Central Florida Edition July 2018
Publisher/Marketing Director Peter Clark Peter@HotspotsMedia.com
Associate Publisher Scott Holland Scott@HotspotsMedia.com
Editor Bill Henning Bill@HotspotsMedia.com
Accounting Brian Burda Brian@HotspotsMedia.com
Art Director Maria Espinal Maria@HotspotsMedia.com
On The Cover Cesar and Jeremy photographed by Dennis Dean
Graphics Graphics@HotspotsMedia.com
Frank Mendez
Sales Team Brett Yancey 813-253-9107 Brett@HotspotsMedia.com
National Advertising Rivendell Media 212-242-6863 sales@rivendellmedia.com
Feature Writers Scott Holland | Chris Azzopardi Brett Yancey | Tom Bonanti D’anne Witkowski
Photographers
CONTACT US Central Florida Office: 813-253-9107 11 N. Summerlin Avenue, Suite 210 Orlando, FL 32801 South Florida Office: 954-928-1862 5090 N.E. 12th Avenue Oakland Park, FL 33334 Fax 954-772-0142
Tony Fowler | Snap Out Loud! Amy DeMillo | Pat O’Rourke Hannah Jordan
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 Central is the 20th 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 andallliability,lossandexpenseofanynaturethatarisefromanyerrorthatmaybemadeinsaidad. Allrightsreserved. Reproductioninpartorinwholeofthispublicationwithoutwrittenpermission isstrictlyprohibited. Hotspotsisaregisteredtrademark.
on the inside
Central Florida Edition July 2018
“Queer Eye” Interview with the tasty star of Netflix’s Queer Eye, Antoni Porowski.
content: • What’s Hot Central Florida • Hot Bodies • Queens We Love
this month’s features: • Cinderella • Drag Race’s Yuhua Hamasaki • Hotspots Hotties • Queer Eye’s Antoni Porowski
hot shots •St Pete Pride Parade • St Pete Pride Festival • Around Tampa Bay with Amy DeMilo • St Pete Pride VIP Party
What’s HOT ...everything you need to plan your month
hot shots photos by tony fowler
St Pete Pride Parade
R
By Scott Holland
Rodgers + Hammerstein's Cinderella, the 2013 Tony Award-winning Broadway musical from the creators of The King & I and The Sound of Music, will play the Straz Center's Morsani Hall, July 5-8. With its fresh new take on the beloved tale of a young woman who is transformed from a chambermaid into a princess, this hilarious and romantic Rodgers + Hammerstein's Cinderella combines the story's classic elements – glass slippers, pumpkin, and a beautiful ball along with some surprising twists. More than just a pretty face with the right shoe size, this Cinderella is a contemporary figure living in a fairytale setting. She is a spirited young woman with savvy and soul who doesn't let her rags or her gowns trip her up in her quest for kindness, compassion and forgiveness. She longs to escape the drudgery of her work at home and instead works to make the world a better place. She not only fights for her own dreams, but forces the prince to open his eyes to the world around him and realize his dreams too.
John Barsoian
PHOTOS: Carol Rosegg & John Barsoian
One of Rodgers and Hammerstein's most popular titles, Rodgers + Hammerstein's Cinderella was written for television – debuting in 1957 starring Julie Andrews. In 2013, the show made its long-overdue Broadway debut. Along with Cinderella, Rodgers and Hammerstein's legendary musicals include Oklahoma!, Carousel, The King and I, South Pacific and The Sound of Music. It was a pleasure to sit down with John Barsoian, who is in the ensemble and also understudies for the characters of Topher and Sebastian. What was the first memory you have of performing/singing? My family has always been artistic and musical. Since I was younger, music theatre was always a part of our lives. But my very first show was The Velveteen Rabbit when I was seven. I played a rabbit, and I think the only thing I really remember is that we
danced the bunny hop at the end of the show. What was your first professional (paid) gig? It was in a summer stock production of The Sound of Music, and I was in the male ensemble. It was at Artpark in upstate New York, and it is the most beautiful place to work! We were so close to the Canadian border; we would regularly spend time at Niagara Falls. An unbelievable experience! Other than this role, what has been your favorite role? A few summers ago, I played “Bert” in Mary Poppins, and it was an amazing production to be a part of. The role is so energetic and exciting, and the show is incredibly magical. I would love to be a part of that show again at some point! What is your fantasy role to play? I'll say “Norma Desmond” from Sunset Boulevard. You said fantasy, right? Haha. I was able to see Glenn Close's revival performance, and she was just incredible. The role is
York City and start auditioning! Touring the country has been so incredible and rewarding, but I am excited to be in one place again. complex and outrageous, and I've been in love with the show ever since I listened to it when I was younger. What should the Central Florida audiences expect out of this touring company of Cinderella? Our production of Rodgers + Hammerstein's Cinderella is an updated, stage version of the classic fairy tale. Audiences will experience the same beauty and magic they should expect from the original Rodgers & Hammerstein production but with a more profound message. I hope audiences leave feeling revived and hopeful for their futures. What's ahead for you? Tampa is the last stop on our 2017-18 tour. After Tampa, I will be heading back to New
For more information on John, you can follow him at: Instagram.com/ barsoysauce. Rodgers + Hammerstein's Cinderella will play the Straz Center's Morsani Hall, July 5-8. Performances are Thursday at 7:30 p.m., Friday at 8 p.m., Saturday at 2 and 8 p.m. and Sunday at 1 and 6:30 p.m. Regularly priced tickets are $38-$83 and may be purchased by calling 813.229.STAR (7827) or 800.955.1045 outside Tampa Bay, in person at the Straz Center Ticket Office or online at StrazCenter.org.
