QNotes, Sept. 23-Oct. 6, 2016

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Gay Bingo Returns!

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RAIN Bingo brings its fun-filled fundraiser back to the Queen City.

Join Barbara Burning Bush and her Bingo Verifying Divas in November!

news & features

arts.

9 entertainment.

HB2 Updatenews. views.

10 News Notes: Regional Briefs 11 Kimberly Melton resigns post

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a&e / life&style 13 14 15 17 18 20 22 25 26 27

Gay Bingo returns Actor’s Theatre finds new home Ann Walker, ‘Sordid Lives’ Gerald Gurss music commission Arts Groups Listings Fall movie review Dishing with Buff Faye Tell Trinity Q Events Calendar Our People: M. David Wallace

opinions & views 12 Spiritual Reflections

more news & features

One Voice Chorus director commissioned to compose tribute Dallas police officers remembered through words and music. page 17

Be a positive influence Buff Faye dishes out some great ways to bring a bit of sunshine to the world. page 22

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news

HB2 Update

Discriminatory bill continues to wreak havoc for North Carolina Situation costly, both in revenue and reputation, plus court proceedings

by Maria Dominguez :: qnotes contributor

HB2 trial delayed due to 4th Circuit appeal SCOTUS to consider suit over Virginia bathroom law RALEIGH, N.C. — Those who have followed the controversy over North Carolina’s House Bill 2 (HB2), also known as the Public Facilities Privacy and Accommodation Act, may be momentarily disappointed with the recent decision by U.S. Magistrate Judge Joi Elizabeth Peake to delay the federal court date set originally for Nov. 14. To be decided by Federal Judge Thomas Schroeder, the date, now slotted for May 2017, will determine the fate of a number of competing lawsuits between LGBT activists and the McCrory administration.

Initial disappointment aside, the delay may turn out to be a more positive decision than it first appears. The ACLU of North Carolina, part of a team of lawyers representing several transgender students at the University of North Carolina, dropped its opposition to the delay. James Esseks, a lawyer with the ACLU, told the Associated Press that the plaintiffs’ legal team agreed in order to allow more time for the 4th Circuit court to consider their appeal.

This appeal asks that the recent injunction against implementing antitransgender bathroom mandates apply not only to the individual plaintiffs, but to all transgender-identifying residents of North Carolina. The injunction, granted by Schroeder recently, prevents UNC from requiring students to use the bathroom and changing facilities consistent with their birth sex.

Ultimately, the motivation for the delay is significant in the broader context of LGBT rights nationwide, rather than in North Carolina alone. The United States Supreme Court (SCOTUS) is currently considering whether to hear a case similar to the HB2 debacle; the case in question concerns a transgender Virginia high school student fighting for the right to use the public school restrooms consistent with his gender identity.

If the Supreme Court decides to hear the Virginia case, the question of transgender rights will be settled in the highest court of the nation. SCOTUS’ decision could affect the outcome of the HB2 federal court cases, therefore the delay is both reasonable and potentially hopeful for LGBT North Carolinians and allies.

In the meantime, news sources report that both plaintiffs and defendants of the North Carolina cases plan to come together to discuss the status of the case at a conference on Sept. 9 overseen by Peake, who granted the delay request. As of press time, no statements have been released about this status meeting.

As economic harm of HB2 grows, NC GOP politicians backpedal HB2 supporters flip-flop after NCAA and ACC events RALEIGH, N.C.—The past week presented several hopeful signs for opponents of House Bill 2 (HB2), the so-called Public Facilities Privacy and Security Act. As unfortunate economic consequences continue to climb, with the National College Athletic Association (NCAA) and Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) both canceling events in the state, former supporters of the bill seem to be shifting position.

HB2 was rapidly composed at a one-day special session in March and soon signed into law by Gov. Pat McCrory. The law has sparked much outrage for its blatantly discriminatory dictate that people must use the public bathrooms and changing rooms consistent with the sex

on their birth certificates. Supporters of the law call it a “commonsense” measure to protect women and children, claiming that it was not intended to be discriminatory — all while spouting transphobic rhetoric as found in the brief submitted by McCrory and company at a preliminary court date in late August.

Outrage against this legislation has crossed beyond state and even national lines. Apart from the considerable job losses of canceled business expansions by PayPal and others, further harm has been done to the state’s economy by means of canceled events. Most recently, the NCAA and ACC have both announced a relocation of events originally planned to take place in North Carolina.

On Sept. 12 the NCAA announced the relocation of seven different events that were set to take place in the state, including the NCAA basketball tournament in March 2017.

Soon after, the ACC football championship slated for Dec. 3 in Charlotte was decisively relocated. Last year, this event alone brought $32 million into the Charlotte economy. Other ACC events such as tennis tournaments and the women’s soccer tournament, as well as the ACC baseball tournament, will also be moved out of North Carolina.

The Southern Conference is also entertaining moving out of North Carolina and said that it would take up the topic via a conference call with its school athletic directors, presidents and chancellors, WWAY-TV reported. At press time this had not been decided.

The NCAA’s and ACC’s moves were met with some right-wing criticism. Notably, evangelist Franklin Graham took to Facebook with a good old-fashioned rant.

“Our legislators are being forced to consider repealing HB2 and you, your children, and your grandchildren will be at risk to sexual predators and perverts,” Graham wrote.

McCrory’s reaction was less overtly offensive, but no less vehement.

“I’ve got to assume it’s politics because this is the No. 1 state in the presidential campaign, this is the No. 1 gubernatorial race in the United States of America,” McCrory told The Charlotte Observer.

Despite the staunch defense by McCrory and Graham, some GOP politicians seem to be wavering. Sen. Tamara Barringer (R-Wake) and Sen. Rick Gunn (R-Alamance) both released statements calling for legislative reconsideration or repeal. According the News & Observer, House Rep. Gary Pendleton said he was in favor of revisiting the law. Pendleton and Barringer are both currently in close races for re-election.

However reluctant and belated these politicians’ support for repeal may be, their statements point to a shift in the majority party’s support of HB2. As the federal court considers competing lawsuits regarding the law, and the Supreme Court weighs whether to take a case on transgender bathroom access, it seems that a decisive moment is coming in the fight for LGBT human rights and inclusion. : : Photo Credits: (top) Andrey Popov via Adobe Stock, (bottom) efiledotcom.

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qnotes connect Sept. 23-Oct. 6, 2016 Vol 31 No 11

arts. entertainment. news. views. goqnotes.com twitter.com/qnotescarolinas facebook.com/qnotescarolinas

contributors this issue

Bill Allen, Maria Dominguez, Buff Faye, Rev. Jeffrey Harris, Lainey Millen, Matthias Roberts, Jeff Taylor, Lawrence Toppman, Trinity

front page Graphic Design by Lainey Millen Illustration: mike 166146 via Adobe Stock Mission:

The focus of QNotes is to serve the LGBT and straight ally communities of the Charlotte region, North Carolina and beyond, by featuring arts, entertainment, news and views content in print and online that directly enlightens, informs and engages the readers about LGBT life and social justice issues.

Pride Publishing & Typesetting, Inc., dba QNotes P.O. Box 221841, Charlotte, NC 28222 ph 704.531.9988 fx 704.531.1361 Publisher: Jim Yarbrough Sales: x201 adsales@goqnotes.com Nat’l Sales: Rivendell Media, ph 212.242.6863 Managing Editor: Jim Yarbrough, editor@goqnotes.com Assoc. Editor: Lainey Millen, specialassignments@goqnotes.com Social Media Editor: Jeff Taylor, jeff@goqnotes.com Production: Lainey Millen, x205 production@goqnotes.com Printed on recycled paper.

Material in qnotes is copyrighted by Pride Publishing & Typesetting © 2016 and may not be reproduced in any manner without written consent of the editor or publisher. Advertisers assume full responsibility — and therefore, all liability — for securing reprint permission for copyrighted text, photographs and illustrations or trademarks published in their ads. The sexual orientation of advertisers, photographers, writers, cartoonists we publish is neither inferred nor implied. The appearance of names or photographs does not indicate the subject’s sexual orientation. qnotes nor its publisher assumes liability for typographical error or omission, beyond offering to run a correction. Official editorial positions are expressed in staff editorials and editorial notations and are determined by editorial staff. The opinions of contributing writers and guest columnists do not necessarily represent the opinions of qnotes or its staff. qnotes accepts unsolicited editorial, but cannot take responsibility for its return. Editor reserves the right to accept and reject material as well as edit for clarity, brevity.

charlotteobserver.com/1166/ a local news partner of The Charlotte Observer

upcoming issues: 10.07.16: LGBT Allies/Women’s Health Advertising Space Deadline: Sept. 28 10.21.16: Election Preview/Women’s Health Advertising Space Deadline: Oct. 12

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news notes: carolinas compiled by Lainey Millen :: qnotes staff

Charlotte Bank receives arts award

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — On Sept. 15 Wells Fargo Bank was awarded Blumenthal Performing Arts’ first Business Leaders for the Arts Award during the inaugural celebratory dinner held at Booth Playhouse.

Jay Everette, senior vice president and community affairs manager at Wells Fargo, accepted the award which recognized Wells Fargo for its leadership, investment, and commitment to the arts.

“Blumenthal is grateful for organizations that understand how integral the arts and artists are for a community,” Blumenthal president and CEO Tom Gabbard shared. “Wells Fargo

has served as a catalyst to bring inpacting and diverse programs, collaborations, historic exhibitions, and access to the arts to the people who call the Carolinas home.”

Wells Fargo’s investments in Blumenthal Performing Arts have yielded inpacting programs that bring new and exciting opportunities to the community, Blumenthal said. info: blumenthalarts.org.

Step out and dance

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — OUTStep will provide private salsa, swing and shag dance lessons for the LGBT community on Sept. 29, 7:30-8:30 p.m., at L4 Lounge, 2906 Central Ave. Instructor for the evening will be Stephan.

Straight allied friends are also welcome. One does not have to have a dance partner to par-

TOY releases needs assessment CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Time Out Youth Center, 2320 N. Davidson St., has released its LGBTQ Homeless Youth of the Carolinas Needs Assessment.

The study was conducted in mid-2015 among homeless youth and homeless service providers, as well as holding focus groups with stakeholders.

Until now, evidence of homeless youth has been limited to anecdotal evidence of what is generally known to be a growing problem, the center shared. There have only been a few other formal surveys conducted. The center has some posted on their website.

