UNITE NASHVILLE PRIDE ISSUE

NASHVILLE May/June 2015

Nashville Pride Issue

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LETTER FROM THE

publisher Joey Amato managing editor Joseph Brownell creative director Blake Kniffin Publisher

Happy Pride Nashville!!! Yes, I can’t believe it’s that time of the year already. Pride month is just around the corner…and yes, I did say MONTH. Nashville Pride is not just a one-day event anymore, instead, this year, there are over a dozen events scattered throughout the month, all leading up to the two-day festival itself, which stars headliners St. Lucia, Mýa, The Veronicas and Cazwell.

I would also like to take this time to announce that UNITE Nashville will be changing its frequency. We will no longer publish every other month like the present. My team and I are currently weighing our options to determine what will be best for the community.

This is not a financial decision, yet more of a time decision.

One of the downfalls, or should I call it challenges, of running a small business is the fact that one person is required to oversee many of the day-to-day operations. I simply don’t have enough time in the day to accommodate such demands given that we are trying to expand the UNITE brand in other cities as well.

There have been many times in the past two years I was editing the magazine from 35,000 feet aboard my Southwest corporate jet, however I have been getting quite overwhelmed recently especially with the opening of Music City Fine Art and launching magazines in Cincinnati, Virginia and of course, Indianapolis.

To be perfectly honest, I am not quite sure yet what UNITE Nashville will become. That being said, if you or someone you know would like to take the reins of the magazine and bring it to the next level, please reach out to me. I am open to suggestions.

Chris Azzopardi, Estella Pan, Jesse Walker Business editor A.J. Busé Business correspondent Michael Burcham, PhD, Business writers Dan J. Groover, Lisa Howe Food & Wine Editor Shawn Klumpjan HEALTH EDITOR Brian Hooper, MDiv, PsyD Political Editor Jim Schmidt life & style writers Kyle Kressin, Milton White Arts & entertainment editors

Matthew Jeffers contributing writers Abby Rubenfeld Account Executive

Mark Farrar, Sam Felker, Scott Glasgow, Joseph McLean Gregory, Lisa Howe, Rana Mukherji, Darrin Otto, Gordon Publow, Chris Robinette, Jeff Rymer, Jim Schmidt, Ro Toyos Advisory Board

Rivendell Media (908) 232-2021 Unite Magazine (615) 852-6660 joey@unitemag.com

national advertising Contact

Thank you for an incredible 2+ years of loyalty and look forward to an announcement coming soon.

@UNITELGBTMAG

-Joey

UNITELGBTMAG cover art designed exclusively for UNITE by Peter Max

table of contents

page 38 BUSINESS CHAMBER CHAT

8

ART FRIST: ITALIAN FASHION PETER MAX COMES TO NASHVILLE

10 20

CULTURE NASHVILLE BALLET

36

LOCAL STAR JACK DAVIS

14

THEATRE STUDIO TENN THEATRE TN PERFORMING ARTS CENTER NASHVILLE REPERTORY THEATRE

12 16 34

LEGAL LIFE POST MARRIAGE EQUALITY

22

COMMUNITY NASHVILLE PRIDE CHEAT SHEET

24

HEALTH FOUNDATIONS FOR PERSONAL PRIDE 26 NOW GRAMMY GALLERY

28

DINING CHEF BRANDON FROHNE GETTING REAL ABOUT ROSÉ

32 42

BUSINESS

Chamber Chat THE PURSUIT OF EXCELLENCE

by Lisa Howe

Last month, the Nashville LGBT Chamber of Commerce recognized contributions from the local LGBT and ally community at their annual Excellence in Business Awards. Growing leaps and bounds since its inception, this year’s event set attendance records as 300 community members joined to celebrate Nashville’s inclusive business and nonprofit communities.

Held at The Wildhorse Saloon, the event also welcomed a growing number of local, elected officials and individuals running for office to this year’s event, illustrating the impact the LGBT Chamber is having on local politics. The sixth annual event also marked the third time CURB Records has served as Presenting Sponsor.

“The Excellence in Business Awards is an inspirational day for the LGBT Chamber and our community,” Executive Director Lisa Howe remarked.

“This unique, daytime event spotlights the LGBT and ally professional community . . . and recognizes the economic and social impact made by local business, nonprofit leaders and entrepreneurs.”

Kicking the event off with a rousing call to actions for the members and leaders in attendance, Lisa Howe was joined by LGBT Chamber President Brad Pinson, event emcee and former Fox17 entertainment reporter Stacy McCloud, and a host of previous award winners and sponsors.

Presenting eight awards culminating from the near two-month nomination period held at the beginning of the year, this year signified the strongest nomination and voting period yet, particularly in the Business Leader and Entrepreneur of the year categories. The Sixth Annual Excellence in Business Awards also served as the signing site for a Strategic Alliance Memorandum with the Small Business Administration (SBA).

“The SBA’s outreach to the LGBT community started as an initiative from the White House, but I am proud that Nashville is one of the first LGBT Chambers in the country to sign the Strategic Alliance Memorandum,” Howe shared.

“I think it is a reflection of Walter Perry’s leadership in the SBA Tennessee District Office and the strength of the local climate for small businesses.”

The purpose of the Strategic Alliance Memorandum is to help start, maintain, and expand small businesses. The Nashville LGBT Chamber of Commerce and the Small Business Administration will work together in the spirit of cooperation and open communication with the primary goal of meeting the needs of the small business community. The LGBT Chamber and SBA are committed to develop and foster mutual understanding and a working

8 | UNITE MAGAZINE

relationship in order to strengthen and expand small business development in the local area.

“I am blown away by the opportunity to work with the SBA,” Pinson added. “This partnership will add unprecedented value to our membership by providing education, consulting, mentorship, contracting opportunities, and access to government guaranteed lending.”

Join the LGBT Chamber May 7 for their SBA 101 (requires reservation) and their monthly Brewing Up Business, which will double as a wedding industry spotlight on May 13 at the Millennium Maxwell House Hotel. Visit www.nashvillelgbtchaber.org for more details.

2015 Excellence in Business Awards Winners Cathy Werthan, CPA Consulting Group President’s Award presented by Brad Pinson

Nashville Opera Association Leadership in the Arts presented by Trish Crist, NECAT & Jim Robert, 2014 winner

Marisa Richmond, TTPC & TN Democratic Women Mark Lee Taylor Community Service Award presented by Mark Lee Taylor, HCA & Mike Smith, Nashville Post

Megan Barry, Metro Council Member Ally Award presented by John Park, Waller Law & Luis Parodi, Fifth Third Bank

David Brzozowski, Dollar General Samuel L. Felker Business Leader of the Year presented by Sam Felker, Baker Donelson

Bruce Pittman, Bruce Pittman, Inc. Maria M. Salas Entrepreneur of the Year presented by Maria Salas, Salas Law Group & Michael Burcham, former CEO of the Entrepreneur Center

Emma, Inc. Small Business Diversity Award presented by Walter Perry, SBA

Fifth Third Bank Corporate Diversity Award

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ART

The Frist

FLAUNTS ITALIAN HIGH FASHION

by Estella Pan

Roberto Capucci evening dress, 1987-88 photo courtesy of The Frist

The Frist Center for the Visual Arts presents Italian Style: Fashion since 1945, an elegant exhibition that chronicles the birth and growth of the Italian fashion industry from the post-World War II recovery years to the present day. Based on new archival research, the exhibition explores the development of both womens and menswear and highlights key designers and the outstanding techniques, materials and expertise for which Italy has become renowned.

Organized by Sonnet Stanfill, curator of 20th-century and contemporary fashion at the Victoria and Albert Museum, London, Italian Style will be on

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view in the Frist Center’s Ingram Gallery from June 5 to September 7, 2015.

