V-rag
vancouver's gay arts + culture rag
V a n R a g a z i n e
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july 2011 issue 24
PRIDE 2011 vancouver OUTGAMES
ACE OF BASE • DRAGONETTE
RAJA • MANILA LUZON • LADY BUNNY
dj frankie knuckles • dj landon james
music + lifestyle + film + travel + health + food + nightlife + fashion + design + art + culture
We’re proud supporters of Pride Week. 52 weeks a year. Whether it’s mobility, photography, entertainment or accessories, we pride ourselves on being unique and stylish - just like you.
Join us at Davie and Howe, 14 Water Street and at 991 Denman (opening this summer).
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vanragazine #24
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With over 25,000 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 like us facebook.com/vragmagazine
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Editor's Note First off, I just wanted to say a huge 'thank you' to everyone that came to the V-Rag 2 Year Anniversary Party, especially our gorgeous Canuck diva Simone Denny! Couldn't have made it these two years without the support of all of V-Rag's readers and partners. Thanks everyone! So, we're on to year three, and no better way to kick it off than to party even more. This is, of course, Pride month in VanCity, but we're also hosting the 2011 North America Outgames! We have a rundown of all the best parties, events and festivals to attend this month. Headlining the Outgames closing ceremonies (and our cover) is the Swedish pop sensation Ace of Base, as well as indie electro trio Dragonette. We got to chat with both bands about their upcoming performances. Also in this star-studded double issue, RuPaul's Drag Race winner and runner-up Raja and Manila Luzon kee kee (not ki ki). It'll be a Rainbow Night when Lady Bunny and Frankie Knuckles roll into town, and we caught up with both of these legends. Charlie David plays kiss and tell with gay porn icon Brent Corrigan, and Jeffrey Horvitz helps bring our community together through photos. Have a safe and happy Pride everyone! V Editor & Art Director Cole Johnston • cole@v-rag.com Editorial Contributors Derek Bedry Lana Chunn Charlie David Rob Farrow Jen Hill Joan-E Cole Johnston Jason Keller Matt Roy Michael Venus Printed by East Van Graphics Publisher Cole Johnston Design
Art & Photography AceofBase-Music.de Chicago Pride Jeffrey Horvitz Nicholas Jang Sergio Kardenas Moniker MGMT Traver Rains Nicholas Routzen TFD Productions Vancouver Pride Wilson Models Cover Photo by AceofBase-Music.de
Copy deadline for the August issue is July 25. Ad space is available until July 27 and can be booked by calling 604-831-8179 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 Š 2011 Cole Johnston Design.
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V a n R a g a z i n e
04 EDITOR'S NOTE
Happy Pride and Let the Games Begin!
08 BRENT CORRIGAN Porn superstar goes mainstream
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ACE OF BASE
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rAJA
Don't turn around, it's pure pop legends!
The reigning Queen of RuPaul's Drag Race
20 MANILA LUZON
Thrilla from Manila, headlining Heatwave
24 FRANKIE KNUCKLES
Grammy-winning house producer and DJ
26 LADY BUNNY
Our favourite Lady of Drag and Celeb Gossip
28 DRAGONETTE
The indie pop sensation wants to say Hello
30 PRIDE 2011 GUIDE
Do you know what you're doing this Pride?
HEALTH & WELLNESS 40 The LGBT Sport Movement
GOOD TIME CHARLIE 42
Top Gay World Travel Destinations Part 1
FILM:NOTES 46
Judas Kiss, Fall From Grace
MUSIC:NOTES 47
BeyoncĂŠ, An Horse, GIVERS
food:notes 48 Fab Foodie Fundraisers
wayoutwest 50
Download MobileTag and let's get started!
jeffrey horvitz 53
San Fran native and photographer around town
queer aperture 54
Jeffrey Horvitz documents our community
event listings 58
Our picks for July's hottest events
32 calendar of events nightlife in vancouver 59 The most comprehensive calendar in Van
36 OUTGAMES 2011 guide
What to do and where to do it these Games
38 joan-e's rag
Joan-E's Thinks About Pride
Weekly barhopping guide at a glance
v-map 60
Don't get lost! Find everything here
dj landon james 62
q&a: Keeping the music HOT at Heatwave 2011
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july 2011 Issue 24
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photo courtesy of chicago pride
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by Charlie David
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corrigan
pending time with Sean Paul Lockhart aka Brent Corrigan is akin to how Twilight’s Bella must feel with Edward (yes, I went there). Although his skin doesn’t look like diamonds in the sun, he is certainly worldly beyond his years, crackling with kinetic energy and dangerously handsome. But he was hardly born this way. Getting to know Sean reveals a calculating character that knows what he wants, where he’s going and how he’s going to get there. We recently hung out in San Francisco to raise a glass to his latest film Judas Kiss. Why was it important for you to get involved with Judas Kiss? I loved the writing. I found the concept of second chances and the different decisions we can make in our lives very attractive. I'm not meaning to hint that I'd do anything over in mine... Judas Kiss was an opportunity to take some of what life has thrown at me and use it constructively. If it hadn't been for some of the very real things I've experienced in my past, I don't think I would have been capable of a role as emotional as this one. What was the most challenging aspect of getting into acting? Getting people to give me a chance. It's difficult to get filmmakers to see a different side of me - to take me seriously. Many gay filmmakers have been very hesitant of being a part of that. Maybe until now I wasn't ready or they couldn't see it there. How have your fans reacted to your acting in mainstream films? It's hard to gauge this early on how my adult fans are going to like my transitional career choice. Sure, there are plenty of vocal people who tell me I'm only valuable when I'm baring my body. I say those people can go stuff it. I know there is more value and talent to me than just the physical! I just need a fair enough chance to prove it. Thankfully Judas Kiss and my other latest mainstream film, I Was A Teenage Werebear, show off a new side of me.
Now that you are directing and producing actively as Brent Corrigan - does Sean Paul Lockhart dream of directing and producing in the mainstream? Definitely! I’ve had to bite my tongue on mainstream sets because I am so detail-oriented and I concern myself with areas and things I shouldn't. I'm better at that now, but even on the set of Judas Kiss I was having to be told to stop "finding my light" or to stop "finding the camera". I love the technical side of working behind the camera. I came to California to go to film school to become a director. I took a detour. Ultimately I intend to end up right there calling "action" behind the camera. Will you continue to actively pursue both sides? Honestly, I don't feel pressured to make a decision one way or the other right now. I think a lot of people are expecting me to proclaim porn is the devil and I'm becoming a Scientologist because I'm a wannabe A-list celebrity. None of that will ever happen – primarily because none of it is what I want for myself. [Right now] I'm traveling to the festivals and screenings for Judas Kiss and Werebears. I'm taking appearance bookings under the Brent Corrigan name because I love meeting fans and making new friends. In the film your character is asked if he's afraid of the future. How about the real you what's your future look like? I'm not afraid of the future. A big part of life is standing by our decisions and the paths we choose for ourselves. What's next? A book. More mainstream projects. I'm developing a new website called www.sean-paul-lockhart.com. It's largely social commentary, personal observations on the community and my experiences – everything that my previous Brent Corrigan websites were minus the overtly adult element. Don't get me wrong; there will be plenty of sexy pictures of me. I've come too far and worked too hard on this hardened exterior and I do love to share it! V www.judaskissmovie.com www.thenewbrentcorrigan.com
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photos courtesy of aceofbase-music.de
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ith new girls, a new album, and a gig at the 2011 Vancouver Outgames on deck, ‘90s pop band Ace of Base is poised to make a comeback. But is it really a comeback if your music never really went away? (One word… “Alejandro”) V-Rag caught up with Ace of Base cofounder Ulf Ekberg for a chat on where he sees the group going and what brought Ace of Base to it’s first new album release in almost ten years. “[You know] after Linn left the band in the beginning of 2000 and Jenny decided to focus on her solo album, we had no choice than finding two new girls if we were proceeding with the comeback. With Julia and Clara, we’re not so limited anymore. We have much [sic] more options now, with these vocals, which is amazing.” According to Ekberg, the changes were happy ones for he and Jonas Berggren, but it was a much harder transition for the die-hard Ace of Base fans back home. “It was a bit bumpy in the beginning before the fans got to know Clara and Julia. But now after meeting them, seeing them, chatting with them and when they hear the new album, most fans are very happy. Ace of Base has always gotten mixed reviews (even on the first album). Either you love or hate it, but that is the business when you are doing pop.” Ekberg jokes that Clara was a “happy find” through Swedish Pop Idol, where he was a judge. “We prayed that she was going to be voted out! But we said to ourselves that there was no chance. That she would definitely win or come second. But by some strange accident, she was voted out. But we were then very grateful for that!” In late 2010, The Golden Ratio was released in Europe and is now making its mark on the dance floor in North America. “We found the spirit of writing again and [had] been missing the fans for too long!” Ekberg continues, “the album is really inspired by most of the inspirational sources from the first album, which is the early ‘80s. So I think it’s a mixture of