“As we celebrate a quarter century of supporting LGBTQ youth, we feel the call to move forward with a plan to meaningfully address one of the most basic of our LGBTQ youth’s needs — a safe and stable place to live,” stated Executive Director Rodney Tucker. “With so many LGBTQ youth facing homelessness in the Carolinas, the center is virtually the only safe resource for housing and support. The publication of this report serves as a call to members of our community, policy makers, service providers, funding agencies and many others to act on recommendations from this project.”

Tucker added, “LGBTQ youth homelessness is a rising concern, with increased needs seen year after year. To ignore or delay now will only make addressing these unique needs more difficult in the future.

Charlotte area service providers, non-profit organizations, advocates and government officials must do better and will do better working together to be more welcoming and supportive of all LGBTQ youth. All youth deserve a happy, safe, welcoming and nurturing environment in which to grow into a healthy adulthood.

Right now, LGBTQ youth turn to survival sex, are living on the streets and are taking drugs to cope with their current life experiences. No child should be forced to turn to these dangerous coping methods in order to find basic needs like food, clothing and shelter. Quite simply, these scenarios are unacceptable, especially in a cosmopolitan city like Charlotte.”

The report makes recommendations including: establishment of a LGBT homeless youth shelter; access to basic necessities; housing case management services; training and professional development; mental health services; and employment assistance, among others.

Follow-up reports will be released in the coming year on the homelessness among youth and progress that is made.

Publication of the report was funded in part by the Charlotte Lesbian and Gay Fund.

Additional support for the study came from: Alexander Youth Network, Caldwell Presbyterian Church, Florence Crittenton Services, Mecklenburg County Community Support Services, Men’s Shelter of Charlotte, RAIN, Safe Harbor Community Health Center, the University of North Carolina Charlotte Urban Institute and Urban Ministry Center.

In other news, the center in partnership with The Multicultural Resource Center at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte will hold its 2016 Carolina Conference on Queer Youth on Oct. 14, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., at 9201 University City Blvd.. It is open to students, K-12 staff, helping professionals and community members from across the Carolinas. In its fourth year, the event provides a unique opportunity for area representatives to network, dialogue and organize around issues important to the healthy development of LGBT, queer and questioning youth in K-12 education. Eight hours of CEUs are available for school staff and health professionals.

Registration is available at ccqy2016.eventbrite.com. Cost is free for youth and $25 for adults.

TOY is now offering a Youth of Color discussion group on Wednesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m., for those 13-20 to address the needs of that demographic. Participation is on a drop-in basis with no registration or fee assessment. info: timeoutyouth.org.

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ticipate. Attendees will be paired with someone of the gender of their choice.

Kick back, enjoy the time on the dance floor and stay afterward to get a little practice in.

Registration is requested. info/registration: outstepcharlotte@gmail.com.

Fest, center to award documentary

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — During the 8th Annual Charlotte Film Festival, which began on Sept.

22 and continues through Oct. 2, the new Social Justice Award will be presented by the Charlotte Film Festival (CFF) and the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) to the creators of “Forbidden: Undocumented and Queer in Rural America,” a feature-length documentary profiling an undocumented queer young person from North Carolina.

“Forbidden,” directed by Tiffany Reynard and co-produced by Reynard and Heather Mathews, follows Moises Serrano, whose parents risked everything to flee Mexico and come to the U.S. when Moises was just a baby. After 23 years growing up in rural Yadkin County, N.C., where he is forbidden to live and love, Moises sees only one option — to fight for justice. “Forbidden” chronicles Moises’ work as an activist traveling across his home state as a voice for his community, all while trying to forge a path for his own future.

The film will be screened on Oct. 1, 6 p.m., at Ayrsley Grand Cinemas, 9110 Kings Parade Blvd.

The Social Justice Award is the first time CFF and SPLC have partnered. The award highlights a film that fights to seek justice, to enlighten and inform an audience about current issues concerning people that are marginalized, devalued or vulnerable in our society.

Organizers of the festival believe the award highlights the innate power film has to highlight social causes and introduce viewers to new perspectives.

In addition to the new Social Justice Award, the CFF presents awards for the Best Narrative Feature, Best Documentary Feature, Best Narrative Short, Best Documentary Short and an Audience Award.

Tickets for the film are $10/general admission and $9/students with valid/current ID. Individual tickets, as well as an all-access pass for all screenings and special festival events, are currently available online. info: charlottefilmfestival.org.

HB2 discussion slated

CONCORD, N.C.— Trinity United Church of Christ will hold “Shifting The Paradigm: The Role of Faith Communities in Improving the Lives of LGBTQ Individuals and Families,” a community discussion on HB2 on Oct. 4, 7 p.m., at 38 Church St. N. HB2 is a stark reminder that social hostility still exists in North Carolina, the church shared.

“This emotional, psychological and spiritual trauma takes a toll on LGBTQ individuals. Affirming faith communities recognize and understand the oppression and are taking a strong and very visible stand against HB2. Our voices demonstrate how society is moving in a different direction — towards more and more faith communities serving our LGBTQ neighbors with love, acceptance, and celebration,” they added. info: commachurch.com.

Organizers announced new fest

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The new LGBTQ Fall Festival will be held on Oct. 15, 12-8 p.m., at the Open Air Market, 5471 Central Ave. The event, sponsored by Creativity Forms, provides a one-day gathering where members

of the community can gather to enjoy music, entertainment and more in a safe environment.

Live performances will feature independent artists, poets, Gospel singers, rock bands and jazz bands among others.

Inspirational messages will be shared by Pastor Shannon Gresham from Spirit of Unity Worship Center of Gastonia and Sanctuary Outreach Ministries.

The family-friendly event also has games and activities for children and adults.

WGIV radio will give opportunities to small businesses and record live interviews for the “LGBT Buzz Show.”

Exhibitors will be on hand and will share information on various topics including safe sex, suicide prevention, home decor and health and beauty, to name a few.

No festival is ever complete without food.

Hundreds of vendors are expected, along with food truck purveyors who will serve Latin, American, Polynesian and Caribbean food, as well as seafood and more.

Admission is free and the event is open to the public. info: creativityforms.com.

Triad Center fundraiser slated

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — The Piedmont Triad New Thought Gathering will host a potluck and drum circle fundraiser on Oct. 1, 6 p.m., benefiting North Star LGBTQ Community Center, 930 Burke St. Participants are asked to bring a dish to share, as well as a supply contribution for the center.

The following day, the center will provide safe zone training for faith professionals. Topics include understanding what LGBTQIA stands for, the importance of an inclusive church, as well as making churches and faith organizations a safe zone for the LGBT community.

Email RSVPs to outreach@northstarlgbtcc.com.

In other news, the center will hold its fall resource drive from Sept. 25-Oct. 1. Drop-off times are 5-7 p.m., Tuesday-Friday and 1-8 p.m., Saturday.

Items needed are bottled water, paper towels, toilet paper, printer paper, unused art supplies, non-perishable food items, cleaning supplies and LGBT-focused books.

Other items that are on the center’s wish list are a new computer, two iPads, new highcapacity colored printer and a booth table skirt.

Email outreach@northstarlgbtqc.com prior to purchasing a wish list item.

The center is also accepting applications from local college students for unpaid marketing, development and faith internships. Email resume and cover letter to Rayce Lamb at outreach@northstarlgbtcc.com.

Local high school students are invited to join the Youth Leadership Council. Participants are able to develop as a leader, activist, advocate, citizen and/or transformer, the center said, as well as transform the community. Email outreach@northstarlgbtcc.com to learn more. info: northstarlgbtcc.com.

Pride celebration upcoming

BURLINGTON, N.C. — Alamance Pride will hold its second annual festival on Oct. 1, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., at the Historic Burlington Depot and Amphitheater, 200 S. Main St., in honor of LGBT History Month and National Coming Out Month.

During the festivities, attendees will be able to enjoy an interfaith service, local speakers,

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Community

Charlotte Pride executive director Kimberly Melton resigns Organization wishes her best, looks forward to future

by Maria Dominguez :: qnotes contributor CHARLOTTE, N.C.—As the Southeast’s third-largest LGBT Pride organization, Charlotte Pride is a living, breathing manifestation of the diversity and constant growth of the Carolinas’ LGBT community. The evolution of the organization means perpetual progress, but naturally there will be bumps in the road. One such hurdle came recently with the Sept. 1 resignation of Kimberly Melton, Charlotte Pride’s executive director.

Melton was hired as executive director in May of this year, making her tenure with the organization only five months long. She was the first to hold the position with Charlotte Pride, and it remains to be seen whether the organization will hire another full-time executive director.

“The board of directors will be undertaking a process to identify the most efficient staffing requirements needed to meet our programming objectives,” wrote Charlotte Pride media contact Matt Comer in a statement.

The board of directors faces this unforeseen event with optimism. However, according to Melton, the reason for her resignation was management conflicts with the board of Charlotte Pride.

“It’s very, very hard for a board to move from a managing board to a governing board,” Melton said in a recent interview. “They must let go of the details and move to an oversight goal, and that is very hard for any board.”

Kimberly Melton (right) in one of her last official duties during Charlotte Pride with Mayor Jennifer Roberts who served as the Grand Marshal of the Charlotte Pride/Bank of America Parade.

Photo Credit: Kimberly Melton Facebook page.

Despite these growing pains, Charlotte Pride is more invested than ever in the organization’s future. Its statement to qnotes maintained a dignified public face and focused on upcoming events while refraining from much comment on Melton herself: “We wish her well in her future endeavors,” Comer wrote.

“Charlotte Pride is encouraged as we look forward to our upcoming programs and activities.”

However brief her tenure with the organization, Melton is proud of the part she played with Charlotte Pride during her time as executive director. This year’s Charlotte Pride was the biggest yet. Attendance was estimated to have jumped ten percent from last year’s event, this year reaching 130,000 visitors over the course of the weekend and 3,500 individual marchers in the Sunday parade.

“After Pride, I felt that I had accomplished the main goals that I had set to achieve,” Melton said. “But it was with profound disappointment that I had come to the conclusion that the board was not ready to include the position of executive director within the organizational structure.”

Charlotte Pride refrained from comment on whether or not the organization was considering hiring another to fill the executive director position. As for Melton, she hopes to still be active in the local LGBT community.

“Our community is so diverse and just a wonderful community,” she told qnotes. “I’m still working out my next step.” : :

News Notes continued from page 10 Triad Pride Men’s Chorus, The Megan Doss Band, drag show, Break Dancing Kids performance and more.

