bartabsf.com
BARchive: On the QT
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February 2013
ZEITGUYS: Fenton & Randy’s
WONDERful WORLD
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ingredients H February 2013H
Winter Blues: Earl Thomas
F Page 4 f Zeitguys: Fenton & Randy’s Wonderful World
F Page 6 f On The Tab
F Pages 16-35 f BARchive: On the QT
F Page 38 f Read more stories online at www.bartabsf.com
V On the cover: Earl Thomas in concert. photo: Laura Carbone
H H H H H H H H H H H H H Editor: Jim Provenzano, Art Director: Kurt Thomas
Designer: T. Scott King General Manager: Michael Yamashita Advertising Sales: Simma Baghbanbashi, Colleen Small, Scott Wazlowski Contributors: Ray Aguilera, Matt Baume, Heather Cassell, Coy Ellison, Michael Flanagan, Dr. Jack Fritscher, Marga Gomez, T. Scott King, Joshua Klipp, Michael McAllister, Sal Meza, David Elijah-Nahmod, Adam Sandel, Jim Stewart, Ronn Vigh Photography: Biron, Marques Daniels, Don Eckert, Lydia Gonzales, Rick Gerharter, Jose Guzman-Colon, Georg Lester, Dan Lloyd, Jim Provenzano, Rich Stadtmiller, Jim Stewart, Monty Suwannukul, 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 Media Association National Advertising Representative: Rivendell Media (212) 242-6863
Winter Blues Earl Thomas
Earl Thomas Sings Out & Proud by Joshua Klipp
F
ifty-two years ago, Earl Thomas was born in the basement of Pikeville, Tennessee’s hospital because, at the time, that was the only place the hospital allowed black babies to be born. Today, the City of Pikeville holds a music festival bearing the openly gay blues singer’s name, and, in a stroke of irony, the festival’s stage sits in front of that very hospital’s steps. Earl Thomas is the greatest gay ambassador you’ve never heard of, or more probably, never heard. He grew up a military brat, the son and grandson of Tennessee bluesmen, great-grandson of slaves. By the age of 14 he’d changed schools six times, crisscrossing the country and globe living in Seattle, San Diego, and Guam. Ultimately, he returned to Pikeville, finished high school in the town of less than 3,000, came out, and then joined the Navy until he was kicked out after being caught “literally with a dick in my mouth.” To Earl Thomas, diversity – of people, place, and languages – was as natural as a sunrise over the Sequatchie Valley; and the blues as familial as blood through his veins. Thomas’ father was a blues singer and guitarist, his mother a gospel singer. Thomas pursued a more academic 4 BARHTAB • bartabsf.com • February 2013
route, training classically, and eventually getting a degree in music. That training – in academia and life – paid off as Thomas pursued the only profession he ever imagined: a blues singer. With influences as diverse as British rock and ‘70s funk, Thomas’ career now spans more than three decades and 13 albums. His original music, co-written with former lover and partner Philip C. Wootton, has been covered by blues legends Etta James and Tom Jones. Backroad Blues named him “Best Male Singer, 2011.” Ike Turner describes Thomas as “One of the most entertaining people you’ll ever meet,” and former members of Ike and Tina’s band frequently sit in with Earl’s current contingent, Earl Thomas and the Blues Ambassadors. This reporter went to see Earl Thomas last December at San Francisco’s Biscuits and Blues, where he recently began a yearlong residency. As my date and I took our reserved seats, I was disheartened by the touristy trap feeling of the place – relatively expensive drinks and average food by San Francisco standards – all deep in the heart of Union Square. I looked around the room feeling almost sorry for the other audience members paying out many vacation dollars when there were so many authentic San Francisco experiences to be had for less. By the time I left, however, there really is no other way to say it: Earl Thomas had changed my life. With the exception of his incredible shoes, Earl Thomas took the stage unassumingly. (“A blues man has to dress like he doesn’t need the money,” Earl explained). At first, his zen-like stage presence caught my notice even more than his lyrics, until I started listening to the artistry of what the man actually said and sang. “Let your voice ring louder, hold your head up prouder, don’t worry about doubters” – perhaps the first time in music history that a man sang the gay marriage blues. Thomas is the real deal. In a music industry customarily lacking authenticity, Earl Thomas left nothing in the wings. Not an ounce of his energy, not a drop of sweat, not a shade of secrecy. “I think of myself as an evangelist,” he explains. “Joining people, bringing people together.” And on that night at Biscuits and Blues, Thomas left no doubt that he is changing the world, one gay blues tune after another, when in between songs he casually told the story of how he came out to his parents, how they casually reacted, then he casually moved on to the next
song, while the mostly heterosexual audience either sat in stunned silence or wild applause in awe of this man who is undeniably one of the most incredible blues talents of our time. “The blues is unique in that it’s very misogynistic, it’s all about chasing pussy. Then there’s me, this gay guy who’s totally out. I know I’m equal to all those dudes, and they know I’m the baddest blues singer out there,” Thomas says. Baddest or not, there’s no doubt Earl has earned his blues badge through more than heritage. His fast-rising career in the 1980s quickly derailed when his partner got AIDS. En route to becoming a star, Thomas’ management dropped him unceremoniously, while he struggled to continue singing and nurse his neardeath lover through an historic health crisis. “I lost my management deal because I had to focus on (my lover)”, Earl says. Fast forward to 2012, however, and the quinquagenarian – with the hard-earned physique of a 20-something gym rat – is making his mark on the present and future of blues. “I like to think of myself as a 21st-century blues man,” Thomas says. “The 19th-century blues man was a slave, the 20th-century blues
man a victim of discrimination and the Jim Crow laws of segregation, but the 21st-century blues man is college-educated, world-traveled, well-read, smart, sophisticated, and wears Brooks Brothers! And this one happens to be gay! And proud!” Earl Thomas wants to – and will – go down as one of the blues greats. He doesn’t think of himself as a role model but says that if he is, then he’s just a “role model to be yourself.” No matter where he plays in the world, Earl Thomas is just that. Not just an ambassador of the blues, but an ambassador for the beauty, talent and diversity that is our gay community. He won’t be in the blues game forever. Some day, he wants to retire and be cared for by a strapping Samoan nurse. But in 2013, Earl Thomas and the Blues Ambassadors feature at Biscuits and Blues on each last Saturday. And if you want to ensure seeing history in the making, reserve your seat in advance. Earl Thomas and the Blues Ambassadors perform at Biscuits and Blues, Feb 23. 401 Mason St. at Geary. 292-2583. www.biscuitsandblues.com www.earlthomasmusic.com. ✸
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Zeitguys
RuPaul. Photo by Mathu Andersen
Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato’s Wonderful World by Jim Provenzano
These words, chanted by Macauley Culkin as (eventually murderous) club promoter Michael Alig in the dramatized version of their own documentary Party Monster, might be the major themes of the works of director-producerwriters Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato. Note the ‘might be.’ The vapidity of celebrity
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culture could be easily dispensed with in their dozens of reality shows, films and documentaries, if it weren’t for their persistent loving gaze and underlying respect for the humanity of even the most extreme fame whore. To slow things down in an appreciation of their two decades of accomplishments, Bailey and Barbato spent the last three years –in between de-
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M
oney. Success. Fame. Glamour.”
