CONTENTS

DECEMBER 14, 2017 Volume 24 Issue 32

12 HOLIDAY WATERS
The legendary John Waters returns to The
Birchmere with an all-new collection of wonderfully
warped Christmas stories.

By Randy Shulman

LOVE, THEIR WAY

Call Me By Your Name director Luca Guadagnino,
screenwriter James Ivory, and costar
Michael Stuhlbarg talk about making
the ultimate gay romance.

By Andr Hereford
26
35
MIND-BLOWING
FORCE
The Last Jedi is a spectacular, intense ride that tugs
at your emotions and dazzles your senses.

By Randy Shulman

SPOTLIGHT: ELFEN MAGIC p.7 OUT ON THE TOWN p.10

HOLIDAY WATERS: JOHN WATERS p.12 THE FEED p.17
SCENE: VICTORY FUND PARTY p.19 COMMUNITY: VOICES AGAINST VIOLENCE p.21
COVER STORY: LOVE, THEIR WAY p.26 FEATURE: PERSONAL JOURNEY p.30
FILM: STAR WARS: THE LAST JEDI p.35 FILM: MUDBOUND p.37 NIGHTLIFE p.39
SCENE: NELLIES p.39 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 Saints Maurice Hall and Alec Scudder Cover Photography Sony Pictures Classics

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

4 DECEMBER 14, 2017 METROWEEKLY

 Spotlight

Elfen Magic
Cameron Folmer puts a robustly funny spin on the seasonal satire
Santaland Diaries.

L
ISTEN, LYNN SHARP SPEARS TOLD HER FRIEND
Cameron Folmer, these guys at this comedy club want
to branch out and start doing small comedy theater piec-
es. And they want to start with Santaland Diaries. Would you
be interested in doing it?
As it turns out, David Sedaris, the shows author, is one of
Folmars favorite writers, so naturally he agreed.
I didnt know the Drafthouse, Folmer admits, and it well they dont need messing with, says Folmar, who adds
was a little scary to think about doing it in a place commonly
known for stand-up comedy because Im not a comic. As a
result, Folmer, who has appeared on Broadway in The 39 Steps
and locally with the Shakespeare Theatre Company and Studio
Theatre, needed to acclimate to audiences who were a bit
more boisterous audiences. At a recent late-evening show, for
instance, there were some fairly inebriated people, and that
distracted me. The thing that I have to remember is, Theyre
not leaving. They dont hate you. Theyre just getting up to get
a drink.
The 80-minute play recounts encounters from Sedaris time
working as a Macys elf. [The] jokes are constructed very, very
his own flourishes to what he calls an inherently gay show.
As I was developing it, and particularly as we were staging
it last week, it became very gay to me. I just thought, Let it go
there, then. Lets just let all the girls out and let them have a
good time. Doug Rule

The Santaland Diaries runs weekends through Sunday, Dec. 23, at Drafthouse Comedy Theater, 1100 13th St. NW.
Tickets are $20. Call 202-750-6411 or visit drafthousecomedy.com.

7
 Spotlight
THE NUTCRACKER
The Washington Ballets former artistic
director Septime Webre first staged his
twist on the family favorite 13 years ago,
setting it in D.C.s historic Georgetown
neighborhood with George Washington
as the titular figure and King George
MEDIA4ARTISTS THEO KOSSENAS

III as the Rat King. As always, the pro-

duction sets up shop for nearly all of
December at downtowns Warner
Theatre. To Dec. 24. Warner Theatre,
513 13th St. NW. Call 202-889-5901 or
visit washingtonballet.org.

AN AMERICAN
IN PARIS
The Kennedy Center presents the
four-time Tony-winning musi-
cal from 2015 based on the clas-
sic film, directed by Christopher
Wheeldon and featuring a magical
George and Ira Gershwin score
and a book by Craig Lucas. Now
to Jan. 7. Kennedy Center Opera
House. Tickets are $59 to $175.
Call 202-467-4600 or visit kenne-
dy-center.org.

THE FOLGER CONSORT:

SEASONAL EARLY MUSIC
OF GERMANY
The lute/organ/viol consort Arcadia Viols
and vocal ensemble Cathedra joins the
Consort and its viol/violin-playing co-found-
er Robert Eisenstein for a holiday program of
music from the 15th to 17th centuries, titled
Lo How a Rose Eer Blooming. Performances
Friday, Dec. 15, at 8 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 16, at
4 and 8 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 17, at 2 and 5 p.m.,
Tuesday, Dec. 19, through Thursday, Dec.
THE FOLGER CONSORT

21, at 7:30 p.m., Friday, Dec. 22, at 8 p.m.,

and Saturday, Dec. 23, at 4 and 8 p.m. Folger
Theatre, 201 East Capitol St. SE. Tickets are
$50. Call 202-544-7077 or visit folger.edu.

8 DECEMBER 14, 2017 METROWEEKLY

 Spotlight
ZOOLIGHTS
More than 500,000 colorful Christmas lights
illuminate life-sized animal silhouettes, danc-
ing trees, buildings, and walkways, plus a light
show set to music, during this annual holiday
event at the Smithsonians National Zoo. All
that, plus select animal houses will be open
and displaying nocturnal creatures, includ-
FRIENDS OF THE NATIONAL ZOO

ing the Small Mammal House, the Great Ape

House and Reptile Discovery Center. Every
night except Dec. 24 and 25 until Jan. 1.
National Zoo, 3001 Connecticut Ave. NW.
Free, courtesy of Pepco. Call 202-633-4800 or
visit nationalzoo.si.edu.

THE LAST NIGHT

OF BALLYHOO
Set amid the Atlanta Jewish com-
munity in 1939, Theater J presents
a beautiful, comedic, enthrall-
ing romance by Alfred Uhry, the
author of Driving Miss Daisy.
A handsome Eastern European
bachelor from Brooklyn throws
the Freitag family asunder as
they confront their own preju-
dices, desires, and beliefs. Now
to Dec. 31. The Aaron and Cecile
Goldman Theater, Edlavitch
DCJCC, 1529 16th St. NW. Call

TERESA CASTRACANE
202-777-3210 or visit theaterj.org.
MATTHEW MURPHY

THE SECOND CITY:

NOTHING TO LOSE (BUT
OUR CHAINS)
Woolly Mammoth hosts performer Felonious
Munk and a cast of Chicagos sharpest come-
dians telling a hilarious and harrowing story
of how one African-American man went
from six years in a state prison to a six-figure
job in corporate America to a new life as an
activist and satirist. Anthony LeBlanc directs
this new show from the creators of last years
hit Black Side of the Moon... that combines
sketch, stand-up, and music. Now to Dec.
SCOTT SUCHMAN

31. 641 D St. NW. Call 202-393-3939 or visit

woollymammoth.net.

DECEMBER 14, 2017 METROWEEKLY 9

CHRIS BANKS

Out On The Town

CHRISTMAS AT THE OLD BULL AND BUSH

Catherine Flyes cheery holiday tale centers on patrons at a pub telling corny jokes and singing British music hall songs
and Christmas carols. Originally presented at the turn of the millennium by Arena Stage, some of the original cast members
now take to Alexandrias MetroStage for a toast to the holidays that includes sing-alongs and an abbreviated reenactment
of Dickens Christmas Carol, plus a few surprises along the way. To Dec. 24. MetroStage, 1201 North Royal St., Alexandria.
Call 703-548-9044 or visit metrostage.org.

Compiled by Doug Rule
HOLIDAY
HIGHLIGHTS
A CHRISTMAS CAROL
Craig Wallace returns as the miser-
ly Ebenezer Scrooge in Fords
Theatres production of Dickens
Yuletide classic. The music-infused
adaptation was originally conceived
by Michael Baron. To Dec. 31. Fords
Theatre, 511 10th St. NW. Call 800-
982-2787 or visit fordstheatre.org.
A CHRISTMAS MEDLEY
Guillotine Theatre has had hit after
hit with Halloween productions in
a cemetery in Alexandria. So they
thought, why not stage a Christmas
in the Crypt show? Actors from
the company read a mixture of
poems, short stories, and remi-
niscences including Yes, Virginia,
There is a Santa Claus, a selection
from A Tree Grows in Brooklyn,
and A Visit from St. Nicholas, with
works by Langston Hughes, John
Julius Norwich, Frank OConnor,
Lillian Smith, Moss Hart, Frederick
Douglass, U.A. Fanthorpe, and
William Shakespeare also repre-
sented. Saturday, Dec. 16, at 2 p.m.
The Receiving Vault of Ivy Hill
Cemetery, 2823 King St. Alexandria.
Requested donation of $10. Call
703-549-7413 or visit georgetown-
theatre.org.
AN IRISH CAROL
For the sixth year in a row, Keegan
Theatre offers company mem-
ber Matthew Keenans homage to
Dickens, albeit with biting Irish
humor and incisive candor. Mark A.
Rhea directs a cast featuring himself
plus Kevin Adams, Josh Sticklin,
Timothy Lynch, Mike Kozemchak,
Christian Montgomery, Caroline
Dubberly, and Daniel Lyons. Opens
Thursday, Dec. 14, at 8 p.m. Runs
to Dec. 31. Keegan Theatre, 1742
Church St. NW. Tickets are $35
to $45. Call 202-265-3768 or visit
keegantheatre.com.
MIRACLE ON 8TH STREET:
SCREENINGS OF CHRISTMAS
CLASSICS
Over the next two weekends, the
recently renovated Miracle Theatre
in the Barracks Row section of
Capitol Hill screens several holi-
day-themed favorites. The lineup
includes: the James Stewart signa-
ture Its A Wonderful Life on Friday,
Dec. 15, at 6:45 p.m., Sunday, Dec.
17, at 3:30 p.m., and Saturday, Dec.
23, at 8 p.m.; Robert Zemeckis ani-
mated The Polar Express starring
Tom Hanks on Saturday Dec. 16 at
11 a.m., and Friday, Dec. 22, at 3:30
p.m.; and an early Christmas clas-
sic, White Christmas starring Bing
Crosby, Danny Kaye, and Rosemary
Clooney, on Friday, Dec. 22, at 6
p.m. Tickets are $6 to $8. 535 8th
St. SE. Call 202-400-3210 or visit
themiracletheatre.com.
GAY MENS CHORUS OF
WASHINGTON: THE HOLIDAY
SHOW
Blending the sexy and playful with
the sweet and sentimental, the holi-
day show is one of the choruss most
popular. In addition to the standard
seasonal and sensational offerings,
the concert features performances
by the ensembles Potomac Fever
and Rock Creek Singers, as well as
the LGBT youth choir GenOUT.
This years offering incorporates
stories of holiday memories and
growing up gay, as told by sever-
al members, part of a season-long
push to personalize the 200-strong
chorus. In a time when our social
discourse can seem toxic, artis-
tic director Thea Kano says, it is
vital that we share our stories and
remind everyone that there is far
more that unites us than divides
us. Saturday, Dec. 16, at 3 and 8
p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 17, at 3 p.m.
Lincoln Theatre, 1215 U St. NW.
Tickets are $25 to $65. Call 202-
328-6000 or visit gmcw.org.
GEORGETOWN GLOW
Now in its fourth year, this light
art exhibition presented by the
Georgetown Business Improvement
District features eight displays by
multidisciplinary artists. Billed as
a way to re-imagine the season
of light, the works, curated by
Deirdre Ehlen MacWilliams, offer a
high-tech modern contrast with the
surroundings of D.C.s oldest neigh-
borhood. The installations, many
of them in collaboration with Light
Art Collection and the Amsterdam
Light Festival, are: Aqueous by Jen
Lewin of New York, an interac-
tive, walkable landscape of mean-
dering pathways in Georgetown
Waterfront Park; Horizontal
Interference by Joachim Sugocki
and Katarzyna Malejka from

10 DECEMBER 14, 2017 METROWEEKLY

 Poland, a colorful cord structure
connecting trees and light poles in
Washington Harbour; Open Lounge
by Graud Priole, with 20 hand-
crafted chandeliers made of acrylic,
plastic and rope hanging in Cadys
Alley; Bands of Friendship by Vikas
Patil & Santosh Gujar of India, nine
rings inspired by Indian color sche-
matics positioned outside Dean &
Deluca; Light Cloud by Ted Bazydlo
& Brandon Newcomer of D.C., a
digitally fabricated dynamic sculp-
ture that responds to the surround-
ing environment and local activity
in the Hok Courtyard; My Light
Is Your Light by Alaa Minawi of
Lebanon, a neon group sculpture for
the displaced located outside Grace
Church; Glow Structural Remix
by Robin Bell of D.C., a 15-minute
looped video of historic imagery
with holiday colors and shapes har-
kening the activities of the once
bustling Old Georgetown Theater;
GREG GORMAN

