from the publisher Wow, St. Pete Pride is already here and I can’t think of a better way to celebrate the beginning of summer! This year’s event is even more special because, for the first time since its inception in 2003, the parade will take place downtown to accommodate the larger crowds and increase the event’s visibility – as it should. There are approximately 15 million LGBT Americans from all walks of life who contribute positively to society. They spend almost $1 trillion dollars per year, earning more and spending more than the average household. America’s dream, as Hillary Clinton reminded us, “is big enough for everyone,” so this day of Pride provides the opportunity to share our hope of equality and message of love and tolerance with all Americans. We offer our congratulations to both the city and the county who have joined forces to help make this year’s event even better. While Hotspots has a 32-year history in South Florida, we have been proudly serving St. Petersburg and the entire Central Florida region also for more than six years. This edition marks the first anniversary of our completely separate Central Florida edition, and we thank our readers and advertisers for allowing us to serve you. We’re getting better all the time and have big plans to serve you even better in the days ahead. Watch for us in the parade or stop by our 40-foot special events vehicle and say hello. We’d love to see you! If you can’t make to Pride, you are welcome to join us at our next “Out For Business” mixer on July 20 at the Hammered Lamb in Orlando or back in St. Petersburg on August 23at Hotel Zamora. On behalf of the entire Hotspots team, I hope you enjoy this special Pride edition. Remember to be proud, be happy and celebrate. Above all, be safe!
Central Florida Edition July 2017 Publisher/Marketing Director Peter Clark Peter@HotspotsMedia.com
Vice-President Peter Jackson PeterJ@hotspotsmedia.com
Associate Publisher Scott Holland Scott@HotspotsMedia.com
Accounting Richard Paull Richard@HotspotsMedia.com
Art Director Maria Espinal Maria@HotspotsMedia.com
Cover Photo Lee Vandergrift
Graphics Graphics@HotspotsMedia.com
Frank Mendez
Sales Team Regional Manager Russ Martin Russ@HotspotsMedia.com
Account Executive Jordan Rose Sales@HotspotsMedia.com
National Advertising Rivendell Media 212-242-6863 • sales@rivendellmedia.com
Feature Writers Scott Holland | Chris Azzopardi | Russ Martin Ian Maloney | Jerry Perez | Tom Bonanti D’anne Witkowski
CONTACT US Central Florida Office: 813-253-9107 11 N. Summerlin Ave., Suite 210 | Orlando, FL 32801 South Florida Office: 954-928-1862 5090 N.E. 12th Avenue | Oakland Park, FL 33334 Fax 954-772-0142
Photographers Tony Fowler | Snap Out Loud! Russ Martin | Pat O’Rourke Mike Halterman
Logistics Brett Yancey
HotspotsCentral.LGBT Info@HotspotsMedia.com • HotspotsMediaGroup.com Facebook.com/HotspotsCentralFlorida Hotspots Central is published by HOTSPOTS MAGAZINE OF FLORIDA at 5090 N.E. 12th Avenue Fort Lauderdale, FL 33334. Opinions expressed are not necessarily the opinion of HOTSPOTS MAGAZINE or any of its staff. Publication of the name or photos of any living person or organization in articles or advertising in HOTSPOTS MAGAZINE is not to be constructed as any indication of the sexual orientation of such person or organizations. All copy, text, display, photos and illustration in the ads are published with the understanding that the advertisers are fully authorized, have secured proper written consent for the use of names, pictures, and testimonials of any living person, and Hotspots Magazine may lawfully publish and cause such to be made. Advertisers automatically agree by summiting said ad to indemnify and save blameless the publisher from any and all liability, loss and expense of any nature out of the publication. The deadline for Hotspots th Central is the 20 of every month at 5pm. In the event that an ad is excepted after deadline, the advertiser agrees by submitting such an ad to indemnify and save blameless the publisher from any and all liability, loss and expense of any nature that arise from any error that may be made in said ad. All rights reserved. Reproduction in part or in whole of this publication without written permission is strictly prohibited. Hotspots is a registered trademark.
on the inside
Central Florida Edition July 2017
Interview with
Sam Claflin
English actor talks ‘sickening’ intolerance, waiting for the right queer role and “Hunger Games” gay fan fiction.
content:
• • • • • • •
From the Editor What’s Hot Central Florida Queens We Love Hollywood Hot Bodies Hotspots Hotties Need Wood
• • • •
St. Pete Pride Disney’s Little Mermaid Celebrity Interview Stigma Tattoos
this month’s features:
hot shots •OMW’s Riptide & Red •Gaydays Expo •OMW’s Cadabra & Pool Parties •Gaydays Phouse •Gaydays’’ Pool Parties & Mr. GayDays Leather
What’s
HOT
...everything you need to plan your month
F
Florida’s largest Pride event returns with the St. Pete Pride and Parade on June 24 and 25. The parade will feature 5,000 people dancing and sauntering along downtown St Pete’s Bayshore Drive in a burst of color and dazzling array of sequins, beads, leather and feathers to celebrate the power and beauty of diversity, with more than 200,000 people cheering them on. The purpose of St. Pete Pride, according to organizers, is to promote unity, visibility, self-esteem and a positive image of and among the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community of Tampa Bay and throughout the State of Florida by way of cultural and educational programs and activities.
Thisisthe15th annualStPetePrideandtheeventcontinues to grow and change. A few years back the parade was moved to the night prior to the festival and this year the parade’s visibilityimprovesasitmovesdowntown. The Pride Parade will be held Saturday, June 24 with a party beginning at 2 p.m., followed by the parade at 6:30 p.m. The Pride Festival will be held Sunday, June 25, beginning at 9 a.m. and ending at 4 p.m., and is expected to draw more than 50,000 at the Grand Central District. The St. Pete Pride Street Festival will again be the largest community event of the season as festival-goers come together to make history while enjoying a day of live performances and entertainment, community booths, art and fantastic food in paradise.
