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FROM THE EDITOR | BY CHRIS TARBOX
Do You Hear The People Sing?
Everybody remembers their first time… at the theater, I mean. For yours truly, my very first Broadway theatrical experience (well, touring Broadway theatrical experience) was a production of Spamalot over a decade ago. Having been a theater kid in high school, I was absolutely thrilled to finally get a taste of that New York musical life when the show arrived in Minneapolis. Unfortunately, by the day of the show, I just got over a case of mononucleosis, which left my throat the worse for wear. Of course, there was no way I’d miss out on Spamalot, and by the time the show had finished, I had been laughing so hard that I wasn’t able to speak for a day. Worth it. Of course, ever since, I’ve made sure to catch as many shows as I can as they come to the Twin Cities,
and luckily for us, the metro area is pretty spoiled when it comes to the plethora of touring and local theatrical productions we’re gifted with every season. And with the fall season about to kick off, we’re pleased as punch to offer you, dear reader, a preview of what’s to come with our 2016 Fall Arts & Dining Issue! In addition to our guide to the best dinner-anda-show experiences you can get this season, we also interview the Zakar Twins, who are bringing their hilarious Pray The Gay Away tour to Minneapolis; we preview the first-ever Powderhorn Culinary Arts Show; and we profile the coal-fired deliciousness of Black Sheep Pizza! We hope that this issue inspires you to take in another fun night of theater, or maybe your first night of theater! And just for fun, your faithful Managing Editor’s five favorite Broadway shows in no particular order:
• Spamalot– A dream for dual fans of musicals and Monty Python. It’ll literally leave you speechless from laughter, trust me. • Les Misérables– Bombastic, lavish, heartbreaking, and boasting some of the best music in stage history. • Fiddler on the Roof– Utterly fantastic on so many levels, with a warm, engaging cast of characters, astonishing musical numbers and choreography, and a timely parable on the plight of refugees and religious discrimination. • The Book of Mormon– Who’d have thought that the guys behind South Park could conjure up one of the best Broadway productions in recent history? Gleefully filthy, but with an earnestly sweet heart. • Mamma Mia!– I mean, it’s ABBA. ‘Nuff said.
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When the Sickness of the Oyster is the Pearl
Professor Temple Grandin is celebrated for her work on humane treatment of livestock and her articulate descriptions of life on the autism spectrum (Emergence: Labelled Autistic, Thinking in Pictures). Diagnosed as “brain damaged,” professionals originally advised the child’s institutionalization. Her mother refused, started the toddler on speech therapy at two, and hired a nanny to play educational games. Grandin attended school, but was often ridiculed for her odd speech and “nerdiness.” A summer on an Arizona ranch awakened Grandin’s lifelong interest in animals, and a new science teacher encouraged her to design a “hug box” within which she could calm herself which she later adapted into the “squeeze machines” in designs for livestock handling facilities. Today, environmental activist Greta Thunberg, a sixteen-year-old Swede also on the autism spectrum, is making news. Her solo Friday school strikes protesting inaction over climate change sparked the international Fridays for Future movement, drawing 1.5 million youngsters in 100 countries. But this was just the beginning. This past April, Thunberg addressed the House of Parliament in London. On July 22, at Caen, by the Normandy beaches, flanked by two D-Day veteran sponsors, Thunberg was awarded France’s first Freedom Prize. She will donate the $20,000 to several climate organizations. This August, accompanied by her filmmaker dad, she will cross the Atlantic on a zero-emissions 60-foot, solar-paneled racing yacht (jets’ carbon emissions are too high) to attend United Nations climate summits in New York and Chile.
Like Grandin, she’s criticized for her monotone voice and affectless presentation. But that’s the way of some folks on the spectrum. Thunberg smiles, thinly, saying of detractors, she “just ignores them,” along with the “hate and threats from climate crisis deniers.” She will “just always refer to the science and we’ll just see what happens.” “I see the world a bit different, from another perspective,” Thunberg told a New Yorker reporter. “It’s very common that people on the autism spectrum have a special interest… I can do the same thing for hours.” She found climate when she was nine. Nor does Thunberg respond well to hypocrisy. To the BBC she said, “I don’t fall for lies as easily as regular people, I can see through things.” Autism is a spectrum, and not all on the path have equal voices and abilities, nor Grandin and Thunberg’s material resources or verbal eloquence. Important gifts, not always appreciated by opponents, are their directness–bluntness, if you will–and lack of innuendo and red-herring trailing. Thunberg admonished her BBC audience, “You don’t listen to the science, because you are only interested in the answers that will allow you to carry on as if nothing has happened.” We need an infusion of directness in our dialogues today, allowing speakers to cut through the miasma of hurled invective and false trails to create firm ground on which to have discussions. With facts drawn from science. Facts that can be demonstrated and reproduced. That will work—as long as both sides abide by the rules. Aye, there’s the rub.
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2019 FALL ARTS & DINING PAIRINGS
ARTS SECTIONS BY: JOHN TOWNSEND DINING SECTIONS BY: BRADLEY TRAYNOR PRODUCED BY: LINDA RAINES & CHRIS TARBOX
MAMMA MIA!
Chanhassen Dinner Theatres Through Feb. 22, 2020
The celebrated dinner theater company has created one big lollapalooza of a jukebox musical hit! The extended run of the ABBA parade of favorite songs frames the story of a young woman who wants her dad to walk her down the aisle for her wedding, but she doesn’t know who he is!
www.chanhassendt.com
DINING PAIRING: CHANHASSEN DINNER THEATRE
Perhaps the easiest pairing on the list for obvious reasons, Chanhassen Dinner Theatre takes dinner and a show to a whole new level. Literally. Every time I sit down to enjoy a meal at this classic Twin Cities theater venue, I’m immediately reminded how the food matches the magic happening on stage. Don’t miss the Chicken Chanhassen.
FIVE PRESIDENTS
Old Log Theater Through Oct. 5, 2019
The occasion is the 1994 funeral of Richard Nixon. The play imagines what the five other living Presidents at the time may have been thinking: Gerald Ford, Jimmy Carter, Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton. Emmy-winning playwright Rick Cleveland wrote for Mad Men and The West Wing.
www.oldlog.com
PAIRING: CAST & CRU (AT OLD LOG)
Not quite dinner theater, but dinner and theater in the same place sounds just as nice, no? The Old Log Theater is a wonderfully warm and inviting venue with a talented chef-driven dining spot built-in right onsite. Grab your special someone for a beautiful drive out to Lake Minnetonka, enjoy an amazing meal, then settle in for a night of great local theater.
THE BIRDS
Theatre in the Round Players at Theater in the Round Sept. 6-29, 2019
Birds on the attack en masse! Two strangers holed up in an isolated cabin, only to be joined by a mysterious woman whose volatility becomes threatening. Playwright Conor McPherson draws from Daphne due Maurier’s story which inspired the classic Alfred Hitchcock film.
www.theatreintheround.org
PAIRING: REVIVAL
I can’t think of a more delicious way to get back at a frightening flock of winged evil than to inhale an entire order of Revival’s famous southern fried chicken. Fried chicken, grits, and homemade biscuits are a worthwhile way to gird the loins for an evening of masterful melodrama.
OUR TOWN
Artistry at Bloomington Theatre and Arts Center at Schneider Theater Sept. 6-29, 2019 Gay master playwright Thornton Wilder broke new
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AUGUST 29-SEPTEMBER 11, 2019
ground with a play that extolled the traditional values of small town USA in the early 20th century while dismantling conventions of traditional theater. Winner of the 1938 Pulitzer Prize for Drama.
www.artistrymn.org
PAIRING: LYN65
It’s not quite Bloomington, but whenever there’s a show nearby, I love to direct people to LYN65. Tucked away just south of Highway 62, this little secret garden of a restaurant is perfect for a pre-show dinner date. Especially if you love food. And if you didn’t love food, why are you reading this? I suggest smallplating your way across the menu. Don’t skip the bologna sandwich either, or we’re no longer friends.
Beyond the Rainbow—Garland at Carnegie Hall. Photo courtesy of History Theatre
RIDE THE CYCLONE
The Jungle Theater Sept. 11-Oct. 20, 2019
What started out as a cabaret act in Canada became a musical that takes you on a truly bizarre ride. Six teenage choir singers die in a sudden freak roller coaster accident, but a mechanical fortune teller helps them come to terms with it in an afterlife spirit realm.
www.jungletheater.org
THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHT-TIME Yellow Tree Theatre Sept. 13-Oct. 13, 2019
A teenaged math prodigy on the autistic spectrum becomes a suspect in the murder of a canine. This stirs him to conduct his own investigation, leading him to some interesting places in the physical world and the world within. Winner of the Tony Award for Best Play.
yellowtreetheatre.com
American theater. The unreasonable expectations of a parent has seldom been so painfully and delicately portrayed. Joseph Haj directs.
www.guthrietheater.org
CIRCUS ABYSSINIA – ETHIOPIAN DREAMS Children’s Theatre Company Sept. 17-Oct. 20, 2019
Juggling, back flips, extraordinary contortions of the physical human body, amazing feats of wonder! This troupe of masterful performers from Ethiopia also perform hand vaulting, a dazzling pole act, and clowning. They tell the story of two brothers who see their dream of circus performing come true.
www.childrenstheatre.org
CHICAGO
THE GLASS MENAGERIE
Theater Latte Da at the Ritz Theater Sept. 18-Nov. 3, 2019
Gay master playwright Tennessee Williams drew from his own relationship with his mother and his sister to write one of the most enduring plays in
latteda.org
Guthrie Theater at Wurtele Thrust Stage, Guthrie Theater Sept. 14-Oct. 27, 2019
It’s the 1920s in the Windy City, and mobsters run rampant. Aspiring vaudeville performer Roxy Hart goes to jail for killing her lover, where she meets the double-murderer Velma Kelly. The classic Kander, Ebb and Fosse musical is based on the 1926 play by news reporter Maureen Dallas Watkins.