“Encouraged by the success of our 2010 presentation of The Golden Age of Couture: Paris and London 1947–57 and the strong working relationship we have established with the V&A, we are pleased to present another dazzling exhibition of design from fashion houses that have become familiar, if not household names,” says Frist Center Executive Director and CEO Dr. Susan H. Edwards. “The passionate responses of visitors to The Golden Age

of Couture confirmed the cross-cultural appeal of good design and its power to inspire scholarly study as well as conversations about beauty and material culture.”

As the most comprehensive exhibition ever to examine Italy’s influential contribution to the international fashion world, Italian Style celebrates the defining factors that have earned the country a reputation for quality and style: the use of luxurious materials; expert textile production; and specialized regional manufacturing.

Organized chronologically, Italian Style charts an economic history of how Italy’s traditional use of high-quality materials and artisanal craftsmanship developed into a global industry. More than 90 garments and accessories by leading Italian fashion houses, including Armani, Dolce & Gabbana, Gucci, Missoni, Prada, Pucci, Valentino and Versace will be on display. Among these objects are ball gowns shown next to their original hand-drawn designs; shoes, including an ornate pair of Dolce & Gabbana stiletto ankle boots; handbags; jewelry; personal letters; maps; photography; and archival footage.

The exhibition begins in the recovery years following World War

II, when Italy’s government aimed to reinvigorate a country weakened in spirit and in physical and financial ruin.

The swift retooling of Italian factories alongside efforts by the country’s many entrepreneurs helped fashion become a cornerstone of Italy’s postwar recovery. As clothing designers and textile manufacturers gradually resumed trading, their stylish designs responded to a hunger for glamour after years of wartime deprivation.

Propelling Italian fashion onto the world stage with a parade of luxury, the landmark Sala Bianca catwalk shows held in Florence in the 1950s stand out as one of the dramatic peaks of this narrative and are widely credited with heralding the birth of Italian fashion as it is known today. When Hollywood films, including The Barefoot Contessa

and Roman Holiday, were shot in Rome in the 1950s and ‘60s, photographs of actors such as Audrey Hepburn, Ava Gardner and Gregory Peck wearing Italian clothing on and off set were captured by the paparazzi, a term made popular by the 1960 film La Dolce Vita.

“The exhibition features dresses and suits worn by movie stars and directors,” explains Frist Center curator Trinita Kennedy, “and even an exquisite Bulgari tremblant brooch of yellow diamonds acquired by Elizabeth Taylor while she was in Rome filming Cleopatra and beginning her passionate affair with Richard Burton. The casual informality of Italian fashion and its graceful nonchalance—what Italians call sprezzatura—were infectious.”

A 1949 mint green Vespa is included in the exhibition and serves as a playful nod to the period’s zeitgeist.

Beginning in the early 1970s, the popularity of couture gave way to enthusiasm for manufactured fashion. By the 1980s, the fashion cognoscenti had embraced designer ready-to-wear as a new fashion language. “This is when Milan emerged as the fashion capital of Italy,” says Ms. Kennedy. “Designers such as Giorgio Armani, Missoni and Gianni Versace offered luxurious

clothes that previously had been possible only when made by hand.”

The designation “Made in Italy” became an international mark of style for a universe of goods by the 1980s, yet Italian-made fashion remained synonymous with family-run businesses and Italy’s famed networks of regional, specialized production, including spinning, dyeing, weaving, cutting and stitching. A digital map of Italy in the exhibition will visualize this landscape of mills, workshops and the clusters of related industries.

The exhibition also includes a series of filmed interviews with key protagonists across the design, manufacturing and media sectors, discussing the challenges and trends that will impact and shape the future of Italian fashion.

Italian Style concludes with a look at the next generation of talent, including couture by Giambattista Valli, bold ready-to-wear from Fausto Puglisi and work from Valentino’s new designer duo Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pierpaolo Piccioli.

Join Sonnet Stanfill, curator of 20th century and contemporary fashion at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, for a special first come, first served Curator’s Perspective Program on June 5 at 6:30 p.m..

culture

studio tenn presents a 'season of modern masters'

by Estella Pan

Studio Tenn 2015 - 2016 Schedule

Concert, Studio Tenn keeps raising the bar when they kick off 2016 with a reprise of the company’s critically acclaimed 2011 production of The Glass Menagerie, featuring the full original cast.

Gypsy, presented

by TNMedia Sept. 17 - Oct. 4 Jamison Hall, The Factory at Franklin

Three weeks of public performances of The Glass Menagerie will take place in the company’s home venue at Jamison Hall.

Through a continued partnership with Humanities Outreach Tennessee (HOT), Studio Tenn will also stage five additional performances for an estimated 1,750 Middle Tennessee students.

It’s A Wonderful Life Dec. 3 - 20 Jamison Hall, The Factory at Franklin Studio Tenn’s Holiday Concert Dec. 15 & 16 Jamison Hall, The Factory at Franklin The Glass Menagerie, presented by TNMedia Feb. 18 - Mar. 6 Jamison Hall, The Factory at Franklin The Ray Legacy: A Tribute to the Soulful Genius April 14 - May 1 Jamison Hall, The Factory at Franklin West Side Story June 3 - 4 Schermerhorn Symphony Center

The Glass Menagerie

photo by Anthony Matula for MA2LA

“The Glass Menagerie is a mainstay of humanities curricula everywhere and is a beautiful fit for our curriculum-based educational programs,” says TPAC President and CEO Kathleen O’Brien.

“Studio Tenn’s production is firstrate, and we are delighted to be working with them to bring this Tennessee Williams masterpiece to life for school groups throughout our area.”

Broadway legends Leonard Bernstein and Stephen Sondheim aren’t the only ones receiving the Studio Tenn treatment for the company’s upcoming 2015-2016 season, they’re also honoring legends of music and the silver screen for their sixth and most ambitious season yet.

The lastest in their original Legacy Series production, Studio Tenn will follow The Glass Menagerie with The Ray Legacy, a theatrical concert celebrating the songs of Ray Charles.

“A Season of Modern Masters” includes selections that are “attributed to mid-century movers and shakers” and “great minds who have shaped modern popular theatre, music and film” according to Studio Tenn Artistic Director Matt Logan.

Finally, the company will close its season with West Side Story, to be performed at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center.

From household Broadway names Leonard Bernstein, Stephen Sondheim, Tennessee Williams, Jule Styne and Arthur Laurents to the silver screen’s Frank Capra and soul icon Ray Charles, Managing Director Jake Speck says the titles represent some significant milestones for Studio Tenn – both in terms of where they have been, and where they have always wanted to go.

Season Tickets will go on sale to the general public on May 4 at studiotenn.com. In addition to the best selection of seats, season ticket holders also receive a 15% discount on the price of admission to each show. For more information about Studio Tenn’s 2015-2016 season, visit www.studiotenn.com. See the sidebar for show dates and location.

Unofficially kicking off with the company’s annual One Night Only fundraiser July 18, Studio Tenn sets the bar high with thir first fall show, the great American musical Gypsy. Followed by the holiday classic It’s A Wonderful Life and Studio Tenn’s Holiday

12 | UNITE MAGAZINE

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photo courtesy of Jack Davis

local star

Knowing that successful organizations build relationships, Davis’ community approach, contributing to stronger relationships between local businesses and residents, has helped drive his success. Davis knows that neighborhoods matter.

“I see a lot of cities Nashville size or larger that have really great community festivals – every neighborhood has their same weekend that everyone in the city knows about and they attend,” Davis says of his trajectory. “I just didn’t see Nashville have that, so I am trying to create that.”

JACK DAVIS

by Dan Groover and Joseph Brownell Chances are if you’ve enjoyed any of Nashville’s neighborhood festivals over the past couple years, you’ve experienced Jack Davis’ hard work. He’s the guy behind the scenes, sometimes in a headset, shuffling seventy schedules, making sure stages are set . . . and smiling the entire time.

