ION Arizona Issue 253 Spring Into Action

Welcome to the Next Level Here’s to the Crazy Ones

“

Here’s to the crazy ones. The misfits. The trouble makers. The round peg in a square hole … but the people who are crazy enough to think that they can change the world, are the ones that do.”

That was part of the “Think Different” campaign when Apple mounted it’s comeback. But you don’t have to be Steve Jobs, Elon Musk or Jeff Bezos to change the world. In fact, there are many people in our community who our changing things in our state for the better. Whether it’s a leadership of one•n•ten, Aunt Rita’s, Phoenix Pride, Southwest Center for HIV/AIDS, and all of the other amazing organizations that are taking the Arizona LGBTQ+ community to the next level.

There are many unsung heroes and leaders that you probably don’t know. Boots on the ground in our war for equality, freedom and happiness. A person who takes individuals under their wing and helps them grow and flourish. Last month, we lost one of those leaders. Todd Singer helped young people come to terms with their sexuality. He hosted epic parties and lead people to experience their new life. Todd will be missed by many people, including me. The only thing we can do is to take his legacy to the next level. It’s great to see today’s youth grow and flourish.

Are you crazy enough to think you can change the world? Take your community to the next level? We live in interesting times. We’ve won many battles, but there are more to fight. We have many enemies, but more friends. Together, we can lead our community to greatness. Will you join me? Are you crazy enough?

Crazy Him/His

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ION SAZERAC

BRUNCH

ION

Fortune Teller

Stand-up comic Fortune Feimster will tell all in Phoenix show.

by Deon Brown

ince funny gal Fortune Feimster had her TV debut on NBC’s “Last Comic Standing” in 2010, America can’t seem to get enough of her. She claims she’s never been inside a Hooter’s, and she joined the Girl Scouts just for the cookies. A born Southerner, storytelling is in her blood, and so is laughter.

ION: You hail from the North Carolina. As a young woman you were officially presented to society as a debutante with a cotillion. Can you tell us a little bit about that?

Fortune Feimster: Ah, yes. Something my mom had done when she was young, but it was obviously not something I was interested in. I did it for her, and had to wear a big, white dress and escorted to the ball by my brothers. It wasn’t really my style, but when you’re 18-years-old you kinda do what your mom wants; I was a fish out of water of water for sure. I look back at it like, “That was so weird when I ‘came out’ to society.” In a way I had two “coming outs.” (laughs)

ION: You’ve done entertainment journalism, stage, improv/sketch comedy, movies, television, Netflix, internet series, voice talent for The Simpsons, and the animated HBO series Velma, Pixar’s Soul, judged on RuPaul’s Drag Race, have a Sirius XM radio show, and your own podcast, Sincerely, Fortune. What’s the most challenging, interesting, or gratifying?

Fortune: Oh gosh! I love ‘em all! I love doing so many different things, but the most gratifying is stand-up. I like the material I write, the stories I tell about my life and myself. I like to go on the road, meet people, hear that laughter. It’s such a powerful and wonderful feeling coming from an audience. With movies it’s weird not to get the feedback; you’re on set, you have a script, you just have to trust that it’s working.

ION: In the comedy movie Party (2016) you played an Uber driver. ( Are you Carol? You look like a Carol …” bit really seemed all so very it scripted?

Fortune: It was mostly improvised. It was written to be a bit of a throwaway. They asked me if I had any ideas, or direction making the scene better. It was an “in the moment” kind of thing. I like playing characters that are confident, kinda living in their own world, maybe not so informed. Not worrying about every other little thing.

ION: You were married in October, 2020, during the middle of the pandemic. What was that like? Did you have special wedding masks made?

Fortune: It was small. We only about four friends and planned it in three weeks. It was very last minute. A very intimate thing. We couldn’t have our families there, because of the pandemic, but it was a very special day.

ION: Were your wedding vows funny?

Fortune: (laughs) No, it was pretty serious, really. More sweet than funny.

ION: Your comedy is fearless; but do you have any insecurities? Tell us one …

Fortune: Gosh! We all have insecurities! Not even the most confident person doesn’t have insecurities. Mine are the usual: “Am I doing good enough? Is the material strong enough?” I’m very hard on myself that way. It all requires time and practice. Some of doesn’t work; you learn to get a thicker skin.

