V-Rag Magazine #21 - April 2011

V-rag vancouver's gay arts + culture rag

april 2011 issue 21

V a n R a g a z i n e

Tabatha Kasha Kennedy Aerea Negrot Javier Peres Wiggle 17

www.v-rag.com

V-rag

2 june 2010 Issue 12

Tanning

at the Speed of Light

Formerly Pacific Sun Co.

Come in and check out our new look!

WESTEND / DOWNTOWN 1060 Davie Street Vancouver, BC V6E 1M3 604-331-8267

Find us on FACEBOOK! UVAB Tanning

V-rag

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V-rag

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V a n R a g a z i n e

april2011

04 editor's note Time to whip your hair...

08 aĂŠrea negrot

The new voice of Hercules & Love Affair

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javier peres

12

tabatha coffey

16

wiggle 17

18

wiggle it

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1 girl 5 gays: mike

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calendar of events

26

joan-e's rag

27

cotton around town

28

live on stage

The undisputed king of the art world

Celebrity hair stylist and Bravo host

The annual wig festival turns seventeen

A preview of some of this year's wild styles

Q&A with MTV star Mike Yerxa

The city's most comprehensive calendar

April Fool??

April showers... make your hair wet!

Terry Costa interviews Septimius the Great

wayoutwest 29

Download MobileTag and let's get started!

good time charlie 30

Charlie David goes to Sonoma County

health & wellness 32

Spring ahead – April is Running Month

film:notes 34

Love and Other Drugs, Sucker Punch

music:notes 35

Naked and Famous, Ellie Goulding, Friiiday

book:notes 36

The Jack Reacher Novels, Children of the Arbat

a view from the top 38

Kate McLaren captures Mogo on the roof

event listings 42

V-Rag's favourite picks for this month

nightlife in vancouver 43 Your weekly barhopping guide

v-map 44

Don't get lost! Find everything here

dj kasha kennedy 46

q&a: The hottest lady of Vancouver electro

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april 2011 Issue 21

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vanragazine #21

V-rag V a n R a g a z i n e

With over 15,000 monthly readers, V-Rag Magazine is Vancouver's largest monthly gay & lesbian publication.

Music, film, arts and culture, all with a homoclectic flare!

Become a fan to be entered into exclusive monthly contests and draws; just email us fans@v-rag.com

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Editor's

Note

April means HAIR at V-Rag and we've got a seriously hairy issue this month! Celebrity salon queen Tabatha Coffey talks about her hit Bravo show Tabatha's Salon Takeover, and her book It's Not About The Hair. Be sure to see this stylish diva at the ABA Hair Show this month. April 16th marks the return of Wiggle: The Wearable Art and Performance Extravaganza, now in its 17th year. Better start work on your weave now if you haven't already...

Also in this issue, the newest addition to disco-house troupe Hercules & Love Affair; Aérea Negrot is one talented transexual! We got to sit down with Javier Peres and talk all things art, fashion, Oscars and James Franco.

Terry Costa interviews Septimius the Great for Live on Stage and Mike Yerxa answers all our questions in this month's 1 girl 5 gays.

Not only is there hair galore, but also some great fashion spreads this month. Kate McLaren does double duty, photographing the boys of Mogo Wear in A View from the Top, as well as the latest wild styles to come at this year's Wiggle 17. Find a warm dry place to read this! V Editor & Art Director Cole Johnston • cole@v-rag.com Editorial Contributors Lana Chunn Terry Costa Miss Cotton Charlie David Rob Farrow Jason Goodwin Joan-E Cole Johnston Jason Keller Jeff Lawrence Jason McColl Pop Trash Addict Mike Michael Venus Printed by East Van Graphics

Publisher Cole Johnston Design Art & Photography Robert Brecko Candybird Peter Griffith Nicholas Jang Javier Lovera Kate McLaren modelnv.com Hama Sanders Rafael Scovino Cover Photo by Hama Sanders www.hamasanders.com courtesy of www.behindthechair.com

Copy deadline for the May issue is April 20. Ad space is available until April 23 and can be booked by calling 604831-8179 or emailing ads@v-rag.com. Our rates are available upon request. V-Rag welcomes submissions but accepts no responsibility for the return of unsolicited materials.

V-Rag Magazine 1535 West Broadway, PO Box 29141 Vancouver B.C. V6J 1W6 V-Rag is printed monthly by Cole Johnston Design. No part of this may be reproduced in any form by any means without prior written consent from the publisher.

All content © 2011 Cole Johnston Design.

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www.v-rag.com

Who is...

MOGOMaxx?

www.mogowear.com

vanragazine #21

Oakridge Centre, Vancouver

AWARD-WINNING DOWNTOWN VANCOUVER CONDO SPECIALIST

www.blairsmith.ca 604.313.8732 HELPING YOU MAKE ALL THE RIGHT MOVES.

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MOGO Wear & Little Sisters present...

PowerofG

Discover the new face of

MOGO WEAR An event in support of

OUT IN SCHOOLS & LOUD FEATURING

Conni Smudge The Bobbers Tyrell Witherspoon Matthew Presidente Iona Whipp DJ Mumbles Short Film Presentation MOGO Fashion Show Y RESPONDS TO BULLYING Silent Auction Grab Bags & Prizes

AND ABOUT

to thank each and every one of you who supporting OUT! and about on Oct. 23rd. ur Community partners and sponsors who t annual and donated so generously!

J event Lounge 7pm

Thurs April 28 1216 Bute (off Davie)

www.jlounge.ca Munch Restaurant 560 Club

The Fountainhead Pub

Numbers Cabaret

Tickets Pacific $20Sun Co. J Lounge

Available in advance at Little Sisters,Pumpjack Masc Pub and Mine:Stylesourse Spruce Body Lab www.mogowear.com The Junction

. . and . others Find out more at

www.outinschools.com

and www.cargocollective.com/tylerpentland

& East Van graphics

www.mogowear.com

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photo by rafael scovino

vanragazine #21

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Negrot

I

by Cole Johnston

t's almost impossible to categorize Venezuelan-born Aérea Negrot. With strong influences from ballet and opera, she's created a completely unique and utterly complex artistic persona. From early work doing interpretive dance to her solo electro recordings, Negrot has never been boring. Recently she lent her sumptuous vocal talents to Blue Songs, the latest album from Hercules & Love Affair. On it, she manages to not only match Antony Hegarty's inimitable vocals, but expands on them in a way that conjures up comparisons to Grace Jones and Boy George. This is one talented transexual and we're incredibly lucky to talk to her.

First off, what a beautiful name! Where does it come from?

Aérea Negrot was the name some friend gave me... when I started to perform. At that time I was working in a fairly well-known hotel, dating a few flight attendants from various airlines... my airline obsession started from a very early age. Negrot is a mixture of names of two famous latin american singers: Toña la Negra and Olga Guillot; you could say they were born to be opera singers, but focused their voices into popular music. I love that kind of twist.

You're a very accomplished dancer. Is this a natural talent or did you study dance?

Well, thank you! I danced before I could talk. My parents are both dancers and my grandmother is a dancer. So it was obvious that I would want to end up being a dancer (or a flight attendant).

I went to ballet school for a few years and after a knee injury, was very much pushed to give it a rest. But still, I like to integrate dance in the shows as well as in the videos.

When did you start singing?

My singing grew along with the dancing. When I was 17, I felt forced to sing in Amsterdam Central Station to earn some money. Because of that, I started to sing more often. I also participated with other artists in Venezuela, doing live

performances and street performance. In 2001, I met Milton Fermat and Fata Kiefer, who brought me into the world of music production. It was only a matter of time before I was already making music for my shows. Then it became not only singing, but producing and performing.

