Watermark Issue 27.18: Fall Arts by Watermark Publishing Group

Your LGBTQ Life.

Sept. 3 - 16, 2020 • Issue 27.18

A guide to your Central Florida and Tampa Bay entertainment offerings

A guide to your Tampa Bay and Central Florida entertainment offerings Orlando business to help those in recovery Dining Out for Life DiningBay Out returns for Life Tampa Tampa Bay returns

Orlando business to help those in recovery

D A Y T O N A B E A C H • O R L A N D O • T A M P A • S T . P E T E R S B U R G • clear w ater • S A R A S O T A

Your LGBTQ Life.

Sept. 3 - 16, 2020 • Issue 27.18

A guide to your Tampa Bay and Central Florida entertainment offerings

Dining Out for Life Tampa Bay returns

Orlando business to help those in recovery

D A Y T O N A B E A C H • O R L A N D O • T A M P A • S T . P E T E R S B U R G • clear w ater • S A R A S O T A

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September 3 - 16 , 2020 // Issue 27.18 wat e r m a r konline .com

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September 3 - 16 , 2020 // Issue 27.18 wat e r m a r konline .com

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September 3 - 16 , 2020 // Issue 27.18 wat e r m a r konline .com

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departments 7 // Publisher’s Desk 9// Central Florida News 15// Tampa Bay News 18// State News 19// Nation & World News 25// COVID-19 Resources 29// Talking Points 43// Tampa Bay Out & About 45// Central Fl Out & About 48// Tampa Bay Marketplace 50// Central Fl Marketplace 47// Wedding Bells 54// Last Page

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The needs of those fighting AIDS/HIV in our community are even greater this year with the pandemic adding another obstacle. Over a million dollars has been lost in fundraising efforts due to events that had to be cancelled by each of our benefiting agencies because of the pandemic. – SMART Ride 17 organizers discussing this year’s reimagined fundraiser

On the cover

page Art Scene:

page FALL ARTS: Your

guide to Central Florida and Tampa Bay’s entertainment offerings.

central florida cover Photo by Michael Cairns, courtesy Orlando Ballet. tampa bay cover photo by blake little, courtesy the james museum.

scan qr code for

WatermarkOnline.com

In-person and virtual exhibits, shows and more dazzle Central Florida and Tampa Bay audiences this fall.

Watermark Issue 27.18 // September 3 - 16, 2020

Care & Wear

Boldly Taught

This Is Me

Empty Space

page Orlando-based apparel shop helps recovering addicts.

page American Stage course examines theater’s LGBTQ history.

page

Read It Online! In addition to a Web site with daily LGBTQ updates, a digital version of each issue of the publication is made available on WatermarkOnline.com

Actor A.J. Demps discusses invisibility in the arts.

David M. Jenkins reflects on live theater’s losses during COVID-19.

September 3 - 16 , 2020 // Issue 27.18 wat e r m a r konline .com

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September 3 - 16 , 2020 // Issue 27.18 wat e r m a r konline .com

Publisher’s

Rick Claggett PUblisher

Rick@WatermarkOnline.com

Desk

don’t know how I ended up being

publisher of the regional LGBTQ news source. I was lucky enough to meet the right people who were doing good in the world; the kind of good I wanted to do. They helped me every step of the way and I am grateful for my life, my career and the incredibly giving souls I have worked with along the way. But it’s not like I grew up watching Ted Koppel and reading the New York Times thinking, this is what I want to do with my life. From as early as I can remember, I wanted to be an actor.

My earliest memory of theater is from kindergarten. I was cast as the youngest sibling in my elementary school’s production of “Peter Pan.” It’s a little fuzzy, but I remember all the girl pirates wanted to capture me when Hook and his gang attacked because they thought I was adorable. I was like a tug-of-war rope for them during rehearsals. As an opening night present, my mom bought me a brand new Smurf sleeper blanket

to wear for the show. Everything about that experience was amazing. As I entered middle school I was more involved with sports than acting. I took drum lessons and ballet after school, but I grew up in Texas so baseball was at the forefront of everyone’s mind. It wasn’t until I moved to Florida and entered Winter Park High School that I began to take theater seriously. My ninth grade drama teacher, Mr. Sayers, was very

encouraging and gave me the confidence to keep getting more involved. The first high school production I was in was “Guys and Dolls.” I landed the coveted roles of boxing coach and ensemble gangster. In the opening number, with a towel around my neck and the boxer in tow, I shuffled across the stage. There at center stage, lights on my face and a packed house; I knew this is what I wanted to do for the rest of life. We were barely 30 seconds in on opening night and I was bitten by the theater bug. It wasn’t just the stage that I loved. It was the people. To me, the stars of the shows were the true elites. I didn’t care much about the quarterbacks and star pitchers. I was all about the thespians. They were kind, funny, talented and so welcoming. My best memories of high school are of theater people, and I love them to this day. Sadly, by my senior year I started to realize something: I wasn’t really good at acting. It didn’t deter me though. I moved on to Mars Hill College in North Carolina seeking my BA in Theater Arts, only this time I was focused on playwriting and stage management. There I was afforded the opportunity to work a summer at the Southern Appalachian Repertory Theater. It was an unforgettable experience that changed the course of my life. I was introduced to people who dedicated their lives to the performing arts. They worked all day in rehearsals and then performed at night. They did this for three months solid and then moved to the next gig in the next city to do it all again, if they were lucky. Most of them knew each other from previous summers or different theaters around the country, reunited briefly at the seasonal stop. It was clear they worked long hours, nonstop, to excel at their crafts. When I saw up close what professionals in this

watermark staff Owner & Publisher: Rick Claggett • Ext. 110 Rick@WatermarkOnline.com Business Manager: Kathleen Sadler • Ext. 101 Kathleen@WatermarkOnline.com

Editor-in-Chief: Jeremy Williams • Ext. 106 Jeremy@WatermarkOnline.com Tampa Bay Bureau Chief: Ryan Williams-Jent • Ext. 302 Ryan@WatermarkOnline.com Art Director: Dylan Todd • Ext. 102 Dylan@WatermarkOnline.com

industry had to do, I realized it wasn’t the path for me — at least not at that time. The commitment was too grand for me. I felt like those who were successful had to give up so much to do what they love. I decided to make my way into the 9-to-5 world and stay in one area. Although I am not in the performing arts myself, I have never been too far away from it.

If you have a love of the arts, please do what you can to lend a hand.

Central Florida and Tampa Bay have some of the most talented people who give so much of their lives to keep us entertained. They are true artists. They are professionals. We only see them perform, but we must know that they have practiced relentlessly on their skills. They train for years to perfect their craft and now they are hindered by social distancing. What we miss in socialization, they miss with their livelihood. In this issue we dedicated our pages to the arts and entertainment community who are suffering so much in this time of crisis. To the performers, to the ushers, to the concession workers, the box office employees, back stage hands, dancers, artists and everyone affected by event cancellations: we see you and we miss you. If you have a love of the arts, please do what you can to lend a hand to those who have helped us escape when we needed to, who took us out of our worlds and into their imaginations. Buy art work, donate to the theaters, watch online performances. We strive to bring you a variety of stories, your stories. I hope you enjoy this latest issue.

Orlando Office Sales Director: Danny Garcia • Ext. 108 Danny@WatermarkOnline.com Senior Orlando Account Manager: Sam Callahan • Ext. 103 Sam@WatermarkOnline.com

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September 3 - 16 , 2020 // Issue 27.18 wat e r m a r konline .com

contributors Aladdin (A.J.) Demps is

a public school theatre teacher, theatre director and actor, church musician and a writer. He reads too many books. Page 21

David M. Jenkins is

the Producing Artistic Director of Jobsite Theater, resident theater company at the Straz Center. Page 23

Tiffany Razzano

is the founder and president of Wordier Than Thou, a literary arts nonprofit that creates fun, engaging events for writers and readers. Page 47 Sabrina Ambra, Nathan Bruemmer, Scottie Campbell, Miguel Fuller, Divine Grace, Holly Kapherr Alejos, Jason Leclerc, Melody Maia Monet, Jerick Mediavilla, Greg Stemm, Dr. Steve yacovelli, Michael wanzie

photography Brian Becnel, Nick Cardello, Bruce Hardin, Jamarqus Mosley, Chris Stephenson, Lee Vandergrift

distribution LVNLIF2 Distributing, Ken Carraway, Vanessa Maresca-Cruz CONTENTS of WATERMARK are protected by federal copyright law and may not be reproduced in whole or part without the permission of the publisher. Unsolicited article submissions will not be returned unless accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope. Although WATERMARK is supported by many fine advertisers, we cannot accept responsibility for claims made by advertisers. Publication of the name or photograph of any person or organization in articles, advertising, or listing in WATERMARK is not to be construed as any indication of the sexual orientation of such persons or members of such organizations. WATERMARK is published every second Thursday. Subscription rate is $55 (1st class) and $26 (standard mail). The official views of WATERMARK are expressed only in editorials. Opinions offered in signed columns, letters and articles are those of the writers and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the newspaper’s owner or management. We reserve the right to edit or reject any material submitted for publication. WATERMARK is not responsible for damages due to typographical errors, except for the cost of replacing ads created by WATERMARK that have such errors.

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central florida news

Zebra Coalition announces virtual Drag Race 5K, highlights services in new video Jeremy Williams

RLANDO | Zebra Coalition, in partnership with Come Out With Pride (COWP), will virtually host its third annual Drag Race 5K Oct. 10. “We won’t let COVID-19 stop us from supporting our Zebra Youth,” the organization expressed on its Drag Race event’s page. “Join hundreds of runners from all over Central Florida as we come together to get moving and raise funds for our Zebra Youth!” The 2020 virtual Drag Race 5K, which is a part of COWP’s reimagined events this year, has set a fundraising goal of $15,000. Zebra Coalition is also providing a motivational podcast for runners to listen to while participating in the 5K. “We have created an audio experience for all runners who want to feel connected as they run our virtual 5K. You will be accompanied by amazing Drag Queen[s] and stories from our Zebra Youth as they cheer you on,” Zebra states in its website FAQs page. All participating runners will receive an event T-shirt and a commemorative medal. You will be able to pick up your items or have them mailed to you if you would like a contactless option. Runners must be registered by Sept. 19 to be guaranteed a T-shirt and medal. The announcement of the virtual event also provided an opportunity for Zebra Coalition to promote that the LGBTQ youth organization is celebrating its 10-year anniversary. “It all started in 2010 when we came together as a community and realized there was a gap of services for LGBTQ+ youth here in Central Florida,” said Heather Wilkie, Zebra’s executive director, in a video posted to the group’s YouTube channel. “With a lot of hard work and passion we made this dream a reality for future generations to come.” In the video, Wilkie highlights some of the services provided by Zebra and discusses the nonprofit’s Youth Drop-in Center. “Here we provide a safe and supportive gathering space, supportive therapeutic services and free mental health counseling for LGBTQ+ youth,” Wilkie advises. For more information on Zebra Coalition’s services and work in the community, visit ZebraYouth.org. To watch the organizations services video, go to YouTube.com and search Zebra Coalition. Runners wanting to participate in the Drag Race virtual 5K can register at ZebraYouth.org/DragRace5K.

Making a Statement: Chris Bilyk models one of the State of Gratitude shirts at Lake Eola in Orlando. Photo

courtesy Chris Bilyk

Wearing Gratitude Orlando-based online shop created to help those in recovery Jeremy Williams

RLANDO | As COVID-19 is affecting every person in the country, its impact on those with substance abuse disorders can be felt even harder. The National Institute on Drug Abuse advises individuals with a substance abuse disorder are more likely to experience circumstances which pose unique environmental, physiological and financial challenges during this pandemic. A local community member who is on his own road to recovery has launched an initiative to help those new to addiction recovery with some of their financial challenges. Chris Bilyk started State Of Gratitude, USA — an Orlando-based, online apparel shop selling T-shirts, tank tops, hats, water bottles, phone cases and more with his company logo imprinted on them — after moving back to Orlando at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in the U.S. “I had lost my job working in Austin at a hotel due to obvious

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

issues with COIVD and so I moved back,” Bilyk says. When Bilyk received his $1,200 stimulus check, a part of the CARES Act passed by Congress in May, he says he initially thought of a hundred different things he could do with it but settled on starting a business. “I’ve always been a huge advocate for gratitude in general. I always tell people ‘Just put yourself in a state of gratitude, don’t focus so much on the negative,’” Bilyk says. “So I took that $1,200 stimulus check, I wrote a little logo on a on a piece of paper and I was like, ‘You know what, this is what I’m going to do. I’m going to take this money that I have, I’m going to invest in shirts.” Bilyk started with three shirt colors —white, black and gray — and began selling them online. He now has 24 individual items available for purchase. What makes this site different than a lot of online apparel shops is State Of Gratitude’s philanthropic vision. Bilyk has committed to put 25% of the net profits from the new business into a grant

September 3 - 16 , 2020 // Issue 27.18 wat e r m a r konline .com

program to help those new to addiction recovery. “Through my own experience I found that there were gaps in places ... that would help to facilitate a smooth transition to a long-term recovery lifestyle,” Bilyk says. “I started State of Gratitude as a means to kind of bridge those gaps. In my experience, when I was living in a sober-living facility, I saw that one of the biggest constraints for people in early sobriety is financial resources.” Through this initiative, Bilyk will award $500 grants quarterly to chosen applicants. Eligibility requirements are listed on the State of Gratitude website, and include steps such as completing an inpatient treatment program or partial hospitalization program, be working a 12-step program with a sponsor and fill out an application detailing the individual’s need for the grant. The application is open to anyone in the U.S. meeting the set requirements. Bilyk has a six-person, independent panel — each members of the recovery community within their cities — who makes the final decision on which applicants get the grants. “I removed myself completely from the equation,” he says. “I wanted to have nothing to do with who is going to be selected. Continued on pg. 12 | uu |

central florida news

new Church Street hot Spot coming to Orlando

| uu | Wearing Gratitude from pg.9 I wanted to make it as nonbiased as possible. I’m not trying to promote my own interest.” Less than four months after launching State of Gratitude, the company awarded its first grant. The first wave of applicants came in and the panel chose Kevin Voeltz of Central Florida. Bilyk first contacted Voeltz over the phone to tell him he had been selected, then met him to present the grant in person. “It was a great feeling,” Bilyk says. “Words can’t even describe how amazing it was.” Now that the first grant has been awarded, Bilyk can’t wait to reach the next milestone of being able to award multiple grants each quarter. “Just seeing everything come together in such a short period of time, I never would have thought that I would have received this sort of outpouring of positivity and support that I’ve gotten from old friends, new friends, family, the community, neighbors; everybody that’s just hopped on this gratitude train,” Bilyk says. “Every day brings on a new challenge, a new adventure, a new excitement ... I’m just overwhelmed with gratitude.” To purchase your State of Gratitude apparel or for more information on the application process and Bilyk’s story, visit StateOfGratitudeUSA.com.

Jeremy Williams

RLANDO | BlueLaLa Entertainment founder Blue Star announced via social media Aug. 23 a new project coming to downtown Orlando’s Church Street area. “So you ask #whatsnext? A question that has molded itself into my daily life since the closing of The Venue almost a year ago,” Star wrote on Facebook. Along with the post was an image of a logo for Häos on Church. Häos on Church will be part restaurant, part bar and part entertainment venue. “It has cuisinary, a word which we made up which means you are going to come and eat delicious food; it has libations, which means you will come a drink amazing cocktails, mocktails, whatever you prefer; and amusements, which means you can be entertained at any given time,” Star says.