Randy Barbato (left ) and Fenton Bailey. Photo: Mathu Anderson
veloping even more hit shows and producing more acclaimed films– to produce The World According to Wonder ($110, 390 pages). With nearly 300 original portraits of pop culture icons ranging from Elvira to Pam Anderson, John Waters to Sharon Needles, the WOW book lives up to its packaging as being “Eight Pounds of Fun!” It’s the ultimate gift for the real estate porn/reality/drag show queer cineaste on your Valentine’s Day list. The two gurus of culture spoke from their offices in Los Angeles, saying they have been recruiting talent and subject for a while. With the majority of photos in the colorful (and heavy!) art book shot by famed fashion photographers Mathu Andersen, and the duo Idris Rheubottom and Tony Craig (www.idrisandtony.com), the WOW book pops with pop appeal. “There are a lot of exclusives,” said Bailey, noting that the majority of images are by main contributors are by Anderson and Idris+Tony. Most of the RuPaul and drag photos are by the on-set producers “just for logistics; it was easier.” “And except for the Tammy Faye Bakker,” Barbato added. “We used the Greg Gorman shots for Tammy, because she had passed.” The late mascara-thick televangelist wife’s gay son is also featured in the book. Bakker, the sub8 BARHTAB • bartabsf.com • February 2013
ject of the acclaimed Eyes of Tammy Faye, serves as a perfect example of the seemingly odd admiration two gay men would have for a conservative Christian whose empire turned out to be a complete fraud (and whose theme park now more resembles Chernobyl in its abandoned decay). But Bailey noted how the late Bakkers deserve a bit of respect, particularly for their media savvy. “Jim and Tammy Faye were very prescient about television and its impact,” said Bailey. “The station that she and Jim founded, what they became, is fascinating. They understood the power of TV and opening yourself and revealing yourself.” Added Barbado, “Technology has democratized the medium of celebrity. Technology enabled a lot of art and fringe characters to rise up. Pre-internet and pre-cable, before the democratization of media, there were these gatekeepers that dictated who would be stars and who we would get to listen to and read. But I think people’s appetites moved beyond that small narrow area that was dictated by old school media gatekeepers.” Bailey commented, “We were living in the screen age, which began with Hollywood. What’s happened is that the screen has multiplied. The screen is the
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James St James. Photo by Mathu Andersen
Lady Bunny. Photo by Mathu Andersen
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from their own house promos (RuPaul’s Drag Race, etc.) to celebrity animated “gif shops,” retro music fun, nightclub events, design innovations, and even a questionably altered image of Ryan Gosling at a urinal (we wish it was real).
“Everybody is a queen.” – Fenton Bailey Two pop gurus met on common ground with this writer, New York City’s East Village, the Pyramid Club, to be specific. Back in the early 1990s, before cell phones and tweets, it took flyers and good old word of mouth to enjoy the cultural phenomenon of My Comrade, Star Booty (an early RuPaul character), Dee Lite and ACT UP Queer Nation chic. Then New York University students, Bailey said, “We were captivated by it all. We saw this
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iPhone and iPad screen, so there are faces that are beyond the old guard Hollywood stars who were used to having all the attention.” Take Jodi Foster, for example. Her recent Golden Globes Cecil B. DeMille Award acceptance “coming out/not coming out” speech, considering either groundbreaking or resentfully smug, depending on your perspective, led to comparisons of the “low” form of celebrity, Foster’s reference to the star of the reality show Honey Boo Boo (not one of WOW’s project, by the way). Of that event, Bailey had a comment of admiration: “Honey, you shrunk the stars.” But all that got upstaged by dashing actor Victor Garber’s much more casual coming out (again) and a media flurry of pictures of his handsome partner of many years, Rainer Andreeson. The onslaught of bits and bytes is categorized and posted on their blog, The WOW Report (www.worldofwonder.net). With a bevy of contributors taking on the day’s zeitgeist moment,
Jay Bakker. Photo by Idris + Tony
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Elvira. Photo by Mathu Andersen
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Chloë Sevegny. Photo by Mathu Andersen
Chaz Bono. Photo Idris + Tony
what’s on the outside is going to drift toward the center.” The World of Wonder isn’t all glitter and drag queens. Among their many accomplishments are serious Emmy-nominated documentaries about gays in the military (The Strange History of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell), transgender children of celebrities (Being Chaz) and the fragility of the ecosystem (The Last Beekeeper). Not only have the duo gone forward, but back into culture. One of their naughtier documentaries, Inside Deep Throat, explored the phenomenon of the low-budget Linda Lovelace/Harry Reems porn film going mainstream, when controversies over its screening locations turned the film, and its performers, into mainstream celebrities. “When Deep Throat came out,” said Barbato, “Linda Lovelace became sort of the Honey BooBoo Child of the early 1970s. She was suddenly hugely famous. I know it’s just a porn film, but it seems quite real, in a way. She was the girl next door becoming a big star.” The process of convincing real people, not familiar with the spotlight, or those celebrities who’ve already been dashed on the rocks of fame to once again face a camera, is part of the nuanced work of the team. “There’s a difference between revealing and ex-
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incredible exuberant creativity. It was beyond the scope of downtown, but it was ignored in other scenes.” Eventually, such underground scenes rose to the mainstream. Said Bailey, “It’s the nature of pop culture; an insatiable machine that wants the new face, new stars, new scandals. Sooner or later,
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Pamela Anderson. Photo by Mathu Andersen
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posing,” said Bailey. “Revealing yourself and sharing is the purpose of media. At one time it used to be an actor playing a role. Now it’s about revealing and being oneself, like Chaz Bono, someone who grew up in the spotlight. Even he could realize that for people to understand, telling his story was the best way to go about it.” But how do they get those shows and films produced? Bailey explained that the World of Wonder, not unlike a drag or music “house,” is a collective of “all these amazing people, great producers, directors, photographers; we’re just surrounded by talent, and not just the people we point the cameras at.”
“Linda Lovelace became sort of the Honey BooBoo Child of the early 1970s.” – Randy Barbato. The book is self-published, and the duo and their staff spent a lot of time on what is a deliciously visual tome. “No one reads anymore,” Bailey half-joked. “We thought this would be the ultimate nontrendy thing. Also, the book is about continuing the love and pointing the camera at all these people who make up our world of wonder,” said Bailey. There’s potentially more to come, as the duo mentioned that about 50 other performers and artists got edited out of the book. “So this is probably just Volume One.” What else is coming up for the prolific pair? The new season of RuPaul’s Drag Race promises more wild gown-shredding fun. “It’s the show that keeps on giving,” said Barbato. “It’s got legs.” The duo are also developing a series about La Toya Jackson for the Oprah Winfrey network, and a reality series about Jaye Bakker. The popular Million Dollar Listing will expand to other cities. And a documentary in development explores the entire phenomenon of celebrity itself, based on the duo’s early years as part of a fledgling pop band. “Most bands, like ours was, are hugely unsuccessful,” Bailey confessed. “We’ve been trying to do something about fame. But it’s such a broad subject. So, we’ll tell our story as a sort of parallel experience with friends (like Pet Shop Boys) who became successful.” In the meantime, look and listen for Fenton and Randy on Andy Cohen and Michelangelo Signorile’s shows. And enjoy their new book, which is doomed to succeed. ✸
Macaulay Culkin as Michael Alig in a promo for the dramatized film Party Monster.
