Central Florida Edition October 2018
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on the inside
Central Florida Edition October 2018
Returning to the US Interview with The Naked Magicians’ Christopher Wayne as they return to the US, with a few stops in Florida.
content: • What’s Hot Central Florida • Hot Bodies • Hot Advice
this month’s features: • Come Out with Pride OOrlando • Naked Magicians • DJ Sklars • Play That Goes Wrong
hot shots • Around Tampa Bay with Amy De Milo • Thirsty First • Southern Nights Tampa • TIGLFF Launch
What’s HOT ...everything you need to plan your month
MONDAY
PARADE + ENTERTAINMENT +
TUESDAY
DRAG RACE 5K
WEDNESDAY
REEL PRIDE FILM SCREENING “MAR” directed by William Vitoria
comeoutwithpr
HOUSE OF PRIDE featuring Jose Xtravaganza
CELEBRATE THE LGBTQ+ COMMUNITY BEFORE, DURING AND AFTER PRIDE WITH A FULL WEEK OF EVENTS
OCTOBER 13
THURSDAY
+ FESTIVAL + FIREWORKS
WEEKEND LAUNCH featuring Frenchie Davis
FRIDAY BLOCK PARTY featuring Luciana
WEEKEND
ride.org/events
O H W Y T T E B CE STAGE M ARKETPLA
SPONSORED
BY
CRYSTAL WATERS F PA RTNERS O E AG ST SS RE G PRO
SPONSORED
BY
BRUNCH
C
Come Out With Pride (COWP) is proud to announce the 14th annual Come Out With Pride Grand Marshals: Community Grand Marshal Nancy Rosado, and Talent Grand Marshal Carson Kressley. Grand Marshals are selected by the COWP Board members and are selected based on their service to the LGBTQ+ community. The parade will be held on Saturday, October 13, with the festival opening at noon at Lake Eola Park and the parade step off is at 4pm at Lake Eola Park. COWP is expanding to a full week of events designed to bring together the LGBTQ+ and allied communities around Central Florida and beyond. “We are truly honored to have activist Nancy Rosado and International star Carson Kressley as Come Out With Pride Grand Marshals,” said Jeff Prystajko, board president of Come Out With Pride. “Rosado's contributions to the expansion of LGBTQ+ and LatinX equality are unparalleled. Kressley is part of our community and stands for equality for all.” Carson Kressley is an actor and designer. He was the fashion expert on the original Queer
Eye for the Straight Guy where he was one of the show's "Fab Five." He was also the motivational host of the TV show How to Look Good Naked and OWN's Carson Nation, as well as a contestant on season 13 of Dancing with the Stars. Since 2015, Kressley has been a judge on RuPaul's Drag Race. Nancy Rosado served as a Sergeant for the New York Police Department (NYPD). She has more than 35 years of combined professional experience in mental health care, law enforcement, community affairs and workforce development and training. During her tenure, she spearheaded the creation of the department's mental health care response for on-scene first responders following the World Trade Center attack on 9/11. Currently, Rosado is employed with the 'University of Central Floridas Restores Program, a program that focuses on the treatment of PTSD, as a consultant and outreach coordinator for the first responder community, survivors of the Pulse Nightclub tragedy and their families as well as the victims of Hurricanes Irma and Maria. She is also involved with several
nonprofits across Central Florida focused on furthering LatinX and LBGTQ+ communities. This year, international pop star Betty Who will headline the brand new Pride Stage. Betty Who has elevated herself as a dance-music star with hits, including “Somebody Loves You”, “I Love You Always Forever,” “Human Touch,” and most recently the remixed theme song “All Things” for Netflix's hit show Queer Eye. Crystal Waters, one of Billboard Magazine's top dance music legends, will headline the Amphitheater Stage. Waters, best known for “Gypsy Woman (She's Homeless)” and “100 Percent Pure Love” boasts six ASCAP Songwriter Awards, three American Music Award nominations, a MTV Video Music Award nod and four Billboard Music Awards. Frenchie Davis, will headline the Weekend Launch Party. Davis first highlighted her talents on American Idol, and she was in the Top 8 on NBC's show “The Voice” and has performed on Broadway. Since its inception in 2005, COWP has become Central Florida's largest LGBTQ+ parade and festival. This year, COWP is expected to attract more than 160,000 visitors to the city of Orlando. Events for Orlando Pride Week, Monday, October 8 and run through Sunday, October 14, include:
Monday, October 8 Come Out With Pride and Zebra Coalition invites you to the Drag Race 5K at Harbor Park in Baldwin Park from 5–8 p.m. Put on your best colorful outfit, your favorite running shoes and get moving! Join several local Drag personalities and hundreds of participants as they run, walk and sashay their way through Baldwin Park. Tuesday, October 9 Come Out With Pride and QLatinx present a screening of the Portuguese film MAR (The Sea) at the venue from 5-10pm. This award-winning short film portrays love, betrayal, and moving on from the harm inflicted by loved ones and depicts how every family has its many methods of coping with LGBTQ+ related situations and outcomes. Director William Vitoria will be conducting a Q&A immediately following the film. Light bites and refreshments will be available.
