aging mother. When Hodgman visits his mother, Betty, for her 91st birthday, he has no idea just how ill she is—cancer and dementia—and concludes he must stay to care for her. Several themes are at work here: caring for an older parent, coming home to small town America, dealing with family tensions, and loving a parent that has never fully accepted her son’s homosexuality. This is the story of two very different yet intertwined lives, of two larger than life personalities. It is the story of a mother and son who are often at odds but ultimately realize they need each other. Bettyville is at times hilarious, heartbreaking, warm, realistic, sad, tender, riveting, and truthful. In hardcover, Bettyville was a New York Times bestseller and was selected as a book of the year by Amazon, Entertainment Weekly, and Library Journal. A TV show based on the book is currently in development with Archer Gray and Paramount TV, with a script by John Hoffman (“Looking” and “Grace and Frankie”). George Hodgman is a veteran magazine and book editor who has worked at Simon & Schuster, Vanity Fair, and Talk magazine. His writing has appeared in Entertainment Weekly, Interview, W, and Harper’s Bazaar. He lives in New York City and Paris, Missouri.
under the gaydar ...from 24 meet and greet, and one free drink). The show starts at 8 p.m. with the preshow entertainment beginning at 7:45 p.m. For tickets, go to www.thejoytheatre.com. Saturday, June 18, 2016 Are you ready to take your pride to the streets? The New Orleans Pride Parade rolls at 7 p.m. There is a PreParade Party at The Phoenix. The parade lines up on Elysian Fields at Rampart Street. The route is Parade Route From Elysian Fields, Right on Royal Street, Left on Frenchmen Street, Right on Decatur Street, Right on Canal Street and Right on Bourbon Street. There is a designated Family Viewing at Jackson Square. Balcony Viewing will be at the Bourbon Pub, Oz New Orleans, The Swamp, or The Bourbon Cowboy.
Saturday, June 18, 2016 Dine out for an amazing cause at the 24th Annual HRC Louisiana Dinner & Silent Auction presented by Hyatt Regency New Orleans & WDSU News. The VIP Reception starts at 5 p.m.; General Reception starts at 6 p.m. with the doors opening to the ballroom at 6:45 p.m. The Hyatt Regency New Orleans is located at 601 Loyola Avenue. The evening’s menu was designed by local celebrity chefs: Chef Kelly Kields - Willa Jean, Chef Tory McPhail - Commander’s Palace, Chef Eric Damidot - Hyatt Regency New Orleans. This element is unique to the Louisiana Gala and perfectly blends the culture on New Orleans alongside the important mission of the Human Rights Campaign. Buy your tickets today so you can experience the tastes of these legendary chefs all in one meal. To purchase your ticket, visit hrclouisianadinner.org
Party Down I thought my dance card was full before, add to it the title of Southern Decadence Grand Marshal and it becomes literally busier overnight. My two weeks were filled with photo shoots, festivals, anniversaries, babies and Flying Monkeys. Let’s begin on Tuesday with the Southern Decadence photo shoot for the poster which was such a fun experience. The photos were taken at the home of my co-SDGM Jeffrey Palmquist. The four of us (Jeff, myself, Felicia Phillips and Derek PentonRobicheaux) posed with some of the hottest guys in the city for the poster which will be out (for purchase) shortly. It was an incredibly relaxed as Barrett Delong-Church made us feel like professional models. We drank champagne, had nibbles, joked and laughed. I am honored to be part of such a wonderful group and look forward to the next three months. Keep your eyes open in Ambush and on Facebook for all the upcoming events. We have a lot of fun in store for everyone this year. On Friday, the first of my festival going started with Bayou Boogaloo. The music festival on Bayou St. John is free and has food, drinks, music and an art market all along the banks of the gorgeous Mid-City neighborhood. I met up with some friends, had some cocktails and enjoyed the music of reggae sensation, the Wailers. It was a beautiful night to sway to the drum beats of the band while a light breeze came off the bayou. Another reason why NOLA is so awesome. On Saturday, I went to a progressive condominium party in the Warehouse District. Two friends of mine who just happen to live in the same condo complex in the Warehouse District decided to host a progressive evening for friends. You can start at one person’s house and then move to the other and then bounce back and