The Neighbors by OmbrLumen -

Arthur Gallice & Herve Orgeas, four
figures made of LED bent wires
to create a clan of glowing people
along Wisconsin Avenue; and LSM

HOLIDAY WATERS
Presents, three video works by LSM
Architects Quayola, Casey Reas,
and Sara Ludy and projected in the
companys atrium. Additionally,
Philips Color Kinetics has lit the
The legendary John Waters returns to The Birchmere with an smokestack at the Ritz-Carlton
all-new collection of wonderfully warped Christmas stories. Georgetown and the C&O Canal
bridge at Georgetown Park, and

I
MHF Productions has strung white
lights on nearly all the buildings
VE DONE IT, I DONT KNOW HOW MANY TIMES, SAYS JOHN WATERS OF radiating out from the main inter-
his annual Christmas show, A John Waters Christmas, returning to The Birchmere section of Wisconsin Avenue and
next Thursday, Dec. 21. Every year, I rewrite the whole thing. I like to add lots of M Street NW. Now through Jan.
7, every night from 5 to 10 p.m.
new material. The legendary filmmaker and purveyor of bad taste behind such infa- Visit GeorgetownGlowDC.com for
mous cultural touchstones as Hairspray, Serial Mom, and the insanely decadent Pink more information, including a free
Flamingos, notes that the comically correct term for not doing a new show is called a Curators Audio Tour set to music.
command performance. He pauses. This is not a command performance.
LA-TI-DO:
In 2015, Waters gave a notoriously wicked commencement speech at the Rhode I LOVE THE HOLIDAYS CABARET
Island School of Design, encouraging the graduates to get out into the world and raise Regie Cabico and Don Mike
hell. The speech was later adapted into an illustrated gift book called Make Trouble, Mendozas La-Ti-Do features
higher-quality singing than most
followed by a collectors edition recording, released by Third Man Records in October. karaoke, often from local musi-
Its a great Christmas present, right? says Waters, noting that the 7 vinyl press- cal theater actors performing on
ing of the record comes in the form of a red 45. Much of the music youve heard in my their night off, and also includes
movies were originally [inspired from] 45 records I shoplifted [when I was a teenager]. spoken-word poetry and comedy.
Mendoza and Anya Randall Nebel
I dont feel negative saying that because I paid $25-to-30 thousand each to put the host the last of two annual holi-
songs in my movies way, way later in life. day cabarets with guest perform-
Although Waters hasnt made a film since 2004s A Dirty Shame, Im still in the ers, which also doubles as the 2017
Closing Party. The guests at this
movie business, he says. Im not saying I wont make another one. I had a meeting mammoth, three-hour long show
last week about making something for Pixar. So who knows? I just need to tell stories. include the cast of Forever Soulful
And my last two books were big hits and got good reviews and my last two movies and performers Michelle Moses-
were not big hits. I stick where my stories are going over the best. Eisenstein, Larry Grey, Alexandra
Levensen, Michael Sandoval, Tara
Surprisingly, Waters wont answer questions about current affairs, notably the Trinity, Joseph Benitez, Angeleaza
scandals that recently ensnared Kevin Spacey and Harvey Weinstein. Everybody Anderson, Rebecca Ballinger, Sarah
wants me to talk about all that stuff for free, he bemoans, and I have to update my D. Lawson, Kay Kerimian, Stephen
Yednock, Shane Conrad, Rachel
spoken word shows and I have two books due. [Ill talk about it] when you pay me to Levitin, Meg Nemeth, and Alex
do that. Im a journalist, too. Thats how I make my living. I make my living the same Olesker. Taylor Rambo accompa-
way you do. Randy Shulman nies. Monday, Dec. 18, at 7 p.m.
Bistro Bistro, 1727 Connecticut Ave.
NW. Tickets are $15, or $10 if you
A John Waters Christmas is Thursday, Dec. 21, at 7:30 p.m. at The Birchmere, eat dinner at the restaurant before-
hand. Call 202-328-1640 or visit
3701 Mount Vernon Ave. in Alexandria, Va. Tickets are $55. latidodc.wix.com/latido.
Visit birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.

12
SWEET SPOT AERIAL
PRODUCTIONS: A CIRCUS
CAROL
Sweet Spot, the impressive, local,
LGBTQ-inclusive circus arts com-
pany, presents its third holiday pro-
duction. Directed by Chris Griffin,
A Circus Carol is a more narrative
piece than those in the past, set in
the fictitious W.T. Dickens High
School during the madness of hol-
iday pageant time. Its been billed
as Glee except with circus acts
instead of singing. Saturday, Dec.
16, at 1 and 6 p.m., and Sunday, Dec.
17, at 6 p.m. Lang Theatre in the
Atlas Performing Arts Center, 1333
H St. NE. Tickets are $25. Call 202-
399-7993 or visit sweetspotdc.org.

WASHINGTON IMPROV
THEATER: SEASONAL DISORDER
Washington Improv Theaters
annual holiday extravaganza fea-

tures shows based on audience sug-
gestions, showing you the good, the
bad and the ugly of the season all
laughs to get you through. Each
show is different, but all offer a grab
bag of spontaneous comedy and
long-form improv. This years show
also includes Citizens Watch, an
original production based on the TV
series Broadchurch and featuring
members from various WIT ensem-
bles as well as new faces to the
WIT stage, as well as performanc-
es by Chicago duo GIRLish and a
special New Years Eve spectacu-
lar. Weekends to Dec. 31. Source
Theater, 1835 14th St. NW. Tickets
are $12 in advance, $15 at the door,
or $30 for reserved, front-row seats.
Call 202-204-7770 or visit washing-
tonimprovtheater.com.
WASHINGTON NATIONAL
OPERA: THE LITTLE PRINCE
Francesca Zambello directs a revival
of a holiday opera for the whole fami-
ly, featuring a tuneful score by Oscar-
winner Rachel Portman (Emma) and
showcasing the Domingo-Cafritz
Young Artists and WNO Childrens
Chorus. Nicholas Wright adapted
the English libretto from the Antoine
de Saint-Exupery classic. Thursday,
Dec. 14, and Friday, Dec. 15, at 7:30
p.m., Saturday, Dec. 16, at 2 and 7:30
p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 17, at 2 p.m.
Kennedy Center Terrace Theater.
Tickets are $45 to $65. Call 202-467-
4600 or visit kennedy-center.org.
FILM
ELF
In Jon Favreaus 2003 comedy,
Will Ferrell is an orphan raised
at the North Pole, who seeks out
his real father (James Caan) and a
place where he belongs in this hol-
iday comedy also featuring Zooey
Deschanel as a department store
elf and Ed Asner as Santa. Part
of Landmarks West End Cinema
Capital Classics. Screenings are
Wednesday, Dec. 20, at 1:30, 4:30,
and 7:30 p.m., 2301 M St. NW.
JASON MACDONALD
SHAMIR
Shamir Baileys third album carries a remarkably apt title. Revelations picked up from
Hope, the surprise sophomore album recorded over a weekend on a four-track that
marked an abrupt shift into lo-fi from the polished, disco-throwback pop of his debut
Ratchet. His latest release shines up the rougher edges while preserving the DIY rawness.
Throughout the album, he jumps frantically from one style to another, and we see many
hints of the punk and country he grew up listening to. While Shamirs tone certainly
comes across as more honest and serious in his lyrics, his stream-of-consciousness on
these tracks is as irreverent and fun as it is blunt and revealing. Shamir will bring the
tracks to life with a concert featuring the Canadian duo Partner as opening act. Friday,
Dec. 15, at 7 p.m. U Street Music Hall, 1115A U St. NW. Tickets are $18. Call 202-588-1880
or visit ustreetmusichall.com. (Sean Maunier)
Happy hour from 4 to 6:30 p.m. ANNIE Center Stage, 700 North Calvert
Tickets are $12.50. Call 202-534- The sunll come out tomorrow and St., Baltimore. Call 410-332-0033 or
1907 or visit landmarktheatres.com. every day this holiday season at visit centerstage.org.
Olney Theatre Center. Forty years
MY NAME IS ASHER LEV
STAGE after composer Charles Strouse, lyr-
icist Martin Charnin, and book writ- Virginias 1st Stage presents Aaron
er Thomas Meehan teamed up for Posners imaginative retelling
A CHILDS CHRISTMAS IN WALES the feel-good musical about a deter- of Chaim Potoks beloved novel
The Washington Stage Guild pres- minedly optimistic little orphan about a young Jewish painter torn
ents an evening of warm and nos- girl, countless other, real-life kids between his Hasidic upbringing and
talgic works adapted by Bill Largess have been inspired by the popu- his need to pursue his artistic voice.
from Dylan Thomas, Charles lar work to become theater per- Nick Olcott directs a cast featuring
Dickens, AA Milne, and Louisa formers (or at least theater queens) Andy Brownstein, Hyla Matthews,
May Alcott. Closes Sunday, Dec. in their own right. The latest is and Lucas Beck. Now to Dec. 23. 1st
17. Undercroft Theatre of Mount Noelle Robinson, who heads a cast Stage, 1524 Spring Hill Rd. Tysons,
Vernon United Methodist Church, of 32, including Rachel Zampelli as Va. Tickets are $33. Call 703-854-
900 Massachusetts Ave. NW.
Tickets are $50 to $60. Call 240-
Miss Hannigan, Kevin McAllister 1856 or visit 1ststage.org.
as Daddy Warbucks, and Wilson
582-0050 or visit stageguild.org. THE BOOK OF WILL
Jermaine Heredia as Rooster
Hannigan. To Dec. 31. Mainstage, What if Shakespeares works had
A CHRISTMAS CAROL: A GHOST Olney-Sandy Spring Road, Olney, been lost forever? Ryan Rilette
STORY OF CHRISTMAS Md. Call 301-924-3400 or visit directs a Round House Theatre
Olney Theatre Center presents olneytheatre.org. production of Lauren Gundersons
another seasonal run of the one- hilarious and heartfelt story
man portrayal of the Dickens clas- LOOKINGGLASS ALICE inspired by true events surrounding
sic by Paul Morella, who bases his Go down the rabbit hole with the Shakespeares First Folio. Mitchell
adaptation on Dickens original whole family in David Catlins con- Hebert, Kimberly Gilbert, Maboud
novella and reading tour. To Dec. temporary retelling putting a fresh, Ebrahimzadeh, Todd Scofield, and
31. The Mulitz-Gudelsky Theatre modern twist on the Lewis Carroll Michael Russotto are among the
Lab, 2001 Olney-Sandy Spring classic tale. Jeremy B. Cohen cast. To Dec. 24. Round House
Road, Olney, Md. Call 301-924- directs. To Dec. 31. Baltimore Theatre, 4545 East-West Highway,
3400 or visit olneytheatre.org.

13
 HANDELS MESSIAH
Two of the areas great orches-
tras take on Handels monumen-
tal Messiah the third weekend
in December. Jeannette Sorrell
conducts the National Symphony
Orchestra version featuring the
University of Maryland Concert
Choir and soloists Sophie Daneman,
PHOTO COURTEST OF DUPLEX DINER
$72. Call 202-342-6221 or visit the-
washingtonchorus.org.
VOX PULCHRA
A decade ago, a group of 10 female
singers formed this unaffiliated off-
shoot of the 100-voice auditioned
community chorus the Capitol
Hill Chorale. Vox Pulchra sings an

Ann McMahon Quintero, Karim eclectic mix of traditional music

Sulayman, and Christopher Immler.
Thursday, Dec. 14, at 7 p.m., Friday,
Dec. 15, and Saturday, Dec. 16, at
8 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 17, at 1
p.m. Kennedy Center Concert
Hall. Tickets are $15 to $89. Call
202-467-4600 or visit kenne-
dy-center.org. Meanwhile, Stan
Engebretson conducts the National
Philharmonic and its Chorale plus
THE DUPLEX DINERS soloists Esther Heideman, Yvette
Smith, Norman Shankle, and Trevor
from around the world and from
across centuries, and next performs
a Holiday Concert with music
from the U.S., England, Germany,
Russia, and Canada accompanied by
instrumentalists Howard Bass and
Tina Chancey. Sunday, Dec. 17, at 6
p.m. Corner Store Arts, 900 South
Carolina Ave. SE. Tickets are $21.
Call 202-544-5807 or visit corner-
storearts.org.