Davis’ Nashville journey began at Vanderbilt University, when in 2004, he moved from Missouri to help the university open a new event space. Becoming their Director of Student Centers, over the next decade, Davis steadily built a framework of relationships with both community involvement and his event management experience. Two years ago, he struck out on his own.

“While I was at Vanderbilt, several opportunities presented themselves – like becoming a member of the Pride Board and just getting involved in other events around [Nashville] – so I started doing work on the side,” Davis shared. “As Nashville has grown, it became abundantly clear, two years ago, that I needed to make a decision. I chose to jump out on my own and see if I could make it work.”

As the “JD” in JD Events and Festivals, Davis is making it work.

He is now responsible for coordinating and managing nearly a dozen 2015 events and festivals between Nashville and Louisville including the beloved Tomato Art Fest, May’s Sevier Park Festival and Capitol District Street Fair and the ever-growing Nashville Pride.

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And there’s very little doubt Davis will achieve that.

One only needs to look at Nashville Pride as an example of his influence.

With more than a decade of service on the Nashville Pride Board, Davis has been instrumental in the organization’s evolution. Last year, as Festival Director, Davis led the team that expanded Nashville Pride from a one-day festival to a two-day concert event and festival, complete with a new home.

This year, Davis presides over a weekend date change that puts Nashville Pride on the last weekend in June – a change working strongly in Pride’s

favor, paving the way for the organization to expand its community contacts and the number of events preceding Pride.

So, as Pride gears up for its 27th year – its biggest by far – it’s probably safe to assume Davis has been prepping to pack us back into Public Square Park to parade our Pride. With an exciting entertainment line-up newly announced (see page 24 for more information), this year’s festival will surely build upon last year’s “breakthrough” success.

But Davis doesn’t do it alone. He’s quick to credit the unique community that presents itself during Pride every year, from local businesses and organizations to the hardworking Pride Board and volunteers – especially the volunteers. Amazed at the amount of volunteerism that happens each year with Pride, the numbers far exceed any other event he manages, according to Davis.

So while the Middle Tennessee LGBT community may bring the love, Davis leads the team that gives us a place to share it, celebrate it, dance with it, and be thankful for it. How could you not smile while doing that?

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theatre

Bullets Over Broadway

TPAC Unveils storybook anniversary Season

by Joey Amato

16 | UNITE MAGAZINE

photo by Matthew Murphy

The Tennessee Performing Arts Center (TPAC) will celebrate its 35th anniversary with a storybook lineup that blends long-awaited returns with six of the hottest Broadway titles in its upcoming 2015-16 HCA/TriStar Health Broadway at TPAC series and Broadway special engagements.

“Our theme for the coming year is, ‘Stories you remember, shows you’ll never forget,’” said Kathleen O’Brien, TPAC president and chief executive officer, speaking to a crowd of season ticket holders, group leaders, donors, special

guests, and media. “We wanted to offer audiences a chance to revisit some of their favorite Broadway productions as well as a chance to experience without boundaries the familiar characters, stories, and music from other titles in a way that only Broadway can provide.”

Responding to years of feedback and anticipation from its growing and passionate Broadway fan base, TPAC announced it would bring The Phantom of the Opera to Nashville in a spectacular new production for a two-week run in March 2016. A fitting cornerstone

for TPAC’s 35th anniversary, O’Brien shares that, over multiple engagements, more people have experienced The Phantom of the Opera than any other title among the more than 280 Broadway touring productions presented at TPAC over 35 years.

The beloved blockbuster joins six new Broadway titles making their Nashville debuts, including Dirty Dancing and Bullets Over Broadway, as well as the Tony Award-winning hits Matilda the Musical, Motown: The Musical, The Bridges of Madison County and If/Then.

TPAC also announced a trio of special Broadway presentations, including the first national tour of the 2013 Tony Award-winning Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella, which features a contemporary take on the classic tale.

Other specials include the highly anticipated returns of MAMMA MIA!, and NETworks presents Disney’s Beauty and the Beast.

A partial calendar of the 2015-16 HCA/TriStar Health Broadway at TPAC series and special presentations follows.

Samuel Pergande (Johnny) and Jillian Mueller (Baby) in the North American tour of Dirty Dancing. photo by Matthew Murphy

UNITE MAGAZINE | 17

Reed L Shannon as Michael Jackson (center) with the Jackson 5 Motown: The Musical First National Tour

Dirty Dancing September 22 to September 27, 2015

It’s the summer of 1963, and 17-year-old Frances “Baby” Houseman is on vacation in New York’s Catskill Mountains with her older sister and parents. Baby discovers her own entertainment when she stumbles upon the staff quarters where an all-night dance party is in full swing. Mesmerized by the raunchy dance moves and the pounding rhythms, Baby can’t wait to be part of the scene, especially when she catches sight of Johnny Castle the resort dance instructor. Baby’s life is about to change forever as she is thrown in at the deep end as Johnny’s leading lady both on-stage and off with breathtaking consequences.

An unprecedented live experience, exploding with heart-pounding music, passionate romance, and sensational dancing, and seen by millions across the globe, this worldwide smash hit features the hit songs “Hungry Eyes,” “Hey Baby,” “Do You Love Me?” and the heart-stopping “(I’ve Had) The Time Of My Life.”

Bullets Over Broadway November 10 to November 15, 2015

Hailed by TIME Magazine as, “Musical Theatre Gold!,” Bullets Over Broadway is the hilarious musical comedy about the making of a Broadway show. Written by Woody Allen, with direction and choreography by Susan Stroman and based upon the screenplay of the acclaimed film by Woody Allen and Douglas McGrath, Bullets Over Broadway is the story of a young playwright who, in desperate need of financial backing for his next show, accepts an offer he can’t refuse from a mobster looking to please his showgirl girlfriend. Loaded with big laughs, colorful characters, and the songs that made the ‘20s roar, Bullets Over Broadway is bringing musical comedy back with a bang.

Matilda the Musical January 26 to January 31, 2016

Winner of 50 international awards, including four Tony awards and a record-breaking seven Olivier Awards, including Best Musical, Matilda the Musical is based on the beloved novel by best-selling author Roald Dahl (Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Fantastic Mr. Fox). It is the story of an extraordinary girl who dreams of a better life. Armed with a vivid imagination and a sharp mind, Matilda dares to take a stand and change her destiny. Matilda the Musical is directed by Tony Award winner Matthew Warchus (God of Carnage), who helms this production with a book by Tony Award-winning playwright Dennis Kelly and music and lyrics by Australian comedian, musician and composer Tim Minchin.

18 | UNITE MAGAZINE

photo by Joan Marcus, 2014

Motown: The Musical February 16 to February 21, 2016

It began as one man’s story… became everyone’s music… and is now Broadway’s musical. Motown: The Musical is the true American dream story of Motown founder Berry Gordy’s journey from featherweight boxer to the heavyweight music mogul who launched the careers of Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Smokey Robinson, and many more. Motown shattered barriers, shaped our lives, and made us all move to the same beat. Now, experience it live on stage in the record-breaking smash hit Motown: The Musical!

If/Then June 7 to June 12, 2016

If/Then is a contemporary Broadway musical about living in New York today – and all the possibilities of tomorrow. With unforgettable songs and a deeply moving story by the Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award-winning creators of Next to Normal, this “fascinating, ambitious, and original new musical” (New York Post) simultaneously follows one woman’s two possible life paths, painting a deeply moving portrait of the lives we lead, as well as the lives we might have led.

Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella October 20 to October 25, 2015

Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella is the Tony Award-winning Broadway musical from the creators of The Sound of Music and South Pacific that’s delighting audiences with its contemporary take on the classic tale. This lush production features an incredible orchestra, jaw-dropping transformations and all the moments you love—the pumpkin, the glass slipper, the masked ball and more—plus some surprising new twists! Be transported back to your childhood as you rediscover some of Rodgers + Hammerstein’s most beloved songs, including “In My Own Little Corner,” “Impossible/It’s Possible” and “Ten Minutes Ago,” in this hilarious and romantic Broadway experience for anyone who’s ever had a wish, a dream . . . or a really great pair of shoes.

