Boston Spirit Sep | Oct 2015 by Boston Spirit magazine

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Fall

Arts

#LOVEWINS

Come Out for an Amazing Arts Season in New England

SPECIAL CELEBRATORY SECTION, INCLUDING READER WEDDING PHOTOS

Love Songs in Istanbul Boston Gay Men’s Chorus makes history in the Middle East

Boston Style

Fall fashion comes out in a big way with local celebs

Year Tenn in P’town Tennessee Williams past and future

16th Annual

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From The Publisher Wait….what? That was it? Summer is over? Did I blink?

I also want to let you in on a little secret …

Amazing isn’t it? It seems like it was just yesterday when we were all lining the streets of Boston for the 2015 Pride Parade. Why is it that winter seems to last forever and summer goes by so quickly. I think we need to work on reversing that trend. On the positive side, it was a great summer. We had wonderful New England weather, the streets of Boston, P’town, Ogunquit, Northampton and the rest of the area were packed with both locals and tourists, and we also had a certain little Supreme Court decision back in June that made us all smile.

Prior to our recent Summer Sunset Cruise (see the great pictures in our Scene section), I received an e-mail from a reader asking if she could take her teenage daughter on the cruise. Unfortunately, due to regulations, the cruise is 21+ so I had to give her the bad news. That conversation got me thinking … it is time for Boston Spirit to have a family event. So, coming up in January we will be holding an AMAZING event for families. We are still finalizing the details but I can tell you it is going to be great and we are very excited about it. Keep an eye out on our Facebook page and in our monthly e-mails as details will soon follow.

In celebration of that Supreme Court ruling we have a very special section in this issue of the magazine called #LoveWins. Many of you sent us your wedding photos for the section and we are thrilled to be able to show them to the world. We also have a great story on Massachusetts’ role in making marriage equality happen. Yet again we lead the way for the rest of the country!

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In the mean time, enjoy our Fall Arts Preview, our #LoveWins section, and all the rest that this issue has to offer.

David Zimmerman Publisher

Arbella Insurance BNY Mellon Boston Ballet Boston Residential Group Boston Symphony Orchestra Burns & Levinson, LLP Carpe Diem Celebrity Series Circle Furniture Club Café Destination Salem DJ Mocha Dover Rug Eastern Bank Fenway Health Fusco and Fou Gardner Mattress GLAD Harbor Hotel Provincetown Harvard Pilgrim Health Care HRC Ink Block South End Jasper White’s Summer Shack Jimmy Fund Johnny Appleseed Trail Association Keolis Landry & Arcari Lombardo’s Long’s Jewelers Lucia Lighting Macy’s Marriott Copley Place Mitchell Gold & Bob Williams Morgan Stanley Wealth Services NE Aquarium Ocean Spray Osorio Dental Group Peabody Essex Musem Portside at East Pier Rockland Trust Royal Sonesta Hotel Boston Seasons Four Seligman Dental Designs Sienna Ski Haus Staples Thought Action Tresca Troy Boston W Hotel

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As We Go To Press … Congratulations! Love wins. In the wake of such a monumental victory, words come up woefully short. So how about pictures? In this issue, we celebrate a longfought—millennial even—victory over the stigma of people who love people of the same gender. In a special section, we gather photos of the nuptials of locals. And we gather congratulatory messages from all over. “Big moment for our country. Thank you, #SCOTUS,” tweeted Massachusetts-native celebrity Ben Affleck. “I’m already happily married, and now I’m happy that my brother @ jonathanrknight can get married in this country too!” said Dorchesternative and Hollywood actor Donnie Wahlberg on his Twitter account. Finally And at Last! The Revolution Of Love has Begun!” said Madonna via Instagram.

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“I’m so happy with the SCOTUS ruling, I could kiss a man, then move in with him, start a family and eventually leave him for a younger man,” noted Conan O’Brien wryly on Twitter. Of course, there is an asterisk to this extraordinary victory. In the words of Krina Patel, the current director of legislative and political affairs at MassEquality, the organization that fought hard and successfully to uphold marriage equality in Massachusetts: “Our work is far from done.” Basic equal accommodations rights for transgender people are still not legal in Massachusetts. And there are still legal battles to be fought for marriage equality in other countries around the world. Think Uganda. And beyond politics, there are still hearts and minds to change. There are still clerks in Kentucky that refuse to recognize the new marriage laws. There are bakery owners in Indiana who don’t want to sell cakes to same-sex couples. There are people all around the world who still shake their heads at love.

As Mary Bonauto, our LGBT movement’s civil rights hero, said after the decision was announced: “No single ruling can fix the scarring prejudice and stereotypes that have plagued good people for so long.” The great news is that activists are on the case. Former GLAD Executive Director Lee Swislow talks about her new initiative in this issue, Our Tomorrow, which focusses on what’s next for LGBT equality. Beyond legislative and legal victories, there is still the battle for the hearts and minds of all of people. “We’ve created a world in which young people can come out earlier,” Swislow says. “But that doesn’t mean we’ve created a world where it feels safe to do so.” All of this is important and necessary. And it’s incredibly gratifying to know that people are working on the next important frontiers of LGBT acceptance. But for today, in the wake of such a ginormous victory, there really is only one response. Celebrate.

James Lopata Editor

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Urn-ing Success

Contents

Seasonal More Than Words

To mark the celebration of equal marriage’s full arrival, we gathered wedding photos from readers and turned to local and national LGBT organizations, and a few other notables, to hear their moving statements on this landmark moment.

SEP|OCT 2015 | VOLUME 11 | ISSUE 5

Feature In Harmony

Boston Gay Men’s Chorus returns from history‑making tour of the Middle East

Ricardo’s List Holy Hot Style

Fitting into ‘T’

How We Got Here

‘Winning Marriage’ is a people’s history of the fight for marriage equality Lillian Faderman’s ‘The Gay Revolution’ is both sweeping and nuanced

Isn’t it Rich?

Drive for Victory Golf Tournament 85 Boston Spirit Boat Cruise 86 CRI’s Summer Party 89

A New Home For a Great Actor

America’s Shakespeare

Culture ‘A Little Night Music’ opens the Huntington’s new season SpeakEasy snags seasoned New York actor Bryan T. Donovan to star in season opener

The Tennessee Williams Festival in Provincetown looks forward and back

MIT’s Dr. John Southard comes out as cross-dresser in local documentary

Fitting into ‘T’

Finally, Movies Find Lesbians

Get ready for ‘Grandma,’ ‘Freeheld’ and ‘Carol’ in theaters (and at the Oscars?)

Roadmap to Social Justice

Scene

Come out, come out, wherever you are

8 10 12 14 16

Fall Arts

Spotlight Hit List Hot Mama Tomorrow’s Forecast Urn-ing Success From the Blogs

#LoveWins

Finally, Movies Find Lesbians

Calendar New England Events

Coda Does Cho Sound Gay?

Queer comedian comes to Boston’s Wilbur Theatre

Does Cho Sound Gay?

SPOTLIGHT Trending STORY Scott Kearnan

Hit List NEWS, NOTES AND TO-DOS FOR EVERY GAY AGENDA Clinton herself was quite a fan of the clip, and invited Well Strung to perform at her July fundraiser in Provincetown, where the gay group is a summertime fixture. Known for mixing classical with Katy Perry, Well Strung also releases a new album, “POPssical,” in October. More: wellstrung.com.

Kevin Jennings

GIVE A SALUTE to

Well Strung with Hillary Clinton

THANK Massachusetts

NOTCH UP A trans rights victory in Connecticut, which

legislators, who in July voted to increase funding for HIV/ AIDS prevention and care to $33.1 million for fiscal year 2016, the first increase since 2008. In Massachusetts new infection rates have plateaued at about 700 annually, but one demo is seeing an increase: gay and bi men, who in 2012 represented 46% of new HIV infections diagnoses in the Bay State (up from 33% in 2003). “This renewed investment in fighting HIV/AIDS will help the state break through that plateau and get to zero new infections,” said AIDS Action Committee executive director Carl Sciortino. More: aac.org.

recently became the eighth state to allow residents to change the gender listed on their birth certificate without first undergoing a surgery. Starting October 1, trans people will need to offer proof from a health care provider that they have had “clinically appropriate” treatment, but surgery is not required. GLAD has issued a toolkit with background info and guidance for trans people interested in obtaining a new birth certificate. More: glad.org

CHECK OUT The viral video

created by hunky string quartet Well Strung, “Chelsea’s Mom,” a pro-Hillary parody set to the tune of the Fountains of Wayne hit “Stacy’s Mom.”

Shawn MacIver and James Moccia and, who over the summer became the first gay couple in the country to graduate from a police academy together. MacIver and Moccia, whose father and brother are also cops, graduated from the same Boston Police Academy class in June. “At the Boston Police Department, there’s a seat at the table for everybody. The more diverse we are, the stronger we can be,” said BPD commissioner William Evans in a statement.

STUDY UP on what Jamaica Plain’s John F. Kennedy STEM Innovation School is doing right. Over the summer the elementary school was awarded the “Seal of Excellence” by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation, given to schools

that “have shown an exemplary commitment ensuring safe and accepting” classrooms, according to a statement. The Boston public school implements the Welcoming Schools Approach, an HRCdeveloped, suite of professional development tools and resources designed to embrace LGBT students and families

PUBLISHER David Zimmerman EDITOR IN CHIEF James A. Lopata MANAGING EDITOR Robert Phelps [rob@bostonspiritmagazine.com] ART DIRECTOR Dean Burchell CONTRIBUTING LIFESTYLE EDITOR Scott Kearnan [lifestyle@bostonspiritmagazine.com] CONTRIBUTING ARTS EDITOR Loren King CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Joel Benjamin, Melissa Ostrow ON THE WEB [bostonspiritmagazine.com] TALK TO US [feedback@bostonspiritmagazine.com] EDITORIAL CONTACT [editor@bostonspiritmagazine.com] PUBLISHING AND SALES CONTACT [publisher@bostonspiritmagazine.com or 781-223-8538] COVER PHOTO BalletBoyz by George Piper THE FINE PRINT Boston Spirit magazine. A Division of Jake Publishing,

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LLC Published by Jake Publishing, LLC. Copyright 2004 by Jake Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this periodical may be reproduced without the written permission of Boston Spirit magazine. Neither the publishers nor the advertisers will be held responsible for any errors found in the magazine. The publishers accept no liability for the accuracy of statements made by advertisers. Publication of the name or photograph of any person, organization or business in this magazine does not reflect upon one’s sexual orientation in any way. Boston Spirit Magazine, 398 Columbus Ave #395, Boston, MA 02116

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FALL IN LOVE WITH YOUR SMILE

Shania LeClaire Riviere

and combat gender- and sexuality-based bullying.

PICK UP a copy of “One Teacher in Ten in the New Millennium,” the latest edition of the series about LGBT educators by GLSEN founder Kevin Jennings. Jennings, a Harvard grad, founded the country’s very first GayStraight Alliance at Concord Academy in Massachusetts in 1988. This latest installment of “One Teacher in Ten” pays particular attention to voices that were less represented in the earlier installments, including those of transgender people, people of color, and teachers from rural school districts. More: beacon.org. GET TO KNOW Shania

LeClaire Riviere, a painter, photographer and drag fusion artist whose experimental

style has recently been seen during “Art on Shania,” a venue-hopping, walking installation project presented during Provincetown’s biweekly Art Gallery Stroll. The artist recently released a photography book, “Out The Window,” and has been invited to a 2016 art residency at Et Alors?, a workspace for queer artists in Frigiliana, Spain. Shania, also known as Shane Adams, resides in North Truro with his husband. More: shanialeclaireriviere.com.

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SPOTLIGHT Food STORY Scott Kearnan

Hot Mama A-LIST ‘TOP CHEF’ STAR TIFFANI FAISON READIES HER NEW RESTAURANT She’s ready to roar. If all goes according to plan, fans of out “Top Chef” alum Tiffani Faison will have some new prowling grounds very soon. In October Faison is slated to open Tiger Mama, her new Southeast Asian restaurant, at 1368 Boylston Street. It’s only a few doors down from Faison’s existing restaurant, Sweet Cheeks Q—but unlike the highquality American barbecue served there, Tiger Mama’s plates are inspired by more far-flung destinations that inhabit a special place in the toque’s heart. “The first trip I ever took with Kelly was to Thailand,” says Faison, referring to her now-wife Kelly Walsh. “We had just started dating. I didn’t know if I believed in ‘the one,’ but I knew that if there was ‘the one’ she would be it. So I think I was probably trying to sabotage things.” She laughs. Instead, that early vacation not only solidified her love for Walsh, but for Southeast Asian cuisines that the couple have rediscovered together on revisits. “Everything just blew the back of our heads off. The food is so sharp, so dynamic,” says Faison, who will place special emphasis on Thai, Vietnamese and Malaysian cookery at Tiger Mama. Expect a menu that features “banquet”-style large-format dishes alongside a vaster array of snacks and mediumsized plates meant for sharing. Many will be Faison’s riffs on Southeast Asian street foods, from pad thai to khao man gai, a traditional chicken and rice dish. (“It was the first thing we ate when we got off the plane,” says Faison.) Faison is excited to share her passion for the cuisine via her own stylistic spins. “Authenticity” isn’t something she’s striving for, she says—and neither is “appropriation.” “We’re being careful to not appropriate culture,” says Faison. “Tiger Mama is about being respectful of the flavors and presenting them in a beautiful way. But it’s still the food interpreted through my eyes. That’s the only way I know how to do it.” Faison has appeared on TV’s “Top Chef” franchise three times, and placed runner-up twice: in the show’s first season, and again on last year’s spinoff “Top Chef Duels.”

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Tiffani Faison She opened Sweet Cheeks Q in 2011 and the restaurant was an instant hit, scoring national notice from foodie outlets like “Food & Wine.” But Faison resisted biting off more than she could chew, and jumping on offers that other fame-seeking star chefs chomp at. Since then she’s concentrated on making Sweet Cheeks, her first venture as a restaurant owner, hum along as a business – and on giving back to her LGBT community, turning up at fundraisers for Maura Healey or pitching in for MassEquality through its Taste of Provincetown series. “This is a marathon, not a sprint,” says Faison of her slow-and-steady ambitions. Tiger Mama came about because she was “hungry for a new challenge,” and scoring a

vacant space mere steps from Sweet Cheeks was too good an opportunity to pass up. “That I can be on the same block taking care of both my restaurants is pretty extraordinary.” When doors open at Tiger Mama, expect a “modern tropical” vibe with two (!) bars for a cool, creative cocktail program. As for the name? You can think Faison’s wife for that. “She said, ‘You’re kind of a Tiger Mama in the kitchen,’” chuckles Faison. “And it’s true. I want the best for my kids, and I push them to give their best.” If taste buds could talk, they’d say: Thank you. [x]

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SPOTLIGHT Civil Rights STORY Scott Kearnan

Tomorrow’s Forecast FORMER GLAD DIRECTOR LEE SWISLOW IS LEADING OUR TOMORROW, A CAMPAIGN TO SHAPE THE FUTURE OF THE LGBTQ MOVEMENT There are many issues that face the LGBT community, but in recent years the specific fight for equal marriage has dominated the efforts of many major civil rights organizations—and garnered the greatest amount of mainstream attention to boot. That fiery focus certainly worked, and culminated with June’s Supreme Court decision

that made equal marriage the law of the land in all 50 states. When it comes to legal recognition of same-sex couples, we fought, we won, and now we wonder: What’s next? That’s the question that Our Tomorrow seeks to answer. Launched in May, Our Tomorrow is a campaign that brings together over 100 LGBT

organizations from across the country in a collaborative effort to connect with queer individuals to hear personal stories and political concerns that can inform the future direction of Our Tomorrow partners—from national bigwigs like GLAAD and PFLAG to regional outfits like Pride Center of Vermont and SAGE (Services & Advocacy for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual & Transgender Elders) Rhode Island. Through social media outreach, town hall meetings and other efforts, Our Tomorrow is crowdsourcing information on the fears, hopes and dreams that LGBT people hold—and what it finds could shape the future of a movement. And helping to lead the campaign is Lee Swislow, a familiar face who has long helped shape the movement in Massachusetts—and by extension, across the country. Swislow served as executive director of GLAD from 2005 to 2014, during which time the Boston-based legal advocacy organization led the fight to bring down the federal Defense

of Marriage Act (DOMA) and won milestone victories in New England courts. After retiring from GLAD, Swislow spent a short stint as the interim executive director of the small nonprofit Centering Healthcare (and enjoyed plenty of well-deserved relaxation at a home in Truro). But she began working with Our Tomorrow during its planning stages as she was transitioning out of GLAD—and now that the initiative is up and running she’s lending her experience as the campaign manager. The “genesis” of Our Tomorrow came in the wake of DOMA’s fall, says Swislow. “There was a lot of stuff in the mainstream media that suggested the fight for LGBT equality was done. I think a lot of people involved in LGBTQ issues started to worry that major funders of the movement and organizations weren’t considering the unimaginably important work that still needed to get done. We asked, ‘How can we change that narrative to make sure that the mainstream media and people in our community

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Lee Swislow who might think that we’re done know that isn’t true?’” To that end, Our Tomorrow has collected feedback from thousands of LGBT people across America through its website’s “Story Wall” and various social media channels (visitors can up-vote certain experiences if it’s one to which they relate); it has produced slick, compelling videos that feature ordinary queer people sharing their hopes and apprehensions; and it has conducted meta-analysis of over 100 research studies related to LGBT life in order to collect pertinent community info. (For instance, the average age of coming-out is now 16 years old, compared to 21 in 1981. Only 32% of LGBTQ people own their own homes, compared to 65% of their peers.) Ultimately, the result of Our Tomorrow’s outreach is a sobering reminder that equal legal rights do not necessarily translate into equal experiences. “We’ve created a world in which young people can come out earlier. But that doesn’t mean we’ve created a world where it feels safe to do so.” Our Tomorrow is funded by a handful of philanthropic endeavors, like the LGBT-focused Arcus Foundation and Johnson Family Foundation. Though the movement’s priorities are evolving, Swislow says she’d still love to work toward a future where LGBT rights orgs succeed to the point where they put themselves out of business.

