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CONTENTS

SEPTEMBER 21, 2017 Volume 24 Issue 21

7 CELEBRATING GREATNESS
The Kennedy Center launches a season celebrating Leonard
Bernsteins Centennial with a concert of Broadway hits.

By Randy Shulman

THE RIGHT STUFF


What does it take to lead one of the LGBTQ communitys most
controversial organizations? Just ask Gregory T. Angelo.

Interview by John Riley Photography by Todd Franson


24
32 HOT AND BOTHERED
Woolly Mammoths The Arsonists is a provocative,
humorous allegory for our modern political times.

By Kate Wingfield

SPOTLIGHT: CELEBRATING GREATNESS p.7 OUT ON THE TOWN p.10


SPEAK OUT: STORY DISTRICT p.14 FORUM: REMEMBERING EDIE p.16
COMMUNITY: BANNED BOOKS WEEK p.22 COVER STORY: THE RIGHT STUFF p.24
GALLERY: BODY LANGUAGE p.31 STAGE: THE ARSONISTS p.32
STAGE: M. BUTTERFLY AND LELA & CO. p.34 MUSIC: FALL ALBUM PREVIEW p.36
NIGHTLIFE p.39 SCENE: FREDDIES BEACH BLANKET BINGO p.39 LISTINGS p.40
SCENE: UPROAR p.45 LAST WORD p.46
Real LGBTQ News and Entertainment since 1994
Editorial Editor-in-Chief Randy Shulman Art Director Todd Franson Managing Editor Rhuaridh Marr Senior Editor John Riley Contributing Editor Doug Rule
Senior Photographers Ward Morrison, Julian Vankim Contributing Illustrator Scott G. Brooks Contributing Writers Andr Hereford,
Sean Maunier, Troy Petenbrink, Kate Wingfield Webmaster David Uy Production Assistant Julian Vankim
Sales & Marketing Publisher Randy Shulman National Advertising Representative Rivendell Media Co. 212-242-6863 Distribution Manager Dennis Havrilla
Patron Saint Abraham Lincoln Cover Photography Todd Franson

Metro Weekly 1775 I St. NW, Suite 1150 Washington, DC 20006 202-638-6830
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2017 Jansi LLC.

4 SEPTEMBER 21, 2017 METROWEEKLY


Spotlight
PAUL DE HUECK, COURTESY OF THE LEONARD BERNSTEIN OFFICE

Celebrating Greatness
The Kennedy Center launches a season celebrating Americas legendary composer-conductor
with a concert of his Broadway hits

A
SK KATHLEEN MARSHALL ABOUT LEONARD Centers season-long celebration of Bernsteins centennial.
Bernsteins impact on musical culture and the answer Its a little bit like being a kid in a candy store because you
comes fast and furious, without a seconds hesitation. know you have all these wonderful shows and all these wonder-
He was the first American to become a major symphony con- ful songs to choose from, says Marshall, taking a short break
ductor at a time when all the conductors were European, says from rehearsal. Its a little of what songs do we think an audi-
the Broadway musical director. He was the first American to ence wants to hear? But were also choosing some things that
conduct the New York Philharmonic, and the first American to arent as familiar to them.... People forget the range of what he
conduct major symphonies around the world. And what he did wrote from something very classical like Tonight from West
through his talent, personality, charisma, and, most of all, musi- Side Story to the sort of wacky I Can Cook, Too from On the
cianship, is to bring classical music to popular culture. Town or Conga from Wonderful Town. He could write soaring
Marshall, whose own works include spirited, Tony-winning operatic duets and he could write these kind of crazy, kooky,
revivals of Anything Goes and Bernsteins own Wonderful Town, novelty songs. Its kind of unbelievable, you know, the breadth
is helming the Kennedy Centers production of Bernstein on of his work.
Broadway this Friday in the Eisenhower Theatre. The con- He wrote these incredibly successful and innovative
cert stars Broadway heavy-hitters Norm Lewis (Porgy and Broadway shows at the same time, she continues. If he had
Bess), Laura Osnes (Cinderella), Santino Fontana (Cinderella), just had his Broadway career, what remarkable life. And if he
Matthew Hydzik (Side Show), Beth Malone (Fun Home), and had just had his composing career outside of Broadway, what a
Mikaela Bennett (The Golden Apple), as well an ensemble of remarkable life. And if he just had his conducting career, what a
eight incredible Broadway singers and dancers, a 40-piece remarkable life. But to combine all of those into one man is really
orchestra, and The Choral Arts Society. It kicks off the Kennedy incredible. Randy Shulman

Bernstein on Broadway is Friday, Sept. 22, at 8 p.m. Kennedy Center Eisenhower Theater.
Call 202-467-4600 or visit kennedy-center.org for a full rundown of the seasons Bernstein events.

SEPTEMBER 21, 2017 METROWEEKLY 7


Spotlight
NEVERWHERE
Rorschach Theatre reprises Robert Kauzlarics
immersive adaptation of Neil Gaimans
best-selling fantasy adventure with the
added challenge of moving from the black-box
Lab Theatre to the Sprengers fixed-seat, pro-
scenium stage in the Atlas. The story follows a
man whose life is turned upside down after he
helps a wounded girl on the streets of London,
C. STANLEY PHOTOGRAPHY

and then gets sucked into the bustling, magi-


cal world of London Below. Now to Oct. 1.
Sprenger Theatre in the Atlas Performing Arts
Center, 1333 H St. NE. Tickets are $20 to $45.
Call 202-399-7993 or visit atlasarts.org.

THE AAA GIRLS:


COURTNEY, WILLAM, ALASKA
RuPauls Drag Race alums Courtney Act, Willam Belli,
and Alaska Thunderfuck are touring the U.S. as a drag
girl group, in support of the trios debut comedy album
Access All Areas. Thursday, Sept. 28. Doors at 8 p.m.
The State Theatre, 220 North Washington St., Falls
Church. Tickets are $39, or $99 to $299 for VIP tickets
including photos, autographs, even on-stage partici-
pation with the AAA girls. Call 703-237-0300 or visit
thestatetheatre.com.

CAMERON CARPENTER
Cristian Macelaru conducts the NSO in an all-American program
with a return engagement from the provocative, bisexual organist.
From the Kennedy Centers grand, 5,000-pipe Rubenstein Family
Organ, Carpenter will perform Aaron Coplands Symphony for
Organ and Orchestra. The NSO will also perform the Suite from
Coplands Appalachian Spring ballet, John Adams Short Ride in a
Fast Machine, and Bernsteins Divertimento, the latter in honor of
Copland and Bernsteins famous friendship. Thursday, Sept. 28, and
Saturday, Sept. 30, at 8 p.m. Kennedy Center Concert Hall. Tickets
are $15 to $89. Call 202-467-4600 or visit kennedy-center.org.

8 SEPTEMBER 21, 2017 METROWEEKLY


Spotlight
NORTH BY NORTHWEST
Capital Classics, the new hump-day film series
at Landmarks recently refurbished West End
Cinema, offers a screening of the fourth and
final pairing between director Alfred Hitchcock
and actor Cary Grant. One of the American
Film Institutes Top 100 American Films,
the superlative espionage caper follows Grant
as a Manhattan advertising executive who is
abducted, framed for murder, chased, and, in a
signature set piece, crop-dusted. Happy Hour-
priced beer and wine are on offer from 4 to 6:30
p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 27, at 1:30, 4:30, and 7:30
p.m. Landmarks West End Cinema, 2301 M St.
WARNER BROS.

NW. Tickets are $12.50. Call 202-534-1907 or


visit landmarktheatres.com.

DINA MARTINA
Grady Wests comedic drag performance act, a Provincetown staple, is
nearly impossible to explain, or so The Stranger once summarized. And
it accurately, entertainingly described Martinas uproarious shtick: Her
voice sounds like a cat having an epileptic fit on a chalkboard, her body
moves like two pigs fighting their way out of a sleeping bag, and her face
looks like the collision of a Maybelline truck with a Shoneys buffet. Cant
wait. Friday, Sept. 22, at 8 p.m. The Howard Theatre, 620 T St. NW. Tickets
are $25 to $45. Call 202-588-5595 or visit thehowardtheatre.com.

IN THE HEIGHTS
Round House and Olney team up for a tour-de-
force staging of Lin-Manuel Mirandas origi-
nal Tony-winning success, featuring a book by
Quiara Alegria Hudes. Marcos Santana directs
and choreographs the production, which fea-
tures 21 actors and stars two-time Tony nom-
inee Robin de Jesus, who played Sonny in
the original Broadway production. Here, he is
Usnavi, our guide through a vibrant Washington
Heights neighborhood. With Linedy Genao,
Rayanne Gonzales, Natascia Diaz, and Michael
J. Mainwaring as Sonny. Extended to Oct.
22. Olney Theatre Center, 2001 Olney-Sandy
STAN BAROUH

Spring Road, Olney, Md. Call 301-924-3400 or


visit olneytheatre.org.

SEPTEMBER 21, 2017 METROWEEKLY 9


CHUDOVSKA - SHUTTERSTOCK

Out On The Town

EAT WELL, DO JUSTICE: CELEBRITY CHEF KUGEL COOKOFF


Tzedek DC kicks off its inaugural Top Chef-inspired contest since its founding last year to help low-income D.C. resi-
dents struggling with consumer protection problems, specifically with unjust, abusive debt-collection practices. Five
D.C.-based culinary stars will put their spin on the traditional Jewish pudding in a competition for votes and kugel
supremacy: Mike Friedman (Red Hen, All Purpose), Kyle Bailey (The Salt Line), Danny Lee (Mandu), Alex Levin of
the Schlow Restaurant Group (The Riggsby, Tico) and Pati Jinich of Patis Mexican Table. Joan Nathan, David Gregory,
Marna Tucker, Annamarie Steward, and Honorary Chair Bonnie Benwick of the Washington Post will serve as guest
judges along with event attendees. Monday, Sept. 25, at 6:30 p.m. Student Center, University of the District of Columbia,
4200 Connecticut Ave. NW. Tickets are $180 and include a taste of each kugle, heavy hors doeuvres, open bar and a
voting ballot. Visit tzedekdc.org or eatwelldojustice.eventbrite.com.

Compiled by Doug Rule outdoor film series at National


Harbor. First up, closing out the
STAGE world-premiere adaptation of Jose
Zorrillas tale of the infamous
FILM Family Movies on the Potomac
CLOVER seducer of all time, in honor of
series on Sunday, Sept. 24, is the the Spanish romantic writers 200th
Ally Theatre Company, focused on
BATTLE OF THE SEXES 1991 Oscar-winning animated orig-
presenting works or partnering with birthday. Jose Carrasquillo directs
In 1973, tennis world champion and inal from 1991. On Thursday, Sept. an international cast including Iker
organizations acknowledging and
feminist and lesbian icon Billie Jean 28, comes this years sumptuously Lastra and Luz Nicolas (Spain),
confronting systemic oppression in
King stunned the world when she produced live-action remake, one Manolo Santalla (Cuba), Carlos
America, concludes its inaugural
bested chauvinist and ex- world of the most expensive musicals ever Castillo (Venezuela) and Ines
season with a new full-length play
champion Bobby Riggs in a ten- made, with a reported budget of Dominguez del Corral (Colombia)
exploring the life of Washington
nis match. Emma Stone and Steve $160-million. Screened for the Date in a high-voltage, contemporary
socialite Clover Adams. Laura
Carell are King and Riggs in a biop- Night series, the film, directed by and True Blood-style adaptation.
Rocklyn stars as Clover in a play
ic that follows Kings struggle to Bill Condon (Dreamgirls), caused Performed in Spanish with English
that she co-wrote with Allys artis-
come to terms with her sexuality unwarranted gay panic and con- surtitles. To Oct. 1. GALA Theatre
tic director Ty Hallmark. Angela
and the pressure she felt to prove troversy over Gastons catty, pin- at Tivoli Square, 3333 14th St. NW.
Kay Pirko directs a cast that also
that womens tennis stood on equal ing sidekick LeFou. To suggest Tickets are $30 to $45. Call 202-
features Nick Depinto as Henry
footing with the mens game. The that making him gay sullied the 234-7174 or visit galatheatre.org.
Adams and Tamieka Chavis as
husband-and-wife duo of Jonathan character, the studio or the films
Lizzie Cameron. Now to Oct. 28.
Dayton and Valerie Faris (Little family friendliness is to ignore one
Caos on F, 923 F St. NW. Tickets are NATIVE GARDENS
Miss Sunshine) co-direct based on of Beauty and the Beasts primary Arena Stage presents the local pre-
$25. Visit alltheatrecompany.com.
a script by Simon Beaufoy (Slumdog messages: Can anybody be happy miere of Karen Zacarias D.C.-set
Millionaire). Opens Friday, Sept. 22. if theyre not free? Both films hot-button comedy, where well-in-
DON JUAN TENORIO
Area theaters. Visit fandango.com. screen at 7 p.m. on the plaza at 165 tentioned neighbors become feud-
Nando Lopez helped GALA
(Rhuaridh Marr) Waterfront St., Oxon Hill, Md. Call ing enemies in a clash of class and
Hispanic Theatre haul in the Helen
877-628-5427 or visit nationalhar- culture. Blake Robison directs a
Hayes Awards last year with his
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST bor.com. (Andre Hereford)
adaptation of Federico Garcia co-production with Cincinnatis
Disneys animated classic and its Lorcas Yerma. Hes back with a Guthrie Theater and starring
live action remake screen at two Jacqueline Correa, Dan Domingues,

