Wire Magazine Issue #22, 2011: Jai Rodriguez Puts on His Summer Shorts

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ISSUE #22 | 06/02/11

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9/09/10 9:37 AM

ALL WIRED UP

BY THOMAS BARKER

IT’S NOT A BLACK ISSUE; IT’S A SIZE ISSUE Well another Memorial Day Weekend has come and gone, and I cannot say that I am surprised that the City of Miami Beach has been – once again – left in shambles. Year after year, the City of Miami Beach is turned into one of the largest unsanctioned festivals in the country. Dubbed as Urban Beach Weekend, Memorial Day Weekend continues to attract close to 300,000 people from all over the country.

Adding fuel to the fire, the whole thing was caught on video and blasted across broadcast media outlets and blogs around the country, making South Beach literally look like a warzone to hundreds of thousands of potential tourists.

Since Monday, we have seen an endless supply of articles recapping all of the scandalous tales associated with a weekend that has prompted many residents to head for the hills to avoid what has become one of the most violent weekends in Miami Beach.

What it really boils down to is that Miami Beach is home to about 90,000 residents, and during Memorial Day Weekend, more than 300,000 people descend upon our sandy shores for a weekend of fun and debauchery, filling a very small area of about 15 blocks – less than a mile in length.

That’s more than three times the local population!

Since this weekend began 10 years ago, there have been multiple fatal shootings, hundreds of violent crimes committed, thousands of arrests, and hundreds of confiscated automatic weapons.

This year alone, we saw a rise in arrests with a total of 431 arrests, as opposed to the 382 arrests from last year. To make matters worse, 66 of these arrests have been filed as felony charges.

And if even that were not enough, Miami Beach was subjected to at least three known shootings, resulting in one dead, four injured civilians, and four injured police officers.

After perusing the various conversations on Facebook and reading the dozens of published articles regarding the weekend, I am continually frustrated by the perception that this is a race issue. THIS IS NOT A RACE ISSUE, and anyone who believes so is obviously not intelligent enough to see the facts as they are.

As a result, millions of dollars go into hiring off duty officers to provide additional security, hundreds of thousands of dollars go into shutting down one of the most famous streets in the world – Ocean Drive, and even more money is spent on cleaning up the city during and for months after the weekend’s festivities. And that is still not enough.

Inevitably it is not about black, white, green, or purple. What it is about is the fact that the City of Miami Beach does not and will never have the resources to ensure that an event of this size will not negatively impact the lives of residents and visitors alike.

When you have close to 300,000 people drinking, partying, and hanging out for four days straight in such a small area, there is bound to be some violence and crime – I don’t care what the race or social background of a person is. It is just inevitable.

So when someone says that the only reason things are so horrible during Urban Beach Weekend is because of the predominantly black community in attendance, I can’t help but think how ridiculous they sound.

And on the flipside, when I hear a person or an organization such as the ACLU say that trying to ban Urban Beach Weekend from South Beach is racism, and that the city is targeting the black community, I also can’t help but think how ignorant and lazy these people must be that they can’t even come up with a descent argument. Instead, they just continue to fuel the flames of racism by making such false claims.

In the end, Urban Beach Weekend must move to another city because there just isn’t enough room for it here in Miami Beach. We cannot comfortably host a weekend festival that attracts 300,000 people.

Come on people! The entertainment district of South Beach is only 15 blocks. Not including residents, on average that puts 20,000 people in a block that is no more than one eighth of a mile in length!

It’s not about race; it’s about size, and Urban Beach Weekend just doesn’t fit!

COVER PHOTO COURTESY OF: SUMMER SHORTS

WIRE STAFF CEO/PUBLISHER: rafa carvajal

EXECUTIVE EDITOR/PUBLISHER: thomas barker DESIGN DIRECTOR/PRODUCTION: jose gonzalez/true ink designs l.l.c.

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PUBLIShER'S corNer

PUBLISHERS’ CORNER

wow! iT’S BeeN A yeAr? JoiN wire mA LOVING THE RITZ CANTINA ON THE BEACH!

This week I first want to send a shout- I truly enjoyed a fabulous dinner last Thursday at the out to the Arsht Center for the Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne Cantina Beach restauPerforming Arts and Broadway rant put together by our friends from Casa Herraduacross America for a great show ra. I was very excited when Hernan Valverde from during the opening night of HAIR Brown Forman Beverages told us about the dinner last night. I loved the show and re- and was really looking forward to eating some delicious ally enjoyed going up on stage to Mexican food paired with a sampling of fine Herradance with the cast at the end. If dura tequilas. Little did I know I was in for a great suryou love Broadway and musicals, prise courtesy of the dinner events being put together by you should definitely get tickets and Brown Forman in Miami – we will start letting our Wire go see the show in Miami or Fort readers know about upcoming events so you can also Lauderdale. You can visit www. enjoy them! arshtcenter.org and www.browardcenter.org Imagine going to a stunning Ritz-Carlton hotel and sitting for details. at their Cantina Beach restaurant with a clear view of the

ocean only a few feet away from the beach. That’s what I love to eat good Mexican food and experience I call real waterfront dining! And that was just the beginnew dining and drinking destinations. I also know that ning. Chef Andres Parlange, Tequilier Heriberto many of our Wire Magazine readers love great din- Ovideo, and Casa Herradura put together a true culiing experiences because we spend time together talking nary journey to the world of authentic Mexican cuisine about it at our bi-monthly Wire Magazine Traveling and fine tequilas at Miami’s only oceanfront, open-air Brunches. Our last brunch was at the beautiful Ra- Mexican restaurant with hand-crafted specialty cocktails. leigh Hotel pool area, and this Sunday we would love to see everyone at China Grill in South Beach from My favorite cocktail was hand crafted with Herradura 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. for another delicious brunch with free Reposado tequila, Mexican sour orange, fresh lime, unlimited 42BELOW vodka cocktails. Because so many Guajillo chile syrup, and cilantro. There is nothing like of you like new dining destinations, I want to share one enjoying a fine reposado tequila with an amazing combiWire SummerShorts1/2pg 4col_Layout 1 5/23/11 10:36 AM Page 1 of two awesome experiences I had this past week. nation of natural ingredients. Kudos to Casa Herradura!

Our botanas (appetizers) were a fabulous sampling of

cuisine. I taking especially This week and last week have probably mouth-watering eventsgenuine andMexican parties p loved the tostada de cochinita pibil - sour orange slow pork rapped in banana leaf - and the crab taco been the busiest weeks ever for Thomas roasted parade, Expo, and daywithof made with a jumbo crab scrumptiously prepared citrius crème fraiche. and I working on wire magazine. Andwhy we are including a co for the pièce de résistance, we were blown away an entrée that included a duo de pollo - pan seared Why? For a couple of very good with can use as poblano yourMexican mapchocolate of wh chicken breast - in mole sauce, a huachinango al mojo - pan seared red snapper in garlic lime sauce a huge langostino al reasons: We have been working roasted and times to- andbe there. tequila - prawn flambéed in tequila. Amazing! I certaingo back to Cantina Beach to enjoy delicious very hard on producing our second lyfoodplanandtofine Herradura tequilas. Stop by our website at www.wireweekly.com/dining to see some photos video of the dinner. want to extend ever Pride collector’s edition of and We also