forth all night long. Albert Carey along with Bob and Lawton Leftwich created a perfect evening for all who attended having cocktails, food and music at each home. Each place had its own vibe and atmosphere making the night even more special because you were able to mingle with different groups. If you are looking for a great idea for a summer time party think about hosting a progressive one with neighbors. I ended my first weekend by attending Rivertown Theatre’s wonderful production of How To Succeed in Business Without Really Trying. The musical by Frank Loesser is based on Shepherd Mead’s 1952 book of the same name. The story concerns young, ambitious J. Pierrepont Finch, who, with the help of the book How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, rises from the mailroom to chairman of the board of the World Wide Wicket Company. The cast did a great job and the choreography was spot on. The next week, I went back to the theatre on Thursday to see the Broadway Touring Show of Wicked at the Saenger Theatre with Elizabeth Bouvier. This production was well-done with a talented cast, spectacular set and costumes and some of the hottest Flying Monkeys I have ever seen in my life. Seriously, be on the lookout at the gay bars for Flying Monkeys, the show ends about 10:30 p.m. so keep an eye out at Oz. They may flock to a place they are familiar with. Friday was a full day of celebration for my friends Kevin and Carlos who along with 16 of their closest friends flew to New Orleans to celebrate their 15th anniversary. They met in the Crescent City 15 years ago over Memorial Day weekend at the Pub and the rest as they say is history. We started out with lunch at Galatoire’s which is quite the scene on Fridays. Not only was their our celebration but also several other birthdays including one man who flew his jet of friends to New Orleans for lunch and then they were flying right out after. Now that is a person with money to burn (and possibly my next ex-husband). Anyway the meal as expected was delicious and epic three hour long lunch). Later that evening, I hosted a reception for everyone at the Bombay Club, where we had wine, martinis and bites to start off a night of debauchery in the Quarter. Twenty gays from around the world all descending on our town, memories were bound to be made. After the reception, we went to 700 Club, Lafitte’s, Oz, Pub, Good Friends and ended up with Sticky Ones at the Corner Pocket (do not ask). Needless to say it was quite the night to remember (at least most of it). The next day, I was back on the Festival beat by starting with the Treme Festival which was literally under Interstate 10 in Treme. They had some truly authentic music from the area, food
and vendors. Then my friends and I switched gears totally and went to the Greek Fest, talk about a totally different vibe, but just as enjoyable nonethe-less. Calamari with feta cheese, Baklava Sundaes and Ouzo Daiquiris, how could you go wrong. After festing, I was able to run home and do a quick change and go to a dinner party hosted by Contessa Breaux for my friends Mollie and Ben who moved to Santa Fe, but still have a home in the city. With them, they brought their beautiful new baby, Louis with them. What a very cool New Orleans name (they say it is a family name, but I like to think it was because of Mr. Armstrong). We had a very sedate dinner with fun conversation and I got to play with a fourmonth old baby, not something I do often. I, of course, spoiled him by bringing gifts including (baby’s first cell phone and a children’s picture book What A Wonderful World (with the complete and illustrated lyrics of Louis Armstrong’s famous song). One day of children is about my fill and on Sunday I met back up with my out-of-town gays for brunch at Tableau. We had a private space in the Gold Room with a balcony overlooking Jackson Square. The food was delectable and the service spectacular. After putting away several bottles of champagne in me, I was whisked away afterwards by some friends to LaPlace to the home of Rhonda Roget and her husband David. This party is always so crazy, two years ago, I ended up with a broken wrist, which I discovered I had the following day. You know it is not a party unless someone breaks something. Rhonda and David had swimming, barbecue, booze and two sexy pool boys; pretty much it was a perfect afternoon/evening soiree. And their home along the golf course is just majestic. I especially like their chaise lounge in their living room, which was my favorite perch of the day. Memorial Day was another fun day of activity, starting with my mom, and friends Beaux and Barrett going on a road trip to Gulfport for a spot of gambling at Island View casino followed by lunch. And some of us even came out as winners. But the special part was on the way home, we took the old I-90 road which was how people got to Mississippi before Interstate 10. If you have not traveled down this highway, do so. It may take a little longer but it has impressive scenery of the fishing and shrimping camps. There are entire neighborhoods of these grandiose summer homes that are worthwhile seeing. Later that night, I had some friends over to the house for a barbecue. It was the ideal way to wind down from the busy weekend. One more holiday under my belt, let’s start planning for the 4th of July and do not forget the events for Southern Decadence start now. So until next week, keep being decadent.
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945.9264, www.phoenixbarnola.com RAWHIDE 2010, 740 Burgundy St., 525.8106, Rawhide2010.COM TROPICAL ISLE: Home of the Hand Grenade, 721 Bourbon St., 529.4109, TropicalIsle.COM VOODOO LOUNGE, 718 N. Rampart, 265.0953
CANAL STREET
100 IBERVILLE
200 BIENVILLE
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Slidell, LA [985] BILLY'S, 2600 Hwy. 190 West, 847.1921
500 TOULOUSE
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New Orleans, LA [504] FAB - Faubourg Marigny Art & Books, 600 Frenchmen St., 947.3700
