Outlooks -October 2011 by Nicolas Tallarico

O c to b e r 2 0 1 1

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PUBLISHER Patricia Salib EDITOR IN CHIEF Brett Taylor CREATIVE MARKETING DIRECTOR Nelson Tomé TRAVEL EDITOR Randal Shirley Fashion director Len Mastaler DESIGN Pulp & Fiber ASSOCIATE DESIGNERS Anna Garcia, Jenny Watson, Nicolas Tallarico PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Jara Solis ADVERTISING & OTHER INQUIRIES (416) 792 – 2400 EDITORIAL INQUIRIES (403) 984 - 9402 btaylor@outlooks.ca OUTLOOKS is published 10 times per year by The Mint Media Group all rights reserved. 542 Parliament St. Toronto, ON, M4X 1P6 THE MINT MEDIA GROUP PRESIDENT Patricia Salib DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS Reggie Lanuza DIRECTOR OF ADVERTISING & MARKETING Nelson Tomé PROJECT COORDINATOR Jara Solis

CONTRIBUTORS Ralph Higgins, Dianne Mallek, Ryan Erickson, Luiz Costa, Derek dotto, Jody Boynton, Korby Banner/ Korbybanner.com, DJ Mitchell, suzi Q varin, Kevin Alderson, David Hawe, TechOn, Bryen Dunn, Don Bachardy, David Mark Erickson, Kent Monkman, Sonia Norris, Andre Eccles, David Hou, G. Elliott Simpson, Chris Reygel, Nicolas Genin ON THE COVER Ewan McGregor

Opinions expressed in OUTLOOKS Magazine are those of individual contributors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the magazine. All contents are copyright and may not be reproduced in part or in whole without written consent. The appearance of an ad in OUTLOOKS Magazine does not mean that the magazine endorses the advertiser. The appearance of a model or other photographic subjects does not necessarily indicate their sexuality.

table_of_CONTENTS

01.10.11 | issue 194 50 kent monkman

lifestyle

Travel

fashion

10 | bulletin 360°

27 | Events That Are Worth The Trip

40 | The History of… Denim

And 5 More Big Gay Winter Events

From Working Clothes To “Working It”

31 | Playing in Playa

43 | City of Angels

Check Out Mexico’s New Pink Paradise

With Actor/ Supermodels Sam Sarpong & Christian Monzon

Do Your Spidey Senses Really Work?

features

art+ Culture

17 | the breakdown

22 | What a Difference an Age Makes… Or Does It? A Look At

50 | Framed: Kent Monkman

International Gay News That Matters 13 | Spine of the Times

Good Posture Is Very Sexy

16 | How Accurate is Your Gaydar

Rebel Without A Flaw 19 | Food and drink

Smore Shooters

20 | Techno tabb

Walking And Talking With Your Pets

Intergenerational Relationships

35 | Ewan McGregor

His Career, “Beginners” And His New BFF Christopher Plummer

Charged Particles In Motion 52 | Surprisingly Sexy Stratford

This Old Gal Still Has Some Serious Va-Va Voom!

shrimp on the barbie p. 18

31 playing in playa

35 ewan mcgregor

Letter_from_the_publisher

Letter from the Publisher

his issue marks the beginning of a new chapter for Outlooks magazine. To begin, I would like to thank the magazine’s previous publishers and contributors. Thank you for serving the community since 1997 and for paving the way. It is because of your hard work, dedication and perseverance that we are able to continue your legacy. About a year and a half ago we embarked on a very interesting journey. Working as media planners in the LGBT community we asked ourselves why this vast, vibrant and diverse group is often presented in a stereotypical and one-dimensional fashion. Why are there so many people who feel like outsiders in their own community? With such diversity, why aren’t there more options? To address those questions, the Mint Media Group entered the world of publishing in 2009 (an idea most believed was sheer madness given the economic downturn). In May of 2010 we launched In Toronto, a gay and lesbian lifestyle magazine. Our mission was simple: to inspire the LGBT community to live their best lives; to expand the community by valuing diversity and individual choice; and to provide readers with

8 outlooks

O CT O BER 2 0 1 1

compelling news, information and entertainment. Within six months, In Toronto magazine was rated the second-most consumed gay media in Canada. Our hard work, dedication and sheer madness was worth it. The re-launch of Outlooks, with its new design and luxury focus, is a wonderful opportunity to continue our mission on a national level. We aim to make Outlooks Canada’s premier fashion, travel and culture magazine for the discerning gay reader. Outlooks’ refreshing and engaging take on your lifestyle will help you live your best life and look great while doing it! Thank you for continuing to support Outlooks. We hope to make you proud. Sincerely,

Patricia Salib President The Mint Media Group

Letter_from_the_editor

Letter from the Editor

s I sit down to write this I can’t help but be reminded of the old Virginia Slims cigarette slogan, “You’ve come a long way baby!” because Outlooks truly has come a long way from it’s beginnings in 1997. The majority of the more dramatic changes having happened over the last three years. From what was a tabloid newspaper, with an emphasis on bare chests and sex more than anything else, today we launch Canada’s first luxury gay magazine. The underlying theme of the new Outlooks’ is “living your best life” with an emphasis on fashion, travel, wellness, art & culture and lifestyle. Today, a gay lifestyle is so much more than what it was stereotyped to be in the past and Outlooks intends to engage and inform our readers while promoting a well balanced lifestyle. With growth comes change and I would be amiss not to mention those that helped get us to where we are today. Some that have been with us since the beginning are Dale Smith, David King, Ralph Higgins, and Barry Piersdorf to name a few. More recent in their support are Mette Bach and Jim Holmes. Although

these talented writers will not be with us on a monthly basis, a number will be providing feature articles for future issues. Internationally recognized Randall Shirley remains as Travel Editor, so you can expect the same current and personally experienced offerings from across the globe, and close to home too. This issue also introduces some new talented writers who are experts in their fields, such as Jody Boynton for Health & Fitness, and Derek Dotto covering Style and Fashion. I am very proud and excited with our new direction and am confident that you will be as well. Welcome to the “new” Outlooks.

Brett Taylor Editor In Chief

outlooks

NEWS

Bulletin 360°

steps for making a civil union a marriage, he must grant the petition brought by two gay men to have their union recognized as a marriage. While the ruling may yet be appealed, LGBT activists greeted the news with happiness.

r pe

Dianne Mallek

Bril

i n g to n Co m m u

nit

By Ralph Higgins

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R of

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Lui

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Gay Marriage for New York The biggest news item was the passage of the gay marriage bill in the state of New York. The contentious issue had already failed in the past, and there seemed little reason for optimism initially. However, with the savvy political leadership of Governor Andrew Cuomo, who had declared gay marriage a personal and professional goal, along with the unified support of various gay rights organizations, and a publicity campaign that included celebrities from many fields, it finally happened: Gay marriage in the most populous state in the US was finally a reality.

E ric ks o n

The Demise of DADT In spite of the fear mongers and alarmists, who stated that the repeal of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell (DADT) would lead to loss of military morale and unpreparedness among the troops, DADT was consigned to a footnote in the history books, when the president signed the certification of repeal in July. The end of DADT officially took place on September 20.

Brazil Nuts? South American culture remains largely socially conservative, and the influence of the Catholic Church continues to be strong. So, when even small steps for LGBT equality happen, there is cause for rejoicing. In Brazil, a judge ruled that, since the Supreme Court of that country ruled that gay unions must be recognized and since the Brazilian constitution outlines clear

Maija Tammie

Lesbian Couple Saved Dozens From Norway Massacre Hege Dalen and her partner Toril Hansen were eating supper in the camping area opposite Utoya Island

10 outlooks Oc tober 2011

Opera Too Gay? An opera written by Lee Hall, the writer of Billy Elliot, ran into a snag when some parts of his work, Beached, were considered unsuitable for the school children who were to participate in the production, in particular some of the lines spoken by a gay character. Hall refused to make changes, accusing the school of homophobia. 5

Price of Freedom High in Ireland In Ireland, a new law, which would give rights to transgender citizens, has garnered mixed reviews from the trans community. While many activists laud the government’s progress for transgender rights, they also claim

when they started hearing gunshots and screaming. Dalen and Hansen drove their boat to the island and rescued injured and shocked teens from the water as the gunfire continued around them.

that it comes at too high a cost. In order to gain legal recognition of their new gender, married transgender citizens would be required to divorce, since Ireland does not recognize same-sex marriage. 6

Unfriendly Ghana Ghanaians once had a reputation for being the friendliest people of Africa. However, recent anti-gay activities have tarnished the international reputation of a country once renowned for its hospitality. An MP has called for the collection and arrest of all gay people, and has asked landlords, family members and security forces to work together to accomplish this task. Members of the Christian and Muslim communities have joined in this call for the eradication of homosexuality, with the Presbyterian Church of Ghana ready to set up “gay cure centres.” 7

Benidorm Gets Green Light for Its First Gay Pride Benidorm, one of Spain’s, and Europe’s, top gay destinations, is to host its first Gay Pride in October. Organized by the Benidorm City Council and the Benidorm Gay Business Association (BGBA), It is scheduled to take place from October 21 to October 23.

“There were so many trying to get away that we had to return to the island four times.” They are credited with saving as many as 40 people from the clutches of the killer.

Leanne Pittsford

Far right: Courtesy of Broadway.com

NEWS

Gay Russia Hoping for Change The deputy mayor of Moscow, Andrey Sharonov, has promised to change the homophobic image of the city in the eyes of foreign-

ork etw

ers – and he appears in direct contradiction with the Mayor. In an interview with Reuters, the Mayor of the Russian capital made it clear that he will follow the line set by his predecessor, Yuri Luzhkov, and keep ban-

Gay Pride Abandoned Amid Riots Thugs and extremists — many throwing stones, firecrackers, eggs, and bottles — brought an end this afternoon to the first Gay Pride to be staged in the port city of Split, southern Croatia. Nearly 300 joined the Parade; but, an estimated 10,000 protesters faced them. The trouble came 24 hours after the European Union announced that Croatia would be able to join the EU in 2013 – and the Croatian government’s pledging to protect human rights. State television reported that “dozens” had been arrested and “several” injuries had been reported. A spokesperson for the Split Police has said that 300 had been arrested, and 81 charged with public disorder. The almost 300 participants in the Pride March

BBC America Boots Christian Values Network BBC America has terminated its involvement with a faith-based website that helps fund socalled gay hate” religious groups through an online shop, which offers goods and services from over 800 companies and organizations. Participating in the scheme until July was BBC America Shop – and after the UK Gay News alerted the BBC to the way “commissions” on sales of BBC merchandise could well be passed on to such groups as Focus on the Family, the Family Research Council and other organizations that fall into what many consider “gay hate groups.”

were escorted by two hundred policemen. But they, and the riot police with tear gas, could do little to prevent trouble.

