OUTinPerth 198 January 2018

ISSUE 198 • JANUARY 2018 FREE MONTHLY

Fringe World | Perfume Genius | William Yang | Tune-Yards | Mrs. Kasha Davis

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January Fringe & Beyond at Connections Nightclub Friday January 12th - OUTER BODY HONEY DIJON

Friday January 19th - POOF DOOF ICE CREAM SOCIAL Saturday January 20th - IN THE DARK SHARON NEEDLES Thursday January 25th - AUSTRAYA DAY EVE POP! Australiana show by BarbieQ, Alexas Armstrong & Scarlet Adams Special guest performance by the cast of YUMMY!

Photo - Tobey Black

Saturday January 13th - BOOGIE FEVER! Our Fabulous DISCO show returns starring Barbie Q, Alexas Armstrong, Veronica Jean Jones, Fay Rocious, Feminem the Future & Harvest DuBois.

Friday January 26th - AUSTRALIA DAY NO WORRIES SHEILA! Friday January 26th - FRINGE BEGINS! Check our Facebook and Website for all the shows!

FURTHER DETAILS ON ALL THESE EVENTS AND MORE ON OUR WEBSITE & FACEBOOK

CONNECTO I NSNG I HTCLUB 8 1 J A M E S S T R E E T N O R T H B R I D G E W E S T A U S T R A L I A W W W . C O N N E C T I O N S N I G H T C L U B . C O M W W W . F A C E B O O K . C O M / C O N N E C T I O N S N I G H T C L U B

The Messers are back and this time they’re supersized!

Gendermess Productions return with a sequel to one of our Fringe World five-star favourites with MACHÉ XL.

Proud Entertainment is bringing all of your favourite divas to this years Fringe festival with two fabulous shows.

Breakout Fringe star Cougar Morrison brings two new shows to this year’s festival, and she’s brought her juicing carrots.

Ginava, Perri Oxide, Donna Kebab, Flo Reel and Sky Scraper are bringing their unique blend of the avant-garde, the bizarre and the beautiful to the spiegeltent for a drag showcase spectacular.

Catch Madonna, Liza, Amy, Tina, Ariana, Edna and all of your favourite females in DIVAS: All Male Revue - as performed by some of Perth’s top drag talent.

Morrison once again teams up with Disgrace Kelly with an update on last year’s five-star show: Disgraceful Cougars: Bound and Gagged. After unwisely investing in a bull-semen cosmetic company, they find themselves broke and hustling the simple life - a story we can all relate to.

Drag Factory host Scarlet Adams, drag king Jason Green and the surreal Lunar Sea will be joining the Gendermess crew for a wild ride - along with host body Veronica Jean Jones.

Make sure MACHÉ XL is at the top of your list for Fringe World 2018!

MACHÉ XL will be at The Gold Digger on January 27 & 28. For tickets head to fringeworld.com.au

Fem will also be reprising her much acclaimed Adele tribute show, Hello: An Evening With Feminem, exploring her surprise appearance at Adele’s Perth concert and viral fame with an intimate one hour performance.

DIVAS - All Male Revue will be at Connections Nightclub Feb 13, 14, 16, 17, 19 & 20, and the Stevenson Theatre Feb 22 & 23.

In a new solo show Tres Masc?, Morrison explores gender, sexuality through sass and song and shows off his Piafinspired vocal talents. Cougar Morrison embodies all things Fringe - you don’t want to miss these performances!

You can also catch Feminem in Hello: An Evening with Feminem at Connections Nightclub on Feb 2 & 3.

Disgraceful Cougars will be at the De Parel spiegeltent from February 19 - 25 & Tres Masc? will be at Connections Nightclub on February 6, 7, 9, 10 & 12.

For tickets and more information head to fringeworld.com.au

For tickets and more information head to fringeworld.com.au

Ringmistress Barbie Q will be working it triple hard this year, bringing three glitzy Fringe World shows to the stage for your viewing pleasure.

First up, Miss Q is bringing back a local favourite with Drag Diva Spectacular! Barbie, Alexas Armstrong, Fay Rocious, Ruby Jewelz and Veronica Jean Jones will take you on a journey of drag through the ages with all your favourite pop hits.

Next, Barbie and Alexas (as alter-ego Karl Kayoss) bring their latest iteration of their 5-star sensual circus; Sinsuality 3: Noir. This cabaret with a difference, let your favourite characters sweep you away into a world of seduction and sin.

Finally, Barbie’s all new show pays tribute to one of the greatest divas of all time with Vogue: The Madonna Circus. Once again reuniting with Kayoss, Kinetica and Cirque soloist Felix Cane - this production is all about the music of the one and only Madonna.

Drag Diva Spectacular will be at Connections Nightclub on Jan 31 and Feb 2, 3 & 5.

Sinsuality 3: Noir will be at De Parel Speigeltent from Feb 12 - 18.

Vogue: The Madonna Circus will be in the Big Top from Feb 21 - 25.

For tickets and more info head to fringeworld.com.au

OUTinPerth

January 2018

3

inside out

Let the love flow PERFUME GENIUS PG13 I haven’t been to many weddings.

My family by comparison to most is very small. So naturally that limits the number you’re invited to. Most of my friends are gay, so that has also kept my wedding batting average quite low.

In fact twenty per cent of the weddings I’ve ever been to have been in the last twenty four hours, and I’ve been to more than one.

The first same-sex wedding I had the honour of attending was that of longtime LGBTI rights activists Sam and Kelly Pilgrim-Byrne. It was held on the steps of parliament house at the stroke of midnight, you can read about it inside this month’s issue.

One of the attendees commented how meaningful they found it that one of the first same sex marriages conducted in Western Australia was on the steps of parliament house.

They recalled back in 1994 the same location hosted a ‘Say No to Sodomy’ rally which protested against moves by the Keating government to introduce legislation that would override Tasmania’s notoriously homophobic laws.

One of the speakers at that rally against gay rights was the Reverend Peter Abetz. Abetz would go on to serve as the member of parliament for Southern River, where the PilgrimByrne family lives. During the postal survey campaign Abetz served as the WA Director of the Coalition for Marriage, the conglomerate that ran the ‘No’ campaign.

BRIEFS PG15 Adding an extra level of serendipity, was the fact that the celebrant behind one of the first same-sex marriages in Western Australia was Terry Healy. Southern River’s new MLA who toppled Abetz at last year’s state election.

A few years ago I interviewed former High Court judge Michael Kirby. He said it wasn’t a question of if we should have marriage equality, but when. How long would it take us to get there. What would the pathway be. His unshakeable belief that marriage equality would happen has always stuck with me.

As Sam, Kelly, and their daughter stood on the steps of parliament house the feeling that we, as a community, had reached the end of a journey was palpable. We are here.

And as many LGBTIQ couples and their families start new journeys in matrimony, the overwhelming message from all the weddings I’ve been to (so far) is love really is love.

Graeme Watson graeme@outinperth.com

WILLIAM YANG PG16

TUNE-YARDS PG21

MRS KASHA DAVIS PG23 Connect

with

OUTinPerth

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The Rocky Horror Show The camp and outrageous musical ‘The Rocky Horror Show is coming to Perth in February and we’ve got some double passes to see the show.

Adam Rennie stars alongside Rocky Horror creator Richard O’Brien. Use the password: Adam Rennie to enter.

s a e e

Iconic: A Brief History of Drag This Fringe World show from the UK is one that you don’t want to miss. It’s filled with all the big songs and a giant dose of drag history. We’ve got three doubles passes to giveaway to the show on February 16th.

e t

Orchestrated House music will get a orchestral treatment from the Perth Symphony Orchestra when they team up with vocalists Daniel Merriweather, Alison Limerick, and Ilan Kidron from the Potbelleez. The Kings Park show on 24th March will see them perform songs made famous by acts including Massive Attack, Fatboy Slim and Underworld. We’ve got a double pass to giveaway. Use the password ‘tuba’ to enter.