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New Orleans, LA [504] Troy A. Tureau, J.D., L.LM., Attorney at Law, Tureau Legal, 4631 S. Carrolton Ave., New Orleans, LA 70119, 504.308.1608 thelawprofessor@comcast.net
bars Mobile, AL [251] B-Bob's Downtown, 213 Conti St., 433.2262, B-Bobs.COM Flip Side Bar & Patio, 54 S. Conception St., 431.8819, FlipSideBarPatio.COM GABRIEL'S DOWNTOWN, 55 South Joachim St., 432.4900 THE MIDTOWN PUB, 153 Florida St., 450.1555 Pensacola, FL [850] EMERALD CITY, 408 E. Wright St., 433.9491, EmeraldCityPensacola.COM THE ROUNDUP, 560 East Heinberg St., 433.8482 Baton Rouge, LA [225] GEORGE'S, 860 St. Louis, 387.9798, SPLASH, 2183 Highland Rd., 242.9491, SplashBR.COM Lake Charles, LA [337] CRYSTAL'S, 112 W. Broad, 433.5457
New Orleans, LA [504] DR. MICHAEL LECHLEITER, D.C., 1526 Magazine, 566.1833 [is1116
circuit/events Aug. 31-Sept. 5, 2016, 45th Official Southern Decadence Celebration of Gay Life, Music & Culture, end of Summer Blowout including the Southern Decadence Parade & loads of activities, bringing over 180,000 revelers to New Orleans, LA, sponsored by Ambush & SouthernDecadence.com Oct. 27-Oct. 30, 2016 Halloween 33, benefiting Project Lazarus, New Orleans, LA, sponsored by AmbushMag.COM, HalloweenNewOrleans.com Dec. 26, 2015-Jan. 1, 2017 Gay New Year's in New Orleans, New Orleans, LA, GayNewOrleans.com Feb. 24-28, 2017, 68th Official Gay Mardi Gras, New Orleans, LA, sponsored by Ambush, GayMardiGras.com Easter Sunday, April 16, 2017, 18th Official Gay Easter Parade, New Orleans, sponsored by Ambush, GayEasterParade.com
costumes
French Quarter/Faubourg Marigny/Bywater
attorneys
Houston, TX [713] NEON BOOTS DANCEHALL & SALOON, 11410 Hempstead Hwy., 677.0828, www.neonbootsclub.com
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Biloxi, MS [228] CLUB VEAUX, 834 Howard Ave., 207.3271
Metairie, LA [504] FOUR SEASONS & PATIO STAGE BAR, 3229 N. Causeway, 832.0659, FourSeasonsBar.com New Orleans, LA [504] 700 CLUB, 700 Burgundy, 561.1095, BIG DADDY'S, 2513 Royal, 948.6288 THE BLACK PENNY, 700 N. Rampart BOURBON PUB & PARADE, 801 Bourbon St., 529.2107, BourbonPub.COM CAFÉ LAFITTE IN EXILE, 901 Bourbon Street 522.8397, Lafittes.COM CORNER POCKET, 940 St. Louis, 568.9829, CornerPocket.NET COUNTRY CLUB, 634 Louisa St., TheCountryClubNewOrleans.COM, 945.0742 CUTTER'S, 706 Franklin, 948.4200 THE DOUBLE PLAY, 439 Dauphine, 523.4517 THE FRIENDLY BAR, 2301 Chartres, 943.8929 GOLDEN LANTERN, 1239 Royal, 529.2860, Facebook.COM/GoldenLanternBar GOOD FRIENDS BAR, 740 Dauphine St, 566.7191, GoodFriendsBar.COM GRANDPRE'S, 834 N. Rampart St., 267.3615, Facebook.com/grandpres KAJUN'S PUB, 2256 St. Claude Ave., 947.3735, KajunPub.COM OZ NEW ORLEANS, 800 Bourbon, 593.9491, OzNewOrleans. COM THE PAGE, 542 N. Rampart St., 875.4976 PHOENIX/EAGLE, 941 Elysian Fields,
New Orleans, LA [504] QT PIE BOUTIQUE - 241 Dauphine St., 581. 6633
florists Baton Rouge, LA [225] FOUR SEASONS FLOWERS & GIFTS, 3482 Drusilla Ln., Drusilla Shopping Center, 924.1386, 1.800.237.5381
galleries New Orleans, LA [504] CASSELL-BERGEN GALLERY, 1305 Decatur St., cassellbergengallery.com, 504.524.0671
guides AMBUSH Mag, 828-A Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116-3137; 504.522.8049, AmbushMag.COM; marsha@ripandmarsha.com
groceries/delis New Orleans, LA [504] QUARTERMASTER DELI, THE NELLIE DELI, 1100 Bourbon, 529.1416
hair salons New Orleans, LA [504] Two Guys Cutting Hair, 2372 St. Claude Ave., Suite 125, appointments: Adikus 215.519.5030, Trent 504.239.2397
hardware New Orleans, LA [504] MARY'S FRENCH QUARTER HARDWARE, 732 N. Rampart, 529.4465
lodging/accommodations New Orleans [504] AARON INGRAM HAUS, 1012 Elysian Fields, New Orleans, LA 70117, PHONE: 504.949.3110, www.ingramhaus.com/xqey, e-mail us at ingramhaus@yahoo.com. Condos with queen-size beds, private entrances; located only six blocks from Bourbon Street and walking distance to most New Orleans attractions. Several favorite bars are within one block. [0715] BLUES60 GUEST HOUSE, 1008 Elysian Fields Ave. New Orleans, LA 70117, Phone: 1.504.324.4311, www.blues60guesthouse.com, info@blues60guesthouse.com. The Blue60 Guest House with 5 suites provides a peaceful retreat in the center of the Faubourg Marigny, just blocks from the French Quarter and Frenchman St. [1115] BURGUNDY BED AND BREAKFAST, 2513 Burgundy St., New Orleans, LA 70117, PHONE/FAX: 504.942.1463, Toll Free (Continental US only): 1.800.970.2153, www.theburgundy.com, E-mail us at theburgundy@cox.net. Gay owned and operated in newly renovated 1890's double. Four guest rooms with private baths, guests' parlor and "halfkitchen", courtyard and half-open tubhouse with spa (hot tub/whirlpool). Clothing optional in sunbathing and hot tub area. Walking distance to French Quarter. Immediate vicinity of gay and lesbian bars/venues. [0815] THE FRENCH QUARTER GUEST HOUSES, 1005 St. Peter, New Orleans, LA 70116, Phone: 1.800.367.5858, FrenchQuarterGuestHouses.com, email: Info@frenchquarterguesthouses.com. Four meticulously restored boutique inns located in the heart of the French Quarter's most popular LGBT neighborhood. Each building's individual character and charm provides an unforgettable authentic French Quarter experience!