week, I am also going to tell you about my other wire magazine – that we think you Next you to join for t greatwelcome Mexican dining experience at the new El us Vato Tequila & Taco bar in Brickell. Viva Mexico! will really enjoy reading through. In RafaPool Party at the hotel V Publishers dition, we have also been working non-stop on the first ever For The decided to put together a Rafa Carvajal: rafa@wireweekly.com Barker: thomas@wireweekly.com ficial Gay Pride Pool Party, which Wire magazine Thomas year’s Pride, courtesy of W l host on Saturday, April 17th at the hotel Victor with have fun in the company nlandia Vodka and herradura Tequila as sponsors. complement the Parade, Ex V'sPride, and main stages of vo T a r B ing Eye tarr S r eally is hard to believe that a year has already gone by since we for some additional ee e " fun at y u u Q " r thght G i blished the first ever Pride Collector’s Edition of Wire magazine, fromfo1 p.m. to 7 p.m. thi a Z! Str E U I R IGspinning, that is definitely the case. Pride is once again taking place in miikJA will be OD R ami Beach this Saturday and we hope that all our readers in complimentary tFinlandia v s rt? t, faste e hopurchase. s e s e ami and Fort lauderdale will have a chance to enjoy this t'ticket S i s a t, funn ur life! a s t o h s e y W fresh s of ion's be am! e t e ek’s 2010 Pride Collector’s Edition. We couldn’t have gotten u h r t T in e na prog 0m 5-2 n of th in one s re without all your support, and the support of our advertisers,sevoertmake sure to stop by our play h s onsors, and all the members of the Wire staff. Thanks very much your copy of this week’s sp TICKETS: 305.949.6722 arshtcenter.org everyone for helping us make this possible! contest, but definitely stop hotel Victor to celebrate Pr e also hope that you will be able to participate in the pool party. We will be cam 6 | wire magazine | follow wire on facebook & twitter: visit www.wireweekly.com & click on the icons ide festivities on Saturday, plus many of the ancillary some additional fun in the

6 2 2 JUNE

Carnival Studio Theater (in the Ziff Ballet Opera House)

Production supported by: title sponsor Stearns Weaver Miller Weissler Alhadeff & Sitterson, P.A., the Florida Department of State Division of Cultural Affairs, the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs, the Mayor and the Miami-Dade County Board of County Commissioners, the Broward County Board of County Commissioners as recommended by the Broward Cultural Affairs Council, the City of Miami Beach, the City of Coral Gables, Miami-Dade County Public Schools.

America's Capital Partners, American Airlines, Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, Amaturo Family Foundation, AutoNation, Best Buy, Broward Center for the Performing Arts, Carnival Corporation, Citizens Interested in the Arts, CompuPro Services, Dramatists Guild Fund, Dunspaugh-Dalton Foundation, The EPIC Hotel, Funding Arts Broward, Funding Arts Network, IBM, Marcum, Merrill Lynch, Miami Heat, Miami Salon Group, The Related Group, Sabadell United Bank, The Viceroy, Wells Fargo, Whole Foods Market, Wille Family Foundation, WLRN, Patrick Caso, Patrick Dwyer, Alan Fein & Susan Westfall, Lynn & Michael Fichman, Barry Steinman, Bob Mulder & Patricia Woodson.

NEWS AND VIEWS

PALACE

Cooks with Pride @ Bloomingdales

LGBT is not only an acronym for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgendered community, it also stands for a new fundraising initiative that officially kicked off this past Wednesday, June 1, for the Miami-Dade Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (MDGLCC). “Let’s Go Buy Tiles” is an opportunity for LGBT and LGBT-friendly organizations and individuals to support MDGLCC community programs and events, while at the same time leaving a permanent symbol of that support on a 10-foot “Community Wall” inside the LGBT Visitor Center, sponsored by MetLife.

The 6” x 8” full-color tiles will act as mini-billboards inside the LGBT Visitor Center, on display for the thousands of tourists who will visit the Center, as well as for locals who visit the MDGLCC’s offices or attend Chamber events. In addition, the tiles act as a focal point for guests who attend the many community events that take place throughout the year inside the space.

A total of 194 tiles remain available for a one-time investment of $250 for MDGLCC members, or non-members can purchase a tile for $500, which will also include a one-year business-level membership in the Chamber. Up to two tiles may be purchased to create an even bigger impact on the “Community Wall.” Businesses that took advantage of tile pre-sales included Pizza Fusion, In the Glaze, Arndt Strategies, MiamiArtZine, GMV Graphics & Signs Inc. and Heather Davis Productions.

“The ‘Let’s Go Buy Tiles’ program is a great business showcase opportunity in front of a very influential target audience,” said Steve Adkins, president of the MDGLCC. “Not only is the LGBT community intensely loyal to businesses that support it, but also research has

shown that the LGBT community has a local buying power of $8 billion and a national buying power of $743 billion.

Those are pretty powerful statistics for a company looking to sell a product or service.”

Money raised from the “Let’s Go Buy Tiles” effort will help sustain operations at the Chamber as well as provide funding to help underwrite new programs and services to meet the ever-increasing demands of the Chamber’s rapidly expanding membership.

“We’re anxious to see how creative the community gets with their tile designs,” Adkins said. “Businesses can reproduce their business card, print a visual of their product, or create a scannable QR code that links to a website. Individuals can print their picture or create a message to a loved one. Who knows, if the response from the community is overwhelming,” Adkins added, “we might just consider tiling the ceiling, too.”

The MDGLCC opened the country’s firstever Chamber-sponsored LGBT Visitor Center last November. The Center is open to the public five days a week and has been the venue for special events for the MDGLCC, MetLife, Florida Grand Opera, Miami Gay & Lesbian Film Festival, and Miami Beach Gay Pride, just to name a few. The LGBT Visitor Center is located in Miami Beach’s Old City Hall at 1130 Washington Avenue, 1st Floor North, Miami Beach, in the heart of South Beach.

To purchase a tile, visit the Miami-Dade Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce website at www.gogaymiami.com to download an application, or contact Michael Vita at mdglcc@bellsouth.net or call 305.673.4440.

In conjunction with what has come to be known as “Pride Month,” Bloomingdale’s in the Aventura Mall presents “Cooking with Pride,” a culinary demonstration, on Saturday, June 11 at 1 p.m..

Victor Cardenas Pasos of the Palace, Ocean Drive’s first and only gay restaurant/bar, will utilize Bloomingdale’s state-of-the-art cookware and equipment as he demonstrates preparation of two of the Palace’s favorite dishes. One of the Palace’s legendary drag divas will assist Victor, making for a unique and entertaining presentation.

The event is free and open to the public, and all who attend will be able to sample the fare and receive a copy of the recipes.

The month of June commemorate Gay Pride throughout the U.S. and beyond, as it was in June of 1969 that police raided the Stonewall Inn, a gay bar in New York’s Greenwich Village -- an event that is credited with sparking the movement for LGBT rights in the United States. In an unprecedented show of solidarity, the Stonewall patrons and supporters rose up in protest, resulting in several days of riots in the streets to protest discrimination against the LGBT community.

As chef of the Palace on South Beach for more than two years, Victor prepares or oversees preparation of approximately 700 meals per week. A native of Mexico, he studied Culinary Arts in Yucatan, with a specialty in Italian fare and seafood.

Prior to joining the Palace, Victor worked at the Hyatt Resort in Cancun and Quattro on Miami Beach.

Cooking with Pride takes place on Saturday, June 11th at 1 p.m. in the Housewares department on the third floor of Bloomingdale’s, 19555 Biscayne Boulevard in Aventura. For further information, please call 305.792.1288.

KANE STEAKHOUSE TO OPEN SOUTH OF FIFTH Miami Beach’s foodies will soon celebrate the addition of one of the area’s most significant dining concepts, Kane Steakhouse, slated to open mid-June 2011. A partnership between Mathew Glazier – the man behind NYC’s venerable Strip House and Michael Jordan’s The Steak House at Grand Central Terminal and others, and nightlife triarchy Roman Jones, Justin Levine, and Eric Milon – creators of Mansion, SET, and Louis Bar-Lounge, among many others, will make their first foray into fine dining. Kane promises to deliver a veritable trifecta of fine cuisine, modern design, and seductive ambiance. Located at 431 Washington Avenue in South Beach’s booming “South of Fifth Street” area, the menu will feature a sumptuous array of upscale steakhouse classics: irresistible appetizers, perfectly charred premium cuts of beef, as well as seafood, pork, and poultry and creative sides. The restaurant will also feature a vast selection of fine wines and innovative cocktails.

Stay tuned for more details!