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

The new downtown hot spot will be located at 123 W. Church St., the former home of the soccer-themed pub and grill Lions Pride Orlando, and right across the street from LGBTQ-owned Hamburger Mary’s. “I love Hamburger Mary’s, and [owners] John [Paonessa] and Mike [Rogier],” Star says. “As John would say, we are now neighbor friends with benefits, so I’m excited to encourage more people to come down to a street that needs a lot of revival.” Restaurants on Church St. have had a rough go at it since the pandemic created an atmosphere of quarantining and social distancing. “It’s an interesting time to open a business,” Star acknowledges. “But these artists need a place to perform, and I love music and I love food, so why not integrate those two things.” Details on Häos are scarce at the moment but Star did reveal a few things customers can expect.

September 3 - 16 , 2020 // Issue 27.18 wat e r m a r konline .com

“Downstairs will be for more or less straight-forward dining and upstairs will house a bunch of different things for people to enjoy, but things can change,” Star says. “There’s a lot of moving parts right now that we are still trying to figure out.” What it will be though, Star says, is a double safe space. “After Pulse, we created safe spaces that became synonymous with the LGBTQ community. Now with COVID, we want to create yet another safe space,” she says. “It’s very interesting to go into creating a new business with these new COVID standards and guidelines in place. We will be taking all of the precautions necessary to put people at ease and get them to come back out. Have them come out and live a little, but within the parameters we have been given.”

To keep updated on Häos on Church, follow them on Facebook.

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September 3 - 16 , 2020 // Issue 27.18 wat e r m a r konline .com

tampa bay news

Michele Rayner wins historic bid for Florida House Ryan Williams-Jent

T. PETERSBURG | Civil rights attorney Michele Rayner triumphed over three opponents in the Aug. 18 primary to represent Florida House District 70 (HD-70), making her the first Black, openly LGBTQ woman elected to the Florida Legislature. Rayner will succeed Rep. Wengay Newton in representing HD-70, which spans parts of St. Petersburg and Hillsborough, Manatee and Sarasota counties. She received more than 35% of the vote in Pinellas and more than 30% in Hillsborough County. “I’m proud because this win represents a new day,” Rayner shared after the results came in. “We’ve run a campaign focused on putting people over politics and that’s rooted in a commitment to working with and for residents until the change they seek is a reality. “Tonight, we made history as the first woman to represent District 70 in the Florida House of Representatives, and the first openly-queer Black woman to hold political office in this state,” she added. A number of LGBTQ-focused organizations endorsed Rayner ahead of the race, including Equality Florida, the Human Rights Campaign and the LGBTQ Victory Fund. Equality Florida celebrated her election Aug. 18. “Michele Rayner has just shattered another glass ceiling by becoming one of Florida’s first out Black queer women ever elected to any office in our state,” Executive Director Nadine Smith shared. “Equality Florida Action PAC made her race one of our top priorities in the primary. “Our donors rallied to support her and our volunteers sent tens of thousands of messages to voters in the closing days of the campaign,” she continued. “This is a victory to be celebrated by everyone who values equality and the voices of Black women.” Thanking her wife and supporters on election night, Rayner stressed that her campaign wasn’t about her. “We showed our community that when you put people over politics, when you put principle over transactions, that you can win,” she shared. See her full speech at WatermarkOnline.com. Ahead of the election, Rayner also reflected on her campaign in a viewpoint column for Watermark. “We need leaders who will act to keep all of us safe, but especially those experiencing the most harm,” she wrote. “Residents deserve a leader who will fight for everyone’s full humanity to be seen and respected. “It is not lost on me that if elected, I would become one of, if not the first, openly Black queer women elected at any level of government in Florida,” she continued. “I would be honored to serve my community and my state, and would view it as a privilege to legislate from the value-rooted stance that if Black lives – and specifically Black queers’ lives – are not free, then none of us in the LGBTQIA+ community are free.” For more information about Rep.-Elect Rayner’s campaign, visit MicheleForFlorida.com.

COMMUNITY INSTRUCTOR:

American Stage Adult Education Associate Patrick A. Jackson will teach a virtual LGBTQIA Theatre Legacy course this fall. PHOTO COURTESY PATRICK A. JACKSON

Boldly Taught American Stage highlights LGBTQ history in virtual course Ryan Williams-Jent

T. PETERSBURG | American Stage Education unveiled its virtual academy’s fall class schedule Aug. 27, detailing a new course examining the LGBTQ community’s impact on American theatre. American Stage’s virtual academy launched earlier this year in response to COVID-19. It provides safe, accessible opportunities for students and artists to continue their education. “In a world navigating new challenges, the American Stage Virtual Academy has become a bright spot where we see growth, innovation and people coming together to learn, explore their artistic voice, discover new ideas and create,” American Stage’s Director of Education and Outreach Tiffany Ford explains. “Our youth and adult classes this fall dig into new, relevant topics intended to empower our students, and inspire connection, reflection and creative expression.”

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

Its forthcoming session runs Sept. 12 through mid-November. LGBTQIA Theatre Legacy, new this fall, will be held Sept. 17-Nov. 5. “Celebrate the rich contributions of queer identifying theatres, artists and creatives and their continued impact in American Theatre,” its description reads. “Join American Stage Adult Education Associate, Patrick A. Jackson, who will lead an exploration of curated texts, articles and digital media capturing the history and creative work of impactful LGBTQIA theatre artists.” Held virtually each Thursday from 6:30-8 p.m., students will engage in active discussions before crafting a final presentation to share with their peers. The course is open to all and costs $165. Jackson utilized his background in theatre history to conceptualize the class. It follows the African American Theatre Legacy he led in the spring. “It was a great way for us to talk about the contributions of non-majority groups,” he says. In discussing its success with Ford, he felt the concept warranted

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a series examining other marginalized groups. As a Black, queer man, he saw LGBTQ theater history as the next logical step. “There are a lot of great contributions that other groups have made in the theatre industry,” he explains. “I don’t think we always highlight that when we’re looking at the larger canon.” He adds that the course is a perfect fit for the theatre company. “American Stage’s shorthand mission is ‘Powerful Stories, Boldly Told,’” he explains. “If we are going to be an anchor organization in this community we need to offer not only stage programming, but educational programming that can connect with the community.” Additional fall courses will explore writing comedic sketches, one-person plays examining social justice and more. Online enrollment is now open and closes 24 hours prior to each course’s respective start date. Enrollment ends one week after the first class. “American Stage has been in the community for 40+ years now and we’re still working to present great content virtually,” Jackson says. “We have something for everyone to take part in, whether it’s seeing a show or learning something new.” To learn more about American Stage, its virtual academy or to register for LGBTQIA Theatre Legacy, visit AmericanStage.org/ MasterClasses.

tampa bay news

EPIC reschedules Dining Out for Life 2020, holds inaugural virtual fundraiser Ryan Williams-Jent

T. PETERSBURG | Empath Partners in Care (EPIC) has reimagined one of its vital fundraisers and announced the creation of another, each a response to COVID-19. Dining Out for Life (DOFL) Tampa Bay, which last year raised more than $47,000 for EPIC’s fight against HIV/AIDS, was originally scheduled for April. A “COVID-conscious” reboot will now be held Sept. 17 and run parallel to their inaugural EPIC eVENT, an online fundraiser culminating that evening. In addition to postponing DOFL, COVID-19 also led EPIC to skip this year’s annual masquerade ball, which in 2019 raised $17,000. Their popular bowling fundraiser was also postponed. “We had to cancel our reservations to Dine Out in

April, our dancing shoes are gathering dust as we dimmed The Masquerade’s lights in July and we couldn’t bowl for top score at Strike Out for AIDS in August,” EPIC shared Aug. 18. “But, you know what we can do with your help? Serve EPIC’s clients and families … our need for funding has increased during COVID and we need your help now more than ever!” “EPIC hasn’t really missed a beat,” Executive Director Joy Winheim explains. “We never stopped providing services, so I don’t think our clients have felt the full effect of things.” Those services include distributing food through EPIC’s pantries, which Winheim says have served an average of more than 300 meals per month since the pandemic began impacting Tampa Bay. The nonprofit has also provided grocery, health insurance and renter’s assistance while offering its HIV services.

“Our doors are open,” Winheim stresses. “If a client needs us, if anyone needs us, we’re here.” That mentality led the organization to reschedule DOFL 2020. This year will mark EPIC’s 15th as a beneficiary of the national fundraiser, which traditionally raises funds by collecting at least 25% of sales from participating restaurants on a particular date each year. DOFL 2020 has been reimagined in support of those restaurant partners in Tampa Bay. “This is our chance to return the favor,” EPIC Special Events Coordinator Molly Robison says. “Our local restaurants are all hurting. Many of them have been with us since the beginning and this is our year to give back.” EPIC will not receive donations from the restaurants. Instead, patrons are encouraged to support the establishments however they can, with personal donations to EPIC accepted.

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

Participants practicing COVID-19 safety precautions are encouraged to order delivery from or visit their favorite restaurants to dine in, order takeout or to purchase gift cards and other items. Nearly 40 locations are participating this year. “This incredibly important event will show your care for our hardworking restaurant partners, will help support our community, benefit EPIC’s programs and fill your belly,” EPIC explains. The reimagined event intentionally coincides with EPIC’s virtual fundraiser, which Robison describes as its parallel event. It is currently live and offers a $20,000 dollar-for-dollar match courtesy of its sponsors. “Your $50 becomes $100, your $100 becomes $200 and together we will generate the funds EPIC needs to thrive in these unprecedented times,” they explain.

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Supporters can also partake in virtual raffles. Items up for grabs include a “Pampered at Home” collection valued at more than $200 and a “Tampa Staycation!” bundle valued at $500. Even more opportunities to win prizes will culminate during the EPIC eVENT’s virtual game night Sept. 17 at 7 p.m. Winheim will guide participants through a free game of Bandingo and more. “Pick up dinner from a DOFL restaurant and then head home to join us,” Winheim says. “Our need still exists,” Robison adds. “If anything, it’s increased because of COVID. We’re counting on the community and we’re so grateful for their continued support.” DOFL Tampa Bay 2020 will be held Sept. 17. For a list of participating restaurants or to donate, visit DineTB.org. For more information about the EPIC eVENT or to donate, visit 2020EPICeVENT.org.

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state news

SMART Ride reimagined Ryan Williams-Jent

ort Lauderdale, Fla. | Organizers of the 17th annual SMART Ride have announced that the HIV/ AIDS fundraiser will proceed as scheduled Nov. 20-22 in a reimagined format, a response to COVID-19. The SMART Ride has historically welcomed hundreds of cyclists to complete a 165-mile trek from Miami to Key West. It is the nation’s second largest AIDS bicycle ride and the only one of its size to donate the entirety of funds raised to service organizations. Since its 2003 inception, participants have raised more than $11.8 million for beneficiaries in Florida. A record $1,325,427 was raised in 2019, 100% of which was distributed to Broward House in Wilton Manors, Children’s Diagnostic & Treatment Centers in South Florida, Metro Inclusive Health in Tampa Bay, Pridelines in Miami-Dade County, AIDS Help in Monroe County, Miracle of Love in Central Florida and Compass Community Center in Palm Beach County. “While COVID-19 has changed the way we are able to get together, our cause and goal remains the same,” organizers shared Aug. 18. “In fact, the needs of those fighting AIDS/HIV in our community are even greater this year with the pandemic adding another obstacle.” In lieu of its traditional 165-mile journey, SMART Ride 17 cyclists will be challenged to ride 165 miles Nov. 20-22 wherever they may be. Organizers noted that “with a combination of virtual and physical challenges,” they “will continue to raise money for those affected and affected by AIDS/HIV throughout Florida.” In addition, anyone can participate this year by committing to log 165 miles, minutes or other measurable metric for the physical activities of their choice. Virtual events will also be held, including opening ceremonies, a candlelight vigil and closing ceremonies. “The reality of doing the ride as has been done, given the current guidelines and restrictions by all counties and municipalities involved, was simply not feasible, especially with the uncertainty that the coming months may bring,” officials shared. “Key West has already cancelled events that were happening before, during and after the dates of the Ride. “By making an early and responsible choice, we felt that this would allow all of us to pivot, adapt and focus to continue to raise money for those in need,” they continued. “The needs of those fighting AIDS/HIV in our community are even greater this year with the pandemic adding another obstacle. Over a million dollars has been lost in fundraising efforts due to events that had to be cancelled by each of our benefiting agencies because of the pandemic.” AIDS Help, Broward House, Compass Community Center, Metro Inclusive Health, Miracle of Love and Pridelines will benefit from this year’s reimagined efforts. Their needs and more were discussed in a town hall Aug. 17, available at WatermarkOnline.com.

For more information about this year’s reimagined SMART Ride, visit TheSMARTRide.org. Organizers can also be reached by email at nfo@TheSMARTRide.org.

Rep. Shevrin Jones wins primary after attacks Ryan Williams-Jent

IAMI | State Rep. Shevrin Jones will likely become Florida’s first openly gay state senator this November, having defeated five opponents Aug. 18 in the primary race to represent Senate District 35 (SD-35). Jones received 43% of the vote in the six-way race. He will now face write-in candidate Darien Hill in the general election. “I am honored to have earned the people’s trust as we keep fighting for the many communities who have felt attacked and forgotten in today’s Florida,” Jones shared. “There’s no question that there’s more work to be done,” he continued, “from dismantling systemic injustice, to advocating for a people-first recovery from the ongoing public health and economic crises – and I look forward to lifting up the voices of hardworking Floridians as SD 35’s next State Senator.” Ahead of his victory, Jones became the target of homophobic campaign texts after being barred from donating blood because of his sexuality Aug. 9. Having recently recovered from COVID-19, the state

representative attempted to donate plasma for recovery efforts. As a man who has had sex with another man within the last three months, federal guidelines Jones describes as “antiquated” prevented him from doing so. Opponents utilized the experience to send robotexts advising he was “discriminated against for recent homosexual contact.” LGBTQ-focused organizations which had previously endorsed Jones decried the attacks and subsequently celebrated his victory. The LGBTQ Victory Fund noted it was especially “notable given two of Jones’ opponents had a history of anti-LGBTQ statements or votes and Jones faced several homophobic attacks throughout his campaign.” “Shevrin shattered a long-standing political barrier for LGBTQ candidates in Florida and did so while running against opponents who attack our community – and that is history-making,” CEO Mayor Annise Parker shared. “He won the trust of constituents through his people-centered work and legislation while in the state House, ensuring the homophobic attacks on him would fail and even backfire,” she continued. Equality Florida’s Action PAC, which last year made Jones its

first endorsement of the election cycle, called his campaign a top priority. “Shevrin’s victory is a groundbreaking milestone as he becomes the first LGBTQ Florida State Senator and the highest-ranking Black LGBTQ official in Florida history,” Senior Political Director Joe Saunders shared. “Representation matters and this win gives LGBTQ Floridians our first seat at the table in the Florida Senate. “Our donors rallied early to support him and our volunteers sent tens of thousands of messages to voters in the closing days of the campaign,” he continued. “In an era of racist rhetoric from Donald Trump, the election of a Black LGBTQ State Senator is an inspiration for everyone who values equality and justice.” “We launched this campaign in 2019 with the intention of bringing people together, building coalitions, and tackling the tough issues facing Senate District 35 and Florida,” Jones shared Aug. 19. “Last night’s primary election outcome is the result of everyone pulling together and reinforcing what it means to put people before politics.”

coronavirus that some town of Davie employees viewed as inappropriate and offensive, which is arguably unprofessional and inconsistent with town expectations,” the report reads. “However, the statements were not made in connection with any adverse employment action.” Engle has been on administrative leave since April while the investigation was being conducted. The remarks were made April 6 during a patrol briefing where Davie police officers expressed concerns over the coronavirus. Most of the witnesses interviewed during the course of the investigation heard a variation on the above comments. Many of them said that the FOP complaint, and the media reports that followed, inaccurately portrayed the patrol briefing that took place.

