2014 10 • gay express october 2014 issue by GayExpress

The Topp Blacks Our Twin Kiwi Icons

Best in Class! Five Page Motoring Feature

Performing Arts Special Ballet, Orchestras, Jesus Christ Superstar October 2014

PLUS Gay Ski Week QTâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Big Success | Artist Imogen Taylor |

Spring Fashion | Scene Gossip | Foodies News | Perfume Genius

The all new Jazz RS Mugen Standard features include: Reverse Camera Navigation Bluetooth TouchScreen Smart Entry Push Button Start Cruise Control Paddle Shift Mugen Sports Kit Mugen Alloy Wheels RS Sports Suspension Magic Seats 5 Year Warranty with Unlimited Kilometres & Roadside Assist

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Contents 4 News News Bingham Bingham Cup’sCup’s challenge challenge to NZto Rugby, NZCreative Rugby, New Differences ad agency at for LYC, Troy NZAF, Williams Troy Williams Cyberbullied Cyberbullied on FB,on and FB, much and much more!more! 8 Best esst in Class Best in Class e Page Motoring feature! feature Five Five Page Motoring feature!

From the Editor Spring is here and at express we love the sunshine, the lighter evenings and warmer climate (less so the wind and rain)! This month we welcome new Business Manager Matt Fistonich to our ever-expanding team. Matt is a fun and exciting new addition, who bares a striking resemblance to Justin Bieber (without the criminal convictions)! The legendary Topp Twins grace our cover – shot by the oh-so gorgeous and ridiculously talented Danilo Santana David. “What is more kiwi than the Topp Twins?” We asked ourselves for the cover shoot and had fun shooting the girls with a fabulous homemade pavlova (thank you Maya!), hokey-pokey ice cream and the All Blacks! Well, unfortunately the boys were all training in Wellington at the time of the shoot, so we made do with their official kit instead! Cheers to Mike Jaspers from NZ Rugby for providing us with those. Enjoy the issue and remember STOPtober (stop smoking in October) – this means you Shane!

14 Scene cene Pics && Tips Scene Pics Tips ps Family, Gay Ski Week, Poof Poof & Ivy.& Ivy. Family, Gay Ski Week,

16 The Topp Twins The Topp Twins Exclusive interview & pictures Exclusive interview & pictures with our Kiwiana icons.icons. withfavourite our favourite Kiwiana 22 Imogen’s Glory Hole Imogen’s Glory Hole Artist Artist Imogen Taylor’s Imogen Taylor’s controversial creativity. controversial creativity.

24 Ballet’s Beauty Ballet’s Beauty The body and mind of Loughlan The body and mind of Loughlan Prior. Prior. 26 Jesus Christ Superstar Jesus Christ Superstar OliverOliver DriverDriver worships HIM. HIM. worships

28 Men’s Spring Fashion Men’s Spring Fashion The season’s hot new The season’s hot looks. new looks. 30 Provocative Pop Provocative Pop Musical genius – Perfume Musical genius – Perfume Genius! Genius!

Giveaways

Olly xx For more: scene pictures, stories columns and reviews, updated daily, keep visiting our website:

www.gayexpress.co.nz Cover: The Topp Twins by Danilo Santana David for express. gayexpress.co.nz

1 x DBL pass to Raggamuffin: NZ’s Reggae & Urban music festival at Auckland Trust Arena Saturday 13 December. Tickets from Ticketmaster.

10 x Perfume Genius CDs: Too Bright is his stunning new album featuring the beautiful single Queen. Check out his interview on page 30!

1 x Oneman Grooming Pack: Supplied courtesy of oneman.co.nz. Making it easier to be a modern man, grooming essentials online.

Enter at gayexpress.co.nz

| October 2014 | 3

NEWS

Contact Tamati Taking Holiday

Phone 09 360 7671 Fax 09 360 7663 2 Vermont Street Ponsonby Auckland info@gayexpress.co.nz

People Editor Oliver Hall editor@gayexpress.co.nz Advertising Matt Fistonich 021 420 680 advertise@gayexpress.co.nz Design Patric Seng design@gayexpress.co.nz

Publisher Cornerstone Publications Ltd PO Box 47514 Ponsonby, Auckland 1144

Bingham Cup Promoters Challenge New Zealand Rugby On the heels of the NZ Falcon’s gay rugby team winning the Bingham Bowl trophy, organisers ask, “What are the NZRU are doing to tackle homophobia?” express put the question to NZ Rugby’s CEO Steve Tew. “NZ Rugby has an overall vision of rugby serving to inspire and unify New Zealanders. “We are currently exploring whether we need to take this further with a specific diversity policy as Australia has done recently. We are also continuing to work with relevant NZ agencies and our rugby partners in Australia and South Africa to examine other opportunities to promote diversity in rugby.” Tew’s comment followed CEO of Australian Rugby Union Bill Pulver attending the Bingham Cup final to announce new policies aimed at addressing homophobia in Australian Rugby, a result that pleased Bingham Cup President Andrew Purchas. “We wanted to shine a spotlight on the issues of homophobia in sport.” He says later in the year Bingham will announce the results of Out on the Fields, a study in homophobia in sport.” Next Spring the NZ Falcons will host the Purchas Cup, which is the first time the inclusive rugby tournament has been held outside of Australia.

Printer Guardian Print

4 | October 2014 |

“I’ll be fine,” Coffey told express after Labour’s landslide loss. “I’m going for a well-needed holiday with Tim to have a rest and some time out.” Coffey joined Tony Milne, Richard Hills and Kelly Ellis on Labour’s list of unsuccessful GLBT candidates. Popular Rainbow Labour MP Maryan Street’s nine-year run in parliament is also over, causing outcries from disappointed supporters. The everoptimistic Coffey is still looking on the bright side. “The Rainbow sector will always be strong in the Labour Party, with stalwarts like Louisa Wall, things are in good hands.” Wall, along with Grant Robinson and Meka Whaitiri still hold seats for Labour. As do Kevin Hague and Jan Logie for the Green’s and Chris Finlayson for National.

NZAF Appoints New Ad Agency

www.gayexpress.co.nz Ideas and opinions expressed in articles or advertisements in express are not necessarily representative of Cornerstone Publications Ltd. Publication of the name or photograph or likeness of any person in express is not to be construed as any indication of the sexual orientation of such persons or organisations and any similarity between individuals named or described in fiction articles and actual persons living is purely coincidental. Publication of any letters/ articles/photographs is at the discretion of the publishers and the right is reserved to withhold/alter/edit and comment on any article, letter, or advertisement published. Permission must be gained prior to reproduction of any articles or photographs contained in express. express’s list of mail subscribers is confidential and is not sold, rented or leased to anyone at any time. Orders for any products/ services advertised in express are made by readers at their own risk.