marketing & printing New Orleans, LA [504] SIR SPEEDY, 343 Carondelet, 586.9812, 586.9817, offering printing and marketing services including web design and hosting. info@sirspeedyneworleans.com, sirspeedyneworleans.com
massage New Orleans, LA [504] RIGHT TOUCH MASSAGE -- Christopher - Full body therapeutic massage (Swedish/Deep Tissue); heated table; private studio; tropical garden; Faubourg Marigny Area, French Quarter. Upgrade (Salt Scrubs Bodywork & Thai/Sport Stretching massage). Call/text 504.458.5996 / For pictures http://www.christophernola.com. License #LA4553 [is2515]
media New Orleans, LA [504] AMBUSH Mag, Official Gay Easter Parade Guide, Official Gay Mardi Gras Guide, Official Gay New Orleans Guide, Official Gulf South Guide, Official Pride Guide, Official Southern Decadence Guide, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 522.8049, AmbushMag.COM; email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com AMBUSHonLINE, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137; 522.8049, ambushonline.com, email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com
museum/arts New Orleans, LA [504] BEAUREGARD-KEYES HOUSE, 1113 Chartres, 523.7257 CABILDO, 701 Chartres, Jackson Square, CAC [Contemporary Arts Center], 900 Camp St., 528.3805, cacno.org EDGAR DEGAS HISTORIC HOME, 2306
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Esplanade Avenue, tours by appointment: 504.821.5009, the house tour lasts one hour, is led by a great-grand-niece of Degas, and includes the award-winning documentary video, Degas in New Orleans: A Creole Sojourn 1850 HOUSE, 523 St. Ann GALLIER HOUSE, 1132 Royal, 523.6722 GERMAINE WELLS MARDI GRAS MUSEUM, 2nd Floor Arnaud's, 819 Bienville HERMANN-GRIMA HISTORIC HOUSE, 820 St. Louis, 525.5661 HISTORICAL PHARMACY MUSEUM, 514 Chartres, 524.9077 HISTORIC NEW ORLEANS COLLECTION, 533 Royal, 523.4662 LONGUE VUE HOUSE AND GARDENS, 7 Bamboo Rd, Metairie, 488.5488, MUSEE CONTI HISTORICAL WAX MUSEUM, 917 Conti, 525.2605 NEW ORLEANS MUSEUM OF ART, City Park, 1 Collins Diboll Circle, 488.2631 OGDEN MUSEUM OF SOUTHERN ART, 925 Camp St., 539.9600 OLD U.S. MINT, 400 Esplanade PRESBYTERE, 751 Chartres, Jackson Square ST. LOUIS CATHEDRAL, Jackson Square WORLD WAR 2 MUSEUM, 945 Magazine, 527.6012, http://nationalww2museum.org
music New Orleans [504] SKULLY'Z RECORDZ, 907 Bourbon St., 592.4666
organizations New Orleans, LA [504] ACLU and ACLU Foundation of Louisiana, P.O. Box 56157, New Orleans, LA 70156, 504.522.0628 x25, Fax: 888.537.0384, laaclu.org AIDS HOTLINE, 821.6050 in New Orleans, 1.800.99.AIDS[2437]-9 toll free statewide AIDSLaw of Louisiana, 3801 Canal St., Suite 331, 568.1631, AIDSLAW.org ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS, 838.3399 BIG EASY STOMPERS, Country & Western line dancing. Weekly lessons and monthly Country & Western dance party, www.bigeasystompersneworleans.com, info@bigeasystompersneworleans.com BELLE REVE NEW ORLEANS, AIDS Residence for Families, PO Box 3305, 70177; 945.9455 BreakOUT! builds the power of youth ages 13-25 in New Orleans to end the criminalization of LGBTQ youth of color, 504.252.9025, 1001 S. Broad St. #119, NOLA 70125, @youthbreakout, www.youthbreakout.org, COMMUNITY ACTION NETWORK, a project of the NO/AIDS Task Force which works with the gay community to implement HIV prevention activities, 507 Frenchmen St., 945.4000, noaidstaskforce.com COPS 8 (Citizens' Organization for Police Support in the 8th District), 840 N. Rampart St., #51, 70116; 588.COPS (2677), cops8.org FOOD FOR FRIENDS, 944.6028 FORUM FOR EQUALITY, 336 Lafayette, Suite 200, 70130; 947.2981, ForumForEquality.COM FRIDAY NIGHT BEFORE MARDI GRAS (FNBMG), PO Box 791376, New Orleans, LA 70179-1376; 733.3311, fridaynightbeforemardigras.com, fnbmg@cox.net GAY APPRECIATION AWARDS, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137; 522.8049; AmbushMag.COM/GAA GAY EASTER PARADE, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, info@gayeasterparade.com, GayEasterParade.COM GAY MARDI GRAS, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, GayMardiGras.COM GAY NEW ORLEANS, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, GayNewOrleans.COM HAART (HIV/AIDS Alliance Region Two, Inc.), 4550 North Blvd. Ste. 250, Baton Rouge, LA 70806, 225.927.1269, www.haartinc.org, offers a complete continuum of care to people living with
HIV/AIDS including housing, primary care, medications, case management, and an array of supportive services. In addition HAART provides HIV prevention education and FREE testing to the Baton Rouge area. HALLOWEEN IN NEW ORLEANS, INC., PO Box 52171, 70152-2171; halloween neworleans.com/ambush KREWE OF AMON-RA, PO Box 7033, Metairie, LA 70010, KreweOfAmonRa.COM KREWE OF ARMEINIUS, PO Box 56638, New Orleans, LA 70156-6638, kreweofarmeinius.org KREWE OF MWINDO, PO Box 51031, 70156; 913.5791, KreweOfMwindo.ORG, krewe@kreweofmwindo.org KREWE OF NARCISSUS, PO Box 3832, New Orleans, LA 70177. Contact: 504.228.9441 KREWE OF PETRONIUS, PO Box 1102, Kenner, LA. 70063-1102, www.kreweofpetroius.net KREWE OF QUEENATEENAS / KING CAKE QUEEN ROYALTY CLUB, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 522.8049, GayMardiGras.COM/KCQ KREWE OF URSUS, kreweofursus@aol.com LGBT+ Archives Project of Louisiana, 1308 Esplanade Ave., New Orleans, LA 70116, 504.475.7911, www.lgbtarchivesla.org LORDS OF LEATHER, 1631 Elysian Fields, #161, 70117, www.lordsofleather.org