August 2011 Edition of BARTAB by Bay Area Reporter

bartabsf.com

August 2011

ingredients ★ August 2011★

We Got the Beatbox

Page 4

San Jose Pride & Club Fun

Page 6

North Beached

Page 10

On the Tab: August

Page 12-28

BARchive: Queer North Beach

Page 30

Read more stories online at www.bartabsf.com

✶ On the Cover: A hunk offers some fancy flagging at the new SoMa club Beatbox. photo: Georg Lester.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ Editor: Jim Provenzano • Art Director: Kurt Thomas Designer: Scott King • General Manager: Michael Yamashita Advertising Sales: David McBrayer, Colleen Small, Scott Wazlowski Contributors: Matt Baume, Heather Cassell, Dr. Jack Fritscher, T. Scott King, Michael McAllister, David-Elijah Nahmod, Adam Sandel, Ronn Vigh Photography: Marques Daniels, Rick Gerharter, Lydia Gonzales, Jose Guzman-Colon, Georg Lester, Dan Lloyd, Jim Provenzano, Rich Stadtmiller, Steven Underhill BARtab is published by Benro Enterprises, Inc. Publisher: Thomas E. Horn Benro Enterprises, Inc. 395 Ninth Street • San Francisco CA 94103 • (415) 861-5019 Member of the National Gay Newspaper Guild National Advertising: Rivendell Media (212) 242-6863

WE GOT THE BEATBOXd • by T. Scott King

Patrons chat early in the evening at Beatbox.

Dancing on the spacious dance floor at Beatbox. Georg Lester

s the door closes behind you, the sights, the sounds, and yes, even the smells of 11th and Folsom streets disappear. After passing through a long, dimly lit hall, you make your way toward the door at the end. Your eyes adjust to the light, and you feel it first in your chest – the bass and drums coming from the other side of that door. As you get close, the music gets clearer, the door opens and you enter. The music, the lights and the atmosphere wash over you, transporting you. This is BeatBox. A new club at 314 11th Street, BeatBox is the vision of owner Andy Zivic, who wanted to create a clubspace that could host dance parties, live music, art installations, exhibits and shows. “I always wanted to do lighting and production,” said Zivic, “I really wanted a playground.” To that end, he created BeatBox: a place where local DJs, musicians, artists and all manner of creative people can come out to play. “The idea was to build a space that could be a little bit different each time you walked in the door; similar to the way Club Townsend was with Universe and Pleasuredome. But,” Zivic continues, “we didn’t want to bring the spirit of Townsend back, but rather bring it forward, in the spirit of art.” To accomplish all of this, the space –a rundown warehouse– was completely renovated. Andy and the BeatBox crew (including co-owners Paul Saccone and Tchukon Shanks, General Manager Mr. Kevin Craft, Production Chief Mikey Payton, and

4 BAR★TAB • bartabsf.com • August 2011

Georg Lester

accountant Wanda Blake) have spent the last year creating a beautiful, industrial-style facility replete with exposed brick and steel, polished concrete, hardwood, an oversized bar (seriously, you need a beer to get from one end to the other), a private mezzanine, a 25-foot ceiling, modular stage and state-of-the-art sound and lighting: a space full of new energy and life. “We wanted the space to be raw but not dirty; clean, but not polished,” said Zivic. With a capacity of around 300, BeatBox is larger than the neighborhood bar, but more intimate than most nightclubs: It’s harder to lose someone, but easier to find them. Andy and the crew did much of the renovation work themselves, but everything was done by the book. “If a permit needed to be pulled; it was. If an electrician was needed, we got an electrician. No corners were cut.” Zivic said. “We soundproofed the ceiling and the wall behind the stage as well.” All the effort seems to have already helped BeatBox with community relations. In a city where noise complaints are the norm, Andy checks in regularly with BeatBox’s neighbors to make sure the sound level is acceptable. Instead of complaints he receives compliments. And, it’s not just the neighbors who are happy with BeatBox. JJ Beck, co-owner of the Lone Star Saloon, around the corner from BeatBox, said “I think it’s

great to have another club in the neighborhood doing gay events. Nightlife is what the SoMa is all about. It’s gonna be a great Dore and Folsom with a new venue in the area.” Rick Cooper, longtime bartender at the nearby Powerhouse Bar, agrees: “Any new bar means more people coming to the area, and all the bars benefit.” BeatBox has already hosted some successful events featuring local DJs, and has An affectionate couple at Beatbox. begun its own Sunday Beer Kyle Pickett Bust, during which, one of the massive garage doors at the front of the building, as well as the skylights, are opened, allowing sun and air (or wind and rain…it is summer in San Francisco) to flow freely through the space. At $10 for “bottomless bottles of beer looking for tops” Sparks flew during construction of the every Sunday this summer stylish metal décor at the new Beatbox.

from 3pm to 7pm, you really can’t go wrong. BeatBox has an entertainment license (which makes the live music and dancing legal) as well as an unrestricted after-hours permit. Since their calendar is already filling up with live music, straight/mixed events, gay dance events, gay midday beer busts, and mixed live/ dj/chill events, it looks like BeatBox may help breathe new life into the South of Market Area, as well as the local artists community. And perhaps help the community heal quicker from the abrupt closing of The SF Eagle. ✸ For more info on BeatBox’s upcoming events, or to schedule an event, check out their website at www.beatboxsf.com.

courtesy Beatbox

August 2011 • bartabsf.com • BAR★TAB 5

GAY SAN JOSEd SOUTH BAY’S PRIDE • by Heather Cassell

The celebratory crowd at last year’s San Jose Pride. Marques Daniels

an Jose Pride is pulling out all the sequins, tall wigs, fake eyelashes, and super stilettos for this year’s LGBT Pride celebrations. “We are very, very positive it’s going to be an absolute riot for people to come,” said Steve Bass, San Jose Pride president. He described their collaboration with local businesses and entertainment venues as a representation of the community moving forward together. “It’s more just a representation of what we mean by moving forward together,” said Bass. Jen Beehler, vice president of the board of San Jose Pride, agreed, adding that this year’s women’s stage, which has a carnival theme, is going to be “colorful and ostentatious. It’s Pride and that’s the way it should be.” New York drag star Lady Bunny plans to “electrify the crowd and leave them gasping for more,” on the main stage, she said about her famously raunchy performances. Sherry Vine, Bunny’s partner in shocktainment, will join her on the main stage and after-performance Sunday night at Renegades nightclub. Other acts include Xavier Toscano, 80s band The Cheeseheads and Unity Dance Troupe. Drag kings take the women’s stage on Saturday starting at noon with the Gender Queer Society, Fella Fem and Friends, and others, said Beehler. A midwestern transplant to San Jose who was formerly the creative director of Cleveland Pride, Beehler, 30, also chairs marketing, special events and the volunteer committee for San Jose Pride. Events kick off August 14 and culminates Pride weekend with the women’s stage on August 20 and 6 BAR★TAB • bartabsf.com • August 2011

