GayCalgary Magazine - May 2014

MAY 2014

® ISSUE 127 • FREE The Voice of Alberta’s LGBT Community

Ian Parks

Hot Toddy on WTBA Season 3

Interview with

COURTNEY

ACT

Katie Cassidy

Demons to Super Dames

PLUS:

Bill Paxton • Simone Denny Chita Rivera • DJ Tracy Young InnerSPACE • Fairy Tales Film Fest ...and more!

Business Directory

Cameron Diaz

The Real Thing

Scan to Read on Mobile Devices

Community Map

Calgary • Alberta • Canada

Events Calendar

Tourist Information

STARTING ON PAGE 71

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GayCalgary Magazine #127, May 2014

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GayCalgary Magazine #127, May 2014

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GayCalgary Magazine #127, May 2014

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Table of Contents

Photography

Photography Steve Polyak, Rob Diaz-Marino, SteveJPolyak, Rob Foo Diaz-Marino, & B, Farley Foo B&J Videography

Videography Steve Polyak, Rob Diaz-Marino Steve Polyak, Rob Diaz-Marino Sales

Printers Craig Connell North Hill News/Central Web sales@gaycalgary.com Distribution Printers

Calgary:Web Gallant Distribution exPress GayCalgary Staff Edmonton: Clark’s Distribution Distribution Other:GayCalgary Canada PostStaff Calgary: Edmonton: Farley Foo Foo LegalCanada Council Other: Post Courtney Aarbo, and Solicitors LegalBarristers Council Courtney Aarbo, Barristers and Solicitors

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This Month's Cover This Month's Cher and Christina AguileraCover courtesy of Sony Main: Courtney Act, photo by John McRae Pictures; Annie Lennox courtesy of Mike Owen; Top Right: Ian Parks, Mid Right: Katie Cassidy, Rex Goudie.

Bottom Right: Cameron Diaz, photo by Berry Wetcher / 20th Century Fox

Proud Members of: Proud Members of:

Sex, Parasites, and Idealized Economics

The Science of Science Fiction

10 Aliens, Tornadoes and Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. An interview with Bill Paxton

12 Fairy Tales Turns Sweet Sixteen A Celebration of Queer Film

13 Lawrence Hong

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Writers and Contributors

Mercedes Allen, Chris Dallas Barnes, Writers andAzzopardi, Contributors Dave Clevett, ChrisBrousseau, Azzopardi,Sam DaveCasselman, Brousseau,Jason Constable Andrew Collins, Emily Collins, RobDawson, Diaz-Marino, Andy Buck, Jason Clevett, Mark Rob Janine Eva Trotta, JackEva-Trotta, Fertig, Glen Hanson, Joan Diaz-Marino, Janine Farley Foo Foo, Hilty,Kayne, Evan Kayne, Stephen Lock, Polyak, Neil McMullen, Evan Stephen Lock, Steve Romeo Allan Neuwirth, CareyNick Rutherford, San Vicente, JimSteve Scott,Polyak, Mars Tonic, Winnick Romeo San Vicente, Ed Sikov, Nick Vivian and and the LGBT Community of Calgary, Edmonton, the GLBT Community Calgary, Edmonton, and andofAlberta.

Alberta.

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A Beacon of Light

14 Chita Rivera Love is the Key

17 Parenting Proud My Gay Agenda

18 Creating Safe Environments

The need for Gay-Straight Alliances in our schools

19 Discussing Community Safety The Victim Assistance Support Team

20 DJ Tracy Young is a Giver

“I give my heart, soul and body to every performance that I do”

24 Deep Inside Hollywood

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Publisher: Steve Polyak Editor: Rob Diaz-Marino Copy Sales: Editor:Steve Janine Polyak Eva-Trotta Sales: DesignSteve & Layout: Polyak Rob Diaz-Marino, Design & Layout: Ara Shimoon Rob Diaz-Marino, Steve Polyak

MAY 2014

e n zi

James Franco goes ex-gay

25 Elaine Stritch: The Lady Who Lives For Tomorrow

a g a

The untold story of a Broadway legend

29 InnerSPACE

m

Return to the Calgary Expo

30 Out of Town

WorldPride 2014: Exploring Toronto and Beyond

32 Kick Off Camping Season this May Long 34th Sandy Page LGBTQ Campout Offers Something for Everyone

34 Cosplay Queens

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Catching Up with Monika, Jessica, and Lindsay

35 In the Know Edmonton Rainbow Business Association

Bigger and Better fundraiser for noble cause

36 Ian Parks

Skyping with “Hot Toddy” from Where the Bears Are Duo on wanting a gay wedding, Nick’s bulge and the drag queens of Maine

39 Teen Horror National Lesbian & Gay Journalists Association

Gay European Tourism Association

Jack Black to play beloved author R.L. Stine in first Goosebumps movie

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37 The Naked Truth About Karmin

International Gay & Lesbian Travel Association

Continued on Next Page  www.gaycalgary.com

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Table of Contents  Continued From Previous Page

42 Cameron Diaz: The Real Thing Actress on being called ‘bisexual,’ mom fetishes and her disappointment in the ladies

44 Lumberjanes

2,000–3,000 copies Guaranteed Circulation: 2,000 copies Bonus Circulation: up to 1,000 copies

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46 Queen of Hearts

‘Kinky Boots’ star Billy Porter on friend Cyndi Lauper, inspiring gay kids and finding forgiveness

48 Edmontonions Reach for the Sky Simone Denny Bringin’ it to Pure Pride

50 Behind the magic of Odysseo Cavalia’s latest show spending summer in Alberta

52 Introducing the Drag Rapper Du Jour

Iggy Azalea on ‘lame fake lesbians,’ hip-hop homophobia and safeguarding her gays

54 Katie Cassidy PAGE 54

56 Court in the Act

Interview with the talented Courtney Act

Queer Eye A Couple of Guys News Releases Mr. GayCalgary May 2014 - Mickey Wilson Directory and Events Classified Ads

a m

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Readership

Readers Per Copy: 4.9 (PMB) Print Readership: >9800 Avg. Online Circulation: 310,000 readers Estimated Total Readership: >319,800 readers Frequency: Monthly

History

From Demons to Super Dames

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Magazine Figures Monthly Print Quantity:

Voted “Best New Comic” by the writer of this article

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Interview

Sex, Parasites, and Idealized Economics The Science of Science Fiction

By Nick Winnick In what ought to be a tradition (if it isn’t considered one already), this year’s Calgary Comic and Entertainment Expo hosted numerous science and social science panels, covering topics from snail sex to immortality.

It’s an idea that seems natural. Science fiction has inspired innumerable minds and launched countless careers. Star Trek, Stargate, Cosmos, and even crime procedurals like CSI have made heroes of scientists, and there is a vast body of knowledge in the real world where real life heroes have established their roots.

The first panel I attended was put on by Dr. Robert Longair, professor of invertebrate zoology at the University of Calgary, a pleasant surprise as I had been a student of his when I was pursuing my own degree. His subject was parasites; the more hideous the better.

Opening the lecture with a discussion on the hypothetical biology of the facehuggers from Alien, things only got more icky from there. Longair showed slide after slide of parasitic wasps, whose larvae eat their way out of living, albeit paralyzed hosts.

Audience reactions appeared equal parts fascinated and repulsed.

In a lecture that covered hideous parasitic infections, and more fecal transmission vectors than I’m sure much of the audience was prepared for, perhaps the most disturbing thing I heard from Dr. Longair was amid the few minutes we had to catch up after his lecture. He told me that, while he plans to retire shortly, his department evidently doesn’t intend to replace him.

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I asked after another of my former professors, one Dr. Anthony Russell. He was an engaging and passionate zoologist with a true dedication to his students. Dr. Longair said he had retired last year, with no replacement forthcoming. This at a time when the U of C’s biomedical research programs are burgeoning.

The next talk in the series was put on by a grad student, Tina Justin, also from the U of C. The program guide listed it under the intriguing title: Gastropods and Gender Identity in Star Wars — an obvious must-see for a GayCalgary writer.

While the talk itself was fascinating in its discussion of sequential and simultaneous hermaphroditism in invertebrates, it didn’t have much bearing on gender identity as our readers would understand it, save for general good-wishes toward genderfluid people. Justin did, however, resolve some burning questions about how Jabba the Hutt could be both father and mother to his child, Rotta.

Ender’s Game: Between Science Fiction and Social Theory was a collaborative affair, with three scholars from literary departments at the U of C and University of Lethbridge, each giving a brief talk about what is possibly the most popular work of science fiction by a virulent homophobe.

The second presenter, Grace Chiang, touched on the controversy surrounding Ender’s Game and its author, Orson Scott Card, with a technique that most people with academic experience will recognize.

Continued on Next Page 

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 From Previous Page Chiang seemed reluctant to actually come out in condemnation of Card’s politics though it was, to be certain, heavily implied that the protestors of the Ender’s Game movie were in the right. Card made his position quite clear in a 2008 editorial for the Deseret News saying, “Regardless of law, marriage has only one definition, and any government that attempts to change it is my mortal enemy.”

One would think that such a statement is unambiguous enough in its vileness that it is deserving of denunciation, even in an academic context.

Throughout the presentations, the French philosophers Foucault and Barthes were invoked by way of providing distance between the author and his text. Barthes may have testified to the death of “the author” in the abstract, as a means of freeing up space for personal interpretation, but the executors of Card’s royalty contracts have not, evidently, been notified. We are not so deprived for compelling science fiction that we’ll be forced to resort to reading Ender’s Game any time soon.

The last science panel of the weekend covered the one perennial desire of any science fiction fan: to live long enough to see stories become science fact. How to Live Long Enough to Live Forever was presented by Geoffrey Shmigelsky, founder of Cadvision, a former Calgary Internet service provider that sold for, he confided “somewhere in the eight-figure range.”

Ostensibly on the topic of research into human health and longevity, Shmigelsky spent a great deal of time establishing his premise: that technology in aggregate “grows” at exponential rates. That established, he then began to expound on ideas as yet in their infancy, but which would surely be headed our way any time now, because technology, as a generality, “doubles every eighteen months.” Never mind that the eighteen-month rule was created to describe processor speeds specifically.

It was hard to counter the impression of being given a presentation on life extension by Phil Hartman’s “Lionel Hutz”

Online Last Month (1/2) From The GLAAD Media Reference Guide

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Aliens Exposed

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Dancing Queens Return

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The Internet Is For?

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A Musical Affair To Remember

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Creep of the Week Gov. Rick Snyder

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Online Last Month (2/2) Hear Me Out

George Michael, Nickel Creek, Christina Perri, Karmin

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Creep of the Week Bill Schuette

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Deep Inside Hollywood

Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin

Nine To Five fanatics, are you ready to have your day made? Sure you are, and Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin are about to do it. The two have signed on for... http://www.gaycalgary.com/a4040

Creep of the Week Hobby Lobby

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Hear Me Out - Queer Classics Cyndi Lauper, Elton John

Cyndi Lauper, She’s So Unusual Essayist Jancee Dunn (co-author of Cyndi Lauper: A Memoir) sums up the influence, reach and enduring relevance of Cyndi... http://www.gaycalgary.com/a4043

Screen Queen

character. Every question raised had a pat and easy answer that, to paraphrase, read as: yes, we will have a solution to that, given much more time, much more money, and much less government regulation.

I am tremendously interested in longevity research and, perhaps, obsessively interested in maintaining my health over the long term, and Shmigelsky’s talk was laser-focused on these two topics. But he had little to offer besides exciting technology trends, their theoretical application to biology, and lots of big ideas in development.

The technologies he suggested over the course of the talk — DNA repair, nano-scale robots, radical longevity extension — each had the capacity to shatter existing structures of health care, population growth, and even relationships.

I have little doubt in the ability of the Geoffrey Shmigelskys of the world to drive technological innovation toward the atom-scale robots that one day massage our very genetic code into centurieslong obedience. I have less confidence in their ability to judge the social consequences of introducing such technologies.

In the US, Shmigelsky’s adopted nation, billionaire Larry Ellison just added a basketball court to one of his yachts, and hired people to follow his yacht on speedboats to recover balls that bounce overboard. Meanwhile, a sixth of Americans are facing such severe economic instability that they’re at risk of malnutrition. The free market that Shmigelsky’s ilk would count on to determine literally who becomes immortal is so broken that it is causing the worst income inequality since the age of industrialist robber barons.

A system incapable of ensuring that people don’t go hungry is not one that I would trust to distribute a technology that would redefine human existence.

As the futurist panel closed out, and my weekend at the Expo came to an end, I couldn’t help seeing the dystopia underlying Shmigelsky’s utopian vision. I thought about those two empty tenure positions in the biology faculty at the UofC, while its biomedical and petroleum research wings roar ahead. I thought about what Dr. Russell had once told me: that it was next to impossible to do a long-term ecological impact study of anything in Alberta, because grants and funding for projects longer than a few years were so unpredictable as to be actively hostile.

I thought about bigots like Orson Scott Card, still shouting their loudest and doing their damnedest to make all the important decisions for you and me.

And then I thought about nine billion people — the projected population by 2045 — living forever. It’s going to take more than libertarian platitudes to make that work. It is going to take a commitment to the spirit of curiosity that has brought us this far in the first place.

Pink - Live from Melbourne, Never Sleep Again: The Elm Street Legacy, Blue Is the Warmest Color, Hunger Games: Catching Fire

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Pink: The Truth About Love Tour: Live from Melbourne There she goes, that Pink, raising the bar all the way up to the ceiling of a sports arena. The... http://www.gaycalgary.com/a4044

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GayCalgary Magazine #127, May 2014

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Interview

 Bill Paxton in Marvel’s Agents of SHIELD

Aliens, Tornadoes and Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. An interview with Bill Paxton

By Jason Clevett With over 80 TV and film credits on his resume, Bill Paxton is one of Hollywood’s busiest actors. In order to get a few minutes to speak with him prior to his appearance at the Calgary Comic and Entertainment Expo, GayCalgary Magazine had to pledge allegiance to the evil Hydra organization.

“Now you have come over to the right side, to the winning side,” Paxton said of the twist to the first season of TV show Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. His character, John Garrett’s, true side was revealed when he turned his back on his fellow agents. “I think you will find, as it all plays out, it reveals a lot of the back story, particularly why Garret is who he is and his allegiance has shifted, and why (Agent Grant) Ward is the way he is. They have a very strange father-son relationship, but I don’t want to give anything away.”

From Corporal Hicks in Aliens to Bill Harding in Twister to Chet in Weird Science – Paxton has played a wide variety of characters; heroes and villains alike. There is something about playing the bad guy that appeals to Paxton, who admitted later at his panel he would love to play The Joker.

“I have to say playing villains is a lot more fun,” Paxton begins. “You can kind of relish them and they are a little more theatrical. The hero is usually stalwart and upright and just square. As much as I have enjoyed some of those roles I find there is a Jack Nicholson in me that is just screaming to get out. It is funny, the six episodes I did on S.H.I.E.L.D. I start out as the ally and rough and tumble friend. It wasn’t until I was unmasked, and you can see it in the performance, that I suddenly come to life.

“I have played enough straight guys. I came up playing character and supporting parts and I’ve kind of gone back to that and am really enjoying it. It is almost like a bit of a renaissance for me. I made a weird transition: I came up doing stuff like Weird Science and True Lies and Aliens and Near Dark in all these supporting roles. Then I ended up 10

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t Watch the interview online

doing movies like Twister. Those were great parts, but you kind of had to be the anchorman and let the supporting actors play over you. Even doing Big Love I was kind of the stalwart anchor, where all these characters like Harry Dean Stanton and Matt Ross and Bruce Dern and Grace Zabriskie got to do all the fun stuff. So I am enjoying this renaissance into playing these antagonists and character parts.”

At the Expo, Paxton was asked questions by host Emily Expo and fans during a panel held in the Stampede Corral.

He shared an interesting story about his experience traveling to the wreck of the Titanic.

“A couple of years after making Titanic Jim Cameron asked me to go on an exhibition down to the ship. I thought he was putting me on. I never dreamed I would go down to the wreck itself because it is quite the ordeal. I thought I would be on the ship, and would give him a margarita when he came back from two and a half miles down. He wanted me to go on the dives. I tried to get Lloyd’s of London to insure me and they wouldn’t. It was amazing. I was freaking out when they closed the hatch. It takes about two and half hours to descend 12 and a half thousand feet into the North Atlantic. After a couple of hundred feet the sunlight doesn’t penetrate it. By the time you get down, they turn all the power off and you do this free-fall to the bottom of the ocean. Then they power up and they shine a light and you see this knife shape and that is the bow. They motored up to it and I looked at these little portholes that are not very wide. I am looking at the bow of the Titanic and thinking my god there it is.

“Even now it feels like an experience I dreamt more then I saw. Jim wanted me to go out again and I had a little apprehension. I felt like I had cheated death. I had a really rough night the night before and we were having breakfast and I was trying to find time to pull Jim aside and say I’m really not up for this and he went You are going. The Russians are very superstitious about last minute changes so you are going.

“That was an incredible dive but by the time we surfaced the waves were 15 feet. We just bounced up and down like being in a washing machine. I don’t think I’ve ever thrown up that much in my life.”

In addition to his television role, Paxton has a new film coming out next month.

“I’ve got a movie coming out with Tom Cruise and Emily Blunt called Edge of Tomorrow, June 6th. I think I got the job because it has got a lot of DNA in Aliens and they needed someone to say game over man. I play a platoon sergeant, and we are on the eve of a counter-invasion against an alien hoard that has invaded Europe. Tom Cruise’s character www.gaycalgary.com

keeps dying in the battle and waking up, and has to do it all over again. I am told he is a coward that has been impersonating an officer. I am telling him you are going to be born again son. I say something like combat is the great redeemer – the fiery crucible in which the only true heroes are forged.”

Paxton’s appearance at the Calgary Expo was his first professional signing appearance. In addition to autographs and photos, he took part in a reunion of the cast of Aliens.

The 1986 film still resonates today. It is evident in speaking to him that it is still a very special film to Paxton.

“Years ago in the 1970’s I had been living in LA and saw they were advertising at the LA County Museum Bing Theatre that they were going to show a brand new Technicolor print of The Wizard of Oz. They said there was going to be a mystery guest from the cast to introduce the movie. We went to the theatre and who comes out but Ray Bolger, the Scarecrow. He was obviously an elderly man and he said I have to say folks, that being part of this movie has meant so much to me in my life and the people it has touched.

I am kind of getting that feeling here in Calgary.

“This is the biggest reunion of the cast of Aliens ever since the premier of the film. I had dinner with some of the cast; everyone is here. We all had to come to Calgary to see each other. That is the way life is. Everyone is kind of cast to the wind. Now here we are 27 years later and it has continued on to another generation. That is really something. It speaks to the movie and the characters. It is a great, undying source of pride.”

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11

Community

Fairy Tales Turns Sweet Sixteen A Celebration of Queer Film

By Nick Winnick This month the Fairy Tales Queer Film Festival will celebrate its 16th year of bringing queer cinema to the people of Calgary.

This venerable city institution has more than two dozen films and shorts on its bill this year, spread across seven days of events.

For those of you who can’t wait for the festivities to start, our conversation with the festival’s Executive Director James Demers will have to tide you over.

Demers was hired on three years ago as the outreach and volunteer coordinator for the Fairy Tales Presentation Society.

Since then, his role has shifted, first to programmer, and then to executive director, taking the helm of not only Fairy Tales, but the society’s other media projects as well. This includes the Outreels Diversity Education Program, the Youth Queer Media Project, and Q the Cultural Arts Festival. It was a de facto role in any case, made de jury by a change in title.

“I ran all of them anyway,” Demers says, “so we expanded the title to acknowledge that.”

GC: Which of this year’s films have you the most excited?

JD: I’m really excited about our retro films. But I’m a Cheerleader ; we actually have the original-original 35mm film — the director’s cut… Kidnapped for Christ and Valentine Road are both extremely strong features that I think will have a political impact.… Reaching for the Moon, our opening feature, probably has the best cinematography I’ve seen in any film in years. It’s beautiful.

GC: On your website, the acronym you have listed for the queer community is “LGBTTQIA”. Which of the letters in there do you feel has gotten the most representation in film over the years you have been involved with Fairy Tales?

JD: I would say classically, a couple of years ago, it was definitely gay male film. It’s the most produced, and they usually have been produced for the longest, so they usually have higher production values and more experienced directors. However, lesbian film has really picked up in the last couple of years, and we have made a conscious decision as [programmers] to show a film for our lesbian audience and our gay male audience on both opening and closing nights simultaneously, and that’s really successful.

GC: Have you seen any other changes?

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GayCalgary Magazine #127, May 2014

JD: We’ve actually had a reasonable amount of transgender content in the last couple of years. A lot of international trans content; so Germany, Israel, etcetera. And the trans film that we have this year, which is called Boy Meets Girl, is a step up from a lot of trans films. Boy Meets Girl is not a coming out story, and it’s not the main character’s transition. It’s actually about the love story, which is really nice, because the shock value of the transition is something that, in the trans community, you hear over and over and over. So it’s nice to have a film that is actually this really sweet love story, where the character happens to be transgendered, and you just move into the story.

Also, with trans people, the popular narrative is that trans men are usually presented pre- or right at the beginning of transition, and trans women are frequently depicted near the end of transition or around gender reassignment surgery. …

This film does the opposite. It actually breaks the stereotype, so that’s really exciting for us. Transition stories, coming-out stories, for trans people are really important, in the media, but we’ve kind of done them to death. We need to move into our

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Community actual lives now. Kind of like the gay community 15, 20 years ago.

GC: How about that B in the middle?

JD: The festival has always contained a reasonable amount of bisexual content, but there’s controversy there, right, because who the character ends up with, often people assume that that’s their true sexual orientation… The idea of falling in love on the bisexual spectrum should be relatively free of who you end up with determines what you are, so I think the bisexual content at a queer film festival is inherent, but unspoken, and that is something I would like to see improve in the next couple of years.

We just haven’t had the solid content come out yet to program.

GC: Tell us about the criteria you use to select a film. What makes a particular movie queer enough for Fairy Tales?

JD: Production quality is a big one. Things that anybody looks for in a film: good acting, is the story good, what is the narrative. Then we check for things like if it’s representing a community that is typically stereotyped. How is it handled? Are the stereotypes tongue-in-cheek, are they offensive, are they challenging anything stereotypical? What is the intent behind the use of the stereotype in the film?

Is it gay enough? is certainly a content question. We have definitely had films where the protagonist is not gay, and it’s the community of queer people around them that make the story, and in that case, that makes perfect sense — it’s progress. But it definitely has to be gay enough.

GC: Queer film tends to be more sexually explicit than its straight counterpart. Is that something that you feel is important in terms of representing and validating queer identities?

JD: I think sex in queer film is expected, the same way it is expected in an action movie in a straight theatre. And the fact that it’s gay sex is what has always messed with ratings boards.

I mean, you look at Brokeback Mountain, and there is maybe 30 seconds of what you could classify as gay sex in that entire film, and an 18A rating? Whereas Rambo or Die Hard, it’s 14A, and hundreds of people slaughtered on screen. So I think our concepts in North America, frankly, about what is appropriate with sexuality are really messed up… I think it’s important to be able to show gay sex, honestly. I think it is still a revolutionary concept.

GC: What is one of your favourite memories from your time on the festival’s staff?

JD: In 2011 we had an Israeli and a German and an American film director all in at the same time. And so the German guy and the Israeli guy had never been to Canada, and they wanted to go to Banff. But they kept calling the Rocky Mountains the Brokeback Mountains because all they knew about Alberta was that Brokeback Mountain was filmed here, and they wanted to go to the set. Tourism Alberta would shit themselves, right? …

They saw it as like this bastion of gay film, because we’d had one movie done here that became a commercial production.

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Lawrence Hong A Beacon of Light

By Nick Winnick On April 15th, 2014, Calgary lost five bright and promising young people - the talented, dedicated, and gregarious Lawrence Hong among them. Hong was an urban studies student at the University of Calgary, not far from graduation at the time of the tragedy.

Friends and relatives remember him as the perennially optimistic sort, exuding boundless energy and a surprising generosity of spirit, and as a warm and welcoming presence within Calgary’s queer community.

James Demers, executive director of the Fairy Tales Presentation Society, took some time away from preparing for the upcoming Fairy Tales Queer Film Festival to answer a few questions about his friend and colleague, Lawrence Hong.

GC: What are some things that stand out in your mind about Lawrence?

James Demers: The community has come together in a really spectacular way. I think it was at least two-thirds queer people at his funeral, and there were 400 people there. It was like a reunion for a lot of us who worked with him. And the outpouring of community support has been really significant, which has been wonderful… It sounds like a cliché, but he was like a beacon of light in a really significant way for a lot of us, because he was perpetually thrilled about life.

He was enthusiastic always. I think he asked me when the volunteer orientation was for the festival every time I saw him, which was every couple of weeks. He won our volunteer of the year award during the last festival, which is the Gordon Sombrowski/Kevin Allen Award for Outstanding Volunteer Contribution… He was just a genuinely nice, reasonable, supportive person, and he would take care of people in ways that made it difficult to thank him, because you didn’t realize he had taken care of you until he was done.

GC: Could you give us an example of that?

JD: He would cold-call fellow students that he knew had a hard time getting up for classes and chat nonsensically about his night the night before, and they would be wide awake by the time he stopped talking… so when you got to class on time you would realize that he had essentially given you a wakeup call, but that’s not at all how he conveyed it.

GC: Lawrence sounds uncommonly dedicated.

JD: The guy went to university full time, he had two jobs, he started a non-profit within the urban planning department called C4, volunteered with Fairy Tales, volunteered with Pride, ARGRA [the Alberta Rockies Gay Rodeo Association], and Folk Fest. You know, I think that I don’t sleep very much, but I don’t think he could sleep, ever. I don’t know how he balanced it, but I think he just genuinely loved every aspect to life, and helping people, and being busy, and making a difference in a significant way… He is the reason the wheels turn, people like him. They are so important in these little ways that don’t get the glory.

GC: I understand that Calgary Transit organized charter busses to serve Lawrence’s memorial, and that the proceeds went to Fairy Tales?

JD: We were just informed. We didn’t have any hand in the planning whatsoever. A former professor of his and a mutual friend who was on our planning committee made the decision that if they were going to collect donations outside of his memorial fund, he would have wanted it to go to Fairy Tales, and I was just handed money… It was really incredible, and [the money] actually went into his memorial scrapbook, to get the supplies for it, get it ready, get it carried around town. That’s where most of it went.

The rest of it, we’re talking about doing a larger community award for all the organizations he volunteered with, and potentially naming it after him.

Nothing is set in stone yet, but that’s where the rest of that is going to go — to his memory, in whatever way we can deem appropriate, or what he would have liked.

The memorial scrapbook for Lawrence Hong will be available at Fairy Tales Queer Film Festival venues during the last weeks of May for friends, colleagues and well-wishers to view and contribute to. As for moving forward from the tragic loss of such an individual, Demers believes that Lawrence Hong would have advice for us about that, too.

“I think he would want us to get together and do what we would normally do. Remember why we all are a part of this community, and keep our connections.”

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GayCalgary Magazine #127, May 2014

13

Chita Rivera Love is the Key

 Photo by Laura Marie Duncan

By Farley Foo Foo There are few people who can claim to have had the same career for more than six decades, and fewer still who remain as vigorous and capable as they ever were. Broadway legend and musical superstar Chita Rivera is certainly one of them. Already an accomplished ballerina in her youth, Rivera accompanied a friend to an audition for the touring company of Call Me Madam in 1951 and, after auditioning on a whim, ended up landing the role herself. The role led to further Broadway productions and in 1957 Rivera would be cast in what would become her break out role, that of Anita in the original production of West Side Story. Rivera would go on to further stardom, playing the role of Velma Kelly in the original production of Chicago, Aurora in Kiss of the Spider Woman, the evil Queen in Merlin (alongside neophyte co-stars which included Nathan Lane and Christian Slater), and Zorba in Zorba the Greek, to name but a drop in the bucket of her remarkable body of work. Rivera has been cast in an astounding number of Broadway, film and television roles which have to date earned her two Tony awards, a further six nominations, the Presidential Medal of Freedom, and was the first Latino- American to receive a Kennedy Center Honors award.