Wednesday, October 10 House of Pride at Ace Café from 7–11:30 p.m.In the past, the nightclub culture was the very place that many LGBTQ+ individuals could go and live freely. For one night only, one of Orlando's premier dance clubs, The Edge, now ACE Café, will make a comeback and present the outrageous music, dancing and entertainment that paved the way for generations to come. Bringing back one of the most successful gay nights in Orlando would not be complete without the inclusion of some of Orlando's top drag houses. Jose Xtravaganza will be performing. Thursday, October 11 In partnership with the Thornton Park District's Wine & Art Walk, Come Out With pride will take over The Veranda in Thornton Park for the annual Pride Weekend Launch Party from 6-11pm. Hosted by Orlando's own Gidget Galone, the event will showcase a variety of entertainment and special performances from DJ Joanie as well as some of Orlando's top LGBTQ+ performers. The event is free and open to the public. Guests can upgrade their experience with the Weekend Launch Party All-Access Pass.
Friday, October 12 Pride Block Party presented by Stonewall Bar Orlando from 7-11:30pm. Join Come Out With Pride and the surrounding neighborhood for a night of fun and camaraderie before the weekend festivities. Special appearance by LUCIANA. Saturday October 13 Big Gay Brunch Hosted by Orlando Weekly at The Abbey; 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Start the day with an amazing brunch spread, bottomless mimosas, a Bloody Mary bar and live performances from local entertainers. SponsorWalk & Pride Marketplace at Lake Eola Park from 12-7 p.m. is presented by Marriott, and will showcase businesses and organizations committed to diversity. The Marketplace expands in 2018 to stretch the length of Robinson Street adjacent to the park. Pride Takes Action, an initiative designed to connect festivalgoers with advocacy groups, returns with more activities to educate and engage. The Most Colorful Parade at Lake Eola Park from 4-6 p.m. is presented by SunTrust and is the most eagerly anticipated event of this year's festival and will feature more than 100 groups spanning a 1-mile route through downtown Orlando. New this year are guest judges to help determine which entries will be deemed best of show. A community rally and two entertainment stages follow the parade to keep the energy going.
Pride Fireworks Show at Lake Eola Park at 9:30 p.m. marks the official close of the Come Out With Pride 2018 festival. A limited number of tickets are available for “Picnic Under the Stars”, where guests will receive a blanket and assorted food/drink to watch the fireworks from an exclusive and cozy area. Sunday, October 14 Pride Recovery Brunch at Celine Orlando from 11 a.m.–2 p.m. where they invite you to enjoy Sunday Funday with Come Out With Pride for one last delicious brunch spread at one of downtown's newest venues. While you recover, enjoy live music and performances from local entertainers.
For updates on the official 2018 schedule of events for Orlando Pride Week, visit their website or follow along on Facebook with @comeoutwithpride. Come Out With Pride Orlando would like to thank its sponsors including Marriott (SponsorWalk & Pride Marketplace), Suntrust (Parade), Perry Ellis and Penguin (Pride Stage), Nissan (Pride Amphitheater stage), Banfield (PetZone), CFE Credit Union (ATM), Tito's Handmade Vodka and Celebrity Cruise Lines (VIP Experience), Hilton Grand Vacation (Face of Pride Screen) and more than 50 additional organizations who are committed to supporting the LGBTQ+ community.