a Pride Festival on August 21 at Discovery Meadow Park. The week provides a host of events from a karaoke competition, a pub crawl, and even drag softball. There won’t be a parade this year, due to budget constraints, according to the city’s Pride officials, but this year’s theme, Moving Forward Together, is suitable. San Jose’s LGBT and straight-allied communities worked closely together this year to produce an event that is operating in the black for the first time in three years. In previous years the organization operated with an estimated $37,000 annual deficit, according to Bass. The efforts of the 11 volunteer board members’ leadership has brought the community together more than ever before and is rebuilding community trust, according to Bass. “We are feeling like this is a new possibility,” he said. Over the past nine months, San Jose Pride worked closely with the Billy De Frank Center, the local Human Rights Campaign office, along with the city’s biggest names in sports and entertainment venues, such as the Sharks, San Jose Giants, Golden State Warriors, and Great America to produce this year’s Pride event. The organization rounded out the collaborative venture working closely with local business owners. This year marks the first year in three years that the city’s Pride event will operate in the black. Drag queens and men won’t be the only ones celebrating Pride. Fire and Ice is back for its second year, ready to get women grooving and the dance floor steaming for one hot August night. Last year’s

Patrons chilling outside Brix.

Athene Van Doren at Renegades. Photo courtesy Brix

Fire and Ice Pride party attracted an estimated 450 women, according to Christine De La Rosa, co-owner of Movement Productions and co-producer of the event. “Last year was a great success,” she said. De La Rosa is excited to “bring it back again this year for San Jose Pride.” De La Rosa anticipates the numbers of women will double this year. Major sponsors of San Jose Pride Rod Sichisler, co-owner of Brix Nightclub, with his wife, Cindi Sichisler, have long supported Pride events. “We are proud to do it,” said Sichisler. “We like having fun, and it’s a fun time. It’s a celebration.”

Luis Sarmento, owner of Renegades, agreed with Bass. His popular nightclub is hosting a number of parties, along with their ongoing events like Butch. “We’re starting to take a little bit more pride in our own community,” said Sarmento. With the loss of some important community resources, he added that it’s time to start “taking care of things at home. It’s always a great time. It’s a fantastic time, actually.” ✸ Entrance to San Jose Pride is free on Saturday. Tickets for Sunday’s events are $10-$15. www.sanjosepride.com.

August 2011 • bartabsf.com • BAR★TAB 7

eDJ Hot Listf

~Jim Hopkins~ ★

The multi-talented Jim Hopkins

by Jim Provenzano

enacious would be just one apt word to describe the career of Jim Hopkins, the local disc jockey known for his classic disco mixes, contemporary house blends, as well as archival work and original music. Hopkins’ fascination for mixing dance music goes back to the late 1970s. In those days, when Hopkins, now 46, was a spritely teenager in Sacramento. His fascination with records soon became a lifestyle. As disco rose in popularity, Hopkins began DJing at Sacramento’s Bojangles club at 16. “I remember doctoring my driver’s license; it was totally obvious, but people let us in. It was a chicken-friendly environment.” Starting on cassettes in the disco days, Hopkins would buy 45RPM records, then pause a tape while recording to make his own mixes. He played for friends’ disco parties, and extended his own re-edits. As technology caught up with his skills, his subsequent contract work for Hot Tracks and other music companies grew in popularity. Hopkins and a few friends formed Twitch Remix Service, which then became his current company, Twitch Recordings. Before moving to San Francisco in 1991, Hopkins had already started working in studios with recording artists and producers, including sitting in on a few recording sessions with Sylvester. As

VES GROO HOPKINS DJ JIM

Jim Hopkins’ top 10 Summer Disco Classics 1. Hot Shot - Karen Young 2. Hills Of Katmandu - Tantra 3. Souvenirs - Voyage 4. Let’s Start The Dance - Bohannon 5. Give Me Love - Cerrone 6. Vertigo/Relight My Fire - Dan Hartman 7. Over & Over - Disco Circus 8. Underwater - Harry Thumann 9. Magnifique - Magnifique 10. With Your Love - Donna Summer

8 BAR★TAB • bartabsf.com • August 2011

music and nightclub scenes evolved, Hopkins found popularity in the San Francisco rave scene, and has toured throughout the U.S., spinning everywhere from outdoor events to cozy clubs. “The reason I left Sacramento is that I was tired of playing top 40,” said Hopkins. “If you played something (patrons) weren’t familiar with, they left the dance floor. I was trying to go back and forth between new music and Top 40, but had enough. In the rave scene, these kids were starving for new music, not stuff on the radio. I got to do my thing, play what I wanted.” Never satisfied to rest easy, for the past six years Hopkins has also complimented his and other DJs’ mixes by making strikingly trippy video montages. Hopkins also spearheads the Disco Preservation Society, a collective that archives digital versions of classic past-era disco mixes from fragile reel-to-reel tapes. Twitch Recordings also offers services in audio and video preservation and conversion to digital formats. To add to this impressive array of talents, downloads and CDs of Hopkins’ original music, as well as vintage and recent sets, are also available on his website. Hopkins plays Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and every other Friday at 440 on Castro Street, and Thursday nights at The Lone Star Saloon, plus occasional beer busts there. “When I’m playing stand-up bars,” he said, “I’ve got an age group of 21- to 70-year-olds. I try to mix it up and see what people are grooving to.” But whether it’s deep house or disco classics, when Hopkins is playing, you’ll probably find it irresistible to resist the toe-tapping beats. ✸ www.twitchrecordings.com

NORTH BEACHEDd • Story and photos by Jim Provenzano

Tainted Love performs at Bimbo’s.

ake a visit to a foreign land that’s only a bus ride away. Yep, North Beach is a great distraction if you have visiting relatives or friends who want to see a popular tourist destination which attests to the cinematic fiction that everyone who lives in the Bay Area has a view of the TransAmerica Building. If you want to exhaust your visiting pals or kin, drag them to Coit Tower, through Chinatown, and then around North Beach’s various shops and delis. On your own? Let’s face it. It’s not very gay. But it used to be. That’s what scholar Michael Flanagan proved at a June event at The Beat Museum, (1345 Grant Ave.) one of North Beach’s many queer-inclusive venues. The exterior mural should provide a hint of homosocial behavior, what with notorious omnisexual Neal Cassidy giving Beat literary great Jack Kerouac (and closeted bisexual, some presume) a palsy over-theshoulder hug. Literary fans know the rich gay past of the Beats, and the museum is worth a visit (but not handicap-accessible). Bars can range from annoyingly straight to mildly annoying to downright friendly. Even the long-gone “gay” bars like Finocchio’s and The Black Cat catered to straight tourists looking for a voyeuristic night with drag queens (see BARchive, page 30). Put the City’s famed groovy tolerance to a test and go gaily through this touristy zone. Caffé Trieste (601 Vallejo St.), once the hangout of Kerouac and gay poet Allen Ginsberg, may have lost its Beatnik charm, but the drinks are cheap. Next door to literary haven City Lights Bookstore (261 Columbus Ave.), which is a must, Vesuvio Café (255 Columbus Ave.) is notable, not just for yet another claim that ‘Kerouac drank here, a lot,’ but its 10 BAR★TAB • bartabsf.com • August 2011