Emcee is Stormie Daie, a drag performer from the Triad. info: alamancepride.org.

Film fest hits Triad

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — The WinstonSalem Out at the Movies International LGBT Film Fest will be held from Oct. 6-9 at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts ACE Theatre, 1533 S. Main St. and finishes on Oct. 9 at a/perture cinema, 311 W. 4th St. See actor Gregory Harrison and others on Oct. 6 at the filmmaker/sponsor reception.

“Before the Fall” will make its Eastern U.S. premiere on Oct. 7. This is Byrum Geisler’s debut film. Geisler is from Virginia and is a practicing attorney.

The filmmaker/sponsor reception at the Kimpton Cardinal Hotel on Oct. 6 gives sponsors an opportunity to see Byrum Geisler, Chase Conner, Jason Mac and Brandi Price from the opening night film, “Before the Fall,” Gregory Harrison from “Fair Haven” and Stephen Israel from the closing night film, “Miles.”

Other films are: “Love Won,” “Jewels Catch One,” “Theo and Hugo,” “Akron,” “Strike a Pose,” “Me, Myself and Her,” “Front Cover,” “Real Boy” and “Flatbush Luck.”

To learn more about each film, including times and locations, visit the festival website and take a look at the trailers. Additionally, the festival is accepting sponsorships and can be paid for online.

Tickets are available online as singles for $8 or as an all-access festival pass for $60. Passes are good for one admission to any of the festival films and an invitation to the Friday (The Old Fourth Street Filling Station) and Saturday evening (Meridian Restaurant) filmmaker receptions and the Sunday evening awards party at Jeffrey Adams on Fourth. Each venue will offer complimentary food and a cash bar. info: outatthemovieswinston.org.

Fund campaign launch held

GREENSBORO, N.C. — The Guilford Green Foundation held its annual campaign fund launch party on Sept. 22 at GreenHill Center for North Carolina Art, 200 N. Davie St. Attendees had the opportunity to learn about upcoming plans for a community center, next year’s gala and more. info: ggfnc.org.

College hires director

GREENSBORO, N.C. — Guilford College has announced the addition of Stephanie H. Chang as the new director of the Multicultural Education Department.

Chang began her career in higher education as the first coordinator of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer Office at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, the college reported. She then worked as a program coordinator of the LGBT Resource Center at the University of California, Irvine.

While she directs the department, she will continue her work toward a Ph.D. from the University of Maryland, College Park. Degrees

earned thus far are a bachelor’s in African and Afro-American studies at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a master’s in education in college student affairs from Pennsylvania State University. info: guilford.edu.

Wednesdays and continues throughout the season.

During the opening night meeting held prior to play, team captains were selected and new bowlers were welcomed.

Openings are still available for anyone who wishes to join. Email trianglerainbowbowling@ gmail.com to learn more. info: trianglerainbowbowling.org.

Triangle Fest organizers head to Spain

RALEIGH, N.C. — Crape Myrtle Festival is sponsoring a trip to Spain from Nov. 3-13 that will benefit the organization’s work and services.

The excursion includes stays in Barcelona (three nights), Madrid (four nights) and Seville (three nights).

This is the fourth annual trip abroad. Hotels selected are five-star properties. Breakfast and VAT taxes are included.

Prices are roughly $2,100/traveler that includes hotel, private transfers and train tickets between cities. Airfare is not included, but Delta Airlines is suggested.

For more information or to book a spot, contact Patty Van Wyck at Going Places! Custom Travel at patty@goingplacescustomtravel.com or call 919-550-0417. info: crapemyrtlefest.org.

Bowling season opens

RALEIGH, N.C. — The Triangle Rainbow Bowling League opened their fall and upcoming spring seasons on Sept. 14 at AMF Pleasant Valley Lanes, 5501 Commercial Ave. League play begins at 7:30 p.m. on

Center announced awardees

RALEIGH, N.C. — The LGBT Center of Raleigh, 324 S. Harrington St., has announced its 2016 service award recipients.

Those to be honored at the “Boots on the Ground” awards gala on Oct. 7, 7 p.m., at the Sheraton Raleigh Hotel, 421 S. Salisbury St., are: Lorraine Johnson, Distinguished Service Award; Yvonne Torres, Community Impact Award; Deep South Entertainment, Organization of the Year; Jeremy Billow, LGBTQ All of the Year; Kellie Burris, Program Volunteer of the Year; and Artie Cline, Center Volunteer of the Year. To learn more about each awardee, visit the center’s website.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. with live entertainment by Peter Lamb and the Wolves, a silent auction, dinner with three entree choices and other surprises, organizers said.

Tickets are $125 through Sept. 30 and $150 afterward. info/tickets: lgbtcenterraleigh.com.

Have news or other information? Send your press releases and updates for inclusion in our News Notes: editor@goqnotes.com.

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spiritual reflections

by Rev. Jeffrey D. Harris :: guest contributor

“Homosexual?” No such word!

The “scared book,” the “Holy Bible” has been translated in many languages. As of November, 2014, the United Bible Societies declare the “Holy Book” has been translated in more than 2,530 languages to date. In that, the translations include 55 different forms of sign language. However, only 531 languages have the complete text.

While the estimate is 2,883 readers only have one book of the Bible, currently, there are 1,800 languages around the world that are still waiting for a translation in their native language. Twenty-first century America, with all our modern technology and varied linguistic learning tools such as Rosetta Stone, Babbel, Busuu and various others, it is still a complex ability of learning, interpreting or translating classical Hebrew or the biblical Hebrew languages. Which poses a question, why are there still then 1,800 with no form of or piece of the canon?

With that being said, some languages such as Spanish, Chinese, Russian and English, the translations of the Bible include the word homosexual. That’s incorrect because the word homosexual is nowhere in the original Hebrew or the original Greek. Part of the reason is because the original Hebrew language contained only 22 letters, and those letters were based on sound. Also, those same 22 letters were consonants, with no vowels. Not to mention, in some areas where the scriptures were written, there was still the use of hieroglyphics. The biblical Hebrew language remained pure until the Babylonian Exile in 587 BC. • The word homosexual didn’t exist when the Bible was written (New Testament about 2,000 years ago, and parts of the Old Testament from 1,400 to 400 BCE).

• It wasn’t until 1869 that Dr. Karoly Benkert, a Hungarian physician, created the term by combining “homo,” the Greek word for same, with the Latin “sexual.”

• The word homosexual did not come into use in the United States until the 1880s.

• The word homosexual was first used in the English Christian Holy Bible in 1946.

• In the Greek language, there are words for same-sex behavior, but they never appear in the original text of the New Testament.

• The concept homosexual didn’t exist when the Bible was written.

• I f you see the word homosexual or homosexuality in the Bible, it is because translators chose those words to reflect their own homophobic feelings and ideas.

• Where in the Bible might you find the word homosexual used incorrectly: • The Hebrew word “kedah” means “temple prostitute” and is sometimes inaccurately translated as “sodomite” or “homosexual.”

• In 1 Corinthians, sodomite or homosexual are sometimes used, but they are incorrect translations of the Greek “malakos” which means something closer to “effeminate” or the Greek practice of “pederasty,” which is older men having sex with boys and is not consensual gay sex between peers.

• 1 Corinthians also refers in Greek to “arsenokaitai” which appears nowhere else in the Bible or in Greek writings about homoerotic sexuality, but probably means “male prostitute.”

• Jude 7 sometimes refers to homosexual flesh that the Sodomites pursued. This is an inaccurate translation of “hetera sarx” which means, literally, “strange flesh” to describe the flesh of the angels who were sent by God to evaluate Sodom and Gomorrah.

• In Timothy 1:9-10, translators sometimes use homosexual for the original Greek words “pornoi,” “arsenokoitai” and “andrapodistai,” meaning male prostitutes, males who hire male prostitutes or the slave dealers who procure them.

Including the word homosexual in the Bible is the choice of translators and is not a reflection of the Bible. It is acknowledgement that one can not translate a word from Hebrew and Greek into the English if there is no English equivalent.

The misinterpretation of this word has caused more physical and spiritual slayings, in and out of the religious areas as we know it, for same-gender individuals’ than one cares to recall. Persons who could not find love in their families after coming out, went to the church, only to find no love and affirmation there either.

Many of them, for the lack of love, support, care and concern for their well-being, turned to deviant behavior and some even worse — suicide or homicide.

If you have read this article, I am here to tell you that the Creator of the universe loves you just the way you are. You have sacred worth in His mind. He claims you as His own, scripture proves it. He created you as a human being. The Creator, from a “Christian” perspective, is omniscient (all knowing). He knew you were going to be same-gender loving before you came into existence. So, He desires to have an intimate and personal, loving relationship with you. : : — Rev. Jeffrey D. Harris is a regular contributor to UNITE VA, FUSE Magazine and Baltimore Outloud.

Copyright © 2016 [Rev. Jeffrey D. Harris].

All rights reserved.

join the discussion Whether it’s letters to the editor, web comments, general suggestions, comments or ideas, qnotes staff welcomes your input. See, without you we’d really have no reason to be here. So, we delight in hearing what our readers have to say. Be sure to send in your thoughts, praises, criticisms and more to editor@goqnotes.com and for general feedback or for letters to the editor (200 or words or less) and guest commentaries (600 words or less) to letters@goqnotes.com. Thank you!

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Sept. 23-Oct. 6 . 2016

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life

COMMUNITY

Gay Bingo returns in Charlotte for second year post hiatus The ‘Star Wars’ themed event will raise money for nonprofit RAIN’s HIV supportive services

by Jeff Taylor :: qnotes staff

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The event had originally taken place six times per year, but ay Bingo is back in the Queen City on Nov. 5 after last year’s the amount of work that it created made it difficult, especially successful resurgence following a five year hiatus. The event considering it is staffed by volunteers. That forced them to bring on Nov. 5 was first put on by nonprofit HIV/AIDS services it to an end after six years. They revived it two organization RAIN 16 years ago. years later, realizing that they could instead hold This year’s “Star Wars”-themed it once a year, on a larger scale, and still make as event will be hosted by drag queen much, if not more, money.

Barbara Burning Bush and will “This is the third time we’ve come back,” stay true to their motto: “A straight Smith noted. “So we’re kind of like Cher when she line never wins at Gay Bingo, but says it’s her final farewell tour, and it’s not really our straight friends are always her final farewell tour.” welcome.” Attendees can expect Smith said that the funds raised will be consongs, dancing and shenanigans sidered unrestricted, allowing them to use those not found at a typical bingo hall. resources wherever they are most needed.