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by Jen Hill
early ‘80s, early ‘90s, and 2010. It has a very typical Ace of Base sound on some songs, the reggae beats and so forth. And then it has a really heavy dance influence to it as well. But we also have a couple of songs on there that are more towards the rock side, a little bit acoustic. There’s a little bit for everyone on the album, but with of course the poppy choruses. And we’ve been working a lot to enforce the girls’ vocals, to really show the girls’ vocals as naked as possible, because they sing so amazingly.” The Golden Ratio is the end result of three years of work in the studio for Ekberg and Berggren. Their main challenge was to find what the Ace of Base sound would be in the second decade of the 21st century. After a year of experimenting, they realized they wanted to embrace and preserve the original Ace of Base sound and make it contemporary at the same time. “I bought my first Kraftwerk album when I was eight,” says Ekberg. “Our music came from that and the first new wave of Depeche Mode, OMD, Human League and Eurythmics. We asked ourselves how would we sound now if we did exactly the music that we love, so we experimented with analog synthesizers, Pendell basses and live drums. Of course, we have matured a little bit, so we wanted to present that side of us as well and do some songs with only live instruments and show a more mature side of our song writing.” Dance music has changed a lot in the last twenty years and Ekberg is quick to compliment and acknowledge the work of some of today’s music icons for keeping the pop-vibe alive. “We are extremely honoured to have both Lady Gaga and Katy Perry, two of the biggest and most creative artists in the world, be inspired by us. I listen to Lady Gaga and Katy Perry and find myself in turn being inspired by them. In many ways their singles ‘Just Dance’ and ‘I Kissed A Girl’ opened up radio for pop and dance again. We did a little of that in the
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early ’90s in the U.S., so it’s amazing they are inspired by us and we’ve come back.” Ace of Base are headed our way to spread the groove at the 2011 Vancouver Outgames Closing Ceremonies and they couldn’t be more excited. In fact, Ekberg is a little giddy about giving back to the queer community. “[Your] support has always been 1000% and it’s because of the gay movement we made it in North America! So [you all] mean everything to us!!” Ekberg is a driving force and half the cornerstone (Berggren being the other half) on writing almost all the band's major hits. He is obviously excited about moving Ace of Base forward and is already looking at what’s next for the Swedish foursome. “I think for the next album, we’re probably gonna stretch it even further, to try out new things. Although a lot of this new album was still written with the old Ace of Base in mind. But I think with the next album, it’s going to be very interesting to see how far we can stretch things. The sky’s the limit when it comes to these voices. It’s very cool. Although sometimes when you have too many creative options, it makes it even more
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difficult, you can’t decide where to go!” The show this month will be a great opportunity to see all that’s new and improved, and Ekberg adds that it will be “a real live show (live musicians) with fantastic vocals and hopefully the audience will appreciate the mix of original sounds on some songs and completely new versions on some songs. The new songs we perform work very well live with a lot of energy.” It’s been a long time since Vancouver has seen Ace of Base live and have the opportunity to sing along to the highly addictive lyrics of “Don’t Turn Around”, “Beautiful Life” or “The Sign”. Personally, I am going to pull out my sparkle top and hit the dance floor as soon as I hear the first few beats to the new single, “All 4 U”, as catchy and danceable as any Ace of Base song should be. V Ace of Base will be headlining the Closing Ceremonies of the 2011 North America Outgames, along with Dragonette and Carole Pope, on July 30th at the Plaza of Nations. www.vancouver2011outgames.com www.aceofbase-music.de
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raja
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by Cole Johnston
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adies and gentlemen, and all of you that sort of fit that description, the "Diamond Crowned Princess" is coming to town! Raja, best known as the winner of RuPaul's Drag Race Season 3, will be headlining the Rapture 11 party Victory at the Commodore Ballroom. Hot off the heels of her win on the popular Logo reality show, Raja is a soughtafter commodity now. Her edgy, high-fashion art-meets-drag style established her as a frontrunner in the New York club scene. Not only a fierce drag performer, Raja (aka Sutan Amrull) is an accomplished stylist and make-up artist, having worked for Adam Lambert, Pamela Anderson, Dita Von Teese, and Tyra Banks. Whether you were a fan from the start, or one of the "non-fans", you have to admit that this queen is one of the most unique out there. We got to chat with Raja about the show, the Heathers and Lady Miss Kier! You'll be headlining the Vancouver Pride Rapture party. What should we expect from that? So exciting!! You can expect a lot of fun! It wouldn't be a Raja show without fashion and fun outfits! I have only been to Canada once while on tour with Adam Lambert. Can't wait to meet some hot Vancouver natives! What do you enjoy and what do you dislike about your new international fame? I love my fans! They are the coolest people, with a real desire for exploring creativity and experimentation. Then... there are the non-fans... They're sweet as well, they're just intimidated. It's OK... I don't bite. How did you get your start in drag? I started as a teenager in southern California. I gravitated to all the freaky kids and we were a bunch of club kids who were picked on in school and found admirers and support in clubs. Where did the name Raja come from? It came from the Disney film Aladin. There was a
tiger called Raja, and I was born in the year of the tiger. Raja ironically in Indonesian means king. There was a LOT of drama going on backstage in Untucked. Was that all real or was a bit of embellishment added? It's about 50/50. I love watching Untucked! It's like reliving the experience, except a lot more exciting than being there! Shangela‌ What was really going on there? Any hard feelings since the show aired? We're fine, friends, no hard feelings. What does it mean to be a Heather? For me "Heather" means confidence and to be unapologetic about who you are as an individual. A Heather is not an underdog.
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Do you still consider yourselves Heathers? Sure, maybe not in the same context as in the show, but yes, we are all very close friends and have a mutual admiration and respect for each other. Did you ever feel like you had an upper hand over the other queens because of your unique style of drag and the background in make-up? Yes I did. I knew that I had another understanding and perspective of the world and the world of fashion and entertainment. I never realized that I would have lasted as long let alone win, because I was concerned my philosophies may have been too provocative and strange for the show. Pop culture icons you draw inspiration from? Isabela Blow, Pee Wee Herman, John Waters, Leigh Bowery, Mq queen, David LaChapelle, Lisa Bonet, to name a few. How have things in your life changed since Drag Race aired? Everything has changed, privacy being one of them. I love the direction my life is taking, I've kind of always imagined it this way.
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You released a single, "Diamond Crowned Princess". Do you want to get into the music business full time?
I don't see it as a full time thing just yet. I am experimenting with it heavily these days, but that is my nature. I love trying new flavours. You recently performed with Lady Miss Kier, and I see you have some Deee-Lite on your website playlist. Are you a mega-fan of the Lady like we are here? AAAAAAAHHHHHH I idolize her!! She is everything!! Mmm how do you say... Delicious, delovely, delectable, devine... How do you say... Degorgeous? Dewith it? Degroovy? Define? Who would be your dream musical collaboration? So many! Sia, Lady Gaga, Lady Miss Kier, and Adam Lambert... Music, drag, make-up, modeling‌ You seem to have dabbled in every career. Is there still anything you're keen to do? I am an illustrator/painter, I love sewing and designing, I've been told I'm an amazing kisser. The future definitely has lots and lots of art in store for Raja. It's the only way I can exist. V Raja joins The Freemasons, Shokra, Peter Breeze, Micky Friedmann, Vegas and Fushia for Rapture 11: Victory on Sunday July 31st at the Commodore Ballroom. www.artofraja.com. www.tfdpresents.com
photo courtesy of wilson models
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lways a crowd favourite with fans of RuPaul's Drag Race, Manila Luzon took quite a bit of time out of her busy touring schedule to do her first Canadian interview with us, and lets it all hang out. From her controversies with politically correct watchdogs to her drag queen boyfriend Sahara Davenport, Manila has an opinion on everything. The Asian Sensasian will be coming to town for the annual Pride pool party Heatwave on July 30th, joined by Nick Bertossi and DJ Landon James. I personally can't think of a better way to spend a sunny afternoon by the pool!
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But ever since Prince William got married, people kind of forgot that I existed… Ugh, how rude. I know, that Prince has stolen all my goddamn thunder. He's only a Prince, I'm a Queen, honey! Haha. Did you watch any of the Royal Wedding? I just caught the highlights. The same footage of her walking out of the car… Then walking down the aisle… Then the awkward kiss they had on the balcony… Anyway, back to me!
Thanks so much for calling us up here in Vancouver. Have you done much international press?
Back to you! Again, they're stealing your thunder. But yes, you'll be coming up to Vancouver for the Rapture Pride pool party Heatwave.