intimate two-level coziness (i.e., a bit cramped, but worth it) and dark-wood & tchotske décor. Tosca (242 Columbus Ave.) is so historic, American Conservatory Theatre recently commissioned a dance-play about it. Yes, you may spot a semi-celeb there, but more often, hipsters blend in with older locals. Again, the décor’s worth admiring over at least one or two Negronis. Even if you don’t drink alcohol, the ample array of cafes like Caffé Greco (432 Columbus Ave.) provide amusing opportunities to guess whether that hunk at the nearby table is gay, European, or both. For live music, several venues offer a nice evening that can feature local and visiting bands. But my favorite has got to be Bimbo’s 365 Club (1025 Columbus Ave.). With an ample main floor, comfortable seating and optional standing room on the dance floor, shows here range from high art to raucously amusing pop, and everyone enjoys a good view of the stage. A popular monthly gig is Tainted Love, one of the area’s premiere 80s cover bands. Their opening act Private Idaho, a B52s cover band, enjoys the Fred Schneider-esque crooning of Kurt Thomas, the band’s only gay member. But face it, a B52s cover band is innately campy. When both bands performed in May, the entire club was awash with dudes and gals in various retro interpretations of the bygone decade (through which most of them were toddlers). But more important, despite the rowdy atmosphere, I and my gay friend never felt uncomfortable amid so much goofy straight fun. The same can’t be said about a late night stroll along Broadway. The numerous straight strip clubs (like Broadway Showgirls Cabaret, 412 Broadway) seem to attract an appropriate hooker-pimp-garbed crowd

The Beat Museum

that filled the sidewalks. Even with police cars rolling by, it was a bit overwhelming, as are the doormen who’ll try to lure you inside, even when they’re barking up the wrong tree. Sapphic sisters who want to check out the female peep and strip clubs may find a lurid thrill in the clubs. But inquire about the cost of admission and drinks beforehand. But what if you simply want to get a little Italian pastry, sip a latté and cruise the tourists? Further back toward the numerous restaurants and cafes, street life remains more calm. Dinners can be an event in themselves. For great cuisine and handsome waiters who perform as much as serve, Mona Lisa (353 Columbus Ave.) rocks, as does Michaelangelo Café (579 Columbus Ave.). Get there early, but even if there’s a line, it’s worth the wait. Less ostentatious restaurants include Viva Restaurant (318 Columbus Ave); look for the festive leaf ceiling décor. L’Osteria del Forno (519 Columbus Ave.) rules for authentic homemade Italian pasta and sauces. After dinner, enjoy a few scoops of Ciao Bella gelato at Café Roma (526 Columbus St.). Then stroll through Washington Square Park, contemplate the church steeples where inside Marilyn Monroe once wed Joe DiMaggio, and be content to have enjoyed a foreign-seeming yet essential part of San Francisco culture. ✸

eON THE TAB~f ~AUGUS T 2011 ★

Ladies Night @ Q Bar Women’s night, with DJ Ms. Jackson, half-off drinks. W 9pm-2am. 456 Castro St. www.qbarsf.com Queen Cougar

Love You, Mean It! @ SF Citadel Queen Cougar hosts a workshop on how to share affection and love while in a BDSM relationship or scene. $20. 8pm-10pm. 1277 Mission St. at 9th. www.sfcitadel.org

DRED at the SF Drag King Contest @ DNA Lounge, see Aug. 5

Queer Night @ Easy Lounge, Oakland Weekly LGBT electro space jam night with DJ Dr. Sleep, organic cocktails, patio, chill vibe. No cover. 8pm-close. 3255 Lakeshore Ave. www.easy510.com

Wed 3➠ Blue Room Comedy @ The Stud Comic David Hawkins has moved his popular bawdy laughfest to a roomy nightclub; No cover. 8pm. 399 9th St. www.studsf.com

D’lysh @ Deco Lounge New Latin hiphop and drag night; hosted by Isa Manzanita. 9pm-2am. 510 Larkin St. 346-2025. www.decosf.com

Lazy Bear Weekend @ Russian River Beartastic fun at most all Guerneville venues. Thru Aug. 7. www. lazybearweekend.com

Mon 1➠ Monday Musicals @ The Edge The renovated bar now shows fun musicals each week. 7pm-2am. 2 for 1 cocktail, 5pm-closing. 18th St. at Collingwood. www.edgesf.com

Q Comedy @ Martuni’s Karen Ripley, Bob McIntyre, Baruch Porras-Hernandez, Tammy Powers, Cookie Dough serve up the funny lines at the monthly (1st Mondays) gay comedy night. $5-$15. 8pm. 4 Valencia St. at Market. www.Qcomedy.com

DNTEL, The One AM Radio @ Rickshaw Stop New and original music; Geotic also plays. $10-$12. 8pm. 155 Fell St. www.rickshawstop.com

Wolf @ The Watergarden, San Jose

Russ Lorenson @ The Rrazz Room

Monthly event (first Wednesdays) at the South Bay bath house for furry men and their fans. $10-$30. Lockers halfprice 4pm-12am. 18+. 1010 The Alameda. (408) 275-1215. www.thewatergarden.com

Local crooner performs a tribute to Tony Bennett. $30. 8pm. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. 394-1189. www.TheRrazzRoom.com

Thu 4➠

Tue 2➠

An Evening in Gay Paris @ SF MOMA, Contemporary Jewish Museum

Ronn Vigh hosts the weekly LGBT and gay-friendly comedy night. One drink or menu item minimum. 9pm. 500 Castro St. at 18th. 431-HARV. www.harveyssf.com

The Kinsey Sicks @ The Rrazz Room Hilarious dragapella troupe returns! $35-$40. 2-drink min. 8pm. Thru Aug. 7 (at 7pm). Then Aug 9-13, 8pm & Aug 14 at 7pm. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. 394-1189. www.TheRrazzRoom.com

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Celebrate and view t.wo exhibits, Seeing Gertrude Stein: Five Stories and The Steins Collect: Matisse, Picasso and the Parisian Avant-Garde with cocktail receptions and special programs at both museums, including live music by Ensemble Parallele and Kalup Linzy. $15-$25. 5:30pm8:30pm. www.sfmoma.org/gayparis

Go Deep @ El Rio Monthly women’s night (1st Thursdays) of lube wrestling by local strippers and wrestlers, Red Hots Burlesque sexy performances, and goodies from Good Vibrations. $10$15. 8pm. 3158 Mission St. 282-3325. www.elriosf.com

