Wire Magazine 25.2017 TWIST 24th Anniversary

TWIST

24TH

ISSUE # 25 | 06.22.17 DESTINATIONS: CORSICA

ÃŽLE DE FRANCE

JOIN THE PARTY!

ANNIVERSARY

FLIX: THE BOOK OF HENRY NUTRITION: LEAN GREEN MACHINE RAFA'S PICKS: TOP SUMMER CONCERTS

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TABLE OF CONTENTS: 8Take . DESTINATIONS: ÃŽLE DE FRANCE the best aspects of Italy and France, combine

with colorful history, gorgeous beaches and mountainous terrain, and you have Corsica. And, yes, it is plenty gay friendly.

10An. incredible FLIX: OH, HENRY young pair of cast members powers 12Nutrition . NUTRITION: LEAN GREEN MACHINE writer Anthony Reyes explores the

Giveaways Contests Event & Show Tickets

question of whether or not vegetarianism is all it's cracked up to be and how to make the conversion for those who aspire to it.

14South . COVER STORY: TWIST TURNS 24 Florida landmark TWIST is celebrating its

24th anniversary this month, so Wire Magazine sat down with some of the people who know TWIST best to discuss the legacy and culture of this legendary gay bar and nightclub on South Beach.

20 . RAFA'S PICKS: TOP SUMMER CONCERTS Rod Stewart & Cindy Lauper, Symphony of the

Americas & Maestro Brooks-Bruzzese, and Ed Sheeran & James Blunt headline some of this summer's biggest music choices.

26 . GOING OUT: PLAN YOUR OUTINGS The week's rundown of nightlife, dining and cultural events.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY JOEL STEDMAN, TWIST CO-OWNER

The Book of Henry, a brilliant family drama with twists culminating in an uncommonly good film.

Publisher/Editor in Chief Rafa Carvajal Editor Michael W. Sasser Associate Publisher/Editor Michael Bustamante Design & Production True Ink Designs L.L.C. | trueinkdesigns.com

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Columnists Alfredo Barrios Alyn Darnay Dane Steele Green Anthony Reyes Dr. Amy Wecker Official Photography Studio Photo Studio Miami Staff Photographer J.R. Davis Local Advertising advertising@wiremag.com National Advertising Rep. Rivendell Media | 212.242.6863 Contact Information Tel: 305.520.WIRE Email: info@wiremag.com 1541 Brickell Avenue, #2004, Miami, FL 33129 Wire Magazine is published, produced, and owned by Wire Media Group L.L.C. All Rights Reserved.

Distributed in print in Miami, The Beaches, and Fort Lauderdale, and digitally worldwide through wiremag.com The views, opinions or positions expressed by contributors to and interview subjects of Wire Magazine are theirs alone and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions or positions of Wire Magazine, its staff or publisher.

Cover photo by Abel Cruz www.photostudiomiami.com Model: Dan Bentano Styling by Joey Rolon

PUBLISHER'S CORNER LET’S CELEBRATE AT TWIST I remember the first day I set foot in TWIST like it was yesterday. I must confess I was a little intimidated by the size of the club, the number of bars and the busy crowd. Little did I know back then that many of the members of the TWIST family would become my friends, and that I would look forward to going there often and having a great time.

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I would certainly never have dreamed back then that one day I would have TWIST drink tickets printed with a beautiful photo of Pussila and myself – thanks to my close business relationship with TWIST's proprietors as owner and publisher of Wire Magazine. This week, we bring you a cover story to celebrate 24 glorious years of fond memories at TWIST and invite everyone to celebrate TWIST's upcoming anniversary at a place that makes everyone feel comfortable and welcome.

I also want to take this opportunity to share three quotes that exemplify what TWIST is all about: "Ask any gay person who has vacationed in Miami Beach if they have ever been to TWIST and you will always get a yes. TWIST and Miami Beach are synonymous!" - Pussila, entertainer

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"'All roads lead to TWIST.' It's pretty true. There are a lot of things to do, but everyone knows where to go after that." - Joel Stedman, co-owner Plus, enjoy speeds up to 45Mbps at one all-included price, with no extra monthly fees.