2019 FALL ARTS &DINING PAIRINGS PAIRING: YOUNG JONI
There are plenty of great eats within walking distance to The Ritz, but lately I’ve been craving pizza, so I’m sending you to Young Joni. James Beard Awardwinning Chef Ann Kim does the same creative magic to pizza what Latté Da does to theater. Craft cocktails, wood-fired pizzas and equally sumptuous surroundings make for the perfect pre- or post-show nosh.
AUBERGINE
Park Square Theatre at Andy Boss Thrust Stage, Park Square Theatre Sept. 20-Oct. 20, 2019
A Korean-American chef tends to his dying father in hospice. Acclaimed playwright Julia Cho says Aubergine “at its core is also just a play about life: about the things that we carry with us, the things that we eat, and why we eat the things we eat.”
www.parksquaretheatre.org
THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW
Park Square Theatre at The Proscenium Stage, Park Square Theatre Sept. 27-Nov. 2, 2019
The groundbreaking ’70s rock musical that boldly expressed transgender themes. When the wholesome, All-American couple Brad and Janet seek refuge in a castle, they become privy to the wild experiments of Dr. Frank ‘N’ Furter. Witness his oh-so-hot creation: a beefy stud named Rocky Horror!
www.parksquaretheatre.org
GLORIA: A LIFE
History Theatre Sept. 28-Oct. 20, 2019
Emily Mann, who created the scripts for the Harvey Milk play Execution of Justice and the adaptation of Having Our Say, has turned her focus to Gloria Steinem. The legendary feminist renowned for founding Ms. Magazine is celebrated. Featuring Charity Jones.
historytheatre.com
PAIRING: MERITAGE
There are plenty of perfect dining experiences to be had in St. Paul, but Meritage is a perennial favorite. It’s the perfect little place for a romantic nibble prior to a St. Paul production. My partner and I had one of our best date night meals ever here. If the chilled lobster is still on the menu, do yourself (and your relationship) a favor and order it.
SNOW WHITE
Children’s Theatre Company Sept. 29-Dec. 8, 2019
Only two actors play Snow White, the Seven Dwarfs, the huntsman and the prince. The multi-character approach where just a few actors portray them all has been done with other CTC adaptations, so it’s time that this fairy tale fave steps onto the roller coaster.
www.childrenstheatre.org
PAIRING: GLAM DOLL DONUTS
Magic mirror on the wall, who is the fairest one of all? Donuts, of course! What better antidote to a poison apple from an evil queen than a mouthful or five of Glam Doll’s delicious taste treats. Just around the corner from the Children’s Theatre, Glam Doll is a perfect pre- or post-show stop, especially during fairytale season.
MEAN GIRLS
Hennepin Theatre Trust at Orpheum Theatre
Oct. 1-13, 2019
Comedian Tina Fey adapted her screenplay from the hit 2004 movie into a Broadway musical ideal for this decade. When a new student from Kenya enrolls in a U.S. high school, she sees firsthand some twisted interpersonal dynamics from the other kids there.
hennepintheatretrust.org
PAIRING: 4 BELLS
The food at 4 Bells is so good, you can almost hear the voice of Gretchen Weiners from the kitchen saying, “I’m sorry that people are so jealous of me. But I can’t help it that I’m popular.” And popular she is. 4 Bells, that is. Chef Scott Pampuch is doing wonderfully delicious things on the edge of Loring Park. From fresh seafood to their signature fried chicken, you’ll be hard-pressed to pick a better spot downtown. Sorry, Regina, they don’t have cheese fries.
PIPELINE: IS THERE NO WAY OUT?
Penumbra Theatre Company at Penumbra Theatre Oct. 3-13, 2019
A mother is caught in an agonizing dilemma. Should her son attend an elite prep school where he could be tormented by a racist faculty member? Or should he remain with her, where negativity in the neighborhood will prey upon him?
penumbratheatre.org
ELEKTRA: THE BRINK OF MADNESS
Minnesota Opera at Ordway Center for the Performing Arts Oct. 5-13, 2019 Revenge for the murder of her father by her own mother. However, does Elektra confuse let her rage overpower her? The ancient Greek tragedy by Sophocles (Oedipus Rex, Antigone) re-imagined in operatic form by Richard Strauss.
mnopera.org
COMEDY OF ERRORS
Theatre in the Round Players at Theatre in the Round Oct. 11-Nov. 3, 2019
William Shakespeare takes a vacation on Bikini Beach whereTRP resets the popular mistaken identity play in the style of those delightfully cheesy movies from the ’60s with Frankie Avalon and Annette Funicello. Ride the surf on a wave of biceps, slapstick, and beach blanket bingo!
www.theatreintheround.org
A GENTLEMAN’S GUIDE TO LOVE AND MURDER Old Log Theatre Oct. 18, 2019-Feb. 15, 2020
STEEL MAGNOLIAS
Guthrie Theater at McGuire Proscenium Stage Oct. 26-Dec. 15, 2019
Five women of varying generations bare their souls at Truvy’s beauty salon in a small town in Louisiana. Southern charm and the sisterhood of women are portrayed with warmth and humor. Includes how the women process the idea of gayness.
www.guthrietheater.org
CINDERELLA
Children’s Theatre Company Nov. 3, 2019-Jan. 5, 2020
The fairy tale classic is turned on its head with wildly madcap exuberance! The timeless story of the young woman exploited by her stepmother and stepsisters goes full out postmodern with some wacky additions such as a Kiss Camera, cake, T-shirt cannons, jokes on current events, and pop tunes.
www.childrenstheatre.org
ANOTHER MIRACLE ON CHRISTMAS LAKE Yellow Tree Theatre Nov. 8-Dec. 29, 2019
A Hollywood location scout heads up North to Christmas Lake, Minnesota where a remake of It’s a Wonderful Life is slated for production. When Colin and Tess stage a pageant to reel in the tourist trade, be prepared for lutefisk, lizards, tater tots, true love, and of course, miracles.
yellowtreetheatre.com
THE BARBER OF SEVILLE
Minnesota Opera at the Ordway Center of Performing Arts Nov. 9-16, 2019 A comedic opera milestone that even those who don’t go to the opera know of. The Gioachino Rossini hit has universal appeal because a quick-witted barber named Figaro sees the injustice of a young woman on the path to hitching up with a man she shouldn’t hitch up with.
mnopera.org
A CHRISTMAS CAROL
Guthrie Theater at Wurtele Thrust Stage at Guthrie Theater Nov. 12-Dec. 29, 2019
When the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future pay a haunting call to the bitter and miserly Ebenezer Scrooge on Christmas Eve, he is confronted by the root of his psychic malady. The Charles Dickens classic call for empathy and generosity always captures a splendid Victorian atmosphere.
www.guthrietheater.org
PAIRING: MURRAY’S
www.oldlog.com
One good classic deserves another. It’s not quite Dickens, but you’ll still travel back in time when you walk through the doors of this culinary Minneapolis landmark. A vintage steak house with all the service and style of a bygone era, Murray’s has been making steaks melt in your mouth for more than 70 years. As much a tradition as the very show you’re about to see.
A NEW BRAIN
THE EMPEROR’S NEW CLOTHES
After his mother’s death, a lowly broke clerk finds out he is ninth in line to inherit an earldom connected to a very rich banking family. So when his claim is dismissed, all of the sudden, the eight ahead of him in line start to die in different ways, some of which seem suspicious. Hmmm…
Artistry at Bloomington Theatre and Arts Center at Schneider Theater Oct. 18-Nov. 9, 2019
Old Log Theater Nov. 12-Dec. 31, 2019
A gay composer of a children’s TV show collapses at the table one day and wakes up in a hospital where he floats in and out of consciousness. He thinks of those he loves, including his best friend, mother, and boyfriend. Created by William Finn (Falsettoland).