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Funny Tuesdays @ Harvey’s

THE RICHMOND/ERMET AIDS FOUNDATION PRESENTS SAN FRANCISCO’S LARGEST ANNUAL AIDS BENEFIT CONCERT & GALA

AUGUST 21 HERBST THEATRE BENEFITING: Aguilas Shanti • STOP AIDS Project YouthAware Program at NCTC H

Directed by DAVID GALLIGAN FOR TICKETS & INFORMATION, CALL:

415-273-1620 Order Online: www.helpisontheway.org

Academy Award winner SHIRLY JONES Broadway star PATRICK CASSIDY Tony Award winners LEA SALONGA & LEVI KRIES Broadway stars SUSAN ANTON, LISA VROMAN, CAROLE COOK & JAI RODRIGUEZ “America’s Got Talent” finalist PRINCE POPPYCOCK “American Idol “star LA TOYA LONDON Jazz star PAULA WEST Jazz/Cabaret stars TIM HOCKENBERRY & JASON BROCK “Live to Dance” finalist WHITE TREE FINE ART • B.O.O.B.S! and more! SPONSORED BY Delta Dental of California ★ Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants ★ The Examiner ★ KGO Radio ★ ABC7-TV Genentech ★ San Francisco Magazine ★ Randall Schiller Productions ★ Acme Scenery Gloss Magazine ★ Tibotec Therapeutics ★ Paragon Real Estate

f eON THE TAB ~ ~from page 12

★

Katya Presents @ Martuni’s Katya Smirnoff-Skyy hosts a night of cabaret musical delights. 7pm. 4 Valencia St. at Market. www.dragatmartunis.com

Music You Crave @ Lookout Haute Toddy’s new weekly DJed night with dining inside and out, music videos. 9pm-2am. 3600 16th St. at Market. 431-0306. www.lookoutsf.com

Gaia Festival @ Black Oak Ranch, Laytonville Three-day festival of music, sustainable eco-activism, food and other entertainment; The Wailoers, Aaron Neville, The Mighty Diamonds and more. $60 (single day) $700 (fourpeople full pass). Thru Aug. 7. 256-TIXX. www.thegaiafestival.com

Ghetto Disco @ The Endup DJs Hawthorne and guests spin dance grooves til dawn. $15-$20. Free before 12am. 11pm-6am. 401 6th St. at Harrison. 646-0999. www.theendup.com

Gogo Night @ Kok Bar Bring your tip money for the new monthly night (1st Fridays) for fans of guys who shake their moneymakers. $2 cover at 11pm. 9:30pm1:30am. 1225 Folsom St. www.kokbarsf.com

Underwear Party @ Powerhouse Enjoy a brief affair at the cruisy bar with skivvies night each Thursday. 9pm-2am. 1347 Folsom St. 552-8689. www.powerhouse-sf.com

Fri 5➠ Club Dragon @ Club Eight Weekly Asian gay dance club with frequent themed nights. 1151 Folsom St. at 7th. 431-1151. www.clubdragonsf.com

Fuzzz @ El Rio Diverse crowd for an eclectic queer-friendly dance night with different themes. 3158 Mission St. 282-3325. www.elriosf.com

Cabaret Lunatique @ Spiegeltent, see Sat. 6

Hard @ Q Bar

Electro pop dance night at the intimate Castro bar-club, with DJ Haute Toddy. 9pm-2am. 456 Castro St. www.QbarSF.com

Latin Explosion @ Club 21, Oakland Gay Latin dance club (eight bars, more dance floors, lounge) shows off their hottests gogo studs. Happy hour 4pm-8:30pm. Dancing 9pm-4am. 2111 Franklin St. (510) 268-9425. www.club21oakland.com

Peter Frampton @ The Warfield Popular rock musician from yesteryear re-performs his classic set from Frampton Comes Alive. www.PeterFrampton.com

SF Drag King Contest @ DNA Lounge 16th annual showcase of wildly funny acts by women, trans men and others who pretty much get ‘butchness’ better than many bio-males. Proceeds benefit Pets Are Wonderful Support. Drag and pet-themed attire encouraged. $20. 9pm. 375 11th St. www.sfdragkingcontest.com www.DNAlounge.com

Sat 6➠ Bangkok @ The Stud DJs Shawn P and Lamb Chop spin tunes; Stoli gogo guys tempt you at the monthly dance night (1st Saturdays). Free before 11pm. $8. 21+. 10pm-2am. 399 9th St. at Harrison. www.studsf.com

Bearracuda @ Cat Club Dance party with beartastic fun. $10-$15. 9pm-3am. 1190 Folsom St. www.bearracuda.com/Dore.html

Bootie SF @ DNA Lounge

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Wild (mostly) weekly mash-up dance night, with resident DJs Adrian & Mysterious D (when they aren’t touring). No matter the theme, a mixed fun good time’s assured. $8-$15. 9pm-3am. 21+. 375 11th st. at Harrison. www.BootieSF.com www.DNAlounge.com

f eON THE TAB ~ ~from page 14

★

Cabaret Lunatique @ Spiegeltent Teatro Zinzanni presents another celebration of San Francisco neighborhoods, this month “Celebrate Haight Ashbury,” with La Chica Boom, Brandon Rabe, Nancy Kate, Thomas John, Circus Finelli and more talents. $25-$35. 11:15pm. Pier 29 at Embarcadero & Battery. 438-2668. www.cabaretlunatique.org

Fresh @ Ruby Skye, see Sun. 7

Cockfight @ Underground SF

Steven Underhill

Culture Whores’ big dance party in a little club, with Pansy the Drunken Panda and saucy gogo guys. 1st and 3rd Saturdays. $7. 9pm-2am. 424 Haight St. www.cockfightsf.com

Hard French @ El Rio

Code @ The Stud

Hot Box @ Bench and Bar, Oakland

DJs Six and Candy spin at this new electro indie night. $5. 9pm-2am. 399 9th St. www.sixandcandy.com www.studsf.com

Weekly women’s night produced by Movement Productions, with DJs Astro, Olga T, Rapture and Val G. specialty drinks, cafe seating, special events each week, with frequent live acts, including prizes, giveaways, and holiday-themed special events. $8-$15. 9pm to 3am. www.hotboxinthebay.com

Get Down @ Maya Free monthly party for women, queers and pals. 1st Saturdays, with DJs Olga T and Astro. Taco menu, cheap beer buckets, private room reservations. 9pm-2am. 303 2nd St at Harrison. www.mayasf.com

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Monthly (1st Sat) dance-cruise night for women, with DJs Carnita and Brown Amy playing grooves. Drinks and BBQ 3pm-8pm. 3158 Mission St. 282-3325. www.elriosf.com

Le Perle Degli Squallor @ Hot Spot DJ Bus Station John’s intimate monthly (1st Saturdays) retro