Be Courteous
The Wells Fargo Stage Lineup is:
2:30 p.m. Karmic Tattoo 3:20pm Rolando Xavier 4:05pm Christopher Thomas 4:35pm Derek Dean 5:00pm Panamory 6:00 pm Jennifer Real
As with any large event, parking can be a challenge. Organizers recommend you carpool, but if you insist on driving, it is recommended you use one of the several parking garages in the downtown area.
No outside beverages or alcohol are allowed at the parade or festival. Water and other beverages will be sold throughout the parade route viewing area. In the interest of general safety, please refrain from bringing in the following: • Alcohol (open container laws and city ordinances still apply) • Inline Skates • Laser pointers • Radios • Skateboards/Scooters • Fireworks • Weapons/Firearms • Pets or animals (we love animals, but for their safety, leave them at home)
For more information on St. Pete Pride and related events, go to stpetepride.com
Hotspots Central Florida
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hot shots
One Magical Weekend
Riptide
photos by stephen r. lang
One Magical Weekend
Red
what’s hot everything you need to know
to plan your month
H
Hello, Hotspots Central readers! Welcome once again to the What's Hot column, where we keep you in the loop with lots of important nightlife events in Tampa Bay, Orlando, and points in between. We're also your connection to many activities and events organized by local LGBT service organizations and chambers of commerce. Want to know What's Hot in July? Read more and find out!
„Friday, June 23 The 15th annual St Pete Pride Weekend starts today and goes all weekend long. Due to our advertisers request (we always listen to them) out July edition will come out early and hit the streets on Thursday, June 22, and will have a huge section dedicated to St Pete Pride, so pick up next months edition as your resource guide for everythign St Pete Pride. In the meantime if you want to
know more information, go to: StpetePride.com. An Evening of song with Leslie Odom Jr. takes place at Ferguson Hall at the Straz Center at 8pm. Direct from his Tonywinning role as Aaron Burr in Broadway's hottest hit, Hamilton, Leslie Odom, Jr. appears in this s o l o c o n c e r t fo r o n e performance only. His self-titled album dropped in June 2016 to wild critical and popular acclaim, launching an exclusive tour of his original works and beloved jazz standards. Tickets start at $35.50 at StrazCenter.org
Diana Ross: In The Name Of Love Tour with special guest Rhonda Ross makes 2 more stops in Central Florida. Diana Ross' famed and remarkable career spanning almost five decades has resulted with major awards and accolades and music history milestones. Diana Ross is a consummate performer as well as one of the most iconic female singers of all time and one of the most prominent women in popular music history and pop culture of the late 20th century. As lead singer of The Supremes, in the 60s, Diana Ross helped shape the sound of popular
music, changing the landscape and paved way for contemporary music. Her love of life, neverending wonder, theappreciation of goals and achievements and sheer human spirit define the artist that is Diana Ross and continue to make her one of the most identifiable, unique, beloved and influential singers of successive pop generations. On Friday, June 23, Miss Ross will be performing at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall in Sarasota at 8pm, where tickets start at $86 (VanWezel.org), and then you canc catch her in Orlando at the Dr. Phillips Center on Tuesday, June 27 at 7:30pm where tickets s t a r t a t $ 4 9 . 5 0 (DrPhillipsCenter.org).
long. You can purchase your tickets online for only $15 ($20 d a y o f ) a t OrlandoPubPrance.com The Hollander Hotel presents “Retox Sunday” with no cover and DJ Kristijan Jankovic spinning from 2pm.
„Friday, June 30 Flex Fridays at Southern Nights Orlando presents Andrew
„Saturday, June 24 Join the Tampa Bay Diversity Chamber of Commerce at Stillwaters Tavern on Beach Drive for the Diversity Chamber of Commerce official Pride AfterParty.Enjoy drink specials for craft cocktails, beer & wine and get ready to dance to some of the hottest House/Dance beats. This event is Free for members and only $20 for guests.
„Sunday, June 25 Miracle of Love, Inc presents an Orlando Pub Prance benefit to raise much needed funds. The event will take place from 2p.m. to 10p.m. and your wristband gets you incredible specials all day
Party at 11p.m., and no cover all night! The Bring It! Live tour comes to the Straz Center and will feature Miss D and her Dancing Dolls performing original routines, and
Christian model Murray Swanby who is currently one of the stars of “What Happens at the Abbey.”
„Saturday, July 1 If you missed him last night in Orlando, Swank Saturdays at Southern Nights Tampa presents Andrew Christian model Murray Swanby who is currently one of the stars of “What Happens at the Abbey.” The Parliament House presents, direct from RuPaul's Drag Race season 9, Sasha Velour.
promises to be a high-action night full of unbelievable feats. In 2016, the elite world of hip-hop majorette competition was brought to the main stage with an inimitable energy that took the country by storm. Audiences across the nation were enamored by the fierce, original highoctane performances that brought motivation, inspiration and formation. With hotterthan-ever, never-before-seen performances on deck for the 2017 tour, there has never been a better time for Bring It! fans. Tickets start at $36.25, but VIP tickets which includes the best seat and a pre-show photo opportunity are available. StarzCenter.org
„Saturday, July 8 An Evening with Bill Maher at the Walt Disney Theater at the Dr.