Coffey and partner bid bon voyage, as one of many GLBT candiates left without a seat this election.

Advertising website MA+D reports the NZAF have sacked creative agency Interbrand just one week after LYC wins global award. “We put the LYC creative contract out to market to ensure we were getting the best value available, while building on our highly effective HIV prevention programme,” the NZAF’s Communications & Marketing Manager Joe Rich tells express.

Lisa Thomson and Joe Rich from NZAF Photo | White Door Photography.

Agency bcg2 were awarded the new contract just one week after the LYC campaign had won Interbrand’s global Best Work award. “The passion and enthusiasm of the team at bcg2 for our cause was clearly evident throughout the RFP process,” Rich tells us. The new campaign is, “shot with street talent,” is a little ‘butch’, and will take the audience on, “a bit of a fantasy ride.” The campaign is being shot by kiwi photographer David Shields, in Auckland, with members of our community and will debut in November. gayexpress.co.nz

NEWS

Rainbow Youth’s Artistic Debut

Troy Williams Cyberbullied by Gay Facebook group Williams returns home after standing down from Mr Gay World competition and responds to personal attacks from users of a local Facebook group.

New Rainbow Youth group artistRY debut at Artweek with exhibition: Reflections.

Mr Gay New Zealand Troy Williams has returned home after pulling out of 2014 Mr Gay World competition, complaining of a lack of organization within the competition, while Italian organisers have accused him of being ‘drunk’ and ‘disorderly’ at the proceedings in Rome. While Willaims has received support from the Mr Gay NZ organiser and former Mr Gay World, Andreas Derleth, others have not been so forthcoming.“It can be very hard and lonely at the top. Critics are often harsh and under the belt line instead of offering constructive feedback and help,” Derleth told express, highlighting the Facebook group, ‘Partially Stamped St Pierre’s Sushi Loyalty Card for Mr Gay New Zealand.’ The group’s page encourages users to give their opinions on the Mr Gay competitions and it’s contestants. A quick scroll finds two users labelling Williams, a ‘c**t’, with fired up statements like, “he failed at his job. He was supposed to represent the gay community; all he did was take his shirt off in clubs. He is a lazy c**t and that he might also be a drunk lazy c**t, isn’t a step too far (sic).” “I have been shown the comments raised by this group at various points,” Williams tells express. “To begin with it was a bit of a shock and I took it personally. However, I think it would be a waste of energy to give too much concern to it, particularly given most of the comments seem misdirected.” He notes the comment about always be found shirtless in nightclubs, er done,” “which I don’t think I’ve ever he says, adding, “obviously there ed to are those that seem disposed e keen criticism and others who are ce. It’s to make a positive difference. roup those people in the latter group whose opinion matters to me and with whom I’m keen to work with make our community a great place to be a part of.”

6 | October 2014 |

artistRY are bringing queer and trans views to the table with their collaborative exhibition Reflections. Founder Cole Meyers came out as trans early last year after reaching what he

Judges Announced for express Writing Contest Alternative Bindings express’ Short Story Competition returns for a second year with big name judges involved and prize funding from GABA. The competition welcomes both emerging and established writers to share their unique GLBT stories and this year will be judged by award winning authors Peter Wells, Julie Helean, Stevan Eldred-Grigg and inaugural winner Gina Cole. This year year’ss theme is ‘Lost Lost and FFound’, and stories must have a set length of 750 wo words. There is a winning prize of $500 cash and having your story published in express. The ru runner up will receive $200 cash. Email alter alternativebindings@gmail.com for full en entry criteria. Entries close Thursday 9 January 2015. Winners Thursda will be announced at the Review Revue party held on Monday Rev 17 February as part of the Auckland Pride Festival. A Articles | Oliver Hall.

describes as, “absolute rock bottom.” He says the creation of artistRY, helped him find strength and through art began to untangle his experiences. He hopes Reflections gives, “other queer and trans people [the opportunity to] see those like them, successfully using their creative voices to share their own truths.” Reflections will run from Friday 10 to Sunday 19 October at the Rainbow Youth Centre, 281 K’ Road. For more info visit www.artweek.co.nz gayexpress.co.nz

NEWS

Neil P H Talks Marriage with Rosie O’Donnell How I Met Your Mother star Neil Patrick Harris opened up about his wedding last month to long-term partner David Burtka in an interview with Rosie O’Donnell on her chat show The View. “We were not [getting married] to elicit any kind of reaction from anyone. We just have been together over 10 years. I think when our kids got to the age where they were having reasonable conversations — when they’re asking lots of ‘why’ questions — then it seemed

real, clear-cut explanation of who their daddy is. I think it’s great [to say], ‘He’s my husband.’”

Trans Show’s Critical Acclaim

“Who’d have thought when we were kids that we’d be on a TV show, gay people, talking about our spouses and children?” O’Donnell responded poignantly.

Transparent - an American web series produced by net giant Amazon has been heralded as the best new show of the season by television critics. Written and

like to be able to have a

directed by Jill Soloway who is the daughter of a trans parent the series follows Mort (Arrested

Hit Brit Gay Flick Pride Lands in NZ

Development star Jeffrey Tambor)

The Auckland Women’s Centre is hosting the first public NZ screening of Pride at the Capitol Cinema on Sunday 12 October.

adult children, who is beginning his

This fundraising event will contribute to the centre’s work with women in the Auckland community. The film, which has received rave reviews, tells the true story of gay and lesbian activists raising funds

to support families affected by the UK Miner Strikes of 1984. Tickets from 09 376 3227 or info@womenz.org.nz. Pride opens in NZ cinemas Thursday 16 October.

a father of three self-absorbed new life as a transwoman. TV Bible Entertainment Weekly awarded it an A, and Hitflix concluded, “It’s the best new TV show debuting anywhere this fall, by a long stretch.” The show can be viewed online at Amazon.com.

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express and our reviewers, Matt Fistonich, Robert Adam, Martin Todd and Stephen Rainbow take a close look at each contestant and tells you which they consider reaches class leadership. Which to ditch the partner for and which to fall in love with!

BEST IN CLASS

MOTORING

HONDA JAZZ RS : GORGEOUS

BMW X4 : OTT!

With all the latest European vehicle trends moving towards diesel engines it’s refreshing to see a manufacturer showing that petrol engines can still cut the efficiency mustard. In reviewing this mustard coloured Honda Jazz RS, it seems that you can have your cake and eat it too. There are so few cars on offer today that provide the superb value for money that can also bring a smile to your face. The way the car is styled, to the bright external colour options, the fizzy engine all shout “I’m here to have fun!”.

The invitation to try BMWs newest X car was met with great applause. The X4 Super Coupe SUV sits between the venerable X3 and X5, yet it is much more the sportier younger lighter brother of the larger X6. In this guise the X4 35d M Spec, the coupe lookalike has the most powerful engine on offer, with a neck snappingly low 5 seconds to motorway limits, all the while leaving you feeling like you are setting off on holiday in total comfort from the utterly cossetting leather and interior package.