Molly’s Game Starring Idris Elba, Jessica Chastain and Kevin Costner, this new film from screenwriter Aaron Sorkin is based on the true story of Molly Bloom, a young skier and former Olympic hopeful, who becomes a successful entrepreneur (and a target of an FBI investigation) when she establishes a highstakes, international poker game. We’ve got five double passes to giveaway, The film opens on 1st February.

Head to the giveaways page at OUTinPerth.com to enter.

Managing Editor: Graeme Watson graeme@outinperth.com Creative and Content Editor: Leigh Andrew Hill leigh@outinperth.com Advertising: sales@outinperth.com Graphic Design: N/A Studios Contributors: Clinton Little, Barbie Q, Colin Longworth, Davis Burke, Zac Gower, Tony Bober Photographers: Shot By Thom, Richard Huynh Disclaimer: Copyright on contributions to any ads published in OUTinPerth is retained by the author/advertiser respectively. Permission to reprint should be sought via the creative team. The views of this publication are contained in editorials. Opinions expressed in columns or articles are those of the author/s and do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. Publication of the name, image or likeness of anyone herein does not indicate the sexuality or behaviour of that person. Advertisers are advised that all advertising copy is their responsibility under the Trade Practices Act. The appearance of any advert/advertorial herein does not imply endorsement by OUTinPerth. Contact Ph: 9227 0360 or 0402 549 811 Web: www.outinperth.com Find us on: Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and Instagram Mail: 3/377 Newcastle Street, Northbridge, 6003 Publisher: Speirins Media Pty Ltd Printed By: Fairfax Printing ISSN: 1447-2678 Issue: #198 January Cover: Briefs: Close Encounters Secret Message: See you in the Pleasure Garden!

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OUTinPerth

January 2018

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news A gay Indian prince opens his palace up to LGBT people INDIA Indian Prince Manvendra Singh Gohil, who has been openly gay since 2006, has opened up his palace and its surrounds for vulnerable LGBT people, to give them a place to stay. Run by his organisation, The Lakshya Trust, the prince is also said to be constructing further buildings to house visitors. This comes at a time where homosexuality remains a big taboo in Indian society, with sex between people of the same gender still punishable by the law.

U.S Supreme Court will not hear challenges to Mississippi’s “license to discriminate” law USA The U.S. Supreme Court will not hear challenges to Mississippi’s “license to discriminate” law.

The law, which could allow discrimination against same-sex people, including couples seeking wedding services and transgender people seeking medical procedures, was signed into existence in 2016, and went into place October 2017. As a result of their decline to hear challenges, the law will stand. The law firm behind the challenges said that they will continue to challenge the law until it is overturned.the early morning but they didn’t respond because they were unsure of what was occurring.

Bulgarian couple become trailblazers BULGARIA A Bulgarian lesbian couple has become trailblazers, after they filed a suit against their local municipality for recognition of their marriage. The Bulgarian Constitution prohibits same-sex marriages, but the couple argues that their marriage, officiated in the UK, should be legal under Bulgarian law, for under EU law no person may be discriminated against for their sexual orientation.

Pop star Will Young claims bus driver called him a ‘poofter’ UNITED KINGDOM

EQUALITY MOVES FORWARD

Openly gay pop star Will Young, most commonly known for his performances on British TV show Pop Idol, has alleged that whilst travelling in London a bus driver abused him with slurs.

This comes shortly after Young announced in December 2017 that he would be taking an extended break from music to become a therapist.

Malaysia ‘conversion’ therapy programme MALAYSIA

Journalist who broke story about abuse in Chechnya is awarded RUSSIA

A government official has confirmed that Malaysia has plans to launch a programme that is focused around converting trans women. The official has insisted that the program is voluntary.

Malaysia has been accused of an anti-LGBT crackdown in recent years. This news comes alongside a report from Human Rights Watch this year said state-sponsored discrimination against LGBT people is “pervasive”.

Elena Milashina, the Russian journalist who broke the news that hundreds of gay men were being detained, tortured and killed in Chechnya, has been selected for an award for journalistic integrity from Harvard University. After the journalist reported on the abuses in Chechnya she was forced into hiding, and endured death threats. In the past few years six journalists from her newspaper have been killed.

In 2017, same-sex marriage was legalised in over a dozen countries, including here at home. Whilst some of them, such as the Nordic countries, have had the legislation in the pipeline for years, other countries such as Germany passed the legislation relatively quickly. Below is a compiled list of the main countries and territories that moved forward with same sex legislation in 2017.

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Australia

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Austria

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Denmark

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Falkland Islands

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Faroe Islands

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Finland

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Guernsey

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Iceland

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Malta

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Norway

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Sweden

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Germany

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Taiwan

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OUTinPerth

January 2018

SAME SEX WEDDINGS BEGIN

AFTER THREE SELL-OUT SEASONS, THE CREATORS OF SMASH HIT LA SOIRÉE RETURN WITH A BRAND NEW SHOW!

Following the passing of Senator Dean Smith’s private members’ bill last month the long fight to change the nation’s marriage laws was over, and many couples have wasted no time in saying their vows.

A few couples had been given permission to wed earlier due to extenuating circumstances, but for most a one month statutory waiting period applied. On January 9th veteran LGBTI rights advocates Sam and Kelly PilgrimByrne stood on the steps of parliament house, surrounded by friends and family who counted down the seconds to midnight.

As the clock struck twelve, their wedding ceremony commenced. With their nine year old daughter standing between them, the couple, who have been together for 24 years, made a their lifetime commitment. Their local MP Terry Healy acted as their celebrant.

Over at the Court Hotel Gillian Brady and Lisa Goldsmith said their marriage vows in another midnight wedding ceremony.

While OUTinPerth contributor Bella Broadway and her partner Alyssa Gilchrist waited until mid afternoon to have their ceremony which was hosted by Famous Sharron and filmed by the ABC’s 7:30.

Image: Richard Huynh from Albedo Photography

When parliament has finished for the year in 2017, a fun piece of trivia has arisen from the Western Australian Legislative Council Hansard. In what is the first time in history, Grindr has been mentioned and recorded in WA Parliament.

In a throwaway line on a speech discussing parliamentary financing on November 30th, Greens MLC Alison Xamon questioned the McGowan government’s priorities of its ministers and staff time. During that, she questioned whether it was responsible for staff members to be looking after minister’s social media.

“Do ministers need a staff member to manage their Twitter account, another to manage Facebook and nother to manage Grinder [sic] or whatever?”

The Premier’s office has confirmed that Mark McGowan has Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, however, he does not have a Grindr account.

Rainbow Rights WA back calls for review of state’s anti-discrimination laws Political advocacy group Rainbow Rights WA have joined other LGBTI+ rights groups in calling on the state government to review Western Australia’s antidiscrimination laws.

Currently the state has clauses which allow religious bodies, including schools, to fire staff if they believe that the staff member is homosexual. The exemptions also allow students to be expelled from schools if they are found to be same-sex attracted, while there have also been cases of schools threatening to expel students because one of their parents is gay.

Now Rainbow Rights WA have added their voice to the calls for the government to address the issue. Jonathon Mann, the Chairperson of the group says the issue should be addressed as a matter of urgency.

“Whilst a comprehensive review of all state legislation is required, the issue of private religious schools ability to discriminate against people living their natural loving lives should be dealt with as a matter of urgency. A person’s sexuality does not impact on their ability to teach a class.” Mann said.

“Rainbow Rights WA believes the laws should be changed, they are out of touch with modern community standards, these laws affect more than LGBTI+ people, a teacher can be terminated for any religious reason, including simply living with your partner out of wedlock.”

Premier Mark McGowan has referred queries about the issue to Attorney General John Quigley, but the state’s top law officer says his hands are tied by the federal government’s Ruddock Review into religious freedoms in Australia. His response has been labeled a “cop out” by long standing LGBT rights advocate Brian Greig who highlighted the laws in questions are state based and no under federal jurisdiction.

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January 2018

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In the euphoria about finally getting marriage equality in Australia, readers of OUTinPerth may not have noticed (or forgotten) that the Prime Minister, (apparently as a way of trying to silence conservatives in his party and the broader community) has formed an expert panel to examine religious freedom in Australia – led by former MP Philip Ruddock.