Co u r t e s y G

Last Gay Survivor of Nazi Concentration Camps Dies Rudolf Brazda, the last known survivor of the gay men interned in Nazi concentration camps, has died at age 98. He died at a hospital in Bantzenheim, eastern France. Philippe Couillet, a friend of Brazda, told AFP that he “passed on peacefully in his sleep at dawn.” Brazda was imprisoned at Buchenwald concentration camp in August, 1942, and

ning gay pride marches. But only two days later, Andrey Sharonov, the deputy Mayor in charge of the Economic Policy, expressed a different opinion. In an interview with Russian TV channel RBC, Mr. Sharonov said on June

was held there until the camp was liberated by US forces in 1945. He was the last known survivor of the Pink Triangles — the name given to the 10,000 to 15,000 men detained in Nazi concentration camps for being gay. French President Nicholas Sarkozy awarded Brazda with a French Legion of Honor medal in April, this year. He had lived in Alsace, France since the end of the war with partner Edi until Edi’s death in 2003. 12

Gay True Blood star marries in New York True Blood actor Denis O’Hare has used Twitter to reveal that he has married his long-time partner in New York. The 49-year-old, who played the 2,800-yearold vampire king of Mississippi, Russell Edgington, in the hit

18 that “the lack of tolerance in the European understanding, including national and sexual minorities, is not confined to Moscow, but the whole country.” “In order to make the country more attractive to investors, of

series, tweeted: “Okay. It happened. Hugo and I just got married,” before also posting a photo of himself and his new husband Hugo Redwood. O’Hare talked at length about his relationship with Redwood last year in an interview with The Advocate. “Hugo and I have a pretty fantastic relationship,” he said. “We definitely have our frictions here and there; but we get along really, really well. After ten years, we have a great amount of mutual respect for each other; so we rarely descend into any kind of disrespectful sniping.” The Kansas-born actor was awarded a Tony in 2003 for his performance in the gay baseball drama Take Me Out, and he was nominated for another Tony the following year for his role in Assassins.

course, we will think how to change this image,” he promised.

outlooks 11

A sexy, healthy

YOU!

12 outlooks October 2011

For more info on sexual health visit the

www.catie.ca

wellness WELLNESS

Good Posture is Super Sexy

Korby Banner/Korbybanner.com

Depositphoto.com Depositphoto.com

Far Right: Korby Banner/Korbybanner.com

1.1.At Atyour yourdesk. desk. Sit Situpright uprightand andtotothe the back backofofaasteady steadychair. chair. Roll Rollpelvis pelvisslightly slightly forward forwardtotoget getaaslight slight curve in lower curve in lowerback. back.Lift Lift ribs ribsupward, upward,retract retractand and relax relaxhead headsosothat thatyour your traps traps(Trapezius (Trapeziusmuscles) muscles) are arerelaxed relaxedand andshoulders shoulders are aredown downand andback. back.IfIf you youcan, can,do doan anisometric isometric squeeze squeezeofofthe themuscles muscles you youfeel feelinvolved involvedinin maintaining maintainingthat thatposture. posture. Hold Holdfor forfive fiveseconds secondsand and relax. relax.Repeat Repeatfive fivetimes. times.

Wall press. Wall press.

You NOTICE notice a YOU A guy GUY walk WALK into INTO the THE room. ROOM. He HE appears APPEARS confident, CONFIDENT, self-assured and able. He stands tall, with SELF-ASSURED AND ABLE. HE STANDS TALL, WITH his HIS head HEADup, UP,his HISfeet FEET firmly planted on the ground, and you can’t help but think of FIRMLY PLANTED ON THE GROUND, AND YOU CAN’T HELP BUT THINK OFaA certain SEXY sexy superhero. CERTAIN SUPERHERO. If IF he’s HE’S got GOT all ALL that THAT going GOING on, ON,chances CHANCESare ARE by jody boynton that he’s got good posture! THAT HE’S GOT GOOD POSTURE! BY JODY BOYNTON But what is good posture? Our mothers/teachers But what is good posture? Our mothers/teachers always told us to stand up straight; but what they always told us to stand up straight; but what they really meant was maintain that neutral spine. really meant was maintain that neutral spine. We are products of millions of years of We are products of millions of years of evolution — nothing is by accident. We have and evolution -- nothing is by accident. We have and continue to evolve this structure of ours. It is continue to evolve this structure of ours. It is designed to give us the maximum amount of designed to give us the maximum amount of strength, power, stability and movement to suit strength, power, stability and movement to suit our environment. We no longer have to climb our environment. We no longer have to climb trees, chase dinner, lift heavy objects or rip the trees, chase dinner, liftTruth heavy the limbs off adversaries. is objects that weornorip longer limbs off adversaries. Truth is that we no longer “work” for a living and, unless we make the “work” for don’t a living and, unless we make theto effort, we use those muscles needed effort, we don’t use those muscles needed to maintain good posture. maintain good posture. The human body was designed to do stuff, human body behind was designed do stuff, notThe to be crammed a desk, to stuffed into a not to be crammed behind a desk, stuffed into a car seat, slumped in front of the TV, or chained car seat, slumped in front of the TV, or chained to tiny little screens in our hands. Evolution is to tiny little screens in our“generation hands. Evolution always occurring. Today’s text” isis always occurring. Today’s “generation text” is

already showing an increase in thumb dexterity. already showing an increase in thumb dexterity. At this pace, in another million years, we will more At this pace, in another million years, we will more resemble Golum from Lord of the Rings, or a head resemble Golum from Lord of the Rings, or a head with thumbs, than that buff-bronzed image of with thumbs, than that buff-bronzed image of Tarzan we grew up idolizing. Tarzan we grew up idolizing. A neutral spinal posture has a natural ‘S’ shape, A neutral spinal posture has a natural ‘S’ shape, and muscles in our trunk, hips, and back work in a and muscles in our trunk, hips, and back work in a carefully orchestrated manner to maintain a more carefully orchestrated manner to maintain a more even distribution of force throughout the spine. even distribution of force throughout the spine. Muscles talk through tension, and bone maintains Muscles through tension, bone maintains its matrixtalk through tension fromand varied angles. its matrix through tension from varied angles. Where there is tension, bone is thicker, where Whereis there is tension, boneSo is some thicker, where there less, bone is thinner. age-related there is less, bone is thinner. So some age-related bone degeneration from a sedentary lifestyle is no bone degeneration a sedentary lifestyle no surprise. We cannotfrom escape technology; but weiscan surprise. We cannot escape technology; but we can reduce the impact it has on us. reduce the impact it has on us. Try these posture-habilitation stretches Try thesethe posture-habilitation stretches throughout day. throughout the day.

2.2.Standing. Standing.With Withneutral neutral posture, feet shoulder posture, feet shoulder width widthapart, apart,knees knees slightly slightlybent, bent,hips hipsback back —--squeeze squeezeyour yourglutes glutesasas though thoughyou youare areholding holding aa100 100dollar dollarbill billbetween between your yourcheeks cheeksfor forfive five seconds and slowly seconds and slowlyrelax, relax, and repeat. Glutes are and repeat. Glutes are huge stabilizers for the huge stabilizers for the back; so strong, active, back; so strong, active, available glute muscles available glute muscles can take pressure off the can take pressure off the lower back. lower back. 3. Wall press. With your 3. Wall press. With your back against a flat wall, back against a flat wall, feet forward of hips, feet forward of hips, knees bent, contact knees bent, contact points ideally should be points ideally should be head, shoulders, mid head, shoulders, mid back, hips and back of back, hips and back of hands. Some of you may hands. Some of you may not be able to put your not be able to put your head on the wall. Just try on theaswall. Just try tohead maintain neutral to maintain as neutral a head posture as you a head posture as you can. Lower back should can. Lowerconcave back should be slightly so bethe slightly off wall concaveso with neutral off the wall with neutral posture, and arms should posture, and armsat should be out to the sides be out30todegrees the sides at about from about 30 degrees from trunk, with elbows trunk, with elbowsthat unlocked. Maintain unlocked. Maintain posture as you press that the posture as you press back of your hands intothe back of and yourdo hands into the wall not let the wall and do not let anything else move off anything else movefeel off the wall. You should the wall. You should a moderate flex in thefeel a moderate intop theof back musclesflex from backtomuscles fromHold top of hips, shoulders. hips, shoulders. Hold for fivetoseconds repeat for times. five seconds repeat five five times. outlooks 13 OUTLOOKS 13

fitness

Korby Banner/Korbybanner.com

Spine of the Times If you are working out only the muscles that you can see in a mirror, you are doing yourself a great disservice. A powerful muscular back and that V shape define a man’s physique and put the GRRrrr into a bear hug. by jody boynton

raining what you cannot see in the mirror gives you depth, mass; increases your strength and can help you lift heavier weights in the rest of your workouts. A strong back supports the spine and trunk, and acts as an anchor for your limbs. Muscles need opposing forces for maximum power; so upping your back strength can improve your chest and leg workouts as well. Just as a chain is only as strong as its weakest link, so it is true for the human body. Structure determines function, so your body can work only within its functional limitations. Every exercise is a multi-joint activity. Just because a joint isn’t moving does not imply that it is not involved in the stabilization of the exercise. A weak back cannot stabilize the spine; so we cannot maintain posture, control movement or protect against injury when we load the body with weight. The goal of these exercises is to load the back muscles enough to cause an adaptation in muscle, bone and connective tissues. However, disks in the spine do not adapt; so, if you cannot stabilize a neutral posture throughout a movement, including getting into and out of position, do not attempt. Try reduced weight, reps, or an easier exercise altogether. Consult a fitness professional if you are unsure of the 14 outlooks October 2011

movement. Back exercises are often the most difficult to understand or explain. It’s not only because you cannot see the movement; but, there is a mental preparation, if you will, that is needed to brace the trunk so that movement can happen relative to it. Try to think of the exercises as parts that are anchors, and parts that move. Exercise is not passive — focused effort throughout a range of motion takes consistent awareness. We

do not want to stress out any tissue, so we need to ensure that joints are prepared for the load. (Joints include shoulders, facet joints in the spine, elbows, wrists, etc.) There are many exercises for the back; but these three exercises are great for building a strong, impressive back, and can help you gain some skill in maintaining proper posture while exercising.