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TWIST has been very busy the last few weeks installing new carpeting, furnishings and all new lights and sound, so it can have a new look for the coming year.

Throughout the years, TWIST has won numerous awards and has consistently been named "Best Gay Bar in Miami" by many local and national publications.

TWIST's dance floors, hot bartenders, fun atmosphere and no cover are all part of a great concept that has been kept consistent for 24 years. The TWIST family continues to look forward to the future, ever-changing, never standing still – as always, Never A Cover, Always A Groove...

While you're adding TWIST's anniversary to your calendar, why not consider tickets for some of the biggest musical performances coming in the months ahead.

Rod Stewart & Cindy Lauper, Symphony of the Americas & Maestro Brooks-Bruzzese, and Ed Sheeran & James Blunt, comprise Rafa's Picks this week and would surely colorize your summer.

Also in this week's issue of Wire Magazine, travel writer Dane Steele Green offers insight into Corsica, the beautiful convergence of all things French and all things Italian – on a gorgeous island no less; in Nutrition, Anthony Reyes analyzes vegetarianism; and film writer Alyn Darnay returns to expound on why The Book of Henry should be on your must-see list.

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DESTINATIONS

By Dane Steele Green

ÎLE DE FRANCE he thing about Corsica: No matter where you go, from its

up for in beaches, several of which are nude, and several of which

heights to its depths, you will not be able to get away from

are gay and nude. Woo-hoo!

Napoleon. Perhaps the most famous Frenchman in the modern mind, and certainly the most famous Corsican flat-out, love for the man the British derisively call "Boney" runs deep.

Getting to them all, however, will require something of a road trip, but hey, there are worse fates than a road trip across a sundrenched island smack in the middle of the Mediterranean. Corsica

Long a part of the Republic of Genoa – that is, Italy – Corsica

has about 200 beaches flung across its 620-mile coastline, some

was conquered by France in 1769 (the same year Napoleon was

in Ajaccio itself, but the gay ones are outliers. The "official" gay

born), but to this day retains a particularly strong Romanesque-y,

beach is in the town of Bonifacio, at the southern tip of Corsica,

Italian flavor. Several place-names retain their Italianate sounds, in

near the beach of Tonnara. To the north, in Calvi, is Algajola-Areg-

fact, if with a very heavy French twist. Corsica is very much its own

no, whose nude section doubles as the gay beach, with the one in

"thing," but it is also, literally and in a sort of figurative way, the

Linguizzetta, on the west coast, pulling much the same duty. As a

most southern of the South of France. But as the Corsicans have a

side, don't be too surprised if your gay beach tour of the island is

very strong sense of Corsican-ness, don't tell them I said that.

unexpectedly extensive; Corsica is the most mountainous island in the Mediterranean. The roadmap is nothing but squiggles.

So first things first: Any vacation to Corsica is going to start in the port of entry and largest city of Ajaccio, on the west coast. Club

There are a few cultural highpoints to be had. The old town of

Elton is the premier gay club in town, and L'Enigme should be on

Ajaccio is a time warp, and the citadel goes all the way back to

the radar, too. If that seems like slim pickings, cut some slack for the

1554. The food is a blend of Provence and Italy, and it goes with

town: it ain't that big, with a population around only 66,000. But

saying the wine is tops. It's all to be had if you can pull yourself off

what Ajaccio may lack in a plethora of clubs, it more than makes

the natives.

Steele Luxury Travel can assist you with all your travel plans. www.SteeleTravel.com 8 WIREMAG.COM #22 2017

PHOTO CREDIT: © DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM | KASTO

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FLIX

By Alyn Darnay

OH, HENRY he thing I like most in a movie is when it takes a spectacular turn into the unanticipated or unexpected. The Book Of Henry is just such a film, filled with the best twists and turns I've seen in a very long time. It's also a darn good family drama that accompanies its theme with some very exciting suspense thriller elements. To his continuing credit, director Colin Trevorrow (Jurassic World, 9th episode of Star Wars) has once again created a credible situation and populated it with some very beguiling actors, young faces that are familiar, yet not, but all very talented.