„Sunday, July 2 The Parliament House presents “Free, Foam and Fireworks,” with a courtyard BBQ from 5-8p.m., a poolside show at 7p.m. a Foam
Phillips Performing Arts Center at 8pm. For more than twenty years,
Hotspots Central Florida
HotSpotsCentral.LGBT
Bill Maher has set the boundaries of where funny, political talk can go on American television. First on “Politically Incorrect” ( C o m e d y C e n t ra l , A B C , 1993–2002), and for the last fourteen years on HBO's “Real Time,” Maher's combination of unflinching honesty and big laughs have garnered him 38 Emmy nominations. Maher won his first Emmy in 2014 as executive producer for the HBO series, “VICE.” In October of 2008, this same combination was on display in Maher's uproarious and unprecedented swipe at organized religion, “Religulous,” directed by Larry Charles (“Borat”). The documentary has gone on to become the 8th Highest Grossing Documentary ever. Tickets start at $45 at DrPhillipsCenter.org Two of music's most acclaimed artists and powerhouse live performers will tour together when Rod Stewart is joined by
$46.00, $66.00, $96.00 and $141.00, and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com. For more information, go to: AmalieArena.com
„Monday, July 10 Paul McCartney has added a massive new run of U.S. dates to
„Thursday, June 20 Prestige Pride, Carnival Cruise Line, Florida Cane Distillery and Hotspots Media present the monthly Hotspots Out For Business Networker/Mixer at Hammered Lamb (1235 N. Orange Ave, Orlando) from
his One On One tour. The newly announced dates include a show in Tampa, where Paul will play at Amalie Arena, returning to the city for the first time since his The 'US' Tour 2005 hit St. Petersburg Times Forum. The show starts at
„Saturday, July 15
special guest Cyndi Lauper for an 18-city tour beginning this July in Florida. The Tampa Bay area show is on tonight at 7:30 p.m.at Amalie Arena and produced by AEG Live. Tickets are: 31.00,
as a deceptive illusion. To know who you are is to understand what we are made of and what we can accomplish. Yo u m u s t understand and explore your own identity which will help you to better understand the surrounding world." - The Veils of Illusion. Tickets start at $37.50, a n d a re a v a i l a b l e at StrazCenter.org
The Veil of Illusion: A Decadent Evening with the Aerial Dragons is playing at the Straz Center tonight and tomorrow. This theatrical evening of aerial acrobatics dazzles audiences with charismatic performers in feats of strength, elegance and fearlessness. Using silks, lyra, trapeze, rope and flexibility, the diverse members of The Keep create theatrical entertainment that mystifies and transports audiences to another world. "Reality in many cultures is used
6:30p.m. to 8:30p.m. For more information, go to HotspotsCentral.LGBT/Outforb usiness
„Sunday, July 23 Tito Puente Jr. with The Rico Monaco Band featuring the Greatest Hits Of Tito Puente and the Best of Latin Rock at 7:30pm at the Alexis & Jim Pugh Theater at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Pe r fo r m i n g A r t s . This
performance will feature Tito Puente hits Oye Como Va, Ran Kan Kan, El Cayuco and more. Plus, The great songs of Santana, Juanes, Mana, Carlos Vives, Zucherro, Malo, Enanitos Verdes, Classic Rock and songs by award winning Orlando artist Rico Monaco. Ticket price: $35 at DrPhillipsCenter.org CMT's Nashville In Concert at Hardrock Live Universal Orlando from 8p.m. to 11p.m. Stars of the hit CMT series “Nashville” will embark on a fourth U.S. concert tour on the heels of a highly successful 10-show international tour that has already sold out multiple concerts in the UK and Ireland. Launching today in Orlando, FL, the tour is set to feature cast members Clare Bowen, Chris Carmack, Charles Esten,
and Jonathan Jackson. Tour stops will feature songs from the series as well as the artists' original material. Tickets are: $125.50 for Tables; $100.50 First Two Rows and Lower Balcony; $75.50 Main Floor and $65.50 Upper Balcony at Ticketmaster.com.
„HOT STUFF The Sarasota Summer Gay Beach Party Series takes place every Sunday from 1p.m. to 6p.m. at North Lido Beach
through the end of August. For more information go to: SarasotaOut.com
Hotspots Central Florida
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queens we
W
What was the first drag show you saw and tell me about the experience?
My first drag show was in 2000. I got the honor to watch the cast of the Footlights Players at the Parliament House in Orlando. I witnessed drag before in Puerto Rico, but this show was magical. I fell In love with drag that evening.
When did you decide you wanted to do drag and when did you realize it would be a profession? I wanted to do drag since I went back home from that first drag show at PH, so I started to do talent shows and pageants to learn the basics but it was not until 2006 when I started working at Suncoast Resort in St Pete that I realized that Drag was going to be my career.
Who is your drag mother and who is your favorite queen other than your drag mother and why? I have 3 drag mothers (fairy godmothers). I am lucky lol! The first one was Calvin Of Orlando who took me by the hand and showed me the
From RuPaul's Drag Race to All American Goddess
Alexis
Mateo is conquering the world!
by scott holland photos by thedragphotographer.com
What's the best thing that has happened to you in drag?
ueens we
Why We Love Her!
For me, that's a super easy question, it is being on RuPaul's Drag Race!
What differentiates you from other Queens (Makes you Unique)? Alexis Mateo is unique. A mix of old school and new school but what make me unique is the love I have for this art. For me it's an honor and a blessing to be a queen.
What does the future hold? I don't know what the future holds for me, but looking back into my past experiences, I know my future is going to be full of amazing opportunities, great people, and lots of smiles. Like I always say BAM!!!!
She appreciates the history of Drag.
Ru Paul's Drag Race and then All Stars made all of us fall in love with Alexis.
She really loves Central Florida, competes in local pageants there and gives back to her community.