JANKY SWEATER PARTY Scheunemann. Saturday, Dec. 16, at

DANCE
These days it seems like everyone maybe even your 8 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 17, at 3 p.m.
Music Center at Strathmore, 5301
family throws a party in which everyone is encour- Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda. COYABA DANCE THEATER:
aged to wear an ugly Christmas sweater. But the best Tickets are $28 to $94. Call 301-581- KWANZAA CELEBRATION
5100 or visit strathmore.org. Sylvia Soumah directs the annu-
have a reason for the gaudy seasonal display, such as al Kwanzaa Celebration at Dance
making it a benefit for the Trevor Project, the leading O.A.R. Place featuring the Dance Place
organization providing crisis intervention and suicide Founded two decades ago in Resident Company, its Coyaba
prevention services to LGBTQ youth. Thats the cause Rockville, Of A Revolution contin- Academy, and special guests. The
ues to stir up audiences both at home focus is on the seven principles
that will benefit from donations at the door and profits of the African-American holiday.
and around the country. Singer/gui-
from drink sales this Friday, Dec. 15, at the gay diner tarist Marc Roberge, drummer Chris Saturday, Dec. 16, at 8 p.m., and
on the edge of Adams Morgan and Dupont Circle. Drag Culos, guitarist Richard On, bassist Sunday, Dec. 17, at 4 p.m. Dance
Benj Gershman, and saxophonist/ Place, 3225 8th St. NE. Tickets are
queen Goldie Grigio hosts the 80s-themed Breakfast $25 in advance, or $30 at the door.
guitarist Jerry DePizzo perform alt-
Club party with DJs Khelan Bhatia and Adam Koussari- rock tunes in its debut at the areas Call 202-269-1600 or visit dan-
Amin. Party starts at 9 p.m. an ends when we take our gleaming new concert venue on the ceplace.org.
sweaters off. The 18th and U Duplex Diner, 2004 18th Wharf. Saturday, Dec. 16. Doors at
6:30 p.m. The Anthem, 901 Wharf STEP AFRIKA!: MAGICAL
St. NW. Donation of $10 gets you a champagne cocktail. MUSICAL HOLIDAY STEP SHOW
St. SW. Tickets are $45.50 to $75.50.
Call 202-265-9599 or visit duplexdiner.com. Call 202-265-0930 or visit the- The local percussive dance com-
anthemdc.com. pany dedicated to the tradition of
stepping presents its annual holiday
Bethesda. Call 240-644-1100 or visit
roundhousetheatre.org.
MUSIC SHARAM step show. The focus is on getting
North Pole animals polar bears,
One-half of Grammy Award-
winning and D.C.-area production penguins to step. And all to music
BRUNO MARS
THE PAJAMA GAME duo Deep Dish, Sharam returns to by Frosty the Snowman, putting
The 32-year-old pop star returns for
In an unusual twist, artistic direc- U Streets great subterranean club the needle on the record as special
another holiday-timed run at the
tor Molly Smith turns over direct- for an open-to-close set in support guest DJ. Opens Friday, Dec. 15,
3,000-seat theater at MGM National
ing reins for this seasons Golden of Collecti, a new album of original at 7:30 p.m. To Dec. 30. Sprenger
Harbor. If you havent had a chance
Age Musical to Alan Paul, who has material drawing from the dark- Theatre in Atlas Performing Arts
to catch the magnetic performer
proven his mettle with musicals er sides of techno. Friday, Dec. Center, 1333 H St. NE. Tickets are
live, this would be an ideal place to
at Shakespeare Theatre Company. 15, starting at 10:30 p.m. U Street $18 to $40. Call 202-399-7993 or
start and could make for a love-
Choreographer Parker Esse joins Music Hall, 1115A U St. NW. Tickets visit atlasarts.org.
ly Christmas present for a special
to try to rouse interest in this clas- are $12. Call 202-588-1880 or visit
someone in your life. Wednesday,
sic battle-of-the-sexes. To Dec. 24.
Mead Center for American Theater,
Dec. 20, and Thursday, Dec. 21, at ustreetmusichall.com. COMEDY
8 p.m. 7100 Harborview Ave., Oxon
1101 6th St. SW. Call 202-488-3300 THE WASHINGTON CHORUS:
Hill, Md. Call 844-346-4664 or visit THE SECOND CITY:
or visit arenastage.org. A CANDLELIGHT CHRISTMAS
mgmnationalharbor.com. TWIST YOUR DICKENS
New Artistic Director Christopher The Kennedy Center offers another
THE REAL AMERICANS Bell directs the annual A
FREDDY COLE run of the comedy troupes irrev-
Actor/journalist Dan Hoyle brings Candlelight Christmas, featuring
Freddy Cole plays his own instru- erent and interactive parody twist
to life the characters he met travel- the 200-voice chorus singing famil-
ments, just like his late brother Nat on A Christmas Carol. The largely
ing outside the liberal bubble, pre- iar carols and holiday songs, plus
King, but his voice is raspier, smoki- improvised tale is based on Dickens
sented as part of Mosaic Theaters audience sing-alongs and a can-
er, jazzier. The New York Times has but adapted by former The Colbert
Transformational Journeys and dlelight processional. The Eleanor
hailed him as the most maturely Report writers Peter Gwinn and
staged in repertory in the month Roosevelt High School Chamber
expressive male jazz singer of his Bobby Mort. To Dec. 31. Kennedy
of December with Draw The Circle. Choir and D.C. al Fine will join
generation, if not the best alive. Center Theater Lab. Tickets are $49
Charlie Varon directs. To Dec. 22. the chorus. Saturday, Dec. 16, at
He drops by Blues Alley for another to $75. Call 202-467-4600 or visit
Atlas Performing Arts Center, Lab 4 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 21, and
weekend run of his seasonal show, kennedy-center.org.
Theatre II, 1333 H St. NE. Tickets Friday, Dec. 22, at 7 p.m. Kennedy
Here for the Holidays. Thursday,
are $25 to $65. Call 202-399-7993 or Center Concert Hall. Also Friday,
Dec. 14, through Sunday, Dec. 17,
visit mosaictheater.org. Dec. 15, at 8 p.m. Music Center at
at 8 and 10 p.m. Blues Alley, 1073
Wisconsin Ave. NW. Tickets are Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane,
$36 to $41, plus $12 minimum pur- North Bethesda. Tickets are $18 to
chase. Call 202-337-4141 or visit
bluesalley.com.