MAMMA MIA! April 26 to May 1, 2016

MAMMA MIA! is the ultimate feel-good show that has audiences coming back again and again to relive the thrill. Now it’s your turn to have the time of your life at this smash-hit musical that combines ABBA’s greatest hits, including “Dancing Queen,” “S.O.S.,” “Super Trouper,” “Take A Chance on Me,” and “The Winner Takes It All,” with an enchanting tale of love, laughter and friendship. Whether it’s your first visit or your fourteenth, see the show that has the whole world coming back for more, because every time feels like the first time at MAMMA MIA!.

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Grammy Award

image courtesy of Peter Max

ART

speaks to the evolution of America’s most popular living artist.

Peter Max emerged a powerful force in the art world alongside such artists as Robert Rauschenberg, Jackson Pollack, Cy Twombly and Norman Rockwell from the prestigious Art Students League. The League was a formative influence on these artists’ innovative artwork, and has led each and every one to greatness and an important legacy in history.

Max’s Art Students League scholarly influence inspired all of his extraordinary artwork, and of late, his new Masters series.

Interpretive works of Vincent Van Gogh, Monet, Pablo Picasso, Renoir, and Edgar Degas, all conceived in Max’s signature style and colors, these works showcase both a maturation of the artist’s illustrious career, and his formidable training at the 130 year old Art Students League of New York.

With paintings on exhibition in hundreds of museums and galleries worldwide, Peter Max and his vibrant colors have become part of the fabric of contemporary culture. Max has been successively called a pop icon, Neo-Fauvist, Abstract Expressionist and the United States’ “Painter Laureate.”

POP ART TO THE MAX

by Blake Kniffin A never-before-seen collection from art legend Peter Max will be on exhibit and available for acquisition during a presentation at Nashville’s newest art gallery, Music City Fine Art. The carefully curated collection is a museum-like retrospective of Max’s works and will also include new art depicting Nashville’s musical heritage.

Max has assembled a collection of his greatest and most-revered imagery spanning four decades. From his iconic pop art designs commemorating Woodstock and his iconic “Liberty Head” series to the new exquisite Marilyn series, Max’s new exhibit

20 | UNITE MAGAZINE

The artist has had the distinct honor of painting the last seven Presidents of the United States and the world’s most loved celebrities, among them country/pop music sensation Taylor Swift.

Peter Max will make two very special appearances Music City Fine Art on Saturday, May 16 from 6-9 p.m. and Sunday, May 17 from 1-4 p.m.. All appearances are complimentary and open to the public with previews beginning Saturday, May 9. For more information, visit www.musiccityfineart.com

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legal

After the Win: Life Post-Marriage Equality

by Abby R. Rubenfeld When I penned my last reflection for UNITE in December 2014, we were anxiously waiting to see if the United States Supreme Court was going to accept review of the Sixth Circuit ruling against marriage equality in Tennessee, Kentucky, Ohio, and Michigan.

Fortunately, they did and history will be made this spring and summer.

The briefs have been filed: ours for the Tennessee clients and 69 amicus (“friend of the court”) briefs in support of marriage equality, including briefs from the United States and one from 379 major employers and organizations for employers. It

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wasn’t long ago that corporate America did not even notice the LGBT community, and now 379 businesses – including Amazon.com, Apple, Twitter, and the Walt Disney Company – filed a brief to support the community, with zero filing to support discrimination. I never thought this would happen in my lifetime, but here we are.

Arguments were heard on April 28, 2015. We selected two first-class oralists to make arguments: Mary Bonauto and Doug Hallward-Driemeier. Bonauto who successfully argued the first marriage victory, and now will argue what is hopefully the last one, is joined by a partner at Ropes & Gray who has argued 15 cases before SCOTUS and is passionate about marriage quality.

Since the Court terms ends on June 30, 2015, we should hear the results by that date.

Assuming we do win, what does that mean?

Well, on “Day One” as Tennessee Equality Project (TEP) calls it, some county clerks in Tennessee will be ready to go and folks will be able to get married right away. Others will wait for SCOTUS to send down the mandate, which is their official Order from the ruling. Once that comes out, all county clerk offices will be required to comply with the law of the land.

We could have Clerks or Judges who will refuse to comply.

We’ve seen what has been happening in Alabama and have to look no further than 60 years in our past to understand that the implementation of civil rights victories has been traditionally slow in the South.

It took some states 15 years to comply with Brown v. Board of Education; that was 1954 and I went to a segregated school until 1968.

It is certainly possible that we will have formal opposition like what reared its ugly head in Alabama. And we could see the introduction of more so-called “religious freedom” bills in our legislature. These bills seek to allow businesses to discriminate if they claim strong religious beliefs even though marriage equality has nothing to do with their religion, but rather means that the State must be fair in conferring benefits.

Any church or other religious entity that opposes marriage equality as a matter of religious doctrine will still be able to continue that practice. Religious entities will still be able to follow their own religion without governmental intervention. And all of us should support that; we do believe in the mandate of the First Amendment that church and state must stay separate.

After marriages begin in Tennessee, we will eventually get back to normal, but our work will not be done. Our national and state LGBT political organizations will not, unfortunately, be able to close up shop.

We will still be without a federal law prohibiting employment discrimination based on sexual orientation and/or gender identity. This means, sure, you can legally marry your partner of 20 years, but when you tell

your boss, you can be fired, with no recourse, and here in Tennessee, no such statewide law either.

We will still not have full protections for our transgender brothers and sisters.

LGBT youth will still commit suicide at unacceptable rates.

Tennessee law will still not recognize de facto parents.

This means non-biological or legal parents who have helped have and raise children with a partner, are prevented from remaining in their child’s life when the legal parents splits from them.

Sadly, I could go on.

After our win, let’s celebrate big, but after our heads clear, we need to get back to work.

Support community groups, like TEP, Nashville LGBT Chamber and the National Center for Lesbian Rights, which is sponsoring the Tennessee marriage equality case.

Write letters to the editor and speak out against discrimination and injustice. And not just against LGBT people, stand up for all injustice And most importantly, register and actually vote. If we do not elect progressive, fair-minded people, all of our hard fought victories, including marriage equality, could be in jeopardy. If we do not take the responsibility to vote, to speak out, to support our own community, and simply rest on our laurels after the marriage equality victory we hope and anticipate is coming, then our victories could be short-lived.

Protect our victory. We did this together and we will move on to full equality together.

community St. Lucia

Pride Turnabout Show PLAY Dance Bar June 5; 7:00 p.m.

Nashville Pride Pageant PLAY Dance Bar June 7; 7:00 p.m.

Pride Comedy Night Zanie’s Nashville June 10; 7:30 p.m.

Nashville Pride Drag Brunch Pop Nashville June 14; 11:00 am

Nashville Pride Cheat Sheet FIVE THINGS TO KNOW

by Joseph Brownell The bummer of a bimonthly is trying to get as many details as we can for Nashville Pride, some before they are even finalized. With an exciting entertainment lineup announced at the end of April, UNITE offers our Nashville Pride Cheat Sheet: Five Things to Know about this year’s Nashville Pride Festival.

1. The Date: Mark your calendars now because if you thought Nashville Pride would once again prevent you from bumming your way down to Bonnaroo, you’re in for a major surprise. Nashville Pride is actually June 26 and 27 this year.

2. Pride Month: With Pride being at the tail-end of June, it’s opened the door to a host of new events scheduled throughout the entire month of June, so instead of having a Pride weekend,

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it’s like we’re having an entire Pride Month.

Refer to the sidebar for a list of events.

3. Pride Weekend: Yes, we said weekend. In case you missed it, Nashville Pride upgraded last year, growing from a one-day festival to a two-day concert event and festival.