The new interior has increased in size to easily fit 4 adults with some luggage in good comfort alongside an infotainment system that is better than its few real market rivals. To the external styling, even if it is the beholders choice to judge where it comes in the beauty contest, the cars bubbly character seems like it would never care. In a daily drive, that’s exactly where this new Jazz shines. The 1.5l engine is a miser on petrol, while providing some genuine engine notes that are surprisingly delightful. Honda NZ plans to double sales with this years release of the new Jazz and I can see why.

With a low sweeping tail to the body, 3D reversing cameras aid in guiding the vehicle during parking, a remarkable piece of technology. A lap of the city brought a fair share of stares to this funky urban activity vehicle. Surely the days of calling these types of vehicles ‘utilities’ is over? Driving further out of the city limits revealed impressive quietness in the aural sense, all while having that supreme power for overtaking. After returning the vehicle, I mentioned to the salesman that it would be the first car I’ve reviewed in years that I’d consider purchasing, it really is that good.

Vehicle supplied by Honda NZ Ltd, Auckland. Article | Martin Todd.

Vehicle supplied by Jerry Clayton, North Shore. Article | Martin Todd.

MOTORING

MAZDA 3 : ABSOLUTELY! The third-generation of Mazda3 has style and practicability all in one. This vehicle which is available in both hatch or sedan, boasts amazing fuel efficiency and a variety of different engine sizes to suit people from all walks of life. The modern and stylish Mazda3 is packed full of the most recent technologies including the all-new i-Activesense which is Mazda’s integrated suite of cutting-edge active safety technologies, designed to inform, support and protect. For example, the system warns of vehicles in the blind spots or when you are about to stray out of your lane. And unlike some other makers’ systems which rely on a single sensing system such as a camera, i-Activesense uses a smart combination of advanced sensors including milliwave radar, near-infrared lasers and cameras to cover the widest range of situations and weather conditions.

FORD ECO SPORT : MAYBE? Ford’s All-new Eco-Sport is the latest breed of crossover vehicle. We where able to review the ‘Black Edition’, which has a wide array of unique features. This striking vehicle is a clever mix between Fords ever popular ‘Focus’ and an SUV giving a unique look and driving experience. Incorporating an astonishingly fuel efficient engine and a spacious yet sporty design with all the practicality that you would see in a larger more cumbersome SUV. The Eco-Sport is the ideal family vehicle for urban and city use. The large boot easily has enough space for all your needs including copious amounts of shopping bags for that much needed retail therapy, whilst at the same time ensuring there is ample leg-room for your friend to enjoy the ride. With 200mm of ground clearance the Eco-Sport is designed for ultra-comfort on New Zealand roads. This ensures a seamless drive over those troublesome potholes, ditches and whatever else gets in your way. This is a comfortable ride!

My favourite feature would have to be the heads-up display which shows the speed you are travelling and also the next direction for the inbuilt easy to use GPS system. The Mazda3 truly comes into its own both aroundtown and on the open-road. The Mazda3 is arguably one of the most comfortable and well designed vehicles available today.

The Eco-Sport’s aesthetically pleasing interior ,while not luxurious, is remarkably smart looking and intelligent, with the ability to sync to your smart phone and with the wonders of voice command the Eco-Sport is a no brainer for all city slickers.

Vehicle supplied by John Andrew Mazda, Auckland. Article | Matt Fistonich.

Vehicle supplied by John Andrew Ford, Auckland. Article | Matt Fistonich.

MOTORING

SKODA OCTAVIA RS : DEFINITELY! The Skoda Octavia RS is turbocharged with a sports exhaust and performance mode selection via the VRS button. This isn’t just your average run of the mill station wagon. It has a high performance 2.0L TSI 162KW petrol engine partnered with a 6 speed DSG (direct-shift gearbox), which is a fully manual gearbox incorporating a computer controlled clutch and gear selection mechanism. As I’m handed the keys and told I could have it for the weekend, I feel a little giddy. Aesthetically it’s a very stylish car. 18 inch alloys, clean definitive lines and privacy glass help it stand out in a very positive way. Continuing through to the interior, open the door and you are welcomed with sporty bucket seats, and a fantastic dash layout with a white backlight. The central touch screen unit operates the electronics of the vehicle; syncing my phone to the Bluetooth is a piece of cake. It’s a very maneuverable car, that’s easy to park, but it’s distance sensors whilst useful, it lack front and rear cameras, which could be an add on option. Heading up north, I’m desperate to try the ‘sports mode’. At the press of a button the car is reborn. The exhaust becomes throaty and the engine sounds completely different. The unsuspecting power I am experiencing is attractive and addictive. I want to keep accelerating at every opportunity!

I arrive at my destination with a smile on my face and people glancing at the car intrigued. “Is that a Skoda?” A gentleman asks me. I’m pleased to say it is. This car will challenge any car in its class. A high-end vehicle without the high price tag. Skoda is the new come-back kid! Vehicle supplied by Giltrap Skoda, Auckland. Article | Robert Adam.

MOTORING

AUDI S1 QUATTRO : STUNNING! Taut, responsive, cute, with plenty of grunt when it’s needed. Requirements not just for the ideal guy, but also the ideal car. The Audi S1 delivers all these attributes in truckloads. Beginning with the thick beautifully shaped steering wheel the whole driving experience is a delight. Four-wheel drive gives a firmness of footing that feels safe even in appalling conditions. After minor turbo lag there’s plenty of grunt even in higher gears once the turbo kicks in. The two litre four-cylinder engine delivers a delicious warble while dishing out 170KW of power and 320Nm of torque. The brakes are superb and the whole car feels incredibly sensitive to the driver’s aspirations. The crisp 6-speed box is chunky and purposeful, and I love the fact it’s manual! The interior is gorgeous, with a low windscreen and dark roof lining giving a real sense of being in the cockpit of a very sporty machine, which the S1 is. While driving you’re constantly aware of the potential to unleash sensational momentum when you plant your foot in any gear. I find the Audi’s styling enormously appealing with none of the curves and angles that will make so many current models look out of date almost immediately. At $59,000 the Audi is a stunning car that I really don’t want to give back! Vehicle supplied by Audi NZ Ltd, Auckland Article | Stephen Rainbow.

The power of small.