Louisiana Equality Foundation, serving the Louisiana LGBT Community through education, activism, and awareness. www. l o u i s i a n a e q u a l i t y f o u n d a t i o n . o r g , info@louisianaequalityfoundation.org Metropolitan Community Church of New Orleans, services at 10am, 6200 St Charles Ave., New Orleans, LA 70118; 504.270.1MCC www.mccneworleans.org MYSTIC KREWE OF SATYRICON, 2443 Halsey Ave., New Orleans, LA 70114, 504.906.7990 Todd J. Blauvelt / Secretary, krewe.of.satyricon@gmail.com, MysticKreweOfSatyricon.COM NEW ORLEANS BEAR AND BEAR TRAPPER SOCIAL CLUB, P.O. Box 57756, New Orleans, LA 70157-7756, 504.298.0061, theneworleansbears.com NEW ORLEANS GAY MEN’S CHORUS, 322.7007, nogmc.com; nogmc@aol.com NEW ORLEANS JAZZ & HERITAGE FESTIVAL, nojazzfest.com NO/AIDS TASK FORCE, 2601 Tulane Ave., Suite 500, 70119; 821.2601; NOAIDSTaskForce.COM PFLAG/NO [Parents & Friends of Lesbians & Gays/ New Orleans], PO Box 15515, 70175; 895.3936, 392.0001, pflagno.org, info@pflagno.org PRIDE, NOLAPride.ORG PROJECT LAZARUS, A Residence for PWAs, PO Box 3906, 70177-3906; 949.3609 REGIONALAIDS INTERFAITH NETWORK [RAIN], 523.3755 RENEGADE BEARS OF LOUISIANA, PO Box 3083, New Orleans, LA 70177; renegadebearsoflouisiana@gmail.com SOUTHERN DECADENCE, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, SouthernDecadence.COM ST. ANNA'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH, 1313 Esplanade Avenue New Orleans, LA 70116 947.2121, stannanola.org VOLLEYBALL NEW ORLEANS, PO Box 13306, 70185-3306; volleyballneworleans.com, postmaster@volleyballneworleans.com
www.avitapharmacy.com New Orleans, LA [504] AVITA PHARMACY, offers personalized, convenient care to those affected by chronic illnesses. Avita offers free delivery, co-pay assistance, benefit coordination, and refill reminder calls as well as access to a pharmacist 24/7. Every prescription filled today helps Avita give back to the community tomorrow. www.avitapharmacy.com MUMFREY'S PHARMACY, 1021 W. Judge Perez Dr., Chalmette, LA 70043, 504.279.6312, www.MumfreysPharmacy.COM. Supporting & serving the LGBT Community for over 20 years. Local pharmacy offering personalized family-like service, automatic refills & free metro wide confidential pickup & delivery. Also offering shipping for out-side our delivery area. When you call us you speak to a person, not a machine. See our ad.
Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, 1100 Bourbon St. , 529.1416, www.QuartermasterDeli.net
photography
retail/shopping
New Orleans, LA [504] GRAHAM/STUDIO ONE NEW ORLEANS, by appointment, grahamstudioone.com
restaurants Metairie, LA [504] Chef Ron's Gumbo Stop & Pub, 2309 N. Causeway Blvd., 835.2022, GumboStop.com New Orleans, LA [504] The Bombay Club, 830 Rue Conti, 577.2237, www.bombayclubneworleans.com Broussard’s Restaurant & Courtyard, 819 Rue Conti, 581.3866, http://broussards.com Cheezy Cajun, 3325 St. Claude Ave., 265.0045, www.TheCheezyCajun.com Clover Grill, 900 Bourbon St., 598.1010, www.CloverGrill.com Country Club Restaurant, 634 Louisa St., www.TheCountryClubNewOrleans.com, 945.0742 Deanie's Seafood, French Quarter: 841 Iberville, 581.4141; Bucktown: 1713 Lake Ave., Metairie, 831.1316; www.Deanies.com Gene's Po-Boys & Daquiris, 1040 Elysian Fields Ave., 943.3861,
www.genespoboys.com Ilys Bistro, 1040 Elysian Fields Ave., 947.8341, www.Facebook.com/ILYSBistro Kingfish Kitchen & Cocktails, 337 Chartres St. 598.5005, www.KinfishNewOrleans.com Little Vic’s Rosticceria, 719 Toulouse, 304.1238, www.littlevics.com Mona Lisa Restaurant, 1212 Royal St., 522.6746 Orleans Grapevine Wine Bar & Bistro, 720 Orleans, 523.1930, www.OrleansGrapevine.com
Royal House Oyster Bar, 441 Royal St., 528.2601, www.RoyalHouseRestaurant.com Stanley, 547 St. Ann St., 587.0093, www.StanleyRestaurant.com
real estate New Orleans, LA [504] Latter & Blum, Steven Vaughn Realtor, Cell 504.810.4646, Office 504.948.3011, St e v e n Va u g h a n P r o p e r t i e s . c o m , Svaughan@latterblum.com New Orleans Relocation, Realtors — gayowned boutique real estate agency for locals and newcomers. 504.273.0088 www.NOLArelo.com
New Orleans, LA [504] BOURBON PRIDE, 909 Bourbon, 566.1570 COK (Clothing or Kinkl), 941 Elysian Fields, 945.9264 LEATHER VOODOO, 708 Toulouse St., 249.5603 MARY'S FRENCH QUARTER KITCHEN & BATH, 732 N. Rampart, 529.4465 MR. BINKY'S BOUTIQUE, 107 Chartres St., 302.2095, MrBinkys.com PANDA BEAR, 415 Bourbon St., 529.8064 QT PIE BOUTIQUE - 241 Dauphine St., 581. 6633 RAB DAB CLOTHING AND GIFTS, 918 Royal St., 525.6662
services New Orleans, LA [504] ABC Title Services, www.abctitle.com Formal Connection, 299 Belle Terre Blvd. LaPlace, LA, 985.652.1195 Milavo, www.milavospray.com
theatres New Orleans, LA [504] CAFE ISTANBUL, 2372 St. Claude Ave., #140, 504.974.0786, CafeIstanbulNOLA.COM
tours New Orleans, LA [504] Gay New Orleans Walking Tour, Crescent City Tour Booking Agency, (LGBT Business of the Year) 638 St. Ann St., 568.0717. follow Gay New Orleans Walking Tour @ Facebook.COM
pets New Orleans, LA [504] DR. MIKE'S ANIMAL HOUSE, 1120 N. Rampart, 523.4455
pharmacy Baton Rouge, LA [225] AVITA PHARMACY, offers personalized, convenient care to those affected by chronic illnesses. Avita offers free delivery, co-pay assistance, benefit coordination, and refill reminder calls as well as access to a pharmacist 24/7. Every prescription filled today helps Avita give back to the community tomorrow.