Festivalgoers have two options for Pride general admission: they can purchase a weekend pass which will admit them to both the Friday night concert and Saturday’s festival for $25 or if they plan to attend Saturday’s festival, can pay the $5 festival entrance fee at the gates.

4. Friends with Benefits: Festivalgoers can also upgrade themselves with Nashville Pride’s Friends with Benefits program. Starting with a tax-deductible dona-

Nashville in Harmony Concert TPAC Polk Theatre June 14; 7:00 p.m.

Nashville Sounds Night OUT at the Ballpark First Tennessee Park June 18; 7:30 Gay 5K Shelby Park June 20; 8:00 a.m.

Mayoral Forum for the LGBT & Ally Community Baker Donelson June 23; 6:00 p.m.

Pride Festival Volunteer Meeting OutCentral June 24; 6:00 p.m.

CURB Records Pride Rocks! Pre-Party Location TBA June 25; 6:00 p.m.

Nashville Pride Weekend June 26 - 27

Mýa

tion of $150, festivalgoers can still receive tickets to this year’s Martinis and Jazz (May 7), the Pride Rocks! Pre-Party (June 25) and VIP Nashville Pride Access, which includes access to private seating, 2 drink tickets and snacks.

Drop an extra $50 and Nashville Pride is feeding you a full meal each day, giving you unlimited beer, water and soda, four drink tickets and meet and greets with Nashville Pride entertainment.

photos courtesy of Nashville Pride

The Veronicas

5. Entertainment: Speaking of entertainment, this year’s Pride lineup driven by Bridgestone is once again a firstrate mix of international acts playing, pride circuit artists and local LGBT and ally musicians making their mark in the music world.

Fabulous Cazwell

Internationally, Nashville Pride is bringing South African-born, dream pop artist St. Lucia, whose song “All Eyes on You” was featured in season 1 of the now-de-

funct HBO series Looking, and Australia pop (twin) goddesses The Veronicas, who are poised to reclaim their notability with their self-titled return to music released late last year.

Nashville Pride also welcomes Grammy award-winning, R&B sensation Mýa. Best remembered for her verse in the 2001 “Lady Marmalade” remake featuring P!nk, Lil’ Kim and Christina Aguilera, Mýa brings her platinum selling hits “Ghetto Superstar” and “My Love is Like . . . Wo” to the Nashville Pride Stage.

After a successful Knoxville Pride performance last year, Cazwell will bring his beats and rhymes to the Nashville Pride stage.

Rounding out the entertainment is Nashville-based soulful sister Shelly Fairchild, Sinclair, *repeat repeat, Hank and Cupcake, Indiana Queen and RuPauls Drag Race Winner and Cher impersonator Chad Michaels.

E l e c t L a s i t e r. c o m

health

FOUNDATIONS FOR PERSONAL PRIDE

by Brian Hooper, MDiv, PsyD

Pride is well established in the LGBT community as an opportunity to have fun and assert to the world that we exist and will accept nothing less than the dignity and justice claimed by the rest of our nation.

guish between what truly causes the strings of your heart to resonate with your deepest values versus the siren song of popular opinion or culture, between conformity to the expectations of peers and being a leader among them.

Pride week is about “us” as a community; it is something we have in common. It asserts that collectively we bring a certain sensibility about such issues as justice, diversity, respect, and inclusion that are noteworthy in the larger public sphere.

Integrity: Those who have engaged in the struggle to be authentic, in order to remain so, naturally, move to the integration of the values of their authentic selves and the choices they make in all aspects and relationships of their lives. They can critique themselves and others without being critical or judgmental. They walk their talk, and their walk speaks louder than their words. They become a living word and that word is a witness to the potential of anyone to positively affect their world.

At the same time, the “us” that is the LGBT community is made up of individuals. Here, the perspective shifts. The emphasis moves from what we offer the world from our collective table to who we are as individuals at that table.

So, the question remains. What does it mean for me – for you – to have Pride? When the parade is over, the last drink consumed, or the final song sung – then what? What is the locus of your pride or mine?

I would suggest four key elements of personal pride, no matter your sexual orientation.

Authenticity: Dare to be authentic, genuine, real.

“Know thyself,” says an ancient Greek proverb, but this takes work, deep soul-searching work. It requires an ability to observe oneself and distin-

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Maturity: The root of the word maturity is found in its Latin origin meaning “timely, ripe.” In the case at hand, we are talking about maturity of perspective, not simply the attainment of a certain chronological age. A mature perspective can see a thing for what it is and requires an advanced level of objectivity. Such objectivity is necessary for unprejudiced connections to be made between people as well as to live justly with others. When a mature person speaks, they offer the fruit of authentic self-observant restraint and the rigors of daring to engage issues and individuals directly yet non-defensively.

Generativity: Maturity gives rise to fruitfulness. A mature generativity moves from the exuberance of simply being out and connected to others who are as well, to working for further support for this freedom and wholeness in those who are recipients of it.

Said differently, generativity longs to further develop an environment where authenticity, integrity, and maturity can thrive and fosters generativity in others so that they may bear good fruit. Without a capacity for generativity, the result is a self-focused stagnation.

Pride celebrations will come and go but the opportunity to further develop a life about which we can be proud remains a daily one. For how far you have come, celebrate.

To the challenges that remain, hold your head high and know that you are not alone.

You are an important source of our pride.

Brian Hooper, M.Div., Psy.D. is a licensed pastoral psychotherapist with a private practice in the Belle Meade area of Nashville.

He invites you to visit his website www.drbrianhooper.com.

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GRAMMY GALLERY

COMES TO THE MUSICIANS HALL OF FAME

by Joey Amato

Mayor Karl Dean recently announced the Grammy Gallery, an exciting partnership between the Grammy Museum and Music City, and unveiled his plan for Metro’s contribution to the immersive, educational experience. The Grammy Gallery is expected to open August 2015 inside the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum.

“The Grammy Museum’s decision to build a Grammy Gallery at the Musicians Hall of Fame is a huge honor and a big win for Nashville,” Mayor Dean said. “There’s no better place than Music City for the Grammy Gallery, which explores the history of music’s most prestigious award and celebrates the recording process and everything that goes into making the songs we love.”

The Grammy Gallery at Musicians Hall of Fame is a one-of-a-kind public-private partnership that repurposes an historic city property at a fraction of new construction cost while adding a unique destination and experience for Music City visitors and residents.

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“An important part of our mission at the Grammy Museum is celebrating the creative process of making music.”

The city has proposed a $1 million contribution to the not-for-profit Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum for the construction and operation of the Grammy Gallery. Mayor Dean said the city’s contribution will come from the Metropolitan Government’s 4% Fund, which is used for facility improvements and equipment purchases.

Private contributors are expected to raise between $500,000 to $1 million to match the city’s funds.

The more than 7,000-square-foot space will tie modern technology with the art of making music through educational interactive stations that allows visitors to explore the creative process of making music. From songwriting and singing to producing, mixing and engineering, adults and children alike will release their inner artist in the hands-on, immersive environment.

“An important part of our mission at the Grammy Museum is celebrating the creative process of making music,” said Bob Santelli of the Grammy Museum. “We are excited to develop our one-of-akind interactive experiences at the Musicians Hall of Fame that will explore the intricacies of the recording process, from beginning to end, in a city where so much great music is made.”

In addition to the interactive experience, the Grammy Gallery will explore the role of the DJ in music, include a 3-D view of the making of the iconic gramophone-shaped award and reveal the history of the Grammy Awards.

With the addition of the Grammy Gallery to the Musicians Hall of Fame, the first floor of the Historic Municipal Auditorium will be transformed into 60,000-plus square feet of extraordinary music related exhibits, one-of-a- kind educational opportunities, and top-quality event space.

“The Musicians Hall of Fame is a diverse multi-genre museum, much like the Grammy Museum,” said Joe Chambers of the Musicians Hall of Fame. “Our collection of iconic musical instruments that have been used in the studio and live by some of the greatest musicians in the world, married with the Grammy Museum’s state-of-the-art, interactive and educational gallery, will be a great experience for all visitors to Music City.”