About Come Out With Pride Come Out With Pride, Inc. is an all-volunteer 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization inspired to make an impact in Orlando's LGBTQ+ community. Celebrated in October, Come Out With Pride welcomes everyone from Central Florida and beyond to come together and celebrate diverse communities. Come Out With Pride is also dedicated to supporting the community through grants and scholarships via its 'Pride Gives Back' program. For more information, go to comeoutwithpride.com.
what’s hot everything you need to know
to plan your month
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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 this month? Read on! Saturday, October 6 The Amway center presents LIT AF tour hosted by Martin Lawrence. Lawrence stars as the high-powered host of 2018's hottest comedy event, presenting a fire lineup of comedians including Michael Blackson, Jay Pharoah, Adele Givens and Clayton Thomas. Coming off the 20th anniversary of Def Comedy Jam, where he is known for his legendary hosting, Lawrence has made a
triumphant return to the stand-up stage wowing audiences with his signature style of hilarious stories, social commentary and more. Tickets start at $57 at Amwaycenter.com. Southern Nights Tampa presents Pearl from RuPaul's Drag Race Season 7! Showtime is at 12 midinight and stars Roxxxy Andrews, Jade Embers, and Pearl.
Thursday, Oct 11 Starting today and going through October 14 the Tampa Improv presents the one and only Lunell, who is a force of nature. This talented comedienne, actress and singer, was born in Tollette, Arkansas, a town whose population barely registers with the U.S. census. Best know for her breakthrough role as the “hooker with the heart of gold” in the blockbuster comedy Borat. Luenell is recognized by both mainstream AND urban sectors of the population. Tickets start at $20 at improvtampa.com. The Straz Center for the Performing Arts presents “The Naked Magicians,” who have been seen on London's West End, in 200+ cities around the world and by more than 50 million on television. The Naked Magicians is undoubtedly the
world's funniest and naughtiest magic show! The show features magic, mirth and more than a touch of mayhem as these two hot and hilarious Aussie magicians say “abracadabra” and take magic to a whole new level. Left without sleeves or pockets, their saucy magic is baffling and entertaining, bringing a new meaning to “now you see it.” Tickets start at $25 at StrazCenter.org. The Amway center presents Chayanne. After more than two years out of the spotlight, renowned international
singer Chayanne, returns to the stage with his new tour: Desde El Alma. Tickets start at $51 at AmwayCenter.com Friday, October 12 The Amalie Arena presents Romeo Santos in his “Golden Tour.” “[Romeo's] ability to keep viewers on the edge of their seats is overwhelmingly tangible, as his flawless vocals span for over two hours… It's his prowess on stage and expert musicianship that have made him this generation's bachata legend.” – Billboard.
Tickets start at $35.75 at AmalieArena.com. Today and tomorrow, The Orlando Improv presents Sheryl Underwood, who is a savvy businesswoman,
philanthropist and a multifaceted, multi-media entrepreneur who is recognized as one of the most articulate, well-informed women of our time. Underwood is co-host of the Emmy award winning CBS television show The Talk, watched by an average of 3+ million viewers per day and is a much sought after entertainer and public speaker who is described as one of the world's brightest contemporary humorists. Tickets start at $27 at TheImprovOrlando.com. Presented by Stonewall Bar Orlando, join Come Out With Pride and the surrounding neighborhood for a night of fun and camaraderie before the weekend festivities as they block off Church street and bring a Block Party that Orlando has always Wanted. There will be a special appearance by "LUCIANA," and the cover is only $2. The event will feature vendors, food, 4 DJs, amazing all star entertainment, and much more. Saturday October 13 The biggest day of the year in
Orlando is here as we all celebrate “Come Out With Pride” around Lake Eola. For more information, see the feature in this month's Hotspots Central or go to ComeOutWithPride.org. In honor of Orlando Pride, Stonewall Bar Orlando in association with Neema's Amore (Upscale Latin Saturdays) presents the cast of FX's Pose with Mj Rodriguez "Blanca"; Billy Porter "Pray Tell"; Dominique Jackson "Elektra" ; and Indya Moore "Angel." Presale tickets are only $17 plus tax (300 presale tickets only being sold), and at the door tickets will be: $20 (8pm till 9pm); $25 (9pm till 11pm) and $30