ION: What would you like our readers to know about you that might surprise them?

I’m chill; I’m not a very high-strung person. They might be surprised to know I’m more reserved. I like watching and observing other people do their thing. I really don’t need to be the center of attention. Most people that know me who see my stand up, see that I’m very true to being who I am. I’m not always bouncing off the walls.

ION: Tell us about your “Live Laugh Love” tour you’re bringing to Phoenix.

It’s all new material, it won’t be anything from my special, “Good Fortune,” but I’ll be picking up where that left off, my mom, my relationship with Jack, back and forth with the crowd. It’s a really fun night. For an hour and half, I like making people feel better than when they got there.

You’ll feel better about yourself after you see Fortune’s stand-up comedy show, “Live, Laugh, Love” on Saturday, April 29 at 7:30 p.m. at the Celebrity Theatre, 440 N. 32nd St. in Phoenix. Get your tickets at CelebrityTheatre.com or call the box office at 602-267-1600

PHX ATTRACTIONS

Sunday Funday at FLEX Spas

The temperature’s rising so it isn’t surprising that men’s thermometers are popping up at this private men’s spa. Inside or poolside, take your pic! Enjoy a thick, juicy, hot sausage … at the Sunday complimentary barbecue. 1517 S. Black Canyon Highway in Phoenix.

Season Specials daily — see inside back cover

The Music of ABBA: ARRIVAL from Sweden

Hey, Dancing Queens! Gimme! Gimme! Gimme Björn & Benny, Agnetha & Frida, but if you can’t get your Stroopwafel to Stockholm, this tribute band will thrill all you Super Troupers. See you at the Van Buren, 401 W. Van Buren St. in Phoenix. Tickets: LiveNation. com. See you there, Chiquititas!

Friday, April 14 at 8 p.m.

Toga Party at Charlie’s

Friends! Romans! Countrymen! Lend me your ears! It’s a Toga Party! Grab a 480-thread count Wamsutta cotton top sheet and you’re set! Underwear optional. All roads lead to Rome … and Charlie’s. 727 W. Camelback Rd. in Phoenix.

Saturday, April 22 at 9 p.m.

Welcome to Kennyland!

Kenny Thames tickles the ivories and your funny bone, too. Kenny entertains you playing original compositions on piano, along with his down-home storytelling. Phoenix Center for the Arts, 1202 N. 3rd St. For more details & tix visit KennethThamesMusic.com

Sunday, April 23 from 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Melissa Etheridge

She’s the only one! Don’t miss this multi-award winning singer/ songwriter with those smoky, husky vocals. Ticket options include pre-show photo op, premium seating and swag available. Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave. in Chandler. For more info & tickets visit ChandlerCenter.org

Sunday, April 23 at 7 p.m.

Equality Chamber Rainbow Classic

Fore! There’s nothing more exciting than a golf tournament, right? Get your bogeys, mulligans, birdies here, plus oncourse contests and the chance to win a $20K cash prize. Sponsored by the Greater Phx. Equality Chamber of Commerce. See you on the links at the Stone Creek Golf Club, 4435 N. Paradise Village Pkwy. in Phoenix. Register at RainbowClassic.org

Friday, April 28 with shotgun start at 8 a.m.

Fortune Feimster

This funny Fortune cookie brings her “Live! Laugh! Love!” comedy to the stage. Fortune shows audiences of all ages, backgrounds, and sexual orientations that common ground is only a joke or two away. Celebrity Theatre, 440 N. 32nd St. in Phoenix. Tix: CelebrityTheatre.com or call 602-267-6700

Saturday, April 29 at 7:30 p.m.

Boulet Brothers: Dragula Titans

This isn’t RuPaul’s Drag Race. If you’re looking for pretty pageant queens, well … this ain’t it. The Boulet Brothers’ Dragula reality competition streams on Shudder, now those glamorous ghoulies, the Boulet Brothers, bring their troupe of macabre drag stars to the stage. Orpheum Theatre, 203 W. Adams St. in Phoenix.

Monday, May 1 at 7 p.m.