NEXT Ambush DEADLINE Tuesday, June 14th 504.522.8049 ripna@ambushmag.com
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trodding the boards by Brian Sands
Email: bsnola2@hotmail.com
Wicked at The Saenger Theatre through June 19 Having previously touched down at the Mahalia Jackson Theater, Wicked recently flew back to New Orleans for an extended engagement at the Saenger. I had last seen this behemoth of a musical on Broadway not long after it opened and was curious to see if it had changed in any way...or if my mixed opinion of it would. On the plus side, Winnie Holzman’s just as 12 years ago, other than a brief book, based on the novel by Gregory moment when Glinda holds out a Maguire, which is both a prequel and a friendly hand to the up-till-then dissequel to The Wizard of Oz, seems dained Elphaba, Wicked simply didn’t less cluttered now, the storyline and move me or engage my heart. And for characters’ motivations clearer. It could a musical, that’s wicked indeed. be, however, that in streamlining DirecOne can’t fault the cast. As Glinda, tor Joe Mantello’s production for tour- Amanda Jane Cooper not only has the ing, some of what I once found murky requisite soaring voice and proves to came into better focus. be a fine physical comedienne as she Stephen Schwartz’ score, while not calculatingly tosses her hair around, in the same league as his tune-filled but she nails the character’s sense of ones for Godspell and Pippin, has at self-entitlement, privilege, and knowleast yielded three modern standards— ing how to get her own way. The Wizard and I, Popular, and DefyTall and lithe Jake Boyd does well ing Gravity—though Gravity is the kind as his Fiyero, the love interest of both of song that once stuck in your brain witches, convincingly transforms from you do your utmost to get it dislodged. a jejune cad into a selfless hero. Stuart Wayne Cilento’s musical staging Zagnit’s Wizard puts an avuncular smile seems to have been expanded into on a petty, dangerous man. more full-blown dance numbers that Wendy Worthington makes the add buoyancy and visual grace to this Headmistress Madame Morrible, a role often lumbering show. Susan Hilferty’s that has been played on Broadway by inventive costumes and Eugene Lee’s Michele Lee, Carol Kane and Rue quick-changing set continue to be as McClanahan, speciously nice and nicely fabulous as ever. evil, the kind of performance you apBut problems still remain in this tale preciatively want to “Boo” at the curtain of how two young ladies evolved into call. Glinda, the Good Witch, and Elphaba, As the green-skinned Elphaba, the wicked one. Emily Koch sings with powerhouse force In Holzman’s book, the overlong and persuasively conveys a brainy outjourney from start to finish lacks the sider quality, but she lacks a distinctive vital conflict and suspense that should personality; admittedly, that may be as hold an audience on the edge of its much due to the rather colorless role as seats. Instead, we merely arrive at a to the actress herself. drama-free ending where knotty plot Putting aside its camp quotient and points have been too easily resolved. implicit gay fantasy in which the nerd Questions bloom like poppy flow- gets the hot guy in the end (Maguire is ers. With Kremlin-like buildings seen in openly gay), I can understand Wicked’s the distance, is the Wizard supposed to appeal to women and girls of all ages be Stalin? Or Putin? As a university is with its two strong female leads whose purged of its non-human faculty (don’t relationship develops from enemies to ask), are we meant to think of the Nazis’ buddies. But that it’s become the tenth treatment of the Jews? And nowadays, longest-running show in Broadway hisis the Wiz a Trump stand-in? tory? Maybe I’ll have to ask the Wiz to While it’s fine for a script to allow explain that. for multiple interpretations, the result here is that we get generic two-dimen- New in New York, Part 2 sional quasi-evil which results in, as I had planned to tell you you must Jason Zinoman noted in a follow-up go see the new musical American New York Times review, “an unusual Psycho not only because its buff cast marriage of styles and sensibilities— is often in various states of undress but, knowing irony and earnest sentiment, far more importantly, because it’s an self-serious politics and silly frivolity” audacious adaptation of Bret Easton as well as “an intimate teenage drama Ellis’ novel. Alas, though, by the time and a $14 million special-effects block- you’ll be reading this, it will have albuster.” ready closed. All of which might’ve been overIt’s a shame. I don’t understand the looked if Wicked had evinced even a mixed to harsh reviews it received nor little bit of emotional resonance. For, its snubbing by the Tony nominating
Benjamin Walker in American Psycho committee. From its wowza of an opening to its disturbingly satisfying conclusion, I found it to be brilliant and so different from all the other musicals out there as it recreated the look, sound and feel of the 1980s in thrilling ways. Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa’s book, while faithful to the original, understandably humanized the putative serial killer Patrick Bateman and gave him somewhat more depth. Tony Awardwinner Duncan (Spring Awakening) Sheik’s electrifying electronic score combined vintage songs, reconfigured to give them new meaning, and new ones that could easily have been top ten material back in the day. The scenic, lighting, and video designs of Es Devlin, Justin Townsend, and Finn Ross, respectively, excited with marvelous visual panache as did Katrina Lindsay’s gorgeously chic costumes. Lynne Page made bold choreographic choices that paid off, and Director Rupert Goold pulled it all together to make it seamless. The entire cast was perfectly in sync with the material with Benjamin Walker giving a brave and one-of-akind performance as Bateman—if an android could have a singing fever dream, this would be it. Like the novel, the musical American Psycho works on so many levels it keeps an audience on its collective toes. A surreal parody of materialism and status-seeking gone amok, Ellis’ satire is still sharp as a knife if not more so during these Trumpy times. But what makes all the versions of American Psycho so richly compelling is that it uses its singular tale to explore timeless themes of personal emptiness, spiritual longing, and moral ennui. If we’re very lucky, AP, the musical, will become a cult favorite or successfully be rediscovered in a couple of decades or both. The mainstream deserves to catch up to American Psycho eventually. The new Steve Martin (yes, the wild-and-crazy Steve Martin) and Edie