Alexis & Jeffrey created the Mateo Empire!
basics of drag. Kori Stevens showed me the meaning of Drag and Alicia Markstone helped me become a Diva. I am so thankful for these 3 people every day. I don't have a favorite queen because I have a favorite King. Jeffrey Kelly, my husband. I admire this entertainer for the quality, pride and entertainment value that he brings to the stage. For me he is an icon on the male side of drag and I'm happy to share my life with him.
What's your favorite number to perform and why? I have many favorites I like to perform, but my ultimate favorite is "Rather Be." Every time I do this number, I remember how lucky I am to be able to make a living doing what I love, and it puts a smile on my face.
“...what makes me unique
is the love I have for this art. For me it's an honor and a blessing to be a queen.�
Hotspots Central Florida
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hot shots photos by stephen r. lang
Gay Days Expo
deep inside hollywood
by romeo san vicente
“Mamma Mia” Mama Mia, get ready for more “Mamma Mia”
The question is not why they're making a sequel to “Mamma Mia!” The 2008 smash grossed over $600 million worldwide, after all. The question is why it took so long to get here. It's been nearly a decade since Meryl Streep and pals warbled ABBA tunes in the service of some kind of plot – truthfully, we forgot what the movie was even about and so did you – and we wondered if anyone would ever have the nerve to say, “You know what? We need even more of 'that'.” But in a world where “Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2” was an easy decision, perhaps we shouldn't have wondered so much; it was always going to happen, just as soon as La
Streep's calendar cleared. The cast is back: Colin Firth, Amanda Seyfried, Pierce Brosnan and most likely some of the rest, singing other songs from the Swedish Beatles' back catalog (and probably a couple of reprises of tunes from last time). And in 2018 you will go buy a ticket. You know you will. This is your next Waterloo, and Pierce Brosnan's singing voice is the secret slaying force.
ABC jumps on the musical bandwagon with “The Little Mermaid”
Would anyone have ever predicted that the hot thing on TV in 2017 would be dueling Broadway musicals, done live? That an innovative staging of
“Grease” would win over television critics and audiences? That old-fashioned musical theater would captivate the nation? Well, it did, predictions be hanged, and now ABC is climbing aboard. The network will revive its “Wonderful World of Disney” brand and kick off what is certain to be an ongoing series of special broadcasts with “The Wonderful World of Disney: The Little Mermaid Live!” A celebritypacked cast will be announced as soon as the ink is dry on their contracts. And the clock is already ticking: the airdate is scheduled for Oct. 3 and the network promises an interesting twist on the format, one that will mix live action with animation. We're intrigued, Disney. Now please entice us with some stars.
The Little Mermaid
“Fly” girls ready for takeoff
Based on real events, the indevelopment series “Fly” promises something refreshingly different. Set in Atlanta, it's the story of the first commercial airline flight crew staffed entirely with African-American women. Their lives and careers, and the obstacles they face, will form the ongoing narrative, and the cast will include TV vets Tatyana Ali (“The Fresh Prince of Bel Air”), Bruce Boxleitner (“Babylon 5”), Cristian de la Fuente (“Devious Maids”), Valarie Pettiford (“The Blacklist”), as well as Ja Rule, Mindy Cohn, Cicely Tyson, Marla Gibbs, Todd Bridges, “Glee” star Amber Riley, and the show's creator, former child actor
Cristian de la Fuente
Rae'Ven Kelly, taking control of her own projects starting here. This women-driven enterprise will also feature behind the scenes talent like lesbian filmmaker Aurora Guerrero, whose 2012 feature “Mosquita y Mari” was a hit at Sundance and an LGBT festival staple. “Fly” is shooting now and waiting for a network pickup, but that wait will certainly not be very long. We're looking forward to this one for 2018.
Buckle up For “The Secret History of Hollywood”
Did you get a chance to pick up 2012's trashiest memoir, “Full Service: My Adventures In Hollywood” and “The Secret Sex Lives of The Stars”? Not yet, you
Scotty Bowers
say? Well, summer's here and the time is right, as it were. But if you'd rather wait for the documentary film on the subject, well, the time is almost right for that, too. Scotty Bowers, now 93 years old and the author of “Full Service”, was a World War II vet who came to Hollywood and quickly fell in with a circle of queer movie stars, all of whom were looking for sex on the down low. Bisexual, hungry and ready to make friends and money, Bowers arranged the liaisons (and often participated) and took n ot e s . N ow, d oc u m e n t a r y f i l m m a k e r M a t t Ty r n a u e r (“Valentino: The Last Emperor”) has the movie version ready, titled “Scotty and The Secret History of Hollywood”, and there was a buyer's screening at the recent Cannes Film Festival. That means there's no distributor just yet. But salacious sells, and so it's only a matter of time before your local LGBT film festival gets its hot hands on this hotter property.
Romeo San Vicente politely requests that ”Mamma Mia 3” be set in outer space.
Bruce Boxleitner Hotspots Central Florida
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Make one of our homes yours. Upscale and chic, yet earthy and comfortable, Brookview at Citrus Park offers the best of all worlds.
brookviewatcitruspark.com 813-400-2562
hot bodies
Y
by tom bonanti
absolutely the best routine for lower body
You’ve seen him in the clubs, at the pool, and in your gym – the jacked muscle dude with cannonball shoulders, biceps like soft balls and giant slab- like pecs. Then your enthusiasm for this vision of muscledom wanes as you look down at his pencillike, underdeveloped legs. No one I know looks forward to “leg day”, but if you want a strong, fit body and a classic, symmetrical physique, you must work out lower body. My advice is to keep the routine simple, safe, and consistent. Focus upon these five exercises that will hit every major muscle group. Perform this regime once, or perhaps twice per week for optimum gains. Go for 3-4 sets of eight to twelve reps of each exercise. Squats are simply the best weight training exercise you can do. They work every muscle group of the
Calf raises are simple and easy. Begin by using your own body weight as you go up and down on your tip toes. Then as your calves gain size and strength, you can i n c re a s e re s i s t a n c e b y h o ld i n g dumbbells, kettlebells or even a barbell across your shoulders. As with all lower body weight training exercises, make sure to stretch, rest between sets, and stay mindful of using proper form.