“I think that’s a great goal for a lot of organizations in our community to have. I have so much respect for Freedom to Marry,” says Swislow. That vital NYC-headquartered national organization, founded in 2003 by Harvard Law alum (and former Harvard College professor) Evan Wolfson, arguably the pioneer of the same-sex marriage movement, announced in July that it would dismantle in the wake of the Supreme Court victory. “That was an organization that formed with one goal—and that the goal has been achieved, he [Wolfson] is working to end the organization.” But of course, not all victories arrive neatly packaged as court victories, which have a cut-anddry sense of finality attached. Other goals are less tangible and more fluid—and they require a movement that is willing to recognize them and evolve to make sure that every job gets done. By mobilizing grassroots engagement and allowing partner orgs to use what’s gleaned to inform their work, Our Tomorrow hopes to make that happen. “Legal protection against workplace discrimination can’t protect you from a bad boss,” says Swislow by way of example. “Something like a nondiscrimination bill has a discrete life; when it passes, that’s satisfying. But legal equality does not mean full equality.”

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With more work, maybe it will—tomorrow. [x]

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SPOTLIGHT Business STORY Scott Kearnan

Timothy and Scott

Urn-ing Success FOR HUSBANDS SCOTT AND TIM WALLINGFORD MACKENZIE, RUNNING THE FAMILY BUSINESS IS A MATTER OF LIFE AND DEATH. Literally. The happy, handsome couple have the easy, breezy charm of a dynamic duo you might find running a South End boutique or P’town bed & breakfast. Nope. In this case, the family business is MacKenzie Vault, a Western Mass-based pioneer in the manufacturing of memorial urns for cremated remains. Industrialized trades involving end of life rites—where organized religion plays a significant role—aren’t the most likely spot to find a merry gay couple working side by side. But besides carrying on a family tradition, this modern marriage is helping minds open and attitudes change in one corner of the generally conservative multi-billion dollar funeral industry. As jobs go, it’s a pretty good conversation starter too. “You know when you’re traveling and the person next to you on the airplane asks, ‘What do you do?’ This is the kind of job where you really gauge your response,” chuckles Scott, who traded a career in hightech PR for the family business back in the early Aughties. “Sometimes you tell the truth. Other times you just say, ‘Oh—I’m a consultant,’” laughs Tim, who joined him in the business a few years after the couple met at a house party

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in 2008. Today Scott is Mackenzie Vault’s president, Tim the project manager. Manufacturing cremation urns may not be the kind of work you talk about with strangers on a plane—or over Sunday brunch mimosas—but there’s plenty reason to feel proud about the company’s place in industry history. MacKenzie Vault is rooted in the work of Scott’s great-grandfather John, who entered the funeral industry around 1897 after immigrating to Nova Scotia from Scotland. A woodworker and blacksmith, John MacKenzie began building funeral coaches and wooden caskets. His sons trained in embalming and eventually entered the funeral home business, though Robert MacKenzie, Scott’s grandfather, wound up transiting into the manufacturing of urns to fill a need for attractive, thoughtful memorials within the then-niche cremation market. (Mackenzie Vault even wound up inventing the very first cultured marble urn.) Fast-forward more than half a century, and the family business is much bigger— and booming. According to the National Funeral Directors Association, cremation rates nationwide have risen from about 3.6% in the 1960s to over 40%. Changing more slowly, says Scott, is the culture of the funeral industry, which is still dominated by “old white guys” that, especially in less

progressive states, skew conservative. (The National Funeral Directors Association still starts its conferences with a morning prayer, says Scott.) But as in all areas, the power of coming out has the power to transform. The couple married in 2012 in a picture-perfect wedding profiled by “Boston magazine.” Beforehand, most of the crew at MacKenzie Vault’s 20,000-square foot manufacturing facility knew the deal. (“I mean, we came to work every morning in the same car,” chuckles Tim.) But rings on fingers made it pretty clear—and so does their active involvement in New England’s gay community. “It’s not a romantic place,” says Scott of the factory. “It’s the kind of place where you smell the plastic burning; a real workingclass environment.” But the shop’s crew has been behind the duo all the way; “even the straightest guys have a blast coming to a gay bar” now and then, says Scott. The company even flew an HRC flag outside the factory after the fall of DOMA and in the wake of June’s Supreme Court decision affirming gay marriage. And on the national side, they’ve found that being out has opened up conversations with industry folks around the country—and for the most part, initial surprise leads to acceptance. Sometimes, in fact, even revelation. “Once we came out, everyone came out. I feel like we popped the cork on the convention circuit,” laughs Scott. “There’s definitely a gay funeral industry mafia out there.” And ‘til death do they part. [x]

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SPOTLIGHT News COMPILED Rob Phelps

Alison Bechdel’s Broadway musical wins 5 Tonys

From the Blogs HILLARY CLINTON MAKES A WELLTIMED VISIT TO PROVINCETOWN Hillary Clinton came out for LGBT rights at a fundraiser in Provincetown only a week after the US Supreme Court’s landmark ruling that made marriage equality the law of the land, and in just a few hours the 325 attendees, mostly locals or supporters with strong Provincetown ties, added more than $502,000 to Clinton’s campaign. According to Alix Ritchie, former owner of the Provincetown Banner, who co-hosted the event with party planner Bryan Rafanelli: “Clinton used every second of her address not just to electrify the crowd, but also to impress upon them the depth of her emotional assessment of the actual process that had ultimately brought her here to Provincetown. … In a rousing and at times moving speech, Clinton spoke of LGBT equality — both celebrating the recent Supreme Court decision and talking about the plight of so many LGBT individuals who still face crushing discrimination — which drew sustained applause from the crowd. She urged everyone to think about all the people who cannot be here, and the struggle these people face every day. She got a huge hand.”

US NAVY TO REEVALUATE DISCHARGE POLICY FOR TRANSGENDER SERVICE PEOPLE Transgender personnel serving in the US Navy may soon see a significant boost in job security. The news came in an official statement that announced a reevaluation of exactly who gets to decide when and for what reason a transgender serviceperson may be discharged. A June 17 Stars and Stripes article reported that: “’[T]he Navy is looking to elevate the administrative separation authority for transgendered personnel to ensure that this important issue receives the right level of review,’ Navy spokesman Lt. Cmdr. Ed Early said in a statement Tuesday. ‘Any proposed changes would not affect the level of discharge authority for other instances of administrative separation.’ There is no timeline for a decision, Early added. If the Navy takes such a step, it would leave the Marine Corps as the only service to not change its policy. ‘The Marine Corps is not currently reviewing changes to the decision-making authorities for the involuntary separation of any of our Marines,’ according to a statement in response to a Stars and Stripes query. The military formerly mandated administrative separation

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for servicemembers known to be transgender, until changes to Pentagon personnel regulations in 2014 granted the services leeway.

FENWAY HELPING PARENTS SUPPORT THEIR LGBTQ TEENAGERS OF COLOR The Boston-based Fenway Institute is reaching out to families of color through a new program called the Engaging Parents Project and is seeking participants for a mutually beneficial study: the parents gain support and learn positive ways to engage with their LGBTQ children while the Fenway learns how to better serve the community we share. According to a recent Fenway Focus press release: ‘When parents are uncomfortable with their children being LGBT, or in unchartered territory, the whole family can end up feeling isolated and stressed.’

Boston Spirit magazine arts editor Loren King wrote in Boston Spirit magazine’s May/ June 2015 issue:

US Navy to reevaluate discharge policy for transgender service people. (Retired Navy SEAL Kristin Beck, born Christopher T. Beck, receives a plaque from DIA Director Lt. Gen. Michael Flynn following a Pride Month event at the agency. Photo courtesy US Defense Intelligence Agency) said Kerith Conron, Research Scientist at The Fenway Institute. ‘We believe that if parents have more opportunities and resources for support, it will benefit parents, youth, and the whole family.’ Participants are eligible if their child is 13-17 and is lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or uncertain about their sexual orientation or gender. Eligible parents receive $50 for participation in a one-hour confidential research interview. For details call or text 617-804-5436 or e-mail parent@fenwayhealth.org.

18 | BOSTON SPIRIT

ALISON BECHDEL’S BROADWAY MUSICAL WINS 5 TONYS “Fun Home,” the Broadway musical based on the graphic memoir of Vermont’s Alison Bechdel (“Dykes to Watch Out For”) won five Tony Awards at the June 7 ceremony, including Best Musical, Best Book of a Musical, Best Original Score of a Musical, Best Director of a Musical and Best Actor in a Musical.

“Based on the acclaimed graphic memoir by Alison Bechdel, ‘Fun Home’ is a coming of age/ coming out story centered on a young lesbian wrestling with her own identity, a closeted gay father, Bruce Bechdel (Michael Cerveris) who runs a funeral home and has secret affairs and a mother, Helen Bechdel (Judy Kuhn) who prefers denial to confronting reality. In the musical, three different actresses play Alison at various ages. The songs come courtesy of veteran Broadway composer and four-time Tony nominee Jeanine Tesori and book and lyrics writer Lisa Kron, the Tony-nominated actress and former member of the stage troupe The Five Lesbian Brothers. Tesori and Kron share Bechdel’s sensibility and life experience of growing up in the ’60 and ‘70s.” [x]

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PHOTO Thomas L. Collins III

Images from the Boston Gay Men’s Chorus’ tour of the Middle-East, including Israel and Turkey IMG_1838.JPG

PHOTO Thomas L. Collins III

PHOTO Michael Leclerc

20 | BOSTON SPIRIT

PHOTO Izzy Berdan

FEATURE Performance STORY Scott Kearnan

In Harmony Boston Gay Men’s Chorus returns from history‑making tour of the Middle East What a difference a day makes. On June 26, 2015 the members of the Boston Gay Men’s Chorus were in Istanbul, in the midst of the first-ever tour of the Middle East by a gay chorus. News came in: America’s Supreme Court had ruled that marriage equality would be the law of the land in all 50 states. There were tears of joy. “It was one of the most joyous moments of my life. I met my husband in the Chorus,” says Crosby, a member of the BGMC’s board of directors. “We sing next to each other in every concert. The last paragraph of Justice Kennedy’s decision was stunning in its simplicity, beauty and humanity. We all just hugged each other.” It was an exciting moment. On June 27, 2015 the members of the Boston Gay Men’s Chorus performed at Istanbul’s Bogacizi University, which had stepped in to host their concert after a previously contracted venue, The Zorlu Center, cancelled ticket sales under pressure from anti-gay forces. The show must go on, so after an outpouring of emotional offers from other locations, the BGMC closed its free, open-air show at Bogacizi with Katy Perry’s “Firework”—during which they were joined onstage by Charles Hunter, the out and married US Consul General in Istanbul. “I’ll never forget this one gay kid, maybe 18 years-old, waif-life and effeminate, who bounced up to me before the concert and said ‘Thank you for being here, this is so important to me,’” recalls BGMC executive director Craig Coogan. “At the end of ‘Firework,’ he pushed himself to the front row, dancing with his whole body, and ran up to me, throwing his arms around me and squeezing me, with tears running down his face.” It was an inspiring moment. Then: On June 28, 2015 the members of the Boston Gay Men’s Chorus were preparing

“ Having a policeman in my face telling me that the parade had just been cancelled, and that if we tried to enter Taksim Square the police would use water canons, rubber bullets and tear gas to turn us away.” Reuben M. Reynolds BGMC music director

to march in Istanbul Pride when they learned that Turkish authorities had suddenly revoked the event’s permit— ostensibly because Pride coincided with Ramadan. (Though it had in years past, without issue.) There was threat of violence: Turkish police blockaded the city’s Taksim Square armed with rubber bullets, tear gas and water cannons—weapons that, as haunting news photos would later show, were indeed used on those who attempted to gather. Chorus members were crestfallen; many cried. This was to be the climax of a history-making tour to inspire unity and love. How had hugs turned to threats? How had singing turned to shouting? “Having a policeman in my face telling me that the parade had just been cancelled, and that if we tried to enter Taksim Square the police would use water canons, rubber bullets and tear gas to turn us away, was one of the most horrifying experiences of my life,” says longtime BGMC music director Reuben M. Reynolds III. “I was not scared of their threatened actions—what horrified me was that the government felt they had the right to do this to me just because I am gay. Many of us have forgotten—or never knew—what it is like to truly fight for our rights.” Indeed, as successes grow in our corner of the globe, the wider world—and our

PHOTOS Thomas L. Collins III, Michael Leclerc, Izzy Berdan, Izzy Berdan

SEP|OCT 2015 | 21

larger LGBT community—has a long way to go to attain full, complete harmony. And that is exactly why the BGMC went on tour in the first place. “When I came to Boston and took this job, we went through a whole strategic planning process. Boston is about as gay-friendly as it comes, so it raised the question: If we’re not fighting against or for something, why are we relevant? What is our point?” explains Coogan, who joined as exec director in 2012. “Well, our point is to tell our stories to others.” For the BGMC, advocacy through art is nothing new. After all, this is the same chorus that in 2004, during a constitutional convention that threatened to quash the Supreme Judicial Court’s ruling in favor of equal marriage in Massachusetts, hand-delivered CDs of the song “Marry Us” to legislators. (Vocal chords have a way of plucking at heartstrings.) Nor is it the first time that the chorus has taken its message abroad. In 2005, 120 chorus members took part in a European tour to Berlin, Germany; Prague, Czech Republic; and Wroclaw, Poland, where the BGMC—the first gay chorus to perform

PHOTO Thomas L. Collins III, Thomas L. Collins III, Izzy Berdan

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in that country—received a particularly hostile reception. There, a right-wing group that had pressured for the cancellation of the Chorus’s concert threatened to buy out the venue; angry protestors yelled anti-gay slurs as members, protected by police escorts armed with riot gear, arrived at the venue. In many respects the experience was frightening—but it was also enlightening and informative. “After the Boston Marathon bombings I started thinking how little most of us knew about other parts of the world and about other religions. I thought back to our tour of Europe 10 years ago and how much it changed us,” explains Reynolds of how the subsequent idea to tour the Middle East came about. “We came home from that experience with a much greater knowledge of—and empathy for—people and traditions we had never known before. It seemed to me that if we could do the same thing again—get to know people and their traditions—that we in our own small way could begin to open a dialogue aimed at understanding a people totally foreign to us and, at the same time, begin to help them understand us.”

And in fact, compared to the group’s experiences in Poland, the climate that greeted the BGMC through most of its Middle East experience was warm and welcoming, say members. During the first part of the two-week Middle East tour the chorus visited Israel, where the BGMC became the first gay chorus to perform in the kibbutz of Ein Gedi, a majestic oasis at the shore of the Dead Sea; Tel Aviv, where they appeared on Israeli TV News and visited the Tel Aviv Gay Center; and Jerusalem, where their concert benefited the Jerusalem Open House for Pride and Tolerance, an organization providing direct services to the area’s LGBT population. It was when the group arrived in Istanbul that tensions began to mount. The Zorlu Center’s about-face weeks earlier hinted at the resistance to a gay chorus from the country’s conservative ideologues. But the rescheduled concert at Bogacizi went off without a hitch—albeit under the usual personal security detail arranged by ACFEA, the international tour consultants who also arranged logistics for BGMC’s 2005 European outing— and chorus members were struck by the

“ But I looked out at an audience of thousands of people who showed up, and it wasn’t just the activists, but husbands and wives with their kids. It was an incredibly diverse, progressive audience.” Craig Coogan BGMC executive director

warmth of its Istanbul audience, which wasn’t even a strictly LGBT crowd. “I had this prejudice going in that there was going to be a huge turnout of really activist LGBTs, ‘We’re here to change the world’-type people. Sort of a version of 1960s American activism,” says Coogan. “But I looked out at an audience of thousands of people who showed up, and it wasn’t just the activists, but husbands and

wives with their kids. It was an incredibly diverse, progressive audience.” Though, of course, it still meant most to certain folks. “I’ll never forget one gay man who came up tell me in his broken English that he flew from Jordan to Istanbul because it was so important for him to be a part of this.” After that joyous performance, the BGMC wasn’t prepared for the events of the next morning, when they arrived to Taksim Square to march in Istanbul Pride and were told in no uncertain terms that Turkish forces had pulled the plug. “All of a sudden this wall of police officers in combat gear cut us off. Honestly, my first thought was, ‘Oh look, we have a police escort!’ How dramatically that changed,” says chorus member Izzy Berdan. “Our translator ran to the front and was chatting with the police officers. They told him that as of this morning there was no permit, and that if we didn’t go back they had tear gas and rubber bullets. We could be detained. I’m just standing there thinking, ‘I don’t know what to do.’” [x]

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“ Style is knowing who you are, what you want to say, and not giving a damn. ” Gore Vidal

Ricardo’s List Hot Style

These Bostonians have style, tons of style, and they are smart, successful, talented, inspiring, and darn good people. So let’s celebrate them because style is more than what the eye meets. Ricardo Rodriguez

Is a celebrated and award-winning real estate and lifestyle expert based in Boston. He regularly appears in local and national TV shows, contributes to various publications in the areas of real estate, home, living and fashion, and is a tireless advocate and supporter of many and various charitable causes.

Suhail Kwatra

33, Fashion Stylist WHAT IS “STYLE” TO YOU? An outward expression of my inner self. WHAT THINGS ARE IMPORTANT TO YOU IN LIFE? Health, family, friends, faith, motivation and a positive mind. OF WHAT ACCOMPLISHMENTS ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? I watched a Frontline documentary on PBS about disadvantaged kids. It made me realize how fortunate I am and inspired me to do my part. When I received a letter of thanks from one of the families, I was thrilled to have made a difference in someone’s life. That meant a lot to me. IF YOU WERE STRANDED ON A DESERT ISLAND AND CAN ONLY BRING FIVE THINGS FROM YOUR CLOSET—WHAT DO YOU TAKE? Sunglasses, a cashmere poncho, Lululemon yoga pants, Chanel espadrilles, and my oversized Balenciaga travel tote.

SEP|OCT 2015 | 25

Courtney Spitz

44, Managing Director

Miriam Gallardo

50, Consulting Technology Executive WHAT IS “STYLE” TO YOU? CS: Style is unique to each person and for me it is a creative outlet.

26 | BOSTON SPIRIT

MG: Style is an outward expression of you. Your body language, the way you walk & carry yourself, the activities you do combined with the way you dress define your style. WHAT THINGS ARE IMPORTANT TO YOU IN LIFE? CS: Family and friends fill my soul; empathy, kindness & positivity; achieving gender equality in my lifetime. MG: Family & friends and finding ways to share as many moments with them. And giving back to the community having a wellbalanced giving approach. OF WHAT ACCOMPLISHMENTS ARE YOU MOST PROUD? CS: Wonderful 19 years with my incredible partner in life. MG: 19 years with this amazing woman next to me. IF YOU COULD HAVE ANY TV OR MOVIE CHARACTER’S WARDROBE, WHOSE WOULD YOU CHOSE AND WHY? CS: Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman—who doesn’t love a glamorous red gown! IF YOU WERE STRANDED ON A DESERT ISLAND AND COULD ONLY BRING FIVE THINGS FROM YOUR CLOSET—WHAT DO YOU TAKE? MG: My aviators, my white & blue striped poncho, a blanket, a towel, white linen pants & shirt, beach shoes, and my wetsuit. I know it’s more than five, but it is a desert island!