For more information on Cinderella, please visit CinderellaOnBroadway.com
what’s hot everything you need to know
to plan your month
W
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! Saturday, June 30 America's beloved sibling entertainers, Donny & Marie, will bring their equally beloved show to the Dr. Phillips Center for the performing
Arts at 8pm. They will mix the spirit of their early television specials and recordings with a nostalgic look back on their storied career in a dynamic stage show showcasing fan favorites including “A Little Bit Country, A Little Bit Rock 'n Roll,” “Paper Roses,” “Puppy Love” and “It Takes Two.” Check out the irresistible chemistry that made them international stars. Tickets start at: $55.
Southern Nights Tampa presents their 3 year Anniversary Extravaganza hosted by Eureka O'hara from RuPaul's Drag Race Season 10! They will also feature a Drag Show at 12:30am with Roxxxy Andrews, Jade Embers and Kitana Gemini. 18 and over welcome!
Parliament House is celebrating America's birthday with an
American Idol: Ada Vox, live in concert. To Purchase VIP photo opp tickets go to: ParliamentHouse.com. Monday, July 2 An Orlando legend turns 50, as the Parliament House presents Lisa Lane's Golden Birthday celebration at 8pm. The night will feature performances by
Shantell D'Marco, Chavela Belleza, Lineysha Sparx, Elishaly D'Witshes, Michelle Du Soleil, GizzelleFierze, Chachita Gift, Angelica Sanchez, Nouba Soleil, and Darcel Stevens. This is a free show and the invite the entire community to come out and celebrate Lisa's 50th! Thursday, July 5 The Straz Center for the Performing Arts presents Cinderella from today through July 8th. Rodgers + Hammerstein's CINDERELLA is the Tony Award-winning Broadway musical from the creators of The Sound of Music and South Pacific that's returning to delight Tampa audiences with its contemporary take on the classic tale. This lush production features an incredible orchestra, jawdropping transformations and all the moments you love - the pumpkin, the glass slipper, the masked ball and more - plus some surprising new twists! Be transported back to your childhood as you rediscover some of Rodgers +
Hammerstein's most beloved songs, including "In My Own little Corner," "Impossible/It's Possible" and "Ten Minutes Ago," in this hilarious and romantic Broadway experience for anyone who's ever has a wish, a dream ... or a really great pair of shoes. Tickets start at $38.
Friday, July 6 Southern Nights Orlando presents, direct from Bravo's Real Housewives of New Jersey, Teresa Giudice as the
Gobearr Gear. They will feature a 1am Kissing Contest. This is a 21 and over event! Sunday, July 8 Chris Pittman presents superstar DJ Hector Fonseca at Royal Tea Sundays at Eve
(110 Orange Avenue). Doors open at 8pm and there e is no cover.
hostess of their Flex Fridays. If you can't make it tonight, head onto Southern Nights Tampa as Teresa will be the hostess of their Savage Saturdays tomorrow Saturday, July 7. 18+ welcome on both nights.