Tom Bonanti is a certified fitness trainer, massage therapist (MA#40288) and writer for Hotspots. Tom has his own gym and massage studio in Ft. Lauderdale www.pumpnincgym.com and can be contacted at trainertomb@aol.com. body, especially quads, hamstrings and glutes. If you don’t have access to a barbell and squat rack, you can squat with dumbbells, kettlebells, or even your own body weight. Deadlifts are as manly as it gets in the weight room. Basically, you’re trying to lift as much weight as you can, just by picking up a barbell or dumbbells and putting them back down. Check your form- square off your stance, bend your knees slightly, keep your head up, lift the weight off the floor, squeeze your butt and hamstrings, and put the weight back down on the floor. Dumbbell lunges will target butt better than any other weight training exercise. Grab some dumbbells or kettlebells, lunge forward on one leg as you drop to one knee with the other leg, rise, then alternate by lunging forward with the other leg, etc. You can do these as stationary lunges or you can do walking lunges around the gym, in the parking lot, or on your own driveway. For a special treat try lunging on an incline for maximum burn! Leg extensions really define and shape the quads, the muscles at the front of the upper leg. When you perform these (if you have access to the apparatus), never lock the knees out at the top of the movement. Don’t use massive amounts of weight since this can prove to be detrimental to your knees. Instead use manageable weight, do more reps and sets, and go for that nice slow burn.
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Blending a familiar feeling of community, with a fresh sense of freedom and opportunity. At The Nolen, it’s all part of the plan. Make Clearwater’s hippest address your own.
thenolen.com • 727-308-4169
Love where you live.
Skyline Fifth. On the corner of hip and cool.
skylinefifthapartments.com 727.327.1444
by scott holland photos by mark & tracy photography
Disney's The Little Mermaid comes to the Straz Center
A
Diana Huey brings Ariel to life on stage for a limited two week run in Central Florida
A spectacular new production of Disney's The Little Mermaid kicked off at The Straz for the Performing Arts on Tuesday, July 11 for a limited 5 day run. Featuring the critically acclaimed work of Director Glenn Casale, this beloved tale of a young mermaid's coming-of-age adventure is told like never before. Casting includes Diana Huey as Ariel and Matthew Kacergis as Prince Eric, with Broadway's Jennifer Allen as Ursula and Steven Blanchard as King Triton. Melvin Abston, Connor Russell and Jamie Torcellini round out the cast as Sebastian, Flounder and Scuttle.
This timeless Disney musical is based on the hit animated 1989 Disney film The Little Mermaid, which was loosely based on the Hans Christian Anderson tale. The show follows headstrong Ariel, no longer content to live on the ocean floor under her father, King Triton's rule. Convinced she'll only find happiness on land, she sets off to find a world where she belongs, battling a cruel sea witch and finding true love along the way. The film earned three Academy Award nominations a n d fo u r G o l d e n G l o b e nominations, winning the
awards for Best Song (“Under the Sea�) and Best Score in both ceremonies. The soundtrack won the Grammy Award for Best Album for Children and the Grammy Award for Best Score Soundtrack Album for A Motion Picture, Television or Other Visual Media. The Broadway production appeared in 2007 under Director Francesca Zambello. In 2012, Director Glenn Casale was invited to re-imagine the show, making s i g n i f i c a n t p l o t c h a n ge s , introducing aerial elements and featuring a new set design by Bob Crowley that emulates a pop-up book. Casale's changes are
reflected in this production. This stellar cast is joined by Brandon Roach as Flotsam, Frederick Hagreen as Jetsam/Prince Eric Cover, Allen Fitzpatrick as Grimsby and Dane Stokinger as Chef Louis. Also swimming under the sea are Kristin Burch, Venny Carranza, Lisa Karlin, Michael McGurk, Amanda Minano, Taylor Niemeyer, Becca Orts, Marco Ramos, Robbie Roby, James Shackelford, Brian Steven Shaw, Momoko Sugai, Brenna Wagner, Michael Wordly and Brittany Zeinstra. It was a pleasure to sit down with the lead Diana Huey who plays Ariel for this exclusive Hotspots Interview.
Were you always a performer, even as a kid or when did it start?
I always grew up doing the arts…dancing and singing. I got into theater when I was in middle school, and I never stopped. My family knew from the age of 3.
What was your first professional/paid gig?
My very first real gig was my senior year of college as I did a show called “Rodgers And…” It was a cabaret review of the Rodger and Hammerstein musicals. Martin Charnin was in the room. The University I attended did not allow us to do shows out of school, but I got special permission and I got the job on the spot and it was very exciting.
Other than Ariel, what has been your favorite role to play and why?
For me it's definitely Kim in Miss Saigon. It was the most rewarding piece of theater for me to do.
You are a Helen Hayes Award Winner for Best Leading Actress for Signature Theatre's Miss Saigon. How amazing was it to win that award and how has it helped your career?
I won it for my first job outside of Seattle. It was huge, and doing that show convinced me to permanently leave Seattle and move to New York. I totally stepped outside of the box, but that show gave me the confidence to do so. It was a huge changing point for me. So yes, it
helped my career because it convinced me to go for it.
What should the Central Florida audiences expect from this production of The Little Mermaid?