How did you meet Andy Butler and begin collaborating with Hercules & Love Affair?

I met Andy in Berlin after an Antony and The Johnsons concert in 2005. At the time, Hercules & Love Affair was a plan. We exchanged numbers, but only in 2008 we saw each other again; this time we recorded in the studio. This is when my collaboration with Hercules & Love Affair started.

How would you describe your participation on the album Blue Songs?

It has been an incredible experience, not only the recording, but also performing those songs live. When we started recording, Andy managed to make me explore other sides of my singing I didn’t know. “Painted Eyes” was that first experiment, smooth and ethereal. During that session, we also recorded “Answers Come in Dreams”, which in a way has a more aggressive feel. One could say recording every song on the album has had a particular emotion involved.

Your live performances are amazing. Where do you get the energy to put so much into a performance?

This is what I love… guess that’s where the energy comes from. Sometimes I´m tired or even sick, but once you are out on stage, you forget about it.

What's next for Aérea Negrot?

Besides touring with Hercules & Love Affair this coming summer and preparing my new album on BPitch Control, I guess I will have some time to shave. Vancouver, hope to see you soon again! V Hercules & Love Affair's Blue Songs is out now. www.myspace.com/aereanegrot

april 2011 Issue 21

Aérea

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photo by robert brecko

vanragazine vanragazine#19 #21

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Peres

J

by by Michael Cole Johnston Venus

Javier Peres is a globe-trotting high art mover-and-shaker who is seriously rocking things in the art world.

Recently named Arts Editor for GQ Style and representing artists like Bruce LaBruce, Peres continues to set the standard for the hip Berlin art scene. He recently took some time to chat with V-Rag, hot off the heels of his Oscar weekend in Los Angeles. Jet setting and trend setting, if anybody in the world is living and breathing art, it's Javier Peres.

You're a lawyer from Los Angeles. How did you make the transition into the art world and Berlin, Germany?

I was practicing law but it really did not interest me at all. I went to law school more or less because it gave me something to do while I was with my first boyfriend; I was so in love with the dude I basically would have gone to Space Camp for him.

By the time I finished law school, the BF and I were over and it was a good thing I had the law degree to fall back on. But by the time I had practiced law for a few years, I was like what the fuck am I doing in this life, this shit ain´t me. I always loved art, had been collecting it for years, so I thought it could be fun to do and I think I can make a living doing it. After having the gallery for 2 years in the LA area, I became bored with the LA art scene and knew that I needed to be back in Europe. Berlin was starting to boom, and it´s still booming!

Tell us about your galleries.

I have two spaces in Berlin; the original space in the Kreuzberg area which is a large former steel work shop, and the new smaller space in the Mitte district across from the historic Jewish Boys School and the Jewish Cemetery. I represent the same artists in both spaces, but depending on the show or artist I use one space, the other or both. Right now we have a show up with James Franco called the Dangerous Book Four Boys which is spread through both spaces because it includes both large scale works and smaller scale sculptures and installations.

Anything else going on with James Franco? [wink wink] We were on a date! I'm kidding. We had a party in the basement level of the building of my Mitte gallery, which is this amazing cellar, dungeon type place. It was cool!

Who is an emerging artist we should watch out for?

There are several. Right now I'm really into the French artist Cyprian Gaillard, the American, Berlin-based duo AIDS 3-D and the Vancouver, Berlin-based Jeremy Shaw. I don´t show any of them by the way!

You represent a couple of Canadian artists, Bruce LaBruce and Terence Koh. How do Canadians differ from German or American artists?

I love Canadians; one of the loves of my life is a fellow from Nova Scotia, and having been born in Cuba I have always had a lot of Canadian friends.

My mom´s priest was from Quebec. But in general, Canadians are just really sweet people, laid back and kind, it´s a really nice combo and I think very different from Americans and Germans. Not that the latter can´t also be these things, but it seems to be more often the Canadians who are this way. So this makes working with Canadian artist a very pleasant experience.

What can we expect from you next?

I was recently made the Arts Editor for GQ Style (UK) under the Editorship of the incredible Ben Reardon (who was the editor of I-D in London for several years). The first issue came out in March, so I will be writing and interviewing more artists for that, and I am very excited for this opportunity. I have also decided to travel a lot less, and so will be giving up a lot of my travel to LA to focus on my activities here in Berlin as well as around Europe. I could not be more excited about this because I have basically been on the road for the past 30 years and I just want to put out the best I can put out without putting myself out. V www.peresprojects.com

april 2011 Issue 21

Javier

V-rag

photos by hanna sanders

vanragazine #21

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by Cole Johnston

Y

ou don't have to be a hair stylist to know who Tabatha Coffey is. With only three seasons of the hit Bravo reality show Tabatha's Salon Takeover, Coffey is already one of the most famous stylists on the planet. The no-nonsense Aussie has become known for her cut-throat approach to saving sinking businesses. Some call her a bitch, some call her a savvy business woman, but after chatting candidly about her infamy, Tabatha turns out to be one of the most down-to-earth celebrities we've ever met! Sure, you need to be a little ruthless to get done all the things she has on her plate. Afterall, she not only hosts a successful television show, she also tours the continent giving business seminars, runs a highend salon in New Jersey and most recently wrote a best-selling book, It's Not About the Hair: The Honest Truth About Life, Love, and the Business of Beauty. Not bad for the Surfer's Paradise-native who got her start hairdressing in the drag bars of Australia. Call her a bitch if you like, but she's has even reinvented that word to suit her better!

We're incredibly excited to feature Tabatha...

Thanks so much for taking the time to do this interview. Your book tour looks like it's insanely busy! What do you love and hate about touring?

You’re very welcome! I love getting to meet my fans face-to-face when I’m on tour. What I hate is that I don’t have more time to spend with them when I do meet them, and that I rarely get to enjoy the cities I’m in.

What was the most surprising challenge about writing It's Not Really About the Hair?

Everything about it was challenging. It completely took me out of my comfort zone, and it was probably the closest that I’ll ever come to knowing what it’s like to have a baby. It was a truly cathartic experience; and when it was due to be released, it really did feel like I was giving birth.

Your tour will bring you to Vancouver for the ABA Hair Show in April. What can fans expect from that appearance?

I will be teaching a few business-building classes that encompass everything that you see in my show, from how to manage and motivate a salon staff to how to retail. The lessons in the classes truly apply to all – whether you’re a salon owner, stylist, or both.

You had a pretty interesting childhood, spending much of it around strip clubs and drag queens. How did that form you as an adult today? What did you learn from the Queens?

It was an interesting childhood, but it was completely normal for me because it was the only one I knew. Because I saw the queens face so much ridicule and adversity with bravery and authenticity, I learned the importance of being true to and standing up for yourself, which looking back, were great life lessons for a child to learn. And, learning how to do fabulous hair, put on fake eyelashes, and be a glamazon didn’t hurt either.

Do you think it's becoming easier for gays and lesbians to become such pop culture icons, as you've done? Have you run into hurdles in the industry?

Thank you, but for me it’s not about being a pop culture icon, it’s about the long haul. It’s about standing up and telling our stories to encourage the younger generations and ensure the laws change so that they have total equality in life. As far as running into hurdles in the industry, none thankfully. My sexuality is my sexuality and my profession is my profession.

When did you realize hairdressing was your passion and calling?