Janine Brito, Emily Heller @ The Punch Line, see Mon. 8

Benefit for various local charities each week. 4pm8pm. 1354 Harrison St. www.lonestarsaloon.com

Porn Star @ The Watergarden, San Jose Live nude show with porn stud Damien Stone. Enjoy cruising and more, with music by DJ Christian Owen. $16-$39. 9pm. 18+. 1010 The Alameda. (408) 275-1215. www.thewatergarden.com

Stallion @ Rebel Joshua J’s weekly night; DJ David Harness and Joey Jinks spin tunes while sexy gogo guys shake it and offer lap dances. $5-$8. 21+. 9pm-4am. 1760 Market St. at Octavia. www.joshuajpresents.com

Sun 7➠ Beer Bust @ Kok Bar Fundraiser for local causes. $8 all you can drink Bud Light or Rolling Rock. 5pm-9pm. 1225 Folsom St. www.kokbarsf.com

Beer Bust @ Lone Star Saloon

Cabaret Showcase Showdown @ Martuni’s Best Original SingerSongwriter portion of the cabaret contest. Trauma Flintstone and Katya Smirnoff-Skyy cohost. $5. 7pm. 4 Valencia St. at Market. www.dragatmartunis.com

Cabaret Showcase Showdown @ Martuni’s Best Original Singer-Songwriter portion of the cabaret contest. Trauma Flintstone and Katya Smirnoff-Skyy cohost. $5. 7pm. 4 Valencia St. at Market. www.dragatmartunis.com

Fresh @ Ruby Skye DJs Kevin Lee and Derek Monteiro spin mixes for the crowd at the popular monthly T-dance. Partial proceeds benefit Glide Memorial Church. $20-$25. 21+. 6pm-12am. 420 Mason St. www.freshsf.com

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disco night re-decorates the cozy dive bar into a cool dance hangout. 2 for 1 drinks 9pm-11pm. Open til 2am. $5. 1414 Market St. at Polk.

August 2011 • bartabsf.com • BAR★TAB 17

f eON THE TAB ~ ~from page 17

★

Tue 9➠

Afternoon schmooze and booze, with door and donations benefiting gay sports teams. $2. 3pm-8pm. 3600 16th St. at Market. 431-0306. www.lookoutsf.com

Menergy @ The Stud Enjoy an 80s time warp at the monthly gay dance event. 6pm-12am. 399 9th st. at Harrison. www.studsf.com

Funny Tuesdays @ Harvey’s Ronn Vigh hosts the weekly LGBT and gay-friendly comedy night. One drink or menu item minimum. 9pm. 500 Castro St. at 18th. 431-HARV. www.harveyssf.com

Ladies Night @ Q Bar Women’s night, with DJ Ms. Jackson, half-off drinks. 9pm-2am. 456 Castro St. www.qbarsf.com

Outside Lands @ Golden Gate Park, Fri. 12

Donna Sachet and Harry Denton host the weekly fabulous brunch and drag show. $45. 11am, show at noon; 1:30pm, show at 2:30pm. 450 Powell St. in Union Square. 395-8595. www.harrydenton.com

Weekly LGBT electro space jam night with DJ Dr. Sleep, organic cocktails, patio, chill vibe. No cover. 8pmclose. 3255 Lakeshore Ave. www.easy510.com

Honey Soundsystem @ Holy Cow The coolest Sunday music mix crew plays grooveadelic sounds for a hip, diverse crowd. 10pm2am. 1535 Folsom St. at 11th. www.honeysoundsystem.com

La Pachanga @ Blue Macaw Salsa bands play, with dancing and lessons (lessons 5pm, band 6pm) weekly at the mixed/gay-friendly nightclub. $10. 21+. 2565 Mission St. at 22nd. www.thebluemacawsf.com

Mon 8➠ Comedy Night @ El Rio Host Lisa Geduldig welcome comics Carla Clayy, Joe Klocek, Nick Leonard, and Karinda Dobbins. $7-$20. 8pm. 3158 Mission St. (800) 838-3006. www.koshercomedy.com www.elriosf.com

Janine Brito, Emily Heller @ The Punch Line The two local comics perform “Girl Talk,” an “unladylike” stand-up show. 8pm. 444 Battery St. 397-7573. www.punchlinecomedyclub.com

Maria Volonte @ The Rrazz Room Vocalist and her band perform a unique blend of tango and blues music. $29.50. 8pm. 2-drink min. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. 394-1189. www.TheRrazzRoom.com

Monday Musicals @ The Edge The renovated bar now shows fun musicals each week. 7pm-2am. 2 for 1 cocktail, 5pm-closing. 18th St. at Collingwood. www.edgesf.com

Monday Night Smackdown @ Bloodhound Football and food trucks blend each week in a beer and

18 BAR★TAB • bartabsf.com • August 2011

Queer Night @ Easy Lounge, Oakland

Wed 10➠ Dream Queens Review @ Aunt Charlie’s Lounge Drag show each 2nd and 4th Wednesday at the classic Tenderloin bar, hosted by Collette LeGrandeAshton. No cover. 10pm. 133 Turk St. 441-2922. www.dreamqueensrevue.com

Mary-Go-Round @ The Lookout A fun weekly drag show. $5. 10pm-2am. 3600 16th St. at Market. www.lookoutsf.com

Red Hots Burlesque @ El Rio Women’s burlesque show performs each Wed & Fri. $5$10. 7pm. 3158 Mission St. 282-3325. www.elriosf.com

Thu 11➠ Katya Presents @ Martuni’s Katya Smirnoff-Skyy hosts a night of cabaret musical delights. 7pm. 4 Valencia St. at Market. www.dragatmartunis.com

Music You Crave @ Lookout Haute Toddy’s new weekly DJed night with dining inside and out, music videos. 9pm-2am. 3600 16th St. at Market. 431-0306. www.lookoutsf.com

Tubesteak Connection @ Aunt Charlie’s Lounge Retro tunes and retro cruisy crowd, each Thursday in the risky part of town. DJ Bus Station John plays records. $4. 10pm-2am. 133 Turk St. at Taylor. www.auntcharlieslounge.com

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Jock @ The Lookout

Sunday’s a Drag @ Starlight Room

cocktail night at the stylishly rustic mixed/gay-friendly bar. 1145 Folsom St at 7th. www.bloodhoundsf.com

f eON THE TAB ~ ~from page 18

★

Bowie Ball II @ Café Du Nord Swing Goth presents Scission and The Tiger Club playing electro dance goth and Bowie classics. $15-$20. 9:30pm. 2174 Market St. 861-5016. www.cafedunord.com

Cockblock @ Rickshaw Stop

Fri 12➠ Cubcake @ The Lone Star Saloon

Lesbo-rific queer homo dance night each 2nd & 4th Saturday. $5-$7. 21+. 10pm-2am. 155 Fell St. www.rickshawstop.com