14 DECEMBER 14, 2017 METROWEEKLY

EXHIBITS
10X10 INVITATIONAL
Over 85 regional and national artists
are represented in the third annual
10x10 invitational. Every artwork is
different, although the same size,
and are intended as original holi-
day gifts, priced at $50 each. The
invitational benefits Hyattsvilles
Pyramid Atlantic Art Center, locat-
ed in the historic Arcade building in
the Gateway Arts District and fea-
turing a papermaking studio, print
shop, letterpress studio, bindery, a
darkroom and a woodshop. Closes
Sunday, Dec. 17. Pyramid Atlantic
Art Center, 4318 Gallatin Street,
Hyattsville. Call 301-608-9101 or
visit pyramidatlanticartcenter.org.
ARLINGTON ARTS CENTER:
FALL SOLOS
Seven regional artists are assigned one
of the main gallery spaces in the his-
toric Maury School to exhibit a selec-
tion of their works in this semi-annual
exhibition. Kate Haw, director of the
Smithsonian Institutions Archives of
American Art, and Mika Yoshitake,
assistant curator at the Hirshhorn
Museum, were the jurors for the latest
round, and they selected an entirely
female line-up of artists, many of whom
explore themes related to feminism,
gender and identity: Mary Baum,
Atsuko Chirikjian, Catherine Day, Anna
Kell, Jen Noone, Mojdeh Rezaeipour,
and Julie Wills. Closes Saturday, Dec.
16. Arlington Arts Center, 3550 Wilson
Blvd. Call 703-248-6800 or visit arling-
tonartscenter.org.
FOOD & DRINK
DRINK THE DISTRICT WINE
FESTIVAL: HOLIDAY EDITION
More than 100 wines will be avail-
able for tasting at a Mistletoe &
Merlot-themed iteration of this
recurring event. Also on tap will
be live music, culinary demonstra-
tions, sommeliers answering ques-
tions, and a retail store with bot-
tles for sale and gifts made by D.C.
crafters and artisans. Sessions are
Friday, Dec. 15, from 6 to 9 p.m.,
and Saturday, Dec. 16, from 12 to 3
p.m., 4 to 7 p.m., and 8 to 11 p.m. 1
to 4 p.m. and 6 to 9 p.m. In addition,
theres a non-ticketed Wine Bar on
Friday, Dec. 15, from 9 p.m. to 12
a.m. The Park View, 3400 Georgia
Ave. NW. Tickets are $59 to $99 per
session. Call 202-618-3663 or visit
drinkthedistrict.com.
HANKS PASTA BAR: SEASONAL
SEVEN FISHES DISH
Chef Jamie Leeds puts her own spin
on the celebratory Feast of the Seven
Fishes, offering a country-style
version of bouillabaisse, a bowl of
white wine, herbs, thick tomato
sauce and overflowing with seven
types of seafood in one place: lump
crabmeat, catfish, squid, shrimp,
mussels, clams, and octopus. The
stew is served with housemade lin-
guine and available throughout the
entire month of December. Located
at 600 Montgomery St., Alexandria.
Price is $34. Call 571-312-4117 or
visit hankspastabar.com.
ABOVE
AND BEYOND
LIGHTS ON THE BAY
More than 70 animated and sta-
tionary displays depicting region-
al and holiday themes factor into
the annual holiday show, featuring
a two-mile scenic drive along the
shores of the Chesapeake Bay. A
North Pole Village & Enchanted
Fairy Tales is a new edition at this
years event, a benefit for the SPCA
of Anne Arundel County. On dis-
play every evening from 5 to 10
p.m. through Jan. 1. Sandy Point
State Park, 1100 E. College Parkway,
Annapolis. Admission is $15 per car,
or $30 to $50 for larger vans and
buses. Visit lightsonthebay.org.
WINTER HOLIDAY SMUT SLAM:
TOY JOY!
Chris Griffins alter-drag ego
Lucrezia Blozia judges a holiday
edition of a fun, frisky storytelling
event offering prizes for the best
story. Tuesday, Dec. 19, at 7:30 p.m.
Songbyrd Music House, 2477 18th
St. NW. Tickets are $10 in advance,
or $15 at the door. Call 202-450-
2917 or visit songbyrddc.com.
WINTERFEST AT WUNDER
GARTEN
The beer garden in NoMa has been
transformed for the holidays with
twinkly lights and tasty food from
a pop-up cafe, smores and snug-
gy blankets around a fire pit and
hot holiday beverages in addition
to the usual beers on tap from
mulled wine to whiskey hot toddies
to hot apple cider spiked with Stella
Cidre and Jack Daniels Tennessee
Fire. Winterfest also includes a tree
lot and a Makers Market with local
vendors including Grey Moggie
Press, Hernan Gigena Art, Jewelry
For Hundred Causes, Mint Lola,
Off on a Tangent, Potomac Candle,
Shrub District, the Cookie Jar DC,
and Tin Tins Pieces. And starting
at 7 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 16, is Night
of a 1000 Santas Costume and DJ
Party, when everyone is encour-
aged to dress as their best version
of Santa. Winterfest closes Sunday,
Dec. 17. 1101 1st St. NE. Free. Visit
winterfestwg.com. l
DECEMBER 14, 2017 METROWEEKLY 15
PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE CANDIDATES
theFeed
SEEKING TO SERVE
What is motivating more LGBTQ candidates to run and whats it going
to take to get them elected? By John Riley
D
URING THE 2016 PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION, JOY
Silver spent 100 days working in Nevada as a field organizer
for Hillary Clinton. The days were almost 18-hour days,
she says. I was doing voter registration, making calls, knocking
on doors. I was in the war, I felt, for the countrys values.
While Clinton and down-ticket Democrats in Nevada were
successful on Election Night, Silver returned to her home in
Palm Springs, heartbroken over having won the battle but lost
the war.
I spent three days staring out the window, she recalls, and
then I decided, Okay, whats next? Her first move was to begin
seeking out other citizens who felt disheartened by the election
of President Donald Trump.
Silver, a 62-year-old consultant on aging issues, soon became
involved with Californias Courage Campaign, a state-based
progressive advocacy organization, which asked its members to
hold small meetings of #CourageousResistance in their living
rooms. Silver hosted 17 people at her first meetup. Within six
months, more than 1,700 had signed up.
Silver next worked with other grassroots organizations
on establishing sanctuary cities, passing nondiscrimination
ordinances, or lobbying elected officials to support progressive
policies. In June, those around her started suggesting that she
run for some type of office. She aimed high: her incumbent state
senator, Jeff Stone, a Trump-style Republican who opposes
many of progressive priorities.
Last week, Silver was one of many LGBTQ people who
attended the Victory Institutes International LGBTQ Leaders
Conference in Washington, D.C. Held annually, its designed
to encourage LGBTQ people to run for office and help push for
pro-equality policies.
Unlike some, Silver came to the conference with prior cam-
paign experience from her time as a field organizer, and its
something that will come in handy as she seeks to increase her
name recognition around the district and convince voters that
she is the best candidate to replace Stone.
I bring a lot of skills, not just hard skills of running bud-
gets and operating large organizations, but the skill of bringing
(L-R) Franco-Clausen, Chandler, Silver and Valdez
together people with diverse opinions, Silver says. I have a
strong voice, and I can be the person who says what needs to be
said and gets things done.
Shay Franco-Clausen, a 42-year-old candidate for the San
Jose City Council, has already been through Victory candidate
training, a four-day intensive workshop offering realistic cam-
paign simulations.
Victory is very rigorous, she says. They train you so hard,
and then teach you application right after. They give you a real
look at what campaigning is like, and ask you, Is this for you?
Youve got to know your marketing, your field operations, your
demographic, your opponents weaknesses.
Under the rules of Californias primary, Franco-Clausen
must be one of the top two vote-getters on June 5 in order to
earn a spot on the general election ballot. She aims to knock on
12,000 doors. She also plans to take advantage of free media and
stay engaged with voters through social media.
Like Silver, many LGBTQ candidates found themselves
drawn into politics after advocating for issues close to their
heart. For Alex Valdez, a 36-year-old Denver resident who
serves as the president of a residential solar company, the impe-
tus was advocating for renewable energy at the state level.
My first foray into politics was really focused around the
fact that we needed a seat at the table for renewables, says
Valdez, and on my desire to see accessibility expanded for
renewable energy to people that are disabled, elderly and poor.
As Ive started to get out there in the community, Ive learned
so much more about whats going on and that there are a lot of
other issues that need an advocate.
Running for a seat in the Colorado House of Representatives,
Valdez says the best thing he can do as a candidate and repre-
sentative, should he be successful is to listen.
People who run for office a lot of times talk a lot, but I think
the most important thing we can do is listen and hear the con-
cerns of everybody that lives in the district. Its my job to take
their concerns to the statehouse and ensure that I am advocat-
ing for the things that matter to my community.
For Alexandra Chandler, of Haverhill, Mass., the oppor-
DECEMBER 14, 2017 METROWEEKLY 17
 theFeed
tunity to become the countrys first openly transgender con-
gressperson presented itself with the retirement of Democratic
U.S. Rep. Niki Tsongas, leaving the seat for Massachusetts 3rd
Congressional District open.
Chandler, who served as a Naval intelligence analyst for
the past 13 years, recently moved back to her home state from
Washington, D.C. with her wife and two children. She had
thought of getting involved in politics at a local level by support-
ing other candidates, when, in a surprise development, Tsongas
announced she would not run for re-election.
I will say that I am the clich of the woman candidate that
has to be asked many times before they consider a run, because
I did not automatically think of doing this, she says. I had
people who came to me, saying, You have things to offer, you
should run.
Fundamentally, the real argument that resonated with me
is this: I had spent my life working on some of the toughest
challenges that this country faces, in areas where inaction, or
just yelling at each other, is not an option.
She points to the struggles that District residents have faced
VILE COMPARISON
Anti-gay Republican compares homosexuality to pedophilia
during debate. By John Riley
F
ORMER OKLAHOMA CITY MAYOR KIRK
Humphreys (R.) shocked LGBTQ organizations, viewers
at home and his Democratic opponent by comparing gay
men to pedophiles during a debate.
Humphreys, who is also a member of the University of
Oklahomas Board of Regents, was appearing on KFORs Flash
Point opposite state Rep. Emily Virgin (D.) to discuss the
upcoming special session of the Oklahoma legislature.
But it was during a conversation about sexual assault allega-
tions against Minnesota Sen. Al Franken and President Donald
Trump when Humphreys dropped a homophobic bomb that left
Virgin momentarily speechless. While debating the contrasts
between Democrats and Republicans in their response to the
allegations, Humphreys stopped Virgin and said, Let me get
this straight. Youre asserting that there is a right and wrong?
Correct, Virgin responded.
Humphreys then brought up Barney Frank, suggesting
Virgin was defending the openly gay former Congressman.
Caught off guard, Virgin said she had never defended him,
prompting moderator Kevin Ogle to ask what Frank had done.
Is homosexuality right or wrong? Its not relative,
Hunphreys said. Theres a right and wrong. You just said it.
So its either right or wrong. And if its okay, then its okay for
everybody. And quite frankly, its okay for men to sleep with
little boys, if its okay.
Virgin, stunned at Humphreys words, stared at him for a
moment, before saying, Im unclear on what Barney Frank did,
other than being a homosexual. She gave Humphreys a chance
to clarify whether Frank has been accused of anything, to which
he reiterated his right or wrong argument. He then mentioned
Ralph Shortey, the disgraced Republican family values state
senator, who pleaded guilty to child sex trafficking after being
found in a motel room with a 17-year-old boy.
18
with unemployment and underemployment, the rising costs of
healthcare, and opioid addiction as key issues that will inform
her campaign concerns she hears echoed at every local com-
munity meeting she attends.
Chandler recently received key endorsements that
should provide her campaign a boost, including Tsongas
former Washington office director and the Trans United
Fund, a political action committee that has backed other
successful transgender candidates for office, including
Virginia Delegate-elect Danica Roem and Minneapolis
City Council members Phillipe Cunningham and Andrea
Jenkins. But Chandler is not just relying on endorsements
to stand out from the crowded field of candidates seeking
the seat.
Its going to come down to the organizing, the field game,
knocking on doors, she says. Which fortunately, I love.
Victory Fund training really emphasizes this. So Im fortunate
that I am well prepared to do it technically via training, but also
well prepared, in that I just love talking to people and hearing
their stories. l
That was consensual, Humphreys said. But it was with
a kid.
Children cannot consent, Virgin retorted.
All Im saying is theres a right and a wrong, Humphreys
added. Virgin replied, I dont think that homosexuality is
wrong, to which Humphreys said, Well, I do.
Humphreys quickly came under harsh criticism for his
comments from LGBTQ advocates, Oklahoma University board
members, other politicians, and even his son, Blair Humphreys,
a real estate developer, who called his fathers words hurtful
and unfair, according to the Associated Press. Humphreys later
apologized, telling The Oklahoman via text that he didnt mean
to equate homosexuality and pedophilia.
That was not my intention or desire, Humphreys said. I
apologize for my lack of clarity and realize this has resulted in
a strong reaction by some and has hurt peoples feelings. For
clarification, my moral stance about homosexuality is that it is
against the teachings of Scripture.
In a Facebook post acknowledging that she was completely
caught off guard by his words, Virgin called Humphreys com-
ments disgusting, offensive, and just plain wrong.
LGBTQ advocacy group Freedom Oklahoma called for
Humphreys to resign from the Board of Regents and his posi-
tion as chairman of the board of John Rex Charter Elementary
School in Oklahoma City.
To compare gay men and specifically Congressman
Barney Frank to pedophiles and sexual predators is a
step way too far, Executive Director Troy Stevenson said
in a statement. LGBTQ youth are subjected to horrific
harassment, intimidation, and bullying on a daily basis,
and having bias and hate validated by a public official and
leader like Mayor Humphreys is disheartening and frankly
dangerous. l
Scene
The Victory Funds Women Out to Win at Republic Restoratives
Friday, December 8 Photography by Ward Morrison
See and purchase more photos from this event at www.metroweekly.com/scene