Stonewall Orlando presents Boot & Beards where they invite you to dust off your boots, brush out your beards and put on your patriotic underwear! The master of ceremonies with be their favorite bearded diva Bearonce with guest star Scarlette Diamond, and music by DJ Jay Skinner downstairs and DJ J B Burgos in the Sky Bar! No cover before 10 pm! Speaking of Southern Nights Tampa, tonight they present
NeiBEARhood Takeover celebrating International Kissing Day with DJ Throboy from Las Vegas, and sponsored by
Dr. Phillips Center presents Erasure World Be Gone Tour at 8pm. Erasure (Andy Bell and Vince Clarke) announced a collaboration with Brusselsbased Echo Collective that sees the entirety of Erasure's latest album, World Be Gone, given a post-classical rework. This new collaboration gives fresh dimension to the tracks. World Beyond was recorded over 10 days by Andy and seven performers from Echo Collective: Margaret Hermant (violin, harp), Neil Leiter (viola), Thomas Engelen (cello), Jaroslaw Mroz
(double bass), Gary De Cart (piano) and Antoine Dandoy (vibraphone, glockenspiel). Tickets start at: $34.50. Wednesday, July 11 The Amway center presents Sam Smith in his The Thrill Of It All tour tonight at 8pm, with tickets ranging from $37$122. The concert will also be
playing at Tampa's AMALIE Arena on Friday, July 13 at 8pm with tickets ranging from $26-$122. “Too Good At Goodbyes,” the album's first single, is a global smash, hitting No. 1 on the U.K. and Global Spotify Charts and topping the U.K. and U.S. iTunes charts. It has captured the top spot on the U.K.'s Official Singles Chart Top 100 for three consecutive weeks, marking Smith's sixth No. 1 single there. In the U.S., “Too Good At Goodbyes,” debuted at No. 1 on Billboard's Digital Song Sales chart. Worldwide Spotify streams of the single already exceed 100 million. Friday, July 13 The National Showgirl, Showgirl at Large and Showman pageants move
their home bas this year to
Hamburger Mary's Daytona and the National Pageantry starts tonight honoring last years winners: Alexis Mateo, Crystal Belle, and Aries M. Kelly. Tonight and tomorrow will be prelim nights for all three divisions. On Sunday, July 15 is Final night for Showman and on Monday, July 16 is final night for Showgirl and Showgirl at Large. The categories include: Interview (with a platform to work and represent throughout the year), Showgirl/Showman Presentation (this is the highest scored category); Glitz Formal wear for the
his own one-hour special for HBO entitled Unapologetic. The special, D.L.'s fourth for the network (the others were in 1992, 1994 and 1999), premiered in September and is currently available on DVD. In its review, the Hollywood Reporter says the likable Hughley is the real deal, a guy who comes with his Amaterial and nails every line with smarts and savvy….connecting with the audience from the first minute through the last. Tickets are $35. The Club Orlando presents
“NTA: No Towels Allowed Party,” where no towels or clothes will be allowed to be worn in the building (except in the Gym and TV Lounge) from 10pm to 2am. For more information ClubOrlando.com Saturday, July 21 Neema's upscale Latin Night: Amor at Stonewall Orlando presents Shakira tickets giveaway. The midnight drag
boys and Gown for the girls, and Talent. Admission is $20 per night, but only $60 for all four nights. For more information, go to NationalShowgielpageant.com . Friday, July 20 The Orlando Improv presents, a true king of comedy, D.L. Hughley from today until July 22 in his Unapologetic Tour, based on
show stars Miss Glamorous 2018: Amanda D'Rhod, Gadfrie Arbulu and Jenavive K. Mateo. Doors open at 9pm and there is no cover before 10pm and $10 thereafter. 21 and over!
Hamburger Mary's Brandon presents “Paint Nite,” which features everything you need to create a one-of-a-kind painting. They will guide you and your friends through two lively hours of creativity, drinking, and laughing 'til your cheeks hurt. What's the best part? You don't have to be an artist to have an amazing time. Food and drinks are not included, but are available for purchase from the venue. No outside food or drinks allowed. This Paint Nite Event is 21+! Wednesday, July 25 Amalie Arena presents Grammy Award-winning, acclaimed alternative rock pioneers The Smashing Pumpkins in their Shiny And Oh So Bright Tour a7 pm, their first tour in nearly 20 years to feature founding members Billy Corgan, Jimmy Chamberlin, and James Iha. The monumental Shiny And Oh So Bright Tour, which coincides with the 30th anniversary of the band's formation, will highlight
Longtime Smashing Pumpkins guitarist Jeff Schroeder will also take part, as the band moves to a threeguitar lineup to better emulate the signature tones and textures of their albums. Tickets range from $29 $125.