Bears, beer and cupcakes; second Fridays. What more do you need? 9pm-2am. 1354 Harrison St. 863-9999. www.lonestarsf.com

Frolic @ The Stud Monthly costume dance party for Furries and friends. Dress up and dance, you animal. $7 w/o $3 with costume. 9pm-2am. 399 9th St. at Harrison. www.neonbunny.com/ frolic www.studsf.com

Hella Gay Comedy @ La Estrellita Café, Oakland

Lick It @ Powerhouse

Kok Block @ Kok Bar $50 pool tournament; 2nmd Saturdays. Cheap drink, 4pm-9pm. shirtless guys get cheaper drinks. 1225 Folsom St. www.kokbarsf.com

Paw @ Deco Lounge Bear underwear dance party (2nd Saturdays). 9pm-2am. 510 Larkin St. 346-2025. www.decosf.com

Simian Mobile Disco @ Public Works, Fri 19

Lance Holman hosts the sexy monthly fundraiser for the Breast Cancer Emergency Fund; gogo guys, raffles, bootblacks. $5. 10pm-2am. 1347 Folsom St. 552-8689. www.powerhouse-sf.com

Outside Lands @ Golden Gate Park Join 12,000 of your best friends at the annual massive three-day music festival. Oh, yes, there’s art and food and wine, but mostly it’s about the bands, like Phish, Muse, The Black Keys, The Shins, Deadmaus, Arctic Monkeys, MGMT, plus DJ stages, too. $85-$450. Speedway Meadow. www.sfoutsidelands.com

Pledge @ The Lookout Monthly “Fraternal Fridays”-themed party raises funds for different charities, with raffles, $12 “bottomless draft beer Kegger Cups,” and fun tunes spun by DJs Grind and Christopher B. $5. 9pm2am. 3600 16th St. at Noe/Market. 431-0306. www.lookoutsf.com

Salsa Club @ Cafe Cocomo Same-sex dancing and lessons with a live band. 21+. 8:30pm-12am. 650 Indiana St. www.QueerBallroom.com

Some Thing @ The Stud Wild weekly drag show with SF’s most unusual talents. 10pm-2am. 399 9th St. www.studsf.com

Sat 13➠ Beer Bust @ The Edge Fundraiser for Folsom Street Events; raffles prizes from Mister S, Fleshjack and other sexy sponsors. $9. 4pm-7pm. 18th St. at Collingwood.

Red Meat @ Club Eight The Red Meat guys bring out the hot redheads for another monthly night of sexy fun; two floors of dancing, cruising, three bars, and ginger gogo guys. $5. 9pm-2:30am. 1151 Folsom St. 431-1151. www.eightsf.com

Teatro Zinzanni @ Pier 29 Joan Baez returns to Teatro in Maestro’s Enchantment, the new show at the theatreAmbrosia tent-dinner extravaganza, with @ Trannyshack, Ukranian illusionist Yevgeniy see Fri. 19 Voronin, clown Peter Pitofsky, aerialist Bianca Sapetto, trapeze artists The Collins Brothers, a five-course dinner, and a lot of fun. $117-$145. Saturday 11:30am “Breve” show $63-$78. WedSat 6pm (Sun 5pm). Pier 29 at Embarcadero Ave. 438-2668. www.teatrozinzanni.com Ian Schreier

Sun 14➠

All-Male Amateur Strip Show @ Deco Lounge Ginger Snap hosts the wild and sexy night of newbies gettin’ nude. $100 cash prize! DJ Lambchop spins tunes. 510 Larkin St. at Turk. 346-2025. www.decosf.com

Bijou @ Martuni’s Trauma Flintstone hosts a night of cabaret specialty performances. 7pm. 4 Valencia St. at Market. www.dragatmartunis.com

Honey Soundsystem @ Holy Cow The coolest Sunday music mix crew plays groove-adelic sounds for a hip, diverse crowd. 10pm-2am. 1535 Folsom St. at 11th. www.honeysoundsystem.com Page 22

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Charlie Ballard hosts a night of comedy aimed at rethinking what’s “gay,” with Fara Haidari, Jackie Keliiaa, Isaac Sherbin, Robbie Goodwin, Anthony Medina, Justin Lucas, Sal Lopizzo, Victor Torres. $10. 9pm. 21+. 446 East 12th St. Oakland. www.charlieballard.com

f eON THE TAB ~ ~from page 20

★

Jock @ The Lookout Afternoon schmooze and booze, with door and donations benefiting gay sports teams. $2. 3pm-8pm. 3600 16th St. at Market. 431-0306. www.lookoutsf.com

Wed 17➠ Blue Room Comedy @ The Stud Comic David Hawkins has moved his popular bawdy laughfest to a roomy nightclub; No cover. 8pm. 399 9th St. www.studsf.com

Red Hots Burlesque @ El Rio Women’s burlesque show performs each Wed & Fri. $5$10. 7pm. 3158 Mission St. 282-3325. www.elriosf.com

Mon 15➠

Thu 18➠

Monday Musicals @ The Edge The renovated bar now shows fun musicals each week. 7pm-2am. 2 for 1 cocktail, 5pmclosing. 18th St. at Collingwood. www.edgesf.com

Aimee Mann, Liz Phair @ The Mountain Winery, Saratoga

Ronn Vigh hosts the weekly LGBT and gay-friendly comedy night. One-drink or menu item minimum. 9pm. 500 Castro St. at 18th. 431-HARV. www.harveyssf.com

Composer-singer (Til Tuesday, the award-winning Magnolia soundtrack) performs live at the scenic outdoor venue, with Phair opening. Dinner packages available. $35-$55 (parking $15-$20). 7:30pm. 14831 Pierce Road. (408) 741-0291. www.aimeemann.com www.mountainwinery.com

Queer Night @ Easy Lounge, Oakland

Juicy @ The White Horse, Oakland

Weekly LGBT electro space jam night with DJ Dr. Sleep, organic cocktails, patio, chill vibe. No cover. 8pm-close. 3255 Lakeshore Ave. www.easy510.com

Hip Hop, R&B and soul. 9pm. (karaoke, drag king shows other nights, too). 6551 Telegraph Ave. (510) 652-3820. www.whitehorsebar.com

Tue 16➠ Funny Tuesdays @ Harvey’s

22 BAR★TAB • bartabsf.com • August 2011

The Cheeseballs @ San Jose Pride, See Sat. 20

Redlight @ Risque Lounge

Trannyshack @ DNA Lounge

DJ Hawthorne, Gypsy Love and guests bring a new weekly retro classy lounge for music, fashion, art and cocktails. 45 Maiden Lane. 6pm-10pm. www.ghettodisco.com

‘Babushka’s meet the ‘Army of Me’ at the first-ever Kate Bush vs. Bjork Tribute Night. Host Heklina presents a horde of talented dragsters, including Fauxnique, Precious Moments, Peggy L’Eggs, Ambrosia Saland and more. $12-$15. 9:30pm-3am. Show at 11pm. 375 11th St. www.trannyshack.com www.dnalounge.com