Bingo Verifying Divas, or BVDs, RAIN provides a wide range of services for HIVwill help Barbara Burning Bush positive youth and adults, including offering support keep everyone honest. groups, helping individuals navigate the healthcare The event is always a big funsystem and connecting clients with housing, medidraising opportunity for RAIN. Last cation, treatment and other needed resources. year it brought in $85,000, exceedWhile many of their programs are funded ing their goal. This year they are through grants, not all of them are fully funded hoping to raise around $100,000. through those means.

Nathan Smith, director of devel- A Bingo Verifying Diva (BVD) ‘on the job!’

“This allows us to, for lack of a better word, fill opment and marketing at RAIN, said Photo Credit: RAIN the holes where we need to fill them,” Smith said. that there was interest two years “So that way the programs can continue to thrive and the clients ago from former volunteers to bring the event back, as well as can get the services that they need.” from new individuals who wanted to take part.

Gay Bingo draws a diverse crowd, from teenagers to the senior citizens. Although Smith points out that those under 18 should get parental approval.

“There is some slapstick humor, and it [does sometimes] kind of push the line, but it’s not overpowering,” Smith said. “So we always kind of tell the parents what it is, and we always say it’s up to the judgment of the parents. Some parents have a much better sense of humor than others.”

Smith credits the volunteers for the continued success of the event.

“We are very dependent on the volunteers, and the volunteers always step up and always amaze me and always outdo any expectations I can think of,” he said.

Smith reported that RAIN has grown recently, adding a mental health support therapist in November of last year. They also recently launched a PrEP program to help stop the spread of HIV. That means that for the first time the organization is serving HIV-negative individuals, after 25 years of serving exclusively those who are HIV-positive.

“I don’t think we will ever have enough staff to meet [all the needs of the community], because I think that’s the nature of any agency, but we have an amazing, dedicated staff that goes above and beyond,” he added.

Star Bingo will take place at the Grady Cole Center, 310 N. Kings Dr., with doors opening at 6:30 p.m. and the show starting an hour later. For more information, visit gaybingocharlotte.org. : :

Sept. 23-Oct. 6 . 2016

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Fall A&E

Actor’s Theatre finds a new home for 2016-17 — and beyond New location requires little upfitting

by Lawrence Toppman :: The Charlotte Observer

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ctor’s Theatre of Charlotte (ATC) announced on Sept. 12 that it had found a home for the 2016-17 season: the building formerly occupied by Paradox Films and Digital at 2219 Freedom Dr. near Wesley Heights and the Berryhill Rd. intersection. The company plans to move in immediately and prepare for its initial show, a title yet to be announced that’s expected to run in mid-autumn.

ATC had expected to do its next season in a facility off Louise Ave., until rising entry costs and the withdrawal of a construction company sank that deal. Its collapse ultimately meant good news: Artistic director Chip Decker says the new location requires hardly any upfitting before ATC moves in.

“Paradox used this as a studio to shoot commercials and films, and that space is ready to go for our stage,” says Decker. “We will have slightly fewer seats, maybe 160 to 170, but we can make up for that by adding shows.”

The most impressive aspect of the property may be the 4,500-square-foot building that lies across the parking lot. ATC will use that space for set construction and storage, but Decker wants to invite local theater companies without

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permanent homes to work and rehearse there.

He’d like the top of that building to become “a three-season outdoor theater” for such companies, once the mainstage season is running smoothly for ATC. In a notice to its patrons and supporters, ATC said, “We want to thank all of our dedicated friends who spread the word about our situation. We also want to thank our amazing new landlord, Stuart Owens! He heard of our plight and had the foresight to see that ATC would be the perfect tenant. He has been a great help as we have worked through the details. We also need to give a big round of applause to our patrons who have provided financial support. This move would not be possible without all of you.”

ATC added that the new facility was in the renewed FreeMoreWest neighborhood and that they anticipated their first production to open before the end of the year. : : — The Charlotte Observer is the largest daily newspaper in the Carolinas.

CharlotteObserver.com is the most visited news and information website in the region. qnotes is proud to be a member of The Observer’s Charlotte News Alliance.

Sept. 23-Oct. 6 . 2016

Actor’s Theatre of Charlotte envisions new uses for the rooftop of a 4,500-square-foot building on the new Freedom Drive property. It’s adjacent to the one that will contain their mainstage shows.

Photo Credit: Actor’s Theatre of Charlotte

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Fall A&E

An interview with ‘Sordid Lives’ actress Ann Walker The play will make a three-night run in Charlotte this October

by Jeff Taylor :: qnotes staff

W

hen “Sordid Lives” ended its original run as a stage play in Los Angeles, Calif. in 1996, the show’s writer and director, Del Shores, and the cast had no idea it would go on to have such a long and varied life.

The play won over a dozen Drama-Logue Awards and gained a cult following in the LGBT community, especially in the South — the story takes place in Texas.

A film version of the same name, written and directed by Shores, was released in 2000. Next came “Sordid Lives: The TV Series,” which was a prequel and lasted one season on Logo despite critical acclaim.

The film’s sequel, “A Very Sordid Wedding” has recently finished filming, and where the original dealt with coming out in a conservative culture, this one will deal with what marriage equality can look like in that same environment.

Shores also went back and once again rewrote the play that started it all into a brand new version, which will come to Charlotte for a three-night run, Oct. 13-15, presented by Different Roads Home and Theatre Charlotte.

Ann Walker reprises her role as LaVonda DuPree, a free spirit willing to tell it like it is. Shores wrote the part with Walker in mind, basing it loosely on her.

“It keeps rising. It keeps coming back, all the time,” Walker said of “Sordid Lives.”

She said she figured when the play ended its original yearlong run that that would be the end of it.

“It’s been such a great ride. Especially when you don’t know that anything’s going to come from it,” she reflected. “And then it became this cottage industry.”

Walker also had no idea that it would affect people in the way that it has, describing a time when a young man was so excited to see her that he dropped to his knees and started crying.

“It’s the strangest thing, because the show has touched so many people’s lives. They’ve used it to come out to their families,” she said. “It’s a very emotional thing.”

Walker has appeared in dozens of roles on stage, as well as in films and on television, but she remains best known for her role as LaVonda DuPree, a fact she embraces.

She met Shores when he came to see her in a play called “Best Wishes,” and was impressed with her performance. Walker had seen Shores’ first play, “Cheatin,’” and was a fan of his as well. They agreed that they should try to work together someday.

He asked her to understudy in his new play, which at first she was reluctant to do, telling him, “Dear, I don’t do understudy.”

When Walker learned that the actress she would understudy would be gone for two weeks, allowing her to go on, she decided to go ahead and do it after all.

She said somewhere around six months to a year later she got a call from Shores asking her to come in and read a one act he had written, along with a few other actresses, so he could hear it and see if he was on the right track.

“And it was the first scene, which he called ‘Nicotine Fit,’ from ‘Sordid Lives,’ and he said, ‘I wrote this for you,’” she recalled. “I said, ‘Oh my God!’ So you never know, you know? But you just stay friends.’”

The two have remained close. Walker also appeared in Shores’ play “Southern Baptist Sissies,” about four boys growing up gay in the Southern Baptist Church, for which she earned several awards, including the prestigious Los Angeles Drama Critics Circle Award. She also reprised her role, as Odette Annette Barnett, in the film version released in 2013.

Shores was among those who helped fund the play “Ballad,” in which she plays an alcoholic mother whose son returns home and reveals to her that he has AIDS. Walker and playwright Tyler Hansen produced the play themselves.

Walker has become a fierce advocate for the LGBT community, both in her personal life and on her radio show, “The Ann Walker Show with Scott Nevins.” It is part of the Universal Broadcasting Network, an internet radio station she helped found four years ago.

She didn’t know any gay people growing up in Houston, Texas but became an ally once that changed and she became more intimately aware of the difficult situation faced by the community, politically and socially.

“I didn’t even know what a homosexual was until I was about 17,” she said.

She credits the influence of Del Shores coming into her life as a pivotal moment in her growing awareness of the needs and issues of the LGBT community.

“I just wasn’t around [the difficulties being faced by the community], it wasn’t in my face or touching my life,” she said, noting that she was busy raising a family and working on her career at the same time. “And I think that’s what happens sometimes.

Then when it did impact my life, seeing the need and knowing how they’re being treated, I became this sort of rabid person about love and acceptance.”

Her response to the need included demonstrating for issues such as marriage equality and volunteering at Project Angel Food, a non-profit serving those battling critical illness in Los Angeles County.

Ann Walker

Photo Credit: Melinda Kelley melindakelley.com

Walker and Shores were in Charlotte last year for Pride, attending a Different Roads Home “Sordid Lives” viewing party and appearing at their booth during the festival. She said she looks forward to returning to the city to perform.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit differentroadshome.org. : :

Sept. 23-Oct. 6 . 2016

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a&e

Fall A&E

One Voice Chorus’ artistic director commissioned for musical tribute Gerald Gurss was asked to honor the memory of Dallas police fallen heroes

by Lainey Millen :: qnotes staff

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hen Gerald Gurss, artistic director for One Voice Chorus/Sotto Voce (Charlotte, N.C.) and Midlands Men’s Chorus (Columbia, S.C.), was contacted by the Turtle Creek Chorale’s Director Sean Michael Baugh to compose a piece to honor the memory of Dallas, Texas slain police officers, he was tasked with a monumental responsibility. How does one even begin to do this?

Inspiration came from a photograph taken earlier this year by former Dallas Voice publisher Robert Moore of a police officer who was poised in ready position during a demonstration against fatal shootings of black officers across the country at a Black Lives Matter march. White officers of the city’s police Gerald Gurss became the target of an assailant where officers were killed. “Moore, who lives downtown and has been recognized for his travel photography since leaving the newspaper, came downstairs from his apartment to shoot some pictures of the demonstration, when he was caught in the crossfire,” the newspaper reported.

“While protestors were able to escape the gun shots, Moore was trapped in the middle of the street. He ducked behind a police car, where an officer protected him for several hours during the siege. Several photos he took while crouching behind the DPD [Dallas Police Department] cruiser were printed in Dallas Voice and other newspapers around the country and were broadcast on TV,” the Voice added.