An adolescent emperor named Marcus is about to ascend the throne of the kingdom. However, a swindler steps in and proposes magic clothes that are only invisible to fools, supposedly. But will Marcus heed the help of Arno, a humble mop boy, who sees through the deception?
artistrymn.org
www.oldlog.com Continued on page 12
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2019 FALL ARTS &DINING PAIRINGS
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V � H D � E T H E N E W M I N N E S O TA A I D S W A L K S A T U R D A Y, O C T O B E R 1 2 , 2 0 1 9 MINNEHAHA PARK w w w. M N Wa l k To E n d H I V. o r g
A Christmas Carol. Photo by Dan Norman
TOWARDS ZERO
Theatre in the Round Players at Theatre in the Round Nov. 15-Dec. 15, 2019
Only recently discovered, this thriller, by not only the most popular mystery author ever, but the most popular female playwright ever, Agatha Christie, takes us seaside. Crisis strikes a man, his wife, his old flame, and a murder victim at a house party!
theatreintheround.org
PRIDE AND PREJUDICE
Park Square Theatre at the Proscenium Stage at Park Square Theatre Nov. 15-Dec. 22, 2019
Jane Austen’s classic novel unfolds on stage. In early 19th century England, the highly codified interactions within the middle and upper class complicated how men thought women felt about them, and vice versa. Romantic Elizabeth Bennett struggles mightily with this.
www.parksquaretheatre.org
THE PENELOPIAD
Theatre Unbound at Gremlin Theatre Nov. 16-Dec. 1, 2019
A female perspective on the situations immortalized in Homer’s The Odyssey inspires Margaret Atwood (The Handmaid’s Tale). The story of the wife of Odysseus and women around her take the stage to tell their truths.
www.theatreunbound.com
BEYOND THE RAINBOW History Theatre Nov. 16-Dec. 22, 2019
Flash back to 1961 to Judy Garland’s “comeback” concert. Playwright William Randall Beard details her childhood in Grand Rapids, Minnesota onto her troubled, yet fabled career as one the greatest stars of Old Hollywood, and perhaps the greatest star of musical film ever.
www.historytheatre.com Continued on page 14
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2019 FALL ARTS &DINING PAIRINGS THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA
Hennepin Theatre Trust at Orpheum Theatre Nov. 20-Dec. 1, 2019
Andrew Lloyd Webber’s enduring masterpiece is an unsurpassed statement on the perils of possessiveness. When a young singer is mentored by a spirit figure that haunts an old opera theater, her destiny and her loyalties are thrown into true chaos.
www.hennepintheatretrust.org
BLACK NATIVITY
Penumbra Theatre Company Nov. 21-Dec. 22, 2019
Celebrate the miraculous birth with the internationally acclaimed theater troupe and the Kingdom Life Church Choir, a splendid ensemble that truly seizes that gospel sound, style, and spirit. Sanford Moore directs the music. Lou Bellamy directs the staging with choreography by Uri Sands.
Cinderella. Photo by Dan Norman
www.penumbratheatre.com
again. Peter Shaffer takes on the reality of the artist who has to make a good impression on the wealthy who so very often pull the strings over what gets seen and what doesn’t.
ALL IS CALM: THE CHRISTMAS TRUCE OF 1914
NOURA
Theater Latte Da at Ritz Theater Nov. 27-Dec. 22, 2019
At the Western Front in World War I, common soldiers laid down their arms to celebrate to celebrate Christmas. One of the region’s foremost producers of musical theater actually won a Drama Desk Award for what has become a Twin Cities holiday tradition! Folks, that’s significant.
www.theatreintheround.org
Guthrie Theater at McGuire Proscenium Stage Jan. 11-Feb. 16, 2020
On Christmas Eve, a new U.S. citizen prepares an Iraqi meal. However, she feels that she hasn’t been able to fit into her new country as well as her husband and son. But meal time offers a big surprise! Inspired by Henrik Ibsen’s A Doll’s House.
latteda.org
www.guthrietheater.org
THE BAND’S VISIT
24:00:00 XTREME SMACKDOWN 2020
Hennepin Theatre Trust at Orpheum Theatre Dec. 10-15, 2019
A police orchestra arrives in Israel, and because of a misunderstanding rooted in a language barrier, takes a bus to an isolated Israeli town. Winner of both the New York Drama Critics Circle and the Tony Award for Best Musical.
www.hennepintheatretrust.org
BLACK COMEDY
Theatre in the Round Players at Theatre in the Round Jan. 10-Feb. 2, 2020 When the playwright who gave us Equus and Amadeus went small-scale, he shone with brilliance once
Theatre Unbound at Gremlin Theatre Jan. 11, 2020
The acclaimed feminist theater company annually facilitates an event where six new plays are written, rehearsed and performed within 24 hours. An opportunity for female artists and those interested in their work can dream up a play in a short span of time.
www.theatreunbound.com
BERNARDA ALBA
Theater Latte Da at The Ritz Theater Jan. 15-Feb. 16, 2020
A musical based on the classic drama by gay master playwright Federico Garcia Lorca, The House of Bernarda Alba. Five daughters resent their domineering mother’s rigid code of decorum she imposes on the household after the death of her second husband. Words and music by Michael John Chiusa.
www.latteda.org
A DOLL’S HOUSE, PART 2 The Jungle Theater Jan. 15-Feb. 23, 2020
The original Ibsen play has a wife and mother shutting the door to her home and leaving. It was a watershed moment in world drama and in feminism. Playwright Lucas Hnath imagines what happens when a knock is heard on the same door many years later.
www.jungletheater.org
EVITA 5 Presidents. Photo courtesy of Old Log Theatre
Park Square Theatre at The Proscenium Stage, Park Square Theatre Jan. 17-March 1, 2020
Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice probe the powerhungry narcissism of a glamorous Argentinian who aided her military general husband, Juan Peron. His “Peronist” movement centered on social justice enabled his dictatorship. Great tunes include High Flying Adored and And the Money Kept Rolling In (and Out).
www.parksquaretheatre.org
BOB MARLEY’S THE THREE LITTLE BIRDS Children’s Theatre Company Jan. 19-Mar. 1, 2020
Jamaica. Tropical storms. Evil spirits. However, young Ziggy learns “every little thing is gonna be alright” with the help of some feathered friends. Themes of peace and love to the beat of Bob Marley.
www.childrenstheatre.org
JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR
Hennepin Theatre Trust at Orpheum Theatre Jan. 21-26, 2020
It was the beginning of the Andrew Lloyd Webber legend and a watershed moment when the subject of the New Testament Gospels was given a rock ‘n roll musical treatment. Savor memorable tunes like I Don’t Know How to Love Him and Everything’s Alright.
www.hennepintheatretrust.org
THE BRIDGES OF MADISON COUNTY
Artistry at Bloomington Theatre and Arts Center at Schneider Theater Jan. 24-Feb. 16, 2020
A tender tale of illicit love at midlife. Imagine the classic Clint Eastwood/Meryl Streep movie set to music with the Iowa farmland receding into the background. Music and lyrics by Jason Robert Brown. Book by Marsha Norman.
artistrymn.org
FLIGHT
Minnesota Opera at Ordway Center for the Performing Arts Jan. 25-Feb. 2, 2020
Jonathan Dove’s opera portrays eight strangers grounded overnight at an airport. There is also a refugee, for whom the terminal serves as his residence. A story in which complete strangers must turn to each other if they’re to find their way up and out.
mnopera.org Continued on page 16
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This powerful, one-act Greek tragedy is as intense and gripping as opera gets. A beloved rom-com, filled with recognizable music.
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SKELETON CREW
Yellow Tree Theatre Jan. 31-Mar. 1, 2020
Austene Van directs this co-production with New Dawn Theatre. The place is Detroit, where an autostamping plant is on its way out, which will leave four workers, one of whom is pregnant, jobless. Will the American Dream survive? Written by Dominique Morriseau.
yellowtreetheatre.com
BLUE MAN GROUP
Hennepin Theatre Trust at State Theatre Feb. 4-9, 2020
One of the most popular physical performance groups on the face of the Earth. Their very tight-fitting costumes and signature kinetic style of movement dazzles with incongruous moments that will leave you stunned and tickled.
www.hennepintheatretrust.org
THE WHITE CARD
Penumbra Theatre Company at Penumbra Theatre Feb. 6-March 1, 2020
Playwright Claudia Rankine muses on a wealthy white couple, patrons of the arts, with a collection of art showing violent acts done to black people. When a black photographer dines with them at their home, you may be surprised over what is revealed.
www.penumbratheatre.org
TWELFTH NIGHT Chicago. Photo by Allen Weeks
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Guthrie Theater at Wurtele Thrust Stage at Guthrie Theater Feb. 8-March 22, 2020 Perhaps the greatest cross-gender play ever written.