DIRECTED BY:

COLIN TREVORROW

WRITTEN BY: GREG HURWITZ

CAST:

NAOMI WATTS JAEDEN LIEBERHER JACOB TREMBLAY SARAH SILVERMAN DEAN NORRIS LEE PACE MADDIE ZIEGLER TONYA PINKINS BOBBY MOYNIHAN GERALDINE HUGHES MAXWELL SIMKINS JACKSON NICOLL DONNETTA LAVINIA GRAYS JOEL MARSH GARLAND WASS STEVENS

runs the family finances, tirelessly supports her, and fiercely protects his younger brother from school bullies. Henry's days are chuck full, challenging his and everyone else's intellect at school, inventing new contraptions to play with, entertaining his brother, working the stock market, and so on, all the while harboring a crush on Christina (Ziegler, Pretty Little Liars), the shy girl next door. When Henry suddenly uncovers a dark secret in her family, he sets in motion a chain of events that dramatically affects everyone's lives.

The young actors steal the movie from the adults. That's not to say The movie is so well crafted that it Watts is not good, she is, but she doesn't matter that Naomi Watts' can't rise above the boys' charismother character is a complete ma. Lieberher is an amazing acditz, or that Susan Silverman is to- tor, totally capturing the essence tally unnecessary in the film. What of Henry and serving him up in does matter is how much you'll the most charming and personenjoy the trip this movie takes you able way imaginable. Without his on. I don't want to spoil it for you, performance, the film would never so I'm not going to be very specific have gotten off the ground. Tremabout the description, and don't let bley on the other hand, quietly anyone else spoil it for you either. warms his way into your heart and keeps himself there throughout the film. It's this brotherly relationship, Here's the storyline: the way it plays out, and how they On the surface, The Book Of Hen- interface with the world around ry is a family drama about Susan them that traps you comfortably Carpenter (Watts), a self-doubting into the story. It's something to besuburban single mother raising hold. two boys, 11-year-old Henry, a certified genius (Lieberher, St.Vin- So my take‌ the film is a true cent), and his 8-year-old brother winner. It's a not-to-be missed senPeter, who worships him (Tremb- timental drama in the best sense ley, Room). Susan, not the brightest of the word, which will have you star in the sky, works as a waitress laughing one minute and crying by day and plays video games the next. See it by all means. at night, while Henry brilliantly The Book of Henry Rating: 4-1/2 Stars (out of 5) Rated: PG-13 Running Time: 1 Hr. 45 Min.

Alyn Darnay is a film critic; feedback is encouraged at adarnay@wiremag.com.

10 WIREMAG.COM #22 2017

NUTRITION

By Anthony Reyes

LEAN GREEN MACHINE: IS BEING A VEGETARIAN ALL IT'S CRACKED UP TO BE?

Let's break it down some. Vegetarians do not eat any meat, poultry, or seafood. However, there are less extreme versions of this such as pescatarians who will eat seafood and pollo-vegetarians who will eat poultry. On the more extreme end are the vegans. Vegans do not eat meat of any kind as well as any food product that is derived from an animal source servings! Nuts can result in packing on a lot (dairy, eggs, gelatin, etc.). To be a vegan is a of calories too. true commitment and will present its challenges.

Practicing a plant-based diet doesn't just Keep that in mind. reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease, Now that you know what direction you might it has also been shown to help reduce your want to head in, you may be wondering: risk of cancer. One area of note is red meat.