I think they should expect a really good time as you get to see and hear all your favorite songs from the movie. It is an expanded story, but we get to delve into each character more. But all the songs were written by Alan Menkin so it's the same feel. Also, in this touring version we are flying in harnesses to simulate swimming. It is so much fun. It's done by “Flying by Foy” who did Peter Pan and Wicked and they are amazing. On Broadway they
were on Roller Skates, but now we fly and it gives a much better and realistic feel.
Disney's The Little Mermaid plays from July 11 -16. Tickets prices start at $29 are available at the StrazCenter.or g. For mor e information on Diana Huey, go to DianaHuey.com Hotspots Central Florida
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hot shots
One Magical Weekend
Therapy Pool Parties
photos by j.r. davis
One Magical Weekend
Cadabra After Hours
English actor talks ‘sickening’ intolerance, waiting for the right queer role and Hunger Games gay fan fiction by chris azzopardi
A
After a breakout part in the “Hunger Games” saga, as dreamy tribute Finnick Odair, and now a starring role opposite Rachel Weisz in “My Cousin Rachel”, the odds certainly have been in Sam Claflin’s favor. Considering his winning streak, we’re holding out hope that a “Fifty Shades of Grey”-style rendezvous between him and the Hemsworth brothers – his idea, mind you – could be the British actor’s next major franchise. Till that blessed day comes, check out what the affable “Me Before You” looker has to say about finding the right gay role, how people are responding to his recent Hollywood body-shaming criticism and French gay porn.
“I actually got offered the role of a gay man in a TV series! But I didn’t think it was well enough written. I have auditioned for gay parts and not got them and desperately wanted them. It’s nothing I’m shying away from.”
I love seeing a woman in power, but, man, you really get jerked around in “My Cousin Rachel”.
(Laughs) Haven’t we all been there? Haven’t we all been in love and kind of swept off, though usually warned by friends? But, of course, Philip is a bit of a loner and left to his own devices, really. Love is blind, and it makes you do crazy things. (Laughs)
Growing up, what was your introduction to the gay community?
I got involved in musical theater at a young age and so that was an immediate part of my life. I mean, the second you kind of step onto the stage and embrace the arts, it becomes a part of you. And the second you open yourself up to becoming an actor and performing and exploring this industry in whatever capacity – any form
of art, really – there’s an openness, and it’s a really wonderful and incredibly rewarding industry to work in.
Plus, you’re British.
(Laughs) It does really upset me that people aren’t open-minded. People are still hung up on such a traditional old-world life, and people should be allowed to love who they want and be who they want and speak what they want and believe in what they want. I think it’s a shame that people are so narrow-minded that they believe their way is the only way. It’s sickening, in all honesty.
I don’t believe you have played a gay role, and I’m gonna let you give me one good reason why that hasn’t happened. Hotspots Central Florida
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(Laughs) I actually got offered the role of a gay man in a TV series! But I didn’t think it was well enough written. I have auditioned for gay parts and not got them and desperately wanted them. It’s nothing I’m shying away from. It’s something I fully embrace. And, actually, I have done it in plays during drama school, but it just hasn’t worked yet for me. But I’d jump at the chance. I’d be happy to do anything that was sort of good enough for me to kind of get my feet stuck in, like a meaty role, or an opportunity to work with a great director no matter what the story and no matter what the character.
How aware are you of your LGBT fanbase?
In all honesty, I kind of don’t know (laughs). What I mean is, any fans, really, I’m just – it’s always a surprise that someone from whatever country or walk of life (is a fan), and it just sort of amazes me that people travel so far and spend so much time waiting. It’s very humbling. It’s something that you can never really get used to. I think you’d be not a nice person if you got used to it. It’s a consistent shock and one that I try to embrace as best I can. I’m always so grateful that people are interested and do go out of their way to watch my movies and follow my social media. I feel very grateful and lucky and thankful.
Recently, you acknowledged being body-shamed on movie sets, and I’m glad you spoke out against the issue as it relates to male actors in Hollywood. There are many men in the LGBT community who deal with body-related issues.
You know, I’m like any human being on this planet; I have my insecurities. And it fascinates me that bringing it up in an interview resonated with so many people,
only because people seem surprised by the fact that happened. I’m like, are you kidding me? It’s been happening for decades and decades and decades. It’s just not talked about as much. It’s amazing that it has resonated and hit home for so many people. That is, unfortunately, the harsh reality of the world that we live in. We sort of live our lives through Instagram and Twitter and these filters, and we give people an insight into our lives, but we’re so, so picky about what it is that we share. It’s so kind of manipulative and it’s warped our reality. In actuality, how many people are Hollywood-ready 24/7? I think for me as a father and as a friend and as a son and as a husband, I wanna be around my loved ones – I don’t wanna be spending every day under the sun working out.
Actress Niecy Nash recently told The Cut, “Hollywood is a business that will often require you to be something else. But at some point you have to say, I’m going to be 100 percent who I am and be OK with that.” Does that resonate with you? When was the point in your career you decided to be your authentic self?
Don’t get me wrong: I wholly agree with what she said. But at the same time, also, one of the reasons I got into acting was because of my insecurities, I suppose. I enjoy hiding behind different characters. My social media feed doesn’t really reflect exactly what I’m doing. I am active on social media, but it’s not quite my life. That, to me, is private. And when I work I love exploring and having those other characters be
another side of me and sharing them with the world. In truth, I partly enjoy physically transforming myself for roles. Someone whose career I admire is Christian Bale; he mentally and emotionally goes to a different place every time, and he physically transforms himself and that’s always quite admirable. At the same time, to stand out from the crowd, and in order to put your stamp on your work, to have that confidence in yourself somewhat, you have to believe in yourself that you can do it. I still feel like I’m finding my own feet, and every day I’m learning something new. There will
definitely come a time when I’m 100 percent confident in myself, I hope. But I’m not quite there yet. As an actor, you kind of constantly panic about what people think, and we strive for perfection as actors, but the thing about being an actor is you’ll never be perfect.