(11pm till 2am). Meet and Greet can only be purchased at the entrance for only $10 extra. Tuesday, October 16 The Straz Center for the Performing Arts presents “The Play That Goes Wrong” from today through October 21. What would happen if Sherlock Holmes and Monty Python had an illegitimate Broadway baby? You'd get THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG, Broadway and
London's award-winning smash comedy! Called “a gutbusting hit” (The New York Times) and “the funniest play Broadway has ever seen” (HuffPost), this classic murder mystery is chock-full of mishaps and madcap mania delivering “a riotous explosion of comedy” (Daily Beast). Welcome to opening night of The Murder at Haversham Manor where things are quickly going from bad to utterly disastrous. With an unconscious leading lady, a corpse that can't play dead, and actors who trip over everything (including their lines), it's “tons of fun for all ages” (HuffPost) and “comic gold” (Variety) – sure to bring down the house! Tickets start at $51 at StrazCenter.org Friday, October 19 Southern nights Orlando's Flex Fridays presents RuPaul's Drag Race superstar Alyssa Edwards from season 5 and All Stars Season 2. In aaddition,t hey will be featuring Drag Shows at 11pm and 12:30am with Roxxxxy Andrews, Tasha Long, Maya Andrews, and Sassy Devine! (Alyysa will also be appearing at Sothern Nights Tampa on Saturday October 20). Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts presents The Doobie Brothers who have
been delivering mindblowing, roots-based, harmony-laden, guitar-driven rock and roll for over four decades, selling more than 48 million albums and winning four Grammy Awards. They released their latest album, Southbound, in November 2014 on with country music's biggest stars including Blake Shelton, Zac Brown Band, Brad Paisley and Toby Keith. Boasting one of the most loyal fan bases in music, the band continues to write and
record new material and tour the world. Tickets start from: $49.50 at DrPhillipscenter.org Saturday, October 20 Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts presents Lewis Black: The Joke's on US Tour. Following 2017's highly successful The Rant, White & Blue Tour, prepare yourself for The Joke's On US Tour! Known as the king of the rant, Lewis Black uses his trademark style of comedic yelling and animated fingerpointing to skewer anything and anyone that gets under his skin. Tickets starts at $39.50 at DrPhillipsCenter.org Friday, October 26 Timberly presents “Bare Beef” Orlando's only live Halloween tribute of the Rocky Horror Picture Show at Stonewall bar Orlando. This
is a fundraising event for the Orlando Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence. The night will feature a 1am costume contest with a $250 cash prize. Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts presents Bob Dylan and His Band. Bob Dylan is an American singersongwriter, author, and artist who has been an influential figure in popular music and culture for more than five decades. Dylan has sold more than 100 million records, making him one of the best-selling music artists of all time. He has received numerous awards including eleven Grammy Awards, a Golden Globe Award and an Academy Award. He has also been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Minnesota Music Hall of
Fame, Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame and Songwriters Hall of Fame. Tickets start at $59.50 at DrPhillpsCenter.org. Southern Nights Orlando presents the one and only Todrick Hall. The night will also feature drag shows at
11pm& 12:30am featuring Roxxxy Andrews, Tasha Long, Maya Andrews, Sassy Devine& Todrick! Todrick will also be performing at Southern Nights Tampa on Saturday October 27) Tuesday, October 30 Starting tonight and going
through November 4, Fairwinds Broadway in Orlando presents “Jersey Boys,” they were just four guys from Jersey—until they sang their very first note. They had a sound nobody had ever heard and the radio just couldn't get enough of. But while their harmonies were perfect onstage, offstage it was a very different story—a story that has made them an international sensation all over again. Go behind the music and inside the story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons in the Tony Award–winning true-life musical phenomenon, Jersey Boys. From the streets of New Jersey to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, this is the musical that's just too good to be true. Featuring the legendary top-ten hits “Sherry”, “Big Girls Don't Cry”,
“Walk Like A Man”, “Can't Take My Eyes Off You”, and “December, 1963 (Oh What A Night)”. Tickets start at $39.25 at DrPhillpsCenter.org.