Historically, the continual consumption of red what's the benefit? meat has contributed to the likes of colon canA con of consuming animal proteins is that they cer. By eliminating red meat from your nutriare higher in fat and can contribute to higher tion intake, you reduce your risk significantly. levels of bad cholesterol. By practicing vegetar- Additionally, by incorporating more fruits and ianism, studies have shown that you decrease veggies in your diet as vegetarians do, you your risk of heart disease and high blood pres- provide your body with more cancer-fighting sure, and it also helps to manage your weight. free radicals such as antioxidants. Type II diThe wonderful thing about consuming plant- abetes is also a disease that you can reduce based or non-animal proteins is that those sourc- the risk of through a vegetarian lifestyle. Like es are high in fiber and lower on the glycemic with cardiovascular disease, the consumption index (controlling blood sugar). The more fiber of high-fiber, low-glycemic foods contribute to in a food source, the slower you digest it, which managing blood sugar which will reduce the in turn help to prevent cardiovascular-related risk of falling prey to diabetes. diseases. For example, vegetarians replace animal-based proteins with nuts and legumes (not just tofu, believe it or not). These nuts and legumes contain healthy fats with high sources of protein and fiber. Just keep an eye on those

Making the switch to a vegetarian lifestyle can be a daunting challenge, but not an impossible one. If you have a family history of heart disease, cancer, and/or diabetes, it may be

PHOTO CREDIT: © DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM | IKOSTUDIO

f I'm being totally honest with you – and I normally am – when someone introduces themselves to me as a vegetarian, I internally scoff at the idea. No shade intended (well, maybe a little), but I'm simply a believer that there are many essential protein amounts, amino acids, and other minerals in animal-based foods that our bodies need to be strong and healthy.

Cue in "The Circle of Life" from The Lion King.

However, having worked alongside a vegetarian dietitian for quite some time, I've begun to open my eyes to the idea that this way of life does have many health benefits.

a good idea to consider, as you can practice prevention through nutrition and physical activity while avoiding the annoyance and harmful effects of medication. I'd recommend sitting down with a registered dietitian in your area so that you can work together one-onone to help design meal plans surrounding your choice of lifestyle. If you can't go entirely vegetarian, that's okay! My recommendation: try scheduling one day a week where you go entirely meatless. Vegetarian and dietitian Jessica Menard adds further benefits: "From an environmental standpoint, just having one meat free day can decrease greenhouse emission, deforestation, and reduce water usage."

Decreasing your health risks and contributing to the betterment of the environment? Maybe there is more to vegetarianism than we thought!

Always consult a registered dietitian to help determine your individual health and nutrition needs. Visit the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics at EatRight.Org for more information.

Anthony Reyes. www.libralifestyle.co. "Tipping the scales of life in our favor - one word at a time."

12 WIREMAG.COM #22 2017

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TWIST CELEBRATES 24 GLORIOUS YEARS IN SOUTH BEACH

By Rafa Carvajal and Michael W. Sasser

ny business that succeeds for almost a quarter-century after its launch has plenty of reasons to celebrate. A nightclub in Miami Beach that manages to be a thriving, contemporary landmark year after year for that span of time surely deserves to throw a party.

A joyous party is just what it will be on Wednesday, June 28, beginning at 9 p.m., as TWIST celebrates its 24th anniversary. There will be an open bar from 9-11 p.m., hors d'oeuvres and all of the bars will be open. The evening will feature impromptu pop-up performances, as well as the traditional performances Getting Fresh with TP Lords, featuring Josefina La Globos.

Miami Beach and the regional LGBTQ community also come together to commemorate TWIST's anniversary. Attracting a consistent stream of local and traveling patrons, as well as celebrity guests, TWIST's has long been a beacon of hospitality greeting everyone with open arms.

Wire Magazine caught up with TWIST co-ownwildly popular entertainer Pussila to discuss 24 years in South Beach, the TWIST culture and approach to hospitality, and their personal recollections of this iconic nightclub's history.

14 WIREMAG.COM #22 2017

PHOTOS BY J.R. DAVIS

er Joel Stedman, bartender Aquiles Oraa and

PHOTO BY DAVID GOLDAY. PROVIDED BY PUSSILA

BARTENDER AQUILES ORAA Rafa Carvajal: Why did you decide to work at TWIST as a bartender?

Aquiles Oraa: I had recently moved from Orlando to Miami, a friend of mine was bartending at a local pub and got me interested in the industry. When I started to go out to clubs in Miami, TWIST was the only club that offered seven different rooms with music and an energetic variety of bartenders. I figured it would be a great opportunity to explore the gay scene and culture since I had just recently opened up to friends about my sexual orientation. I was on the path to accepting myself and thought that working in a gay club would provide the exposure in a world I had no experience in.