No actually, not really. I've done some in the UK…
I know, I'm so excited! I haven't been to Canada
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luzon by Cole Johnston
in such a long time. Canada is like America's wig. You know, she's just perched up top on America. She's a big, gigantic Manila sized wig. Speaking of your wigs and your costuming… Are you going to wear a bikini for the pool party? If you wanted a bikini, honey, well then you should just bring up Carmen Carrera! No, it'll be a pool party so I'll definitely be wearing a swimsuit. It's going to be a three piece. A six piece swimsuit. It's going to have a cape… No, I don't know. You must be busy this summer with Pride! I am doing a lot of touring. This is starting off a tour of two weeks solid. It's crazy. And is that something you like to do? Oh yeah, I love to travel. It was always something I was really looking forward to doing when I found out I was going to be on the show. Because I have a day job, and you know, you have vacation days, but you never actually get to travel because you're too busy working. So I love doing gigs and being able to see different parts of the world. There's a lot of hauling my still-drunk ass to the airport at 6 o'clock in the morning, make-up still kind of on my eyes, still smelling like alcohol and cheap perfume… That's the only downside. So you're still doing your day job? Yes, I'm working days that I'm not in drag. I'm really lucky that they're really supportive of my work and they want me to succeed in being the best little drag queen I can be. I'm a graphic designer and I love what I do so it's really hard to pick and chose, but right now I have to concentrate on my drag. I'm at the top right now, I'm fresh off the show, I'm trying to make the most of it. How did you get your start in drag? Hmmm, I've always wanted to be in women's clothes, even when I was a child for some reason. I remember when I was like 12 or 13 years old, and my mother just got back from the video store with Priscilla Queen of the Desert. And she
said "I got this foreign film for us to watch, but you can't tell anyone at school that you watched this movie". So it's one of my dreams come true, being a drag performer. I love everything about it, I really do. Even when I can't feel my toes at the end of the night, I still love it. What drag queens do you look up to? First, to RuPaul, because she is the biggest and most popular… But I love Dame Edna, she was one of the first drag queens I ever saw… I love Lady Bunny because she's so crass and funny and says offensive things and it's hilarious. There's just so many influences of drag. The first season of Drag Race had favourite Nina Flowers come in second place, but she's gone on to be extremely successful. What are some of the advantages of coming in second? One of the advantages of not winning is that no one ever tells me that I shouldn't have won. Everyone just comes up to me and says "you should have won". Which is fine, because I've got to hear that positive response from people. No… I'm sorry, losing sucks! I could've had $75,000! Do you know how many Canadian dollars that is? Yeah, but there's people like Adam Lambert… Adam Lambert, Nina Flowers, there's tons of people that don't win reality television shows that actually do very very well for themselves. And I hopefully will be added to that list. Since the show, have you had any run-ins with people claiming that you're anti-Asian or was that put to rest after the show? Yeah, most of the reaction I get from my portrayal of Asians while on the show is that people think it was hilarious. I've only met a few people that were offended by it. It was all in good fun, and I don't just consider myself Filipino, I do consider myself Asian. So if people say I can't relate myself to a Chinese person or a Japanese person or a Korean because I'm Filipino, I have to disagree. I celebrate my
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vanragazine #24 entire Asian heritage and I love the culture of it, everything about it I find so interesting. In a white-washed world, I think it's sometimes good to embrace it, and some of the best ways to embrace things are through humour. Do you think some of it was just stirring drama on the show? Oh, it totally was. I mean, a lot of times when you're in a competition setting, the stakes are high, and you personally want to do well. So when someone is getting praise for something you find a fault in, you wanna make sure people find a fault there. That's why the Heathers kept calling people Boogers. Because we have people getting praised, but we just want to make sure everyone remembers… that their make-up is still busted. There was a LOT of drama going on in Untucked. Well, drag is a little bit over-the-top. Wait a minute, what am I talking about? Drag is over-the-top! So if you get a bunch of queens trying to express their opinions in a small enclosed room with a bunch of alcohol… Things are gonna go down, honey! So yeah, it was a little bit overdramatic, but that's what drag is. Accentuating things and making them larger than life. Our drama is just a little bit more dramatic than other people's drama. And that's what makes it so goddamn fun to watch! Was there anybody on Drag Race that you feel you had a rivalry with? It's so funny because after the show had finished wrapping, and we all knew who the winner was, and we all went about our lives, we were kee-keeing the house down. We were all calling each other, we were just having so much fun. We couldn't tell anyone about the show so the only people we could talk to were each other, and we all got along. And then we saw the final edit of the show, and then you know… It's hard to not let that influence your thoughts on your friends, your sisters, because of the way it was edited. Do you feel like you were a bit more prepared for the show because your boyfriend was on it last season? Or was it a totally new thing? The only advantage I really truly had from having Sahara Davenport on the show last season was knowing what to expect after the show; what to expect if I did well, what to do on the show in order to do well… But because all of the challenges were different and all of the contestants were different, there wasn't much of an advantage.
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Is there any friendly competition between Manila and Sahara Davenport? No, I don't think so. Because before we're drag queens, we're boyfriends. We're two gay men, and we've been dating for five years. So my success is Sahara's success and her success is my success. There isn't any kind of competition between us. We did have a competition and we both lost! I just found out you're going to be part of the new season of Drag U! Who else is going to be part of it and what can fans expect from this? Yes, I'm on the new season of Drag U, along with Carmen Carrera and Mariah. It's gonna be really awesome, I'm really excited to be part of the second season. We're gonna change some people's lives. It's gonna be glitzy and glamorous, it's gonna have rhinestones and giant hair everywhere. I gotta say, I think we did a better job on these real women than we did on ourselves, seriously. We turn out some busted mess women, honey! V Manila Luzon joins Nick Bertossi and Landon James at the Heatwave Pool Party, July 30th at the Westin Grand Hotel Pool Deck. www.manilaluzon.com www.tfdpresents.com
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rankie Knuckles is probably the most recognizable name in house music. This is a true pioneer who played alongside Larry Levan, Francois K and Ron Hardy in the early 1980s. Frankie Knuckles didn't just play house music, he helped create it. By the early '90s, he was producing with David Morales, Satoshi Tomiie and Jamie Principle. His 1991 track "The Whistle Song" earned him a Grammy for Best Dance Recording, an award he would later receive again for his remix work. The Chicago native even has a street named after him in the Windy City to honour him and pay tribute to the original gay sound. The Warehouse, The Paradise Garage, even Studio 54 all owe their fame to Mr. Knuckles. Even if you're not a house music
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fanatic, Frankie has likely influenced the music you hear today. We're honoured to host this living legend this year for Pride, bringing his magic to Five Sixty's July 30th Rainbow Night. What's been keeping you busy lately? I just moved into a new home about 2 months ago. That's really turned my life upside down. Plus, I've been buried in the studio with my partner, Eric Kupper, putting the finishing touches on the next Director's Cut Project and working on various remixes for some of my friends. You will be back in Canada for Vancouver's Pride Celebration. What are your favourite things about Canada? I think Canada is a beautiful country, but the
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people are what I love most about Canada. The hearty friendliness and openness of everyone makes it so easy to be there. No matter how cold it gets. What is the best thing about being you? I'm not sure there is a best thing about being me. I'm a happy man. I'm a loved man. I'm well respected and able to live in my truth without worrying about other people's opinion. Hey! Wait a minute... those are a few things that are good about being me. What's it like being considered a legend? It's nice being considered, period! However, being thought of and revered as a legend is pretty nice too. It means I've survived and am still relevant. I like living in this world and being a part of the here and now. Thoughts on the state of house music today? Well, I'm back to work making music so, I feel inspired. I think the scene is healthy. Trends will come and go but as long as I'm able to create the music that appeals to me, that's good enough. Many people trust my musical taste and like the music I produce and play. I think I'm in a very good place. I think house music is in a very good place. What's playing on your iPod right now? "Way To Blue" by Nick Drake. Who or what inspires you lately? My friends inspire me. My colleagues, The Arts. These are the things that inspire me. Favourite divas that you've worked with? Nicky Richards, Sybil, Ultra Nate, Chante Moore, Jocelyn Brown, the list goes on. As technology has changed so much over the past 20 years and everyone and their dog is a DJ, do you feel people take for granted the magic of music making? I don't think folks take for granted what it
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frankie
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takes to make this music. What's sad is how every bedroom DJ/Producer that tries to flood the market with inferior product cheapens and discounts the genre. Ultimately losing respect because of lack of quality and content. There's so much more to this music than these 2 dimensional disposable tracks that's been flooding the marketplace. These bedroom DJs/ producers need to start challenging themselves and start upping their game. They're hurting the genre and don't even know it. Advice for young DJs and producers? There was a time that I would've offered advice but that ship has sailed. People can love you and what you do everyday of your life. You can be the one person that inspires to make music. And then you listen to the tracks they're working on and you ask yourself, "You've been listening to me all this time and this is what you come up with?" Real artists have their own vision. There are leaders and there are followers. Those who can't lead should get behind and push. But if making music is seriously in your blood then, take it serious! Treat it with respect. Challenge yourself. Don't do what other folks are doing. It's already been done! What can we expect from you in the near future? I have no idea. I'm very busy creating new music and remixing tunes for many of my colleagues and people that I admire. Plus, I'm traveling the world to keep the music playing. Words to live by? In order to achieve your dreams, you have to struggle and challenge yourself to reach the pinnacle. If you're looking for a shortcut, don't bother. Sooner or later you're gonna have to prove yourself. V Join Frankie Knuckles and Lady Bunny for Rainbow Night, July 30th at Five Sixty. www.fkalways.com www.fivesixty.ca
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photo by sergio kardenas
vanragazine #24 #23
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bunny
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by Michael Venus
hen it comes to drag icons, Lady Bunny is right up there with RuPaul, Divine and Boy George. This Southern Belle has been part of the NYC drag scene for decades, and continues to razzle and dazzle while ruffling feathers with her twisted sense of humour and nutty cabaret. The creator of Wigstock feeds me her gibberish once again as she prepares to pay Vancouver another visit. This time, it's Five Sixty's Pride event Rainbow Night.
ing minds with your sick and twisted one tran show. What else has shim been up to?
Well hello Bunzah. How how you been Little Missy?
For me to not keep my promise!
A bit frantic since it's Gay Pride season. These kooky gays! I was always taught that pride was a sin!
Over the centuries, you have visited Couverville many times. What are your fave things about this town and cuntry?
You were recently hanging with another "Lady" and have worked with the Gaga before for Mac Cosmetics. What is your take on her?