To quote the Prime Ministerial media release; “In undertaking its review the panel will: •

consider the intersections between the enjoyment of the freedom of religion and other human rights;

•

have regard to any previous or ongoing reviews or inquiries that it considers relevant; and

•

consult as widely as it considers necessary”

As the 14th December press release labelled “Protecting freedom of religion in Australia” says “Australia is the most successful multicultural society in the world. Right at the heart of our success as a free society is freedom of religion. It is a fundamental national value, recognised in the Constitution.”

In my opinion, I believe we really need freedom FROM religion. Taking into consideration how religion can as LGBTI people impact on our lives, either directly or indirectly.

Here I am not talking about those who (uninvited) come knocking on your door, or try to stop you in the street trying to proselytise (or convert) you to their religious group. Here I am talking about denial of employment in church based schools, or other settings. Or alternatively faith based employers expecting their LGBTI employees to “stay in the closet” (notwithstanding the negative psychological impacts on that), or seeking to oppose Safe Schools initiatives.

It is not as though they are like the old laws where having sex between consenting adults was illegal, which meant gay men had the risk of prosecution if they were “found out”.

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OUTinPerth

January 2018

Here we have examples of people losing their jobs. This is about practices that impact on people now.

Regular readers of OUTInPerth will have seen the recent example of Craig Campbell and South Coast College. In the same article there was the report of a Mandurah school threatening to expel a student because the father was in a same sex relationship. (Talk about the “sins” of the father!)

When I was doing my research for my own submission to the enquiry, I found a 2015 research article by Tania Ferfolja and Efty Stavrou on the Workplace experiences of Australian Lesbian and Gay Teachers: Findings from a national survey.

The article says that “historically, lesbian and gay teachers working in schools have experienced silencing, invisibility, and discrimination. This paper reports on research that examined the experiences of self-identified lesbian and gay teachers working in a variety of school types and school systems across Australia. Specifically, it explores these teachers’ experiences of their sexuality in relation to factors associated with enabling or disabling a queer-positive culture and climate in the workplace.”

A 2015 SBS news article I also found as part of my research, referred to experiences of teachers via a study with 14 lesbian and gay teachers working in metropolitan Sydney. Fairly clearly issues around LGBTI teachers in faith based schools are a problem.

In my submission I covered a range of aspects including; a.) The recent South Coast College case (as detailed in OiP and elsewhere); b.) Conflict between individual rights and beliefs versus expectations in a secular civil society where the incidence of religious practice and belief is declining; c.)

Concerns about how “reparative therapists” (pray the gay away!) might claim religious freedom; d.) My own experience of having a job offer withdrawn by one of the major churches (using quotations from emails); e.) How the inquiry itself is (in my opinion) an attempt to placate the losers in the recent, unnecessary and expensive postal survey.

For those with the time and inclination to write submissions (e.g. perhaps students on leave from TAFE or university) it can be interesting looking at the sorts of information that can be found on the internet potentially worth quoting. As I said in my submission: As the Australian Conservatives Party say on their website, under the heading ‘Personal Responsibility’: “Personal responsibility is central to the idea of a free society.”

We believe that each individual is morally responsible for, and should bear responsibility for their actions.

In this context I would say that individuals or organisations should not seek to abrogate the responsibility for discriminatory actions by claiming some sort of higher authority.

I also noted how: “I would tend to agree with the Australian Conservatives Party when they say on their website “…that sustaining freedom is not always easy, for there will always be some who seek to oppose and restrict it.”

I see proposals for special religious rights as such a restriction.

Bottom line: We need to continue to maintain the rage and “keep the bastards honest” by letting the government know that special religious rights have no place in human rights and equal opportunity laws in modern secular Australia.

Submissions will be accepted till 31st January 2018. You can make a submission online at pmc. gov.au/domestic-policy/religious-freedom-review/ submission

Colin Longworth Colin is a long-time volunteer with Living Proud and its predecessor organisations, as well as being a Psychologist in private practice.

Type 2 diabetes is a medical condition where the body loses, or has reduced capacity, to produce the hormone insulin. As a result cells are unable to process glucose leads to damage of small blood cells. Over time this leads to kidney damage, cardiovascular disease, lower limb damage and loss of sight.

Another year comes to an end. Bring on 2018!

People who are obese are at greater risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, and the risk increases with age. People with HIV have a higher risk of developing diabetes but it has not previously been clear why this occurred.

If you are hoping to complete at least one New Year’s resolution this year, getting tested for HIV and STI’s (Sexually Transmitted Infections) is a pretty easy one to scratch off the list.

If you have never been tested before, it’s not uncommon to feel scared or anxious. The idea of testing might be a bit of an unknown, but once you test the first time, you’ll see it’s not too bad at all.

It’s easy to think “I can’t have an STI, not me”. But if you are or have been sexually active, the reality is that STI’s are very common, and many people will have no symptoms, so can’t tell if they may have something like Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea or Syphilis.

If left untreated, over time STI’s can lead to bigger health issues.

HIV and STI testing can also come across as “taboo”. Not everyone wants to suddenly open up about their sexual health, so you may find it difficult to ask a doctor for testing, but the doctor is there for YOUR health, and this includes your sexual health, so it’s important to start the conversation with your doctor and ask for HIV and STI testing.

For more information on testing and where you can get tested go to www.waaids.com or contact us on 9482 0000.

Tony Bober WA AIDS Council

The study looked at over 1000 patients attending a hospital in Canada and found that 235 of them had developed Type II diabetes alongside HIV. The incidence was 39% higher than the general population.

Study finds links between diabetes and older HIV antiretroviral drugs New research has suggested there is an increased chance of developing Type II Diabetes among older people living with HIV if they were exposed to older antiretroviral treatments.

People with HIV over the age of 50 are more likely to have developed type 2 diabetes if they started antiretroviral treatment before 1999 or had a longer exposure to older antiretroviral drugs such as stavudine (d4T) or first-generation protease inhibitors such as nelfinavir or indinavir.

The study found no significant difference in the risk of developing diabetes by age at HIV diagnosis or age at treatment initiation. Developing diabetes was not associated with having hepatitis C virus antibodies or with injecting drug use. Sex, weight, or latest body mass index were also not associated with the increased risk of developing diabetes.

Researches found that people who began treatment for HIV prior to 2005 had a much greater incidence of Type II diabetes, but those who began treatment after 2005, when a new generation of antiretroviral treatments were introduced, had significantly less occurrences of diabetes.

That’s the findings of a new study published in the <i>BMJ Open Diabetes Research &amp; Care</i>. The research is a welcomed discovery for people more recently diagnosed with HIV who take more modern treatments, which appear not to increase the risk of diabetes.

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January 2018

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When musical theatre actor Ian Stroughair branched out into the world of drag he created his alter-ego Velma Celli .

a friend’s hotel and I had a gig at New Years and the sixteen days until my next gig.

Over the years Ian found himself playing a few drag roles in different theatrical pieces, and eventually he let his live drag persona live on in the world of cabaret. Now Velma’s bringing her acclaimed show Iconic: A Brief History of Drag to Fringe World.

I was always getting asked to do these classic drag numbers, things like I Am What I Am. I was thinking, ‘I don’t want to do these songs, these iconic numbers.” Then after a few wines, I thought I should just shove all the songs in one gig, do them and then everyone can shut-up.”

What’s your earliest drag memory, when did you become aware of drag existing?

When I wrote them all down, I realised it could actually be a show, but it’s also a chance to chat about my journey and Velma and my journey in drag.

It was a music video by Queen with Freddie Mercury dressed in a pink top and a black leather skirt. Doing the hoovering to I Want Break Free.

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When did you come up with the idea for this show Iconic: A Brief History of Drag?

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Not too long ago, I was out in Tanzania, not last Christmas - but the Christmas before, I have family there. Tanzania’s not really a drag friendly kind of place, but I was staying at

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Kate Smurfwaite is one of Britain’s most interesting political comedians. She’s had a string of successful shows over the last decade that have entertained Britons, and and she’s a regular commentator on social issues, appearing on chat shows and news broadcasts.

“Historically my shows have been much more overtly political, really talking about specific government members and policies, but this year I’m almost taking a break and writing show that is extremely personal.”