sectors of the population. Luenell had appearances in three #1 feature films; Think like A Man, the 3D animated hit Hotel Transylvania and Taken 2. Must be 21 & up to enter; except on Friday's at 10:30pm which is 18 & up. Tickets are $20
Thursday, July 26 Amway Center presents Rod Stewart with Cyndi Lauper as his
Saturday, July 28 Dr. Phillips Center presents Darci Lynne and Friends Live with special guest Pelican 212 at 7pm. Darci Lynne Farmer is a 13-year-old ventriloquist, singer and season 12 winner of America's Got Talent. She first appeared on the show as a shy 12-year-old who used ventriloquism to overcome her stage fright, stunning the crowd with a surprising singing act. Darci Lynne captured hearts then—and continues to amaze now. The Oklahoma native is bringing her jaw-dropping voice, hilarious puppets and vibrant personality to Orlando for one night only with tickets starting at $30, with VIP tickets (Meet and greet) $100.
special tour guest at 7:30pm. Tickets start at $57. The Tampa Improv presents
Luenell, who is a force of
music from the group's inception through 2000, and will exclusively feature material from their groundbreaking debut Gish through Siamese Dream, Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness, Adore, and Machina.
nature from tonight through July 29. This talented comedienne, actress and singer, was born in Tollette, Arkansas, a town whose population barely registers with the U.S. census. She is best known 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
Email WhatsHot@HotspotsMedia.com to have your event considered for “What’s Hot.”
SERVING AND EDUCATING OUR COMMUNITIES SINCE 1991
Our mission is to provide comprehensive, multi-cultural HIV/AIDS care education and prevention services that are effective and responsive to the Central Florida communities.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
407.843.1760 Miracleofloveinc.org 741 W. Colonial Dr. Orlando 32804
SERVICES PROVIDED Medical Case Management
HIV/STI Screening & Counseling Targeted Outreach For Pregnant Women Housing Case Management Support Groups Peer Mentoring LGBTQ+ Drop-In Space
FOLLOW US
around tampa bay
by amy demilo
Beverly and Brent in Ybor
Steam Fridays: always hot at the Honeypot
A Kiala Santi and Amanda Drhod Sanwhich: who’s hungry?
Li’l something for the girls
Look who dipped into the Honey Pot: Kandy Ho
Y
Yuhua Hamasaki, the Asian sensation from RuPaul's Drag Race Season 10, will be bringing her talents to Splash Bar in Panama City on Saturday, July 14. Just after the taping of the reunion show, we sat down with Yuhua for this exclusive Hotspots interview.
At what age did drag become an interest? I used to be scared of drag queens. My Asian culture taught me that drag queens were mentally ill. When I finally experienced drag, I fell in love with it.
How did you pick your name? Yuhua is my given name, and I really admire the Japanese singer Ayumi Hamasaki, so I took her last name.
How many times did you apply to be on “RuPaul's Drag Race?” I auditioned three times.
How did it feel when you found out you had been chosen? It felt amazing! Thousands of girls try out for the show.
By Scott Holland
Do you feel additional pressure now that “RuPaul's Drag Race” has been on for nine seasons plus three season of “All Stars?” Yes, because every year the competition gets stronger and tougher. You always want to do better than the girls before you.
Tell us about your “Drag Race” experience.
It was a lot of hard work. But I'm very grateful for the opportunity. It's been very rewarding.
How did “The Ankh Song” come about and how do you feel about the response?
What's your marital status?
“The Ankh Song” was based on an outfit I made for Drag Race. The song is supposed to be silly and stupid. It's not supposed to be like Beyoncé or Madonna. It's a parody of commercials and music videos — and other Drag Race girls who have released videos!
I am very single.
What are you looking for in a man? I'm looking for someone funny, someone I can relate to.
Tell us something people would be surprised to find out about you. I'm not a real woman.
How was the taping of the reunion? It was fun! It was excellent to see Ru and the rest of girls together in one room again. It's been forever! It brought back so much nostalgia.
Who do you want to win “Drag Race” this season and why? Myself! I'm delusional! I'm still in the competition. Every week I just morph into a different piece of furniture. I'm still in the work room. I was never eliminated!