I really enjoyed your Pride Parade several years ago. It felt like the participants truly were celebrating being gay and proud of it. NYC's parade has become so corporate that it's basically straight go-go dancers paid to dance on floats for Sprint. Not too proud about that. Vancouver featured a mock organization of "Gay Librarians" who went around shushing onlookers in matronly drag. It was uplifting, trippy and inspired.
I also Deejayed at the after party for her CFDA award recently, and she nicely gave me a shoutout on her HBO special since I was in the audience that night. I think it's wonderful that she makes gay-friendly messages and she's upped the ante for gay pop divas in that respect. She also writes her own songs and sings them live, which many pop divas (Britney) can't. But I'm very alarmed by the religious imagery in her music. "Capital H.I.M." and "God makes no mistakes," etc. God doesn't exist! Even if you think he does, how does someone who supports gay rights call themselves a devout Catholic? The Vatican claims that condoms don't protect you from HIV transmission. That's a lie which makes you die if you're gay. So odd that a leader like Gaga would be a foolish follower of a nightmare like the Pope. I never understood why Madonna and Gaga have to work out their Catholic kinks as art. I understand that it can be a tough, guilt-laden upbringing but I'm not Catholic or religious and I don't find this crap entertaining in the slightest. I understand that some people are religious and I respect their views. But I just don't think that they should ever be able to talk, write or type. How's that for inclusive. Happy Pride! You are constantly travelling the globe pollut-
I just attended Boy George's 50th birthday in London and broke my finger! I always end up fingering myself when I get drunk, and I'm still so tight back there! I'm travelling non-stop this summer from San Fran to Boston to Charlottesville Virginia! You've promised Vancouver audiences a show full of new material. What can we expect?
Words of wisdom to talk young queens out of this sick and twisted lifestyle? My advice to young gays is... Fuck me! And don't you dare consider suicide. I'm a bottom. How can you fuck me if you're dead? I'm a bottom and I've tried it. It don't work! Seriously, partying at Gay Pride is a great way to connect with our brothers and sisters and show our strength in numbers. But our enemies are in a church meeting every Sunday. How can we possibly defeat them with a party once a year? We can't. Any plugs (other than under that tangled wig)? Butt plugs, and I do not share, Rotton! Well, except for needles, but they are too small for me to put up my ass. V Join Lady Bunny and Frankie Knuckles for Rainbow Night, July 30th at Five Sixty. www.ladybunny.net www.fivesixty.ca
july 2011 Issue 24
lady
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vanragazine #24
dragonette
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embrace and hope never break the Top 40. Indeed, Dragonette didn’t score a chart position outside of Canada or the UK until the smash collaboration “Hello” with French DJ Martin Solveig, which went to number 1 in several European countries, peaked at 8 in Canada, and saw Dragonette finally entering rotation on U.S. airwaves. The hit track has given Dragonette fuel to boost their steady ascent out of counterculture and into a warm worldwide reception, but they don’t forget to give back to their fans; Dragonette will perform at the Closing Ceremonies of the 2011 North America Outgames in Vancouver this summer. Front woman Martina Sorbara says the LGBTQ community has always shown support for Dragonette.
photo by nicholas routzen
I
f you haven’t heard of them, you’ve certainly bobbed your head in blissful ignorance when one of Dragonette’s tunes played on the radio over the last four years, or engulfed the dance floor at Junction recently. The new-wave synth-pop hipster darlings originated in Toronto before relocating to London to lay down their 2007 debut album, Galore, which was critically praised as “The Killers fronted by Gwen Stefani”. Their 2009 follow-up Fixin’ to Thrill garnered increased attention and better chart performance, and solidified Dragonette’s place at the top of the heap among the kind of cuttingedge lesser-known homegrown bands that snobby futurists and digital boomers enthusiastically
V-rag
by Derek Bedry
You've played Pride events across the globe and now you're closing the North American Outgames in Vancouver. Why are queer people so fond of Dragonette? I don't mean to generalize, but aren't the gays known for their good taste? It seems sex has a big part to play in your music, but what would you say motivates and inspires the song writing? When writing lyrics for a song, I am always either trying to find themes otherwise not sung about, or else I like to try and take a very common theme and unravel it in a way that people can see/hear it in a different light. How would you say your take on sexuality differs from how other mainstream femalefronted pop acts or singers use it? I'm not actually interested in conveying sexy or sexuality per se. What interests me is showing people that there are more sides to the feminine than mainstream media generally puts out. I guess some people call it feminism, which is not a term I mind at all. But I just see it as being true to what attracts and inspires me visually, artistically and emotionally. "Hello" with Martin Solveig blew up into Dragonette's best-charting and, arguably, most popular song. You've had other relative hits – do you ever feel pressure to replicate big successes? There can be the nagging feeling while writing music of "wouldn't be great if I could just spit out another X or Y radio hit?” But ultimately my creative is most excited by surprising itself. And there's not much surprise that comes with writing the same song over and over again. So if that kind of thinking occurs while trying to write a song, we do our best to banish it. Will you keep working with Martin Solveig? What's next? We have a few more songs on his record and, who knows, maybe he'll turn up on ours.
Would you tell us about your favourite moment with a fan? Well, last week a fan of ours let me squeeze her brand new fake boobs. Very exciting. But not, perhaps, as special a moment as being given homegrown purple fingerling potatoes. What might fans be surprised to know about you? I lost my virginity at 21. Dragonette seems effortless in its ability to pluck tropes from other genres, incorporating country twang or Bollywood-style instrumentals into previous releases. It's a pretty exciting sense of limitlessness. How are those ideas born? And, how do you know they're good? I think we just like to see what whacked out ingredients we can make taste good together. And whether other people like it or not doesn't effect whether it gives you that satisfying feeling. If I get that 'uh huh' feeling then I've succeeded, because that's all I'm ever really looking for: Uh huh. Favourite musicians growing up? Sinead, Kate Bush, Zappa, Bjork, Cyndi. What do you miss about Canada? As it's summertime, I find myself missing lakes and cottages and big Canadian shield rocks and chipmunks and raccoons and wild blueberries. Getting back to gays, a huge Dragonette fan begged me to pose you this question. Marry, fuck or kill: Britney Spears, Cher, Lady Gaga? Marry Brit Brit, just cause you know at least there'll be drama. Fuck Gaga, ‘cause if we got married, I think we'd turn into one of those couples that accidentally dresses alike every time they go out. Kill Cher, ‘cause I didn't realize she was still alive. V Dragonette will play the Closing Ceremonies of the 2011 North America Outgames on July 30th at the Plaza of Nations. www.vancouver2011outgames.com www.dragonette.com
july 2011 Issue 24
ette
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photo courtesy of vancouver pride
vanragazine #24
pride
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ot that you'd know it based on Junuary's dank weather, but summer is once again upon us. And judging by the amount of rainbows you've seen around town (and in this issue), it can only mean Pride! This year is shaping up to be one of the best Prides in Vancouver history. The always reliable Flygirl Events have some fantastic parties planned throughout for the ladies, and TFD Productions have upped the ante with featured performers like the Freemasons, Manila Luzon and Raja! Five Sixty is set to be huge with house legend Frankie Knuckles and drag icon Lady Bunny headlining the Rainbow Night party. Celebrities, Oasis and Junction will all be the hot spots in the Village during Pride, and The Cobalt serves up the East Van flavour. The boys from Queer Bash are holding their final QB event, so mark that on your calendars, you won't want to miss it! Check out our full Calendar of Events and have a safe and Happy Pride! V For more info and up-to-date event listings, go to www.vancouverpride.ca saturday july 23 Picnic in the Park Stanley Park Brockton Oval
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Spencer Herbert's Pride Brunch Coast Plaza Hotel 2 1763 Comox CruiseyT: Leather & Denim Cruise Harbour Cruises 501 Denman 3 FOR THE LADS
monday july 25 Pride Media Launch City Hall 453 West 12th 4 tuesday july 26 The Gayest Show on Earth Pt. Deux Roundhouse Community Centre 181 Roundhouse Mews 5 Pride Rhinestone Stiletto Show Junction 1138 Davie 6 WEDNESDAY july 27
sunday july 24
30
2011
FOR THE LADIES
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Man Up: Pride Edition The Cobalt 917 Main 11
VML Tom of Finland Party Numbers Cabaret 1042 Davie 13
Bearracuda Pride Five Sixty 560 Seymour 8
Sweet Friday Canvas Lounge 99 Powell 12
Caya Davie Street Dance Party Davie Street
friday july 29
The Pride Ball 2 The Cobalt 917 Main 11
Cocky Pride 1181 1181 Davie 10
Pride Hard Candy Celebrities 1022 Davie 7
Pride Movie Night Granville 7 Theatres 855 Granville 9
thursday july 28 6
CruiseyT Pride GoGo Cruise Harbour Cruises 501 Denman 3 2011 Pride Parade Thurlow & Robson – Sunset Beach
2011 Dyke March March at McSpadden Park, Festival at Victoria Park 18
Beefcake Pride Edition Oasis 1240 Thurlow 14
Absolutly Drag-U-Lous Pride
Chicks Ahoy! Fireworks Cruise Plaza of Nations Harbour 750 Pacific Blvd. 17
The Anthem Party Plaza of Nations 750 Pacific Blvd. 17
The Big Gay Sing Roundhouse Community Cntr. 181 Roundhouse Mews 5
Sunset Beach Pride Festival Sunset Beach 22
CruiseyT White Party Cruise Harbour Cruises 501 Denman 3
Pride Ride Cruise Plaza of Nations Harbour 750 Pacific Blvd. 17
Q Ball Sheraton Wall Centre 1088 Burrard 19
sunday july 31
Rainbow Night Five Sixty 560 Seymour 8
Sin City 10 Year Sextravaganza The Red Room 398 Richards 21
Rapture 11: Dominate Commodore Ballroom 868 Granville 20
Junction 1138 Davie
Rapture 11: Heatwave Westin Grand Hotel 443 Robson 16
Terry Wallace Breakfast Bute & Davie 15
saturday july 30
Pride Ball w/ Dave Aude Celebrities 1022 Davie 7
Gay Pride Friday Oasis 1240 Thurlow 14
17
United: Pride Gorg-O-Mish 695 Smithe 26
CruiseyT Pride Party Cruise Harbour Cruises 501 Denman 3
monday august 1
Rapture 11: Victory Commodore Ballroom 868 Granville 20
Queer Bash: Pride Farewell The Cobalt 917 Main 11
History VIII Celebrities 1022 Davie 7
HerShe Bar Gossip 750 Pacific Blvd.