With no signs of slowing down, Chita is headed to the Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium in Edmonton on June 2nd as part of the Legends of Broadway benefit concert series presented by Jewish Family Services. Rivera spoke with GayCalgary Magazine

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GayCalgary Magazine #127, May 2014

to discuss her incredible career and to deliver a special message to her plentiful gay following.

GC: You have been fortunate to have played some of the greatest

characters in some of the most amazing productions, from Aurora in Kiss of the Spiderwoman to originating the role of Anita in West Side Story. Is there any role that you always wanted to play but never got the chance to?

CR: You know, honestly, I was kept busy with those amazing shows, there really hasn’t been, including Mama Rose. I never wanted to play Mama Rose. Everybody always says Why haven’t you played Mama Rose? …Those were the days; they called them the Golden Days. I said to a friend of mine, actually it was to an audience, I said My God it’s the Golden Age? My time?

Is there anything that happens after the Golden Age for God’s sake? There was this very chic woman there in Palm Beach, and she opened her mouth and said Platinum darling, platinum. So I said Ok, there is something after the Golden Age [laughs]. But these roles have really kept me very busy and very happy. I’ve just not stopped. We’re about to do The Visit now, and this particular role of Claire is an extraordinary role. It was a play done by the Lunts years ago, then it was done in film by Ingrid Bergman and Anthony Quinn played in it. So Kander and Ebb, one of the last things they wrote together before Freddy died, was The Visit, and we had done it a couple of times before Freddy passed. We did it in Chicago, trying it out, and then we did it in Virginia. Then Freddy passed, and now we’re getting a chance to do it again up in Williamstown, Massachusetts this summer. So hopefully third time’s lucky. We’ll just give this old girl another try and hope that what

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happened with the [Kiss of the] Spider Woman will happen with The Visit.

Spider Woman would not have been the hit that it was had it not been for Toronto based Canadian Garth Drabinski. We owe him a hell of a lot for believing in it, you know. Then we took it to Canada, we took it to London, and then back to New York and then won four Tonys. So you know we’re hoping that we’ll be able to have that kind of luck.

GC: I hope so too for you. Now you said that there really isn’t a role that you haven’t played that you always wanted to, but of all the amazing roles that you have played including this one of Claire, is there any one that has been a personal favourite of yours?

CR: You know each one, I’m totally aware, have come at the right time in my life. Each one has been a part of me. For instance the part of Anita, it was an extraordinary role, and it was just right at the time that I was really ready for it. Of course it was Latin. I must say I did love playing Zorba the Greek, I enjoyed that a lot, but I didn’t originate that. Then when Spider Woman came along, I was really ready for it at that time and that age in my life. Florence Klotz, the designer, designed some fabulous gowns. The Spider Woman was wildly sexy and chic. So I was ready for that. That was great. That was like another extension of myself. They’ve really all been an extension of myself.

Even the evil Queen in Merlin. I can say there’s an evil Queen in me too [laughter].

GC: Well those characters are usually pretty fun to play as well.

CR: Yeah they are [laughs]. They’re not too evil, they’re glamorous.

GC: Before originating the role of Anita in West Side Story or even Velma

Kelly in Chicago, when you’re doing the rehearsal process for these shows do you have a sense that these are going to turn into the great, impactful works that they will, or is it still always kind of Oh I hope this catches on. I hope the audience gets this-

CR: It’s a drag, but that’s exactly what it is. You never know. You honestly never know. I mean for instance Spider Woman is the perfect example, it could have DIED in Purchase, New York. It simply could have gone and never been seen again, had it not been for the insight that Garth had. I use that as an example when I’m talking to kids in Universities. You never, ever know.

It depends so much on the time, it depends on the critics. It depends on so, so much. I’ve just been really lucky because I’ve worked with geniuses.

These guys I’ve worked with have all been phenomenal. Everybody’s doing revivals of the shows that these guys wrote for us. The thing that worries me a little bit is that [these days] there’s not too many American, original shows, which means, what the heck are we going to revive? There’ll be nothing to revive. So I’m hoping that The Visit, which is a very dark musical, it’s not Mary Sunshine, it’s not Bye Bye Birdie, it’s not a happy ending. It’s just great theatre, I think. I pray to God the audience thinks so. It’s original, the score’s original. Terrence McNally has adapted a great book. John Doyle, he’s an English director, and Roger Rees the English actor is going to play Anton opposite me. So we’re just hoping that it will go, you know what I mean. Third time’s hopefully lucky. But I don’t think after the third time I’ll be coming up with it again [laughs], then it would be called ‘Beating A Dead Horse’ [more laughter].

GC: I was thinking the same thing, that we don’t really have an Andrew Lloyd Weber or Steven Sondheim of this new generation.

CR: Or a Cy Coleman or a Kander and- well you do have Kander still, and he’s written a wonderful musical that did not do well here, but it’s in London now and I think it’s a hit in London [The musical is called The Scottsboro Boys, which despite closing in 2010 did manage to garner what would have been a record setting twelve Tony Award nominations, though failed to win any. The Book of Mormon earned fourteen nominations that year]. It’s about nine black fellows in the south who were accused of raping a white woman, and they were innocent. I loved it when I saw it. Susan Stroman I believe choreographed and directed it. It didn’t run very long here, but then of course it was across Sixth Avenue. And so much has to do with the timing of the show and the theatre it’s in. All of that has something to do with it. It’s a drag, but it’s true. I’m not too sure about what’s going on today, being a show that will be able to be revived and it lasting a long time. I think people used to have a lot more interest in the theatre than they kind of do now; their attention span is shorter. And the scripts were so great, the books were so great in the Gypsy days and the West Side days. They were stories to be told and [today] people watch too much TV [laughs].

GC: You weren’t able to perform the role in 1961 of Anita [in the movie version of West Side Story] because you were committed to Bye Bye Birdie.

First of all, what did you think of Rita Moreno’s version of Anita? And, whenever you’re watching another actor perform in a role that either you’ve originated or played before, do you tend to critique their version based on choices you’ve made or how you would have played it?

CR: I think you can’t help it because you’re so used to certain things. I know when I took the national company of Sweet Charity out, I constantly had Gwen in my head. Gwen Verdon was something else. You might be able to add something of yourself [to the role], definitely you should do that. But her interpretation was just- besides, she breathed the first breath of life into the role. You can’t help but look at something and think oh that works better or that doesn’t work better. And I thought Rita did a fine job. She did a very good job. It was different in that, the number “America” was all girls in the

Continued on Next Page 

GC: You do raise an interesting question; some of the musicals that come out of, as you yourself called it the “Golden Age” of musicals, they are still as popular today as they ever were and they have had this longevity and this timelessness. I’m wondering if you feel the evolution of the musical, as they are being produced today, whether or not they will have that same ability to transcend time?

CR: I’m worried. Let me just say that. I have not seen everything but, I’m very worried about it. Unless I’ve missed something, I can’t see anything that will. There have been a lot of fun plays like Matilda that comes from London and Kinky Boots. But I’m not so sure.

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GayCalgary Magazine #127, May 2014

15

 From Previous Page original, which I prefer, and Jerry mixed it up. It was originally supposed to be boys and girls and then sometime in rehearsals of the original Jerry said to Peter Gennaro who had choreographed it, Let’s cut all the boys out and just have girls. I thought that focus was a better focus. But you almost can’t compare a lot of things, especially when it’s movies and theatre. Because the movies, that’s a whole other bag of beans. It’s bigger, it’s broader. But give me the theatre any day.

table, so the boys when I finally pulled them down under the table, there was a lot of [junk] under that table that they had to deal with, so we had a lot of fun. And in Merlin my crown, the Queen’s crown, comes off and I’m standing there with a bald head. All sorts of [funny] things happened.

GC: Speaking of theatre versus movies, what are your thoughts on taking theatre to film for their adaptations, whether it be Les Mis. or Chicago, which you performed in, and putting screen actors in some of these roles as opposed to theatre actors?

CR: Well I was just in awe, and [when I spoke] it was a wonder that anything came out. She was such a phenomenal woman. And she loved dancers and she loved other performers. She was a very giving person. It was just fantastic to sit next to her. With Mel Torme directing us as we sang, and there I am sitting next to THE Judy Garland. But she was just like anybody else. She insisted on being just like a friend. She was just really fantastic. I felt as though I had known her forever when I worked with her.

CR: Well first of all you have to understand it. You have to understand the logic of it. I understand people want to see movie stars. I can dig it, you know.

You kind of stomp your feet for five minutes but what good is that? You’re just gonna hurt your feet [laughs]. It makes sense. It doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s better by any means. But I understand; rear ends in the seats! I think I’m a bit more critical when celebrities come to the theatre from movies. I think I’m a bit more critical that way as opposed to the other way.

GC: Right, because you almost feel like, they haven’t maybe, paid their theatre dues.

CR: Right. It’s difficult. I mean, there’s a phenomenal actor, Bryan... he played in the fabulous television [show] Breaking Bad. GC: Bryan Cranston.

CR: Yeah. Boy is this guy good. Oh my God! He’s playing LBJ on

Broadway to rave reviews. And if he doesn’t get a Tony, they’re crazy! But this is a guy who adapted himself so brilliantly from films to theatre. Of course he had a great script too, but this guy is a wonderful actor all the way around.

My daughter sold me on Breaking Bad because I didn’t particularly like the subject matter. I thought it was kind of like hey, it’s ok to do dope in your garage. And today people are so affected by what they see. But boy was it written brilliantly and the other actor who played opposite him was also fabulous. So you know, you really love to see actors like Bryan Cranston come to the theatre. And also like Antonio Banderas. Antonio Banderas was superb, nothing less than brilliant in Nine. When he came he was fabulous, so these are actors that can be great wherever they go.

GC: Yeah, he did great in Evita as well. He played a very strong role,

he’s a great actor. Speaking of great actors, you really have - and you would probably agree - been blessed to work with some of the all-time greatest, from Dick Van Dyke to Liza Minnelli and Shirley MacLaine. And I was wondering if you had any memories of any of your co-stars that always makes you laugh or bring a smile to your face?

CR: Oh god, I do nothing but laugh! I insist upon that [laughs]. And Dick

and I had THE best time in the world. I mean, we were laughing so hard in rehearsals that Gower [Champion] said Look, I think you two should just go home. Just go home because all you’re doing is laughing and we’re not getting very much done today. So go home and straighten yourselves out [laughs].

GC: Almost like a reprimand! [laughs] CR: [laughing] Absolutely! We were like two kids. And I actually just saw

him about a month ago. And Liza and I just had the best time. The funniest part was me playing her mother. That’s the funniest part. But we have so much in common and have been friends a long, long time. We’d go off on set and one of us looks at the other and then crosses our eyes or does something crazy. In Birdie, in the Shriner’s Ballet I had toys and [junk] underneath the

GC: Speaking of playing Liza Minnelli’s mother, you appeared on The Judy Garland show, and I was wondering if you have any special memories of Ms. Garland?

GC: Obviously in our gay community she had a huge following and was a very beloved person.

CR: Oh yeah! Gay people see it and they know it. They know when somebody is genuine and is honestly from the heart. And when somebody really wants to do something for you and gives a part of themselves, they know it. You can’t fool gay guys, you just can’t! They can see through it. I love it! I went out to Cherry Grove last summer and did my show and I didn’t even have to sing, the guys knew every word [laughs]. And that’s just the cutest thing you can ask for; it’s a party! We had such a great time. And I’m looking forward to coming to Edmonton.

GC: We’re definitely looking forward to having you here. Everyone’s very excited in the theatre world and in the gay community here. Did you have any special messages for your gay following?

CR: Awww, just love! Love, love, love. Love is the key. I cannot wait to share the gifts that God gave me with them. We’re family. It’s as simple as that; we’re family.

GC: You’re coming up to Edmonton with the Legends of Broadway benefit series. Do you enjoy getting to go out on the road and going to different places as opposed to staying on Broadway?

CR: I love it! I do. I just said to my sister who was in the house today that I need to get out [laughs]. I need to go back out on the road. I do most of my reading on the road, when I get home there’s so much crap that has to be done [laughs]. I’d rather be in a hotel room looking forward to a performance for my gay friends!

GC: Have you ever had a chance to come to Edmonton or Alberta before?

CR: I don’t think I’ve played Alberta. But I have played Vancouver.

I absolutely love Vancouver, and I love Canada. I did a couple of clubs in Canada and then Spider Woman went to several places there.

GC: Hopefully you’ll enjoy Edmonton just as much.

CR: I know I will! I know I will.

GC: And finally, if you had one piece of advice for anyone hoping to break

into the world of professional theatre and to hopefully have a career like yours, what would it be?

CR: You really do have to want it, you have to want it with all your heart.

It’s a form of communication. It’s an art form that communicates with the rest of the world. Whether you dance, whether you sing, whether you laugh.

And I think you really have to work hard. Don’t believe these television shows you see where it happens overnight. And if you want longevity, you have to take it very seriously and be passionate about it and for God’s sake don’t lose your sense of humor! [laughs] Don’t miss out on your chance to see a true living legend on June 2nd at the Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium in Edmonton for the Legends of Broadway benefit concert series which will also feature Megan Hilty and Andrea Martin on June 16th and October 5th, respectively. Tickets can be purchased for each performer individually or for all three in a package at Ticketmaster.

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GayCalgary Magazine #127, May 2014

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Lifestyle

Parenting Proud My Gay Agenda

By Jim Scott I’ve been reading a lot of lies and misinformation in the conservative media lately or, should I say, more than the usual array, and it’s really got my panties in a big ol’ knot.

I’m talking about the ever elusive Gay Agenda that Evangelical and conservative types love to talk about like it’s an actual document that every gay boy and girl receives when they come out.

It’s like they actually believe that there’s a fraternity hazing, circuit party, and avante garde fashion show all rolled into a hedonistic free for all with guest DJs Samantha Ronson, Deadmau5, and Boy George.

Personally, that actually sounds like a blast, but that’s not the point.

The latest update to the agenda, in case you missed it, is that homos now use kids to make themsevles seem more normal to society. I can only assume what these backward theocrats mean is that since we became equal under the law, much to their obvious disapproval, many of us have married, started families, and settled down for the long haul. Just like they do, yet we are still bombarded with the messages that somehow our relationships are destined to crash and burn, we are unfit to be loving parents, and we are lower class citizens because we love the same sex, and that makes their big bad sky daddy mad.

Last time I checked, heterosexual coupling was still a 50/50 proposition, at best, with half their marriages ending in divorce. It appears their definition of the sanctity of marriage is very different than mine.

Maybe they feel threatened because they are figuring out that all of the irresponsible venom they have spewed, and stereotypes they have perpetuated to scare their sheeple for centuries, is actually starting to become their downfall.

Hate is not a natural emotion. Hate lives in the darkness of fear, ignorance, and irrational paranoia. Intolerance and religious-based hate are manufactured constructs intentionally meant to create an illusion of us against them.

Unless there is a boogey man to hate, how do you rally your troops into lock step? It’s a millennia-old form of controlling the masses, and has been happening for so long that in many ways they know not what they do. Ironic, huh? So, as an example for my son, I’m trying to turn the other proverbial cheek, but boy do they make it hard.

You see, I grew up in the deep south of the United States of ’Murica where guns, grits, and God used to be part and parcel of everyday life.

There, in a tiny sun-soaked Florida beach town, a colourful big gay flower blossomed. I lived through the 1970s and ’80s confused, yet curious, about the pantheon of Christian religions within my own family, and the very different agendas they all possessed. In retrospect, it was the best teacher of tolerance and of differing views a boy could have, and it sure made for some wild family get-togethers.

brimstone, and ultimate judgment was destined for Hell, so at least they hated on almost everyone equally, except of course for us homos.

They always reserved a special kind of hate for us, and by all accounts still do. For them, that pesky old devil waits around every corner and will get you if you aren’t filled up with the love of the Lord. I remember wanting to be filled up but, ironically, that didn’t happen until much later in life, and it wasn’t the Lord that I found salvation through.

Now the really interesting ones are my Pentecostal relatives. They now live on what can best be described as a commune in a drained out swamp in North Florida. They call it a neighbourhood, but to live in this particular hood, you have to become a member of their church and follow a strict agenda. No homos need apply or you might get burned at the stake, for real.

Some of their rules include: no outrageous colours, like purple, yellow or red, can be worn in public, and you must never wear any patterns.

The devil wears plaid, not Prada there. Women can’t cut their hair, but they can colour it and, in a real twist, are encouraged to wear incredible amounts of cheap make-up. I guess their agenda says Jesus wants you to keep that flaxen blonde hair, smoky eyes, and pouty lips for eternity.

For the men, it’s not that bad a deal. At sixteen, you get to marry a teenaged girl with little to no formal education, and have absolute power over your families. As long as you donate a third of your income to the church and subjugate yourself to the preacher man, you qualify for a one-way ticket to heaven. If you decide at some point you tire of your wife, because you married a fourteen year old, just claim your wife is possessed by the devil because she hates you, and a divorce will be granted, and a new teenage wife may be chosen. What happens in the neighbourhood stays in the neighbourhood after all.

So here’s the real point. Everyone, gay/straight/bi/trans, religious or atheist, has an agenda. My big fat gay agenda goes something like this: It’s not who you believe in, or even what you believe, it is how you treat yourself, your family, and the people you meet everyday. Love and be loved, show respect and kindness, and if someone has an issue with that, they’re the problem.

My son will know unconditional love from two doting parents who will move heaven and earth to make his life a happy and successful one.

There is far too much judgment going on in the world today and in some ways I blame social media for giving the haters a bigger voice than ever.

It is up to our community to support our own families, create our own values, and demonstrate that we are not that different from one another.

We just have different agendas.

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One part of my family is classic Catholic. They smoke, drink, curse, gamble, and, at times, even cheat on their spouses. They are a pretty fun bunch, even though they are some of the most dysfunctional people I know. I always found it fascinating that their agenda involved going to Sunday Mass a couple times a month, throwing a few bucks to the parish, and making your confession a few times a year. For them, that was enough to get through to the next level. Sinning was easily rectified, and as long as you didn’t disagree with the church in public, you could get away with just about anything.

My Baptist family, who live in the rural part of Central Florida, have an agenda all about judgment. When I was a kid, they hated the Catholics with so much ferocity the mere mention of Mary, or a crucifix, was enough to potentially damn you to an eternity in hell. Try wrapping your head around that in Sunday school at the age of six, when you just received a new crucifix for your birthday from your other family. To be fair, pretty much anyone who didn’t subscribe to their narrative of fire,

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GayCalgary Magazine #127, May 2014

17

Politics

Creating Safe Environments The need for Gay-Straight Alliances in our schools

By Stephen Lock High school, as many of us will remember, was a period in our life when we were forming a sense of self-identity, or at least trying to find the way to it. Peer pressure played a major role in this, as did the perceptions others had of us.

For some, high school was not a great place to be. If you were on the outs with the cool kids, for whatever reason, your life was – in the immortal words of teenagers everywhere – like totally over!

In later years, however, the geeks and nerds had the drama club, or the chess club, the glee clubs or fandom clubs of various descriptions, within which to gain a sense of place and belonging.

The jocks had their sports. The quiet studious types – The Brains – had the library club or chemistry club. Even the Goth kids could get a sense of some sort of belonging by gravitating towards each other.

But if you were a queer kid, forget these social retreats.

Indeed, if you happened to be a queer geek and into chess, there was that. Or the drama club, God knows! Queer jocks just shut up and delved into their sports, but there was really no place in high school culture for any sort of support or community if you were gay, lesbian, trans, bi, or questioning.

If the rest of the students even so much as suspected you were queer... look out! Even the geeks and nerds could turn on and ostracize you, and, believe me, to not even gain the acceptance of geeks and nerds (back before being a nerd was cool), now that was cold.

Many young gay boys and girls spent their high school years isolated and sitting alone, or running home after school to avoid getting beat up. Back then, before the intrusion of Facebook and Twitter, home was relatively safe; a sanctuary. But now that harassment, bullying and isolating behaviour perpetuated against someone at school can filter into their home via social networks.

For far too many queer youth, high school is anything but the best years of their lives. The traumatizing effects of being a social outcast in high school can last a lifetime. One never really gets over that subjectification, even though as an adult we can be successful and competent, that terrified 13 or 14 year old is still living within us.

As human beings we are wired to be social. We form families (biological or selected), packs, tribes, communities and nations.

We need to find a common ground with our fellow human beings to feel connected to others.

In recent years there has been a movement within junior and senior high schools to create not just gay, lesbian and queer youth groups, but gay-straight alliance groups: groups where not just LGBTQ youth can come together and gain support, friendship and a connection with each other, but also youth who do not necessarily identify as lesbian, gay, bi, trans, queer, or two-spirited. Peers who are allied with those of us who do.

In the 1980s and ’90s, when the concept of community was starting to blossom amongst lesbians and gay men, organizations were created. Those organizations sometimes expanded to include those who identified as bisexual or trans, or those who chose queer as their identity. Peer-driven gay and lesbian youth groups were formed.

It was a way for our youth, many of whom were under age, to gain access to the bars. Those who felt out of place in other community organizations populated by men and women in their 20s, 30s or older had a place to connect with other LBGTQ youth, and to learn about themselves and their community; a place where their orientation was reinforced as a good and positive thing.

I don’t think it is too fine a point to describe these youth groups as environments in which a young lesbian or a young gay guy could learn how to be lesbian or gay; how to integrate that into their being and not compartmentalize it merely as a sexual behaviour. These groups were a place to grow, learn and flourish, and to gain a sense of belonging to something.

However, these were all after-school endeavours, and not all queer youth could access the groups, most of which worked out of downtown LGBTQ community centres. How does a queer kid out in the suburbs get to a meeting without raising parental suspicions of what he or she is up to? It often involved even more subterfuge; hardly a great way to gain self-acceptance.

This is one of the reasons having a Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA) at school is so crucial. Yes, it absolutely normalizes homosexuality, as it should be. Homosexuality, along with transsexuality and bisexuality, should be seen as a variance, not as a deviance from the norm. Having such organizations within the school environment, and supported by school administration, assists in that, and that support goes a long way in creating a safe environment.

Kent Hehr, Liberal MLA for Calgary-Buffalo (the inner city riding that includes the Beltline, Calgary’s touted gaybourhood), has long supported LGBTQ initiatives, and is also the Liberal education critic. He has been pushing for the provincial government to mandate that all schools support the establishing of GSAs and not leave it up to individual school administrations to decide whether or not they will permit the alliances.

Both Ontario and Manitoba have passed anti-bullying legislation mandating the accommodation of the alliances, thereby removing the right of individual schools to veto the clubs.

Egale Canada conducted a study in 2011 and found that 21 per cent of LGBTQ students reported being harassed, even bashed, because of their sexual orientation and, of them, more than half reported being verbally harassed.

“Bullying rates of LGBTQ kids is higher than other children,” Hehr has said. “And suicide rates are also higher. We need to protect those kids today, not tomorrow.”

A variety of studies, including the Egale study, show GSAs reduce bullying at school, and not just for LGBTQ students, but other minority students as well.

Kristopher Wells, Assistant Professor and Director of Programs and Services for the Institute for Sexual Minority Studies at the University of Alberta and a long-time LGBTQ youth advocate, says GSAs send a message to the entire school population about the importance of diversity, differences, and human rights. He adds that GSAs also offer a haven for non-LGBTQ students who feel isolated or are being bullied because of their race, ethnicity, country of origin, or religion. “[GSAs] become one legitimized safe space in school where it’s okay to be different and not be judged, bullied or harassed because of [that] difference,” he says.

Having a GSA on site assists a youth’s growing sense of acceptance of his or her sexual orientation or gender identity.

Having a support network in place, somewhere to go to talk about things or just hang out, will clearly assist in making a young person more comfortable and less anxious, or even afraid, of what being gay, lesbian, bi, or trans is going to mean in their lives.

Even an Alberta Government document entitled Creating Welcoming, Caring, Respectful and Safe Learning Environments, acknowledges this.

The document notes that many students “live in fear; afraid of being rejected by their family and peers and afraid of homophobic and transphobic bullying.” The report goes on to say that in

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GayCalgary Magazine #127, May 2014

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Community

Discussing Community Safety The Victim Assistance Support Team

By Constable Andy Buck Hello again everyone. I want to start by thanking everyone who came and said hello at the Western Cup registration evening.

It was great to see so many people, and hopefully you all had a fantastic time at your events. Only some will have been successful in terms of awards, but remember success is also about how you played the games, and the friendships that you made along the way.

To be honest, I am finding it tough to come up with something for this article following the tragic events of April 15th in Brentwood.

As you probably know, five young adults were all stabbed to death at a house party, and we mourn the loss of Lawrence Hong, Joshua Hunter, Kaiti Perras, Zachariah Rathwell and Jordan Segura.

My understanding is that at least a couple of these victims were associated with the LGBTQ community. My heart goes out to the families and friends of these individuals who were inexplicably taken so suddenly. As a police officer with two boys around the same age as the alleged offender, I can also relate to the trauma and grief felt by the de Grood family. It was a terrible, tragic event that will take many some considerable time to recover from, if ever.

Perhaps this would be a good time to remind you of an article I wrote last year about the Victim Assistance Support Team. The Calgary Police Service Victim Assistance Support Team (VAST) promotes and advocates the rights and entitlements of victims of crime and trauma. VAST provides assistance to both primary victims (persons who have experienced direct injury, loss or trauma)

and secondary victims (those who are impacted by the repercussion of a crime or trauma including witnesses, friends, family and coworkers).

To lessen the effects of a traumatic incident, VAST provides non-judgmental emotional support, a listening ear and practical assistance to victims of crime or tragedy.

VAST has been a source of support to thousands of victims of crime and tragedy in Calgary since 1977. Their role is to reduce the impact that may be felt from experiencing a crime or tragic event. Victim Support Advocates (volunteers) provide telephone contact with victims of personal crime or tragedy to offer case and court information and updates, emotional support and referrals to community agencies for counseling and bereavement. Services are provided free of charge.

I strongly urge anyone who has been negatively impacted by the events in Brentwood to seek the help and assistance that they need.

Trust me, it is not a sign of weakness to ask for help, and I will personally help in any way that I can. Feel free to contact me in the usual manner.

In the meantime, please stay safe and take care of each other. I will speak to you next month when, hopefully, there will be happier things to report.

Crime Stoppers 1-800-222-8477 • http://www.ttttips.com Constable Andy Buck 403-428-8154 • pol4792@calgarypolice.ca http://www.gaycalgary.com/a4053 View Bonus Pics/Videos • Share with a Friend • Post Comments  Politics - From Previous Page schools with a GSA, “...research tells us that students are more likely to feel safe and are more comfortable being open about their sexual orientation and/or gender identity...”

As reasonable and innocuous as this sounds GSAs still have their critics.

Helen Clease, head of the Alberta School Boards Association, feels such a sweeping, one-size-fits-all approach puts some Alberta school boards in a tough spot.

“Traditionally, I don’t think that we would support [a] provincial directive that might constrain the ability of school boards to reflect and meet [the] political needs of their communities,” she states.

While I’m not entirely sure what that means, historically the political needs of a community has often been code for we don’t want no gays here. I question what the resistance to GSAs is really about. Surely it wouldn’t be garden-variety homophobia?

Do those opposed to GSAs really think the groups will encourage homosexuality? Is anyone in 2014 still that willfully ignorant? Are there still people out there willing to sacrifice our youth on the altar of their own political agenda?

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Interview

DJ Tracy Young is a Giver “I give my heart, soul and body to every performance that I do”

By Farley Foo Foo Tracy Young has already had the kind of career most DJs dream of – a career that has spanned nearly two and a half decades and has allowed her the opportunity to work with an astonishing number of the top musical acts in the world, including Cher, Pink, Britney Spears, and Madonna.

She has been asked to lend her talents to such enviable gigs as the Emmys, Britney Spears’s 21st birthday bash, Kylie Minogue’s Aphrodite Tour, and was hand picked by Madonna herself to DJ her 2000 wedding to Guy Ritchie.