Fri 19➠ Prince Poppycock @ Help Is on the Way XVII, see Sun. 21

Every Friday night, bad girls can get $1 dollar margaritas between 9pm and 10pm. All drinks being served up by the fabulous bartending duo of Tanya and Amy. 3464 19th St. between Mission and Valencia. 863-2052. www.lexingtonclub.com

Simian Mobile Disco @ Public Works Popular DJs spin a set, along with Solar, Eli Glad, Chris Orr, and Conor. $18. 9pm-4am. 161 Erie St. at Mission. 923-0955. www.publicsf.com

Snap-a-Licious @ Deco Lounge Ginger Snap’s fun drag show features Holotta Tymes, Mahlae Balenciaga, Synergy, Kylie Minono and more. 10pm-2am. 510 Larkin St. at Turk. www.decosf.com

Sat 20➠ Beatpig @ Powerhouse Juanita More! spins saucy grooves and dudes cruise at the eclectic music, drag and kink night; each 3rd Saturday. Oink! 9pm-2am. 1347 Folsom St. 552-8689. www.beatpigsf.com www.powerhouse-sf.com

Fauxgirls @ Kimo’s Classic drag show with Victoria Secret, Alexandria, Chanel, Davida Ashton, Tiger Lily, Maria Garza and more; each 3rd Saturday. No cover. 10pm. 1351 Polk St. 885-4535. www.fauxgirls.com

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Bad Girl Cocktail Hour @ The Lexington Club

August 2011 • bartabsf.com • BAR★TAB 23

f eON THE TAB ~ ~from page 23

★

Beer Bust @ Kok Bar Fundraiser for local causes. $8 all you can drink Bud Light or Rolling Rock. 5pm-9pm. 1225 Folsom St. www.kokbarsf.com

Fruitcake @ The Stud Queer dance party for all; third Saturdays. 399 9th St. at Harrison. www.studsf.com

Sun 21➠

Big @ The Stud

Wild Nights @ Kok, see Sat. 20

Monthly dance party for big men and their friends (3rd Sundays). $5. 6pm-11am. 399 9th St. www.phattestevents.com www.studsf.com

Pulse @ The Turf Club, Hayward Enjoy hot gogo studs, prizes, tiki bar cocktails, a friendly atmosphere and the biggest outdoor gay bar patio in Northern California; third Saturdays. 22519 Main St. www.wfturfclub.com

Help Is on the Way XVII @ Herbst Theatre Gotta Sing! Gotta Dance!, the Richmond-Ermet AIDS Foundation’s gala benefit show, with a stellar array of talents: Prince Poppycock, Shirley Jones, Carole Cook, Jai Rodriguez, Patrick Cassidy, susan Anton, Levi Kreis, Lea Salonga, Post Ballet and many more. Silent auction and VIP reception 5pm; main reception 6pm (Green Room) show 7:30pm; post-show dessert party. $50$125. 401 Van Ness Ave. 392-4400. www.reaf.org

San Jose Pride Celebration @ Discovery Meadow Lady Bunny, Sheery Vine, Xavier Tsocano and many others perform at the two-day 35th annual LGBT Pride events. Free Sat. Aug. 21, $10-$15. 10am6pm, with special evening events at local nightclubs. www.sanjosepride.com

Mon 22➠

Stone Temple Pilots, Cheap Trick @ Great Meadow, Fort Mason

Katya Smirnoff-Skyy @ The Rrazz Room

Bonehead BBQ sponsors a concert by the two rock bands (others TBA). Partial proceeds benefit The Lukemia & Lymphoma Society, with BBQ food, beer, beverages and more (not included in ticket price) $60. 12pm-7pm. Bay St. at Laguna www.snagtickets.com

Our favorite drag Russian exiled empress performs music by The Beatles with her whimsical slightly tipsy flair. $30. 8pm, 2-drink min. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. 394-1189. www.TheRrazzRoom.com

Wild Nights @ Kok Bar

Sing-along night with talented locals, and charming accompanist Joe Wicht (aka Trauma Flintstone). 9pm. 4 Valencia St. at Market. www.dragatmartunis.com

24 BAR★TAB • bartabsf.com • August 2011

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DJ Frank Wild spins groovy tunes at the new party (3rd Saturdays), with music give-aways, Steamworks swag, twinks in towels, and drink specials. $4. 9pm-2am. 1225 Folsom St. at 8th. 255-2427. www.kokbarsf.com

Piano Bar 101 @ Martuni’s

f eON THE TAB ~ ~from page 24

★

Tue 23➠ Funny Tuesdays @ Harvey’s Ronn Vigh hosts the weekly LGBT and gay-friendly comedy night. One-drink or menu item minimum. 9pm. 500 Castro St. at 18th. 431-HARV. www.harveyssf.com

Queer Night @ Easy Lounge, Oakland Weekly LGBT electro space jam night with DJ Dr. Sleep, organic cocktails, patio, chill vibe. No cover. 8pm-close. 3255 Lakeshore Ave. www.easy510.com

Wed 24➠ Dream Queens Review @ Aunt Charlie’s Lounge Drag show each 2nd and 4th Wednesday at the classic Tenderloin bar, hosted by Collette LeGrande-Ashton. No cover. 10pm. 133 Turk St. 441-2922. www.dreamqueensrevue.com

Jerry Butler @ The Rrazz Room “The Iceman” performs classic R&B songs. $40-$45. 8pm. 2-drink min. Also Aug 25, 26 at 8pm; 27, 7 & 9:30pm; 28 at 7pm. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. 394-1189.

26 BAR★TAB • bartabsf.com • August 2011

Bruno Bond @ Nob Hill Theatre, see Fri. 26

Thu 25➠ Tubesteak Connection @ Aunt Charlie’s Lounge Retro disco tunes and retro cruisy crowd, each Thursday; DJ Bus Station John plays records. $4. 10pm-2am. 133 Turk St. at Taylor. www.auntcharlieslounge.com

Bruno Bond @ Nob Hill Theatre

Sway Machinery @ Beatbox, see Sun. 28

He’s manly, he’s hairy, he’s hot. He’s naked onstage and the handsome porn daddy does a live act. $25. Also Aug. 27. Check website for updated schedule. 18+. 729 Bush St. at Powell. 781-9468. www.thenobhilltheatre.com

Duro @ Deco Lounge New Latin dance night (last Fridays) with Raging Stallion porn guys, hosted by Tragic Fantastic. 9pm-2am. 510 Larkin St. 346-2025. www.decosf.com

Strip @ Kok Bar Take it off at the 4th Fridays stripping event with a Cheap Ass Contest, $100 winner. $5. 11pm contest. 1225 Folsom St. www.kokbarsf.com