Some of the witnesses believed Engle had good intentions. The report concluded Engle did not violate the town’s Equal Employment and Non-Discrimination Policies. However, the report also concluded his comments were inappropriate. According to the letter from Engle’s lawyer, the police chief regrets his comments about Bennett. “Given the inaccurate media accounts to date, Chief Engle is anxious to convey his heartfelt sympathies and condolences directly to the fiancé and family of deputy Shannon Bennett further for their loss and to offer his apology for any pain and out of context comments that may have unintentionally caused them,” the attorney’s letter reads.

For more information about Jones and his campaign, visit ShevrinJones.com.

Investigation wraps on Florida police chief Jason Parsley of South Florida Gay News

AVIE, Fla. | An investigation into Davie Police Chief Dale Engle, who was accused of saying a gay deputy died of COVID-19 because he was a “homosexual who attended homosexual events,” is now complete. The report confirmed Engle did make comments about Shannon Bennett’s sexual orientation. Bennett was a 12-year veteran of the Broward Sheriff’s Office and died from COVID-19 on April 3. “This investigation has revealed that Chief Engle did make a statement regarding deceased deputy Bennett’s sexual orientation in connection with his contracting

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nation+world news

School trans bathroom policy unconstitutional Wire Report

ICHMOND, Va. | A federal appeals court ruled Aug. 26 that a Virginia school board’s transgender bathroom ban is unconstitutional and discriminated against a transgender male student who was barred from using the boys’ bathrooms in his high school. The ruling is a victory for transgender rights advocates and Gavin Grimm, a former student at Gloucester High School who was required to use restrooms that corresponded with his biological sex or private bathrooms. The Richmond-based 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals found that the Gloucester County School Board violated Grimm’s constitutional rights when it banned him from using the boys’ bathrooms. The decision by the three-judge panel was 2 to 1. In the majority opinion, the appeals court wrote that Grimm was forced to use “special bathrooms

that might as well have said ‘Gavin’ on the sign.” “Grimm was treated worse than students with whom he was similarly situated because he alone could not use the restroom corresponding with his gender,” the ruling stated. “Unlike the other boys, he had to use either the girls’ restroom or a single-stall option.” The Gloucester County school board had argued that laws protect against discrimination based on sex, not gender identity. Because Grimm had not undergone sex-reassignment surgery and still had female genitalia, the board’s position was that he remained anatomically a female. David Corrigan, an attorney for the school board, wrote in an email that the board is reviewing the decision and declined to comment further. The ruling is another decision by a federal appeals court that could have a wide-ranging effect on how schools treat transgender students. But it remains to be seen whether

the issue will make its way to the U.S. Supreme Court. Grimm, who was represented by the American Civil Liberties Union, released a statement through the organization that said the ruling “is an incredible affirmation for not just me, but for trans youth around the country.” “All transgender students should have what I was denied: the opportunity to be seen for who we are by our schools and our government,” he said. The panel upheld a decision from a federal judge in Norfolk who ruled last year that Grimm’s rights were violated under the U.S. Constitution’s equal protection clause as well as under Title IX, a federal civil rights law that protects people from discrimination based on sex in education programs or activities that receive federal financial assistance. The appeals court also backed the lower court’s ruling that the school district must update the gender on Grimm’s transcripts.

JK Rowling returns award after being called out by group over transphobic remarks Jeremy Williams

“H

arry Potter” author J.K. Rowling announced on her website Aug. 27 that she would be returning her 2019 Ripple of Hope award after the bestowing organization’s president called statements Rowling made transphobic. Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights (RFKHR) President Kerry Kennedy wrote on the organization’s website Aug. 3 that “much to my dismay, J.K. Rowling posted deeply troubling transphobic tweets and statements.” Kennedy highlighted examples of tweets and essays Rowling shared across her social media and website starting last June that stated women are “people who menstruate” and that letting trans women into bathrooms would “make natal girls and women less safe.” Kennedy also referenced a tweet Rowling had liked

opposing a bill to ban conversion therapy in Canada. “I have spoken with J.K. Rowling to express my profound disappointment that she has chosen to use her remarkable gifts to create a narrative that diminishes the identity of trans and nonbinary people, undermining the validity and integrity of the entire transgender community—one that disproportionately suffers from violence, discrimination, harassment, and exclusion and, as a result, experiences high rates of suicide, suicide attempts, homelessness, and mental and bodily harm. Black trans women and trans youth in particular are targeted.” Rowling posted a response to her website, writing “RFKHR has stated that there is no conflict between the current radical trans rights movement and the rights of women. The thousands of women who’ve got in touch with me disagree, and, like me, believe this clash of rights can

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only be resolved if more nuance is permitted in the debate.” Rowling goes on to state she is returning the Ripple of Hope award bestowed upon her last year “in solidarity with those who have contacted me but who are struggling to make their voices heard.” “I am deeply saddened that RFKHR has felt compelled to adopt this stance, but no award or honour, no matter my admiration for the person for whom it was named, means so much to me that I would forfeit the right to follow the dictates of my own conscience,” Rowling wrote. After Rowling’s June tweets, many actors who have worked on the Harry Potter film franchise came out against Rowling’s remarks and in support of transgender rights including Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, Rupert Grint, Eddie Redmayne, Bonnie Wright, Evanna Lynch, Chris Rankin and Katie Leung.

in other news Ex-coach files rights complaint In a complaint to the New York State Division of Human Rights, former Niagara University assistant women’s basketball coach Jamesia Smith, who is Black, said the Catholic university blamed her when a player’s parents sent racist text messages, accusing her of favoring Black players and berating and intimidating her from the stands during games. Smith, who is bisexual, also was falsely accused of having a sexual relationship with a player, a claim that was investigated and dismissed by the university with no input from Smith, the complaint said. Smith said the alleged harassment began in December and continued through March, causing anxiety, panic attacks and depression.

Kansas adds LGBTQ nondiscrimination protections The Kansas Human Rights Commission, the commission that enforces the state’s nondiscrimination laws will begin hearing claims from people who allege they are being mistreated because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. The decision is in response to a recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling that a landmark civil rights law protects LGBTQ people from discrimination in employment. The commission expanded the ruling beyond employment cases, offering protections for people alleging discrimination in housing and public accommodations. In Kansas, any business with four or more employees will be covered.

Kentucky lawmakers push to curb conversion therapy Getting a head start on next year’s legislative session, opponents of conversion therapy presented their case Aug. 25 to shield Kentucky youngsters from a practice that attempts to change a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity. Resuming their bipartisan alliance, Republican Sen. Alice Forgy Kerr and Democratic Rep. Lisa Willner referred to conversion therapy as a discredited practice with potentially dangerous consequences. Kerr denounced it as “conversion torture.” The proposal would prohibit licensed mental health professionals from engaging in conversion therapy with people under age 18. The same ban would apply for adults deemed to lack the capacity for responsible decision-making.

Suspect arrested in Louisiana death of transgender woman A suspect is in custody in Louisiana for the slaying of a transgender woman found dead in July in a rural part of St. Helena Parish, the sheriff’s office said. Deputies arrested Lynette Muse Aug. 28 on a charge of second-degree murder in the death of Shakie Peters, The Advocate reported. No motive has been released. It’s unknown if Muse has an attorney who can speak on her behalf. Peters, 31, was found near Amite. She is one of two transgender women killed in the area in July. Authorities said more arrests are pending.

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viewpoint

A.J. Demps

This Is Me The revolution will be televised ... and adapted for stage.

s a Black, queer,

trans nonbinary actor in Central Florida, I sometimes feel ... ignored, invisible. Or at the very least, expendable.

It’s that moment all Black actors talk about: “Girl, I was the random black girl wailing gospel in the back of the ensemble,” or “The role had to be Black, and since apparently no other Black actors exist, they called me.” This weird period of dark theatres during the pandemic has made me feel … seen, in some ways. COVID-19 coincided with massive national protests for Black Lives Matter, as well as a theatrical revolution in New York City. Black artists banded together to show Broadway (historically also called The Great White Way, do with that what you will) that we were here, and demanded a seat — no, multiple seats — at the table. They created a list of demands, written for the edification of BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and People of Color) in theatrical settings as actors, designers, producers, playwrights. The ripples from that were felt nationwide, in both community and professional theatre. If you’re curious, that document can be found here at WeSeeYouWAT.com. During quarantine, I had more conversations than ever about the way I had been treated as a Black, nonbinary actor. What to do about the “lack” of Black creatives or when a Black actor didn’t show up; whether “nontraditional casting” worked both ways (spoiler alert: it doesn’t). About pronouns and representation. Phone calls, text messages, emails, Zoom meetings ... people were learning that things they had done or said to me or other actors were completely inappropriate. Microaggressions, or everyday happenings that show a negative or prejudicial view of a marginalized group, were brought up to their perpetrators. Theatres that didn’t make a public statement of solidarity with the Black community, or that were anecdotally viewed as anti-Black, were called out by actors in the community. During Pride, I wrote poems, essays and think pieces about straddling the Black and LGBTQ communities.

I grew frustrated that sometimes it felt like I was screaming into a void. I was even challenged by a childhood peer I hadn’t seen in years: “You’re barely Black. You have a white wife, do white stuff. You talk too much for someone not struggling.” As if the struggle itself isn’t in being Black. As if the Black community as a whole doesn’t ignore or outright vilify queer existence. Fighting against this lack of unity, this ignorance about the pervasiveness of anti-Blackness in every subculture has become my white whale, if you’ll forgive the expression, during the pandemic. As COVID-19 disproportionately affected Black and Brown communities, so many schisms within those communities remained. As if me moving out of my childhood neighborhood and reaching for something better is a “white” state of mind. As if theatre, which has become very white, wasn’t founded on entertainment ideas stolen from Black people and performed gleefully wearing greasepaint caricatures of Black faces. As if every time there is a Black show created, it isn’t usurped and appropriated with a white version. As if I, personally, didn’t feel left in the revolution’s dust as the deaths of so many Black trans women in America go unmourned and unanswered for. I digress. In pursuit of the desire to wreak some small version of revolutionary havoc, I feel as if I’ve aged a decade. I feel insane, as if I am slowly being eaten up by my own bitterness. I’ve felt invalidated, I’ve been dismissed. I’ve also been listened to. During COVID, when the world stopped, and people had more time ... I experienced more love from my circle of friends than ever before. Friends of all races and orientations. My friend Caila, in particular, reminded me that I exist in the spirit of ancient people who were venerated for their otherness. My friend Derek

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reminded me that I exist in a space inhabited by beauty and truth; and that my mere existence, to some, is a glorious act of revolution. If you didn’t know, Black joy, in general, always has been a revolution. My friends Andy and Bern had conversations with me that proved what

brought me hope that we could do as much for the children as our grandparents and ancestors had for us. Although many people turned to art for sanity during quarantine, COVID-19 put the theatrical world on pause from a performance standpoint. Behind the scenes,

will continue to work at, the work continues. When we all open again, I pray, that we will be stronger and more unified. That somehow, we can adequately memorialize those who died during COVID in acts of love and art that help to create the America we pretend we are.

I already knew: that they saw and respected every facet of me. And my wife, Tiffany, loved me through every rage, every depression, every paranoid moment of fear of death from COVID or police brutality. My mother listened in a way I had never appreciated that she could. My goddaughters and their parents, Louisa and Jamaal,

though, work was still being done. Don’t get me wrong, there’s still more to be done beyond virtue signaling and performative allyship. Beyond the arguments for arguments’ sake, and not in the name of actual progress. Beyond the Facebook dramas that made me take a heavy step back from social media. At the theatres I love, and

I will never be finished trying, until I am laid in earth.

Although many people turned to art for sanity during quarantine, COVID-19 put the theatrical world on pause from a performance standpoint. Behind the scenes, though, work was still being done.

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Aladdin (A.J.) Demps is a public school theatre teacher, theatre director and actor, church musician and a writer. He reads too many books.

EXP

SED

12th annual exhibition & fundraiser

Aug. 29 - Sept. 25, 2020

The Art and Culture Center/Hollywood’s 2020 Exposed Exhibition and Fundraiser features more than 80 contemporary artists. Ticket buyers at the closing-night draw on September 25th will take home an exhibited work of art!

To learn more about the artists visit artandculturecenter.org/12th-annual-exposed for the online catalog

drawing september 25, 2020

reception at 6 pm drawing begins at 8 pm Tickets to participate in the closing-night draw: • $375 for one artwork • $725 for two • $1,000 for three

OPEN DIALOGUES:

ROSA NADAY GARMENDIA:

Aug. 29 THROUGH Oct. 25, 2020

This exhibition features a short documentary film directed by award-winning filmmaker Freddy Rodriguez, artifacts from the Stonewall Museum & Archive, and text by Broward-based author Julie Marie Wade.

Comprised of a large-scale mural, documentary work, photography, and objects, Not So Far Away - No Tan Lejos remarks on the longstanding historical divisions between Cuba and the United States and is relevant to larger conversations about the shared experiences linked to the global dispersal of refugees and asylum-seekers.

Stories From the LGBTQ Community

Not So Far Away - No Tan Lejos

Visit ArtandCultureCenter.org Open Dialogues: Stories From the LGBTQ Community is funded by the following Funds at the Community Foundation of Broward: Richard Frisby and Edward Burkhart Fund, Leonard & Sally Robbins Fund, Frederick W. Jaqua Fund, James Bell-Greenbaum Charitable Fund. Rosa Naday Garmendia: Not So Far Away - No Tan Lejos is funded by a grant from the Mauer Family Foundation.

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1650 Harrison Street Hollywood, FL 33020 954. 921. 3274 ArtAndCultureCenter.org

September 3 - 16 , 2020 // Issue 27.18 wat e r m a r konline .com

viewpoint

The Empty Space Artists are adrift amid the pandemic

n the morning of

March 13, I stood in the wings at WFTS to promote Jobsite Theater’s opening night of “Doubt.” My phone buzzed and the message read “All operations at the Straz have been suspended.”