William Shakespeare’s comedy is a fascinating examination of gender presentation as an illusion in the eye of the beholder. A nobleman comes to question his desire when a young lass disguised as a young man aids him in courting a noblewoman.
www.guthrietheater.org
SUPERMAN BECOMES LOIS LANE History Theatre Feb. 8-March 1, 2020
St. Paul’s Susan Kimberly was the city’s first deputy mayor, as well as the first deputy mayor of a major U.S. city. Before her transition, she was Bob Sylvester. The advance of a former President of the St. Paul City Council and investment banker is written in her own words.
www.historytheatre.com
DOG LOGIC
Theatre in the Round Players at Theatre in the Round Feb.14-March 8, 2020
An ex-hippie talks to dead animals. As the owner of an abandoned pet cemetery, conflict heats up when a real estate issue turns his mother and ex-wife against him in order to secure land for a shopping mall.
www.theatreintheround.org
SPAMTOWN, USA
Children’s Theatre Company Feb. 16-April 5, 2020
The 1985 strike by Hormel meat plant workers in Austin, Minnesota caused stark divisions between families. It signaled the end, not only of comforts, but of children’s dreams ranging from fashion school to sports to science projects. What happens when one is pushed to take sides?
www.childrenstheatre.org
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The Divine and The Fabulous BY KASSIDY TARALA
The Zakar Twins, Michael and Zach, who both identify as gay, are coming to the Cowles Center Sept. 21-22 for their “Pray the Gay Away” tour. “Some moms cry, some moms hug you. Our mom threw holy water at us.” This is the story of how Michael and Zach Zakar, twin brothers, came out to their Christian Iraqi mother as gay. Yes, both of them. As first-generation Iraqi-Americans who grew up in the suburbs of Detroit, Michael and Zach Zakar grew up with essentially no vocabulary to describe their sexual orientation. “It was insane because in Iraq, the translation for ‘gay’ is seen as negative, and in some dialects the word ‘gay’ doesn’t even exist. So in our household, it was truly looked at as a disease because the actual word didn’t make much sense to our parents,” the Zakar Twins say. “In Iraq, faith comes first, so when we
The Pray The Gay Away tour is a live adaptation of the Zakar twins' memoir of the same name. Photo courtesy of Big Time Operator LLC
The Zakar Twins relate their story of growing up in a devout Christian household while reconciling their sexuality. Photo courtesy of Big Time Operator LLC
both figured out we were gay, we really thought we were going to die.” The obstacles they both faced as gay Iraqi men led them to cowriting their book Pray the Gay Away. The book follows Michael and Zach on their coming out journey as their Christian Iraqi mother tries to “de-gay” them. The play, which is currently touring, is a comedic version of their story. The twins will stop at the Cowles Center in Minneapolis on Sept. 21 and 22. “It’s been amazing—we really show that as fraternal twins, we did not choose this; we are who we are,” the twins say. “We never thought we would come out, and now we’re doing a national tour on our story to the world. We’re both lucky we have built-in support on this journey together, because the chance to tell your story this publicly for two Midwest kids does not happen every day!” Though Zach and Michael both identify as Christians, they say that first and foremost, they identify as being gay. Continued on page 20
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19
ARTS & CULTURE BY KASSIDY TARALA
“We always say we identify with being gay before we identify with being Christian. In this journey of being gay Christian males, we have learned truly how to accept others and treat them as you want to be treated,” they say. Though this journey has allowed the twins to fully embrace who they were born to be, they say that it has actually made them less spiritual overall. “Everyone needs faith and something to believe in, but we unfortunately have seen the negatives of what religion can do. We have come to a happy medium with our mom, but it’s still a struggle,” they say. So far, the Zakar Twins’ Pray the Gay Away book and play have led them down a very successful path. “We have [been] fortunate to be on Comedy Central’s Tosh.0, MarcoMarco Fashion show, and [to] partner with many companies like MAC, the Trevor Project, and OraQuick,” they say. “Our social media started with selfies and has become a full blown LLC. This journey has been exciting because we’re reaching a big market like Iraq, New York, London, without being there in real time.” How do the twins keep up with the quickly evolving world around them? Well, sex appeal, of course! “We always want a light, sexy spin on advocacy because it gets people’s attention more.” When asked what the Zakar Twins want their audiences to take away from their show, they had, appropriately, a comical response: “Chlamydia.” “No, just kidding. We want our audience to have a good time! Gay or straight, the play focuses on many topics that viewers will relate to,” they say.
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Openly gay twin brothers Michael and Zach Zakar are embarking on their Pray The Gay Away comedy show tour this season. Photo courtesy of Big Time Operator LLC
For more information about the Zakar Twins, their book, the Pray the Gay Away tour, or to vote on “who’s the hot one,” visit www.zakartwins. com.
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Cookin’ Up A Powderhorn Storm BY KASSIDY TARALA
For the first time ever, the Powderhorn Culinary Arts Show will feature cooks of all skill levels on Oct. 19. Whether you own your own restaurant, you’re a novice in your kitchen at home, or the closest thing to “culinary” you know is takeout, the Powderhorn Culinary Arts Show will be your opportunity to show off and sharpen your skills in the kitchen. “The Powderhorn Culinary Arts Show is the first annual, fun, and fresh culinary competition for experienced and junior chefs with varying degrees of culinary genius,” says Tabitha Montgomery, Powderhorn Chef Nathan Sartain, left, and Sue Zelickon, right, will serve as jurors for the Culinary Park Neighborhood Association executive director. Arts Show, while Jametta Raspberry, center, will be one of the finalists. Photo by Hannah Kamath Just over two-dozen culinary finalists will compete Saturday, Oct. 19 from noon to 5 p.m. in Powderhorn Park in South Powderhorn Culinary Arts Show showcases more Minneapolis. Each finalists will compose and sell than just the masters of the kitchen. one food or beverage item to the public and be jurNot only do attendees have tasty food, drinks, ied by a renowned lineup of jurors, including Kim and endless fun to look forward to, but they also Bartmann, Chef John Kraus, Marla Jadoonanan, get to leave the event knowing that they are makChef Nathan Sartain, and Sue Zelickson. ing a difference in an iconic Minneapolis neighbor“The cool thing about this event is that there’s hood. “Proceeds from the event will help PPNA only one competition for everybody. All finalists are amplify our advocacy work calling for advanceencouraged to let their backgrounds, experience, ments in livability and safety resources, equitable culinary style, age, and food influences drive what development, and housing equity,” Montgomery they put on the plate. Four award winners will be says. decided by jurors; Best of Show, Second Place, If you applied to compete in this year’s PowThird Place, and Honorable Mention,” Montgomderhorn Culinary Arts Show but didn’t make it to ery says. the finals, Montgomery says not to worry. Before Powderhorn Park is a sweet spot in South the inaugural cook-off has even taken place, PPNA Minneapolis. Known for its eclectic residents and is already planning for next year’s event, she exvarious home, garden, and art shows throughout plains. each year, the Powderhorn Culinary Arts Show is “Finalists have been selected for this year’s already fitting right in. The first annual Powderhorn Culinary Arts Show event… but culinary geniuses reading this should will take place in Powderhorn Park on Oct. 19. “As the neighborhood association for the most Photo plan to apply next year. The Best of Show culinary courtesy of PPNA vibrant, eclectic, warm, and diverse neighborhood artist will receive an estimated $5,000 in promoin Minneapolis, PPNA has a long and storied histional exposure, fee waivers for next year’s competition, and a full twelve tory of using arts to build connections and showcase the community,” months of bragging rights!” says Montgomery. The application fee is $35 for professional culinary artists and $10 for Not going to be competing? No problem! The Powderhorn Culinary junior culinary artists, and the booth fee is $350 for professional culinary Arts Show truly has something for everyone’s palate. With live music, a artists and $100 for junior culinary artists. Minneapolis licensing fees beer garden hosted by Finnegan’s Brew Co., several pop-up shop experican vary. ences scattered around the park, a pumpkin patch pop-up—just in time For more information about the Powderhorn Culinary Arts Show, for Halloween—and a holiday bazaar with local gifts and goodies, the visit www.ppna.org/pcasjury.
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A Table For Black Sheep BY KASSIDY TARALA
Black Sheep Pizza boasts three Twin Cities locations, plus an outpost location at the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. Photo by Kianna Notermann
Black Sheep Pizza celebrates everyone’s differences. And what better way to do that than over a slice of their delicious pizza?
It seems every corner you turn in the Twin Cities, there’s a new pizza joint. Not that I’m complaining… I’m fairly certain the delivery staff at every local pizza shop have my address memorized. But out of every slice, one stands out among the rest: Black Sheep Pizza. Founded by Jordan Smith and his wife, Colleen Doran, Black Sheep Pizza opened after their 2005 President’s Day weekend in New York City. While there, they ate at Patsy’s Pizza, one of the original coal-fired pizza restaurants in NYC and recounted for each other their first encounters with coal-fired pizza. “Besides the phenomenal taste sensation, Jordan’s memories revolved around getting a glimpse of the huge coal-fired oven, aptly named Vesuvius, and Colleen’s memories related to ‘learning’ how to eat a big slice of coal-fired pizza (incidentally, you fold it in half maintaining the triangle pie shape),” says Kristina Lawson, director of operations for Black Sheep Pizza. Today, there are three Black Sheep Pizza locations throughout the Twin Cities, located on Washington Avenue and Nicollet Avenue in Minneapolis and Robert Street in St. Paul. There is also an outpost location at the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. From their unique pizza topping combinations to the eclectic atmosphere of each restaurant, there are a lot of things that make Black Sheep Pizza stand out. But perhaps its coal-fired pizza is what truly makes it a Twin Cities gem. “Coal was used by early 20th century Italian immigrants who could not afford to use wood for their pizza ovens. The first coal-fired pizza place opened in New York City in 1905, it was also the first licensed pizzeria in the country,” Lawson says. “There have been many since, but Black Sheep Pizza was the first in Minnesota. It is a uniquely East Coast concept, and it has been spreading across the North and Northeast. Coal burns hotter, drier, and cleaner than wood and creates a crispier crust.” Black Sheep Pizza uses anthracite coal, which has a high carbon content, a low amount of impurities and is friendlier than burning wood. It is the type of coal that produces the most amount of energy but the least amount of pollution, so it is clean-burning and virtually particulate-free.