Till then, we’ll always have you giving Josh Hutcherson CPR in “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire”. In fact, you had a real bromance there for a while, and you even said during an interview, “My mouth touching his was a beautiful moment.” When can we expect you to rekindle that fire?
You know, Josh is honestly one of my favorite people in the world. In all honesty, every time I go to Los Angeles – and I’ve only been there once since we finished “Hunger Games”, if you can believe it – I
always hope that I can actually hang with him, and I’m sure if he’s in London he knows he could give me a call. But yeah, hopefully something can be rekindled – that’s the hope. He’s one of my favorites.
“Hunger Games” fans have some of the wildest imaginations – and some pretty fantastic gay ideas for you, Josh and Liam Hemsworth. What are your thoughts on the gay fan fiction that’s been written about you three?
Fan fiction is one of those things I wish I knew more about. Someone was telling me that “Fifty Shades of Grey” was based on “Twilight” fan fiction. I didn’t realize there was an underworld with these kind of amazingly imaginative ideas. I had no idea! But I love Liam as much as I love – in fact, I love Chris Hemsworth. I love the entire Hemsworth family. I say we get all of us involved and we do a “Fifty Shades of Grey”. We can make it reality.
In “Me Before You”, there’s a recurrent joke regarding French gay porn. Please tell me that was based on an anecdote from your own life.
(Laughs) I can’t say I’ve watched _any_ French porn, actually. No, French porn is not something that I’ve seen before. However, now I’m intrigued!
As editor of Q Syndicate, the international LGBT wire service, Chris Azzopardi has interviewed a multitude of superstars, including Meryl Streep, Mariah Carey and Beyoncé. Reach him via his website at chrisazzopardi.com and on Twitter (@chrisazzopardi). Hotspots Central Florida
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A
After attending the CMT Music Awards in Tennessee
last year, Kelly Wells could not understand why her cell phone would not stop buzzing with calls and text messages at such a late hour. She thought people were calling to say they saw her on television. Kelly would never imagine that her friends from all over the world were frantically calling/texting her to insure she was OK and not involved with the deadliest mass shooting in US history. In the aftermath, Kelly and her team at Stigma Tattoo Bar came up with a project that would benefit the victims and the deceased victim’s families of the Pulse Nightclub tragedy. Kelly sat down with HotSpots Central to discuss her idea:
Can you name the exact moment that triggered you to start this
by Brett Yancey
fundraising idea that later turned into one of the biggest Pulse fundraising projects in Orlando?
Being away for my birthday, after waking up to multiple messages checking on us, we watched the horror unfold on the hotel room TV and checking FB for friend’s updates. We felt so extremely helpless! We were trying to think of what we could do, and we wanted to make a difference. Then a few people reached out to me personally and asked if we would we be offering Pulse tattoos like some other shops had started doing. We NEVER normally offer flash designs, since we are a custom only shop. However, it seemed like it was the most realistic way to make a difference. It was important to offer designs that
would create a sort of unified symbol of support. We all sat & created some designs, then narrowed it to a small variety of designs that would be easily recognized forever, and enable us to tattoo far more people, in turn raising more money!
Can you describe what happened when you held your first event on June 18th – The Saturday after the Pulse tragedy?
We posted about the event on the Wednesday, and prepped everything we could Thursday & Friday. We saw the number planned to attend growing by the hour so we knew we needed to prepare for more than the 20-30 people we originally expected. We woke up Saturday to texts from people telling us the line of people started to build at 7am and was wrapped around the
Kelly Wells block already. As each of us arrived that morning the crowd would see a Stigma shirt and roar with happiness. It was pretty amazing and overwhelming! We were ready to open at 12, and instantly our volunteers started to walk the line and offer water and entertainment! We got into a flow and were working our way along the line. It became increasingly obvious there were far more people in line that we could cope with. But the atmosphere was that of love and support so people were happy to sit and talk. They danced, drank and sang. We would let more people in to cool off in the AC as soon as there was space. We started to build a list of names along the line. Taking contact info to enable us to reach out to people who were unable to wait, or who were just too far back to get in. As the day progressed, we realized some were there from early morning and it was now 11pm! But instead of anger, there was love. Instead of people walking out mad, they were hugging us saying Thank you. We had NO CLUE how long people would have to wait, we
certainly tried as hard as we could to keep the process streamlined. News crews were there from all over the world to talk to the people of Orlando while they were getting tattooed. It was pretty amazing to see how much could be achieved in such a short time.
As of today, how many Pulse tattoos has Stigma Tattoo Bar inked on arious people?
We estimate we have tattooed Pulse designs on roughly 1000 people so far. It took about six to seven weeks after the main fundraising day to get through the eight to nine pages of names we took that day. We promised to prioritize those that came and waited that day. We did our very best to make that happen, our artists worked with people that wanted larger custom pieces too.....working many extra hours each day to make sure we could keep that promise. This was very important to all of us. Even some of volunteers came back in for the following weeks to help too!
To your knowledge, how much money has Stigma Tattoo Bar raised and donated to the One Pulse Foundation? We have donated approximately $17,000 so far.
Will there be any future fundraisers for the Pulse foundation held by your business?
We actually offered the designs again for the weekend of the 1yr Anniversary. Reducing our shop min from $75 to the $50, enabling clients to donate the $25 saving to the Pulse charity of their choosing if they chose to.