With those eight words, every bit of work that 12 of us did on the show was shelved. We thought at first it might just last a few weeks, maybe two months tops. We’re now going on month six. 98% of American artists have reported loss of income due to the pandemic, and over two-thirds of us are completely unemployed. We’ve now lost four complete productions and are waiting to see where new cases are to decide if it will become five. I’m not holding my breath. We expect a loss this year in excess of $200,000. The majority of that would have gone into the pockets of regional artists. Theater isn’t cheap to produce, but the bulk of that expense is everyone’s time. Our two-act shows rehearse four weeks, shorter one-acts usually rehearse for three, and so we typically spend as much time creating the work as we do sharing it with audiences. When folks buy a ticket, they’re not just paying for those few hours of the artists’ time but for all the time that went into making it something special. And, yes, I’m one of those folks who believes what we do – what we share in these dark little rooms – is something special. Theater workers are not just devastated financially right now but also spiritually and emotionally. We’re non-essential. Theaters were among the first to shut down and we’ll surely be among the last to reopen.

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figure out a way to get folks paid until the theaters open at capacity. We also have big plans for an outdoor show in October where the audience will be socially distanced. We have plans ready to reopen the theater at reduced capacity when the case numbers come down.

their Venmo or CashApp when they put those up. Buy something in their Etsy store. “Attaboys” and “You go, girls!” are great, but they don’t buy groceries. It’s also important to show love to local organizations who employ and showcase these artists.

Don’t just bang the like button and move along but drop a comment, tag a friend, share it in your own feed with a short statement of why you stand behind them. This sincerely helps others see us. Oh, and of course, finally: wash your darned hands,

Our 100-seat theater gets cut down to 26 if we honor distance, but it’s something. It’s a start. When folks ask what they can do to help right now, my answers come quickly. First, take care of your artists. Pay for their work, tangible or digital. Show them their time and talent have worth. Even if it’s just a little something, it’s still something. Drop a tip in

Pick up a virtual ticket for a performance or event. Get a pass, a membership or become a donor. Buy some merchandise from their online store. These spaces may be closed right now but your show of support will help ensure they can reopen when the time is right. And, finally, there’s the stuff that doesn’t cost anything but your time: interact with them online.

quit touching your face, mask up if you’re going out and keep your distance so that we get this thing under control and so that people can get back to work. Stop being Florida, Florida!

These spaces may be closed right now but your show of support will help ensure they can reopen when the time is right.

David M. Jenkins is the Producing Artistic Director of Jobsite Theater, resident theater company at the Straz Center.

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September 3 - 16 , 2020 // Issue 27.18 wat e r m a r konline .com

10981861

David M. Jenkins

Many of us are “pivoting.” We have recorded monologues in our homes or have joined others in their homes via Zoom for readings of plays or even to attempt fully-rehearsed and executed shows. It’s not the same, not even close, but it’s all that some folks have. For artists, it’s an outlet and – if you can manage to find folks willing to pay for it – possibly income. It’s a way for us to stay connected to one another, artists and audiences. Live theater is a dynamic, emergent and communal experience that simply cannot be properly rendered digitally. Even everyone who raved about the “Hamilton” film but has not yet actually been in “the room where it happens” is missing a key part of the experience. “Hamilton” also had the luxury of a week of filming across multiple performances with and without an audience to assemble what you saw after months of editing. Film technique also isn’t theater technique – from acting to directing and beyond. Still, we’re doing our best. We have to. We have to make sure that artists survive financially until we can reopen and that organizations survive to hire them again. It’s terrifying. We tried a few models of offering digital content on a tips-only basis, hoping folks would step up and kick in what they could. We know it’s not the same as seeing a full show in a theater, and we also know most everyone is hurting in some way right now. That didn’t work out – a disappointment, but unsurprising. As I said, we know a lot of folks are hurting. Folks also have a billion options to choose from that they either already subscribe to or are either free online. At Jobsite, we’re rolling out our first offering that will exist purely behind a paywall. In one way I hate to do it that way, but I have to

DECEMBER 2020 Walt Disney Theater

JANUARY 2021 Alexis & Jim Pugh Theater

APRIL 2021 Walt Disney Theater

Purchase online at www.drphilllipscenter.org or call the box ofďŹ ce at (407) 839-0119 ext. 0.

www.operaorlando.org

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September 3 - 16 , 2020 // Issue 27.18 wat e r m a r konline .com

COVID-19 resources

Tampa Bay

Central Florida

FINANCIAL RESOURCES

Pinellas Cares Fund | PCED.org/Cares 727-605-2944

Rapid Response Recovery Assistance R3.HCFLGov.net | 866-538-2926

Central Florida LGBTQ+ Relief Fund OneOrlandoAlliance.org/COVID-19

Pinellas County is providing relief for individuals, families and businesses. Financial assistance for overdue rent, mortgage and utility bills up to $5,000 per household for those who lost their job or significant income is now available. Text COVIDCARES to 898211 or call 211 to begin the process. Applications will be processed weekdays from 7 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.

Hillsborough County is accepting applications to assist local small businesses and county residents. Financial assistance was created by the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners to direct funds to provide immediate relief, long-term community health and stability, and a full and robust economic recovery. Call weekdays for assistance from 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

The Central Florida LGBTQ+ Relief Fund is meant to assist Orlando area LGBTQ+ community members who are most in need as a result of the COVID-19 crisis. For inquiries regarding this resource, please contact the fund’s Steering Committee at LGBTQReliefFund@gmail.com. You can also visit the website above to review the relief fund’s resource guide — available both in English and Spanish — for more information on navigating the crisis.

FOOD/HEALTH CARE/SERVICE RESOURCES 211 Tampa Bay Cares 211TampaBay.org | 727-210-4211

Feeding Tampa Bay FeedingTampaBay.org | 813-254-1190

Call 211 from any phone or text your zip code to 898211 for help with housing, food, child care, suicide prevention, health care, disaster planning and much more.

Offering mobile pantries, meals, a market, senior grocery resources, homebound help and more. Hours, sites and locations vary. Some locations are closing without advance notice to adhere to regulations, call for up to date information.

CAN Community Health CANCommunityHealth.org 941-366-0134

Metro Inclusive Health MetroTampaBay.org | 727-321-3854

Use computers or mobile devices to access health care services remotely and manage health care needs. For detailed information about Telehealth and more, visit their website.

Receive access to primary care, counseling, hormone replacement therapy and PrEP via Telehealth. To schedule an appointment, dial ext. 1575. For virtual programming, visit their website.

TESTING Sites COVID-19 and antibody testing available. AFC Clearwater is by appointment 9 a.m.-7 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekends. No appointments needed for testing 8 a.m.-8 p.m. at AFC Pinellas Park, 7101 U.S. Hwy. 19 N. in Pinellas Park; AFC Seminole, 11241 Park Blvd. Ste. A in Seminole and AFC Tyrone/St. Petersburg, 2241 66th St. N. in St. Petersburg.

Resource Center at 307 N. Michigan Ave. in Plant City; Redeemer Lutheran Church at 701 Valley Forge Blvd. in Sun City Center; the SouthShore Community Resource Center at 201 14th Ave. SE in Ruskin; Suncoast Community Health Center at 313 S. Lakewood Dr. in Brandon; the Wimauma Opportunity Center at 5128 Florida St. Rd. 674 in Wimauma and Tampa Family Health Centers, Inc. at 12085 W. Hillsborough Ave. Vehicles are not required for testing at any of these sites

BayCare| BayCare.org/Coronavirus 1-800-BayCare

Mahaffey Theater | COVID19. PinellasCounty.org | 866-779-6121

BayCare’s drive-thru sites serve patients with a doctor’s referral or those who are symptomatic. Testing sites include Gulfview Square Mall at 9409 U.S. Hwy. 19 in Port Richey weekdays from 8-11 a.m. and Ruth Eckerd Hall at 1111 McMullen Booth Rd. in Clearwater Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 7-10 a.m.

Drive-thru is available Tuesdays-Saturdays from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. at 400 1st St. S. in St. Petersburg. No appointment is required and no more than four people per vehicle. Check Twitter.com/ HealthyPinellas for details.

AFC Urgent Care | AFCUrgentCare.com

Community Health Centers CHCPinellas.org | 727-824-8181 Testing is available a walk-in or drive-up only. It is available 5-8 p.m. at the Pinellas Park Center at 7550 43rd St. N. in Pinellas Park on Tuesdays and Thursdays; Clearwater Center at 707 Druid Rd. E. in Clearwater Thursdays and the Johnnie Ruth Clarke Center at 1344 22nd St. S. in St. Petersburg on Wednesdays. Visit their website for potential changes.

Hillsborough County Government |HillsboroughCounty.org |888-513-6321 Residents can schedule an appointment weekdays from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Appointments are required and testing hours vary. Testing sites include the Lee Davis Community Resource Center at 3402 N. 22nd St. in Tampa; the Plant City Community

Raymond James Stadium RaymondJamesStadium.com 888-513-6321 This site is operated by the State of Florida and is located at 4201 N. Dale Mabry Hwy. in Tampa. Appointments are required and testing is drive-up only. Schedule an appointment online or by calling the number above weekdays from 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Sarasota County | SCGov.net 941-861-2883 Drive-thru testing is available at the University Town Center Mall at 299 University Town Center Dr. Testing is conducted daily from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. or until capacity is reached. State-run, walk-up testing is also available at the Robert L. Taylor Community Complex at 1845 34th St. Call weekdays from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. For additional details you can also text SRQCOVID19 to 888777.

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

Bounce Back Orlando BounceBackOrlando.com 321-800-3946 The Pride Chamber’s Bounce Back Orlando is a directory of LGBTQ small businesses in Orlando and the surrounding metro that are open. It is divided into Local Shopping, Local Dining, Local Entertainment and Local Services. If you own a small business in the Greater Orlando Metro area you can register your business at the website free of charge.

CareerSource Central Florida (CSCF) CareerSourceCentralFlorida.com/ Coronavirus-Support 800-757-4598 CSCF is providing virtual reemployment assistance for those who have lost their job due to COVID-19. CSCF can assist you in filling out the Department of Economic Opportunity application online. The CSCF has reopened with limited in-person appointments. For your safety, masks will be required for all in-person appointments and temperature checks will be done.

United Way of Central Florida (UWCF) UWCF.org | 2-1-1 The United Way of Central Florida (UWCF) is assisting those impacted by COVID-19 with food needs, paying bills and other essential services. Call 2-1-1 to speak to a UWCF representative who can help you if you are in need.

FOOD/HEALTH CARE/SERVICE RESOURCES Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida FeedHopeNow.org Residents in need of food assistance can visit Second Harvest Food Bank’s online food locator to find a list of feeding partners near their residency. Visit the Second Harvest website to verify location and hours, and call ahead before heading to the location. SNAP assistance may also be available for you. Call 407-295-2777 Mon.-Fri., 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. for more information.

Feed the Need Florida Facebook.com/FeedTheNeedFL Feed the Need Florida, a Central Florida food-aid group led by the 4Roots nonprofit and sponsored by 4 Rivers, is providing free drive-thru meals for all local arts, entertainment and theme park workers every Friday in July from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. at The Plaza Live, located at 425 N. Bumby Ave. In Orlando.

For more information, visit FeedTheNeedFL.org or the group’s Facebook page listed above.

Aspire Health Partners AspireHealthPartners.com, 407-875-3700 ext. 2 Aspire Health Partners is offering a dedicated line to assist residents with mental health concerns related to COVID-19. Residents can call the helpline to be connected with a mental health professional by calling the number above.

Community Legal Services of Mid-Florida 352-509-9865 Community Legal Services of Mid-Florida is offering assistance with medical care document planning to qualified individuals. If you qualify for assistance, you will meet virtually with an attorney that will go over, and draft, the best documents for you. Services are by appointment only and participants must complete an eligibility screening.

TESTING Sites Orange County Government OCFL.net/COVID19 City of Orlando Orlando.gov/COVID19Testing 407-246-3104 Orange County has a non-mobile testing site at the Orange County Convention Center daily, starting at 9 a.m. until the daily limit is reached with no appointment needed. Testing at this site is open to all Central Florida residents, no symptoms required. The City of Orlando has mobile drive-thru testing every Wednesday, rotating to a new location in the city on each operating day. Locations will be announced on a rolling basis. Appointments are required and can be book online or by phone. Testing is available to Orlando residents.

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City and county mobile testing sites are set up in several Walmart parking lots and are by appointment only. Locations are: -Walmart at 5991 Goldenrod Rd. Testing is Mon.-Sat. from 7 a.m.-1 p.m. -Walmart at 11250 E. Colonial Dr. Testing is Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 7-10 a.m. -Walmart at 8101 S. John Young Pkwy. Testing is Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7-10 a.m. UCF, in partnership with AventusBiolabs, has a non-mobile testing site available by appointment. For more information, visit AventusBiolabs.com. OneBlood is testing all blood donations for COVID-19 antibodies. The test is authorized by the FDA and an appointment is required. For more information, visit OneBlood.org/donate-now.

IMPORTANT FACTS FOR BIKTARVY®

This is only a brief summary of important information about BIKTARVY and does not replace talking to your healthcare provider about your condition and your treatment.

MOST IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT BIKTARVY

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF BIKTARVY

BIKTARVY may cause serious side effects, including:

BIKTARVY may cause serious side effects, including:  Those in the “Most Important Information About BIKTARVY” section.  Changes in your immune system. Your immune system may get stronger and begin to ﬁght infections. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any new symptoms after you start taking BIKTARVY.  Kidney problems, including kidney failure. Your healthcare provider should do blood and urine tests to check your kidneys. If you develop new or worse kidney problems, they may tell you to stop taking BIKTARVY.  Too much lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis), which is a serious but rare medical emergency that can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: weakness or being more tired than usual, unusual muscle pain, being short of breath or fast breathing, stomach pain with nausea and vomiting, cold or blue hands and feet, feel dizzy or lightheaded, or a fast or abnormal heartbeat.  Severe liver problems, which in rare cases can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow, dark “tea-colored” urine, light-colored stools, loss of appetite for several days or longer, nausea, or stomach-area pain.  The most common side effects of BIKTARVY in clinical studies were diarrhea (6%), nausea (6%), and headache (5%). These are not all the possible side effects of BIKTARVY. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any new symptoms while taking BIKTARVY. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.FDA.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Your healthcare provider will need to do tests to monitor your health before and during treatment with BIKTARVY.

 Worsening of hepatitis B (HBV) infection. If you have both HIV-1 and HBV, your HBV may suddenly get worse if you stop taking BIKTARVY. Do not stop taking BIKTARVY without ﬁrst talking to your healthcare provider, as they will need to check your health regularly for several months.

ABOUT BIKTARVY BIKTARVY is a complete, 1-pill, once-a-day prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in adults and children who weigh at least 55 pounds. It can either be used in people who have never taken HIV-1 medicines before, or people who are replacing their current HIV-1 medicines and whose healthcare provider determines they meet certain requirements. BIKTARVY does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS. HIV-1 is the virus that causes AIDS. Do NOT take BIKTARVY if you also take a medicine that contains:  dofetilide  rifampin  any other medicines to treat HIV-1

BEFORE TAKING BIKTARVY Tell your healthcare provider if you:  Have or have had any kidney or liver problems, including hepatitis infection.  Have any other health problems.  Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if BIKTARVY can harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you become pregnant while taking BIKTARVY.  Are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed. HIV-1 can be passed to the baby in breast milk. Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take:  Keep a list that includes all prescription and over-the-counter medicines, antacids, laxatives, vitamins, and herbal supplements, and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist.  BIKTARVY and other medicines may affect each other. Ask your healthcare provider and pharmacist about medicines that interact with BIKTARVY, and ask if it is safe to take BIKTARVY with all your other medicines.