The new Audi S1 Sportback with quattro.® Now here. As compact as the S1 Sportback may be, this is a vehicle brimming with an impressive array of features. All of which make the S1 rather quick off the mark – something you’ll have to be if you want to lay your hands on one. Available from just $59,900 plus on-road costs, you can contact your local dealer now to arrange a test drive. Or for more information, visit audi.co.nz/s1

2.0 TFSI engine 170kW of power and 370Nm of torque 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.9 seconds 6-speed manual gearbox quattro all-wheel drive

Dual twin tailpipes S sports suspension 18” alloy wheels Xenon headlights

HOTTIE OF THE MONTH

Georgie Goater Georgie is a dancer extraordinaire, body paint/hair model and overall Amazonian goddess! She grew up in Japan, spent her teenage years in Christchurch and then moved to Auckland to study contemporary dance where she co-founded Backlit Productions. In addition she dances for Touch Compass and cabaret show In Flagrante, and recently modeled for World of WearableArts. This month she returns to Auckland to be part of Tempo Dance Festival in Malia Johnstonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Red! Fitting, we think! Hair | Vada Hair Salon.

Scene

Familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s spooky? Saturdays in September. Photos | Evan Donnelly & Suki Zhang. Family Bar is getting geared up for Halloween and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gonna be pretty! On Saturday 1 November they will celebrate with Hello-Queen featuring devilish drag shows, fierce face painting, a freaky photo booth, male models and phallic phantoms. The Outrageous Miss Ribena hosts.

14 | October 2014 |

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FEATURE

The Topp Blacks Sam Orchard sat down with The Topp Twins to celebrate their long career as icons of GLBT culture, icons of country music, and above all icons of Kiwi Pride! I sit in the café in Kingsland and I think about Eden Park, the icon of the All Blacks about a hundred metres away. I order myself a lamington, because what’s more fitting than an icon of New Zealand food? “How are ya buddy?” Lynda says as she comes through the doorway, she puts out a hand. I’m instantly taken back to my childhood – searching anywhere I could for role models, for parts of me on TV. I remember finding the Topp Twins and feeling a deep connection. Soon Jools comes through with her small country dog in tow; “you all good, buddy?” Yes. Yes I am. What’s amazing about the Topps is their ability to meld so many diverse things together and make it seem like it’s the most natural combination in the world. Their latest show, The ‘Grand Ole Topp’ry’ is no different; “we’re throwing all these people together, they’re about as different from each other as we are from them too” says Jools, with Lynda jumping in “Cam [Luxton] is a young man – all the girls are going to go nutty when he comes on stage, we’ve got Phil Doublet who is probably the best guitarist in New Zealand, Tami Neilson who’s a real working mum… and then we’ve got the Johnnys who are this real out-there (all girl) almost punk rock Johnny Cash cover band… we can throw all that together and get away with it.” New Zealanders “expect [our shows] to be really diversified, and something they haven’t seen before” says Lynda. It sounds to me like a winning formula, and with three weeks to go already half the tickets sold in theatres across New Zealand, it seems it’s working well. Lynda beams at the mention of her son

16 | October 2014 |

performing - Cam Luxton, winner of Gold Guitar and Horizon award in Hamilton. “It’s historic this tour,” she says “because I’ve got my family with me – Cam Luxton, who’s 19, he’s on the road with us, and my wife, which is pretty amazing that we can get married now, she’s doing the merchandising” and “Tami Neilson just had a baby” says Jools, “it’s a big family tour.” They excitedly talk about a new set of characters that they’ll be debuting for the show, and it’s clear just how much they love all the characters they do. “It only ever works if you love the character – you need to love the character before you be the character” says Jools, “You can send a character up, or put them down”. They then explain that all of their characters are multi-dimensional, and have some exceptional skills – like the Gingham Sisters, who the Topps had to make sure were amazing yodelers, so as to make sure they were not just being laughed at. It strikes me that it’s the love of people and life that makes them so magnetic “amuse but never abuse” is their motto since they started. It’s entertainment that is constantly evolving, yet always staying true to their principles; “You gotta be positive, you can’t be mean” says Lynda, “how we go about it is first of all to have fun, and secondly be nice to people about how you do it.” It’s that positivity, and ethic of fun, they say that helped pass the Homosexual Law Reform Bill. They were touring during the time, “There were some pretty nasty things that happened,” says Jools, “people were pretty anti, but in the end the Homosexual law reform bill was passed because the gay and lesbians were having so much fun and the horrible people who were so down on it were so negative and scary. New

Zealanders said look ‘ those are pretty scary people, let’s go with the gay people, they’re having a lovely time’.” Celebration is important for the twins. “It’s about our emotional wellbeing,” says Lynda “if you’re gay, to be able to celebrate – and in all honesty we’ve been able to celebrate our music and our gayness, and everything in a way that has allowed us to blossom.” They’ve been out since they started performing, before even newspapers were willing to print the word ‘lesbian’, “What happened with Jools and me, we came out, and tried to get famous” says Lynda. The pair have always been doing things their own way, and continue to. Lynda appeared on the cover of Women’s Day last year as she married her wife Donna. “It was the first time in the history of Women’s Day that they let lesbians on the cover” Says Lynda, “Let alone getting married!” So who’s an icon for these icons? Their answer is unexpected, but perfect: “there are a lot of older lesbian woman in this country… we met these women, but we didn’t know what they were called… I think that these older women that we met back then, they paved the way for us.” Article | Sam Orchard. Photos | Danilo Santana David for express. | Makeup: Kaz Elizabeth from FaceMe Official All Blacks jersey and shorts supplied by New Zealand Rugby. gayexpress.co.nz

gayexpress.co.nz

| October 2014 | 17

NZâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s second la largest gay festival continues to g grow each year. Eight nights of parties in the South Islands tourist hub ensures there is so much mo more to do in the day than simply sk ski, as Oliver Hall (armed wi with paracetamol) was sent to t discover. 1300 partygoers Around 1 descended on Queenstown descend for Gay Ski Week QT, making 2014 th the biggest year yet. Expens can rank up Expenses quickly in Queenstown and wit with so much to do in the day and celebrations male strippers, gay including m karaoke and concerts bingo, karao awaiting us at night, we chose accommodation to save on acc

bypassing the expensive hotels for Aspen Lodge backpackers (www. aspenlodge.co.nz) and splashed out on renting a car for eight days â&#x20AC;&#x201C; giving us the ability to check out some of the beautiful surrounding areas like Wanaka and Arrowtown. Jucy Rentals (www.jucy.co.nz) had some of the best deals and give discounts on day tours to Milford Sounds and skydives for car hirers. Queenstown still has a reputation for its extreme activities. The Shotover Canyon Swing remains the most extreme bungy experience, but locals recommended AJ Hackettâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s The Ledge Bungy from the top of the gondola for those who want the most beautiful pictures of their jump. We considered following in the

shoes of Wills & Kate and taking the Shotover Jet, butt that boat ride is over so quickly y that we instead swung for a Dart River Wilderness Jet (www.dartriver. dartriver. co.nz) which is a halff day tour which takes you all the he way up from Glenorchy into nto forests of Mt Aspiring National Park. If that doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t give you enough of an adrenaline shot, then Queenstownâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s newest attraction maybe the one for you. The Hydro Attack (www. hydroattack.co.nz) is a crazy-looking two-seater watercraft ft