John Waters. Photo by Idris + Tony
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eON THE TA~B f ~February H
Joe @ The Lookout
Shots, drinks and DJed fun. $2. 10pm-2am. 3600 16th St. at Market. www.lookoutsf.com
Keiko Matsui @ Live at The Rrazz
The smooth New Age/jazz keyboardist performs with her band. $40-$45. 7pm & 9:30pm. Also Feb 2. 1000 Van Ness Ave. (800) 380-3095. www.liveattherrazz.com
Leela James @ Yoshi’s
“In the Spirit of Etta,” a concert of blues classics made popular by the late Etta James, and sung by the amazing vocalist. $25-$30. 8pm & 10pm. 1330 Fillmore St. 655-5600. www.yoshis.com
Pants Off Fridays @ Kok Bar
Anybody who strips down to their boxers, jockstrap or undies gets $2 off their first drink, $1 off each drink after. Free clothes check. 9pm-2am. 1225 Folsom St. www.kokbarsf.com
Steven Richards @ Nob Hill Theatre
Lanky extra-hung porn dude performs a solo show. $25. Also Feb 2. 8pm and 10pm, with other strippers before, after, and each night. 729 Bush St. at Powell. 397-6758. www.thenobhilltheatre.com
Latin Explosion @ Club 21, Oakland
The largest gay Latin dance night in the Bay Area. Happy hour 4pm-8:30pm. Dancing 9pm-4am. 2111 Franklin St. (510) 268-9425. www.club21oakland.com Homo Erectus. See Sat 2 George Lester
Fri 1
Pulled Pork Happy Hour @ Lone Star Saloon
Cheap drinks and free pulled pork sandwiches, 2pm7pm at the bear bar. 1354 Harrison St. www.lonestarsf.com
Bad Girl Cocktail Hour @ The Lexington Club
Every Friday night, bad girls can get $1 dollar margaritas between 9pm and 10pm. 3464 19th St. between Mission and Valencia. 863-2052. www.lexingtonclub.com
Fedorable @ El Rio
Free queer dance party, with gogos, prizes, old groovy tunes, cheap cocktails. 9pm-2am. 3158 Mission St. 282-3325. www.elriosf.com
Feed the People @ Marlena’s
Imperial Court candidate Danielle hosts a fundraiser for St. Aiden’s Food Pantry. 7pm. 488 Hayes St. www.marlenasbarsf.com
First Fridays @ Oakland Galleries
Monthly street festival and art gallery party, with thousands of people, food trucks, outdoor DJ booths and more. 5pm-10pm. Downtown area. www.oaklandfirstfridays.org 16 BARHTAB • bartabsf.com • February 2013
Leela James. See Fri 1
Jalwa @ Club OMG
DJ SSHaaN spins a unique Bollywood dance mix at the intimate new South Asian LGBT nightclub. 9pm2am. 43 6th St. at Market. www.clubomgsf.com
Hard French Winter Ball @ Cocoanut Grove, Santa Cruz
The Hard Frenchies head south for wintry oceanside fun in the ballroom of the boardwalk nightclub. 400 Beach St. (831) 423-2053. www.hardfrench.com www.cocoanutgrovesantacruz.com
Spicy @ Club OMG
DJ SSHaaN spins Bollywood dance hits at the intimate new South Asian LGBT nightclub. 9pm-2am. 43 6th St. at Market. www.clubomgsf.com
Sat 2 Beer Bust @ Hole in the Wall Saloon
Beer only $8 until you bust. 4pm-8pm. 1369 Folsom St. 431-4695. www.hitws.com
Daddy @ Kok Bar
Men-only night; cruisy ambiance, a hot gogo guy, and DJ Guber. 9pm-2am. 1225 Folsom St. www.kokbarsf.com
Viva Las Vegas @ City Hall Rotunda, Hayward
Splashy Vegas-themed benefit gala for the The Lighthouse, the East Bay LGBT community center; live entertainment, gourmet food, no-host bar, games and gambling, cash raffles, 21+. $25. 6pm-10:30pm. 777 B St. Hayward. www.lgbtlighthousehayward.org
Sun 3 David Mills @ Stage Werx
Comic with a dry wit performs his stand-up act. $12 cash. 8pm. 446 Valencia St at 16th. (also Feb 5 at the PunchLine, with Scott Capurro). www.itsdavidmills.com Page 18
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Tomboy Tailors’ grand opening. See Sat 2
Go Bang @ The Stud
The super disco electric retro fun monthly dance night, with resident DJs Sergio Fedasz and Steve Fabus, and guest spinners Andre Lucero and Kenneth Kemp. $7 (free before 10pm) 21+ 9pm-3am. 399 9th St. at Harrison. www.gobangsf.com www.studsf.com
Grand Opening @ Tomboy Tailors
Enjoy champagne and hors d’oeuvres at the opening of the new made-to-measure fine clothing store for transmen and butch women. 2pm-6pm. Crocker Galleria, first level, 50 Post St. www.tomboytailors.com
Homo Erectus @ Q Bar
New sexy monthly party from the Cockfight gang (DJs MyKill and DCNSTRCT), and their saucy gogo guys; first Saturdays. $5. 9pm-2am. 456 Castro St. www. qbarsf.com www.ClubHomoErectus.com
SoMa Country @ Beatbox
Sundance Saloon’s South of Market event (temporarily moved from 3rd Saturdays), with two-stepping, line-dancing lessons for beginners, and friendly regulars. Cowboy gear not required, but boots or smooth-heeled shoes recommended. Free admission. 6pm-10pm. 314 11th St. www.sundancesaloon.org
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Sunday’s a Drag @ Starlight Room
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
Super Bowl XLVII: Men in Tights @ Roxie Cinema
SF Indie Fest’s third annual hilarious viewing of the football finale, with completely ridiculous commentary by local comics. Part of the SF Indie Fest movie festival. Yes, beer for sale. Donations. 3pm. 3117 16th St. www.sfindie.com
Tommy Reardon @ Live at the Rrazz
What’s Love Got to do With It?, a Valentine evening with the musical theatre star. $25. 8pm. 1000 Van Ness Ave. (800) 380-3095. www.liveattherrazz.com
Vieux Farka Touré @ Yoshi’s
“The Hendrix of the Sahara,” the Mali musician, performs his unique tribal-blues music. $25. 7pm. 1330 Fillmore St. 655-5600. www.yoshis.com
Mon 4 Cock and Bull Mondays @ Hole in the Wall Saloon
Cabaret Showcase Showdown @ Martuni's
Season Four of the popular singing contest opens with the Best Comedic competition; guest judge Lisa Geduldig, and guest sing Darlene Popovic. Contestants bring sheet music for two songs. 7pm. 4 Valencia St. www.martunis.ypguides.net
Jock @ Lookout