“Everything I say in this show is completely true, and I find myself on stage thinking ‘I’m going to tell another hundred people about the orgy, okay - let’s do it!’”

Smurfwaite says non-monogamous relationships are something that society often doesn’t know how to react to.

The writer says she often encounters a somewhat sexist

OUTinPerth

January 2018

Yes, you have to find a reason to like it, and the only way to do that is to go back to the source and find out why it was written. Then you find something more interesting.

Iconic: A Brief History of Drag is playing at Fringe World from 16-25 February. Tickets are available at www.fringeworld.com.au

S U O OR S M U A O Y POL EDY AMOR COM POLY EDY S U M O O S C OU OR M R O OLYA Y M A D P Y POL EDY COME CO M

The show she’s bringing for her first appearance at Fringe World though is much more personal. ForniKATEress sees Smurfwaite talking about her non-monogamous dating life and polyamorous relationships.

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There’s a creative challenge in performing a song that you’re not in love with.

Graeme Watson

proposition when discussing topics on television that assumes she’s only one got one partner, and that she’s also somewhat subservient to her partner’s views.

“When you’re a woman and you talk about your life, or even something just as simple as the clothes you wear, or how you dress, the interviewer always feels this need to say ‘What does your partner think?’”

“It’s weird that we think women can’t do things without quickly checking what men think about it.”

Smurfwaite said when she responds to interviews with “Well, I have several partners” they can’t shut the conversation down quick enough. “They think I’m going to say something disgusting and unfit for broadcast!”

Opening up the discussion in a comical way is what Smurfwaite’s show ForniKATEress is all about. Catch it at Fringe World from 26th January until 7th February.

Graeme Watson

Some of the reviews from overseas praise the show for treating gender equally, showing women can be strong, and men can be feminine.

Was this a conscious part of creating Driftwood?

Melbourne based circus group Casas Circus has been touring the globe with their acclaimed show Driftwood and now it’s heading to Perth for Fringe World. Performer Jon Bonaventura chatted to us about their work.

For us, having roles in the show like a strong woman and a more delicate man, came naturally because of our bodies and sizes, not because we decided to make a very serious statement on gender.

How would you describe your show Driftwood?

Driftwood is a show about humans coming together along the current of life and meeting, playing with and surprising each other in different ways. We sit in the intersection between circus, dance and theatre and strive to bring the audience along for a personal ride with us every time.

For example, as a smaller guy, it just makes sense for me to be the one being lifted and climbing on top of the pyramid because I’m the smallest and I think that in a lot of Casus’ work, the roles are filled by whoever is the right person to do them, not the gender. But I do love that people seem to really identify with Sarah and I for being alternatives to a stereotype that they might have seen before in shows, it’s been commented on a lot, we have incredibly strong women in our company and we’re lucky for that.

Does it ever go wrong on stage?

Sometimes it does go wrong on stage, and to be honest, those are the moments where acrobats shine! We have had some of the best times on stage when mistakes are made, it’s a chance to improvise and have a laugh and to create something new that the audience will be lucky enough to witness. Yes, there is an inherent risk and danger in circus, but we manage the dangerous parts and always look after each other.

How do think up the different feats you pull during the show, where do the ideas come from?

A lot of the time new circus tricks come from a “this is probably a dumb idea but..” and then everyone else jumps on board and gives it a try. We spend often five, sometimes six, days a week training acrobatics and exploring what our bodies can do - so the tricks we put on stage are created through hours of research, trial and error and playtime.

In Australian circus especially, we have a really strong sense of community and friendly competition, so a lot of the tricks that are performed come from hanging out with friends and seeing what they’re up to as well and then putting your own spin on it.

Where has this show visited before it’s trip to Perth?

Before Perth Fringe World, Driftwood has toured international throughout Europe, the UK, the US and New Zealand, last year was incredibly busy and fulfilling for us, with 10 acrobats on the go! This is going to be the first time we’ve brought the show to Western Australia and we are super excited to be back on home turf for this tour.

Driftwood from Casas Circus is playing at Fringe World from 30th January - 11th February.

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OUTinPerth

January 2018

11

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January 2018

Facebook.com/IGiveaFK/

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A program of the WA AIDS Council

Since releasing his fourth album No Shape Mike Hadreas, who performs as Perfume Genius, has been on the road playing shows around the world.

OUTinPerth caught up with Hadreas while he had a short break over Christmas that gave him a chance to return to his home in Seattle. Soon he’ll be back on the road and his next sojourn will include a return trip to Australia where he’ll perform at the Chevron Musical Gardens for the Perth Festival.

Hadreas played at the festival a few years ago, and those who were lucky enough to catch his live show, raved about his powerful and emotive performance. But for now, he’s home and trying to resist the temptation to write more music.

“I’m home. It’s my first day home after months of touring. You know, I’ve had a week off here and there but not enough to actually feel home. And I’m home and I’m not doing anything until I come see you guys in Australia.” Hadreas said when we chatted over the phone.

The musician admitted that when he is out performing he often longs to be back home, but it doesn’t take long for him to want be out on tour again.

“You always wish you were doing something else. It’s just a strange job, it’s a really weird job, physically. You don’t get any rest. Then you really have to use your body and your voice, even though it’s kind of torn down from sitting for so long on a van and travelling, and not getting any sleep, and stuff like that. But it’s also, fun.

it and move on. Now he spends a little longer crafting each tune and is more open to wrestling a potential song into shape.

On one of the album’s tracks, Run Me Through, he tackles the topic of toxic masculinity, the song’s subject matter has come to the forefront of political and cultural discussions in recent months.

“To be honest it’s been going on for a very long time...just people are, I don’t know, I guess it’s becoming harder to ignore, because of the internet or something, and people are more willing to listen to each other more when they tell them what happened to them, and people are listening now. I’m certainly glad that that’s happening.”

“I kind of thought I’d just do nothing for two months, but maybe I’ll write some. Last night I played the guitar, which I rarely do, I don’t know why I did that, because I’ve just been playing and singing stuff for a long time.

“The first time that when you’re writing is really hard, and frustrating, and I don’t know if I want a month of having this bad time. I might wait until I have six months, so I can have the good bits of writing too.

Perfume Genius will play the Chevron Musical Gardens for Perth Festival, with support from Mama Kin and Spender, on 28th February. Tickets available from www. perthfestival.com.au

Graeme Watson

The writer said he credits the internet for giving many people a voice to share their concerns about how they’ve been treated by powerful men, but in the song also admits that the same qualities are the ones he sometimes finds attractive.

“I’m certainly glad that a lot of these men are being completely destroyed. but that song in particular is kind of an embarrassing one because it’s almost like me kind of me admitting to being attracted to certain masculine things that I wish I wasn’t. I kind of wish I wasn’t attracted to traditionally masculine men as much as I am, and that’s what I want. It’s weird to me.”

While the the first two albums from Perfume Genius were filled with tender delicate songs and haunting vocal delivery, Hadreas changed it up when he released his third record Too Bright back in 2014, opting to create a series of loud, powerful and sonically intriguing numbers. His latest collection continues in that vein and offers some of the most complex song writing of his career.

Heading into the studio this time Hadreas said he really wanted to approach the work with more confidence.

“I just wanted to push it, to take myself really seriously. You know, the first album I ever made, was the first moment, the first time I toured, were the first songs I wrote.

“It took me a moment to think of myself as a real musician, and that there wasn’t a fluke. But I didn’t want to have that in my head when I was working on this album. I wanted to take it really seriously. I just wanted to put all of my energy into it, and leave behind my fears and insecurities.I wanted it to be ‘big feelings’.

While particular ideals of what masculinity is deeply embedded in our upbring and community Hadreas says he’s becoming increasingly aware of his own perceptions and attractions.

“I don’t actually feel guilty for it, but I do wish that I could shake it off a little more than I have, and you’re conditioned to, I don’t know, its not very cool. It’s a tricky growth thing.”

I just wanted to push it, to take myself really seriously.

While he’s on his break over the Christmas period Hadreas is debating whether he’ll spend some time writing new tunes, he’s not sure if he has enough time for the creative process.