Korby Banner/Korbybanner.com

fitness

1 Narrow Grip Pulldown The biggest and most visible muscles are the Lattissimus Dorsi muscles that wrap around the rib cage and fill out that V shape. One of the best choices for a lat exercise is a narrow grip pulldown, ideally shoulder width handles. Grasp the bar — palms facing each other — stabilize the shoulders and prepare for movement. With a slight lean back, hold ribcage stable (anchor) looking up around a 45º angle. Mentally initiate the shoulder movement (down and back) with the scapula (down and in) as the elbows move down and arc towards the rib cage. Try to think of the back of the elbows pulling down as opposed to pulling with the hands. There should be a natural scapulohumeral movement pattern involving both shoulder and scapula. For a beginner separating the shoulder shrugging back, and then the scapula movement with the elbow moving towards the ribcage second. As skill improves, the goal is to have a smooth, fluid movement as the handles come down towards the chest.

2 Seated Single Handle Row Not only for back, but challenges core and stability to create an anchor as the resistance is only on one side of the spine. This exercise can be done from standing or seated on a low row, a cube, or even a ball. Here we are seated knees bent at a 90º angle with a chest upright posture (not a rounded back). Grasp the handle, brace the core, and stabilize the shoulder and return to the upright posture. Trunk should still be squared off and a neutral spinal posture, and resist twisting. The idea is to pull the handle towards you- keep the grip relaxed and slightly angled thumb out posture. Think of pulling the back of the elbow (moving part) towards the rib cage (anchored part). Think of what is anchored and what is moving, it is a back row, not a bicep/forearm pull.

3 45º Bench Dumbbell Row Set your weights in front of the bench so that you can grab them once you get into position. Stand over the bench. Put your chest on the bench, knees slightly bent and up on toes. You are supporting your weight on the bench between your hips, thighs, and rib cage. Grab the weights and again adopt the chest-up posture with your core braced. Slightly angle the weights (hands about 30º-45º). With a loose grip, bring elbows (moving part) up in a row towards the rib cage (anchor) focusing on contracting the lats to pull up as high as your mechanics will allow, while maintaining posture. Shoulders should not round forward and all the pull should be from behind, not pulling with biceps or forearms.

outlooks 15

Living_&_Health

How Real and How Accurate is “Gaydar”?

aydar is a slang term used to denote the perceived ability that gay men and lesbians have for identifying who is homosexually inclined from who is not. Is there really any such thing as gaydar? While not much research has been devoted to this topic, there is enough to draw some conclusions. One study used 96 judges and 25 targets. The judges were 96 undergraduate students (comprised of 24 heterosexual women, 24 lesbians, 24 heterosexual men, and 24 gay men) who were randomly assigned into one of three groups that then either (a) looked at still photos, (b) watched a one-second video clip without sound, or (c) watched a ten-second silent video clip. The photos and video clips used were made from videotaping 25 graduate students (these were the targets, comprised of 5 heterosexual men, 5 lesbians, 7 heterosexual men, and 8 gay men) while they responded to the request “Please discuss how you balance your extracurricular activities and academic activities.” These graduate students did not know from the outset that the videotapes would be used by others in attempting to guess their affectional orientation. (Note: they were told after the videotaping that they could withdraw usage of their tape for this purpose.) The study found that affectional orientation can be detected at better than chance levels of accuracy from these brief observations of non-verbal and non-vocal behaviours. Overall, the longer the opportunity to observe the behaviour, the better the accuracy. Furthermore, it was found that the gay 16 outlooks

october 2011

men and the lesbians were collectively more accurate in this task than their heterosexual counterparts, particularly for the still photos and the one-second videotape. The authors then compared their results to two other studies, both of which found that lesbians have a greater advantage in ascertaining the sexual orientation of other women than gay men have of determining the sexual orientation of other men. This is not surprising, given that other research has revealed that women are generally better than men at accurately reading the non-verbal cues of others. It is important to keep results like this in perspective, however. None of the judges in these studies accurately identified all the targets. There are many errors in people’s attempt at gaydar. Their guesses are better than chance; but they still are often wrong in determining a person’s sexual orientation through verbal and non-verbal cues. Nonetheless, it is impressive that even a brief sample of gender-atypical behaviour can provide sufficient gaydar cues to make, in many cases, accurate predictions of affectional orientation. When a gay male or lesbian wants to be identified as gay or lesbian, however, we do have evidence that they are successful in this quest. An interesting ethnography was done by a woman who did her research in both Chicago and Oklahoma City. Ethnography is the study of culture, which relies on using direct observation and on conducting interviews with people who belong to the culture. She found that eye-gaze is an important aspect that gays and lesbians use in determining who else is gay or lesbian. Eye-gaze is also used to establish interest in one another once this is established. While interacting within the gay and lesbian communities for three years, the researcher found that two types of eye-gaze were used: (a) direct stares, which included direct and

prolonged eye contact, and (b) broken stares, which she categorized into two subtypes of the “stare-look-away-stareagain” variety and the “peek-a-boo” type. Besides eye-gaze, both gays, lesbians and heterosexuals look for other cues — such as the presence of a gay pride button or symbol on a person’s clothing — and somewhat less obvious signs — such as the way the person dresses, walks, talks, and gestures. Gay men also pay attention to where a person’s eyes roam, some intangibles (e.g., “twinkle” in a person’s eye), and the topics a person discusses or avoids. In summary, psychological research has shown that gaydar does exist, but that — like so many other things we try to predict — it is fraught with mistakes, perhaps some of which are unconsciously motivated (e.g., wanting to see more gays and lesbians out there than actually exist). A good parallel is predicting the weather: even the most talented at doing so would be killed if their lives depended on it! Kevin Alderson, Ph.D., R. Psych. Dr. Alderson can be contacted by confidential email at alderson@ucalgary. ca Couch Talk references can be found at Outlooks.ca

Photography by David Hawe

st yle

1. Down-filled leather jacket by Rudsak [$695]

2. Basic white V-neck T-shirt by Moon at the Bay [$20]

3. Dark wash denim by J Brand at the Bay [$239]

4. Watch by Boss Hugo Boss at the Bay [$425] 5. Sunglasses by Ray Ban [$251] at the Bay 6. Leather and crystal bracelet by Swarovski [$150] 7. Dog tags by Swarovski [$150 each]

8. Belt by H&M [$19.95] 9. Boots by John Fluevog [$289]

4 8

5 9

The Breakdown

Rebel without a Flaw Modern, minimalist, and uncomplicated. Fall 2011’s biker is more concerned about looking fresh than billiards and bar fights. This look is centred on a streamlined leather jacket, free of unnecessary zippers, pockets, and snaps. Think James Dean meets Tron. Keep it simple with dark denim or trousers and a plain white tee. Though we normally wouldn’t advocate such a lack of colour, an achromatic palette goes hand in hand with a minimalist aesthetic. Metal, leather and crystal accessories can add a sense of depth and luxury without clutter. The real beauty of this look: You don’t actually have to ride a hog to pull it off. Derek Dotto outlooks 17

Food_&_Drink

Bob blumer Bob Blumer is the host and cocreator of the award-winning television series Glutton for Punishment. Now in its fifth season, the show can be seen on the Food Network and Food Network Canada and on stations in over 30 countries around the globe. In his previous show The Surreal Gourmet, Blumer trekked across North America in his Toastermobile, a transformed Airstream Trailer made to look like a giant toaster. The transplanted Canadian currently lives under the D of the Hollywood sign.

Shrimp on the Barbie These shrimp are cooked on an outdoor grill and they disappear faster than Barbie can change her profession or hairstyle. Shrimp

For more of Bob’s great recipes make sure you check out his new book “Glutten for Pleasure” Available at better bookstores nationwide. By DJ Mitchell

18 outlooks

2 tablespoons dried oregano 1 tablespoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning ¼ - ½ teaspoon ground chipotle chili or a pinch of cayenne ½ teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1 pound uncooked 21/26 count shrimp 2 tablespoons olive oil Shell and devein shrimp if they haven’t been purchased that way. Tails may be left on if desired

grill

Preheat grill to high direct heat. In a medium-size bowl, mix all dry seasonings.. Pour oil into a large bowl. Add shrimp and toss to coat. Sprinkle seasonings overtop and toss to coat. Grill for 1 minute per side, or until shrimp are no longer translucent.

cilantro dipping sauce 1 cup lightly packed fresh cilantro leaves, stems discarded before measuring

3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice ½ cup sour cream Blend cilantro and lime juice in a blender or small food processor until cilantro is liquefied. Spoon sour cream into a small bowl and slowly stir in liquefied clantro. Reserve in refrigerator. Serve with alongside shrimp yield Serves 6 as an appetizer with ¾ cup of dipping sauce

Note to self: When traveling with a suitcase full of plastic dolls and chef’s knives to countries where “Shrimp on the Barbie” is not recognized as a common Aussie expression, prepare a better explanation for the Customs

food_&_Drink

Ingredients:

Servings: 4 12 large marshmallows 1 cup half-and-half 8 ounces best-availablequality bittersweet chocolate, chopped into teeny-weeny bits 1 1/2 cups milk 3/4 cup Amaretto 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs Directions:

Prep Time: 20 mins Total Time: 20 mins

Smore Shooters The evenings are getting cooler, but hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a great way to warm things up a little bit regardless of whether you are out camping in the boonies or doing the urban version with your hibachi on the 18th floor balcony. This sweet little treat is the perfect way to end a late summer BBQâ&#x20AC;Ś or to simply live like a kid again, your call.

1 | Toast marshmallows over a campfire or stovetop until golden brown; let cool and reserve. 2 | In a small pot, bring half-and-half to a boil. 3 | In a medium bowl, add chocolate; pour cream over chocolate and stir until chocolate has fully melted. 4 | Return chocolate ganache to the pot and whisk in milk. 5 | Over medium heat, bring to a simmer and stir in 1/2 cup of amaretto. 6 | Pour remaining amaretto into a small bowl so that it is 1/4 inch deep and place graham cracker crumbs on a small saucer 1/4 inch deep. 7 | To assemble, dip the rims of each shot glass in amaretto, then in the graham cracker crumbs. 8 | Fill glasses with hot chocolate and top each with a toasted marshmallow (make your life easier by transferring the hot chocolate first to a measuring cup with a spout). By DJ Mitchell

technology

Techno Tabby Imagine receiving daily Twitter messages from your cat or sitting down for a one-on-one with your dog st

ics

by Brett Taylor

Pet

pet friendly speakers

The idea of “walking and talking” with your pets — albeit as a result of technology and not talent — might just make you feel a bit like Dr. Doolittle. It is becoming more apparent that, if there is a gadget or application out there for you, in many cases, there are similar ones for your pets. In North America, we spend over $48 billion on our furry family members annually, and industry experts tell us that pet-related technology is a growing segment of that total. Now, granted, the majority of the pet tech available today falls under the category of what we would consider fun stuff. There are also some products designed to make our busy lives a bit easier on a daily basis. Here are just a few to consider as potential Christmas gifts for your furry family members:

My Pet Speaker connects to a range of acoustic devices (such as iPhones, iPods, CD players, etc.) and then generates music in frequencies that don’t aggravate the animals. But, if you want to share your musical taste with your pet, it’ll cost you. The speaker runs at $249.95.

