The Purple Circuit promotes GLQBT
and feminist theater and performance.

image: ?

In his autobiographical one-man play, Fales (a sixth generation Mormon) tells the story of his failed attempt to overcome his same-sex attraction through “reparative therapy” which resulted in his divorce and excommunication from the Mormon church. Told with warmth and humor, he illuminates the dilemma of those struggling to reconcile their dreams of becoming straight with the realities of being gay and what it costs to accept or deny that truth, especially when children are involved.

Fales plays many characters from his highly distinctive life’s journey as a gay Mormon, a Boy Scout, husband, father, and Manhattan escort. Fales tells what it took to leave the world of prostitution and drugs, reestablish a life of integrity, and reclaim his “Donny Osmond” smile.

Also, see our article: Touring Performers

January 5, 2005
Bailiwick Repertory, Chicago, IL

Jackie Hoffman image: Bruce Glikas

“Kvetching” skewers everything from show-biz legends such as Bernadette Peters, Mary Tyler Moore, gay parents, Eurotrash, to Hoffman’s own Broadway debut in “Hairspray.” Along with skyscraping rants, Hoffman also offers a handful of original, satirical songs.

“Kvetching” holds the record as the longest running show in the history of New York’s Joe’s Pub cabaret venue, where it garnered ecstatic reviews and sold out crowds.

“The tribulations of Broadway stardom — well, near stardom, anyway — are the subject of Jackie Hoffman’s endearingly bitter, explosively funny solo show. … Clearly, this is a world class kvetch. Attention must be paid!” - Variety

January 7, 2005
L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center, Renberg Theatre, Hollywood, Calif.

Explores same-sex love, including marriage, AIDS, and violence against women. This stylistic and emotional journey across cultures offers a glimpse into a world of individuals marginalized by their sexuality.

● Loving Japamala
An Indian nun and a gay man discover common ground in a South Bronx soup kitchen.

● Eating Jain
On a train bound from Kolkata to Puri, an American man compromises the security of his Indian lover with a public display of affection.

● I Am Mou
Based on real letters, this short play details the violent repression of a lesbian.

● Two Men in Shoulder Stand
A searing look at coping with HIV in a homophobic culture.

● Tara Tara Didi
Shakespearean verse melds with Indian legends in this farcical Bollywood spoof examining same-sex love.

Cast includes: Bobby Abid, Sharbari Ahmed, Michael Ellison, Mousa Kraish, Mohan Kulasingam, Robert Maisonett, Nina Mehta, Sam Morjaria, Shruti Shah and Brenden Varma. Choreography by Sudarshan Belsare.

Gehri Dosti was workshopped in numerous festivals that took place in New York, Cape Town, South Africa, and elsewhere. It premiered in the fall of 2004 at Harvard University.

Paul Knox is a co-recipient of the United Nations Society of Writers Award for his exchange work with the Russian Academy of Theater Arts. He is also co-founded the Tides Foundation - India Fund, an organization which supports education and community building efforts among gay groups in South Asia.

January 7, 2005
Bernie West Theater, Baruch College, New York, New York

Edward II becomes King, and calls to court his banished lover, Gaveston. Their reunion becomes the focus of political intrigue, emotional manipulation and finally, civil upheaval before its inevitable climax. Gaveston is based on the real life 14th-Century relationship of King Edward II and Piers Daniel Gaveston.

Cast includes: Beau Puckett, Charles Alan, Jack Harding, Susan Asbjornson, Blanche Ramirez, Gregory Franklin, Barry O’Neil, Johnny Byrne, Elke V. Kummerow, and James Kyson Lee.

January 12, 2005
Celebration Theatre, Hollywood, California

image: Steve Ashmore

Bobby, a good looking, young Caucasian man recently moved from Alabama to NYC. Grant, an African-American musician from Philadelphia has lived in Manhattan for several years. Bobby and Grant meet in a bar and quickly connect sexually, but struggle in their efforts to share other parts of themselves. Bobby is full of insecurity, yet seems to always land on his feet. Grant masks his artist’s soul with a wry sense of humor. As Bobby’s secrets are revealed, Grant opens as well, and they discover a unique and meaningful rapport.

Falling won the 2004 Carolina Contemporary Playwrights Competition, U.S. Playwright Steve Willis will be attend this world premiere.

Contains nudity, sexual content.

January 18, 2005
St. Martin’s Theatre, South Yarra 3141 Australia

Jeffrey Vause image: Karen Greene

Actor Joey Lange just moved to New York City from Hawaii, when his agent got him the audition of the year: a new Broadway play about an actor from Hawaii who has moved to New York. Perfect casting? At the audition, there is no script. The director only wants Joey to talk about his life, to know all about Joey, and what makes him tick.