10 SEPTEMBER 21, 2017 METROWEEKLY


Steve Hendrickson, and Sally at 8 p.m. Capital One Arena, 601 F dont know shes an Ethiopian prin- phones in locked pouches until the
Wingert. To Oct. 22. Kreeger St. NW. Remaining tickets are $179 cess and daughter to their sworn end of the show. Tickets remain
Theater, 1101 6th St. SW. Tickets Call 202-628-3200 or visit capital- enemy. The visionary artist known for shows in the second leg of the
are $40 to $90. Call 202-488-3300 onarena.com. as RETNA created the striking sets run, starting Monday, Sept. 25, at 10
or visit arenastage.org. and costumes, lending the classic p.m. and ending Saturday, Sept. 30.
KATY PERRY story a unique modern edge with Warner Theatre, 513 13th St. NW.
TEN BLOCKS Swish Swish down to the Capital his vibran hieroglyphics and callig- Tickets are $67.50 to $490. Call
ON THE CAMINO REAL One Arena at the start of next week raphy. To Sept. 23. Kennedy Center 202-783-4000 or visit warnerthe-
The Shakespeare Theatre to catch the pop megastar who Opera House. Tickets are $45 to atredc.com.
Company is one local partner of the launched her career a decade ago $300. Call 202-467-4600 or visit
Provincetown Tennessee Williams with same-sex references that were kennedy-center.org. WASHINGTON IMPROV
Theater Festival and its presen- provocative (I Kissed A Girl) and THEATER: RISE UP!
tation of an outdoor, drum-fu-
DANCE
pejorative (Ur So Gay). Perry has D.C.s main improv comedy com-
eled production of the iconic gay since become an LGBTQ activist pany reprises Rise Up!, a run of
American playwrights one-act play with the awards from the Trevor politically inspired improv shows
performed by the National Theatre Project and HRC to prove it. FURIA FLAMENCA DANCE that proved to be a hit during
of Ghana. The basis for Williams She tours in support of Witness. COMPANY Trumps Inauguration. Intended
full-length drama Camino Real, Monday, Sept. 25, at 7 p.m. Capital Estela Velez de Paredez found- to be cathartic, eye-opening and
Ten Blocks... is a phantasmagoria One Arena, 601 F St. NW. Tickets ed Furia Flamenca 14 years ago, raw, each show features a mix of
about a big-hearted hero lost in a are $50.50 to $258. Call 202-628- with a focus on combining flamen- WIT ensembles with telling names
ruthless world who falls in love 3200 or visit capitalonearena.com. cos gypsy heritage with modern including Laffrican Americans,
with a Gypsys daughter. Performed flamenco choreography to create Bottom Shelf, Trustfall, Sweater
in English, the 75-minute show, MIRAMAR an elegant balance of motion and Kittens, Shock and Awesome, Ugh,
boosted by vibrant music and West The Golden Age of Boleros is the energy. Cafe Flamenco is an inti- Love Onion: Crazy Like a Fox, and
African flair and directed by the focus of a concert toasting Hispanic mate evening of flamenco tablao Ivanka! The Musical. Now to Oct.
Provincetown festivals David Heritage Month by this Richmond- style, with drinks and tapas served 1. District of Columbia Arts Center
Kaplan, has toured marketplaces based six-piece band touring in sup- tableside during the performance, (DCAC), 2438 18th St. NW. Tickets
and outdoor venues in Ghana as port of Dedication to Sylvia Rexach. accompanied by guitarist Torcuato are $12 in advance, or $15 at the
well as in St. Louis, Detroit and Boleros are contemplative love Zamora. Saturday, Sept. 30, at 8 door. Call 202-462-7833 or visit
Provincetown on a short U.S. tour songs that originated in 19th-cen- p.m, and Sunday, Oct. 1, at 4 p.m. witdc.org.
that includes two stops in our tury Cuba and were popularized Lab Theatre II in Atlas Performing
area. First is Monday, Sept. 25, at throughout the Spanish-speaking Arts Center, 1333 H St. NE. Tickets
7 p.m. National Building Museums world by Mexican composers in are $27 in advance, or $30 at the
door. Call 202-399-7993 or visit
READINGS
West Lawn, 401 F St. NW. The the 1940s. Miramar will perform
& LECTURES
second is Tuesday, Sept. 26, at 5:30 Rexach songs as well as originals atlasarts.org.
p.m., followed by a panel discus- by a band started by Puerto Rican
sion. Georgetown Universitys Red singer Rei Alvarez and Chilean- LIGHT SWITCH DANCE THEATRE:
IMPORTANCE OF TOUCH BHU SRINIVASAN: AMERICANA
Square, 3700 O St. NW. Free, but American pianist and arranger
The resident dance group of Capitol Subtitled A 400-Year History of
Pay-What-You-Can donations Marlysse Simmons Argandoa, who
Hill Arts Workshop celebrates its American Capitalism, this narra-
encouraged. Visit globallab.george- also perform in the salsa band Bio
fifth anniversary with a party and tive history from a digital media
town.edu or twptown.org for more Ritmo. Friday, Sept. 29, at 8 p.m.
site-specific performance work by entrepreneur reviews the spirit of
information. Lab Theatre II in Atlas Performing
Sandra C. Atkinson, in collaboration innovation and ambition that has
Arts Center, 1333 H St. NE. Tickets
with LSDT performers, exploring defined America. Srinivasan focuses
MUSIC are $25.20 in advance, or $28 at
the door. Call 202-399-7993 or visit the notion of human connection on a series of Next Big Things,
through touch in an age of tech- from the telegraph to the railroad,
atlasarts.org.
BALTIMORE SYMPHONY nology. The Importance of Touch suburban sprawl to mobile tech-
ORCHESTRA investigates whether we as a society nology. The book is one component
SEU JORGE WITH THE NSO
Music Director Marin Alsop leads are more comfortable with artificial of Srinivasans new multi-platform
POPS: TRIBUTE TO
the BSO in Poetic Fire: From touch technology rather than actual media property Americana.tv,
DAVID BOWIE
Hamlet to Don Juan featuring human touch, playing with reaction, focused on retelling the story of
Jacomo Bairos conducts an NSO
Tchaikovskys Hamlet Fantasy intention and connection through America through the prism of eco-
Pops Concert Trio supporting this
Overture and Strauss tone poem movement and music. Saturday, nomic development and the value
Brazilian actor/musician, who has
Don Juan. The program also fea- Sept. 23, at 4 p.m. Capitol Hill Arts that, for better or for worse, this
been touring the country over the
tures Luk Vondrcek, win- Workshop, 545 7th St. SE. Tickets nation holds dearest: capitalism.
past year with a concert inspired by
ner of the 2016 Queen Elisabeth are $15. Call 202-547-6839 or visit Thursday, Sept. 28, at 6:30 p.m.
the late, great pop star and specifi-
Competition, interpreting chaw.org. Kramerbooks, 1517 Connecticut
cally Jorges role in Wes Andersons
Rachmaninoffs beloved Piano Ave. NW. Call 202-387-1400 or visit
2004 film The Life Aquatic with
Concerto. Friday, Sept. 22, at 8 kramers.com.
p.m., and Sunday, Sept. 24, at 3
Steve Zissou. Jorges acoustic
interpretations, which include
COMEDY
p.m. Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony THE ATLANTIC, ASPEN
Rebel, Rebel, Life on Mars,
Hall, 1212 Cathedral St., Baltimore. DAVE CHAPPELLE INSTITUTE: WASHINGTON IDEAS
and Starman, were heralded by
Also Saturday, Sept. 23, at 8 p.m. Hard to believe its been 12 years Trump Treasury Secretary Steven
Bowie himself as being imbued
Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 since Dave Chappelle abrupt- Mnuchin, director Ken Burns, chef/
with a new level of beauty. Friday,
Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda. ly ended his hit Comedy Central restaurateur Jose Andres, broad-
Sept. 29, at 8 p.m. Kennedy Center
Tickets are $29 to $99. Call 410- sketch show. In recent years, the cast journalist Michele Norris, and
Concert Hall. Tickets are $25 to
783-8000 or visit bsomusic.org. D.C. native, one of todays best SoulCycle CEO Melanie Whelan
$89. Call 202-467-4600 or visit ken-
comedians, has been increasingly join Jeffrey Goldberg and Matt
nedy-center.org.
BRUNO MARS W/DUA LIPA touring the country with his stand- Thomson of The Atlantic and others
Bruno Mars is one of those super- up. And in the wake of this years for this multi-day convening of lead-
WASHINGTON NATIONAL Netflix specials, the streaming ser-
stars you dont begrudge having ers from across industry, govern-
OPERA: AIDA vices most-viewed comedy specials
fame. His music is consistently ment and culture. The Shakespeare
Francesca Zambello launches the
compelling and creative, and hes ever, Chappelle has announced Theatres Harman Hall is the main
new season with a dazzling new
a reliably entertaining performer. long runs of shows in several cities, venue for the festival, but the near-
production of Giuseppe Verdis
Mars tours in support of last years including 12 dates in his preferred by Rosa Mexicano will serve as the
Aida, a co-production with the San
relatively lackluster set 24K Magic, venue in his hometown. Lest you Atlantic Hub, including the net-
Francisco, Seattle and Minnesota
with an opener by a promising think you can just opt to watch working Drinks With the District
opera companies. Performed in
new British singer-songwriter of fan-posted clips online, tour pre- event on Tuesday, Sept. 26. Festival
Italian with projected English titles,
Albanian descent whose powerful, senter Live Nation has instituted runs to Thursday, Sept. 28. Visit
Aida focuses on a young woman
full-throttle voice and style is rem- a strict no cell phone policy, washingtonideas.splashthat.com
enslaved by the Egyptians, who
iniscent of Pink. Friday, Sept. 29, mandating that patrons place their for schedule and more information.