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SHHH... @ THE LORDS SOUTH BEACH PHOTOS BY RAFA CARVAJAL

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WIRE COVER: JAI RODRIGUEZ PUTS ON HIS SUMMER SHORTS

BY THOMAS BARKER PHOTOS PROVIDED BY SUMMER SHORTS I remember the first time I met Jai Rodriguez and heard him sing. I was traveling back and forth from New York for work, and would always need a stiff cocktail after a long day at the office. One place I discovered and immediately fell in love with was this super trendy bar named XL Lounge.

You may remember the space from a famous episode in Sex in the City when Samantha discovers the bar’s fish tank, which also serve as the wall between the back of the trough and the dance floor! Let’s just say no one was looking at the fish in that tank!

Anyhow, I digress.

One night I was lucky enough to find myself sipping a martini, while an incredibly witty and attractive guy wowed the crowd with his amazing voice and charismatic personality. As I continued to listen, I learned that his name was Jai Rodriguez, and he was one of the stars of RENT. A few months later, I was surprised to see my favorite lounge singer starring in the hit show, Queer Eye for the Straight Guy. The show became an immediate hit and took Jai from the stage and put him on an international platform that skyrocketed his career.

Since then, Jai has done some pretty incredible things, including writing and producing his very own production, Dirty Little Secrets, which he will be performing this month at both the Arsht Center and Broward Center for the Performing Arts.

What’s more, Jai has joined the cast of The Arsht Center’s annual Summer Shorts production. Summer Shorts is a fast and furiously fun program of the nation’s hottest “short” plays and has consistently been the hottest place in town to catch a cool show.

I recently caught up with Jai to chat about his career, Queer Eye experience, and the upcoming production of Summer Shorts.

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WIRE COVER: JAI RODRIGUEZ PUTS ON HIS SUMMER SHORTS

I started performing at an early age. I attended performing arts high school and, upon graduation, I got an agent.

The first audition he sent me on was RENT. I booked it at 18. High school to Broadway within three months.

What appealed to you most about this production?

For me Summer Shorts allows me to showcase my range as an actor all in one evening.

How did you get connected with Queer Eye?

What is the concept of the show?

I had a very successful night at a club in NYC in 2003.

I’d perform there on my nights off from the musical I was in. I’d sing pop rock and Broadway tunes and use my week/life as my talking points to connect everything… kinda like Glee. New stories with familiar music. Queer eye was up and running. The cast was not getting along the way they should have and producers were anxious to recast one guy. After seeing me, they thought I’d be a good fit for their show as the “culture guy”.

It’s basically theater for the remote control audience… a fast and furious evening of funny and moving theater.

Did you realize that it was going to be such a hit?

What are you most looking forward to while performing in Miami?

No way. I was taking a leave from RENT and thought I’d return to it once I wrapped my eight weeks of shooting Queer Eye. Queer Eye became huge and I didn’t go back. At the time, Bravo wasn’t a huge network and I didn’t expect much to come from Queer Eye while we shot the first season.

Honestly? A day off!!!

What was it like going from the theater to television?

What can the audience expect?

I’d say come prepared to laugh and to be moved. It feels like SNL with me as the guest host. It’s hilariously funny, yet we also have pieces that are heart breaking. Summer Shorts has it all.

S LE SIMPKIN

Where are you from and how did you get into the entertainment business?

here. It’s a lot. I mean A LOT of work. I’ve never worked this hard on shows in my life. But as it’s coming together now, I can tell it’s gonna be an incredible night of theater.

CHRONIC

Check out what he had to say:

What other projects are you working on?

I am the executive producer of a new docu-reality series airing on Logo this fall. It follows ten people/couples over the course of ten weeks, as they go through sex therapy.

Well I always arrived to the set on time and the first person through hair, make-up, and wardrobe. People say that’s my theater training.

What inspired you to get into theater?

It was the ultimate escape from my teenage life, which was tricky to say the least. I go into detail about this in Dirty Little Secrets.

FENCES

You’ve worked on so many productions. What has been the most exciting?

MAKE

Probably my last on camera acting gig on NBC’s Harry’s Law this spring. The episode was called “Send in the Clowns”. I played a transgendered woman. It was truly the role of a lifetime.

What do you like most about being on stage?

The connection to an audience. There is an energy exchange between the audience and the actors that you can’t explain. I feel most at home on stage.

How did you get connected with Summer Shorts?

They were looking for a headliner this year and I fit what they were looking for. I’m humbled and honored to be

Broward Center for the Performing Arts June 30 to July 2, 2011

Summer Shorts Arsht Center for the Performing Arts June 2 to 26, 2011

www.citytheatre.com

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CREME & SUGAR THURSDAYS @ SCORE PHOTOS BY JUAN SACO MIRONOFF

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CREME & SUGAR THURSDAYS @ SCORE PHOTOS BY JUAN SACO MIRONOFF

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WIRE FEATURE: COME “OUT IN THE TROPICS”

BY THOMAS BARKER Last year, South Florida welcomed the only LGBTQ arts festival of the summer, Out in the Tropics. Created by Miami local, Robert Rosenberg, the two-weeklong festival brings together some of the world’s leading LGBTQ artists to present their performance art pieces to the gay, straight, and everything in between community from June 9 to June 19, 2011.

After last year’s success, Robert, along with his team at FUNDarte, have decided to take what started out as a weekend event and turn it into a two-weeklong festival that will feature such avant-garde shows at Bitch, Crotch, Zero Performance, and Jai Rodriguez’ Dirty Little Secrets at the Arsht Center for the Performing Arts.

tival. Rosenberg started working with the Ever Chavez’ organization, FUNDarte, in 2009. I actually connected the two arts promoters. Robert proposed Out in the Tropics to FUNDarte, and now the festival is celebrating its two-year anniversary. I worked on the festival last year briefly after moving back to Miami after a two-year hiatus for graduate school in arts management. This year, I am happy to have taken on a bigger role as its principal producer. It is an exciting new festival for Miami, and I am thrilled to be part of it.

What is the concept of it?

Check it out for yourself:

The idea behind Out in the Tropics is to bring the best in GLBTQ artists or artists working within GLBTQ themes (since you don’t necessarily need to identify as GLBTQ to support the cause) to Miami. Part of the goal of Out in the Tropics, is to introduce the GLBTQ community to this amazing performance work by GLBTQ artists, and another goal is to introduce the wider Miami community to these spectacular artists.

How did Out in the Tropics come about?

What was the response last year?

Out in the Tropics is the brainchild of Robert Rosenberg who also founded the Miami Gay and Lesbian Film Fes-

Last year, we had New York-based Taylor Mac, San Francisco-based Sara Felder, and Havana-based Teatro

I recently caught up with Out in the Tropics head producer Susan Caraballo to get the inside scoop on this year’s festivities, and needless to say, I am very eager to check out the fabulous productions they’ve lined up for us!

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PHOTO BY BILLIE JO CAVALLARO

WIRE FEATURE: COME “OUT IN THE TROPICS”

El Público. We had an overwhelming positive response last year. So much so, that we have expanded the festival this year to over two weekends.

What are you expecting this year?

Can you give me an overview of the programming?

This year, we kick off the festival again at The Shore Club, our official host hotel, on Thursday, June 9th with a

Immediately following, we will host a reception in the Red Room sponsored in part by The Shore Club and Meals That Heal. The festival continues Friday, June 10th at 8 p.m. with “electric violin playing, ukulele-toting, bassslapping, keyboard tickling” singer-songwriter Bitch, who is described as “theatrical punk.” Then, Saturday, June 11th at 8 p.m., San Francisco-based Keith Hennessy/ Zero Performance performs his piece CROTCH, which uses Joseph Beuys (1960s conceptual artist) references in a piece that addresses a melancholic gay divorce.