PHOTOS: Preston Burford
You describe yourself as genderfluid. Can you explain that for my readers? For centuries and centuries, society has constructed two genders, male and female, and assigned duties to each of those genders. But not too long ago we learned about transgender, which is transitioning to the other gender. Gender fluidity is a subject most people have not tapped into, but those who identify as gender-fluid have been around forever. Gender fluidity is when someone can shift between genders depending on how they're feeling that day, hour, or even moment. A lot of people get gender and drag confused: Gender is who I am, and drag is what I do. A lot of people wonder whether someone other than a cis-gender male can do drag? The answer is yes. Anyone can do drag: females, transgender, and even gender-fluid and gender-neutral people.
What should our readers expect from your show at Splash Bar in Panama City? As always, a high-energy fierce performance. But when I'm on the mic, I'm a funny person. It shows that I can be serious but also not take myself too seriously when it comes to drag. I'm the first person to make fun of myself because laughter is the best medicine. It's my first time in Panama City, and I cannot wait to meet everyone there!
What does the future hold for Yuhua? I want to continue traveling the world and performing. Before Drag Race, the farthest I'd ever traveled was New Jersey. Now I get to go places I've never been before, and I am very thankful. I also want to inspire people. When I was younger, I wanted to be a teacher. And now that I'm older and given this amazing platform, I want to educate and inspire people to do whatever they want in life. I want people to be who they are; regardless of what society and people tell them. Drag has given me the confidence and happiness I have now, and I want to share that knowledge.
Follow Yuhua Hamasaki on Instagram @YuhuaHamasaki. You can catch her on Saturday, July 14 at Splash Bar (6520 Thomas Dr, Panama City Beach). For info: splashbarflorida.com.
hot bodies By Tom Bonanti
Sun, Sand, Sexy
S
Working on your summer body doesn't stop when summer begins.
Summer is an ideal time to beef-up your workouts or begin a new and challenging routine that will net results. Whether you're a seasoned athlete, weekend warrior, or a newbie to the fitness craze, this more relaxed season of sun and fun provides a great opportunity for you to fine tune your fitness lifestyle. Here are some practical reminders.
Don't Sleep on Sleep. If you're really hitting the gym hard plus doing regular cardio to burn fat, strengthen your heart and lungs, and build muscle, you've got to make time for rest and recovery. Skimping on sleep and giving into stress can increase the levels of cortisol and estrogen in your system, and that can lead
It's not just for cross fit and the stationary bike. Interval training alternates brisk walking with shorter intense periods of jogging, running, calisthenics, etc. When walking as a workout, your intensity should be such that you can only speak a few words at a time. Carry 5- or 10-lb dumbbells with you to up your intensity.
Lift, Bro. Moderate- to high-intensity weight
Skimping on sleep and giving into stress can increase the levels of cortisol and estrogen in your system, and that can lead to an increase in deep abdominal fat, reduced muscle mass, and fatigue.
training twice a week is a great place to begin. The more muscle you carry, the more calories and fat you burn all the time. If you're already lifting regularly, try adding an extra hour a week of weight training to your workouts. Use the extra time you have this summer to try different free-weight routines and new machines in your gym — or at a friend's.
Eat Smart, Eat Often. Looking fit and feeling healthy is about 65% good nutrition. Never skip breakfast. Whether it's a smoothie, a couple of eggs and toast, or a steamy cup of oatmeal, your morning meal can determine how much get-upand-go you exhibit all day.
to an increase in deep abdominal fat, reduced muscle mass, and fatigue. So, relax this summer and sleep — eight to ten hours a night.
Go Heavy on the H2O. You should be chugging water and staying hydrated, especially if you're working or exercising outdoors in the heat. The International Sports Sciences Association recommends eight to ten 8-ounce glasses of water per day — more if you're really active. To keep things interesting, try throwing a few slices of fresh fruit into your water bottle for added flavor and Vitamin C. You could also consider heating things up: Freshly brewed green tea is a powerful antioxidant that's good for your skin and can help stave off cancer. A cup of chamomile tea at night can help you sleep.
Remember: Walking Is Cardo. If walking is your cardio workout of choice, pick up your pace and you'll likely burn 25% more calories. Try interval training three times a week for 30 minutes. Yes, interval training for walking.