12 SEPTEMBER 21, 2017 METROWEEKLY


EXHIBITS
DRAWING JUSTICE: THE ART OF
COURTROOM ILLUSTRATION
A showcase of the Library of
Congresss extensive collection
of original drawings by artists,
commissioned during the past 50
years by newspapers and television
stations to capture the personal
dynamics of legal trials where cam-
eras arent allowed. Artists in the
exhibition include Howard Brodie,
Marilyn Church, Pat Lopez, Arnold
Mesches, Gary Myrick, Freda
Reiter, Bill Robles, Jane Rosenberg,
and Elizabeth Williams. Their
drawings provided insight into
the drama and impact of events in
American law and influenced how
Americans perceived race and race
relations, religion, gender issues,
political and corporate corruption,
international relations, and the role
of celebrities in society. Now to Dec. AN EVENING WITH BERNARD-HENRI LVY
30. South Gallery, Second Floor of The Washington Jewish Film Festival presents a discussion with the renowned French
the Thomas Jefferson Building, 10 philosopher, writer and filmmaker in between screenings of two recent documentaries.
First St. SE. Call 202-707-8000 or
visit loc.gov/exhibits. The 2016 film Peshmerga, which follows Lvys travels and interviews on the frontline
separating Iraqi Kurdistan from Islamic State troops, attempts to understand the psychol-
LISA ALLEN: DISSENT ogy and culture of those embroiled with ISIS in the Middle East. Meanwhile, Lvy and his
Protests of Trumps inauguration
and first six months are seen in pho-
camera crew were present at every crucial step in the battle to liberate Mosul from the
tographs and screen prints, showing Islamic State, as documented in this years The Battle of Mosul. The documentary ends
the various forms of dissent that with the lingering question: Will the imminent fall of the capital of ISIS spell its definitive
have taken hold and a firsthand look defeat? Author and writer Leon Wieseltier, former literary editor of The New Republic,
at democracy in action. Through
Sept. 23. Studio Gallery, 2108 R St. will lead the discussion, focused on the Kurdish will for national independence, the
NW. Call 202-232-8734 or visit stu- current status of ISIS after the liberation of Mosul, and the role of foreign nations in the
diogallerydc.com. conflict. Tuesday, Sept. 26, at 6:15 p.m. The Aaron and Cecile Goldman Theater, Edlavitch
MMM COLLECTIVE:
DCJCC, 1529 16th St. NW. Tickets are $25, plus $3 service charge. Call 202-777-3247 or
MEETING BOWLS visit wjff.org.
Exploring new ways to gather
and interact in public places, this
Spanish art collective first installed
its three large, semi-spherical sculp- Oct. 8. The Baltimore Eagle Art SUSAN STACKS: worked on advertising campaigns
tures with open-air seating for eight Gallery, 2022 N. Charles St. Call THE SANGUINE SUNRISE for Louis Vuittion and Nike, in addi-
in the U.S. in New Yorks Times 410-200-9858 or visit thebalti- Cosmic drawings in pencil and pen tion to exhibiting at galleries around
Square. Six years later, Arlington moreeagle.com. are Stacks focus work, intricate the world. Closes Sunday, Sept. 24.
Arts, through its Courthouse 2.0: and ritualistic, with gold beams, Hall of Nations. Call 202-467-4600
Reimagining the Civic public art STEPHANE KOERWYN cloud-like swirls of dots and graph- or visit kennedy-center.org.
initiative, presents a local display EXHIBITION AT SOFITEL ite spirals overlapping elegantly.
WASHINGTON DC
of the installation prior to a dis-
play at Art Basel Miami Beach later In its restaurant and lounge,
Stacks practice is ultimately med-
itative an intellectual exercise FOOD & DRINK
this fall. This Saturday, Sept. 23, Washingtons Sofitel presents a in moving across the page and
at 11 a.m., the Arlington organiza- collection of 17 abstract paintings her varied influences range from ALL SET RESTAURANT: STEAK IT
tion presents an Artist Talk with on aluminum canvasses and met- Netflix recommendations to Olbers OUT
Eva Salmeron and Emilio Alarcon al-based dresses by French artist paradox, algorithms to mapping, Executive Chef Edward Reavis
of mmm, a collective whose other inspired by artists Pierre Soulages Buddha warriors to particle phys- celebrates the return of fall with
projects include Baltimores prom- and Gerhard Richter as well as ics. Vernissage, or opening recep- a promotion showcasing dishes
inent, permanent B-U-S sculpture designers Jeanne Lanvin and Jean- tion, with live music by Terraplane, inspired by his early days work-
installed in 2014. Exhibition is Paul Gaulthier. Painting on alumi- is Saturday, Sept. 23, from 6 to 8 ing at a local steakhouse. The spe-
on display through Nov. 1. Public num is a genuinely sensitive expe- p.m. On display through Oct. 29. cial menu includes: a 5 oz. Sirloin
plaza at 1310 N. Courthouse Road, rience that is new each time, as it Adah Rose Gallery, 3766 Howard with red wine demi glace, thick cut
Arlington. Call 703-228-1850 or plays with various materials...and Ave. Kensington, Md. Call 301-922- onion rings and Lyonnaise potatoes
visit arlingtonarts.org. responds to unusual painting tools 0162 or visit adahrosegallery.com. (priced at $15), an 8 oz. Hanger
that create new movements and Steak with truffle fries ($19), a
MORGAN MONCEAUX: BLACK shapes, Koerwyn says in an artists WASHINGTON NATIONAL OPERA Surf & Turf offering of 4 oz. Filet
LEATHERMANS JOURNAL statement. Additionally, executive PRESENTS RETNA with lobster claw, drawn butter
Pages from a Leathermans chef Gyo Santa has created a three- The Kennedy Center hosts an and mashed potatoes ($22), and a
Journal is the full title of a retro- course menu inspired by the col- exhibit of this graphic and street Prime Rib with horseradish cream,
spective of the late artists work, lection priced at $45 for lunch or artist whose work informs the sets au jus and loaded baked potato,
presented by the Baltimore Eagle $55 for dinner. Now to Sept. 30. iCi and costumes of the forthcom- (market value). Also available are
in another exhibition in its upstairs Urban Bistro in Sofitel Washington ing production of Aida. Inspired classic steakhouse starters, from
gallery space. A self-taught painter, DC Lafayette Square, 806 15th St. by L.A.s mural culture, the artist Clam Chowder with bacon and Old
Monceaux created works mostly in NW. Call 202-730-8701 or visit sofi- known simply as RETNA fuses fine Bay crackers, to Caesar Salad with
the form of series to better tell one tel-washington-dc.com. art with graffiti and the tradition- romaine, baby kale, chicken crack-
story across paintings. Now through al with the contemporary and has lings and parmesan, as well as sides

SEPTEMBER 21, 2017 METROWEEKLY 13


SPEAK OUT
Story Districts 20-year work with coming out stories
will be on display at two upcoming events

T
WO YEARS AGO, CRISTINA CALVILLO-RIVERA DECIDED TO COME
out in front of 600 people at the 9:30 Club. I probably have never had such
an invigorating experience, Calvillo-Rivera says, about sharing all these
different layers to her identity at a Story District event. I shared a very emotional
story about how I express my gender, she says. I am a woman, but I am a mas-
culine-of-center woman. Being Latina and being a lesbian, Im very aware of my
identity in a lot of different spaces. When I was up onstage, I was talking about my
experience, and everyone was right there with me.
Calvillo-Rivera has been engaged in storytelling since her college days at the
University of Texas at El Paso. Yet it wasnt until the community trainer and advo-
cate moved to D.C. with her wife that she realized the confidence-boosting and
ALEXANDER MOROZOV

therapeutic power of storytelling.


The coaching is wonderful, Calvillo-Rivera says about Story District. Since its
founding as SpeakEasyDC 20 years ago, the organization has become known for
its efforts to create a safe space where locals can get to know each other through
personal storytelling. And the organization, led by Amy Saidman, has long nurtured
and championed LGBTQ storytellers. Amy is a wonderful person to work with,
extremely creative, and Story District has really provided a lot in the past 20 years for the D.C. area, Calvillo-Rivera says.
In addition to a celebratory event this Saturday, Sept. 23, Story District is working with the Latino GLBT History Project to
facilitate the first-ever Queer Cuentos event on National Coming Out day, Wednesday, Oct. 11. This is a partnership that Ive been
wanting to do for a while, says Calvillo-Rivera, who this summer became the History Projects first female president in its 17-year
existence. We know as Latinx queer folks that our historias, our stories, are seldomly told, and left out of major conversations, and
are sometimes purposefully erased especially within our community.
We will have a diverse cast of Latinx folks speaking in Spanish, speaking in English, speaking in Spanglish, she says, telling
their stories on the intersections of being LGBTQ and Latinx, on being an immigrant, on having parents who are immigrants as well.
And itll all take place in front of an encouraging audience at Town Danceboutique.
One thing that I really love about doing these performances is that the audience is right there with you, Calvillo-Rivera says.
Theyre feeling the heartache with you, or theyre laughing with you, or theyre feeling that moment of pride, because they too have
gone through those similar experiences and know what type of resilience it takes. Doug Rule

I Did It For The Story is Saturday, Sept. 23, with doors at 6 p.m., at the Lincoln Theatre, 1215 U St. NW.
Tickets are $25 to $40. Call 202-888-0050 or visit thelincolndc.com.

Queer Cuentos is Wednesday, Oct. 11, with doors at 6:30 p.m., at Town, 2009 8th St. NW. Cover is $10.
Call 202-234-TOWN or visit facebook.com/LatinoGLBTHistory.

including Fried Calamari with hot also the Chief Spirits Advisor for TEAISM UNION MARKET: Bowman, Belle Isle Craft Spirits,
cherry peppers and cocktail sauce, the National Archives Foundation, MATSUKAWAYA Boar Creek Whiskey, Catoctin
Creamed Spinach with parmesan, where he leads regular History Teaism is currently sharing its Creek, Chesapeake Bay Distillery,
cream cheese and Tabasco, and Happy Hour discussions and tast- booth in the trendy culinary haven Five Mile Mountain Distillery,
String Beans with garlic. All of this ings. Next up comes a focus on the next to Gallaudet University with MurLarkey, Virginia Distillery
is in addition to the Silver Spring evolving world of culinary cock- this Japanese sweets company. Company, Vitae Spirits and Keep
restaurants regular menu and sig- tails, or those specifically paired Matsukawaya specializes in raw It Simple Syrup. Presented in two
nature raw bar. Now to Sept. 30. All with food. Browns guests include wagashi, or sweets made of sessions, with VIP tickets offering
Set Restaurant & Bar, 8630 Fenton James Beard Award-winning chef fruits with mochi rice, and usually early access before the spirited
St., Plaza 5. Silver Spring. Call 301- Michelle Bernstein, John Lermayer served with matcha tea. Through masses. Saturday, Sept. 30, at noon
495-8800 or visit allsetrestaurant. of Sweet Liberty, Lynnette Marrero September. Teaism Union Market, and 3 p.m. The Passenger, 1539 7th
com. of Speed Rack, and Johnny Spero 1309 5th St. NE. Call 202-409-1285 St. NW. Tickets are $40 to Session 1
of Columbia Room and the forth- or visit teaism.com. and $50 for Session 2, or $75 for VIP
NATIONAL ARCHIVES: coming Reverie. Saturday, Sept. to either. Call 202-853-3588 or visit
CULINARY COCKTAILS 23, at 2:30 p.m. National Archives VIRGINIA SPIRITS FESTIVAL virginiaspirits.org/vsf.
Most of the time Derek Brown Museum, Constitution Avenue Virginias best distilleries come
is known as the owner of the between 7th and 9th Streets NW. together at Shaw hotspot The
Columbia Room and the trio of NW. Tickets are $60, or $50 for Passenger for an all-inclusive tast-
Shaw restaurants that has become Foundation members. Call 202-357- ing event, co-hosted by organizer
the site of the overly popular 5000 or visit archivesfoundation. Craft Hospitality and the Virginia
Miracle on 7th Street- and Game of org/history-happy-hour. Distillers Association. Participating
Thrones-themed pop-ups. But hes distilleries include A Smith

14 SEPTEMBER 21, 2017 METROWEEKLY


ABOVE & BEYOND to parodies of Shakespeare or to
shop for early holiday gifts from
the amazing artisans here with
ART ALL NIGHT 2017:
their handmade wares. Or simply
MADE IN D.C.
to eat a turkey leg, steak on a stake
Six far-flung D.C. Main Streets
or cheesecake on a stick. Weekends
neighborhoods will be abuzz with
to Oct. 22. 1821 Crownsville Road,
art during this nighttime festival.
Annapolis, Md. Tickets are $17 to
Visual and performing artists work-
$25 for a single-day adult ticket.
ing in mediums as diverse as paint-
Call 800-296-7304 or visit rennfest.
ing, crafts, music, theater, film and
com.
poetry, will be on hand at venues or
outdoor spaces in every neighbor-
MUCHO KLUNCHO TALENT
hood Congress Heights, Dupont
SHOW
Circle, H Street, North Capitol,
The Klunch presents a three-plus
Shaw, and Tenleytown. A sched-
hour parade of wild and wacky art-
ule per neighborhood is available
ists demonstrating many bizarre
online. Saturday, Sept. 23, from 7
skills and talents. Among other
p.m. to 3 a.m. Visit artallnightdc.
things on display, youll see acts
com.
who can belch a song, speed-stack
cups, do handstands in skirts, and
DC STATE FAIR
dress themselves or their pets in
Now in its eighth year, this is a free,
funny costumes. Hosts for the event
all-volunteer, non-governmental
are Hot Todd Lincoln, Shortstaxx,
showcase of the regions agricultur-
Lucrezia Blozia, Kate Debelack,
al and artistic talents, named with
Kittie Glitter, and Lobsterboy.
a wink to efforts for D.C. state-
Saturday, Sept. 23, at 7 p.m. Logan
hood rights. Co-presented by the
Fringe Arts Space, 1358 Florida Ave.
Southwest BID, this years fair takes
NE. Tickets are $35 to $75. Call
place outside at the main intersec-
866-811-4111 or visit theklunch.com.
tion in Southwest D.C., officially
kicking off with a Pet Parade cir-
THEATREWEEK
cling the Southwest Duck Pond and
More than two dozen theater com-
returning south along 4th Street
panies offer discounted tickets to
SW. Throughout the day, people
current productions until Sunday,
can attend educational sessions on
Oct. 1 for this years TheatreWeek,
topics ranging from flower arrang-
organized by TheatreWashington.
ing to fingerpainting to public
Among this years 27 participating
space recycling. The chief draw is
productions are Constellations
the days many contests, as vict-
The Wild Party, GALAs Don Juan
uals such as ice cream, pies, pick-
Tenorio, Keegan Theatres Stones
led foods, Mumbo Sauce, and even
in His Pockets, Mosaic Theater
home-brewed beer, wine, and pot
Companys The Devils Music: The
will be evaluated by a panel of judg-
Life & Blues of Bessie Smith, Olney
es. Naturally, there will be various
Theatres In The Heights, Theater
art and craft competitions, prizes
Alliances Word Becomes Flesh,
for unusually-sized homegrown
Washington Improv Theaters
fruits and vegetables, and live con-
Rise Up 2017. Discounted tickets
tests from Hula Hoop to Sloppy
to TheatreWeek productions are
Joe Eating to various categories in
either $15 or $35, depending on the
Tattoo and the new Whisker Wars.
show and the venue. More details at
Performances by local bands, DJs,
theatreWeek.org. Discount tickets
and dance troupes round out the
available at TodayTix.com.
fun and frivolity. Sunday, Sept. 24,
from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Outside the
ZOOFIESTA
Waterfront Metro, 425 M St. SW.
Subtitled Un da de diversin
Visit dcstatefair.org.
animal para toda la familia, this
free Hispanic Heritage Month
MARYLAND RENAISSANCE
event at the National Zoo features
FESTIVAL
talks, feedings and demonstrations
In the year 1527, Henry VIIs love
led by zookeepers highlighting
for Anne Boleyn pushes him to ask
animals including Andean bears,
for an annulment of marriage from
sloths, golden lion tamarins, and
Queen, Katherine of Aragon. And
Panamanian golden frogs. ZooFiesta
Carolyn Spedden, artistic direc-
also features live music and cuisine
tor of the annual festival, now in
from performers and vendors repre-
its 41st year, tells Metro Weekly
senting Latin America. Patrons can
that of all the storylines we do
stay afterwards for Happy Hour at
with Henry VIII, Boleyn tends to
the Zoo, a Thursday-Sunday pro-
be the most popular. Yet theres
motion in September and October
a little something for everyone at
offering food and drink specials on
RennFest, which Spedden calls a
the Panda Overlook. Sunday, Sept.
very inclusive, welcoming event.
24, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. National
Everybody should feel comfortable
Zoo, 3001 Connecticut Ave. NW.
coming through the gates. Thats
Free. Call 202-633-4800 or visit
true whether your primary motive
nationalzoo.si.edu. l
is to take in the performances
over 200 professionals engaged in
everything from jousting to come-
dic sword-fighting to reenactments