Never one to miss an opportunity to give back, Young has also graciously involved herself in a vast array of charities including numerous GLAAD awards, The Elton John AIDS Foundation, The White Party held annually in Miami, as well as breast cancer and animal rights fundraisers.

Known for her crowd thrilling DJ sets and chart topping remixes, Young is set to release her first album of all original material. In anticipation of her upcoming performance at Edmonton’s Girl: Pride 2014 party being held on Friday, June 13th at the Starlite Room, Young spoke with Gay Calgary about her remarkable career as a DJ, party promoter and head of her own record label, FEROSH Records.

GC: So, Montreal is sort of your Canadian home, but have you ever spun for us here in Calgary or Edmonton before?

TY: I feel like I’ve been to Calgary. It’s been a while, I have been to Winnipeg. I’ve never been to Edmonton. I’m going to Montreal actually on Tuesday, just for a vacation, because I love it there.

And I play in Toronto and Montreal but I have never been to Edmonton, no.

GC: OK, so it will be your first time here in our city and hopefully we bring a good crowd out for you.

TY: [laughs] I hope so, yeah! I’m excited! I love Canada!

GC: You spin all over the world; do you find that you have to vary up your style depending on whether you’re spinning in Miami or New York or L.A.?

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TY: You know, that’s interesting. Yes, I do sometimes. That might be something I personally do myself. I know other DJs that don’t, but I always feel that my job is to make the crowd happy.

Part of that is, of course, playing new stuff and trying new sounds etc., but also letting the customer have a good time. I mean, that’s my job at the end of the day; to make sure everybody at the club has a good time.

GC: And also depending on where it is, there are always flavours that sort of work: New York might like a deeper house sound whereas in Miami they likeTY: They like the Cha Cha! [laughs] GC: Yeah the Latin flavour, and Latin house!

TY: Yeah it’s true! I’ve never had somebody ask me that question but it’s definitely true. And you know, there are certain signature songs and sounds that each city likes. But there’s also part of it, that goes into, you know, you want the Tracy Young experience [laughs]. You know, they hire me because they want something different and what I do, and I get that too. But I kind of mix it up, and throw little surprises in here and there.

GC: And because you are based out of Miami and New York, there is something to be said for bringing things that are maybe blowing up there but maybe haven’t hit Edmonton yet. And if you can bring that to Edmonton, you can kind of introduce the crowd to what’s happening in the Miami scene.

TY: Yeah, exactly! I think there’s a part of that as well. But… I do like to hear requests because I like to know what people are listening to. I’m not unapproachable, like some. [laughs] I don’t mean that in a bad way. I just meant, you know, the only way you stay in touch and stay relevant is to know what people want.

GC: To stay in touch with the crowd and the changing musical tastes.

TY: Yeah. Maybe they know something I don’t. I doubt it because I’m pretty awesome! [Big laugh] No, I’m just kidding.

GC: You’re a pioneer for female DJs in the industry, and you’ve been in the game for a minute (been in the industry a long time) so I was wondering how you feel the house music scene has changed over the last couple of decades.

TY: I have to say, honestly, with any change there is an adjustment. And it’s also good and bad. The good thing is dance music is now mainstream and it’s popular. It’s on the radio. The bad thing is that there are so many different genres of house music as it was once called. And I feel that sometimes certain sounds get overlooked. But it happened with hip hop as well. You know, there was one style of hip hop that made it on the radio, and then it kind of opened up to different styles of hip hop. So I’m kind of thinking that would be the same thing that would happen with dance music. But as far as like the festivals and the EDM and all that, I mean, it’s kind of starting to sound the same to me. I’m more of a melodic, musical type of a person. I don’t really like all that noise [laughs]. But I’m not mad that it exists because it is opening people’s minds musically, including mine.

I would have never created sounds like that in my studio but I’m happy that it exists because that’s what art is and that’s what growing is. I don’t think it’s a bad thing at all; in fact I think it’s a good thing. It’s just, the only thing that I do miss is the culture sometimes. The dance floor experience. Because it has become so mainstream, people can get the club experience in different elements. I miss the club culture! I miss being able to go to a dance floor and dance until I have to wring out my t-shirt! I feel like the club is dying but, I don’t know; it is very different now.

GC: You are always going to lose something anytime you take something that is relatively underground and it becomes mainstream. There will always be a loss of a little bit of the flavour that kept it underground.

TY: Exactly! It becomes pop. It becomes popular. So, [in a sarcastic tone] it loses its cool because, oh God, everybody is doing it. But that’s what we want! It’s like gay marriage. That is what we want! I could go on and on, so, you’ll just have to cut me off. [laughs] C: I would never cut you off! [more laughter] Now, I know that Madonna has been a really big influence on your career, but I

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was wondering if there have been any heroes or any influences that have been a big factor in your life that have not been in the music industry?

TY: Oh yeah of course. My grandmother... I like you! Your questions are really cool!

GC: Thank you! [laughs] TY: My grandmother. My family of course. Yeah actually and there was, I don’t think she would want me to mention her name, but I had some unfortunate experiences growing up and there is [someone] who is still in my life, who was my roommate. She took me in, gave me a place to live. And we are still in touch to this day, but she kind of saved my life at a time when it was kind of difficult. I would rather leave her anonymous because I know she wouldn’t want me to mention her name. She lives in Washington DC and we were roommates for a very long time, and I owe a lot to her because without her I probably wouldn’t be in this business or have my college education because [getting] those were the prerequisites of moving in with her. You know, I came out when I was gay and certain family members didn’t like that so I ended up moving in with her. Thank God that has changed too. I mean, everything is fine now with my family but it wasn’t always.

GC: Well society had to change, and people coming out when they did, that is what changed society. Because all of a sudden instead of being that one gay guy that they may have known, there are hundreds of gay people and...

TY: Yeah and they have children and they have cousins and, yeah you’re right. You are absolutely right.

GC: Have you ever found yourself being able to be that for another person as well? To take someone under your wing, or kind of mentor them?

TY: I have always wanted to do that and when I have it has backfired [laughs]. I love to help people and I love to give advice.

Yeah, I have done it, because I’ve always wanted to give back the way that I was given a shot. But it has kind of never worked out that way so, I’m done with that part of my life [laughs]. I love people, I love giving. I’m a giver. But you have got to be careful when you’ve got that in your personality.

GC: Yeah, you can sometimes be taken advantage of.

TY: Especially in my position. But it’s ok.

GC: I guess it comes with the territory, right?

TY: I like to see people happy. Maybe that’s why I’m a DJ. I like for people to have a good time, that’s what makes me happy. I’m a giver so, I give musically I guess. I never thought about it. Maybe I should write you a $150 cheque for my psychology appointment [laughs]. I always like to make sure everybody else is ok before myself.

GC: I think that is probably a common characteristic of some of the top DJs and party producers. Everyone is having a good time and everyone is partying and celebrating and you are up there working. But you don’t mind doing that work because you’re seeing so many other people enjoying the benefits.

TY: Exactly. I mean, it is exhausting at times but for the most part I love it.

GC: Which artists or acts are you heavily rotating into your sets these days?

TY: I have actually been in the studio a lot lately. I’m getting ready to release a bunch of new original material… that I have been testing out. It’s Tracy Young originals so be on the lookout!

And I’m working on an album which I’ve been working on for like four or five years but it’s finally coming together. And I’ve remixed recently Cher, Kylie Minogue, Demi Lovato, Katy Perry...

I’m really name dropping right now actually [laughs].

GC: I love the ZZ Ward Last Love remix, I was just listening to that.

TY: I love the way that turned out! I was just getting ready to say ZZ Ward and Christina Perry. I do play a lot of my own remixes. And I’m also working on the new Beyoncé right now so hopefully that will be done before I get to Edmonton. So I will be able to premier it there!

GC: That would be amazing! An exclusive for the Edmonton crowd – that would be dope! So your album coming out, is it going to be mostly instrumental or are you going to be teaming up with some artists or even local artists or vocalists?

TY: I’m working on the vocal part. I have about five vocal tracks that I’ve been working with local people. I’m releasing one as a single in the next month. It’s called Give It Up. Yeah, it’s gonna be a combination of both instrumentals and vocals. Kind of like a Groove Armada or Fat Boy Slim back in the day type stuff.

GC: That kind of goes back to the fact that your sound, rather than the bass heavy, pumping [EDM], tends to be very melodic, melody driven, with a classical edge. That is kind of the secret to your longevity. I don’t think that will ever go out of style.

TY: I just like melody. I think it’s so important…. for me music is all about melody and harmonies, and the melody is what creates the emotion and the feeling and what makes you gravitate toward a song. I just don’t understand – I don’t hear melody in a lot of the new music now… I’m not judging, I just prefer something else.

GC: Some people kind of want to tune out, but then there are other people, like myself, who really like to hear music with a soul. I find a lot of the music and the electro that comes out today is soulless.

TY: Yeah, I agree. And like I said there is a place for everybody.

And that’s the beauty of dance music. Because it’s so open format. There are so many different ways; there is so much uptempo music that is so good right now. And with the evolution of SoundCloud and YouTube and Mixcloud, the listener is much more educated. And I love that. It puts you on top of your game a little more.

GC: You have worked with almost all of the biggest names in music from Madonna to Pink to Idina Menzel; is there anybody you have yet to work with that you really want to collaborate with?

TY: Beyoncé [laughs]. Annie Lennox and Sarah McLachlan too.

They are brilliant. I was gonna say Stevie Nicks but I forgot – I did work with her! [laughs] GC: One of your earlier remixes, I think, was Stevie Nicks?

TY: Yeah, I did Planets of the Universe and then she gave me two more: Stand Back and Edge of Seventeen. Edge of Seventeennever came out though. I play it in [some of] my sets. I loved the way it turned out but, sometimes that’s how it goes. Not everything sees the light of day.

GC: We actually have an amazing amount of [queer and] lesbian acts that have come out of Alberta: from Kinnie Starr to Jann Arden, KD Lang to Tegan and Sara. Any of those ladies that you would want to work with?

TY: Oh God yeah! I would work with any of them. Actually KD I’ve met several times. She is amazing! I was talking about her the other day; her voice is unbelievable! Tegan and Sara I would love to work with.

GC: Do you prefer to be in the studio, producing your own tracks and remixes, or playing out at gigs in front of a crowd?

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GayCalgary Magazine #127, May 2014

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 From Previous Page TY: You know, I’m actually quite shy believe it or not. I like it all though. I get bored very easily. I get bored doing the same thing over and over. So the fact that I wear so many hats is good for me.

I have a record label, I’m a producer, I’m a DJ, I promote parties myself. I do it all, otherwise I would be bored. I’m super hyper; I’m always doing something.

GC: When you’re not spinning or making music what are some of the things that you really enjoy doing?

TY: [Spending time with] my dogs. I actually like landscaping and being in my yard, as dorky as that sounds [laughs]. I love biking. I just love being outside. I’m an outdoors person. I love to go for long walks and stuff like that.

GC: I guess that’s why you moved to Miami; you can actually be outdoors 365 days of the year.

TY: Yeah, pretty much. But you can be outside in Montreal, you just got to bundle up! I don’t mind the cold. I will go out in any type of weather…I like the seasons. That’s why I like going back and forth from [Miami] and New York. I love Christmas in a cold environment. I’m from Virginia so I’m a country girl at heart.

GC: Because you travel a lot, what are the three apps on your phone that you just can’t do without?

TY: [Laughing] My American Airlines app, Facebook and Twitter! No, forget those because everybody’s on those. Uber, American Airlines, and my GPS! I’ve just been turned on to Uber and it’s such a great thing. It’s like a taxi cab service, [but] it’s cheaper and you don’t have to exchange money. It’s on your credit card. You get a receipt in your email. In and out. It’s amazing.

GC: In a place like New York that would be so crucial. When you’re in New York, do you have a favourite borough?

TY: Manhattan baby! I’m a Manhattan girl. Most people like Brooklyn. I like Manhattan for sure.

GC: Do you like being in Chelsea?

TY: I used to live in Chelsea in ’82. I’m actually really enjoying Harlem right now. That place is gonna explode. There is real music up there! They have a lot of jazz shows, obviously, the Apollo [theatre] is there. There is a lot of music up there so I like to be up there. I’m doing the GLAAD awards in New York so I will [be there].

GC: You do a lot of the GLAAD awards. Do you find that, because of the nature of the awards, that it is so community oriented and people are in such a generous and celebratory mood, that it translates to the crowd when you are playing for them? That they really get into it?

TY: I don’t know... I believe in that organization 500 per cent.

I think it is such a necessary [entity]. They have done so much for the media and the images that we see on television and the verbiage and the language; protecting gays and transgendered [people] and bisexuals. I have always [felt] images and words are so powerful. We don’t even realize it. So I have been working with them for a very long time. I just find it such a necessary organization to be a part of. It is an honour that they ask me to DJ. There are so many DJs that they could ask.

GC: Going from the really good, being the GLAAD awards, to the opposite. Are there any festivals or countries or cities that you have played in that you would never go back to because you haven’t had the best experiences with them?

TY: You know, no. I have never really had a bad experience anywhere. I mean, everybody is entitled to a bad day, right? I don’t blame a country or a city on an experience that I’ve had with a particular person or promoter. It’s not the city’s fault.

GC: What about if they wanted to book you in Russia right now? Would you have some second thoughts?

TY: Knowing what I do know, no I wouldn’t go there at all. I know it’s just ridiculous [referring to Russia’s current anti-gay legislation].

GC: I guess that comes with not only being a queer artist but even as a female artist; we don’t have that white, heterosexual privilege. There are still these roadblocks for female artists or for queer artists having to go to places that are not gay friendly that

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maybe a lot of other artists don’t realize and don’t have to contend with.

TY: I’m used to being the underdog though. My whole life I have been the underdog. But when it’s a safety issue, that’s a different thing. I’m used to running an uphill battle. It has been my whole career. People would tell me no, you can’t DJ, you’re a girl. I heard people say that. Stuff like that doesn’t bother me… When you’re telling me no you can’t do something that just motivates me to prove you wrong! [laughs] That is the Scorpio in me. If someone says Tracy I don’t want to be with you I just walk away. But if somebody tells me you can’t do this because you’re a girl, or you don’t have the right sound or this or that, that is in my control. I will prove you wrong for sure if it’s important to me. [laughs] GC: I like that tenacity!

TY: [laughing] I have been called that before – tenacious.

GC: You need to be very tenacious to be the head of a record label. Where would you like to see FEROSH Records go over the coming years?

TY: You know, that is just more of a way for me to have creative control over my own art. Because when you are working with another label, you kind of have to go under their direction, unfortunately. It’s more of an artistic outlet. It’s a business decision too, to have a record label. Obviously you don’t want to lose money, or you want to make money; this is how I live. For me, when I started this record label, it was at a time when, once again, people were telling me we can’t release a compilation by a girl or we can’t release a full length album from a girl so I said, well, fuck you then. I’ll just make my own label and do it myself. So the label is there. It’s not my main focus to be developing artists and things, it is more of a way that I can control my art, and when I release [projects], and who I work with, etc.

GC: I would imagine there might come a time where you see an artist whom you don’t think is getting the recognition or the opportunities they deserve, and having your own record label and doing your own music gives you a chance to help them.

TY: Definitely. I’m not closed to it. I just, you know, I’m so busy with a lot of other things. But the label is there, and I have done a lot of things with it, and it is a primary focus. But I’m not looking for demos, unless one comes in that I like… If somebody sends me a fantastic song, Ill put it out. Stuff like that. But I’m more focused on my DJing and my own productions rather than developing artists at this point in my career. That part will come, because I’m getting older, as we all are. [laughs] GC: It also speaks to the giving back. Once you reach a point in your career where you have done a lot of things, you like to help nurture new upcoming talent and people who you sort of see a bit of yourself in.

TY: Yeah, exactly.

GC: And finally, what can an Edmonton crowd expect when coming to see DJ Tracy Young spin?

TY: I give my heart, soul and body to every performance that I do, so I guarantee that you will have a good time. Lots of great new music, lots of great classics and some great remixes.

GC: And hopefully a lot of Tracy Young remixes?

TY: Yeah, of course! And I like to support other people’s remixes as well.

DJ Tracy Young at the Starlite Room 10030-102nd Street • Friday, June 13th @ 9pm Early Bird tickets can be purchased in advance at ticketfly.com Facebook: IAmTracyYoung • Twitter: DJTracyYoung Sound Cloud: TracyYoung • http://www.DJTracyYoung.com http://www.gaycalgary.com/a4054 View Bonus Pics/Videos • Share with a Friend • Post Comments www.gaycalgary.com

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23

Gossip Roland Emmerich making another movie about Stonewall, also called Stonewall Stonewall, the 1995 indie hit starring Scandal’s Guillermo Diaz, told the stories of a group of gay men who lived through that important historical uprising. Well, guess what? Now another movie about the Stonewall riots is on the way and it’s called Stonewall, too, because nobody has any ideas left in their heads. Or something. Acclaimed playwright/screenwriter Jon Robin Baitz (The West Wing, Brothers and Sisters) has penned the script and power-player Roland Emmerich (Independence Day) has signed on to direct. There’s no cast yet but we’ll keep you informed as that moves along. Regarding the title, we prefer something that shouts out to the drag queens and hustlers who actually did the fighting back, but maybe this is all about that synergy thing marketers talk about. As long as nobody has to fight aliens or the apocalypse we’ll be satisfied with any level of historical accuracy.

Ben Stiller’s Magic Mike phase I Am Chippendale, the film to be written and directed by Alan Ball (Six Feet Under, True Blood), will tell the outlandish life story of the late Somen “Steve” Banerjee, an immigrant who came to Los Angeles, pumped gas, then ran a nightclub that would evolve into the Chippendales brand, which sparked the male strip club craze of the 1980s. Adapting the screenplay from the Rodney Sheldon book, Ball is now in talks with Ben Stiller, who may sign on to play choreographer Nick de Noia, the man Banerjee was arrested for murdering in the late ’80s. More casting is in the works, so when we learn which young male actors will be taking off their clothes for this one, you’ll be dutifully informed.

Madonna’s on the job training Madonna’s first feature film as director, Filth and Wisdom, was so bad that the official publicity line now is that “it never existed.” Seriously, just check around the Internet for people calling 2011’s W.E. her directorial debut, as though saying it enough times will erase history. And unfortunately, though W.E. was leaps and bounds better than Filth, it, too, suffered a critical and commercial drubbing. Is that stopping Madonna from continuing her quest to make movies? Yeah, right, silly question. The Material Auteur will next shoot Ade: A Love Story, based on the novel by Rebecca Walker. In it, a college student falls in love with a young Swahili man and the two prepare to live together in Kenya, only to find their plans disrupted by civil war. Producer Bruce Cohen (American Beauty, Silver Linings Playbook, Milk) is in the middle of the financing stage, with a script to follow. But be sure of this: Ms. Ciccone doesn’t sit around letting people tell her she’s not good enough. She goes and does it. And at this rate, eventually she’ll make a film that people will want to watch.  James Franco, photo by Featureflash

Deep Inside Hollywood James Franco goes ex-gay

Romeo San Vicente has therapeutically assisted a lot of ex-gays. Romeo.

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By Romeo San Vicente The whole Instagram thing where he may or may have hit on a 17-year-old girl? Then the whole thing of how that might have been an elaborate hoax? Those were our favorite James Franco headlines of then. Our favorite James Franco headline of now is that he’s back to pretending to be gay, and also exgay – in movies, anyway. Currently on Broadway in Of Mice and Men, Franco’s headed back to films this summer in a new feature from Gus Van Sant. The untitled project is based on the experience of Michael Glatze, a gay activist who chose to live as heterosexual after a health scare and experiencing a religious conversion. Now married to a woman and living relatively quietly in the Midwest, Glatze once worked as a gay activist and for the staff of gay youth magazine XY. Van Sant and Franco will begin shooting this July for a 2015 release. We think it should be called Interior. Church Pot Luck.

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GayCalgary Magazine #127, May 2014

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Interview

Elaine Stritch: The Lady Who Lives For Tomorrow The untold story of a Broadway legend

By Chris Azzopardi A vase of lilies sits amidst medical paraphernalia used to keep Elaine Stritch’s diabetes in check. Her caretaker has just arranged the flowers and set them in the middle of the kitchen table – flowers I brought her as a token of gratitude for inviting me into her Birmingham, Mich., home, and because it’s almost Valentine’s Day – and Stritch can see them just fine even without her oversized specs.

“Oh, they’re beautiful, Chris. I happen to love them,” she gushes.

“They’re just the kind of flowers I dig. Small bouquet. White. Everything.”

She stares longer, pondering and admiring, and then turns her eyes playfully toward me.

“I’ll bet you got a little help.”

She’s sharper than expected for an 89-year-old lady barely able to stand on her own two feet. As she sits next to me in a wheelchair, even something as mundane as removing a Chapstick cap is arduous. And today was especially hard. She fell again.

“Sore, sore,” she bemoans, her voice like sandpaper as she eases from a walker into the chair. “One of the worst days I’ve had that you’re here.”

When I thank her for still having me over despite the tumble, she zings me: “Well, you should.”

It’s just minutes into our chat, and after she’s called me out for asking her assistant the color flower she fancies most, what’s not lagging is evident: Stritch’s mouth. She’s still foul, she’s still demanding, she’s still brutally honest – she’s still brilliant. Focusing on a drink that her caretaker places in front of her, she gives it the stare-down before scoffing, “I don’t know why you put it in this cocktail glass. I don’t want it in this. What’s a matter with her?”

There’s no alcohol in the cup, by the way. Even though Stritch, a recovering alcoholic, is allowing herself one boozy drink a day, this is not it. So what is it?

“This is...”

Confused, she looks at her assistant from across the kitchen table, raising her finger to caution him. She knows he’s about to finish her thought, and – despite a spotty memory – she wants no help. “Don’t tell me! I’ll kill you if you tell me!”

He smiles and complies.

Stritch is a truth-teller, never sugarcoating, never concealing. While struggling to record her renowned part as Joanne, a role she originated in Stephen Sondheim’s 1970 musical Company, she got red-hot.

Unable to nail a note during “The Ladies Who Lunch,” she erupted into a screaming, ranting diva tantrum, all the while puffing away at a cigarette. Her Emmy-winning Elaine Stritch at Liberty, a live one-woman show performed on Broadway in 2002, was essentially a memoir: Here was someone cracking her steel shell and handing you her essence. But Stritch’s greatest role may be as herself in director Chiemi Karasawa’s hilarious and bittersweet documentary Elaine Stritch: Shoot Me, a tribute to Stritch’s life and career as she faces the inevitable and imminent end of both.

Today she’s opening herself up again, maybe even more so than unusual. “Anything you wanna ask me,” she says, “feel free to do it.”

Revealing a life full of triumphs, failures, fears and sadness, the celebrity veneer comes off. Everything is exposed. At this point, what does she have to lose? Besides her pants, which are nowhere in sight.

But in a nearby room – let’s call it the dining room, though there’s no table – pieces of her are everywhere. The walls are lined with photographs of Stritch with Bernadette Peters, with James Gandolfini, with Bela Lugosi (Stritch starred as the ingénue in the late-’40s play of the black-

 Elaine Stritch, phot by IFC Films and-white Dracula). One particularly striking photo showcases a young Judy Garland, a friend of Elaine’s.

The photos, the famous faces, the gleaming accolades atop her piano – they’re a surface glimpse into a legend’s history. In this room, Stritch’s life looks big and grand, remarkable and fruitful. Anyone would want this life – except maybe Elaine.

“I think my life has been very sad,” Stritch says candidly. That can’t be. Look at that room. “Rounding out, yeah, I do.”

A few downer moments, maybe? “The whole thing.”

When I look at her dumbfounded, she clarifies: “Oh, I had moments.

I had moments that were knockouts, great, successful and ‘yay.’ Lots of those moments, absolutely. And accomplishments. God, I thought I accomplished a great deal. I’ve got a lot of wonderful memories, I really do.” She throws a smirk my way. “And I’ll tell you about them, if I can remember and think and get you out of here before 6.”

Looking for love It’s not hard to understand Elaine Stritch’s sorrow, especially now.

Her health is suffering, her memory is going, and having a team of people take care of her isn’t her idea of a blissful existence. “These gals are running around trying to stop me from falling and killing myself. They’re not here because I’m rich and looking after myself. Do you understand what I mean? That isn’t very happy.”

Stritch sometimes references an aphorism from her late husband, John Bay: “Everybody’s got a sack of rocks.” Having lugged rocks around since she was a kid, it seems full circle – now that she’s, in many ways, a kid again – to reveal, after all this time, how the theater took the place of a family she never had.

“I’ll give you a break. I’m gonna tell you something I’ve never told anybody, so that’s good,” Stritch says. “I don’t think anybody in my family had the capability of … what am I trying to say?”

From across the table, she looks to the same assistant, the one who suggested white for the flowers I wanted to bring her. “You know what I’m trying to say. I’ve told you this a million times.”

Silence suggests a heartbroken soul-baring. “There’s a background to my life story that is not happy.”

Her eyes wander, momentarily disappearing in the past. “I adored my mother and father. Adored them. And I look back on them, at them, with them, and I thought they were just darling. I loved them!

The catch: “I don’t think anybody in my family – none of them were capable of standing up and declaring their love for anybody. I’m not saying they didn’t love me, but they sure as hell didn’t know how to show me. I think it’s one of the hardest things in the world to get over, or to never get over.”

As a kid, Stritch looked for a way to express herself, but found that to be near impossible – she just couldn’t do it. The problem was, she didn’t know how.

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GayCalgary Magazine #127, May 2014

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 From Previous Page “Something was missing in my life,” she confesses. “But once I got on the stage, I felt totally at home.”

And she felt adored and appreciated and, most of all, loved by the sea of people she looked out on every night, including and perhaps especially, her gay audience.

A Broadway legend has to be aware the community thinks she’s an icon, but no, not Stritch. “I’m just becoming aware of it,” she admits, but why now? “By articles such as this one. I really have become very much aware, first of all, what great audiences they are. And it isn’t that I finally discovered that gay people understand me and straight people don’t – oh, no no no. Not a word of truth in that. I can’t tell you how many straight people I know that think I am the cat’s pajamas.”

But not knowing you have a gay following until now, 70 years into your career … a career in one of the gayest professions pursuable: the theater? Stritch is as surprised as you are.

“It sounds like I’ve lost my mind, but I feel like I’m becoming aware of it. The longer that people think of me as a big-time actress, and as long as, uh, what’s his name?”

After tossing out a few names, she confirms it’s Edward Albee, the Tony- and Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright. Stritch worked with Albee on the 1996 revival of A Delicate Balance and – in 1962, as Martha – on Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? The respect she has for Albee is just immense, she says, but that fondness also extends to the other gay men in her life, near and far. It’s their sense of humor she savors.

“I gotta get in that line, because I think gay people have extraordinary humor. Extraordinary! I’m talking deep, deep, deep humor. Deep humor that goes way below the ...”

Trailing off, she looks up almost to see if she can find the word. It’s not there, and she doesn’t warn her assistant this time. There’s no death threat. “The belt,” he adds. “The what?” she says.

Even if she didn’t know it, and many times she says she didn’t, Stritch nurtured many close relationships with gay men throughout her career. And when she wasn’t collaborating with Albee or singing Sondheim, she was out with Rock Hudson, wining and dining and doing the exact opposite of what some people assumed. Before Hudson died of complications from AIDS in 1985, the two were rumored to be romantically involved while working on the 1957 adaptation of Ernest Hemingway’s love story A Farewell to Arms.

“Did we have an affair? No,” she clarifies. “He was nuts about me, and I felt it, knew it. And I was madly in love with this gorgeous guy. But I couldn’t have reacted in any real way because I don’t think he was truly in love with me. I think he just loved me and loved that we had fun and loved to be with me.”

Hudson, she says, dedicated all his off-set time to her, never to anyone else working on the film.

“Anybody that dates you all the time, wants to be with you all the time, takes you out everywhere – he had a good time with me. You know what I’m talking about. And there’s nobody who says that gay guys don’t have fun with women, because they do!”

Sex fun?

“Oh, absolutely. Some of them, yes.”

True, though now we’d call that bisexual or queer, or nothing at all – a label-less defiance of the times. But Stritch is only now realizing that gay people go nuts for her. This is a work in progress.