I truly don’t remember a time when I didn’t want to be a hairdresser, but I know my passion was definitely ignited by being in my parent’s club watching the queens do their hair. After a while, they got sick of having this little kid underfoot and actually put me to work setting their wigs. It’s something I have always truly loved.

april 2011 Issue 21

Tabatha

V-rag

vanragazine #21 Hair stylist, writer, TV star… What career, if any, are you still passionate to try out?

Hairdressing, it’s truly where my passion lies; and also business in general. I’d love to do something where I work with small business owners to help them get their business back on track. If you watch my show, you’ll see that you don’t have to be a hairdresser or be in the salon business to find the lessons applicable.

They can be applied to all types of businesses.

Critics have been pretty harsh, calling you a bitch but a great stylist. Do you think a man in your position would receive as much flack?

No, I don’t; they’d describe him as a “go getter”, “driven”, “someone who’s following his dream”. I’m flattered that they recognize me as a great stylist; it’s just unfortunate that they also have to describe me as a bitch. It’s really sad to me that a woman who is successful, honest, forthright and has standards always ends up getting tagged a “bitch”.

In your book, you say you've reclaimed the word "bitch". How did you do this?

I did it because I got so sick of being labeled a bitch for being honest and speaking my mind. It’s so not representative of who I am, so I redefined it as Brave, Intelligent, Tenacious, Creative and Honest — qualities that are important for everyone to have in business and life in general.

Who are your top three female influences?

My mother, my mother, my mother. Outside of her, Coco Chanel and every Hollywood icon from the '40s and '50s.

What's one thing about you that fans might be surprised to learn?

If you could give one person a style makeover, living or dead, who would it be?

That I’m actually a very nice person, and not at all the bitch that everyone makes me out to be.

Marilyn Monroe, and not because I think she needed a makeover. Just because I’d like to sit down and talk to her.

From your three seasons of Tabatha's Salon Takeover, what was the most memorable moment?

They really all are; and I’m not just saying that.

When I’m in a salon, I am 100% invested in helping that salon succeed. I stay in contact with many of the salon owners after taping, mainly because I care.

What is your biggest hair stylist pet peeve?

Nothing pisses me off more than laziness and complacency. And to me, this seems to run across everything: stylist who are lazy and complacent can’t be bothered to clean their salons, invest times in their clients, invest time in furthering their education.

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With the book tour in full swing, are you taking a break from the show, or can we expect a fourth season in the works?

I am taking a break, but because as of this moment I haven’t been told that there will be a fourth season. But I am optimistic that I’ll get the call giving us the green light, so until then, all fingers and toes are crossed. V See Tabatha in person at the 2011 ABA Hair Show at the Vancouver Community College on April 17th and 18th talking about her new book and how to run a successful business. www.tabathacoffey.com www.abacanada.com

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photo by kate mclaren

vanragazine #21

V-rag

Wiggle

by Jeff Lawrence

D

ust off your glue guns, ladies and gentlemen. It’s time for another edition of Vancouver’s only wearable art and headpiece festival: Wiggle.

V-Rag had the chance to catch up with Cotton Venus, the blonde bombshell of a whoa-man who birthed the annual event almost 16 years ago. This year Wiggle celebrates its 17th birthday at the superclub Five Sixty and Miss Cotton, all six feet of her, talks animatedly about how long it has gone on for.

“I always had the intent of doing it for 20 years,” she says, “even though I’m only 17.”

She winks. “I was born pretty much when Wiggle was.” She laughs when I mention she looks a little older than 17. “Hollywood North’s been rough,” she quips.

For those who have never been to a Wiggle event in years past, Cotton sums it up: “It features unbelievable, out-of-this-world creations from Vancouver’s innovators in fashion, performance and art.”

Anyone with an ounce of creative ability is able to submit their headpiece or extravagant wig into the show. “Some people do really design-inspired pieces that are very simplistic, and some people go extravagant and really glamourpuss. But there’s no limits on diverse creativity,” she says.

As for Cotton, being the model she is, she doesn’t lift a finger come Wiggle time. Just two long pairs of trans-legs. “Michael Venus all does all the work,” she says, speaking of her male counterpart. “I just model and look pretty in the show. I show up the night of the show, look great, and run it, and model.”

Since the event began in Ontario, where Venus is from, Wiggle has spanned three different cities (Windsor, Detroit and Vancouver) and many star guests, including Lady Bunny and Lady Miss Kier.

But the essence of Wiggle remains the same. “It’s grown in different ways with what’s going on in the world, but it’s always kind of remained the same. It just been variations of the same thing, but it’s still a real story each year,” she says.

The reason behind it all is simple, Cotton explains. “Just getting in the spirit of creating these elaborate costumes and headpieces,” she says.

“It’s very therapeutic to make these things and you end up with this beautiful, fucked-up thing that just comes from a pure creative place.”

This year will feature some of the city's top stage folk like burlesque babes Crystal Precious and Burgundy Brixx, drama dance sensations House of LaDouche and All You Can Eat, drag-ons Vera Way, Robyn Graves, Conni Smudge and Carlotta Gurl to name a few, plus a special live opening performance by Miss Pussy Willow! V Something Wiggles this way soon. Join Miss Cotton and friends April 16th at Five Sixty at 9pm for the most colourful event of the year. www.houseofvenus.com

april 2011 Issue 21

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wiggle

it

by Kate McLaren

photography: kate mclaren www.kate-mclaren.com styling:: michael venus www.houseofvenus.com

vanragazine #21

1girl 5gays

Q&A: mike yerxa

1

girl 5 gays is making a big splash across North America with their nomination at the 2011 Newnownext Awards! The annual award show celebrates who and what are about to hit it big. That means the mostbuzzed about actors, most-obsessed about singers, and mostaddictive TV shows on the brink of massive fame. The controversial Canadian series with a big heart has been nominated in the TV You Betta Watch category, alongside American hits such as Pretty Little Liars and The Vampire Diaries. We got to chat with panelist Mike Yerxa about the show's success and pick his brain on some less important subjects... Like Paul Bunyon.

Who is your favourite gay icon?

V-rag

My iPod might reject my next attempt to listen to Adele’s “Someone Like You”, but I can’t help myself. She’s the most authentic musical talent to come about in a long time and her new album is perfect.

Dream date?

A nice summer night biking

Scott Thompson or Rick Mercer?

Rick Mercer. I have a thing for dark features.

What are some of your hobbies?

Seeing lots of film and theatre.

Travelling to fun gay destinations. Following the sport of figure skating (for real). I also like vintage clothes and antique shopping a lot!

Cartoon crush?

Paul Bunyon is a babe and totally my type!

Who on the show has been most affected by the fame the show has brought?

I think for the most part, everyone on the show is really grounded and realistic about whatever level of “fame“ they have achieved. However, there are a few guys on the show who have begun to really be aware of their fans and pander to them in a very calculated, non-genuine way. I think a hyper-awareness of one’s fans is dangerous, unless you’re Gaga!

Do you think He-Man was gay?

Google image a picture of him.

Do you think this show could have happened 10 years ago?

I don’t think this show could have happened even 5 years ago.

This is a generation of change for the LGBT community, and I think that 1g5g is helping to further this change in really awesome ways.

How do you respond to homophobia?

It’s to the point where I actually start to feel sorry for people who are still homophobic. It’s sad and ignorant at this point.

One day soon those people will look back and feel humiliated and ashamed that they were once history’s monsters. V The 2011 Newnownext Awards airs April 11 at 7pm on MTV. 1g5g airs every Friday at midnight on MTV Canada. www.mtv.ca

Nina Arseanault or Candis Cayne?