To keep your body from storing fat, instead of large meals, eat smaller meals/snacks every two to three hours. Never eat within three hours of retiring for the night. Eat lighter this summer by incorporating more fresh fruits, vegetables, and fish into your diet. Eliminate as much fat, processed food, and junk as you can.
Tom Bonanti is a certified fitness trainer and licensed massage therapist with his own gym and studio, Pump'n Inc. (pumpnincgym.com), in Ft. Lauderdale. Contact Tom at trainertomb@aol.com with questions or to schedule a free consultation.
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
hot shots photos by tony fowler
St Pete Pride Festival
queens we
Tell me about the first drag show you ever saw. I went to Southern Nights [in Orlando], on the day before my 18th birthday. I stood outside the door waiting with a friend until it turned midnight and I was able to get in the club. When the show started, Nazhoni walked out on stage and started performing her insane “Love Commandments” number, and I was gagged. When did you decide you wanted to do drag? It was actually that performance by Nazhoni that hooked me into drag. Before that, I didn't really care for it.
“Knowing that you changed someone's life for the better just by doing something you love is incredible.” When did you realize it would be a profession? A few years after I began doing drag, I started to really make a name for myself. My husband, Blaze Adonis, and I created the house of Adonis. At that time I knew this could be a profession.
Kaija Adonis
By Scott Holland
Who's your drag mother? Over the 17 years I've been doing drag, there are a few that have been my mothers, and they shaped me into the entertainer I am today. I've since given them lots of grandbabies! I love them all dearly, so I can't just name one: They are Nazhoni, Avalon Infiniti, and Power Infiniti. My first family was the Legendary House of Infiniti. Besides your drag mothers, who's your favorite queen? Again, I can't choose just one. I'll always live for Sasha Colby [who moved to Orlando from Chicago], but our legendary queens of Central Florida always give a stunning performance. Right now, I am living for the new girls on the scene: Waka, the Cavalli girls, Zeal, Venus, Dalia, Matryx, and so many more. They are so
creative and a joy to watch on stage. There's no way I could pick just one. There's too many flavors to enjoy! What's your favorite number to perform and why? I love a good old Broadway/Disney number, but Jessie J's “Sexy Lady” makes me feel all of my jush, and it has a good message. It's also upbeat and fun.
“I am living for the new girls on the scene: Waka, the Cavalli girls, Zeal, Venus, Dalia, Matryx.”
What's the best thing that has happened to you in drag? Knowing that you changed someone's life for the better just by doing something you love is incredible. I've had people tell me that I've saved them at dark points in their lives, and it really makes you think that maybe you were put here to do just that. It's humbling. What differentiates you from other queens? I would probably say my character/cosplay numbers. That's when I'm my most creative self. What does the future hold? Who knows, honestly? The world is crazy right now, but I hope the future is bright and gay and full of warm hugs. Follow Kaija on Instagram @kaijaadonis.
hot shots photos by tony fowler
St Pete Pride Hotel Zamora Rooftop VIP Party
Jeremy Conner 34, Realtor, Orlando
What's your background? German and Irish.
What's your astrological sign? Scorpio.
How did you meet Cesar? We were both customer service managers, but at different locations. I had always heard about Cesar, but I hate mixing business and pleasure. Well, one day we actually met at a training course, and I knew I had to make him mine.
When did you know he was the one? I knew Cesar was the one from the way he laughed. Laughter is the way into my heart. From the introduction we couldn't stop smiling and laughing. I can't get enough of that big cheesy smile!
Jeremy Conner & Cesar Gibson Photos: Dennis Dean • Interview: Scott Holland
What do you do for fun? Eating, working out, eating, decorating, eating, anything outdoors, eating, traveling, eating.
What does the future hold for you? Living a happy and healthy life, enjoying all of the little things‌ oh, and lots of dachshunds!
Cesar Gipson 29, Corporate Retail Trainer, Tallahassee
What's your background? Costa Rican and Irish.
What's your astrological sign? Sagittarius.
When did you know Jeremy was the one? I knew he was the one the first time I kissed him. He looked me straight in the eyes. It was not something I was used to. Typically it felt awkward, but when I kissed him I knew he would be mine.
What do you do for fun? I like being outdoors, working out, spending time with family, and eating.
What does the future hold for you? I'm not sure, but I hope to be happy and healthy, with the person I love, Jeremy, next to me.