RC: How is bartending at TWIST different than bartending elsewhere?

AO: TWIST is the congregation of all the LGBTQ community, but also welcoming to everyone. Our demographics of clients are inclusive of all ages, social and economic classes and sexual orientation. It is truly a place where people can be themselves, breaking down taboos and stereotypes while buying a drink for someone or dancing with a complete stranger. TWIST not only is a place to let loose, but a place where you learn something new every time.

RC: Tell our readers about your history with TWIST.

RC: What is the personal dynamic like between TWIST team members?

AO: When I was 20 years old, I applied to work at

AO: The environment at TWIST is fun, relaxing and worry-free. Management as-

TWIST and was rejected because I was too young.

sists with the process by providing team-building experiences outside of work, and

After a year wait, I reapplied and was offered a bar

the right support. The bartenders have strong work ethics and respect each other's

back position due to my lack of bartending experi-

workspace and clientele. We constantly give advice and feedback to each other on

ence. However, "once a bar back, never a bartend-

professional and personal levels. In my opinion, the teamwork among co-workers,

er," so I declined their offer and I was put on hold.

whether it is security, barbacks, bartenders or management, has gotten stronger over

At that time, the bartenders at TWIST were generally

the years. I would say that the last three years our current staff is one of the best we've

over 30 years old. I did not fit the prototype or im-

ever had since I've been here.

age because I was too thin and young. It wasn't until six months later that Valentino, the general manager,

RC: How have patrons changed over your years at TWIST?

called to inform me that owners wanted to interview

AO: When I was first given Bar Five, it was not the famous Latin bar. My clientele

me again. At that point, they offered to train me, but

consisted of people who wanted to just pass by when they wanted to chat with other

did not guarantee a position. I basically needed to

people, or just have a drink without the noisy crowd. Bar Five was not even consid-

prove that I had what it takes to be a bartender at

ered a dance room. As I exponentially increased my clientele, the administration

TWIST. After taking the risk of quitting my current job

decided to turn it into a Latin bar. As a result, there was an instant increase in patrons

at the time and training at TWIST for two weeks, I was

and an interest for Latin music at TWIST. In recent years, I have noticed that the crowd

finally given a chance to become part of the TWIST

in my bar is not strictly Latinos. It has evolved into a multicultural group of people from

family.

all over the world that are attracted to Latin music and dance. Today, Bar Five is a true example of diversity coming together in one place with no language or cultural barriers. It is the precise representation of the beautiful city of Miami. #22 2017 WIREMAG.COM 15

- AQUILES ORAA

RC: What has been the most memorable night at TWIST and why?

AO: There have been countless memorable nights at TWIST throughout my years here. I do not have a specific memory; instead I have endless. I have grown to appreciate valuable moments that I have shared with friends, customers and co-workers.

RC: What do you enjoy the most about working at the Latin bar?

AO: Since I am originally from Venezuela, the Latin bar brings me to my roots. Although I enjoy all genres of music, the Latin bar is a fusion of all Latin American countries. It unites people through music and dance. Never a dull moment in the Latin bar!

RC: Is there anything you would like to share with Wire Magazine?

AO: TWIST is an authentic and unique venue to be a part of for so long. It has schooled me on my journey in this country, as well as in my private life. I've had the privilege to work with a great team while also meeting amazing people. I am honestly forever grateful that Richard and Joel gave me the opportunity to become part of this fabulous and timeless club!

16 WIREMAG.COM #22 2017

PHOTOS BY J.R. DAVIS

"THE ENVIRONMENT AT TWIST IS FUN, RELAXING AND WORRY-FREE."

CO-OWNER JOEL STEDMAN

"'ALL ROADS LEAD TO TWIST.' IT'S PRETTY TRUE. THERE ARE A LOT OF THINGS TO DO, BUT EVERYONE KNOWS WHERE TO GO AFTER THAT."

Rafa Carvajal: Tell us about the TWIST family.