Nina is an unbelievable talent both as a performer and writer. Plus she’s Canadian so she gets my vote.

photos by javier lovera

What's playing on your iPod right now?

to a park where we drink tall-cans and have a great conversation. Also the man would have great facial hair.

april 2011 Issue 21

As clichéd as it sounds, I really love Gaga. While many pop stars embrace the support they receive from the gay community, at the end of the day I often question which stars actually care about our community’s rights, and who simply wants to sell records.

Gaga has been an advocate for equality more than anyone else in my opinion and I don’t think for a second it’s just for PR.

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This month's artwork: Candybird is French illustration and design firm that specializes in marketing for children.

This is one of the rare "adult" themed illustrations. www.candybird.free.fr

Monday

4

RuPaul's Drag Race Party @ The Helm

Paris, In Love Gala Fundraiser @ The Cultch

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Ice Cube @ The Commodore

Oh Fuck It's Monday @ The Oasis

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Hot Mondays Latin Fiesta @ Celebrities

ABA Vancouver w/ Tabatha @ Van Community College

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Karaoke @ Paparazzi, Victoria

4U Mondays @ Numbers

3 – Closing Night

1984 @ The Cultch

Bag Raiders @ Fortue Sound Club

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Apocalypstick @ The Cobalt

Ellie Goulding w/ The Knocks @ Venue

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Vancouver Sun Run Georgia at Thurlow Street

ABA Vancouver w/ Tabatha @ Van Community College

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Nero @ Celebrities

Lipstick Jungle @ Five Sixty

Please send event and calendar listings to events@v-rag.com.

Sunday

Tuesdays at Celebrities @ Celebrities

Buddy Tuesdays @ F212

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Ballet BC @ Vancouver Art Gallery

Dress Me Up in Your Love @ The Cultch

Rewind 90s Party w/ Young MC @ Bar None

Bingo For Life @ Celebrities

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Jack Beats @ Venue

Night at the Indies @ Cafe Deux Soleils

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Trentmoller @ Venue

Dollicious Wednesdays @ Celebrities

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Bachelor/Bachelorette Auction @ Score on Davie

Wiired Wednesdays @ 1181

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Wednesday

2011

Thursday

Mogo presents The Power of G @ J Lounge

Ramadanman & Zed Bias @ Five Sixty

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United w/ Tony Moran @ Gorg-O-Mish

Cocky Thursdays @ 1181

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destino @ Five Sixty

The Graduate @ Granville Island Stage

14 – Opening Night

Taste of Pride @ CBC Broadcast Centre

Girls! Girls! Girls! @ The China Cloud

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april

19 – Opening Night

DJ Del-icious @ Numbers

Karaoke @ The Oasis

12

Canucks vs. Oilers @ Score on Davie

Tuesdays at Celebrities @ Celebrities

5

Tuesday

Score 12: West End Skating Party @ West End Community Centre

Bearracuda Vancouver @ Five Sixty

The Pipettes @ Venue

Fag Fridays @ The Oasis

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Stevie Nicks w/ Rod Stewart @ Rogers Arena

Seasons Festival w/ Calvin Harris @ Van Convention Centre

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Kaskade @ The Commodore

Tommy Lee & DJ Aero @ Celebrities

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Boys Noize @ Celebrities

Hustla @ The Cobalt

DJ Tiesto @ Pacific Coliseum

United Pride on the Fraser @ G.i.N., The Heritage Grill

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Gay Top Model Grand Finale @ The River Rock

Absolutly Drag-u-lous @ The Junction

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Wiggle 17 @ Five Sixty

Lez Hookup: Poke Me Party @ J Lounge

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Wolfgang Gartner @ The Commodore

Funky Town @ Five Sixty

9

Kenny Dope (Masters at Work) @ Fortune Sound Club

SPIT - April Fool's! @ Performance Works

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2

Saturday

1

Friday

vanragazine #21

joan-e's

april fool??

A

lright, I tried... After a dating drought that extends over several of the past Canadian Federal Election cycles, I have now attempted online dating. Well, all I have to say is "Quelle disaster!" I am told by my TV (and I don't mean Carlotta Gurl) that one in five relationships begins online. Really?

I just don't see it. I may now have "begun" a whole whack of online relationships, but I assure you that they were over before they began. I found the entire exercise to be cold, impersonal, disingenuous and kinda spooky.

Now I know what some of you bitches are thinking, and you would be right!

First: I am forty years old. That is about 57 in straight dating years.

Second: I am somewhat over my perfect dancing weight. Which means I horrifyingly have to click terms like "stocky", "husky build" or (God save me) "chubby" to describe myself.

What the hell ever happened to the word Zaftig?? That was a good word!!

Third: I am a drag queen. That means, yes, boys will be your friend. Yes, they would love to go to clubs and parties with you. Yes, they will even put out... but date? Hells no!

Fourth: I am, in this community, quite well known and people have already formed an opinion on me (sometimes good, often not so much).

But soldier on I did!

I went to a site that rhymes with Tay Fot Gom (who, I believe once owned one of my favourite Pho restaurants on Denman). I decided that honesty was the best policy and published a profile with a picture of me in drag (they might as well know up front right?) and included my real name (OK, my stage name). I waited one week and got three responses. The first was from an older gentlemen – he said he was 57, I say 87 – from the Kootenays who said that I reminded him of a tranny in Alaska named Helga who liked

26

photos by nicholas jang www.double-take2.ca

rag

to massage his feet, and would I? I would not.

The second was from a man wanting me to paint him in drag (I made $75 on that one) and the third was from Carlotta Gurl (who will be pleased to have been mentioned twice here) who used the phrase "pathetic old desperate tranny goose" in colourfully calling me down. It became apparent that the entire site should re-name to Lay Hot Dong as that's all anyone there wishes to do.

Next, I tried a site that rhymes with blurt. com. It should change its name to hurt.com!

What a bunch of judging old meanies! I would like to take every single queen on that site (at least 200) who said "masculine, in-shape, 23-year-old, straight acting, versatile, looking for same" and line them up outside Celebrities, buck naked and reading from the dictionary. I bet we would see more than our share of fat, old, bottom-only slags with handbags falling out of their mouths.

So, last and least, I checked out a place that sounds like Fraigslist. I then took a long hard look at my dignity, stopped looking for a boyfriend online and wrote this month's article. V Check out more of Joan-E's Rag on www.v-rag.com

V-rag

27

miss cotton around town

A

pril is showering us with Queer Culture Goodness this year, so put on your stiletto rain boots and get ready to have some fun! Things start off with a great big grrrowl as Bearracuda cums back to town for a night of Bears, Otters, Cubs, Leather, Denim and Man Smells on Friday April 1st for the hairiest April Fools Day ever!

The OutGames get things ready with their POP parties happening all over town this month. We're already gearing up for the Games in late July, pumping things up for the Pride Season. Stay tuned!

The biggest splash this month is my annual wig show and purrrformance art festival – Wiggle – which celebrates its 17th year on the edge of this world and Planet Venus! With out of this galaxy head-dress escapades and fantastic wearable art on the runway, the avant garde show takes place at Five Sixty on Saturday April 16th at 9pm. Tickets are available online at www.houseofvenus.com or at Mine, Chemically Addicted and Little Sisters! Not to be missed!

Things continue to be fabulous almost every night of the week at 1181; my pic is every Wednesday for Wiired Wednesdays with resident DJ Mumbles and rotating DJs every week. My “twin brother” Michael Venus hits the decks on April 26th for a majah “Fashion Moment”.