Get HIV support by downloading a free app at

MyDailyCharge.com

BVYC0218_BIKTARVY_B_9-25X10-1_Watermark_Chad_r1v1jl.indd All Pages

(bik-TAR-vee)

HOW TO TAKE BIKTARVY Take BIKTARVY 1 time each day with or without food.

GET MORE INFORMATION  This is only a brief summary of important information about BIKTARVY. Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist to learn more.  Go to BIKTARVY.com or call 1-800-GILEAD-5  If you need help paying for your medicine, visit BIKTARVY.com for program information.

BIKTARVY, the BIKTARVY Logo, DAILY CHARGE, the DAILY CHARGE Logo, KEEP CREATING, LOVE WHAT’S INSIDE, GILEAD, and the GILEAD Logo are trademarks of Gilead Sciences, Inc., or its related companies. Version date: February 2020 © 2020 Gilead Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. BVYC0218 04/20

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CHAD LIVING WITH HIV SINCE 2018 REAL BIKTARVY PATIENT

h r

ut t

KEEP CREATING.

Because HIV doesn’t change who you are.

BIKTARVY® is a complete, 1-pill, once-a-day prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in certain adults. BIKTARVY does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS.

Ask your healthcare provider if BIKTARVY is right for you. See Chad’s story at BIKTARVY.com. Featured patient compensated by Gilead.

Please see Important Facts about BIKTARVY, including important warnings, on the previous page and visit BIKTARVY.com.

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5/26/20 3:47 PM

THE BARBER FUND HELPING THOSE LIVING WITH CANCER

www.thebarberfund.org WE HONOR THEIR COURAGE. WE HONOR THEIR STRENGTH. WE HONOR THEIR FIGHT!

ONE LOVE!

In Memory of John “Tweeka” Barber 1972 - 2011

COMING SOON ONLY ON EXHIBIT AT THE HISTORY CENTER • OCTOBER 3, 2020 – FEBRUARY 14, 2021 The History Center is supported by

65 E. CENTRAL BLVD. ORLANDO, FL • 407-836-8500

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September 3 - 16 , 2020 // Issue 27.18 wat e r m a r konline .com

talking points

68 candidates

were endorsed by Equality Florida

Action PAC

I am in no way a racist. I am in no way transphobic. I’m a gay Jew who was brought up in a very open, accepting family. There is not a racist or intolerant bone in my body. —Randy Rainbow apologizing for a series of decade-old racist and transphobic tweets

‘Drag Race’ star Chi Chi DeVayne dies at 34

an favorite entertainer and “RuPaul’s Drag Race” alum Chi Chi DeVayne died Aug. 20 at the age of 34. DeVayne, the stage name of Zavion Michael Davenport, first appeared on season eight of the competitive drag series. He placed fourth before returning for the third season of “RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars” in 2018. The entertainer had previously detailed a number of health issues with fans. DeVayne recently shared that he was hospitalized in July with high blood pressure and suspected kidney failure. The star’s family confirmed his death utilizing DeVayne’s social media channels. “It is with tremendous sorrow that my family and I announce the passing of my beloved son, Zavion Michael Davenport, the world renowned ‘Chi Chi DeVayne,” they wrote. DeVayne’s loved ones also shared the entertainer’s final words to family and fans: “Never give up!”

the state’s

2020 primary elections.

55 of those endorsed candidates won their race. —EQFL.org/2020ElectionsCenter

Tony Awards will go digital

espite being interrupted by the coronavirus pandemic, the shortened Broadway season will nonetheless have a Tony Awards. Tony Award Productions said Aug. 21 that the celebration of live theater will be digital but offered no date or streaming platform. Final eligibility determinations will be made by the Tony Awards Administration Committee “in the coming days.” Broadway theaters abruptly closed on March 12. Producers, citing health and city authorities, have three times extended the Broadway shutdown, currently until at least early January. Only shows that officially opened are eligible for Tonys so the assumption is that shows that were still in previews when the shutdown order came will not be under consideration.

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

Disney Channel’s ‘Owl House’ stars bisexual character

he creator of Disney Channel’s “The Owl House” is lauding the company for featuring an LGBTQ teenager on the animated series. “Representation matters!” tweeted Dana Terrace, also an executive producer for the series. “Always fight to make what YOU want to see!” The 14-year-old character, Luz Noceda, reportedly is the first bisexual character on a Disney TV series. Luz is a Dominican American girl aspiring to be a witch despite a lack of magical abilities. She is voiced by Sarah-Nicole Robles. “The Owl House,” which premiered in January and returned in July after a few months’ break, has been renewed for a second season.

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Bette Midler writes kids’ book

ette Midler is using words and pictures to tell a New York story. Midler’s picture book “The Tale of the Mandarin Duck” will be published Feb. 16, Random House Books for Young Readers announced Aug. 13. With a story based on a real duck seen in Central Park in 2018, the book combines Midler’s words, photographs by former New York Times book critic Michiko Kakutani and illustrations by Joana Avillez. Midler said she thought of the book after seeing Kakutani’s pictures of the duck in the park. “The real duck’s visit to New York was a cause for celebration; everyone who saw him fell instantly in love. I wanted to memorialize his visit, and let readers know that the natural world is full of creatures just like him,” she said.

E C N E I R E P EX

T R A

FIND ONLINE AND IN-PERSON ARTS AND CULTURAL EVENTS FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY

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Fall Arts A guide to your Central Florida and Tampa Bay entertainment offerings

Jeremy Williams and Ryan Williams-Jent

t seems like short of Amazon

and Zoom, every other company, organization and industry has been severely impacted by to the COVID-19 pandemic. This coronavirus has crippled industries once thought unbreakable, and no industry seems a better example of this than that of entertainment.

Live theater, cinemas, concerts, dance clubs; these were escapes from everyday life when times got tough and we needed a break from our troubles. No matter how partisan our politics and beliefs became, the arts were there to bring us together. Until now. Broadway went dark in March. At the same time cinemas across the country closed down. Local theaters first postponed, and then later cancelled, live shows and concerts. People turned to Netflix and virtual events, but the isolation

of watching from your home took away some of that magic the arts create. Those in the industry — actors, singers, dancers, artists — found themselves out of work and without a stage to perform. Several leaders in the industry, both national and local, started funds to help support those struggling artists. GOPAR: Greater Orlando Performing Arts Relief (FKA Greater Orlando Social Distancing Showcase), the Pinellas Arts Community Relief Fund and

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

United Arts’ Empower the Arts Campaign are just a few of the local funds that sprung up during the shutdown. In these trying times, if you are able to help, we have no doubt that any of the artists’ funds out there would appreciate your donations. During this time of the year, Watermark would usually be preparing our annual Fall Arts Guide, a glossy magazine filled with a detailed schedule of shows, exhibits, concerts, festivals, conventions and more happening throughout Central Florida and Tampa Bay. However many venues are still closed, and those that have or will open this season are doing so in a limited capacity and with a tentative schedule, but that doesn’t mean there is nothing going on. In the following pages, we have gathered the same information you have come to expect from our annual Fall Arts Guide. While it is condensed, it is still chock-full of information on open exhibits and

live shows, as well as virtual and live-streamed performances. We also highlight a few things we think might be worth checking out. All listings are accurate as of press, but please do keep in mind that due to the continued pandemic, all venues and showtimes are subject to changes, postponements and cancellations. Each venue open and listed has its own social distancing and safety precautions that you will need to adhere to. We have included contact information and website addresses within the listings and encourage you to review those safety measures before purchasing tickets and heading to the venue. Whether you attend one of the live shows, log on for a virtual experience or donate to one of the artists funds, please support the arts in these uncertain times, if you can. Now, safely on with the show!

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Continued on pg. 33 | uu |

THE SLEEPING BEAUTY World Premiere from Robert Hill October 23-25, 2020 Dr. Phillips Center

THE NUTCRACKER * December 4-13, 2020 Dr. Phillips Center

MOULIN ROUGE ®

THE BALLET Choreography by Jorden Morris In the Spirit of the Moulin Rouge of Paris February 12-14, 2021 Dr. Phillips Center

THE PREMIERE COLLECTION

March 19-21, 2021 Harriett’s Orlando Ballet Centre

PETER PAN

Choreography by Jorden Morris April 30-May 2, 2021 Dr. Phillips Center *Season subscription option. Additional purchase required.

SUBSCRIBE TODAY

407.418.9828

orlandoballet.org

Dancer: Kate-Lynn Robichaux (USA) Photography by Michael Cairns 2020 MOULIN ROUGE® is a registered trademark of Moulin Rouge S.A.

Elizabeth Morse Genius Foundation

ANNUAL PARTNERS

Lanier & La Voyce Porter

Keith McIntyre & Richard Skaggs

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Marc & Sharon Hagle Charitable Operating Foundation Trust

Daytona Beach/ Space Coast Cocoa Village Playhouse Cocoa CocoaVillagePlayhouse.com 321-636-5050 Now-Sept. 13 “9 To 5: The Musical” Sept. 18-20 “Seussical The Musical Kids” Sept. 25-27 “Disney’s The Lion King Jr.” Oct. 9-11 Halloween Trilogy of Plays Nov. 20-Dec. 6 “Little Women: The Musical”

Dec. 20 Classic Albums Live: The Beatles Jan. 9 Bruce in the U.S.A. Peabody Auditorium Daytona Beach PeabodyAuditorium.org 386-671-3461 Nov. 13 Colin Mochrie & Brad Sherwood Jan. 9 “Menopause The Muscial”

Orlando

Dec. 18-20 Galmont Ballet’s “The Nutcraker”

The Abbey Orlando AbbeyOrlando.com 407-704-6261

Jan. 29-Feb. 14 “Disney’s Newsies”

Sept. 10 She Past Away

The Henegar Center Melbourne Henegar.org 321-723-8698 Oct. 23-Nov. 8 “Grease” Nov. 27-Dec. 20 “ELF” Jan. 15-31 “Godspell” King Center for the Performing Arts Melbourne KingCenter.com | 321-242-2219 Sept. 26 Brevard Symphony Orchestra: Beethoven - Symphony No. 6 “Pastoral” Oct. 3 Brevard Community Chorus Mass in C Oct. 17 Classic Albums Live - Fleetwood Mac’s “Rumours” Oct. 23 New York Bee Gees Oct. 24 Brevard Symphony Orchestra: Tchaikovsky & Brahms Nov. 4 Tab Benoit Nov. 6 Classical Albums Live, Woodstock Nov. 11 Buddy Guy & Wayne Shepard Nov. 12 Colin Mochrie & Brad Sherwood Nov. 13 Ron White Nov. 22 Hotel California: A Salute to the Eagles

Oct. 20 Amorphis Jan. 6 Boys of Summer Tour 2020 AEO Studios Orlando AEOStudios.com 407-677-8706 Sept. 5-6 Lifecasting workshop, Parts 1 & 2 Sept. 12 3D Wounds workshop Sept. 13 Character Makeup workshop Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens Winter Park Polasek.org 407-647-6294 Ongoing exhibit Keepers of Heritage: Evolving Identities

Sept. 3-20 Cicero Greathouse: An Artist’s Journey Dec. 18 Handmade Happy Hour Bay Street Players Eustis BayStreetPlayers.org 352-357-7777 Sept. 11-27 “Moonlight & Magnolias” Oct. 30-Nov. 15 “A Tuna Christmas” Jan. 8-24 “Tick, Tick... Boom” Creative City Project Orlando CreativeCityProject.com Oct. 2-24 Bright Young Things - An Immersive, Site-Specific Adventure Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts Orlando DrPhillipsCenter.org 844-513-2014 Oct. 12 Mike Dunn Oct. 17 Distant Worlds: Orlando Dec. 7 Eugene Snowden Jan. 5-10 “The Band’s Visit” Jan. 6 “The Price is Right Live!” Enzian Theater Maitland Enzian.org 407-629-1088 Sept. 26 National Live Theatre: “Cyrano De Bergerac”

Amway Center Orlando AmwayCenter.com 844-854-1450

Oct. 24 National Live Theatre: “Frankenstein”

Nov. 7 Marc Anthony

Nov. 28 “National Live Theatre: “Fleabag”

Dec. 5 Jimmy Buffett

Ongoing events Cult Classics Midnight Movies Music Mondays Peanut Butter Matinee Family Films Saturday Matinee Classics

Art & History Museum Maitland ArtAndHistory.org 407-539-2181

Don’t Miss... “'9 to 5 The Musical”'

Pushed to the boiling point, three female co-workers concoct a plan to get even with the sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocrite they call their boss. In a hilarious turn of events, Violet, Judy and Doralee take control of their office and learn there is nothing they can’t do, even in a man’s world. Based on the classic 1980 film, “9 to 5” features music and lyrics by the legendary Dolly Parton and a book by Patricia Resnick. Now-Sept. 13, The Historic Cocoa Village Playhouse, Cocoa

'Theatre Sparks: Plays and Conversations for an Antiracist Tomorrow' Mad Cow Theatre, in partnership with Black Theatre Girl Magic, presents digital readings of short plays by award-winning playwright, poet and changemaker Idris Goodwin, to spark conversation about race in America for multi-generational audiences. The series, which began in August, will continue with “Water Gun Song” Sept. 5, Nothing Rhymes with Juneteenth” Sept. 19, “Black Flag” Oct. 3 and “Act Free” Oct. 17. Events are livestreamed on Mad Cow Theatre and Black Theatre Girl Magic’s respective Facebook pages. Sept. 5-Oct. 17, Mad Cow Theatre and Black Theatre Girl Magic, livestreamed

“'Pompeii: The Immortal City”' In just 24 hours, Pompeii and neighboring Herculaneum were buried by the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79. See what happened for yourself in “Pompeii: The Immortal City,” an immersive, interactive exhibit that plunge you into the heart of the drama and ruins of the ancient city of Pompeii. Through artwork, interactive mechanical devices and multimedia experiences, you will embark on a journey through time into the daily life of a first-century Roman town, find yourself at the center of the erupting volcano and discover how Pompeii influenced the development of archaeology as a scientific study. The Orlando Science Center is only one of three U.S. sites to host this exhibit. Oct. 26-Jan. 24, Orlando Science Center, Orlando

JEFRËE: '“Points of Connection'” This Orlando Museum of Art (OMA) exhibit will be JEFRË’s first solo museum exhibition featuring a series of his large-scale, site-specific installations and sculptures constructed at a human scale. Visitors will journey through the exhibition, guided by the stanzas of JEFRË’s poem “Heart to Heart,” as they interact with immersive installations which explore the artist’s immigrant identity and his history with heart disease and — through the integration of technology — illuminate our common humanity across age, gender, ethnicity and nationality. There will also be an artist lecture with JEFRË at OMA Dec. 13. Sept. 24-Jan. 3, Orlando Museum of Art, Orlando

Continued on pg. 34 | uu |

Sept. 3-Feb. 14 Growing Up Maitland Continued on pg. 34 | uu |

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| uu | Fall Arts

from pg.33

Orlando Ballet’s 2020-21 season

ust as every other group in the arts world had to shut down amid the COVID-19 pandemic, so too did the Orlando Ballet. “Balance is a critical element in dance. Adjusting to current circumstances while looking forward to and planning for the future requires balance as well,” wrote Robert Hill, Orlando Ballet’s Artistic Director, in a letter posted to the company website. “I will be forever proud of how our organization and our community came together as one to keep us dancing. At Orlando Ballet, we are finding our way through these difficult days with a path for the future.” As we enter the fall season, the show will go on for the Orlando Ballet’s 2020-21 season, with an adjustment. “I’m delighted to report that Orlando Ballet’s 2020-21 season will be remarkable because it will include a balance of what we weren’t able to perform last season with several new productions, all of which will remind us of the joy that comes from dance and the performing arts,” Hill said. The previously announced “Icons & Idols A Mixed Rep,” scheduled for March 26-28, will be replaced with last season’s “Made in the USA,” now renamed “The Premiere Collection,” and will open as the inaugural mainstage production at Harriett’s Orlando Ballet Centre March 19-21. The season will kick off in October with the world premiere of Hill’s “The Sleeping Beauty,” playing Oct. 23-25. Orlando Ballet will bring 2020 to a close with the traditional playing of “The Nutcracker” Dec. 4-13. Both shows will be performed at the Dr. Phillips Center’s Walt Disney Theater. The remainder of the season will feature “Moulin Rouge: The Ballet” Feb. 12-14 and “Peter Pan” April 30-May 2, both being performed at Dr. Phillips Center Center’s Walt Disney Theater. “We have all been through so much together,” Hill said, “so please know that our upcoming season is intended to continue to bring us all together through artistry, beautiful dance and our own Orlando Ballet.”