SEPTEMBER 21, 2017 METROWEEKLY 15


PHOTO COURTESY OF CATHY RENNA
Forum

Cathy Renna with Alison Bechdel and Windsor at the opening of Fun Home

REMEMBERING EDIE
Edie Windsor was a friend to many, and a hero to all

By Cathy Renna

I
TS ONLY BEEN A WEEK, AND IT SEEMS THAT at an event, but she rarely said no to a request for a photo.
so much has already been said of Edie Windsor, the Edie only insisted on a few things: One, that is be a good
extraordinary 88-year-old force of nature who, for photo; two, no flash; and three, that the person email her
decades, worked for fairness and equality for all. a copy. As her publicist/photographer, I took hundreds of
Mostly known for the historic Windsor v U.S. mar- photos over the years and she always wanted copies and
riage equality case, whose victory began dismantling the in many cases asked me to print some out. She asked for
so-called Defense of Marriage Act and paved the way for one of my most precious shots, my Mom and Edie at an
marriage equality, I was thrilled to see the world recognize awards gala in Queens, to put up in her apartment, which
her impact. But there was a lot more to Edie than marriage meant the world to me. She truly cared for and was very
equality. And that is saying something. As someone who protective of those she called friend and chosen family, and
was blessed to work for and with Edie after her Supreme I learned the full extent of that several times. She gushed
Court victory (what she referred to as her new-found over me when she met my Mom, and they ended up joking-
celebrity), and as exciting it can sound to recount sto- ly arguing of bragging rights for me. She adored my partner,
ries of travel, galas, events and media, it was in the quiet not just because Karen is a fabulous, kind, beautiful woman
moments of our time together that Edies extraordinary (Edies words and mine), but because she treats me with
spirit really touched me. the love and kindness Edie wants all of us to be blessed
We all saw how social media became a flurry of photos with in life.
with Edie and the shared words of love, sadness and admi- Edie often spoke about her love affair with the LGBT
ration. Some knew her for decades, some only met briefly community, especially after the Supreme Court decision,

16 SEPTEMBER 21, 2017 METROWEEKLY


and she could not have described it any better. That is where the
little moments come in. While on an Olivia cruise several years
ago, a young couple stood up after a screening of the documenta-
ry Edie and Thea: A Very Long Engagement to thank her, as many
bi-national couples do, for the fact that her case allowed them to
marry and the non-citizen partner could then remain in the U.S.
But in this case the young women were from the Middle East
and one would have not only been deported, but her family was
not supportive and would have had her jailed and possibly
worse when she returned to her native country. There wasnt
a dry eye in the auditorium. Edie made sure I grabbed them after
and invited them back to her cabin so she could hear their story
in full and get to know them better.
And I cannot count the number of times children would
tell Edie that they had her picture up in their house, and that
because of her their parents could get married. Her love of chil-
dren was well known and this was always a moment that made
her beam.
At the very quickly organized event at the Stonewall Inn the
day she passed, we celebrated, mourned and remembered Edie,
with hundreds gathered to share stories, cry, laugh and dance
(Edie loved to dance!), blocks away from where she lived for
decades. Again, it was the amazing range of people who knew
her from grassroots activists like Brendan Faye and Cathy
Marino-Thomas, who assisted her in traveling with Thea to
legally marry and supported her case after Thea passed away,
despite the fact that national LGBT organizations told her it was
not the right time. Edies beloved Big Apple Corps was there to
play Over the Rainbow and her Rabbi, the wonderful Sharon
Kleinbaum of Congregation Beit Simchat Torah, held us togeth-
er with her comforting and powerful words as she introduced
speakers honoring Edie as an activist, a trailblazer and a simply
extraordinary person.
At her memorial last Friday it truly sunk in for me that she
was gone, as I saw mutual friends and could not hold back the
tears. When her signature fedora and pink scarf were placed on
a small table, it became real. Edie Windsor is gone. There is an
empty place in my heart now. Our community and the world is a
little less bright, but Edie would want one thing: to fill that space
with new joy, love and hope for ourselves and those coming up
behind us. In ways big and small, we can all make a difference,
if we remain true to ourselves and dont postpone joy. Just like
Edie did for so many years. l

Cathy Renna is a longtime LGBTQ media activist and communi-


cations/PR consultant. She is the owner of Targetcue.com. Follow
her on Twitter @cathyrenna.

SEPTEMBER 21, 2017 METROWEEKLY 17


Community
THURSDAY, Sept. 21
The DC Center holds a meet-
ing of its POLY DISCUSSION
GROUP, for people interested
in polyamory, non-monogamy
or other non-traditional rela-
tionships. 7-8 p.m. 2000 14th
St. NW, Suite 105. Visit thedc-
center.org.

Weekly Events

ANDROMEDA
TRANSCULTURAL HEALTH
offers free HIV testing and HIV
services (by appointment). 9
a.m.-5 p.m. Decatur Center,
1400 Decatur St. NW. To
arrange an appointment, call
202-291-4707, or visit androm-
edatransculturalhealth.org.

DC AQUATICS CLUB practice


session at Takoma Aquatic

A TOAST TO FREEDOM
Center. 7:30-9 p.m. 300 Van
Buren St. NW. For more infor-
mation, visit swimdcac.org.

DC FRONT RUNNERS run-


DC Public Library Foundations Banned Books Week cocktail party ning/walking/social club
is a celebration of free expression welcomes runners of all ability
levels for exercise in a fun and
supportive environment, with

U
socializing afterward. Route
NCENSORED UNDERGROUND IS OUR CELEBRATION AT THE END distance is 3-6 miles. Meet at
of Banned Books Week, says Linnea Hegarty, executive director of the 7 p.m. at 23rd & P Streets NW.
DC Public Library Foundation, which hosts the event. It is a party cele- For more information, visit
dcfrontrunners.org.
brating banned books, and the freedom to read, express, and create.
On Sept. 30, lovers of literature and the First Amendment will have a chance DC LAMBDA SQUARES gay
to raise a glass to their favorite books as they commemorate Banned Books Week. and lesbian square-dancing
group features mainstream
Now in its fourth year, the annual cocktail party is designed to celebrate those through advanced square
books that have been banned or challenged by censors, from the politically-moti- dancing at the National City
vated to the prudish, for a host of reasons. Christian Church, 5 Thomas
For the party, which brings in about 400 guests each year, the DC Public Circle NW, 7-9:30 p.m. Casual
dress. 301-257-0517, dclamb-
Library Foundation brings in some of D.C.s top bartenders and mixologists to dasquares.org.
create cocktails based on their favorite book. Given this years theme of Texts
Against Tyranny, expect concoctions that allude to some of the most well-known DC SCANDALS RUGBY holds
practice. The team is always
dystopian novels, such as Brave New World, Fahrenheit 451, Nineteen Eighty-Four, looking for new members. All
The Giver, and The Handmaids Tale. welcome. 7:30-9:30 p.m. King
Tickets to the event costs $50 per person. Attendees can also purchase a host Greenleaf Recreation Center,
ticket package for $250, which includes four tickets and what Hegarty promises 201 N St. SW. For more infor-
mation, visit scandalsrfc.org or
will be an awesome gift bag. dcscandals@gmail.com.
Banned Books Week is an international celebration thats put on by book sell-
ers and libraries across the world, she says. The purpose of it is to highlight the THE DULLES TRIANGLES
Northern Virginia social
fact that, even in the U.S., banning and challenging books is still happening, and to group meets for happy hour at
celebrate the freedom we have to read the books we want to read. Sheraton in Reston. All wel-
Its in part a cautionary tale. I think people often assume it doesnt happen come. 7-9 p.m. 11810 Sunrise
here, but it does in schools and school libraries, she adds. I think were lucky in Valley Drive, second-floor bar.
For more information, visit
Washington that we live in a very literate and progressive city. I think its import- dullestriangles.com.
ant for the people who live here, many of whom are in positions of power, to really
think about it. John Riley HIV TESTING at Whitman-
Walker Health. 9 a.m.-12:30
p.m. and from 2-5 p.m. at 1525
14th St. NW, and 9 a.m-12
Uncensored Underground: The Cocktail Party is on Saturday, Sept. 30 from 7-11 p.m. and 2-5 p.m. at the Max
p.m. at Dupont Underground, 19 Dupont Circle, NW. For tickets or more informa- Robinson Center, 2301 MLK Jr.
Ave. SE. For an appointment
tion, visit dcplf.org/uncensored2017. call 202-745-7000 or visit whit-
man-walker.org.