Hadreas shares that when he first began working as a songwriter he’d only spend short periods of time working on each song, if it didn’t work immediately he’d discard

OUTinPerth

January 2018

13

Over the years lots of shows have been to Fringe World, but one show comes back for sell out performances year after year. The boys from Briefs have an attitude, style and sense of fun that is like no other delicacy being offered on the menu.

Head honcho of the Briefs crew Fez Faanana shared with us that this year they’re bringing a whole new show, it’s Briefs Close Encounters.

“There’s always space for more intimacy,” Fez said when we asked if it is actually possible to get closer to the team.

The theme was chosen though because it encapsulated something quite political that the group wanted to address.

“It’s playing with some of the sci-fi themes we have within the production but we also wanted to look into the fact that as human beings we’re second guessing each other more and more, there’s unrest and unpredictability, people feel unsafe, public spaces of affection have recently changed into public spaces of aggression.” Fez said.

“In true Briefs style we wanted to talk about the things that are putting people on edge, we wanted to make a show that reminded people why it’s important to celebrate one and another, rather than intimidate one and another. So we set out to create a positive close encounter” The show has been enthusiastically received as it’s toured around the world. Fez chatted to us while setting up for the show’s Sydney season, and the team have just returned from an extended run in London.

“We’ve had really positive feedback, in true Briefs style we try to keep ourselves as unpredictable as possible. We’ve made something really different, and we hope people aren’t expecting what we give the, but we hope they love it as well.” Fez said. “It’s very adventurous and we’ve gone above and beyond what we thought we could do, or afford.”

“This will be our seventh trip to Perth and we really value what Perth audiences think of us, so we’re really excited to be coming back, but also filled with anticipation about how the show will be received.”

Briefs: Close Encounters will be at Fringe World from 7-25 February. Don’t dawdle buying tickets, last year they completely sold out. Head to www.fringeworld.com.au Graeme Watson

OUTinPerth

January 2018

15

Personal Lens Chinese-Australian artist William Yang is a master storyteller. A photographer, filmmaker, performer and writer, Yang has documented and observed Australia’s LGBTI+ community from Sydney over decades.

Known for his intimate perspective and unique style, Yang will be heading to Perth as part of this year’s Perth Festival for a special discussion about his work, sexuality, family, identity and losing friends to AIDSrelated illness. Speaking to OUTinPerth, Yang explains how he approaches his work, his observations on the metamorphosis of Australia’s queer community, and “coming out as Chinese.”

“I just focus on my own life really. I’d rather make work out of that than do jobs for people. It revolves a bit around stories too. I do a lot of performance but I seldom do freelance work.” Yang explains that being a multidisciplinary artist has forced him to examine the way he creates his art, depending on the media and audience.

“Film is a much more rigorous medium than performance, because with performance you can be discursive.

Because you’re there you’re kind of like a focus for the audience, but with film, especially small screen, you’re not there so you worry someone’s going to go to the kitchen or something… so there’s a lot more pressure on you to hold the viewer’s attention.” Much of Yang’s work shines a spotlight on queer Australians, and has been observing fellow LGBTI+ people through his lens since the 1960s.

“Until Stonewall, the gay society in Australia was totally underground. I lived in Brisbane before 1969 and I wasn’t out so I never saw any of it. When I came to Sydney in 1969, I saw the tail end of that underground world.

“It was taken over by gay liberation in the 70s and people came out and a community was formed. It probably took a decade for the community to fully form and it was very commercial. In the ‘80s it was formed around bars, Oxford street and the pink dollar. “It was also, of course, very political. When homosexual acts were illegal, all of the demonstrations were about decriminalising homosexuality, which didn’t happen until 1984 in Sydney - but by then there was already a vibrant community.

“The community became self-sustaining, commercially, with bars and places to come together. By then the Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras had formed as well, because of the events in 1978. The Mardi Gras was always a political focus. “The next biggest change would have been AIDS in the late 80s, a massive blow as people were getting sick and dying. Our enemies at the time saw it as a chance to wipe us off the earth, and so there was great negativity. A terrible time.

“Then, in the 90s, the community regrouped in Sydney and lesbians became more visible at Mardi Gras, forming a stronger coalition. The Mardi Gras grew massive, and it couldn’t sustain its own success. The ever-changing board couldn’t handle the size of the festival and it went broke and almost disappeared, but managed to resurrect itself in the noughties - but it has never been as big as it was in the 90s. It still has a lot of energy, a lot of youth… but it’s certainly lacklustre compared to what it was.

Now, Australia has said YES to marriage equality, and same-sex couples have begun to wed across the nation.

Yang expects this year’s Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras will reflect the gravity of the community’s victory. “Marriage equality will change things. We’ve just won this huge battle, and there will be a massive celebration at this year’s 40th anniversary. I think that was one of the last battles to be won and I think it was won resoundingly. It destroyed the myth of the silent majority.

Besides his gay identity, Yang explains he had a second coming out later in life - reconciling himself with his Chinese identity. Growing up in Australia with Chinese parents in the 1950s and 60s, Yang explains he was encouraged not to emphasise his differences from straight, white Australians. “I was politicised by the gay movement. I’d been out as gay person for about 12 years when I realised I’d grown up as an assimilated Chineseperson. My ethnicity had been suppressed, in the same way my sexuality had been suppressed.

“It was partly the way my mother brought me up. She wanted me to be “more Australian than Australians”. It was just understood when I was growing up that people would speak English. Being different was not really tolerated. “I “came out as Chinese” and started including identity in my work. As a gay person and as AustralianChinese, marginalised themes appeared in my work. “The piece I am doing for the Perth Writers Festival will be a talk about photographs which I’ve written on. Years before my work was split into categories, being gay or being Asian. So I tried to embrace a “bi-culturality”. I embraced being gay, being Australian, and I embraced being Chinese as well.

William Yang will be at Perth Writers Festival on Sunday February 25th at UWA’s Octagon Theatre.

Tickets and more information available from perthfestival.com.au

Leigh Andrew Hill

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January 2018

OUTinPerth

January 2018

17

Your

8 201

Zac discovers that the best way to start the New Year is by learning martial arts at Champions Gym.

This month I was given the chance to learn more about Muay Thai. A traditional martial art from Thailand that has seen a growing popularity in Perth, not just for its skill and discipline, but for its fitness benefits.

Champions Gym is located on Lord street in Highgate where they run a variety of classes that include boxing for fitness, strength and conditioning and Muay Thai. The 45-minute class uses all eight limbs (both fists, elbows, shins and knees) in various partner drills and not only improves weight-loss, but strength, discipline and self-defence.

Instructor and State Champion fighter Chris Watt says the class combines the traditional approach of martial arts with a modern twist that allows people of any fitness level to join in on the action.

The vibe of Champions was so welcoming. They give a shout out to new participants at the start of the session, which means people understand that you may have no idea what is going on (clearly this was me). It was refreshing to have multiple members make a point of introducing themselves to me – it doesn’t matter if you are a first timer or a State Champion, everyone was there to work hard and make the most of the class.

Safety is a priority so participants are only event punching and kicking a bag or pad throughout the class. If you want to “fight” with someone at the gym, you are required to complete a syllabus that will ensure you have the technique and experience to do it properly and safely.

Champions runs an introduction month, which is an easy way to learn the basics of Muay Thai and build your confidence. It includes three classes a week and two body composition scans, so you can track your results.

All the pricing options are on the website championsgym.com.au. Get your new year started off with a bang!

Zac Gower Image:- Shot By Thom

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OUTinPerth

January 2018

BIG GAY BINGE: A NEW GAY GOLDEN AGE OF TV In light of Kevin Spacey’s real life revelations of being a career sexual predator, it is worth noting that House of Cards was the show that launched the behemoth that is now Netflix.

In the wake of the allegations regarding Spacey’s off screen behavior, re-viewing House of Cards through a filter filled with scandal and sexual intrigue makes for interesting viewing.

that he believes the character doesn’t put much stock in labels and simply follows his desires, wherever they made lead.