“I don’t even know if (Rock) was aware of anybody being gay,” she says, noting she found out when it was announced that he had AIDS. “That all had to surround it because I wouldn’t have known, and then it was so crowded and overloaded with sadness. I mean, that’s really sad.

I got off easy, I think.” She stops and backpedals: “Not by not being gay, but I just got off easy.”

Though Stritch didn’t know what “gay” meant then, it wouldn’t have mattered anyway. “I don’t care who’s gay and who isn’t! I liked everybody!

I had a ball in my life!” she says. “This all sounds contradictory. This is a contradictory interview. It will be.

“It’s true that your life can be, ugh, not good at all – sad – and yet hysterically funny. I don’t think sad is contradictory to funny.”

Speaking firmly and reiterating that point, this paradox is the part of her life – her whole life – she wants people to understand most. Layers of bullshit and heartbreak and hilarity and happiness – we all feel that, we all have that.

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GayCalgary Magazine #127, May 2014

“Absolutely,” she agrees. “I think it took me forever – forever! – to admit that to myself, because I couldn’t believe I had everything I wanted, so what the fuck was I looking for? You know? I couldn’t explain it to myself, Chris.”

All she wanted was one word. Just four letters.

“Love,” she says.

Love – of course. We all want that. We all need that.

“I’m not saying it’s unusual. I’m saying that I’m part of the team.”

Showbiz: ‘A pain in the ass’ Stritch beams when she remembers 2004, the year she won her second Emmy, this time for Elaine Stritch at Liberty – the best moment of her career, she says. “It takes an awful lot to win an Emmy. People don’t realize, and you wait all your life practically. It’s a pain in the ass, show business!”

It was a momentous triumph, her face wonderstruck when they announced her name. And that boastful verbal middle finger she waved loud and proud during that acceptance speech – who could forget?

“It was the greatest relief I’ve ever felt in my life,” Stritch recalls. “I won! You didn’t win; I won! I went nuts.”

But isn’t it enough to be nominated? She pooh-poohs. “Nice to be nominated – it’s about the un-nicest thing that could ever happen to you.”

That’s saying a lot considering her experience with “un-nice,” though she might choose even harsher words for Anges de Mille, who collaborated with Stritch on the 1958 musical Goldilocks. The famed choreographer was not a fan of the then-aspiring Broadway star.

Stritch says the two clashed when de Mille criticized the unbefitting way Stritch pointed her toes during a dance sequence, souring Stritch’s first experience in a starring role on Broadway.

“I’m no fool,” Stritch assures. “I know when someone likes me and when they don’t.”

Agnes blasted Elaine; Elaine, of course, held her own. “I remember once when I was cursing her. I didn’t know what the hell she was talking about.”

Stritch recalls de Mille’s verbal lashing for the toe-pointing that did not meet de Mille’s standards: “What are you trying to prove, Elaine?”

Stritch gave it right back to her. “You know, I’m not trying to prove anything, Ms. de Mille. I’m trying to find out how to make this damn dance just like you’re trying to make it amuuuuusing for the audience, because I think it’s kind of funny. I think it’s got a lot of humor to it.

So thank you for that, Agnes.”

Stritch rolls her eyes. “I think I made Agnes de Mille uncomfortable because she didn’t think I liked her. She was missing the joke someplace. And she knew it. And she was.”

Who she got on with so well during that show might surprise you, only because you never really saw him. He was inside the bear suit.

And he was gay.

“I think he was more or less the funniest guy I worked with – well, certainly in that show. I didn’t like any of the directors. I didn’t like – what else didn’t I like? The whole production.”

Stritch, however, knows she also has a reputation for being a pain, and before starring in Woody Allen’s 1987 “play on film” September the director sent her a letter (she reads it in the Shoot Me doc) requesting, in so many words, she come in, do her job and not be a bother. Is she really that difficult to work with? Not if you ask Stritch.

“No,” she says. “Not for a really talented person.”

And great talent doesn’t walk away after a letdown like Goldilocks.

Stritch stayed on stage, where she’d go on to perform in the original production of William Inge’s 1955 play Bus Stop, Noël Coward’s 1961 musical Sail Away and Sondheim’s Company, the production that’s at least partly responsible for her gay following (Jinkx Monsoon of RuPaul’s Drag Race parodied her seminal showstopper with “Here’s the Ladies in Drag”).

“I don’t think Sondheim was aware of his own homosexuality at the time,” Stritch says. “That’s what I found so interesting about Company. Nobody knew what (the lead) Bobby was, who Bobby was, how Bobby was – I don’t think any of us knew. Maybe they knew, but I

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sure didn’t.” (Of the rumored revision in which Bobby would be an out gay man, she says, “I think Sondheim did that already!”)

And just like her attitude toward life, Stritch doesn’t stop. She wants to keep going.

Though off stage Stritch appeared on The Goodyear Television Playhouse, an NBC anthology series airing in the mid-’50s during the “Golden Age of Television” – and later on a couple episodes of Law & Order (her first Emmy win) – she wouldn’t be known as a bona fide TV star until more recently, when she played opposite Alec Baldwin on 30 Rock. The stage was her home. Not some TV set. In fact, Stritch has long since moved past the initial pain of losing out on the role of Dorothy Zbornak to Bea Arthur when she auditioned for Golden Girls.

“I’ve never been unhealthy,” she laments. “I wanted to go to my hometown and get fixed up with whatever’s wrong with me and live for a few more years. Because I could use ’em. I just don’t want to lose the time. I’d be happy with two, three years. Just happy, happy.”

“My feelings were very hurt by that, but I’m awful glad I didn’t do it. I could’ve made a lot of money, but nothing’s worse than ending up like – there’s a lot of money out in Hollywood. It’s a killer. I could’ve made a lot of money if I played ball, but I didn’t wanna play ball. And I didn’t wanna play sitcoms for the rest of my life, and that’s what I would’ve done.”

Appearing together in the 1956 TV series Washington Square, Stritch and Arthur talked at length about the sitcom business, she recalls. Stritch praises Arthur for her acting and comedic talents. She even calls her a “great dame.” “But I wouldn’t wanna be her,” she says. And there’s almost no delay in the rest of that revelation: “Well, she’s dead, so I’d rather be me now.”

Don’t let the sun go down on me Dishes clank from the kitchen as Stritch’s caretaker fields phone calls, one from the doctor, another from The Los Angeles Times, calling to confirm a fast-approaching chat. And despite her assistant’s warning that she has a tendency to cut interviews short because her attention span can’t endure them, Stritch actually hates to end this one.

Even though she left New York last year and returned to her Michigan birthplace – both to escape the franticness of the city and to reconnect with family – she’s not ready to hang up her bowler hat just yet. Stritch still has to do a new play (”I don’t care who writes it as long as it’s good”), and she’s planning a reading of Three Tall Women close to home. She wants to get a feel for Albee’s drama locally, in Ann Arbor, before taking it to the Big Apple. “Can I, will I, could I, should I do the whole nine yards? I don’t know. That’s a play and a half. I mean, it’s a really tough go.”

Never stopped her before, I contend.

Once more, she grins like she’s onto me. “I knew you would say something similar to that.”

Also on the to-do list is a collaboration with Elton John, yet another gay man she’s pining for. Delighted over the prospect, which she mentions in Shoot Me – the closing credits fittingly play “The Bitch Is Back” as she heads home – Elaine’s not letting this one go.

“I know it really is on his mind, and I’m convinced he really cares about me. Nobody buys that many orchids who isn’t interested in you.” The grin – there it is again. “And that’s not including Rock Hudson, but I think I have to say that because it makes a good tagline on this interview.”

“I’m sorry I couldn’t give you more time, Chris,” she says, “but for some reason I’m just hotter than a pistol!”

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I insist I’ll be on my way. “Don’t cut yourself short. You can read me out. It’s all right, I’ll just be late for everybody else.”

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InnerSPACE Return to the Calgary Expo

 Ajay Fry (left), Morgan Hoffman (centre), and Teddy Wilson (right)

Watch the interview online p

By Evan Kayne After covering the Calgary Comic and Entertainment Expo for four years and meeting all manner of creatures, it’s always refreshing to see the steadfast people who remain totally pumped throughout the entire convention. There are the fans and then there are the superfans. I’m talking about Morgan Hoffman, Ajay Fry, and Teddy Wilson from Space TV’s Sci Fi genre news program InnerSPACE. Because these three are privy to some of the upcoming programming on Space, we were wondering what shows we should be watching this fall. ““...if you are not watching [Orphan Black] you are not a Canadian,” Ajay states enthusiastically.

The group as a whole is so psyched about this show, after every episode on Monday night, InnerSPACE will list their top 5 favourite moments from that episode.

Other shows include The Return a great show from France, which puts a new spin on the undead mythology.

“Our programmer said it’s got the best pilot of any TV show pilot that she’s ever seen,” Ajay says.

And “full frontal male nudity,” Morgan adds.

Also look for a new series called The Last Ship, which has Michael Bay as executive producer. While based on the novel

by William Brinkley, the plot differs. After a pandemic kills 80 per cent of the world’s population, the crew of an unaffected U.S. Navy ship must try to find a cure to save humanity.

Teddy mentions the program Salem, which just premiered on Space, as another must see.

“It’s doing great...and it’s kind of a different take on the witch mythology,” he says.

Morgan heeds caution about viewing it by yourself at night.

“I watch it alone at 10:30 at night and I was freaking out,” she says.

As to be expected, all four of us geeked out about what’s coming up this fall: the return of Doctor Who with new doctor, Peter Capaldi.

In terms of summer movies, the group is eagerly anticipating X-Men: Days of Future Past, Godzilla, Guardians of the Galaxy, and Spider Man 2.

Teddy will be keeping his eyes open for any good romantic comedies.

“I like rom-coms...don’t judge me,” he quips.

Ajay is also looking forward to seeing An Honest Liar, a documentary film on James The Amazing Randi.

One serious topic I broached was how cable TV shows have been pushing the limit on what can be shown on television (nudity, showing adult relationships, etc.). The question we posed was how far can we go on Canadian television?

“Watch the second season of Orphan Black...I am not kidding,” Ajay answers. “I cannot wait for what they are doing... I am talking things you have never seen on television before.” “...in terms of showing more skin, I think there’s more of a tolerance than we maybe thought ten years ago for actually having mature themes in our television...and I think it’s a great thing,” Teddy shares. “I think people are a little less conservative and a little less uptight than sometimes the government thinks.”

Finally, with the proliferation of expos and conventions, we wondered whether the market has been flooded.

“I think it’s a big tent and there is room for big cons, small cons, topic specific cons,” Teddy answers.

“As long as the attendees aren’t being exploited, have cons all the time because there’s nothing wrong with people getting together to celebrate what they love.” Ajay adds.

People should also be encouraged to vote with their dollars.

Go to the cons and expos that treat you well.

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Out of Town

WorldPride 2014: Exploring Toronto and Beyond

 The historic downtown of Niagara-on-the-Lake, a charming Wine Country community 90 minutes southwest of Toronto by car. Photo by Andrew Collins

by Andrew Collins The annual Gay Pride celebration in Toronto has long been one of the biggest, boldest and best-attended around, but in 2014, get ready for the city’s greatest festival yet: the annual WorldPride, which moves to a different city each year, taking place concurrently with Toronto Pride. For 10 days this summer, from June 20 through June 29, WorldPride will dominate the city’s famed Church Street Gay Village. Adding the buzz is the fact that this year marks the first time that WorldPride takes place in a North American city.

The 10-day event will include concerts by a slew of A-listers, including Tegan and Sara, Chely Wright, Melissa Etheridge, Deborah Cox, Martha Wash and superstar DJs David Morales and Quentin Harris (expect the lineup to continue evolving between now and the big week). Official events are many, beginning with an opening ceremony on June 20, and culminating during the big weekend (June 27 through 29) with a Trans March, Dyke March, WorldPride Parade, Family Pride, Streetfair and Arts and Cultural Festival, and Closing Ceremony. Check the WorldPride website for further updates and details, and also on news about additional parties, gatherings and performances taking place during the big week.

If you’re in town for WorldPride, you’ll surely experience Toronto’s lively, naughty and nice Church Street Gay Village. It’s one of the largest and most centrally located LGBT business and entertainment districts on the globe, with dozens of bars, restaurants, shops and other establishments catering enthusiastically to the community.

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But, of course, there’s far more to both Toronto (seetorontonow. com/toronto-diversity) and surrounding Ontario (ontariotravel.net) than all the good fun you’ll discover on or near Church Street. Here’s a look at some cool neighborhoods elsewhere in Toronto as well as a few enchanting vacation spots within an easy drive that would make for charming pre- or post-Pride overnight getaways.

In Toronto Hanlan’s Point Beach and the Toronto Islands In summer, Torontonians venture en masse to the small archipelago located just offshore from downtown and known as the Toronto Islands (torontoislands.org). Among the many lovely spots for sunning and socializing on the islands, Hanlan’s Point Beach has the most ardent following among LGBT folks – it’s an officially clothing-optional beach that faces the lake and is quite well-kept and picturesque. You can easily reach the beach via a frequently scheduled ferry service (the ride takes 15 minutes, costs $7 round-trip, and affords passengers magnificent views of the city skyline – boats leave downtown from the foot of Bay Street, at Queens Quay).

Consider bringing a picnic lunch with you to Hanlan’s Point, as amenities are minimal. However, you can also stroll along a paved trail to Centre Island, which contains all sorts of amusements, restaurants and other things to see and do – from here there’s also separate ferry service back to Toronto, if you’d rather not hoof it back to Hanlan’s Point.

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Queen Street West

Stratford and the Shakespeare Festival

Toronto’s most colorful ethnic neighborhoods lie west of downtown, where the hipster-factor is also highest. Walk along Queen Street West to experience the heart of the city’s alternative culture – you’ll find everything from offbeat antiques stores to vintage clothing boutiques to shops specializing in witchcraft to divey tattoo parlors. Farther west, Queen Street intersects with yet another strip of trendy, hipster-infested bars, cafes and shops, Ossington Avenue, which is definitely worth a tour.

A mecca for theater aficionados, anchoring a largely agrarian swath of southwestern Ontario, the friendly Canadian town of Stratford (stratfordcanada.ca) also abounds with art galleries and boutiques, cafes and romantic inns and B&Bs. The community, which is named for the town in England most associated with William Shakespeare, is famous for its theaters – the Avon, Studio, Tom Patterson and Festival – which present a mix of Shakespearian works and classics by both established and emerging playwrights during its April through October Shakespeare Festival (stratfordfestival.ca) season. You can also attend some great music concerts during the summer months. Just a 90-minute drive from Toronto, this spirited community is a must-see for anyone with a genuine love of the performing arts.

Up until the middle of the 20th century, Toronto endured a reputation as a hard-working, earnest, but rather dull metropolis. The incisive writer Jan Morris once described it as “a small provincial city of almost absurdly British character.” A walk through the many bustling ethnic neighborhoods, around the vibrant Gay Village, and past the quirky, counter-cultural businesses along Queen Street West reveal just how dramatically times have changed.

Overnight Getaways from Toronto Niagara-on-the-Lake and the Shaw Festival It’s about a 90-minute drive around the southwestern edge of Lake Ontario to reach one of Canada’s most celebrated winemaking regions and most charming historic colonial towns, Niagara-on-the-lake (niagaraonthelake.com), which is also a gateway for exploring Niagara Falls, just 15 miles to the south. Famous for its early military history (the town was a key setting of the War of 1812), the town is home to several battlefields and related sites as well as the excellent RiverBrink Art Museum, and a compact, pedestrian-friendly downtown abounding with gay-friendly country inns and B&Bs, sophisticated restaurants with shaded courtyards and patios, and the prestigious Shaw Festival (shawfest.com), which presents a mix of works by the iconic 19thcentury playwright George Bernard Shaw along with plays by other notables (both Cabaret and lesser-known Tennessee Williams play A Lovely Sunday for Creve Coeur are scheduled during the summer 2014 season) in four theaters.

More than two-dozen wineries are set throughout the Niagara-on-theLake region – you can view a full list here: wineriesofniagaraonthelake. com. Most have tasting rooms and some present concerts or other entertainment, especially during the summer months. The wine culture here has contributed to a superb dining scene, with many chefs in these parts sourcing locally and organically and turning out first-rate contemporary cuisine.

Ottawa Canada’s national capital, Ottawa (ottawatourism.ca), is a bit farther from Toronto than some of the other places mentioned here – it’s a 4.5to 5-hour drive. But this city of about 825,000 contains enough notable attractions and diverting neighborhoods to be worth a visit of at least a couple of days and ideally three or four. Also, it’s a handy stopover en route to Montreal, which is roughly another two hours east. Keep in mind as well that Ottawa hosts its own well-attended Pride festival in mid to late August.

Downtown Ottawa and its regal government buildings occupy a high bluff looking over the Ottawa River – the picturesque Rideau Canal extends south through the city and is a lovely place for a summer stroll. Neighborhoods of note close to downtown include a compact but lively Gay Village along Bank Street, a hip and bustling dining and entertainment precinct called Byward Market (there’s even a great gay nightspot, Lookout Bar), and – a bit farther afield – the quirky and artsy Glebe neighborhood, which abounds with cafes, galleries, and retail establishments.

Top attractions in Ottawa include Parliament Hill, with its grand government buildings, most of them dating back to the mid-19th century; be sure to ascend the 300-foot-tall Peace Tower for stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside. The Canadian Museum of Civilization, National Gallery of Canada, Rideau Canal National Historic Site and Canada’s National Arts Centre are also all well worth budgeting time for.

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Niagara Falls In some ways the aesthetic and pace of Niagara Falls (niagarafalls.ca), a small city of about 82,000, is the antithesis of Niagara-on-the-Lake, which is relatively quiet and quaint. Downtown Niagara Falls buzzes with souvenir shops and touristy diversions, and, of course, the community is beset all year long, and especially during the busy summer months, by visitors here to view the three immense waterfalls that cross the U.S.Canadian international border: Horseshoe Falls (the largest, with a drop of 173 feet), American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls.

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Community

 Photos by Greg McDonald

Kick Off Camping Season this May Long 34th Sandy Page LGBTQ Campout Offers Something for Everyone

By Janine Eva Trotta Just two hours northeast of Calgary, minutes from the dinosauric lure of Drumheller, is the old, mystic ghost town of Wayne, Alberta. A fabulous place to camp and visit, the Sandy Page LGBTQ Campout this May long weekend will once again be pitched on the same property as the 101-year-old Rosedeer Hotel and the infamous Last Chance Saloon.

“The Campout is such a great place to meet new friends, come relax, play games, socialize, go hiking in the gorgeous valley, be as crazy or quiet as you like,” says Greg McDonald, Media Relations, Marketing and Co-Host of the annual event weekend. “There’s zero judgment and 100 per cent welcome… lots of laughs and great memories.”

McDonald has been attending the Campout for six years now.

“The first year I was slightly nervous because I didn’t know what to expect,” he describes. “I was blown away at the scenery as I never have been in that area before. The people I met, their friendliness, and the positive vibe I got was like no other gay camping experience I’ve ever been to.”

The Campout was started by Sandy Page 34 years ago. The now 66-yearold continues to host the event, bringing to them her amazing stories and fun-loving nature.

“You will thank yourself for coming out and getting away from reality for three fantastic days,” McDonald says, going on to say that one of his favourite things about the camp is that there is no cell service. One must hike up a few hills to receive signal.

A shuffleboard tournament will be played Saturday afternoon in the saloon, while Sunday afternoon a beanbag toss and horse shoes will take place on the north lawn, and a group bonfire will be blazing Sunday night.

McDonald says musical instruments and voices are wanted, and at one past Campout a gigantic 50-foot slip ‘n slide was crafted.

“During the games people cheer you on, they don’t judge you because you threw badly,” he says. “Sunday evening the bonfire is such a nice place to reflect, have one more night of partying and celebration, break out the guitars, bongo drums or simply chill by the fire.”

McDonald says people love the Campout because it’s not over the top, huge or loud. There are no hook ups, and no electricity for tent and/or RV sites. Just beautiful scenery and great people. There is, of course, the restaurant and saloon on site, as well as coin operated showers, so one can still freshen up and grab a bite within a short amble.

“Drumheller is super close by, so if camping is not your thing you can get a hotel room there,” McDonald offers to those who can’t stand roughing it, so to speak. “Then just come out for the full day. If you need more restaurants, liquor or grocery stores they are close by.”

Rooms at the Rosedeer book up fast. Camp spots, however, will run you only $30 for the whole weekend – and registration is not necessary.

“Just show up, setup then come find Sandy or myself to give payment,” McDonald says, adding that $30 per person “is the cheapest you’re going to get anywhere in Alberta during the May long.”

The Sandy Page Campout has been the site of many friendships and relationships formed. McDonald states it’s “total fun, craziness, lots of laughs and good times.”

“I look forward to this weekend ever single year,” he says. “There’s only one like it.”

34th Annual Sandy Page LGBTQ Campout Wayne, Alberta, just out side of Drumheller Rosedeer Hotel May 16th to 19th, 2014 http://www.gaycalgary.com/a4059 View Bonus Pics/Videos • Share with a Friend • Post Comments 32

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Cosplay Queens

Catching Up with Monika, Jessica, and Lindsay Watch the interview online p

By Mars Tonic Cosplay: a combination of technical skill, artistic expression, and love. In Alberta alone there are a dozen events for local cosplayers – people who dress as a certain object or character from popular or cult culture – to strut their stuff.

The Calgary Expo is one of the biggest examples of this, bringing in celebrities and patrons from all over the world.

This year’s convention played host to several special cosplayer guests. While cosplay has strength locally, it is also an international hobby and, for some, even a way to make a living.

Jessica Nigri, Monika Lee and Lindsay Elyse are three such individuals who do just that. Nigri, who we interviewed separately for last month’s issue, blew into the scene quite accidentally in 2008. Lee, on the other hand, had a main spot on Yaya Han’s recent television show Heroes of Cosplay. All three seemed ready and eager to take on the Calgary Expo where, not only would they take part in Calgary’s Parade of Wonders, they would also take photos, sell prints, and market themselves.

The cosplay community can be a vicious world, rife with backhanded commentary on sewing seams, costume accuracy, and how well the cosplayer looks in relation to their chosen character. Sites like 4chan will pick cosplayers apart, and Tumblr, where images and stories can be shared with a single click of a button, makes people cruel as well as vocal. It takes a lot of positive thinking to keep ahead.

When we were able to talk with Jessica, Lindsay and Monika about their careers, they were more than upbeat. In the end, cosplay is about passion, and all three femmes radiate with it.

GC: How did you start working your way forward in the industry?

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Jessica Nigiri: It’s really interesting, the way cosplay has progressed as a profession. We just started by going to cons with other people, and people invited us to cons, and we started working for companies... it’s just really amazing, and we all feel so super freaking blessed to be able to go and do this for a living.

Monika Lee: Do what you love, and try and do as well as possible, and pass on your wisdom – if you have any – to people, and that’s what we like to do. Share the love.

GC: What is your favourite convention?

ML: Dragon*Con is my favourite. I’m from Atlanta, so that’s my stomping ground.

JN: Anywhere in Canada. I know that sounds biased, but these guys know. It’s an amazing place, the people are amazing, and you just have better souls, I think. And poutine.

Lindsay Elyse: I really liked E3, in California.

ML: The games! The games!

GC: Do you consider yourself big gamer nerds, comic nerds or movie nerds?

LE: Gaming is my forte.

ML: I would say gaming, but I like everything. I’m a nerd about everything.

JN: Gaming, anime, and fantasy! I once took a Lord of the Rings class in high school. Mythology in the 21st Century, and I took a full semester discovering and analyzing the Freudian analogies of the sword in the dark cave.

Swords in dark caves? Well now, that’s right up our alley.

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Community

In the Know

Bigger and Better fundraiser for noble cause

By Janine Eva Trotta Every day in Canada eight people will be diagnosed HIV positive. In Alberta, alone, there are nearly 6,000 people known to be living with HIV. In the Know is a fundraising event started last year, presented

by HIV Community Link (HCL) in partnership with the Canadian Foundation for AIDS Research (CANFAR), and hosted by a committee of board directors and community volunteers.

“In our first year, our primary goal was to engage the community in supporting HIV Community Link in providing prevention, support and advocacy programs here in Calgary, along with CANFAR’s continued research aimed at finding a cure in Canada,” says Ron Barry, HCL board member and the inspiratory figure behind the event. “We raised a few thousand dollars, but it was more about relationships than the fundraising.”

Barry says the event prompted 100 of the city’s trendsetters and leading thinkers to come out to hear about their work, amid good music and art at the Gerry Thomas Gallery.

“This year is bigger, better and much more ambitious,” he states.

In the Know will take place Saturday, May 24th at the Fairmont Palliser Alberta Ballroom from 8pm to 1am. Cocktail attire with a splash of red is suggested, and creativity is encouraged.

“We want people to feel free to have a little fun with their attire,” says Craig Cruikshank, HCL board member.

The ticket price is $60 and will include four time slots of entertainment, a silent contemporary art auction, and cash bar.

Art has been donated from a variety of local artists including a custom piece from David Brunning, and works by Sheila Kernan, Carla Tucker, Yvonne Cattoni, Nicole Musser and Anca Dimoff.

“We worked with community partners Calgary Arts Development Authority, ACAD and C-Space to get the word out to the community as well as [build] our relationships,” Cruikshank says of the auction items.

Soulful singer Ellen Dotty and passion pop duo Boy&Gurl will each perform a set; spoken poetry will be performed; and the lavish night will conclude with a live DJ spinning until close.

“We’re also trying to have a bit of fun this year with the event,” Barry says, “We were specifically inspired by the role Andy Warhol and his Factory studio played in establishing the New York City punk scene,” he answers when asked if the soup cans used in the gala’s signage and logo were Warhol induced. “We want to provoke our audience to really think about the reason we’re all gathering at the Palliser for In the Know – to help fight HIV here in Calgary, and ultimately to find a cure. “ “We’re throwing a great party, but it’s about more than that,” Barry continues.

“We think you’ll find this inspiration reveal itself throughout the night, through the art and the performances.”

In the Know Fairmont Palliser Alberta Ballroom Calgary – May 24th @ 8pm to 1am http://www.hivcl.org/news-events/intheknow http://www.gaycalgary.com/a4061 View Bonus Pics/Videos • Share with a Friend • Post Comments www.gaycalgary.com

GayCalgary Magazine #127, May 2014

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Ian Parks

Skyping with “Hot Toddy” from Where the Bears Are

Watch the interview online p

By Evan Kayne Since its 2012 debut the online webseries Where the Bears Are (WTBA) is gaining popularity. Though filming of a third season is just beginning, we managed to snag an interview – via Skype –with Ian Parks aka Hot Toddy.

We tried to coax out some spoilers about the upcoming season, but Parks was rather coy.

“There are a lot of really hot guys this year,” he remarks.

Furthermore, we can look forward to seeing multiple bodies, not just the one. As for the main characters, Reggie and Nelson both seem to be on the upswing in their careers. Reggie writes another, more successful, book about the murder that occurred in season two; and Nelson gets more acting work – this coming after the success of his Soak ‘Ems Adult Diaper commercial. Wood remains...well, thick in the head.

“After a third time around playing the same characters, you can’t help but add on little quirks and ticks,” Parks tells us. Case in point, during season two, he felt whenever Todd was comfortable, he’d take off his shirt. “I tried to keep that going for season three. Comfort? Shirt comes off.”

We did note, for an online web series, they’ve kept it pretty tame. In other countries like Canada or Europe, WTBA would almost qualify as regular network TV. Even in the USA, HBO has shows with graphic swearing and full frontal. Parks says that the WTBA policy is no full frontal – at this point.

Its conceivable full frontal may happen, but it depends on the individual actor’s comfort level, and even then you’d only see it on the DVD, not on YouTube (obviously).

As for raunchiness, “We’ve already shot stuff this year that far and away blows anything from season one or two...out of the water,” Parks promises.

“And myself, personally, I’ve shown more of my ass this year than two seasons combined.”