“Be At My Side” was premiered at the season opening of the Tower Arts concert series at Highland Park United Methodist Church, the Voice reported. The commissioned piece was performed by the Chorale’s 250-voice chorus. The series began in 2004 and brings in world-class artists to the church and to the city, the Voice added.

Gurss was approached in a Denver, Colo. airport by Baugh the day after the end of the 2016 GALA Choral Festival in July.

“Two days prior, 12 officers were shot at a Black Lives Matter march in Dallas. Seven of those officers were fatally wounded.

Rather than using Moore’s words for the basis for the text, he I was asked to write [a] new work in response to the shootings. found an anonymous prayer entitled, “Police Officer’s Prayer.”

While honored, I suddenly felt overwhelmed with the gravitas of The words hit his core. the task — to write a work to not only honor the victims, but to “When I sent the prayer to Baugh, he instantly agreed that, speak to the ongoing violence concerning police officers across this was the text for the new piece. I knew this text would both the U.S.,” Gurss shared. honor Moore, as well as honor all the Beginning the process was challengpublic servants who go to work each ing, but Gurss developed a process by day, knowing that it could be their last.” which to accomplish his assignment.

A Police Officer’s Prayer Gurss is a doctorial student at the “The first step in any vocal composiUniversity of South Carolina and works tion is selecting the text. While it may Lord I ask for courage at Brixx Pizza when not in class. He said be obvious that, writing for instruments that he remembered asking for four days only can have an extramusical narraCourage to face and off from work to go down to Columbia to tive, a selected text for a choral/vocal Conquer my own fears… lock himself in his “room/office” to do composition will dictate the direction the nothing but write. music takes while being formed. The text Courage to take me “Day one yielded nothing but little bits will dictate melodic shape, structure and Where others will not go… of music with no coherence. . .but day harmonic context,” Gurss said. two started with me playing a sequence “In finding words to set to music, the I ask for strength of chords that touched my heart. I sat at Turtle Creek Chorale director, connected the piano playing through what I believed me with the photographer Robert Moore.

Strength of body to protect others to be the proper notes (never settling for Within a couple of days, I was on the And strength of spirit to lead others… less than the perfect chord at the right phone with Moore. Moore was at the time) for about three hours, when the rally capturing images when the gunman I ask for dedication piece had developed a clear form. From started opening fire on the police ofthat point, it took me the whole three ficers. One officer in particular shielded Dedication to my job, to do it well days, stopping only for food, gym and Moore and took him to safety behind a Dedication to my community sleep, to finish the piece. The final touch police car. The officer stayed with Moore To keep it safe… was the ‘Amen’ section. ‘Amen’ literally for over three hours during the time of translates to ‘let it be so.’ I’ve never felt so unrest at the march,” Gurss shared.

Give me Lord, concern convicted about the meaning of ‘Amen.’”

“During that interview, I rememFor others who trust me Two days after he sent the work to ber being in tears, as I could hear the And compassion for those who need me…

Baugh. Baugh’s reaction said it all: “I gratitude in Moore’s voice throughout finally sat down at the piano with the the story. During his time behind the And please Lord piece. It is stunning!” police car, Moore captured an image of Gurss immediately felt a smile in the heroic officer that, within days, had Through it all his heart, knowing they were about to gone viral. Soon, Moore had been asked Be at my side… embark on a piece of music that would to appear on numerous news programs, touch many lives. including ‘Good Morning America.’

— Author Unknown “The text, from which I selected porDuring my phone interview with Moore, tions to set to music … there is no ‘Amen’ he emphasized how thankful he was at the end of the prayer; however, my convictions said, ‘this must to the police officers who were on duty that day. Moore comes be so for all who serve our communities. Add the Amen.” : : from a family of police officers,” added Gurss

Sept. 23-Oct. 6 . 2016

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Fall A&E

Arts groups bring entertainment to the Carolinas LGBT community arts bridge friendship and service

by Lainey Millen :: qnotes staff

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re the hills enlivened with musical sounds? They sure are throughout the Carolinas. And, what better way to have them be so than with ones brought forth by those from the LGBT and allied community.

From choruses to bands, the cornucopia is overflowing with options and something for everyone’s taste.

Additionally, film festivals, theatre and other arts options are available to round out one’s experience and enjoyment.

Bands

Charlotte Pride Band Charlotte, N.C. charlotteprideband.org.

The mission of the Charlotte Pride Band is to provide an open, inviting environment for musicians of all ability levels while promoting the value and respect of LGBT and straight allied people in the Charlotte metropolitan area through quality musical performances.

Concert Dates: Nov. 12, Dec. 18 Location and time TBA.

Carolina Gold Drum and Bugle Corps Carolina Gold Winds Legacy Independent Alchemy Independent Greensboro, N.C. and Raleigh, N.C. carolinagold.org.

Carolina Gold and its associated programs are an LGBT-inclusive organization that provides an area where youth can excel in musicality while engaging in competitions, performances and events. The organization has four performance options with which to choose.

Concert and Competition Dates: Location and time TBA.

Triangle Pride Band Raleigh/Durham/Chapel Hill, N.C. facebook.com/triangleprideband.

After the NC Pride Band disbanded in 2012, the Triangle lost its presence in the band and concert community. On June 1, a newly formed group of people assembled to work together to bring back an LGBT band program to the area.

Premiere Performance: Sept. 24 NC Pride Parade They hope to participate in various celebrations both locally and across the region, including Pride parades and Out Raleigh!

Dec. 2 First Friday Holiday Performance Location and time TBD. Choruses Cantarìa Asheville, N.C. cantariaasheville.org.

Cantarìa is a voluntary, not-for-profit community chorus, organized to provide the opportunity for gay and gay-supportive men to sing together.

Concert Dates: Location and time TBA. Common Woman Chorus Wake Forest, N.C. commonwomanchorus.net.

The mission of the Common Woman Chorus is to sing empowering music that highlights the diversity and strength of women’s lives and experiences, share with and educate the community through music, develop and refine individual and group musical skills through regular rehearsal and performance, encourage and support discussion, friendship, leadership, and the open exchange of beliefs with each

other through regular check-ins, social gatherings, discussions, and rehearsals and network with other likeminded choruses and support such networks, societies and organizations.

Concert Dates: Nov. 12 Eno River Unitarian Universalist Fellowship 4907 Garrett Rd., Durham Gay Men’s Chorus of Charlotte 7th Son Charlotte, N.C. gmccharlotte.org.

Through artistic achievement, education and engagement, the Gay Men’s Chorus of Charlotte endeavors to create a society which values and respects its LGBT members.

Concert Date: Dec. 9-10 “Making Spirits Bright” Location and time TBA. Midlands Men’s Chorus Columbia, S.C. midlandsmenschorus.com.

The Midlands Men’s Chorus is a performance-oriented group with the goal of providing the members and audiences with musically rewarding and enjoyable experiences. It strives to provide each member of the group with the opportunity to explore and expand his individual talents, musicianship and associated performance skills. It also works to advance the acceptance of and advocacy for the LGBTQ and ally community.

Concert Date: Dec. 10 “MMC Sleighs” Location and time TBA. One Voice Chorus Sotto Voce Charlotte, N.C. onevoicechorus.com.

One Voice Chorus is the gay, lesbian and gay-affirmative chorus of Charlotte. Through artistic excellence, it works to increase understanding and acceptance of LGBT people.

Its achievement in choral music enables it to reach diverse groups to overcome misperceptions and to grow personally, both as performers and as leaders in the community.

Concert Dates: Location and time TBA. Pride of Greenville Women’s Chorus Pride of Greenville Men’s Chorus (Pride of Greenville Choruses) Greenville, S.C. prideofgreenvillechorus.com.

The Pride of Greenville Chorus is an inclusive, community-based organization of gay men and gay-friendly people that inspires and changes lives through the power of music. With humor and heart, we strive to entertain our audiences with artistic excellence, to build community through socialization with and support of our members, and to raise awareness of positive images within the gay community of South Carolina.

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Concert Dates: Dec. 3 6th Annual Holiday Concert Location and time TBA. Triad Pride Men’s Chorus Greensboro, N.C. triadpridemenschorus.org.

Triad Pride Men’s Chorus consists of gay men and their allies, who perform choral music to entertain, enlighten and enrich while promoting equality and social justice for all people regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity–fostering pride, understanding, and acceptance.

Concert Dates: Dec. 3 Holidays 2016 GSO Concert Congregational United Church of Christ 400 W Radiance Dr. Triangle Men’s Chorus Raleigh, N.C. tgmchorus.org.

The Triangle Gay Men’s Chorus is a non-profit performing arts organization that seeks to offer quality men’s choral music that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. It recognizes the power of music to communicate important truths about common human conditions and the value of all people. It is committed to fostering an environment of professionalism, respect, pride and unity.

Members are welcome regardless of orientation.

Upcoming Concerts: Dec. 3-4 “Everything Christmas!”

Durham Calvary United Methodist Church 304 East Trinity Ave. Raleigh Pullen Memorial Baptist Church 1801 Hillsborough St. Film GayCharlotte Film Festival Charlotte, N.C. charlottelgbtfilm.com.

The GayCharlotte Film Festival, first established in 2009, has become an annual event in the Queen City. It is a non-profit program whose goal is to entertain, enlighten and build valuable bridges of understanding, support, and acceptance within and between the LGBTQ and ally communities in the Charlotte region.

Film Schedule: Spring 2017.

Locations and times TBA. North Carolina Gay + Lesbian Film Festival Durham, N.C. carolinatheatre.org/films/festivals/ncglff.

The North Carolina Gay + Lesbian Film Festival is the second largest gay, lesbian and transgender film festival in the Southeast, attracting thousands of patrons yearly. Since its beginning in 1995, the festival has featured a diverse array of shorts, documentaries and feature films.

It celebrates a worldwide glimpse of today’s gay, lesbian and transgender life, helps bring the community together and features entertaining and sophisticated films and filmmaking.

Film Schedule: Aug. 10-13, 2017.

Locations and times TBA. Out at the Movies International LGBT Film Fest Winston-Salem, N.C. outatthemovieswinston.org.

Out at the Movies International LGBT Film Fest has a global look with screenings of

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domestic and international films from LGBT filmmakers, in addition to nightly celebrity receptions, closing night awards party and more.

Film Schedule: Oct. 7-9 See website for time, location and tickets.

Theatre Actor’s Theatre of Charlotte Charlotte, N.C. atcharlotte.org.

Actor’s Theatre of Charlotte presents performances that both entertain and enlighten its audience.