Email WhatsHot@HotspotsMedia.com to have your event considered for “What’s Hot.”
hot shots photos by tony fowler
TIGLFF Launch Party The Vault
around tampa bay by amy demilo
Hamburger Mary’s Tampa.
Tyler and company at Drag Queen Bingo.
Cutest bartenders @ G St Pete.
Dancer auditions, I think he’ll get it!
Fifi Dubois visiting family in Tampa.
This is Dee hanging in the dressing room!
By Scott Holland
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The Naked Magicians Return to Central Florida Exclusive Interview with Christopher Wayne
The Naked Magicians are returning to the US with a few stops in Florida including the Straz Center for the Performing Arts on October 11. This show stars Mike Tyler and Christopher Wayne, two of Australia's most famous magicians. The duo will forego top hats and capes for full frontal illusions complete with magic, muscles and endless laughs. Perfect for date night or the ultimate “Boys Night Out,” The Naked Magicians have performed -- and undressed -- for millions of fans in more than 200 cities and seven countries. “Good magicians don't need sleeves and great magicians don't need pants,” says Tyler. “When we say 'abracadabra,' the audience isn't always looking at our hands.” The 33-year old buff bros went from best friends to partners in prestidigitation following several boisterous audience members asking them to make their clothes disappear. "It's kind of crazy because magic is the second-oldest profession ever and we couldn't believe that no one had combined the two things that everyone loves — magic and nudity," says Wayne. The broad-shouldered Wayne and proud
owner of a freakishly long tongue is the first Australian magician in TV history to have his own TV series (More Than Magic). The sporty tan lines and incredible physique seen on stage hint at Tyler's Speedo-wearing days when he swam competitively at the Australian National Championships and Pan Pacific Games before becoming a professional magician. “Being on stage doing magic without relying on pockets or sleeves does add that extra challenge and ups our game,” Wayne says. It was a pleasure to sit down with Christopher Wayne for this exclusive Hotspots Interview:
At what age did you see your first magician, who was it, and how did it affect you? Despite the nature of our act, my love for magic is innocent and the first magician I saw was David Copperfield with my grandfather. David Copperfield is still my favorite magician, and he is someone that I got to meet and am so thankful to know.
When did you do your first Magic trick and what was it? Even though I was young when I saw David, I
didn't start doing magic until I was 21, and trust me it was a shitty trick where you put your assistant's head in box with some fake swords. I thought it was amazing at the time, but it was horrible.
When did you realize Magic would be your career? I was working full time at a cookie factory and at about 23, and I wasn't happy. I asked myself what would be my ultimate job and I said Magic and I forced myself to get into it.
When did you meet Mike Tyler and when did you decide to work together? I met mike in our hometown of Brisbane. I was at an event where he was the entertainment. He was the best magician I had ever seen. I introduced myself afterwards and within a year we became best friends. We were both passionate about creating something new in our industry and we became partners.
When you got together was it always naked or when did you decide to incorporate the nudity and why?
normal. One of the best parts of my job is I get to explore the world, and local towns.
What should the Central Florida audiences expect from The Naked Magicians? I have 2 answers to that question. The funny answer, which is: Magic mike with actual magic. The real answer is they should expect 3 things: the funniest comedy show you will ever see. The most amazing magic show you have ever seen, and to see it being by 2 buff Aussie's that are wearing nothing but a top hat and a smile.
Is there anything I haven't asked you that want to talk about? Actually yes: America has contributed largely to the success of our show, and our first ever shows in the US were in Tampa and Fort Lauderdale, so Mike and I have a special place in our hearts for Florida. Also, this is an inclusive show, and we love seeing people from every background in our audience.
From the beginning we knew we needed some gimmick, something special and original and the naked gimmick came about.
How nerve racking was it to be naked and are you still nervous? The first time I almost threw up, and Mike was having heart palpitations. Naked and speaking in public, are probably the 2 things people fear the most and we put them both into one bit. However, once we did it, it was the most exhilarating this ever. We immediately knew we had something special. Now we don't event think twice about it.
The Naked Magicians come to the Straz Center for the Performing Arts om Thursday, October 11 at 7:30pm, with tickets starting at $25 at StrazCenter.org. For more information, go to nakedmagicians.com.