Season three will have to top the hot fantasy kiss scenes a jealous Nelson envisioned Todd having with almost any man in season two. You might think that these kissing scenes would be one of the perks of Parks’s job. But you would mostly be wrong. “...we shot that [scene] all in one day and it was so awkward,” he says.

“I’m on a bed in my underwear, in a room full of people, and its one guy after the next.”

That said, Parks does spill that Chris Lavoie (Danny Pendleton) was an amazing kisser, to the point he felt like asking for extra takes. Parks

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suggests – for your viewing pleasure – you check out episode nine of season two.

For the last two seasons, WTBA was running on a hope, a prayer and fundraising. For season three, however, they actually have a budget. This means they are free to make more choices. Parks hopes that this means they’ll get to do some travelling to promote the show.

This June, if you’re in the Melbourne, Australia area, you can see them at the HiBearNation event.

It’s exciting for Parks – except for the flying part – but, on the advantageous side, Rick Copp (writer/producer/Reggie) has now written into the show that Todd’s one fear is the fear of flying.

There was some talk of Parks coming up for the Edmonton BearBash in June but, schedule-wise, it was impossible this year.

Merchandising will also increase this year. In addition to DVDs, poster, hats, and t-shirts, the WTBA team is looking at other items for fans to pick up. A WTBA phone case is one possibility, but Parks has the idea of ring tones of the characters (think Nelson screaming Tooooddd, won’t you pick up your phooone).

“Where the Bears Are cock rings would be my other [idea],” he jests.

Character shirts could be another possibility. You can also look forward to a Halloween episode this season, and Twitter accounts for the characters.

Regarding his new fame, Parks is nonplussed. As he lives in Los Angeles, every second person is an actor and you’ve seen them in something (or it feels like it) so he doesn’t get a reaction from many people there (he’s also been a neighbourhood fixture for seven years). The moment of recognition usually only happens in other cities...when he’s in Target buying toothpaste.

Parks is very gracious about it, saying, “...it’s cool, people watch what we’re working on...that’s the best part of it.”

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The Naked Truth About Karmin Duo on wanting a gay wedding, Nick’s bulge and the drag queens of Maine

 Amy Heidemann and Nick Noonan. photo by Epic Records

By Chris Azzopardi Electro-pop duo Karmin got their big break on YouTube when they – ah, never mind. Go to Wikipedia if you want their bio. There are more pressing issues to address when Amy Heidemann, a former wedding singer, and Nick Noonan, who used to work at a boxing gym, get on the line: the pants Nick is unfortunately wearing on the cover of their second album, Amy’s hope for drag queen boobs and the gay wedding they’re planning.

GC: Why isn’t Nick also just wearing his panties on the Pulses

cover?

Nick: Are you opening a can of worms right now? We joked that we were gonna switch for the next take, but it never happened.

Amy: His bulge was so big that they Photoshopped pants back on.

Nick: It’s quite the opposite of that, but whatever works. At least we know who’s wearing the pants...

GC: So obviously you two are gonna make beautiful babies one day.

Nick: Hopefully not for a number of years.

GC: How many?

Nick: We’re gonna start the conversation in five.

GC: When you look in the mirror, do you see someone as hot as we do?

Amy: You’re so sweet and absolutely not.

Nick: Totally not.

Amy: We’re always like we need to change our hair; we need to exercise more. There’s a lot of people looking at us now!

Nick: We’re kind of nerds.

GC: What’s your favorite duo?

Nick: Definitely Simon & Garfunkel. They’re at the top of my list.

Amy: That was an inspiration when we started the band.

Obviously, I’m Simon.

Nick: I have the G-fro, so I’m Garfunkel.

GC: Is it fair to say you recognized a gay audience as soon as you hit YouTube?

Nick: We didn’t recognize one. We didn’t really go out and think, “We’re gonna have the biggest gay audience.” It just kind of happened that way. We noticed when a lot of people from the gay community were gravitating toward our performance style. And you know, it’s amazing that we can stand up for something and have a voice. We were doing all these gay Pride events and those audiences actually kind of developed our performance style. It allowed us to be freer and, I mean, as cliché as it is – Amy: They’re the best audiences, for sure.

Nick. For sure.

GC: Amy, you’re from Seward, Neb.; Nick, you’re from Old Town, Maine – both small towns. Did you know many gay people growing up?

Amy: There was, like, one who was out in each of our high schools.

Nick: There were a lot of kids we knew who were gay, but when we were in high school, which wasn’t that long ago, it was still an unspoken thing.

Amy: Yeah, 2004 – nobody talked about it.

GC: You’ve done the Pride circuit. What’s that experience been like for you? I imagine there’s not a lot of drag queens in Old Town, Maine.

Nick: (Laughs) Not that I know of. I’m not in the Maine drag circle – but maybe I could be!

Amy: Maybe it’s pretty hopping! No – but we’ve gotten to see a fair share of people dressed as Amy from Karmin with suicide roll hair doing “Brokenhearted” at karaoke.

Nick: Yeah, we are seeing a lot of clips of people in drag performing “I Want It All.” Amy: That’s our favorite, by far.

GC: What’s it like seeing someone do you in drag, Amy? Amy: It’s very flattering. I get a little self-conscious because sometimes they look more attractive than I do. Better makeup.

Better outfits. Better boobs. I need to shop where they shop.

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 From Previous Page GC: Well, concerning the boobs, they probably stuff.

Nick: Oh, she does too, though.

GC: Who gets hit on more often at these Pride events?

Amy: I guess a lot of people have a crush on me, but everybody’s

always chanting for Nick to take his shirt off.

Nick: Yeah, from a distance, me more. But when they get up close they just freak out over Amy. GC: Nick, have you ever taken your shirt off at Pride?

Nick: I have. It was Phoenix Pride.

Amy: Yeah, that was the night...

Nick: (Laughs) It was like 400 degrees and they kept chanting something and I couldn’t understand. Finally, after the third time, it was so loud that I could hear it through my earbuds and I was like, “All right, screw it.”

GC: Well, it was hot. You don’t want heat stroke!

Nick: Honestly, it sounds like I’m just being that guy, but I could wring my shirt out.

Amy: Yeah, we’re usually drenched after. Have you ever been to a Karmin show?

GC: Not yet. I’m only going if Nick takes his shirt off.

Amy: Yeaaah!

Nick: It’s gonna be like that, huh?

GC: You started the trend, not me.

Nick: I’m just trying to be straight up.

Amy: We’re just gonna forgo all of our marketing and tweet before the show that Nick is gonna take his shirt off.

GC: You’re gonna have to start playing arenas.

Nick: You think it’s such a good thing that I take my shirt off, but wait till I take my shirt off – you’re gonna be like, he should have left his shirt on.

GC: So you two are planning on getting married sometime soon.

With gay marriage sweeping the country, what are your thoughts on the progress we’re making?

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Nick: It’s happening all kind of at once, and there are minor setbacks like in Arizona, but that bill (allowing businesses to deny service to LGBT people) was vetoed by the governor. So there’s always gonna be two steps forward, one step back, but I think it’s kind of been an explosion over the last decade. It went from a taboo to Obama, a sitting president, saying he was for it, which had never happened before. My home state has already approved gay marriage and more will down the road.

Amy: And I want our wedding to be a gay wedding. Gay weddings are more fun than straight weddings!

GC: Pitch Perfect partly inspired one of the album’s singles, “Acapella.” If you could be any character in Pitch Perfect, who would you be?

Amy: Fat Amy. That’s who I would wanna be, but I have a feeling I’d be Aubrey – over organized and kind of annoying.

Nick: I’d be the Asian girl that nobody can understand.

GC: When has being a couple and working together – essentially seeing each other 24/7 – been a challenge?

Amy: Every day.

Nick: Yeah, it comes and goes, man. It’s real life when you can’t turn it off. The hardest part is that Karmin becomes bigger than Amy and Nick sometimes and that’s when stuff gets out of whack, so that’s been the biggest challenge.

GC: If you weren’t able to use YouTube as a platform for fame, what would have been your plan B? Nick: Sleeping around. Especially before. God, there must have been so much sleeping around before the Internet.

Amy: Before YouTube I guess you had to sleep with everyone!

GC: Speaking of using your body to get ahead, Nick, remember: Your shirt comes off at the next show I’m at.

Nick: You are already off the guest list!

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Interview

Teen Horror

Jack Black to play beloved author R.L. Stine in first Goosebumps movie

By Janine Eva Trotta He’s the author of more than 300 books – a staple read for most people now in their late 20s – and likely one of the few great multi-genre writers that can boast he’s never been at a loss for material.

“I hate to say a number because then I have to go take a nap,” the glib writer says on the baffling quantity of volumes he has turned out during his lengthy career. “I’m just here typing… I’m a machine – I’m a writing machine.”

Stine never designed to be scary writer. In fact, he started writing in the comedic vein. Up until the age of 9 or 10 Stine only read comics, until discovering fantasy/sci-fi/horror author Rae Bradbury’s books. He sites Bradbury as one of his greatest influences, saying Bradbury’s books are what turned him into a real reader before he studied English at the Ohio State University.

“I wrote a hundred joke books before I got scary,” Stine says. “I never planned to be scary; I always planned to be funny.”

Indeed, Stine once penned under the name Jovial Bob Stine; heading the Scholastic humour magazine Bananas and putting out funny paperbacks. Then in 1986 he scribed his first horror novel, Blind Date, and three years later he started writing the wellknown Fear Street books.

“I never sit down and just start writing,” Stine says on his paramount ability to stave off writer’s block. “I think a lot of people think that’s how you write a book…

I do an amazing amount of planning first.”

Before Stine sets out on a new novel he already knows how it’s going to finish; how every character will act and what motivates them to do so.

“I have my ending…I did a 30 page outline first,” he explains.

“So I’ve done all the hard work so the writing is just easy. I’ve done all the thinking. I know everything that’s going to happen in the book…I can just enjoy it and enjoy the writing.”

The Ohio-born author does the bulk of this work in his New York City apartment, his King Charles pooch Minny by his side.

“She’s sweet,” he says. “She keeps me company during the day here.”

In this atmospheric writing room a three-foot long cockroach also makes its residence, a human skeleton is set on display, and a ventriloquist dummy of the author’s own person watches on.

“It’s pretty scary,” Stine says of this dummy, which was made to do an intro on the Goosebumps television series that aired in the mid to late ’90s. “The dummy was a little better than me.”

The cadence of his tone is happy, articulate, and tongue in cheek. He reminds me of a less hyper Woody Allen, but he has often been toted the Stephen King of children’s books.

“One magazine once called me – this is terrible – a literary training bra for Stephen King,” Stine shares. Ironically, the two have never met.

“I do all the book festivals…[King] never leaves Maine.”

Stine says, though he knows many of his counterparts loathe making their appearance at writers’ conferences and expos, he has learned to quite enjoy them.

“I have a good time,” he says. “It’s great to see my fans.”

Having spanned numerous decades with his Fear Street and Goosebumps series, this fan base can run the gamut.

“When I do a book signing now I get 7 year olds…and 25 year olds…and people bringing their kids,” he says. “I’m nostalgia to them…it took me a while to get used to that... but at the same time it’s really lucky, isn’t it?”

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And it could be that these kids will in turn be bringing theirs.

A Midsummer Night’s Scream is the author’s latest book, but he is still writing both new Goosebumps and, after a 15 year hiatus, a new Fear Street book. Stine says his Twitter feed was inundated with fans asking him to bring it back, so he acquiesced.

“I’m killing off more teenagers…everyone enjoys that,” he jests.

As the title would suggest, his latest novel is a haunted twist of a Shakespearean classic.

“Nothing like stealing from Shakespeare, right?” he says. “I took parts of the plot, but I turned it into…a horror novel.”

Just as Goosebumps enters into its 22nd year of publication, its first feature length film has been confirmed, and is slated for release in March 2016.

“Did you know we started filming a Goosebumps movie on Monday?” Stine asks me during our conversation mid-April. “It has been 20 years in the making. I’m a character in the film…

Guess who plays me?”

None other than comedy king Jack Black does!

“We’re like twins, Jack and I. We’re like twins,” that sarcastic, smiling voice says, describing having had lunch with Black not that long ago. “I think he just flew in [from LA] so he could look at me, figure me out.”

The premise is awesome. R.L. Stine is a grumpy, retired writer.

All of the monsters have escaped from his books, so the kids who love reading them plot to find him and petition the author to write one more book that will round up the monsters on the fiction lam.

Stine says that a Goosebumps movie has been in the works for the last 20 years, and he is ecstatic that now it is finally happening.

“It’s going to be a lot of work this movie,” he says, describing the monsters and special effects that will be involved in the film which is being shot in Georgia.

He is likely hoping that the movie glitz will allure his son, Matt Stine, to the theatre, as it is his son’s claim to fame that he has never read a single one of his father’s 300-plus books.

“Out of making dad nuts,” Stine states as his son’s motive. “He brags about it.”

However the younger Stine now maintains his father’s busy website, so “he’s sort of forced to keep up with things.”

Stine sites his son as a music guy, currently working with artist David Bern on a musical in New York.

“He’s having the time of his life; he loves it.”

On the opposite track, Stine’s wife has likely read more of her husband than anyone.

“My wife is actually my editor. Can you imagine that? It’s a nightmare! It’s all we fight about is plots!” he animates. “She’s really tough.”

Jane Waldhorn has her own publishing company, Parachute Press. Her eye is obviously keen as Stine has sold over 400-million copies of his books to date.

“Those were the days – the ’90s,” he recalls. At one time they were shucking four million Goosebumps off the shelf per month.

The Calgary Expo will have been Stine’s first trip out to western Canada, though his current TV show, The Haunting Hour, films in Van-City. As for what he will put out next, expect nothing less than volumes upon volumes of more titillating horror.

“I always have a few new books.”

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Cameron Diaz: The Real Thing

Actress on being called ‘bisexual,’ mom fetishes and her disappointment in the ladies  photos by Berry Wetcher / 20th Century Fox

By Chris Azzopardi

something that could be relatable. It’s that feeling of beating all the odds and pushing through, and continuing to go on even though you get beat down and you feel like you can’t possibly make it through.

Cameron Diaz is all about breaking the rules ... especially when someone else is breaking them too. Strutting into a room at the Four Seasons at Beverly Hills, the actress surveys the space and lugs an oversized sofa chair to the opposite corner where she gets comfortable, her slender legs curled behind her, heels still on.

GC: Going back, what movie of yours do you attribute to the beginning of your gay following?

In person, Diaz really is the sweetest thing, but don’t cross her. At least not in The Other Woman, where the actress, along with Leslie Mann and Kate Upton, serves some nasty shenanigans to a lover she learns is secretly married. (And because you need that sassy colleague to give you sage advice on getting even, Nicki Minaj co-stars.)

She was self-realized and empowered by it, and that’s what I really loved about her – her recognizing herself and honoring herself, and no matter what she just kept going until she was able to fully express herself.

For this gay press exclusive, the actress recalls the faux lesbian action on the set of The Other Woman, clarifies statements she made regarding her sexuality (don’t call her bisexual), and advises the ladies to “step it up a little bit.”

GC: Recently I was at the gay club and they played that unforgettable sing-along from The Sweetest Thing: “The Penis Song.”

CD: No way! That’s so awesome.

GC: When you did that song with Selma Blair and Christina Applegate

in 2002, did you ever think the gays would still be dancing to a song about penises this many years later?

CD: I don’t know!

GC: How about Being John Malkovich from 1999?

CD: Because Lotte! I mean, of course! Lotte found out who she was.

GC: Actually, Lotte sounds a lot like you. In the last few years you’ve been expressing your own sexuality with honesty and openness, saying in interviews with Glamour UK and Playboy that just because you’re sexually attracted to women doesn’t mean you’re a lesbian. The Kinsey Scale actually suggests that everyone is a little bisexual. Is that what you believe too?

CD: What I really think is a problem is that for some reason everybody needs to label. There needs to be a label for something, and you have to qualify it with a label. If we didn’t put these labels on ourselves, I think we would probably live in a much better society. We would just let people be who they are and we wouldn’t have to define them.

GC: Because the penis is timeless.

CD: (Laughs) Exactly. The penis is timeless.

GC: Because of its girl-power fierceness, The Other Woman aligns

itself with Nine to Five, Sex and the City and The First Wives Club. Why do you think gay men in particular are so drawn to these movies?

Over the years I’ve known people who are male who love women, who want to be in a relationship with a woman, who want to raise a family with a woman, who have that relationship and that’s where they want to put their energy – but they also are sexually attracted to men. And just because someone’s sexually attracted to a man he has to choose whether he wants to be with a woman or a man, and vice versa with women.

Women may want to have a relationship with a man, and to raise a family with him, but may also be sexually attracted to women.

CD: These women are underdogs. In Nine to Five it was really about discrimination. Gays and lesbians know what it’s like to be discriminated against, to be the underdog and to have to fight to be seen. That’s

Because we have to label it, because we make people choose who they want to be, people aren’t happy. They’re ruining relationships and friendships and marriages, and they’re feeling like they can’t have all

CD: Not at all, but I guess we should have figured! We should’ve guessed that. It’s quite obvious.

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GC: Diane Keaton, Annie Lennox and Annette Bening are all aging naturally.

sides of themselves. They feel like they have to choose. If we just allowed people to be themselves and to be open to it and not have to be absolute one way or another, life could be really full.

CD: They are, because they’re self-possessed.

GC: So, as you age, you’re not interested in plastic surgery?

GC: This view of sexuality seems to be a recent trend, and now people often refer to themselves as “queer” because it’s more indefinable.

CD: Right, right. But does sexuality really define a person? Who you’re sexually attracted to – does that define you as a person? It’s just a part of who you are. Does who you love define who you are? It doesn’t. We need to see ourselves in the full spectrum of the human being.

CD: No. It can be done well, but what I see with the women who do a lot of it is, the objective is to look younger, but they just start to look different. They don’t necessarily look younger, but they do look different. I don’t think that I would ever want to look different. I don’t know if I could look into the mirror and be OK with seeing somebody other than myself.

GC: The idea of being a cartoon version of yourself isn’t appealing?

GC: Since making these

CD: I did a little bit (of plastic surgery). I tried it out, and that’s what disturbed me. I didn’t look like myself. It scared me. I didn’t look younger. I just looked different.

CD: Yeah.

GC: The press is saying, “Cameron Diaz is bisexual.” But it sounds

GC: If you could team up with two of your gay friends to get back at a man who wronged you, a la The Other Woman, whom would you pick as your gay sidekicks?

statements about your own sexuality, people have tried putting you in a box.

like you don’t want to put yourself in that box?

CD: I don’t. People get uncomfortable (when you don’t). I’m not

saying it’s a bad thing, but it’s a beautiful thing that we can appreciate beauty in other women. I think that’s amazing. If they’re confident in themselves and know who they are, heterosexual men can look at another heterosexual man and go, “Yeah, he’s pretty hot. He’s a sexy man.”

GC: And you have said you can do the same with the ladies.

CD: Of course.

GC: Could you see yourself in a relationship with a woman, though?

CD: That’s not at all what I said. That’s not what I was saying. That’s

what people are (saying). What I’m saying is that I can appreciate the beauty of another woman. I’ve said this forever: I think women’s bodies are beautiful – all shapes, all sizes. Every part of a woman is beautiful and that’s something that we’ve celebrated culturally throughout history.

GC: And men, as well. I mean, how about those Greek gods?

CD: Exactly. Greek gods! You go to Florence and you see da Vinci and

you go, “Oh, of course – this is a celebration of the body.” So, I feel like saying that is just stating something that’s obvious. People get weirded out when you bring in sexuality, when you say “sex,” when you say you find someone else sexually attractive – because people feel like they can’t control that! That if for someone reason they find somebody sexually attractive they’re going to lose all control of themselves and they’re going to question themselves and not know what it is. It’s not black or white.

There is a spectrum.

GC: If a lesbian were to stop you on the street and reference one of your movies, which scene do you think they would point to? I mean, you fucked a Ferrari – that, I’m sure, was enjoyed by many a lesbian.

CD: Yeah, that’s always a good time. (Laughs) But I don’t know. It’s hard to tell. I’ve played so many different characters, and I don’t want to just generalize that all lesbians like the same kind of woman (smiles and points to herself). And there’s a lot to choose from! Everybody has different “preferences.” (Laughs)

CD: Oh my god, for sure my friend Brad (Cafarelli). He’s my publicist and would be perfect because he’s so clever and stealthy. He’s just super keen. He doesn’t miss a detail. And he sees it all! I want him on my side for anything. And he’s hot. I would also say Teddy (Bass), my trainer, who is just fearless and could crawl into any space and get anything done.

GC: According to your co-star Kate Upton, there was some lesbian action happening behind the scenes of The Other Woman.

CD: (Laughs) What did she say?

GC: That there was a lot of butt pinching.

CD: Oh yeah, yeah, yeah!

GC: Feel free to elaborate.

CD: We actually just did a very funny AOL “Unscripted” thing that

just went off the rails. It was so funny.

GC: Was it lesbianic?

CD: Yeah, totally. Like, full-on hilarity. But yeah, (what happened

behind the scenes) wasn’t lesbian as in making fun of. It was putting it in a way that, you know, it’s...

GC: It’s playful?

CD: It’s playful, exactly. Thank you. Totally playful. But Leslie (Mann)

has this thing with butts, and it’s because she has daughters. As a mom she’s all like “goochy goochy goo,” “squeezy, squeezy, squeezy” and she’s always pinching their tooshies. So Kate and I, when her kids weren’t around, we got all the “squeeshy, squeeshy, squeeshy” and all the pinching and all the grabbing. (Laughs)

GC: So that’s as lesbian as it got?

CD: It’s more like mom nurturing. It’s more like mom-ing. And, you

know, some lesbians might find “mom-ing” really hot!

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GC: Your girl crush in 2006 was Pamela Anderson. Have your tastes

changed at all?

CD: Who do I have a girl crush on?

Leslie Mann?

Leslie is just seriously one of the loveliest human beings. But I don’t know right now if I have a girl crush! I haven’t taken a second to look around because I’ve been working so much. Honestly, I think the girls need to step it up a little bit. I’m disillusioned with all the Botox and all the filler and all the fakeness. I really love a natural beauty, something that you can celebrate.

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GayCalgary Magazine #127, May 2014

43

Lumberjanes

Voted “Best New Comic” by the writer of this article

Watch the interview online p

By Nick Winnick Lumberjanes, a new release from BOOM! Studios, is a tremendously delightful read. The story focuses on five tween girls at summer camp, fighting monsters and saving the day. It is also one of the most important new comics coming out this year.

On an episode of The Big Bang Theory, the main characters are in their local comics shop when a woman walks in. One of our long-suffering protagonists turns to another and says, “Is she lost?” This is the entirety of the joke. Cue laugh track.

It’s a joke premised on a woefully outdated understanding of the comics industry, but an understanding that persists with the ugly and unwarranted tenacity of an angry goose hassling a picnic. If the internet has been successful at one thing, it is getting stories and ideas into the minds of people who wouldn’t ordinarily have been exposed to them.

It turns out that queer people, people of colour, and women actually read and enjoy comics immensely. In fact, a survey done at the most recent Emerald City Comic Con found that 52 per cent of respondents listed their gender as female and two per cent as non-binary, putting men in the minority. These are both groups for whom comics aren’t typically written, and whose exclusion makes Big Bang’s awful joke a joke in the first place. Everyone — not solely straight white men — wants to see themselves in the story, to be able to relate, to draw inspiration and feel included.

So why, then, is Lumberjanes so important? For starters, its central premise of problem solving and rough-and-tumble adventure is one that has traditionally been relegated to stories for and about boys (i.e. The Goonies, The Hardy Boys, ad nauseam). Taking this story trope and casting the main characters as a group of five young girls is daring all on its own, but each of these well-rounded heroines also has a different background and distinct personality.

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Moreover, there is a strong element of queer identity in the storytelling.

Given the age of the protagonists, most interactions will be on the chaste side, but innuendo will be embedded.

“If you are reading between the lines that something gay is happening, something gay is probably happening,” said Grace Ellis, one of the series’ writers, in a recent interview with Autostraddle.

No amount of superlatives I could heap on this book would be sufficient to convey how important this kind of representation and acknowledgement is for queer youth. Giving their audience relatable, empathetic characters is a prime consideration made by the entire creative team.

“I want publishers and retailers to look at Lumberjanes and say, oh yeah, people do actually want stories like this, maybe we should look into more stories about and by women and queer people and people of colour and trans people and people who are disabled… Maybe we should tell some stories that aren’t about straight white dudes and the sexy women they save,” Ellis went on to say At this year’s Calgary Comic and Entertainment Expo, I had a chance to talk to another one of the creative minds behind Lumberjanes, Brooke Allen. Allen is the sole artist on the project. Her credits include work on the venerable Adventure Time series. A young woman herself, she brings her insight and enthusiasm to every panel of the comic, and it shows. Visit this article on the GayCalgary website to watch the full video.

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GayCalgary Magazine #127, May 2014

45

Queen of Hearts

‘Kinky Boots’ star Billy Porter on friend Cyndi Lauper, inspiring gay kids and finding forgiveness

 photos by John Ganun

By Chris Azzopardi For his first solo album since becoming “Tony and Grammy award winner Billy Porter,” Broadway’s kinkiest drag queen is taking off the corset and stepping out of those iconic heels.

With Billy’s Back on Broadway, the Pittsburgh-born crooner continues to honor his passion for musical theater, taking on songs made popular by some of the most revered legends: Liza Minnelli (“But the World Goes ’Round”), Judy Garland (“Happy Days Are Here Again / Get Happy”) and Barbra Streisand (“Don’t Rain On My Parade”).

During our chat, Porter, 44, talked about his fondness for strong women, how he aspires to be Cyndi Lauper (whom he calls “one of the godmothers of individuality”) and the personal catharsis he’s experienced while transforming into a woman for Kinky Boots.

GC: Was winning the Tony for Best Performance by a Lead Actor in

a Musical last year one of those surreal moments where you give your speech, and then walk away and it all becomes a haze and you wonder what the hell you just said?

BP: No – because I wrote it! (Laughs) I had to write it down. I have amazing people and friends, and my manager of 23 years, Bill Butler, and one of my dear friends Jordan Thaler, the casting director at Public Theater, both said to me before it happened, “Look, you have a one in five chance of winning. Write something down. Write it down!” And they know I’m not the kind of person who wants to come across as being cocky or anything, so they both were like, “It’s not being cocky; it’s honoring the moment. It’s better to be prepared and to be able to look back at this time and, if it happens, have had said something intelligent.” I said what I wanted to say as opposed to getting up there and fooling around, so I’m glad that they made me write it.

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GC: You’re right, though: Some people think it comes off as cocky when people prepare a speech.

BP: And it’s actually really not that. It’s more about the moment.

Lemme write something down so I don’t look like Boo Boo the Clown up there.

GC: Your first album, Untitled, was released 17 years ago. How do you reflect on that experience and compare it to recording Billy’s Back on Broadway?

BP: It was a different time for me as a human being, as well as for the industry. I feel like I’ve always been this kind of hybrid artist that comes from a very Pentecostal church music background, along with R&B, soul and gospel music, and I sort of fell into the theater – and fell in love with the theater!

The market couldn’t support that before. They didn’t know what to do with me, and I just got lost. It was also very homophobic and very misogynistic at the time. And if you were black, you were an R&B soul artist. And if you weren’t putting out that kind of energy, there wasn’t a place for you, nobody was interested in seeing or hearing you, or speaking to you. So, it’s interesting now because, with, ultimately, the breakdown of the industry due to the digital era, the market has opened in a way that I, Billy Porter, can show up and do a Broadway album with a full orchestra and a major record label actually wants to produce it and put it out. That’s a huge difference and a huge change from what it was like when I started in the industry. And it’s a welcome change for me! It’s where I feel most at home.

GC: You collaborate with Cyndi Lauper on “Happy Days Are Here Again / Get Happy.” She, of course, wrote the Kinky Boots music, so she’s a colleague of yours. But what is she like as a friend?

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BP: I always say she has the biggest heart of anybody that I know.

It’s been such a wonderful experience, because, for me, she is one of the godmothers of individuality. She understood really early on how to embrace the totality of who she is no matter what anybody thought or said. That’s a hard lesson to learn as a human being in general – and then trying to be an artist on top of that! So she’s always been that person to me, but then to have her in the room and to see just how regular, normal and down to earth she is is really refreshing and encouraging. That’s the kind of person I want to be, and that’s the kind of artist I want to be.