Performances: Due to relocation of the theatre, season performance dates are unavailable at this time. More information will be made available online in the near future.

Lee Street Theatre Salisbury, N.C. leestreet.org.

Lee Street Theatre is committed to the development and presentation of original, challenging, and entertaining performance art, as well as being LGBT affirming.

Performances: Oct. 13-15, 20-22 “Tuesdays with Morrie” Nov. 10-12, 17-19 “Reefer Madness” 329 N. Lee St. Times and ticket sales are available online.

Playmakers Repertory Company Chapel Hill, N.C. playmakersrep.org.

Playmakers Repertory Company is the professional theatre in residence at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. It is a performance organization which is committed to diversity while it nurtures excellence and presents professional theatre for all ages.

Performances: Oct. 19-Nov. 6 “The Crucible” Nov. 22-Dec. 11 “The May Queen” 150 Country Club Rd. See website for time and ticket sales.

Queen City Theatre Company Charlotte, N.C. queencitytheatre.com.

Queen City Theatre Company is a non-profit organization that exists to theatrically explore the human experience. It wishes to present theatre that celebrates the many different races, religions, genders, and sexual orientations that exist in both Charlotte and the world. It strives to create theatre that not only entertains, but enriches, educates and challenges its audience.

Performances: Feb. 2-11, 2017 “An Act of God” April 27-May 6 “The Pride” McGlohon Theatre, 345 N. College St. See website for more information, location and time, as well as ticket sales.

This list was compiled by qnotes staff. Should readers find errors and wish to send corrections to the list or want to have an arts group listed, email qnotes with “Arts addition” in the subject line to editor@goqnotes.com. qnotes wants to make these listings as accurate as possible to maintain integrity of the information provided.

Sept. 23-Oct. 6 . 2016

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Fall A&E

Movies of the Fall Drama, comedy, musicals and more

by Bill Allen :: qnotes contributor

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s the leaves change colors and the weather cools down, it’s time for LGBT folks to find their way to the hottest movies in town. Whether it be drama, comedy, Westerns, fantasy or action, there is at least one film for everyone to watch this fall. And some that you might want to skip.

Must-Sees “Florence Foster Jenkins” Already in theaters, Meryl Streep plays the aging but inimitable Florence Foster Jenkins, a major patron of the arts in New York in the 1940s who helps put on various theater productions but decides that she wants to be an opera singer. The only problem is that she can’t sing, leading to a series of comedic

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situations with co-star Hugh Grant. Streep is masterful in her presentation of this comedy role which also has poignant moments.

Look also for some delicious gay innuendo with her accompanist, played by Simon Helberg (“Big Bang Theory”).

“Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” The long-awaited film based on J.K. Rowling’s book picks up on the magical world of Harry Potter but this time with a setting in the U.S. in 1926. British magical zoologist Newt Scamander (played by Eddie Redmayne) chases magical creatures that escaped from his briefcase and are creating havoc in New York (where havoc always seems to reign). Even though there is a lot of fun in the chase of the events, there is also a serious undertone of current political events as wizards and beasts are blamed

for events and people seek to segregate them. If you loved the Harry Potter films, you will enjoy the spell-casting, the acting and the magical creatures.

“The Beatles: Eight Days a Week — The Touring Years” A documentary made by Ron Howard, this follows the Beatles through their rise to fame starting in 1962 until their last public concert in 1966 in San Francisco. For those who love the Beatles or want to see a well-presented slice of history, this will be a delightful journey into the past.

“Birth of a Nation” Not the controversial 1915 film about the Ku Klux Klan, this movie about the story of Nat Turner’s 1831 slave uprising is

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purposefully named to point out issues of racism today and the issues about the famous rebellion that killed dozens of Southern slave owners and created fear in many of the whites living in Dixie. A well-crafted film that will create discussion across the country and will be a slam dunk for Oscar nominations.

“Jack Reacher: Never Go Back” If you want endless action, this movie starring Tom Cruise will be a good film for you. Cruise brings back the badass military policeman Jack Reacher who has to learn to team with a woman who has his old job. Not a great movie, but fun to watch.

“Doctor Strange” The latest Marvel film starts Benedict Cumberbatch as a surgeon whose hands are mangled in a car accident and ends up in Nepal looking for a mystic to help him. Tilda Swinton plays an androgynous character, who with Karl Mordo help Dr. Strange to enter a mystical multiverse, after which he develops magical powers. The surrealism and effects in this film will attract many who are tired of the traditional comic hero genre.

This will be a big hit. Just don’t eat too much before you enter Strange’s bizarre universe.

Comedy

“Rogue One: A Star Wars Story” The latest Star Wars film about the rebel spies who steal the original Death Star blueprints, placing this film just before the original Star Wars 1976 film. Any and all “Star Wars” fans will find that the force is with them on this film. Definitely have to get to the theater to catch this one.

Must-See With a Carolina Connection “Sully” A surprisingly good movie about the USAirways flight that was headed to Charlotte and had to land on the Hudson River in New York.

Tom Hanks does a masterful job playing pilot Capt.

Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger, and the film keeps your attention as it portrays well the investigation that follows.

“Queen of Katwe” A well-done movie about the true-life story of Ugandan slum girl Phiona Mutesi who becomes a world-renown chess whiz. This was based on an article and later a book by University of North Carolina lecturer Tim Crothers. Lupita Nyong’o stars in this movie and does a masterful job as the mother of Phiona. Lupita will likely get another Oscar nomination off this effort. A great film.

“Sausage Party” For all of you raunchy sex-addicts, this is the movie for you.

A group of supermarket products is led on a discovery of what really happens when they are chosen to leave and head home.

They are horrified by the truth and led by a sausage to fight back.

This Seth Rogen movie takes every opportunity to make fun of and offend every nationality, ethnicity, race, color and creed, with lots of overt sexual references. Probably better when it comes out at Redbox, but definitely a guilty pleasure.

“Bridget Jones’s Baby” The original “Bridget Jones’s Diary” was clever money, but in the latest sequel Bridget (Renee Zellweger) finds herself pregnant but is not sure whether the father is Colin Firth or Patrick Dempsey. Acting is not bad, but the plot is and in short order you won’t care who is the baby daddy. You can see better drama on the “Maury Show.”

Drama “Allied” This period drama could be the sleeper of the year. Brad Pitt and Marion Cotillard are undercover spies who share romance and secrets in both London and Casablanca. You can’t help but think of Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman and others from that glorious period of cinematic history. This thriller will please many and the costuming and cinematography promises to be outstanding.

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Action

“Magnificent Seven” Yet another remake of the Seven Samurai and the 1960 Western with Steven McQueen and Yul Brynner. The movie thankfully has a different set of rough characters protecting a Western town from an evil industrialist. Some good acting from Denzel Washington and Ethan Hawke, among others, but the plot seems too much like every other Western.

“The Accountant” Ben Affleck stars as an autistic forensic accountant who works for criminals, then ends up working for a legitimate company and ends up telling the truth to a CPA who seeks to blow the whistle on the crooks. There is a lot of good action and suspense, and also a clever look at the mind of someone who is on the autistic spectrum. A likely Oscar nominee.

disaster. Mark Wahlberg, Kate Hudson and Kurt Russell turn this into a pretty good movie, though at times it goes a bit overboard in the attempt to show the human side of this horrible time.

“Goat” A story of a fraternity pledge and the hazing, girls, booze and brotherhood. You already lived this in college or saw it happen. The only saving grace is seeing Nick Jonas with few or no clothes.

Horror “Blair Witch” Another in the series of “Blair Witch” movies. You already know what is going to happen. Don’t bother.

Science Fiction/Fantasy “Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children” An American teen lands on a strange British island where children have oddities such as two mouths and where young ladies transform into birds. This is another bizarre Tim Burton movie which picks up on a popular 2011 novel. If you loved the “Nightmare Before Christmas,” this will be a good movie for you or for the teens in the crowd. But for most, this movie is just a bit too, well, peculiar.

“Assassin’s Creed” Another video game made into a movie. If you have played the game, you know the plot. Michael Fassbender is both a death row inmate in modern times, but also is his deadly Spanish ancestor from the 1400s that are connected by a strange device.

This movie will please those who played the game.

Animation “Trolls” No, this is not a movie about those people you chat with on Twitter, Grindr and Tumblr. This is about those fuzzy-haired creatures with the bright colored hair (also known as troll dolls) that you may have played with as children. Even though they fight with giant monsters called Bergens (not Candace Bergen), the movie is a happy world full of catchy tunes and adorable trolls.

If you have young kids, they will love it. Otherwise, go back to your social media.

“Moana” The newest of the Disney heroines is a Pacific Islander who lived 2,000 years ago and ventures out to save her people by finding the shape-shifting demigod Maui. The movie is full of Polynesian culture but promises to have a fresh touch in terms of music with tunes written by Hamilton’s Lin-Manuel Miranda. For the kid at heart and for all kids, this promises to be the best Disney movie that has come out in a while.

“Masterminds” Based on the true story of what happened in Charlotte, Zach Galifinakis plays a bumbling armored truck driver as he and two others try to steal $17 million from the armored car. Interesting because of the local angle but not a great movie.

“Inferno” Tom Hanks returns to play the role of Robert Langdon in this third movie based on Dan Brown’s novels. This is a great thriller with a lot of twists and turns that moves through Europe on a madman who is using Dante’s classic description of hell as a blueprint for destroying the world.

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“Storks” The storks have been put out of the baby-delivery business, but one bird can’t be dissuaded from delivering one human newborn before his cranky boss discovers his plans. Good animation but thin plot line.

“The Light Between Oceans” A story of a couple who live in a lighthouse in Australia and suffer a tragedy when the wife has a miscarriage. The couple suffers until a boat drifts onto the island with a baby and her dead father. The wife finds purpose in life again and wants to keep the tiny girl, but the husband meets a bereaved woman on land who could be the mother. Agonizing decisions torment this couple.

Beautiful cinematography, and Michael Fassbender and Alicia Vikander make this movie work.

“Sing” A clever animated film that plays off the reality TV shows like “American Idol,” but starring animals. This is a delightful film with sharp animation, lots of humor and a ton of popular music. This is one for all ages. Go see this one.