The CatCam is a miniature videocam that attaches to your furry cinematographer’s collar and weighs only 30 grams (1.1 oz). The camera has a built in memory of 8GB but you can upgrade to the 16 GB to capture up to 4 hours of 700x400 pixel footage. This time can be spread over several days using interval recording. Recorded videos are downloaded to a computer using USB interface. There’s no integrated flashlight, unfortunately, so “techno tabby”s nighttime sojourns are likely to look very dark and grainy. But don’t let that stop you from living vicariously through your feline. The unit retails for about $75.

What mysterious POIs does your cat frequent when it goes out on the town? Now you can watch your pet’s adventures just like on Reality –TV.

Video CatCam

ing

The company said it worked with an acoustics laboratory that provided “research and development and consulting as well as aiding speech, acoustics and radio waves” for the Bowlingual Voice’s creation. For a mere $225, you can chat with your dog during the commercials while watching “Lassie” or “The Littlest Hobo” reruns.

To make your music library more agreeable, they have unveiled what is called the world’s first sound system designed for the hearing sensitivities of cats, dogs and horses.

Meowl

In c

TT ec

20 outlooks October 2011

T Ta ka ra

Once the data-gathering components become synthesized to your cat’s lifestyle via the various sensors, the lightweight device can figure out if the cat is sleeping, walking or eating. Then, it automatically sends messages directly to a Twitter feed. For example, if it determines that your cat is eating, it might tweet, “This tastes good.” So far, only 11 phrases are available; but upgrades, as they move forward, will increase the device’s vocabulary. It will be awhile until you are able to read your cat’s commentary in 140 words or less. Sony’s device is only a prototype for now.

The Bowlingual Dog Translator includes a microphone — worn around a dog’s neck — and a hand-held digital reader that the company says translates barks into one of six emotional states: happy, sad, frustrated, threatening, needy or assertive.

Recently, the Tokyo-based Sony Computer Science Laboratories unveiled a device that can connect your kitty to Twitter. According to the news site Tech-On, Sony said the so-called “life-logging” device is worn around a cat’s neck and uses a camera, accelerometer, GPS and Bluetooth technology to record the cat’s activities.

Bowlingual Dog Translator Yes, it’s true. Now you can determine what your dog is thinking. Takara Tomy, a Japanese toy company, says it has created a device that can translate dog barks.

CCa t C a

Sony’s Twitter Cat Collar

According to Pet Acoustics Inc., because animals have such an acute sense of hearing, sounds in some frequencies can cause them discomfort.

MeowLingual And, if you also want to catch up with the cat, Catto-English translations are at your fingertips with the MeowLingual iPhone app. The app, which comes in free and 99-cent versions, says it records and then analyzes cat meows. However this one does come with a disclaimer that it’s intended for “novel entertainment” and may not always work.

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feature

What a Difference an Age Makesâ&#x20AC;Ś or Does It? By Bryen Dunn

Intergenerational relationships are defined as having a significant age difference or disparity between two individuals, either in a platonic or sexual context.

22 outlooks October 2011

feature

Chris and Don throughout their years together Courtesy of Don Bachardy

his definition is by no means definitive, and is open to interpretation on many different levels. Typically such relationships would be classified when discussing a mentor/peer situation, or some other combination of elder/youth companionship. A completely different translation is when two individuals develop a loving, sexual relationship between themselves. Many discredit any real love or attraction, and immediately think that one half must be in the relationship for ulterior motives of some sort, or that they won’t last. Such age differences were often referred to as May to December relationships for the mere fact that they would most likely have a limited time span a bit longer than a summer romance, or one half is in the awakening spring of their life while the other is in the dormant winter state. Although such liaisons have existed for centuries, it is only recently that some prominent public figures have openly declared their special partnerships. Mention Celine and Rene or Demi and Ashton, and immediately people think of the age differences between these couples, 26 and 15 years respectively. Now take these relationships one step

further into the gay world, and there appears to be even less acceptance, and more criticism associated with age difference partnerships. The dad/son complex is often mentioned with predatory terms such as chicken hawk, cradle robber, and gravedigger. Elton and David are seen as current pop culture’s token intergenerational gay couple, with a 15 year age gap between them. They were first introduced in 1993, and soon after began their relationship. In 2005, they entered a civil partnership in the UK, on the first day it was legalized, and in 2010 they became proud parents of a son. While all these current examples provide some sort of role model for others, it is those that came before them who helped paved the road to acceptance. I had the opportunity to speak with other male couples who are in, or have been in such similar type relationships, to find out if and how age disparity plays a role. Canadian writer Gerald Hannon made headlines in late 1977 when he published his now infamous article “Men Loving Boys Loving Men” for the Toronto queer publication The Body Politic. He wanted to shed light on the fact that such relationships do exist in a consensual context, and shouldn’t be so casually categorized

as pedophilia, molestation, or predatory in nature. “I’ve always been attracted to younger partners, and my most recent affair was two years ago with someone 30 years my junior. It lasted six months, and it was he who sought me out”, explains 67 year old Hannon. He mentions it is often the situation where the younger will seek out the older, as opposed to the stereotypical older preying on the younger. Hannon cites age difference relationships as being no different than any other, but “it does help to be a bit eccentric”, he laughs. He recalls the first gay couple he met back in 1968 as having a 20 year age difference between them. They remained a couple for many years, eventually opting for an open relationship, and maintaining a strong friendship until the death of the elder partner. Hannon questions what defines the act of sex and doesn’t feel consent should be solely based on age, but more that both individuals understand what they are getting into, and are in agreement. Chris and Don

Don Bachardy has always been in age differential relationships ever since his first long term commitment with the renowned English playwright outlooks 23

feature

Isherwood. “I just fell into it by following my instincts. I didn’t go out looking for an older man”, Bachardy admits. Isherwood was 30 years his elder, and one year older than his own father. “I’m not sure what defines an intergenerational relationship as I don’t use that term, but I can tell you that our relationship provided many opportunities to role play both in bed and in life, which I found to be an enhancement,” he confesses. Bachardy was 18 years old when first introduced to Isherwood at a party by Bachardy’s older brother, who also was queer. They moved in together a year later, and lived as partners for 33 years before Isherwood passed away. “In the early 1950’s, this was a widely unconventional relationship. There was no hiding the fact of our relationship with Chris’ public profile. I was brought into his circle of friends, and soon realized I had to make something of myself,” he divulges. He credits Isherwood for his inspiration to become an artist, which he admits was difficult to assume such an identity without credentials. “We eventually embarked on an openrelationship with others, yet we always slept entangled together. Somehow I think we had a whole different relationship while we slept. Chris had a fear of dying in a hospital, and asked if I would take care of him at home, which is what I did until the very end,” recalls Bachardy. A few years after Isherwood’s death, Bachardy dated a man 26 years his younger, which lasted 10 years, and they still remain close friends speaking on the phone daily. “It was fascinating for me to be playing Chris’ role in that relationship,” he confesses. As for his opinion on age difference relationships, he states, “I don’t think there is anything more natural in the world, and I don’t know any other kind. I had sex with others before I met Chris, and think that young people should be the one deciding for themselves who they want to experiment with.” As Hannon made reference to, Bachardy reiterates that it’s most often the younger one who makes the first advance. Today, Bachardy still lives in the same house where he cared for his life partner until his death, 24 outlooks October 2011

and continues his work as a painter. Their amazing love was portrayed in the 2008 documentary Chris & Don - A Love Story. It tells the story of a romance that began on the beaches of Malibu in the 1950s, when Chris at age 48 met Don who then was eighteen years old. Isherwood, an established author with works such as The Berlin Stories, which helped inspire much of the musical Cabaret, helped Bachardy discover and develop his affinity for drawing and painting. The documentary includes insight from friends, including Liza Minnelli and John Boorman, who tell of the countless struggles the two faced as one of the first openly gay couples in Hollywood. Paul and Aaron

Paul White also publishes a website called Gray Gay, a place for mature gay men

allowing for your differences.” As for his opinion on age of consent, “Certainly I knew physically I was attracted to older men at the age of 14, but I am not so sure I could have dealt with it emotionally unlike when I had my first experience at 18.” He ponders what the future holds for older queers. “We have many support organizations for gay youth but remarkably few for older gay people, despite the ageing baby boomers. I have been listing gay retirement communities on my website since 1986, but there are still remarkably few outside of North America,” he reports. Aaron realized he was attracted to older men in high school, but only connected during his later years in college, after a few unsuccessful dates with guys his own age. Today he also publishes an online reference tool for others, cleverly titled Gay to December,

“The entire concept of age of consent in the law is a fraud”, Thorstad believes. and their admirers. He categorizes an intergenerational relationship as, “more than 25 years apart in age, since that is accepted cycle of each generation,” he explains. “I realized I was attracted to older men when I was a teenager and I met my first partner when I was 22. He was 55 and we were together for around 18 years, but gradually the nature of our relationship changed, as I wanted to live together and he didn’t.” British born White is now 53 and living with his current partner in Australia, whom he met 16 years ago and is 79 years old. White recalls, “I knew I was gay and I knew I only liked older men, but I found it impossible to find positive impressions of such relationships. I am firmly of the opinion that any successful relationship requires that you to have a common interest that you share, as well as

which is partially a narrative of his own life experiences, as well as a resource of information on intergenerational relationships. Currently he is in a four-year relationship with someone who is more than 40 years older than himself. “About three years ago I started writing my blog to help me explore what I was thinking and feeling about the serious intergenerational relationship I had just begun. I also hoped that it would offer a sense of solace to those other younger men out there that were interested in an age disparate relationship”, he explains. Aaron defines an age difference of between 10 and 20 years as intergenerational. “I relate very well with older men and value their experience, but I’m also simply more physically attracted to them than men my own age. Having mutual friends can be challeng-

feature

ing. I tend to get along fairly well with most of my partner’s friends who are 40 or older, but my friends often have difficulty relating, even though they like and respect my partner,” he divulges. David Thorstad is a former president of New York’s Gay Activists Alliance, and a co-founder of both New York’s Coalition for Lesbian and Gay Rights, and the North American Man/Boy Love Association (NAMBLA). Thorstad’s definition of an intergenerational couple is simply one between an older and a younger person, whether sexual or not. He finds relationships with teenagers both challenging and rewarding at the same time. “The youngest partner I had was 14 when I met him, and we remained friends throughout his life until he died at age 33,” he recollects. The subject of age of consent is a contentious issue for many, and even the implicit terminology and vague parameters imposed around such regulations aren’t quite clear. The Department of Justice Canada website uses words such

as exploitation, control, trust, authority, peer group, prostitution, pornography, and dependency, all indications that any such relationship is considered taboo, illegal, and punishable under the criminal code. In fact, it now references age of consent as age of protection, again associating any age difference relationships with a negative context. In Canada, the legal age of consent was raised from 14 to 16 years in 2008 for both heterosexual and homosexual citizens. However, there are many exceptions for ‘close in age’ sexual activity within this younger demographic, and it suddenly becomes 18 years if the younger person is deemed to have been ‘exploited’. “The entire concept of age of consent in the law is a fraud,” Thorstad believes. “The only guideline ought to be effective consent, and it is usually quite clear whether consent has been given or not in any relationship. Age has little to do with consent, though the younger the one partner is in such a relationship, the more complicated it can become. The law ought

to treat each situation on a case by case basis, rather than impose a blanket and artificial age at which sex becomes acceptable,” he denounces. While there are those who automatically negate any relationship not falling within the norm of society, there are others who happily live their lives within these parameters. Relationships can prosper and manifest themselves in many different ways, and the individuals above can all personally attest to that fact.