In addition, we have established several partnerships with other arts organizations in town. We are collaborating with City Theatre and the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts to present Jai Rodriguez’ Dirty Little Secrets on Fridays, June 10th and 17th at 10 p.m. and Sunday, June 19th. We are also partnering with Coral Gables Art Cinema and Mary D. Events for the Women’s Reception and screening of the film, CRACKS directed by

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PHOTO BY CHERYL MAZAK

This year, we are expecting to diversify audiences even more so than last year. Part of my personal goal with this year’s festival is to bring together both the GLBTQ community and the “straight” community. I am not a huge fan of labels, but I do see the importance of a GLBTQ arts festival, especially for the GLBTQ community. I am also really interested in the “straight” community coming OUT as well to see the work of GLBTQ artists. Last year, Teatro El Público’s Bitter Tears of Petra Von Kant attracted a very mixed audience. This year, Keith Hennessy/Zero Performance’s piece CROTCH has the potential to attract the vibrant visual arts community with its strong Joseph Beuys’ component. Really, all of the artists would appeal to the wider public. I really do hope our audiences are as diverse as the community that we live in.

panel discussion, Words and Power, moderated by Robert Rosenberg. The panel will feature Andrea Askowitz from Bitch, Octavio Campos, and Keith Hennessy in an in-depth discussion addressing how many GLBTQ artists turn words that have often been seen as oppressive and offensive — bitch, queer, dyke, fag — around to find different and liberatory meanings.

WIRE FEATURE: COME “OUT IN THE TROPICS” PHOTO BY LABLANKA

PHOTO BY YI-CHUN WU

Jordan Scott, set in an isolated English all-girls boarding school in the 1930s. And, last, but not least, we are partnering with Andrea Askowitz and Esther Martinez, who produce “the hottest literary event in South Florida,” Lip Service: True Stories Out Loud.

How did you come across the artist, Bitch?

I first saw Bitch in the film Shortbus, directed by John Cameron Mitchell of Hedwig and the Angry Inch fame. I was intrigued by her persona and her music.

Then, I heard her music again on The L Word and I have been a fan ever since. Many people know her from her days with Bitch and Animal. In addition to her busy touring schedule, Bitch is currently working on a film with Billie Jo Cavallaro, Thunder: A Film about Ferron, one of Canada’s most famous folk musicians who has been an inspiration to artists such as Ani Difranco, The Indigo Girls, Tori Amos, and others.

What are you most looking forward to with Dirty Little Secrets?

I am looking forward to laughing with Dirty Little Secrets. Jai’s show is hilarious and provocative and he is sure to make you blush. In this second show that Jai has created, he gets down and dirty as he dishes and tells all in this very personal irreverent music/theatre cabaret. In 2005, Jai performed in his own stage show, “Jai Rodriguez: xPosed”, which told the story of his life and struggle to come out to his religious family, and of his career on stage and in “Queer Eye”.

How did you get connected with Jai Rodriguez?

Dirty Little Secrets is a collaboration with City Theatre and the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts.

Stephanie Norman of City Theatre gets the credit for bringing Jai to Miami. We all thought that his show, Dirty Little Secrets, was a perfect match for Out in the Tropics.

I understand that CROTCH is also a great performance. Can you tell me a little bit about that?

CROTCH (all the Joseph Beuys references in the world cannot heal the pain, confusion, regret, cruelty, betrayal or trauma…) is Keith Hennessy’s Bessie-awarding winning piece that was presented to critical acclaim at New York’s Dance Theatre Workshop in 2009. Recently, Hennessy presented this piece sponsored by a gay bar in Berlin. CROTCH references the images and actions of legendary conceptual artist Joseph Beuys. On the surface, the work is about art—its histories and heroes. On a deeper level, a sadness grows within a gay divorce melancholy. Hennessy was a pioneer in the queer performance scene in San Francisco during the 1980s and 1990s. He has been featured in several books and documentaries, including David Gere’s How To Make Dances in an Epidemic, Richard Mohr’s “Gay Ideas, and Dancers in Exile.

In terms of parties, what are you looking forward to the most?

We kick off the festival with an opening reception following the panel discussion, Words and Power, at The Shore Club’s Red Room on Thursday, June 9th at 8 p.m.

We are still finalizing all of the other parties. But, I can

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tell you that we are planning on post-opening reception festivities at MOVA during Pandora Events’ Sweet Thursdays. We are also looking into an afterparty at Bar 721 on Saturday, June 11th after CROTCH. And Books and Books/Coral Gables will serve as the host for the Lip Service afterparty on Saturday, June 18th.

Anything else you want Wire readers to know?

This year, we are selling VIP festival passes so people can get discounts, avoid ticket surcharges, attend all of the festival events, get some perks, and support the festival. Passes may be purchased through our website, www.outinthetropics.com. In addition, we are doing a fundraising campaign to raise an additional $5,000 for the festival. It takes quite a bit of effort and money to put together a festival like this one. FUNDarte has limited resources and people often think that ticket sales cover the costs. It really is not the case! We are really hoping that the GLBTQ community steps up to support the festival and ensure its future.

OUT IN THE TROPICS June 9 to 19, 2011 www.outinthetropics.com

SATURDAY NIGHTS @ DISCOTEKKA PHOTOS BY JUAN SACO MIRONOFF

TO VIEW ADDITIONAL PHOTOS FROM THIS & OTHER EVENTS VISIT: WWW.WIREWEEKLY.COM 17 | wire magazine | follow wire on facebook & twitter: visit www.wireweekly.com & click on the icons

TOP TRAX: LADY GAGA: BORN TO BE WILD

I’ve gotta say, when I got my first earful of Gaga’s new album “Born This Way”, I didn’t know what to think. I was expecting (and really hoping for) some fierce new dance tracks to pour all over you guys at my next few sets. Instead what I got was a double shot of 80s throwbacks with a biker rock chaser. Needless to say, I was more than a little disappointed. I was convinced Mother Monster was about to be devoured by the critics (myself included). So out of my own curiosity, I did a little research of my own. After chatting about it with some of my fellow queens, some of the responses I got really blew my mind. One of my favorites was: “Yeah it’s really not that great, but it’s Gaga. She supports gay rights, so you HAVE to love it regardless”. If that were the case then we’d all be dancing to the latest hits by Ellen DeGeneres, Rosie O’Donnell, and President Obama, right? Yeah, I kinda threw up in my mouth a little too.

There’s no denying that Gaga has made tremendous strides in bringing worldwide awareness to many of the issues faced by gays and lesbians—from her appearance at Pride events to publicly terminating her relationship with Target for supporting anti-gay political initiatives. I for one am as thankful as anyone to have such a powerful and passionate advocate on our side. But let’s get real!

Had it been any other artists’ name on this album, it wouldn’t have been so easily accepted, much less hit #1 status so quickly.

As the reviews for BTW continued to pour in (both loving and hating it), I took a sec to remind myself of Gaga’s roots and where she came from as an artist. Before The Fame, before the Monster Ball, before she was Lady Gaga, she was Stefani Germanotta; the dark-haired voice behind an unknown rock band barely making it in New York City. After clicking through Stef’s 2006 EP Red and Blue, it all made sense to me. Like many other artists who “play the game” till they can make their own rules, Gaga isn’t so much re-inventing herself as she’s paying homage to her roots and the legends that inspired Stefani to take the stage many years ago--because without Stefani, there would be no Gaga.

So I decided to take my newfound perspective and give it another listen. For the sake of time (and my 1000 word limit) here are just a few of the tracks that stood out for me. Born This Way kicks things off with the (dare I say it) fist-pumping “Marry The Night” instantly setting the tone for the next 61 minutes of CD1 (the special edition version includes a second CD featuring six remixes).

Although the theme has gone from “High heels & V.I.P” to “Harleys 18 | wire magazine | follow wire on facebook & twitter: visit www.wireweekly.com & click on the icons

BY DJ FR8-O

& whiskey”, the track still brings the same intense energy. Third in line is the Nine Inch Nails-esque “Government Hooker.”