A new queer hip-hop night called Hustla starts Friday April 8th at The Cobalt by the fab folks who bring you Queer Bash and Apocalypstick!, which promises to be worth checking out.

While chatting about Main Street, there are some great dining options for dinner and cocktails before the party. My Five Main Street Dinner Picks for the month of April are: Grub (4328 Main St.) which has something scrumptious for all with a fun yet simple setting; Cascade (2616 Main St.) which specializes in retro cocktails and offers a yummy selection of edibles (If you're lucky Vera Way’s “twin brother” Kaylum will be your server); Lucy’s Diner (2708 Main St.), which is great before or after the club and is a white trashy kinda vibe with ample servings for hella cheap; The Whip (209 E. 6th) has been one of the first Main Street hotspot and remains a thriving destination for artists and scenesters alike with a casual setting and a really diverse menu; Budgie's Burritos (44 Kingsway) is the best Veggie and Vegan on-the-go spot for kick ass goodness all wrapped up and ready to go! Looks like the brand new "it" spot will be Fast Food Disco (2689 Main St.), opening soon! Enjoy! xo, Miss Cotton. V www.houseofvenus.com www.youtube.com/misscottontv

vanragazine #21

LIVE ON

STAGE

S

eptimius The Great received a Grammy Association nomination for 2011 Top 100 Artists on the Verge and the parade of meeting celebrities has not stopped. From Oprah to Jennifer Lopez, meeting idols is great but not necessarily fulfilling.

He has shared the stage with many known artists including Pat Benatar, Patti Labelle, Jennifer Holiday, Deborah Cox and RuPaul amongst many others. Yet, according to the performer “there’s no better feeling then to see and hear the audience singing your songs.” And that’s the journey he has embarked going from city to city to share his music live with the people. Over 12 countries are now supporting his work (of course the internet takes it worldwide), and that feeling of performing live on stage only happens regularly by being on the road.

Septimius is inspired by ancient European style as well as eccentric artists such as Michael Jackson, Prince, Madonna and Lady Gaga. Fashion and history are sources of inspiration for his songwriting and performances.

Sometimes his planned performances could be as lavish as changing costumes for every number as he did for Las Vegas Pride. His largest crowd ever at that stadium performance must have embraced the talented Septimius because he has not stopped since. Hailing from Baltimore, Maryland, this entertainer started as a runway model, followed by choreographer, fashion show producer, talent promoter, and International Male pageant titleholder, all while being the CEO of his own business ventures. He began his recording career as a featured artist with the X9 Records label which led to a debut CD single with a local group that topped the dance

28

music charts worldwide. In 2010, he released his solo CD which consists of a fusion of pop, hip-hop and dance called The New Rome.

Septimius' stage life began when he was performing as a male lip-sync artist doing renditions of Motown music. After performing those songs and seeing how the music moved the crowds, he knew that developing his own live music and style was the next step. “I like the rush of nerves and uncertainty of performing, but most importantly I like being able to create a theatrical vision that tells a story through music,” adds the charismatic entertainer who has a formula that includes “a 3 part series – Sight, Sound and Drama”.

For his Canadian debut, Septimius is going big by stepping on to the stage of the River Rock Casino Show Theatre, as a special guest performer for the Gay Top Model grand finale. “I can’t wait to hit the city. I have seen and heard so many great things about Vancouver.”

And Vancouver and all of Septimius' West Coast friends await his premiere with anticipation. Let there be lights, sound and drama. V Septimius The Great performs at River Rock Casino April 23rd for Gay Top Model www.gaytopmodel.com Learn more about the performer at www.septimiusthegreat.com

V-rag

29

WATCH: Daniel Garofali by James Demitri www.tinyurl.com/vrag69

A slice of beefcake from our new favourite photographer/filmmaker James Demitri. Behind the scenes of a recent shoot with model Daniel Farofali. Wearing Teamm8 underwear, this video is sexy, raw and classic.

WATCH: Weekend by Andrew Haigh www.tinyurl.com/vrag70

On a Friday night after hanging out with his straight mates, Russell heads out to a gay club, alone and on the pull. Just before closing time he picks up Glen and that weekend, in bars and in bedrooms... Premiered at SXSW Festival to rave reviews.

WATCH: Treat Yourself by James Demitri www.tinyurl.com/vrag71

Warning! This Teamm8 video may cause you to want to drop everything and escape the world for a few days... preferably with Cooper. Directed by James Demitri. The beefcake films from the 1950's aren't dead... beautiful.

WATCH: In Between Men Episode 4 www.tinyurl.com/vrag72

Secrets and Ties - Dalton gives Massimiliano the third degree. Jake reveals a past tragedy to Dalton. Ben gets a surprise visitor with his own secrets and Dane hits a lowpoint of desperation. www.inbetweenmen.com WATCH: True Blood "Waiting Sucks" www.tinyurl.com/vrag73

Waiting sucks, but it's about to start sucking a little less. Check out the first official footage from the set of season four with this preview of Eric. Who is calling to Eric and why do you think he seems so frightened? And why does he have pants on?

WATCH: Cazwell "Get My Money Back" www.tinyurl.com/vrag74

Our favorite gay NYC rapper and monkey boy is back with his newest video, "Get My Money Back", directed by Marco Ovando. The video, which the rapper has been described as “Fight Club versus National Geographic”.

april 2011 Issue 21

Use the QR Code to watch the videos on your iPhone. Download the free Mobiletag app. Scan the QR code for the video. The video will autoplay. Or type the tinyurl/vrag address into your browser/iPhone to watch the videos.

Visit www.wayoutwest.tv for more gay videos!

good time CHARLIE

photos by peter griffith

vanragazine #21

by Charlie David

S

30

pring has officially donned her bedazzled Easter bonnet and shoved Old Man Winter down a steep flight of stairs. With this turn of seasons comes one of my favorite pastimes – patio drinks! Of course in Vancouver, we’re spoiled with copious options in Kitsilano, English Bay, down Davie, Denman and Commercial Drive. As the sun coaxes me out of my jacket I’m suddenly hit with a horrific realization. Canadian swimsuit season is in sight. Now where can I shed some Polar Bear poundage and still indulge sipping on the fruits of someone else’s labor?

Sonoma County, California is a perfect long weekend getaway, providing ample opportunity to get active year-round while offering sumptuous food and wine to scintillate your senses. My mission is simple – sweat and drink.

Though tempted to skip the sweat on arrival, I summoned my inner drill sergeant and rented a bike to peddle out to Francis Ford Coppola’s winery. Being a film buff, I considered it the perfect place to begin. With more than forty wines produced on site and situated on a stunning property surrounded by sustainably farmed vineyards, I got it right. I soon had a stemmed glass of the Director’s Cut varietal in my paw as I perused the display cases with Academy Awards, Golden Globes and memorabilia from Apocalypse Now to The Godfather.

Catching a glimpse of the Russian River, I decided it was time to get wet and jumped in a kayak for workout number two. The sandy banks beckoned after a few kilometers paddle and thankfully I had brought a bottle of bubbles on board. Many, including myself, are surprised to learn that a few vineyards outside the Champagne

region of France have been Grandfathered and approved to use the name. Such is the case with Korbel Champagne Cellars in the town of Guerneville. Over 150 years ago, the Korbel brothers immigrated to the U.S.A. and continued the tradition of Champagne. And I’m so glad they did.

Bubbles can be a boy’s best friend.

The Armstrong Redwood Grove is not to be missed once you’ve sunned yourself on the banks of the river. Though I began running, I was soon slowed to a contemplative stroll as I took in the serene, majestic beauty of the Grove and how it stands as a living reminder of the magnificent primeval Redwood forest that covered much of this area before logging operations began during the 19th Century.