A semi-autobiographical, multi-character, one-man show about the life of a gay performer just trying to find his way in the world.

January 19, 2005
Abingdon Theatre, Stage 2, New York, New York

Greg Walloch image: Bryan Ockert

New, semi-autobiographical monologues about life and love in the urban jungle. A follow up to his original solo work “White Disabled Talent.”

On a bare stage, stripped down and unplugged, the power of Walloch’s work is simply his story.

“One of the most profound pieces of comedy in the most truthful way. Just wonderful!” - Jerry Stiller

“Beautiful … Truly sublime.” - Lily Tomlin

“Boyishly mischievous performer. Utterly endearing. Brave, welcoming and playfully conspiratorial, but tinged with an undercurrent of danger. … Especially funny. Simultaneously tough and disarmingly sweet.” - Stephen Holden, New York Times

Also, see our article: Touring Performers

January 20, 2005
Ars Nova Theater, New York, New York

image: Cat Cheng

A series of short performance pieces was collaboratively created with Joan Lipkin, artistic director of That Uppity Theatre Company, and an ensemble of some of St Louis’ leading choreographers, dancers, and performers. They created a series of scenarios affecting women’s experiences, including work environments, aging, pregnancy, gender roles, sexuality, and body image.

Cast includes: Wendy Ballard, Summer Beasley, Kendra Eliott, Beth Hill, Louise Hung, Dawn Karlovsky, Tamara Kelly, Ashley Nanney, and Mary Ann Rund.

The performance was in conjunction with the opening of the art exhibit “Inside Out Loud: Visualizing Women’s Health in Contemporary Art.” The exhibit consists of 51 art works on loan from across the country by 30 artists. Painting, sculpture, photography, installation, video, digital, and performance art are represented by Jenny Holzer, Barbara Kruger, Tony Oursler, and Cindy Sherman, Nina Katchadourian, Victoria Vesna, and others.

January 21, 2005
Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum, St. Louis, Missouri

In hopes of discovering their secret meaning, Oscar Wilde goes on a passionate academic quest inside Shakespeare’s Sonnets. He finds himself lost in the story of Shakespeare’s love triangle with the “Mysterious Dark Lady,” and with the young actor, Willy Hughes. Willy, a young actor so beautiful and talented that he inspired the roles of Juliet and Desdemona. Loosely based on Wilde’s short story “The Portrait of W.H.,” Naked Will asks the questions: “How has the historian’s own sexuality and prejudice colored history and literary theory?” and “Why does knowing the sexuality of historical heroes validate our own hearts?” A romantic, historical mystery.

January 22, 2004
Butterfly Club, South Melbourne, Australia

image: jeff schoenfeld

You down with the blond, big boy? Sometimes it’s all about the hair. The blond head on the grocery bagger. The black ’stache on the cowboy. Sometimes it’s enough to make you wish you could be someone else. Or at least, have somebody else’s life.

On the corner of 81st and Yale in Tulsa, Oklahoma, a man realizes that, even though he cannot be someone else, he can at least go out with him. This chilling comedy explores, among other things, what happens when marriage loses its sanctity. It asks, can a gay couple and a straight couple live next door to each other if there isn’t enough sanctity to go around?

Part of a double bill with Icons, by Jade Esteban Estrada.

January 26, 2005 - preview
Theatre at St. John’s, St. Louis, Missouri
January 28, 2005
Nightingale Theatre, Tulsa, Oklahoma

image: ?

Texas Homos reveals the seriously comical aftermath of a police sting operation involving three “innocent” citizens of Tyler, Texas. While the story is about to hit the local paper, a prominent doctor, a Methodist preacher and a young wannabe-superstar dispute the true details as their lawyer and his secretary prepare them for arraignment.

Cast includes: Richard Bekins, Reed Birney, Michael Busillo, Karen Culp and David Van Pelt. All Actors’ Equity Association members.

A huge hit in its development workshop last year, Texas Homos returns, updated, for a world premiere.

January 28, 2005
June Havoc Theatre, Abingdon Theatre Arts Complex, New York, N.Y.

Young, handsome William, and middle-aged James, two aristocrats in Victorian England, become locked in a struggle for power and control. One night of sex propels them into a bizarre living arrangement that totters between prostitution and a business. An intriguing and provocative tale examining the complexities of relationships and the definitions of love.