Her operatic intro gives us a little peak at the more classical side of the Tisch School drop-out we only get to hear during Awards Shows or TV appearances. Pair it up with some electric guitars and an elecrto/industrial bassline and you’ve got a track Trent Reznor himself would drool over. The Latin queen in me couldn’t resist bouncing to the cheeky lyrics and ABBA-like rhythm of the Spanglish “Americano”. Ever the advocate in any language, Gaga actually wrote the song as a response to the Arizona antiImmigration Act, Arizona SB 1070. It seems Gaga’s also bringing “saxy back” to pop music by recruiting E-Street Band sax player, Clarence Clemons. He blows a few bars on “Hair” and the epic-closing anthem “The Edge of Glory”. Both tracks are highlights of the CD, but I could’ve done without the Clemons cameo.

Fans attending a Paris fashion show by designer Thierry Mugler got a sneak preview of “SheiBe” (German for ‘shit’). I have no idea what she’s saying half the time, but it sounds HOT! Who knew Gaga was such a cunning linguist! If there are any German hotties reading this, hit me up and help a brutha out here! I could totally hear Gaga channeling her inner Whitney in “Fashion of His Love”, an 80s throwback that sounds WAY too much like “Somebody Who Loves Me” to be an accident. Can’t wait to hear the mash-ups that come outta this one! Besides having a fierce title, “Highway Unicorn” also marks the climax of the album. Gaga’s vocals ride this techno/rock anthem like a true road warrior. With every listen “Electric Chapel” is quickly becoming my favorite track. Gaga goes from a growl to a wail and back again flawlessly while the steady bassline and electric guitars keep the energy up from start to finish.

Thanks to the genius of producers RedOne, Fernando Garibay, Jeppe Laursen, and DJ White (not to mention Amazon. com’s AMAZING 99 cent sale), Born This Way officially sold 1,108,000 copies in its first week! Would I call it a pop album?

Not really. But it’s definitely an album that deserves recognition; not just for its imagination and originality, but for opening the world’s eyes to the possibility that yes, there IS other music out there besides country and hip hop!

If you’re an artist, producer or DJ and would like your work featured in TOP TRAX, hit me up at Alfredo@wireweekly.com.

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Food 11Th @STreeT DiNer 11th Street Diner 660 THE ANGLERS

StreetAve., andWashington Washington Ave.,MB Corner 11th Street and Ave., 660 Washington MB | 305.534.9600 MB 305.534.6373 The 305.534.6373 new Winter menu highlights Array ofofhome-style American array home-style american diner Contemporary American withdiner a fewcuisine, Medfrom meatloaf friedtochicken.

Daily specials cuisine, fromtomeatloaf to fried chicken. inspired appetizers share like the highly and great prix fixe menu only $12.99. daily specials andEdamame greatfor prix fixe menu addictive $5 Fried with lime and Can’t beat the prices here!

It’s the where the for only $12.99.

Can’t beat prices adobo, and succulent main dishes like the locals eat as well as the starving tourists. here! it’s where the locals eat as well as popular with $18 Hand Cut Pappardelle the starving tourists.

Carbonara and $20 Buttermilk Fried A lA Folie Chicken. Daily Happy Hour can be enjoyed 516 Way MB | 305.538.4484 a LaEspanola FoLie in the bar, Front Porch or Mermaid lounge SouthEspanola Florida’s Way original that is more 516 MB crêperie | 305.538.4484 with free WiFi throughout.

café-like in its offerings classic that French south Florida’s original ofcrêperie is crepes, sandwiches, salads, and platters. A more A LA café-like FOLIE in its offerings of classic very casual, friendly lounge with competent, French crepes, sandwiches, salads, and 516 Espanola Way, MB | 305.538.4484 knowledgeable wait staff. no need lounge to rush platters. a very casual, friendly South Florida’s original crêperie that is here!

It’s French, after all! Sit, relax, peruse with competent, knowledgeable wait more café-like periodicals in its offerings classic the numerous over it’s aofglass of staff. no need to rush here!

French, French crepes, sandwiches, salads, and Pouilly Fumé or a Stella Artois.

Or maybe an after all! sit, relax, perusefriendly the numerous platters.teaAorvery casual, lounge herbal infusion.

Rightofinpouilly the heart of periodicals over a glass Fumé with competent, knowledgeable wait staff. the fabulous Española Way neighborhood. or a stella artois. or maybe an herbal No needlounge to rush here!

French, after all!

Outside forIt’s champagne tea or infusion.open right inspecial the heart of the Sit, relax, peruse the numerous periodicals nights in season.

Call for special prix fixe fabulous española Way neighborhood. over a glassdinners. of Pouilly Fumé or a Stella international outside lounge open for special Artois. Or maybe an herbal tea or infusion. champagne nights in season. call for Right the heart of&the fabulous Española cAFé in ATprix BookS BookS special fixe international dinners.

Way neighborhood. lounge open 933 Lincoln Road, MB Outside | 305.695.8898 for special champagne nights inthatseason.

One of the most important things Books anDiamo Call for special fixe international & Books has that setsprix it apart from any other 5600 Biscayne Blvd.,Miami | 305.762.5751 dinners. seven-year-old pizzeria that has

expanded outdoor seating with video screens and complimentary wi-fi.

Gourmet pizza is award winning and nationally recognized! additional italian menu selections include paninis, salads, soups, desserts. serves beer and wine. now serving Frankie’s philly cheese steaks! caFé at BookS & BookS

933 Lincoln Road, MB | 305.695.8898

one of the most important things that books & books has that sets it apart from any other chain bookstore is a wonderful personality. not only can you find the latest books and coolest magazines, now you can enjoy truly delicious and generous food in one of the most relaxed environments possible on Lincoln road. the food is really quite something, especially their miami cheese steak sandwich.

Da Leo trattoria

819 Lincoln Road, MB | 305.674.0350

one of the pioneers of Lincoln road, da Leo is popular spot with locals, tourists, and celebrities. Where else could you enjoy rich, tasty food, which is basic home-style pastas and meat dishes, and some of the best people-watching while dining al fresco. ask about their special prix fixe menus – one at $15.95 and

chain is athey wonderful not one atbookstore $27.50. can’tpersonality. be beat. Full ALTAMARE only with can you find the latest books andservice coolest bar drink specials, the 1223 Lincoln Road, MB |too.

305.532.3061 magazines, now you truly Leo delicious has asenjoy owners and Stopbeen by outstanding one of can South Beach’s best and generous food in one ofas the Chef most relaxed mario keepfor careful watch. that’s why restaurants seafood, Simon environments possible onassortment Lincoln Road.

The this restaurant is so an popular!

Stajonovic prepares of fresh fooddishes is reallythat quite something, their fish showcase theespecially best in South

miami Steak DaviD’S caFé iiSandwich.

FloridaCheese seafood.

The menu changes on a

1654 Meridian Ave., MB | 305.672.8707 regular basis; depending upon what chef DA leo TrATToriA You don’t have travel 90 day. milesOur to Simon can get his to hands on that 819 Lincoln Road, MBdefinitely | 305.674.0350 enjoy cuban cuisine.

Just walk to favorite dishes are the over hogfish One of café the pioneers ofLincoln Lincolnroad Road, Da david’s ii off and the octopus withofferro.

Delicious! mall Leo meridian is popular spot with locals, tourists, on avenue for some of and the celebrities.

Where else anywhere. could you enjoy rich, finest cuban dishes and all BLT STEAK @ THE BETSY tasty food, which is basic home-style at very reasonable they’re pastas open 1440 Ocean Drive, prices.

MB | 305.531.3934 and hours. meat Full dishes, and some of the best 24 buffets for In a class all its bar. own, incredible The Betsy Hotel is one people-watching while dining al fresco. Ask those on the go. of the most gorgeous dining destinations about their special prix fixe menus – one at in South Florida.

Pair that with the $15.95 and one atcaFé $27.50. They can’t be Front Porch delectable nibbles of BLTspecials, Steak, and beat. Ocean Full barDrive, with MB drink too. you The 1418 | 305.531.8300 have one fabulous restaurant.

Chef Samuel service has been outstanding as owners Leo after 17 years of serving south beach Gorenstein mans the watch. helm, consistently and mario keep careful locals the freshest, impeccable meals in

producing dishes that would even tempt a

generous portions, this restaurant has hardcore bone-in prime rib DAViD’Stovegetarian. cAFé ii it’sThe nothing prove. the best for casual is phenomenal, and the seafood sampler is 1654atMeridian Ave., | 305.672.8707 fare any time, butMB especially for their unlike anything you’ve ever experienced.