Joseph Gordon Cleveland

30, Consultant WHAT IS “STYLE” TO YOU? A form of self-expression; a superficial sort of armor. WHAT THINGS ARE IMPORTANT TO YOU IN LIFE? Music (particularly of the Classical, Blues and Folk variety), art, self-awareness, growth in my personal and professional lives, and, most of all, my motley lot of inspiring friends who both challenge and support me. OF WHAT ACCOMPLISHMENTS ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? Pride is a sin not a virtue, but that said, probably the Emmy nomination I received while working as a producer for the now-defunct WCVB program styleboston. I didn’t win. but I did learn to trust my instincts. IF YOU WERE STRANDED ON A DESERT ISLAND AND CAN ONLY BRING FIVE THINGS FROM YOUR CLOSET—WHAT DO YOU TAKE? The blue Yohji Yamamoto coat I’m wearing here because it was a gift from a dear friend who passed away. My black python-skin attaché case because it’s absurd. My small Marc Jacobs padlock necklace which is inscribed with a sort of mantra: Don’t Fuck With My Shit. A pair of black skinny jeans that were splattered with paint by Tatutina for Daniela Corte. A small, incredibly simple gold band that I wear on my pinky finger. It’s a family heirloom ... borrowed from one of my closest friends.

SEP|OCT 2015 | 27

Ky Ly

28, Bartender WHAT IS “STYLE” TO YOU? It is identifying; an expression, an assertion, a construct that communicates self. WHAT THINGS ARE IMPORTANT TO YOU IN LIFE? Chances, second chances, the stains and marks life garners. OF WHAT ACCOMPLISHMENTS ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? Being content at not having all the answers; being content waiting for the answer to this. IF YOU WERE STRANDED ON A DESERT ISLAND AND COULD ONLY BRING FIVE THINGS FROM YOUR CLOSET—WHAT DO YOU TAKE? Lip chap. That’s it.

28 | BOSTON SPIRIT

Bryan Rafanelli

371 (in dog years), Chief Creative Officer of Rafanelli Events WHAT IS STYLE TO YOU? It’s the total combination of the way you dress, talk, move your body, or do anything for that matter. Simply put, it’s how we express our inner being outwardly. Everything on the outside is merely a reflection of what’s on the inside. WHAT THINGS ARE IMPORTANT TO YOU IN LIFE? Kindness, respect, fairness, love, change. OF WHAT ACCOMPLISHMENT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? Taking 26 minutes off my Boston Marathon time from 2014 to 2015 and raising over $100,000 for Massachusetts General Hospital Pediatric Cancer Center. YOU’RE STRANDED ON A DESERT ISLAND AND CAN ONLY BRING FIVE THINGS FROM YOUR CLOSET — WHAT DO YOU TAKE Running shoes, Tiffany Gold knot cuff links and studs (a gift from my best friend), Gold Hill Blazer lapel pin given to me by the Hillary for America Campaign for raising over $100,000 for her Primary Race for President—Go Hillary!, Swim Trunks, 100th Anniversary Cartier Watch (a gift from my mentor for my 50th birthday).

SEP|OCT 2015 | 29

Deb Rodrigues

25, Sales WHAT IS “STYLE” TO YOU?

Style is not about trends, designer things, or what the latest celeb is wearing. To me, style is the confidence you exude with whatever you have on. WHAT THINGS ARE IMPORTANT TO YOU IN LIFE? Love, family, and faith are most important to me. OF WHAT ACCOMPLISHMENTS ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? My most proud accomplishment to date is moving to Boston and becoming an “adult”, almost. I am becoming the person I want to be, and Boston has a great assist in that. IF YOU COULD HAVE ANY TV OR MOVIE CHARACTER’S WARDROBE, WHOSE WOULD YOU CHOSE AND WHY? It would be a toss up between Carrie Bradshaw from Sex and The City and Mathilda in Léon: The Professional. Carrie because she is the epitome of timeless femininity, and Mathilda because her 90’s tomboy look with a dash of girly is totally me!

30 | BOSTON SPIRIT

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Melissa Ferrick

44, Singer Songwriter WHAT IS “STYLE” TO YOU? A reflection of myself. WHAT THINGS ARE IMPORTANT TO YOU IN LIFE? Family and being of service. OF WHAT ACCOMPLISHMENTS ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? Surviving as an artist. IF YOU WERE STRANDED ON A DESERT ISLAND AND COULD ONLY BRING FIVE THINGS FROM YOUR CLOSET—WHAT DO YOU TAKE? My favorite pair of GStar jeans, a white V-neck t-shirt, a black cashmere sweater, my bucks and my Barbour jacket.

Justin A. L. Waithe 35, Fashion Management/ Wardrober WHAT IS “STYLE” TO YOU? Expression. WHAT THINGS ARE IMPORTANT TO YOU IN LIFE? My family (I am who I am because of them). OF WHAT ACCOMPLISHMENTS ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? Being featured at Holiday at the Pops as a soloist with Boston Symphony Orchestra and Tanglewood Festival Chorus conducted by Maestro John Williams. IF YOU COULD HAVE ANY TV OR MOVIE CHARACTER’S WARDROBE, WHOSE WOULD YOU CHOSE AND WHY? Pierce Brosnan’s character in The Thomas Crown Affair understood his body and dressed it well. No matter the location, his look was cohesive between function and fashion.

SEP|OCT 2015 | 33

Ava GlassCott 24, Hair & Makeup Artist/ Model WHAT IS “STYLE” TO YOU? Style to me is art. Telling a story every time you are wearing something. WHAT THINGS ARE IMPORTANT TO YOU IN LIFE? To be successful. And my relationship to my mother and my best friend Kiki.

OF WHAT ACCOMPLISHMENTS ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? Graduating cosmetology school, and my career. IF YOU COULD HAVE ANY TV OR MOVIE CHARACTER’S WARDROBE, WHOSE WOULD YOU CHOSE AND WHY? Oh that’s such an easy question… of course all of the girls from Sex and The City. I would love to have Carrie’s shoe collection!

Shot On Location: TheLucasBoston.com Rugs and Accessories: Mohr-Mcpherson.com Make-Up: Tavi de la Rosa Hair: Bianca Beaumont for Salon Mario Russo Set Styling: Taylor Greeley for Team Artist Canine Model: Sophie for Bodega

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SEASONAL #LoveWins COMPILED Scott Kearnan

More Than Words “No union is more profound than marriage, for it embodies the highest ideals of love, fidelity, devotion, sacrifice, and family. In forming a marital union, two people become something greater than once they were. As some of the petitioners in these cases demonstrate, marriage embodies a love that may endure even past death. It would misunderstand these men and women to say they disrespect the idea of marriage. Their plea is that they do respect it, respect it so deeply that they seek to find its fulfillment for themselves. Their hope is not to be condemned to live in loneliness, excluded from one of civilization’s oldest institutions. They ask for equal dignity in the eyes of the law. The Constitution grants them that right. The judgment of the Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit is reversed. It is so ordered.”

Justice Anthony Kennedy, June 26, 2015, U.S. Supreme Court

Randy and Mark Devan and David PHOTO BY JENNIFER DAVIDSON

Tom and Jimmy Steve and Jim 36 | BOSTON SPIRIT

Pat and Piper Jim and Joe PHOTO BY PIPER JO NEVINS

Tommy and Kyle PHOTO KATE MCELWEE

Ruth and Kim

Mary Bonauto, civil rights project director for Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders (GLAD), who argued before the Court: “Today’s ruling brings joy and relief to millions of Americans and their families. It lifts up LGBTQ people and affirms that laws cannot allow discrimination or categorical exclusions of LGBTQ people simply for who they are. No single ruling can fix the scarring prejudice and stereotypes that have plagued good people for so long, but this can go a long way in helping people discover their common humanity.” April and Pepper

Tony and Miro

“Huge day for America. Happy to see the news. All the love.” — Harry Styles, via Twitter. Ron and Brian

“#MarriageEquaility!!!! A giant step towards our country being a better place to be!” — Shonda Rhimes, via Twitter.

David and Ben

Linda and Lisa

Eric and Sean

Janson Wu, executive director of GLAD: “Arriving at this moment at this time was not inevitable. It happened now because people across the country — young and old, LGBT and straight, religious people and business people — stood up for fairness and their families and friends, and worked diligently and strategically to include same-sex couples in marriage. This was a movement marked by hope, tenacity, and smarts.” Paul and Heldar

Joe It’s not a wedding picture but of me in front of the Supreme Court when they announced the decision. Kraig and Mark

“It’s a new day. Thank you Supreme Court. Thank you Justice Kennedy. Your opinion is profound, in more ways than you may know. #huzzah.” — Neil Patrick Harris, via Twitter.

“Love won.” — Ellen DeGeneres, via Twitter.

Jack and Greg

Butch and Alex

Krina Patel, director of legislative and political affairs at MassEquality: “As one of the leaders in the successful fight for marriage equality in Massachusetts, we are incredibly proud of this great accomplishment and look forward to seeing the nation finally take another significant step forward for inclusivity and acceptance.”

Dan and Chris

“This is a happy day, not just for LGBT Americans, but for all Americans. It is the beginning of an era where we no longer will speak about same-sex marriage, but of marriage. And one day, we need not speak of LGBT rights, for they simply will be human rights. Across this great land, families are celebrating because we truly are one family.” — George Takei in a statement.

“Is there a computer genius who can make my GIF dreams come true with Justice Ginsburg on a rainbow clad motorcycle riding into the sunset?” — Audra McDonald, via Twitter.

Ellie and KC

Todd and Rodney

Daniel and Marcos

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Marc Solomon, national campaign director of Freedom to Marry, author of “Winning Marriage” and former executive director of MassEquality: “The Supreme Court ruling on marriage is a triumph decades in the making, a momentous victory for freedom, equality, inclusion, and above all, love. This win is the culmination of a decades-long campaign to demonstrate to Americans of all stripes that allowing same-sex couples to marry fits squarely into America’s promise of liberty and justice for all. By introducing Americans to so many LGBT people and by getting our community organized into a powerful political force, the marriage campaign has also laid solid groundwork for more wins in our quest for full equality for our entire community.”

“Happy tears on the eve of my own wedding anniversary that all my friends can know their marriage is respected and protected by the law of the land.” — America Ferrera, via Instagram.

Gabriel Blau, executive director of Family Equality Council: “The justices have affirmed what more than 60 percent of Americans believe: that marriage is a fundamental right that belongs to all. ... Today we celebrate, though tomorrow we resume our work — as there is so much left to accomplish.”

Jason and Andrew

Rodd and Mark PHOTO VAL MESSAR

Jillian and Jennifer

Tim and Scott

LeeMichael and Bryan PHOTO BRIAN PHILLIPS

“Same-sex marriage is now legal all across the US! Free to love. Free to marry. Free to be equal!” — Lady Gaga, via Twitter.

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Pauline and Benét

The Human Rights Campaign: “The Supreme Court’s ruling made it perfectly clear that there is no legal or moral justification for standing in the path of marriage equality. While America is now a marriage equality nation, the tragic reality is that millions of LGBT Americans face persistent discrimination in their lives each and every day. Our work is far from over, and the time has come in this country for full, federal equality for LGBT Americans. Nothing more, and nothing less.”

John and John

“I have always said that everyone has the right to love who they love and today, with the historic decision from the Supreme Court, I am so happy it is now the law of the land.” — Liza Minnelli in a statement.

Chad and John

Paul and Scott

Roy and Christopher

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Michelle and Katie

Mason Dunn, executive director of Mass. Transgender Political Coalition: Annie and Melanie

“Congratulations to the many organizations, groups, volunteers, advocates, and activists who made the June ruling for marriage equality a reality. This ruling is an exciting step in the journey towards full equality for all LGBTQ people. We look forward to joining together to continue the movement for full equality, including our own initiative for public accommodations nondiscrimination protections for transgender people here in Massachusetts.”

Patrick and Michael

Dana and Danny

“What’s better than a supreme taco from Taco Bell? The Supreme Court of the United States. Thank you for making marriage legal for EVERYONE today. Best birthday gift ever.” — Sean Hayes, via Facebook.

“Times are changing my friends. We have such a long way to go and so much more fighting to do so I hope nobody stops and thinks everything’s ok because it isn’t, BUT it’s days like today, and moments like this that we’ve all gotta have a drink and celebrate how far we have come. I couldn’t be prouder to be gay.” — Sam Smith, via Instagram.

Kurt and Tom Manny and Tom

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Stacey and Tori

Adam and Michael

“Progress feels good. This one won’t be undone. Unlike voting rights or Roe v Wade, THIS decision will continue to move forward because people will SEE with their own eyes how wrong they were to ever bother feeling threatened by gay marriage.” — Kathy Griffin, in a statement.

Anthony and Kevin

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Peter and Sean

Stephen Boswell, president & CEO of Fenway Health: “This is the logical culmination of the right to equal protection under the law regardless of sexual orientation articulated in the Romer v. Evans case by Justice Kennedy in 1996, further developed in the 2013 U.S. v. Windsor case. We commend the Court and our colleagues at Gay and Lesbian Advocates and Defenders, especially the incomparable Mary Bonauto.”

Luanne and Claudia

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Danny and Andy

Kevin and Peter

“Big moment for our country. Thank you, #SCOTUS.” — Ben Affleck, via Twitter.

Amy and Leara

Tracy and Karen

Doug and Jarry

Boston Pride: “Boston Pride rejoices in the decision today by the U.S. Supreme Court affirming the right of same sex couples to marry in all 50 states. Massachusetts has been a leader in the movement for LGBT equality, from the groundbreaking Goodridge decision in Massachusetts that paved the way for this historic moment today. Boston Pride joins with all who have advocated and supported the right to marry for the LGBT community.”

Don and Scott

50 | BOSTON SPIRIT

“Finally And at Last! The Revolution Of Love has Begun!” — Madonna, via Instagram

Megan and Rebecca

Matthew and Thomas Moore

Craig Coogan, executive director of the Boston Gay Men’s Chorus: “This is a momentous day for the country. The freedom to marry the person you love is precious, and having that relationship affirmed by our society and our government is essential. … With this ruling, our country has taken a giant step toward realizing its promise of equality for all.”

David and Dan PHOTO MICHAEL SPARKS KEEGAN

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For artists and collectors thereAareDONEE: a myriad of reasonsCONSIDERATIONS to donate art to museums and just as FINDING A DONEE: CONSIDERATIONS FINDING FOR A DONOR DONEE-MUSEUM FOR AAND DONOR AND DONEE-MUSEUM many legal and practical considerations to account for before your art makes it into a museum gallery by way of a donation. From a legal perspective, donating art to a museum will typically THE A.R.T. OF LIFETIME DONATIONS TO MUSEUMS: APPRAISALS, “RELATED involve elements of tax law, estate planning, contracts, personal property and intellectual property. USE” AND TAXES Without proper guidance and timing, your altruistic intentions of donating art to a museum could result in legal and financial headaches. Here are a few tips to get you started.

periods of conflict such as World War II, or if the work was originally acquired from indigenous people. Conversely, well-documented provenance, including of prior public exhibition of the art or close Art and private collections of art come in all shapes, sizes Art and private collections of evidence art come in all shapes, sizes to theartists artist, could provide a stronger appeal to and styles. The first steps for both artists and collectors and styles. The first steps for nexus both and collectors the prospective donee-museum. seeking to donate art to museums is to determine seeking to donate art to museums is to determine whether a particular museum is the appropriatemuseum home whether a particular is the appropriate home forfor their art and whether thatand museumwhether will accept the their art that museum will accept the gift. In doingIn so, consider the following: gift. doing so, consider the following: • Does museum have the museum facilities and expertise • the Does the have the facilities and expertise to properly for your art? to care properly care for yourAsart? an artist or collector, the notion of having your art displayed in a museum gallery may be a lifelong goal. • Is • the Is museum’s mission consistent with your the museum’s mission consistent with your For you potential donors, particularly collectors, who donation goals? donation goals? want to realize that goal during your lifetime, you

may be in store for an added incentive in the form of Once you haveyou identified a potentialidentified donee, the museum a potential donee, the museum Once have significant income tax deductions, if you follow some will have its own internal process to determine whether process to determine whether will have its own internal important steps. oror not tonot accept to your gift. This may include: secondary accept your gift. This may include: secondary costs associated with the acquisition; whether yourthe acquisition; whether your costs associated with First, be sure to get the art appraised by a “qualified proposed donation is consistent with the museum’s proposed donation is consistent with the museum’s appraiser” as defined by the IRS prior to donating it to current acquisition acquisition strategy; and potential provenance current strategy; and potential provenance the museum to determine the fair market value of the issues. Despite theDespite benefits of yourthe donation,benefits all issues. of your donation, all art. Many museums will not appraise art as a matter of acquisitions generally come with expenses to the come acquisitions generally with expenses to the policy, though museum staff may be able to provide museum, as the museum has the to take into account the museum, as museum has to take into account the you with a list of appraisers they know of or work with. cost of potential and storage, among other cost ofconservation potential conservation and storage, among other Please bear in mind that just because an art specialist expenses. The provenance, or history of ownership of expenses. The provenance, or history of ownership of received a museum referral does not necessarily mean the art, may also bemay a factor inalso the museum’s the art, bewillingness a factor in the museum’s willingness he or she is a “qualified appraiser” as defined by the IRS. toto accept the donation. A museum may be less inclinedA museum may be less inclined accept the donation. Before moving forward with an appraisal, you may wish toto accept a donation of a art ifdonation there are significantof gaps art if there are significant gaps accept to check with a tax attorney on whether such will likely in in ownership, particularly if the gaps occurred during ownership, particularly if the gaps occurred during fall within the scope of a “qualified appraisal.” Retaining

CLIFFORD R. COHEN - Partner, Burns & Levinson

BROOKE A. PENROSE - Associate, Burns & Levinson

ccohen@burnslev.com l 617.345.3286

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a non-qualified appraiser may result in rejection of the appraised value and can even result in tax penalties for the donor, so donor beware!