Joel Stedman: We really are one big family at TWIST. We've been so lucky to have so many

- JOEL STEDMAN

long time staff members that really help to create a sense of tradition and camaraderie. We not only work together, but also do things outside of TWIST. We like getting a big group together and attending the award banquets and pageants. We've had spa days at The Miami Beach EDITION and even paint ball wars. We try to have a good time!

RC: What is the most interesting celebrity moment you've had at TWIST? JS: One of the biggest highlights was when Katy Perry showed up unannounced, sat in VIP and dug a scoop into the ice bucket and poured herself a cocktail. Her career was just taking off and she was so comfortable with everyone at TWIST. It's how the celebrities in the '90s used to act. Pretty much just one of the gang, having an amazing time.

RC: Describe TWIST in one word.

use?

JS: "All roads lead to TWIST." It's pretty true. There are a lot of things to do, but everyone knows where to go after that.

RC: How do you feel the nightlife industry has changed over your years in South Beach?

JS: Everything changes very quickly in South Beach. The crowd, the scene, styles, everything. Throughout it all, the last incredible 24 years, we've tried to stay consistent with some very basic tenets. It seems that whether in the '90s, 2000s or now, most people are looking for three things: great music, a friendly staff and having an absolutely amazing time. Oh, and never a cover always helps!

RC: Is there anything else you would like to share with Wire Magazine readers?

JS: Yes, we would like to sincerely thank all of our loyal patrons for making TWIST what it is today. We couldn't have done it without you! Here's to another 24!

PHOTO BY J.R. DAVIS

JS: Consistent.

RC: What's the best fitting description of TWIST you have ever heard someone

#22 2017 WIREMAG.COM 17

ENTERTAINER PUSSILA Rafa Carvajal: How did you come about your job at TWIST? Pussila: In late 2002, I started doing shows

"ASK ANY GAY PERSON WHO HAS VACATIONED IN MIAMI BEACH IF THEY HAVE EVER BEEN TO TWIST AND YOU WILL ALWAYS GET A YES. TWIST AND MIAMI BEACH ARE SYNONYMOUS!" - PUSSILA

at TWIST in an "open mic" format, conducted by the fabulous Adora! It was an anything goes drag show. There were a lot of crazy costumes and very creative performances from most of the people that came and took part in that show. As it was an unpaid gig, I did it for the fun and for my artistic expression at the time. I did that for about a year until I became one of

PHOTO BY DAVID GOLDAY. PROVIDED BY PUSSILA

the regular drag queens in that show.

Then in early 2004, after gaining more exposure and experience, I was offered a paid gig there each Tuesday for karaoke night. That post became available after the passing of Sexilia, a well-known South Beach drag legend. It was a little awkward and somber because of the situation, but I took the job and I did the karaoke night for a few months, until one Tuesday night, right in the middle of Whitney Houston's

Spanish. I can even speak my mind about very intimate and taboo subjects, which I do

"I Will Always Love You," the karaoke machine

very frequently. At TWIST, it is easy to get to know your audience very quickly, as the

blew up! So I had to improvise and I came up

venue is intimate and easily packed when the show starts. It is a very good, positive

with a new show concept called The Twisted

energy to have when performing. The best thing for me is being able to do my work

Amateur Strip Contest! So the concept was

in such close proximity to my audience. Being able to interact with our patrons right

simple, contestants would take their clothes off

there is awesome!

and be judged by a panel of three judges, the good judge, the evil judge and the ugly judge.

RC: Who is the most famous guest for whom you have performed at TWIST?

I played the good judge, and guest judges

P: I never actually saw him, but I am told it was Jim Carrey, when he was at TWIST

would play the other two judges each Tuesday.

researching for his role in the movie I Love You Phillip Morris (which I recommend you

The show was an immediate success and lasted

watch if you haven't seen it).

a little over seven years! Later on, I graduated from Tuesday night and moved my skills to Sun-

RC: Describe TWIST in three words.

day and Monday nights, in the Bungalow at

P: I love this question! I think these words are the true definition of what TWIST is all

TWIST. I have been there since 2010 hosting

about...

the nightly amateur underwear and sexy dance contests and coordinating the TWIST dancers.