Brickell musical Bright Star (Cort Theatre) is almost the exact opposite of American Psycho. American Psycho grabs you right away but then holds you at a cool distance; Bright Star takes a while to get going but warms your heart by the end. American Psycho features a score, book and overall feel that precisely evokes the 1980s; Bright Star, though taking place from the mid-19201940s, exudes a timeless atmosphere. Psycho is all urban edginess; Star incarnates small town folksiness (though one character could be a distant cousin to Patrick Bateman). Based on a true story, the first 45 minutes of Bright Star are rather hohum as bookwriter Martin sets up the three narrative strands; of the 1920s romance, the 1940s romance, and the post-WWII young writer tussling with a magazine editor, only the last plot line, at first, draws you in. But once everything comes together, even if you should be able to deduce how things are likely to turn out, Bright Star, with one of the most shocking Act I curtains you’ll ever see, becomes thoroughly involving and, ultimately, very moving. Yes, the dialog sometimes doesn’t come off as natural and the strain shows as the hard-working cast tries to invest the words with authenticity. And yes, even though it’s “inspired by a true story”, things get wrapped up too easily. But Bright Star has a forthright, honest spirit that elicited audible sniffles from its audience, and it’s that rare musical that actually celebrates writing and words. Martin & Brickell’s tangy score is lovely and easy on the ears even if, on first hearing, the tunes kinda blur together; it’s reminiscent of listening to an extended version of Hazel The Delta Rambler’s WWOZ Old Time Country and Bluegrass program. Walter Bobbie has staged Bright Star with cinematic fluidity, and Eugene Lee’s scenery, Jane Greenwood’s costumes, and Japhy Weideman’s lighting all charmingly add to the homespun atmosphere. (Granted, that atmosphere does include a grating portrayal of the one gay-ish character; even if it’s an accurate reflection of its closeted times, a whiff of snarkiness still prevails.) Believably playing a character at two stages of her life twenty years apart, Carmen Cusack makes the protagonist Alice tough, intelligent and radiant, but not perfect. With her magnificently powerful voice and subtle charisma, Cusack has realized an auspicious Broadway debut. The rest of the cast are all winning—Stephen Lee Anderson’s a perfect villain—except for the charmless Hannah Elless as the 1940s love inter[continued on 32]
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by Felicia Phillips Email: fphillips1011@gmail.com Photo by Hubert S Monkeys
Sisterly Love Just as I sat down to write this column, I realized the day was the 36th anniversary of the creation of Felicia Phillips, yes high school graduation night May 31st, 1980. I actually had panty hose on under my robe, and the minute that graduation cap was tossed I hit it to meet one of my first sisters who was to put me in face for the first time, under a street light while straddling over me in the front seat of my little and I mean little Chevy Monza. I entered and won amateur night and the rest has been a four- decade blur so to speak. Now I was tempted to once again get sappy and chat about life’s ups and downs, but as I am in the middle of being a Southern Decadence Grand Marshal, or as I like to be called the first Mini Marshal, I just don’t have time for that and know that you would all rather have a good laugh than another tug on the heart string. So I’m going to instead stray off into the world of drag sisters and some of the do’s and dont’s of sister relationships. I can start with the sister that put me in drag that first time, I had known him all thru high school, he was a year ahead of me, and completely out of the closet, before I knew anything about drag, I had the biggest crush on him, and until it was time to show all my true colors I managed to spend time around him by dating his biological sister. That night when he was to straddle me in the front seat, painting away, I thought oh this is it, I’m going to get some long awaited nookie, but as soon as the smell of clown white, foundation and powder hit, all sexual tension ceased. It was later explained to me by older and wiser queens that sister on sister action was just a no no. Not that it never happened, it did, usually by accident, or while under the influence of mind and body altering substances, or just plain boredom. Back then it was called bulldagging, or bumping puss, more recently known as a Kai Kai, not to be confused with a Ki Ki which is perfectly acceptable and encouraged. One example was way back in the book store days of Houston, Texas. One of my closest sisters of all time, Andrea Mikels and I drove up to spend the weekend with some sisters of notoriety, Charlie Linez and Jerry Harper, both current title holders and headliners. After a long, shot filled night of partying, but no trade we all went to get out of face, I was lucky enough to get a little from Miss Charlie’s roommate, so I stayed in. They hit the bookstores till dawn, the story the next day was priceless, seems that after an hour or so of cruising the hallways with no luck they both went their separate ways to find a booth to duck into. Andrea gets lucky and sees a finger motioning thru the glory hole (yes this is a lascivious story), So she did what we all did in those days ,whipped the freshly untucked tallywacker out and proceeded to take care of business via glory hole, it wasn’t until turn about time did the whole thing fall apart, when the occupant of the adjoining booth pre-
sented their ‘manliness’ first glance threw Andrea off, for it had traces of what appeared to be baby powder, figuring it must be cocaine (after all it was the 80’s) she went down for the kill, but as soon as she got close, the overwhelming odor of Chanel #5 hit, and she knew the gig was up, as it was Miss Charlie’s manmeat! Definitely a don’t. Now a few years later on in my drag career I somehow got involved with a married man of the most gorgeous kind, one of the most beautiful striking men I have ever known, and the sex was AMAZING, at least for the first little while, seems there was a catch as come to find out it was his wife who would point out queens for him to seduce and once the bait was taken he would want to bring her into the picture, just to watch. Now I was a slut and was known to be a freak in the sheets, but I was not about to be a freaky slut. It got to the point that the wife would chase me around the bar, only place I could safely dilly dally with him was in the men’s bathroom. This was before all the gender neutral bathroom discussions. One big show night, that featured all the current and former Texas Entertainers of the Year I had finally had enough, I thought ok, I may be pretty but there are some much prettier sisters here, so as the husband followed me up the stairs to the dressing room, the door swung open and who popped out none other than Miss Gay Universe, Naomi Sims! The most beautiful of all time, I quickly say Naomi this is Barry, grabbed her hand shoved it on his crotch and ran! They were together for over a year, she had no shame in her game and told the wife, watch all you want Mary, just make sure to order some Chinese takeout for later. So passing off a crazy boyfriend to a sister is a Do as long as they are really hot! Many more stories could be recalled, but I want to move to present day, Monica Synclaire-Kennedy and I
The Page
New Orleans ~ Photos by Paul Melancon
the real cheese
were talking about this very subject just a few weeks ago, and about how things have changed and we are now seeing queens date each other and even marry (blame RuPaul), I conveyed to her that all the sisters I knew in the past that bulldogged ended up badly, a couple even went totally crazy. That’s when she said, "Oh yes girl don’t you know? Sister dick make ya sick!" Now I’m not saying that two queens can’t make it work together, I’m sure there are some out there that can, but if they are even close to the same size I can’t help but think they are really just subconsciously trying to double their wardrobes! And that is The Real Cheese! Til next time dahlins, I’m Felicia Phillips, the Cheese Queen of New Orleans...