Weekly fundraiser for various local LGBT sports groups. $2 cover. Drink specials. 3pm-9pm. 3600 16th St. at Market. www.lookoutsf.com
Salsa Sundays @ El Rio
Salsa dancing for LGBT folks and friends, with live merengue and cumbia bands; tapas and donations that support local causes. 2nd & 4th Sundays. 3pm8pm. 3158 Mission St. 282-3325. www.elriosf.com
Sports Beer Bust @ Kok Bar
Wear a uniform or strip down to a jock strap and get more beer for your bucks. Watch games on widescreen TVs. Team fundraisers coming soon. 5pm-8pm. 1225 Folsom St. www.kokbarsf.com
Specials on drinks made with “Cock and Bull” ginger ale (Jack and Cock, Russian Mule, and more). 8pmclosing. 1369 Folsom St. 431-4695. www.hitws.com
Karaoke @ The Lookout
Paul K hosts the amateur singing night. 8pm-2am. 3600 16th St. at Market. www.lookoutsf.com
Monday Musicals @ The Edge
The renovated bar now shows fun musicals each week, with Broadway touring performers stopping by to sing, too! This month, cast members from Wicked. 7pm-2am. 2 for 1 cocktail, 5pm-closing. 18th St. at Collingwood. www.edgesf.com
Tue 5 3 Men & a Baby…Grand @ Live at the Rrazz
Brian Lane Green, Lee Lessack and John Boswell perform three-part harmonies of Broadway and jazz classics. $35. 8pm. Also Feb 6. 1000 Van Ness Ave. (800) 380-3095. www.liveattherrazz.com
Block Party @ Midnight Sun
Weekly screenings of music videos, concert footage, interviews and more, of popular pop stars. 9pm-2am. 4067 18th St. 861-4186. www.midnightsunsf.com
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Love on Wheels. See Sat 6
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Secret Lovers @ Lexington Club
DJs Katie Duck, PonyBoy and Durt play slowjams for makin’ out at the saucy women’s bar. 9pm-12:30am. 3464 19th St. between Mission and Valencia. 8632052. www.lexingtonclub.com
Trivia Night @ Harvey’s
Bebe Sweetbriar hosts a weekly night of trivia quizzes, fun and prizes; no cover. 8pm-1pm. 500 Castro St. 431-4278. www.harveyssf.com
Way Back @ Midnight Sun
Weekly screenings of vintage music videos, and retro drink prices. 9pm-2am. 4067 18th St. 861-4186. www.midnightsunsf.com
Thu 7 Quinn Deveaux. See Thu 7
13 Licks @ Q Bar
Weekly women’s night at the stylish intimate bar. 9pm-2am. 456 Castro St. www.QbarSF.com
Bacon, Babes and Bingo @ El Rio
Dottie Lux and the Red Hots Burlesque, Uni and her Ukulele, AJ Molecular and others perform. $10. 9pm. 3158 Mission st. 282-3325. www.elriosf.com
Funny Tuesdays @ Harvey’s
Cuba Gooding and the Main Ingredient @ Live at the Rrazz
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
R&B trio performs their classic hits and other soul tunes. $35-$40. 8pm. Thru Feb 9 (7pm & 9:30pm). 1000 Van Ness Ave. (800) 380-3095. www.liveattherrazz.com
Naked Night @ Nob Hill Theatre
Quinn DeVeaux @ Yoshi’s Oakland
Enjoy strip shows in the comfort of your skivvies, or less, with complimentary libations $20. 8pm-11pm. 729 Bush St. 397-6758. www.thenobhilltheatre.com
Jazz guitarist performs gospel-rock-fused original music and innovative covers. $23. 8pm. 510 Embarcadero West, Jack London Square. (510) 238-9200. www.yoshis.com
Wed 6
Tubesteak Connection @ Aunt Charlie’s Lounge
Booty Call @ Q Bar
Juanita More and Joshua J’s weekly night packs the intimate stylish bar with grooves and a groovy younger crowd. $3. 9pm-2am. 456 Castro St. www.juanitamore.com www.QbarSF.com
Love on Wheels @ Public Works
SF Bicycle Coalition’s annual Valentine’s party and fundraiser, with auctions, beer, and fun events like The Dating Game–esque pair-up show for gay, straight and lesbian singles. $5-$10. 21+. 6pm-9pm. 161 Erie St. www.sfbike.org/love
Rookie Night @ Nob Hill Theatre
See fresh talent strip it off, with the audience judging sign-up by 8pm, show at 9pm; winner gets $200! $20 (for audience). 8pm-11pm. 729 Bush St. at Powell. 397-6758. www.thenobhilltheatre.com
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Retro disco tunes and an eclectic crowd, each Thursday; DJ Bus Station John plays records. $4. 10pm-2am. 133 Turk St. at Taylor. www.auntcharlieslounge.com
Underwear Party @ Powerhouse
Strip down to your skivvies (free clothes check) and watch or compete in the wet underwear contest ($100 prize!) at midnight; gogo guys and DJ Dam Nation. $5. 9pm-2am. 1347 Folsom St. www.powerhouse-sf.com
Year of the Snake Nightlife @ Cal. Academy of Sciences
Snake-themed exhibits, entertainment, demos and dancing; guest lectures, special themed events, science art exhibits, plus food, cocktails and DJed dancing. $10-$12. 6pm-10pm, 55 Music Concourse Drive, Golden Gate Park. 379-8000. www.calacademy.org
Latin Night @ The Café
Amazingly hot gogo guys, cheap drinks and DJed dance music. $5. 9pm-2am. 2369 Market St. www.cafesf.com
Fri 8 Carrie @ Victoria Theatre
Screening of the original Sissy Spacek horror classic; proceeds benefit Ray of Light Theatre company’s upcoming production of Carrie, the Musical. $15. 7pm. 2961 16th St. www.rayoflighttheatre.com
Cubcake @ Lone Star Saloon
Monthly party for bears with a sweet tooth; goodies served. DJ Medic spins tunes. 9pm-2am. 1354 Harrison St. www.lonestarsf.com
Frenchie Davis in Upright Cabaret. See Sat 10
Princess: Maya Rudolph & Gretchen Lieberum @ Yoshi’s
Joe @ The Lookout
Shots, drinks and DJed fun. $2. 10pm-2am. 3600 16th St. at Market. www.lookoutsf.com
Comic singers (Saturday Night Live) perform with Princess, their funny yet sincere Prince cover band, in their Bay Area debut. Part of SF Sketchfest. $35. 8pm, 10:30pm. 1330 Fillmore St. 655-5600. www.yoshis.com
On the Edge 3 @ Gallery 4N5
Rarebits @ Truck
Variety DJ night, with Bobby Please and Chicken; food by Two Tarts and a Stove. No cover. 6pm-10pm. 1900 Folsom St. www.TruckSF.com