The Footlight Theater at Parliament House Orlando ParliamentHouse.com 407-425-7571

Select dates Sept. 5-Oct. 17 “THEATRE SPARKS: Plays and Conversations for an Antiracist Tomorrow (digital)”

Oct. 17, 24 and 31 MrMs Adrien presents “The Rocky Horror Drag Show”

The Mennello Museum of American Art

The Garden Theatre Winter Garden GardenTheatre.org 407-877-4736

Photo by EDGE Collections 2019, courtesy Orlando Ballet

Sept. 3-27 “Hello, Dolly!” Oct. 7-18 “Ugly Lies the Bone” Nov. 19-Dec. 20 Ronald Dahl’s “Matilda The Musical” Ongoing events Interactive Movies Hard Rock Live Orlando HardRock.com/Live/Locations/ Orlando 407-351-5483 Nov. 8 Neck Deep Jan. 16 Whitney Cummings

Sept. 3-13 Mira Lehr: High Water Mark Oct. 2-Jan. 10 Construct Our Orlando & American Youth: Cause Jan. 22-April 11 American Artists in the Southwest & American Paintings from the Melanson Holt Collection Mount Dora Center for the Arts Mount Dora MountDoraCenterForTheArts.org 352-383-0880 Sept. 3-25 “On Board,” Juried Exhibit Select dates Sept. 11-Dec. 11 Art in the Alley

Jan. 21 Ricardo Montaner Jan. 29 Chris Tucker

Oct. 3 Vette Fest

Jan. 30 Nikki Glaser

Nov. 13 Muscle Car Cruise 9th Anniversary

Sept. 25-Nov. 7 The Haunted Road: A Drive-Thru Halloween Experience

Oct. 23-May 2, Dr. Phillips Center

Orlando MennelloMuseum.org 407-246-4278

Old Town Kissimmee MyOldTownUSA.com 407-396-4888

The Haunted Road Orlando TheHauntedRoad.com 407-906-8878

& Harriett’s Orlando Ballet Centre, Orlando

Mad Cow Theatre Orlando MadCowTheatre.com 407-297-8788

House of Blues Lake Buena Vista HouseOfBlues.com/Orlando 407-934-2583

Dec. 6 Old Town Bike Toy Run Opera Orlando Orlando OperaOrlando.org 407-718-4365 Sept. 6 Opera on Park: Carlos Enrique Santelli, Ashley Dixon & Clinton Smith (livestreamed) Sept. 13 Gabriel Preisser (livestreamed)

Oct. 10 David Bisbal - Gira En Tus Planes 2020

Dec. 17, 19 “Die Fledermaus: The Revenge of the Bat”

Oct. 17 Jonny Lang

Jan. 29-31 “Hansel & Gretel”

Nov. 5 Cody Johnson Dec. 5 The Cult - A Sonic Temple

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September 3 - 16 , 2020 // Issue 27.18 wat e r m a r konline .com

Orange County Regional History Center Orlando TheHistoryCenter.org 407-836-8500 Sept. 9, Oct. 14, Nov. 11 “Are We There Yet? “ Sept. 29 Virtual 14th Annual John Young History Maker Celebration Oct. 3-Feb. 14 “Yesterday, This Was Home: The Ocoee Massacre of 1920” Oct. 12 & 30 Discovery Day Ongoing exhibits “African American History” “Aviation” “Cattle and Citrus” “Destination Florida” “First Contact” “First People” “Natural Environment” “Pioneer Cabin” “The Theme-Park Era” Orlando Ballet Orlando OrlandoBallet.org 407-426-1733 Oct. 23-25 “The Sleeping Beauty” Dec. 4-13 “The Nutcracker” Orlando Film Festival Orlando OrlandoFilmFest.com 407-217-1390 Oct. 15-22 2020 Orlando Film Festival Orlando Museum of Art Orlando OMArt.org 407-896-4231 Sept. 3-Oct. 25 Oliver Jeffers: “15 Years of Picturing Books” Sept. 3-June 30 “American Journey: Two Centuries of Art and Culture” Sept. 24-Jan. 3 JEFRË: “Points of Connection” Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra Orlando OrlandoPhil.org 407-896-6700 Sept. 26 Opening Night with Simone Porter Oct. 10 Edgar Meyer

Oct. 19 Lara St. John Plays Beethoven

Oct. 29 Trey Kennedy - “Are You For Real?”

Sept. 8-Oct. 25 “A Brush with HerStory”

Nov. 7 Rimma Plays Prokofiev

Nov. 5 Tab Benoit

Nov. 16 An Evening of Fanfare

Dec. 13 Dark Star Orchestra

Virtual Exhibitions “Our Finest” “Fifth Grade Showcase” “Art Out Loud”

Nov. 28 Home for the Holidays: A Midnight Clear

Jan. 23 JacksFilms presents Yiay Live! Live!

The RP Funding Center

Jan. 9-10 Yuja Wang Plays Rachmaninoff Jan. 30 Gershwin! Orlando Repertory Theatre Orlando OrlandoRep.com 407-896-7365 Oct. 1-Nov. 5 “Vote?” (streaming online) Orlando Science Center Orlando OSC.org 407-514-2000 Oct. 26-Jan. 24 “Pompeii: The Immortal City” Ongoing exhibits KidsTown Kinetic Zone Fusion: A STEAM Gallery DinoDigs Our Planet NatureWorks Orlando Shakespeare Theater Orlando OrlandoShakes.org 407-447-1700 Oct. 22-Nov. 1 “Poe: Deep Into That Darkness Peering” (Video on Demand) Dec. 10-20 “The Trial of Ebenezer Scrooge” (Video on Demand) Jan. 6-31 “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” Osceola Center for the Arts Kissimmee OsceolaArts.org 407-846-4643 Sept. 8-Nov. 6 “Symbols and Myths” art exhibit Sept. 25-Oct. 11 “In The Heights” The Plaza Live Orlando PlazaLiveOrlando.org 407-228-1220 Sept. 19 Stephen Lynch

Jan. 27 Apocalyptica

Lakeland RPFundingCenter.com 863-834-8100

Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center Sanford WDPAC.com 407-321-8111 Sept. 18-27 “Spamalot” Oct. 17-18 “My Fair Lady Jr.” Oct. 23 Phantasmagoria XI Dec. 11 Phantasmagoria’s “A Christmas Carol” Dec. 13 Ballet Fedotov presents “The Nutcracker” Winter Park Playhouse Winter Park WinterParkPlayhouse.org 407-645-0145 Jan. 14 Let’s Hang On: A Tribute to Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons Jan. 22-Feb. 20 A Grand Night for Singing

LAKELAND Lakeland Community Theatre Lakeland LakelandCommunityTheatre.com 863-603-7529 Sept. 11-13, 18-20 “Disenchanted” Oct. 9-11 “Stellaluna” Nov. 6-8, 13-15 “A Sherlock Holmes Mystery” Dec. 4-6, 11-13 “Elf: The Musical”

Oct. 15 Classic Albums Live: Fleetwood Mac Nov. 19 Classic Albums Live: “Woodstock Dec. 19 Classic Albums Live: The Beatles Jan. 9 Classic Albums Live: AC/DC Jan. 14 “Menopause: The Musical” Jan. 15. “An Evening with Louie Anderson” Jan. 17 “Remembering Hee Haw” Jan. 20 “The Machine Performs Pink Floyd” Jan. 29 “An Evening with Bill Engvall” Jan. 31 “Shake, Rattle and Roll”

TAMPA Carrollwood Players Tampa CarrollwoodPlayers.org 813-265-4000 Sept. 11-13, 18-20, 25-26 “Plaza Suite” Oct. 2-4 “Scotland Road” Oct. 9-31 “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” Nov. 13-22 “Come Back to the Five and Dime” Dec. 4-19 “A Christmas Carol” Jan. 8-23, 2021 “Murder on the Nile” Henry B. Plant Museum

Polk Museum of Art

Tampa

Lakeland

PlantMuseum.com

PolkMuseumofArt.org

813-254-1891

863-688-7743

Sept. 3-Jan. 1 “Exotic Souvenirs”

Sept. 8-20 “The Art of Tommy Simpson” Sept. 8-27 “Painting of the Dutch Golden Age”

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

Don’t Miss... “'In the Heights'’

“In the Heights” is the first musical penned by Lin-Manuel Miranda to play on Broadway and is the first production at Osceola Arts since the COVID-19 pandemic shut all Central Florida theatres down. “In the Heights,” with music and lyrics by Miranda and a book by Quiara Alegría Hudes, tells the story of the mostly Latinx neighborhood of Washington Heights in New York City. The story is narrated by Usnavi de la Vega (a role originated by Miranda on Broadway and played by Cesar De La Rosa in the Osceola Arts production), a bodega owner with dreams of moving to the Dominican Republic. Sept. 25-Oct. 11, Osceola Arts, Kissimmee

Whitney Cummings Comedian, actor, writer, producer and director Whitney Cummings returns to Orlando’s Hard Rock Live with her edgy, honest and hilarious stand-up “How Dare You Tour” Jan. 16 after having to postpone her June 13 show due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Cummings is best known for creating and starring in her own NBC sitcom, “Whitney”; co-creating and co-writing the CBS sitcom “Two Broke Girls”; and her popular podcast “Good For You.” Jan. 16, Hard Rock Live, Orlando; Jan. 17, ruth eckerd hall, clearwater

'Disenchanted!'’ Forget everything you know about glass slippers, poisoned apples and sleeping curses as you strap in for this hilarious hit musical starring Snow White and her posse of disenchanted princesses. The original storybook heroines, unhappy with how they’ve been portrayed in modern pop culture, come to life to set the record straight for mature audiences. Belle, Cinderella, the Little Mermaid, Mulan, the Princess who Kissed the Frog, Rapunzel, Snow White and more Grimmly rewrite their happily ever afters in true princess fashion: with song. Sept. 11-13, 18-20, Lakeland Community Theatre, Lakeland

“'An Evening with Louie Anderson'”’ Comedian and bestselling author Louie Anderson brings his iconic stand-up to a stage near you, fresh off of his Emmy award-winning performance on FX’s four-season run of “Baskets.” Heralded as one of the 100 greatest stand-up comics of all time by Comedy Central, the star won for his portrayal of matriarch Christine Baskets, a character modeled after his own mother. That role, his book “Hey Mom: Stories for My Mother, But You Can Read Them Too” and comedic tales from his 30-year career take center stage in his tour, full of humor and warmth. Jan. 15, The RP Funding Center, Lakeland

Continued on pg. 37 | uu |

September 3 - 16 , 2020 // Issue 27.18 wat e r m a r konline .com

#endHIVstigma

SARASOTA 1231 N. TUTTLE AVE. SARASOTA, FL 34237 (941) 366-0134

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ST. PETERSBURG 3251 3RD AVE. N. #125 ST. PETERSBURG, FL 33713 (727) 498-4969

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ORLANDO 1301 W. COLONIAL DR. ORLANDO, FL 32804 (407) 246-1946

YBOR CITY 1315 EAST 7TH AVE. TAMPA, FLÂ 33605 (813) 769-7207

PALMETTO 408 7TH STREET WEST PALMETTO, FL 34221 (941) 803-7939

September 3 - 16 , 2020 // Issue 27.18 wat e r m a r konline .com

| uu | Fall Arts

from pg.35

Sept. 3-Jan. 1 “Parlor Suite” Sept. 3-Jan. 1 “Spanish-American War & Tampa” Sept. 3-Jan. 1 “Sports & Amusements” Sept. 3-Jan. 1 “Tampa Bay Hotel Gardens” Sept. 3-Jan. 1 “The Grand Hallway” Sept. 3-Jan. 1 “Women & Their Pasttimes” Straz Center for the Performing Arts

Oct. 27 “Hocus Pocus”

CLEARWATER/ DUNEDIN/LARGO Dunedin Fine Art Center Dunedin DFAC.org 727-298-3322 Sept. 3-Oct. 18 “Velvet Elvis” Sept. 3-Oct. 18 “Between Us” Sept. 3-Dec. 24 “Our Finest: DFAC Faculty Works” Virtual Exhibitions “The Art of Social Distancing” “Wish You Were Here” “Pastel Societies Exhibition”

Tampa StrazCenter.org 813-229-7827 Oct. 2-3, 9-10 “The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged) [revised]” Oct. 17 “Broadway Ball at Home” Oct. 23-Nov. 15 “Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde” Oct. 29-Nov. 10 “Frankenstein: The Modern Prometheus” Oct. 30 Opera Tampa’s “The Witching Hour” Nov. 5-Dec. 6 “Always ... Patsy Cline” Nov. 11-Dec. 2 “Twilight: Los Angeles, 1992” Dec. 18-20 Opera Tampa’s “Home for the Holidays” Dec. 22-27 “My Fair Lady” Jan. 13-31 “Wicked” Jan. 15-Feb. 7 “Henry V” Jan. 22-24 Opera Tampa’s “The Pirates of Penzance” Virtual Programming The Show Must Go On “Tampa Total Request Live”

Eight O’Clock Theatre Largo EightOClockTheatre.com 727-587-6751 Oct. 30-Nov. 8 “The Last Five Years” Ruth Eckerd Hall / Bilheimer Capitol Theatre Clearwater RuthEckerdHall.com

Oct. 28 Trey Kennedy Nov. 5 Classic Albums Live: “Woodstock” Nov. 19 Bruce Cockburn Dec. 3 Dave Mason Dec. 5 Don McLean Dec. 5 Celtic Angels Christmas Dec. 7 Geoff Tate Dec. 10 Peter White Christmas Dec. 12 Bowzer’s Holiday Party Dec. 13 Keb’ Mo’ Dec. 16 John Mayall Dec. 17 Classic Albums Live: The Beatles Dec. 18 Rockapella Christmas Dec. 20 Sister’s Christmas Catechism”

727-791-7400

Dec. 30 “112 Years of Broadway”

Sept. 8 “Jaws”

Dec. 31 “Salute to Vienna”

Sept. 13 “Space Jam”

Jan. 3 “The Price is Right Live!”