“Deepwater Horizon” A drama based on the true story of the infamous BP oil rig which explodes off the coast of Louisiana. The movie does not focus on the oil company, however, but on the sacrifices and courageous acts of the regular people involved in the

“Bad Santa 2” As if the first movie wasn’t bad enough, here comes another dose of Billy Bob Thornton as the crusty and obnoxious ol’ St. Nicholas. Even Kathy Bates and Christina Hendricks, who join him for the holidays, can’t save this film. Save your money. : :

Holiday Movies

Sept. 23-Oct. 6 . 2016

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dishing with buff faye

by Buff Faye :: qnotes contributor :: info@bufffaye.com

Don’t H8: Seven ways to promote positivity in the drag world So, how do you stay positive in a world of negativity? That is hard indeed. It is seemingly all around us. We see negativity in the political arena with Hillary versus Trump.

We see it in the divisive acts of intolerance and discrimination within and outside our own LGBTQ communities. It is negative and downright hateful.

This past July I was crowned with the national title of Miss Don’t H8 Diva. It meant a lot to me to win this title as I truly believe in the message and purpose. And I believe that positivity is important in our lives. None of us are perfect. But we can either choose to be aware of our actions and be more positive, or ignore it all together and give into those haters.

So how do we change all that? What can you do to bring forward positivity to your life?

For those who want to be part of a positive change and fuel positivity, here are actions you can take as drag queens to be more positive.

Remember, you control how you feel and how you choose to react to negativity.

Throw Glitter not Shade! Now this one is seemingly hard for drag queens because it’s so much a part of our culture to tease and joke about a busted queen. And we laugh.

Photo credit: Tommy Feldman, Tyvola Design

But try instead of casting shade, to extend a hand or give a compliment once in a while.

We forget what it’s like to feel like we are not good enough and instead we project onto others. Let’s lift each other up! And who doesn’t like glitter?

I bet you think this song is about you, Don’t you? Don’t you? No matter what you say or do, it seems that somebody will have a problem. Or worse yet, you could be talking about something unrelated and that person will think it’s all about them. Drama only follows you if you let it.

So, don’t let it. Castaway the haters and instead celebrate those who love you.

Drag Queen in the Mirror. Understand who you are and what makes you happy. Don’t get caught up in what others think or how many likes or comments you get on Facebook. You don’t need validation from anyone but yourself.

The Circle of Love. Surround yourself with people who love you and except you for who you are. It is true. You must love yourself before

you can show love to anyone else. But if you let the haters inside your head, you will always doubt that self-love.

Passion Forward. Set goals for yourself to achieve and push you forward. Don’t be afraid to think big. Consider all the things you can do with your life, and don’t let anything get in your way. If you’re confronted with negative people and rough times, focus on your passion. You can get through those difficult moments and achieve your dreams.

Never look back on all your haters. Leave them in the past.

The World is Big. Realize that you can only be responsible for yourself and you can’t control the actions of others. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t care. But don’t get worried or brought down because of other people’s attitudes and feelings. You are your own person and that should be your priority as far as being positive and having an uplifting outlook on life.

Random Acts of Kindness. Be kind and treat people with respect and that will go a long way. Do nice things, but also don’t expect them in return. Sometimes when we give freely, the payback is the act of kindness itself. If you are kind and expect something in return, the power from the positive selfless act will be lost. Show love and care for others.

Now take a moment and think about these things.

You can change someone’s life in a moment just by being positive. There are so many people we interact with as drag queens who depend on us for laughter, love and hope. We can choose positivity. Our smile or kindness can get them through a life circumstance that they might be struggling with personally.

Drag queens have the power to be positive on stage, as well as in person. It can be hard to do. But don’t give into the haters. Rise above it. Rise.

Drag Tip: Instead of Spilling the T, go ahead, give some Sweet T and love to your fellow queens. Do it now on Facebook!

— Buff Faye calls the Queen City her home and performs to throw glitter (and to raise money for charities). Find her at your favorite bars and hot spots. Plus don’t forget her weekly Saturday night show with Patti O’Furniture, monthly Sunday drag brunch and regular Friday night party bus.

Learn more at AllBuff.com.

Follow on Twitter @BuffFaye

Shout Out: Bob the Drag Queen is in town on Saturday, Oct. 1 at Bar at 316 and

Courtney Act is in town on Sunday, Oct. 2 at Comedy Zone. Look online for more information.

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Sept. 23-Oct. 6 . 2016

— Sponsored Content —

Walking the Good Road Together

by Dale J. Pierce, President and CEO of Different Roads Home

DRH is falling into the arts this season In the spring we tend to look for new beginnings, but in the fall of each year there is a new crop of arts and entertainment options that hit the screen and stage. This fall in Charlotte is no different. At Different Roads Home, we do a variety of fundraisers to help further the cause of helping people with HIV and AIDS and other chronic illness.

Coming up in October we are launching a first-ever coproduction of a play with Theater Charlotte. On October 13, 14, and 15, the stage at the McGlohon Theater at Spirit Square will be the home to this first-ever collaboration.

The story of Bible-thumping Baptists, beer-swilling bar trash and everyone in between in a small Texas town, is contrasted with the appearance-driven world of Hollywood and the hysterical comedy and tender poignancy that come from learning to be yourself and love the family you have instead of the family you want.

The original stage play, “Sordid Lives,” premiered in Los Angeles on May 11, 1996 and ultimately won 14 Drama-Logue Awards. The film met with mixed reviews from mainstream audiences, but became a cult classic with LGBT fans, particularly in the South. The movie tells the story of a Texas family coming together in the aftermath of the matriarch’s death.

Film star Ann Walker reprises her original role of LaVonda DuPree, which she originated in the stage play, the movie and the series. Ann brings her colorful take on this cult classic to Charlotte audiences with some of the

funniest and most irreverent talent Charlotte has to offer for this comedy. It is not recommended for children under 18. In homage to one of the most famous scenes in the movie all seats are $32.09! Get yours today!

In November the stage at Spirit Square hosts Different Roads Home’s signature event, the 7th Annual Evening of Hope and Inspiration at the McGlohon Theatre. Different Roads Home is proud and excited to present its 7th annual coming together of community and cause. In years past, the event has brought some of the biggest names in gospel and country entertainment together for recognition of the message to bring an end to the stigma surrounding HIV. This year will be no different with three AMAZING talents: Jason and DeMarco, Teresa Giudice (“Real Housewives of New Jersey”) and this year’s Humanitarian of the Year award recipient, country superstar Louise Mandrell. Limited VIP packages guarantee seating in the first five rows for this event, a pre-show reception beginning at 5:30 pm with a chance to meet and greet all the talent and mingle with guests along with heavy appetizers, a free cocktail/drink (cash bar available) and a VIP bag that includes a book autographed by Teresa, and either photos or CD’s signed by Louise and Jason and DeMarco. Plus, all VIP attendees get a chance to get pictures made with the stars.

Jason and deMarco met in 2001 in Hollywood, California. Before launching their duo act, deMarco was a lead in the international touring company of the musical “California Dream Men” and Jason was a Christian artist in mainline traditional Gospel groups, and then as a solo

artist touring mostly through Metropolitan Community Church, gay-accepting churches. They released their fourth album, “Till the End of Time,” produced by Alan Lett. Seven of the album’s twelve songs are written by Jason and deMarco.

Teresa Giudice is an American reality television castmember, known for starring in “The Real Housewives of New Jersey.” Besides appearing on the show, Giudice has written three New York Times bestseller cookbooks and was featured on Donald Trump’s “The Celebrity Apprentice.” On December 23, 2015, she was released from federal prison after serving 11 months of a 15-month sentence. Known for her over-the-top personality, Teresa also has found new meaning to her career and family life after the prison sentence. Her continued charity works and struggles to regain her faith and family, she has a lot to share.

Louise Mandrell is living proof that when you combine God-given talent with hard work, you get an entertainer who exemplifies the word “multi-talented.” In an industry where success in just one area typically defies the odds, Louise has managed to stake her claim on a wide swath of show-biz territory. Throughout a career that has spanned nearly four decades, she has made her mark in the entertainment world by pouring her heart and energy into each and every endeavor, whether she’s performing live onstage, recording in the studio, working in front of the cameras, writing or giving her time back to her community.

These days Louise still maintains close ties to the entertainment business, involving herself in recording projects, charity events and speaking engagements that allow her to stay close to home. She is respected as an artist and as a member of the community.

Sept. 23-Oct. 6 . 2016

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goqnotes.com/to/arts

tell trinity

by Trinity :: qnotes contributor :: trinity@telltrinity.com

Is he ‘dumping’ you or is he ‘breaking up’ with you?

Hello Trinity, For years now, I have loved your advice on “dumping” someone and/or “breaking up” with someone, but what’s the difference?

The Differences, Palm Springs, CA Hello The Differences, Well, when someone is kind and uses integrity, patience and support to dissolve a romantic interest then that (not so bad) man is “breaking up” with you. But when he suddenly a) stops communicating whatsoever, b) just announces during one nor’easter that “it’s over” or c) tries to slip away without some solid explanation, then that monster is “dumping you.” And, darling, the only time dumping you is okay is if you’re stalking him or he has desperately tried to breakup with you unsuccessfully. And then he may also need 9-1-1!

Dear Trinity, My boyfriend has constant emotional problems, and I’m not always in the mood to listen. Am I unkind for not wanting to play his “therapist” all the time?

Tired Eardrums, New Haven, CT Dear Tired Eardrums, While it’s nice and important to listen to someone’s problems, it’s equally as important to keep

good boundaries, practical time limits and to keep your own needs in mind. Having your ears held prisoner is not an absolute requirement for a healthy relationship but, unfortunately, it is a part of one. So, sweetie, let your boyfriend know you’re not always in the mood and not a trained psychotherapist. And if he doesn’t get his act together soon, he’ll be buying you a therapeutic getaway vacation from him! (Be sure to maintain healthy boundaries and stand your ground when your boyfriend is long-winded with dumping his problems on you. See my cartoon for tips!)

Dearest Trinity, After dating someone for a few weeks, he finally told me he has HIV. We haven’t had sex yet, but I’m confused as to how to deal with this.

Health Concerns, Sacramento, CA Dearest Concerns, First, don’t get paranoid, get practical. Second, seek support about dating someone with HIV. Third, learn about the study of “undetectable HIV,” condom use, and the use of PreP. And, lastly, dating someone with any disease is definitely different emotionally and spiritually than dating someone without one. So, pumpkin, if you choose to stay with him, it may prove to be more enlightening and adventurous and

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teach you more about love and life than you could’ve ever imagined! Good Luck.