House of Cards is worth the watch not only as a lesson in political intrigue, but also as a groundbreaking show that isn’t afraid to explore the spectrum of sexuality within a very mainstream context.

For the uninitiated, Spacey plays the ruthlessly ambitious US senator Frank Underwood whose trail to the White House and becoming President is littered with the bodies he steps over on his way to power.

The show’s future was in serious doubt, but Netflix have revealed House of Cards will have a sixth and final season. Robin Wright will take the lead and Spacey’s character will be discarded entirely, given the poisonous allegations of his off screen behavior.

It’s a strange case of art imitating life, as Spacey’s character is revealed to have had sexual relationships with men while still married to his wife Claire (played by the incomparably elegant Robin Wright).

Still one of the finest shows streaming and season six promises to deliver a female as the head of the White House. A scenario where, hopefully in the not too distant future, life will imitate art.

While it may not be the gayest show on television, Crazy Ex-Girlfriend is without question the campest. It’s a musical rom-com that’s punctuated by a genre defying array of production numbers that range from Evita like crowd rousing anthems, to rap battles, disco diva offs, torch songs, and classic Hollywood Fred and Ginger tributes.

Amidst all the frivolity there should be something a little bit gay, right? Well yes, yes, there is. The primary straight storyline involves proto-stalker Rebecca relocating her life from New York to L.A, just to be closer to her high school sweetheart Josh.

When Rebecca’s new boss Darryl has a yoga class revelation that he may be bi-sexual. he befriends the openly gay, “White Josh”.

White Josh is one of Josh’s bro-crew, who happens to be gay. The yoga class lays the groundwork for a surprisingly sweet love story that still remains to be seen how it will play out.

The gay sub-plot aside, Crazy Ex-Girlfriend is worth checking out just for lessons in stalking an ex without getting arrested.

House of Cards and Crazy Ex-Girlfriend are currently streaming on Netflix.

Clinton Little There are almost too many moments to mention where a homo-erotic subtext weaves its way into the storyline. In the course of the current five seasons, Frank Underwood has a threesome with his wife and a security guard, reminisces with a college boyfriend about their “experimental” phase and opens up his marriage to include a former male hustler who meets his wife’s needs.

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OUTinPerth

January 2018

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Last year iOTA wowed audiences with his Fringe World show Average Joe, no he’s coming back to create a brand new project with WAYJO - the Western Australian Youth Jazz Orchestra.

OUTinPerth sat down with the singersongwriter during rehearsals for the show.

Camped out in WAYJO’s Mayland’s base he was working alongside director Mel Catwell and WAYJO’s Mace Francis to create the show that will be on stage in just a fortnight. iOTA told us working with younger musicians wasn’t the driving force behind his desire to work with the orchestra.

“For me it’s just the fact that it’s something new, it’s not rock ‘n roll.

“It’s just that I haven’t done it before, it’s going to be loud and pizzazzy, it’s just going to be amazing, it’s going to be a new way for me to go artistically.” iOTA says he hopes the young musicians find working with him to be a good experience, but he wasn’t approaching the project from a mentorship mindset, “I just want to work with them because they’re really good.”

As a teenager growing up in Pinjarra iOTA said his big influences weren’t artists he came into contact with, but those he idolised.

“I was just influenced by all those untouchable American musicians and stuff that I was into, KISS, Motley Crue and all those American hair bands of the ‘80s.”

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In the show iOTA plays a clown named Slap, who appears with his offsider - the gimp Tickle.

“It’s like a variety show, but it’s not. It’s a theatrical piece wrapped in the facade of a variety show. There a clown Slap, which is me, and my gimp Tickle, the sidekick, and we’re putting on a show. Slap plays all the characters and Tickle is the stage manager who makes sure everything runs smoothly.

They have a little journey.” iOTA said.

Asked how his songs for the production are going to sound, iOTA had a simple answer.

“The interesting thing for me is that they’re my songs but I don’t know how to describe my songs, it’s just going to be…” He pauses before saying “....jazz!”

“Except from someone who writes rock n’ roll.” he adds.

“I’ve only heard a little bit of what they’ve done with them so far, I can’t wait to hear more of them.” iOTA said. “Brass is loud. I did a Frank Sinatra tribute years ago and it had a brass band and it was so good, it’s not rock ‘n roll but it has a power.”

“It’s going to be as surprise and I’m going to get things that I’m not going to expect, but that’s what I want.”

Slap and Tickle is at Fringe World from 27 January - 3rd February. Get tickets at www.fringeworld.com.au

Graeme Watson, Image: James Guiney

I Can Feel You Creep Into My Personal Life

Perched on the release of her fourth studio album, Merrill Garbus of tUnE-yArDs is certainly not running out of juice.

Following the critical success of 2014’s Nikki Nack, the musician creates her own unique sound - blending upbeat rhythms with inquisitive, darker words - and her latest LP I can feel you creep into my personal life is no exception.

Speaking to OUTinPerth from the states, Garbus explains how she landed on such an evocative album title.

“We went through a lot and I think that was the one that hit the most buttons, you know?

It’s pretty rare to get a title that encapsulates a lot of the themes of the album and mimic our time on earth,” she chuckles.

“I was meditating a lot and I was looking at how these ‘-isms’ in the world manifest themselves in me. I think growing up white affects the way you are able, or not able, to hear the suffering and experiences of people of colour, of people who didn’t have the privileges I did. People who are different from me, and I was troubled by that.

It’s easy to say ‘of course I’m not racist’, ‘I’m not homophobic’, ‘I’m not xenophobic’, but it’s another thing to really think about the way these things might show themselves in sneaky ways, under the skin… I think it speaks to the way we affect each other without knowing it. Besides, privacy as a topic is on a lot of people’s minds these days.”

Garbus explains that while she recognises these issues, in the shadow of events such as Australia’s marriage survey, knowing how to move forward and improve is not so clear cut.

“I think that’s the million dollar question. There’s not an easy answer. Perhaps instead of calling each other out we should be calling each other ‘in’. It ought not be the burden of people who are impacted by these things. Let me not speak to my black friend about my misunderstandings around white privilege, let me talk to those who have done more work on that.

“We should have the vulnerability to investigate ourselves. We’re all changing and, hopefully, evolving. I don’t want to just assume I’m perfectly perfect, progressive and liberal, that’s certainly not true! In this fierce call out culture, admitting the places we need to grow and improve can be really vulnerable.”

Despite the more serious subject matter, tUnE-YaRdS’ latest has a dancy, upbeat sound which Garbus explains was very intentional.

“It’s intentional with all of my music. It’s gotta be dance-able, to me music is using harmony and rhythm to make a song and I focus on lyrics later. To me it’s more important to grab them with the danceability and entice people into asking themselves questions.

There are a lot of serious things in the world we need to discuss, so it’s important to me to allow people to ask themselves question they might not normally.” tUnE-YaRdS latest album I can feel you creep into my private life is out now.

Leigh Andrew Hill

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January 2018

21

COMMUNITY GROUP LISTINGS *UPDATED* ALCOHOL AND DRUG SUPPORT SERVICE — If you are concerned about your own or someone else’s drug or alcohol use, contact us - 24 hour, every day of the year, confidential telephone, email or livechat - counselling, information, support and referral. We are here to help.

• Alcohol and Drug Support Line (94425000 or 1800 198 024 (regional toll free landline) • Meth Helpline 1800 874 878 • Parent and Family Drug Support Line 94425050 or 1800 653 203 (regional toll free landline.) www.mhc.wa.gov.au or alcoholdrugsupport@mhc.wa.gov.au BEARS PERTH — BEARS PERTH - A Friendly men only social club for men with body and / or facial hair and their admirers. The dress code is masculine, and men of all shapes, sizes and amount of hairiness are welcome. Licensed Den Nights are on the 2nd Saturday and 4th Friday of each month 9pm till Late @ Loton Park Bulwer St (near Lord St) East Perth. There are also different events on the 2nd Sunday of each month, often at a members residence or alternative events as advised. Visitors welcome. Contact us via phone 0487 595 672, email: info@bearsperth.org, http://bearsperth.org or http://bit.ly/bpi-www BISEXUAL+ COMMUNITY PERTH — is a safe place for people who are not gay or straight (we use “bisexual” as an umbrella term for that) to engage in respectful discussion, connect with people, and form community online. There are also regular opportunities to connect in person, including events for Bi Visibility Day (23/9) and the Pride Parade (25/11). You can join the Bisexual+ Community Perth group by going directly to www.facebook.com/groups/bicommperth *NEW* CYRENIAN HOUSE ALCOHOL & OTHER DRUG TREATMENT SERVICE – Cyrenian House proudly supports the West Australian LGBTIQA+ community, providing a safe environment to seek support for alcohol and other drug (AOD) use issues.