When you think back about all the Pulse tattoos that came from Stigma Tattoo Bar, can you pick your favorite one and tell us why it is your favorite?
How could I have a favorite? I love them all. The amazing this is, it's not so much about the designs chosen, it's what it means to each individual.
Kelly Wells is the owner of Stigma Tattoo in Orlando (17 S Orange Ave) and can be reached at kellystigma@icloud.com. You can also reach the shop at: 407-615-6926. Hotspots Central Florida
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As we approach National Tattoo Day on Monday, July 17, we thought we would ask some Central Florida residents to tell us about their tattoos.
Marissa Gray – Bicep – Pulse I’m proud of my city and, and I wanted a visual expression of my support for the community that has made me one of their own. To forever honor those we lost….and to serve as a reminder to cherish love, in all of its glorious colors.
Chuck Zell – Bicep – Pulse This tattoo is to honor those we lost on June 12th, 2016 and to pay tribute to this great community that we live in
Anthony Dejesus – Bicep This ink is to remind me that no matter what happens in my life, as long as I do everything from my heart, its coming from the right place.
orlando Sean Williams Arm Sleeve I got my first tattoo on my back as a tribute to my grandmother and became addicted to the ink. I found the fish for luck and decided to get it on my arm and added the baby fish to represent my family.
Chris Hannay - Arm Sleeve
tampa/st. pete
My sleeve is named “The evolution of Tadpole”, representing my growth from the time I was nicknamed “Tadpole” at Lava Lounge in 2002 until now through running Savoy Orlando and now Southern Nights Tampa with so many friends and a second family that has influenced me greatly throughout the past 15 years.
Colton Miller – Back – Phoenix I chose my tattoo to remind myself to embrace change and never be afraid to begin anew.
Steve Dawson – Arm Sleeve My sleeve is my favorite of all my ink because I have always been fascinated with muscle and the human art form. The bio mechanical piece in tied in as a Terminator or cyborg aspect to it(half man/half machine) – And I think it just looks badass!!
Tyler Harr – Side Torso This tattoo symbolized me letting go of the small things that brought me down and accepting the fact that tomorrow will bring another wave of happiness and let downs. Focusing on what makes you happy should be the goal.
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hot shots photos by pat o’rourke
Parliament House
Gay Days
Photos by Lee Vandergrift -
Wardrobe by Mojoman Swimwear & Clothing in Orlando and TheRuffRider.com
STEVE DAWSON 31 • Sagittarius
What is your Nationality?
Caucasian and Native American is all I really know.
What City do you live in? St Petersburg, FL
Are you single or married?
Very single
Perfect date? Don't date, but I love a good
walk on the beach or breaking a sweat.
What do you do for a living?
I'm the Shipping and Receiving Coordinator for a local, natural laundry products company. Also do some modeling on the side.
What do you do for fun?
For fun I love doing anything active, gym, thrills, beach, movies, food, and friends
What does the future hold for you?
The future hold endless potential and opportunities I can't wait to pursue.
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hot shots
Gaydays
Pool Parties
photos by stephen r. lang & brett yancey
Gaydays
Mr. Gaydays Leather
need wood
by woody miller
H
Hey Woody: My boyfriend of approximately 14 months is a hardcore bottom. I've always been the top and that's the way we both like it. The problem in our relationship is that he's a wimpy bottom. Sometimes I have to beg and plead for me to f-k him. He claims he's sore a lot and I have to admit he's in so much pain it sometimes sounds like I'm raping him. I'm frustrated because most hardcore bottoms in my past have been “eager beavers” and were always ready and willing to get plowed. I love this guy, but I'm frustrated. What can we do? How can I make my sweet wholesome boyfriend trashy in the sheets, but not in the streets? --- Hard & Hoping Dear Hard: There are two issues here—his libido and your stupidity. Solve your problem and you'll probably solve his. Listen to yourself, blockhead—“he's in so much pain it feels like I'm raping him”. Never, ever, proceed with a sex act when someone is in pain. I'd claim a low sex drive too if Iknew my a-- was in for a turkey-stuffing reaming by the Fistmaster General. Without meaning to you've taught him to associate f--king with pain. You need to undo what shrinks call “negative reinforcement.” Here's how: Stop f--king him. Back off and let your fingers do the walking. With lots of lube. Explore his love hole with only one thing in
A LADY IN THE STREET...AND THE BED? mind—finding out the difference between his pleasure and pain points. Figure out what he likes. There's a real easy way to do that: Ask him. Eventually he'll be ready for the real thing, but don't give it to him. Make him go from begging off to begging for it. After a couple of weeks of stuffing everything but yourself into him he'll be climbing the walls for it. Remember, the fastest way to get what you want in bed is to slow down and give your partner what he needs. He needs a kinder, gentler lover. You need a shot of common sense—straight up with no chaser.
Hey Woody! I love getting plugged with sex toys and this guy I went home with last month picked up on it right away. He pulls out a box of sex toys and of course, there were hearts in my eyes. Until I saw
some crud on them. I wasn't stupid enough to use them but it got me thinking about my own toys. Namely, am I cleaning them the right way? I just use soap and water. Should I use anything else? --- Toyman Dear Toyman: Soap and water is enough to clean most d-ldos and vibrators if you're only using them on yourself or the same partner. But if you're diddling so many guys your bed has an odometer, it isn't enough. You need to sterilize them. Silicone or acrylic toys can be run through the dishwasher or boiled in water (at least 3 minutes) to destroy microorganisms. Or use diaper wipes, but make sure they're made with nonoxynol9, alcohol and benzylkonium chloride. Or just use diluted household bleach (1 part bleach, 10 parts water).
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