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Opening reception for a large-scale group exhibit of (mostly female) erotic art in many media; fashion shows, pole dances and “erotic” events as well. $5. 21+. 4pm-10pm. 863 Mission St. at 4th St. Thru Feb 19. www.eroticartevents.com
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Sat 9 Cockblock @ Rickshaw Stop
Lesbo-rific queer homo dance night each 2nd & 4th Saturday. $5-$10. 21+. 10pm-2am. 155 Fell St. www.rickshawstop.com
Courtly Love @ The Edge
Imperial Council fundraiser and drag show. 4pm. 4149 18th St. 863-4027. www.qbarsf.com/EDGE
Frolic @ The Stud
Monthly costume dance party (2nd Sat) for Furries and friends, with DJs Ikkuma, Smashwolf, Neonbunny. Dance, you animals! $3-$7. 9pm-2am. 399 9th St. at Harrison www.neonbunny.com/frolic www.studsf.com
Kinky Disco @ SF Underground
DJ Johnny Sonic (aka Paul Goodyear) spins 80s, 90s electronica, disco and unusual music, with guest DJ Allen Craig. Free entry if dressed in drag. $7. 10pm2am. 424 Haight St.www.kinkydisko.com
Love Will Fix It @ Hot Spot
DJ Bus Station John’s intimate monthly (2nd Saturdays) retro disco night with an R&B focus, re-decorates the cozy dive bar into a cool dance hangout; popular with a gaily diverse crowd. $5. 9pm-2am. 1414 Market St. at Polk. Sundance Saloon’s Sweethearts Ball. See Sat 10
Sun 10 Gimme TLC @ Aunt Charlie's Lounge
Swing Jam Festival @ Hotel Whitcomb
Queer Jitterbugs presents a three-day partner dance festival, with shows, classes, competitions and fun, same-sex or opposite-partner. Retro-themed nights and contemporary, too. $10-$75. Free under 15. Day and night events. 1231 Market St. at 8th. 305-8242. www.SFSwingJam.com
Tom Orr @ Live at the Rrazz
The local gay comic singer-songwriter gets a little serious as he performs Cowboys and Angels: The George Michael Songbook, with the Tom Shaw Quartet. $ 10pm. 1000 Van Ness Ave. (800) 380-3095. www.liveattherrazz.com
Welcome to the Dollhouse @ Castro Theatre
Peaches Christ welcomes “Dawn Wiener” actressproducer Heather Matarazzo at a screening fo the darkly funny suburban New Jersey film; with a live set by schlock rock band Zbornak, a Dawn Weiner look-alike contest and a Nerd Pride Parade. Part of SF Sketchfest. $20. 7pm. 429 Castro St. www.peacheschrist.com www.castrotheatre.com 24 BARHTAB • bartabsf.com • February 2013
Imperial Council candidate Danielle hosts a fundraiser for the Transgender Law Center; raffle prizes. 4pm. www.auntcharlieslounge.com
Sundance Saloon Sweethearts Ball @ Space 550
The popular country western LGBT dance night celebrates Valentine’s Day with its optional underwear dress code; Free clothes check $5. 5pm-10:30pm with lessons from 5:30-7:15 pm. 550 Barneveld Ave. www.sundancesaloon.org
Sunday’s a Drag @ Starlight Room
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
Upright Cabaret @ Live at the Rrazz
Frenchie Davis and Dezmond Meeks perform as part of the American Icon music series, with a special disco tribute. $35-$50. 5pm & 8pm. 1000 Van Ness Ave. (800) 380-3095. www.liveattherrazz.com
Two folk-rock mini-orchestral local bands perform in a shared concert. $8-$12. 7pm. 1330 Fillmore St. 655-5600. www.yoshis.com
Mon 11
Tue 12 Block Party @ Midnight Sun
Weekly screenings of music videos, concert footage, interviews and more, of popular pop stars. 9pm-2am. 4067 18th St. 861-4186. www.midnightsunsf.com
Cock and Bull Mondays @ Hole in the Wall Saloon
Funny Tuesdays @ Harvey’s
Specials on drinks made with “Cock and Bull” ginger ale (Jack and Cock, Russian Mule, and more). 8pmclosing. 1369 Folsom St. 431-4695. www.hitws.com
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
Comedy Returns @ El Rio
Hella Gay Comedy @ Rebel
Enjoy diverse comic stylings from Sammy Obeid, Yayne Abeba, Nathan Habib, Rachel Gill, and Lisa Geduldig. $7-$20. 8pm. 3158 Mission St. www.elriosf.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
Sacred Cocktails @ Twin Peaks
Weekly gathering for Christian and other faithful LGBTs, sponsored by Oasis, the GLBT Ministry of the Episcopal Diocese of California. Upstairs, 7:308:30pm. Castro St. at Market. www.saintaiden.org
How I Came Out, comedic and touching monologues with performers, comics and queens: Nick Leonard, Blue Buddha, Tuesday, Jessica Sele, TJ Kelsall and Jennifer Dronsky. Charlie Ballard hosts (Also Feb 26, with a different line-up). $10. 21+. 8pm. 1760 Market St. 431-4202. www.charlieballard.com www.rebel-sf.com
Jack Jones @ Live at the Rrazz
Grammy-winning singer performs his classic romantic hit songs and other popular ballads. $45-$75. 8pm. Thru Feb 17 (7pm). 1000 Van Ness Ave. (800) 3803095. www.liveattherrazz.com
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Odd Owls, Foxtails Bridage @ Yoshi’s
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Kehinde Wiley @ Contemporary Jewish Museum
Opening night party and performance for the new exhibit, The World Stage: Israel, with Kalkidan Mashasha and DJ Alarm. $60-$100. 7:30pm. 21+. 736 Mission St. www.thecjm.org
Quiz Night @ Kok Bar
Porn dude Element Eclipse hosts a trivia game night, with prizes. 5pm-12am. 9pm-2am. 1225 Folsom St. www.kokbarsf.com
Red Hots Burlesque @ El Rio
Naked Night @ Nob Hill Theatre
Enjoy strip shows in the comfort of your skivvies, or less, with complimentary libations, at the weekly night. $20. 8pm-11pm. 729 Bush St. at Powell. 3976758. www.thenobhilltheatre.com
Renee Wilson @ Yoshi’s
Young R&B and jazz singer performs a tribute to Ms. Lena Horne in a special Fat Tuesday concert. $22. 8pm. 1330 Fillmore St. 655-5600. www.yoshis.com
Smarty Pants Trivia @ Stray Bar