a The non-qualified appraiser result inwith rejection of the donor-collector mustmay also comply the “related use” rule to maximize tax benefits and be able to deduct

the full fair market value of the donated art. The related appraised value and can even result in tax penalties for use rule requires that the museum’s use of the donated art be related to the museum’s charitable purpose or thefunction. donor, Insoaddition, donor beware! the collector must have held the art for at least one year prior to the donation, such that the art is considered long-term capital gain property, in order to deduct the full fair market value of the donated art. If the donation does not satisfy the related use rule,

Thethendonor-collector must also comply with thehis“related the collector is limited to deducting or her original cost of the art, rather than its full fair market value distinctiontax that can result loss use” rule—toa maximize benefits andinbesignificant able to deduct of tax benefits to the collector. theAnfullartist fair market of athetaxdonated art.forThelifetime related has far value less of incentive donations of his or her own work to a museum. The own work useIRS ruleconsiders requiresthethatartist’s the museum’ s usetoofbethe“ordinary donated income property,” in that it is primarily used for sale to ordinary course of business. artcustomers be relatedin tothetheartist’s museum’ s charitable purpose or As a result, the artist is limited to taking an income tax deduction of the cost of her materials in producing the artwork In when making lifetime charitable function. addition, thea collector must havedonation held the to a qualified museum. Despite the diminished tax the artist may still seek to make a charitable artincentive, for at least one year prior to the donation, such that lifetime donation of their work to a museum as a means of raising his or her profile and sales. the art is considered long-term capital gain property, in THE ESTATE PLANNING LANDSCAPE: ART LIVES ON AFTER WE’RE GONE order to deduct the full fair market value of the donated Artists and collectors have numerous options when it art.comes If thetodonation does notrelative satisfytothedonating relatedart.usePrior rule, estate planning to executing an estate plan containing bequests of

then the collector is limited to deducting his or her original cost of the art, rather than its full fair market value — a distinction that can result in significant loss of tax benefits to the collector.

art to your favorite museum, make sure the museum will accept the art, or include language granting the Personal Representative (formerly Executor) of your estate the power to make alternate arrangements with

art to your favorite museum, make sure the museum

other museums or charities.

will accept the art, or include language granting the

In addition to making charitable bequests of art to

existing museums, an artist or collector may also consider forming his or her own charitable foundation,

Personal Representative (formerly Executor) of your estate the power to make alternate arrangements with If the final destination of your art collection is a which can even be established during one’s lifetime with additional works to be contributed upon death.

other museums or charities.

museum or your own charitable foundation, there are additional tips to make the estate administration process run smoothly. First, keep a detailed and up-todate inventory of your art collection, including as much information about each work of art as possible. You may also want to consider providing additional funding for storage, conservation, digitizing or publication of the art. Finally, be clear and specific about your intentions for the donated art and consider whether you want any gift restrictions, such as conditions on public display of the art, publication of the work or collection, and whether the art may be sold without restriction.

In addition to making charitable bequests of art to existing museums, an artist or collector may also consider forming his or her own charitable foundation, COPYRIGHTS MORALduring RIGHTS: which can even AND be established one’s lifetime WHO OWNS WHAT? with additional works to be contributed upon death. Last but certainly not least, special consideration to potential rights issues should be given to gifts of art that come from an artist or the artist’s estate. In these instances, you may have rights in the work, such as copyright and moral rights, that exist separately from the physical art object and are not necessarily transferred along with the art work.

If the final destination of your art collection is a museum or your own charitable foundation, there are additional tips to make the estate administration process run smoothly. First, keep a detailed and up-todate inventory of your art collection, including as much

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An artist has far less of a tax incentive for lifetime donations of his or her own work to a museum. The IRS considers the artist’s own work to be “ordinary MASSACHUSETTS l NEW YORK l RHODE ISLAND

information about each work of art as possible. You may also want to consider providing additional funding for storage, conservation, digitizing or publication of the art. Finally, be clear and specific about your intentions for the donated art and consider whether you want any

The Firm’s LGBT Group: Lisa M. Cukier l Scott H. Moskol l Deborah J. Peckham l Laura R. Studen l Donald E. Vaughan l Ellen J. Zucker

Come out, come out, wherever you are After the quiet summer season, Boston’s vibrant art institutions are back in action. But where to start as you build your calendar of must-see shows? Fret not. We’ve scored arts calendars for organizations around the city and plucked a handful of the best live shows, exhibitions, and other cultural happenings in September, October, November and December & Beyond. Start here—it’s the cream of the crop. But for a full list of Fall season calendars, just follow the handy links to the various organizations on our gay agenda.

54 | BOSTON SPIRIT

SEPTEMBER

won a Tony Award.) This poignant tale of a small-town baker dreaming of a bigger, better life features music and lyrics by Grammy-nominated singer songwriter Sara Bareilles (“Brave”) bringing together two influential women for one show served piping hot.

Through September 27 *

Loeb Drama Center | 64 Brattle St., Cambridge | americanrepertorytheater.org

“A Little Night Music”

“Mr. Joy” In this one-person tour de force, actress Tangela Large portrays nine roles—from an 11-year old girl to a “gangsta grannie.” Each is a customer of a Harlem shoe shop run by Chinese immigrant Mr. Joy. When the store unexpectedly shuts its doors, the customers reflect on the store’s impact on their lives, and the changing face of an urban community. (Written by ArtsEmerson artist-in-residence and two-time NAACP Theatre Awards winner Daniel Beaty.)

September 22—October 18

Paramount Center | 559 Washington St., Boston | artsemerson.org

Oleta Adams Jazz singer and pianist Oleta Adams, probably best known for her 1990 hit “Get Here,” has earned four Grammy nominations and toured the world with acts like Tears for Fears and Luther Vandross. For two nights she’ll tickle the ivories and pluck her vocal chords at Sculler’s Jazz Club, where guests will find dinner and a show that soothes the stomach and the soul.

September 11—12

Sculler’s Jazz Club | 400 Soldiers Field Rd., Allston | scullersjazz.com PHOTO Evgenia Eliseeva

“Waitress” Cab over to Cambridge for this world premiere from Harvard University’s ART, helmed by artistic director and national cultural power player Diane Paulus. (Her “Pippin” revival recently

Artistic director Peter Dubois personally directs Huntington Theatre Company’s first show of the 2015-2016 season. Perhaps the famed Stephen Sondheim’s bestknown show, “A Little Night Music” (which was inspired by the Ingmar Bergman film “Smiles of a Summer Night”) follows with humor and heart the weekend countryside romances of a cast of colorful couples. Prepare to “Send in the Clowns.”

September 11—October 11

Avenue of the Arts/BU Theatre | 264 Huntington Ave., Boston | huntingtontheatre.org

“Broken Glass” Watertown-based New Repertory Theatre chose the centennial of playwright Arthur Miller’s birth to present his powerful Tonynominated drama, set the day after the Nazi pogrom known as Kristallnacht (“Night of Broken Glass”). Upon reading news accounts of the events, Sylvia, a Jewish woman in New York, is suddenly paralyzed from the waist down; her husband and psychiatrist struggle to understand why in this exploration of trauma and identity.

September 5—27

Arsenal Center for the Arts | 321 Arsenal St., Watertown | newrep.orgs

“Appropriate” SpeakEasy Stage Company kicks off its 25th season with this Obie award-winning play, a subversive melodrama in which the members of a semi-dysfunctional family descend on an old Arkansas plantation to mourn the death of a patriarch. When they discover a family album filled with images of lynching victims, family secrets emerge and meditations on race, identity, and collective guilt ensue.

September 12—October 10

Calderwood Pavilion at the BCA | 527 Tremont St., Boston | speakeasystage.com

Crafted: Objects in Flux 58 This is far from your average arts & crafts project. The MFA opens this exhibition dedicated to over 30 international contemporary craft artists: challenging creators of fascinating sculpture who are pushing boundaries with their use of materials, breadth of vision and methods of design. From the use of innovative technologies to powerful statements on architecture and space, each piece is a perfectly crafted artistic statement.

Through January 10, 2016

Museum of Fine Arts | 465 Huntington Ave., Boston | mfa.org

Made in the Americas: The New World Discovers Asia The Museum of Fine Arts opens this exhibition to coincide with the 450th anniversary of the beginning of the centuries-spanning ManilaAcapulco Galleon trade between the Philippines and Mexico, and uses the opportunity to explore the impact that trade with Asia had on the art of the American colonies. “Made in the Americas” is the first large-scale, Pan-American exhibition to do so, and collects over 100 objects— furnishings, textiles, paintings and more—from Philly to Lima and Quebec City to Quito.

Through February 15, 2016

Museum of Fine Arts | 465 Huntington Ave., Boston | mfa.org

In the Steps of the Master: Pupils of Hokusai Edo period painter and printmaker Katsushika Hokusai is among Japan’s most famous artists; his “The Great Wave” is one of the most instantly recognizable images of all time. But he also had a significant impact on those who studied under him and this Museum of Fine Arts exhibit explores the artist’s legacy by collecting paintings—of everything from historical warriors to beautiful—produced by the first Shinsai, Hokkei, Gakutei and other important Eastern artists who studied under Hokusai.

Through February 15, 2016

Museum of Fine Arts | 465 Huntington Ave., Boston | mfa.org

Meow Meow

Strandbeest: The Dream Machines of Theo Jansen Salem’s celebrated Peabody Essex Museum hosts the first stop of the inaugural US tour of Theo Jansen’s Strandbeests (“beach animals”), fascinating (and imposing) kinetic sculptures that the artist constructed to stroll the sandy shores of the Dutch seacoast like roving, otherworldly creatures. Divided into biology-inspired phylum, the massive and intricately constructed installations lumber like dinosaurs, crawl like insects, and inspire awe and wonder.

September 19—January 3, 2016

Peabody Essex Museum | 161 Essex St., Salem | pem.org

“The Boys in the Band” 62 This pioneering gay play kicks off the 15th season of Zeitgeist Stage Company. When it premiered off-Broadway in 1968, “The Boys in the Band”—which explores the relationships and emotions of a group of gay men who convene for a birthday party—was a revolutionary (and rare) portrayal of gay life on stage. It’s still as smart and socially relevant as ever. (Plus: Gold Dust Orphans’ Ryan Landry is among the ensemble stars.)

September 11—October 3

BCA Plaza Black Box | 527 Tremont St., Boston | zeitgeiststage.com

“The Book of Mormon” 62 Nine Tony awards can’t be wrong. This uproarious (and salacious) hit musical from Trey Parker and Matt Stone, creators of the show “South Park,” has managed to offend and delight since premiering in 2011. Broadway in Boston brings it to the Hub, where the religious satire—a no-holds-barred barrage of non-PC humor and riotous songs like “Spooky Mormon Hell Dream”—will go over well with our region’s typically progressive crowds.

Religious hypocrisy, prepare to be lampooned.

September 1—October 11

Emerson Colonial Theatre | 106 Boylston St., Boston | broadwayinboston.com

Broadway @ The Shubert: Megan Hilty Get a front row seat with TV (NBC’s “Smash”) and Broadway (“Wicked”) star Megan Hilty when she visits the Hub for a one-night-only explosion of song, accompanied by host and pianist Seth Rudetsky. It’s the first-ever Boston visit from the “Broadway @” series. And the best part? Proceeds benefit the Boston Gay Men’s Chorus, so buy an extra seat for a date. It’ll be a smashing time.

September 18

Citi Shubert Theatre | 265 Tremont St., Boston | citicenter.org

“The Rocky Horror Show” Before it was a motion “picture” and staple of the midnight movie world, “Rocky Horror” was a stage show. And The Footlight Club, America’s oldest community theater (yes, Boston can lay claim to that) will kick off its 2015-2016 season with all the slinky, sexy, transsexual Transylvania-strutting action your faint little heart can handle. Prepare to do the “Time Warp” again— because really, this show never gets old.

exploring life, death, beauty and love. It’s an ambitious undertaking: 70 musicians, including a full orchestra and choir create the music for the movement on stage. It’s a oncein-a-lifetime, breathtaking artistic experience.

October 22—November 1

Boston Opera House | 539 Tremont St., Boston | bostonballet.org

“An Audience With Meow Meow” 56 If Liza and Gaga raised a daughter, she might wind up like Meow Meow: a full-throated, glittering dame of the highest cabaret order. ArtsEmerson invites the sequin-adorned entertainer to the Hub, where her hilarious one-woman show (well, she’s accompanied by a couple dancing boys, of course) will amuse, titillate, and fill the venue with big notes and even bigger, bawdier attitude.

October 8—24

Emerson/Cutler Majestic Theatre | 219 Tremont St., Boston | artsemerson.org PHOTO Cory Weaver

September 18—October 3

The Footlight Club | 7 Eliot St., Jamaica Plain | footlight.org

OCTOBER

“Third Symphony of Gustav Mahler: A Ballet by John Neumeier” The Boston Ballet makes history (again) as the first North American company (one of only four companies around the globe) to perform Mahler’s epic piece

“Kansas City Choir Boy” Grunge goddess Courtney Love (yes, she of Hole fame) takes the lead in this brooding rock opera-style piece that tells a tragic love story in disjointed flashback, depicting the rise and fall of a small town couple separated by distance and ambition, but joined forever in memory—and death.

October 1—10

Oberon | 2 Arrow St., Cambridge | americanrepertorytheatre.org

“La Boheme” Giacomo Puccini’s famous four-act opera opens the 2015-2016 season

SEP|OCT 2015 | 57

Ikat II by Astrid Kogh from the ICA’s ‘Crafted’ show

at Boston Lyric Opera. The work may sound slightly familiar, even if you’ve never experienced it firsthand: It follows a group of struggling young bohemians in Paris’ Latin Quarter in the 1840s as they deal with relationships, poverty, and illness— and it was upon “La Boheme” that playwright Jonathan Larson would base his LGBT-themed ’90s rock musical “Rent.”

October 2—11

Citi Shubert Theatre | 265 Tremont St., Boston | blo.org

“Dry Land” The Hub’s always-innovating Company One launches its 20152016 programming with this Boston premiere. Prodigious 21-year old playwright Ruby Rae Spiegel (dubbed a “Lena Dunham of the theatre world”) wrote this boundary-pushing, candid expose of the life of a modern American teenager, which has been met by rave reviews from outlets like the “New York Times.”

October 2—October 30

Plaza Theatre, BCA | 527 Tremont St., Boston | companyone.org

Leap Before You Look: Black Mountain College 1933-1957 Though it operated for only 24 years, North Carolina’s Black Mountain College was a pioneering liberal arts institution that brought together philosophers, artists, and other innovators in an incubator-like environment that fostered creativity and dialogue around democracy, art, and globalism in the postwar period. Boston’s Institute of Contemporary Art has organized this first comprehensive exhibition dedicated to the output of more than 90 artists associated with the college, which includes both visual art and special events featuring live performances.

October 10—January 24, 2016

ICA Boston | 100 Northern Ave., Boston | icaboston.org

Class Distinctions: Dutch Painting in the Age of Rembrandt and Vermeer 75 meticulously curated portraits, landscapes, and other fascinating works of art constitute this MFA exhibition dedicated to 17th-century Dutch painting. Works by Rembrandt, Vermeer and others are thematically arranged in a way that draws attention to the place and period’s preoccupation (brilliantly rendered in vivid color) with economic class and social order. Some things never change.

October 11 —January 18, 2016

Museum of Fine Arts | 465 Huntington Ave., Boston | mfa.org

Ornament and Illusion: Carlo Crivelli of Venice The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum can now lay claim to hosting the first monographic exhibition of Renaissance artist Carlo Crivelli in the United States. The Venetian artist’s work was imbued with a decorative sense of Gothicism that stood apart from the more naturalistic trends of the time, and the Gardner’s two-part installation features both newly reunited altarpieces and 20 standalone works that fascinate and inspire.

October 22—January 25, 2016

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum | 25 Evans Way, Boston | gardnermuseum.org

A Far Cry: “Vs.” If you’re not familiar with A Far Cry, please get caught up to speed. The Grammy-nominated, Jamaica Plainbased “post-classical” orchestra receives rave reviews across the globe for its self-conducted approach: Each of the (mostly twenty- and thirty-something) 18 musicians takes turns leading the group. Get to know them via “Vs.,” a concert exploring “conflict in music that touches on war, politics and sports.”

October 1

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum | 25 Evans Way, Boston | afarcry.org

Sizing It Up: Scale in Nature and Art Size matters. At least it does in this Peabody Essex Museum exhibition that challenges perceptions of scale and proportion. Over two-dozen international contemporary artists will be represented in works—big and small—that range in medium but all propose some big ideas about the world.

October 10—September 18, 2016

Peabody Essex Museum | 161 Essex St., Salem | pem.org

Boston University Fringe Festival For the 19th year this festival focusing on underperformed theater and opera will spotlight art that exists at the fringes. (You know, where the good stuff is.) Among the highlights are “The Seven Deadly Sins,” German composer Kurt Weill’s satirical sung ballet about two immigrant sisters on a seven-year trek between seven cities representing different vices; and “Delirium” a reimagining of the “The Brothers Karamazov” that was originated by the UK’s challenging, innovative Theatre O troupe.

October 2—25

Boston University Theatre | 264 Huntington Ave., Boston | bu.edu/cfa/fringe

19th Annual Boston International Fine Art Show New England art collectors: Mark your calendars, and prepare to empty your bank accounts. Over 3,000 original works of art will be represented at this annual exhibition—from paintings to sculpture to photographs—and whether you engage in appreciative window-shopping or use it as an opportunity to invest in works by famous and cutting-edge names alike, it’s a magnificent array of fine art worth discovering.

October 22—25

The Cyclorama at the BCA | 539 Tremont St., Boston | fineartboston.com

“Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror” Just in time for Halloween, the Boston Pops Orchestra brings the 1922 silent vampire film (and masterpiece in German

SEP|OCT 2015 | 59

expressionism) to Symphony Hall. For the first time ever the Pops will perform a full-length score to a silent film, and it’s a brand new composition created by eight of Berklee’s best student film conductors. Keith Lockhart conducts this total treat— no tricks.

haunt audiences well after this colony disbands.

classic arrives on the stage, we’ll arrive in the seats.

Location TBA | blo.org

Avenue of the Arts/BU Theatre | 264 Huntington Ave., Boston | huntingtontheatre.org

Boston Symphony Hall | 301 Massachusetts Ave., Boston | bso.org

The rise of singer-songwriter Carole King is the subject for this latest entry in the subgenre of biographical jukebox musicals. The hit-maker’s most famous tunes—including “Happy Days Are Here Again,” “Will You Love Me Tomorrow” and “The Locomotion”—defined a generation, and here they form the songbook for a story about a truly iconic American performer.