Sept. 15 “The Big Lebowski”

Jan. 8 Air Supply

Sept. 18 Stephen Lynch

Jan. 13 Leo Kottke

Sept. 22 “Labyrinth”

Jan. 14 The SteelDrivers

Sept. 27 “Shrek”

Jan. 15 TUSK: “Fleetwood Mac Tribute”

Sept. 29 “Caddyshack”

Jan. 15 Jay Leno

Oct. 4 “Onward”

Jan. 16 The Mavericks Roseanne Cash

Oct. 6 “The Princess Bride” Oct. 13 “Friday the 13th”

TAMPA BAY INTERNATIONAL GAY & LESBIAN FILM FESTIVAL

Oct. 18 Classic Albums Live: Fleetwood Mac

Tampa Bay TIGLFF.com

Oct. 20 “Clue”

Oct. 2-18 2020 Virtual Film Festival

Oct. 25 “Coco”

Jan. 17 Whitney Cummings Jan. 20 Classic Albums Live: The Who Jan. 22 Chris Botti Jan. 24 Winter Dance Party

Photo by blake little courtesy the james museum

Blake Little:

'Photographs from the Gay Rodeo’’'

hotographer Blake Little’s work has been coveted by clients like 20th Century Studios and Warner Bros. for decades. His portraiture has captured celebrities including Tom Cruise, Jane Fonda, Samuel L. Jackson and more, with award-winning work appearing in outlets like Entertainment Weekly, People Magazine and TIME. Among his most intimate photos are those featured in his touring collections like “Photographs from the Gay Rodeo.” The 41 black-and-white images were captured between 1988 and 1992 and highlight the International Gay Rodeo Association’s impact on the American West. The nonprofit has promoted the LGBTQ western lifestyle by producing inclusive rodeos since 1976. Little’s collection highlights events from Oklahoma to California and will be featured at the James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art this fall. “We are proud to host this exhibition celebrating diversity in the West,” James Museum Curator Emily Kapes says. “With so many different perspectives within the Western experience, we see this exhibition as an opportunity to feature the gay community, create dialogue and inform museum visitors on these little-known competitions.” The exhibit is also a summation of Little’s own experiences at the rodeo, chronicling his own participation. “The sport, camaraderie and atmosphere of this first rodeo experience transformed me,” he reflects. “I was completely drawn to it and I had to be a part of it. I wanted to be a cowboy. “These photographs represent an amazing, magical time in my life,” he continues. “Back then, I questioned if I was a ‘real’ cowboy because in the back of my mind I always felt like an observer … But my unique situation allowed me to document the growing sport of gay rodeo from the inside along with the thrills and personal challenges of fulfilling my cowboy dreams.” It’s also a testament to the resilience of the LGBTQ community. “Take a good look at their faces,” Little has stressed. “It took tremendous courage for them to just be themselves while creating their own version of a traditional American sport in the intolerant world of the late ‘80s.” Sept. 5-Jan. 31, The James Museum, St. Petersburg

Oct. 25 38 Special Continued on pg. 39 | uu |

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

September 3 - 16 , 2020 // Issue 27.18 wat e r m a r konline .com

Music & Dance

in Painting of the Dutch Golden Age

9.27.20

extended through

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www.GBYAssociates.com 38

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September 3 - 16 , 2020 // Issue 27.18 wat e r m a r konline .com

| uu | Fall Arts

from pg.37

Jan. 29 David Foster Judy Collins Jan. 31 Neil Berg “50 Years of Rock IV”

ST. PETERSBURG

Sept. 3-25 “Sunshine City” Sept. 3-26 “Women Who Work” Oct. 10 “Virtual Drag Queen Docent Tour” Nov. 16-Dec. 26 Annual Holiday Show Ongoing Exhibits The Chihuly Collection

American Stage Theatre Company St. Petersburg AmericanStage.org

Museum of Fine Arts St. Petersburg MFAstPete.org 727-896-2667

Sept. 4 Virtual 2020-21 Season Announcement

Sept. 12-Nov. 29 “Buoyant,” Derrick Adams

Oct. 9 Fall Fundraiser

Sept. 12-Nov. 29 “Copper, Silver, Salt, Ink”

Virtual Experiences The Virtual American Stage

Oct. 3-Feb. 28 “Explore the Vaults”

Florida Orchestra St. Petersburg FloridaOrchestra.org 727-892-3337 Late October Fall Season Begins Freefall Theatre St. Petersburg freeFallTheatre.com 727-498-5205 Beginning in October Live, Outdoor Drive-In Experiences James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art St. Petersburg TheJamesMuseum.org 727-892-4200 Sept. 5-Jan. 31 “Photographs from the Gay Rodeo” Mahaffey Theater St. Petersburg TheMahaffey.com 727-898-2100 Dec. 19 Moscow Ballet’s “Great Russian Nutcracker” (Virtual) Jan. 22 David Clayton-Thomas Morean Arts Center St. Petersburg MoreanArtsCenter.org 727-822-7872

Oct. 3-May 23 “Working Point” Nov. 7-April 4 “From Chaos to Order” Dec. 19-March 14 “Color Riot!” Salvador Dali Museum St. Petersburg TheDali.org 727-823-3767 Sept. 3-Nov. 1 “Dali’s Sacred Science” Sept. 5-Jan. 3 “Diego & Frida: A Visual History” Ongoing Exhibits “At Home with Dali” “Dali’s Masterworks in Augmented Reality” “Dali Lives (via Artificial Intelligence)” Virtual Exhibits “Irrational Technology: From the Ridiculous to the Sublime” “Midnight in Paris, 1929” SHINE Mural Festival St. Petersburg StPeteArtsAlliance.org 727-518-5142 Nov. 7-14 SHINE 2020: “Sea Walls: St. Petersburg” Woodfield Fine Art Gallery St. Petersburg WoodfieldFineArt.com 727-254-6981 Virtual Exhibits “2020 Come OUT St. Pete Contest Finalists”

Sept. 3-25 “20 x 20”

SARASOTA Fabulous Independent Film Festival Sarasota HarveyMilkFestival.com Sept. 24-Oct. 3 2020 Virtual Film Festival Florida Studio Theatre Sarasota FloridaStudioTheatre.org 941-366-9000 Oct. 1-12 The Suffragist Project The Players Centre for Performing Arts Sarasota ThePlayers.org 941-365-2494 Mid-to-late 2020 “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” Ringling Museum of Art Sarasota Ringling.org 941-359-5700 Sept. 3-May 2 “Remaking the World” Sept. 3-Jan. 24 Syd Solomon: “Concealed and Revealed” Sept. 3-Nov. 29 Howie Tsui: “Retainers of Anarchy” Oct. 25-Jan. 21 “Suffragists and Circus” Nov. 13-June 27 “Kabuki Modern” Sarasota Opera Sarasota SarasotaOpera.org 941-366-8450 Oct. 25 Curtain Raiser Dinner Jan. 24 Opera Gala Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall Sarasota VanWezel.org 941-953-3368 Sept. 18-19 Cabaret by the Bay Jan. 5-6 “An Officer and a Gentleman”

Don’t Miss… “'Wicked'”

Return to the wonderful world of “The Wizard of Oz” long before Dorothy followed its yellow brick road or clicked her heels in this beloved Broadway sensation. The classic tale is shown in a new light, examining the initial rivalry and unlikely friendship of two of pop culture’s most iconic characters: the blonde, bubbly Glenda and the emerald-skinned, extraordinary Elphaba – two witches who the world would later label “good” and “wicked.” With hits like “One Short Day,” “Defying Gravity” and “For Good,” you’ll quickly see why this tour became so “Popular.” Jan. 13-31, The Straz Center for the Performing Arts, Tampa

Classic Movie Series Relive some of the silver screen’s most iconic scenes with favorite scares and smiles. Just when you thought it was safe to go back in the water, the series begins with “Jaws” Sept. 8. It continues Sept. 13 by hitting the hoops with the animated “Space Jam” and invites you to hang with “the dude” in “The Big Lebowski” Sept. 15. A mixture of fun and frights follow Sept. 22 with “Labyrinth,” Sept. 29 with “Caddyshack,” Oct. 6 with “The Princess Bride,” Oct. 13 with “Friday the 13th,” Oct. 20 with “Clue,” Oct. 25 with “Coco” and puts a spell on you Oct. 27 with “Hocus Pocus.” Sept. 8-Oct. 27, The Nancy And David Bilheimer Capitol Theatre, Clearwater

Come OUT St. Pete 2020 Art Exhibit Celebrate the LGBTQ community of Tampa Bay and beyond with this virtual exhibit highlighting the finalists in Come OUT St. Pete and Woodfield Fine Art Gallery’s annual art contest. Designed to promote local artists and celebrate National Coming Out Day Oct. 11, the exhibit features 62 finalists out of 155 adult and youth submissions. Among them is Nelson Perez, who’s grand prize-winning “Peek.A.Boo” will be featured on Come OUT St. Pete promotional materials this year. The fourth annual celebration is currently scheduled for Oct. 17 but is subject to change in response to COVID-19. Ongoing virtual exhibit, Woodfield Art Gallery, St. Petersburg

10th Annual Fabulous Independent Film Festival The Fabulous Independent Film Festival turns 10, presenting the best in LGBTQ cinema in a reimagined virtual format! The festival was adopted by the Harvey Milk Festival in 2016, a natural extension of the nonprofit’s mission to foster the arts as a catalyst for social and political change. Virtual screenings include opening night’s “Pier Kids” Sept. 24, “Deep in Vogue” Sept. 25, “Cicada” Sept. 26, “Out Loud” Oct. 1 and “The Dilemma of Desire” Oct. 3. A drive-in experience featuring “Dramarama” will be held in conjunction with The Players on Oct. 2. Sept. 24-Oct. 3, streamed virtually with one drive-in feature, Sarasota

Jan. 12 “Menopause The Musical” Jan. 17 “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory”

Sept. 3-25 “Are We There Yet?”

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September 3 - 16 , 2020 // Issue 27.18 wat e r m a r konline .com

#GetTested

SARASOTA 1231 N. TUTTLE AVE. SARASOTA, FL 34237 (941) 366-0134

NORTH PORT 14243 TAMIAMI TRAIL NORTH PORT, FL 34287 (941) 888-2144

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ST. PETERSBURG 3251 3RD AVE. N. #125 ST. PETERSBURG, FL 33713 (727) 498-4969

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ORLANDO 1301 W. COLONIAL DR. ORLANDO, FL 32804 (407) 246-1946

YBOR CITY 1315 EAST 7TH AVE. TAMPA, FLÂ 33605 (813) 769-7207

PALMETTO 408 7TH STREET WEST PALMETTO, FL 34221 (941) 803-7939

September 3 - 16 , 2020 // Issue 27.18 wat e r m a r konline .com

Your table is ready! Start your evening with dinner at Sixty South Restaurant and Bar, on the main ﬂoor of the DoubleTree by Hilton™ Orlando Downtown. You'll ﬁnd the same attention to detail and caring service that DoubleTree is known for, along with fresh ingredients and inventive dishes served in an inviting, modern setting. Our hotel is TAG Approved, a supporter of the LGBT community and known for our welcoming ambiance. DoubleTree by Hilton. Where the little things mean everything.™

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September 3 - 16 , 2020 // Issue 27.18 wat e r m a r konline .com

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September 3 - 16 , 2020 // Issue 27.18 wat e r m a r konline .com

announcements

tampa bay out+about

CONGRATULATIONS State Rep.-Elect Michele Rayner won her Aug. 18 race to represent Florida House District 70, becoming the first Black, openly LGBTQ woman elected to the Florida Legislature. Read more on p. 15. Come OUT St. Pete announced the winners in its 2020 Come OUT St. Pete art contest. Nelson Perez was the grand prize winner for “Peek.A.Boo” and Maya Rodriguez won in the youth category with “New Pride Phoenix.” View them at WoodfieldFineArt.com.

CONDOLENCES

Robert Jason (RJ) died in St. Petersburg Aug. 30. He will be missed.

2 3

Closures St. Petersburg’s LGBTQ-friendly bar Room 901, which has been closed since March, has permanently closed in response to COVID-19.

EVENTS

GHOST LIGHT: David Jenkins (L) and Paul Potenza visit Jobsite Theater for a special unveiling of its forthcoming shows Aug. 20. PHOTO COURTESY JOBSITE THEATER

EPIC will host its inaugural EPIC eVENT’s virtual game night Sept. 17 and online fundraising is underway. Read more on p. 16. Dining Out for Life Tampa Bay will be held Sept. 17. Read more on p. 16. Saumitra Chandratreya and Kevin Mooney’s “Secret Language of Intimacy” will host a virtual reception Sept. 24 from 6-7 p.m. The show can be viewed in person at HCCFL.edu. ALSO Youth’s virtual “Better Together” variety show will be held Sept. 26 and online fundraising is underway. Read more at WatermarkOnline.com.

LOCAL BIRTHDAYS American Stage’s Roman Black, Tampa actor Troy LaFon (Sept. 3); Museum of Fine Arts St. Pete’s Julie Wilson (Sept. 4); Asolo Rep’s David Valdez, TIGLFF husband Erik Carroll, Tampa pharmacist Brian Wehling, St. Pete software genius David Palio, Gulfport party host Ed Dunn, Tampa Bay entertainer Kenneth Lawson aka Juno Vibranz (Sept. 5); Sarasota teacher Steve Eller, Reiki practitioner Lauren Lansrud (Sept. 6); St. Pete retiree Jerry Rechek, Balance Tampa Bay’s Ryan Young, Memphis BBQ master Shane Jeffers (Sept. 7); Tampa’s Colombia transplant Ricardo Mendez, HSN bigwig Darryl Blaker, Tampa bear Mike Scott, Sarasota hottie Angel Perez, Tampa athlete Marty Walsh, St. Pete socialite Clinton Nickels (Sept. 8); St. Pete-based big bear David Reynolds, St. Pete chiropractor Karen Reese, Tampa Bay entertainer Bryan Wayne aka Brianna Summers, Publix pro Raymond Jamison (Sept. 9); St. Pete fundraiser Jonathan Soots, Tampa animal lover Greg Burton, Tampa Bay entertainer Anastasia B. Childs aka Alan Heflin, Tampa Gallery curator Albert Burruezo (Sept. 11); Moments of Clarity host Tiffany Werhner, Diversity Health Center of Tampa Bay’s David Lyter, Rising Tide Innovation Center’s Leigh Kellett Fletcher, St. Petersburg realtor Pete McGahan (Sept. 14).

TAMPA TO GO: Tampa Mayor Jane Castor (L) and partner Ana Cruz grab breakfast at Brioche Tampa Aug. 22. PHOTO COURTESY JANE CASTOR

BLUE WAVE: Pinellas County Young Democrat President Johnny Boykins (L) and U.S. Rep. Charlie Crist work to elect Democrats on the ground Aug. 29. PHOTO COURTESY PCYD

SCREEN TEAM: EPIC Executive Director Joy Winheim (front) AND EPIC staff and supporters attend EPIC’s drive-in screening of “Dirty Dancing” Aug. 22.