Kitty Tapata hosts the game show fun with popcorn and prizes at the dog-friendly gay/straight bar in Bernal Heights. Tuesdays, 8pm. 309 Cortland. www.straybarsf.com
Wed 13 Be Mine, Mr. Valentine @ Lookout
Drag acts, gogo guys and giveaways at a benefit for Case Advocacy. $5. $10 includes two free shots. 9pm2am. 3600 16th St. at Market/Noe. www.lookoutsf.com
Women’s burlesque show performs each Wed & Fri. $5-$10. 7pm. 3158 Mission St. 282-3325. www.elriosf.com
Trivia Night @ Harvey’s
Bebe Sweetbriar hosts a weekly night of trivia quizzes and fun and prizes; no cover. 8pm-1pm. 500 Castro St. 431-4278. www.harveyssf.com
Way Back @ Midnight Sun
Weekly screenings of vintage music videos, and retro drink prices. 9pm-2am. 4067 18th St. 861-4186. www.midnightsunsf.com
Thu 14 Bear Weekend Kickoff @ Lone Star Saloon
Opening weekend celebration for the beartastic gathering, with music food, drinks (duh!) and bears. 8pm-2am. 1354 Harrison St. www.lonestarsf.com
Circle Jerk @ Nob Hill Theatre
Participatory play with porn pups, in the Underground Playroom of the strip joint; join in the fun! $10. 9pm. 729 Bush St. at Powell. 397-6758. www.thenobhilltheatre.com
Booty Call @ Q Bar
Comedy Bodega @ Esta Nocha
Dream Queens Revue @ Aunt Charlie’s Lounge
Spin the Bottle Nightlife @ Cal. Academy of Sciences
Juanita More and Joshua J’s weekly night packs the intimate stylish bar with grooves and a groovy younger crowd. Special guest DJ tonight, Scissor Sisters’ Jake Shears! $3. 9pm-2am. 456 Castro St. www.juanitamore.com www.QbarSF.com
Retro-classic drag show (2nd and 4th Wednesday) at the classic Tenderloin bar, featuring Collette Ashton, Ruby Slippers, Sophilya Leggz, Bobby Ashton, Sheena Rose, Davida Ashton and Joie de Vivre. No cover. 10pm. 133 Turk St. 441-2922. www.dreamqueensrevue.com
The new weekly LGBT and indie comic stand-up night. This week, Comedy Bodega’s one-year Anniversary Show: Dhaya Lakshminarayanan, Marga Gomez, Kate Willet, a Pinata and more. 8pm-9:30pm. 3079 16th St. at Mission. www.comedybodega.com
Special Valentines’ Day with micro-breewery beertasting galore; science exhibits, plus food, cocktails and DJed dancing. $10-$12. 6pm-10pm, 55 Music Concourse Drive, Golden Gate Park. 379-8000. www.calacademy.org
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Jake Shears DJs Booty Call. See Wed 13
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Latin Night @ The Café
Amazingly hot gogo guys, cheap drinks and DJed dance music. $5. 9pm-2am. 2369 Market St. www.cafesf.com
Wine & Chocolate Date Night @ Dogpatch Wineworks
Enjoy tasting stations of wines and chocolates at the stylish Dogpatch warehouse and winery. $40. 6pm8pm. 2455 3rd St. 525-4440. www.dogpatchwineworks.com
Joey Arias. See Thu 14
Fri 15 Darling Nikki @ Slate
Go Deep @ El Rio
Man on man lube wrestling in the pit (an inflatable mini-pool), porn guys, drag queens, clowns, Boylesque performances, DJ Drama Bin Laden and Cajun food! 2nd Thursdays. 8pm-12am. 3158 Mission St. www.elriosf.com
Joey Arias @ Castro Theatre
The legendary nightlife icon and chanteuse performs Love Swings, an evening of song, seduction and celebration. Guest performers include Veronica Klaus, Connie Champagne, plus a fashion show by Mr. David. VIP post-show event in the mezzanine. $22-$75. 8pm. 429 Castro St. www.castrotheatre.com
Nightlife @ Cal. Academy of Sciences
DJs Durt, Dr. Sleep and Justin Credible play 80s, top 40, and popular indy tunes; gogo queers, drink specials and a photo booth (3rd Fridays). $5. 8pm-2am. 2925 16th St. ww.slate-sf.com
Dragon 2.0 @ Raven
Revamped monthly gay Asian dance party at the renovated club (formerly Club 8); tequila gogos and two floors of fun. Third Fridays. $5. 9pm-3am. 1151 Folsom St. at 7th. www.ravenbarsf.com
Fabio Stallone @ Nob Hill Theatre
The muscled porn stud shows off his big talents, live and uncut! $25. Shows at 8pm and 10pm, with solo strippers all day and night. Also Feb 16. 729 Bush St. at Powell. 397-6758. www.thenobhilltheatre.com
Guest lectures, special events, science art exhibits, plus food, cocktails and DJed dancing. $10-$12. 6pm10pm, 55 Music Concourse Drive, Golden Gate Park. 379-8000. www.calacademy.org
Rise Beyond Borders @ El Rio
Fundraiser for collaborative political groups working for global women’s rights; performances by Kaylah Marin, Vixen Noir, Isis Starr, Voodoo Cabaret and others, plus DJed music. $3-$20. 6pm-2am. 3158 Mission St. www.elriosf.com
Tubesteak Connection @ Aunt Charlie’s Lounge
Retro disco tunes and a fun diverse crowd, each Thursday; DJ Bus Station John plays records. $4. 10pm-2am. 133 Turk St. at Taylor. www.auntcharlieslounge.com
Valentine’s Dinner @ Canela Bistro Bar
Enjoy a four-course meal with oysters, fish fillet, oxtail, chocolate soufflet cake and more; vegetarians options, and lovely wine selection. $55 per person. 5:30, 7:30, 9:30pm seatings. 2272 Market St. 5523000. www.canelasf.com Fabio Stallone. See Fri 15
28 BARHTAB • bartabsf.com • February 2013
Pulse @ Bench & Bar, Oakland
The East Bay monthly gogo guy dance night, presented by Elliot Live Events, moves to Oakland’s popular bar; 3rd Fridays. $10-$15. 9pm-3am. 510 17th St., Oakland. www.bench-and-bar.com
Latin Explosion @ Club 21, Oakland
Eight bars, more dance floors, and a smoking lounge; the largest gay Latin dance night in the Bay Area. Happy hour 4pm-8:30pm. Dancing 9pm-4am. 2111 Franklin St. (510) 268-9425. www.club21oakland.com
Trannyshack @ DNA Lounge
Fishnet Follies @ Live at the Rrazz
Women’s burlesque revue returns. $20-$45. 10:30pm. 1000 Van Ness Ave. (800) 380-3095. www.liveattherrazz.com
Galaxy Radio @ SF Underground
Disco, house, space funk and other grooves are spun by DJs Smac, Lel Ephant, Emils, Holly Bun and other guests (3rd Fridays). 9pm-2am. 424 Haight St.