While whale watching was not likely to drop any pounds, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to get out on the open water and view the rugged Northern California coastline. At any rate, the thought of one of the whales in an Aussie Bum Speedo allowed a smug smile to creep across my face as I made my way to the bow of the fishing boat.

Pinot painted my pallet as I reflected on this quintessential California retreat offering sun, sand, surf and serenity. A perfect place for romance and a favorite denning area for the bears of our community. Glancing down at my cubbish figure I realized maybe I just found myself a new sweet spot. Seawater splashed up and beaded like sweat on my forehead. Vacation accomplished. Drink and sweat. Or at least fake it ‘til you make it. Catch me if you can! V Charlie David is an author, actor and host of Logo's travel show Bump! Where in the world is Charlie? http://twitter.com/CharlieDavid

vanragazine #21

HEALTH by Jason Keller & wellness

32

photo courtesy of modelnv.com

L

et’s face it, the elliptical machine feeds on your will to live. Those things are completely soul destroying. The other day, as I pushed, pulled, and glided in the gym, I realized that was staring at the sun out the window. What was I doing? It’s spring. I should be running outside!

We live in a city which offers beautiful scenery to run in. With the Vancouver Sun Run fast approaching on April 17th, I thought I would write about the specific health benefits of running to see if I can get more people out onto the seawall. We know running will keep you slim, trim, and heart healthy. But, what are some of the less obvious benefits of running?

Aging Relief Running is estimated to improve your quality of life by 16 years due to all its health benefits.

Running also nourishes the skin and pampers your glow. It will keep you looking and feeling younger.

Prevents Degeneration Running will prevent muscle and bone loss by maintaining uniformity in your body tissues. It is recommended as a preventative measure for osteoporosis, a disorder which disproportionately affects lesbian women. Running also stimulates the growth of brain cells and delays the onset or progression of some neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's disease.

Healing and Immune Benefits Running helps in improving the process of blood clotting and thus, provides protection against a number of injuries. Also, during moderate exercise such as running, immune cells circulate through the body faster and are better able to kill bacteria and viruses. Consistent, regular exercise makes these immune changes longer lasting.

Lowers Diabetes and Hypertension Risk Both of these are conditions of balance. In the case of diabetes, running burns the surplus amount of sugar present in blood, keeping the blood clean to lead a healthy life. Running also helps lower blood pressure by balancing a number of factors which are responsible for hypertension.

Meet New People through Running Having a running buddy or running with a group is a great motivator and a great way to develop a sense of community. There are two groups in our community who are working together to provide safe and social running and walking opportunities;

HIM: Health Initiative for Men have coordinated a gay men’s ‘learn to run’ group which meets every Sunday at noon under the Burrard street bridge to the east of the Aquatic Centre. Call 604-488-1001 [224] or see the details at www.checkhimout.ca under the ‘Physical Health’ link.

Vancouver Frontrunners This group of LGBT runners and walkers of all levels meet on Wednesday evenings (6:30pm at the Roundhouse) and Saturday mornings (9am at the Brockton Oval) www. vancouverfrontrunners.org. Frontrunners emphasize the social aspect of fitness and gather for food and good conversation afterward.

Gain Confidence Set a goal or Run for a Cause; running can be a great way to build confidence and make progress in your life. I have known people who are grieving to find comfort in simply putting one foot in front of the other to move forward. For others, it is a process of challenging oneself to set meaningful goals and reach new heights. A great way to set a goal is to train and run in an event like the Sun Run. The Sun Run happens April 17th this year. Or, if you like the thought of taking your pants off in public or if you need a while longer to train, run 10k at The Underwear Affair on July 9th – 604.734.CURE [2873]. Both of these events benefit the worthy cause of cancer research. V Jason Keller is an Outreach Counsellor and Client Care Coordinator for Vancouver Coastal Health. www.vch.ca

Where Smart Meets Sexy

vanragazine #21

FILM:notes Love and Other Drugs D: Edward Zwick

Sucker Punch D: zack snyder

There’s nothing worse than a film that’s boring or repetitive. Love and Other Drugs had the potential to be just another forgettable romantic comedy, but its mix of real life struggles with terrible illnesses and its perfectly timed humour, make it a rare gem on the never-ending list of romantic comedies. In fact I would even go as far as calling it a Romantic – Dramedy First off, Jake Gyllenhaal and Anne Hathaway have a chemistry that is at once sexier, funnier and even more engaging than almost any on-screen couple since maybe Angie and Brad in Mr. and Mrs. Smith. They seem to spend half the movie either fully naked or in various states of undress in bed, but their chemistry and the sheer joy they bring to their performances is thrilling to watch.

Hathaway radiates heat in the first half while delivering the film’s saucy dialogue with poise.

But as the film shifts to more serious matters of the heart, she takes viewers along for an oftenheartbreaking ride.

Overall, Love and Other Drugs is not the best Rom-Com ever made – the decision to include a serious medical issue works both for and against the movie – but it is better than the trailer makes it out to be. The lead actors manage their roles well and are charming, endearing and splendidly messed up. As well as this, there is enough nudity to keep everyone happy, and if Gyllenhaal is your particular piece of eye candy, you are in for a real treat!

Before tackling the world’s greatest superhero, Zack Snyder (300, Watchmen) spends a bit more time playing in his hyper-realized world, but this tale of imprisoned young girls who have to harness the power of their own minds to free themselves from oppression looks and feels like a visual mash-up of everything from Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow to The Matrix and Kill Bill without an ounce of narrative coherence or a desire to create truly three-dimensional characters.

When Babydoll (Emily Browning) is institutionalized by her evil stepfather, we are clumsily introduced to an alternative world where she meets a cliche-spouting Wise Man (Scott Glenn) and hooks up with Rocket (Jena Malone), Sweet Pea (Abbie Cornish), Blondie (Vanessa Hudgens) and Amber (Jamie Chung) to begin a quest for freedom. But it's never clear where said freedom truly lies. Is it in the dreamworld that she enters through her “supposedly” hypnotic dancing (which from the brief glimpses Snyder allows us seems to be little more than imagining a 12-year-old working without a stripper pole) or the real world beyond the drab walls of the mental institution, a place we see so little of it is hardly worth considering?

Snyder cares for nothing more than the fantastic realm, the shifting battlescapes where his grrls kick, cut and shoot soldiers, suits of armor and dragons with no real consequence. Sucker Punch is a video game, a visual marvel with absolutely no resonance or depth. Game over.

by Lana Chunn

34

by Jason Goodwin

V-rag

35

The Naked and Famous Ellie Goulding passive me... lights

by Lana Chunn

by Cole Johnston

The first time I heard of the New Zealand quartet The Naked and Famous was a few months ago when I heard their single “Young Blood” and the dreamy ’80s eccentric electro-pop tune had me hooked instantaneously.

The band's debut, Passive Me, Aggressive You is an elaborate soundscape full of danceable hooks and synths, and edgy vocals that don’t sound overproduced like a lot of synth-heavy bands. Rotating between the melancholy vocals of Thom Powers and Alisa Xayalith, whose distinctive vocals sounds like she might explode if she doesn't get the words out, the band finds its strength when Xayalith takes the mic. While co-lead vocalist Powers has a nice voice, Xayalith's is so unique; it accents the abundance of synths perfectly.

Personal album standouts include, the aforementioned unavoidably catchy tunes, “Young Blood”, shamelessly fun synth-jam “Punching in a Dream”, ’90s grunge-esque track “Spank” and the album closer “Girls Like You”.