trodding the boards ...from 30 est; I wish Emily Padgett, cute as the comic relief, had had Elless’ part. Bright Star may not have the genetic disposition to survive in New York, so, if you’re inclined, hurry to see it there. But with its country-flavored disposition, I expect it will flourish west of the Hudson River and south of the Mason-Dixon Line. Arthur Miller’s The Crucible (Walter Kerr Theatre) has been flourishing for over 60 years. So do we really need another Broadway revival of it when the last one wasn’t that long ago? When it’s Ivo van Hove’s absolutely gripping one, the answer is an enthusiastic “Yea!” Blowing the mustiness away that has accrued around this classic, van Hove reinterprets Miller’s original text with probing clarity. From a measured start, as exposition is smoothly laid out, he builds sexual heat and tension by extracting raw elemental passions from the flinty New England characters. But he also adds special effects, Tal Yarden’s prickly videos, and Philip Glass’ subliminally eery music to provide an exhilarating theatricality. On Jan Versweyveld’s set, a large plain contemporary schoolroom, the entire cast digs in to deliver performances that burn with an immediacy that endows the script with the appearance of being freshly written. Sadly, given some recent headlines, The Crucible has lost little of its topicality. Ben Whishaw makes us feel John Proctor’s agony, not merely because of the blood marks on his whipped back, but because we sense his shame at what he’s done to his family can never go away. As his wife, Sophie Okonedo boils with just-below-the-surface righteous indignation at what John is faced with, Whishaw’s supportive partner in every way, even if she has not entirely forgiven her straying husband. As Deputy-Governor Danforth, Ciarán Hinds embodies stern evil, de-
termined to hold everyone accountable to the letter of the law. And Oscarnominee Saoirse Ronan, as John’s erstwhile fling who hopes to get him back, embodies the kind of tough schoolyard Queen Bee you don’t want to f*ck with. When she leads the other witch-accusing girls through Steven Hoggett’s choreographed madness, it’s as chilling as a political rally gone out of control. This powerful production plays through July 17. After that, the political conventions will begin. I’m not sure which of these is scarier this year.
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big easy
The Social Scene ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Paul Melancon
paparazzi
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GrandPre's
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New Orleans ~ Photos by Rip Naquin, Darwin Reed
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Regine Phillips direct from the Baton in Chicago @ B-Bob’s ~ Mobile, Alabama ~ Photos by Miss Cie, Leon Weekly
Armeinius Permission to Shoot Sir
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paparazzi
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Wood Enterprises' 17th MASCARa Race Brings in $4,943 for NOCCA Institute ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Paul Melancon, Rip Naquin, Darwin Reed
snap
ambush marketplace
REAL ESTATE
826 Bourbon Street $589,500 CondominiumMLS ID: 2054317: Brand new absolutely beautiful independent condo in small association. Has 2 bed & bath upstairs, ½ bath downstairs, large living room, sunny open kitchen w/access to courtyard. Upstairs has balcony overlooking lush courtyard. Located in a fabulous block of Bourbon St, where nightlife & restaurants are nearby, yet this little oasis in the back of the courtyard still gives privacy when home. Really great New Orleans townhouse, with exposed brick walls, arches, open out windows, & spanking new renovation. 2 Beds 1.5 Baths 1000 Sq.Ft. Latter & Blum, Steven Vaughan Realtor®, 504.810.4646, svaughan@latterblum.com, www.Latter-Blum.com.
830 St.Philip Street $675,000 Great renovation with 2 bedrooms, plus extra room, exposed brick walls, custom stairs and iron railings. GATED ASSIGNED PARKING & SPACIOUS COVERED WROUGHT IRON GALLERY OVER BARRACKS make this a must see. Gorgeous views of the French Quarter, additional rear balcony. Washer dryer hookups, beautiful Historic Bldg on great block of Lower Quarter. Well run condo association. Beds 1.5 Baths 1165 Sq.Ft. Latter & Blum, Steven Vaughan Realtor®, 504.810.4646, svaughan@latterblum.com, www.Latter-Blum.com.
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The Double Play
The Corner Pocket
The Golden Lantern
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The Club Scene ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Paul Melancon, Ellen Miller, Oz, Jeremy Weinberg
Oz New Orleans
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