For More Information The Speights of Life www.thespeightsoflife.com Gray Gay www.graygay.com Gay to December www.gaytodecember.com NAMBLA www.nambla.org Prime Timers Worldwide www.primetimersww.org

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travel

Randall Shirley

Hot Gay Tix on Broadway

Where’s Your Travel Mecca?

lmost every gay person I know is either a frequent traveller or has dreams of being one. If you’ve been reading my column for a while, you know that I’m on the road a ton—sometimes too much. I see a lot of places and have many amazing experiences. But there is one place I will always come back to, I call it my Travel Mecca—the place to which I am pulled like a pilgrim year after year after year. For me that place is New York City. A long time ago I decided to visit New York at least annually, and I’ve only missed one year since. I’m writing this column to you from New York, where today I’ll spend time in my personal holy places, the Broadway theatres (see news item, below). To me this experience has become incredibly important and phenomenally spiritual. The energy of the city sends me away renewed, and the brilliance of the theatre here—arguably the best in the world—fills my soul with an inexplicable joy. But my Mecca is likely not your Mecca. I know some gays who have almost no interest in the Big Apple, and certainly couldn’t attend eight Broadway shows in one week as I have sometimes done. For some of my close friends, Mecca seems

to be Puerto Vallarta—they make their annual pilgrimage sometime around Christmas. For others, the place is Palm Springs, California. For yet others it’s an annual all-gay cruise, and for some it’s a trip to Ontario Cottage Country. In this re-imagined issue of Outlooks, we feature some interesting spots. Bryen Dunn’s piece on Playa del Carmen has piqued my interest in visiting the Mayan Riviera, a place I previously had almost zero interest in. As my partner and I consider places we might like to spend senioryears winters (although that’s quite a ways off), perhaps Playa will get a chance. You’ll also read about travelling specifically to gay events—featuring Sydney’s Mardi Gras and Montreal’s Black & Blue. Each of those events is an annual gay Mecca trip for some travellers. I’d like to hear about your Travel Mecca. What is the place that calls you back again and again? When did you first visit? Why does it call you back? Email me at randall@outlooks.ca with your thoughts, and we might publish some of them in an upcoming issue. Meanwhile, I’ve gotta dash. There are Broadway theatre tickets burning a hole in my pocket. Randall Shirley

Before you make travel plans, double-check dates, times, and prices. Things do change. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, Outlooks and its contributors are not responsible or liable for errors in content.

26 outlooks October 2011

When Bernadette Peters leads a parade of top-rate divas in a Sondheim show, no self-respecting gay who can possibly get to New York should miss it. Mr. Sondheim’s Follies is crammed with glorious torch songs and touching moments, performed by a top-shelf cast including Elaine Paige and Danny Burnstein. Act quickly, the limited run at the Marquis Theatre closes Dec. 30. folliesbroadway.com A few blocks away you can see adorable, tap dancing missionaries in the megahit The Book of Mormon. There’s a gay subtext with one of the “elders,” and the show is zany good fun without skewering the religion too harshly. See it now with the original cast. BookOfMormonOn Broadway.com. Gay Travel Legend Launches New Brand Charlie Rounds, long involved with all-gay cruise charter company RSVP Vacations, is involved in the launch of a new gay (but straight-friendly) tour company called Brand G. According to their website, Brand G is starting small with a limited number of tours, including Dublin and Mexico City. Learn more at brandgvacations.com Still Time for Polar Bears & You If you need a travel activity most of your friends likely haven’t done, the polar bears of Churchill are still willing to indulge you this season. A new, quick escape gets you to the bears and back on a three-night trip. It’s offered by Great Canadian Adventures, and departure is from Winnipeg.

Travel Editor Randall Shirley takes a look at two big gay events â&#x20AC;&#x201D; one far away and one close to home, that add extra reason to visit these destinations.

By Randall Shirley

David Mark Erickson

Events that are worth the trip

travel

Far left: Courtesy of Sydney Mardi Gras

five More Big Gay Winter Season Events: pack your bags!

Jan. 29-Feb. 5, 2012, Biggest Ever Gay Cruise, www.atlantisevents.com. Gay cruises are so much more than the sexed-up advertising indicates; my experience has shown them to be fun for all types and ages. This time Atlantis charters the world’s largest cruise ship, Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas. Feb. 5-12, 2012, Whistler WinterPRIDE Gay Ski Week, www.gaywhistler. com. Play on the mountain with gay skiers and riders from all around the world, and dive in to the wide variety of nonsport events and parties off the slopes. Feb. 29-Mar. 5, 2012: Miami Beach Winter Party Festival, www. winterparty.com. Much more than a circuit party, this week-long festival includes a variety of events and even walking tours of South Beach. February 18-21, 2012: Rio Carnaval, www. rio-carnival.net. While this is not a gay specific event, the sheer quantity of rhinestones, feathers, and gold lamé fabric at South America’s biggest party makes it a gay fave, and you’ll meet plenty of homos in friendly Rio. Gay-focused tours are offered by Chicago’s Zoom Vacations (www.zoomvacations.com).

t’s bloody hot in Sydney during March, which is exactly why many smart gay Canadians choose to head down under. But it’s not just the heat of the weather that attracts us; it’s the sizzle of one of the planet’s biggest gay events: Sydney Mardi Gras. Sydney’s a solid gay travel destination anytime, but toss in the tens-of-thousands of homos who come out for this gala extravaganza—some of them literally flying in from the other side of the planet just for a day or two—and you’ve got the recipe for a down-under vacation to remember. Mardi Gras (www.mardigras.org.au) encompasses dozens of events in the lead-up to a massive parade. These include all sorts of community parties, panels on various social topics, harbour cruises, music and performing arts productions, and more. During a previous Mardi Gras trip my partner and I partook in most of these; and found that behind the glitz and glam of the headliner DJ “party” events Australia’s GLBT community puts on a celebration of all-things-gay that truly has something for everyone. An evening with the Sydney Gay & Lesbian Choir brought me to tears, reminding me that no matter how far we go from home music is a universal language. And joining a boatload of bears for a cruise around Sydney Harbour was plenty of hairy fun. Attending smaller events provided opportunities to meet real Aussies engaging in hobbies they love, with a decidedly gay twist. For 2012, Mardi Gras has been condensed into a three week period (it previously ran through

28 outlooks October 2011

Courtesy of Sydney Mardi Gras

Nov. 5-6, 2011, Palm Springs Pride, www.pspride.org. Billed as one of the largest pride parades in America, this event attracts many travellers from western locations for a sunny desert romp just as most Canadians are ready to hunker down for winter.

a month), with Fair Day on February 12 and the parade and huge dance party on March 3rd. The parade and party are the big events, and are both worth attending. The very fun parade is held at night under bright lights, rolling along Oxford Street, and is filled with all the creativity gay Aussies can muster, including lots of floats. It’s possible to buy reserved seating for the parade—not a bad idea as it can be fairly hot, even at night. The after-parade party is something to behold, even if you’re not the party type (I’m not). It’s held in various large halls, just a stroll from the Oxford Street gay zone. Each venue features a different DJ spinning for a mostly shirtless, pulsing crowd of gay men. It’s not exactly my scene, but I did enjoy exploring the different vibe of each venue and diving into the middle of a couple of crowds of sweaty guys for about an hour. Once you’re inside the gates, you’re free to wander between the different venues, and that includes plenty of outdoor space where you can chill out away from the booming music. Sydney has been blessed with a gorgeous harbour, and you should plan to explore the Opera House, see their zoo, and take a climb to the top of Harbour Bridge (Outlooks, March 2011). For a decidedly twisted gay neck, at least one visit to Bondi Beach is in order. There’s nothing officially Mardi Gras about it, but it’s one of the world’s best gay-popular city beaches. Bring the highest SPF you can buy and good sunglasses to protect you from the blazing Australian sun, and kick back behind your shades to ogle the Australians (and tourists) who frolic here.

travel

If a trip to the other side of the planet doesn’t fit your plans this year, but you’d still like to hit a major, super-fun, gay event, look to Montreal and the annual Black & Blue, which takes place over Thanksgiving weekend (hurry… book now!). Black & Blue (www.bbcm.org) runs over a multi-day period, generally with a different DJ dance party each night, all culminating in a massive dance event held inside Olympic Stadium. The event does pull a substantial number of gay travellers to Montreal, meaning you’ll have more people to meet both by day and by night. Black & Blue is a series of three themed, nightly dance parties, starting on Thursday, October 6, with a Jock Ball, continuing on Friday with a Leather Ball, and on Saturday the big event in the stadium. The jock and leather events take place in smaller venues around St. Catherine Street (although to me they still seemed big), and the street itself seems to have extra buzz during Black & Blue weekend. If you only do one event at Black & Blue, make it the Stadium dance party. I found it absolutely amazing how the event planners create the illusion that the party fills the venue, when in fact it only uses a portion of the massive

playing field. The only drawback to this event is the distance from the stadium back to the gay village or downtown Montreal, but since most everyone is at the party, it’s fun dancing for a few hours. Of course, Montreal is a great travel destination—gay party or not. Autumn is an excellent time to visit, and if you can pace yourself with the dance parties (or maybe just hit one of them) you can take advantage of daytime activities. I particularly enjoyed the Jean Talon market in autumn abundance, a stroll through the coloured-leaf trails of Mount Royal itself, and of course a visit to Schwartz’s deli for an impossibly delicious smoked meat sandwich. Travel to Montreal during October will be relatively easy for you readers in Ontario and eastern Canada, those in the west might find it pricey as the Thanksgiving holiday is generally not a seat-sale weekend. But you never know. Reminder: You can have a lot of fun at these events without doing drugs or getting blasted on booze. Be responsible. Far left: Mardi Gras Parade Participants Bottom: Saturday Night at the Stadium