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GAY SKI WEEK

capable of subme submerging up to five feet under water and leaping 18 all at 80kmph. feet into the air, a To ensure every everyone’s eyes are on th the vessel as it races around a Lake Wakatipu, Wak it’s been painted to look like pa a shark! If taking to the snow-capped s slopes is excitement enough e for you, Queenstown’s Q relax rela options are endless. Our favourites included favo the private Onsen pr Hot pools poo (www.onsen. co.nz) which offer views w

over the Shotover river in the day, and candle-lit star gazing options at night. If you want something more hands on, centrally located spa Body Sanctum (www.bodysanctum. co.nz) has better rates for massages than the hotel-based spas. Queenstown has an amazing selection of great places to eat from legendary fast food snacks like FergBurger and Winnies Pizza to happening new bar-restaurants like The Find and The Blue Kanu. Three places that the locals insist are the musts for a special dinner are The Bunker (www.thebunker. co.nz) and Gantleys (www. gantleys.co.nz) which both offer impressive degustation menus priced at around $159 each

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paired with local wines, and Amisfield Winery (www.amisfield. co.nz) which does a similar ‘Trust The Chef menu’. For us The Bunker, a 17 year Queenstown institution stands head and shoulders above the rest, particularly for red meat fans who will be in heaven with it’s local offerings of rabbit, venison and lamb. Gantley’s has a similar dimlit ambiance but misses the mark with its Michael Buble soundtrack and awkward service. Amisfield’s bistro is fun for larger groups with it’s big Italian-style sharing bowls and beautiful views of Coronet Peak, but struggles to stay in this top tier league with a more basic menu and restricted sittings (last dinner bookings at 5.30pm)!

“I think that Gay Ski Week QT 2014 went through the roof for all of my expectations.” Gay Ski Week organizer Sally Whitewoods tells express. “I create the event on what I feel will work in Queenstown with the help of guest’s suggestions. We try to create a week of fun that you can pick and choose the events that you wish to do. This year was so well received, I must admit, I am a little concerned about next year already!” She confirms that Gay Ski Week 2015 will take place from Saturday 29 August to Saturday 5 September, so get planning your trip! Article & Photos | Oliver Hall.

CLASSICAL

Classical Brass Returns to Vogue This month both the Auckland Philharmonia and the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra are presenting exciting brass-focused concerts.

For every instrument, there is at least one piece of music which is notoriously difficult to pull off, and so must be attempted. “Konzertstück for 4 Horns is the one that comes up at the end of the night, when we’ve had a few glasses of wine and are feeling brave,” says community member Emma Richards, one of Auckland Philharmonic’s four French hornists who will be performing the Schumann piece as part of the New Zealand Herald Premier Series Concert for Horns. When asked how hard the piece really is, Richards is diplomatic. “It depends how you define hard. It would be hard to run a marathon without training. But we knew about this a year ago and we’ve been slowly building up to it.” She tells us the piece requires a ‘huge’ amount of rehearsal time. “But it doesn’t feel like work, that’s the cool thing about having a job you love,” she says. Horns are normally seated at the back of the orchestra – Richards is excited for this concert as they will be thrust into the spotlight! “Myself and the other horn players are at the top of our game. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to see four horns at the front of an orchestra.” Top of his game is probably an understatement for

20 | October 2014 |

describing celebrated Swedish trumpeter Håkan Hardenberger. Hardenberger will perform Brett Dean’s Trumpet Concerto Dramatis Personae with the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra as part of their Bold Worlds concert. Lauded by The Times as ‘the best trumpeter in the galaxy’, Hardenberger is considered a pioneer of contemporary virtuosic trumpet works and a living icon. NZSO brass players will also perform Leoš Janáþek’s Sinfonietta, a festive, quirky piece

inspired by military fanfares. The piece features an impressive line-up of twelve trumpeters, two euphoniums, two bass trumpets, four trombones and a tuba. The final piece in this celebration of stellar compositions for brass will be Modest Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition. Written with great emotion following the death of Mussorgsky’s dear friend and painter Victor Hartmann, Pictures is a musical tour of Hartmann’s paintings, most of which are now lost.

Led for the first time by the acclaimed Maestro Dima Slobodeniouk, the current Music Director of Spain’s Orquesta Sinfónica de Galicia, Bold Worlds is set to be an unmissable concert. The APO’s Concert for Horns plays at Auckland Town Hall on Thursday 9 October. Tickets from Ticketmaster. The NZSO’s Bold Worlds plays Wellington Friday 10, Dunedin Wednesday 15, Hamilton Friday 17 and Auckland Saturday 18 October. Tickets through Ticketek. gayexpress.co.nz

ART

Two Sides of the Glory Hole Beautiful exhibitions with naughty

windows of St Kevin’s arcade in

names are putting gay artist

summer feels a world away.

Imogen Taylor on the map. Her latest, Glory Hole is about to

I have heard Taylor’s work described

become the talk of K road!

as ‘smutty’ and am curious to know how she feels about this.

Glory Hole sounds provocative . The words suggest debauchery,

“It’s great− I love it. That’s kind of

anonymity, arousal. If you didn’t

my background. I used to make

know what a glory hole was, you

underground comics that were quite

might think it was something holy,

erotic. I have been a little more overt

something divine. Perhaps you do

in past shows, I hope that still comes

know what it is and think it is divine.

through without me directing it too much.”

Fittingly, Glory Hole is the title of Imogen Taylor’s forthcoming

Taylor’s previous shows have had

exhibition at Michael Lett’s gallery

similarly ‘smutty’ titles such as

in October. I met Imogen on a

Blowhole and Balls Deep. “The shows

particularly wet Monday morning at

always have some kind of underlying

Alleluya to discuss her work.

theme. Sometimes I choose to

As it turned out, the weather

express that; sometimes I don’t.

and the K road setting were both

Often it’s through the titles... they

topical.

often have a double entendre. With Glory Hole... there’s this kind of two-

“I thought Glory Hole was kind of

sided thing of what is in front and

perfect [as a title] because Michael

behind a glory hole, although that’s

Lett just moved back to K road. The

probably a bit of an assumption for

work is a lot darker than usual, a

me. Being a gay woman I can’t say

bit moody. Maybe because I have

I go check out glory holes all time.”

been making it through winter and the light is different. Usually, I’ve

Despite these raunchy titles, and the

made shows leading up to summer.

subtle erotic tension at play, Taylor’s

When the light is like this it has a

works have also been descirbed as

huge impact on what you make.”