By Chris Azzopardi
A
Antoni Porowski is known for his avocados. But on a recent afternoon he was contemplating the coconut, mapping every sultry detail of the tropical fruit as if it were the body of a new lover: the fleshy inside, the milky nectar. It's the first day of June when the PolishCanadian wine-and-dine expert on Netflix's Queer Eye reboot rings and, oh right, we're
talking about food. But gay America isn't hungry: It's thirsty AF. And because real lives are being changed thanks to Porowski, designer Bobby Berk, culture advisor Karamo Brown, stylist Tan France, and groomer Jonathan Van Ness, it is also joyfully crying. Season 2 of Queer Eye — note the dropped qualifier, a nod to the show's new inclusivity
— doesn't skimp on opportunities for you to feel good about this otherwise not-good world, as the Fab Five imparts their best-life insight and general gay wisdom to a diverse group of clients, including the franchise's first woman and transgender man. As Porowski continues to process the
PHOTOS: Netflix
BLOWING UP Fab Five v2.0: groomer Jonathan Van Ness, Porowski, stylist Tan France, designer Bobby Berk, and culture advisor Karamo Brown. experience, and the attendant upswing in gay male thirst and avocado sex puns, the 34-year-old subject of culinary controversy talked critics and why variety truly is the spice of life.
“I have more of a European sensibility. We like to kiss twice.”
In the new promo video for the show, with Betty Who singing the theme, you're cradling avocados and wearing a crop top. The avocado dick puns have been out in full force. I guess I asked for it, right? I'm literally wearing a crop top and unsuccessfully trying to juggle avocados, so I shouldn't be surprised. I must say, I do hope the crop top becomes your signature look in the third season. [Laughs.] Thanks! I do have to give credit where it's due, and that was 100 percent Tan France. When it comes to you, the thirst is real. What is that kind of attention like from the gay community? I do maintain a certain amount of ignorance to it — and a kind of detachment. There's been a
deny myself the pleasures of, like, a good ripe stinky cheese on a crusty slice of fresh-baked bread in Paris. Oh, I've seen you indulge on the show. It happens. You're not afraid of some macaroni salad. There ya go! Well, but that wasn't my recipe. It wasn't, but you still ate it. Oh, I ate it. I'll try anything twice. Are you still trying to wrap your head around your overnight fame? Yeah. I mean, it certainly hits in waves. We were just in London, and when you experience people who've been waiting outside of your hotel with magazines to sign, it's kind of like, “Wow, you're a human with a life and a job, presumably, who wanted to wait to have a
“I love food, and I love playing with it, and I love preparing it for people. It’s how I show my love.”
lot of really amazing and positive attention from the show. But with that, there's also gonna be haters. If I'm gonna take the good, I have to take the bad, so I've decided to take neither. I just try to focus on what my next move is with this show, with press that we're working on, living out of hotels for the past couple of months, and hoping that people really enjoy [this season] as much as they did the first. When you're living out of hotels, how do you maintain a healthy diet? I don't! That's the honest truth. I'm not one to
moment.” I'm grateful for it, but it's not something I want to be too comfortable with. It's very bizarre and very overwhelming. What my therapist tells me is, “Don't trust your feelings right now because you're constantly basically running on adrenaline — your life right now is pure adrenaline.” It's been like overdrive, so it's just, take everything very lightly. What are your gay fan interactions outside of hotels like? I feel like I'm pretty good at reading people, but
FREE TO BE “However you define yourself or don’t define yourself, you should be able to do that with total freedom.” being the expert. I'd rather go in and be like, “I don't know.” There's a power in that for me. It's sort of like going in with humility and saying, “I'm still trying to figure it out.” While I don't think I'm trying to figure out my sexuality, I'm just not as concerned with it anymore. It's this dynamic process. I'd just rather keep it open and fluid, because that's how I am with the books that I read, the music that I listen to. All of my interests are always changing, and it's a constant dynamic process, and so is my sexuality. Is today June 1?