Sat 27➠ Bears, The Baths and Beyond @ Steamworks, Berkeley Special bear night at the popular private men’s gym and sauna. $14-$45. Open 24/7. 2107 4th St. (510) 845-8992. www.steamworksonline.com

Go Bang @ Deco Lounge Groove-alacious monthly dance music night features guest DJ Allen Craig (Yerba Buena Discos) and residents Steve Fabus, Stanley Frank, Tres Lingerie and Sergio. $5. 9pm-3am-ish. 510 Larkin St. www.gobangsf.com www.decosf.com

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Fri 26➠

August 2011 • bartabsf.com • BAR★TAB 27

f eON THE TAB ~

Thunder From Down Under @ The Rrazz Room, see Wed. 31

~from page 27

★

Klub 86’d @ Kok Bar Cheap drinks, drink card discounts and house music. 4pm-9pm,1225 Folsom St. www.kokbarsf.com

Shangri-la @ The EndUp Tita Aida hosts the monthly club night. $5. 11am-3am. 401 6th st. 646-0999. www.shangrilasf.com

Sun 28➠

Queer Night @ Easy Lounge, Oakland

Peter Asher @ The Rrazz Room Legendary producer/singer presents a multimedia stroytelling show about his career working with The Rolling Stones, The Beatles, and other music greats. $40. 3pm. Also Aug 28 & 29, 8pm. 2-drink min. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. 394-1189. www.TheRrazzRoom.com

Sway Machinery @ Beatbox

Weekly LGBT electro space jam night with DJ Dr. Sleep, organic cocktails, patio, chill vibe. No cover. 8pm-close. 3255 Lakeshore Ave. www.easy510.com

Wed 31➠ Dream Queens Review @ Aunt Charlie’s Lounge Drag show each 2nd and 4th Wednesday at the classic Tenderloin bar, hosted by Collette LeGrande-Ashton. No cover. 10pm. 133 Turk St. 441-2922. www.dreamqueensrevue.com

Funky world music sax-heavy band performs live at the new nightclub. $10-$12. 8pm. 314 11th St. www.beatboxsf.com

Mon 29➠

Thunder From Down Under @ The Rrazz Room

Monday Musicals @ The Edge The renovated bar now shows fun musical each week. 7pm-2am. 2 for 1 cocktail, 5pm-closing. 18th St. at Collingwood. www.edgesf.com

Piano Bar 101 @ Martuni’s Sing-along night with talented locals, and charming accompanist Joe Wicht (aka Trauma Flintstone). 9pm. 4 Valencia St. at Market. www.dragatmartunis.com

Tue 30➠ Meow Mix @ The Stud Weekly drag and variety show. 9pm-2am. 399 9th St. at Harrison. www.studsf.com

Dream Queens Review @ Aunt Charlie’s Lounge, see Wed. 31

Australian male strip dance troupe returns for their sexy shows. No full nudity, but still fun, and yes, men are welcome. $35-$55. Wed & Thu 8pm; Fri & Sat 7pm & 9:30pm. 2-drink min. Thru Sept. 17. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. 394-1189. www.TheRrazzRoom.com

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ For updated events, visit www.BARtabSF.com To submit your September events, send by August 19 to BARtabSF@ebar.com

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

28 BAR★TAB • bartabsf.com • August 2011

eBARchive f ★

NORTH BEACH’S GAY PASTd 1 N • by Michael Flanagan

The women of Mona’s 440

orth Beach has become the place where Finocchio’s of the ‘30s seem a lot gayer than what it hawkers beckon tourists to see live nude girls became. Finocchio continued in business till 1999. or to take your aunt and uncle to eat Italian Its most prominent performer was undoubtedly food. But it wasn’t always that way. In the 1930s it Jose Sarria, aka “The Widow Norton,” known for his was San Francisco’s first gay neighborhood, and operatic parodies, his historic run for mayor and his decades of gay activism. Prohibition was a big part of the reason why. The Place at 1564 Grant was opened in 1955 by Mona Sargent/Hood lived in the ‘Monkey Block,’ a building at 1000 Montgomery Street where Jack Black Mountain College alumni and was the home London lived and where Allen Ginsberg wrote ‘Howl.’ of ‘Blabbermouth night,’ a weekly open mic event During Prohibition the Monkey Block was a constant officiated over by Jack Spicer (if you were bad the bartender would party. When Prohibition ended, Mona decided naa dec d de ide ded tto d o b bar arrten enderr wo en w o play a trumpet and the crowd open a club for her ‘bohemian’ friends. Most nd ds. s. Mo M ostt would wou ld yell yel yel e l ‘take off your clothes’). It was also of her friends were lesbian and she wen went w we ent hom home o e to gay poet/bartender John Allen Ryan, on to found the first lesbian bar in San an Ryan Rya n one of the Six Gallery founders (where ‘Howl’ was first read). The Francisco (at 451 Union St.) in 1933. 3. (w w Place was a favorite spot of both Apparently business was good, d, d, P Ginsberg and Kerouac. as she survived being busted in n G Peggy Tolk-Watkins (another 1939 for ‘keeping a disorderly Black Mountain alum) opened house’ (the sergeant who made B the arrest said he couldn’t tell tthe Tin Angel at 981 Embarcadero with financial backing from Sally the men from the women) and w Stanford in 1953. Tolk-Watkins was went on to open (at least) four otherr SSt t lesbian bars, the most famous being eeasy to spot when she approached A souvenir souv ouveni en n r ashtray assht htray a ay from Mona’s 400 the club. She drove a 1932 Ford Mona’s 440 at 440 Broadway. sedan with pink and blue polka She took in women kicked out of their homes for being lesbian and gave them dots painted on it. The Tin Angel featured musicians jobs as male impersonators who waited tables and such as Odetta and went on to become On The Levee performed a floorshow. She also brought in out-of- which lasted till 1961. Tommy Vasu was the first open lesbian to open town performers such as Gladys Bentley. Prohibition fueled America’s longest running a bar in San Francisco (in 1952). Her most famous drag review, Finocchio’s. At Finocchio’s speakeasy club, Tommy’s Place (at 529 Broadway) was attached on Stockton Street, a tipsy patron performed an by a staircase to her other club, 12 Adler Place. In 1954 impersonation of Sophie Tucker and the rest was there was a vice raid which closed both clubs. Heroin history. After Prohibition’s repeal the club moved (which by all accounts was planted by the police) was to Broadway, but that wasn’t the end of its legal found and two bartenders went to trial. 12 Adler Place and Gino and Carlo (a favorite problems. In 1936 five female impersonators were arrested. of Jack Spicer) are the only bars that were part of One, Walter Hart, went to jail for a month (where he gay North Beach that are still open today (though caught up on his sewing; he continued performing no longer gay). So, next time you’re at City Lights until the ‘60s). During this period buying drinks Bookstore or the Beat Museum, stop by, raise a glass, also meant buying sexual favors, which makes the and remember your history. ✸

30 BAR★TAB • bartabsf.com • August 2011