What is your favorite trick and why? It is the finale of our show. You have to come see it to understand. There is nothing funnier or bolder in any magic trick on this planet. It is pure unadulterated magic.
What do you do for fun? My favorite things to do is running and going to the movies. I love the escapism of it, and it's the place I feel the most
Christopher Wayne
hot shots photos by tony fowler
Southern Nights Tampa NeiBEARhood Takeover
Love where you live.
Skyline Fifth. On the corner of hip and cool.
skylinefifthapartments.com 727.327.1444
By Scott Holland
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When did you realize you wanted to be a DJ? During the 1980s, I would listen to “American Top 40� with Casey Kasem every Sunday morning and write down every song and where it charted, how far it climbed and dropped weekly. I was always impressed with his voice and knowledge with music and I wanted to be just like him. I would come
home every day after school and go to my room for hours just playing records and talking pretending I was on a radio station. I worked in radio starting when I was a senior in high school and knew at that point music and DJing was always going to be a part of me. In high school I was known as a walking encyclopedia of music.
“The fact that I was accepted so quickly in the club scene is unbelievable.”
Even though I've been DJing since 16, whether it was for weddings, graduations, and on the radio, DJing in the club scene is newer to me than other DJs. My first residency is Cristoph's in Tampa. The feeling is amazing. The fact that I was accepted so quickly in the club scene is unbelievable. I have friends who are DJs in other clubs and remember saying how I wish I could be at their level, and here I am now at the same level in a short amount of time with DJs that I admire and respect.
What separates you from other DJs? I've noticed a lot of DJs in different venues throughout the years don't really interact a lot of times with the crowd in their club. Yes, we are busy making sure the mixes are on point and don't have dead air, but I also believe there is time to socialize with the crowd and get to know them. I'm very social when I'm out regardless if I'm DJing or just having a drink. I like to come out of the booth every once in a while and talk to everyone, have conversations so I can get to know them and they can get to know me. This makes the crowds realize that I am approachable and thankful for them every week.
What are some memorable moments from the DJ booth? I'd say the most memorable moments from the DJ booth are watching the reactions to the crowd I'm playing too when I play their favorite song. Watching them smile, scream, dance, and come thank me for making their night. Knowing that it was my set making them happy is something I will always remember.
Other than DJing, what do you like to do for fun? I love jet skiing, boating, taking my dog to the dog park/beach, bowling, traveling, country line dancing, and roller coasters
Describe yourself in 3 words? Charismatic, Humble, and Personable
PHOTO: J. Marc Photo
What does the future hold for you? I'm always going to grow as a DJ and never take things for granted. I'm very fortunate to be where I am today and plan on doing what I was meant to do. Making people happy by doing what I love to do…Playing music!
DJ SKLars 2018’s Top 10 (so far) Where are you from, and what brought you to South Florida? Originally from a small town in Central New York (Ilion), moved to Nashville in 1994 to pursue my degree in Music Business and moved to Tampa in 2006 after my mom passed away to be closer to my dad.
What was your first residency, and how did that feel?