Courtesy of BBCM

There are a few small boutique hotels and inns in reasonable proximity to Oxford Street, Sydney’s main gay village and epicenter for the parade, and they will likely fill up early and at premium prices, so if it’s important for you to stay in the hub of it all, get right on it. Try the boutique Kirketon Hotel (www.8hotels. com/sydney-hotels/kirketon-hotel), and if you’re looking to stay in a chain the Sydney Marriott (www.marriott.com) location isn’t bad (I have not visited either of these properties, but they get good reviews, each roughly a kilometer away). We were on a very tight budget and stayed at O’Malley’s Hotel (www. omalleyshotel.com.au). The location was good and the accommodations were good value. Our winter being their summer, Mardi Gras airfare can run to the high side— especially for those just trying to swing down for the final week festivities. I suggest you plan your Australia visit with Mardi Gras in the middle of a 2-3 week vacation period, which may give you more flexibility in finding acceptable airfares. For complete travel packages to Mardi Gras, check with Toronto’s Rainbow High Vacations (www.conxity. com) or U.S.-based Zoom Vacations (www.zoomvacations.com).

outlooks 29

engaging

Help us continue to support people living with HIV/AIDS by volunteering or making a secure online donation at www.pwatoronto.org Toronto People With AIDS Foundation 200 Gerrard Street East, 2nd floor Toronto, Ontario M5A 2E6 416-506-1400

www.pwatoronto.org

travel

Playing in Playa:

Mexicoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s New Pink Paradise by Bryen Dunn

Whether your sense of adventure is scaling tree tops or searching for hot tops, Playa del Carmen, Mexico, is the new gay place to be.

travel

Nearby Tulum, an area known for grandiose ruins is now home to something new: The Adonis Tulum Riviera Maya Gay Resort & Spa. This all-inclusive gay and lesbian property offers 94 oceanfront suites situated alongside the world’s second largest barrier reef. The resort has a huge infinity pool, private beach area, four outdoor whirlpools, and a full-service spa (extra charge). There are several onsite restaurants, and all bars are stocked with premium brand alcohol. Gay guided tours to the tourist destinations of Chichen Itza, Coba Punta Laguna, and The Museum Subacuatico de Arte: MUSA are available at additional cost. The property is also an official sponsor of the International Gay Lesbian Football Association World Cup Mexico 2012.

Courtesy of Adonis Resort

www.adonistulum.com

laya del Carmen is a cosmopolitan city with a small town vibe and anythinggoes attitude, located within the Riviera Maya region. Roughly one hour away from both overdone Cancun and touristy Cozumel (you’ll fly into either to access Playa), Playa del Carmen has a laissez-faire feel that is making it a new “in spot” for gay travellers seeking a vibrant and sophisticated Latin American destination. The region is steeped in archeological history, with ancient Mayan ruins and tombs begging you to explore. To my eyes, Playa del Carmen’s overall appearance is quite modern, but complemented with traditional Mayan design, often incorporating deep shades of orange, blue and red. There’s a significant Canadian, European and Argentinean influence, and the destination gears more toward intrepid and bohemian travellers. Transition is happening quickly, and the region is working to adapt to the rapid changes, including training local businesses in adapting to cultural diversity. This town was a fishing village long before it was a tourist destination, and the influx of gringos is being embraced with caution. Regulations are in place to limit development and building heights. For gay travellers, there’s plenty to do, starting with something many Canadians love—tropical beaches. The pristine white sand and azure waters are postcard perfect, and the influence of European tourists has made some areas clothing optional, although not necessarily appropriate or legal in Mexico. If you’re looking for a gay beach, head to an area known as Playa Shangri-La, at the north end of Coco Beach. It provides for a playful time and the action can get as hot as the sun. The beaches continue to get less crowded with more cruising the further

32 outlooks October 2011

Travel Yucatan

Nearby: More to Tempt Your Pink Peso

north you venture. The area boasts some of the planet’s best diving and snorkeling, most of it is closer to Cozumel, but buses, taxis, and tour companies in Playa will easily get you to whatever you want to see, including tours of various ruins. There are also a variety of themed adventure parks, most of them starting with the letter X (www.xcaret.com) featuring everything from aquariums to underwater caving to zip-lining. If Halloween is your thing, you still have time to get to Playa del Carmen for this year’s Day of the Dead, taking place on the first two days in November, allowing you to stretch your ghostly celebration into a three-day event. Mexicans love to party and Day of the Dead is one of their grandest celebrations. It’s an ancient Aztec celebration remembering and celebrating the lives of those that have passed onto another existence—of the common Mexican belief that death is just the beginning of a new stage of life. It is a public holiday, and many Mexicans celebrate by visiting cemeteries and churches, bringing flowers, lighting candles, and hanging out with friends and family. There’s a large public cemetery just outside of Playa del Carmen that’s worth an after-dark visit during this celebration. In Playa del Carmen, fishermen still haul in their daily catch and sell it to local markets and restaurants, making it an ideal place for seafood lovers. I particularly enjoyed Yaxche Maya (www. mayacuisine.com) which features nouveau Maya cuisine, combining traditional spices with variations on Yucatan recipes. Local favorite Como Como (www.comocomo.mx) served up succulent seafood and fresh vegetables, as well as fresh pastas. I also enjoyed Mayan Bistro’s (www.aventuramexicana.com/restaurantbar) local delicacies, and 100% Natural’s

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(www.100natural.com.mx) vegetarian fare. For more traditional Mexican cuisine, Oh Lala serves great chiles rellenos. Playa del Carmen has one gay bar, open most nights. Playa 69 is small and short on atmosphere, but attracts a diverse crowd of men and women, gay and straight, locals and tourists. The majority of the bars within the core tourist area are gay-friendly, with Mandala (www.mandalanightclub.com) and Coco Bongo (www.cocobongo.com.mx) attracting the biggest crowds, La Azotea, located within the Hotel el Punto (www.hotelelpunto.com) just started a weekly gay night on Tuesday. Things are changing fast, so check locally for the most up to date hot spots. All that playing by day and by night deserves a great place to stay, and one that is off the radar of typical tourists is Reina Roja Hotel (www.reinarojahotel.com/en). Among the most intellectually-interesting properties I’ve ever seen, this hotel offers a stylish and sexy alternative to the all-inclusive resorts with design details based around the famous pre-Columbian Red Queen, or Reina Roja. Upon entering you’re immersed in a darkened lobby bar and restaurant, and deeper inside you reach the check-in desk. All around are images, sculptures, and sexily clad mannequins intertwined beneath dim red lighting, which Mayan culture deems a sign of life and good health, but I found it more reminiscent of a sex dungeon or bondage chamber. Each room is uniquely designed ranging from mild to wild themes. I think it would be interesting to stay a few days and change rooms every night, obviously starting with the “Sex Suite” and perhaps ending with the “DJ Suite”, complete with a full entertainment system

including CD decks, turntables and MP3 docking station. Each level has hallways with a stainless steel prison feel to them, again enticing the erotic side of the experience. The rooftop features a large private access swimming pool with sweeping views of the city and ocean, with a full-size bar and outdoor lounge area where DJ’s keep things thumping several nights a week. If you’re seeking a change from the ordinary Mexican getaway, Riviera Maya offers a chic and unique experience, meshing cosmopolitan with interesting counterculture.

For More Travel Information Playa del Carmen www.playadelcarmen.com Riviera Maya www.rivieramaya.info Mexico www.visitmexico.com

Optional Accomodations

Aventura Mexicana www.aventuramexicana.com Hotel Playa del Karma www.hotelplayadelkarma. com Pension San Juan www.pensionsanjuan.com Mosquito Blue www.mosquitoblue.com Playacar Palace www.palaceresorts.com

Travel Yucatan

Far right: Roja Hotel

On the south side of town is a five-star property with an adjacent 18hole golf course, both intertwined around the remains of ancient ruins.

Far Left: Central Street Playa Del Carmen Left: Mayan ruins at Tulum Bottom Left: Playa Del Carmen Beach Bottom: Reina Roja Hotel

outlooks 33

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feature

ewan McGregor By Sian Edwards / The Interview People

Wearing a grey suit, a brown t-shirt underneath with chest hair poking out, his hair is short and longish on the top. His skin looks incredibly youthful and clear. Smiling and laughing often, Ewan McGregor is in a great mood. Starring opposite Christopher Plummer in the heartfelt movie, Beginners, he developed a close relationship with his fellow Brit.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY: nICOLAS gENIN

feature

oday, he talks about marriage, what it is to be macho, and working with Christopher Plummer. “I just flew in from London yesterday, so I apologize if I’m a bit jetlagged,” he says, and pulls up a chair. Q: You’re often described as fearless by your co-workers and directors. Do you relate to that description? A: Well, I’m not afraid to do certain things. People usually talk about that to do with nudity and sex scenes, and I just have never had a worry about that kind of thing. I think it’s relevant because it’s relevant in the films that I’ve made. In films of Peter Greenaway, The Pillow Book, there was a lot of sex in it; but, of course, there would be. And nudity — I’ve never had any issues with that, because I think movies reflect life. And, if they are going to reflect life then they are going to reflect all aspects of life. That’s a really important one for all of us — our sexuality — and so that’s never been an issue. I just have an open mind anyway about most things and I’m not prejudiced in any particular way. So, I’m not worried about making films that are gay films or straight films. I’m not worried about that kind of thing. Q: Do you think that’s because you were brought up in Europe. I mean, I know it’s generalizing, but… A: No, I think it’s just because I was brought up now. I think I’m a product of our times. I just don’t have any understanding of why it would be a problem or why gay people shouldn’t be allowed to marry or something. I don’t have any understanding of that — why it makes any difference. And I think that’s a product of my time, it’s not a product of where I’m from necessarily. I come from a very small, conservative little town in Scotland; but I’ve lived my life in this business. And, from the age of 16, I was working in theatres and I’ve worked with, and had my eyes opened and my horizons broadened by a great many people who work in this business. And so it would be very difficult to become prejudiced. You must be really open to life and in this profession you have to be because that’s what you are doing — you are representing it. Q: You’ve been married for a long time. What’s your secret? 36 outlooks October 2011

A: (laughs) I don’t have the answer, I’m afraid. Q: Do you give her flowers often? Separate bathrooms? A: Well, listen, I don’t think having separate bathrooms is a key to a successful marriage, (laughs) if you love one another. I think loving each other is the most important part of it, whether you share a bathroom or not. I don’t have any secrets.. I found my partner, my life partner, and I really am in love with my wife. We have a lovely time. We share a long history together. We have children together and that’s it. It’s not because I do a certain gesture that she stays with me or anything. I think it’s just because we love each other. Q: How do you feel in your relationship? Do you still feel that you’re a beginner? A: Sometimes. But then again, not really I’ve been in my relationship for a very, very long time. I mean there are always new things that happen. Things that surprise you or that you discover about yourself and your partner all the time. However, the feeling, the lovely feeling of having been with someone for a really long time — it’s not about being a beginner.