New Repertory Theatre takes on this steampunk-inspired spin on the Hans Christian Andersen tale, a pop-rock hybrid about a young woman’s comingof-age in a wintry wonderland inhabited by witches, trolls, and of course, a titular queen (who eventually served as inspiration for Disney’s modern fable, “Frozen”). It’s a cool, charming choice to kick off the holiday season.

Boston Opera House | 539 Washington St., Boston | broadwayinboston.com

Arsenal Center for the Arts | 321 Arsenal St., Watertown | newrep.org

“A Confederacy of Dunces”

This is Tango Now

October 30

NOVEMBER

“In the Penal Colony” The Boston Lyric Opera’s Opera Annex program, an initiative that brings full chamber performances to unexpected and unimposing venues, turns its attention to Philip Glass’s darkly comic two-character opera that explores the breakdown of civil society. Glass’s music is unmistakable and the harrowing opera will provoke thought, chill spines and

November 11—15

“Beautiful—The Carole King Musical”

November 3—15

Comedian and “Parks & Recreation” star Nick Offerman (AKA Mr. Megan Mullally, for all you “Will & Grace” fans) shows his serious acting chops in this stage adaptation of the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel about the amusing misadventures of an educated but lazy New Orleans ne’er-do-well. As soon as this Southern

November 11—December 13

“The Snow Queen”

November 28—December 20

Think you know tango? Think again. World Music/CRASHarts, a Boston series that brings together internationallyinspired music programming, brings to the ICA this fascinating dance outfit as it stages a world premiere of “Carmen… de Buenos Aires,” an interpretation of “Carmen” that blends tango and flamenco with an original score based off

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Bizet’s famous compositions. Shake it on over. You’ve gotta see this.

November 20—22

ICA Boston | 100 Northern Ave., Boston | icaboston.org PHOTO Nate Francis

fashion. Over 100 works from the last 50 years will constitute an exhibit that covers everything from street art to haute couture: the common thread (pun intended) is the debt they owe to Native cultures and concepts of beauty. Non-Native designers who have borrowed inspiration (see: Isaac Mizrahi’s infamous “totem pole dress”) are included and explored as well.

Buena Vista Social Club

Peabody Essex Museum | 161 Essex St., Salem | pem.org

November 1

November 21—March 6, 2016

Coro Allegro presents Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart “Requiem”

Native Fashion Now Prepare to immerse yourself in a comprehensive, aweinspiring collection that explores contemporary Native American

Coro Allegro, Boston’s LGBT classical chorus, opens its 2015-2016 season with a performance of one of Mozart’s most well-known works. Later in the season the coed chorus will also perform Howard Frazin’s “The Voice of Isaac” and a newly commissioned work by Eric Banks that was inspired by the life and death of Ugandan LGBT activist David Kato.

November 15

The famous Havana-bred music collective is out on a “farewell tour” of sorts, bringing amazing Latin music to audiences around the globe. The tour features several of the Club’s original members alongside younger Cuban artists who have become part of the network over the years, and the result should be a must-see swan song for world music lovers.

Symphony Hall | 301 Massachusetts Ave., Boston | worldmusic.org

“A Taste of Honey” The Boston Center for American Performance, a professional extension of BU’s CFA School of Theatre, presents this first play by British dramatist Shelagh Delaney, written by the late, prodigious talent when she was just 18. It tackles a multitude of social issues from the perspective of a pregnant middleclass adolescent, including interracial romance, gay identity, dysfunctional families and other topics deemed

Sanders Theatre | 45 Quincy St., Cambridge | coroallegro.org

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SEP|OCT 2015 | 61

“The Book of Mormon”

“The Boys in the Band”

taboo when it premiered in fringe theaters in 1958.

November 11—22

BU Theatre | 264 Huntington Ave., Boston | bu.edu/cfa/bcap

“the most popular poet in America” by the “New York Times.” She’s: an Oscar- and Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter whose pre-solo work included fronting the Bostonformed ’80s band ‘Till Tuesday. He’ll read, she’ll perform, and they’ll share with the audience thoughts on the similarities that exist across the spectrum of the creative process.

November 21

Sanders Theatre | 45 Quincy St., Cambridge | celebrityseries.org

Billy Collins & Aimee Mann: An Evening of Poetry, Acoustic Music and Conversation Here’s an awesome team-up that comes courtesy of the Celebrity Series of Boston. He’s: a former Poet Laureate, Guggenheim Fellow, and distinguished writer referred to as

Circa: “Opus” Somewhere at the intersection of dance and circus is Circa, an Australian-based troupe of cirque performers who are bringing to Boston “Opus”: a stunning live interpretation of the music of Russian composer Dmitri Shostakovich. A string quartet provides the music, while a group of 14 acrobats bring the choreography and body-bending art that will have you stretching your jaw—to the floor.

Yo-Yo Ma & Kathryn Stott

November 13—15

The famed cellist (and Cambridge resident), one of the best-known classical performers in the world, joins with British classical pianist Kathryn Stott for a special performance that is guaranteed to evoke passion. It’s easy to take our legends for granted, but if you still haven’t see Yo-Yo Ma live, now’s the time to make it happen.

“The Nutcracker”

Symphony Hall | 301 Massachusetts Ave., Boston | celebrityseries.org

November 21—December 31

November 17

Citi Shubert Theatre | 265 Tremont St., Boston | celebrityseries.org Boston Ballet’s annual staging of the classic holiday show is a tradition for a reason. It never ceases to amaze, from the always-resplendent costumes to the complex choreography. Times change and so do traditions, but when it comes to getting in the holiday spirit, there’s still nothing that comes close to this.

Boston Opera House | 539 Washington St., Boston | bostonballet.org Midsummer Night’s Dream Isango

“It is a great pleasure to welcome you to our new 2015–16 Boston Symphony season. Join and help us expand our wonderful BSO Family! Bring your friends and children to concerts and be inspired by a new exciting season together!” —Andris Nelsons

october 1–april 23 617-266-1200 • Bso.org seiji ozawa music director laureate bernard haitink conductor emeritus

SEP|OCT 2015 | 63

Ensemble PHOTO Ruphin Coudyzer

within a context of African culture. Bizet’s “Carmen” and Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” find new life via South African music, dance, and energy that will have you see these shows in a whole new light.

November 10—22

Emerson/Cutler Majestic Theatre | 219 Tremont St., Boston | artsemerson.org

DECEMBER & BEYOND Handel + Haydn Society “Holiday Sing”

There’s never a bad time to experience this 1815-founded Boston institution for classical and baroque music, but there are certain times that are, well, exceptionally great. Like the holidays: A chorus and brass quintet anchor this sing-along experience, an accessible intro to the organization for those who haven’t yet become devotees. (You will.)

“Carmen” and “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” Here’s an inventive double-bill that comes courtesy of one fantastic theatre company. Cape Town vibrant Isango Ensemble visits the Hub via ArtsEmerson to radically reinterpret two classic works through a lens that places them

December 12

Great Hall at Faneuil Hall | 1 Faneuil Hall Sq., Boston | handelandhaydn.org

Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812 This “electropop opera” takes as its inspiration a 70-page excerpt from Tolstoy’s “War and Peace.” The setting is the decadent salons and operas of 19th-century Moscow, but the music combines Russian folk with modern indie rock and EDM. Pulsating, inventive and widely lauded when it was premiered off-Broadway in 2013, it’s a contemporized take on a chapter ripped from classic literature.

December 6—January 3, 2016

Loeb Drama Center | 64 Brattle St., Cambridge | americanrepertorytheater.org

“Buyer & Cellar” A 2013 Drama Desk award-winner, “Buyer & Cellar” is an uproarious oneman show that trades on a (not-always untrue) trope: the gay male’s idolizing of celebrity. In this case, Alex (originated in NYC by Michael Urie) is a struggling LA actor who gets a job tending to Barbra Streisand’s bric-a-brac strewn basement. In Boston, it’s Phil Taylor who earns the honor playing Alex, Babs, Bea Arthur,

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Oprah Winfrey, and a host of other characters “appearing” in the cast.

December 4—January 3, 2016

Lyric Stage Company | 140 Clarendon St., Boston | lyricstage.com

“Nut/Cracked” The Bang Group, an edgy NYC-based contemporary dance troupe, brings to Boston its clever interpretation of the holiday staple “The Nutcracker.” In this version, Tchaikovsky’s score meets music from Duke Ellington, Glenn Miller, and the canon of disco, while the fleet-footed performers integrate props like bubble wrap and Chinese take-out noodles in inventive ways. Consider it a marvelous early Christmas gift.

December 18—20

ICA Boston | 100 Northern Ave., Boston | icaboston.org

“Baltimore” 2015 has been an intense year with regard to public dialogue around issues of race, so it’s an appropriate time for New Repertory Theatre to host “Baltimore,” a newly commissioned play about a culturally diverse group of college students who are thrust into the

midst of a (potentially?) racially motivated incident. What follows is a meditation on race, perspective, and culpability.

February 10—28

BU Theatre | 264 Huntington Ave., Boston | newrep.org

“RENT” Fiddlehead Theatre Company presents the ’90s rock-opera that changed the face of musical theater, brought youthful energy Broadway, and gave the Great White Way a much-needed shot of cultural and sexual diversity. The struggling NYC bohemians of “Rent” work to find art, beauty, and love while surrounded by crass commercialization, cynicism, and HIV/AIDS. The world has turned since its Clinton era debut, but these “Seasons of Love” last forever.

February 5—21

Strand Theatre | 543 Columbia Rd., Dorchester | fiddleheadtheatre.org

Ana Gasteyer in Concert If you only know her from “Saturday Night Live,” prepared to be pleasantly surprised. Because actress Ana Gasteyer is also quite a live singer, and tonight she channels the vibe of old-school cabarets and smoky jazz halls for a onewoman show of song and patter that includes everything from The

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Alicia Amatriain and Roland Havlica, John Cranko’s Onegin PHOTO BerndWeissbrod, courtesy Stuttgart Ballet

66 | BOSTON SPIRIT

Clovers’ “One Mint Julep” to Carrie Underwoods’ “Before He Cheats.”

February 6

Sanders Theatre | 45 Quincy St., Cambridge | celebrityseries.org

“Onegin” mage: Wynton, maybe, with small caption and date

The music of Tchaikovsky sets the backdrop for this Boston Ballet production based on the 19th-century novel “Eugene Onegin” by Alexander Pushkin. The tragic love tale between a young girl and ickets to individual performances fromisOctober through an aristocrat rendered in heart- Dewrenching form in what has been ember are on sale now: described as “one of theMavis most Thumbnails with captions: Sedaris, Circa, Yo-Yo, touching story ballets to date.”

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February 25—March 6

Boston Opera House | 539 Washington St., Boston |

ubscriptions are still available,bostonballet.org and individual tickets to all erformances go on sale on September “Pippin”14: Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre, O’Hara in concert, American Kelli Repertory Theater’s artistic director Diane Paulus stewarded Academy of St Martin in the Fields with Joshua Bell, Sweet this Tony-winning production of Honey in the Rock, and more beloved artists and exciting new“Pippin” Cambridge to Broadway— omers. and now it’s on a national tour. The protagonist prince searches for no thumbnails)

meaning amid a world populated by Bob Fosse-inspired choreographer, acrobatic performers (from the ickets through www.celebrityseries.org esteemed Montreal troupe Les 7 Or call 617-482-6661 Doigts de la Main) and Stephen Schwartz-composed standards like “Corner of the Sky” and “Glory.” haded box, call out:

February 2—14

Let’s Dance Logo] Boston Opera House | 539 Washington St., Boston | ree group dance lessons and live music: September 16-20 on broadwayinboston.com he Greenway “Milk Like Sugar” More info at celebrityseries.org/letsdanceboston Seemingly inspired (at least in part) by a headline-stealing 2008 news story about a group of Boston-area teenage girls who engaged in a “pregnancy pact,” this humorous and provocative play rings loud and clear with social commentary on adolescent women and contemporary values. Somehow a trio of girlfriends becomes intent on becoming mothers, even though their idea of valuable cargo is a blinged-out cell phone. Funny and pointed.

January 29—February 28

Calderwood Pavilion at the BCA | 527 Tremont St., Boston | huntingtontheatre.org

Wynton Marsalis with Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra (November 22, Symphony Hall)

2015-2016 SeaSon tickets to individual performances from october through December are on sale now!

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their Boston performance, a fusion of classic and modern styles that is unmistakably their own.

January 29—30

Citi Shubert Theatre | 265 Tremont St., Boston | celebrityseries.org

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater

BalletBoyz This UK-based all-male dance company mesmerizes audiences around the world with sheer talent and the effortless synthesis of masculine strength with lithe grace. There’s a certain sensuality to the group, founded in 1999 by principal dancers from The Royal Ballet, that will be clear to audiences who catch

The gay choreographer, dancer and activist Alvin Ailey revolutionized modern American dance by creating greater space for people of color, and his legacy lives on through the esteemed theater that bears his name. Celebrity Series has been a consistent host to the company during its Boston engagements, and it welcomes the talented performers yet again for an always-remarkable, never-predictable night of dance.

March 17—20

Citi Wang Theatre | 270 Tremont St., Boston | celebrityseries.org

gay and black in America. From a pair of lesbians consciously uncoupling to a young gay boy with a fondness for Michael Jackson, the characters are many, the commentary cutting, and the laughs many and full—from belly to booty.

March 12—April 9

Calderwood Pavilion at the BCA | 527 Tremont St., Boston | speakeasystage.com

Boston LGBT Film Festival Mark your calendars. The 32nd annual installment of the film festival is preparing to bring the best in queer cinema to the Hub. The lineup is still coming together, but stay tuned for another year of LGBT filmmaking at its finest.

March 31—April 10

Throughout Boston | bostonlgbtfilmfest.net

Bootycandy Met with rave reviews last year, the new play “Bootycandy” is a subversive series of vignettes that reflect on the theme of growing up

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CULTURE Theater STORY Loren King

Isn’t it Rich? ‘A Little Night Music’ opens the Huntington’s new season From its original, Tonywinning 1973 Broadway production to the 2009 revival that starred Catherine ZetaJones and Angela Lansbury, Stephen Sondheim’s “A Little Night Music” has inspired near cult-like devotion—not for its simplicity, but for its sophistication. One of the show’s devotees is Huntington Theater artistic director Peter DuBois. “I’ve always loved this musical since I was a kid,” he says. Sondheim “painted a beautiful, emotional landscape with the book and lyrics and the story.

It’s wonderfully complicated, but rewarding in the end.” DuBois will get to direct “A Little Night Music” for the first time when it launches the Huntington’s 2015-16 season and runs Sept. 11-Oct. 11 at the Boston University Theater. As with past productions of musically rigorous but iconic shows such as “Candide,” this production won’t mess with a good thing. It will be a faithful interpretation that will still likely boast the Huntington’s signature stamp put there, first and foremost, by a stellar design crew headed by Derrick

McLane (who designed “Beautiful” on Broadway and the 2013 and 2014 Oscars). “It will be very spare in terms of design,” says DuBois. “We’ve approached it very simply; we’ve sort of used the metaphor of theater itself, which is so strongly present in the play, as the springboard for the ideas, so the theatricality of the play really emerges from that framework. We follow the period closely, but give it a little more sexuality underneath it. I love that Sondheim, with this musical, is very much about the heart, but also very much about what goes on sexually and how sexuality is communicated.” Peter DuBois

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Haydn Gwynne Sex and romance permeate “A Little Night Music,” which the composer based on the Ingmar Bergman film “Smiles of a Summer Night.” It’s about several couples of different ages and backgrounds, all wrestling with desire, longing and commitment. It features several iconic songs, from the famous ballad of world-weary love “Send in the Clowns” to the multi-character erotic romp “A Weekend in the Country.” “I cannot think of any song that’s as much fun as ‘A Weekend in the Country,’” says DuBois, citing “the level of wit and trickery going on in that song, and the sexuality, libido and comedy. It’s a work of real genius.” As with all Sondheim shows, there’s so much depth to the characters that casting requires actors who can sing, not the other way around. Haydn Gwynne, whom DuBois directed in the 2011 London staging of Gina Gionfriddo’s “Becky Shaw,” will play Desiree Armfeldt, the aging actress who gets the show’s 11 o’clock number (“Send in the Clowns”). Gwynne played Margaret Thatcher opposite Helen Mirren’s Queen Elizabeth in the original London production of “The Audience.” She was nominated for Tony and Olivier Awards for her role in “Billy Elliot the Musical.” “She’s terrific and brings a richness and earthiness to the part,” says DuBois. “She’s a great actor and that was important to us.”