GC: Do you not feel like you’re already there?

BP: Am I the kind of artist I want to be? I don’t know. I think as

artists we are our own worst critics, so I’m not sure that there is ever a scenario where I will feel like I have arrived or like I’ve made it, because that’s just not in our nature. I also feel like there’s always more to learn, there’s always a deeper exploration, there’s always a deeper growth point to reach in our consciousness, so I try to use my art and my talent to continue to explore that and to be the best version of myself I can be.

GC: You’ve said that, in your own life, you could never be as bold as Lola, the character you play in Kinky Boots, and dress as a woman.

So, the first time you put the heels, the corset and the wig on, what did you feel?

BP: It felt empowering. It’s such an empowering thing, and Lola talks about it at the top of the second half with the song “What a Woman Wants.” I think we live in a world that’s so black and white sometimes that we forget that the majority of life is gray. It’s the gray area that ultimately gives us our strength and our power.

the truth and the power of this character’s journey might get lost in the character’s kind of fabulousness. I walked in and they played “Not My Father’s Son” and all of those fears went away. These people knew exactly where the heart of this show was.

GC: At its heart is a story of acceptance.

BP: And forgiveness. For me, it’s forgiveness. For me that song is

about forgiveness, and every single time I sing it I feel a little bit more of that.

GC: Toward your fathers?

BP: Yeah. It’s been a long journey, but it’s interesting because it

affects me, and it’s lightened my load. Both my father and stepfather are now gone. They passed on. And you know, they both passed on before there was any real closure, so I’ve had to deal with the closure of these strained relationships after the fact.

GC: So Kinky Boots has really helped you work through that?

BP: Yes, very much so.

GC: I’m betting other people have experienced a similar transcendence.

What’s a story that really stands out to you regarding the influence your role as Lola had on somebody?

BP: The ones that really get me are the kids, the young 8- to 14-yearold little gay boys who write me and say, “I listen to you and I follow you because you give me strength – and you let me know that it’s gonna be OK. I can go to school and I can get beat up and I can get harassed now but, at the end of the day, if I hold on, it’s all gonna be good.” Those are the ones that really get me, because there is power in what we do as artists. We can reach people, and there is a responsibility to show up.

Understanding and embracing your masculinity as well as your femininity gives a person balance, and until one can be balanced you’re… off balance. (Laughs) I was trying to find a sparkly word, but there’s no other word. You’re either balanced or you’re not.

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GC: On Billy’s Back on Broadway you cover songs from Liza, Barbra, Jennifer Holliday and Judy Garland. Isn’t it a rule that gay men can only devote themselves to one diva?

BP: Mmm, no! I don’t live by those rules; don’t you know that by now?

(Laughs) I don’t have no rules in my life. I live to break the rules.

GC: Why are you drawn to these women?

BP: It’s less about the women and more about how empowered they

are, whether it’s the character that’s empowered or the actual person that’s empowered. I was raised by strong women, I respond to strong women and I think that’s what it is. I just respond to that. It’s not about masculine or feminine – it’s about their survival instincts.

GC: If you could invite any one woman to dinner, whom would you take out?

BP: It’s always been Oprah for me. I mean, to watch what she has done in her life is just like… I don’t even know. Every time I turn on the OWN network and I watch her, I’m like, really?! Really?! OK, woman. OK, black woman from the thick of wherever you came from, wherever it was, with your outhouse. It’s like, what?! Just the fact that her whole life is about paying it forward is something that I find really inspiring. I hope to harness that energy in myself someday.

GC: Have you met Oprah?

BP: I have met Oprah! I was on her show once about 10 years ago.

But she would never remember. (Laughs)

GC: She needs to get you back on.

BP: She’s a little busy.

GC: On this album you include “Not My Father’s Son,” a pivotal song

from Kinky Boots. I know your relationship with your own fathers – your biological father and your stepfather – was strained, and even though it’s Lola’s song, what’s its significance for you? Where does it take you every time you sing it?

BP: It’s really interesting because it was the first song that I learned.

I had seen the movie, I had fallen in love with the movie and I heard that they were doing a musical. I knew if there were any role that’s right for me, it would be this. I always knew that there was a story deeper than the surface of being a drag queen, which I think very often, when you have someone like Lola, when you have a character who’s larger than life, it’s very easy for the humanity to get lost in the interpretation.

I was concerned and nervous going in that, as a black, gay man, as a person who has experienced marginalization from all different directions,

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GayCalgary Magazine #127, May 2014

47

Edmontonions Reach for the Sky

Simone Denny Bringin’ it to Pure Pride

By Janine Eva Trotta She’s an anthemic voice for the turn of the century; the lyrics to Love Inc.’s hits Broken Bones and You’re a Superstar are as representative of the years they came out as a high school yearbook. We sang those songs at clubs, in cars, over karaoke mics, and in our showers.

“Cuz tonight, and every night, you’re a superstar.” Not a bad track to pre-drink to before one heads out to Edmonton’s Pure Pride extravaganza this June 7th. Along with Detox, Willam and Vicky Vox, Simone Denny – the former lead voice of Love Inc. – will set the stage ablaze at the Starlite Room, performing live in concert.

“I’m looking forward to it!” Denny says. “Without saying too much….let’s just say I’m bringin’ it! So get ready to party!”

Since those days of pumping dance hits Denny has gone on to record music in her same statement voice, but to a different tune. Her latest single Your Love Fades Away is emotional, jazzy, retro and emotive. Something you might have seen fifty years ago on an ocean cruise.

We caught up with her to chat about her new project, her charity work and what she’s been up to since her days with Love Inc. GC: Where did your inspiration come from for this new project?

SD: This style of music is one I grew up listening to. It’s how I learned to sing. Ben E. King, Aretha Franklin, Tina Turner, etc. are the artists my parents played around the house as a child.

Those voices inspired my vocals on BKS and Love Inc. Those powerful soulful voices taught me to sing. I haven’t switched my 48

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musical path. It has always been intertwined. This new album gives me the chance to showcase the other side of my vocals.

GC: Do you see a crossover of fans coming from Love Inc. or a whole new audience digging this sound?

SD: I think everyone is going to love my new album. I did a show in Vancouver last month where I performed You’re a Superstar and Broken Bones but the promoters also requested that I sing a ballad from my new project that they had heard.

I stopped the show and performed my version of The Look of Love, a cover of ABC’s song. Honestly, I wasn’t sure how the crowd was going to react, but they went nuts! They knew the words, they were singing along with me, and I received a loud applause at the end. I was thrilled because it was the first time I had performed it live. For me, it confirmed that I’m going in the right direction. This project gives me the opportunity to reveal another side of me as a vocalist. Yes, I can deliver the high-energy soulful power vocals, but I can also break it down and sing you a ballad, get bluesy and a little edgy. I also get to sing about the ins and outs of love and life. It lets me expand as an artist. Fans are going to love this album and I know without a doubt I’ll make new fans along the way! I’m so excited!

GC: Did any Love Inc. members perform on this new project?

SD: No Love Inc. members were part of this current project.

The producers I am working with right now are Adam Doom Sewell and Justin Allen McWilliams. Both are from Toronto.

I’ve known Adam for years, so when he approached me with the concept I smiled because this genre of music was so a part of who I am as a person and vocalist — it was an easy and pleasant transition for me. This is evident when you hear the www.gaycalgary.com

first single Your Love Fades Away. It pays homage to the early ’50s -’60s style, when rock and soul merged, with a dash of modern pop and edge. A very catchy track that tells the story of someone who is about to lose the love of their life, and they are grasping on to the last few moments of love. ’Cause when morning comes…it’s over! Anyone who’s been in love will relate to this song!

GC: In between the last Love Inc. album and this release, it looks like you’ve released a few singles in Europe. Why over there?

SD: I have an international following. I have beautiful fans everywhere I go. I consider myself blessed to be able to say that, and because of that producers in Europe [who] know my vocal capability contact me to do projects. I get requests all the time. When I am sent the song I decide whether it’s a project that suits my style and go from there. European producers have a different vibe and different energy and I enjoy working with them. I’ve worked with Canadian producers and American producers as well, and enjoy the energy and approach each team brings to each project.

GC: Do you consider yourself an icon?

SD: Wow I never get used to being called that. What I say to that is thank you. I am grateful that I have impacted people’s lives in such a positive way over the years. I never take my fans for granted. I attended my friend’s show at Toronto Fashion Week last month and as I was walking through the crowd when someone came up to me and exclaimed OMG you are Simone Denny; you’re a legend! I kinda blushed, smiled and said thank you and just kept moving. It was very sweet, but I never get used to hearing people say that. I sing because it fulfills me, inspires people and makes them happy. Acknowledgements and compliments are icing on the cake!

GC: How was it to sing with Patti Labelle (Fashion Cares 2004)?

SD: I loved performing with Patti Labelle. She is an amazing woman and an amazing vocalist – definitely someone I have

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always looked up to. Singing with her was surreal for me.

As a teen she did a show in Toronto. I had the chance to give her my demo, and years later there I was on stage performing beside her. I was star struck for a few seconds because it had come full circle for me at that moment. At that performance I was actually singing with two major divas I admired: Jocelyn Brown and Patti Labelle. A performance I will cherish for the rest of my life.

GC: It sounds like you have done a tremendous amount of charity work.

Can you tell me about the work you have done with ACT, CANFAR and Doctors without Borders?

SD: Whenever I am asked to perform for charity I gladly accept! However [if] I can use my talent, my presence, or celebrity to help raise awareness I am there! I love performing and inspiring people. Giving back and helping people is what life is all about.

GC: What’s next for you?

SD: What’s next is promotion and touring for this album, which we are planning to release in the fall! The single Your Love Fades Away is out now and I’m so looking forward to connecting with my fans and tugging on their heartstrings with this new music. Here I come Canada!

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GayCalgary Magazine #127, May 2014

49

Behind the magic of Odysseo

Cavalia’s latest show spending summer in Alberta

 Photo by Color-ish Company

By Jason Clevett If you have driven by Canada Olympic Park lately you will have noticed the giant white big-top perched upon a hill. Cavalia, the blend of acrobatics and horses, has returned to Alberta with a new show. Running until June 1st in Calgary and opening July 9th in Edmonton Odyesso takes the original Cavalia experience to the next level.

While sitting in the audience you cannot help but be in awe of the horses, the massive screens and set, and the astounding feats made by the human performers.

GayCalgary Magazine recently had the amazing opportunity to tour behind the scenes. From the training center for the acrobats to the stables and horse training area, backstage is a hub of activity. All of the details – down to providing the cast with black underwear in case of wardrobe malfunctions – are taken care of by the staff.

“I think you see the show and think that is it, but the real show is all the stuff that goes on before and during,” says aerialist Brennan Figari. “Costume changes, putting saddles on the horses – some of the costumes are attached to the horses – so dealing with all of that. The set and the stage itself is crazy. I think if you had nobody on stage and just saw the sets and projections you would still leave it and be like wow.”

California-born Figari started working in circus arts 11 years ago and quickly took to it. After a career that had taken him around the world on cruise ships and working in Las Vegas he had the opportunity to audition for Odyesso.

“One of my friends was in the (original) show,” he begins. “I hadn’t talked to her probably in five years and I got an e-mail from her out of the blue telling me she was working for Cavalia and they were looking for acrobats and I should send my stuff in. So I did. Then I flew up to Montreal for an audition and went to the ranch in Sutton, Quebec in January.

“Coming from Las Vegas it was a bit colder than this California boy was used to! About a month later I moved up to Canada and we started training. I was there for seven months before the first show. A lot of the riders were there two years before the first show. They hired me and I had most of the skills needed it was just a case of choreography and routine. A lot of the riders had to train these horses from scratch. Having been here for three years, seeing the development of the horses from when I first arrived to what they do in the show, is astounding.”

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Figari has several roles in the show and at one point is featured in a solo hoop piece that is spectacular to witness, featuring a risky move called a neck hang.

“I choreographed almost all of my solo,” he says. “The artistic director and I have a great relationship and he trusts me enough to give me some creative freedom. Usually if I want to change something I will practice it by myself, then tell him I am working on something new to see if he likes it. We will work on heights and timings so there is a conversation about changing the solo. He was a performer himself and knows where I am coming from.

“I, as the performer, don’t want to be bored, and the audience doesn’t want to see someone who is bored, so it helps everyone to keep engaged and keep developing the show, and challenging myself and keep trying to be the best I can be.

“The neck hang is new, I just put that in this city. It is getting a good reaction; you can train something and I know that it is hard but you never really know how the audience will receive it until you do it. So I am hanging there going ok yeah, they like it that is good. I wouldn’t say that I am not afraid – I have a healthy respect for what I do and the dangers. I do enjoy that feeling of conquering your fear and seeing what your limits are and trying to continually change those limits. Still now, when I do the neck hang, because it is new I take a deep breath and let go.

“I am not going to put anything in the show that I am not comfortable with. I don’t want to fall and it hasn’t happened but I enjoy giving that sense of danger.”

When working with horses there is the added hazard of what the horses leave behind. As the artists backflip and dance across the stage they have accepted that sometimes landing in horse poo is just another part of the job.

“When we all first came it was like ok, we are going to dodge the poop,” Figari explains. “Then you realize it is just digested hay. Humans have such a varied diet but horses diet is really organic. That is what I tell myself when I happen to step on it, because it does happen, especially at the end when the stage floods. There is no getting around it, it is a horse show and you are barefoot. It is an interesting challenge in the hoop number, where you have to try and avoid it. There was one show where there was this big perfect clump right under the hoop the whole show. I think the audience clapped more when I would avoid the poop versus the actual tricks! You get used to it.”

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Regardless of your orientation or gender you cannot help but notice how attractive the cast is. It seems like a recipe for drama, but Figari explained that despite the scenery, it is all professional.

Many of the cast members sport similar flowing manes to their horse counterparts. Figari now dawns long hair, another adjustment made for the job.

“This is the longest my hair has ever been,” he says.

“Growing up my rule was I never want to touch my hair and now I worry about what my hair is doing. It has been a learning experience. It takes getting used to and takes more work. It lends itself very well to the overall themes of the show and the elegant flowing – whether it is the horse’s manes or the human manes. It works here. Spinning on the hoop the long hair gives it another aspect.”

“Because I have been here for three years and we spend hours together every day it feels like a family. So there has never been an issue for me. I like the people I work with but I don’t want to mix work and pleasure.

Since we are touring together we are stuck with each other.

In a normal city, if things go south, you can avoid someone, but when you are on tour you are stuck together.

“We all realize that and that it is not really worth it. You just ignore it. You are relying on someone else on stage to keep you safe and you have to have that trust and bond with each other because you are onstage.

When I am holding a bar in the jumping number I have to trust that the rider is in control of his  Photo by Jason Clevett horse and not going to run into me. When I do the pole number I have to trust that my partner is going to hold on to me. I need to trust my riggers and they need to trust me.

“I think we are a lot closer being on tour in this show than in maybe an office job where you can get by with surface level relationships. We come to a new city and don’t know anybody so we hang out with each other.

It seems like a cliché, but we really are like a family and comfortable around each other because of the time we have spent. We are all here because we love what we do and that unifying fact is enough to keep the show together.”

Odysseo has received rave reviews from press and attendees alike. It is a spectacle unlike any other and a must see for fans of horses, circus arts, or those just looking for an evening of entertainment.

“I think our show has everything,” Figari states. “If you don’t like horses there’s the acrobatics and the tumbling.

Just the size of the tent and the 30-foot high hill and a stage that floods with water and the two Imax screens... if you just look up and see all of the rigging and think about the fact that everything moves in 17 days.

Just the technical aspect of the touring show is interesting to me.

“If you like horses you will love the show but there is so much more.

My whole family has seen it – from little cousins to my grandparents, there is something for everyone.”

Figari then took us to the training ring and brought out Bassilo, the horse he works with for the Liberty piece that opens act two. Having solely worked in the air before, coming down to the ground to work with horses was a new and exciting experience.

Odysseo by Cavalia Calgary - Until June 1st Edmonton – July 9th to 20th http://www.cavalia.net

“Horses are big!” he guffaws. “I hadn’t worked with horses ever before.

I don’t ride in the show. I am working on doing the Liberty number in the second act with the horses lying down. I do that in the show sometimes, which has been an incredible learning experience for me. People say horses are like people and you can see they have good days and bad days and personal relationships – there is no one size fits all with horses.

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“I am definitely more comfortable now but at the beginning it was a little frightening to have horses galloping at you at full speed. I enjoy horses and respect them a lot more from the experience.”

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GayCalgary Magazine #127, May 2014

51

Introducing the Drag Rapper Du Jour Iggy Azalea on ‘lame fake lesbians,’ hip-hop homophobia and safeguarding her gays

 Photo by Rankin

By Chris Azzopardi Let’s get something straight: Iggy Azalea is not a “fake lesbian.”

In an era where pseudo bisexuality is all the rage, and though her YouTube breakthrough was basically an anthem for female genitalia, Australia’s rising rap star (real name Amethyst Amelia Kelly) refuses to admit that she kissed a girl and liked it.

Doing it her own way, songs off Azalea’s long-awaited debut, The New Classic – the autobiographical rags-to-riches “Work,” and the boasting liberation single “Fancy” – showcase a fierce fighter who’s resilient, empowered and ready for rap domination.

GC: After several delays, how does it feel to finally get this album

out?

IA: Definitely a relief. I think people’s interest and support of “Fancy” came as a bit of a surprise. I didn’t anticipate it being as embraced as it has been on radio, so I think I’ve been very lucky in my situation leading up to my album. I’m very happy at the moment to be putting (the album) out and feeling like, yes, it’s finally out, but also, I have a song that’s doing well and getting radio play, which is something that I never usually get, so I’m very excited.

GC: You’ve been embraced in the gay community since the beginning, when you released your mixtape, Ignorant Art, in 2011.

IA: Well, I am a drag queen, so ... (Laughs) GC: Do you call yourself a drag queen?

IA: I always call myself a drag queen. My hairdresser always says,

“You’re a big drag queen. You’re in drag makeup, drag hair...” And it’s true! I can’t help it!

GC: The New Classic embraces themes of empowerment, independence and perseverance. Was that intentional?

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IA: That’s the general gist of my album, yeah, but I didn’t go into it thinking, “Oh, I’m gonna do these themes.” I just said, “I’m gonna write about my life.” And reflecting on it, and in retrospect, it makes sense considering it is my life, and my life is a shit fight. (Laughs) GC: You’ve been very open about your life being a “shit fight,” saying you were ostracized and that you felt like an outsider. Does that have anything to do with why you’re drawn to gay people?

IA: I don’t think so. I think I just love that gay people generally have great taste and are fabulous ... and I think I’m the same! (Laughs) That’s what I think we have in common the most, but we definitely do have being ostracized in common too. I relate to that as well, and I’ll talk about certain things like that and draw comparisons over time. But I just know so many gay men – Marco Marco, who does my costumes, and my hairdresser – that I think are so creative and totally get it, I guess. They get how it’s cheeky or how it’s poking fun, whereas sometimes other people can take longer to catch on. For some reason the gay community seems to be straightaway, like, “We get what you’re doing here,” so I think that’s why I’ve worked and aligned myself with so many gay men more than anyone else. They understand it and I don’t sit there all day long explaining to them, “This is what it needs to look like, blah, blah, blah.”

GC: Who was the first gay person you connected to on that level?

IA: My choreographer. I still have the same choreographer that I

had when I was 17. His name is Victor Jackson. He’s really amazing.

I remember the first time I ever met him: He was my stage coach and he was teaching me how to have confidence on stage – little things like stage blocking and always making sure you’re in the middle of the stage for the chorus. I didn’t know that when I was 17, and that’s when I met him.

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I remember the first time I met him and he was like, “Just do what you would normally do,” and I did it and he was like, “Oh my god, you’re such a drag queen.” And he’s been my friend since then. He still choreographs everything I do. He does my stage shows, all my music videos. He chooses all my dances – and he just gets me. He’s the first gay guy that I was like, “Yes, you have to stick with me for life.”

GC: You watch RuPaul’s Drag Race together, don’t you?

IA: I love RuPaul actually! I met him the other day and we’ve kept

in contact. It’s so funny because my makeup artist can’t make it on my tour because she teaches makeup classes as well and she’s doing a course at the same time I happen to have my tour. I’m like, “Oh no. Who’s gonna do my makeup?!” I said to my hairdresser, “I need a drag queen makeup artist! I don’t want one of these usual makeup artists that put makeup on models.” I call it “casket ready.” I don’t need someone who hates makeup that does, like, runway makeup. I said to my hairdresser, “Who do you think does the best makeup?”

He said Raja Gemini, so I’m getting Raja Gemini.

GC: What exactly is the difference between a drag queen makeup

artist and a regular makeup artist?

IA: Regular makeup artists don’t even believe in makeup; it’s so fucking weird to me. Like, you’re a makeup artist but you hate makeup? I see this hierarchy among makeup artists, and with fashion magazines too, and they’re anti-drag makeup. My makeup artist really does do drag makeup too, and I always say she’s a big drag queen as well. It’s heavy and thick and more theatrical – it’s all those things – but just because you go extra on the makeup or you can do it more theatrical doesn’t mean it can’t look good. There’s actually more skill involved in doing a nice contour and a transformation and doing theater makeup or stage makeup. It’s much harder.

IA: I think they do because I will do songs and I’ll talk about women, and also, there was such a big trend of people being fake bisexuals. I don’t know what that was about. Like, “I’m such a bisexual woman,” and I’d be like, “But you had boyfriends your whole life; you’re not gay. Why are you pretending to be? What’s with that?” I know I talk about women a lot, and I think women are beautiful and I like talking about them, but I didn’t want people to misconstrue that and think that I was being a fake lesbian. It wasn’t a, “Don’t think I’m gay,” but more so me being like, “Hey, I’m not a fake lesbian.” Straight’s cool too, you know! It’s almost like gay nowadays is so trendy that people want to be gay and then they don’t. I’m not gay. I love gay people, but I’m straight. I don’t wanna kiss girls. I’m not into girls. I appreciate women, and I like rapping about them, but in case you thought I was a lame person pretending to be gay, um, I’m not.

GC: I appreciate anyone who stays true to themselves regardless of their sexuality.

IA: I agree. I just hate when people do it to try to be trendy, and I see it so much in songwriting and it’s like, you’re not even bicurious! You’ve probably never even been with a girl in any capacity!

But somebody’s written this lyric for you and you think it’s cool so you’re saying it? It’s corny and it’s lame.

GC: So, I take it you’re not a fan of Katy Perry’s “I Kissed a Girl”?

IA: I don’t know. I don’t wanna get into Katy Perry. First of all,

that song is catchy as hell; I can’t front. And second, I love Katy and she wrote songs on my album so I don’t want to start naming people.

Especially not Katy, because she’s my friend and next thing you know I’ll be getting a phone call.

I always try to book my makeup artists for my shoot and they’ll be like, “Oh no, we don’t want you to have such heavy makeup.” I always laugh and say to them, “Do you know how much fucking makeup I was wearing in that picture, bitch? Stop trying to be so uppity about it.” It’s like if you do draggy makeup, it’s “eww.” If you do all moisturizer and five licks of mascara, then, “Ooh, that’s a makeup artist.” I think it’s complete shit. And if they don’t let me have my makeup artist, I just show up with my makeup done. Be like, “Hey, I’m here. You’re not touching my face.”

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GC: When it comes to the gay rights movement, the world is obviously evolving. Do you feel like hip-hop is keeping up with that evolution?

IA: Yeah, I think so. I saw Le1f, the rapper ... the gay rapper.

GC: The one gay rapper.

IA: The one gay rapper – as if there aren’t more! (Laughs) I did see

him perform on David Letterman the other day and thought, “Wow, I don’t think I would’ve seen that six years ago.” I think it’s the same thing with accepting people of different nationalities who are from different parts of the world. It takes consumers to make them see that they have a place, and I don’t think people that hold the keys to the castle are just gonna fucking hand them over and let you in – whether you’re gay or whatever! You have to just get out there enough and then be like, “I have an audience, so fuck you.”

GC: Have you ever experienced first-hand incidents of homophobia within hip-hop?

IA: Definitely. I mean, I’m around a lot of guys who are hood guys, and I have the gayest hairdresser of all time. He likes to dress in themes, so there’s definitely times when it’s never kind of said, but when I’m like, “Mmm, no. It’s gonna be trouble to bring you around these people because they’re gonna fucking say shit.”

GC: Aww, so you’re the mother hen to the gays.

IA: Yeah, pretty much. But sometimes I’ll be surprised as well.

Sometimes, especially with my hairdresser, Sami (Knight), who’s just so flamboyant, which is why I love, love, love him, there are guys who I would think would be so anti-that and they’ll be like, “I love Sami.

He’s so cool, he’s so fun to have a conversation with, he’s awesome.”

So there are times I’ve been surprised, but also times when I feel very protective over him.

GC: So, there’s “Pu$$y,” of course, but then on “Drop That,” a song off Ignorant Art, you say, “I ain’t gay, so problem is, I’ll have to pass.” Do people assume otherwise?

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Katie Cassidy

From Demons to Super Dames

By Mars Tonic Katie Cassidy’s name has been in the acting game a long time. When discussing her rise as an actress at a spotlight panel during Calgary Expo, she was quick to mention, “for those of you who don’t know, my family is in the business.”

That is to say, her father is David Cassidy – yes, of Partridge Family fame, among many other things. While that may inspire an apple didn’t fall far from the tree remark, her story is more 54

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impressive than that. Katie didn’t grow up with her biological father. Her draw to entertainment was a natural move made all her own.

“It was really important for me to do it on my own merit,” she told me during a phone interview earlier in April. Our interview had missed final confirmation. Katie hadn’t been expecting my call, but she still answered my questions with quite a bit of aplomb.

“I didn’t grow up with my biological father, I grew up with my mom and stepdad, and we were in Los Angeles, but I’d www.gaycalgary.com

never been to Hollywood; I wasn’t in that scene,” she said. “I was in theatre since elementary school, and then I was in acting class, and then when it was time for me to go to college I decided not to go, and went to acting school instead.”

A decision that has worked out well for her. Her acting resume is littered with regular spots on several television shows, as well as a few movies. At current she is one of the main stars on the CW’s Arrow as Laurel Lance who, in the comic books, becomes DC superhero Black Canary.

Among the comic and pop culture community she is especially known for her role as the first incarnation of the manipulative demon Ruby on CW’s Supernatural.

At the Calgary Expo, more than one fan let her know that she was their favourite Ruby.

Katie Cassidy is a woman who leaves an impression. The pride she feels portraying her role on Arrow was evident at the Expo, which was only right, being that she was surrounded by plenty of other fans who wanted to hear her take on the character.

“Laurel’s had a rough life,” Cassidy said. “She’s always in these love triangles, and all these people are dying all the time, it’s just like poor girl. Got a lot going on. Needs some therapy.

Send Laurel to Hawaii.”

Not only is Laurel dealing with the usual slew of crime and villainy, she also faces the return of her presumed-dead younger sister, Sara Lance, who operates as a vigilante known as The Canary (a precursor to, many fans hope, Laurel becoming The Black Canary herself).

Laurel Lance’s storyline in the current season – peppered with addiction and depression – is about to come to a head, and it’s promising to be a good one, if Katie’s excitement is anything to go by. When a fan at the Expo asked her what her favourite episode was to film, she paused for a second and then said, quite apologetically, knowing that it would make fans even more eager “... the season finale.”

The said finale is due to air on May 14th, and the ride leading up to it is proving more than exciting. Regardless of what it may entail, when it comes to what’s in it for her character, Cassidy is game for anything.

“I’m looking forward to anything that they have coming up for her, honestly,” Cassidy said. ”She has hit rock bottom and now she’s sort of coming out on the other side, and I think you’ll just get to see her grow stronger as time goes by.”

Hopefully that strength will allow Laurel to fight side by side on the streets with Stephen Amell’s Oliver Queen who, along with being the titular superhero of the show, is also her love interest and, in the comics, her future husband. Whether the television show decides to go that route, however, only time will tell.