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In addition to helping out the environment, Black Sheep Pizza gives back to the community. “This year we decided to try something new. Each month, we partner with a different organization that is making a positive impact in our community and beyond. In our partnerships, we raise funds by donating a portion of every #1 pizza purchased, share the organization’s mission and the work being done, and get involved in local events,” Lawson says. The #1 pizza is a simple cheese and sauce pie, but Lawson says its simplicity doesn’t make it any less popular among pizza lovers. “It might sound simple to some, but you get a true experience with our dough recipe along with our housemade sauce topped with fresh milk mozzarella, fresh oregano and extra virgin olive oil. Our pizza is thin crust, but we do offer a Sicilian style for those that are interested in a thicker style,” she says. Black Sheep Pizza’s top selling pies are #4, meatball, ricotta and garlic, and #5, fennel sausage, hot salami, onions and cracked green olives. “We use fresh ingredients and make as much as we can in our stores including fennel sausage, meatballs, dressings, sauces and pickled vegetables,” Lawson says. “Although it is easy to think of us as just pizza, we are also known for our fantastic salads and grilled items!” With “A Table for Everyone” as its slogan, Black Sheep Pizza is welcoming to all pizza lovers. “Whether you are a guest or part of the team, our mission is to create and maintain an extraordinary culture where great food, drink and hospitality make everyone feel welcome and appreciated! We celebrate having ‘A Table for Everyone’ every day in our restaurants and consistently work to create an environment of compassion, empowerment and kindness,” Lawson says. New at Black Sheep Pizza? The St. Paul location just received a total refresh with the addition of a full bar. “As usual, we are always looking for new ideas to connect with our guests and staff but not quite yet ready to announce any details. Stay tuned for upcoming fun!” For more information, visit blacksheeppizza.com.
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Oh, He’s A Jolly Good Eagle BY CHRIS TARBOX
The legendary Minneapolis GLBT establishment known as the eagleBOLTbar continues to stand tall as it approaches its 21st birthday. Photo by Chris Tarbox
How apropos is it that one of the Twin Cities’ longest-lived and venerable gay nightclubs is officially old enough to buy a drink? The beloved eagleBOLTbar, a neighborhood bar & grill and gay bar located in the East Town section of downtown Minneapolis, has certainly earned that drink, and ever since owner and proprietor Edward Hopkins opened what was originally called the Minneapolis Eagle on Sept. 8, 1998, the club has been a respected pillar in the Twin Cities gay scene. “I purchased the previous business by making a down payment with a small inheritance from my parents who had passed a few years before,” said Hopkins. “The leather community had gotten wind of our opening and had scoped the space out prior to our official opening. The first night was very exciting and also terrifying. I remember going home and crawling into a fetal position and wondering what had I gotten myself into.” Those opening night jitters were proven wrong, however, as the Eagle became a popular destination for leather events, dance nights, football viewing parties, and show tune Sundays. In 2002, Hopkins purchased the dilapidated building next door, eventually reopening it as a video bar the next year. “The roof had caved in from the weight of snow, and the wooden floors were so severely buckled that you could not drive a tractor over them,” Hopkins recounted. “We referred to the first building as ‘The Eagle’ and the new building as ‘The Bolt’. We attempted to continue to enforce a dress code in one space, but after a few years decided it was easier to combine everything and be known as eagleBOLTbar.” Hopkins said that the establishment was a resounding success right out of the gate, with patrons taking to the fun theme nights and proximity to sports venues. “The Eagle started 3 for 1 when our community was not really gathering for happy hours,” said Hopkins. “It took off immediately. In the same respect, our weekly beer bust was immediately successful. People love our version of Showtune Sundays. Being near to the new US Bank Stadium, we have some very busy unexpected days. Our current standout feature is our new, large patio with comfortable seating and great landscaping.” The eagleBOLTbar is host to a kitchen open daily for lunch and
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dinner, and brunch on Sundays, while visitors can come on down for activities ranging from karaoke and pull tabs to drinking on the patio and breaking out the leather and rubber gear for monthly theme events. Most importantly, eagleBOLTbar is a frequent contributor to numerous charitable causes. “[We] participate in Dining Out for Life as a 100 percent donor since our first year, we contribute to cancer organizations (after losing several family members to cancer), and we are a proud sponsor of gay athletics,” said Hopkins. “We support several softball teams and the kickball league. We reserve Saturday evenings from 7 to 10 p.m. for any group who wishes to hold a charitable event in our space.” Looking back at 21 years of running the eagleBOLTbar, Hopkins expressed both pride and amazement at the many patrons, employees, and events that have been in the space. “We have had weddings at the Eagle; we have had leather swap meets; we have had wedding receptions; we have had baby showers; we have had celebrations of life; we have had calendar contests; we have had many Mr. Minneapolis Eagle contests, Halloween contests, and Easter bonnet contests,” said Hopkins. “We have had some amazing performances including Pansy Division from San Francisco, a performance of Hedwig and the Angry Inch, Frenchie Davis and Bob Mould. We have had contestants from Project Runway and members of famous bands hang out with us.” No matter what’s happening in the building, it’s always a hot time at eagleBOLTbar, and no matter the day, month, or year, it’ll always have a place in the Twin Cities’ rainbow community’s heart. “People may settle down or move away and new people may frequent our little bar, but our customers always seem to feel at home,” said Hopkins.
eagleBOLTbar
515 Washington Ave. S. Minneapolis, MN 612-338-4214 www.eagleboltbar.com
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OUR LIVES
LEATHER LIFE | BY STEVE LENIUS
T-Rexx and Sirens Join Twin Cities Leather Club Scene The Twin Cities leather/BDSM/fetish community has, over the years, experienced an astounding growth in the formation of clubs, groups and organizations. According to one recent count, the number of leather/ BDSM/fetish clubs, groups and organizations in the Twin Cities is 57. As the community evolves, so too do the clubs, groups and organizations that are a part of the community. Two clubs that have formed relatively recently are Twin Cities TRexx and Twin Cities Sirens. T-Rexx describes itself as a leather club for trans-masculine identified people. Sirens describes itself as an inclusive leather club for trans women and transfeminine individuals. T-Rexx was formed in March 2018 when two trans men attended The Tank evening at The Saloon and wondered where all the other transmasculine people were. The club had the honor of being nominated for the 2019 Pantheon of Leather award for small club of the year. According to the club, the mission of TRexx is “to provide a platform for community and visibility” for trans-masculine people in the local leather community. The club has grown quickly—at this writing the club has ten full members, two pledges, 13 associate members and three honorary members. T-Rexx provides a safe environment for members of the club and community; strives to meet the educational and recreational needs of both club members and the wider community; and raises funds for local charities, for scholarships for members, and for club education. The club hosts a social every two or three months that cleverly combines a food item and a kink demo (think ice cream and human cake decorating, for example). Visibility is an important part of the club’s mission. Last February, two T-Rexx members competed in the Mr. Twin Cities Leather 2019 contest. And I personally have seen another T-Rexx member proudly wearing a shirt that declares, “This is what trans looks like.” Twin Cities Sirens officially formed in the spring of 2019. The club was formed because members felt “there was no welcoming
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Image courtesy of Twin Cities T-Rexx
Image courtesy of the Twin Cities Sirens
space for trans women in the local leather community. We wanted a space for trans women to feel welcome... Sisterhood and acceptance in a space are important values to our club.” The Sirens now have eight full members, 13 associates and one honorary member. Every other month, the Sirens host a social. According to the club, the socials are designed to “create a welcoming space for our trans sisters and the general leather community while keeping the cost of attending our social at a bare minimum... as financial burden can prevent trans people from entering the leather community.” Both T-Rexx and Sirens are backpatch leather clubs, adopting a leather tradition descended from motorcycle clubs and the first leather and leather/levi clubs that formed at the dawn of the modern leather community. Like other leather clubs throughout history, members of both of these clubs become part of a chosen family and enjoy mutual support, friendship and siblinghood. The clubs also function for members as an entry point into the greater leather community. The enthusiasm and energy shown by members of both clubs has been a joy for me to see and is a great addition to the local community. Probably neither of these clubs could have existed a decade ago. I wrote my first column about transgender leather in 1999. (My good-
ness, I just realized that was twenty years ago!) I ended that column on transgender leather by saying, “Gender comes in many different flavors, and it will be a lovely day when people can taste them all and choose their favorite with no apologies, shame or stigma.” That lovely day may not quite be here yet, but it’s certainly closer. Today I see people expressing gender identities more complex, sophisticated, varied—and beautiful—than anything I could imagine or envision when I wrote that column in 1999. At the time I wrote that column, I knew several members of the community who identified as trans (or as non-binary, although I don’t think that term was in common use back then). But in 1999 and for many years after, evidently there was not enough trans representation in the community to lead to the formation of a club. Now, in 2019, there is enough trans representation in the community to form not one club, but two. Both Sirens and T-Rexx will be hosting an event called The Rendezvous Sept. 13-15, 2019, “a non-event event weekend for trans, non-binary, and GNC [gender nonconforming] leather people.” Planned activities include visits to the Walker Sculpture Garden, Mall of America and Water Park of America as well as a gear night, play party and more. Find more information by searching for “The Rendezvous” on Facebook. Both Sirens and T-Rexx have active Facebook pages, and T-Rexx also has a website at tctrexx.wixsite.com/rawr.