‘charming’. Given her pleasure at being called smutty, I am curious

Imogen Taylor

22 | October 2014 |

The light Taylor indicates is delicate

as to how she feels about this other,

and cold. Steam is rising visibly from

seemingly contradictory term.

our coffees and the sky outside is

“I’m okay with charming. I think

white. The bright yellow sunshine

painting naturally has this charming

that streams through the huge

element... if you are going to do gayexpress.co.nz

ART

something that is grotesque

the beautiful use of colour

for work that defies concrete

or hard to look at you have

in her Balls Deep exhibition,

description, work which is

to start by pulling your viewer

Taylor responds, “I’m really into

wonderfully contrary and exists

into it. It does have to have

colour... kind of gross colour as

colourfully in a grey area.

something seductive to get

well.” Even colour is open to

people to look at it.”

interpretation, to being gross

Glory Hole Exhibition runs from

and beautiful at the same time.

Wednesday 15 October at

The idea of a dual function,

Michael Lett, 312 Karangahape

of there being two sides to

As a final question, I ask Imogen

the glory hole, seems to be

if there’s anything she’d like

a recurring factor in Taylor’s

to say about her work. “You

Article | Lucinda Bennett.

work. It is capable of being

don’t want to speak too much

Photos | N.E. Woodward.

many contradictory things at

on behalf of the work,” is her

once, being simultaneously

considered response. She

abstract and figurative, smutty

shrugs. “It is what it is.”

Rd, Auckland.

and charming, right and wrong. When I comment on

A fittingly vague description

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30 OCT

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| October 2014 | 23

DANCE

Ballet’s Artful Beauty Vaughan Mendes meets Wellington-based producer, choreographer and ballet dancer Loughlan Prior to discuss his life, loves and passion for dance.

Loughlan Prior is a man on a mission. As I sit with him during his lunch break from the first rehearsal for the Royal New Zealand Ballet’s upcoming season of A Christmas Carol, it is clear that his aspirations go way beyond what we may see on the stage. The recent film he produced and choreographed, Memory House that featured Sir John Trimmer and colleagues from the Royal New Zealand Ballet, was part of the recent International Film Festival and provides us with a glimpse to his future. Dance for him is, more than anything, a powerful communication tool where the audience is asked to respond in an emotional and visceral way. The narrative of TV dialogue or a good book is not the only way to connect. “When I go to the theatre I want catharsis, I want to feel something.” He says. I understand what he means, the challenge with art is to remind people that only a small part of communication relies on the single narrative provided by words. As audience members we have the opportunity to be conscious of the ways we can be moved in a way that does not spoon-feed us. It’s in the goose bumps, stir of emotions, laughter, tears and the places we go in worlds without words. Dance asks us to write our own narrative and make our choices about what we experience. Sometimes that choice overwhelms us; at other

24 | October 2014 |

times it’s beyond our reach and we just don’t get it. Loughlan is a proponent of bringing the realisations of our own interpretations of the world back into our grasp by combining his commitment for dance and his enthusiasm for exploring different media. His passion for ensuring that the narrative of queer youth in contemporary Aotearoa is something he is determined to represent in his work. His next film project David is in post-production and due for release it early next year. “It uses physicality to explore the tensions between two worlds; a heterosexual life and a homosexual one.” In this work he explores the differences in physicality of relationships and is interested in the, “crossover between the feminine and masculine energies within relationships.” “For me it’s all about the collaboration, and this city thrives on it and I want to encourage and work with young similar-minded emerging artists.” As a young man in love with life and dance Wellington is his perfect home as it fits splendidly with his long term aspirations as a choreographer and producer. “In this project everyone put in their ideas, we had a meltingpot and then this film came from it.” He is equally exuberant about the future and direction for the Royal NZ Ballet and the appointment of the new Artistic Director, Francesco gayexpress.co.nz

DANCE

Ventriglia, who takes up his role in November. “It’s very exciting. He will bring a positive energy and the company will flourish under his influence.” This appointment, alongside the 2015 programme, has sent a buzz of excitement and enthusiasm through the dance community .

We will see a lot of Loughlan on stage in the next year in the RNZB productions of A Christmas Carol, Don Quixote, A Midsummer Night’s Dream and the very special and poignant new work Salute - a major collaboration with the NZ Army Band and several composers including Gareth Farr. On top of

that for Loughlan, because of the support from the Wallace Arts Trust and the Rule Foundation, we can be sure that through his other work in choreography and film we will have the ability to connect with this proud and focused advocate for dance and voice of movement within our community.

The Vodafone Season of A Christmas Carol plays from Friday 30 October to Sunday 14 December in Wellington, Dunedin, Christchurch, Palmerston North, Napier and Auckland. Visit www.rnzb.org.nz. Article | Vaughan Mendes. Photos | Alex Efimoff for express.

PART-TIME NEWS JOURNALIST/WRITER express is expanding and we are seeking a journalist to join our young, vibrant and friendly team. If you are passionate about local, national and international GLBT news and have a nose for sniffing out scandals and checking facts we would like to hear from you. This appointment will further secure our leadership in the gay media, both for our website www.gayexpress.co.nz and the new monthly express magazine. The ideal candidate will: r Be well versed in electronic media. r Possess a full drivers license. r Thrive on tight deadlines and be able to prioritise and work under pressure. r Have an out-going, positive and motivated attitude.

HANDSOMISING NEW ZEALAND ONE MAN AT A TIME

You will become responsible for the website news content, maintaining its authority and ensuring express is the first with the news. A team approach is important and you will need to build relationships with other leading commentators and columnists. If this sounds like you, please send your CV and covering letter to Oliver Hall: editor@gayexpress.co.nz by Friday 17 October.

GET YOUR GROOMING ESSENTIALS ONLINE AT ONEMAN.CO.NZ FREE SHIPPING NZ WIDE

MUSICAL

Making Jesus Relevant As gorgeous and tall as he is talented, director Oliver Driver hopes his new musical will make us all drop to our knees and worship HIM. The only production of Jesus Christ Superstar I have seen was a highpitched, prudish interpretation put on by an all boys Catholic school. At intermission, I walked out, declaring I would never see a musical again, least of all that musical, because I actually like music. After talking to director Oliver Driver about his upcoming production for Auckland Theatre Company, I may have to break my vow. “What productions normally do is just tell the story of Jesus but it is sung. We want to say this Jesus doesn’t stand on a mountain and preach to people, this Jesus stands in an arena and sings to fifty thousand people. He’s a rockstar and that’s why it’s a musical.”

26 | October 2014 |

With this concept in mind, the cast list reads rather like a who’s-who of New Zealand music. Julia Deans (Fur Patrol, The Adults), Jeremy Redmore (Midnight Youth) and Laughton Kora (Kora) will play, respectively, Mary Magdalen, Simon the Zealot and Judas, with Kristian Lavercombe, fresh from a two year stint touring as Riff Raff in The Rocky Horror Picture Show starring as Jesus. “This has been the hardest thing I have had to cast in my life. I would say I have spoken to almost every New Zealand musician about it. It’s been tricky, especially the roles of Jesus and Judas, because people just can’t sing them. Big name people have auditioned and they just don’t have range.” When asked how he feels about working with musicians rather than actors, Driver is not worried — he’s excited. “They’re playing rockstars. It’s not like they’re playing fishermen, Judas is in the band, so is Mary.