Desnudo Pride Edition Club 23 W 23 W Cordova 25
Chicas Queen Elizabeth Theatre 650 Hamilton 24
Out on the Green Pride Langara Golf Course 6707 Alberta 23
2I多FLDO 6SRQVRUV
North America Outgames VANCOUVER July 25 - 31, 2011
Sports Human Rights Cultural Celebrations
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&RPPXQLW\ 0HGLD 3DUWQHUV vancouver's gay arts + culture rag
www.v-rag.com
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Registration + Information:
www.vancouver2011outgames.com 5HWDLO 3DUWQHU
vanragazine #24 #23
2011 north america
outgames A
s if we didn't have enough to think of and do this month! Not only is it Vancouver Pride, our fair city is also hosting the 2011 North America Outgames! You'll probably be hearing a lot this month about the great sporting events going on from July 25th through to the 30th. From dancesport and soccer, to volleyball, tennis, track & field and softball, there's something for everyone. If sports aren't necessarily your taste (although everyone should support our local LGBT athletes), there's always the after parties! Sugarbeach will get things started at Five Sixty for the Outgames Opening Night Party on July 25th. Outgames minglers will be going on every night of the week at 1181, Junction, Oasis, Numbers and Moxies. Of course, no event would be complete without a stunning finale, and the Outgames has exactly that. Ace of Base, Dragonette and Carole Pope headline the Closing Ceremonies on July 30th at the Plaza of Nations. Race ya there! V
monday july 25
The 2011 North America Outgames run from July 25th – 30th at various locations throughout Vancouver, Whistler, Burnaby, Richmond and Surrey. For more information and to get your Fast Track Pass, go to www.vancouver2011outgames.
saturday july 30
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2011 Outgames Media Launch City Hall 453 West 12th Vancouver Outgames Opening Ceremonies Vancouver Art Gallery 750 Hornby Vancouver Outgames Opening Night Party Five Sixty 560 Seymour Vancouver Outgames Sporting Events Various Venues Vancouver – Whistler July 25 – 30 tuesday july 26 – 28 Outgames Human Rights Conference Sheraton Wall Centre 1088 Burrard Vancouver Outgames Closing Ceremonies featuring Ace of Base & Dragonette Plaza of Nations 750 Pacific Blvd.
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Poster Concept and Design: Barb Snelgrove
Bodypaint and Photography by Glitter Machine
Models: Armstrong Jr., Carolina Sanchez, Micha Gilbert
Graphics: Laicy Herron
july 2011 Issue 24
com.
alf Page (June 24).indd 1
North America Outgames VANCOUVER July 25 - 31, 2011
www.vancouver2011outgames.com 2I多FLDO 6SRQVRUV
SOCIAL SUNDAYS
6/24/2011 8:38:15 PM
DJ DUBBULDEE
$8 pitchers Oasis Lager $3.75 caesars ($7.50 dbl) Roof Top Patio 4PM-8PM
www.OasisOnDavie.com
1240 Thurlow @ Davie (upstairs)
604.685.1724
vanragazine #24
JOAN-E's
rag
pride 2011
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photo by nicholas jang
T
his year I am humbled to have been named a 2011 Vancouver Pride Parade Marshal. This means that many of you will be hearing and seeing (whether you wish too or not) lots of me! Therefore, I thought that I would take this time to let you all know who I will be thinking of this year at Pride. I will be thinking of volunteers. That event we attended, that banner that was put up or that garbage we dropped? It was all organized, hoisted up and cleaned by a volunteer. Those meals that got delivered, the therapeutic massage that was given, or the care worker who visited a house-bound member of our community with AIDS? That was all done by a volunteer. I will think of our brothers and sisters in smaller LGBTQ Communities in BC. Being out, brave and visible in Vancouver, or even Victoria, is something all of us can be proud of. Now imagine doing it in Kelowna, Prince George or Nelson. Every day and in every way, these champions and real life pioneers change hearts and minds across our province. Sometimes a handful of proud queers walking together can be even more effective and powerful than a group of us numbering in the tens of thousands. I will think of those who just can’t make it to Pride this year. Many of our community members will be too ill to march or attend the Pride parade. They will miss the fun, the parties and the people. Others will be out of town or stuck working at a job where “Pride” doesn’t get them a day off in quite the same
way Christmas does. I will wish courage and strength to those, especially the young people, who are not yet ready to publicly, or even privately, declare who they are. And then, I will think of those who are no longer with us, and will feel their strong proud spirits around us. I will think of our great and colourful history. I will think of those who took a stand. I will think of those who protested and those who fought. I will think of those who marched before. I will raise a toast to those who affected the changes that lead us to a safer, better life and to those who helped deliver us the laws that protect us today. I will think of our leaders, our rebels and our brats. I will think of our straight allies. I will think of kings and queens, of brothers and sisters, of mothers and fathers and children. I will think of partners with their lovers and of those who still search for another. I will think of family and friends and will look forward to meeting those who come here for the first time. I will think about Canada, and I will think of you! V Check out more of Joan-E's Rag on www.v-rag.com
by David Blue
JULY 21 – 30
Directed by Neil Scott PAL Theatre 581 Cardero St.
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vanragazine #24
HEALTH & wellness by Jason Keller
T
he 2nd GLISA North America Outgames will be held from July 25th to July 31st right here in Vancouver and everybody is welcome. These events coincide with this year’s Pride festivities. I am looking forward to seeing what a healthy focus on athleticism will bring to the often sidetracked Pride weekend. So what is the LGBT sports movement about? The greater world of sport can still be an uncomfortable place for queer athletes and fans. It is a world where issues of bullying and homophobia are still very prominent. In an environment where few active North American athletes in a major male team sport have declared their homosexuality, it remains rare for athletes to chime in on the issue of gay rights. Recent exceptions include Grant Hill and Jared Dudley of the Phoenix Suns, who recorded a public service announcement calling for an end to gay slurs in sports, and hockey player Sean Avery’s recent endorsement of gay marriage. I hear more and more from fans and players who have felt ostracized for being gay. Some say they quit sports because of the harassment, or had been shamed into staying closeted, unable to find support from friends, family, and teammates. It is still necessary for many to seek sport activities and competition within our own supportive community. The Outgames are simply making it possible for many LGBT individuals to play sports that would otherwise not. The organizing body, GLISA, also concerns itself with discrimination as LGBT athletes prove themselves and work toward integration in mainstream sports. One of the pillars of the Outgames is partnership with mainstream sports, human rights, and cultural organizations that share their mission to make all places safe for LGBT athletes to succeed.
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So why engage in recreation sports? The simple answer is to stay active and have fun. This is true, but there are many other important health benefits to sport participation. The following is a list of life benefits which have been proven by researchers. Young people who engage in recreational sports on a regular basis do better in school. This is because athleticism stimulates neurological activity. Research shows that grade improvement directly correlates with regular extracurricular athletics. Attention abilities and information retention are improved, which are great benefits in a learning environment. Recreational sports are the best way to study teamwork and goal setting skills. These are preciously under appreciated life skills. The benefits of practicing these skills extend beyond fitness and into success within one’s career, family, and social life. Sports are good for your long term physical condition. In addition to maintaining physical fitness and a healthy body mass, individuals who engage in recreational sports experience less stress and injury. In the long run, those who keep active are less likely to suffer from diabetes, hypertension, or osteoporosis. Playing sports boosts self-confidence. Beginning to play a sport may seem intimidating, but recreational sport allows one to build skill and become good at something. Also, sports are an example of something that holds your attention and requires enough focus that you forget about everything else. You will feel more competent, accomplished, and capable afterwards. These are great antidotes to low self esteem. Staying active reduces stress and increases happiness. Hormones are secreted into the body’s blood circulation when one is stressed. Exercising can help you to use some of the stress hormones that accumulate in the body. Exercise also releases endorphins, which give your body a natural boost. Endorphins are natural pain killers that give you a feeling of happiness and positive well being. V Jason Keller is an Outreach Counsellor and Client Care Coordinator for Vancouver Coastal Health. www.vch.ca
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good time CHARLIE by Charlie David
A
lright, I admit it – somehow I managed to snag the dream job of hosting a world travel show, Bump! While there are limitless possibilities to explore; here are five of my favourite and most gay-friendly travel destinations. Paris, France It’s aptly named the City of Love, and you may find just that while strolling down the Champs Elysses. Parisians live a rich life of fashion, art, and culinary delights. In the summer, blocks and blocks of the city are filled with sand to create la Plage – literally a beach right in the city for those who aren’t able to escape to the Riviera. I suggest staying in Le Marais, the gay district. Get hooked up with your own fully furnished condo and live as the French do with the help of the gay owned Absolu Living. There are countless world famous museums and galleries including of course the Louve and Musee d’Orsay, world class opera, theatre, and some of the best shopping in the world. Ready to party? Check out Le Raidd and Paris’ oldest gay dance club aptly named Queen. Gay Paris indeed! Amsterdam, Holland Sin, Smoke, and Bicycles make Amsterdam a must on your world tour. The city has always been at the forefront of liberal thinking and you won’t want to miss the world's only monument dedicated to gay concentration camp victims, The Homo Monument. Want to see a different take on a Pride Parade? Amsterdam's is held on barges floating down the numerous canals that ring the city. My favourite experience is an uber-fab restaurant called SupperClub, with fresh and daring performance art every night. Trust me, you’ll be telling tales of your time there for years to come. This city is notorious for its Red Light District and the gay nightlife here is just as dark and dangerous. Be sure to wear lots of protective leather and rubber!