1. This is Me – Keala Settle 2. Never Enough – Loren Allred 3. Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! (A Man After Midnight)– Cher 4. I Wanna Know What Love Is – Beth Sacks Ft. DJ Aron 5. Dem Beats – Todrick Hall Ft. RuPaul 6. No Tears Left To Cry – Ariana Grande 7. Make Me Feel – Janelle Monae 8. God Is A Woman – Ariana Grande 9. Dancing – Kylie Minogue 10. The Middle – Zedd Ft. Maren Morris
By Scott Holland
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The Play That Goes Wrong, the hilarious Tony Award-winning hit Broadway comedy, will make its Tampa debut at the Straz Center's Morsani Hall, Oct. 16-21, as part of Bank of America Broadway at The Straz also sponsored by the Tampa Bay Times. Co-written by Mischief Theatre company members Henry Lewis, Jonathan Sayer and Henry Shields, The Play That Goes Wrong is a riotous comedy about the theatre. The play introduces the 'Cornley University Drama Society' who are attempting to put on a 1920s' murder mystery, but as the title suggests, everything that can go wrong … does, as the accident-prone thespians battle on against all odds to get to their final curtain call. Entertainment Weekly calls The Play That Goes Wrong “Hilarious! Non-stop pandemonium.” The Huffington Post calls it “The funniest play Broadway has ever seen!” And the New York Post says it's “Broadway's
Blair Baker funniest and longest-running play! Nothing is as fall down funny. GO.” The Broadway production of The Play That Goes Wrong opened at the Lyceum Theatre on April 2, 2017. The show, which was slated to close on Broadway in August of this year, will extend its run due to popular demand through Jan. 6, 2019. By then, the Broadway production will have played 27 previews and 745 performances, making it the second longest running show in the history of the Lyceum Theatre. The Play That Goes Wrong received a Tony Award for Best Set Design, Broadway.com's Audience Choice Award for Best Play, and the Theater Fans Choice Award for Best Play. It is a remarkable rags-to-riches story for a play which started its life at a London fringe venue with only four paying members of the
public at the first performance and has gone on to play to an audience of more than two million people around the world. Mischief Theatre, the Olivier Award-winning theatre company led by Artistic Director Henry Lewis and Company Director Jonathan Sayer, was founded in 2008 by a group of graduates of The London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA) and began as an improvised comedy group. Mischief Theatre performs across the UK and internationally with improvised and original scripted work. It was a pleasure to sit down with one of the featured players of The Play That Goes Wrong, Blair Baker, who is also a member of our LGBT community, for this Hotspots Central exclusive interview. At what age did acting become an interest? I grew up in theater, but it didn't really dawn on me that is was something I can do as a profession until I saw the Heiress starring Cherry Jones. I was introverted and this play is about an introverted person who finds her power, and it got me excited about acting. What was your fist paid gig? A commercial for Abington hospital in Philadelphia. This was also my first commercial audition and I was 20 years old. When did you know acting/performing would be your career? As soon as I figured out I wanted to do it at 11, I started training and went to acting classes, acting school and conservatory in New York. I immediately committed to it and never really had a plan B. What was your favorite role other than the ones in this show? A year ago I was lucky enough to play Hamlet in a gender non-conforming Hamlet. A lot of the roles were switched. It was a very cool production. What is your fantasy role? I would love another crack at Hamlet. I also really want to play the Cherry Jones Role in The Heiress as I think it would be an amazing way to go full circle. How is to being an out gay person travelling with a show? It's very interesting and wonderful. For the first time in my life, I have fully accepted who I am. I wasn't in the closet, I just wasn't very forthcoming with the information. Since playing Hamlet I fully now embrace my
sexuality and my gender non-conforming presentation. This is the first time I am being my full self and I am loved and accepted by everyone on the cast. What should our readers expect from: The Play That Goes Wrong? Hilarity, as it is such a fun time. I saw it when it first opened on Broadway and I am a very serious theater goer, but this play made me laugh the entire time. The play has something for everybody. I still laugh to this day.
The Play That Goes Wrong will play the Straz Center's Morsani Hall, Oct. 16-21. Performances are Tuesday-Thursday at 7:30 p.m., Friday at 8 p.m., Saturday at 2 and 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 and 7:30 p.m. Regularly priced tickets are $51-$125 and may be purchased by calling 813.229.STAR (7827), in person at the Straz Center Ticket Office or online at strazcenter.org.
For more information on The Play That Goes Wrong, go to: BroadwayGoesWrong.com Blairbaker.info • Inst/@blaircbaker
hot bodies By Tom Bonanti
Start Your Day Like a Champion: Eat Breakfast!
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What's the first thing on your mind in the morning once you bound out of bed? Conference calls, meetings at work, e-mails to answer, appointment at the vet, call the service guy to check your AC- all these and more are vying for your time and attention. As you shower and groom, you try to prioritize what you need to tackle first. Occasionally, when you think of it, you grab a day-old doughnut or gulp down a bowl of cereal. Then you're off and running. Well, I hate to break this to you, but your priorities are messed up and your day just might suffer for it! When you skip breakfast, your body goes into a starvation mode, so it responds by storing fat more readily. Without a healthy dose of protein
first thing in the morning, your muscles have nothing to draw from for growth and recovery. This is especially daunting if you're trying to make gains in the gym. Without a hefty dose of complex carbs early in the day, your metabolism will go down the tubes and you simply won't have the energy your body needs to survive the day. Quite possibly the best nutritional tip anyone could benefit from is to eat breakfast like a champion and make sure never to skip this first and most essential meal of the day. Here's a list of 8 of the top healthiest breakfast foods ever! They're loaded with nutrients, taste delicious, convenient, and damned easy to fix!