Joining Gwynne will be other acclaimed actors and area favorites, including Stephen Bogardus (“God of Carnage” at the Huntington) as Fredrik Egerman; Bobbie Steinbach as Madame Armfeldt, a role she sang with the Boston Symphony Orchestra; and Lauren Molina (Cunegonde in “Candide” at the Huntington) as Countess Charlotte Malcolm. Later this season, DeBois is also directing the premiere of Gionfriddo’s new comedy, “Can You Forgive Her?” (March 25 - April 24). Other notable shows on the Huntington’s schedule include three other world premieres: “Choice” (October 16— November 15), a new play from Winnie Holzman, the book writer of “Wicked” and creator of the classic TV show “My SoCalled Life;” the long-awaited stage adaptation of the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel “A Confederacy of Dunces” featuring Nick Offerman from TV’s “Parks & Recreation” (Nov. 11- Dec. 13); and gay playwright Craig Lucas’s newest work, “I Was Most Alive With You” (May 25 - June 26), about a gay, deaf, alcoholic. Lucas most recently wrote the book for the Broadway hit “An American in Paris.” “It’s our most ambitious season since I’ve been artistic director,” says DuBois. “This kind of season is a great picture of who we are and what we do.” [x] A Little Night Music

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CULTURE Theater STORY Loren King

Bryan Donovan

A New Home For a Great Actor SpeakEasy snags seasoned New York actor Bryan T. Donovan to star in season opener One week after he moved to Boston from New York, Bryan T. Donovan auditioned for and won a role in “Appropriate,” Branden Jacobs-Jenkins’ 2014 Obie Award winner for best new play that kicks off Speakeasy Stage Company’s 25th season. Not a bad way for Boston to welcome a stage, film and television actor to his new home. Donovan followed his husband to his new job as an executive with a restaurant chain. The couple have settled

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into a condo close to the North End where Donovan, a selfdescribed foodie who loves to cook, expects to check out the neighborhood’s eateries. “It was a nice introduction to Boston, to book something right away,” he says of “Appropriate,” which runs Sept. 12 - Oct. 10 at Speakeasy. “I was blown away by the script, which is in the vein of ‘August: Osage County,’ about a highly dysfunctional family. I came from a pretty dysfunctional family, so I can relate to the dynamics

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at the theater, Donovan met plenty of seasoned veterans. “I met Tony Bennett, Phyllis Diller, Tommy Tune and all these other amazing people who came down. I was 21 and [actress] Lee Meriwether took me under her wing; she bought me my AFTRA [American Federation of Television and Radio Artists] card. She’s a great lady and she’s been a lovely friend to me. But it wasn’t all glamour. “Dinner theater is rough,” he laughs. “Kevin Kline in ‘Soapdish’ doing ‘Death of a Salesman’ was so true. People talking, eating, dropping food, glasses breaking, and you’re in the middle of a scene.” Donovan’s career progressed to the life of a working actor with stage roles in New York and film and TV work in LA. He’s also creating his own projects. His play, a mash-up of scenes from the AFI’s 100 top films, debuted at the New York International Fringe Festival. Donovan played all the characters in his abridged version of classic films. “It was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. It was bananas,” he says. Rewrites and workshopping resulted in a massive overhaul that he is still fine-tuning, paring the show to just two films “Psycho” and “Tootsie.” (“A cross-dressing actor and a crossdressing killer—show biz can be deadly,” he laughs). Donovan says he’ll travel to LA if there’s a job, but right now he’s ready for a life outside the competitive pace of Manhattan. “TV can be boring and tedious compared with theater. It’s great money, but as an actor it’s not as fulfilling. You give up a lot and for what? That’s what you have to ask yourself. It’s more at ease and at peace, especially as you get older, in this city.” Lucky for us. [x] Appropriate

of a family with three [adult] kids.” Directed by M. Bevin O’Gara, Jacobs-Jenkins’ acclaimed play, set on a crumbling Arkansas plantation, is described as a “subversive take on a classic American genre for a bold new look at race and identity.” Donovan, whose credits include roles on TV’s “Blue Bloods” and “Boardwalk Empire,” leads the cast as middle son Bo. Melina Lopez plays Toni, the eldest of the Lafayette siblings, and Alex Pollock plays Franz, the youngest and the outsider. “Bo’s the money guy of the family. He tried to escape but can’t and he deals with it by trying to finance everything and not getting involved with the chaos,” he says. “I’m an actor so, let’s be real, I can’t pay for anything. But I can identify because Bo moved away to the East Coast and [tried to escape] his past; he looks down on it. I left Michigan at 18. Growing up as a gay teen in the Midwest in the ’80s and ’90s—you just wanted to get the hell out and away from closed-minded people and go where you would not be judged.” After brief stints at college in Detroit then at the American Musical and Dramatic Academy in New York, he earned an apprenticeship at Burt Reynolds’s dinner theater in Jupiter, Florida. It was a pivotal experience in his life and career. “It was either spend lots of money on a theater degree or say ‘screw it’ and get in the trenches and bust my butt for a year at $50 a week,” he says. “They housed us and we did show after show after show [along with] doing the the laundry and cleaning dressing rooms. It’s one of toughest things I’ve ever done, but I got my [Actors] Equity card out of it.” Although Reynolds was no longer a hands-on presence

CULTURE Theater STORY Loren King

America’s Shakespeare The Tennessee Williams Festival in Provincetown looks forward and back Tennessee Williams, arguably America’s greatest playwright, is without argument America’s greatest gay playwright. Though his most famous works—“A Streetcar Named Desire,” “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof,” “The Glass Menagerie”—deal with themes deeply connected to the LGBT experience, it’s often assumed that Williams did not write overtly gay characters. The Provincetown Tennessee Williams Festival, which celebrates its 10th year Sept. 24-27, dispelled that notion during its first season with its premiere of “The Parade,” Williams’s autobiographical one-act play about a struggling writer who finds love and heartbreak in Provincetown. Jeff Hall-Flavin directed the original production with Eric Powell Holm. This year’s version, also directed by Hall-Flavin, will be at The Provincetown

74 | BOSTON SPIRIT

Inn, near the stone jetty “breakwater” with views of the dunes and salt marshes, and will again star Ben Berry as Don, the Williams character, in the story of his summer romance with a young model and would-be dancer named Dick. Williams spent the summer of 1940 when he was 29 in Provincetown where he fell for a 22-year-old Canadian draft dodge and dancer who called himself Kip Kiernan. “Many critics over the years have said, mistakenly, that Williams hid his homosexuality or that he imbued his female characters with the gay parts of himself, which is just not true,” says Hall-Flavin who is also the Festival’s executive director. “As early as 1940, he was writing gay characters. The sad thing is that it took until 2006 to put it on the stage.”

Ben Berry [RIGHT] for a previous production of “The Parade” PHOTO Courtesy of the Tennessee Williams Festival Williams’s writings about that pivotal summer of 1940, says Hall Flavin, include “beautiful descriptions of [the men’s] lovemaking. In a letter, he describes waves lapping under the pier at Captain Jack’s Wharf. He wrote in his journal about about the ‘gentle breakup’ that they had and how devastated he was . ... he was hopelessly in love. For gay men, we don’t date in the same way straight people do; we find love later in life. He was 29 and he didn’t know how to handle it when Kip broke up with him.” For Hall-Flavin, there’s a personal connection to both the play and to Provincetown. “The first time I came here, I was 19 and I held hands in public for the first time with a man. There is a mythical quality [about] what’s normal here and I think that has affected generations of people,” he says. “Williams has a beautiful line about how all the days in summer are like a string of gold beads; in other words, they are all alike and eventually they have a cumulative effect. I know Provincetown better now. I was a newbie when I first directed the play and now I’ve been here for 10 years.” “The Parade,” like many of Williams’s one-act plays, is rarely performed. But the

TWF in Provincetown, with a mission to present the full scope and breadth of Williams’s work, has premiered 10 of them. “I think of [Williams’s short plays] as classics in miniature,” says Hall-Flavin. “He really packs a punch into them like a firecracker. They’re not lesser plays, they are just shorter. We’re lucky to have a relationship with the estate that it trusts us to do them in a place where Tennessee Williams wrote his best-known plays. ... [Provincetown] was inspiring to him as it’s been to so many artists.” For Hall-Flavin and the entire team behind the TWF, it’s hard to imagine a decade has passed since that first, ambitious season. “As with most crazy ideas, you just get through it and the big question was ‘can we do it again a second year?’ We took a giant leap and realized there was an audience for it and it was very good for the town,” he says. “Now we get people from 36 states and six countries every year. We’re really proud of being an artistic magnet to this beautiful place.” For Year Tenn, the TWF looks forward and backward: besides “The Parade,” there will be fresh stagings of other past

Jeff Hall-Flavin PHOTOCourtesy of the Tennessee Williams Festival productions including a highlight from 2013, “The Milk Train Doesn’t Stop Here Anymore” with Jennifer Steyn and Marcel Meyer. Steyn, an award-winning actress, also stars in “The Day on Which a Man Dies,” Williams’s powerful fantasia on the death of Jackson Pollock which wowed audiences in 2009. Newly reinvented by

a South African cast, it will be directed by festival curator David Kaplan. Hall-Flavin will also direct what’s sure to be one of the highlights of this year’s festival: two shows at Town Hall in which noted actors read excerpts from the world premiere productions of Williams’s plays that the festival has presented over the last 10 years. Revisiting the past with a deeper understanding and a different perspective is fitting for a playwright whose work so often was about memory. In his play “Something Cloudy, Something Clear,” Williams, notes Hall-Flavin, wrote that “as you age and look back, something seems to happen at one time—we are who we were as well as who we are now and all life is memory. So it is worthwhile to see how the past compares and harmonizes with the present.” Even returning audiences will see something new at each performance. “Unlike film, theater isn’t static,” says Hall-Flavin. “It is a living, breathing organism and that’s exciting.” [x] Tennessee Williams Festival

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CULTURE Film STORY Loren King

Fitting into ‘T’ MIT’s Dr. John Southard comes out as cross-dresser in local documentary Dr. John Southard is a renowned geologist, professor emeritus at Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and an open cross-dresser. Although he long ago came out to his university colleagues, students and most of his family, Southard is about to go public in a bigger way. The 77-year-old is the subject of filmmaker and longtime Arlington resident Alice Bouvrie’s new documentary “A Chance to Dress.” The 40-minute film had its world premiere in April at Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts and will screen again at the 5th annual Arlington International Film Festival,

running October 15-22 at the Kendall Square Cinema. Dr. Southard will attend the screening with his wife, Jean Southard, a retired Presbyterian minister, and join Bouvrie in a post-screening Q and A. The MFA post-screening discussion lasted some 45 minutes and was very positive, Southward says, adding that he will not dress in women’s attire for the AIFF screening. “I don’t want to put anybody off. I’ll go as John,” he says. Southard agreed to participate in the documentary because he wanted to dispel misconceptions about crossdressing. Bouvrie’s final cut impressed him and put to rest

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any trepidation. “I was apprehensive but my worries were unfounded. I wanted the film to raise people’s consciousness, so it was worth doing,” he says. Although he’s part of the “T” in LGBT, Southard wants people to understand that transvestites are not transsexuals and they differ from drag queens who are usually gay. Southard, like most transvestites, is “unremarkably heterosexual” and his wife fully supports his cross-dressing. Jean is Dr. Southard’s second wife. His first wife, who died at middle-age, knew about his cross-dressing but didn’t want to participate. “I came out to Jean before we married,” he says. “Cross-dressers rate their wives A,B,C,D,E. My first wife was a B minus, C plus. Jean is an A plus.” Bouvrie met the Southards nearly 12 years ago and planned to include them in what became her 2011 film “Thy Will Be Done.” That film follows male-to-female transsexual Sara Herwig in her journey to ordination in the Presbyterian Church of Waltham where Jean Southard served as a mentor. “I was going to weave both stories [into one film] but then I realized they needed to be separate films,” says Bouvrie, whose interest in subcultures has long figured into her documentaries. Education and understanding is the goal of “A Chance to Dress,” she says. “Transvestites are such a misunderstood group,” she says. “There’s so little out there that’s not sensational.” Southard says back when he was a student at MIT, he felt isolated. That’s why he later became involved with the campus LGBT group for a time. “I thought I could be useful,” he says. “I had a piece in the faculty newsletter at one point.” He even performed at an MIT drag show, footage of

which is included in the film. “I had no problem at all [with faculty] and the students were uniformly supportive and enthusiastic,” he says. Despite that support, Southard sought and found community through the Tiffany Club of New England, one of the oldest social and support organizations for the entire spectrum of the transgender community. He and Jean also participated in Spring Fling in Provincetown. “It was nice to have company. There were others [in the Tiffany Club] who had nowhere else to dress. They can’t do it at home. For me, it was different,” he says. Most of the men he met over the years through the Tiffany Club tended to be deeply closeted and middle-aged to older. But that’s changing, he says. “In the past, we’d thought we were the only ones. I’d wondered, ‘how weird am I?’” he recalls. But with increased acceptance of all LGBT, he sees more cross-dressers coming out at younger ages. Now that he’s older, Southard says he doesn’t participate in the club or in cross-dressing events as much. He will occasionally dress when he and Jean go to dinner. “It’s a bit exhilarating and borderline stressful. Sometimes a waiter is taken aback. I’ll dress at home; not as often, but I still do it.” Southard had already come out to his adult children, but not to all members of his extended family. Still, he isn’t concerned that “A Chance to Dress” might surprise unsuspecting neighbors and friends. “I figure, whoever sees it, if they have issues with it, that’s fine. I am secure in my life and position,” he says. [x] A Chance to Dress

Arlington International Film Festival www.aiffest.org

| SAVE THE DATES | FURNISHINGS • FINE ART • DESIGN

HISTORIC • MODERN • CONTEMPORARY

November 19-22, 2015 www.BostonHomeDecorShow.com At The Cyclorama, Boston Center for the Arts 539 Tremont Street in the South End Thursday, Nov. 19 5:30-8:30pm Gala Preview to benefit DIFFA: Design Industries Foundation Fighting AIDS Tickets at www.DIFFABoston.EventBrite.com

Sponsored by:

Friday, Nov. 20 5:00-8:00pm “Scene and Be Seen” presented by The Provincetown Film Society Saturday & Sunday Special guest speakers, and more. Meet the home design experts! Weekend Show & Sale Fri 1-8, Sat 11-8, Sun 11-5 $15, Under 12 Free

Produced by Fusco & Four/Ventures, LLC 617-363-0405 www.BostonArtFairs.com

CULTURE Film STORY Loren King

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Finally, Movies Find Lesbians Get ready for ‘Grandma,’ ‘Freeheld’ and ‘Carol’ in theaters (and at the Oscars?)

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78 | BOSTON SPIRIT

Usually movies lag behind theater and television in pushing the popular culture envelope. Pre-production can often take years and major investments are usually needed to get anything made that’s not a sequel or doesn’t revolve around superheroes. What’s the cinematic equivalent to a TV show with the bold, often subversive, sexuality of “Orange is the New Black”? On Broadway, the year’s best musical, “Fun Home,” is centered on the inner life of a young butch who gleefully shouts “I’m a lesbian!” in the middle of a showstopper. But this fall, lesbians arrive in movies in a big way. Call it coincidence or cinema finally

catching up to a pop cultural trend, but three films— “Grandma,” “Freeheld” and “Carol”—head into theaters with prominent lesbian characters who drive the story. “Freeheld,” starring Oscar-winner Julianne Moore and out actress Ellen Page, and “Carol,” starring Oscarwinner Cate Blanchette and Rooney Mara, are expected to be serious Oscar contenders. Tour de force roles for women in contemporary movies are notoriously rare, so it’s particularly astounding that this year we get three movies boasting five huge parts for actresses all playing lesbian characters.

[OPPOSITE] Julianne Moore and Ellen Page in Freeheld PHOTO courtesy of Lionsgate [AT LEFT] Lily Tomlin in Grandma

PHOTO courtesy of Sony Pictures Classics [AT LEFT BELOW] Rooney Mara and Cate Blanchette in Carol PHOTO courtesy of The Weinstein Company

“Grandma,” from writer/ director Paul Weitz, opens Sept. 4 in Boston. A hit at both the Sundance, Provincetown and other film festivals, it’s a small, spare film built around a big performance from Lily Tomlin. In her first leading film role in 27 years, Tomlin, at 75, gets to tap into a wealth of understanding and emotion about aging, loss and fears of irrelevance. And she looks damn hot in that leather jacket. Tomlin plays Elle Reid, an acerbic lesbian poet with a lacerating wit who’s mourning the death of her longtime partner and battling a growing bitterness at the world. Elle breaks up with her current, young lover (Judy Greer) in the first few minutes of the film. That sets the stage for the road trip structure that follows, as Elle’s granddaughter Sage (Julia Garner) shows up needing money for an abortion. Elle, who’s broke and unemployed, vows to help her get the money. In Elle’s vintage car (Tomlin’s own 1955 Dodge Royal), they spend the day driving around Los Angeles for what becomes a memory trip for Elle. Elle is said to be based on writer and Cambridge native Eileen Myles. (Myles’ quote, “Time passes. That’s for sure,” from her 1994 story collection “Chelsea Girls” opens the film.) “Grandma” is at its best when it targets how much the culture has changed since the ’70s, when Elle was a revered feminist poet. In one scene, she decides to raise money by selling prized first editions of her books—only to be met with

“Freeheld” made news when administrators at Salesian High School, a private, all-boys Catholic school in New Rochelle, N.Y., denied the filmmakers permission to shoot a scene there after first agreeing to it. indifference by a bookstore clerk who’s never heard of her. It’s remarkable that “Grandma” is anchored by a seventy-something, lesbianfeminist character; even more impressive is that she’s allowed to be profane, rude and even unlikeable, rendering her fully human.