Hot Tub, Planet Booty, Double Duchess @ SF Public Works
Fun R&B, soul and queer-hop bands perform reto super funk, including Manitous Ryury. Also, DJs Assault, Becky Knox, Matt Haze, and Stay Gold. $5-$10. 9pm-3am. 161 Erie St. http://ticketf.ly/WpSlrA
Moon Trent @ Brainwash Café
Gay folk music, with the local artist, plus Rob & Ray and Carl With Records. Free. 8pm. 1122 Folsom St. 861-3663. www.brainwash.com
Wood @ Lone Star Saloon
Lumberjack-themed night with DJ Bill Dupp. Flannel, boots and rugged gear encouraged. 9pm-2am. 1354 Harrison St. www.lonestarsf.com
14th annual star search competition, with Heklina and a gaggles of drag judges and acts; special performance by Sexitude. $15. 9:30pm-3am. Show at 11pm. 375 11th St. www.trannyshack.com www.dnalounge.com
Sat 16 Jason Brock @ Live at the Rrazz
The popular local singer and X Factor contestant performs favorites and new songs in a new solo show. $40. 10pm. 1000 Van Ness Ave. (800) 380-3095. www.liveattherrazz.com
Beatpig @ Powerhouse
Juanita More spins saucy grooves and dudes cruise at the eclectic music, drag and kink night; each 3rd Saturday. $5. 9pm-2am. 1347 Folsom St. 552-8689. www.beatpigsf.com www.powerhouse-sf.com
Bootie SF @ DNA Lounge
Weekly mash-up dance night, with resident DJs Adrian & Mysterious D. 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
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Jason Brock. See Sat 16
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Hella Gay Comedy @ Rebel
Charlie Ballard hosts a special extra edition of the stand-up laughfest with Eloisa Bravo, Kate Willett, Justin Lucas, Steve Post, Queen TT, Scott Simpson; part of Noise Pop Festival; sponsored by LOGO and Comedy Central. $10. 21+. 8pm. 1760 Market St. 433-4202. www.rebel-sf.com
Mon 18 Bear Weekend Farewell @ Lone Star Saloon
Say adios to visiting and local bears celebrating the ursine weekend. 3pm-1am. 1354 Harrison St. www.lonestarsf.com
Monday Musicals @ The Edge
Cassandra Wilson. See Thu 21
The renovated bar now shows fun musicals each week. 7pm-2am. 2 for 1 cocktail, 5pm-closing. 18th St. at Collingwood. www.edgesf.com
Piano Bar 101 @ Martuni’s Asian pop, disco and dance music night with drink specials, gogo hotties and DJed tunes (3rd Sat). $25. 9:30pm-2am. 316 11th St. www.facebook.com/gameboisf
Linda Eder @ Yoshi’s
Broadway and cabaret singer performs classics, jazz and even a little country music. $36-$46. 8pm & 10pm. 1330 Fillmore St. 655-5611. www.yoshis.com
Redroxx @ Lone Star Saloon
DJ BRD spins indoe mixes at the popular bear bar. 9pm-2am. 1354 Harrison St. www.lonestarsf.com
Sun 17 Bear Weekend Beer Bust @ Lone Star Saloon
Special edition of the weekly beer bust, with specials and a barbeque. 4pm-8pm. 1354 Harrison St. www.lonestarsf.com
Sports Beer Bust @ Kok Bar
Wear a uniform or strip down to a jock strap and get more beer for your bucks. Watch games on widescreen TVs. Team fundraisers coming soon. 5pm-8pm. 1225 Folsom St. www.kokbarsf.com
Sunday’s a Drag @ Starlight Room
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 30 BARHTAB • bartabsf.com • February 2013
Sing-along night with talented locals, and charming accompanist Joe Wicht (aka Trauma Flintstone). 9pm. 4 Valencia St. at Market. www.dragatmartunis.com
Tue 19 Jonathan Butler @ Live at the Rrazz
Singer-songwriter-guitarist performs music from his new R&B/gospel CD, Grace and Mercy. $40-$47.50. 8pm. Thru Feb 24. (Fri & Sat 9pm, Sun 7pm). 1000 Van Ness Ave. www.liveattherrazz.com
Naked Night @ Nob Hill Theatre
Enjoy strip shows in the comfort of your skivvies, or less, with complimentary libations, at the weekly night. $20. 8pm-11pm. 729 Bush St. at Powell. 3976758. www.thenobhilltheatre.com
Smarty Pants Trivia @ Stray Bar
Kitty Tapata hosts the game show fun with popcorn and prizes at the dog-friendly gay/straight bar in Bernal Heights. Tuesdays, 8pm. 309 Cortland. www.straybarsf.com
Wed 20 Booty Call @ Q Bar
Juanita More and Joshua J’s weekly night packs the intimate stylish bar with grooves and a groovy younger crowd. $3. 9pm-2am. 456 Castro St. www.juanitamore.com www.QbarSF.com
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Gameboi @ Mist Ultra Lounge
Noisepop Nightlife @ Cal. Academy of Sciences
f eON THE TAB ~ ~from page 30
Samples, tastings, and talks on the botany behind the booze; guest lectures, special events, science art exhibits, plus food, cocktails and DJed dancing. $10$12. 6pm-10pm, 55 Music Concourse Drive, Golden Gate Park. 379-8000. www.calacademy.org
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Underwear Party @ Powerhouse
Strip down to your skivvies (free clothes check) and watch or compete in the wet underwear contest ($100 prize!) at midnight; gogo guys and DJ Dam Nation. $5. 9pm-2am. 1347 Folsom St. www.powerhouse-sf.com
VIP @ Club 21, Oakland
New night, with hip-hop, Top 40, and sexy Latin music; gogo dancers, appetizers, and special guests. No cover before 11pm and just $5 afterward. Dancing 9pm-3am. Happy hour 4pm-8:30pm 2111 Franklin St. (510) 268-9425. www.club21oakland.com
Underwear Party at the Powerhouse. See Thu 21
Fri 22 Anita Gillette @ Live at the Rrazz
Porn dude Element Eclipse hosts a trivia game night, with prizes. 5pm-12am. 9pm-2am. 1225 Folsom St. www.kokbarsf.com
Veteran star of many Broadway hits shares her show stories, from the original cast of Gypsy (with Ethel Merman!) to hit Neil Simon comedies and TV shows like 30 Rock. $35. 7pm. Also Feb 23, 7pm, and 24, 5pm. 1000 Van Ness Ave. www.liveattherrazz.com
Trivia Night @ Harvey’s
Sissy Strut @ SF Underground
Bebe Sweetbriar hosts a weekly night of trivia quizzes and fun and prizes; no cover. 8pm-1pm. 500 Castro St. 431-4278. www.harveyssf.com
DJs Ponyboy, Durt and guests spin oldies, Motwon, doo wop and soul jams. $3-$5. 10pm-2am. 424 Haight St. facebook.com/thehandsome.youngmen
Way Back @ Midnight Sun
Spicy @ Club OMG
Weekly screenings of vintage music videos, and retro drink prices. 9pm-2am. 4067 18th St. 861-4186. www.midnightsunsf.com
DJ SSHaaN spins Bollywood dance hits at the intimate new South Asian LGBT nightclub. 9pm-2am. 43 6th St. at Market. www.clubomgsf.com
Thu 21
Sat 23
Cassandra Wilson @ Yoshi's
Beer Bust @ Hole in the Wall Saloon
Joe Montana
Quiz Night @ Kok Bar
Classy R&B singer-guitarist performs. $36-$45. 8pm & 10pm. Thru Feb 23. 1330 Fillmore St. 655-5600. www.yoshis.com
Beer only $8 until you bust. 4pm-8pm. 1369 Folsom St. 431-4695. www.hitws.com
Fauxgirls @ Infusion Lounge
Weekly hip hop and R&B night. $8-$15. 9pm to 4am. 510 17th St. www.bench-and-bar.com
The classy drag revue (3rd Thursdays) now in its 12th year features Victoria Secret, Alexandria, Chanel, Maria Garza, Mini Minerva, Kipper, Daffney Deluxe and Ruby LeBrowne, with special guest Anya; dinner seating at 7pm. Show at 8pm. No cover. 124 Ellis St. 421-8700. www.fauxgirls.com
32 BARHTAB • bartabsf.com • February 2013
Club Rimshot @ Bench and Bar, Oakland
Jalwa @ Club OMG
DJ SSHaaN spins a unique Bollywood dance mix at the intimate new South Asian LGBT nightclub. 9pm2am. 43 6th St. at Market. www.clubomgsf.com
Academy of Friends. See Sun 24
Sun 24 Academy of Friends Gala @ Terra
The 33rd annual Ocar-watching fundraiser takes place in the downtown gallery, with a stylish retro “Boas, Bowties and Bubbly” theme. Enjoy a silent auction, food, wine, champagne, and celebrity-watching. Proceeds benefit local AIDS/HIV nonprofits. $250-$750. 5pm-11pm. 511 Harrison St. www.academyoffriends.org