ION MELROSE STREET FAIR

#IONAZ

Working out doesn’t have to be a tedious thing that you hate doing. A lot of times fear gets in our way because we don’t know what to do or hate the idea of going to a gym. ION Arizona wants to help you get started and work your way to a healthier and more confident you. So come meet us outside and get summer ready! And remember, you don’t need a super chiseled body to be sexy. Just a healthy and confident you!

Photography by: LeakedGlass Model: Jarick White

Start small, and work from there.

The hardest part is getting out and doing it, but it’s as simple as going for a walk outdoors. It’s been proven that going outside improves your mood. Start with a brisk walk to the corner, then around the block and begin to add more distance to your routine as you feel more comfortable. Remember, pick up the pace! Things don’t happen overnight so be patient with yourself but begin to build consistency.

Pair exercising with something you enjoy.

Not all workouts need to start in a gym. Find outdoor activities that you actually enjoy. If you like hiking, start with a small, easy to moderate hikes and work your way up to more strenuous hikes. Remember to be safe! If you enjoy sports, look for a local league who sponsors that sport and join in. There are plenty of LGBTQ inclusive leagues in the Valley. As you start this journey and get comfortable with how your body responds and with yourself, try exercising outdoors as a way to explore your neighborhood and the city.

Schedule your workouts.

It’s important to build consistency and a routine. Write down your goals and what you want to achieve. Be committed! Planning your workouts will help you stay on track as well. Keep a steady pace. As you build your confidence, having a workout partner or someone to help keep you accountable can help keep workouts interesting for you.

Keep yourself challenged.

Staying in your comfort zone won’t help you grow. View park staples as exercise equipment. When you’re first starting out, you’d be surprised at what a simple park bench can help you with. Get creative with your workouts! Keep stretching and keep moving! You’ll be surprised with how strong you’ll become in as soon as just one month. Not only physically but mentally. It’s all up to you! You can do it!

BS West T Girl Revue (W)

Charlie’s Kinky Tuesdays (W)

Sazerac Karaoke (W)

BS West T Girl Revue (W)

BS West Drag Bingo (W)

Charlie’s Kinky Tuesdays (W)

Sazerac Karaoke (W)

BS West Drag Bingo (W)

Charlie’s Kinky Tuesdays (W)

BS West 2-4-1 College Night (W)

BS West Visionairies (W)

Roosevelt Row First Friday (M)

Flex Spa’s Phoenix Blackout Night (W)

Sazerac Whiskey Flights / Cigars (W)

Sazerac Weekly DJ’s (W)

Location TBD PHX Takeover (M)

Flex Spa’s Phoenix Blackout Night (W)

BS West 2-4-1 College Night (W)

BS West Visionairies (W)

Charlie’s FoXXXes Music Trivia

Flex Spa’s Phoenix Blackout Night (W)

Charlie’s Bunny Bash

Charlie’s PHX Takeover

Sazerac Whiskey Flights / Cigars (W)

Thunderbird Lounge Loteria (W)

BS West Elements (W)

Flex Spa’s Phoenix Blackout Night (W)

BS West 2-4-1 College Night (W)

Sazerac Weekly DJ’s (W)

Flex Spa’s Phoenix Blackout Night (W)

Roosevelt Row First Friday (M)

Charlie’s Toga Party

Charlie’s Its Gonna Be May Party

Celebrity Theatre Fortune Feimster

Charlie’s Cinco De Mayo Weekend (W)

ION BRIDES OF MARCH

_SANTI_ Gets the Fiesta Started

By Jamie Booth

erreON,” the debut single from hunky gender-bending artist _SANTI_ is a Latino dance anthem combining house music with reggaeton elements and pays homage to perreo, a way of dancing to reggaeton that simulates having sex. “For Latinos, perreo is a sick-ass urban music party,” _ SANTI_ explains. “‘PerreOn’ is meant to embody that feeling of anticipation we feel all over our bodies when we know we are going out to tear it up at the clubs.”

_SANTI_ was born and raised in Venezuela. He recalls when he was a child, writing music and dancing and singing in front of the mirror, dreaming to one day be on stage. “Growing up gay in a machismo country like Venezuela was hard,” he recalls, “but so was life under the dictatorship of Nicolas Maduro.” At 18 _SANTI_ escaped the tyranny in Venezuela, emigrating to the USA with only $300 in his pocket. “It was not easy, but my early struggles made me a hard-working hustler.”