PHOTOS: Antoni’s Instagram
with fans, the energy and the direction of it is very different. So my thing is: Ask them a question about themselves, try to make this a human interaction, and try to normalize it, just to make sure that the person has a nice, meaningful experience and they can leave happy. [But] sometimes I'm left, like, taking care of people. They'll come up, and their mouths open and they don't say anything. I have to kind of take care of them and be like, “Are you OK? It's fine. Here, do you want a hug? Do you want a photo?” You don't just go right in for the hug? No, I'm a little — yeah, I have more of a European sensibility. We like to kiss twice. Or, I don't know, healthy boundaries? Kiss twice, though? Everyone must just enjoy meeting you. [Laughs.] How has helping other people on this show changed your approach to your own life? I've had many passions: I studied psychology; I worked as a gallery director; I photographed vintage furniture. And on the acting side of things, that was something that was always very ego[-driven]. I wanted people to look and see and feel my presence, whereas with the show, it actually isn't that at all. The energy is directed in the other direction, so it's really us being of service to this person that we're helping. We see that happen in the first episode of Season 2, with Mama Tammye Mama Tammye is an example who spun it on us, and doesn't even take care of herself and shows up as a teacher and as a member of her church, and for the five of us. You cried at the end of that episode. Of the Fab Five, who cries the most? You're talking to him! When you hear somebody's struggle, or especially when they've overcome something or made a choice like Tammye — there was a lot of pain and a lot of fear and borderline hateful feelings toward gays, and she realized that it was her perspective that was wrong, and she's a beacon of hope for people. It's possible at any age. If you have people like Tammye who were able to figure it out, there's no excuse for the rest of us. Even though you've been with men and women, you've said that you don't like to call yourself bisexual. Have you found the best way to explain your sexual orientation to people yet? Not really. And it's not something I feel too pressured to figure out. I have very strong opinions about how to cook a filet of salmon so the skin remains crispy and doesn't stick to the pan, but with a lot of things, I don't like
“I'm not one to deny myself the pleasures of, like, a good ripe stinky cheese on a crusty slice of fresh-baked bread in Paris.”
EXPERT ADVICE “With a lot of things, I don’t like being the expert. I’d rather go in and be like, ‘I don’t know.’”
about, truly. Ask me again tomorrow. I've never thought about the flesh of a coconut until now, and it sounds weirdly sexy. [Laughs.] Oh, think about it. Go buy a fresh coconut and think of me.
As editor of Q Syndicate, the international LGBTQ wire service, Chris Azzopardi has interviewed a multitude of superstars. You can reach him at chris-azzopardi.com or on Twitter @chrisazzopardi.
PHOTOS: Antoni’s Instagram
Today is June 1. It has me thinking about Pride and what Pride means: the ability to be the truest version of yourself without any negative consequence or fear of being persecuted or judged or criticized or hurt for it. And whatever that is for a person, however you define yourself or don't define yourself, you should be able to do that with total freedom. I read that you were a private chef for some highprofile clients. It was something that kind of happened accidentally, cooking for people. I'm not a classically trained chef, where I'm in a kitchen and I'm doing my own thing; I'm an entertainer, that's who I am. And I love food, and I love playing with it, and I love preparing it for people. It's how I show my love. It wasn't an everyday thing, where I showed up and made breakfast, lunch, and dinner for someone. I've always had, like, 10 different things going on at the same time. If you could cook for any celebrity, who would it be and what would you cook? Dead or alive? They can be dead. I would take something off of the menu at Voltaire in Paris, and I would prepare it for Oscar Wilde. I would slap my copy of De Profundis in front of him and be like, “We're gonna talk about this for five hours, and I'm gonna feed your belly, and I'm gonna get you drunk, and you're just gonna tell me everything and answer all of my questions.” You're on a desert island and you have to survive on just one food: What is it? I love a fresh coconut. You crack it and you have the milk, which is so delicious, but the flesh too. There's that creamy part on the inside that you can scoop with a spoon, and then there's the really hard shell part that, if you roast it with sugar, it gets caramelized and really nice and crunchy. So, I think coconuts. I'd get fed up with them after a week, but I don't know what food I wouldn't get fed up
Invoke . Provoke . Evolve . Join the tribe and fight the spread of HIV. Embark on a journey filled with HOPE and HELP. The island is calling. EVO...EVO...EVO... Are you listening?
MYSTIC
Saturday, September 8th, 2018
Rosen Centre Hotel on Interna onal Drive 6:00pm Registra on & VIP Cocktail Recep on 7:30pm The Island Experience
www.hopeandhelp.org/gala
407-645-2577
General Admission $250
Open Sea ng Ticket
*VIP Admission $500
*VIP Pkg. Reserved Sea ng, �i� �ag and Cocktail Recep on
Presen ng Sponsor $60,000 Execu ve Sponsor $20,000 Director Sponsor $15,000 Partner Sponsor $10,000 Patron $5,000 Community $2,500