Being able to act as and represent a character that she loves so much seems to be part of Cassidy’s gratefulness for being where she is. Her place in the acting world is solid and, despite her background, it is her own tenacity she can thank. Recalling the early days of auditioning, she said it was a challenge to prove herself. www.gaycalgary.com

“Coming from a family who does [act], it’s interesting; people think that having the last name Cassidy gives me an upper hand, but it doesn’t. It almost puts me under a microscope. I had to prove myself. When you go into a room and you’re the daughter of…, people are like, let’s see if she knows what’s she’s doing.

“I think a lot of people were pleasantly surprised that I actually, you know, studied it and have a passion for it and worked really hard for everything I have. It wasn’t given to me; it was almost harder because I come from that family. But it’s all really good, because I appreciate everything I have that much more.”

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55

Court in the Act

Interview with the talented Courtney Act

 Photo by Magnus Hastings

By Mark Dawson Courtney Act has been causing a stir lately, hanging with pal Chaz Bono, performing private “Applause” dances for Lady Gaga, and competing on the new season of RuPaul’s Drag Race. If that isn’t enough, she has also unleashed a new dance anthem that encourages people to shift their perspective on Russia’s anti-gay laws. “So often, we see something we don’t like and we push against it, thinking we are being productive and sparking change, when we are really fueling negativity and anger,” says the drag star. “I believe the more practical way to bring about change is to know what we want, turn in that direction and simply be the change we seek.” “To Russia With Love” is a fun, electro-pop song about an intense love affair that takes place in the middle of Russia’s most prominent cities and landmarks. The music video features the Barbie-doll bombshell in and out of make-up. Fans are treated to a few glimpses of Act’s adorable male counter part, Shane Janek. Even out of make-up, Courtney Act is a stunner.

GC: Why did you decide to compete on the sixth season of RuPaul’s Drag Race?

CA: I felt like I was ready. In 2011, I moved to Hollywood to pursue my dreams. I had ideas about what would happen, but what I didn’t know is that I would fall in love with drag all over again. I honed my makeup skills, learned how to style my wigs and even thread a sewing machine: all essential skills for Drag Race.

GC: What makes you stand out from the competition?

CA: I am a quadruple threat. I can sing, dance, act and look like a god damn supermodel.

GC: Was the experience harder than you expected it would be?

CA: I was prepared for the worst: for physical and emotional torture. And it was actually the most fun time! Doing what I love with a group of similarly minded people was liberating. Getting to be creative everyday and perform in different drag costumes, why, it’s every little boy’s dream!

GC: What did you learn from competing on the show?

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CA: I learned to focus attention on the present moment. Even the challenging competitions that were not my forte became fun when I gave them my full concentration.

GC: RuPaul’s Drag Race is not your first televised competition.

You competed on Australian Idol. How did the two compare?

CA: Idol was a singing competition, and although I have been singing my whole life, I was competing against girls who had the most amazing voices and I had to find other ways to impress the judges and the audience. Drag Race is a competition made for drag queens by drag queens! It is not often that the world conforms to the drag way of life. When it does, it’s magical.

GC: Speaking of magical, can your new single make magic happen in Russia?

CA: “To Russia With Love” is simply a message of love. In the words of John Lennon, all you need is love.

GC: What does Russia need to learn about the LGBT community?

CA: There are no greater rights than human rights and it’s important to embrace equality.

GC: What does the LGBT community need to learn about Russia?

CA: Russia isn’t only oppressive for gay people. It is hard for everyone, particularly women. This is more than an LGBT issue; it is a human rights issue for the people of Russia and the world.

GC: If you win RuPaul’s Drag Race, how will you spend the year?

CA: My passion is performing. I love being on stage and entertaining people. So that’s where I’ll be, win or lose.

“To Russia With Love” is available now on iTunes. A portion of proceeds from the sale of the single will go to the Russia Freedom Fund, an organization that has been started to combat discrimination and violence in Russia based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Visit CourtneyAct.com.

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GayCalgary Magazine #127, May 2014

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Photography Sleepaway Camp by HOMO-CIDAL at Evolution, Edmonton

Show of Shows at Evolution, Edmonton

Photos by Farley FooFoo

Photos by Farley FooFoo

Vanity Headliner at Evolution, Edmonton Photos by J&B

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Photography ISCWR - Diggin Disco at Woodys, Edmonton

ISCWR - Leather Feathers and Fur, Edmonton

Photos by J&B

Photos by J&B

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Photography Les Girls - Penalty Box at Vinyl Nightclub, Calgary http://gaycalgary.com/pa710

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Photography BEARACCHUS II at the Blind Monk, Backlot and Hyde, Calgary http://gaycalgary.com/pa707

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Photography Backlot to Boyztown at the Backlot, Calgary

Bear Necessities at Evolution, Edmonton

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Photos by Farley FooFoo

Kinky Flea Market, Calgary http://gaycalgary.com/pa706

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Photography Alberta’s Next Drag Superstar - Calgary Semi-Finals, at Sapien

Alberta’s Next Drag Superstar - Edmonton, at Evolution

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Photos by J&B

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Photography Apollo Western Cup, Calgary http://gaycalgary.com/pa711

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Photography

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News Releases Colourful Awards For Colouful People

NSFW - Andrew Christian’s newest video ‘BromoSEXuals’

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What happens when a straight fundamentalist lives with the label of gay for a year?

LOVE BYTES – Sexy New LGBT Web Series Gets Kickstarted

Queer, fag, homo - you name it, we’ve heard it. Rather than accepting defeat...

Best-selling author of “The Cross in the Closet”, Timothy Kurek, did just that...

A guy who is bromosexual is “totally straight.” In fact he will punch you in...

Award-winning queer film-makers and sisters, Tonnette and Victoria Stanford... http://www.gaycalgary.com/n1321

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Manila Luzon & Jinkx Monsoon “Bring It” Remixes

Drag Superstars Manila Luzon and Jinkx Monsoon release Part 2 of their remix... http://www.gaycalgary.com/n1315

Statement on Mozilla CEO Resignation by Selisse Berry CEO of Out & Equal Workplace Advocates

On the news of the resignation of Mozilla CEO Brendan Eich following community... http://www.gaycalgary.com/n1322

Johnny Scruff drops by the steam room

OUT in Print Literary Award

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Calgary International Beerfest - 10 years of promoting the Craft Beer industry in Alberta

UMass Amherst Guard Derrick Gordon Comes Out as First Openly Gay NCAA Div I Basketball Player

Special guest Johnny Scruff, the founder of one of the largest gay social...

On behalf of Alberta Beer Festivals Inc... http://www.gaycalgary.com/n1317

Truth, Starring Sean Paul Lockhart, Coming to VOD and DVD

Left of Center Entertainment and Border 2 Border Entertainment are excited to... http://www.gaycalgary.com/n1318

Egale Canada Human Rights Trust (ECHRT), Breakwater Books LTD. and...

GLAAD, the nation’s lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) media... http://www.gaycalgary.com/n1324

One Voice Chorus presents Ottawa Bound! May 3

One Voice Chorus (OVC) is offering Calgary audiences a sneak preview... http://www.gaycalgary.com/n1325

Senior Google Exec Steps Down from World Vision Board Under Pressure from Grassroots Christians

Rising Christian Backlash Over World Vision’s Anti-Gay Hiring Policy Now...

TESA supports reforms to Alberta Birth Certificates

The Trans Equality Society of Alberta (TESA) supports the government of... http://www.gaycalgary.com/n1326

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LGBTQ2SQQ and allies conference at Naramata Centre Affirm United, an inclusion-fostering organization within the United Church... http://www.gaycalgary.com/n1327

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News Releases Boy Scouts of America Decision to Revoke Charter of Gay-Inclusive Church

GLAAD Media Awards - Kylie Minogue to perform, George Takei to be honored

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April The 17th – The Day Same-Sex Marriage Came To New Zealand

NSFW - Bunnies in the Steam Room this Easter

GLAAD, the nation’s lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) media...

GLAAD, the nation’s lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) media...

Just in time for the Easter weekend a brand new episode of Steam Room...

April 17th 2013. It’s not a date many New Zealanders will have marked in their...

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EastSiders announces Season 2 and launches Kickstarter

Lil Wayne Signs Openly Gay Rapper Fly Young Red to His Label

EastSiders, a critically acclaimed dark comedy starring Van Hansis (3 Daytime... http://www.gaycalgary.com/n1338

Is hip-hop ready for an openly gay artist?

Sure, breakout rapper Frank Ocean... http://www.gaycalgary.com/n1330

NSFW - New titles from the Bruno Gmünder Group for May 2014

Las Vegas Launches FirstEver National LGBT Broadcast Initiative

New in May 2014 from Bruno Gmünder Visit our websites today! ... http://www.gaycalgary.com/n1339

Las Vegas Introduces New Nationally Broadcast Television Commercial... http://www.gaycalgary.com/n1331

PRODUCTION BEGINS ON LOST GIRL SEASON 5 - Fan favourite to return to Showcase this fall

Independence Day Director To Take Charge Of Gay Stonewall Film

Prodigy Pictures, in association with Shaw Media, is proud to announce the...

Film maker Roland Emmerich, whose CV boasts Independence Day and White...

http://www.gaycalgary.com/n1340

http://www.gaycalgary.com/n1332

Naked Highway – Self Control

James Franco In Bed Selfie With Keegan Allen

http://www.gaycalgary.com/n1333

http://www.gaycalgary.com/n1341

Don’t Be Afraid - Let’s Talk About Homophobia

Calgary Comic & Entertainment breaks records with outstanding 9th convention in Calgary, Alberta

‘Self Control’ continues the momentum of a triumphant year for the duo. Their...

Thank Liza For Instagram... Sometimes we can’t believe the gay coming out of...

Benefit Concert and Forum as a part of the Don’t Be Afraid campaign. Saturday... http://www.gaycalgary.com/n1334

Hours after closing the doors on the 9th annual Calgary Comic & Entertainment... http://www.gaycalgary.com/n1342

Gen Silent Film Screening on LGBTQ Older Adults

Friday, April 25 at 7pm Tickets: $10, or $5 Student/Senior/Low income What... http://www.gaycalgary.com/n1335 www.gaycalgary.com

GayCalgary Magazine #127, May 2014

69

Mickey Wilson is well known for his work in the LGBT Community. Now in his late 50’s, Mickey is openly trans after transitioning to be male 23 years ago. He grew up in Sarnia, Ontario, and migrated west at the age of 19. He was married in 2005, but has been separated for the past 3 and a half years.

In the past, he was President of OutReach Southern Alberta, and worked as Manager of Public Works for a small town in Southern Alberta. Going even further back, he was involved with EGALE as Chairman of the National Trans Committee and the Prairies Board Rep for 5-6 years (after Stephen Lock). He holds the claim of being the first Trans person on the EGALE Board.

He currently lives in Edmonton where for the past 18 months he has been the Executive Director of the Edmonton Pride Centre. He loves his job, and living in Edmonton means he is close to his supportive network of friends.

In his spare time, he enjoys taking care of his four dogs. He doesn’t own a television or stereo, and prefers to read. He goes out to LGBT community events for leisure, and does the occasional back-up for ISCWR drag numbers just for fun. Otherwise he is still looking for love, and every now and then goes on dates with other men.

http://gaycalgary.com/pa722

70

GayCalgary Magazine #127, May 2014

www.gaycalgary.com

Directory & Events DOWNTOWN CALGARY

11

10 12

2

6

3

7

15

1 8

4 5

13

1 2 3 4

Calgary Outlink---------- Community Groups HIV Community Link---- Community Groups Backlot------------------------Bars and Clubs Texas Lounge-----------------Bars and Clubs

5 6 7 8

Goliath’s--------------------------Bathhouses Twisted Element--------------Bars and Clubs Broken City-------------------Bars and Clubs Cowboys Nightclub-----------Bars and Clubs

FIND OUT!

LGBT Community Directory GayCalgary Magazine is the go-to source for information about Alberta LGBT businesses and community groups—the most extensive and accurate resource of its kind! This print supplement contains a subset of active community groups and venues, with premium business listings of paid advertisers.

✰....... Find our Magazine Here

......... Wheelchair Accessible

Spot something inaccurate or outdated? Want your business or organization listed? We welcome you to contact us!

 403-543-6960  1-888-543-6960

 magazine@gaycalgary.com http://www.gaycalgary.com/CalgaryTravelRSS http://www.gaycalgary.com/EdmontonTravelRSS Local Bars, Restaurants, and Accommodations info on the go! http://www.gaycalgary.com/Directory Browse our complete directory of over 650 gay-frieindly listings!

CALGARY Bars & Clubs (Gay) 3 Backlot---------------------------------- ✰  403-265-5211  Open 7 days a week, 2pm-close

 209 - 10th Ave SW

4 Texas Lounge------------------------------ ✰

 308 - 17 Ave SW  403-229-0911  Open 7 days a week, 11am-close

www.gaycalgary.com

6 Twisted Element

 1006 - 11th Ave SW  403-802-0230

 http:.//www.twistedelement.ca

9 10 11 12

Dickens Pub------------------Bars and Clubs Flames Central---------------Bars and Clubs Local 522---------------------Bars and Clubs Ten Nightclub-----------------Bars and Clubs

13 The Pint-----------------------Bars and Clubs 15 The Blind Monk--------------Bars and Clubs

8 Cowboys Nightclub------------------------  421 12th Avenue SE  403-265-0699

 http://www.cowboysnightclub.com

A volunteer operated, non-profit organization serving primarily members of the LGBT communities but open to all members of all communities. Primary focus is to provide members with well-organized and fun sporting events and other activities.

9 Dickens Pub

 1000 9th Ave SW  info@dickenspub.ca

 http://www.dickenspub.ca

7 Broken City

 613 11th Ave SW  info@brokencity.ca

 http://www.brokencity.ca

 403-262-9976

 403-233-7550

• Western Cup 31



http://www.westerncup.com

10 Flames Central----------------------------  219 8th Ave SW  403-935-2637

 http://www.flamescentral.com

• Badminton (Absolutely Smashing)

11 Local 522----------------------------------  522 6 Ave SW  403-244-6773

 http://www.localtavern.ca

• Boot Camp

12 Ten Nightclub

 1140 10th Ave SW

• Bowling (Rainbow Riders League)

15 The Blind Monk

 918 12th Ave SW  12thave@blindmonk.ca

 http://www.blindmonk.ca  Mon-Sun: 11am-2am

 403-265-6200

• Curling

 North Hill Curling Club (1201 - 2 Street NW)  curling@apollocalgary.com

• Golf

 golf@apollocalgary.com

14 Vinyl & Hyde (CLOSED)

 213 10 Ave SW

 http://www.vinylandhyde.com

 587-224-5200

• Lawn Bowling

 lawnbowling@apollocalgary.com

• Outdoor Pursuits

Bathhouses/Saunas 5 Goliaths------------------------------------ ✰

 308 - 17 Ave SW  403-229-0911  www.goliaths.ca  Open 7 days a week, 24 hours a day

Community Groups Alberta Society for Kink

 403-398-9968  albetasocietyforkink@hotmail.com  http://ca.groups.yahoo.com/ group.albertasocietyforkink

Apollo Calgary - Friends in Sports

 Platoon FX, 1351 Aviation Park NE  bootcamp@apollocalgary.com

 Let’s Bowl (2916 5th Avenue NE)  bowling@apollocalgary.com

 403-384-9777

 http://www.apollocalgary.com  http://www.myapollo.com

 6020 - 4 Avenue NE  badminton@apollocalgary.com

 403-457-4464

13 The Pint

 1428 17th Ave SW  calgary@thepint.ca

 http://www.thepint.ca/calgary

Bars & Clubs (Mixed) These venues regularly host LGBT events.

N

 outdoorpursuits@apollocalgary.com If it’s done outdoors, we do it. Volunteer led events all summer and winter. Hiking, camping, biking, skiing, snow shoeing, etc. Sign up at myapollo.org to get updates on the sport you like. We’re always looking for people to lead events.

• Running (Calgary Frontrunners)

 YMCA Eau Claire (4th St, 1st Ave SW)  calgaryfrontrunners@shaw.ca East Doors (directly off the Bow river pathway). Distances vary from 8 km - 15 km. Runners from 6 minutes/mile to 9+ minute miles.

• Slow Pitch

 slow.pitch@apollocalgary.com

• Squash

 Mount Royal University Recreation  squash@apollocalgary.com All skill levels welcome.

GayCalgary Magazine #127, May 2014

71

Directory & Events Calgary Events Mondays

Communion Service-----------------  12:10pm

See 1 Calgary Outlink

Student Night------------------------  6pm-6am

 Hillhurst United Church (Gym Entrance) 1227 Kensington Close NW

See

Buddy Night-------------------------  6pm-6am At 5 Goliaths

Knox United Church

At 5 Goliaths

ASK Meet and Greet----------------  7-9:30pm

 Bonasera (1204 Edmonton Tr. NE)

Mosaic Youth Group--------------------  7-9pm  Old Y Centre (223 12th Ave SW)

Inside Out Youth Group---------------- 7-9pm See 1 Calgary Outlink

Calgary Networking Club-------------- 5-7pm See 1 Calgary Outlink

 1st

Beers for Queers--------------------------  6pm YYC Badboys at 13 The Pint

 Kerby Center, Sunshine Room 1133 7th Ave SW

 3rd

Uniform Night-----------------------  6pm-6am At 5 Goliaths

Lesbian Meetup Group-------------  7:30-9pm

Student Night------------------------  6pm-6am At 5 Goliaths

At 1 Calgary Outlink

 1st

Alcoholics Anonymous--------------------  8pm

Between Men--------------------------- 7-9pm

 Hillhurst United Church (Gym Entrance) 1227 Kensington Close NW

Karaoke-------------------------  8pm-12:30am

Karaoke-----------------------------------  7pm

See 1 Calgary Outlink

 2nd, 4th

At 4 Texas Lounge

Fetish Slosh----------------------------  Evening At 3 Backlot

 2nd

Alcoholics Anonymous--------------------  8pm

 Hillhurst United Church (Gym Entrance) 1227 Kensington Close NW

 4th

Alcoholics Anonymous--------------------  8pm Saturdays

Coffee------------------------------------ 10am

By Prime Timers Calgary  Midtown Co-op (1130 - 11th Ave SW)

Thursdays

Lesbian Seniors---------------------------  2pm

Tuesdays

By

Heading Out----------------------- 8pm-10pm

Wednesdays

Alcoholics Anonymous--------------------  8pm

 Hillhurst United Church (Gym Entrance) 1227 Kensington Close NW Sundays

Worship Time---------------------------- 10am See

Worship------------------------------  10:30am See See

Illusions-------------------------------  7-10pm

 1st

Womynspace---------------------------- 7-9pm

 2nd

Hillhurst United Church

Worship Services------------------------- 11am See

Fridays

See 1 Calgary Outlink

Scarboro United Church

Sunday Services---------------------  10:45am

At 3 Backlot

See 1 Calgary Outlink

Deer Park United Church

Knox United Church

Church Service----------------------------  4pm See

Rainbow Community Church

Flashlight Night---------------------  6pm-6am At 5 Goliaths

Friday, May 23rd

LGBT Film Festival By

Fairy Tales

May31

Live Entertainment Night----------------  8pm At 3 Backlot

Saturday, May 24th

Juvenile Diabetes BBQ-------------------  4pm At 3 Backlot

Saturday, May 31st

Save 4 Change----------------------------  9pm

By ARGRA  Arrata Opera Centre (1315 7 St SW) Friday, June 13th

Beautiful City-----------------------------  8pm

By Calgary Men’s Chorus  Mount Royal University, Nickle Theatre Saturday, June 14th

4th Anniversary------------------------  All Day At 3 Backlot

Beautiful City-----------------------------  3pm

By Calgary Men’s Chorus  Mount Royal University, Nickle Theatre

Beautiful City-----------------------------  8pm

By Calgary Men’s Chorus  Mount Royal University, Nickle Theatre

New Directions-------------------------- 7-9pm See 1 Calgary Outlink

 3rd

Legend:  = Monthly Reoccurrance,  = Date (Range/Future),  = Sponsored Event

 Calgary Contd.

• Tennis

 tennis@apollocalgary.com

 info@calgaryoutlink.ca  http://www.calgaryoutlink.com

• Volleyball (Beach)

• Peer Support and Crisis Line

 1-877-OUT-IS-OK (1-877-688-4765) Front-line help service for GLBT individuals and their family and friends, or anyone questioning their sexuality.

 beachvb@apollocalgary.com

• Volleyball (Competitive)  vb@apollocalgary.com

• Volleyball (Recreational)  recvb@apollocalgary.com

• Yoga

 Robin: 403-618-9642  yoga@apollocalgary.com

Alberta Rockies Gay Rodeo Association (ARGRA)

 www.argra.org

• Monthly Dances-------------------------  Arrata Opera Centre (1315 - 7 Street SW)

✰

• Calgary Lesbian Ladies Meet up Group • Between Men and Between Men Online • Heading Out • Illusions Calgary • Inside Out • New Directions • Womynspace

Calgary Expo

Deer Park United Church/Wholeness Centre

 77 Deerpoint Road SE  http://www.dpuc.ca

Calgary Gay Fathers

 http://www.differentstrokescalgary.org

FairyTales Presentation Society

 http://www.calgarymenschorus.org

 403-244-1956

 http://www.fairytalesfilmfest.com Alberta Gay & Lesbian Film Festival.

• Rehearsals

• DVD Resource Library

Calgary Men’s Chorus

 Temple B’Nai Tikvah, 900 - 47 Avenue SW

✰

 304, 301 14th Street NW  403-283-5580  http://www.calgarysexualhealth.ca A pro-choice organization that believes all people have the right and ability to make their own choices regarding their sexual and reproductive health.

1 Calgary Outlink---------------------------- ✰

 Old Y Centre (303 – 223, 12 Ave SW)  403-234-8973

72

 403-278-8263

Different Strokes

 calgaryfathers@hotmail.com  http://www.calgarygayfathers.ca Peer support group for gay, bisexual and questioning fathers. Meeting twice a month.

Over a hundred titles to choose from. Annual membership is $10.

Gay Friends in Calgary

 http://www.gayfriendsincalgary.ca Organizes and hosts social activities catered to the LGBT people and friends.

Girl Friends

 girlfriends@shaw.ca

 members.shaw.ca/girlfriends

GayCalgary Magazine #127, May 2014

2 HIV Community Link------------------- ✰

 110, 1603 10th Avenue SW  403-508-2500  1-877-440-2437  http://www.hivcl.org

• Telephone Support

 M-F, 8:30am - 12:30pm + 1:30pm - 4:30pm

Hillhurst United Church

 1227 Kensington Close NW  (403) 283-1539  office@hillhurstunited.com  http://www.hillhurstunited.com

HIV Peer Support Group

 403-230-5832  hivpeergroup@yahoo.ca

Calgary Queer Book Club

 Weeds Cafe (1903 20 Ave NW)

 http://www.calgaryexpo.com

Calgary Sexual Health Centre---------

Girlsgroove

 http://www.girlsgroove.ca

ISCCA Social Association

 http://www.iscca.ca Imperial Sovereign Court of the Chinook Arch. Charity fundraising group..

Knox United Church

 506 - 4th Street SW  403-269-8382  http://www.knoxunited.ab.ca Knox United Church is an all-inclusive church located in downtown Calgary. A variety of facility rentals are also available for meetings, events and concerts.

Lesbian Meetup Group

 http://www.meetup.com/CalgaryLesbian Monthly events planned for Queer women over 18+ such as book clubs, games nights, movie nights, dinners out, and volunteering events.

Miscellaneous Youth Network

 http://www.miscyouth.com

• Fake Mustache • Mosaic Youth Group

 The Old Y Centre (223 12th Ave SW) For queer and trans youth and their allies.

Mystique

 mystiquesocialclub@yahoo.com Mystique is primarily a Lesbian group for women 30 and up but all are welcome.

• Coffee Night

 Good Earth Cafe (1502 - 11th Street SW)

NETWORKS

 networkscalgary@gmail.com A social, cultural, and service organization for the mature minded and “Plus 40” LGBT individuals seeking to meet others at age-appropriate activities within a positive, safe environment.

Parents for Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG)

 Sean: 403-695-5791  http://www.pflagcanada.ca A registered charitable organization that provides support, education and resources to parents, families and individuals who have questions or concerns about sexual orientation or gender identity.

Positive Space Committee

 4825 Mount Royal Gate SW  403-440-6383  http://www.mtroyal.ca/positivespace Works to raise awareness and challenge the patterns of silence that continue to marginalize LGBTTQ individuals.

Pride Calgary Planning Committee

 403-797-6564

 www.pridecalgary.ca

Primetimers Calgary

 primetimerscalgary@gmail.com  http://www.primetimerscalgary.com Designed to foster social interaction for its members through a variety of social, educational and recreational activities. Open to all gay and bisexual men of any age, respects whatever degree of anonymity that each member desires.

Queers on Campus---------------------

 279R Student Union Club Spaces, U of C  403-220-6394  http://www.ucalgary.ca/~glass

✰

www.gaycalgary.com

Directory & Events  Calgary Contd.

Formerly GLASS - Gay/Lesbian Association of Students and Staff.

• Coffee Night

 2nd Cup, Kensington

Safety Under the Rainbow

 www.sutr.ca A collaborative effort dedicated to building capacity and acting as a voice for the LGBTQ community, service providers, organizations and the community at large to address violence. For same-sex domestic violence information, resources and a link to our survey please see our website.

Scarboro United Church

 134 Scarboro Avenue SW  403-244-1161  www.scarborounited.ab.ca An affirming congregation—the full inclusion of LGBT people is essential to our mission and purpose.

Sharp Foundation

Unity Bowling

 Let’s Bowl (2916 - 5th Ave NE)  sundayunity@live.com

Restaurants & Pubs

 3rd Floor, 1131 Kensington Road NW  403-571-5120  http://www.courtneyaarbo.ca GLBT legal services.

13 The Pint See Calgary - Bars & Clubs (Mixed).

 403-750-1128  www.DBBlaw.com Fellow, American Academy of Reproductive Technology Attorneys

Hardline

Adult Source----------------------------

 12 Deerview Terrace SE  403-879-1967  http://www.canyonmeadows.net

Retail Stores

 140, 58th Ave SW  403-258-2777 Gay, bi, straight video rentals and sex toys.

✰

 10210 Macleod Tr S  403-271-7848

 #102 2323 32nd Ave NE  403-769-6177

 1536 16th Ave NW  403-289-4203

 4310 17th Ave SE  403-273-2710

 http://www.adultsourcecalgary.ca

Best Health

 206A 2525 Woodview Dr SW  403-281-5582  besthealthcalgary@hotmail.com  http://www.besthealthcalgary.com

La Fleur

 403-266-1707 Florist and Flower Shop.

The Naked Leaf----------------------------

 #4 - 1126 Kensington Rd NW  403-283-3555  http://www.thenakedleaf.ca Organic teas and tea ware.

Priape Calgary (CLOSED)

 1322 - 17 Ave SW  403-215-1800  http://www.priape.com Clothing and accessories. Adult toys, leather wear, movies and magazines. Gifts.

Pushing Petals

 1209 5th Ave NW  403-263-3070  http://www.pushingpetals.com

Services & Products

 633 10th Ave SW  403-239-5511  http://www.6thandtenth.com

 M-W: 12-6pm, R: 2-7pm, S-N: 12-5pm

www.gaycalgary.com

One Yellow Rabbit--------------------------

 Big Secret Theatre - EPCOR CENTRE  403-299-8888  www.oyr.org

Holiday Retirement

Hot Water Pools & Spas

Pumphouse Theatre--------------------

✰

Stagewest-------------------------------

✰

 2140 Pumphouse Avenue SW  403-263-0079  http://www.pumphousetheatres.ca

 727 - 42 Avenue SE  403-243-6642  http://www.stagewestcalgary.com

Theatre Junction------------------------

 Theatre Junction GRAND, 608 1st St. SW  403-205-2922  info@theatrejunction.com  http://www.theatrejunction.com

Third Street Theatre

 #3 306 20th Ave SW 

http://www.thirdstreet.ca

✰

 161, 115 - 9 Ave SE  403-221-3708  http://www.vertigomysterytheatre.com

Webster Galleries Inc.