22 SEPTEMBER 21, 2017 METROWEEKLY


IDENTITY offers free and confi- to follow the meeting. 8-9:30 p.m. views with authors. Performers
dential HIV testing at two separate 2000 14th St. NW, Suite 105. For DC AQUATICS CLUB holds a include The Improv Imps, poet
locations. Walk-ins accepted from more information, visit thedccen- practice session at Wilson Aquatic Danielle Reed, and comedian
2-6 p.m., by appointment for all ter.org. Center. 9:30-11 a.m. 4551 Fort Dr. Anthony Oakes. Rayceen will inter-
other hours. 414 East Diamond NW. For more information, visit view performer Tony Nelson and
Ave., Gaithersburg, Md. or 7676 SATURDAY, Sept. 23 swimdcac.org. author Monika Pickett. Snacks and
New Hampshire Ave., Suite 411, beverages provided. Admission is
Takoma Park, Md. To set up an Join The DC Center as it vol- DC FRONT RUNNERS running/ free. 6 p.m. Shaw Neighborhood
appointment or for more informa- unteers for FOOD & FRIENDS, walking/social club welcomes run- Library, 1630 7th St. NW. Visit dcli-
tion, call Gaithersburg, 301-300- packing meals and groceries for ners of all ability levels for exercise brary.org/bannedbooks.
9978, or Takoma Park, 301-422- people living with serious ailments. in a fun and supportive environ-
2398. 10 a.m. to Noon, 219 Riggs Rd. NE. ment, with socializing afterward. TUESDAY, Sept.26
Near the Fort Totten Metro. For a Route will be a distance run of 8, 10
METROHEALTH CENTER ride from the Metro, call the Food or 12 miles. Meet at 9 a.m. at 23rd The DC Centers GENDERQUEER
offers free, rapid HIV testing. & Friends shuttle at 202-669-6437. & P Streets NW. For more informa- DC support and discussion group,
Appointment needed. 1012 14th For more information, visit thedc- tion, visit dcfrontrunners.org. for people who identify outside the
St. NW, Suite 700. To arrange an center.org or foodandfriends.org. gender binary, meets on the fourth
appointment, call 202-638-0750. DIGNITYUSA offers Roman Tuesday of every month. 7-8:30
WEEKLY EVENTS Catholic Mass for the LGBT p.m. 2000 14th St. NW, Suite 105.
SMYAL offers free HIV Testing, 3-5 community. All welcome. Sign For more information, visit thedc-
p.m., by appointment and walk-in, ANDROMEDA TRANSCULTURAL interpreted. 6 p.m. St. Margarets center.org.
for youth 21 and younger. Youth HEALTH offers free HIV testing Church, 1820 Connecticut Ave.
Center, 410 7th St. SE. 202-567- NW. For more info, visit dignity-
and HIV services (by appointment Weekly Events
3155 or testing@smyal.org. only). 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Decatur Center, washington.org.
1400 Decatur St. NW. To arrange DC AQUATICS CLUB practice
STI TESTING at Whitman-Walker an appointment, call 202-291-4707, FIRST CONGREGATIONAL session at Takoma Aquatic Center.
Health. 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and 2-3 or visit andromedatranscultural- UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST 7:30-9 p.m. 300 Van Buren St. NW.
p.m. at both 1525 14th St. NW and health.org. welcomes all to 10:30 a.m. service,
For more information, visit swim-
the Max Robinson Center, 2301 945 G St. NW. firstuccdc.org or
dcac.org.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave. SE. DC AQUATICS CLUB holds a prac- 202-628-4317.
Testing is intended for those with- tice session at Montgomery College DC SCANDALS RUGBY holds prac-
out symptoms. For an appointment Aquatics Club. 8:30-10 a.m. 7600 HOPE UNITED CHURCH OF tice. The team is always looking
call 202-745-7000 or visit whit- Takoma Ave., Takoma, Md. For CHRIST welcomes GLBT commu- for new members. All welcome.
man-walker.org. more information, visit swimdcac. nity for worship. 10:30 a.m., 6130
7:30-9:30 p.m. King Greenleaf
org. Old Telegraph Road, Alexandria.
Recreation Center, 201 N St. SW.
US HELPING US hosts a Narcotics hopeucc.org.
For more information, visit scan-
Anonymous Meeting. The group DC FRONT RUNNERS running/ dalsrfc.org or dcscandals@gmail.
is independent of UHU. 6:30-7:30 walking/social club welcomes run- HSV-2 SOCIAL AND SUPPORT com.
p.m., 3636 Georgia Ave. NW. For ners of all ability levels for exercise GROUP for gay men living in the
more information, call 202-446- in a fun and supportive environ- DC metro area. This group will be
THE GAY MENS HEALTH
1100. ment, with socializing afterward. meeting once a month. For infor-
COLLABORATIVE offers free
Route distance will be 3-6 miles. mation on location and time, visit
HIV testing and STI screening
WOMENS LEADERSHIP Walker meet at 9:30 a.m. and run- H2gether.com.
and treatment every Tuesday.
INSTITUTE for young LBTQ ners at 10 a.m. at 23rd & P Streets 5-6:30 p.m. Rainbow Tuesday
women, 13-21, interested in lead- NW. For more information, visit Join LINCOLN
LGBT Clinic, Alexandria Health
ership development. 5-6:30 p.m. dcfrontrunners.org. CONGREGATIONAL TEMPLE Department, 4480 King St. 703-
SMYAL Youth Center, 410 7th St. UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST for 746-4986 or text 571-214-9617.
SE. For more information, call 202- DIGNITYUSA sponsors Mass for an inclusive, loving and progressive
james.leslie@inova.org.
567-3163, or email catherine.chu@ LGBT community, family and faith community every Sunday. 11
smyal.org. friends. 6:30 p.m., Immanuel a.m. 1701 11th Street NW, near R in
Shaw/Logan neighborhood. lincol- WEDNESDAY, Sept. 27
Church-on-the-Hill, 3606 Seminary
FRIDAY, Sept. 22 Road, Alexandria. All welcome. For ntemple.org.
LAMBDA BRIDGE CLUB meets
more info, visit dignitynova.org.
METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY at 7:30 at the Dignity Center, 721
GAMMA is a confidential, volun- 8th St. SE, across from the Marine
tary, peer-support group for men IDENTITY offers free and confiden- CHURCH OF WASHINGTON, D.C.
services at 9 a.m. (ASL interpret- Barracks, for Duplicate Bridge. No
who are gay, bisexual, questioning tial HIV testing at its Takoma Park
ed) and 11 a.m. Childrens Sunday reservations needed. Newcomers
and who are now or who have been location. Walk-ins accepted from
School at 11 a.m. 474 Ridge St. NW. welcome. Call 202-841-0279 if you
in a relationship with a woman. 12-3 p.m., by appointment for all
202-638-7373, mccdc.com. need a partner.
7:30-9:30 p.m. Luther Place other hours. 7676 New Hampshire
Memorial Church, 1226 Vermont Ave., Suite 411, Takoma Park, Md.
RIVERSIDE BAPTIST CHURCH, The DC Centers HIV Working
Ave NW. GAMMA meetings are To set up an appointment or for
a Christ-centered, interracial, Group meets with the DC Center
also held in Vienna, Va., and in more information, call 301-422-
welcoming-and-affirming church, Youth Working Group, the Mayors
Frederick, Md. For more informa- 2398.
offers service at 10 a.m. 680 I St. Office on LGBTQ Affairs, and Ivan
tion, visit gammaindc.org. Torres from the DC Department
SW. 202-554-4330, riversidedc.org.
SUNDAY, Sept. 24 of Health to discuss the creation
The DC Center holds its CENTER of a citywide DC LGBTQ HEALTH
AGING MONTHLY LUNCH social UNITARIAN CHURCH OF
Weekly Events ARLINGTON, an LGBTQ welcom- REPORT. 6-7:30 p.m. 2000 14th St.
for members of D.C.s senior com- NW, Suite 105. For more informa-
munity. 12-2 p.m. 2000 14th St. ing-and-affirming congregation,
LGBT-inclusive ALL SOULS offers services at 10 a.m. Virginia tion, visit thedccenter.org. l
NW, Suite 105. For more informa- MEMORIAL EPISCOPAL CHURCH
tion, visit thedccenter.org or call Rainbow UU Ministry. 4444
celebrates Low Mass at 8:30 Arlington Blvd. uucava.org.
202-682-2245. a.m., High Mass at 11 a.m. 2300 Submit your community event for
Cathedral Ave. NW. 202-232-4244, consideration at least 10 days prior
WOMEN IN THEIR TWENTIES allsoulsdc.org.
MONDAY, Sept. 25 to the Thursday publication in which
(AND THIRTIES), a social discus- you would like it to appear. Email to
sion and activity group for queer The DC Public Library kicks
calendar@metroweekly.com.
women, meets at The DC Center off Banned Books Week with
on the second and fourth Friday of RAYCEENS READING ROOM, a
each month. Group social activity night of comedy, poetry, and inter-

SEPTEMBER 21, 2017 METROWEEKLY 23


24 SEPTEMBER 21, 2017 METROWEEKLY
The
IF I HEAR ONE MORE TIME THAT LGBT
Republicans are like Jews for Hitler or blacks
for the KKK, my head will explode, says
Gregory T. Angelo. Trolls think theyre being
clever and theyre really not. Id appreciate

Right
trolls much more if they likened Log Cabin
Republicans to White Whales for Ahab.
As president of Log Cabin Republicans,
the nations largest organization of LGBTQ
Republicans, Angelo has had to develop a thick
skin. Facing nearly daily criticism from
Democrats, Republicans, and the media he

Stuff
has to stand by decisions he feels are in the best
interests of Log Cabins long-term viability.
It takes a unique type to willfully take on
the responsibility of being the national point
person for LGBT Republicans and allies around
the United States, because youre always taking
What does it take to lead one of the LGBTQ communitys most heat from Democrats and LGBT Democrats,
controversial organizations? Just ask Gregory T. Angelo. especially, he says. Frequently, youre taking
heat from members of your own party or youre
in a position where you have to stand up to
Interview by John Riley members of your own party. That creates a
Photography by Todd Franson climate where anything and everything I do is
necessarily criticized, by either the right or the
left. Every time.
Due to the vast number of people itching
to lambaste his actions, Angelo has to pick and
choose his battles. But he is always ready to
defend his organization, its members, and their
political beliefs. He believes that fighting spirit
and combative nature are part of Log Cabins
DNA, dating back to its inception 40 years ago.
There are times that we have fought the
most bare-knuckle brawls in D.C. that one can
see, he says. The battles that we had in the
past with the American Conservative Union,
that have now led to a very fruitful relationship
between the two of us. The fight that Log Cabin
Republicans waged in the aftermath of the
passage of the GOP platform in 2016. The fight
that our Texas chapter has waged to participate
formally in the Texas GOP Convention. These
are all battles and theyre not easy.
Fighting those battles comes naturally to
Angelo. Born in Long Island and raised in the
Northeast, he has always been something of a
go-getter.
When I was in fifth grade, I ran for pres-
ident of my class, and really made a point of
going all-out in my campaign, he says. I had
a campaign manager. I had friends holding
up this American flag behind me as I gave my
closing speech, imploring people to vote for me
for fifth-grade class president, and I won in a
landslide.
A product of the Catholic school system,
Angelos faith though briefly shaken in his
twenties hasnt conflicted with his sexuality.
When he found his way back to Christianity,
it wasnt through the Catholic church, but in a
Protestant denomination in New York. There,
he found like-minded conservatives who wel-

SEPTEMBER 21, 2017 METROWEEKLY 25


comed me for who I was in all ways. group of men and women who felt like a second family. We saw
Marble Church was known for being fairly conservative, but eye to eye on political ideologies, we had discussions about Bill
in the 1990s, when the HIV and AIDS epidemic was breaking OReillys Talking Points Memo, and were getting into deep
out in New York, the then-senior minister, Dr. Arthur Caliandro, discussions about the 2008 election.
opened the churchs doors to gay men for prayer, Angelo says. Feeling like I had met a second family, I wanted to assist this
There was and remains what they call the GIFTS ministry organization as best I could. I was working in public relations,
thats all about LGBT individuals connecting on a religious level and started volunteering whatever PR expertise I could offer,
as people of faith. Its challenging to find a church like that any- because I thought Log Cabin was doing good work.
where in the United States that is openly welcoming of LGBT MW: When did you decide to take a leadership role?
individuals, but that does not betray a liberal philosophy in its ANGELO: In early 2009, the then-chairman of the Log Cabin
preaching. Republicans of New York State PAC had indicated that he would
On Wednesday, Sept. 27, Log Cabin will celebrate the 40th be moving on. At the time, there was no one interested in taking
anniversary of its founding at its Spirit of Lincoln Dinner, with on all the responsibility involved with political fundraising on a
former Hewlett-Packard CEO and 2016 presidential candidate state level. But the bylaws allowed the national president of Log
Carly Fiorina giving the keynote address. The annual event Cabin Republicans to appoint a state chairman in the absence of
brings together more than 300 LGBTQ Republicans and allies, as any volunteers, so I was named chairman in early 2009.
well as pro-LGBTQ GOP members of Congress, with whom Log In 2008, there was not a tremendous amount of enthusiasm
Cabin has strong working relationships. to vote Republican. John McCain ran as competitive a race as
If the last 40 years has taught me anything, it is that his- he could, but the odds-on thinking was that after eight years of
torically, any achievements toward LGBTQ equality that are a George W. Bush presidency, America wanted a Democrat. It
to be realized require cooperation with and work of Log Cabin would have been far easier for me to go to the other side, and
Republicans, Angelo says. What is undeniable is that every I had not been politically involved to that point. I had also not
one of the major federal achievements in LGBT equality have been registered with any political party. I tell people that I was
had the fingerprints of Log Cabin Republicans on them. That is not always a Republican, but I was never a Democrat. When I
everything from the work that occurred at the founding of this registered to vote, I registered as someone who was politically
organization, fighting against passage of the Briggs Initiative, the unaffiliated, but nonetheless my political ideologies and my vot-
work Log Cabin Republicans has done in the areas of combating ing patterns were always center-right.
HIV and AIDS, the repeal of Dont Ask, Dont Tell, the passage MW: When did you realize that you had those political beliefs?
of marriage equality, and even the passage of the Employment ANGELO: I think its always who I was. I always leaned to the
Non-Discrimination Act in the House in 2007 and the Senate in conservative side of thinking, the conservative side of voting,
2013. All would not have been possible without the work of Log and it was always conservative candidates that inspired me. I
Cabin Republicans, in concert with other LGBTQ advocates. definitely had my opinions on a lot of stuff. I would drive boy-
Angelo refutes the idea that supporting Republican can- friends nuts because I would insist on watching The OReilly
didates and conservative values is incompatible with being Factor at 8 p.m. every night, and was always a newshound. I was
LGBTQ. He rejects the suggestion that Log Cabin needs to spend always consuming news whenever I had the chance. Thats still
all of its time chastising and denouncing those in the GOP who the case.
hold more rigid views on sexuality or LGBTQ inclusion. MW: What specifically appealed to you?
I look at the Democratic Partys platform and say, Great, ANGELO: Its not so much the appeal of conservatism as it is
okay. They support marriage equality, and they recognize LGBT seeing what conservatism stands for, by recognizing the absur-
individuals in an explicit manner, but thats it, Angelo says. dities that are the natural end of following liberal thinking to its
The overwhelming preponderance of the remainder of the terminus.
Democratic Partys platform are things that I most definitely do The groupthink that is involved in liberalism, the fact that
not agree with. there is an extreme litmus test and its growing ever more
But for so many on the left, if youre gay you can only care extreme among Democrats and hyper-progressives when it
about federal LGBT non-discrimination legislation and marriage comes to toeing a party line. People make a big deal of the GOP
equality. Or, at the very least, you have to care the most about platform, but I have found far more individuals who have differ-
those two things. And any candidate or any political party that ences and disagreements with the GOP platform than I do those
isnt in complete agreement with them is not worthy of your of the Democratic Party, who demand that members pledge
support. And thats just preposterous. allegiance in a doctrinaire manner to every tenet in that partys
platform.
I have never been a fan of identity politics. You see that in
METRO WEEKLY: How did you first get involved with the Log Cabin stark relief on the Democratic side. Despite differences I might
Republicans? have with the Republican Partys platform on LGBT issues, I
GREGORY T. ANGELO: I went to my first meeting in March of look at the GOP platform and I see myself in agreement with 90
2008 at the behest of a friend from high school. He forwarded an to 95 percent of the partys core principles.
email from the Young Republicans of New York with a five-word MW: Lets get personal for a moment. When did you first realize
message: Check out Thirsty Thursday, bro. At the bottom of you were gay?
the email, there was a section that listed Republican events at ANGELO: I think you find that when you come out, you look back
affiliate organizations. It said, Log Cabin Republicans, monthly at your life, and you say, Yeah, I was always gay. There were
happy hour, Thirsty Thursday. always signs that pointed to me being gay from a young age.
I went not knowing what to expect, and part of me was ready I always felt a little different than the other guys, and wasnt
to just turn around and leave if I found an organization that exactly able to put my finger on it until probably my junior year
was not to my liking, but thats not the case. I quickly found a of college, where I realized that the feelings that I have that