DECEMBER 14, 2017 METROWEEKLY 19

20 DECEMBER 14, 2017 METROWEEKLY

THURSDAY, Dec. 14
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
Center. 7:30-9 p.m. 300 Van
Buren St. NW. For more infor-
mation, visit swimdcac.org.
JULIAN VANKIM
DC FRONT RUNNERS run-
ning/walking/social club
welcomes runners of all ability
levels for exercise in a fun and
supportive environment, with
socializing afterward. Route
distance is 3-6 miles. Meet at
7 p.m. at 23rd & P Streets NW.
For more information, visit
dcfrontrunners.org.
DC LAMBDA SQUARES gay
and lesbian square-dancing
group features mainstream
through advanced square
dancing at the National City
Christian Church, 5 Thomas
Circle NW, 7-9:30 p.m. Casual
dress. 301-257-0517, dclamb-
dasquares.org.
DC SCANDALS RUGBY holds
practice. The team is always
looking for new members. All
welcome. 7:30-9:30 p.m. King
Greenleaf Recreation Center,
201 N St. SW. For more infor-
mation, visit scandalsrfc.org or
dcscandals@gmail.com.
THE DULLES TRIANGLES
Northern Virginia social
group meets for happy hour at
Sheraton in Reston. All wel-
come. 7-9 p.m. 11810 Sunrise
Valley Drive, second-floor bar.
For more information, visit
dullestriangles.com.
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
p.m. and 2-5 p.m. at the Max
Robinson Center, 2301 MLK Jr.
Ave. SE. For an appointment
call 202-745-7000 or visit whit-
man-walker.org.
IDENTITY offers free and
confidential HIV testing at
two separate locations. Walk-
ins accepted from 2-6 p.m.,
by appointment for all other
hours. 414 East Diamond Ave.,
Gaithersburg, Md. or 7676
New Hampshire Ave., Suite
Community
411, Takoma Park, Md. To set
up an appointment or for more
information, call Gaithersburg,
301-300-9978, or Takoma Park,
301-422-2398.
METROHEALTH CENTER
offers free, rapid HIV testing.
Appointment needed. 1012 14th
St. NW, Suite 700. To arrange
an appointment, call 202-638-
0750.
SMYAL offers free HIV Testing,
3-5 p.m., by appointment and
walk-in, for youth 21 and
younger. Youth Center, 410 7th
St. SE. 202-567-3155 or test-
ing@smyal.org.
STI TESTING at Whitman-
Walker Health. 10 a.m.-12:30
p.m. and 2-3 p.m. at both 1525
14th St. NW and the Max
Robinson Center, 2301 Martin
Pendarvis
Luther King, Jr. Ave. SE.
VOICES AGAINST
Testing is intended for those
without symptoms. For an
appointment call 202-745-7000
or visit whitman-walker.org.
VIOLENCE
Taking the Stage, Taking a Stand open
US HELPING US hosts a
Narcotics Anonymous Meeting.
The group is independent of
UHU. 6:30-7:30 p.m., 3636
Georgia Ave. NW. For more
mike night uplifts the stories of queer people information, call 202-446-1100.
affected by violence. WOMENS LEADERSHIP
T
INSTITUTE for young LBTQ
he open mike night is a way of bringing LGBTQ artists women, 13-21, interested in
together to have a voice, to stand up for change, to stand leadership development. 5-6:30
against the injustices happening to the community, p.m. SMYAL Youth Center, 410
says Rayceen Pendarvis, host of Taking the Stage, Taking a 7th St. SE. For more informa-
Stand: LGBTQ Voices Against Violence. tion, call 202-567-3163, or email
catherine.chu@smyal.org.
Held at Busboys and Poets, the event, sponsored by The
DC Center and the DC Anti-Violence Project, is meant to be
cathartic, allowing victims and their allies to share stories of
FRIDAY, Dec. 15
how violence has impacted them through spoken word, poetry, GAY DISTRICT, a group for
singing, or performance art. GBTQQI men between the ages
The evening is intended to serve as a culmination to a of 18-35, meets on the first and
three-day weekend dedicated to standing against violence. On third Fridays of each month.
Saturday, Dec. 16, from 1 to 5 p.m., The DC Center hosts End 8:30-9:30 p.m. 2000 14th St.
Violence Against Sex Workers. The event will honor those NW, Suite 105. For more infor-
mation, visit gaydistrict.org.
sex workers who have lost their lives, as well as explore the
intersection between sex work and marginalized populations. Join The DC Center for its
On Sunday, select churches in the District will hold services HOLIDAY GAME NIGHT, fea-
calling for an end to hate violence. turing board and card games
Everyone has a voice, and everyone is welcome to come and a chance to socialize with
to the stage to share their stories, to share their talents, says other people from the LGBTQ
Pendarvis. Whether youre a victim, or know someone whos community. 7-9 p.m. 2000 14th
St. NW, Suite 105. Visit thedc-
a victim, everyone is affected by violence, so all of our voices
center.org.
matter. John Riley
Weekly Events
Taking the Stage, Taking a Stand: LGBTQ Voices Against
Violence is Monday, Dec. 18 from 7-9 p.m. at Busboys and BET MISHPACHAH, founded
Poets, 2021 14th St. NW. Arrive by 6:30 p.m. to sign up to per- by members of the LGBT com-
form. For more information, or to reserve a spot, email Sam munity, holds Friday evening
Shabbat services in the DC
Goodwin at samantha@thedccenter.org.
Jewish Community Centers
Community Room. 8 p.m. 1529
For more information on End Violence Against Sex Workers 16th St. NW. For more informa-
and other programming from the anti-violence weekend, tion, visit betmish.org.
visit thedccenter.org.
DECEMBER 14, 2017 METROWEEKLY 21
 DC AQUATICS CLUB holds a prac-
tice session at Howard University.
6:30-8 p.m. Burr Gymnasium, 2400
6th St. NW. For more information,
visit swimdcac.org.
PROJECT STRIPES hosts LGBT-
affirming social group for ages
11-24. 4-6 p.m. 1419 Columbia Road
NW. Contact Tamara, 202-319-
0422, layc-dc.org.
SMYALS REC NIGHT provides a
social atmosphere for LGBT and
questioning youth, featuring dance
parties, vogue nights, movies and
games. For more info, email cather-
ine.chu@smyal.org.
SATURDAY, Dec. 16
ADVENTURING outdoors group
hikes 11 strenuous miles in Prince
William Forest Park near Quantico,
Va. Carpool at 9 a.m. from East
Falls Church Metro Kiss & Ride
lot. Bring beverages, lunch, sturdy
boots, layered clothes, and about
$10 for fees. Contact Jackson, 410-
422-9257 or visit adventuring.org.
CHRYSALIS arts & culture group
heads into southern Maryland to
see the remains of the Ghost Fleet
of World War I in the Potomac
River. Carpool at 10 a.m. from the
King Street Metro Station. Contact
Craig, 202-462-0535 or craighow-
ell1@verizon.net.
END VIOLENCE AGAINST SEX
WORKERS is a community event
to commemorate the lives of sex
workers that have been lost due to
violence and to advocate for an end
to the violence that sex workers
disproportionately face. The event
will also honor local trans women
of color who are doing amazing
work on behalf of the community.
1-5 p.m. 2000 14th St. NW, Suite
105. For more information, visit
end-violence.squarespace.com.
KHUSH DC, the group for LGBTQ
South Asians, hosts a monthly
meeting at The DC Center. 1:30-3
p.m. 2000 14th St. NW, Suite 105.
For more information, visit face-
book.com/khushdc.
The DC Center hosts a month-
ly LGBT ASYLEES SUPPORT
MEETING AND DINNER for LGBT
refugees and asylum seekers. 5-7
p.m. 2000 14th St. NW, Suite 105.
For more information, visit thedc-
center.org.
Weekly Events
DC AQUATICS CLUB holds a prac-
tice session at Montgomery College
Aquatics Club. 8:30-10 a.m. 7600
Takoma Ave., Takoma, Md. For more
information, visit swimdcac.org.
DC FRONT RUNNERS running/
walking/social club welcomes run-
22 DECEMBER 14, 2017 METROWEEKLY
ners of all ability levels for exercise
in a fun and supportive environ-
ment, with socializing afterward.
Route distance will be 3-6 miles.
Walker meet at 9:30 a.m. and run-
ners at 10 a.m. at 23rd & P Streets
NW. For more information, visit
dcfrontrunners.org.
DIGNITYUSA sponsors Mass for
LGBT community, family and
friends. 6:30 p.m., Immanuel
Church-on-the-Hill, 3606 Seminary
Road, Alexandria. All welcome. For
more info, visit dignitynova.org.
SUNDAY, Dec. 17
ADVENTURING outdoors group
hikes several miles on Sugarloaf
Mountain near Frederick, Md.,
to celebrate the return of the
sun as part of its Solstice Poetry
Hike. Carpool at 10 a.m. from the
Grosvenor-Strathmore Metro
Station, Bring beverages, lunch,
sturdy boots, layered clothes, a
short poem to read during lunch at
scenic overlook, and a few dollars
for fees. Contact Jeff, 301-775-9660
or visit adventuring.org.
Volunteers are needed to help
with CASA RUBYS MONTHLY
DINNER. Held on the third Sunday
of each month, in conjunction with
The DC Center, the event provides
a hot meal to those housed at Casa
Ruby. Homemade or store bought
meals welcome. 7-8 p.m. Casa
Ruby, 3530 Georgia Ave. NW. For
more information, contact lamar@
thedccenter.org, jon@thedccenter.
org, or visit casaruby.org.
Weekly Events
LGBT-inclusive ALL SOULS
MEMORIAL EPISCOPAL CHURCH
celebrates Low Mass at 8:30
a.m., High Mass at 11 a.m. 2300
Cathedral Ave. NW. 202-232-4244,
allsoulsdc.org.
DC AQUATICS CLUB holds a
practice session at Wilson Aquatic
Center. 9:30-11 a.m. 4551 Fort Dr.
NW. For more information, visit
swimdcac.org.
DC FRONT RUNNERS running/
walking/social club welcomes run-
ners of all ability levels for exercise
in a fun and supportive environ-
ment, with socializing afterward.
Route will be a distance run of 8, 10
or 12 miles. Meet at 9 a.m. at 23rd
& P Streets NW. For more informa-
tion, visit dcfrontrunners.org.
DIGNITYUSA offers Roman
Catholic Mass for the LGBT
community. All welcome. Sign
interpreted. 6 p.m. St. Margarets
Church, 1820 Connecticut Ave.
NW. For more info, visit dignity-
washington.org.
FIRST CONGREGATIONAL
UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST
welcomes all to 10:30 a.m. service,
945 G St. NW. firstuccdc.org or
202-628-4317.
HOPE UNITED CHURCH OF
CHRIST welcomes GLBT commu-
nity for worship. 10:30 a.m., 6130
Old Telegraph Road, Alexandria.
hopeucc.org.
HSV-2 SOCIAL AND SUPPORT
GROUP for gay men living in the
DC metro area. This group will be
meeting once a month. For infor-
mation on location and time, visit
H2gether.com.
Join LINCOLN
CONGREGATIONAL TEMPLE
UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST for
an inclusive, loving and progressive
faith community every Sunday. 11
a.m. 1701 11th Street NW, near R in
Shaw/Logan neighborhood. lincol-
ntemple.org.
METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY
CHURCH OF WASHINGTON, D.C.
services at 9 a.m. (ASL interpret-
ed) and 11 a.m. Childrens Sunday
School at 11 a.m. 474 Ridge St. NW.
202-638-7373, mccdc.com.
RIVERSIDE BAPTIST CHURCH,
a Christ-centered, interracial,
welcoming-and-affirming church,
offers service at 10 a.m. 680 I St.
SW. 202-554-4330, riversidedc.org.
ST. STEPHEN AND THE
INCARNATION, an interra-
cial, multi-ethnic Christian
Community offers services in
English, 8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m., and
in Spanish at 5:15 p.m. 1525 Newton
St. NW. 202-232-0900, saintste-
phensdc.org.
UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST
CHURCH OF SILVER SPRING
invites LGBTQ families and indi-
viduals of all creeds and cultures to
join the church. Services 9:15 and
11:15 a.m. 10309 New Hampshire
Ave. uucss.org.
MONDAY, Dec. 18
Join The DC Center and the DC
Anti-Violence Project for the latest
edition of TAKING THE STAGE,
TAKING A STAND: LGBTQ
VOICES AGAINST VIOLENCE,
featuring spoken word, poetry,
and artistic performances focused
on uplifting the voices and sto-
ries of LGBTQ people who have
been targeted by violence. Hosted
by Rayceen Pendarvis. 7-9 p.m.
Busboys and Poets, 2021 14th
St. NW. To sign up, or for more
information, email Sam Goodwin,
samantha@thedccenter.org.
The Metro D.C. chapter of PFLAG,
a support group for parents, family
members and allies of the LGBTQ
community, holds its monthly
meeting at The DC Center. 7-9 p.m.
2000 14th St. NW, Suite 105. For
more information, visit thedccen-
ter.org.
Weekly Events
DC AQUATICS CLUB holds a
practice session at Dunbar Aquatic
Center. 7:30-9 p.m. 101 N St. NW.
For more information, visit swim-
dcac.org.
GETEQUAL meets 6:30-8 p.m. at
Quaker House, 2111 Florida Ave.
NW. For more information, email
getequal.wdc@gmail.com.
KARING WITH INDIVIDUALITY
(K.I.) SERVICES, 3333 Duke St.,
Alexandria, offers free rapid HIV
testing and counseling, 9 a.m.-4
p.m. 703-823-4401.
NOVASALUD offers free HIV test-
ing. 5-7 p.m. 2049 N. 15th St., Suite
200, Arlington. Appointments: 703-
789-4467.
The DC Center hosts COFFEE
DROP-IN FOR THE SENIOR LGBT
COMMUNITY. 10 a.m.-noon. 2000
14th St. NW. For more information,
call 202-682-2245 or visit thedc-
center.org.
US HELPING US hosts a black gay
mens evening affinity group for
GBT black men. Light refreshments
provided. 7-9 p.m. 3636 Georgia
Ave. NW. 202-446-1100.
WASHINGTON WETSKINS
WATER POLO TEAM practices 7-9
p.m. Newcomers with at least basic
swimming ability always welcome.
Takoma Aquatic Center, 300 Van
Buren St. NW. For more informa-
tion, contact Tom, 703-299-0504
or secretary@wetskins.org, or visit
wetskins.org.
WHITMAN-WALKER HEALTH
HIV/AIDS SUPPORT GROUP
for newly diagnosed individuals,
meets 7 p.m. Registration required.
202-939-7671, hivsupport@whit-
man-walker.org.
TUESDAY, Dec. 19
CENTER BI, a group of The DC
Center, hosts a monthly roundtable
discussion around issues of bisex-
uality. 7-8 p.m. 2000 14th St. NW,
Suite 105. Visit thedccenter.org.
Queer-identifying women who
have survived violent or traumatic
experiences and are looking for
support are invited to take part
in a bi-weekly QUEER WOMEN
WORKING THROUGH TRAUMA
GROUP at The DC Center.
Participants are encouraged to
do an intake assessment with
moderator and social worker Sam
Goodwin. 6-7 p.m. 2000 14th St.
NW, Suite 105. For more infor-
mation, email Sam at samantha@
thedccenter.org.
THE HIV WORKING GROUP of
THE DC CENTER hosts a Packing
Party, where volunteers assemble
safe-sex kits of condoms and lube.
7-9 p.m. 2000 14th St. NW, Suite
105. Visit thedccenter.org.
Weekly Events
DC AQUATICS CLUB practice
session at Takoma Aquatic Center.
7:30-9 p.m. 300 Van Buren St. NW.
For more information, visit swim-
dcac.org.
DC FRONT RUNNERS running/
walking/social club welcomes run-
ners of all ability levels for exercise
in a fun and supportive environment,
with socializing afterward. Route
distance is 3-6 miles. Meet at 7 p.m.
at Union Station. For more informa-
tion, visit dcfrontrunners.org.
DC SCANDALS RUGBY holds prac-
tice. The team is always looking
for new members. All welcome.
7:30-9:30 p.m. King Greenleaf
Recreation Center, 201 N St. SW.
For more information, visit scan-
dalsrfc.org or dcscandals@gmail.
com.
THE GAY MENS HEALTH
COLLABORATIVE offers free
HIV testing and STI screening
and treatment every Tuesday.
5-6:30 p.m. Rainbow Tuesday
LGBT Clinic, Alexandria Health
Department, 4480 King St. 703-
746-4986 or text 571-214-9617.
james.leslie@inova.org.
OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS
LGBT focused meeting every
Tuesday, 7 p.m. St. Georges
Episcopal Church, 915 Oakland
Ave., Arlington, just steps from
Virginia Square Metro. For
more info. call Dick, 703-521-
1999. Handicapped accessible.
Newcomers welcome. liveandletli-
veoa@gmail.com.
STI TESTING at Whitman-Walker
Health. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at both 1525
14th St. NW and the Max Robinson
Center, 2301 Martin Luther King,
Jr. Ave. SE. Testing is intended for
those without symptoms. For an
appointment call 202-745-7000 or
visit whitman-walker.org.
Support group for LGBTQ youth
ages 13-21 meets at SMYAL. 5-6:30
p.m. 410 7th St. SE. For more
information, contact Cathy Chu,
202-567-3163, or catherine.chu@
smyal.org.
US HELPING US hosts a support
group for black gay men 40 and
older. 7-9 p.m., 3636 Georgia Ave.
NW. 202-446-1100.
Whitman-Walker Health holds its
weekly GAY MENS HEALTH AND
WELLNESS/STD CLINIC. Patients
are seen on walk-in basis. No-cost
screening for HIV, syphilis, gon-
orrhea and chlamydia. Hepatitis
and herpes testing available for fee.
Testing starts at 6 p.m, but should
arrive early to ensure a spot. 1525
14th St. NW. For more information,
visit whitman-walker.org.
WEDNESDAY, Dec. 20
BOOKMEN DC, an informal mens
gay-literature group, discusses
Gay Directors, Gay Films: Pedro
Almodovar, Terence Davies,
Todd Haynes, Gus Van Sant, John
Waters by Emanuel Levy. All are
welcome. 7:30 p.m. The DC Center,
2000 14th St. NW, Suite 105. Visit
bookmendc.blogspot.com.
The TOM DAVOREN SOCIAL
BRIDGE CLUB meets for Social
Bridge at the Dignity Center, across
from the Marine Barracks. No
partner needed. 7:30 p.m. 721 8th
St. SE. Call 301-345-1571 for more
information.
Weekly Events
AD LIB, a group for freestyle con-
versation, meets about 6-6:30 p.m.,
Steam, 17th and R NW. All wel-
come. For more information, call
Fausto Fernandez, 703-732-5174.
FREEDOM FROM SMOKING, a
group for LGBT people looking
to quit cigarettes and tobacco use,
holds a weekly support meeting at
The DC Center. 7-8 p.m. 2000 14th
St. NW, Suite 105. For more infor-
mation, visit thedccenter.org.
HISTORIC CHRIST CHURCH
offers Wednesday worship 7:15 a.m.
and 12:05 p.m. All welcome. 118 N.
Washington St., Alexandria. 703-
549-1450, historicchristchurch.org.
JOB CLUB, a weekly support pro-
gram for job entrants and seekers,
meets at The DC Center. 6-7:30
p.m. 2000 14th St. NW, Suite 105.
For more info, centercareers.org.
STI TESTING at Whitman-Walker
Health. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at both 1525
14th St. NW and the Max Robinson
Center, 2301 Martin Luther King,
Jr. Ave. SE. Testing is intended for
those without symptoms. For an
appointment call 202-745-7000 or
visit whitman-walker.org.
WASHINGTON WETSKINS
WATER POLO TEAM practices 7-9
p.m. Newcomers with at least basic
swimming ability always welcome.
Takoma Aquatic Center, 300 Van
Buren St. NW. For more informa-
tion, contact Tom, 703-299-0504
or secretary@wetskins.org, or visit
wetskins.org. l
DECEMBER 14, 2017 METROWEEKLY 23
Love,
Call Me By Your Name director Luca
Guadagnino, screenwriter James Ivory, and
costar Michael Stuhlbarg talk about making
the ultimate gay romance.