Dear Trinity, I am going to meet my girlfriend’s parents for the first time. Any advice?

Parent Trap, Honolulu, HI Dear Parent Trap, Do I have any advice on meeting someone’s parents? Does Victoria’s Secret sell lingerie? Baby, here are: Trinity’s Polite Tips For Meeting Someone’s Parents For The First Time 1. Don’t wear too much make-up, dress too sexy or dress in street clothing and never look like you’re a “bum” or like you just don’t care.

2. Let them interview you! Don’t (appear to) interview them.

3. As for your tattoos, huge religious jewelry or your plunging neckline, why not cover it up just for this first meeting.

4. S o you like to eat with your hands and not act all proper or “well trained.” Well…not tonight, honey!

5. N ow I know you have deep political and social ideals, but just this once, can you tone down the Ani DiFranco/Harvey Feirstein snappy comebacks?

6. I f you’re lacto/carnivorous intolerant who’s allergic to everything outside Whole Foods then… don’t meet them for dinner, please!

7. Always find things to compliment! Never suggest how anyone should cook, clean,

decorate or dress better, especially the first time you meet them!

8. Try not to be too helpful, too polite, too talkative or too affectionate! And never have too many drinks!

9. But do feel free to be yourself, especially when you’re on your best behavior!

10. Lastly, it’s easy to feel defensive when you’re being interrogated, but it’s their baby you want to take away from them, so be very understanding! info: With a Masters of Divinity, Reverend Trinity hosted “Spiritually Speaking,” a weekly radio drama performed globally, and is now minister of sponsor, WIG: Wild Inspirational Gatherings, wigministries.org. Learn more at telltrinity.com.

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Sept. 23-Oct. 6 . 2016

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EVENTS

Submit your event to our calendar!

September-October 2016 Continues through Oct. 9 SEP SEP MO ‘Mothers and Sons’ Gaddy-Goodwin Teaching Theatre 301 Pogue St., Raleigh Dates and times vary Raleigh Little Theatre presents “Mothers and Sons,” a powerful contemporary drama. It centers around a woman who pays an unexpected visit to the partner of her late son, who is now married and has a son of his own. She is challenged to face how society has changed in recent years and to imagine the life her son might have led. More information and tickets are available online. raleighlittletheatre.org.

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Stand Up Against HB2 Neighborhood Theatre 511 E. 36th St., Charlotte 12 p.m.-11 p.m.

Musicians will stand up against HB2 and in support of organizations Equality NC and QORDS with performances starting in the afternoon and continuing into the night. Acts include The Loudermilks, Cuzco, Jon Lindsay, Dust & Ashes, The Business People, Jr. Astronomers, Bless These Sounds Under The City and more.

Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 on the day of the show. Children 12 and under get in free. Tickets and more information are available online. neighborhoodtheatre.com/event/1273045stand-against-hb2-north-charlotte.

SEP SEP MO

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Piedmont Pagan Pride Day SEP SEP MO 2016 Kevin Loftin Riverfront Park 1400 Catawba St., Belmont 10 a.m.-7 p.m.

Programming includes performance by transcendent songstress Wendy Rule, workshops, classes, an interfaith panel, vendors and a kid’s zone. Participants are asked to bring non-perishable food items to the event which will be contributed to Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina.

The organization is based upon the elimination of prejudice and discrimination based on religious beliefs. More information is available online. piedmontpaganpride.com.

–––––––––––––––––––– NC Pride Parade & Festival Duke University 712 Broad St., Durham 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

The NC Pride Parade & Festival is in its 32nd year and brings together the LGBT community in the Triangle and the surrounding regions. It kicks off with a 5k run at 8:30 a.m., followed by the festival, with speeches at noon and the parade at 1 p.m. There is a night festival in Raleigh and Durham and across the Triangle from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m.

Entertainment, food, vendors and more will be on hand for attendees to enjoy.

More information is available online. ncpride.org.

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You can submit your event to our comprehensive community calendar presented by qnotes, the Charlotte LGBT Chamber of Commerce and Visit Gay Charlotte. Submit your event at goqnotes.com/eventsubmit/ and get a three-for-one entry. All Charlotte-area events will appear on each of the three calendars at qnotes (goqnotes. com), Charlotte LGBT Chamber of Commerce (clgbtcc.org) and Visit Gay Charlotte (visitgaycharlotte.com).

Charlotte LGBT Chamber of SEP SEP MO Commerce Elections Kickoff Birdsong Brewing Co. 1016 N. Davidson St., Charlotte, 6:30 p.m.

The Charlotte LGBT Chamber of Commerce will hold its elections kickoff event for those interested in joining their board of directors for the upcoming year.

The event is free and open to the public and is a great chance to learn more about the organization. Beer from the brewery will be available along with food from the food truck Now Toasted. More information is available online. clgbtcc.org.

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Queen City LGBT Speed SEP SEP MO Dating Advent 933 Louise Ave., Charlotte 9 p.m.

This speed dating event “functions like an actual party, but instead of the traditional table separation of genders, participants will stand (or dance) faceto-face, alternating who they talk with as the DJ changes the song. It’s like the musical chairs of speed-dating but without the chairs,” says event sponsor Michael Calloway. DJ Skroog MkDuk will take care of the music and light hors d’oeuvres will be provided. 21 and over only. Tickets cost $20. More information and tickets are available online. createamazingllc.com.

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To see more upcoming events, visit goqnotes.com/calendar/

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Sept. 23-Oct. 6 . 2016

Continues through Oct. 2 SEP SEP MO Winston-Salem Fashion Week Marriot Downtown Winston-Salem 425 N. Cherry St., Winston-Salem

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Fashion Week returns to WinstonSalem, featuring runway shows showing off the works of talented designers and boutiques. Models will hit the runway for multiple shows. On Oct. 2 after the runway show there will be an art show and a chance to meet and greet the designers. More information and tickets are available online. wsfashionweek.com.

Jane Clementi Speaking Engagement Crowne Plaza 1385 Lenoir Rhyne Blvd. SE, Hickory, 6:30 p.m.

Outright Youth of Catawba County and Stand Up Speak Up will welcome Jane Clementi, mother of Tyler Clementi who died as a result of suicide after his college roommate secretly filmed and released video of an intimate moment between himself and another man. Jane co-founded with her family the Tyler Clementi Foundation, which dedicates itself to ending online and offline bullying in schools, workplaces and faith communities. Tickets are $25 and includes a buffet dinner. Tickets and more information are available online. outrightyouthcv.org. standspeak.org.

Continues through Oct. 15 SEP OCT MO ‘Sordid Lives’ McGlohon Theatre at Spirit Square 345 N. College St., Charlotte 7 p.m.

Different Roads Home and Theatre Charlotte join forces for the first time to present “Sordid Lives,” the cult hit that explores what it’s like to come out in a conservative environment. Actress Ann Walker reprises her role as LaVonda DuPree, who starred in the original play as well as the television series and film.

She will also star in the upcoming film sequel, “A Very Sordid Wedding.” In homage to a famous scene in the movie all seats will be $32.09. More information and tickets are available online. blumenthalarts.org/events/detail/ sordid-lives.

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SEP OCT MO

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Equality Gala Raleigh City Center Marriott 500 Fayetteville St., Raleigh Equality NC holds its 10th annual Equality Gala, an annual fundraising event to help support their work fighting for LGBT rights.

Awards will be presented to community leaders for their work. Tickets are $135/ individual, $50/active duty military, $175/ individual plus VIP reception, $100/ military plus VIP reception, $1,125/tables of 10 and $1,600/tables of 10 plus VIP reception. Tickets and more information are available online. equalityncfoundation.org/gala.

SEP OCT MO

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Submit your event at goqnotes.com/eventsubmit/

goqnotes.com/to/life

life

Our People:

Q&A with M. David Wallace Charlotte Pride Band artistic director shares a passion for music

by Maria Dominguez :: qnotes contributor

Music plays a part in virtually everyone’s life, but for those with a true passion, music is life. Michael David Wallace falls into the latter category, with a lifelong love of music. This native of the Carolinas lives his music through every professional position he fills — and that’s quite a few. Serving as artistic director of the Charlotte Pride Band would be quite enough for some musicians, but Wallace doesn’t stop there. He teaches music at the John Crosland School and is involved with the Charlotte Civic Orchestra and the Queen City Brass Band, on top of his position with the Charlotte Pride Band. It’s safe to say that Wallace has found his calling in sharing his love of music with the world. Thankfully, he also chose to share that love with the readers of qnotes.

What instruments do you play?

My main instrument is the bassoon. I went into school as a tuba player and came out as a bassoon player.

When did you first become interested in music?

I’ve always been interested in music. My mother’s a pianist. I’d say if I had to define a moment that I would go back to, it would be when I was very young, after she would put me in bed she’d go to the next room and play piano as I was falling asleep. Her father was a musician, and I’m not sure how far it goes back, but my family is very musical. She would play Elton John and Cat Stevens.

What’s your favorite part of performing?

I never feel as connected to people as when I’m rehearsing or performing with them.

For me, it’s that connectivity.

Did you ever get stage fright?

I still get stage fright…Just like with teaching, you kind of use that as a tool and it makes you more aware.

What other forms of the arts interest you?

I wish I had the skill to be a visual artist or an actor, but I don’t [laughs]. I really love learning about all of the arts, but as far as participating, basically music or if you count gardening.

How would you describe your happy place?

I think I come across as a pretty strong extrovert, but in reality I’ve really gotten to the point in my life where I crave quiet spaces. So a medium-sized room, with books and cats, and my partner of two years, Michael.

Which possession is most precious to you?

Definitely my bassoon. It took a lot of effort; I had to borrow money to get it. I didn’t grow up wealthy, I grew up on a farm. So it really took a lot of determination to get the skills where I felt like I deserved my own instrument, and then actually acquire it.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

I actually really like where I am now. . . I just want to settle down and make my world a better place.

What’s a day in the life of CPB’s artistic director?

Dealing with adults is kind of like wrangling cats sometimes [laughs] . . .but I have a fantastic board. They’re super good at communicating, they’re always willing to jump in and help.

What are some of CPB’s upcoming events?

Nov. 12 we’ll be doing our first concert of the season. The music for this concert is all composed by lesbian and gay composers. It’s going to be cool, it’ll be a historical concert, we’ll be playing Tchaikovsky and also we’ll also be unveiling a new work . . .a reference to the Pulse nightclub shooting. : :

Sept. 23-Oct. 6 . 2016

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