26 SEPTEMBER 21, 2017 METROWEEKLY


made me different were rooted in attrac-
tions that I had to other men. ANYTHING AND During that time, I had a boyfriend, and
the two of us had resolved to spend New
This was, of course, complicated by in
some ways the Catholic upbringing that I EVERYTHING Years together. Over the course of the
Christmas vacation, my father and I were

I DO IS
had and the Catholic university that I was just hanging around and he had asked me,
attending. At the time, the school did not very causally and nonchalantly, What are
recognize the LGBT group on campus. It your plans for New Years? I said, My
was eternally the source of debate in the NECESSARILY friend Junior and I are going to a nightclub
few meetings I went to, how we can get the in Boston thats called The Machine. I
school to recognize us.
Maybe this betrays my conservative
CRITICIZED, went to Boston and had a great time. Then
I went back to school.
thinking even at the time. After I came
out, I didnt want to sit around having a
BY EITHER Shortly before classes began, my phone
rang at school. It was my father. He asked
pity party about why the school didnt
recognize the LGBT group on campus. I
THE RIGHT if I knew that the club, The Machine, was
a gay nightclub. I said, Yes. He asked me
didnt need Boston College to validate me
by certifying a club for LGBT individuals.
OR THE LEFT. if the guy who I went to the nightclub with
was gay. I paused for a second and said,
I wanted to be out and celebrate who I was
and the fact I was able to finally be out as Every time I Yes. Then he asked me, Are you gay?
I paused again. I had all these thoughts
a gay man.
MW: Who did you come out to first? make a decision running through my head: Do I try to keep
up a charade? Do I lie about this or do I
ANGELO: There was a party that I went to
at another university while I was a junior, there will be just come clean? After that long pause, I
said, Yes, and he hung up the phone. I sat
and got into a little mischief at that event. alone in my room for maybe a minute. It felt
I came back to Boston College and asked individuals like an eternity.
my best friend Mike if my making out with Then the phone rang again. It was my
another guy meant something. He said, who dont like mother. She was in tears. She was beside
Probably. herself, exceptionally upset that her son
At the time, I was still very afraid of
what coming out would mean to me, pro-
what I do, or was gay. They came to Boston for my com-
mencement ceremony, but we shared very
fessionally, personally. Most of my friends
were and still are straight guys, and
what I say, or few words there. A couple of weeks later, I
received a letter in the mail from my father
I was very concerned with the way my
friends would react if they found out that
the position outlining all the reasons why I was making
a terrible choice. Thinking back, part of
one of their best friends was gay. I strug-
gled with this throughout my junior year,
that this me wishes I saved that letter, but at the
time I was just so enraged I remember just
and determined that I didnt want to live
my last year at university in silence, or in organization tearing it up and throwing it away.
MW: Did you ever make peace with your
shame, or in secret, or hiding who I was
from people who were dear to me. I figured takes. Tough. parents?
ANGELO: Two years later, I was in a serious
I should just rip the bandaid off and let the relationship with someone who I had been
chips fall where they may. with for several months. We were living
When I came back to campus for my senior year, I pulled my together in New York City. Out of the blue, my mother called up
three roommates aside. Everyone was hanging out, and I said, and told me that she and my father were going to be in town to
Guys, come to the living room. Theres something I want to tell go see a Broadway show and asked me if my friend and I would
you. One of my buddies, Tom, said, Does Greg want to tell us be interested in meeting them for brunch. We did. My fathers
hes gay or something? Thats exactly what I did. They were all background is finance and the guy who I was dating at the time
totally cool with it I still remain friends with those guys. worked in the financial industry in risk management. The two of
My buddy Jim cut the tension in the room by saying, Its them got along swimmingly.
interesting that you chose this moment to come out forever I think at that moment thats when my parents saw that if
because my father asked me over the summer, What would you you were a gay man it was not your destiny to be a window dress-
do if you found out that one of your friends was gay? I thought er or a hairstylist as your greatest career aspirations, that it was
about it, and I told my dad that it wouldnt change anything. possible for same-sex couples to be in committed relationships
Now, Greg, I can say that I was 100 percent right. Nothing has and that gay people are just as complex and lead lives that are
changed between us. I still hate you just as much as I always just as rich as heterosexual individuals. In other words, over the
did. course of that one brunch, my parents had numerous stereotypes
MW: When did you come out to your family? shattered.
ANGELO: That summer before my senior year at university I That showed me, in a very personal way, years before I got
came out to my sister. She had told me that she had her suspi- involved with Log Cabin Republicans, that these types of per-
cions anyway, but was very accepting. I didnt come out to my sonal interactions and telling our stories are ultimately what
parents. I had trepidation about the way they would react if they moves hearts and minds, especially what moves the hearts and
learned that their son was gay. In some ways, those reservations minds of conservatives.
were proven to be very legitimate. MW: As the public face of the Log Cabin Republicans, has there

SEPTEMBER 21, 2017 METROWEEKLY 27


been any criticism or personal attacks that
have made you angry or outraged?
This notion this organization. One of the things that we
said when the National Board decided to
ANGELO: Well, its always a challenge. My
job is often the most frustrating, some-
that in all ways withhold endorsement from Trump was
that, were he to become elected, we would
times the most thrilling. And its those
thrilling moments that make the frustrating
President Trump work with him whenever possible. And we
have remained true to that vow. In fact,
stretches worthwhile. It takes a unique is working against I would argue that theres no organiza-
type to willfully take on the responsibility tion thats more consistent than Log Cabin
of being the national point person for LGBT the interest of Republicans in that regard, because wheth-
Republicans and allies around the United er its the Human Rights Campaign and
States, because youre always taking heat LGBT individuals their commitment to quote defy every
from Democrats and LGBT Democrats, action of this administration or the greater
especially. Frequently, youre taking heat is just absurd LGBT community that seems devoted to
from members of your own party or youre
in a position where you have to stand up to on its face. THIS this #Resist movement, I think that does a
disservice to this community.
members of your own party. That creates a
climate where anything and everything I do ADMINISTRATION This notion that in all times and in
all ways President Trump and the Trump
is necessarily criticized, by either the right
or the left. Every time.
HAS TAKEN administration is working against the inter-
est of LGBT individuals is just absurd on
Every time I make a decision there will
be criticism and there will be individuals
MEASURES THAT its face. It de-legitimizes criticism in those
moments when the administration does
who dont like what I do, or what I say, or
the position that this organization takes.
ARE UNDENIABLY take actions that are directly detrimental to
the LGBT community. This administration
Tough. That comes with the territory, PRO-LGBT has taken measures that are undeniably
right? In many respects, the work that I did pro-LGBT and I think that they deserve
as the Chairman of Log Cabin Republicans AND I THINK praise when they do that.
of New York State was something of a dress MW: What has Trump done thats pro-
rehearsal for the work that Im doing here THAT THEY LGBTQ?
at Log Cabin Republicans National. Its ANGELO: When President Trump not only
allowed me to get my feet wet in a major DESERVE maintained President Obamas LGBT
media market at a time when Log Cabin
Republicans was pushing for massive leg- PRAISE non-discrimination executive order in fed-
eral hiring and contracting, but made a
islation in the state, the marriage equality
bill. Those lessons did not go unlearned. I WHEN THEY point of proclaiming it. That was something
that Log Cabin Republicans was very heavi-
brought all of that experience as a volun-
teer to this position now and I learned very
DO THAT. ly invested in, having worked with the tran-
sition team in outlining the reasons why we
early on not to personalize things that are felt it was important to maintain that order.
said about the organization or even about MW: What anti-LGBTQ moments stand out
me. Everyone always thinks they can do it thus far?
better until theyre in the hot seat. ANGELO: A time when I felt the adminis-
MW: Was there ever an instance where you tration was not acting in the best interests
were the victim of an ad hominem attack of the LGBT community was President
and you were like, Thats kind of out of Trumps tweets calling for a ban on trans-
bounds or unrelated to the topic at hand? gender service members in the military in
ANGELO: Frequently. But Ive become a big fan of the mute fea- any capacity. I think there likely should be some more nuance
ture on Twitter. If Twitter went away tomorrow, would it really there than any capacity. Excluding the entire transgender
be a loss to society? Probably not. There would be one less source community from service in the military simply because of who
of entertaining amusement, but thered also be one less source they are is not something that is acting in the best interests of
of trolling. I dont know if that would necessarily be a bad thing. the LGBT community, nor is it acting in the best interests of the
MW: Has social media made your job in the political sphere worse? military.
ANGELO: No, I actually think its made it easier. Over the last Also, the dismissal of transgender service members who
four-and-a-half years, theres been a major explosion in the came out when they were allowed to do so, who would now be
facility of social media. It is far easier for us to get our message facing a punishment simply for following the rules, just seemed
out, get it out quickly, and get it out directly to our members and to me to be something that wasnt only a negative for the trans-
supporters through social media than the more cumbersome gender community, but perplexing.
vehicles of press releases and email. We still use those things, MW: Critics say Trump is filling his administration with people
but I have found social media to be a far greater benefit to this who are hostile to the LGBTQ community, and they are influencing
organization than a detriment. If having to deal with trolls is the his decisions.
price we have to pay, Im willing to do that. ANGELO: Thats confirmation bias. If you are already of the
MW: Have you ever felt pressure to toe the Republican party line or mindset that President Trump is anti-LGBT and everything he
support the Trump administration? does is anti-LGBT, then you will find actions that the adminis-
ANGELO: My only loyalty is to Log Cabin Republicans. My job is tration has taken that confirm your preconception and you will
President of Log Cabin Republicans and my duty is to represent overlook those that do not.