“Freeheld,” which will premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival in September and open in Boston in mid-October, is the true story of Laurel Hester (Moore), a police detective in Ocean County, New Jersey, and Stacie Andree (Page), a car mechanic, who fought the county to ensure that Hester’s

pension benefits would go to her partner after Hester was diagnosed with terminal cancer. She died in 2006. Out screenwriter Ron Nyswaner (an Oscar winner for “Philadelphia”) and director Peter Sollett based the film on Cynthia Wade’s short documentary “Freehend” which won the 2007 Oscar. The short also won the audience award at the 2007 Boston Independent Film Festival. The movie is first and foremost a love story that follows the couple’s meeting in a volleyball league, falling in love and building a home and life together. Later, when Laurel is diagnosed with terminal lung cancer and wants to make sure Stacie will receive her pension benefits, it becomes an escalating fight for social justice. The supporting cast includes Michael Shannon as Dane Wells, Laurel’s police partner who becomes an unlikely ally and, in a bit of inspired casting, Steve Carell as an LGBT activist. Underscoring that anti-gay sentiment survives despite cultural shifts and the landmark SCOTUS decision legalizing same-sex marriage, “Freeheld” made news when administrators at Salesian High School, a private, allboys Catholic school in New Rochelle, N.Y., denied the filmmakers permission to shoot a scene there after first agreeing to it. Moore, in her follow-up film to her Oscar-winning performance in “Alice,” reportedly researched the role of Hester thoroughly and may see yet another Oscar nomination. Page, who is also one of the film’s producers, is also earning accolades for her first gay role since coming out publicly in 2014. One of the most anticipated movies of the season is out director Todd Haynes’ lesbian

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romance “Carol,” set for in the repressive mores of release Nov. 20. A period love 1950s suburbia. Like that story based on a literary clasfilm, “Carol” is steeped in the sic, it’s this year’s “Brokeback forbidden love plots that perMountain.” meated the pulps. But rather Based on Patricia Highthan tawdry or sensationalissmith’s seminal 1952 lesbian tic, Haynes uses the notion of romance “The Price of Salt,” the risk of desire—same-sex “Carol” (the original title relationships in the fifties of the Highsmith’s book were not just frowned-upon; which she wrote under the they were illegal and dangerpseudonym Claire Morgan) ous—to craft a wrenching premiered to critical raves at love story. Haynes told the the Cannes Film Festival in New York Times that he used May. Rooney Mara won the David Lean’s 1945 classic jury’s Best Actress prize (she “Brief Encounter” as a model shared it with French actress for how to convey love and lust Emmanuelle Bercot for Mon through longing looks, subtle Roi). gestures and the interplay of Adapted by Phyllis Nagy, shadow and light. Carol is about two women Famously prickly, alcofrom very different backholic and a lesbian herself, in 1950s New York. Highsmith isN best known TOAST T TO O YOUR AS NEW TLIFET O grounds Y O UR EW Therese Belivet (Mara), a and highly regarded for her TOGETHER T OAT G OUR ETHER AT O UR twenty-something woman numerous psychological listlessly engaged to a man, thrillers such as “Strangers is working as a clerk in a on a Train” and “The Talented Manhattan department store Mr. Ripley” (both, of course, during the holiday season made into first-rate films.) when she spots Carol Aird Highsmith wrote “The Price (Cate Blanchett), a stunning of Salt,” her second book after socialite trapped in a love“Strangers on a Train,” durless marriage. As attraction ing the heyday of lesbian pulp deepens and a relationship novels. Although the book develops, Carol’s husband was marketed as such, it had (Kyle Chandler) questions an important distinction: a his wife’s friendship with rare hopeful ending. “I never both Therese and Carol’s best wrote another book like this,” R E C ER IVE 1 E 0 %C O F FE Y OIUV R Efriend Abby 1 0 %Highsmith O (Sarah Paulson) said in anF inter- F P O S TP - N UO P T I AS L BR T U NCH N * U T IasA as wellP as her competence viewL shortly beforeB her deathR U a mother. He hires a detective in 1995. Contact our Wedding Contact Specialist our Wedding Spe to follow Carol and Therese as Writing about “The Price of they embark on a road trip to Salt” in Publishers Weekly, 617.806.4125 617 | catering.cambridge@sonesta.com .806.4125 | catering.cambridge@s the Midwest, a motel-studded Joan Schenkar, author of the flight from convention and excellent biography “The expectation. Talented Miss Highsmith: Haynes, again working The Secret Life and Serious with producer and renowned Art of Patricia Highsmith,” queer-cinema pioneer put it best: “Salt glows with a Christine Vachon, does for the luminous halo of incest, a little lesbian pulp genre what he light pedophilia, and sexual did for the women’s pictures consummations that are spied of the ’40s and ’50s with his upon, recorded, and pros2002 film “Far From Heaven” ecuted. But Carol and Therese, (as well as his version of its steely, attractive, success“Mildred Pierce” for HBO). ful heroines, get away with “Far From Heaven” starred their in a fascinating 40 Edwin 40 Land Boulevard Edwin | Cambridge,Land MA, 02142 Boulevard | “crime” Cambridge Julianne Moore and Dennovel that made its author 617.806.4200 | Sonesta.com/Boston 617.806.4200 | Sonesta.com/Bo nis Quaid as a couple caught uneasy all her life.” [x]

allall new hotel new

* Excludes ArtBar and restaurant * dante. Excludes ArtBar and restaurant da

CULTURE Books STORY Rob Phelps

Roadmap to Social Justice ‘Winning Marriage’ is a people’s history of the fight for marriage equality It’s rare and wonderful when a witness to history—a leader of a civil rights movement, for example—happens also to be a keen observer with a knack for writing compelling narrative in an extremely appealing style. In “Winning Marriage: The Inside Story of How Same-Sex Couples Took on the Politicians and Pundits—and Won,” Marc Solomon, national campaign director for Freedom to Marry, presents his readers with a page-turner that critics are calling a major contribution to US political and social history. In it, Solomon reveals the machinations of twenty-first-century politics at work and how they can effectively produce positive change. Fresh out of Yale, Solomon cut his teeth as a young policy adviser to Missouri Senator Jack Danforth in Washington, D.C. and as a researcher for Washington Post reporter Bob Woodward before earning his graduate degree from the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard. He began his advocacy work for Evan Wolfson, founder of Freedom to Marry, in Boston 13 years ago. In many ways, “Winning Marriage” is as much a memoir as it is the story of a community. The book opens in the early morning of November 18, 2003, hours before the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court will make Massachusetts the first state in the country to recognize same-sex marriage. Mary Bonauto, the lawyer who argued the case in Boston eight months earlier, is driving down the highway in her Chevy Prism to testify in another case when her cell phone rings. The reader is instantly

“ The main reason I wrote this book was to show how significant social change can happen in America. ” Marc Solomon

swept into the book, eagerly anticipating the results at Bonauto’s side. Not long after the victory, when the state’s legislature threatens to invalidate the court’s decision, Solomon’s team approaches each state representative still on the fence. Learning one is a fan of the musical “Wicked,” they connect him with Gregory Maguire, author of the book the musical is based on. Maguire makes the winning argument, comparing green-skinned Elphaba to the misunderstood underdog, with whom the politician empathizes. Through such anecdotes, some touching, some tough, Solomon delivers a gritty, behind-the-scenes account of a slow, state-by-state march; in short, a history of how marriage equality became the law of the land—almost. Solomon’s book was published six months before the US Supreme Court’s landmark June 26, 2015 decision. A 27-page Afterword in its early September paperback release completes the story. Solomon approaches his Afterword, this last chapter of the legal battle for marriage equality, with the same intimate reporting and sense of suspense that makes the hardcover so gripping, covering the final battles on the national level, complete with post-victory reflection. “The main reason I wrote this book was to show how significant social change can happen in America,” he writes in the Afterword. “It is crucial to recognize that there are no shortcuts: such change requires hard and taxing work, over a

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Marc Solomon with Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick at a rally after the victory in Massachusetts, with speaker Salvatore F. DiMasi and Rep. KathiAnne Reinstein PHOTO by Marilyn Humphries, courtesy of Marc Solomon long period of time. Also required are a powerful vision and a strategic roadmap for bringing change about, but without hard work that task is impossible.” Solomon’s book provides such a roadmap. It even provides, in the new Afterword, a 10-step “Lessons Learned” action-plan for social activists, working on just about any type of issue, to consider. Solomon himself is not married and never has been. “I’m not really on the market either,” he tells Boston Spirit magazine. “I think marriage is something I care deeply about and haven’t completely ruled out [for myself ], but it wasn’t what got me in the fight.” That, as he tells Boston Spirit, is his life-long journey to advocate for all kinds of social justice, “from criminal justice reform to gun violence prevention to climate change to income inequality to hunger alleviation to gender equality issues.” You name it. But back to his personal life. Aside from a passion for vacationing in Provincetown, he speaks of his pride in being an uncle to two teenage girls, Madeline, 15, and Zoe, 12. “Both have become amazing advocates for the cause,” he says. It helps, he says, that he can hook them up with famous gay people like celebrity teen blogger Tyler Oakley and Jane

Lynch, who the girls recently got to meet backstage after her Broadway turn in “Annie.” Adam Lambert called them up to wish them a Happy Hanukah. And when Madeline went on a school trip to Washington, D.C. last year, hey says, Solomon arranged for a representative from the National Center for Transgender Equality to speak to her class. When Zoe was in fifth grade, he adds, a classmate came out to her as gay “because he knew he could trust her.” In the new Afterword, Solomon writes about the morning before the SCOTUS decision when he shared a photo that Zoe gave him of their cousin on his prom night. The young man and his date are “sitting on a swing together, their arms around one another, both wearing black tuxedos and white boutonnieres, looking happy, adorable, and carefree. … The notion that gay kids in their teens, along with future generations of LGBT young people, might grow up in a world where the most important social and cultural institution—marriage—treated them, their relationships, and their love as worthy of dignity and respect [is] profoundly moving to me.” [x]

CULTURE Literature STORY Loren King

How We Got Here Lillian Faderman’s ‘The Gay Revolution’ is both sweeping and nuanced I’ve always enjoyed Lillian Faderman’s highly readable and well-researched books covering LGBT history. Some— “Odd Girls and Twilight Lovers” and “Gay L.A.,” for example—focus on a specific part of LGBT culture. Her new tome, the epic “The Gay Revolution: The Story of the Struggle” (Simon and Schuster) is more sweeping, as its title suggest. At a hefty 800 pages (including footnotes), it’s a wide-ranging survey of the LGBT struggle from the 1950s to today. Despite its scope,

Faderman still delivers her sophisticated brand of storytelling: each section pairs historic events with the people, both famous and not-so-famous, who played important roles or who embodied the times in which they happened. The early chapters are particularly fascinating, if only because they are less familiar to readers middle-aged and younger than those that detail more contemporary history (AIDS, marriage equality). Faderman begins with the sad

and sadly common story of an esteemed college professor entrapped into sex solicitation by police, convicted under penal codes for lewd behavior, publicly shamed, his life ruined. A few pages later, we’re at the military ceremony to promote a decorated female officer to the rank of general, with her wife by her side. Faderman’s two wildly different scenarios are the heart of her narrative: the evolution of LGBT people in image and status from the dark 1950s when homosexuality was illegal, viewed by nearly all factions of society as immoral and a mental illness, and today, with heightened visibility and acceptance within institutions as staid as the government and military. Faderman’s narrative is all the more powerful because it begins in the relatively modern era, the post-war early 1950s, a time so brutal and sinister for LGBT citizens that she might as well be portraying the dark ages. (For history that goes back further, local author Michael Bronski’s excellent “A Queer History of the United States” traces unknown or ignored LGBT people and events from 1492 to the 1990s.) Men and women suspected of being gay were routinely tracked by FBI and local police, entrapped and charged with sex crimes. Bars, one of the only arenas for socializing, were routinely raided and shut down. Shame and fear forced LGBT people underground. Even at the highest levels of the US government, anxiety over the McCarthy purge of anyone accused of being Communist caused a low-level bureaucrat to sell-out suspected gays working in the state department. A “Pervert Elimination Squad’” was actually formed to root out suspected homosexuals from government. Soon, the anti-gay witch hunt expanded to include the military and universities nationwide. But like a later chapter on the infamous anti-gay crusade of Anita Bryant, Faderman’s chronology shows the link between rigorous anti-gay repression and the increase in LGBT anger and activism. Two terrific chapters detail how two groups grew out of necessity into respected political organizations. Harry Hay’s efforts to organize gay men and women, first with small, clandestine, casual discussions, evolved into The Mattachine Society. At the same time, Del Martin and Phyllis Lyon, wanting a safe place to meet and socialize with other lesbians, created the Daughters of Bilitis and the publication

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The Ladder. Faderman explains how dangerous even this was in the 1950s. Someone alerted the FBI, which read The Ladder faithfully and tried to ferret out contributors and subscribers. Eventually, Barbara Gittings became the editor and upped the publication’s political slant, influenced by hearing Frank Kameny, head of the Washington, DC branch of Mattachine, speak at a conference. The book expertly weaves seminal events with their social and historic contexts. The women’s movement of the early ’70s and the rise of radical lesbians is given its due in the book. The ethos of the late 1960s and early 70s challenged authority and assimilation and gave birth to groups like the Gay Activists Alliance (which included Kamen and Gittings). Political action grew from increased frustration with institutions including the scientific community. Evelyn Hooker’s landmark 1953 study of homosexual men, presented to the American Psychological Association in 1956, found that gay desire and expression had little effect on personality

Even at the highest levels of the US government, anxiety over the McCarthy purge of anyone accused of being Communist caused a low‑level bureaucrat to sell‑out suspected gays working in the state department. A “Pervert Elimination Squad’” was actually formed to root out suspected homosexuals from government. and emotional development. Faderman writes that Hooker’s findings may not have swayed mental health professionals whose livelihoods depended on the idea that gays were sick. But it had a profound impact on the burgeoning movement. Her chapter “How Gays and Lesbians Stopped Being Crazies” offers in rich detail how the GAA “zapped” the 1971 APA convention

and increased pressure to remove homosexuality from its classification as a mental illness. Later sections deal with the Stonewall riots, the assassination of Harvey Milk, the AIDS plague and the activism it produced, “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” ENDA and, finally, the fight for marriage equality. Faderman writes in a highly-engaging style that remains nuanced even when she’s dealing with big picture events. Though packed with facts and information, “The Gay Revolution” is a narrative, full of characters who are vividly depicted through Faderman’s storytelling skills. Obviously, “The Gay Revolution” can’t be, and doesn’t claim to be, the definitely history of LGBT life in the US over the past 75 years. But it’s an ambitious, vital work that gives early gay rights activists their due. Just as important, it gives appropriate gravitas to the many years of struggle, particularly the 1950s, which, thanks to so much recent progress, could be in danger of being forgotten or dismissed over time. Not now. [x]

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SCENE Benefit PHOTOS Courtesy Victory Programs

[4]

Drive for Victory Golf Tournament

[2]

Wallaston Golf Club | Milton | June 29

Victory Programs held its third annual Drive for Victory golf tournament, at Wollaston Golf Club in Milton. One hundred golfers and incredible sponsors and supporters raised nearly $44,000 in support of the agency’s mission to open doors to hope, health and housing.

[1]

[3]

Teams from Title Sponsor Maguire Mechanical Elaine Mooney makes her putt in the Putting Contest Drive for Victory Champions Sandro Frattura, Matt Baltz, Rich Doucette and Jeff Swartz

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Breckinridge Capital Advisors Team—Ian Frank, Denise Thompson, Bob Meehan and Victory Programs’ Board Member Rob Fernandez [5] Eastern Bank Team—Bill Feingold, Dina Scianna, Ron Caccavaro and Victory Programs’ Board Chair Pam Feingold [6] Victory Programs’ Vice Chair Brian Link, Alison Merrill, Jim Pettinelli and Bill Signori [7] John Fernandes, Linda McDaid, Phil Paul and Jeff Ramsey [8] Aaron Morong, Ken Westermann, Tom Salvoni and Tony Vaccarro [9] Robert Saurer, Mark Tibbetts, Dave Connelly and Matt Lucerto [10] Boston Spirit Magazine Team—Michael Fleischer, Eric Lange, David Zimmerman and Wendell K. Chestnut

SCENE Benefit PHOTOS Melissa Ostrow

Boston Spirit Boat Cruise Boston Harbor | Boston | June 17

Boston Spirit’s annual boat cruise brought out hundreds of partiers. Ticket sales benefit Fenway Health.

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88 | BOSTON SPIRIT

SCENE Benefit PHOTOS Stephanie Visciglia

CRI’s Summer Party The Red Inn | Provincetown | July 18

Community Research Initiative of New England’s annual summer benefit raised nearly $75,000 to support the future of groundbreaking HIV/AIDS and hepatitis C (HCV) research.

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Madonna “Rebel Heart Tour” “Who’s That Girl?” It’s the queen of pop and perpetual gay icon, of course, and tonight she hits the Hub on a world tour promoting her latest album, “Rebel Heart,” which sent three singles to the top of the Dance/Club charts. Madonna shows guarantee major spectacle, and though the juicy details are being kept close to the cone-shaped bra-wearing chest, the star has dropped a few hints on social media: expect a stage with a cross-shaped catwalk, nuns dancing on stripper poles, and a set list that is expected to include classics like “Holiday,” “La Isla Bonita” and “Dress You Up” alongside “Rebel Heart” cuts like the heart-pounding lead single “Living For Love.” WHEN

WHERE

HOW

Saturday, September 26

TD Garden, Boston

ticketmaster.com

TWC Takes Vegas Set your sights on Sin City with The Welcoming Committee, a Boston-based biz that organizes both local and national social outings (no pun intended) for the twenty- and thirty-something LGBT community. This fall they’re flying to Vegas for four days of fun. The options-packed itinerary includes dance nights at gay clubs like Piranha and SHARE, a TWC pool party, a Boston posse takeover of Britney Spears’ “Pieces of Me” concert at Planet Hollywood, and accommodations at LINQ Hotel on the glittery Vegas Strip. Place your bets, then your payment; packages range from $500 to $875, not including airfare. WHEN

Thursday, October 15 to Sunday, October 18

WHERE

All over Las Vegas, baby!

HOW

thewelcomingcommittee.com

PHOTO Camille Garzón

CALENDAR Stargaze 2015 If Burning Man and Lilith Fair could be merged into three days and two nights in an enchanted New Hampshire forest, the result would look a bit like Stargaze. This women’s music festival brings unites the artsy and outdoorsy at a tent and RV-filled campground that temporarily transforms into a campfire-lit haven of art installations, yoga workshops, rave-like dance parties and live performances: singer-songwriter Melissa Ferrick and Massachusettsraised “The Voice” finalist Kristen Merlin are among this year’s talent. Plus there’s all the hiking, marshmallow roasting, and (if you’re lucky) sleeping bag snuggling that your on-a-star-wishing heart can handle. WHEN

Friday, September 25 to Sunday, September 27 WHERE

Barrington, NH HOW

lesbiannightlife.com/stargaze

Worcester Pride Boston Pride may be over, but now turn your attention to New England’s second largest city. Four days of festivities are on tap for this 40th annual installment of Worcester Pride, where the year’s theme is “Love Will Keep Us Together.” So open your heart as you hit up the kick-off dinner at stylish tapas restaurant Bocado, take in the parade, flirt at the Pride Festival and hang with old neighbors and new friends at the Pride Block Party outside gay bar MB Lounge, among other activities. It may be the second largest city, but Worcester’s vibrant Pride proves that size doesn’t matter. WHEN

WHERE

HOW

Sept. 9 -12

Worcester, MA

worcesterpride.org

GLAD Spirit of Justice Award Dinner It’s impossible to overstate the importance of the Boston legal organization Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders — especially this year. Equal marriage is now a reality in all 50 states, and the Supreme Court’s groundbreaking decision is a tribute to the work of GLAD, which worked to establish same-sex marriage first here in Massachusetts; it was GLAD attorney Mary Bonauto who argued both the groundbreaking Goodridge case in 2003 and again in front of the Supreme Court earlier this year. Support the organization by attending its annual fundraising dinner, where this year author Jennifer Finney Boylan, a member of the board of trustees of the Kinsey Institute for Research on Sex, Gender, and Sexuality, national co-chair of the board for GLAAD, and consultant for the television show “Transparent.”