Jeremy Redmore plays Simon and he is the first act at the concert Jesus is puts on in Jerusalem. You want a rockstar to do that and Jeremy is a rockstar!” In her song Him, Lily Allen imagines what Jesus might be like if he were around today. She wonders if he’d be fun to talk too, rich, take drugs, who his favourite band might be. With this incarnation of Superstar, Driver hopes to make Jesus’ story similarly relevant. “I keep thinking of it being in the Middle East today where a hero is emerging from the chaos espousing love and peace. It’s like a Lorde or a Justin Bieber, somone of that scale emerging but instead of getting drunk and hanging out with Russian hookers he is all about loving each other and being kind. When I watch the news, all I’m thinking about is Jesus. I’m not a religious person but I can’t help thinking that Jesus would be mortified.”

With an eight-piece band, a cast that can definitely sing and a gender-bending Herod played by the incomparable Madeleine Sami, ATC’s Jesus Christ Superstar stands a good chance of changing my mind about musicals. “It’s going to be massive. We are going to do stuff to Q that has never been done to Q before. We’re going to completely transform that space. We want people to be caught up in it. I want people to find themselves inexplicably standing and dancing and singing along. It’s a big Christmas present for the people of Auckland.” Jesus Christ Superstar plays from Thursday 30 October to Sunday 23 November at Auckland’s Q Theatre. For bookings call 09 309 9771 or visit www.atc.co.nz. Article | Lucinda Bennett. Photo | Tux Hika. gayexpress.co.nz

Scene

Oh, What A Closing Circus Queenstown Memorial Hall Saturday 6 September. Photos | Oliver Hall. It was fantastic to see Gay Ski Weekâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s closing night party conclude the festival with such a bang! The international crowd of Aussies, Kiwis, Brits and Yanks threw themselves into the circus theme and danced into the early hours to Kate Monroeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s banging beats.

gayexpress.co.nz

| October 2014 | 27

FASHION

Springâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Smart Casual Charlie is wearing Hugo Boss jacket $ 955 Hugo Boss cotton pants $299 Hugo Boss T $139 Hugo Boss Shoes $490

28 | October 2014 |

Sam is wearing Ted Baker Jacket $679 Ted Baker shirt $169 Hugo Boss Jeans $299 No Brand Shoes $279

gayexpress.co.nz

FASHION

Patric Seng shoots the must-have menswear ensembles for the new season, all supplied by Farrys Menswear, Auckland and Wellington. Photographer: Patric Seng. l Makeup & Hair: Kaz Elizabeth from FaceMe. Models: Charlie, Sam, Abhi & Ali @Bintang Models

Abhi is wearing Joe Black check Jacket $460 Paul Smith cotton pants $299 Joe Black Shirt $139 Paul smith shoes $299

gayexpress.co.nz

Ali is wearing Ted Baker Jacket (blue ) $679 Boss Orange Jeans $379 Pearly King Tee $139 Paul Smith shoes $299

| October 2014 | 29

Scene Ivy Celebrates, Rush closes! Ivy Bar, Saturday 20 September. Photos | Alexander Kachfi. Shake-ups on the Wellington gay scene as Ivy celebrates its 5th Birthday and waves goodbye to their number one drag star(r) Miss Nova Starr, all in the same weekend! Ivy will also be housing events originally booked for Rush bar, which closed its doors on Sunday 14 September.

30 | October 2014 |

gayexpress.co.nz

MUSIC

Torch Song Never Smelled as Sweet Singer-songwriter Perfume Genius brilliant third album Too Bright, co-produced by Portishead’s Adrian Utley, has been heralded by critics and seen him compared to the likes of Rufus Wainwright, PJ Harvey and Nina Simone. His interview with express is as raw and beautiful as his music. The whole idea of “straight acting” is awful. Usually the men that adopt this description are blatantly discriminatory against “faggy” or “feminine” men even though their masculinity is as much of a put on and performance as a catty queen. And I certainly wouldn’t call Sam Smith “straight-acting” nor would I do most men that pride themselves in being so. We all see you, so stop playing a goddamn game. As far as creatively, it is not always necessary to bring your sexuality in to what you create but I think doing so is brave and important. It comes with a lot of potential risks, but they are risks I am willing to take if they end up being helpful. I really had to reach as an adolescent to find art that I could relate to. Hearing someone share your experience very specifically is very moving and eases the loneliness of growing up different and I hope by being explicit and upfront I can be that to someone. What is your ultimate goal as an artist? Essentially to do whatever the fuck I want and try not to get in my own way or allow outside influences to affect what I make too much. Do you care about award recognition like Grammy’s or commercial success with downloads and sales? I certainly don’t write with it in mind

but I sincerely hope for critical success after my albums are finished. I would be lying if I didn’t hope for some money because I need some way to sustain myself so I can keep doing this. I really want to buy a house as well, I am sick of sharing walls with people and not being able to do dishes at night when the mood strikes. What inspired the name Perfume Genius? Honestly it was the first phrase that came to mind when filling out the MySpace registration. I didn’t expect listeners beyond my own friends so I just entered a random pair of words. Once more people outside of my social circle heard the music I felt stuck with it. I am grateful in a way because if I had put more thought in to it I am sure I would have ended up with something completely pretentious and overthought. On your debut album Learning, you sang about your past struggles with substance abuse – do you have any advice for people who are going through that themselves? You have to go the whole way. It requires drastic and terrifying shifts of all kinds. Let yourself be scared and uncomfortable because there is no easy way out. Do not try and do it on your own or be prideful. Everything I have written has been during periods of complete sobriety. Addiction, like depression is a void nothing comes from it.

What is your favourite video you have made and why?

Perfume Genius’ Too Bright is out now through Matador records.

A video I made for a song on my first album called “No Problem.” It is edited footage of a breath control fetish video featuring a young woman underwater for an extended period of time. I edited out her entrance and exit in to the pool, superimposed a slightly out of time ghostly double - along with other small changes that shifted some of the fetish aspect out of the footage in to something dreamy but still with an undercurrent of discomfort.

Article | Oliver Hall. Photos | Luke Gilford.