2. Bananas are quick and easy to eat, but they're also sodium free and packed full of potassium which helps to regulate blood pressure. 3. Berries and prunes are loaded with vitamin K, antioxidants, and plenty of fiber which helps to keep cholesterol levels in check and prevents the onset of type2 diabetes. 4. Eggs contain 13 essential nutrients including protein for strong muscles, vitamin B for a healthy metabolism, and choline which is great for improving memory. 5. Grapefruit is tasty and refreshing, and it's loaded with vitamin C to help boost your immune system. 6. Non-fat Greek yogurt has twice the amount of protein as regular yogurt, and you can eat it by itself or with berries, nuts, or any other breakfast food. 7. Oatmeal, provided you're not gluten intolerant, helps you reduce bad cholesterol levels, and it's full of potassium and omega-3 fatty acids. 8. Porridge is not just for Goldilocks and the 3 Bears! Quinoa porridge with almond milk (and maybe some nuts and berries, cinnamon and chopped apples) packs a dynamite protein punch, and at the same time it's a great option for vegans, vegetarians, and those who are avoiding gluten.
1. Almond butter on toast or an English muffin is a great source of protein and monounsaturated fats, making it an especially good choice for vegans who avoid eggs and dairy.
Tom Bonanti is a personal trainer and massage therapist (MA40288) with his own one on one training studio in Ft. Lauderdale www.pumpnincgym.com. Contact trainertomb@aol.com 954.557.1119 with questions or to schedule a free fitness intake today!
hot shots photos by harry demasiado
Thirsty First Drag Show
hot advice By Andreus Quinones
The Worst Taste in Men & A Bored Boyfriend “There are key factors in this type of situation, such as; (1) the amount of time you spend together, (2) do you share common interest (3) do you want and/or expect the same things from your relationship.”
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Dear Andreus, I have the worst taste in men, or should I say bad luck. Every time I invest in someone it doesn't work. I am so tired of trying. I meet these beautiful guys, and they always suck the life out of me. They want money, or a place to live, or drugs or something else. I don't know what to do. I am starting to feel like there is something wrong with me. Why can't I get it right? I want to have a relationship so badly. Where is my happily ever after. Sincerely, Heartbroken Dear Heartbroken, Let's start at the beginning. First of all, desperation is not attractive. We can sometimes project that without even realizing it. Maybe you wanting to have a relationship so badly shows, and is causing you to attract the wrong people. You must look within to find out what your insecurities are, and address them. Next, it seems as if you are attracting needy people, which means that your behavior is showing something that attracts that type of person. You want a relationship, so you entertain them, while they get what they want. This is what we call “co-dependent behavior.” Don't worry, it's not the end of the world, and you can still have your “happily ever after.” Get to know yourself first, work on your flaws and your strengths. When you are out there meeting people, be confident. Be brave, be bold and don't settle for anything less than
you deserve. It is up to you to set the standard. You are not Goodwill or Salvation Army. Stop giving so much, unless it is reciprocated. The only exception is if you are going to claim them as a dependent on your taxes!!
Dear Andreus, My boyfriend seems to be bored with me. We go out and he is so happy to see everyone else, then when we leave, it's like he doesn't even want to talk. Our sex life has diminished as well. What do I do? Sincerely, Lonely Boyfriend Dear Lonely Boyfriend, It seems like communication is the problem. As difficult and as painful as it may be, you are going to have to find a way to talk. Clearly something has changed in the dynamic of your relationship. The only way to find that out is to ask questions. There are key factors in this type of situation, such as; (1) the amount of time you spend together, (2) do you share common interest (3) do you want and/or expect the same things from your relationship. In essence, it sounds as if maybe your boyfriend is bored, or is looking for something more. Find out what is lacking, and try to address those things with an open mind. The mistake that most people make in relationship is complacency. They get too comfortable, and someone gets bored. You should treat your boyfriend/partner as if every day is your first date. Spontaneity is everything!!