The Grammy Gallery, along with a significant expansion of the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum, is scheduled to open to the public in early August. With a single ticket, patrons will gain admission to both the Grammy Gallery and Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum.

For more information, visit the Musicians Hall of Fame online at www.musicianshalloffame.com.

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Born in St. Petersburg, Florida, Frohne moved to Sevierville, Tennessee as a young boy as his mother fled his abusive father. Frohne eventually returned to Florida and began a career in the restaurant industry in his late teens. Chef Frohne’s culinary resume includes more than ten years of experience in positions such as chef de cuisine at top Zagat-rated Six Tables Fine Dining at the Peninsula Inn & Spa in St. Petersburg, Fla., winery chef at AAA Four Diamond-rated Chateau Elan Winery & Resort outside of Atlanta, and executive sous chef at Nashville’s Bluegrass Yacht & Country Club.

Frohne was also the mastermind behind underground pop-up dinner club Forage South, a monthly collaborative dining experience hosted in private homes, which garnered a cult following and regularly sold out in minutes.

DINING

Chef Brandon Frohne uses influences from his European, Appalachian and Southern roots in his approach to contemporary American cuisine. Sourcing his ingredients from neighboring farms and local artisan purveyors, chef Frohne creates Mason’s seasonally influenced dishes enriches simple ingredients with his creative style.

By utilizing the local culinary community, Frohne continues to enhance Mason’s culinary program and provides guests with a distinctive dining experience that highlights his diverse familial heritage.

Chef Brandon Frohne

photo courtesy of Mason’s

CHEF BRANDON FROHNE

THE MAN BEHIND THE MENU AT MASON’S

by Jesse Walker Despite his delinquent past, being chopped not once, but twice, and never attending culinary school, Chef Brandon Frohne is cooking circles around some of his culinary colleagues. And if you haven’t yet dined on the delicious Southern-inspired dinners he’s serving at Mason’s and Mason Bar in the Loews Hotel, what are you waiting for?

The rising star chef is not only creating some of the most ambitious food Nashville has noshed on for lunch and dinner, his food brand Forage South is invading your breakfast with their beloved Bluebird Biscuits.

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Chef Frohne’s culinary creativity has been recognized by local and national press including Nation’s Restaurant News, Forbes Travel, Southern Living, Taste of the South, Nashville Lifestyles, The Tennessean and more. In March 2015, Frohne was honored to serve his second dinner at the James Beard House in New York City; his first dinner was a special Southern Thanksgiving in November 2013. He has made television appearances on Food Network’s Chopped and Chopped Redemption as well as the Travel Channel’s Chow Masters. Chef Frohne has participated in numerous culinary challenges and received the People’s Choice Award at the 2011 and 2012 Savor Nashville Chef Challenges as well as reached the Semi-Finalist round in the 2012 World Chef Challenge and placed as the runner-up in the 2012 International Biscuit Festival. When not in the Mason’s kitchen, Chef Frohne spends time cooking with his wife and three children at their home in Nashville.

Mason’s and Mason Bar is located inside the Loews Hotel at 2100 West End Avenue. Lunch is served 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and dinner from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.. Brunch is served Saturday and Sunday. For reservations, call (615) 321-1990.

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theatre

Gabrielle Sinclair, Bianca Sams, Tori Keenan-Zelt, and Nate Eppler

photo by Shane Burkeen

NASHVILLE REP BRINGS THE BRAND SPANKIN' NEW

by Jesse Walker If you’re looking for the latest in talented playwrights, look no further than Nashville Repertory Theatre’s Ingram New Works Festival May 6 – 16. The ten day festival features staged readings of five brand spankin’ new plays, including the debut of a new work from Pulitzer Prize-winner and Ingram New Works Fellow Donald Margulies.

The Ingram New Works Project gives playwrights an opportunity to develop new theatre works while in residency at Nashville Rep. Each year, the Project selects a Fellow and three Lab playwrights who all work together with Nashville Rep’s Playwright in Residence to develop their new works. For Nashville Rep’s 201415 season, the Ingram New Works

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Fellow is Pulitzer Prize-winner Donald Marguiles, the Lab playwrights are Tori Keenan-Zelt, Bianca Sams and Gabreille Sinclair, and Nashville Rep’s Playwright in Residence is Nate Eppler.

Readings will take place beginning at 7 p.m. each evening in Nashville Rep’s rehearsal hall, Studio A at Nashville Public Television (161 Rains Avenue). Talkbacks immediately follow each reading. Admission is $10 per person, or a Festival Pass to see one reading of each play is available for $35. Reservations can be made online at www.NashvilleRep.org.

The complete Festival schedule is listed below, along with brief descriptions of each show.

The Ice Treatment by Nate Eppler Readings: May 6 & 16 The world’s most infamous Olympic Figure Skater reinvents herself as a screenwriter by pitching the blockbuster screenplay of her own life story. It might not be factual, but it’s all true.

Unfinished Children by Gabrielle Sinclair Readings: May 7 & 11 In her parents’ empty house, somewhere in North Carolina on the border of where she was and where she’s going next, a pregnant woman in perpetual process em-

Tori Keenan-Zelt

photo by Shane Burkeen

braces ritual to co-host her own doomed “gender reveal party,” where the act of cutting into and eating a very strange cake will reveal not only her child’s biological fate but the attendees’ darkest secrets and dreams. A Southern play about our need for ritual, baked goods, and the cost of escaping life in the in-between.

Simply Bess by Bianca Sams Readings: May 8 & 12 Simply Bess follows a young African American actress trying to make a name for herself. We see her backstage trials and tribulations on the 1950s European tour of Porgy and Bess, sponsored by the American State Department as a way to combat communist propaganda about racial problems in the United States.

Air Space by Tori Keenan-Zelt Readings: May 9 & 15 A young couple buys a $500 foreclosure in a small Rust Belt city. As they try to flip the house, they discover that the couple who built it never left and has been secretly living in the walls. A darkly surreal comedy about weird smells, lost things, family, and what we hold on to when nothing that we do is enough.

A new work by Donald Margulies Readings: May 13 & 14 Margulies is a Pulitzer Prize-winning American playwright and professor of English at Yale University. He served as Playwright-in-Residence at Sundance Playwright Conference for three summers, and has won a Lucille Lortel Award, an American Theatre Critics Award, two Los Angeles Drama Critics Awards, two OBIE Awards, two Dramatists Guild Hull-Warriner Awards, five Drama Desk Award nominations, two Pulitzer Prize nominations and one Pulitzer Prize.

TICKETS AVAILABLE AT ALL OUTLETS, KROGER, THE RYMAN BOX OFFICE, RYMAN.COM OR ( 800 ) 745 - 3000

culture

Nashville Ballet ANNOUNCES 30TH ANNIVERSARY SEASON Nashville Ballet Artistic Director & CEO Paul Vasterling photo by Anthony Matula

Peter Pan (featuring the Nashville Symphony) September 18-20 TPAC’s Jackson Hall

Nashville Ballet celebrates its upcoming 30th anniversary season with the organization’s favorite ballets, stories and artists. The 2015-2016 performance season will include recent favorites Peter Pan and Attitude, repertory classics Nashville’s Nutcracker, Dracula and Carmina Burana, and the world premiere of Layla.

Peter Pan 2013

“To celebrate our 30th anniversary season, we are bringing back some of the biggest stories throughout the last 30 years as well as presenting brand new works,” Nashville Ballet Artistic Director & CEO Paul Vasterling said. “What started as six dancers has become one of the most well-known regional professional companies in the South, thanks to the support, generosity and devotion of Nashville.”