28 SEPTEMBER 21, 2017 METROWEEKLY


Are there individuals that are part of the Trump adminis- I saw it all through 2015 and 2016 as I traveled the country
tration who have taken anti-LGBT positions and actions in the where, time and again, people, LGBT or otherwise, would say
past? Yes. But are there people who have taken pro-LGBT posi- Well, what do you think of Donald Trump? and I would say
tions and come from an allied mindset? Most definitely. Im looking at him with an open mind. And they would kind
If youre going to call out the administration for its appoint- of look to the left and look to the right and whisper, I am, too. I
ments of individuals who have an anti-LGBT record, then really like the guy. This silent majority stuff was real in the 2016
you also need to lift up those people who the administration election cycle, and while I wouldnt go so far as to say the Trump
has appointed that do have pro-LGBT records. I will point to hit record highs in the LGBT vote, I do think that part of that 14
Secretary DeVos, who Log Cabin Republicans stood in support percent calculation is unrepresentative of individuals who might
of during her confirmation process. Secretary Rex Tillerson, who not have been willing to admit to pollsters that they voted for
has been very vocal in support of the LGBT community since Donald Trump for president.
becoming the Secretary of State. Small Business Administrator MW: Do you think the LGBTQ community is more conservative
Linda McMahon is someone who is very outspoken in support than we assume?
of the LGBT community. Then there are others who are close- ANGELO: Theres polling data from 2015 that found that the
ly involved with President Trump, either advisors like Peter plurality of LGBT individuals identified as conservative or
Thiel, or Rick Grenell, who was just nominated for Ambassador somewhat conservative, and that was more through the prism
to Germany. We have one of our Log Cabin members, James of fiscal issues than anything else. Are LGBT people more con-
Abbott, who was just nominated to the Labor Board. servative than liberal? Probably, if they refuse to be defined
MW: Then why are so many LGBTQ people angry with this admin- exclusively by their sexual orientation or gender identity. Some
istration? may also refuse to look at politics through a lens that has been
ANGELO: Its because they couldnt have imagined and they pre-defined for them by the LGBT left that being nondiscrim-
still cant accept that Donald Trump beat Hillary Clinton. It ination legislation and marriage equality. If you are a member
was always something that we were prepared for. But what do of the LGBT community, there is tremendous pressure on you
you do when you have refused to work with the other side, when to identify with the Democratic Party simply because of that
the candidate that you have invested millions of dollars and partys position on those two issues.
thousands of volunteer man-hours in, comes up short? Well, you But whos to say that that those are the only two issues
protest, you vow to defy, and you seek to invalidate a perfectly that one must prioritize if youre a member of the LGBT com-
lawful election. munity? Why couldnt you or shouldnt you prioritize Second
MW: Some LGBTQ critics see people like Mike Pence as influenc- Amendment protections? Why couldnt you or shouldnt you be
ing Trump to pursue policies or hire people that harm the LGBTQ concerned with the proliferation of radical Islamic terrorism?
community. Do you think there is an element of their criticism that Why couldnt you or shouldnt you look at inequalities in the tax
might be justified? code, like the death tax that led to the Supreme Courts Windsor
ANGELO: No, I dont. I think that what President Trump is trying decision in 2013 that overturned the Defense of Marriage Act?
to do, at times in a clumsy but nonetheless admirable way, is All these things can and should be part of the full spectrum of
strike a balance between LGBT equality and religious liberty. issues that you can consider as a gay or transgender individual
But he doesnt need to strike a balance at all. Looking at the exit when it comes to voting.
polls, Trump got something like 80 percent of the evangelical MW: Would Republicans get more votes if they were less publicly
Christian vote and 14 percent of the LGBT vote. If ever there was hostile to LGBTQ people?
a constituency that Trump should be overly loyal to, it should be ANGELO: I dont see too many as being publicly hostile, though.
the evangelical community. If ever there was the constituency Thats the thing, right? There are definitely bad actors out there.
that Trump could easily throw under the bus, it would be the I would say that theres a far greater opportunity that Log Cabin
LGBT community. But you havent really seen that bear out in Republicans has to win over LGBT Independents, at least for
either case. the time being, than there is getting LGBT Democrats to con-
There have been actions that the Trump administration has vert. There are gay Democrats I know who are good people, and
taken that have been deserving of criticism by the LGBT commu- we get along well as friends, but even if the Republican Party
nity, and there have been actions that the Trump administration formally changed the platform tomorrow, and changed every
has taken that evangelical leaders have not been exceptionally anti-LGBT position it has to a pro-LGBT position, they would
pleased with. To my knowledge, there was nothing during the say, Well, great. Id become a Republican if only your party
presidential campaign, or even in the time since Trump assumed changes position on abortion. And if the party changes position
the presidency, to indicate he was driven by a far right evangeli- on abortion, theyd say, Okay, thats great. But as long as you
cal social philosophy. Especially when it comes to LGBT issues. dont support the idea of man-made climate change, I cant in
The president might be trying to thread the needle on some of good faith support the Republican Party.
these LGBT issues, but I dont think that adherence to a doctri- The point is, there will always be a reason for some to
naire version of the Christian faith is what drives his thinking. never support Republicans. Despite the work that Log Cabin
MW: Why do you think the percentage of LGBTQ people who voted Republicans does that many Democrats do appreciate, our goal
Republican in 2016 has dropped from previous elections? should not be winning over Democrats. Our goal should be advo-
ANGELO: There was a tremendous shaming campaign that took cating for the LGBT community as Republicans, and being true
place over the course of 2016, where people who voted for or to ourselves as Republican individuals. l
even professed that they might vote for Trump were ostracized
from their social circles, especially in the LGBT community. The Log Cabin Republicans Spirit of Lincoln 40th Anniversary
The left fancies itself as being so tolerant, but there was extreme Dinner is on Wednesday, Sept. 27 from 6 p.m.-9:30 p.m. at the
intolerance that we saw for supporters of President Trump in Trump International Hotel, 1100 Pennsylvania Ave. NW. For
the 2016 election cycle. tickets and more information, visit logcabin.org.

SEPTEMBER 21, 2017 METROWEEKLY 29


Gallery

Azra auevi - With Love

Damir Prljaa - Liam, transgender Anita Pra - Communist

Body Language
QUEER ACTIVISTS FROM POST-YUGOSLAVIA

A
BOSNIAN REFUGEE, ALMA SELIMOVIC WAS tral. Now that shes back, shes curated an exhibition of
granted political asylum in the U.S. in 2009 on paintings, photographs, and video installations by seven
account of the violence and threats she faced as queer artists and activists from Bosnia and Herzegovina,
a prominent LGBTQ activist in her homeland. Earlier Croatia and Serbia: Kristofer Andric, Azra Causevic,
this year, the visual artist did a two-month residency at Ranka Delic, Nedziba Idrizovic, Damir Prljaca, Anita Prsa,
Berlins Institute fur Alles Mogliche, where she inter- and Alex Spyke. Through Oct. 7. Otis Street Art Project,
viewed and created digital drawings of other people from 3706 Otis St. Mt. Rainier, Md. Call 202-550-4634 or visit
Eastern Europe who are queer, trans and/or gender neu- otisstreetarts.wixsite.com.

SEPTEMBER 21, 2017 METROWEEKLY 31


Stage
SCOTT SUCHMAN

the screw. The world people thought they


knew along with its order, morals and

Hot and Bothered


Woolly Mammoths The Arsonists is a provocative, humorous allegory
values is being upended from within.
Sound familiar?
But if this all feels like the prelude
to something that will turn obvious and
for our modern political times By Kate Wingfield preachy, thankfully it is not. Not only is
much of the play funny, there is literally

A
never a dull moment. Not just because
CCORDING TO ITS PROGRAM NOTES, WOOLLY MAMMOTH DECIDED the plot moves apace, but because Frisch
to stage Max Frischs The Arsonists (HHHHH) after last years election results, refuses to allow his main characters to be
finding its themes suddenly more relevant than ever. But dont come expect- morally simplistic.
ing anything so obvious as a Trump bashing. Originally written to grapple with the Case in point is protagonist Betterman.
advent of Nazism and Communism in Europe, the play raises questions far bigger than He is, for want of a better word, a dick.
just one election. Indeed, it is a provocative What would you do? in which a typical Before the arson attacks he was unpleas-
middle-class man is inexorably pinned like a butterfly onto Frischs merciless board. ant, and the crisis hasnt changed him a
Updated in a translation by Alistair Beaton and tweaked by director Michael John whit. When a stranger arrives at his door
Garcs, its questions are urgently here and now. and then inveigles his way in, the ten-
Set parable-style, we join the tensely bourgeois George Betterman and his wife sion is delicious. Betterman may be being
Becca in the midst of societal chaos. Arsonists are systematically burning down their played, but perhaps he deserves it. He is
town and the residents appear to be trapped. Every night, people lock down and wait something of a Larry David, wearing on
for the smell of smoke or the wail of sirens heading elsewhere. That they cant his sleeve what the rest of us have learned
escape the town (for whatever unexplained reason) allows Frisch to increasingly turn to dismantle, suppress or hide.

32 SEPTEMBER 21, 2017 METROWEEKLY


And as the events unfold, his foibles and the bourgeois life a 1940s film star, while delivering the comedy with a priceless
he represents take on a larger significance. If the arsonists East Coast, neurotic deadpan.
(who seek their version of equality) and the firefighters (who Although the chemistry with Shalwitzs Betterman is not
seek unquestioning order) suggest opposing political forces and quite perfect, Tim Getmans hulking visitor, Joe Smith, never-
Betterman the selfish, morally-compromised Everyman in the theless makes for a powerful, stage-grabbing presence. More
middle, who do we root for? Who should win in this ambigu- importantly, he cleverly captures this characters complex lay-
ous scenario? As one character tells Betterman, he must either ers. Smith must suggest everything that is untethered in the
make tough choices or face disaster. Its impossible not to cogi- world beyond Bettermans supposedly secure doors. But he must
tate the same question long after the play ends: What are todays also disrupt. Unlike Bettermans employee, wife and maid, Smith
tough choices and what would be disaster? cannot be managed. Finally, he must inject doubt how much
These questions become even more provocative and complex of what this man says is true and how much is manipulation?
with Garcs choice to give the arsonists a somewhat Antifa vibe, Getman weaves these angles brilliantly.
the roving firefighters a somewhat robotic affect, and a chorus As Billie Irons another uninvited guest Kimberly Gilbert
of regular-seeming folk a voice that alternately warns and gives her woman a wild-eyed, pontificating charisma as she
pleads. The mlange of urgent messaging suggests something all steamrolls Betterman, and she is as unsettling as she is enter-
too familiar the cacophony from that newest of town criers, taining. There is no question that Irons has a plan and Gilbert
social media. suggests with powerful subtlety that it will be ruthless.
Bringing such contemporary reference is no small feat and Another effective performance comes via Bahni Turpin as
Garcs also adeptly handles Frischs strong penchant for abstrac- Bettermans wife Becca. Despite her obviously pampered and
tion. Keeping it fast-paced and by turns comical and foreboding, cloistered life, Turpin gives Becca a subdued but distinct human-
we may not have time to catch every nuance, but neither are we ity, almost an innocence. Despite her wealth and sophistication,
left dangling too long in the Theater of the Absurd. she responds to people without guile and, as a performance, it
But none of Garcs ideas would work without the energy of is deeply appealing. Finally, as the maid Anna, if Regina Aquino
his stellar cast. As Betterman, Howard Shalwitz (also Woollys sometimes slightly overplays her put-upon skivvy, she deliv-
Artistic Director) delivers his man pitch-perfect, capturing his ers a credible counterpoint to the bizarre dynamic between
bold irritation at the inconvenient needs of others and his calcu- Betterman and Smith.
lating cowardice in the face of an alpha. But Shalwitz also sees If the answers are not easy, the questions are thoroughly
the music in Betterman, giving his speech the staccato patter of entertaining. l

The Arsonists runs to October 8 at Woolly Mammoth Theatre, 641 D St., NW. Tickets are $20 to $84.
Call 202-393-3939 or visit woollymammoth.net.

SEPTEMBER 21, 2017 METROWEEKLY 33


CLINTON B PHOTOGRAPHY
Stage

rapport, is that gender might have no bear-


ing on Rene and Lilings true feelings for

Diplomatic Relations each other. Each wants and needs some-


thing so desperately (or selfishly), theyre
willing to overlook glaring inconsistencies
M. Butterfly soars on its leads performance, while Lela & Co. offers a in the packaging to get what they want.
harrowing wartime tale By Andr Hereford Their dance is bittersweet, and Nelson
and Chum find truth in it, while rendering

D
full-bodied portrayals of two inveterate
AVID HENRY HWANGS EAST-MEETS-WEST DRAMA M. BUTTERFLY liars. Hazlett, as Renes fairly self-delud-
(HHHHH) twists and coils so cleverly, the play might be dangerous in uncer- ing wife, adds another layer of tender
tain hands. There would seem to be countless ways to mishandle the Tony- humanity, with Katharine Ariyan bringing
winning fusion of Butterfly lore and the stranger-than-fiction true story of a French a bright, comic energy to her brief turn as
diplomat embroiled in a scandalous affair with a gender-disguised Chinese performer. Renes other mistress. Ariyan and Yaegel
Yet, Everyman Theatres well-calibrated new production, directed by Vincent T. Welch, both performing multiple sup-
M. Lancisi, succeeds with a skillful elegance that belies just how complex the power porting roles, contribute admirably to the
dynamics are between the fallen diplomat, Rene Gallimard (Bruce Randolph Nelson), shows playful spirit.
and his Beijing mistress, Song Liling (Vichet Chum). Occasionally the humor, delivered just
Although both lovers relate their desires and schemes to the audience, the play a beat shy of a rimshot, feels out-of-step
proceeds predominantly via Renes narration, delivered from within a prison cell. Its a with the sophistication of Hwangs story,
compelling story in the hands of Nelson, a rapturous storyteller who forges a practically the design of Yu-Hsuan Chens sets, and
conspiratorial kinship with the audience, right from Renes first rose-colored recollec- Eric Abeles lovely costumes. The pro-
tion of meeting Liling at the ambassadors residence in Beijing. duction is in most aspects bold yet taste-
Rene happens to be in the audience that night to see Liling perform the death ful, a quality exemplified by a pair of
scene of Puccinis Madame Butterfly. As the operas Ciocio-san, Liling is an exquisitely nude scenes, and by Jay Herzogs lighting,
delicate and vulnerable blossom. Rene declares her the perfect woman. Little does which helps shape one powerful onstage
he know her truth. Or does he? Having first encountered her performing a fictional transformation, and capture the lingering
version of his fantasy of total romantic supplication, he almost cant help himself. image after Lilings identity is revealed
Immediately, and compulsively, he pursues her. of her costume crumbled on the floor
It might first appear that Rene is a self-satisfied chauvinist, who cheats on his wife, like a corpse.
Helga (Deborah Hazlett), and mistreats his mysterious mistress, a star of the Peking Flirting with life and death, imperial-
Opera. But, like the upper hand in Rene and Lilings fraught relationship, sympathies ism and independence, fantasy and fetish,
shift sharply and swiftly as Cold War-era espionage and coordinated deception enter M. Butterfly offers a sexually and racially
the plot, which unfurls over decades. charged reversal of what Rene refers to as
The real secret between the couple, suggested beautifully by Nelson and Chums the comforting fiction about the passive