_SANTI_’s early life is reflected in his music. Many of the original songs on his soon-to-be-released full-length album touch on his culture and experiences as an immigrant as well as being a flamboyant kid and misfit. In addition to writing all of his original music, he shoots and edits his album covers and produces, directs, choreographs and styles his music videos.

His main goal is to be a positive representative for the LGBTQ+ Latino community and to be a voice for all young gays, misfits and weirdos fighting to live life as their true authentic selves.

_SANTI_’s new single, “PerreON,” is available on Apple Music, Spotify and all digital platforms. Follow on Instagram @ _SANTI_

ION AIDS WALK ARIZONA

auntritas

ION STREAMING

Mae Martin: SAP

Returning back to Netflix since the two seasons of the acclaimed series Feel Good, the award winning, bisexual writer/actor explores pronouns (“I’m nonbinary, my pronouns are they/them and she/her”) and being conceived doggy style. The hour-long special will also tackle “a world off its axis,” including “a mythical moose encounter” and “the gender spectrum in Beauty and the Beast.” Frankly, we can’t wait!

Rain Dogs

This dramedy follows Costello, a struggling single mom in London who engages in a wide variety of sex work to pay the bills, and her strange inner circle, including the toxic Selby, a privileged gay man with a laundry list of vices, plus a volatile temper that landed him in prison. He’s Costello’s safety net, the improbable, unreliable, love of her life, and a “classical homosexual” who says,“It’s completely normal to hate the people you love.”

Wreck

The BBC offers this tense thriller with a slash of comedy. When a luxury cruise ship employee goes missing, her brother, Jamie Walsh, suspects foul play He enlists in the crew for the boat’s next journey, tangling himself up in a madcap voyage of murder and mayhem. Theatre kids! Excess partying! Killers in duck costumes! One part whodunit, one part pitchblack comedy, and totally queer, this British series could be your next favorite binge-watch.

Chrissy Judy

A “coming of age” drag queen dramedy.

What happens when drag queens grow up? This “sis pic” written, directed, edited by and starring Todd Flaherty alongside Wyatt Fenner, Joey Taranto, Kiyon Spencer, and James Tison, tells of a determined gay man whose best friend and drag sister suddenly couples off and moves away, leaving him to question his personal and professional life becoming an irrelevant solo act both onstage and off.

Judy’s been described as many things: a free spirit, a day dreamer, a boy-crazy hot mess. But this is going to be the summer it all comes together for this ambitious, 30-something drag queen/cater-waiter and his best friend, Chrissy. That is, until Chrissy’s priorities suddenly shift, forcing a disillusioned Judy to examine his life and priorities as a queer artist, and rediscover himself in the process. In this dark comedy, “Chrissy Judy” explores the universal pain of breaking up with your best friends and questions, “What do you do when your chosen family no longer chooses you?”

Everybody has that one friend who can’t get their act together, but you can’t help but love them to pieces anyway. For thirty-something Chrissy, that’s his bestie, Judy, an endearing but perpetually messy ride-or-die who’s always got more than a few cocktails in the tank. Judy is described in the film’s synopsis as “a free spirit, a daydreamer, and a boy-crazy hot mess.”

After hustling for years together in the New York City bar scene, Judy is convinced that this is the summer their two-queen drag act will finally get its big break. That is, until Chrissy’s priorities suddenly shift, forcing a disillusioned Judy to closely examine his trajectory as a queer artist, and rediscover his true self in the process.

The film unpacks issues around life, relationships and more, set against the vibrant world of drag queen culture.

Available on iTunes, Amazon, Mubi and other On Demand digital platforms, and DVD on April 11.

ION ARTS

Fran Lebowitz

This curmudgeonly, opinionated wit stands out for her pithy, insightful social commentary plus her acerbic views and pet peeves about tourists, baggage-claim areas, after-shave lotion, adults who roller skate, children who speak French or anyone who is unduly tan. Scottsdale Ctr. for the Performing Arts. 7380 E. 2nd St. ScottsdaleArts.org

Friday, April 7

Festival of New American Theatre

Hosted by The Phoenix Theatre Company, this annual event amplifies new voices of American theatre. Returning for its 25th year, the Festival features events including dramatic and musical readings, a choreography lab. See how a production goes from the page to the stage, allowing artists to see their work come alive.