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Dracula with Afternoon of a Faun and Satto October 22-24 TPAC’s Polk Theater

Dracula 2007

photos by Marianne Leach

Season tickets for Nashville Ballet’s 2015-2016 performance season are currently on sale and can be purchased at www. nashvilleballet.com or by calling (615) 297-2966 x710. Tickets to individual performances go on sale Wednesday, July 1.

After a successful premiere in 2013, Nashville Ballet returns to the magical world of Neverland, following Peter on his adventures with the villainous Captain Hook, a man-eating crocodile and the meddling Tinker Bell. With choreography

by Nashville Ballet’s own Vasterling, this epic, family-friendly production tells the classic story of the boy who doesn’t want to grow up.

Just in time for Halloween, Dracula’s classic tale of love, lust and blood returns to Nashville Ballet for the first time since 2007.

Vasterling’s original choreography resurrects the craving for all things sensual and forbidden, exploring the carnal desires and yearning emotions of the body and heart. Dracula is set to the classical sounds of Czech composer Bohuslav Martinů.

“Based loosely on Bram Stoker’s Dracula, this production is not a literal translation but more of an abstract depiction of the major events and emotions of this gothic tale. It’s dark and sensual and the perfect way to celebrate Halloween,” Vasterling said.

Dracula 2007

Afternoon of a Faun and Satto, both choreographed by the late Salvatore Aiello, complement Dracula with their sensual stories of a Faun coming of age and the dance between a falling leaf and the God of Wind.

Nashville’s Nutcracker (feat. the Nashville Symphony) December 5-23 TPAC’s Jackson Hall Nashville’s version of the timeless classic returns for the eighth season, celebrating the joy and wonder of the holidays. More than 200 dancers perform to tell the tale of young Clara as she goes on a fantastic adventure through the Land of Snow and the Kingdom of Sweets, visiting with beloved characters from Nashville’s historic past, as well as the magical Sugar Plum Fairy, the Mouse King, her Nutcracker and more.

Attitude with Petite Mort and Outerborough February 11-14 TPAC’s Polk Theater This acclaimed annual series brings the best of Nashville’s thriving arts community together to highlight some of the most unique and inspirational collaborations in Music City. Thought-provoking, contemporary ballet with live music from local musicians infuses some of the city’s finest talent into the world of dance.

This year’s presentation of Attitude features the revival of 2014’s Petite Mort, the Nashville Ballet premiere of Outerborough choreographed by the renowned James Sewell, and a collaboration with Music City musicians and favorite guest choreographers to be announced at a later date.

“Nashville Ballet’s Attitude series is a wonderful way to build community and inspire new creative connections,” Vasterling said.

“Presenting new forms of art and collaborating with talented local musicians and guest choreographers illustrates how passionate we are about creating innovative art of all kinds. Attitude is the embodiment of Nashville’s thriving, collaborative arts community.”

Carmina Burana with the World Premiere of Layla April 21-24 TPAC’s Jackson Hall Performed by almost 300 artists, Carmina Burana returns with one of the most recognizable pieces of music in the world by Carl Orff.

The Nashville Children’s Choir, the Nashville Symphony Orchestra Chorus, the Nashville Symphony and featured guests vocalists join Nashville Ballet dancers on stage for this production of epic proportions. Based on a collection of 13th century poems written by clergy and theology students, Carmina Burana and Vasterling’s choreography examine love, fortune and the cycle of life.

“Carmina Burana is such a grand, impressive production,” Vasterling said. “It’s truly one of my favorites to share with Nashville and to have the opportunity to present it during our 30th anniversary season alongside Layla, which is a new piece I’ve been working on for a while now, is a real treat.”

Layla is an original ballet adaptation of the pre-Muslim, Middle Eastern myth of Layla and Majnun. Presented to original music by renowned American composer Richard Danielpour, this multi-cultural ballet delves deeply into the nature of love and devotion, reminiscent of Romeo and Juliet, and ultimately exposes the true nature of an artist.

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OUR LIVES WOULD SUCK WITHOUT KELLY CLARKSON

by Chris Azzopardi

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photo courtesy of RCA Records

Before catapulting to pop stardom, Kelly Clarkson was one of us. In many ways, she still is.

The original American Idol, who memorably erupted into waterworks when she won the first season of the reality show in 2002, wasn’t always able to muster the willpower she’s instilled in the gay community through her uncompromising persona and liberating pop anthems, including those on her latest album, Piece by Piece.

That’s just the charm of Clarkson, who opens up in our new interview about overcoming teen inferiorities, diehard lesbian fans who call themselves “Kezbos,” driving Bette Midler to “suicide,” and that night she sipped some wine, felt “sad” for our generation and wrote a powerful song about it.

OK, Kelly, take my hand.

I wanna go back with you.

when I was a kid, and he’s like, “You’re our new Bette!”

(Laughs) I was like, “You need to aim higher. Bette Midler just shot herself! I’m not that cool, but I will work on gaining the respect of that compliment.”

Is it hard to fathom yourself a gay icon?

I guess it’s hard to fathom you can be an icon in general. I don’t consider myself an icon at all, but no – I have a lot of gay and lesbian friends and they like my stuff, so I guess it’s not so hard for me to think (the gay community) might like my music. But I don’t know ... I’m not an icon.

I’ve only been doing this for 13 years. You’ve gotta be doing it for a good 20 to gain that status.

When it comes to your strong bond with the gay community, how do you explain that connection?

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The imagery!

Tell me the moment in your career you first knew gay people worshipped at your altar.

(Laughs) Oh my god – that’s amazing! It was the Breakaway World Tour (in 2005) – the first tour for the Breakaway record – and it was so awesome.

One girl on tour came up and just introduced herself and was like, “I’m a Kezbo,” and I was like, “What?!” She was like, “A Kezbo – your lesbian fans.” And I was like, “Wait – there’s enough of you to have a group? That’s amazing! Awesome! Go me!”

And she was like, “Yeah, we just love you. We’re gonna bring you to the other side.” And I was like, “All right, well, keep trying!”

Then, on the same tour, I had this guy, and he was so funny!

Because, you know I’m a huge fan of Bette Midler and have been since I saw For the Boys

I have a connection, but I don’t look at it differently. I don’t ever look at a fan as a gay fan or a lesbian fan or a straight fan – I don’t ever look at that. Fans are fans, and no matter what our lives are like, no matter what path we’re on, music is the one thing that connects us. I mean, I had so much fun at this club recently. It’s called G-A-Y – this club in London – and everybody knew all the words to every song.

Even the new one! And they were gay and straight and lesbian – everybody was there. It didn’t matter, and it was just really cool.

It was a cool event, and it was fun. And it’s what I love about music – that it doesn’t matter.

That’s what connects us.

What was your very first time at a gay bar like?

Oh gosh – that would’ve been in LA, and I was probably 22.

I went with some of my friends and a couple of my gay friends, and they were like, “You’re gon-

na love this! But you’re gonna need to wear a hat.”

They played “Since U Been Gone,” and it was so funny because nobody knew I was there. I had a blast!

The awesome thing, for girls especially: Because most gay bars that I’ve been to – and I guess I’ve been to four or five – are all gay men and not lesbians, and being a straight female, you don’t get hit on the whole time, you don’t get people grabbing you or, like, being gross. There’s no judgment, and it’s just fun. You’re not worried about going, “No, thank you, I can buy my own drinks.”

It’s the most fun club and fun time you’ll ever have in your life.

The song “Invincible” alludes to overcoming self-doubts and insecurities. In your own life, when did you most experience those hurdles, and when did you finally accept yourself for who you are?