34 SEPTEMBER 21, 2017 METROWEEKLY


DJ COREY PHOTOGRAPHY

Oriental and the cruel Westerner. Of course, thats what this is nation or another, Curry is so precise in her portrayal as to fully
and what it isnt. register her Lelas malleable adolescent intelligence and buoyant
Led by Lincisis sensitive direction, and Nelsons astute per- personality. She draws her audience into Lelas tragic, miser-
formance, the production tells a complete story that, as much ably constricted existence without sacrificing the girls innate
as it dissects stereotypes about warring nations and cultures, strength.
reveals a man whos recognizably, woefully at war with himself. Lelas smiling snake of a husband would have her believe
shes ugly, unwanted, unlovable, and alone. Curry ensures we
IN CORDELIA LYNNS INTENSE 2015 drama Lela & Co. instead see the indomitable young woman who describes herself,
( ), the titular heroine fights a war not within herself, with endearing good humor, as a flower on a dungheap.
but almost entirely by herself, as she perseveres through brutal, Currys onstage partner McClinton who largely creates
demoralizing circumstances. the well-populated world of Lelas family, husband, abusers,
Director Rick Hammerlys stark, emotionally raw staging of and one debatably true friend especially shines in the role of a
the play, in a new production at Factory 449 Theatre, artfully foreign soldier who offers some thin lifeline of hope to the poor
suggests more violence and suffering than it depicts. But this girl during her darkest times. However, neither he nor the text
first-person account of survival during wartime still packs quite do enough to firmly distinguish the voices and intentions of the
a wallop. plays many disparate characters. It doesnt help in that regard
Born during a storm, Lela enters into a life thats turbulent that foreign soldiers and uneducated villagers alike, including
from the start. Shes raised in a house full of women, save for her Lela, all speak with uncommon erudition.
stern father (Renaldo McClinton), and is but a teenager when The set, composed of stony rubble arranged just so, along
her family marries her off to a man she barely knows. This vir- with mattresses and box springs stripped down to form walls of
tual stranger, also portrayed by McClinton, takes Lela from her coils and wires, doesnt much distinguish Lelas world, either.
home in a mountain village to live on the other side of a hostile The naked springs and piled blocks provide a literal structure for
border in a bomb-ridden city. set designer Greg Stevens rendering of Lelas confinement, yet
Stuck in an unfamiliar country, she endures the natives the surroundings dont express any really illuminating sense of
aggressive hostility towards people of her homeland, and suffers place for this particular military conflict.
far worse at the hands of her husband, who holds her captive, William DEugenios lighting and Tosin Olufalabis sound
beats her, and eventually traffics her to one or more johns per design contribute as much to the atmosphere, evoking the sleep-
night. The grim litany of indignities forced upon Lela who less nights and felled buildings that so torment Lela. From the
might be a girl in Africa, or the Middle East, or elsewhere rubble, she indeed rises like a flower, fragile yet somehow dura-
could dull the dramas potency to a relentless, numbing ache ble. Curry assuredly conveys the girls determination to defend
were it not for the moving performance of five-time Helen her mind, body, and spirit against unfathomable cruelty. Her
Hayes Award nominee Felicia Curry. embattled metamorphosis complete, Lela emerges a true and
Though the play pointedly avoids locating the action in one inspiring survivor. l

Lela & Co. runs until October 1 at Anacostia Arts Center, 1231 Good Hope Road, S.E. Tickets are $22.
Call 202-335-9449, or visit lelaandco.brownpapertickets.com.

M. Butterfly runs until October 8 at Everyman Theatre, 315 W. Fayette Street, Baltimore. Tickets are $10 to $65.
Call 410-752-2208, or visit everymantheatre.org.

SEPTEMBER 21, 2017 METROWEEKLY 35


Music
atmospheric, pop-inflected version of his
former band, but the dreamy, addictive
single proves that Rostam has more than
enough creativity and charisma to stand on
his own two feet. Haines Choir of the Mind
finds her in a more experimental place as
well, exploring identity, femininity, time
and age. Both albums are available now.
If the changing season has you in the
mood to confront some latent existential
dread, you might find Luciferian Towers
more your speed. The new album from
GODSPEED YOU! BLACK EMPEROR, due out
September 22, promises to cement their
status as masters of sweeping, apocalyp-
tic post-rock. Not to be eclipsed in the
field of impending doom, PROTOMARTYR
will also be returning the following week
with Relatives in Descent, out September
29. This time, the celebrated, if some-
times inaccessible, Detroit post-punk out-
fit will be grappling with the mutability of
time, beauty, and truth itself. Cheery stuff,
but maybe just the thing for the coming
months.
September 29 also marks the return
of SHANIA TWAIN to the recording stu-
dio. The early-2000s pop-country jugger-
naut will be closing out the summer with
Now, her first new album since 2002s Up!
Expect her to venture into more personal,
confessional subject matter along with a
more stripped-back and intimate sound.
Never one to be outshone, MILEY CYRUS
will also be making a return on the 29th,
having reinvented herself once again with
Younger Now, an album that will find her
St. Vincent
in more heartland singer-songwriter ter-
ritory. Expect to hear her godmother and

Recorded Matter mentor Dolly Partons influence creeping


into this one.
Notwithstanding the quiet release
From dancepop to post-punk to spacey R&B, this Falls release schedule of a 12-minute EP last year, Montreals
promises to impress By Sean Maunier prog-adjacent indie rock staple WOLF
PARADE will be making a welcome come-

A
back of their own on October 6. Valley
FTER A BUSY AND OCCASIONALLY HARROWING SUMMER, 2017 LOOKS Boy, the first single from the upcoming
set to wind down in style musically, anyway. If after Cry Cry Cry, is full of
slogging back to work and classes you find yourself bombastic riffs promis-
needing a distraction, a soundtrack for the shorter days and ing a callback to the glo-
clear, chilly nights, or just a quick detox after hearing new riously grandiose melo-
Taylor Swift, this Falls release schedule has you covered. drama of their first run.
Things get off to a promising start with solo albums from Anyone who found
EMILY HAINES of Metric and ROSTAM BATMANGLIJ of Vampire themselves captivated
Weekend. Haines and Batmanglij, both the hearts and souls by KELELAs mixtape and
of their respective bands, are striking out on their own and subsequent EP can look
exploring deeper and more personal subject matter. Rostam forward to the October 6
(just Rostam now) has hinted in interviews that Half-Light will release of Take Me Apart,
showcase a more introspective approach to songwriting than the the second-generation
one he brought to Vampire Weekend. The cerebral, openly gay, Ethiopian-American
D.C.-raised son of Iranian parents has a lot to say about duality artists first full studio
and the complexities of identity. If the single Bike Dream is album. It may have been
any indication, the album is likely to sound a lot like a more Rostam a long time coming, but

36 SEPTEMBER 21, 2017 METROWEEKLY


the single LMK promises a fierce, captivating work of other-
worldly electro-R&B that will be well worth the wait.
Eight years on, anyone still hoping for an Oasis reunion
should be able to take some solace from the release of As You
Were, the first solo album from LIAM GALLAGHER. What we have
heard so far has sounded like an authentic, if somewhat prosaic
spin-off of his old band. Never shy about their very public sib-
ling rivalry, NOEL GALLAGHER announced an album of his own,
expected to be out November 9. Although details on the project
have been scant since the date was tentatively announced in
May, it should at least be interesting to see how it stacks up
against his older brothers brand of Oasis-but-not.
October 13 will bring a handful of highly-anticipated albums.
THE RURAL ALBERTA ADVANTAGE is set to follow up 2014s
Mended With Gold with The Wild, led by three fantastic singles
including the haunting stomper, Brother. What weve heard
so far would have sounded right at home on their last album. If
they bring the same infectious intensity, and their unmistakable
rollicking, drum-heavy indie rock and plaintive ballads on heart-
ache and nostalgia for home, were sure to hear few complaints.
Meanwhile, ST. VINCENTs ever-burgeoning fan base can look
forward to MASSEDUCATION. With each new release, she has
become more raw, confrontational, extroverted and gorgeously
weird, and the singles New York and Los Ageless are early Emily Haines
signs that she has no plans to change course any time soon.
Rounding out the October 13 releases, BECK will be back with downer Morning Phase. Finally, P!NK will be back with her first
Colors, an album that marks a transition, or more aptly, a lurch record since 2012. If you havent yet, listen to the swelling, polit-
back towards bold, complex pop. The three singles released so ically-charged dance anthem What About Us and just try not
far promise an upbeat and cheerful departure from his 2013 to be excited for Beautiful Trauma. l

For reviews of the latest albums, visit metroweekly.com/arts/music.

SEPTEMBER 21, 2017 METROWEEKLY 37


NightLife Photography by
Ward Morrison

SEPTEMBER 21, 2017 METROWEEKLY 39


Scene
Freddies Beach Blanket Bingos 10th Anniversary
Wednesday, Sept. 13 Photography by Ward Morrison
See and purchase more photos from this event at www.metroweekly.com/scene

DrinksDragDJsEtc... Hour, 4-5pm Shirtless normally served in a cock- 10pm Atlantic States FREDDIES BEACH BAR
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the Tavern, 9pm-close Ladies Drink Free Power

40 SEPTEMBER 21, 2017 METROWEEKLY


TOWN ZIEGFELDS/SECRETS
Patio open 6pm DC Bear Men of Secrets, 9pm
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States Leather Contest,

SEPTEMBER 21, 2017 METROWEEKLY 41


6-9pm Leather and
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Music and video down-
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Sunday, GREEN LANTERN
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8pm-1am

42 SEPTEMBER 21, 2017 METROWEEKLY


SEPTEMBER 21, 2017 METROWEEKLY 43
4-9pm Monday Nights SHAWS TAVERN BALTIMORE EAGLE SHAWS TAVERN BALTIMORE EAGLE NELLIES SPORTS BAR
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long Singing with the 11pm Beer and wine Karaoke, 8pm night Wednesday Night SHAWS TAVERN
Sisters: Open Mic Karaoke only $4 Karaoke, hosted by India Happy Hour, 4-7pm $3
Night with the Sisters GREEN LANTERN Ferrah, 10pm-close No Miller Lite, $4 Blue Moon,
of Perpetual Indulgence, Happy Hour all night long,
Wednesday, Cover 21+ $5 Rails and House Wines
9:30pm-close
Tuesday, 4pm-close
September 27 FREDDIES BEACH BAR
and Half-Priced Pizzas
Piano Bar with Jill, 8pm
NELLIES SPORTS BAR September 26 NELLIES SPORTS BAR Crazy Hour, 4-8pm $6
Beat the Clock Happy Hour Beat the Clock Happy Hour 9 1/2 Burgers Drag Bingo TRADE
$2 (5-6pm), $3 (6-7pm), 9 1/2 $2 (5-6pm), $3 (6-7pm), Happy Hour: 2 for 1 on any Night, hosted by Ms. Doors open 5pm Huge
$4 (7-8pm) Buckets of Happy Hour: 2 for 1 on any $4 (7-8pm) Buckets of drink, 5-9pm Multiple Regina Jozet Adams, 8pm Happy Hour: Any drink
Beer $15 Texas Holdem drink, 5-9pm Multiple Beer $15 Karaoke and TVs showing movies, Bingo prizes Karaoke, normally served in a cock-
Poker, 8pm Dart Boards TVs showing movies, Drag Bingo shows, sports Expanded 10pm-1am tail glass served in a huge
shows, sports Expanded craft beer selection glass for the same price,
NUMBER NINE craft beer selection NUMBER NINE No Cover GREEN LANTERN 5-10pm Beer and wine
Happy Hour: 2 for 1 on any No Cover Happy Hour: 2 for 1 on any Happy Hour all night only $4 l
drink, 5-9pm No Cover drink, 5-9pm No Cover long, 4pm-close Bear
Yoga with Greg Leo, 6:30-
7:30pm $10 per class

44 SEPTEMBER 21, 2017 METROWEEKLY


Scene
Uproars Sunday Beer Bust - Sunday, September 10
Photography by Ward Morrison
See and purchase more photos from this event at www.metroweekly.com/scene

SEPTEMBER 21, 2017 METROWEEKLY 45


LastWord.
People say the queerest things

The things that make us different,


those are our superpowers.
LENA WAITHE, co-winner of the Emmy for Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series for Netflixs Master of None. In her speech,
Waithe gave a shout-out to her LGBTQIA family, adding, Every day you put on your cape, go out there and conquer the world,
because the world would not be as beautiful without you in it.

No faggot activity will be permitted on this bus.


In my Bible, it states that faggots will burn in Hell, and I will not condone it.

A comment allegedly made by school bus driver ROBERT BELT, over the buss PA system. The ACLU claims Belt,
who has not been suspended, singled out an openly gay student to humiliate him.

This decision is a big regression to the progressive conquests


that the LGBT community had in recent decades. Like various countries in the world,

Brazil is suffering a conservative wave.


DAVID MIRANDA, a leftist councillor in Rio de Janeiro and one of Brazils few openly gay politicians, telling
The Guardian of the disastrous impact of a recent ruling that overturned a ban on conversion therapy.

Like the clich movie monster who suddenly comes back to life,
Republican senators have revived Trumpcare from the dead.

But this version is even more deadly.


DARREL CUMMINGS, chief of staff of the Los Angeles LGBT Center, on the U.S. Senates latest proposal to repeal the Affordable
Care Act. The Cassidy-Graham bill would overhaul the Medicaid system for low-income patients and would allow insurance com-
panies to reject people with pre-existing conditions, including HIV.

Its the first time two human beings were born themselves and
in love with each other as the same gender.
ANTHONY RAPP, explaining to CBSnews.com a storyline on Star Trek: Discovery that follows the series first on-screen same-sex
relationship between his character and Wilson Cruzs character.

46 SEPTEMBER 21, 2017 METROWEEKLY

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