1825 N. Central Ave. in Phoenix. For details and tickets go to PhoenixTheatre.com

April 7-23

Billy Porter: Black Mona Lisa Tour

Grammy, Emmy, and two-time Tony winner, (but no Oscar) the very loud, very opinionated, very flamboyant Billy Porter brings his career spanning pop music passion and joy to the stage at ASU Gammage, 1200 S. Forest Ave in Tempe. For info an tickets visit DZPLive.com

Sunday, May 7 at 7:30 p.m.

DRINK & EVENT GUIDE

ION SAZERAC

NAVIGATION

Use the ION ARIZONA APP for Google Maps turn-by-turn directions with links to UBER & LYFT!

DON’T DRINK & DRIVE!

ION FABULANCE

If you notice lots of information SNAFUs, it’s because of Mercury Retrograde again, from April 21 ’til May 14. It’s not bad; focus on your productivity so you don’t feel like you’re going backwards. ¶ Good news! Pluto, the planet of transformation, is spending its first full month in Aquarius in over 220 years. Gather your tribe around you and we’ll all feel spiritual electricity, creative, progressive, and maybe a little revolutionary. If you want to spark some change, this is the time to do it. ¶ The New Moon and Solar Eclipse on April 20 is a Cosmic Wildcard. It’s rare, expect a spark and breakthroughs. No promises, but something might change your life.

ARIES Mar. 21 - Apr. 20

ION HOMOSCOPES

The Sun shines all over you, little Rams. You’re fearless! You’re confident! Stay determined. If it’s your birthday it’s important to know that you feel loved enough to realize that there’s more to life than money. Pluto reveals a secret.

TAURUS April. 21 - May 20

Inhale! Take a breath! It’s great month to explore your creativity and sociability, thanks to Venus and Neptune. Start a new project. Is it your birthday? Pluto gives you an intense your passion for people.

GEMINI May 21 - June 21

Maintain a healthy balance between work and play. Of course, “play” is always more fun. Meddlesome Mars causes an argument; someone has to apologize just to keep the peace.

CANCER June 22 - July 22

Single or attached, expect a romantic boost. Plan a picnic! Okay. Maybe something more exciting. Be adventurous! Take a risk! It’ll pay off.

LEO July 23 - Aug. 22

Don’t let anyone patronize you. You deserve better than that. When Venus is in Jupiter expect to meet someone extraordinary. Maybe even a little weird. Keep an open mind.

VIRGO Aug. 23 - Sep. 22

You are a considered a healer of the zodiac. Mercury is in Taurus, so focus on wellness. Share your beauty regimen tips about skin care, cuticle conditioning, and lip balm with others. Someone relies on you.

LIBRA Sep. 23 - Oct. 22

Feelings. We all have them. You have a lot of ‘em this month. Consider some fresh perspectives and trying something new. Like croquet or Ethiopian food. Or maybe swallowing.

SCORPIO Oct. 23 - Nov.23

You’re not just some blobby amoeba, darling. You are a beautiful, vibrant, intelligent creature exuding abundance and power. Mars encourages you to be authentic, be honest and “out there,” even if you’re slightly emotional.

SAGITTARIUS Nov. 23 - Dec. 23

Venus signals that you need some warm fuzzies. More than usual. What are your expectations? Don’t push too hard. You discover hidden talents that surprise you and others.

CAPRICORN Dec. 23 - Jan. 20

You have a slightly unconventional way of doing things. That’s part of your charm. Neptune does this to you, and your imagination soars. Focus on something spiritual and maybe even weird. We like that.

AQUARIUS Jan. 21 - Feb. 19

Prioritizing things has never been your strong suit, face it. You’re scatterbrained and wacky. But that’s okay. Venus makes you a Human Magnet with “Desire” written all over your naughty bits. Show us!

PISCES Feb. 20 - Mar. 20

You’re naturally curious, even a little bit nosy. Why? Mercury, that’s why. Be careful that all this “breaking news” doesn’t give you Information Overload. Don’t get distracted by the insignificant details. They’ll only bog things down.