Freedom: We get international patrons that come from countries that do not have the freedoms that we have here in the United States. These folks come from places (such

RC: How is performing at TWIST different than

as the Middle East or Africa) that do not support gay rights or even human rights! I am

other venues?

surprised how many of these people are shocked with amazement that we have the

P: Performing at TWIST is a very, very differ-

freedom to do these fun shows, and that we have the freedom to be ourselves here.

ent experience than at other venues because

Because of this, I take the time to remind everyone how fortunate we are!

TWIST is a 21 and up crowd venue – which changes the dynamic of how I use language

Family: TWIST is not just a bar or a club; it is also a family! Some of our family mem-

when speaking to the audience. I can use adult

bers have been part of this union for many, many years. TWIST is very well known for

language, I can tell jokes in both English and

keeping a strong and professional group of people together for over two decades. This family cares about their work and cares about their patrons. It's a very good thing to be a part of the TWIST family!

18 WIREMAG.COM #22 2017

Fun: Just like our slogan says, Never A Cover, Always A Groove! TWIST is always fun, which is a great thing to have in any community, a place you can always have fun, no matter what!

RC: How have audiences changed at TWIST over the years?

P: I think the audience makeup has changed a lot. When I began working at TWIST, more of the patrons were locals, but now that TWIST has become a South Beach icon, and is known the audience than in years past! We are lucky we have an awesome reputation, both locally and around the world! Ask any gay person who has vacationed in Miami Beach if they have ever been to TWIST and you will always get a yes. TWIST and Miami Beach are synonymous!

RC: What do you enjoy the most about being a performer at TWIST? P: I have to go back to the word freedom!

PHOTO PROVIDED BY JOEL STEDMAN, TWIST CO-OWNER

internationally, I see more and more tourists in

What I enjoy the most at TWIST is the freedom that I have to create the show each Sunday and Monday night. I select and choose the music as well as schedule all the sexy dancers! TWIST has trusted me with this for over a decade now.

I get to be myself and I get to grow as an artist.

I think this is rare to find from most employers.

I always tell everyone I truly love my job at TWIST because "I truly love my job at TWIST!"

RC: Tell our readers about the underwear contest.

P: I always encourage first timers that come to TWIST to watch this show. I tell them to wait in the bungalow and not to go too far because "you don't want to miss this contest!" It is one of those things that will stay in your memory for a long time. It's always extremely hilarious and super fun. I think it's one of the best shows out there, and it will make you ask, "Is this really happening?"

RC: What else would you like to tell our readers about the TWIST family?

P: I first would like to thank all the owners and managers (past and present), for everything you have done for Miami Beach and the gay community. You have provided not just a great place for our community to get together, relax and be who they are, but you have also provided good and stable employment for many people for over two

PHOTO BY JOHN ANTHONY SUTTON. WWW.IMAGE1STMIAMI.COM

decades! Also, for me personally, having this awesome venue has allowed me to grow as an artist and an entertainer. Pussila exists today because TWIST gave me this great opportunity to do what I love to do‌ perform! So I thank you, TWIST, from the bottom of my heart!

Lastly, and also importantly, I need to thank the patrons! These amazing people know who they are. Some have only met Pussila once, but others return year after year while on vacation here in Miami Beach. They come to see the shows and often bring new friends to experience Pussila! Also I must thank my local supporters – the ones I see week after week here at our home, TWIST. Thank you for supporting Pussila! And as for the folks who have yet to come see Pussila... I cannot wait to meet you! I'll see you in the Bungalow each Sunday and Monday night... at TWIST!

Visit www.wiremag.com to read the extended version of this cover story. #22 2017 WIREMAG.COM 19

RAFA'S PICKS

By Rafa Carvajal

1

2

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20 WIREMAG.COM #22 2017

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MONDAY, JUNE 26 HÔTEL GAYTHERING: Hoppy Hour 5-9 p.m. At 8 p.m., join in for Karaoke Mondays with $5 well drinks. Enjoy $5 house margaritas all night long.

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