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Berlin, Germany Berlin is a favourite for me because beneath the austere exterior of the locals, there is a deep and dark Rabbit’s Hole you may fall into. Since the fall of the Berlin Wall and the mingling of East and West, the city is finding itself and truly is one of the most interesting dichotomies of new world and old. I strongly urge you to stop at Schwulesmuseum, one of the only gay museums in the world documenting our history. Berlin is vast, so I definitely recommend staying at least a week to discover its treasures! Vancouver, C anada There’s no better place in the world to have your Big Gay Wedding than in Vancouver! Listed among the top ten most beautiful cities in the world over and over again, Vancouver lives up to its reputation, settled beside the ocean and amidst snow-capped mountains. Cruise Vancouver's beaches and blade the world-famous Seawall in one of the world’s largest city green spaces, Stanley Park. But you probably know that! Buenos A ires, Argentina Stand back, Buenos Aires! From exploring the Evita Museum and browsing street markets to taking tango lessons and relaxing at an exclusive men's spa, find out what makes this throbbing city of 11 million tick. Argentina is famous for its Malbec wine and for its beef – both of the four legged and two legged variety. Get your fill of both! Buenos Aires is called the Paris of South America, which is probably why I love it so much. You can treat yourself like royalty for a fraction of what you would pay in North America. V Check out Part 2 of Charlie David's Top Gay World Travel Destinations next month. Where in the world is Charlie? www.charliedavid.com www.facebook.com/officialcharliedavid
celebrating
20 years 1992 to 2012
OFFICIAL OUTGAMES WOMENZONE EVENTS
“Sweet Friday” Pride Kick-Off Party | Friday July 29/11 Canvas Lounge – 99 Powell St. | 10pm-2am $10 Advance or free with purchase of weekend pass DJ/VJ Miss M (Drama Squad DJ) Fireworks Boat Cruise – Chicks Ahoy! | Saturday July 30/11 M.V. Abitibi – Plaza Of Nations Marina – 750 Pacific Blvd. Boarding 7:30pm | Sailing 8:30pm-12:30am PLEASE BE ON TIME $55 Advance / $65 @ Boarding – Limited Boat Admission DJ Riki Rocket (UK, Sydney), DJ Kasey Riot (LA, YVR) CHICAS @ THE QUEEN | Sunday July 31/11 Queen Elizabeth Theatre Outdoor Plaza 650 Hamilton @ West Georgia 3pm-9pm | $45 Advance. Door Admission Available. Arrive Early. DJ Amara (LA), DJ Betti Forde (Toronto) Live Kytami (Delhi To Dublin) with DJ Phonograph and MC Ndidi Cascade Erica Dee & Honey LaRochelle (LA) HERSHE BAR - Where The Girls Are! | Sunday July 31/11 2 Clubs-5 DJ’s | 8pm-2am | Gossip AND Blvd 22 Nightclubs – 750 Pacific Blvd $25 Advance. Door Admission Available. Arrive Early. DJ Saratonin (LA) DJ Betti Forde (Toronto) DJ Riki Rocket (UK, Sydney) DJ Kasey Riot (LA, YVR) DJ Soulfunkee (UK, YVR)
Tickets Available:
www.flygirlproductions.com Little Sisters 1238 Davie St Kokopelli Salon 2052 Commercial Drive @ 4th Ave
vanragazine #24
FILM:notes Judas Kiss D: jt tepnapa
Fall From Grace D: k. ryan jones
What if you could confront a younger you and get yourself to not do the things your older self regrets? This is the premise of JT Tepnapa’s new film, Judas Kiss. Charlie David plays broody Zachary Wells, a washed-up filmmaker who’s been in and out of rehab after Hollywood macerates his dreams of fame. He is sent back begrudgingly to his alma mater to judge the student film fest he himself won fifteen years ago. His first night on campus, he hooks up with a student that he discovers is not only a contestant in the film fest, but actually his younger self, Danny Reyes (Zach is his stage name). In this unique twist, Zach finds himself in some kind of time warp that takes him back in time to stop himself from winning the festival that ultimately leads to his downfall. The film explores the nasty side of filmmaking, the harsh competition, the struggle of making it big, and the benefit of failure, while commenting on the desires of gay men; it’s self love taken to a whole new level! While there are a few problems with the script (wouldn’t Zach recognize his younger self before sleeping with him?), the filmmaking is crisp and visual, including some wonderful special effects that complement the time travel elements. And the acting is solid, including a surprisingly excellent performance by Brent Corrigan, better known for his adult films. Slated for the Vancouver Queer Film Fest, Judas Kiss is different, sexy, and worth checking out.
As pride month is upon us, I recently watched a documentary which is a distinct reminder of why LGBTQ people celebrate pride and continue to fight against homophobia. Fall from Grace is about the hate-spewing Westboro Baptist Church and the Phelps family, who protest with infamous “God Hates Fags” signs, the ones we chatted to Lisa Lampanelli about last month. We are given an honest inside look at the Phelps family, their church and some of the people affected by the hateful message they spread. Fred Phelps is the minister of the cult-like church in Topeka, Kansas and father of 13 children, 52 grandchildren, and a great-grandchild. All but four of his children are members of the church. It's not just through Phelps’ words, but the words of his estranged children that paint a picture of a volatile, abusive, and psychologically unstable man. The Showtime documentary gives the Phelps family a chance to speak in depth about their hate for “fags”. It shows Fred, multiple times, as he goes through this manic hysteria where he preaches his beliefs. Most disturbing in the film, is how brainwashed they all are by Phelps and his outlandish beliefs. All of his grandchildren (aside from the few estranged) are conditioned to believe the hateful message he preaches, and all of his children have been trained to pass it down to their own children and pollute a new generation with their hate-speech. Overall, the documentary was a great showcase for this unfortunate chapter in history.
by Matt Roy
46
by Lana Chunn
V-rag
47
Beyoncé 4
An Horse walls
GIVERS in light
Beyoncé's fourth solo album (ohhhh! I just got that!) was apparently culled from the best of a whopping 72 demo tracks. I’d hate to hear the 60 rejects. I couldn‘t remember much about it after I‘d finished listening except that it is so oversung, unconventional and unpoetic it’s frustrating. I also recall one particularly bad line: “You showed your ass, and I saw the real you,” she accuses on “Best Thing I Never Had”. Wait. On second thought… I’ve had some unpleasant shocks that way too. The disc is overwrought, weird and inconsistent, effectively removing it from the pop lexicon without allowing it to breathe in any particular genre. Maybe it’s hard to see past one of the biggest names in pop to assess the music fairly. If this album were released by another artist, its retro balladry might place it in a similarly nostalgic category as Amy Winehouse’s Back to Black. But a lesser, greener artist didn’t release 4. Friggin’ Beyoncé did. So where’s the beef?
Walls is an album I’ve been anticipating since we interviewed An Horse last summer, just prior to their heading into Vancouver studios to record it. It was worth the wait. The first track and first single "Dressed Sharply" greets you like an ice cold beer on a summer day, with a toe-tapping beat coupled along with witty sing-along lyrics. "Not Mine" is a great transition into the body of the work, as it contains both upbeat rock sections and sombre sections within the song. Engaging acoustic track "Windows in the City" has an airy appeal. There is an intense level of passion that Kate Cooper and Damon Cox bring to their music. Cooper’s heartfelt lyrics can't be mistaken, and Cox’s strong solid beats carry the bass, creating a rock and roll feel throughout. Admittedly similar to their debut Rearrange Beds, Walls sticks to An Horse's formula for good reason. The duo balances key indie-rock ingredients well.