In high school, and you know, I was having a hard photo courtesy of RCA Records time. I guess all people go through it – it’s just a different time period for all of us. When I was a sophomore in high school, it was the one time (in my friends in choir with me. I think everybody knew (they were gay), but it wasn’t talked my life) I felt like I was insecure. It was just an about or anything. awkward stage for me. Well, as was junior high, but I just wasn’t aware of it yet. (Laughs) Honestly, I grew up in such a creative environment. Even in our choral group – even with my friends – nobody really talked about it, nobody was against or for it. There I’ve always been different. I’ve never been the girl that were no flags of any kind – of race, of who liked who. I feel like I grew up in a really has to feel like she has to get all dolled up every day. I’ve incredibly good bubble. I never experienced people hating – no hate crimes or anyalways been kind of a tomboy. I’ve always been very thing like that – until well into the industry. With _Idol_, people would say hateful outspoken, and, you know, my mom is too. I don’t things about certain contestants on the show, and I was like, “What in the world?!” I, know any other way to be. It’s just my personality. fortunately, grew up in a world where that wasn’t a huge issue.

In my sophomore year of high school, I got a little insecure about (my personality), because girls can be mean and I got the lead in this role in choir. No sophomore was ever supposed to get it, so people were just really mean about it. And, like, _mean_.

Worse than the movie! (Laughs) It made me insecure, and not so much (in regard to) my music or as a singer or an artist – just me as a person. I was like, “Is there something wrong (with me)?” I would go, “But I think I’m a good friend.”

That was the only time that I was really doubtful of my person. But I got over that real quick!

I gotta ask about your baby girl, River Rose.

Because she’s magical. She’s a magical unicorn.

You know, in some circles, the unicorn is a gay symbol.

Oh, I didn’t know that! But I love it. That’s what I call my baby!

Speaking of which, how might you and your hubby handle it if River turned out to be lesbian?

Oh, I don’t care. I mean, here’s what I hope for her: I just hope she finds love. It took me a while, man. And there was a lot of heartache throughout those years. You know, as long as she’s happy, I don’t care either way, and neither does my husband. And we have two other kids as well, and we don’t care either way for all of them.

Growing up in small-town Texas, when did you get your first taste of gay culture?

If one of them were to come out to you, what would you say?

Did you even know gay people then?

Oh yeah. Yeah! Nobody was outspoken like they are now. I think it’s a more comfortable – well, I don’t know. A couple of friends of mine just recently came out to their parents and one was just about the most horrible situation ever. So I think that still happens, unfortunately. But when I was a kid, I had a couple of

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I’d be like, “Awesome! When do we meet him or her?” Honestly, it’s so funny, it doesn’t even register in my world as different. I don’t know why. But yeah, it doesn’t. I’m glad it doesn’t!

During the song “I Had a Dream,” which you wrote about setting an example for future generations, you say, “Spreading your legs instead of using your words.” Older generations often criticize

the industry for peddling so much sex. When you look out at pop culture currently, where do you stand concerning its use of sex? And how satisfied are you with the examples these artists are setting for people like your kids and future generations?

There’s a reason why women have been revered as long as we have been – even back in the day most statues are of us; most paintings are of us – (and it’s because) we’re a beautiful form, and I get it. I get that that is sexy and I’m so in support of that. I love a sexy video. I don’t even mind raciness. I don’t mind that at all.

I just mind when people use that as the entire basis of their career.

The only reason that I say that is because I feel those people are short-sighting themselves. I’m like, “You’re far more talented than that.” Yes, you can be sexy and risqué, but some of these women have these amazing voices and these amazing ideals, and they have more to offer than just that.

The song actually came about because I was sitting around with some friends – we were all drinking some wine – and I was like, “Man, when you were 10 were you not just so excited about our generation and what we were gonna accomplish?” And then you look now and we’re still talking about race and we’re still talking about equal rights for everyone – didn’t you think we’d be past that? Didn’t you think we’d be more? I ended up writing a song about that because it’s just kind of a sad thing. I just felt like our generation – I think we could’ve been more. It was just a sad moment for me, reflecting.

Gosh. That’s real deep, Kelly.

(Laughs) I can go dark real quick!

Why was it important for you to include a gay couple getting engaged in the “Heartbeat Song” video?

What’s funny is, I wasn’t even actually the one who picked all the people! Marc (Klasfeld), the director, and his team did. But it was funny, because I was doing an interview here in Nashville at one of the radio stations and one of the DJs there was like, “I’m gonna be in your video tomorrow!” And I was like, “Whaaaat?” And he was like, “Yeah! I asked if I could bring my boyfriend and they said yes.”

We had no idea that his boyfriend – I mean, he didn’t know either – was gonna propose to him on the set! At first he thought it was part of the video. He didn’t get it at first, and that’s why he was like, “Are you for real? I don’t get it.”

But it was the coolest thing that ended up happening, but none of that, honestly, was planned. It just kind of happened, and it was a beautiful thing.

And it’s sending an important message, don’t you think?

I think it’s silly that we’re still talking about gay rights. I just live in this world where people are accepted, so it’s very hard for me to even realize that that still exists. It’s hard for me to wrap my brain around it. That (gay couple) was a no-brainer, and I didn’t even think, “Oh, I’m making a statement for gay rights.” I was making a statement for the loss of love and the hope that you can still find it, regardless of what form that comes in. It wasn’t a purposeful thing. Love is love in whatever relationship it may be in.

Chris Azzopardi is the editor of Q Syndicate, the international LGBT wire service.

Reach him via his website at www.chris-azzopardi.com.

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Getting Real ABOUT ROSÉ

by Shawn Klumpjan Spring is my favorite time of year.

I love the resurgence of life, leaves, buds, and blossoms; they remind me of one of my favorite wines.

Being an equal-opportunity sipper, I am here to tell you that while I have many favorite wines, Rosé or Blush wines are a style that is near and dear to my heart.

I know that when we talk about Rosé, White Zinfandel instantly comes to mind. Good or bad, it is one of America’s top-selling wines.

We love sweet wine and consume tons of it every year. With that, I confess that I don’t detest sweet wines – a a great dessert wine is essential to an exceptional dining experience – but I am here to clarify what Rosé is all about.

First, Rosé is simply a wine that has had a little more contact with the skin of the grape. This contact is where the pink color comes from since the pigment from the skin of the grape gives a wine its color. Rosé can be still or bubbly and can be represented by a broad spectrum of grape

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varieties. There is a style and flavor for every thirsty soul.

Rosé ranges from sweet to dry and therefore can be paired with and enhance the flavor of any culinary creations. I get so excited about Rosé simply because it can be paired with everything: seafood, chicken, and since we live in Tennessee, BBQ is a perfect pairing for Rosé.

Spring and early summer means that grills and people come together to celebrate and Rosé is certianly a wine that will wow your guests. They may judge the color but the flavors that are enhanced when BBQ and Rosé make that connection is unforgettable.

Trust me. What I have discovered with my addiction to Hot Chicken is that semi-sweet blush wines are a perfect match; there’s just nothing better than Prince’s Hot Chicken with a glass of White Zinfandel.

Good GOD that felt good to confess!

Rosé is one of those wines that get a bad reputation and for no other reason except for the poor examples that have been consumed en mass for years. Even though it can be a cheap wine, Rosé is an amazing style that deserves attention.

To find the perfect Rosé, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, consider your own preferences (sweet, semi-sweet, dry). Second, look for those creative individual bottles of Rosé that you may never have heard of before. Finally, ask questions and recommendations about style and opinions.

Stepping outside the box and taking an adventure with your taste buds will reveal something surprising when the cork is pulled. Take an opportunity to venture down a path with Rosé and realize what this wine can contribute to an experience. The possibilities are endless and with a great Rosé, nothing else than a comfortable blanket, porch or seat outside is necessary.

And let’s be real, put Rosé on the menu of your next BBQ! You won’t be disappointed. DeVVineGuy promises!

Seven tips for picking the perfect Rosé: 1. Rosé can come from any grape variety.

2. Rosé can come from any region of the world.

3. Rosé is best when it is young (age doesn’t work well in this category).

4. Rosé can be bone dr y or sweet. Ask what “style” the wine represents.

5. You don’t need to spend more than $20 on a bottle.

6. Rosé can make amazing refreshing cocktails.

7. When in doubt about a quality Rosé, think France.

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