Ellie Goulding just might be the most famous pop star you've never heard of. Before releasing her debut album Lights, the young English singer won the BBC Sound of 2010 poll, which showcases the critics', broadcasters' and music industry's top choices for rising stars. The same year she won the Critics' Choice Award at the 2010 BRIT Awards, becoming the second artist in history to win both awards in the same year. Adele had previously managed that in 2008.

So what's all the fuss about?

This is the kind of pop album that many young starlets can only wish for. Songs like "Starry Eyed", "The Writer", "Under The Sheets" and "Lights" evoke the subtle power of Kate Bush, with the modern crossover appeal of Lykkie Li or Little Boots. Goulding's cover of Elton John's "Your Song" really showcases her sweet-as-honey vocal prowess.

It's a near-perfect pop album from start to finish.

Check out Ellie Goulding on April 10 at Venue before she's selling out stadiums next year!

You won't be disappointed.

Rebecca Black friday

by Pop Trash Addict Mike Rebecca Black is the biggest pop culture phenomenon since Justin Bieber. Since the future Grammy award winner's debut, almost six million people have tuned in to watch it. Those numbers put the 13 year old diva up there with Rihanna and Gaga. An amazing feat, particularly when you consider "Friday" has been roundly declared the worst song ever recorded. By stone deaf haters. Seriously, are these sad fuckers listening to the same track? I hear the voice of an autotuned angel and some of the finest lyrics ever scrawled onto a beer stained napkin by a paraletic songwriter under the influence of a variety of hard drugs.

Lines like "gotta get down to the bus, gotta catch my bus" left some critics wondering if the song was a work of satire - it's not - but I genuinely adore this fabulous piece of trash. Why? Because it's as catchy as it is hilarious. Moreover, it's refreshingly unpretentious and ten times better than anything on Femme Fatal. "Friday" rises above the fact that Rebecca sounds like a water damaged Espresso machine to be one of the best songs of 2011. Yes, I said it!

april 2011 Issue 21

MUSIC:notes

vanragazine #21

BOOK:notes Lee Child the jack reacher novels

Anatoli Rybakov children of arbat trilogy

While a good, action-packed movie is great, an action-packed book can be even better! His name is Jack Reacher and he is the protagonist of Lee Child’s 15 novels. Reacher is James Bond, The Rock, MacGyver and the A Team all rolled into one.

He’s smart, he’s built and he’s ruggedly handsome. He has his own moral compass, a black and white attitude to doling out justice as he believes it (he’ll steal from a drug-dealer but not from a homeless person). Added to which, he has a penchant for spotting bullshit and an ability to kick ass and take out the bad guy. His philosophy is to always “get your retaliation in first.”

He has an eye for the ladies, and of course they for him, but he always treats them with respect, never takes them for fools and is man enough to allow them to save the day.

This guy, coupled with Child’s lightening fast pace, solid story lines and clever twists and turns make these books definite page turners and difficult to put down.

For my money, the top three are Killing Floor, One Shot and Worth Dying For. The other titles, 61 Hours, Gone Tomorrow, Nothing To Lose, Bad Luck and Trouble, The Hard Way, The Enemy, Persuader, Without Fail, Echo Burning, Running Blind, Tripwire and Die Trying, are all equally riveting in their own right and all made it to my top three when I was deciding.

I challenge you to read any of these books and not develop a serious crush on Jack Reacher.

Looking for something big to get your hands on? Well throw away your multi-volume tomes from childhood – you are too old for The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe now – and sink your teeth into something meatier, deeper and depressing.

Part-autobiographical, part-historical, Anatoli Rybakov’s masterfully written trilogy about life in the Soviet Union leading up to the Second World War illuminates a dark chapter in Socialist history.

The books, Children of the Arbat, Fear, and Dust and Ashes follow the lives of the young residents of the Arbat, a quintessential Moscow neighborhood in the heart of the city. Rybakov’s young residents illustrate the different ways Russians struggled through the disillusionment with communism that came with Stalin’s Terror.

The painstakingly weaved narrative begins in 1935, when an innocent joke leads to the arrest and Siberian exile of Sasha, a handsome smart engineering student, the central figure of the novels. His family and friends remain in Moscow, their diverging lives forming the core of the plot – the privileged fall, the cunning rise, the smart struggle to leave. Interestingly, Rybakov entwines the lives of these young people with Stalin, a main character, and the historical events transformed his policies and neuroses.

The Children of the Arbat trilogy is set against the background of unparalleled ruthless terror; your heart with break, you will be angry and stare at the page in disbelief but the hope for the characters to survive – to live and love, experience passion and joy – will pull you through.

by Jacqui Baille

36

by Toby Moisey

Awesome stuff You're gonna want to

Get into!

Piss & Vinegar

1238 Davie Street_ 604.669.1753_

www.littlesisters.ca

a

view from the TOP

by Kate

McLaren

photography: kate mclaren www.kate-mclaren.com styling:: jason mccoll hair & makeup: matt kunz www.ecochicaveda.com models: mark, patrick, brody, & joel t-shirts by: mogo wear www.mogowear.com

vanragazine #21

LISTINGS SUNDAY april 10 Ellie Goulding Multi-award winning pop princess joined by The Knocks! V-Rag's pick of the month. Venue, 881 Granville. saturday april 16 Wiggle 17 One of the biggest annual events in Vancouver is back! Get on your wig, weave or fun fur and come down to 560 Seymour. sun & mon april 17 & 18 ABA Hair Show Vancouver She's taking over Vancouver! Bravo star stylist

42

10

Tabatha Coffey headline's this year's ABA Hair Show.

Vancouver Community College, 250 W. Pender. sunday april 24 friday april 22 Stevie Nicks & Rod Stewart Yeah we don't care so much about Rod Stewart, but Stevie Nicks?! Yes Please! Rogers Arena, 800 Griffiths Way.

Lipstick Jungle Kasha Kennedy and Daniella Evangelista team up with Lipstick Jungle and JetGirl to bring all the lovely ladies out. 560 Seymour.

saturday april 23

thursday april 28

Gay Top Model Finale Who will be on top? Check out the grand finale with Sugar Beach, Septimius The Great and more. River Rock Theatre, 8811 River Road.

Mogo pres. The Power of G Little Sisters and Mogo Wear present a fundraiser for Out in Schools and LOUD. This is a great event for a great casue. J Lounge, 1216 Bute.

OH FUCK IT'S MONDAY

FREE POOL

1/2 OFF MENU FROM 6-7PM $10 JUGS

Social @ 2PM $8 PITCHERS oasis lager

SUNDAY KEGGER

ALL DRINK SPECIALS ALL DAY

SUNDAY SPIN CYCLE W/ DJ NICK BERTOSSI

SCORE ON DAVIE

STEAMWORKS

ABSOLUTLY DRAG-U-LOUS WITH CARLOTTA GURL

G80Z SUNDAYS

$2.50 HOTDOGS $2.50 CANS OF PBR

WELL LIQUOR SPECIALS

karaoke

Please send event and calendar listings to events@v-rag.com.