I love it when I find new and weird music, and I have in GIVERS’ debut album In Light. This quintet hails from Louisiana, and you can really hear it. I would describe them as rock with Caribbean flair, with just a touch of country twang. And laced amongst all of that is some really great psychedelic sounds. It seems like too much, but honestly, it’s not. The album is upbeat and fast paced, thanks to drummer Kirby Campbell. While it’s a solid album, it peaks right in the middle with the sultry song "Ripe", where vocalist Tiffany Lamson really shines, followed directly by the suave "Noche Nada" and the sugar sweet "Ceiling of Plankton", lead by guitarist and vocalist Taylor Gaurisco. Hell, I can’t go on without mentioning bassist Josh LeBlanc or Nick Stephen covering keyboards, flute, and sax; GIVERS is a true ensemble of Southern cool. Basically, I’m hooked. With unexpected twists and turns, this is definitely my summer album of choice. And I’ll be eagerly awaiting what comes next.
by Derek Bedry
by Lana Chunn
by Matt Roy
july 2011 Issue 24
MUSIC:notes
vanragazine #24
FOOD:notes Andre Petterson Blue Spill 3 Mixed media on panel Courtesy of Bau-Xi Gallery
Fab Foodie Fundraisers two great meals for two great causes A Loving Spoonful’s Project Empty Bowl On July 7th, A Loving Spoonful will host their signature annual fundraiser, Project Empty Bowl, at the Coast Coal Harbour Hotel. Presented by Coast Capital Savings and hosted by Global TV’s Deborra Hope, this event will be an unforgettable evening of food and wine, with gourmet all-you-can-eat food stations, courtesy of the Coast Coal Harbour Hotel, served in handcrafted souvenir bowls, paired with Peller Estates wines and Russell Brewing Co. beer. The event will also include both a silent and live art auction. This year’s auction will feature a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to purchase a piece from Arthur Erickson’s personal art collection, which has been graciously donated to the event by his family. The auction will also include artwork donated by some of Vancouver’s top galleries, including this year’s featured artist Andre Petterson, courtesy of the Bau-Xi Gallery. Tickets for Project Empty Bowl are $100 and can be purchased online at www.alovingspoonful.org, or by calling 604.682.6325.
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Passions – A Benefit for the Dr. Peter Centre Over the past eight years Passions, the annual fundraising gala at the Dr. Peter Centre, has rightfully earned a reputation as one of Vancouver’s top events for lovers of food and wine, as the city’s top chefs and restaurants come together to support a worthy cause. The list of participating restaurants is nothing short of amazing. 23 restaurants will be taking part in this year’s event, to be held on September 11th. Returning restaurants include Cibo, Cin Cin, Chambar, Coast, Crave on Main, Diva at the Met, El Barrio, Fraiche, the Kambolis Group, Le Gavroche, La Terrazza, MIX the Bakery, O’Doul’s, The Observatory, Oru at the Pacific Rim, Provence and Tojo’s. New additions to the event include The Apron at the Wall Centre Westin, Ensemble, Hapa Umi, Hawksworth, Maenam and Market at the Shangri La. The event will feature wines courtesy of New Zealand Wine and beer courtesy of R&B Brewing Co. Just when you thought they couldn't possibly squeeze in any more food... a first for this year will be a pre-event champagne reception where guests can sip bubbly as they preview auction items, mingle with event hosts and Dr. Peter’s friends and family, and enjoy scrumptious canapés from The Lazy Gourmet. Tickets for the event are $200 for general admission and $300 for the event plus the champagne reception. To purchase, visit www. drpeter.org or call 604.331.5086.
Point Zero Lounge & Restaurant
THE FORMER CHEF FROM THE EATERY Mon – Fri 4:30pm till Late Sat & Sun 11:00am till Late
HOME OF THE SAMURAI SANGRIA AND YAM BAM BAM
20% Off Point Zero
Present this coupon to receive 20% off your next bill. Alcohol not included. Dine-in only. Valid until Oct. 30, 2011. Limit one per bill.
www.pointzerolounge.com info@pointzerolounge.com
1149 Granville St. 604.440.1149
vanragazine #24
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!
WATCH: Half-Share www.tinyurl.com/vrag87
The cocktail is always half-full! Fire Island is like Summer Camp... with better abs! The HalfShare pilot provides a provocative peek into the lives of six gay men sharing a beach house. Imagine The Golden Girls summering on Fantasy Island if it were run by Patsy and Edina. WATCH: Judas Kiss Trailer www.tinyurl.com/vrag88
A quirk in time and space gives a failed filmmaker the chance to reshape his destiny when he visits his peculiar alma mater. Zachary (Charlie David) is convinced by his best friend Topher to replace him as a judge in their film school's annual festival and meets Danny. WATCH: Verona The Movie Part 1 www.tinyurl.com/vrag89
Inspired by William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, Verona is the story of two young lovers separated by their rival fraternities. Set in a small college town wherein young men are groomed for corporate success in all-American hyper competitive fashion. WATCH: Verona The Movie Part 2 www.tinyurl.com/vrag90
Verona presents the fate of star-crossed lovers in a society that condemns the very nature of their love. This post-modern retelling of the greatest love story ever told brings to light the homophobic/homoerotic dual nature of fraternity life, its perks and perils. WATCH: The Gay Who Wasn't Gay Enough www.tinyurl.com/vrag91
An online mockumentary by Toronto's gay rugby team. Coming out of the closet was the easy part! Inspired by the players' true stories about one man's quest to find himself. Starring the boys of Muddy York RFC. www.muddyyork.ca WATCH: Mugler - Brothers of Arcadia www.tinyurl.com/vrag92
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The video for the Mugler Men's ready to wear collection by creative director Nicola Formichetti, Spring/Summer 2012... that also comes in an uncensored version on Xtube! Highbrow Milan Fashion meets lowbrow Internet Porn. www.xtube.com/mugler
51 V-rag
july 2011 Issue 24
23RD
VANCOUVER QUEER FILM FESTIVAL AUGUST 11- 21, 2011 queerfilmfestival.ca
he t t n i ! pa k n i p town Let’s be friends! VancouverQFF @queerfilmfest
V-rag
53
queer S
an Francisco native Jeffrey Horvitz sees photography as a way to express himself as a gay man and also as a way to fit into the larger fabric of the gay community. His work has been featured in both regional and international publications. Horvitz has exhibited his work at Q Center, a LGBT community center, in Portland, Oregon. His shows include Standout, a solo exhibit featuring LGBT athletes both in and out of their uniforms, and Queer Aperture, a series of images featuring gay community leaders that was originally produced for a Portland-based LGBT publication and grew to include straight allies. Horvitz recently produced a Vancouver arm of this project, now being shown at Qmunity on Davie and Bute. He calls his creative move
aperture to Vancouver "a natural progression. I am a huge fan of my Bay Area. I have a huge love for the internationalism of the city. My first foray to Vancouver made me think of San Francisco. The water, the size, the beautiful architecture, the arts, Vancouver is kinda like a very clean San Francisco." Horvitz has created a unique and diverse cross section of Vancouver's vibrant community. "The face of the Queer Community is changing constantly everywhere. We are more than a simple caricature, of leather guys, drag queens, twinks, bears, butch lesbians etc‌ The extreme images get more media attention, but we are everywhere in many different non stereotypical guises." V Check out the Queer Aperture project at Qmunity or at www.queeraperture.info
Spencer
photos by
jeffrey
horvitz
vanragazine #24
LISTINGS saturday july 16
saturday july 30
Gay Day at Playland Ride with Pride at Playland! Featuring beer gardens, live music, DJs, drag shows and hosted by Symone. PNE Grounds, 2901 Hastings.
Heatwave w/ Manila RuPaul's Drag Race runner up Manila Luzon joins Landon James and Nick Bertossi to get wet and wild! Westin Grand Pool Deck, 433 Robson.
thursday july 28
Rainbow Night House legend DJ Frankie Knuckles teams up with drag icon Lady Bunny for Pride at 560 Seymour.
The Pride Ball 2 The East Side Pride extravaganza! This will be legendary. The Cobalt, 917 Main. friday july 29 Caya Davie Street Party The block party to end all block parties, with DJs, beer gardens, and a main stage! Davie Street.
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2011 North America Outgames Closing Ceremony Ace of Base, Dragonette and Carole Pope headline the Closing Ceremonies for this year's Outgames. Plaza of Nations, 750 Pacific Blvd.
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sunday july 31 Vancouver Pride Parade This is it! The event that turns all of downtown Vancouver gay! From Robson to Sunset Beach for the Festival. CruiseyT Pride Cruises GoGo Cruise or White Party Cruise? Oh the decisions... Harbour Cruises, Denman & Georgia. Rapture 11: Victory RuPaul's Drag Race winner Raja gives this year's Rapture a high fashion edge. Commodore Ballroom, 868 Granville.
FREE POOL
SUNDAY KEGGER
Tuesdays
$2.50 HOTDOGS $2.50 CANS OF PBR
WELL LIQUOR SPECIALS
karaoke
DJ DEL-ICIOUS
rhinestone stiletto show
GLEE TUESDAYS
BUDDY TUESDAYS 1 ROOM FOR 2
RUSSELL & TWISTED COOLERS SPECIALS
TUESDAYS AT CELEBRITIES
CHILL
Please send event and calendar listings to events@v-rag.com.