Their Way By Andr Hereford

I
N DIRECTOR LUCA GUADAGNINOS LUSHLY
beautiful Call Me By Your Name, the budding romance
between teenager Elio and 24-year old graduate student
Oliver blossoms with delectable slowness. Set in Italy
during the summer of 1983, the film, adapted from Andr
Acimans 2007 novel, depicts the young men growing closer as
Oliver spends the season assisting Elios father Samuel, a history
professor. Sparked primarily by Elios intellectual and sexual
curiosity, he and Oliver enjoy a sun-dappled summer of swim-
ming holes and apricot groves, of flirting over Bach and Liszt,
and bonding over their shared Jewish faith.
Guadagnino, who directed and co-wrote the award-winning
drama I Am Love, draws the audience into the warmth of the
setting, and the tension of mounting attraction, by allowing shots
and scenes to unfold in gorgeously composed long takes. A mas-
ter at conveying then shifting perspective, he uses the cam-
era to encourage identification with Elio, portrayed by newcom-
er Timothe Chalamet, while also accentuating the characters
beauty and classical features, referenced in the bronze statues
that Oliver and Samuel dredge up from the sea.
The light of inspiration radiates throughout the film, and
Guadagninos passion for the source material is reflected as
much in the directors own words as it is on screen. I love the
book, he says, I love the characters, and I love the cast that I
put together. The cast includes Armie Hammer as Oliver and
Michael Stuhlbarg as Elios perceptive, gentle father.
Love is the key word. Filmed
among towering pines and wind-
ing lanes in a landscape whose
beauty charms even on a rainy
day, Call Me By Your Name is an
utterly alluring love story. Its a
movie that earns its spot on the
distinguished list of great summer romances, a list that might
also include another slow-burning book-to-screen romance, also
set in Italy: A Room with a View, directed by James Ivory.
One-half of the legendary Merchant-Ivory Productions part-
nership, Ivory wrote the screenplay for Call Me By Your Name,
and recognizes some similarities between the film and another
classic Merchant-Ivory film, the gay-themed drama Maurice.
Both films have something very much in common, says
Ivory. Both of them are romantic stories, which is why so many
women like both films. I mean, Maurice is a film that women
liked very, very much because its romantic and has a happy
ending.... Call Me By Your Name [might have] equally a large,
appreciative womens audience.
In fact, the film has found appreciative audiences at major
film festivals from Sundance to Berlin to Toronto, and has
already garnered a number of critics prizes and three Golden
Globe nominations. Following the surprise Best Picture Oscar
for last years rapturously received Moonlight, the film now
is generating steady Oscar buzz, especially for Chalamet and

26 DECEMBER 14, 2017 METROWEEKLY

 Hammers superb performances. dont entirely match up with Elios. I was like Elio, watching
But the movies success at the box office wont depend only people dancing, but unlike Elio, I never jumped onto the dance
on awards and critics, or the romance-loving female audience. floor.
Men, gay or straight, also can appreciate a moving love story. Elio, on the other hand, recognizes a kindred spirit, and
And this story in particular might strike a chord with many responds to the attention and tutelage of his familys houseg-
queer people, of whatever gender, as it depicts a relationship uest as a means towards self-discovery. His awakening is the
between a 17-year old and a slightly older man that will be famil- heartbeat of Guadagninos film, which the director describes as,
iar to some as a gay rite of passage ingrained in Western culture a movie about the capacity of accepting the other in his or her
since the ancient Greeks. otherness. This is a movie in which you see the transformative
Elio isnt the first, and wont be the last, young man to quality of the people that interact with one another for the best.
experience his sexual awakening at the hands of an older man, Indeed, the pairs summer romance is presented in the most
and to look on the experience with fondness. Given societal ideal terms. Notably, Elio and Olivers love blooms right under
conventions of the past few centuries, adolescents who might the noses of Elios father and mother, who appear not only aware
be inclined towards same-sex attraction
generally have had few opportunities to
explore such feelings with a peer, with-
out fear of reprimand, rejection or even
condemnation.
Enter the older man, someone
like Oliver, sensitive and self-assured,
a model of the confidence that results
from knowing oneself. In Call Me By
Your Name, Oliver leads Elio in a subtle
game of seduction, yet its the younger
man who must decide to act on their
mutual desire.

In one already famous scene, Elio

watches Oliver on a dance floor, lost in
the reverie of the Psychedelic Furs hit
Love My Way. After a moment, the
teen joins the object of his desire on the
dance floor and loses himself in much the
same trance. Quite clearly, hes discovered something, too. but entirely supportive of their sons journey. As understanding
I wanted to have a sort of hymn for the two of them, says a dad as any queer kid is likely to find, Samuel delivers in the
Guadagnino. And also something that could resonate on Oliver, films final act one of the most beautifully written father-son
and show without telling the powerful necessity that Oliver has conversations ever committed to screen.
to lose himself in his emotions. And Love my Way is a testament Co-star Michael Stuhlbarg, wonderful in the role of Samuel,
of that. sees the scholarly, understanding father as a sort of ideal parent.
Evocative of 80s romance and heartbreak, the song fits the He seems to be liberal and present, conscientious and loving,
SONY PICTURES CLASSICS

pair perfectly, while also expressing a more personal feeling of
the directors. I remember this song from when I was a kid, as
well, Guadagnino continues. And so for me it was an homage
to my memory of music, and to the Psychedelic Furs themselves,
and it was very timely for the characters.
He admits his own experiences as a very restrained kid
he says. He seems to have a great sense of humor and a great
passion for what he does in his life. And I think he gets a huge
delight out of where his son is in his life right now.
I think with Elio being on the verge of manhood, [Sam]
seems to be getting a kick out of some of the things that hes
going through, yet at the same time he remains both generous

DECEMBER 14, 2017 METROWEEKLY 27

SONY PICTURES CLASSICS

and present if Elio needs him. He just seems to be a good parent,
from at least my perspective.
The film has stirred up controversy among those who take
issue with the lovers age difference, and its clear that not every
viewer will share Stuhlbargs view. And, as the brief romance
will almost certainly have long-lasting effects on Elio and his
family, some might insist that the teens parents should be more
involved, or more protective.
Stuhlbarg favors another view. At least in this case, I dont
think Professor Perlman wants to protect Elio. I think he has
a sense that Elio has gone through something profound, and I
Its not a political
think hes been encouraging him not to push those feelings
those deep feelings away.
And if such feelings should lead to heartbreak? I think its
really impossible to protect your children against things, he
says. You can do the best you can, but in the end, especially as
they get older, theyre going to do what they will, and I think its
enough to be present in their lives. I think [Sam] saw something
growing and he remained present, but not intrusive in terms of
their getting to know each other. I think he felt probably that it
was none of his business, but he also wanted to be present for his
son if his son needed to ask him anything, or needed him.
Although both Guadagnino and Ivory downplay any poten-
tial controversy, or political statement one might infer, it hap-
pens that the films release coincides with a cultural moment
thats fraught with partisan tensions. In the midst of these stark

statement. This was a divisions between so-called liberal and conservative values,
issues of sexuality and sexual expression have been further
inflamed by harassment and assault scandals of every stripe.
romance. Maurice, too, Even when a creator has no intention of being political, it
seems inevitable that someone will manage to politicize their
was a romance. In this work. Yet Ivory, for one, fully resists such thinking in reference
to Call Me By Your Name.

day and age, I CANT Its not a political statement, he says. Ive made political
statements in some of my movies but I dont make them in this
movie or Maurice. This was a romance. Maurice, too, was a
IMAGINE THERE BEING romance. Moonlight was also romance. I mean, in this day and
age, at least in this country, I cant imagine there being a big reac-
A BIG REACTION TO IT tion to it thats negative in any sort of moral way. This is unimag-
inable to me. Weve come a long way since Maurice, right?

THATS NEGATIVE IN ANY Unfortunately, theres plenty of evidence that progress for
LGBTQ citizens in the U.S., and for LGBTQ cinema in general,
SORT OF MORAL WAY. still encounters fierce resistance from anti-gay groups and other
cultural conservatives. Guadagnino might be equally as sanguine
James Ivory as Ivory about impending reaction to the film upon its wider
release, but hes somewhat more assertive about the films poli-
tics, either implied or explicit.