Mary Bonauto and Urvashi Vaid in 2014 PHOTO Marilyn Humphries

WHEN

WHERE

HOW

Friday, Oct. 16 from 6:30-10 PM

Boston Marriott Copley Place

glad.org

Haunted Happenings It’s baaaaack. Haunted Happenings, that is, Salem’s annual month-long extravaganza of psychic fairs, costume parades, haunted houses and other special events that go bump in the night (and broad daylight). This year’s October lineup revives many favorites, from family film nights on Salem Common to Festival of the Dead, a spooky series curated by nationally known gay practicing warlock Christian Day. But there’s also an overflowing cauldron of new events, including a “Golden Girls”-inspired drag revue (featuring the “Lost Halloween Episode”), “Bewitched” discussion at Salem Witch Museum covering the classic TV series’ North Shore connections, apple pressing demos from Salem’s boozy craft biz Far From the Tree Cider, and much more. WHEN

WHERE

HOW

Throughout October

Salem, Massachusetts

hauntedhappenings.org

Harbor to the Bay Although founder Michael Tye didn’t live to see the success of Harbor to the Bay, countless others have benefited from the Boston-to-Provincetown bike ride he founded. Since its inception in 2003, Harbor to the Bay has amassed over $4 million for the HIV/AIDS-related organizations AIDS Action Committee, Fenway Health, AIDS Support Group of Cape Cod, and Community Research Initiative. This year wheel-spinning fundraisers will push that number even higher as they sprint from the city to the outer Cape, where supporters are always waiting to cheer them on for the last leg—and buy them a well-deserved drink at post-H2B parties that pop up. You can sign up to ride or cheerlead as a crewmember too. WHEN

WHERE

HOW

Saturday, Sept. 19

Full ride is from Boston to Provincetown; half-rides are from Boston to Sagamore and Sagamore to Provincetown.

harbortothebay.org

Pride Vermont

PHOTO David Garten

If you’re looking for an excuse to take a trip up north, in September the Green Mountain State’s biggest city hosts Pride Vermont, an annual celebration that is accompanied by additional Pride-related events throughout the month. In the past they’ve included a drag-filled High Heel Race down cobblestone Church Street and Women’s Tea Dance. Keep an eye here for updates, or plan to visit for the main event, a parade and festival throughout the cobblestone-lined Church Street Marketplace. The year’s theme, “Shine!” will feature live entertainment, games, and words from keynote speaker Julie Serano, a trans-bi author and activist. WHEN

WHERE

HOW

Sunday, Sept. 13

Burlington, VT

pridecentervt.org

Come OUT MetroWest and Celebrate!

It’s not easy growing up gay, especially outside the city. That’s why we need organizations like OUT MetroWest, which produces a network of youth-focused LGBT groups that provide peer services, leadership, social opportunities and education to young people in the Boston suburbs. Support the organization and rub elbows with other dedicated LGBT advocates at Come OUT MetroWest and Celebrate!, the group’s annual dinner and fete. This year the event will honor U.S. Senator Ed Markey, for his support, and you’ll likely spot honorary chair Congressman Joe Kennedy the III too. WHEN

WHERE

HOW

Sunday, Sept. 26

Marriot Newton, 2345 Commonwealth Avenue, Newton MA

outmetrowest.org

HRC 2015 New England Gala The Boston chapter of the Human Rights Campaign hosts its annual gala (hashtag: #StrongerTogether), a chance to get dolled up, dine with the community’s (well-heeled) supporters, and depending on how much you imbibe at the cocktail reception, perhaps bit on a few exciting silent auction packages as well. This year the event relocates to a new venue, and though it’s not until early November, we thought you’d want the heads up to make sure you get your tickets in time. WHEN

WHERE

HOW

Saturday, November 7

The Westin Copley Place, 10 Huntington Avenue, Boston

hrc.org/events

U.S. Senator Ed Markey

Chad Griffin PHOTO Marilyn Humphries

Creating and Supporting your Healthy, Beautiful Smile

Your Source for Equalityminded People, Places, Services and Adventures in New England and beyond.

Where personalized care & healthy, beautiful smiles meet.

For information on including your business, e-mail sales@BostonSpiritMagazine.com

 BEAUTY | BODY

Beauty Medicine Boston

Botox®, Dermal Fillers & Skin Therapies Rejuvenate yourself with state of the art cosmetic injections and advanced skin therapies and treatments, including: Botox®. Juvederm®, Radiesse®, Belotero® and Ultherapy. Personalized, artistic and compassionate skin care administered by Advanced Practice Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist, Nelson Aquino. Two convenient locations: Office of Joseph Russo, MD, FACS: 575 Boylston Street Newton Centre, MA 02459 and 1318 Beacon Street, Ste. 7 (2nd floor) Brookline, MA 617-953-6261 www.beautymedicineboston.com

Elizabeth Grady

Because the world sees your face first Elizabeth Grady provides an innovative approach to beauty and skin health through our products, services, schools and franchises. The expertly trained estheticians, massage therapists and make-up artists at our many locations will prescribe the worlds best face care products and treatments that are right for you. At the Elizabeth Grady Schools, we also educate and nurture the next generation of highly-qualified professionals. 1-800-FACIALS www.elizabethgrady.com www.elizabethgrady.edu

Osorio Dental Group

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We offer exceptional dentistry in a caring, non-judgmental environment. Our LGBTQ supportive dentists and staff will ensure your comfort. www.osoriodentalboston.com

Seligman Dental Designs

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Personalized dental care; healthy, beautiful smiles; comfortable, caring service in our state-of-the-art dental facility in the heart of the South End. It’s no secret that healthy teeth and a radiant smile can improve your appearance, your self-esteem and your overall health. Whether your goal is to restore your smile or maintain good oral health, you can benefit from Dr. James R. Seligman’s comprehensive approach to dental care. 617-451-0011 SouthEndDental.com

Friendly, personalized dental care

State of the Art Technology

James R. Seligman, DMD

“Best of the South End” — SOUTH END NEWS

SouthEndDental.com

1180 Washington Street Boston, MA 02118 617.451.0011

Wellspring Weight Loss

Your Weight. Your Life. Take Control. The country’s largest and most respected network of weight loss programs, includes an adults-only residential facility with upscale amenities, state-of-the art facilities, and chef prepared meals. or call us at 1-866-364-0808 wellspringweightloss.com

 COMMUNITY | NONPROFIT Planned Giving at DanaFarber Cancer Institute

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Invest in a future without cancer Include Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and the Jimmy Fund in your estate plans to reach your financial goals and help fight cancer. 800-535-5577 Dana-Farber.org/spirit

 HOME | GARDEN Circle Furniture

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Furniture ... Made for Real Life Circle Furniture offers an eclectic selection of furniture for traditional and contemporary homes, fast delivery times for made-to-order items, corporate philanthropy, support of the regional economy, and most of all, fun. 31 St. James Ave. Boston, MA 617-778-0887 www.circlefurniture.com

SEP|OCT 2015 | 93

Portside at East Pier

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Looking for a beautiful apartment with stunning views of the Boston Harbor, a building full of first-class amenities and a vibrant community to live in? Get it all at Portside at East Pier. Whether you want to relax in comfort at home, walk the waterfront, explore the outdoors or find some of the best food in Boston, there’s plenty of action to be had here. Plus, with convenient access to the T at Maverick Station, the rest of the city is just a short train ride away. Come experience a place where discovery lies around every corner. It’s East Boston. But when you live at Portside at East Pier, you’ll just call it home. GoEastPier.com

Dover Rug

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New Showroom Now Open Dover Rug & Home Dover Rug & Home offers the largest selection of fine floor coverings and window treatments in New England. Visit their BRAND NEW location at 721 Worcester Street in Natick (RT-9) As the “Best of Boston Home 2011” recipient, their larger showroom has something for every budget. Dover Rug & Home is headquartered at 721 Worcester Road (Route 9), Natick, MA 508-651-3500. Dover-Boston is located at 390 Stuart Street in the Back Bay, Boston 617-266-3600. 721 Worcester Street (Route 9) Natick, MA 508-651-3500 www.doverrug.com

Gardner Mattress

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Gardner Mattress Corporation A New England favorite for generations, Gardner Mattress has been manufacturing quality custom-sized, odd-sized and handmade mattresses in their Salem factory for over 70 years! Though their landmark location is North of Boston in Salem, they also service satisfied customers throughout New England. At Gardner Mattress, you’ll find mattresses including lace-tufted, layered latex, pocketed coil, quilted cotton and ivory plush, all handmade with natural materials. Located in Salem, Woburn and Newton, MA and Rye, NH. www.GardnerMattress.com

Lucia Lighting

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bright ideas begin at lucia Lucia Lighting & Design Our unique lighting store features 12 showrooms in 8,000 square feet of a lovingly restored mansion staffed with certified lighting specialists who are both educated and customer focused. Whether you want to visit our showroom or have one of our team visit you at your location in the Boston area, lucÃa lighting & design is the answer. 311 Western Ave. (RT-107 Lynn, MA 781-595-0026 www.lucialighting.com

Seasons Four

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The Outdoor Living Store For over 40 years, Seasons Four has been a destination for everyone in New England that values outdoor spaces. We are a trusted source for quality, heirloom furniture for your sunroom, porch, patio, deck, and garden. We also provide unique plant material, statuary, fountains and garden accessories to complete your outdoor room. 1265 Massachusetts Avenue Lexington, MA 781-861-1200 seasonsfour.com

 PROFESSIONAL | SERVICES Burns & Levinson, LLP

94 | BOSTON SPIRIT

Harvard University Careers If you can work, you can work at Harvard! We are so much more than just students and professors. We are the 5th largest private employer in Massachusetts, with over 16,000 employees. Almost any job you can think of exists at the University. employment.harvard.edu

UBS Financial Services, Inc.

Peter Hamilton Nee and Robert S. Edmunds UBS is proud to support Boston Spirit magazine, and salutes Fenway Health for their faithful service to our community. Please contact us any time. Peter Hamilton Nee, AIF, CRPC, VP, Investments and Robert S. Edmunds, CFP, CRPC ubs.com/team/neeedmunds. Wellesley, MA 781-446-8918 or 800-828-0717 ubs.com/team/neeedmunds

 TRAVEL | ADVENTURE Marriott Copley Place

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Great Location. Great Amenities. Boston Marriott Copley Place Located in the Back Bay and a few blocks from the South End, the Boston Marriott Copley Place is perfect for business or leisure travel. The hotel features deluxe rooms, Champions, Connexion Lounge, Starbucks, indoor pool, fitness center, 70,000 sq. ft. of meeting space and is minutes from top attractions. 110 Huntington Avenue (Boston) , MA 617-236-5800 goo.gl/soiy38

Royal Sonesta Hotel Boston

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Spectacular city views, luxury accommodations, regional cuisine, and contemporary art All of our 400 well-appointed guest rooms and suites offer guests the comforts of home with first-class amenities and overlook the Charles River, Cambridge or Boston's stunning skyline. The Royal Sonesta Hotel Boston features both casual and elegant dining and delicious inspired cuisine in two highly acclaimed riverfront restaurants with seasonal patios, ArtBar and Restaurant Dante. 40 Edwin H. Land Boulevard Cambridge, MA 617-806-4200 www.sonesta.com/Boston/

 WEDDING | EVENTS Accent Limousine

LGBT Owned & Operated Accent Limousine & Car Service We provide professional transportation services throughout Greater Boston and the Metro-West. We grow our client base every year because we care for our clients as only a ‘Family’ business can. Our chauffeurs are professionally attired, knowledgeable, reliable, and friendly, and their professionalism and driving abilities will immediately earn your trust and confidence. We look forward to driving you on your next special occasion. www.accentlimo.com/spirit

DJ Mocha 53

Burns & Levinson LLP, a leading mid-size law firm with a client-centric culture, has over 125 attorneys in Massachusetts, Rhode Island and the District of Columbia. We work with entrepreneurs, emerging businesses, private and public companies and individuals in sophisticated business transactions, litigation and private client services—family law, trusts & estates, marriage and divorce law. 617-345-3000 www.burnslev.com

Harvard University

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Affordable great music for your party! Boston Spirit’s official Cruise DJ for four years. Bringing, Great Music and Fun to your Events! All genres: pop, jazz, techno, world beat, swing, disco & more! 617-784-1663 MochaDJ.com

Gourmet Caterers

Peace of mind. Now that’s a wedding vow. This is a day when only perfection will do. GourmetCaterers’ attention to detail means peace of mind, so you can enjoy your wedding along with your guests. Whether your dream wedding is a large event or intimate affair, Gourmet’s team of innovative planners, chefs, stylists and servers will be by your side to ensure that everything is perfectly, uniquely, your own.

ha c o M DJ

GourmetCaterers.com

Konditor Meister

Konditor Meister—Voted #1 Wedding Cakes in Boston Extraordinarily Beautiful & Elaborate Wedding Cakes & fine European pastries. Delicious Custom Holiday & Party Cakes for all occasions. 32 Wood Road (Just South of Boston) Braintree, MA 781-849-1970 KonditorMeister.com

Lombardo’s

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Lombardo’s has been providing the highest quality of hospitality and cuisine for over 50 years. From innovative menus to an upscale atmosphere, Lombardo’s ensures every wedding will exceed their client’s expectations. 781-986-5000 www.lombardos.com

Long's Jewelers

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Your Source for Diamonds, Wedding Rings, Fine Jewelry & Watches Long's Jewelers has been in the business of happy moments since 1878. We're honored to help our customers celebrate milestones like engagements, weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, and retirements and not to mention "just because" moments! Whether you're looking for diamonds, wedding rings, fine jewelry, Swiss watches, awards, or corporate gifts, Long's has you covered.

HAPPY PRIDE! www.mochadj.com

Boston, Braintree, Burlington, Natick, and Peabody, MA 877-845-6647 www.longsjewelers.com

Ptown Parties

Catering | Events The premier caterer on the lower cape, Ptown Parties is a full service catering and event planning company. Let them cater your next cocktail party, clambake or wedding, in your home, inn, rental condo or yacht. Let Ptown Parties take care of all the hassles, so you can enjoy a carefree day in Provincetown, and a great party that night!

RELAX | RENEW | REFLECT

World-Class Luxury Guesthouse and Spa

508-487-6450 Ptownparties.com

Your Source for Equalityminded People, Places, Services and Adventures in New England and beyond. 14 Johnson Street, Provincetown | 800.487.0132

www.carpediemguesthouse.com SEP|OCT 2015 | 95

CODA Entertainment STORY Scott Kearnan

Does Cho Sound Gay? Queer comedian comes to Boston’s Wilbur Theatre

Queer comedian Margaret Cho is back on the road—and she’s angry as hell. Luckily, she’s funny as hell too. See for yourself when she brings “The PsyCHO Tour” to Boston’s Wilbur Theatre on October 10 and makes bellies ache with her always uproarious, never-PC riffs on politics and pop culture. Cho is currently working on a new album, and also appears in the heralded new documentary “Do I Sound Gay?” that examines why gay men talk they way they do—and why it matters (or doesn’t). But first, she spoke to Boston Spirit about her tour, equal marriage, social media and more. [SPIRIT] You named this “The

PsyCHO Tour.” Why?

[CHO] I think it’s a really scary time. The show is about being really frustrated—but at the same time elated. We had this wonderful thing happen with the Supreme Court legalizing marriage equality. But then you have all this other stuff: violence against women, racial unrest—these really big issues. It’s that kind of psychotic time that the show reflects. [SPIRIT] Do you think the mainstreaming of gay marriage has obfuscated some of the LGBT community’s radical movement? [CHO] I think marriage still came from the radical movement. Politically, it’s the radical movement that pushed us through the AIDS crisis and worked toward eradicating stigma; it was Act Up and the AIDS community claiming “we’re queer” that brought our community an awareness that emerged into the mainstream marriage equality movement. We’re always going to have to reflect on how we’re perceived politically, but I think the movement got a lot of leverage from the radical part of who we are.

[SPIRIT] What about inter-culture discrimination? You identify as bi, and it seems like the bi community faces unique prejudices: The straights don’t want you, and neither do the Gs and Ls! [CHO] Well that’s something I talk about in the show: that I think it’s funny, the [bisexual] invisibility within the greater gay and lesbian community. It’s like our heterosexual side disqualifies our opinions, when we’re just as gay as we are straight. [SPIRIT] Social media has become ground zero for accusing comics of being “insensitive.” Do you think our culture is becoming too sensitive? [CHO] I think the sensitivity comes from social media not taking jokes in context. A lot of jokes are taken out of context and used as click bait to manufacture outrage. That’s what keep social media going! Jokes are dependent on the context of a situation. The censorship we see now has less to do with stand-up comedy as an art form and more to do with the fact that we have a way to voice our opinions on everything. … But you also want to utilize that [sensitivity] and play with it. It makes people more daring and more willing to say things that can be as offensive. That’s the nature of comedy. It’s almost like egging me on to do more. Comedians are that way. [SPIRIT] vI think of offensive comedy like the S&M of live art. If I slap someone on the street it’s assault, but other times it’s play—because you’ve decided together that you’re entering a certain contract. [CHO] Until you say the safe word. But everyone’s saying the safe word. [SPIRIT] Election-wise, who are

you pulling for in 2016?

Margaret Cho PHOTO Pixievision [SPIRIT] Another comedian in the news lately: Cosby. What do you make of that situation? And is it possible to still think of him as a legend, knowing what we now know? [CHO] I think you can separate someone’s art from their humanity. What frustrates me about Bill Cosby is that people rush to defend him while they’d rather not believe all the victims who came forward with the same story. People hang on to him as an institution. And you can realize that he is an institution and also be able to think that he was wrong. [SPIRIT] Tell us about the documentary “Do I Sound Gay?”

Sanders a lot. I think they’d be great on one ticket. Hillary’s been in the White House before, and I know she can handle the job. I was there during the Clinton administration going to state dinners. It’d be nice to be invited back when she’s running those. She throws a good party.

[CHO] It asked a lot of interesting questions. What does gayness actually mean? Is it an accent? Is it a demeanor? Is it a state of mind? What do those things have to do with how you present myself as a human being? It was an anthropological study to some extent, and an exploration of the different ways that we amplify our gender and our sexual identity.

[SPIRIT] Thoughts on Trump?

[SPIRIT] So—Do I sound gay?

[CHO] I like Hillary a lot, and I like

[CHO] Everybody is really interested

in Donald Trump out of sheer entertainment, and the idea that people might vote for him is a joke. But on the other hand, ultimately the person who wins is the one who has the most money.

[CHO] You could sound gay. Or you could just be from Boston. [x]

PHASE ONE IS SOLD OUT. SIENA, THE NExT cONDOS AT INk bLOck, IS ON THE WAY. if you missed the opportunity to own at sepia, there is good news. siena is now pre-selling. the location, stylish design and impressive list of amenities are topped off by the Sky Lounge. The dramatic design, retractable glass wall, fire pit, unique lighting and indoor/outdoor entertainment bar are just a few features that add a wow factor that will surprise and delight residents. siena the NEXt conDos at

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