SUNDAY SPIN CYCLE W/ DJ NICK BERTOSSI
OH FUCK IT'S MONDAY
Social @ 2PM $8 PITCHERS oasis lager
STEAMWORKS
4U PERFORMING LIVE $3 DRINK SPECIALS
KARAOKE & KEGGER NIGHT
1/2 OFF MENU FROM 6-7PM $10 JUGS
industry night w/ dj drew & g-luve
dj dennis
ALL DRINK SPECIALS ALL DAY
Comedy Night: Tops & Bottoms
SCORE ON DAVIE
PUMPJACK
OASIS
NUMBERS
JUNCTION
J LOUNGE
VILLAGE SUNDAYS: DRAG SHOW
BLACKOUT MONDAYS LOCKERS $6, ROOMS $14
HEY, IT'S SUNDAY LOCKERS $4 12PM-6PM
F212
THE HELM
HOUSE WINE & BLUE
ELEKTRIC CIRCUS '90S NIGHT
CAESARS & OKANAGAN SPRINGS SPECIALS
APOCALYPSTICK
LATIN FIESTA NIGHT
Mondays
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
dj drew
Live Bands
RED TRUCK LAGER & BEEFEATER HIGHBALLS
BINGO FOR LIFE & DOLLICIOUS
wiired WEDNESDAYS
Wednesdays
Fridays
LIGHTS OUT PARTY
$3 HIGHBALLS, $5 DOUBLES, $5 PIZZAS
ALL BEER, CIDERS & COOLERS ON SPECIAL
discolicious w/ dj mumbles & jay douglas
POOL TOURNAMENT
dj kenny
SQUIRT EVERY 2ND FRIDAY/ DJ NICK BERTOSSI
OK SPRINGS JUGE $15.16 DROP SHOTS $6
RUSSELL CREAM SPECIALS
gay fridays w/ dj nick bertossi & zach shore
DJ DREW
spin cycle w/ djs drew & robyn graves
FIXX FRIDAYS: SHOWS & DJs
PLAY FIRDAYS W/ DJ MISAKI MIZUNO & LUIS MACHUCA
WE LIKE BOYS W/ DJ QUEST & JEFFERY MICHAEL MIXX ARTISTS
STUDENT LOCKERS $6 ANYTIME
KOKANEE & POLAR ICE VODKA HIGHBALLS
rotating djs & bands
STEREOTYPE FRIDAYS
TRIGGER FRIDAYS
MENERGY THURSDAYS LOCKERS FROM $4
GROWERS CIDERS & KEITHS SPECIALS
HARD CANDY
COCKY
Thursdays
BEARS, BATH & BEYOND EVERY 4TH SATURDAY
BUCKETS OF CORONS $19
BLACK SATURDAY / SHOW YOUR STUFF
guys & dolls
DJ SHELLY
ABSOLUTLY DRAG-U-LOUS WITH CARLOTTA GURL
SULTRY SATURDAYS: SHOWS & DJs
EL SEGUNDO W/ SEKO & MARVEL
GRANVILLE ISLAND & SMIRNOFF ICE SPECIALS
saturgays rotating djs
RELEASE SATURDAYS
STRUT SATURDAYS
Saturdays
NIGHTLIFE in VANCOUVER
V-rag
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S Pa ss eaB en u ge s rF er ry
vanragazine #24
AWARD-WINNING DOWNTOWN VANCOUVER CONDO SPECIALIST Vancouver Aquarium
DE ENA SEAWALL PROM BAYSHORE
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Independent Flixx (976 Denman) J Lounge (1216 Bute) The Junction (1138 Davie) Little Sisters Bookstore (1238 Davie) M2M (1210 Granville) Masc Skincare (433 Davie) Mine Salon (177 E. Broadway) Numbers Cabaret (1042 Davie) Oasis (1240 Thurlow) Old G.M. Place - Now Rogers Arena (800 Griffiths Way) Pacific Cinematheque (200-1131 Howe) Point Zero Lounge (1060 Davie) Pompadours Salon (1071 Denman) Priape (1148 Davie)
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1181(1181 Davie) E. 16TH AVE Caya (808 Davie; 14 Water) Celebrities Nightclub (1022 Davie) Club 23 West (23 West Cordova) Cobalt (917 Main) Commodore Ballroom (868 Granville) Cranberries Spa (330 Robson) Five Sixty (560 Seymour) F212 Steam (1048 Davie) Fountainhead Pub (1025 Davie) ginger62 (1219 Granville) Goldie’s (605 W. Pender) Gorg-O-Mish (695 Smithe) Grace Gallery/Narrow (1898 Main) H.I.M. Main Office (310-1033 Davie)
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Pub 340 (340 Cambie) PumpJack Pub (1167 Davie) Republic (958 Granville) Roundhouse Cntr (181 Roundhouse Mews) Score On Davie (1262 Davie) Scratch Records (726 Richards) Steamworks (123 W. Pender) UVAB Tanning Salon (1060 Davie) VanCity Theatre (1181 Seymour) Vancouver Art Gallery (750 Hornby) Venue (881 Granville) Videomatica (1855 W. 4th Ave) West End Centre (870 Denman) WISE Hall (1882 Adanac) Zulu Records (1972 W.4th Ave)
Na n
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BIDWELL
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16 West End
Royal Centre
W. GEORGIA
HARO
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1700 BIDWELL
TELUS
World ofYOU HELPING Science MAKE ALL THE RIGHT MOVES.
CHILCO
1900
604.313.8732
GILFORD
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Bentall Centre
MELVILLE
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West End Community Centre
VA DO S COR STING HA W.
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ON DR IVE
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GILFORD
St .
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DENMAN
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E. 3RD AVE
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Coal Harbour Community Centre
Harbour Cruises
TO LIONS GATE BRIDGE, NORTH & WEST VANCOUVER, NANAIMO FERRIES AND WHISTLER
BROUGHTON
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H.M.C.S Discovery
COAL HARBOUR
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BURRARD INLET
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Royal Vancouver Yacht Club
PIP
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DOWNTOWN VANCOUVER
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400
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www.OasisOnDavie.com
1240 Thurlow @ Davie (upstairs)
MARINAS
HOMER
RICHARDS
SEYMOUR
GRANVILLE
HOWE
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900
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B.C. Place Stadium TERRY
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Queen The Elizabeth Theatre Pacific Bay Centre The Centre 700 Vancouver in Vancouver for the Centre Vancouver Vancouver Performing Arts Library Art Gallery
DJ DUBBULDEE
$8 pitchers Oasis Lager $3.75 caesars ($7.50 dbl) Roof Top Patio 4PM-8PM
Q
LVD
Vancouver Playhouse
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PAC IFIC B
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SOCIAL SUNDAYS
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Chinese Cultural Centre Museum and Archives
Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden
36
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ALE XAN DER PO W EL L CO RD O VA
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Waterfront The Station Landing
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Seabus Terminal
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2n Statue w to as TER 4
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604.685.1724
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DRAKE 1300
FIC BLVD 1400 LOWER GRANVILLE
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GRANVILLE BRIDGE
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july 2011 Issue 24
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HA ST IN G S
V-rag
djlandonjames
photo courtesy of tfd productions
vanragazine #24
Q&A
DJ
TOP TEN
1. L iz Mugler & Gabi Newman – "The Desert Sun (Tune Brothers Remix)" 2. D iego Donati vs F&A Factory feat. Wendy – "The Way I Like" 3. Adele – "Rolling in the Deep (Peter Rauhofer Club Mix)" 4. Ultra Nate – "Automatic (Tikaro Dub)" 5. Beyonce – "Run the World (Henry Guzman Run the Mix)" 6. K aty Perry – "E.T. (Dave Aude Mix)" 7. R obyn – "Call Your Girlfriend (Kaskade Club Mix)" 8. Alibi vs Rockefeller – "Sexual Healing (Freemasons Club Mix)" 9. Alexis Jordan – "Happiness (Gustavo Scorpio Club Mix)" 10. S elena Gomez – "A Year Without Rain (Friscia, Lamboy & Mike Hush Mix)"
DJ Landon James in one of Vancouver’s newest and fastest rising house DJ’s. Opening up for talents like Ana Paula, Roland Belmares, DJ Paulo, Tony Moran, and playing all the major clubs around town, he is a favourite in Vancouver. With his mix of top 40 remixes and harder progressive dance tracks, Landon is one of the best DJ’s in town to get you movin’ on the dance floor. Check him out alongside Manila Luzon and Nick Bertossi at the Heatwave Pride Pool Party on July 30th.
Rock star moments?
When did you start DJing?
Peter Rauhofer has been a huge influence on my DJ career, I've been to a number of his events and his talent is truly inspiring.
About three years ago. Did the whole "laptop DJ" thing, then bought some CDJs and taught myself how to use them. Favourite gig(s)? Ohh, there's been so many good ones but I'd have to say that opening for DJ Paulo last year at Rapture was one of my favourites! What kind of music do you play? I never know how to properly answer this question because I'm all over the map, depending on the gig... If it's got a good beat, I'll likely be playing it somewhere.
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Being offered the opportunity to spin for a bunch of my friends on a private boat cruise last pride was pretty rock star... I think everyone who was there would agree with me on that. DJ nightmare? "Do you have any Benny Benassi?" Musical inspirations?
What are your future plans? Well, I have a regular full-time career that I really enjoy so I'm going to focus on advancing myself in that role while keeping up with music trends and new developments in the entertainment industry. I love music and have a strong passion for DJing, so I'm prepared to put in the time it will take to further myself in both lines of work. V Landon James heats things up July 30th at the Rapture Pool Party with Manila Luzon. www.tfdpresents.com