 812 11 Ave SW  403-263-6500  http://www.webstergalleries.com

 T-S: 10am-6pm, N: 1-4pm

EDMONTON

Interactive Male

 403-355-3335  http://www.interactivemale.com

Bars & Clubs (Gay)

Lorne Doucette (CIR Realtors)

3 Buddy’s Nite Club------------------------- ✰

 11725 Jasper Ave  780-488-6636

MFM Communications

6 Evolution Wonder Lounge

 10220 - 103 St  780-424-0077  http://www.yourgaybar.com

 403-461-9195  http://www.lornedoucette.com

 403-543-6970  1-877-543-6970  http://www.mfmcommunications.com Web site hosting and development. Computer hardware and software.

NRG Support Services

 Suite 27, Building B1, 2451 Dieppe Ave SW

 403-471-0204  780-922-3347  nrg@shaw.ca  http://www.nrgsupportservices.com

FLASH (CLOSED)

 10018 105 Street  flashnightclub@hotmail.com

UpStares Ultralounge (CLOSED)

4 Woody’s------------------------------------ ✰

 11725 Jasper Ave  780-488-6557

Bars & Clubs (Mixed)

SafeWorks

These venues regularly host LGBT events.

• Calgary Drop-in Centre

 Room 117, 423 - 4th Ave SE  403-699-8216  Mon-Fri: 9am-12pm, Sat: 12:15pm-3:15pm

 780-938-2941

 4th Floor, Jasper Ave and 107th Street

Free and confidential HIV/AIDS and STI testing.

7 The Starlite Room

 10030 102 St contact@starliteroom.ca  http://www.starliteroom.ca

• Sheldon M. Chumir Health Centre

8 Yellowhead Brewing Co.

 10229 105 St  info@yellowheadbrewery.com  http://www.yellowheadbrewery.com

 1213 - 4th Str SW  403-955-6014  Sat-Thu: 4:15pm-7:45pm, Fri: Closed

Buck Naked Boys Club

 780-471-6993  http://www.bucknakedboys.ca Naturism club for men—being social while everyone is naked, and it does not include sexual activity. Participants do not need to be gay, only male.

Camp fYrefly

 7-104 Dept. of Educational Policy Studies Faculty of Education, University of Alberta Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 2G5  http://www.fyrefly.ualberta.ca

Edmonton Expo

 http://www.edmontonexpo.com

 http://www.edmontonpride.ca

Edmonton Prime Timers

 edmontonpt@yahoo.ca  www.primetimersww.org/edmonton Group of older gay men and their admirers who come from diverse backgrounds but have common social interests.

Affiliated with Prime Timers World Wide.

Edmonton Rainbow Business Association

 3379, 11215 Jasper Ave  780-429-5014  http://www.edmontonrba.org Primary focus is the provision of networking opportunities for LGBT owned or operated and LGBT-friendly businesses in the Edmonton region.

Edmonton Illusions Social Club

 780-387-3343

 groups.yahoo.com/group/edmonton_illusions 2 Edmonton STD

 11111 Jasper Ave

Edmonton Vocal Minority

 780-479-2038  www.evmchoir.com

 sing@evmchoir.com

Fellowship of Alberta Bears

 www.beefbearbash.com

GLBTQ Sage Bowling Club

 780-474-8240

 tuff@shaw.ca

HIV Network Of Edmonton Society----

✰

 9702 111 Ave NW 780-488-5742  www.hivedmonton.com Provides healthy sexuality education for Edmonton’s LGBT community and support for those infected or affected

by HIV.

InQueeries

Hooliganz Pub (CLOSED)

 10704 124 St NW

• Centre of Hope

 Room 201, 420 - 9th Ave SE  403-410-1180  Mon-Fri: 1pm-5pm

 Howard McBride Chapel of Chimes 10179 - 108 Street  bookworm@teamedmonton.ca

Edmonton Pride Festival Society (EPFS)

 403-703-4750

Vertigo Mystery Theatre--------------------

 2145 Summerfield Blvd  403-912-2045  http://www.hotwaterpoolsandspas.ca

 #44, 48 Brentwood Blvd, Sherwood Park, AB

 403-398-9968  info@altview.ca  http://ww.altview.ca For gender variant and sexual minorities.

Book Worm’s Book Club

See Calgary - Community Groups.

 403-253-5678  http://www.maxwellrealty.com/craigconnell

Adult Depot (CLOSED)

 http://www.ATPlive.com

Fairytales

Craig Connell (Maxwell Realtors)

 Calgary: 403-770-0776

 Edmonton: 780-665-6666  Other Cities: 1-877-628-9696  http://www.hardlinechat.com Telephone classifieds and chat - 18+ ONLY.

 403-819-5219  http://www.bcbhcounselling.com

ATP, Alberta Theatre Projects

 403-294-7402

Ellen Embury

10 Flames Central---------------------------- See Calgary - Bars & Clubs (Mixed).

Community Groups AltView Foundation

Theatre & Fine Arts

Courtney Aarbo (Barristers & Solicitors)

DevaDave Salon & Boutique

 1317-1st Street NW

Barry Hollowell

Wheel Pro’s

 810 Edmonton Trail NE  403-290-1973 Cuts, Colour, Hilights.

Wild Rose United Church

5 Steamworks------------------------------- ✰

 11745 Jasper Ave  780-451-5554  http://www.steamworksedmonton.com

 4143- Edmonton Trail NE  403-226-7278  http://www.wheelpros.ca “Experts in Everything for Wheels”

 403-808-7147

 Calgary: 403-777-9494

 Edmonton: 780-413-7122  Other Cities: 1-877-882-2010  http://www.cruiseline.ca Telephone classifieds and chat - 18+ ONLY.

Bathhouses/Saunas

 403-850-3755  Sat-Thu: 8pm-12am, Fri: 4pm-12am

Christopher T. Tahn (Thornborough Smeltz)

 11650 Elbow Dr SW  ctahn@thornsmeltz.com  http://www.thornsmeltz.com

Cruiseline

 403-272-2912  sharpfoundation@nucleus.com  http://www.thesharpfoundation.com

6th and Tenth - Sales Centre

• Safeworks Van

Calgary Civil Marriage Centre

 403-246-4134 (Rork Hilford)  MarriageCommissioner@shaw.ca Marriage Commissioner for Alberta (aka Justice of the Peace - JP), Marriage Officiant, Commissioner for Oaths.

 inqueeries@gmail.com Student-run GLBTQ Alliance at MacEwan University.

Imperial Sovereign Court of the Wild Rose

 http://www.iscwr.ca

Living Positive Society of Alberta

 #50, 9912 - 106 Street 780-424-2214  living-positive@telus.net  http://www.facebook.com/LivingPoz Living Positive through Positive Living.

GayCalgary Magazine #127, May 2014

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Directory & Events DOWNTOWN EDMONTON

1

8

5 4 3

1 Pride Centre of Edm.---- Community Groups 2 Edmonton STD---------- Community Groups

Edmonton Events Boot Camp------------------------------ 7-8pm See

Team Edmonton

See 1 Pride Centre of Edmonton

 3rd

HIV Support Group--------------------- 7-9pm See 1 Pride Centre of Edmonton

 2nd

Tuesdays

QH Youth Drop-in---------------------- 3-8pm See 1 Pride Centre of Edmonton

Martial Arts---------------------  7:30-8:30pm See

Team Edmonton

Swim Practice-------------------  7:30-8:30pm See

2

Team Edmonton

Cycling---------------------------  6:30-7:30pm

Youth Sports/Recreation-----------------  4pm

Yoga---------------------------------  7:30-8pm

Saturdays

See

Team Edmonton Team Edmonton

See

Youth Understanding Youth

Buck Naked Boys Club

 2nd

QH Youth Drop-in------------------  2-6:30pm

Youth Sports/Recreation-----------------  4pm

Monthly Meeting----------------------  2:30pm

See 1 Pride Centre of Edmonton See

Youth Understanding Youth

QH Game Night------------------------ 6-8pm See 1 Pride Centre of Edmonton

Swim Practice--------------------------- 7-8pm See

Team Edmonton

See 1 Pride Centre of Edmonton

By Edmonton Primetimers  Unitarian Church, 10804 - 119th Street

 2nd

Bowling-----------------------------------  5pm See

Team Edmonton

Women’s Social Circle------------------ 6-9pm

Running------------------------------  10-11am

Book Club-----------------------------  7:30pm

Yoga---------------------------------  2-3:30pm

See 1 Pride Centre of Edmonton

 2nd, 4th

BookWorm’s Book Club

 3rd

See

Friday, June 6th

Great Canadian Bear Weekend

By Fellowship of Alberta Bears  Coast Edmonton Plaza Hotel

Edmonton Pride Week

By Edmonton Pride (See their ad for more events)

Jun8

Jun15

Saturday, June 7th

PURE Pride Dance------------------------  9pm

Sundays See

Saturday, May 31

By ISCWR  The Locker Room, Ramada Hotel (11834 Kingsway)

Naturalist Gettogether See

7 The Starlite Room------------Bars and Clubs 8 Yellowhead Brewing Co.-----Bars and Clubs

That Drag Thing--------------------------  8pm

QH Youth Drop-in---------------------- 3-8pm

See

Wednesdays

7

5 Steamworks----------------------Bathhouses 6 Evolution----------------------Bars and Clubs

Thursdays

TTIQ------------------------------------- 7-9pm

N

3 Buddy’s-----------------------Bars and Clubs 4 Woody’s-----------------------Bars and Clubs

See

Mondays

6

Team Edmonton Team Edmonton

By PURE Pride  The Starlite Room (219 - 8th Ave SW) Tuesday, June 10th

Commerce Mixer------------------------ 5-7pm

By Alberta LGBT Chamber of Commerce At 1 Pride Centre of Edmonton

Martial Arts---------------------  7:30-8:30pm

Men Talking with Pride---------------- 7-9pm See 1 Pride Centre of Edmonton

Friday, June 13th

QH Youth Drop-in---------------------- 3-8pm

Intermediate Volleyball--------  7:30-9:30pm

Ballroom Dancing--------------  7:30-8:30pm

Gay Edmonton Pageant - Part 1--------  7pm

Youth Sports/Recreation-----------------  4pm

Fridays

Soul Outing-------------------------------  7pm

GLBTQ Bowling------------------  1:30-3:30pm See

GLBTQ Sage Bowling Club

See 1 Pride Centre of Edmonton

See 1 Youth Understanding Youth

Counseling----------------------  5:30-8:30pm See 1 Pride Centre of Edmonton

Knotty Knitters-------------------------- 6-8pm See 1 Pride Centre of Edmonton

QH Craft Night-------------------------- 6-8pm See 1 Pride Centre of Edmonton

See See

Team Edmonton Team Edmonton

QH Youth Drop-in---------------------- 3-8pm See 1 Pride Centre of Edmonton

QH Anime Night------------------------ 6-8pm See 1 Pride Centre of Edmonton

Movie Night----------------------------- 6-9pm See 1 Pride Centre of Edmonton

Men’s Games Nights--------------  7-10:30pm See

Men’s Games Nights

See

Team Edmonton

 Robertson-Wesley United (10209 123 St)

 Unitarian Church (10804 119th Street) See Edmonton Primetimers

 2nd

Saturday, May 17th

Birthday Luau----------------------------  8pm By

ISCWR at 3 Buddys and 4 Woodys

ISCWR at 6 Evolution

Saturday, June 14th

Gay Edmonton Pageant - Part 2--------  7pm

By ISCWR  The Helenic Hall (10450 - 116 St) Saturday, July 12th

Carol Cattell Golf Tourney-------------  All Day

By Womonspace  Bashaw Golf Course & Campground

 2nd, Last Legend:  = Monthly Reoccurrance,  = Date (Range),  = Sponsored Event

• HIV Support Group

 huges@shaw.ca, curtis@optionssexualhealth.ca Support and discussion group for gay men.

Men’s Games Nights

 Unitarian Church (10804 119th Street)

 780-474-8240  tuff@shaw.ca

OUTreach

 University of Alberta, basement of SUB  outreach@ualberta.ca  http://www.ualberta.ca/~outreach Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender/transsexual, Queer, Questioning and Straight-but-not-Narrow student group.

✰

 10608 - 105 Ave  780-488-3234  admin@pridecentreofedmonton.org  http://www.pridecentreofedmonton.org  Tue-Fri 12pm-9pm, Sat 2pm-6:30pm

74

 2nd

Monthly Meetings---------------------  2:30pm

 Edmonton Contd.

Pride Centre of Edmonton-------------

By

We provide a safe, welcoming, and non-judgemental drop-in space, and offer support programs and resources for members of the GLBTQ community and for their families and friends.

• Queer HangOUT: Game Night

• Counselling

Come OUT and embrace your creative side in a safe space.

 780.488.3234 Free, short-term counselling provided by registered counsellors.

• Knotty Knitters

Come knit and socialize in a safe and accepting environment - all skill levels are welcome.

• Men Talking with Pride

 robwells780@hotmail.com Support & social group for gay & bisexual men to discuss current issues.

• Movie Night

Movie Night is open to everyone! Come over and sit back, relax, and watch a movie with us.

GayCalgary Magazine #127, May 2014

Come OUT with your game face on and meet some awesome people through board game fun.

• Queer HangOUT: Craft Night

• Queer HangOUT: Anime Night

Come and watch ALL the anime until your heart is content.

• TTIQ

A support and information group for all those who fall under the transgender umbrella and their family or supporters.

• Women’s Social Circle

 andrea@pridecentreofedmonton.org Women’s Social Circle: A social support group for all female-identified persons over 18 years of age in the GLBT community - new members are always welcome.

Seniors Association of Greater Edmonton

 780-474-8240

 tuff@shaw.ca

Team Edmonton

 president@teamedmonton.ca  http://www.teamedmonton.ca Members are invited to attend and help determine the board for the next term. If you are interested in running for the board or getting involved in some of the committees, please contact us.

• Badminton (Mixed)

 St. Thomas Moore School, 9610 165 Street

 coedbadminton@teamedmonton.ca New group seeking male & female players.

• Badminton (Women’s)

 Oliver School, 10227 - 118 Street  780-465-3620

 badminton@teamedmonton.ca

www.gaycalgary.com

Directory & Events Red Deer Events

Lethbridge

Wednesdays

Friday, June 27th

LGBT Coffee Night------------------------  7pm See

CAANS

 1st

Lethbridge Pride Fest

By Lethbridge Pride (See their ad for more events)

Jul5

 Edmonton Contd.

Women’s Drop-In Recreational Badminton. $40.00 season or $5.00 per drop in.

 spin@teamedmonton.ca 7 classes, $28.00 per registrant.

night. As a caring spiritual community, we’d love to have you join us!

bring a dish to share that will serve 4-6 people, and your own beverage.

•Ballroom Dancing

• Swimming (Making Waves)

• Soul OUTing

• Support Line

 Foot Notes Dance Studio, 9708-45 Avenue NW  Cynthia: 780-469-3281

• Blazin’ Bootcamp

 Garneau Elementary School 10925 - 87 Ave  bootcamp@teamedmonton.ca

• Bowling (Northern Titans)

 Ed’s Rec Room (West Edmonton Mall)

 bowling@teamedmonton.ca $15.00 per person.

• Cross Country Skiing

 crosscountry@teamedmonton.ca

• Curling with Pride

 Granite Curling Club, 8620 107 Street NW  curling@teamedmonton.ca

• Cycling (Edmonton Prideriders)

 Dawson Park, picnic shelter  cycling@teamedmonton.ca

• Dragon Boat (Flaming Dragons)

 dragonboat@teamedmonton.ca

• Golf

 golf@teamedmonton.ca

• Gymnastics, Drop-in

 Ortona Gymnastics Club, 8755 - 50 Avenue  gymnastics@teamedmonton.ca Have the whole gym to yourselves and an instructor to help you achieve your individual goals. Cost is $5.00 per session.

• Hockey

 hockey@teamedmonton.ca

• Martial Arts

 15450 - 105 Ave (daycare entrance)  780-328-6414  kungfu@teamedmonton.ca  kickboxing@teamedmonton.ca Drop-ins welcome.

• Outdoor Pursuits

 outdoorpursuits@teamedmonton.ca

• Running (Arctic Frontrunners)

 Kinsmen Sports Centre  running@teamedmonton.ca All genders and levels of runners and walkers are invited to join this free activity.

• Slo Pitch

 Parkallen Field, 111 st and 68 ave  slo-pitch@teamedmonton.ca Season fee is $30.00 per person. $10 discount for players from the 2008 season.

• Snowballs V

 January 27-29, 2012  snowballs@teamedmonton.ca Skiing and Snowboarding Weekend.

• Soccer

 soccer@teamedmonton.ca

• Spin

 MacEwan Centre for Sport and Wellness 109 St. and 104 Ave  Wednesdays, 5:45-6:45pm Season has ended.

 NAIT Pool (11762 - 106 Street)  swimming@teamedmonton.ca  http://www.makingwavesswimclub.ca

• Tennis

 Kinsmen Sports Centre  Sundays, 12pm-3pm

 tennis@teamedmonton.ca

 Second Sunday every month, 7pm An LGBT-focused alternative worship.

• Film Night

 Bi-monthly, contact us for exact dates.

• Book Club

 Monthly, contact us for exact dates.

Theatre & Fine Arts

• Ultimate Frisbee

 Sundays Summer Season starts July 12th  ultimatefrisbee@teamedmonton.ca E-mail if interested.

• Volleyball, Intermediate

 Amiskiwacy Academy (101 Airport Road)  volleyball@teamedmonton.ca

• Volleyball, Recreational

 Mother Teresa School (9008 - 105 Ave)  recvolleyball@teamedmonton.ca

• Women’s Lacrosse

 Sharon: 780-461-0017  Pam: 780-436-7374 Open to women 21+, experienced or not, all are welcome.

Call for info.

• Yoga

 Lion's Breath Yoga Studio (10350-124 Street)  yoga@teamedmonton.ca

Womonspace

 780-482-1794  womonspace@gmail.com  http://www.womonspace.ca Women’s social group, but all welcome at events.

Exposure Festival

 http://www.exposurefestival.ca Edmonton’s Queer Arts and Culture Festival.

The Roxy Theatre

 10708 124th Street, Edmonton AB  780-453-2440  http://www.theatrenetwork.ca

 Brendan: 780-488-3234  brendan@pridecentreofedmonton.org

Restaurants & Pubs Retail Stores Passion Vault

 15239 - 111 Ave  780-930-1169  pvault@telus.net “Edmonton’s Classiest Adult Store”

 102 Spray Ave  PO Box 3160, Banff, AB T1L 1C8  403-762-0690

Cruiseline

 780-413-7122 trial code 3500  http://www.cruiseline.ca Telephone classifieds and chat - 18+ ONLY.

Robertson-Wesley United Church

 10209 - 123 St. NW  780-482-1587  jravenscroft@rwuc.org  www.rwuc.org  Worship: Sunday mornings at 10:30am People of all sexual orientations welcome. Other LGBT events include a monthly book club and a bi-monthly film

Accommodations Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

 Old Lodge Road  1-866-540-4454  http://www.fairmont.com/jasper

Whistlers Inn

 105 Miette Ave  1-800-282-9919  info@whistlersinn.com  http://www.whistlersinn.com

Community Groups Jasper Pride Festival

 PO Box 98, 409 Patricia St., T0E 1E0

 contact@jasperpride.ca  http://www.jasperpride.ca

LETHBRIDGE Community Groups GALA/LA

 403-308-2893  http://www.galalethbridge.ca Gay and Lesbian Alliance of Lethbridge and Area.

• Monthly Dances

 Henotic (402 - 2 Ave S) Bring your membership card and photo ID.

• Monthly Potluck Dinners

 galia@uleth.ca

• Movie Night

 Room C610, University of Lethbridge

Gay Youth Alliance Group

 Betty, 403-381-5260  bneil@chr.ab.ca  Every second Wednesday, 3:30pm-5pm

 1206 - 6 Ave S

PFLAG Canada

 1-888-530-6777

 lethbridgeab@pflagcanada.ca  www.pflagcanada.ca

Pride Lethbridge

 lethbridgepridefest@gmail.com

JASPER

Products & Services

Gay & Lesbian Integrity Assoc. (GALIA)

 University of Lethbridge GBLTTQQ club on campus.

Lethbridge HIV Connection

HIV Community Link

12 Woody’s------------------------------------ ✰ See Edmonton - Bars & Clubs (Gay).

 The Mix (green water tower) 103 Mayor Magrath Dr S  Every Friday at 10pm

 http://www.lethbridgeexpo.com

Community Groups

• Sports and Recreation

• Friday Mixer

Lethbridge Expo

BANFF

Youth Understanding Youth

 780-248-1971  www.yuyedm.ca A support and social group for queer youth 12-25.

 403-308-2893  Monday OR Wednesday, 7pm-11pm Leave a message any other time.

RED DEER Community Groups Central Alberta AIDS Network Society

 4611-50 Avenue, Red Deer, AB  http://www.caans.org The Central Alberta AIDS Network Society is the local charity responsible for HIV prevention and support in Central Alberta.

LGBTQ Education

 LGBTQeducation@hotmail.ca  http://LGBTQeducation.webs.com Red Deer (and area) now has a website designed to bring various LGBTQ friendly groups/individuals together for fun, and to promote acceptance in our communities.

Pride on Campus

 rdcprideoncampus@gmail.com A group of LGBTQ persons and Allies at Red Deer College.

MEDICINE HAT Community Groups HIV Community Link

 356 - 2 Street SE, Medicine Hat, AB  403-527-5882  1-877-440-2437

• Telephone Support

 M-F, 8:30am - 12:30pm + 1:30pm - 4:30pm

 McKillop United Church, 2329 - 15 Ave S GALA/LA will provide the turkey...you bring the rest. Please

Continued on Page 77  www.gaycalgary.com

GayCalgary Magazine #127, May 2014

75

Classifieds Event

140

The Fetish Slosh at the Backlot!

Models/Escorts

460

Alberta Escort Listings

Come on down to the Backlot the 2nd Tuesday of every month for a no-cover Fetish party.

Upcoming dates are November 13, December 11th, etc. You can dress up in Leather, Latex, cuffs, collars, or just your skivvies. Have the conversation you like without offending a vanilla in sight. The Backlot supports and promotes the alternative lifestyles of Calgary so feel free to express your KINK!

Wedding/Union

190

McDougall United Church (Edmonton), an Affirming congregation proudly performing same-sex unions or same-sex marriages since 1998. http://www.mcdougallunited.com

Adult Oriented

215

Womanforwomen.ca

Internet

445

www.ABS-Hosting.com Make your mark on the Web... Create a blog, register a domain, build you personal website at www.abs-hosting.com

Male Friends

New Improved Features. Free to Post and Browse. Videos, Pics, and Reviews. Join Now! Code: GCEE

Erotic Massage

420

51 year old male desires companion with LTR potential. Being single is awesome, being with another can be better. Seeking someone who is active, but not always busy. My location and schedule generally allows for weekends only - like Fairy Tales. Sex is a benefit, not the priority. No to drugs, kink, most nightlife.

Exchange pictures and stats later. Responses to ruchasing@gmail.com.

Products/Services 500

Pet / Animal

Best Erotic Male Massage In Calgary.

Studio with free parking. Deep Tissue and Relaxation. Licensed, Professional.

Video on website. 403-680-0533 mike@ultimatemalemassage.com

Erotic Massage

Upcoming wedding/event/trip/class reunion?

If you want to look/feel better, increase your strength/endurance/flexibility, I CAN HELP YOU! call/text me 4038263305 or email me j_d_short@hotmail.com

365

PEDESTRIAN POOCH Pet & House Services

Does your business need a professional cleaner? Steve is bonded/Insured. Flexible prices and brings all his own supplies. Steve is a part of the LGBT Community and has been cleaning for over 5 years in Calgary.

(403)200-7384 getalifecleaner@gmail.com www.getalifecleaner.com www.facebook.com/getalifecleaner

520

Twice Trendy!

Used Quality Clothing Most clothing $3! New style? New family?

Broke as a joke? We have a great selection of gently used clothing for men, women, children and babies. We also keep a selection of furniture and housewares too! Twice trendy makes it easy to get quality style without destroying your wallet. Come check us out! #14, 3434 - 34 Ave NE.

Consulting

527

Want to attract the LGBT local or traveler to your business?

Marriage Ceremonies

Relaxation, Therapeutic, Foot Massage, Erotic Massage. Hot Asian Male Age:24 Swimmer Build.

YOU’LL KEEP COMING BACK FOR MORE. Call Mark 403-630-8048 www.markmassage.ca Dog Walking, Pet Sitting, Pet Taxi, House Services. Pet First Aid Certified. Insured & Bonded. Free Initial Consultation. Visit us at WWW.PEDESTRIANPOOCH.CA or call Mark at 403-477-1242.

GET A LIFE! Commercial Cleaning

Clothing/Fashion

UltimateMaleMassage.com

Certified Personal Trainer

Do you want to experience more uninhibited bliss? Would you like to have a deeper sensual & sexual connection with your partner(s)? Want to feel happier, healthier, more confident & have a lot of fun? I can fully support you & guide you in allowing that & so much more into your life. My name is Jen & I am a Tantric Sensual Guide for Women only.

517

455

Companion Wanted Check out www.Squirt.org for the Hot Escorts in Calgary, Edmonton, and the rest of Alberta.

Cleaning

12pm to Midnight (24hrs optional) Ladies Welcome

Rork Hilford MC, Commissioner for Oaths.

MarriageCommissioner@shaw.ca | 403246-4134

It’s not about special treatment. You can’t assume the LGBT person, or the straight person will follow the pack anymore. The LGBT market is becoming more and more aware of what organizations support them, and which ones don’t, ultimately sending them away from businesses and communities that do not recognize them or their lifestyle. Does your staff need LGBT sensitivity training? Want to attract the market but unsure how to proceed?

Local, Domestic, International, We can assist.

Check us out at http://blueflameventures.ca, Email us at info@blueflameventures.ca, Call us at 604-369-1472. Based in Alberta.

Ads starting at $10/mo. for the first 20 words. Submit yours at http://www.gaycalgary.com/classifieds 76

GayCalgary Magazine #127, May 2014

www.gaycalgary.com

Legal

557

Same-sex Spouse/Common-Law Sponsorship, LMO/Work Permit, Immigration, Citizenship, Separation/Pre-Nuptial/Co-habitation Agreements, Uncontested Divorces, Accounting, Translations, Commissioner foroaths. Active Professionals.

Massage

560

Massage Therapy in Edmonton

 Find Out - From Page 75

ALBERTA

 1-800-955-5129  http://www.rainbowhealth.ca

Community Groups Alberta Trans Support/Activities Group

 http://www.albertatrans.org A nexus for transgendered persons, regardless of where they may be on the continuum.

#220, 2705 Centre Street NW Calgary 403-590-3818 • www.activeprofessionals.com

Theatre & Fine Arts Certified massage therapist providing therapeutic and relaxation massage. Proud member/supporter of LGBTQ community.

Phone or text (780-918-5856) Dwayne Holm, CMT Downtown Edmonton (free parking)

Alberta Ballet

 http://www.albertaballet.com Frequent productions in Calgary and Edmonton.

 http://www.squirt.org Website for dating and hook-ups. 18+ ONLY!

Theatre & Fine Arts

CANADA

Broadway Across Canada

Canadian Rainbow Health Coalition

 P..O. Box 3043, Saskatoon, SK, S7K 3S9  (306) 955-5135

Products & Services Squirt

Community Groups

www.gaycalgary.com

Egale Canada

 8 Wellington St E, Third Floor Toronto, Ontario, M5E 1C5  1-888-204-7777  www.egale.ca Egale Canada is the national advocacy and lobby organization for gay men, lesbians, bisexuals, transidentified people and our families.

 http://www.broadwayacrosscanada.ca

OUTtv

 http://www.outtv.ca GLBT Television Station.

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GayCalgary Magazine #127, May 2014

www.gaycalgary.com

www.gaycalgary.com

GayCalgary Magazine #127, May 2014

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