What was it like working with the late gay porn actor Arpad Miklos on the video for Hood? He was very kind, warm and professional. I knew him only for the span of hours it took to shoot the video and we didn’t keep in touch afterwards. How did that collaboration come about? I originally thought only of having a bodybuilder, someone giant and muscled to cradle me throughout. The problem was that no one in that field wanted to be a part of something that intimate or that gay. Someone suggested Arpad as an alternative and after getting in touch with him and explaining my ideas he agreed. He was perfect and moving and sensitive onscreen and it couldn’t have worked out more beautifully.

| October 2014 | 31

Scene

The Poof Parfait! Saturdays in September. Photos | Evan Donnelly & Suki Zhang. Ponsonby Road’s Poof bar has become a real hottie magnet of late attracting some really handsome punters to their weekend soirees. The ever present Pink Link transports is there to transport them on to Family, but only after experiencing barman Aaron’s specialty cocktail, ‘The Poof Parfait’ a delicious purple sip!

32 | October 2014 |

gayexpress.co.nz

EAT

Foodie Bites

Divine Dumplings Xuxu has been part of the Britomart Precinct for a while, but only recently added a good-looking dumpling menu to its allure. We really enjoyed our experience there, live jazz on Thursdays, great cocktails and a fun range of dumplings from Nepalese to Korean pork - as well as more classic pot stickers and Har Gao styles. Perfect first date venue – impressive without needing a bank loan for the bill. Xuxu Dumpling, Levy Building, Cnr Commerce and Galway Streets, Britomart. www.britomart. org/xuxu-dumpling-bar

Market Stall of the Month Lalele is an organic gelato stand that’s at Coatesville and Takapuna markets by day and Henderson, Glenfield and Pakuranga night markets by night. We are enraptured with their raspberry sorbet on a stick and you’ll fall in love, as much with the flavours as the aesthetics – these are seriously pretty sweet treats. We pick they’ll be a huge hit this summer. Follow Lalele Organic on facebook for locations

Sexy Spaniard

Carb Loading

Auckland is bursting with great places to eat at the moment and The Black Hoof is yet another to add to the list. We loved the interior with its hams hanging Spanish-style from the bar and the food was incredible. We are still thinking about the goat cheese croquettas with honey and marcona almonds; the braised beetroot, candied walnuts, valdeón and medjool dates; the Crunchy pork, fennel seeds, lemon and parsley – and don’t even get us started on the white sangria! The Black Hoof, 12 Wyndham St (Level 1), Auckland CBD. www.theblackhoof.co.nz

There has been much excitement in Remuera as Deborah Chait (founder of Zarbo) and her baker husband Andy Tse have opened 4&20 Bread and Sandwiches, a bakery making proper European bread. They only use organic flour, sea salt and filtered water in their loaves and everything is made from scratch on site. But it’s not just bread - kick ass sandwiches and gorgeous pastries are also on offer. Your bathrooms scales have been warned! 4&20, 3a Clonbern Road, Remuera (Tuesday to Saturday). www.4and20.co.nz

Get Tasting If, like me, burrata and men with Italian accents are two of your favourite things, there is no better way to spend your time than at an Italian cheese cooking class at Non Solo Pizza this month with the folks from Il Casaro. Learn to cook with Stracciatella on the 7th October or Burrata on the 28th October. You can either just attend the class or combine it with a three course dinner. Where do I sign up? Non Solo Pizza, 259 Parnell Road, Parnell www.eventfinder. co.nz/2014/mozzarella-evening/ auckland

Article | Alexia Santamaria. Alexia xia is the co-author of popular blog www. w. cheapeats.co.nz the Auckland guide to eating great food without ut going bankrupt.

Kiss & Tell r She was on the winning side on 20 September, but is she secretly batting for our team? Her close (gossip columnist) friend told me that she’s a ‘diver’! Saying that she has had a few girl on girl liaisons including one that could have gotten more serious but instead chose to focus on our job. She would make a far greater GLBT rep than the blue team’s current one. r ‘Rainbow Sham?’ There’s a lot of people who are giving your little money-maker a cross at the moment. What happen if they complain to the ‘write’ people? Telling everyone you are working for the community while simply lining your own pockets – shame on you Ms! r Darling, you seem like such a boy, but once again everyone is talking about you for the wrong reasons. Is he dragging you down? And are your ex-flat mate’s Facebook claims about pumping yourself full of ‘roids’ true? Don’t let demons destroy your bright future. r We all go through hard times. He’s got the youthful looks, the height, the talent and the awards to prove it, but is it true he’s selling the horses?! It’s going to be hard to get on TV again without your four-legged friends. Wiser spending is my suggestion Mr!

34 | October 2014 |

Meet Your Community Paul Young is a Dance Lecturer at Unitec. How did you get into dance? To improve my chances of getting into a Drama School I began training with Hagley Dance Company in Christchurch under Sheryl Robinson, a well known figure in the queer community. I had no idea what I was in for but Sheryl was a great mentor and with her support, I fell in love with moving. I was a late starter for a dancer, but so were Michael Parmenter and Douglas Wright, so enough said! What’s the craziest thing you’ve done onstage? I laid a raw egg while experimenting with performance art much to the shock of my classmates. The whole performance was quite unhinged, but the crowning glory was laying the egg, which I had carefully slipped up my bum beforehand. People wondered if I was scared it would get lost inside me or break, and while it did migrate up a little I was fully

confident I could carry it to term!

huge talent and tiny egos …

You were in Christchurch when the earthquakes happened how was the dance community & their work affected? One of the biggest blows to dance and the greater arts communities was the loss of already scarce rehearsal and performance venues, and interruption to platforms for the presentation of works such as The Body Festival. The dance community bounced back extraordinarily quickly and entrepreneurially, making a broad range of works relating or responding to the experience.

Your latest collaboration is Amanimal – what is it about? Three men who are animals and two animals who act like men. There is fur, there are beards, there are giant underpants and a headless turkey. There is a ball of human and a big head. Amanimal has live music, manly songs, brotherly love and lip syncing. There is a Knothead and a martian garden and all with a sense of journey and a potential murder.

You’ve worked with Malia Johnston (of World of Wearable Arts) many times throughout your career – what keeps bringing you two back together? Malia is a master provocateur and facilitates environments where magic can happen. She seems to attract people with

What three things couldn’t you live without? I would feel claustrophobic without the ocean, go mad with no internet and without my body what would I be? A gas? Paul Young’s students perform in Tertiary Colours and Y Chromozone as part of Tempo Dance Festival 7-19 October. For more information see www.tempo.co.nz gayexpress.co.nz

Scene F Familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hot Tub Party P TThe Rydges Hotel, Queenstown. Friday 5 September. Photos | Oliver Hall. F Have you ever seen so many people in one H hot tub?! There were many fabulous parties at h tthis yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gay Ski Week and you can see all of tthem at www.gayexpress.co.nz. This hot tub party ssponsored by Family Bar, was one of our favourites, with plenty of skin and speedos on show. w gayexpress.co.nz gay ga g ay ay yexp ex exp e xpre xp rres essss.c e s..c co..n co nz

| October 2014 | 35

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