PUMPJACK

OASIS

DJ DEL-ICIOUS

GLEE TUESDAYS

GLEE TUESDAYS

BUDDY TUESDAYS 1 ROOM FOR 2

BLACKOUT MONDAYS LOCKERS $6, ROOMS $14

Comedy Night: Tops & Bottoms

RUSSELL & TWISTED COOLERS SPECIALS

4U PERFORMING LIVE $3 DRINK SPECIALS

NUMBERS

Tuesdays

TUESDAYS AT CELEBRITIES

CHILL

HOUSE WINE & BLUE

ELEKTRIC CIRCUS '90S NIGHT

VILLAGE SUNDAYS: DRAG SHOW

CAESARS & OKANAGAN SPRINGS SPECIALS

APOCALYPSTICK

LATIN FIESTA NIGHT

Mondays

KARAOKE & KEGGER NIGHT

LICK

JUNCTION

J LOUNGE

F212

FOUNTAINHEAD

FIVE SIXTY

THE COBALT

CELEBRITIES

1181

CHEAP SUNDAYS

Sundays

$0.25 WINGS, $4 PINTS OF GRANVILLE ISLAD

TOOLBOX WEDNESDAYS: EVERY LAST WEDNESDAY

PITCHER & KARAOKE NIGHT

PILSNER SPECIALS

Live Bands

RED TRUCK LAGER & BEEFEATER HIGHBALLS

BINGO FOR LIFE & DOLLICIOUS

wiired WEDNESDAYS

Wednesdays

LIGHTS OUT PARTY

$3 HIGHBALLS, $5 DOUBLES, $5 PIZZAS

ALL BEER, CIDERS & COOLERS ON SPECIAL

Spin THURSDAYS

POOL TOURNAMENT

DRAG IDOL

MIXX ARTISTS

MENERGY THURSDAYS LOCKERS FROM $4

GROWERS CIDERS & KEITHS SPECIALS

HARD CANDY

COCKY

Thursdays

Saturdays

SQUIRT EVERY 2ND FRIDAY/ DJ NICK BERTOSSI

OK SPRINGS JUGE $15.16 DROP SHOTS $6

RUSSELL CREAM SPECIALS

fag fridays with dj adam dreaddy

BEARS, BATH & BEYOND EVERY 4TH SATURDAY

BUCKETS OF CORONS $19

BLACK SATURDAY / SHOW YOUR STUFF

guys & dolls

DJ SHELLY

GRIND, NAWTYBOX, & MAN-UP ROTATING

BASELINES: EVERY 3RD FRIDAY DJ DREW

CONNECTION SATURDAYS

SULTRY SATURDAYS: SHOWS & DJs

GRANVILLE ISLAND & SMIRNOFF ICE SPECIALS

magic sessions mkw main room

RELEASE SATURDAYS

STRUT SATURDAYS

THE SOCIAL

FIXX FRIDAYS: SHOWS & DJs

STUDENT LOCKERS $6 ANYTIME

KOKANEE & POLAR ICE VODKA HIGHBALLS

rotating djs

STEREOTYPE FRIDAYS

TRIGGER FRIDAYS

Fridays

NIGHTLIFE in VANCOUVER

V-rag

43

vanragazine #21

DOWNTOWN VANCOUVER

V-MAP

NIC

Robson Market

J Lounge (1216 Bute)

18

Lick Nightclub/The Lotus (455 Abbott)

19

Little Sisters Bookstore (1238 Davie)

20

M2M (1210 Granville)

21

Masc Skincare (433 Davie)

22

Mine Salon (177 E. Broadway)

23

Numbers Cabaret (1042 Davie)

24

Oasis Ultra Lounge (1240 Thurlow)

25

Old G.M. Place - Rogers Arena (800 Griffiths Way)

26

Pacific Cinematheque (200-1131 Howe)

27

Pacific Sun Co. (1060 Davie)

28

Pompadours on Denman (1071 Denman)

29

Priape (1148 Davie)

30

Public House JUNCTION (1138 Davie)

31

PumpJack Pub (1167 Davie)

32

Republic (958 Granville)

33

Roundhouse Centre (181 Roundhouse Mews)

E. 1ST AVE

34

Score On Davie (1262 Davie)

E. 2ND AVE

35

Scratch Records (726 Richards)

36

Steamworks (123 W. Pender)

37

Top Drawers (115-1030 Denman)

38

VanCity Theatre (1181 Seymour)

39

Vancouver Art Gallery (750 Hornby)

E. 8TH AVE

40

Venue (881 Granville)

E. BROADWAY

41

Videomatica (1855 W. 4th Ave)

42

West End Community Centre (870 Denman)

43

WISE Hall (1882 Adanac)

E. 12TH AVE

44

Zulu Records (1972 W.4th Ave)

E. 13TH AVE

1600

1700 BIDWELL

1800

1900

GILFORD

COMOX

NELSON PARK

CARDERO

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H.I.M. Main Office (310-1033 Davie)

16

CARDERO 1500

15

16 West End

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1200

42

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West End Community Centre

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Grace Gallery/The Narrow (1898 Main)

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43

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E. 5TH AVE

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E. 14TH AVE E. 15TH AVE E. 16TH AVE

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Gorg-O-Mish (695 Smithe)

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Goldie’s (605 W. Pender)

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Club 23 West (23 West Cordova)

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see our menu online at: www.OasisOnDavie.com

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9

april 2011 Issue 21

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TO NORTH VANCOUVER

JA

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max Theatre anada Place ver Trade & vention Centre

HA ST IN G S

V-rag

Kasha Kennedy is relatively new to the DJ scene in Vancouver, but has made quite an impact already. Her trademark beauty is only trumped by her skills on the decks, specializing in electro house. You've probably seen her as a regular fixture at Lick and Oasis Saturdays, as well as events for JetGirl and Lipstick Jungle. Expect to see a lot more of this babe of the beats very soon!

When did you start DJing?

Only about two years ago!

Favourite gig(s)?

Saturday nights for Guys and Dolls at the Oasis.

What kind of music do you play?

Electro, house, dirty dutch, dubstep, hip-hop, top 40... I like to throw some random favourites up into the mix too...

Rock star moments?

46

When all of the people in the club are rocking out to your music and staring at you, feeding you energy – you feel like a rock star! One time I had these girls screaming my name and hugging me; you should have seen how excited they got when I took a photo with them!

kasha kennedy

photo by kate mclaren

Q&A DJ

TOP TEN

1. B assjackers – "Rocker" 2. R ob Zombie – "Sick Bubblegum (SKRILLEX Remix)" 3. Martin Solveig – "Hello (Beatsmack Mix)" 4. Yeah Yeah Yeahs – "Heads Will Roll (A-Trak Remix)" 5. Taio Cruz – "Dynamite (Audio Bastardz Remix)" 6. P aul Anthony & ZXX – "Hustlin" 7. P itbull feat. T-Pain – "Hey Baby (AJ Fire Remix)" 8. David Guetta & Estelle – "One Love (Chuckie And Fatman Scoop Remix)" 9. Weekend Warriors – "Firework (City Kicks Mix) (Katy Perry Cover)" 10. J essie J – "Do It Like A Dude (8BarZ Rmx)"

DJ nightmare?

Had it happen actually; my Serato box stopped working so I had to trouble shoot ASAP – ended up mixing through two internal music programs on my computer. Ghetto, but it worked for the night!

Musical inspirations?

Anyone that is passionate and doing what they love and getting out there with their music. Skrillex, Nero, Bassjackers, Jean Elan, David Guetta, Deadmau5, LMFAO, Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, Rihanna, BEP, Lil Wayne, Rick Ross, Nelly, Sade, Adele, Mariah Carey – I have a love and appreciation for all genres of music and I feel inspired in different ways by almost everything.

What are your future plans?

Keep on DJing while producing and remixing tracks... and eventually travel the world sharing my music with the people who enjoy it! V Kasha Kennedy plays every Saturday for Guys and Dolls at the Oasis, and will be headlining the next Lipstick Jungle on April 24th at Five Sixty.

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