28 DECEMBER 14, 2017 METROWEEKLY

If I have to think of this movie
as political, maybe its politics lies
in the fact that this is a movie
about compassion. Its political
in that it says to whomever sees
it that CALL ME BY YOUR NAME
BELIEVES IN BUILDING BRIDGES
INSTEAD OF WALLS.
Luca Guadagnino
I think every film is political in one way or another, he says.
If I have to think of this movie as political, maybe its politics
lies in the fact that this is a movie about compassion. Its political
in that it says to whomever sees it that Call Me by Your Name
believes in building bridges instead of walls.
In the present national and global environment, that certain-
ly qualifies as a political statement. But searching for polemics
in a lovely tale of a boy entering manhood is to ignore the films
elegant storytelling and dazzling craftsmanship. From the grace-
ful cinematography and production design, to original music
supplied by singer-songwriter Sufjan Stevens, the films predom-
inant statement is one of being open to love. The sensual details
create an enveloping world, where even the sexual suggestion
of a piece of dripping wet fruit lands with an impact thats both
powerful and delicate. Its a profound directorial achievement
that the consummation of Elio and Olivers romance manages to
be explicit, yet entirely subtle.
Fresh from completing production on Call Me By Your Name,
Guadagnino jumped right into his next project, a much-antic-
ipated remake of Dario Argentos horror classic Suspiria. As
horror fans wait with bated breath for that film, Guadagnino,
along with his Call Me cast and collaborators, can bask in the
near-universal admiration of their work.
To be honest, when you do a movie, you do a movie. And
you try to make your best, but you dont necessarily foresee how
this movies gonna behave in the world, how this movie will be
welcomed by people. To have seen the growing enthusiasm from
audiences in festivals, and now in theaters from people, its riv-
eting, its humbling. Its something that makes you understand,
that [you] always strive for the best in a very methodical way, but
again, you cant predict a reaction. You can only hope for being
able to open yourself, and communicate to people.
Add to that glowing response the growing list of accolades
and enthusiastic reviews, and it would appear that Guadagnino
and company accomplished their mission. There hasnt been a
screen romance quite like Call Me By Your Name, but like any
love story it asks a viewer to enter willing to fall a little bit in
love. For those wholl take that leap, the movie more than fulfills
its promise. l
Call Me By Your Name opens Friday, Dec. 15 at the Landmark E
Street Cinema, Landmark Bethesda Row, Arclight Bethesda, AMC
Shirlington, and Angelika Mosaic. Visit landmarktheatres.com or
Fandango.com.
DECEMBER 14, 2017 METROWEEKLY 29
 Personal Journey
In Draw the Circle, playwright Mashuq Deen mines universal truths from his intensely personal story.

Interview by Andr Hereford

Photography by Stan Barouh

M
ASHUQ MUSHTAQ DEENS JOURNEY TOWARDS
self-acceptance and empowerment coming out first
to himself, then to his traditional Indian Muslim fam-
ily was marked by extreme challenges, including a bout with
suicidal depression and a harrowing sexual assault at the hands
of a cis straight man. Like many artists, the proud trans man,
managed to heal by turning to his art. In his outstanding solo
play, Draw the Circle, currently at Mosaic Theater in a produc-
tion directed by the highly esteemed Chay Yew, Deen explores
the struggle of his transition with a unique slant.
Performing an impressive array of characters, based on his
real-life circle of family, friends, his partner, and even his rapist,
Deen puts in perspective some universal truths to be mined from
his intensely personal story. And yet, he never appears in the
play as himself.
Deen and Yew create a world in which everyone from Deens
73-year-old father to his eight-year-old niece has a voice in
depicting their collective experience of his transition. Employing
only Deens voice and body to assume each character with an
assist from well-considered lighting, a few projected titles, and
a single chair Draw the Circle conveys a wealth of humanity,
comedy, pain, and heart. And Deen credits his director for the
plays sparse, but entirely effective staging.
As the Brooklyn-based artist continues to develop future
works with the New Dramatists theatre collective, and prepare
for upcoming engagements of Draw the Circle in New York and
Philadelphia, he took time to consider where he is now, and how
far he and his family have come.
METRO WEEKLY: Something in the play that really hits home was a
simple line of dialogue, You worry when youre with a butch. The
fear factor is something that you confront head-on, dealing with
your own sexual assault. And also performing the character who
perpetrates the assault. Why the choice of performing everyone in
the circle around you, but not you?
MASHUQ MUSHTAQ DEEN: A couple of reasons. Artistically, if
Im gonna write a play Im gonna be with this play for years. It
takes a very long time from writing a play to getting onstage, and

30 DECEMBER 14, 2017 METROWEEKLY

youre with these characters for a long time. And I felt like I had And she finds that a really frustrating question, as if its like she
already lived it, so me just putting it down on paper felt redun- was doing a bit of charity for me. And shell always say, You
dant. Like, what was I gonna learn from it? know, I always knew I wasnt gonna leave. I just had to sort of
It was really interesting to me to follow the journeys of these come to terms with what it meant for me. And I didnt know
other people and see their struggles. And I did understand things that. I thought she was for sure gonna leave, but she said she was
that I hadnt before. For instance, I always had lived in this place never gonna leave. That wasnt ever part of her process.
where I thought my parents are ashamed of me, and it really So shes seen it. Her parents have seen it multiple times. My
hurt and it pissed me off and its all
these things that enter the writing
of the play. [But] I realized that my
parents were also really maybe
more so were more afraid for me,
and were trying to protect me in
the ways that they knew how, and
those ways hurt. But it didnt mean
that they werent trying to protect
me. Theyre Muslims, immigrants,
in this country. They dont tell peo-
ple. They dont march in parades
and tell people. Thats what they
know. So I learned that.
MW: But, in a sense, because youve
scripted them, these people are
still being judged. How have they
responded to it?
DEEN: I mean, its always through
me the filter, right? So Ive chosen
what words to put in their mouths.
But I hope that if Ive done my job as
a writer that theres no bad guy, and
I hope that I was harder on myself
than I was on everybody else. And
I do hope that you come away from
the play really feeling for, and lov-
ing, my parents. Not feeling like,
They were bad people. They treat-
ed him wrong. I want you to feel
like, God, they like really came a
long way from where they started
and thats kind of amazing, even
though maybe they didnt get all the
way there by the end of the play.
But it is true, Im the writer. I
get to be God in this project. I make
all the final decisions. But I have
done my best, I think, to really live
in their experience and be as truth-
ful as I can. And my family hasnt
seen this play, so I dont know what
they think.
MW: What about your partner? Is
she portrayed in the character of
Molly in the show?
DEEN: Her actual names Liz. But
yeah, thats her and shes seen it
many, many times, and she actually
gave me her journals from the time of when I was transitioning, brother-in-law, whos depicted in the play, hes seen it and loves
and so I used her poem. Also, [Mollys] last monologue about it. I think it would be really hard for my family, though, on mul-
how were gonna grow old together and parent some children, tiple levels. One, my parents dont know about the rape, and so I
and children change. That is lifted mostly from her journals. would have to sit down and talk to them, and I dont want them
Shes really supportive of it. The thing that she always says to find out in a crowded theater. And its a little too close to home
that annoys her is that when shes in the audience, people will for them, they said, You know were proud of you and were
say, Oh, my God. Youre so amazing. How did you stay at it? glad its out in the world, and people should see it, but were not

DECEMBER 14, 2017 METROWEEKLY 31

gonna see this. Well, well see how this goes because if not, Ill just kill myself
MW: Have you had reaction from other parents who have seen the and that will be that.
show? And then, in the end, people surprised me. My friends sur-
DEEN: I had a parent write to me. She said, after the play she prised me. And my family did not surprise me. But they took
saw it with her son who was 15 or 16 they went away and had a long time, and then eventually they came around, but it took
a long conversation about what does it mean to want your par- a long time. But [Liz] was great and stayed with me. And her
ents acceptance? What does it mean to be your own person? Are family was great.
you afraid of disappointing people, this and that? And I thought, MW: How has this show evolved since you premiered it, and do you
thats the best compliment, that you would go away and have this think its going to continue to evolve?
conversation that I bet most parents and kids just dont have. I DEEN: Since the first reading back in 2010, weve changed some
mean, who wants to disappoint their parents? things, but not in the last few years. Its pretty much set the way
MW: But you also want to know that your choices can be okay. it is. The one thing we changed this year, besides little drama-
DEEN: And that they would love you. That they said it was turgical tweaks here and there for clarity, was the scrolling list
unconditional, so that means like, Whoever I am. Whatevers of names at the end [of murdered trans individuals]. I mean, just
truthful, youll still love me, right? to know that the last three years, every year has been worse than
MW: Do you consider coming out an ongoing thing? Or is there a the last. And 2017 is already worse than 2016. Were not finished
moment of, I did it. Ive made it to the top of this mountain. with it yet. And I think if I make a change before New York, itll
DEEN: Well, I think theres probably be to update
coming out to yourself and I feel like were actually segregating out into a women that 2017 list, because
then theres coming out to and men scenario, which for me, I find really difficult, weve already lost two
the world around you. And because I feel like Im both. But BECAUSE NOW IM IN A more since we started
I think, in terms of my sex- MANS BODY, I FEEL LIKE I the show, in at least the
uality, I felt like coming out SHOULD BE QUIET AND three weeks since I put
to myself, it was like the light that list together.
NOT SAY ANYTHING.
bulb went off and I was like, MW: Do you feel that the
Oh. Thats what I am. I high incidence of sex-
hadnt realized it for a real- ual assault and harass-
ly long time, even though I ment that trans men and
think many people around women face is getting lost
me had. I figured it out. in this Me Too moment?
But I think with the gen- Or is it being included?
der stuff it was harder. One, DEEN: I dont think so.
because I really fought it. I I mostly feel like were
mean, I had been assaulted. actually segregating out
I knew many people who into a women and men
had been assaulted and I was scenario, which for me,
really afraid I would become one of these bad men. I could not I find really difficult, because I feel like Im both. But because
face that for a long time. There were lots of signs over a decade now Im in a mans body, I feel like I should be quiet and not say
of the slow progression there. anything.
And then, even when I think I did understand that I was MW: You feel culpable just being male?
transgender, I was like, Okay, but butches just are inherently DEEN: Yeah. I feel like were not critiquing the patriarchy. I
transgender, so I dont have to do anything, right? And then mean, the thing is, I am not surrounded by those men, so I realize
it was like, once youd opened the door to see something about that when people are talking about those men, I literally dont
yourself, I wanted to close it and I couldnt close the door again. have them in my life, because I live in the theater world. I just
And I can only imagine a part of that was because I thought I dont see these people. And so its very real. But I think we are
would lose friends. I thought I would lose my family. I didnt using this brush to say all men. I wish there was some room for
know how dangerous it was gonna be. I remembered the a nuanced conversation about the gray areas, and that there was
Brandon Teena thing when it happened. I remember working some talking about sexual violence and harassment in general
on that documentary before the film came out. I was like, Im that men also face. The dichotomizing of men and women is
gonna get murdered in the bathroom. Like this is what my life leaving out lots of people who exist in the middle and who are
was gonna be. also getting harassed all the time.
And this person that I love dearly is gonna leave me, because MW: You mentioned in the play, portraying Molly, that you want
every story Id ever heard is that if you transition, your partner some way to let people know that, We look like a straight couple,
will leave. But then I kept, I think, backing myself into a corner. but were not.
I keep getting to this place where its, Well, I can kill myself or DEEN: Were not. Neither of us ever identified as lesbian and
I could try this thing which seems really scary. I guess Ill try the neither of us ever identified as straight. Were both interested
thing, because I can kill myself later. Like, I might as well. in people. And it just so happens that the person that Ive met
And I feel like thats the way I kind of forced myself to make the is her. l
decision.
MW: Take a baby step. Draw the Circle runs in repertory with The Real Americans
DEEN: Yeah. And sometimes people say, Youre so brave, and through December 24 at the Atlas Performing Arts Center, 1333
I was like, It doesnt feel brave. I just felt like I put myself in H St. NE. Tickets are $20 to $65. Call 202-399-7993, ext. 2, or visit
a position where I had no choice, and then I just said, Alright. MosaicTheater.org.