You don’t have to travel 90 miles to enjoy breakfasts. a great menu with the most Guaranteed!

Cuban cuisine.

Just walk over to David’s reasonable prices. you might have to Café IIbut off be of Lincoln Road meridian wait, patient, it’small wellonworth the CAFÉ AT BOOKS & finest BOOKS Avenueas for somemichael, of the effort Larry, andCuban dawn dishes cater 933 Lincoln Road, | reasonable 305.695.8898 anywhere.

And all atMB very prices. to your every need.

One of the most important things that Books

They’re 24 sets hours.

Full from bar. any Incredible & Booksopen has that it apart other buffets bookstore for those on thewonderful go. chain is a personality.

Not only can you find the latest books and FroNT magazines, Porch cAFé coolest now you can enjoy 1418delicious Ocean Drive, | 305.531.8300 truly and MB generous food in one After yearsrelaxed of serving South Beach locals the of the17most environments possible freshest, impeccable in generous portions, on Lincoln Road. meals The food is really quite this restaurantespecially has nothingtheir to prove.

It’s Cheese the best something, Miami for casual fare at any time, but especially for Steak Sandwich. their breakfasts. A great menu with the most reasonable prices. You might have to wait, but CHA CHA ROOSTER @ THE LORDS be patient, it’s well worth the effort as Larry, 1120 Collins Ave., MB | 305.531.2442 michael, and Dawn cater to your every need.

If you are looking for an incredible menu paired with delicious cocktails and an Joey’S endless supply of entertainment, Cha Cha 2506 NW 2nd Ave., Miami | Rooster at the Lords South Beach is the 305.438.0488 place to be. After opening in November Swing by this new artsy Italian eatery for of 2010, Cha authentic Cha Rooster quickly some incredibly Italianhas nibbles as established itselfyou as on the amost opulent gay chef Ivo takes culinary journey dining in South Beach.

The through destination the Veneto region of Italy.

The mista short ribs and grilled calamari salad can’t salad is a great way to kick off your meal and be and alle the vongole $25 three-course the beat, spaghetti – spaghettipunch with brunch on Sundays is always a blast! mussels – or the butter flied beef tenderloin are two tasty dishes to enjoy as an entrée.

DAVID’S CAFÉ II

1654 Meridian Ave., MB | 305.672.8707 koNexPreSS You don’t have 90 miles to 445 Espanola Way,toMBtravel | 305.420.5809 enjoy cuisine. walk Brazilian over to Brazil’sCuban most well known Just Japanese David’s Café II off of Lincoln Road Mall

joey’S

2506 NW 2nd Ave., Miami | 305.438.0488

swing by this new artsy italian eatery for some incredibly authentic italian nibbles as chef ivo takes you on a culinary journey through the veneto region of italy. the mista salad is a great way to kick off your meal and the spaghetti alle vongole – spaghetti with mussels – or the butter flied beef tenderloin are two tasty dishes to enjoy as an entrée. konexPreSS

445 Espanola Way, MB | 305.420.5809

brazil’s most well known Japanese brazilian restaurant concept is now in miami beach, and offering an assortment of delicious Kones, sushi rolls, sakes, and salads. swing by for sake-bomb Fridays starting nov. 20th at 6 p.m. for $5 sake-bombs and free sushi.

La SanDwicherie

229 14th St., MB | 305.532.8934

sandwiches and salads along with fruit smoothies and shakes is what you will find at this landmark sandwich shop on 14th street between Washington and collins. it’s one of the best places on the beach for an outstanding selection of light fare with a French flair. very reasonable prices. Open from 9 a.m. to 5 a.m. and delivery until 10 p.m.

20 || wire 40 wire magazine magazine || follow wireweekly.com wire on facebook & twitter: visit www.wireweekly.com & click on the icons

restaurant concept is now in miami on Meridian Avenue for some of theBeach, finest and offering assortment Cuban dishes an anywhere.

Andofalldelicious at very Kones, sushi rolls,They’re sakes,open and24salads. reasonable prices. hours.

Full bar.byIncredible buffets for thosestarting on the Swing for Sake-Bomb Fridays go. nov. 20th at 6 p.m. for $5 sake-bombs and free sushi.

DE RODRIGUEZ CUBA ON OCEAN

101 Ocean Drive, MB | 305.673.3763 lA SANDwicherie As of St., Miami’s celebrated culinary 229one 14th MB | most 305.532.8934 geniuses, chefand Douglas always Sandwiches saladsRodriguez along with fruit attracts a fabulous crowd of foodies, smoothies and shakes is what you will who find just can’t get enough of his shop contemporary at this landmark sandwich on 14th take traditional Cuban bites. just Streetonbetween Washington and We Collins. can’t get enough of the snapper and conch It’s one of the best places on the Beach ceviche, Cuban malanga Tacos, and the for an outstanding selection of light fare oxtail. The Sangria Sunday brunch is also with a French flair. Very reasonable prices. an event you won’t want to miss, as you get open from 9 a.m. to 5 a.m. and delivery to try six different signature sangrias! until 10 p.m.

FRONT PORCH CAFÉ

mAyAOcean TAPASDrive, & Grill 1458 MB | 305.531.8300 809 Lincoln Road, MBserving | 305.538.0058 After 17 years of South Beach Lincolnthe Road is jamimpeccable packed with some locals freshest, meals in of the trendiest places grab a bite generous portions, this torestaurant has in SoBe,toand maya of nothing prove.

It’s isthedefinitely best for one casual them.at Indulge in but their succulent fare any time, especially for steak their and imbibe A on great one ofmenu their with fantastic breakfasts. the wine most selections –prices. all while enjoying a wait, front reasonable You might have to row be seat of miami’s but patient, it’s wellmost worthbeautiful the effortand as Larry, Michael, and Dawn cater to your glamorous! every need from their new location.

wire mAGAziNe’S liST oF DiNiNG PleASUreS

is known for her exceptional use of local Mediterranean dishes including in South Florida! It has coffee, deserts,kebabs, light PAlAce chy’SJOEY’S andbar, falafel. can now also food,hoummus, a fabulous and You the best music, 1200 Ocean Drive,and MBflavors. | 305.531.7234 27 Biscayne Blvd., Miami ingredients Michy’s showcases 2506 NW 2nd Ave.,|Miami | 305.438.0488 breakfast at Pasha’s as well. all ofgrab which guarantee a fantastic timeLocated for gay owned and operated restaurant 5.759.2001 fantastic talent with a simple; Swing by this new artsy Italian eateryLandmark for Michelle’s on out Lincoln Road, hottest the restaurant also hanging with miami’s coolsters and and on Ocean Drive andranging 12th Street one of theincredibly original authentic membersItalian of the delicious menu fromwith fantastic some nibbles as baryet, features outdoor dining tourists alike. This is where thefor hipgreat hangspeople out a simple, popular tourist locals’ menu.

Ansalad amous chef mango michelle fried chicken andand watermelon Greek Ivo Gang, takes you on a Bernstein culinary journey watching, with the hipper.and you can either take the food flair still steak with one of theNo bestmatter known through for her the exceptional use of of local her succulent dishes.

Veneto region Italy. American The to bistro to go or have a nice sit down dinner.

8-ounce burgers on the Beach.

The bar has gredientsmista and salad flavors.is michy’s showcases what you choose, everything is sure to be a great way to kick off long been a meeting point for American and SoykA chelle’syour fantastic talentthewith a simple; scrumptious. meal and spaghetti alle vongole N.E.4th Court, Miami | international gay tourists. Stop by any day of 5556SEGAFREDO , delicious menu ranging from fantastic – spaghetti with mussels – or the butter 1040 Lincoln Road, MB | 305.673.0047 thetoweek – open from 10a.m until 2 a.m. and 305.759.3117 ed chicken and watermelon Greek salad PALACE flied beef tenderloin are two tasty dishes This is the mostmark fun and authentic Italian restauranteur Soyka’s namesake serving 1200 food until 10p.m. her succulent dishes. no matter Ocean Drive, MB | 305.531.7234 Famed enjoy as steak an entrée. café in South Florida!