Services include free counselling for your own AOD use or if you are affected by the use of another person, family & couples counselling and group work, lowmedical detox, residential rehabilitation treatment and more. Ph: 9328 9200 or www.cyrenianhouse.com DYKES ON BIKES — A diverse, loosely-knit social group, occasional organised rides & gatherings plus annual appearance as the traditional lead float in the Pride Parade. If you are a female who rides a motorbike and loves women, then come along and check out dykes on bikes. General enquiries see our public group on facebook... Dykes on bikes WA or email dykesonbikeswa@hotmail.com FREEDOM CENTRE — Freedom Centre provides a safe space, peer support, information, and referrals for LGBTTIQ and Questioning young people (under 26).FC provides a range of services including an online Forum, trainings, workshops and our drop-in centre sessions which are open for: Freespace – every Wednesday 5-8pm & Friday 4-8pm, Outspace – 2nd and 4th Saturdays of the month 12pm-5pm, GenderQ – 1st Thurs of the month 5-8pm, 1st People’s Qspace – 3rd Thursday of the month 5-8pm, Junior aGender - last Monday of even months 5-8pm, QMovie – last Tuesday of odd months 5-8pm. 93 Brisbane St, Perth WA 6000 Ph: 9228 0354 Email: info@freedom.org.au Web: www.freedom.org.au www.fcyeah.tumblr.com

GAY AND LESBIAN SINGERS OF WA (GALS WA) — GALSWA welcomes members from all shades of the sexuality and gender diversity rainbow and our allies.

There are no auditions, singers of all abilities welcome.

Rehearsals Thursdays 7 to 9 pm at the Royal Park Hall, 180 Charles St, West Perth (cnr of Vincent St). For more information see our website: www.galswa.org.au, Email info@galswa.org.au or contact Jackie on 0405 081 638.

GRAI (GLBTI RIGHTS IN AGEING INC.) — works to improve the quality of life for older LGBTI people, both in care and in the community. Providing visibility and a voice for LGBTI elders is key to this. Through research and advocacy we have achieved law reform to end discrimination for older LGBTI people. We work with the aged care sector, delivering training to achieve safe and inclusive aged care services. We hold community events to build better community supports and friendships. New members welcome.

Interested? Contact June on 08 9383 7753. PO Box 514 North Perth WA 6906 or 54 Bickley Cres, Manning 6152. E: info@grai.org.au or visit www.grai.org.au HEPATITIS WA — providing information and support to people affected by hepatitis. If you would like to know more on hepatitis A, B or C, contact us on 9328 8538 (Metro) or 1800 800 070 (Country).

134 Aberdeen St Northbridge WA 6003 — www. hepatitiswa.com.au LESBIAN ELDERS’ TALKING GROUP — GRAI’s Meet n’ Muse (MnM) is a supportive social space where women (55+) who identify as lesbian or bisexual discuss a variety of topics (chosen by the group) and share past and present life experiences.

Coffee afterwards. MnM Perth meets 2nd and 4th Weds at 1.30pm; MnM Mandurah meets on 1st and 3rd Weds at 7pm. For more details email Pam: graipamm@gmail.com LESBIANS WHO LUNCH (LWL) — LWL is a monthly lunch club for older lesbians – meeting on 3rd Thursdays at different venues around Perth. It’s an opportunity to widen our friendship networks and stay involved in the community. Organised by GRAI, for info about up-coming lunches, contact June: chair@grai.org.au *UPDATED* LIVING PROUD — (formerly Gay & Lesbian Community Services of WA). Living Proud provides LGBTI community services for Western Australians, by promoting the wellbeing of LGBTI+ people and communities in WA. Information, support, referrals and professional training. City West Lotteries House, 2 Delhi St, West Perth WA 6005. Phone: (08) 9486 9855 Email: admin@livingproud.org.au Web: www.livingproud.org.au LOTON PARK TENNIS CLUB — Diversity is our advantage. Come on down and try something new at Perth’s Other Gay & Lesbian venue. It’s not just about tennis. Open to all levels of players – social and competitive – with an emphasis on enjoyment for everyone. With the city skyline as our backdrop, sit back on the embankment or balcony and enjoy a drink in a relaxed and fun atmosphere. A full social calendar ahead ensures a summer of fun for everyone. Enquiries@lotonpark.com.au Ph: (08) 9328 5065 — www.lotonpark.com.au M CLINIC – FREE STI/HIV SCREENING CLINIC — For Men who have sex with men. Free, confidential, non-judgemental STI testing & Treatment. Please call (08) 9227 0734 for appointments. Central location.

After hours options available. For more information email info@mclinic.org.au or visit mclinic.org.au

OPEN ARMS FELLOWSHIP — Perth’s Only Welcoming & Affirming Pentecostal Church. “This is Church for those who’ve been told they don’t belong in church!” It doesn’t matter whether your Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Trans or Intersex, Young, Old, Or somewhere in-between Including their Family friends and supporters. Everyone is welcome meeting at UCIC hall, first floor, 97 William St, Perth.

Sundays 6pm. For further information email: info@ openarmsaustralia.org; or go to the website: www. openarmsaustralia.org; or call Pastor Graham on ph: 0405 285 233

RAINBOW LABOR — This is a group of LBGTI and like-minded community members volunteering at a grass-roots level of the WA Labor Party. The branch meets monthly, has a direct link to State Executive and delegates at State Conference. Being involved in Rainbow Labor gives members the opportunity to have a direct influence on policies of the Australian Labor Party at both State and Federal levels. For further information or to join please contact Branch President, Andy Skinner on 0452 446 995, email rainbowlabor.branch@walabor.org.au or visit facebook.com/RainbowLaborWA

OUTDANCE — Same Sex Partner Ballroom & Latin American Dance Classes - Group Classes & Social Nights for Beginners, Intermediate and Advanced Dancers. Private Lessons by appointment. Group Class - 6.30pm Tuesday Mt Hawthorn Community Centre. Class Enquiries: Judy 0417 911 214 or Warwick 0450 041 023. OUTdance Studio Principals: Darryl Davenport & Tania McGuinness.

P: 0414 666 034 F: 08 9403 2220 E: info@outdance.com.au

RAINBOW RIGHTS WA a community based organisation working to change public perception, end discrimination, and achieve social justice for LGBTI+ people and their families in Western Australia. Membership open to all. Find us on Facebook. E: rainbowrightswa@gmail.com

PERTH INNER CITY YOUTH SERVICE— or PICYS as we are commonly known, we are a LGBTI inclusive organisation and welcome and celebrate each and every person. PICYS is available to assist young people between 16 – 25 who are experiencing homelessness; and 15 to 20 who are wanting to get support with their mental health and other life matters. Check our website for more service info www.picys.org.au or call on 08 9388 2791 Mondays to Fridays 9am - 5pm. *UPDATED* PFLAG PERTH (PARENTS, FAMILIES & FRIENDS OF LESBIANS & GAYS — (PARENTS, FAMILIES & FRIENDS OF LESBIANS & GAYS — is a community organisation offering support and understanding for families and friends with loved ones who are LGBTI. Meetings are held every second month in West Perth (please call to register) Visit website for more information, news, events and meeting dates: www.pflagwa.org.au Mobile: 0404 594 699 Facebook, Twitter, Instagram: pflagperth *UPDATED* PRIDE WA INC. — To lead by example in creating a world where inclusion and diversity are embraced and celebrated. Pride WA encourages the cultural expression, celebration and human rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, queer and all people of diverse sexuality and gender living in Western Australia. We recognise that our collective strength lies in our diversity and willingness to embrace and respect the differences that exist both within our Pride community and the broader communities in which we live, work, love and celebrate. PRIDE WA stages events through the year, including their annual Arts and Culture festival PrideFEST, Pride PARADE and FAIRDY. Information can be found on www.pridewa.com.au or contact us; E: pride@pridewa.com.au, P: 08 6269 2220 PRIMETIMERS WA — If you are a mature gay or bisexual man, we are keen to welcome you to Prime Timers. The group meets at 2pm on the second Sunday of each month, at Lotteries House: 2 Delhi St, West Perth. PO Box 829, Mt. Lawley 6929. For more info go to www.primetimerswa.com or email: primetimers@primtimerswa.com. *UPDATED* QLIFE — COUNSELLING & REFERRAL — QLife is Australia’s nation-wide counselling and referral service for people for LGBTI people via peer-to-peer telephone and web counselling. QLife provides a service that is safe, affirmative and inclusive for all people. Time: 3pm to 12am, 365days a year. Freecall: 1800 184 527 Web chat: www.qlife.org.au