32 DECEMBER 14, 2017 METROWEEKLY

DISNEY
Movies

affection for both the core material and its

Mind-blowing
multitude of fans.
The new film is not just magnificent,
its spectacularly magnificent. Its easily

Force
The Last Jedi is a spectacular, intense ride that tugs at your emotions
and dazzles your senses. By Randy Shulman
the best Star Wars since 1980s Empire,
and if it doesnt quite match that films
narrative density, its certainly not for lack
of trying. Johnson has crafted a storyline
that pays tribute to the past but also stares
headfirst into an uncertain future, taking
the story in powerful unexpected direc-

O
tions. The visuals are intense and strong,
NLY ONE THING BOTHERED ME WHILE WATCHING STAR WARS: THE particularly during the final, dazzling 45
Last Jedi, the eighth installment in a series that blazed onto screens in 1977 and minutes. The score, by John Williams, has
40 years later is, improbably, stronger than ever: why dont they have trans- never been more potent or meaningful.
porters? How is it possible that, among all these alien species, not one has invented The action is mind-boggling and master-
technology that just beams someone (or thing) out of harms way? It would save a lot ful, and features a jaw-dropping lightsaber
of time. Then again, who needs to save time when youre having this much fun wonder- battle that is going to be nearly impossible
ing how a stranded hero will be rescued from an exploding ship? to top.
Of course, this isnt Star Trek, and, perhaps more importantly, the Star Wars saga The new locales are inventive and, at
isnt set in the future, but a long time ago in a galaxy far, far away. Those familiar times, rapturous, including a mineral plan-
opening words are Pavlovian at this point, and they set our inner-child alight, and we et that bleeds red when its sands are
settle in for a ride like none other. Oh, and what a ride it is, The Last Jedi (HHHHH). disrupted and is home to a den of crystal
To be honest, Star Wars has always been less about cold, hard tech and more about pups, which, in addition to being utterly
the personal. Even the droids, with their assorted bleeps and bloops, seem to have adorable serve a vital purpose. (There are
souls. Like so many classic stories, Star Wars explores the relationship between good also puffin-like Pogs, but they feel like a
and evil, but with Last Jedi, the exploration goes further, into the murky, grey areas that merchandising ploy more than anything
lie in between. Its human conflict on a breathtakingly epic scale. else.) The movies themes are deep and
And thats a point the new film, thrillingly directed by Rian Johnson, makes in full resonant, particularly with regard to the
force. J.J. Abrams successfully relaunched the series in 2015 with The Force Awakens characters of the impulsive, conflicted
by essentially rebooting 1977s A New Hope, but Johnson, unemcumbered by having Kylo Ren (Adam Driver, giving a perfor-
to deal with introductions, goes further. The Last Jedi could easily be this current mance of almost Shakespearean dimen-
trilogys Empire Strikes Back, and while it certainly has the right amount of gravitas to sions) and the inquisitive, equally conflict-
equal what many still consider the best Star Wars of them all, it moves to its own beat, ed Rey (Daisy Ridley), whose search for
takes new risks, throws in nostalgic essentials, and adheres to a time-tested formula personal meaning has led her to the hut
with both rigorous adherence and respect, as well as a deep, genuine, very apparent of the legendary Luke Skywalker (Mark

DECEMBER 14, 2017 METROWEEKLY 35

DISNEY
Hamill), currently living a hermits life of self-imposed exile.
Johnson splits the storyline into three distinct, neatly cross-
linked portions. Rey attempts to convince a soured Luke to help
the badly decimated Resistance fend off the First Order, which
is presided over by the grey-skinned, ghoulish Supreme Leader
Snoke (Andy Serkis). Meanwhile, hot-shot flyboy Poe Dameron
(Oscar Isaac, who has more to do this time around but still comes
off a bit stiff) must contend with the consequences of actions
taken in the films mind-blowing opening sequence, as well
as Vice Admiral Amilyn Holdo (Laura Dern), a purple-coiffed
nemesis who has taken command in the absence of Leia (Carrie
Fisher) and seems destined make a huge strategic mistake.
Finn (John Boyega), meanwhile, emerges from his coma and
embarks on a covert mission with a spry mechanic (the delight-
ful Kelly Marie Tran) that takes them to an elaborate alien casino
that makes the Cantina on Mos Eisley look like a petting zoo.
The storylines are expertly woven together by Johnson no
easy task and converge in a way that is satisfying, poignant,
and thrilling. Its the kind of conclusion you dream for in an
epic big, bold, and yet grounded and human, with just the
right grace notes of humor. Try not to be wrapped in blissful glee
watching the films final crescendo. I dare you.
Its no spoiler to say that there are things that are, sadly,
known. This was Fishers last film before unexpectedly passing,
but her role is much larger than youd expect, and she brings an
essential heart and warmth to The Last Jedi that is soothing and
The Last Jedi is rated PG-13 for mild violence. Opens Friday, Dec. 15, nationwide, at area theaters. Visit Fandango.com.
36 DECEMBER 14, 2017 METROWEEKLY
calming. Shes never been better; future installments will miss
her radiance. Similarly, Hamill gives a finely honed, resonant
performance and the film is a way to honor both the character of
Luke, so vital to the series as a whole, and to the actor himself.
Torches, however, have been passed, and Ridleys Rey is
the new centerpiece. You have no place in this story, growls
someone to Rey, and the assessment couldnt be more off base.
Rey is the lynchpin of The Last Jedi, and her curiosity and
innate compassion leads her to make a fateful decision that
will no doubt inform the ninth installment, due in 2019. This
is not going to end the way you think it will, Luke, who is ada-
mant that its time for the Jedi to end, says to Rey. Indeed, it
does not.
Far be it from me to spoil the ride, other than to say the ride
is well beyond amazing. Those few critics who are complaining
about The Last Jedi should be exiled to Hoth. The Last Jedi
deserves nothing but acclaim, and Johnson, an incredibly adept
director who has an instinct for human pathos, deserves to be
handed as many future Star Wars films as he can muster. The
film is two and a half hours long, making it the longest install-
ment of the series. And yet, you never want it to end.
Star Wars is not just ingrained in our culture, it is our culture.
It targets our emotions and strikes with a deep, profound, lasting
impact. It is our modern day myth our Iliad, our Odyssey, our
contribution to the never-ending stories that keep our lives full and
our imaginations forever fueled. Its a force to be reckoned with. l
 Movies

ceeds with subtlety as Florence, who says

Mud, Sweat and

plenty with forceful silence. The simmer-
ing drama is supplied by Mulligans antsy
Laura and her kindred spirit brother-in-

Tears
A cinematic tour de force, Mudbound weaves
an epic tale of two families.By Andr Hereford
law, Jamie. Something will ignite between
them does immediately ignite between
them and Rees doesnt mind if the audi-
ence sees the danger coming.
Some hazards cant be avoided, just as
doom surely awaits Ronsel, who returns
from the war ready to demand that he

I
be treated like a man, even in 1940s
N ADAPTING HILLARY JORDANS 2008 PRIZE-WINNING NOVEL Mississippi. His confidence invites dan-
Mudbound for the screen, Dee Rees has created a timeless piece of cinematic art. ger, and danger lurks like a foul, wound-
Her third feature-length film following the semi-autobiographical debut Pariah, ed beast around the McAllan farm, in
and the Queen Latifah HBO biopic Bessie Mudbound (HHHHH) depicts a gripping the form of Henry and Jamies hate-filled
WWII-era story, beautifully shot and acted, of lives intertwined in struggle on an father, Pappy.
unruly patch of Mississippi farmland. Theres not much subtlety to Pappys
The McAllans, who are white, own the land. The Jacksons, who are black, go from contempt for the Jacksons and all black
tenant farming to sharecropping on the land, as both families send a cherished son people, nor is there to Jonathan Bankss
or brother off to fight in Europe. The wars at home, against the sun and rain, against performance as the irascible bigot.
death, deprivation, Jim Crow and the Klan, epitomize the hardscrabble Mississippi of Nevertheless, Pappy does tell his brand of
Faulkner novels and Nina Simone songs. the truth, and he speaks for a generation
The language is rapturous, whether one of the narrators is pondering the distinction whose ignorance this nation still struggles
between a mans deeds and a deed, or explaining the difference between a heap of dirt to bury under the footsteps of progress.
and a piece of land. Equally rich are cinematographer Rachel Morrisons finely textured With an ending that deviates slight-
compositions the rain pours, blood spills, and every color and movement resonates. ly, but significantly, from the novel, Rees
Most resounding are the indelible characters created by a wonderful cast, including chooses hope over utter calamity. And her
Jason Clarke as the determined farmer Henry McAllan, Carey Mulligan as his educated moving film does its part to bury those
wife Laura, and Garrett Hedlund as his dashing airman brother, Jamie. Rob Morgan bones a little deeper. l
is the devoted Jackson patriarch Hap with singer Mary J. Blige as his steely wife
Florence, and Jason Mitchell their self-assured soldier son, Ronsel. Mudbound is rated R, and currently is
Known more for bringing the drama with her hip-hop-infused R&B, Blige suc- streaming on Netflix.

DECEMBER 14, 2017 METROWEEKLY 37

38 DECEMBER 14, 2017 METROWEEKLY
NightLife Photography by
Ward Morrison

DECEMBER 14, 2017 METROWEEKLY 39


DrinksDragDJsEtc...
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First well or domestic drink
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9pm-2am For men in
underwear, all well drinks
40 DECEMBER 14, 2017 METROWEEKLY
Scene
Nellies Sports Bar - Saturday, December 2
Photography by Ward Morrison
See and purchase more photos from this event at www.metroweekly.com/scene
NUMBER NINE Friday, FREDDIES BEACH BAR
Crazy Hour, 4-8pm
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FREDDIES BEACH BAR

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December 16 or coffee, soda or juice
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DECEMBER 14, 2017 METROWEEKLY 41

42 DECEMBER 14, 2017 METROWEEKLY
 NELLIES SPORTS BAR ZIEGFELDS/SECRETS NELLIES SPORTS BAR First Well Drink or BALTIMORE EAGLE BALTIMORE EAGLE
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glass for the same price, Happy Hour, 4-9pm Happy Hour, 5-9pm, all drink, 5-9pm Multiple shows, sports Expanded only $4 l
2-10pm Beer and wine Open Mic Night Karaoke liquors, beers and wines up TVs showing movies, craft beer selection
only $4 with Kevin downstairs, to 50% off Micro Brew shows, sports Expanded No Cover
9:30pm-close Draft/Bottle Mondays craft beer selection
$4 all day SIN: Service No Cover
Industry Night, 11pm-2am

44 DECEMBER 14, 2017 METROWEEKLY

 LastWord.
People say the queerest things

I have always believed that

the people of Alabama have more in common than
to divide us.
Senator-elect DOUG JONES, during his victory speech after a stunning win in Alabama. Jones bested his Republican opponent,
the homophobic, bigoted Judge Roy Moore, whose campaign had been dogged by allegations of child molestation,
in the states special election for the Senate.

Alabama voters solidified once and for all that

attacking and demonizing the LGBTQ community
is a sure-fire way to get yourself beat
on Election Day.

HRC President CHAD GRIFFIN, in a statement responding to Doug Jones historic win in the Alabama special election.
Griffin added that voters had proven that LGBTQ people and our allies are a voting bloc to be respected,
sought-after and feared by candidates on both sides of the aisle.

If I ever go to a restaurant and sit down and

here comes this flaming foo-foo fruit loop
Im just like, oh great.

Pastor ADAM FANNIN, of Jacksonville Stedfast Baptist Church in Florida, in a homophobic sermon complaining about gay waiters.
Im here to have a date night, enjoy some time with my wife and because of the lisps, I cant even, you know, he added.
Fannin then told his congregation to get up and leave if their waiter is gay.

Self-masturbation is almost universal

among those who engage in homosexual behavior, and is a very difficult habit for most to overcome.

Guidance from a 1981 pamphlet used by the MORMON CHURCH, which was discovered by MormonLeaks, an organization dedicat-
ed to increasing transparency in the church. In the document, church leaders advise that masturbation can cement homosexual
desires, and advise expelling anyone from the church who hasnt totally repented and forsaken these evil practices.

Me and Aja were told to get out a Lyft for being gay. Not kidding.
The driver asked us to leave after kissing.
LIZARD LEMON, boyfriend of RuPauls Drag Race star Aja, in a tweet alleging that he and Aja real name Jay Rivera were asked
to leave a Lyft car in New York City after they kissed. Lyft told Gay Star News that the company has zero tolerance
for any type of discrimination and had deactivated the driver from their platform.

46 DECEMBER 14, 2017 METROWEEKLY