It has coffee, deserts, restaurant at 55th and Biscayne. Great array at you choose, everything is sure to be Landmark gay owned and operated light food, a fabulous bar, and the best of affordable “comfort food” for everyone.

PAShA’S umptious. restaurant and bar on Ocean Drive and LA SANDWICHERIE music, all of which guarantee a fantastic Comfortable and inviting. Draws a great local 900 Lincoln 12th Road, Street MB with| 305.673.3919 a simple, popular tourist 229 14th St., MB | 305.532.8934 time for hanging out with Miami’s hottest crowd who like to hang out at 55th Street of miami’s places to grabbistro SS yiPSandwiches and salads along with As locals’ healthiest menu. An American fruitone and coolsters and tourists alike. This is where Station adjacent to the restaurant. Food and bite, flair Pasha’s become a staple among 61 Meridian Ave.,and MBshakes | 305.534.5488 stillhas with one of the best 8-ounce smoothies is what you will afind the hip hangs out with the hipper. service are well worth a visit. now featuring South Beach’s trendiest dieters. ot evenat Cameron Diazsandwich could have burgers on the Beach.

TheThe barmenu has long this landmark shop aon 14th The news Lounge! featuresbeen a number of delicious ccessful Street and long-lasting restaurant inand this Collins. a meeting point mediterranean for American and between Washington SOYKA including kebabs, hoummus, ace, butIt’s leave intrepid gay tourists.

Stop byand any day 5556 N.E.4th Court, Miami | 305.759.3117 one itoftothethe best placesJennie on theYip Beachdishes for international SPriS falafel.

You now also from grab10a.m breakfast defy gravity.

This hongselection Kong-style Chinese thecan week – open until at 2 a.m. an outstanding of light fare with a of Famed restauranteur Mark Soyka’s 731 namesake Lincoln Road, MB | 305.673.2020 Pasha’s and as well.

Located Lincoln Road, the taurant French has easily a very popular serving food on until 10p.m. flair.become Very reasonable prices. Open restaurant at 55th and Biscayne. pizzeria Tiramesu. also features outdoor dining for The Great ot right from off Lincoln in a and very delivery short restaurant 9 a.m. Road to 5 a.m. until array restaurant of affordableof “comfort food” the best Comfortable Italian pizzaand on South watching, and you can either Absolutely e. They10 serve PASHA’S p.m.truly scrumptious homemade great people for everyone. inviting.

Beach prepared by alocal greatcrowd pizza who chef.like An to take the900 food to goRoad, or have nice sit down onton or hot and sour soup; really good Lincoln MB a | 305.673.3919 Draws a great excellent of white too. You to dinner. As one of Miami’s healthiest places to oo Shu MICHY’S pork and mongolian beef; and a hangselection out at 55th Street pizzas, Station adjacent can the alsorestaurant. order your pizza a whole rific variety vegetable, rice, and| 305.759.2001 noodle grab a bite, Pasha’s has become a staple Food and with service are well 6927ofBiscayne Blvd., Miami wheat crust.

Sandwiches and salads SeGAFreDo hes. Don’t forget their awesome Shanghai worth a visit.

Now featuring The are News among South Beach’s trendiest dieters.

As one of the original members of the excellent.

Best bet for an after movie light 1040 Lincoln Road, MB | 305.673.0047 press $8.88 lunch specials over 45 Lounge!

The menu features a number of delicious infamous Mango Gang,–Michelle Bernstein dinner or late night snack.

This is the most fun and authentic Italian café oices!

CHEAP CHIC

Introducing our new half portion sharing menu.

CHINA GRILL 21 | wire magazine | follow wire on facebook & twitter: visit www.wireweekly.com & click on the icons

SOUTH BEACH • at Washington & Fifth • $9 valet parking

TiDeS SoUTh BeAch SPRIS 731Ocean Lincoln Drive, Road, MB | 305.604.5070 305.673.2020 1220 TheGonzalo pizzeria restaurant Chef Rivera combinesofhisTiramesu. mexican Absolutely best Italian pizza on South roots with thethe carribean flavor of miami to Beachanprepared by a greatforpizza chef. create exceptional menu The Tides An excellent selection of white pizzas, South Beach’s restaurant La marea. We too. You can also order your pizza with a suggest off your meal with and the lobster wholekicking wheat crust.

Sandwiches salads corndogs or crab cakes and enjoying Chef are excellent. Best bet for an after movie Gonzalo’s delicious Angussnack. filet Rossini or light dinner or late night fantastic yellowtail snapper for an entrée.

TIRAMESU

721 Lincoln Road, MB | 305.532.4538 TirAmeSU A Lincoln thrivingRoad, Italian on Lincoln 721 MB restaurant | 305.532.4538 great serviceonand excellent, A Road thrivingwith Italian restaurant Lincoln Road moderately priced Northern Italian with great service and excellent, moderately specialties. Expansive menu – open for priced Italianwith specialties.

Expansive lunchnorthern and dinner very friendly staff menu open for lunch and dinner with very and–management. friendly staff and management.

VAN DYKE CAFÉ

846Dyke LincolncAFé Road, MB | 305.534.3600 VAN What News Café Ocean Drive, the 846 Lincoln Road, MBis| to 305.534.3600 Vannews Dyke is to Lincoln Road. Drive, Another What Café is to Ocean thehuge Van success for Mark who hassuccess now Dyke is to Lincoln Road.Soyka Another huge partnered with Graziano Sbroggio to run for mark Soyka who has now partnered with the place. Always packed offering some of Graziano to run the Always the bestSbroggio people-watching on place. the Road and packed offering some of lunch, the bestor people-watching a quick breakfast, dinner. Also oncheck the Road and a quick lunch, or out Upstairs at thebreakfast, Van Dyke for an dinner.

Alsoofcheck at the Van Dyke evening Jazzout andUpstairs entertainment. for an evening of Jazz and entertainment.

THIS WEEK THURSDAY, June 2

MOVA: Stop by for happy hour from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m., followed by a night with the ladies, as Pandora Events hosts a fabulous nights of gorgeous girls and great music by DJ Zehno. Located near the corner of Lincoln and Michigan.

Discotekka divas Vegas Dion, TP Lords, Sasha Sky, and Victoria Sky entertain and mesmerize the crowd while international DJs keep up the beat. Doors open at 11 p.m. 950 NE 2nd Ave. www.discotekka.com

SCORE: Enjoy cocktails out on the patio and watch the famous Lincoln Road traffic pass by as you and your friends chill and enjoy great music.

Tonight Score hosts the steamiest Thursday night soiree with fab beats

by DJ Pride paired with an incredible crowd of delicious partygoers. 727 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach.

PALACE: Enjoy a special day of drag shows, great food, and stiff cocktails, as The Palace Bar hosts Drag Madness with Tiffany Fantasia and her gaggle of performers! Heels hit the pavement at 6 p.m. sharp!

MOVA: Stop by for happy hour from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m., followed by FLASH PALACE: Palace hosts Cabaret Saturdays with the hottest music videos Thursdays with solo performances by and visual entertainment by VJ Chris the incomparable Tiffany Fantasia. Racine till 3 a.m. with $9 Grey Goose Show starts at 6 p.m. $3 domestic beer cocktails all night. Located near the and $11 draft pitcher specials all night. corner of Lincoln and Michigan.

SCORE: Tonight is Score’s weekly Bigger Saturdays, the largest gay gay dance party on the Beach with beats beats TWIST: Don’t miss out on a fabulous by international DJ sensations, and perpernight at TWIST with seven different formances by CircX. 727 Lincoln Road.