PHOTO COURTESY EPIC

YOUTH SQUAD: The Tampa Mayor’s Youth Corps volunteer their time to pre-fill sandbags for storm preparation Aug. 30.

PHOTO COURTESY CITY OF TAMPA

NO PLACE LIKE MARY’S: The Hamburger Mary’s Clearwater divas present “The Wiz meets The Wizard of Oz” Aug. 24. PHOTO

COURTESY JUNO VIBRANZ

IN THE ZONE: Largo Commissioner Michael Smith (center) monitors a school zone with city officials Aug. 25 as kids return to class. PHOTO COURTESY MICHAEL SMITH

DOGGIE DAZE: Rep. Jennifer Webb and Bailey share a stare during National Dog Day Aug. 26.

PHOTO COURTESY JENNIFER WEBB

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

7 September 3 - 16 , 2020 // Issue 27.18 wat e r m a r konline .com

4th Annual | 4.9 K 4th Annual | 4.9 K

Presented by Orlando Health, in Partnership with UCF Presented by Orlando Health, in Partnership with UCF DeVos Sport Business, Benefiting onePULSE Foundation DeVos Sport Business, Benefiting onePULSE Foundation

A New Food & Wine Classic Experience Sip, Savor, & Stay Saturdays is our newest way for guests to enjoy a variety of our food & beverage experiences. Each Saturday evening from 5:30pm – 7:30pm through October 24, we will host a different limited-capacity culinary event exclusively as part of an overnight package. Package Options: Sept 19

Oct 10

Sept 26

Oct 17

Oct 3

Oct 24

By street, treadmill or couch, join us from anywhere as we bring the race to you online! Join us for our largest annual fundraising event of the year as we collectively run together from around the world, all at the same time. You can listen and view it all online as you run, walk, or enjoy from your home.

Saturday, September 12 at 8:00 a.m. Registration is $49 for adults and $5 for the kids fun run. Each event during Sip, Savor and Stay Saturdays will feature an intimate atmosphere and implement the latest in food delivery safety measures and social distancing procedures to create an entertaining, unforgettable, mouthwatering and responsible experience. In addition to exclusive access to Saturday’s evening’s event, guests can enjoy a specialty new themed pop-up food cart by the resort pool (available to all resort guests and not included in package), and convenient walkable access to the Taste of Epcot® International Food & Wine Festival. (please note: this is a separate event and advanced theme park reservations and tickets are required)

Register by Sept. 1st to receive your official T-shirt, race medal, and backpack by race day. For information and to register visit: www.communityrainbowrun.com Presented by

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1-night packages start at $295 including 2 tickets to the event. To book call 1.888.828.8850. SwanDolphin.com/ sip-savor-stay

Call Monday - Friday 8:30am - 7pm & Saturday - Sunday 8:30pm - 5pm

All events will be indoors. Events are limited to those 21 and older. Tickets are limited and available exclusively as a resort package. Packages include access for two adults to food & beverage experience. Among the protocols that will be implemented for each event are: Temperature check at entrance for all attendees, plexiglass walls for all food service, all cast members wearing PPE, each group will receive their own reserved table, touchless menus and clearly marked social distancing signage.

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

September 3 - 16 , 2020 // Issue 27.18 wat e r m a r konline .com

Presented Virtually by

announcements

central florida out+about

CONGRATULATIONS Watermark business manager Kathleen Sadler and husband Keith Sadler announced they are expecting their first child in February. Orlando Ballet announced Cheryl Collins as its new executive director Aug. 20.

CONDOLENCES Steven Addona — an LGBTQ and HIV activist, educator and mentor in Central Florida — passed away in New York Aug. 28. Steven created Hope & Help’s RE-START support group, a bi-weekly meet-up for those affected by HIV. “He taught and guided people on how to live and age well with HIV,” Hope & Help wrote. “He will be remembered as a leader in the HIV community that lived and breathed his mission with passion.”

EVENTS The Greater Performing Arts Relief (GOPAR) will officially launch with a Labor Day WEB-A-THON virtual fundraising event on its Facebook page starting Sept. 4 at 8 p.m.

onePULSE Foundation’s virtual CommUNITY Rainbow Run, the organization’s fourth annual 4.9K race, will be Sept. 12.

LOCAL BIRTHDAYS Central Florida LGBTQ super ally Jennifer Kunsch, Former Watermark account manager Suzane Silder (Sept. 3); Former Watermark intern Alexis Bell, Hotspots central publisher Peter Clark (Sept. 5); Rollins College honcho A. Eddie Mehnert, Orlando Gay Chorus member Andrew Lemin, Crew Health COO Chadwick Thomas, ex-intern and former Watermark cover model Randa Griffin (Sept. 6); Bliss CARES’ Maggie Smith, Anthony Bella Capelli Studio owner Steven Dorsagno, Gods and Monsters owner Anna Maiya Young (Sept. 7); Parliament House Entertainment Director Darcel Stevens, Disney entertainment tech Charles Cantrell (Sept. 8); Les Vixens dancer Christine Machado (Sept. 9); President of Falk Research Associates Thor Falk, LGBT+ Center board member and Edward Jones financial advisor Veronica Woodard, Owner of Lee Forrest Designs Lee Forrest (Sept. 10); City of Altamonte designer Deanndra Meno, Orlando-based international drag performer Joshua EadsBrown - aka Ginger Minj, political activist Wes Hodge, The News Junkie co-host and ally Chris Lane (Sept. 11); owner of A Comic Shop Aaron Haaland (Sept. 12); Pride Chamber president Tom Yaegers, Straight ally Dee Richter (Sept. 14); Orlando Derby girl Jill Powers (Sept. 15); Stonewall Bar DJ JB Burgos (Sept. 16).

Have a Congratulations, Condolences, Event, or Local Birthday you’d like to see listed? Contact us! Editor-in-Chief Jeremy Williams at: Jeremy@WatermarkOnline.com

courtesy Sam Graper

Bringing Baby Aboard: Keith and Kathleen Salder make their baby announcement in Orlando Aug. 23. Photo by Dylan Todd Theme Park Safety: Adam Sharp (L) and Jeffrey Edwards mask up to enjoy a day at Epcot’s Food and Wine Festival Aug. 29. Photo

courtesy Jeffrey Edwards

Come On Down: Zebra Coalition executive director Heather Wilkie invites LGBTQ youth to the Zebra drop-in center in the organization’s latest video Aug. 22. Photo via YouTube

Back On Stage: Roxy Brooks-Lords looking electric at Parliament House Orlando Aug. 29. Photo

courtesy Roxy Brooks-Lords

Tampa Bay Bureau Chief Ryan Williams-Jent at: Ryan@WatermarkOnline.com

Wanting Justice: Jamie Falu (L) and Sam Graper visit the U.S. Supreme Court Aug. 30 while in D.C. for the March on Washington. Photo

Making a Difference: State of Gratitude creator Chris Bilyk (L) with Kevin Voeltz, the company’s first grant recipient, in Orlando Aug. 17.

Photo courtesy Chris Bilyk

Cheers: Central Florida comedian and activist Brianna Jaye wishes you good morning in her latest “Coffee and Bri” video on Facebook Sept. 1. Photo via Facebook video

Dear Mr. President: Charlotte “Cha Cha” Davis visits the Lincoln Memorial Aug. 30 while in D.C. for the March on Washington. Photo courtesy Charlotte “Cha Cha” Davis

8 watermark Your LGBTQ life.

September 3 - 16 , 2020 // Issue 27.18 wat e r m a r konline .com

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watermark Your LGBTQ life.

September 3 - 16 , 2020 // Issue 27.18 wat e r m a r konline .com

wedding bells

Sheree L. Greer and Jasmine Smith from Tampa, Florida

Engagement date:

July 25, 2015

Wedding date:

July 7, 2017

Wedding venue: DoubleTree at Rocky Point

Wedding Planner:

Tina East from StarStatus Events

DJ:

Ace Vedo

Wedding theme: Tropical

Officiant:

Pastor J. Ricc Rollins II

Photographer: Dorian Gray Photography

Photo By Dorian Gray Photography

fter college, Jasmine Smith

moved back to Tampa, where she was raised but hadn’t spent much time in years. She was focused on rediscovering her hometown as an adult for the first time.

“I needed to find my community in Tampa,” she explains – which she did with GrownGurl, a Black lesbian social club that organized local events. In March 2010, she attended one of the group’s outings at Hamburger Mary’s. As she chatted with friends, she overheard a woman going table to table inviting people to attend a reading she was hosting the next day. That voice belonged Sheree L. Greer, an author who was about to release her debut short story collection. When Greer stopped at her table to talk about her event, Smith scrambled for words. “I just wanted her to stay at that table and talk to me,” she recalls. “It was like, what can I ask her to get her to stay here?” Smith called off work the next day to attend Greer’s event, but it wasn’t the big connection she hoped for. “Sheree was brilliant and amazing. Afterward, I go over – and I think I’m pretty cute – and she just kind of dismissed me,” Smith says. “She

told me to sign up for her email list … I thought I’d never see her again.” Greer has a slightly different recollection. She assumed Smith was dating the friend she attended the reading with. “I remember thinking, ‘the good ones are always taken,’” she says. She realized her mistake when they ran into each other again at Valentine’s Nightclub. “We got a drink and started chatting it up,” Greer says. “We went on a first date shortly after that.” Greer enjoyed planning unique dates and experiences for them. “I would come up with St. Pete dates,” she says. “We both lived in Tampa, but since I work over in St. Pete I would find stuff to do and we’d spend the whole day there. Sometimes we’d go to the beach, Sunken Gardens, the museums.” After seven months, they made their relationship official. They continued to explore Tampa together, especially the Black queer community, but broke up

for nearly a year around the time Smith turned 30. “I just wasn’t fulfilled in my life, personally,” she says. “There were things I felt I was supposed to do by 30 and I was questioning whether I wanted to live in Florida. I was figuring myself out.” They knew there was a chance they could get back together down the road. If they did, they decided they would take their relationship to the next level and move in together. Greer adds, “I’m not one of those U-Haul lesbians. I like living alone and once I moved out of my mom’s house, I lived alone most of my adult life. When we broke up, I had just given her a drawer. Marriage wasn’t legal and I wasn’t in any rush to do that.” They reconnected in 2015. At that point, they had known each other for more than five years, dating for much of it. They moved in together and discussed engagement. That summer, they visited friends in Chicago. The weather was beautiful and during a stop at Buckingham Fountain, Smith proposed on a whim. “It was this one beautiful time in Chicago,” she recalls. “It’s beautiful out. I’m looking at Sheree, the woman I’m in love with and I turned and asked her to marry me.”

Though she didn’t think Smith was serious at first, Greer didn’t hesitate to say yes. For the first time in her life, she truly felt accepted by someone. “I always felt like you had to be a certain kind of way to be a good wife,” she says. “But this marriage is a testament to someone seeing you for who you actually are, not who you can be or who you should be.” They waited two years to wed, focusing on their finances and buying a house. “That was the plan,” Greer says. “Get the house, figure out the budget and then work a little extra to not break the bank for the wedding.” Their ceremony was small. “We only put energy into people who supported me and Sheree collectively,” Smith says. “Our ceremony, our reception was all about love.” Greer adds, “All the people there had been part of our lives and our relationship. There wasn’t a single person there that one of us hadn’t met or spent time with in some capacity. It was a genuine celebration and we wanted genuine people there.” Three years later, while the couple moves forward in their respective careers, they also focus on Kitchen Table Literary Arts Center, the nonprofit they founded together. It is dedicated to developing and supporting Black women and women of color writers. Their nonprofit work is an extension of their happy home, Greer says. “We get along so well because our friendship is strong, we respect each other and we’re kind to one another … We complement each other.” “I’m always going to have her back,” Smith adds. “I believe in everything she does. It’s nice. I love being around her. My love language is personal time. Working together with her is a joy for me and living together with her is a joy for me.” — Tiffany Razzano

Do you have an interesting wedding or engagement story you’d like to share with Watermark readers? If so, email the details to Editor@WatermarkOnline.com for consideration as a future feature on this page.

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

September 3 - 16 , 2020 // Issue 27.18 wat e r m a r konline .com

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September 3 - 16 , 2020 // Issue 27.18 wat e r m a r konline .com

the last page Hometown:

Upstate New York

Identifies As: Gay

Pronouns: He/Him/His

Out Year: 1983

Profession:

Founder and President of Animal Rescue Fund, the organization behind Boomerang Thrifts & Gifts

Matt LaMariana

F ounder / P resident of A nimal R escue F und owner of B oomerang T hrifts & G ifts

Professional role model: His dad

Autobiography Title:

“Trainwreck”

he Last Page is dedicated

to individuals who are making a positive impact on the LGBTQ communities in Central Florida and Tampa Bay. This issue, we check in with Matt LaMariana (pictured above, right), founder and president of Animal Rescue Fund and owner of Boomerang Thrifts & Gifts. Keep an eye on this space to learn more about the movers and shakers of your community. What do you do professionally?

Recommend People to: Editor-in-Chief Jeremy Williams at: Jeremy@WatermarkOnline.com Tampa Bay Bureau Chief Ryan Williams-Jent at: Ryan@WatermarkOnline.com

I founded the not-for-profit Animal Rescue Fund which is the organization behind Boomerang Thrifts & Gifts, a thrift and gift shop whose profits are donated to local animal rescue nonprofits. We are partnered with three organizations here in Central Florida who our profits go to; Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando, Happy Trails and Metta Rescue Family. We originally opened Boomerang in Wilton Manors, Florida in 2011 and then moved it up to the Orlando area

this year. We were set to have our grand opening at the end of March, but the world went to hell and we had to push it off until the end of May. We had planned a grand opening with all our rescues and raffles and adoptable animals but had a simple opening due to the pandemic. We just flipped the OPEN sign on and unlocked the doors. Why is Boomerang called Thrift and Gift?

We are a combination thrift store and gift shop. We have items that have been donated that we sell, but we also have some new stuff we sell to

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

entice people in who might not otherwise come into a thrift store. What is your favorite thing to read in Watermark?

I don’t know that I have a favorite section. I think as a whole it is a great publication and seriously read it front to back every time I get the new issue. What is your favorite local LGBTQ event?

We haven’t really gotten the chance to experience any LGBTQ events since moving up here with the pandemic and all. Also being married, I don’t go out all that much but our [Animal Rescue Fund] vice president [Steve Morrall (pictured above, left)] is single and refuses to go out on his own so we have chaperoned him a bit and we loved The Hammered Lamb. We are looking forward to getting the opportunity to check out more of the LGBTQ community once it is safer.

September 3 - 16 , 2020 // Issue 27.18 wat e r m a r konline .com

What would you like our readers to know about you?

I’m not as angry as I look.

What advice would you give your younger self?

No matter what you do, there really is no preparing for a pandemic. Do you have pets of your own?

I have two dogs; their names are Fritz and Pebbles. Fritz is a terrier mutt and Pebbles is a pitbull mutt. What is the strangest donation you have received?

We have had people try and donate used sex toys. Yeah, you have to think an awful lot of yourself to think that someone wants your used sex toy.

is There anything else you’d like to add?

We are hiring here, so if you are looking to work for a company helping animals, send your resumes to HR@BoomerangThrift.com.

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

September 3 - 16 , 2020 // Issue 27.18 wat e r m a r konline .com