OUR AFFAIRS
BOOKS | BY E.B. BOATNER Prognosis: A Memoir of My Brain
Rainbow Warrior: My Life in Color
Sarah Vallance Little A $24.95
Gilbert Baker Chicago Review Press $26.99
Vallance asks to ride a friend’s usually placid horse. Bolting, it jumps a fence, unseats Sarah who lands on her un-helmeted head. Following tests, all hell breaks loose. Her IQ has plummeted to 80, she’s told she’ll never again hold a job, finish her PhD. Vallance’s battle against traumatic brain injury (TBI) includes mourning both her father’s death two years prior, and her mother’s ongoing coldness, rejection and abandonment, her late realization that she’s gay, the onset of anger issues, create mountains to climb even as she must relearn to read, write, think. She does hold jobs, completes her doctorate. Sarah’s dogs, her new relationships—then a wife, give aid mightily, allowing Vallance to write her book aimed “to give voice to the voiceless.”
In 1978, Harvey Milk asked Gilbert Baker to create something that would symbolize what was then a growing gay rights movement. Baker, artist and activist, combining passions, create the now globally-recognized rainbow flag in its multiple forms. The book was written by Baker himself, over decades, and assembled posthumously by Charlie Beal from texts left on his friend’s computer. Born in Kansas June 2, 1951, the lad from the beginning loved fabrics, colors, textures, and suffered like many youngsters who know from the get-go that they’re different. The adult, described by Milk filmmaker and close friend Dustin Lance Black, arrived on set in a rainbow scarf, “bejeweled jacket collar and sequined cuffs,” with a “dazzling, dreamy voice.” Here’s a fabulous opportunity to experience Baker’s magic.
In the Shadow of the Bridge: A Memoir
Mr. Know-It-All: The Tarnished Wisdom of a Filth Elder
Joseph Caldwell Delphinium Books $24
John Waters Farrar, Straus and Giroux $27
Caldwell’s spare memoir recounts a life lived in the shadow of yearning. He grew up in Milwaukee, then in 1950, out of the Air Force, moved to New York to live as a gay man and write plays. Living just under the Brooklyn Bridge, Caldwell went on to meet famous or soon-to-be-famous people, worked at music station WQXR, wrote soaps (Dark Shadows, Secret Storm), five novels, and a play, The Bridge. He fell in love with reclusive photographer Gale, then, when Gale left, never forsook his yearning. In the 1980s came AIDS; Caldwell worked as a caretaker, and after nearly 30 years, uncannily like a soap plot, through a twist of fate Caldwell is granted a reprise of his relationship, caring for the stricken Gale.
John Waters, who has weathered many a battle during his lifetime, confesses, among many, many other things, to a relatively new phenomenon: his recent struggle with the emotional strain of—gasp—respectability. Much like Gladstone Gander hiding the only dime he ever earned, Waters carries on manfully, while declaring “acceptance” to be “the worst thing that can happen to creative person.” Advice and personal opinion infuse these twenty-one essays: “OK, if you ever write a book, you must have a dirty chapter;” “Personality disorders are a terrible thing to waste;” “I’m against political kidnapping because of my friend Patricia Hearst.” Personalities and inside information from his eclectic oeuvre abound; Serial Mom, Pink Flamingos, Polyester, Hairspray. Much thoughtprovoking, hilarious, filthy reading from the Bard of Baltimore.
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OUR HOMES
OUR RIDES ROAD TRIP | BY RANDY STERN | PHOTO BY RANDY STERN
Celebrating Pride in Fargo-Moorhead Pride season is far from over here in the Upper Midwest. So far this year, we showed our love for community and culture from Twin Cities Pride to other celebrations in smaller communities within and further afield from the MinneapolisSt. Paul area. In Golden Valley and Columbia Heights, our community looked to our own neighborhoods to celebrate ourselves. Some of us celebrated in places ranging from Pine City to Sioux Falls, Eau Claire to Des Moines. However, we reserved the final weekend of June for the most important pride celebration of our history: the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots in New York City. From what we have seen in photos in this magazine and on social media, plenty of us made the trek from our communities to the Big Apple to honor our history, our present, and our past. After taking a break through the month of July, things are heating up again as rainbow flags, along with many other flags, start flying with pride, celebration, and protest within our region. Our calendar pointed to a celebration along the Red River that splits Minnesota with North Dakota. The cities of Fargo and Moorhead held their Pride weekend from Aug. 8-11. And we decided that a road trip was in order to attend this Pride celebration. In planning our road trip, the good folks at Toyota Motor North America connected with us and lent us a hand in making our journey a memorable one. After discussions about our plan to do our story to cover Fargo-Moorhead Pride, they provided us with a room and a car. Not just any car, mind you. Our ride to Fargo was a 2019 Lexus ES 300h Ultra Luxury sedan. This is not your typical road trip vehicle, but it had some advantages to help ease the pain of a journey that takes less than four hours to make from the Twin Cities. The big advantage was its hybrid gas-electric driveline that averaged… during our journey. The Ultra Luxury package provided us with absolute comfort and amenities making the trip an easy one for us. While we enjoyed our luxury ride to Fargo, we had a job to do. We wanted to see not only what Fargo-Moorhead Pride was all about, but to talk to the folks in the community about what this year’s pride celebrations mean to them. Fargo is proud to have an out GLBT person representing them in the North Dakota legislature in Bismarck. Joshua Boschee has been on the forefront in introducing legislation to extend rights for the state’s GLBT citizens. “[The North Dakota legislature] were there January through April of this last year,” Boschee explains. “And related to LGBT-specific policy, we’ve continued to work since 2009 on fully inclusive nondiscrimination policy. We haven’t made the progress we’ve hope we could’ve, but certainly
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continue to venture and work it as a way of connecting the LGBT community to policy work.” Some of what we witnessed at Fargo-Moorhead Pride is part due to sharing a state line— and a river. Boschee explains, “I know the progress that’s been made in Minnesota has trickled over the river, over the border, because we are a dual community, both Fargo, West Fargo, Wahpeton, Breckenridge, Grand Forks, East Grand Forks, policies that get enacted in Minnesota find their way into these communities.” An old friend of the Twin Cities made his home here in the Fargo-Moorhead area. After leaving his position as Executive Director at The Aliveness Project, Joe Larson returned to his pastoral roots and was invited to the highest-ranking GLBT clergy in North Dakota a few years ago. As Pastor at Saint Mark’s Lutheran Church in Fargo, Larson took on a more active role in this community not from his pulpit, but as a board member of the local community organization, the Pride Collective. “Having moved from Minneapolis,” Larson explains, “it’s definitely more conservative here. North Dakota is a very red state. Fargo, you know, is a little bubble, a little more progressive on the rest of the state. It’s nice that I’m serving in Fargo. But there’s a lot of people who don’t feel that they can be out. We don’t have any legal protections in North Dakota around discrimination or housing or employment. Some people can’t come out at work because they’re afraid of losing their job. And it’s a smaller community. It’s amazing during Pride we get all of these people who show up. Like I went to the dance last night and then during the rest of the year, we don’t have a gay bar here. There used to be, years ago.” As transgender issues take a larger role in our community’s quest for expanded rights nationwide, a local group, Tri-State Transgender, has taken the lead to be the beacon over the past
20 years for other transgender people, including those in South Dakota, along with North Dakota, and Western Minnesota. I had the chance to talk to two leaders from Tri-State Transgender, Katrina Koesterman and Rebel Marie, to learn about the triumphs and challenges of their group in the current sociopolitical climate. A prime example of this came from some experiences Marie had leading up to the Pride Festival. “Just the other day,” explained Marie, “I was going downtown, and I ran into about ten people who I knew, who waved and were really friendly and outgoing, and I felt very safe. However, also today, we were surrounded by a bunch of people at a restaurant that had paraphernalia that was very evident that they wouldn’t support our existence. Sometimes it can be very affirming, and it’s great to be here, and sometimes it can be frightening.” Koesterman adds: “We also have some people that aren’t very supportive, that will give us the cold shoulder, or downright try to hurt us. We get both ends of the spectrum here.” “One of the things that’s unique about our organization is,” Marie explains, “Kat represents the Minnesota side, and I represent the North Dakota side. A lot of the things in Minnesota, a lot of the legal things creates an environment that… You can change your pronoun on your license a lot easier. You have housing protections, which in turn, protects your ability to maintain a job. You can’t get fired outright if you have a job in Minnesota, and then, if you have a Minnesota license, it’s a little bit easier to find work.” “In North Dakota, we have what’s called a ‘housing first model,’” Marie explains further, “for helping with addiction and mental health needs. Anybody who’s homeless, they’re going to try to get them into a home first. However, without any of the anti-discrimination