SAINT ANDREW’S ANGLICAN CHURCH — Open door worship 6pm Sundays. Welcome and affirmation for all GLBTI people. 259 Barker Road, Subiaco. 9381 1130. standrewsubi@bigpond.com www.siriol.net/StAndrew SECCA (SEXUALITY EDUCATION COUNSELLING CONSULTANCY AGENCY) — Counselling for people with a disability, their partners, carers & family about relationships & sexuality. Professional education & consultancy services available covering sexuality & disability. Fees may apply. Mon-Fri 9-5. City West Lotteries House, 2 Delhi St West Perth WA 6005.

Ph 9420 7226 / Fx 9420 7229. e: admin@secca.org.au — www.secca.org.au TEAMPERTH— TeamPerth is a hub for bringing together all the queer sporting and recreation groups here in Perth and WA. Our goal is to promote diversity and inclusion in all sports, as well as to provide support and to help connect groups together.

If you’re looking to join a club, or if you’d like to start your own, go to our website at teamperth.info, check out our Facebook - www.facebook.com/teamperth or email us at teamperthaus@gmail.com TRANSFOLK OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA — A peer support network for gender diverse people and their loved ones in Western Australia. Contact info: email: admin@transfolkofwa.org facebook:www. facebook.com/TransFolkofWA website: www.transfolkofwa.org WA AIDS COUNCIL — Strengthening our community’s health and quality of life. Provides a range of services for people living with HIV/AIDS, Counselling ( issues include HIV/AIDS, relationships, sexuality & gender) Needle and Syringe Exchange, Peer Education, workshops & STI screening for men who have sex with men. Other community education, prevention and training services offered. 664 Murray Street, West Perth, Admin: 08 9482 0000 AIDSline 9482 0044, Mensline 9322 8401 (Toll Free 1800 671 130) www.waaids.com email: waac@waaids.com

FEES include GST Annual (Unfunded) $110 Annual (Funded) $200 To list a community group or service in the paper and online ph: 08 9371 9877 email: community@outinperth.com web: www.outinperth.com

Burning Down The House

Are you ready for a Big Gay Sunday? RuPaul’s Drag Race star Mrs Kasha Davis will be sharing a (virgin!) cocktail with fellow alums Raja and Tatianna and Perth’s own Alexas Armstrong this weekend at The Court Hotel.

We caught up with Kasha to find out about her start in drag, her favourite memories from Drag Race, her passion for I Love Lucy and exactly when she’ll have time for a cocktail!

Have you ever been to Australia before? What are you expecting from an Australian summer?

I have never been to Australia and it’s an ABSOLUTE dream come true not just for me but for my hubby Mr. Davis! He’s joining me for this tour and I couldn’t be happier we get to experience this first time together!

Forget Gwyneth and the House of Goop, the House of Q has all the lifestyle tips you need to survive.

Barbie Q is here with advice you need, but never wanted to ask…

Barbie,

Barbie,

I’ve recently moved into a share house and one of my new flat mates has zero concept of personal space, how do I tell her to fuck off nicely?

I’m on the horns of a skin care dilemma. I’ve heard that cum is meant to be good for the complexion but do I apply this topically or is it best to ingest for maximum effect?

Simon, 38 South Lake Brooke, 28 Dianella.

I have family outside of Sydney and they are equally excited for us to visit and they were historically the ones who always had to make the big trip to the US. As for the summer it’s currently ONE DEGREE outside as I sit at my computer typing this so we CAN’T WAIT to shed some clothes and enjoy the HEAT! So Mr Davis will not be at home cooling the boxed wine (or goon, as it is known in local nomenclature) for your return?

Mr Davis will not be chilling boxed wine or GOON any longer for me as I’m 2.5 years sober. Yes, yes I know there’s always time for a COCKtail but honestly there is ….(for others) just not me.

I have a strong connection to visiting your country because a fabulous queen messaged me from Down Under at least a year ago and she was so kind with her words and her messages about me being open with my struggles with the bottle that she claims I’ve helped her and what can be a better compensation than that really? Her name is Tina Bikki and frankly we’ve lost touch but I’m hoping she’s doing well on her life journey and we meet up on this tour.

Mrs Kasha Davis will be death-dropping into The Court Hotel with Raja, Tatianna and Alexas Armstrong Sunday January 14. Tickets and more information available from BigGayOut.com.au.

For the full version of this interview head to OUTinPerth.com

Hi Simon, Hi Brooke, Congratulations on moving into a new house. Share houses are always challenging and I look at it like this: if you feel your personal space is being invaded, bring up the subject of share delicately by saying something like, “I know that in this house we share things, cutlery is fine, but I’m not willing to share my asshole with you so back the fuck off!”

Barbie, I’m fitting out a new apartment in the city and need advice on how to effectively furnish my new fuck pad.

Should I install the sex swing on the balcony or in the bathroom for easier access to the baby wipes?

Brad, 22 Perth.

Skincare is very important!!! Semen is very good for the skin as it is full of protein. I think it should be used on all areas inside and out! Find a partner who can produce big loads and get him to do a half and half. Get him to pull out half way through and then spray all over your face. …Please note: make sure you douche well beforehand or else when you’re rubbing it in you’ll look like the lead role in Braveheart.

Barbie, I’m curious about this new Gwyneth Paltrow fad of vaginal steaming where apparently I can go to a spa, fork out $75 and have my Pikachu renewed and steam out the nasty. Is this safe?

Hi Brad, Amy, 26 Rockingham.

Decorating your new fuck pad is always an ordeal, but here’s the thing with the swing; I would invest in a portable one that you can put up in your lounge room as there’s way more room. There’s nothing worse than swinging around your bathroom and putting some slut’s head through a glass shower door. As for the balcony, let’s be real, having sex to impress the hot tradie next door is great, but if you start showboating and accidentally pound some fucker off the balcony and kill the tradie you’re not going to have the best afternoon.

Hi Amy, To the best of my knowledge in my limited experience with lady parts, your labial lala’s are meant to be self-cleaning. The last thing you want is for your lips to come crashing down around you like the the Berlin Wall. My best advice is to use a good old fashion yoghurt douche, it’s chocfull of calcium, and is good for those nasty yeast infections too!

Barbie Q & Clinton Little Got a question for Barbie?

Email us at editor@outinperth.com

DIS– TANT MUR– MURS SATURDAY JANUARY 27 ROSEMOUNT FROM 6PM HOTEL ‘TIL LATE

APOLLO ZEN BENJAMIN WITT BONNY UPWELLING CARLA GENEVE CHICK SPIT DEBBIE DOWNERS DEMON DAYS DIY RAINCLOUDS HUMAN BUOY HUSSY MOJO RISING WINNER THE MONEY WAR SHIT NARNIA SHY TIME TOYOTOMI YOUR GIRL PHO PLUS THE WHIPCRACKER AND WILLY SLADE

TICKETS: RTRFM.COM.AU / OZTIX.COM.AU FREE FOR GOLD / PLATINUM SUBSCRIBERS

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January 2018

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