“Your sexuality is important to you; but it’s not to me. I don’t recognize it otherwise. It’s odd that it’s still such an issue..” Q: You usually make good decisions when it comes to your work. Have you ever made a bad one? A: Yes. I remember, after Trainspotting, I made a film called Emma, which was

a very fine film. It was directed by Doug McGrath, who’s a really good director, a lovely man and a great writer. I was terrible in it. I felt like I decided to do it because I’d just played this classical heroin addict and now I should be seen to be doing the English guy in a period drama. And, as a result, I was just shockingly bad in it. (laughs) Somehow I wasn’t connected to it. I decided to do it for the wrong reasons. And so I’ve learned from that and I’ve tried to never do that again. And, occasionally, of course, you pick work because, well, occasionally you get offered a lot of money to do a film. And, sometimes you think, well, I have to do that one. But I’ve never done it without liking the script. I can honestly say that I’ve never done a job just for the money. But I think that’s all right isn’t it? Does that make me a bad person? (laughs) Q: Has doing this film changed your view on terminal illness or dying?

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A: I suppose I’ve had to consider it in a way that I hadn’t before. I haven’t played a caretaker before, if you like, and so there’s a certain amount of consideration to that. My parents are both alive and very well, luckily. I suppose you can’t go through playing a part like this without giving that some thought. But I didn’t like to consider it for very long. It’s not very nice to think about your own parents’ passing away. Q: And you’re a parent as well… A: Yeah. Q: Which is even scarier. A: Oh yeah. I’ thought much more about my parents. That’s very selfish isn’t it? (laughs) My kids will be all right. (laughs) Q: Paul Bettany said recently that coming from the UK, he was born with a butch deficit. A: What does that mean? (laughs) Q: He was saying that he doesn’t know

Top / Bottom photos: Beginners Movie Images, Focus Features

outlooks 37

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Q: You’ve never really played a macho guy, either? A: No. I haven’t and it’s probably because I may not be able to do it. Whenever I see a macho one liner in a script, I find it really so embarrassing; because I couldn’t really do it properly. And I also don’t think men are really like that — certainly not the men whom I’m interested in speaking with and hanging out with. I can’t think of any of my friends that I would consider carrying a kind of macho-ness around. Q: Your character in this movie is very accepting of his dad’s coming out. Is that also one of your characteristics that you’re very accepting? A: Yeah, totally, I am. I don’t recognize the importance of it other than that it’s important to the individuals. Your sexuality is important to you; but it’s not to me. I don’t recognize it otherwise. It’s odd that it’s still such an issue. Not so much in this film; but when I did Phillip Morris it took such a long time for that film to be released. And whether that was to do with a very poor distributor or if that was to do with the fact that it was a gay subject matter, I don’t know. Also, doing press for that, I recognized the reluctance in everybody and all these people that made the film, and the people that put the money up for the film and their reluctance to call it a gay story. It’s about two men who fuck each other! It’s got to be a gay story, doesn’t it? But I could recognize that reluctance to go there. It was odd. Q: Apparently you went on a shopping spree with Christopher Plummer.

Courtesy of Firetail

how to be “butch” and that he’s not as masculine as his American counterparts. A: Yeah. I don’t know. It just depends on your definition of manly really. I mean machismo is just nonsense, I don’t really know. I think it’s a bit of a myth. I think that in my group of friends and the people that I know really well, I don’t recognize that kind of macho Hollywood leading man quality. I don’t know that it really exists. And if it does, then these guys out there are probably really lonely guys being really fucking hard all the time! (laughs) And everyone is going, ‘Jesus, we just wanted to buy some cigarettes. You don’t need to be like that.’ I don’t know where it comes from. So maybe that kind of macho thing is a myth.

A: Yes. Q: How was that? A: That was our first meeting. We met and had lunch in the Beverly Hills Hotel, and then Mike (director) sent us off to Barney’s. He gave me 200 dollars and he said that I had to buy Christopher a scarf. And I believe he told Christopher, ‘Okay, you are gay now. You are gay.’ So Christopher became obsessed with skinny jeans. That’s all he wanted to buy. (laughs) He said, ‘What are those?’ I said, ‘Well, they are just black jeans, Christopher.’ He said, ‘They are very tight.’ (laughs) I said, ‘Well, those are skinny jeans. People call them skinny jeans,’ so he became obsessed with skinny jeans. And, as I was trying to drag him back to the scarves, he kept disappearing over to the jeans section, (laughs). He’s not somebody who needs looking after. — Christopher. He’s in his 80s, but he’s sharp as a knife. It was very funny. I did eventually get him a scarf, after having put about 1,200 dollars worth of black,

Top: Ewan at the Movie’s Premier

skinny jeans on my credit card. (laughs) And I had to be reimbursed from the production. I said, I’m sorry, there you go. (laughs) Q: Sounds like you became fond of Christopher? A: Yes. I left incredibly fond of him. He is a very funny man and he is sort of old fashioned in a way. And then not at all, you know, when you are working with him. So he’s kind of got his foot in both camps. He’s a lovely man. I liked him very much. Q: Did he keep his skinny jeans? (laughs) A: I think he did. I haven’t seen him since we finished the shoot; but I’m pretty sure that he’s still knocking around in them. (laughter) God knows he had enough pairs. (laughter)

outlooks 39

st yle

The History of… Denim

1930s Cowboys in denim jeans capture the imaginations of North Americans. Western films, starring John Wayne, Gary Cooper and others, help fuel the craze.

Few pieces of clothing have so quickly dominated fashion and pop culture in such a short time. by Derek Dotto

1853 With the Gold Rush in full swing, German immigrant Loeb Strauss, who would later change his name to Levi, travels from New York to San Francisco to sell dry goods to miners.

1902 Strauss dies, leaving his thriving business to his four nephews - Jacob, Louis, Abraham and Sigmund Stern.

Lee Jeans

1872

1873 Strauss and Davis receive a patent for the seamstrengthening copper rivets on their new pants. The two men begin producing waist overalls, which feature three pockets, suspender buttons and a waist-cinching buckle on the back. They sold for about 22 cents each and became the unofficial uniform for miners in California.

40 outlooks October 2011

1910s Levi’s is no longer the only game in town. Competition appears including Lee Co. with its denim Union-Alls.

1906 Levi Strauss & Co. loses almost all of its inventory, records and photographs during the great San Francisco earthquake and fire. The Stern brothers are forced to rebuild.

LF Company

Levis Strauss & Co. Archives

Nevada-based tailor Jacob Davis approaches Strauss with a new type of work clothing for miners. The trousers are made from a centuries old fabric called denim.

1924 Eloesser-Heynemann’s ”Can’t Bust’Em” brand is the first to coin the term “jeans” for waist overalls.

st yle

1980 Calvin Klein famously features a 15-year-old Brooke Shields in a series of TV and print ads featuring the tagline, “You want to know what comes between me and my Calvins? Nothing.”

1950s

1980s - Denim splits in two directions. Designer jeans increase in popularity as Europe embraces the trend. Flares are dropped in favour of the super skinny silhouette. Adversely, the growing punk scene makes denim its own by tearing, bleaching, and patching it.

Esquire

Jeans are no longer only for labourers. Denim becomes a symbol of youth and rebellion, thanks, in part, to Hollywood. Marlon Brando and James Dean help create the look of a generation: Blue jeans, a black leather jacket, and a tight white t-shirt. Many school boards would try to ban the trousers, to no avail.

2000s

Many consider this the golden age of denim. Anyone and everyone owned dungarees, overalls, bell-bottoms or flares.

1940s

1977

War rationing reduces jean production, and unnecessary metal hardware is taken out of denim designs. Levi’s is forced to paint its signature two-horse stitching on the back pockets of its jeans.

Denim enters high fashion when Calvin Klein debuts the first pair of designer jeans. Gucci, Armani and others soon follow suit.

Much like the fashion cycle, denim trends go in and out at an increased pace. Many styles make a return, just to be out again within a few seasons. Denim splits in every direction — oversized to skin tight, basic blue to stonewashed. The cut and colour of your denim ties you to different social groups.

1990s

1960s

Once the symbol of teenage rebellion, jeans are now regarded as the clothing of the older generation. Tortured youths opt for khakis, cargo pants, and branded athletic wear over denim. Jean sales plummet so much that Levi’s is forced to close 11 of its North American factories.

2001 A low point for the fabric: Justin and Britney wear matching head-to-toe denim ensembles to the American Music Awards.

GLBT Historical Society

Hippies embrace denim and make it their own. Jeans are embellished with embroidery, beads, and paint. Meanwhile, San Francisco’s Castro clone is born, with gay men embracing tight jeans to accentuate their physiques.

Past and present collide. There is a return to raw selvedge denim of the early 1900s, while new washes and novelty effects like glow-in-the-dark are injected into the design. Many old school labels, including Levi’s, capitalize on the nostalgic movement introducing heritage lines.

American Music Awards

Warner Bros. Pictures Inc.

1970s

2010s

outlooks 41

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Vest by Gemeli Milano, Shirt by Dolce & Gabbana Gold, tie by Gucci, Slacks by Theory, watch by Breitling Bentley, leather cuff by Sean John,

Hoodie by Rockstars and Angels, Jacket by Dolce & Gabbana, Necklaces and rings by rockstars and angels, hat by Kangol.

Top – Andrew Buckler Jeans – WESC

Sam: Sunglasses by Carrera, hoodie by Rockstars and Angels, jacket by Levi’s, hat by Boy London, necklace by Rockstars and Angels. Bracelet by A&G, thermal by Harley Davidson, Jeans by Dolce & Gabbana, Christian: hat by Tommy Bahama, sunglasses by Oliver Peeples, striped top by John Varvatos, jeans by Monarchy, watch by PAnerai, leather cuff by Sean John.

Sam: Sunglasses by Carrera, t-shirt by Rockstars and Angels, scarf by Rockstars and Angels, black leather jacket by Diesel, pants by Dolce & Gabbana, Belt by Puma, boots by Jean Philippe, rings by Rockstars and Angels, watch custom diamond G-Shock. Christian: Sunglasses by Oliver Peoples, grey V-neck by American Apparel, white tank by American Apparel, black leather jacket by Vince, jeans by Monarchy, watch by Panerai, leather cuff by Sean John, boots by Govt Issue.