OUR RIDES BY RANDY STERN
laws that protect housing, we’re not getting healthy. We’re not having a robust community in the North Dakota side. A lot of people are choosing to either find work in Minnesota, or just live in Minnesota, so they can access other services, like healthcare, addiction services, and have all those protections that they needed to survive.” As far Tri-State Transgender is concerned, Koesterman gave an overview of where things are at with the local transgender community and what the future holds for the group and the community. “I think that a future in which being trans is normalized is where we need to be,” said Koesterman, “where we don’t have to do interviews like this, where we don’t have to get together for support groups as often, we are just normal. It’s just a part of everyday life. We are seeing that. We’re seeing attendance at Tri-State Transgender go down a little bit because people don’t need the support as much because it is becoming normalized. We need to continue that trend.” Our community welcomes welcome new generations to our fold. At the festival, I was privileged to talk to a young transgender person named Phoenix. He simply blew me away with his story, as he begins his freshman year at Moorhead High School. “I’ve had the support of peers and many staff,” said Phoenix, “and going into the high school, I’m really anx-
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ious to see how it is, but I have an older brother who’s in high school as well as some friends, because I worked on one of the high school productions there, and I’m nervous, but at the same time know that I have support systems within the high school already.” It is worth noting that Phoenix spoke at the Interfaith Service prior to the start of Sunday’s parade. He will be speaking about his transition. “I’ll be going into a bit of more detail,” said Phoenix, “as well as being yourself and still remaining safe.” As part of this journey, I wanted to connect with other people in this community. Part of this quest to connect was to discover a community of GLBT people who are in the midst of getting older and looking for outlets to connect with people their age for support and social purposes. This is an issue that hits home for me, as I now in my mid-fi fties and had some challenges recently because of my age and health. During Pride weekend, I connected with the Red River Rainbow Seniors. They had a social along with AARP’s North Dakota office, at the Boiler Room in downtown Fargo. “This group addressed the issues of our aging population through engaging the community and bringing them together,” explains Larson. “We worked hand in hand with AARP on that. We hold monthly happy hour events. In fact, I kind of took the idea from Laven-
der‘s First Thursday when I came here, I said, ‘we should do something like that.’ And then people said, ‘well let’s do it for older people.’ And, so, ever y month we meet at a bar or restaurant and it’s just a social happy hour. It’s so it’s, it’s great. And you’ll get 20 to 30 people ever y month.” The biggest takeaway from Fargo-Moorhead Pride weekend was the energy and vibe I got from those I saw attending and participating at the festival and the parade. In fact, the Parade had a growth in contingencies with about 30 floats this year—the longest parade in Fargo-Moorhead Pride’s history. They also saw a larger turnout for the Festival, the Parade, and the Rally. As Fargo-Moorhead pride grows, there is now room for smaller Pride celebrations across the country. With Pine City and Golden Valley growing and St. Cloud’s Pride celebrating its 10th year, we are finding other small celebrations popping up from Columbia Heights; Mineral Point, Wisconsin, and in Minot, North Dakota—to name a few. Having witnessed a successful pride in Fargo-Moorhead is a welcomed sight for someone who is used to both large and small celebrations. Before you ask, it was well worth the drive to be there. NOTE: Travel arrangements were provided by Toyota Motor North America
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Coupon must be surrendered at time of purchase; no copies may be used. One coupon per day. Not valid on previous purchases or with any other discounts, sales, or promotions, including yellow-labeled items. Not valid on phone/mail/online orders. Not valid on “Lowest Possible Price” items. Not valid after “Buy More, Save More” discount has been applied. Not valid on Custom Printing and/or Framing orders. Coupons not valid on select product from the following categories and brands: 1-Shot Enamels, 3-D Printers and Inks, Akua Pin Press, Aluminum Screens, Arches Watercolor Rolls and Blocks, Artograph, ArtResin, Badger Airbrush products, Blick French Easel by Jullian, Blick Squeegees, Canson Infinity Papers, Color-aid, Daylight, Eclipse Airbrushes and accessories, Edward Lyons, Envirotex Lite, Futura Craft Station, Grex, Inkpress, Itoya, Iwata, Krink, Lazertran, Liquitex sprays and markers, Logan, Moab, Molotow, Montana sprays and markers, MTN 94, Caran d’Ache Neocolor drawing materials, Old Holland Oil Colors, Paasche, R&F Pigments and Encaustics, Roma Plastilina, select clays, select canvas rolls, and blankets. Coupons not valid on select items or sets from the following categories or brands: Copic, PanPastel, Caran d’Ache, CarbOthello, Chartpak, Conté, Cretacolor, Daler-Rowney FW Acrylic Ink, Derwent, Dr. Ph. Martin’s, Faber-Castell, Holbein, Koh-I-Noor, Itoya books, Liquitex, NuPastel, Faber-Castell Pitt, Prismacolor, select scale models, Sennelier, Sharpie, Sensu brushes, Silhouette, Smooth-On, Strathmore Artist Inkjet Papers, Caran d’Ache Supracolor, Ulano, Union Ink, Utrecht Designers Gouache, and Wacom.
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COMMUNITY CONNECTION Community Connection brings visibility to local GLBT-friendly nonprofit organizations. To reserve your listing in Community Connection, call 612-436-4698 or email advertising@lavendermagazine.com.
ANIMAL RESCUE
Second Chance Animal Rescue
Dedicated to rescuing, fostering, caring for, and adopting out dogs and cats into forever homes. P.O. Box 10533 White Bear Lake, MN 55110 (651) 771-5662 www.secondchancerescue.org
BUSINESS ASSOCIATIONS
Quorum
Your GLBTA chamber of commerce working to invigorate, build & partner for a diverse business community. 310 E. 38th St., Ste. 209 Minneapolis, MN 55409 (612) 460-8153 www.twincitiesquorum.com
EDUCATION
Northwestern Health Sciences University
Natural healthcare degrees and certificates in acupuncture/Chinese Medicine, chiropractic, massage therapy, and B.S. completion. 2501 W. 84th St. Bloomington, MN 55431-1599 (952) 885-5409 www.nwhealth.edu
EVENT VENUES
Landmark Center
A classic venue, with a grand cortile and beautiful courtrooms, accommodates celebrations of all sizes. 75 W. 5th St. St. Paul, MN 55102 (651) 292-3228 www.landmarkcenter.org
GENDER CARE
University of Minnesota Health Comprehensive Gender Care
Compassionate, coordinated care from a multi-disciplinary team. Providing gender affirmation surgeries. University of Minnesota Health Clinics and Surgery Center 909 Fulton St. SE Minneapolis, MN 55455 (612) 676-4227 www.mhealth.org/gendercare
GOVERNMENT
City of Saint Paul
Department of Human Rights & Equal Economic Opportunity Your civil rights are protected! The City of Saint Paul champions justice and equity for all. 15 W Kellogg Blvd, Suite 280 Saint Paul, MN 55102 651-266-8966 www.stpaul.gov/hreeo hrightscomplaints@ci.stpaul.mn.us
HEALTH & WELLNESS The Aliveness Project
Community Center for individuals living with HIV/AIDS – on-site meals, food shelf, and supportive services. 3808 Nicollet Ave. S. Minneapolis, MN 55409 (612) 824-LIFE (5433) www.aliveness.org
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Clinic 555, St. Paul
Whether it’s a fling or a serious thing - get tested. Sexual health clinic. Downtown St. Paul. Offering PrEP. 555 Cedar St., Fl. 1 St. Paul, MN (651) 266-1255 clinic555.org
Family Tree Clinic
LGBTQ Health Matters at Family Tree! Offering respectful, affordable sexual health services to meet your needs. 1619 Dayton Ave. St. Paul, MN (651) 645-0478 www.familytreeclinic.org
JustUs Health
LGBTQ-friendly counseling and referral; HIV prevention and support; public education, research and advocacy. #HelpHelps 2577 Territorial Road W. Saint Paul, MN 55114 (800) 243-7321 Minnesota AIDSLine (612) 341-2060 General info www.JustUsHealth.mn
NAMI Minnesota
(National Alliance on Mental Illness) Providing free classes and peer support groups for people affected by mental illnesses. 800 Transfer Rd. #31 St. Paul, MN 55114 (651) 645-2948 www.namihelps.org
Red Door Clinic