God Des and She @ El Rio
Sapphic hiphop duo perform music from their new CD at the fun club; Mamaz also performs. $7-$10. 8pm. 3158 Mission St. 282-3325. www.god-desandshe.com www.elriosf.com
God Des and She. See Sun 24
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Tommy Igoe Band @ Live at the Rrazz
Prolific drummer welcomes guest star musicians. $25. 7:30pm. 1000 Van Ness Ave. www.liveattherrazz.com
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Tue 26 Hella Gay Comedy @ Rebel
How I Came Out, comedic and touching monologues with performers, comics and queens: Tammy Powers, Justin Alan, Carrie Avritt, Yuri Kagen, Loren Kraut and Valeska Ville. Charlie Ballard hosts (Also Feb 12 with a different line-up). $10. 21+. 8pm. 1760 Market St. 431-4202. www.charlieballard.com www.rebel-sf.com The Used at the Take Action Tour. See Tue 26
Let Saigons Be Bygones @ Martuni’s
Eliza Leoni and Alex Rodrguez perform a duo parody of Miss Saigon at Ray of Light Theatre’s cabaret spotlight series. $15. 7pm. 4 Valencia St. www.rayoflighttheatre.com
Oscar® Experience @ Smith Rafael Film Center
Benefit for the California Film Institute, with food, Coppola wines, raffle and silent auction, and a screening of the Academy Awards, with official programs from the ceremony. $50-$1000. 3:30pm-11pm. 1118 Fourth St., San Rafael. 454-1222. www.oscarexperience.eventbrite.com
The Residents @ Bimbo’s
Eccentric music group know for their eye-popping costumes (get it?) perform live. $35. 21+. 8pm. 1025 Columbus Ave. 474-0365. www.bimbos365club.com
Sundance Saloon @ Space 550
It’s a special Oscar Night, as the popular country western LGBT dance night also includes a broadcast of the Academy Awards in the Green Room. $5. 6:30pm-10:30pm with lessons from 7:00 - 8:00 pm. 550 Barneveld Ave. www.sundancesaloon.org
Karel @ Live at the Rrazz
Gay comic and talk show host shares his witty world perspective. $25. 8pm. 1000 Van Ness Ave. www.liveattherrazz.com
Take Action Tour @ The Fillmore
The Used, We Came As Romans, Crown the Empire, and Mindflow perform in this nationwide music tour that benefits the It Gets Better Project. $28-$40. 7pm. 1805 Geary Blvd. takeactiontour.com/2013
Wed 27 Chi-Lites @ Live at the Rrazz
Chicago legendary soul-funk ensemble performs with Marshall Thompson. $35-$45. 8pm. Feb 28, 8pm. Mar 1 & 2, 9pm. Mar 3, 7pm. 1000 Van Ness Ave. www.liveattherrazz.com
Quiz Night @ Kok Bar
Porn dude Element Eclipse hosts a trivia game night, with prizes. 5pm-12am. 9pm-2am. 1225 Folsom St. www.kokbarsf.com
Way Back @ Midnight Sun
Weekly screenings of vintage music videos, and retro drink prices. 9pm-2am. 4067 18th St. 861-4186. www.midnightsunsf.com
Mon 25
Thu 28
Monday Musicals @ The Edge
Carrie Rodriguez @ Freight & Salvage, Berkeley
The renovated bar now shows fun musicals 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
34 BARHTAB • bartabsf.com • February 2013
Singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist performs as part of her tour, with songs from her new CD, Give Me All You Got. $20-$22.50. 8pm. 2020 Addison St., Berkeley. (510) 644-2020. www.thefreight.org
Latin Night @ The Café
Amazingly hot gogo guys, cheap drinks and DJed dance music. $5. 9pm-2am. 2369 Market St. www.cafesf.com
Carrie Rodriguez. See Thu 28
Shirts Off @ Hole in the Wall Saloon
$1 off any drink if ya doff yer shirt. 8pm-2am. 1369 Folsom St. 431-4695. www.holeinthewallsaloon.com
Tubesteak Connection @ Aunt Charlie’s Lounge
Retro tunes and fun crowd, each Thursday; DJ Bus Station John plays records. $4. 10pm-2am. 133 Turk St. at Taylor. www.auntcharlieslounge.com
Out of Africa Nightlife @ Cal. Academy of Sciences
Sample African cuisines and hear talks related to the new hall, Human Odyssey; guest lectures, special events, science art exhibits, plus food, cocktails and DJed dancing. $10-$12. 6pm-10pm, Golden Gate Park. 379-8000. www.calacademy.org To submit your March events, send by February 15 to BARtabSF@ebar.com
February 2013 • bartabsf.com • BARHTAB 35
by Jim Stewart
eBARchivef H
Valentines Day On the QT by Jim Stewart
M
y boss invited me to a Jacques Brel revue to celebrate his forty-ninth birthday. It was the 1970s when one went to Polk Strasse for dinner and cabaret. “Meet me at the QT,” he said. “It’s at 1695 Polk.” “Sure,” I said hesitantly. “It’s on me,” he added. I didn’t think that was how birthdays usually worked, but I agreed. During the 1960s, Polk Street had grown gay. Some complained; others saw financial advantages. Straight places remained empty. Gay places didn’t. The restaurant at 1695 Polk Street wasn’t making it as a straight place. In 1970 it turned gay, was tarted up, and came out as “On the QT.” It was a piano bar that offered fine dining at intimate tables where suits wined and dined T-shirts, and introduced them to the finer things in life. In the 1970s it was where Polk Gulch met Nob Hill. I parked my pickup around the corner on Clay Street in a loading zone. A scalloped, tasseled canopy welcomed me to On the QT. Potted junipers framed the door. Inside candelabras posing as flower baskets hung from the ceiling. I spotted my boss at a table with another graying man. A third at the table was young, had short curly hair, and a whisper of beard. Handsome. I was introduced around. Young Sheldon, from Brooklyn via L.A., gave me a fetching smile. Amid the clatter of china and small talk, we finished dinner. Cigarette smoke and a hint of cologne mingled with aromas of frog legs and garlic from the next table. The revue began. Jacques Brel, the Belgian singer songwriter, was popular in San Francisco, thanks in part to his friend, local poet 36 BARHTAB • bartabsf.com • February 2013
1970s cabaret piano man John Trowbridge, at On the QT.
Jose Sarria, (front, in drag) and BAR columnist Sweet Lips (second from left, back) and friends enjoy the café seating at On the QT. courtesy the GLBT Historical Society
Rod McKuen. Mixed drinks, gay chatter, and a confusing game of footsie carried us from the Brel impersonator’s You’re Not Alone, through a number of unfamiliar songs, to an encore-ending of If We Jim Stewart Only Have Love. The four of us left for the baths. The following Saturday was Valentine’s Day. I was between boyfriends. Something drew me to On the QT. Again I found a parking space in a loading zone. The place was packed. The small tables were occupied by older single men and a few May-December couples. Younger guys lounged along the crowded bar. I headed for the bar. “How you doing, Jim?” It was Sheldon, the guy from Brooklyn. “Want to take the table that just opened up?” He nodded toward the empty table at the end of the bar. I did. We talked. The hour grew late. Singles and sometimes couples drifted out. We still talked. The piano crooner with a pencil-thin mustache spotted us. “I’d like to dedicate this next Gershwin tune to the guys at the table by the bar,” the piano man said. Heads turned toward Sheldon and me. Someday he’ll come along, The man I love. And he’ll be big and strong, The man I love… On the QT was at 1695 Polk Street from 1970 to 1979 when it moved to 1312 Polk, shortened its name to QT II, and became a premier hustler bar. The Red Devil Lounge today occupies the 1695 address. ✸