Sam: Hat by Kangol, glasses by Gucci, T-shirt by Puma, shirt by American Vintage, jeans by Gsus, necklaces by Rockstars and Angels, watch custom diamond G-Shock, wallet chain by A&G. Christian: leather paperboy hat by French Connection, sunglasses by Oliver Peoples, shirt by Rockstars and Angels, vest by Govt Issue, Jeans by Monarchy, watch Brietling Bentley, leather cuffs by Sean John, boots by John Varvatos,

Christian: hat by Tommy Bahama , tank by Rockstars and Angels, jeans by Monarchy, watch by Panerai, leather cuff by Sean John, boots by Govt Issue. Sam: hat by Kangol, necklaces by Rokcstars and Angels, tank top by Rockstars and Angels, pants by Dolce & Gabbana, boots by Jean Philippe, bracelet by A&G, watch custom diamond G-Shock

art_&_Culture

Framed: Kent Monkman by Brett Taylor

50 outlooks October 2011

ent Monkman is an artist of Cree ancestry, who works with a variety of mediums, including painting, film/video, performance, and installation. He has had solo exhibitions at numerous Canadian museums including the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, the Museum of Contemporary Canadian Art in Toronto, the Winnipeg Art Gallery, and the Art Gallery of Hamilton. He has participated in various international group exhibi-

tions including: The American West, at Compton Verney, in Warwickshire, England; Remember Humanity at Witte de With, Rotterdam; the 2010 Sydney Biennale; and My Winnipeg at Maison Rouge, Paris. Monkman has created sitespecific performances at the McMichael Canadian Art Collection, the Royal Ontario Museum, and at Compton Verney. His work is represented in numerous public and private collections includ-

Courtesy of Kent Monkman

Art_&_Culture

ing the National Gallery of Canada, Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, Museum London, the Glenbow Museum, The Museum of Contemporary Canadian Art, the MacKenzie Art Gallery, the Art Gallery of Ontario, and the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian. He is represented by Bailey Art Projects, Toronto, Pierre Francois Ouellette, Montreal, and Galerie Florent Tosin, Berlin. www.kentmonkman.com

Left Charged Particles in Motion 48” x 72” – 2007 acrylic on canvas Top Si je t’aime garde a toi 36” x 24” - 2007 acrylic on canvas Right Kent Monkman

outlooks 51

art_&_Culture

i va

hen you think of Stratford Ontario do you envision your Granny by the river with the swans having an idyllic afternoon tea followed by a snooze during the matinee performance of a quaint Shakespearean play? If so, think again! This town and its legendary Stratford Shakespeare Festival have some serious sex appeal happening this year, which will definitely keep your Granny from dozing in her seat. A cross-dressing, gender-bending Richard III, a transsexual struggling with identity in Hosanna, Shakespeare’s wife discussing his preference for bonking boys in Shakespeare’s Will, a dysfunctional Pinter family dreaming of polyandry in The Homecoming and a lounge-lizard Jesus singing on a cross lit with flashing marquis lights in the sexy rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar - Crispy Christ On A Crunchy Cracker but this is not the same Stratford your Granny visited! And these are just some of the tantalizing delights on offer at this year’s Stratford Festival. Add to this all the gourmet restaurants, intimate B&B’s, indulgent spas, sexy bars, decadent chocolate, local cheese dairies and fabulous wine options along with the galleries, antique stores and artisan shops and you have a veritable cornucopia 52 outlooks October 2011

of delectable culture and cuisine awaiting you in Stratford. This is the perfect destination for an indulgent week-end and the fall is the ideal time to visit as the Stratford Festival is still in full swing with eight productions running until November, yet it is easier to find accommodation and tickets as the tourist season has ended. The weather is great, farm produce is being harvested from the fields and offered at the local restaurants, weekend gastronomic events abound and the surrounding countryside is gorgeous with fall colours. So yes, it is a pastoral oasis only two hours from Toronto and yes, you will find it quaint, but if you lift the skirts of this quaint old gal you will find her bloomers this year are rather risqué and unexpectedly delectable! The main reason to visit Stratford is to see the theatre, although some people say it is the chocolate, local cheese, shopping, restaurants or to relax in the picturesque B&Bs. Whatever tickles your fancy, Stratford has much to offer on all these fronts and I recommend staying for at least a few days to indulge in it’s many pleasures. Thinking outside the box sums up my recent experience in Stratford as I witnessed a more exciting line-up than I expected at the festival and also in the restaurants and events around town.

Des McAnuff and Antoni Cimolino

My personal pleasure in Stratford is the theatre and under the leadership of Artistic Director Des McAnuff, the Stratford Shakespeare Festival has been rapidly updating its vision by incorporating edgy contemporary productions and spectacular musicals alongside Shakespearean productions with unexpected twists. This current season is a great example of the re-vamping of this festival and offers an interesting array of challenging theatre. I had the pleasure of seeing nine productions and interviewing five of the brilliant actors who are part of this season’s company. Director Antoni Cimolino has directed a beautiful production of The Grapes of Wrath, which was possibly my favourite show at Stratford due to great direction, design and ensemble performance. He has created a world of stunning visuals through the flawless inter-weaving of a large cast, intricate set, gorgeous lighting and musical transitions. It is a must see.

Ec d

re An

r St

by sonia norris

cle

A cross-dressing, gender-bending Richard III, a transsexual struggling with identity in Hosanna, Shakespeare’s wife discussing his preference for bonking boys in Shakespeare’s Will.

Surprisingly Sexy Stratford

Gareth Potter

It is a theme shared this year by actor Gareth Potter, who is playing Hosanna at the festival. I asked him what he enjoys most about playing this role and he said that it is the chance to do work that is “outside the box” as he never imagined he would have the opportunity to play a transsexual at Stratford. His portrayal of Hosanna is heartbreaking in its sensitivity and strength, doing justice to the difficult story of a person at odds with the gender of their body. The relationship between Hosanna and her lover Cuirette, played by the equally fabulous actor Oliver Becker, is beautifully portrayed with all the harsh love and hate written by Michel Tremblay in 1973. This is a truthfully raw production of a play that still has great relevance as people continue to struggle with identity within the rigid confines of our society. It is gratifying to have the reality of this situation represented with such precision for audiences at the festival.

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Seanna McKenna

bruce dow

Renowned actress Seana McKenna is also breaking new ground at the festival this year playing the gender-bending role of Richard III. Is she a woman? A woman playing a man? A transvestite? A hermaphrodite? It is not clear and therefore left to the imagination of the audience. I had the great pleasure of spending an hour with Seana one night after her performance, discussing questions of gender and politics. She clarified that her interest is in playing the essence of Richard, which she sees as vice, and therefore not gender-bound. She sees the character as omnisexual and therefore able to be interpreted by the audience any way they choose, as long as they see the truth of the person, not just a monster. In rehearsal she focused on finding the character’s “otherness” in society and she feels that the ambiguity of her gender intensifies this separateness, as he/she does not conform to socially recognized gender indicators. Seana is one of our countries finest actors and this tour de force performance is utterly extraordinary with her finely nuanced portrayal of Richard. I urge everyone to see it while there is the chance.

Another favourite actor of mine at Stratford is Bruce Dow who plays Herod in Jesus Christ Superstar. I adore everything Bruce does, but this is a part where he is in his full glory, sharing his extraordinary pleasure as a performer and captivating us with his provocative choices and titillating camp, mixed with a depth of character not usually seen in Herod. He is an immensely talented performer whom I love because of his bold choices and evident enjoyment to be on stage. He spoke to me about how he was once compared to an over-the-top Bette Davis by an unappreciative reviewer. He went home and watched all her movies and decided that it was in fact a terrific compliment as he discovered “the girl’s got balls”. I think Bette Davis’ balls were reincarnated in the body of Bruce Dow and if you can get a ticket to this largely sold-out production go and see them in action. Paul Nolan as Jesus and Josh Young as Judas are both brilliant in this demanding musical, negotiating not only tough vocal roles but difficult icons with their characters.

I highly recommend this year’s progressive festival as a reason for visiting Stratford, but it certainly isn’t the only tantalizer in this town. Stratford has become a culinary haven due to the renowned Stratford Chef’s School and therefore has a plethora of restaurants offering excellent food ranging from pizza to fine French cuisine. Pazzo’s Ristorante and Pizzeria offers great new Italian cuisine in both an upstairs dining room and a downstairs pizzeria. The friendly downstairs room is a favourite with festival workers and you will often see actors partaking of their gourmet brick oven pizzas. Rundles is owned by James Morris who started the chef’s school and it has become known as the best restaurant in Stratford offering beautiful French cuisine and the best wine list in town in both their bistro and main dining room. The Stratford Tourism Alliance provides a listing of daily events and tours in town. My personal favourite is the $20 Chocolate Trail Pass. I started one day with a mocha latte, ended another day with a chocolate martini and in between sampled truffles, chocolates, cranberry bark and took home chocolate mint bath salts and chocolate mocha sauce.

There are numerous options for accommodation in Stratford with over 100 B&Bs. I stayed at the gorgeous Hughson Hall owned by partners Clinton and Ross. With only two suites in separate wings of this heritage house, you are ensured an intimate get-away. The luxurious bed provided the best sleep I have had in eons and along with the peaceful surroundings, bedroom fireplace, morning coffee in bed, fabulous breakfast and great conversation with the boys, I left vowing to return – hopefully next time with someone else to share that amazing bed! Stratford in the fall offers an abundance of options for you to pick from for a harvest get-away – even with your Granny in tow. The river and swans are still there and it is just as idyllic as ever, so if a snuggle by the fireside with tea and crumpets is your idea of a sexy weekend then this is still the place to tickle your fancy and the fall weather will justify the snuggle, hopefully leading to a snog!

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i_spy

Woodrow Monteiro is a man about town, to say the least. When I spoke with the 32-yearold Torontonian on the phone, he was preparing for a trip to Miami that could see him further his reach as an event promoter and professional model south of the border. At 17, Monteiro started modeling. His career would eventually take him to Europe to walk the runway for major labels including Dolce&Gabbana and Versace. “I think [modeling] completely grounded me. I was pushed into the ocean full of sharks and had to fend for myself,” he says. Monteiro recently shot his 26th Harlequin Romance cover. He maintains a sense of humour about the “cheese factor” of it all, letting out a booming laugh when I ask if he’s the next Fabio. “It’s funny because people say that to me all the time. I’m so proud to be part of it; but a lot of the pictures are really kind of generic.

Woodrow Monteiro G. Elliott Simpson

But modeling isn’t the only thing on Monteiro’s resume. Personal training and event promotion are his other passions. Many of his parties have become mainstays in Toronto’s nightlife. Monteiro’s latest is called Flawless, a pansexual night of glamour in the posh Yorkville neighbourhood.

54 outlooks October 2011

2009

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