Sexual health care for all people. Get confidential tests & treatment in a safe, caring setting. 525 Portland Ave., 4th Floor Minneapolis, MN 55415 (612) 543-5555 www.reddoorservices.org
MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS
KFAI Radio - 90.3 FM (MPLS) 106.7 FM (STP)
Lyric Arts Main Street Stage
Many Hearts, One Song; Many Hands, One Church. Find us on Facebook and Twitter. 1900 Nicollet Ave. Minneapolis, MN 55403 (612) 871-7400 www.plymouth.org
Minnesota Opera
inquiring INSPIRING inclusive. Wherever you are on your faith journey, St Mark’s welcomes you. 519 Oak Grove St. Minneapolis, MN 55403 (612) 870-7800 www.ourcathedral.org
World-class opera draws you into a synthesis of beauty: breathtaking music, stunning costumes, and extraordinary sets. Performances at the Ordway Music Theater – 345 Washington St., St. Paul, MN 55102 (612) 333-6669 mnopera.org
Minnesota Orchestra
Enriching, inspiring, and serving our community as a symphony orchestra internationally recognized for artistic excellence. 1111 Nicollet Mall Minneapolis, MN (612) 371-5656 (800) 292-4141 www.minnesotaorchestra.org
Ordway Center for the Performing Arts
Hosting, presenting, and creating performing arts and educational programs that enrich diverse audiences. 345 Washington St. St. Paul, MN (651) 224-4222 www.ordway.org
Twin Cities Gay Men’s Chorus
An award-winning chorus building community through music and offers entertainment worth coming out for! 528 Hennepin Ave., Ste. 307 Minneapolis, MN (612) 339-SONG (7664) chorus@tcgmc.org www.tcgmc.org
POLITICAL
Stonewall DFL Democrats
Home of “Fresh Fruit”, the longest running weekly Queer radio show in the country. Listen on air or online. Bailey Building - 1808 Riverside Ave. Minneapolis, MN 55454 (612) 341-3144 www.KFAI.org
LGBTQ outreach arm of the Minnesota Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party, working to elect LGBTQ leaders and allies. 255 E. Plato Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55107 (651) 293-1200 mnstonewalldfl.org
Radio K - Real College Radio
Twin Cities Pride
Radio K (KUOM) is the award-winning student-run radio station of the University of Minnesota. 610 Rarig Center 330 21st Ave S. Minneapolis, MN 55455 (612) 625-3500 www.RadioK.org
MUSEUM
Minnesota Historical Society Sites & Museums
Make the Minnesota Historical Society’s 26 historic sites and museums part of your vacation plans. www.mnhs.org
PERFORMING ARTS
Hennepin Theatre Trust
Orpheum, State, Pantages and New Century Theatres Twin Cities’ best live entertainment: Broadway shows, music concerts, comedy, dance and more! Minneapolis, MN 1-800-982-2787 www.HennepinTheatreTrust.org
AUGUST 29-SEPTEMBER 11, 2019
Plymouth Congregational Church
Theater with character. Comedies, musicals, & dramas in a professional, intimate setting where all are welcome. 420 E. Main St. Anoka, MN 55303 (763) 422-1838 info@lyricarts.org www.lyricarts.org
PRIDE
Producers of the third-largest national Pride celebration seeks sponsors, volunteers, board members. Contact us today. 2021 E. Hennepin Ave., Ste. 402-7 Minneapolis, MN 55413 (612) 255-3260 www.tcpride.org
RELIGIOUS & SPIRITUAL
Central Lutheran Church (ELCA)
Exploring the promise of God for all. You are welcome. No exceptions. 333 S. 12th St. Minneapolis, MN 55404 (612) 870-4416 www.centralmpls.org
Hennepin Avenue United Methodist Church
Everyone is welcome at Hennepin Avenue UMC! Vibrant Worship. Authentic Community. Bold Outreach. 511 Groveland Ave. Minneapolis, MN (612) 871-5303 www.haumc.org
St. Mark’s Episcopal Cathedral
SOCIAL SERVICES
Lutheran Social Services of Minnesota
Making a difference in communities across Minnesota. Helping Minnesota students and seniors with personalized services that promote independent, healthy & abundant lives. (651) 310-9440 www.lssmn.org
TRAVEL
Discover Stillwater
Voted best weekend getaway! Visit this Historic Rivertown. Shop / Dine / Cruise / Art Galleries / Nightlife. P.O. Box 2025 Stillwater, MN 55082 info@DiscoverStillwater.com (651) 351-1717 www.DiscoverStillwater.com
Discover St. Louis Park
Close to Minneapolis, far from ordinary. Exceptional dining, attractions, shopping, hotels and event space. 1660 Hwy 100 S., Suite 501 St. Louis Park, MN 55416 (952) 426-4047 www.DiscoverStLouisPark.com
Visit Duluth
Lake Superior. Historic waterfront. Vibrant arts & dining. Adventure. Hotels and B&Bs. Attractions and events. 21 W. Superior St., Ste. 100 Duluth, MN (218) 722-4011, (800) 4-DULUTH www.visitduluth.com
Visit Saint Paul
175 W. Kellogg Blvd., Ste. 502 Saint Paul, MN 55102 (651) 265-4900 www.visitsaintpaul.com
VOLUNTEERISM Gay 4 Good
LGBTQ organization making positive impact on our greater community. Volunteering for social & environmental causes. (562) 684-8210 www.gayforgood.org
ZOO
International Wolf Center
Our world famous Center features daily programs, award-wining exhibits, and live ambassador wolves. 1396 Highway 169 Ely, MN 55731 218-365-4695 www.wolf.org
Minnesota Zoo
Our mission is to connect people, animals and the natural world to save wildlife. 13000 Zoo Blvd. Apple Valley, MN 55124 mnzoo.org
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OUR HOMES
HOME & YARD | BY HOLLY PETERSON | PHOTOS COURTESY OF BATC-HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA
A Little Slice Of Heaven Get ready for the Parade of Homes' fall 2019 season to kick off on September 9.
The Parade of Homes has been a staple of the Minnesota home-buying experience since 1949. Presented by the BATC-Housing First Minnesota, the event’s seventy-year history speaks volumes to its value to homebuyers and architecture lovers in the Twin Cities. Whether you are in the market for a new home, looking to pick up some design inspo for your existing digs, or just want to spend a weekend or three looking at pretty houses; the Parade of Homes has something for everyone. The BATC-Housing First Minnesota is “the leading voice of home builders and remodelers and all who are dedicated to building safe, durable homes at a price Minnesotans can afford. [The organization] represents more than 1,100 builders, remodelers, developers and industry suppliers throughout the state” according to Katie Elfrom, the Communications Manager for the Parade of Homes. With so many industry professionals represented in the event, the Parade of Homes is one of the best ways to see what is trending for Minnesota architecture and design. And there is a lot to see! There are 385 homes total, which is more than enough homes to keep all of us busy looking for the entire three-week run of the Parade of Homes. The featured homes are mostly located in and near the Twin Cities, but if you are feeling that latesummer/early fall itch for a road trip, there are options located as far south as Dundas and as far north as Cambridge. There are free guidebooks available at Holiday Stationstores two weeks before the Parade of Home begins, but the website is a great resource as well. Easily find the kinds of houses that appeal to you by specifying the categories that are important to you. Search by city, price, size, and whether the home falls into the “Green Path” or “Dream Home” categories. Green Path homes, as the name suggests, are tested for their energy efficiency, and provide great inspiration on the most current trends in building and decorating an energy efficient home. “Minnesota’s Green Path is the leading energy efficiency and green building program for the residential construction industry in Minnesota,” Katie explains.
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In fact, she continues, “[m]ore than 250 homes on this fall’s tour were tested by an independent energy rater and have been assigned a HERS (Home Energy Rating System) rating. These homes can show visitors a Green Path Home Performance Report (HPR) that graphically explains the home’s energy test results and allow homebuyers to compare expected energy use between homes.” In addition to Green Path homes, there are Dream Homes, which Katie describes as “five high-end homes [that] have been selected by the BATC-Housing First Minnesota Foundation as Dream Homes.” These are the only locations that require an admission, but at $5 the cost is minimal and is used by the BATCHousing First Minnesota foundation to “build and remodel homes for area families in need.” The Dream Homes, which range in price from $1.9–2.9 million, include interesting, fun features like a custom staircase, a pickleball court, a boathouse, a regulation-sized halfcourt basketball court. Check these out on the website and in person! It is well worth the admission to see these unique homes! I cannot encourage you any better than Katie does herself: “The Parade of Homes is the
best place to see the latest home décor styles and trends. The tour showcases the incredible work of many great Twin Cities builders, remodelers and designers.” This year, the Parade of Homes will be running Sept. 9-27 every Thursday through Sunday from noon to 6 p.m. This gives all of us plenty of time to hop on their website, mark down our favorites, and plan out our excursions to the crème de la crème of Minnesotan home design. Check out their website (paradeofhomes.org) and start hearting everything you want to check out!
Tour Hundreds of New Homes
SEPT. 7-29 ParadeofHomes.org HOME BY MARK D. WILLIAMS CUSTOM HOMES, INC. PHOTO BY ALYSSA LEE PHOTOGRAPHY
Guidebooks Available At