Road. bars, DJ Just Oliver, stiff drinks, and beautiful dancers. And if you’re look- TWIST: Happy Hour 2-4-1 with Tommy ing for some hot papis, DJ Adora will and the locals from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. be hosting Sabroso in Bar 5! “Never a on everything. Come tonight and enjoy cover... Always a groove.” a full house of hot men and some incredible beats by DJ Mika. “Never a FRIDAY, June 3 cover...Always a groove.”

MOVA: It’s It’s the the First First Friday Friday at at MOVA, MOVA: which means means Friends Friends and and Family Family which Happy Hour.

Hour. For For $15 $15 enjoy enjoy an an unlimunlimHappy ited martini martini tasting tasting from from 7 7 p.m. p.m. to to 9 9 ited p.m. p.m. Afterwards, Afterwards, it’s it’s @MOVA @MOVA Fridays with with Pussila.

Pussila. Enjoy Enjoy $6 $6 Finlandia Finlandia vodka cocktails cocktails and and aa late late night night 2-4-1 2-4-1 happy hour hour from from 1 1 a.m. a.m. to to 3 3 a.m., a.m., as as well well as as fab fab beats beats by by hot hot DJs. DJs. Located Located near the corner corner of of Lincoln Lincoln and and Michigan.

Michigan.

PALACE: Drag Madness is the place to be to see the hottest Friday night shows by Latrice Royale, Champagne Bordeaux, and Noel Leon beginning at 6 p.m. You never know what these girls are gonna do, so get there early!

TWIST: Don’t miss out on a fabulous night at TWIST. Enjoy seven different bars, DJ Michael Tank, stiff drinks, beautiful dancers, and, of course, the only place where there’s “Never a cover...Always a groove.”.”

SUNDAY, June 5 ANGLERS: If you are looking to nurse that hangover with some unlimited mimosas and bloody Mary’s, look no further than 660 at the Anglers. Enjoy great food and delicious libations in one of the most beautiful boutique resorts Miami Beach has to offer.

THE LORDS: If you love great food paired with free drinks, Punch Brunch is the way to go, as Cha Cha Rooster at The Lords offers a two-course meal paired with two free cocktails for only $25. Afterwards, enjoy cocktails poolside for their weekly Punch T-dance.

MOVA: It’s time for one of the wildest parties in SoBe, as the Penny Back Boyz host the most scandalous party in South Beach, Out-n-Ugly Sundays with DJ Power Infiniti. Beginning at 9 p.m. enjoy $3 beers, $4 Herradura Shots, SCORE: The Penny Back Boyz host and $5 Finlandia. No cover. the weekly Friday night party Filthy Gorgeous Fridays with DJ Mac spin- PALACE: Swing by the only gay bar ning a true open format and Score’s on Ocean Drive for one of SoBe’s most hottest Go-Go boys on the speaker unique and over-the-top brunches, as some of South Florida’s most fabulously boxes. frocked fellows take to the sidewalk to perform for hundreds of onlookers durSATURDAY, June 4 ing Brunchic. Two seatings: 11:30 a.m.

DISCOTEKKA: Downtown Miami’s or 2 p.m. Afterwards, check out the only gay dance party delivers one hell sexiest Sunday T Dance in SoBe. 1200 of a shindig every Saturday night as Ocean Drive.

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MOVA: Stop by for happy hour from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. followed by Mova’s weekly Drag Bingo, hosted by Geraldine from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. with $5 Finlandia & $8 Stoli cocktails and half priced cocktails from 11 p.m. to midnight. Located near the corner of Lincoln and Michigan.

TWIST: 2-4-1 happy hour from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. on everything. Afterwards, some of the most scandalous drag performers will hit the stage upstairs, while DJ Paulie works it out on the main dance floor. At TWIST: “Never a cover...Always a groove.

PALACE: Better than ever before on Ocean Drive and 12th Street, try it for lunch or a late afternoon snack, or just hang out at the bar with the locals. No matter what you’re in the mood for, Palace is sure to have it!

SCORE: It’s Planeta Macho, the hottest Latin Party in Miami Beach, featuring WIRE TRAVELING BRUNCH: Enjoy incredible Latin beats by award winWIRE TRAVELING BRUNCH: anotheranother fabulous edition edition of Wire Enjoy delicious of ner DJ George Ferrero, Pelu Rivero on Wire Magazine’s bi-weekly traveling Magazine’s bi-weekly traveling brunch drums, amazing shows by Miami’s best brunch the fabulous Grill. Aa female impersonators, and the hottest at the at fabulous China China Grill. Enjoy three three course course meal meal paired paired with with FREE FREE crowd in town. Don’t miss this party – UNLIMITED UNLIMITED 42BELOW 42BELOW vodka vodka cockcock- it’s South Florida’s Best Latin Party! tails tails from from 12 12 p.m. p.m. to to 33 p.m. p.m. RSVP RSVP to events@wireweekly.com TWIST: 2-4-1 Happy Hour from 1 events@wireweekly.com p.m. to 9 p.m. on everything. Tonight Dustin Reffca hosts his weekly party, MONDAY, June 6 Fun House Tuesdays. With DJ Daisy KILL YOUR IDOL: Dustin Reffca pres- D working the turntables on the main ents Glitter Box Mondays with Manic dance floor, you can bet the beats will Monday beats by DJ FR8-O. $1 PBR be hot and the dance floor, packed.

Beers and $4 vodka drinks. Doors $5 Jumbo Blue Long Island Ice Teas all open at 10 p.m. 222 Espanola Way, night long. Never a cover… Always a groove.

Miami Beach.

MOVA: Tonight is SHOUT!, an over the top night of karaoke, where everyone can be a star or at least try to be.

And if you need a little liquid courage, there will be half priced drinks all night long. Located near the corner of Lincoln and Michigan.

PALACE: Stop in for comfort food at lunch or dinner. Special bon voyage cocktail specials all day. 1200 Ocean Drive.

SCORE: Happy Monday, where all drinks, well and domestic, are halfprice from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. No cover.

TWIST: Happy Hour 2-4-1 drinks ‘till 9 p.m. Then it’s “I’m A Local” night, with $3 drinks for anyone with TWIST’s “I’m A Local” I.D. all night long. Join Nathan in the Frolic Lounge for his signature mix of pop and the top 20. Also check out the fabulous men of Gaiety in the Bungalow Bar starting at 10 p.m. and DJ Bryan Zero’s fab beats on the main dance floor.

ART BY AMY GUIP

SCORE: It’s Panty Raid, an afternoon party for women who love women, followed by Score’s weekly karaoke night hosted by Tiffany Fantasia. With over 2,000 titles to choose from, you are sure to find a song to inspire your inner star. Grab a cocktail and belt out your favorite number.

WEDNESDAY, June 8 THE LORDS: Enjoy a boozy take on old-school pastimes such as Twister, Spin the Bottle and strip-Texas Hold ‘Em, along with college frat house favorites Beer Pong and Flip Cup and classics Connect Four and Jenga.

MOVA: Stop by for MOVA’s weekly College Night Wednesdays, hosted by the Penny Back Boyz. While DJ Miik works the turntables, enjoy a $1 Finlandia cocktails from 9 p.m. to 10 p.m. followed by $4 Finlandia & $8 Stoli cocktails all night long. Located on the corner of Michigan and Lincoln.

PALACE: Stop by the Beach House to enjoy one of Palace’s signature cocktails. 1200 Ocean Drive.

SCORE: Come and spend a pleasant evening on one of Score’s outdoor couches as they host Martini Madness Night. A half price Happy Hour runs till 9 p.m.

TWIST: It’s time to hit the stage as Sean Brady hosts the Sean Brady Show.

TUESDAY, June 7 Karaoke and tons of entertainment all night long. After getting your jam on, THE LORDS: Enjoy sultry jazz tunes head over to the main dance floor to by the fabulous Maryel Epps from 8 snag some beats from DJ Maximus p.m. to 10 p.m. while nibbling a deli- 3000. Happy Hour from 1 p.m. to 9 cious three-course meal paired with a p.m. with 2-4-1 on everything. “Never cocktail for only $35. a cover...Always a groove.”

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