January 29, 2004
Butterfly Club, South Melbourne, Australia

Matt Beyer, Donna Coghill Maggie Roop, Matt Shofner, Fernando Rivadeniera image: John MacLellan

Celebrating the human spirit in everyone, a collection of seven musical stories that celebrate the gay and lesbian experience. A series of musical “rituals” prepare for each story, with a theme melody suggesting circles. Musical skits include: two guys living and working together, trying to maintain their lifestyle while satisfying the needs of their business and customers; a lesbian couple decides to have a baby; illness, death, and growing older. The stories are honest, exhilarating, sad, hopeful, and the music will make spirits soar.

Cast includes: Matt Beyer, Donna Coghill, Fernando Rivadeniera, Maggie Roop and Matt Shofner.

February 2, 2005
Fieldens Cabaret Theater, Richmond, Virginia

Four guys try to make it big in the bizarre, blackly comic world of British gay porn. Robert, approaching 25, sees being in porn as one of those things that you have to do by the time your thirty — along with paragliding — before it’s too late. To Kevin, a committed, struggling actor, it’s just work and a way of showing dramatic versatility. As he sees it, what could be more versatile than being a straight man working in the gay porn industry? Martin sees it all as a bit of a laugh, with a shag thrown in for free. Veteran porn star Craig, puts them right, and dispel their illusions about the raunch and glamour. He preps the boys for the huge gulf between the watching and the making of gay porn.

February 5, 2004
Butterfly Club, South Melbourne, Australia

photo by Andrew Caldwall

Robert Patrick is the award-winning author of “Kennedy’s Children,” “The Haunted Host,” and “Temple Slave,” among many other works. Robert is regarded as one of the founders of both the off-off-Broadway scene and modern gay theatre, and was described by Samuel French as “New York’s most-produced playwright of the 1960s.” He is also an entertaining raconteur, offering many stories and opinions about the last forty years of American theatre. The evening includes an audience question and answer period as well a following reception.

February 7, 2005
Sacred Fools Theatre Company, Los Angeles, Calif.

A one night stand forever changes the lives of two gay men in the West Village. An intimate portrait of two veterans of the gay 80s searching for warmth in the 90s.

Cast includes: David Drake, Asa Somers, and Noam Rubin.

A benefit reading for Rattlestick. Two Boys was the first play ever produced at Rattlestick. It had a five month run, and subsequently enjoyed productions throughout the world.

“A sharp-eyed exploration of emotional intimacy.” - the New Yorker

February 7, 2005
Rattlestick Theatre, New York, NY

Rent boy, sailor, handyman, student, professor, businessman, teenager, writer, actor, producer — all skilled in the art of seduction!

Cast includes: Adam Blake, Richard Gee, Phil Price, Peter Sundby, Gareth Watkins.

A gay interpretation of “La Ronde” by Arthur Schnitzler. Based on the same source material as “The Blue Room,” this sexy and raunchy all-male, gay interpretation wowed audiences when it first opened in San Francisco and proved to be even more titillating and entertaining in it’s European premiere at Barons Court Theatre in London late 2004.

Note: production contains nudity.

Jack Heifner’ previous hits include “Vanities,” “Key West,” and the Tony Award nominated Broadway musical “'Leader of the Pack.” Part of Winter Pride in Brighton and Hove.

“Tautly directed by cabaret star Tim McArthur … sexually it’s as full-blooded as a randy bull on Viagra. What more could you want? See it now!” - QX Magazine

February 8 proceeds to Pride in Brighton & Hove

February 7, 2005
Revenge, Brighton, UK

Phillip James Brannon, Brandon Anthony Prather image: John Bridges

Ron Porter, a young, gay African-American graduate student, travels back to 1831 and participates in Nat Turner’s slave rebellion. Guided by his ancestor on a mystical journey through time and history, he confronts his own misconceptions and stereotypes, as well as his understanding of what it is to be gay and black in our modern world.

Hailed at its 1996 premiere as bold, intimate and overflowing with theatrical invention, Insurrection is filled with comedy, poetry, and pure chutzpah.

“A gorgeous, fresh and vital play from a very exciting playwright.” - Tony Kushner

Cast includes: Tracey Bonner, Desmin Borges, Phillip James Brannon, Keith Daniel Gallagher, Nichole Green, Amy Lauren Griffin, John Lewis, Vergia Siovhan Norris, and Brandon Anthony Prather.

February 9, 2005
DePaul’s Merle Reskin Theatre, Chicago, Illinois

A stunning play which Fassbinder later turned into a film of th same title. He also directed “The Marriage of Maria Braun,” “Querelle,” and many other important films.

February 10, 2005
Last Planet Theatre, San Francisco, California

Kron connects her extended stay in a Chicago allergy clinic at 19, and her upbringing in a mixed-race neighborhood in 60s Lansing, Michigan. As she reflects on her tumultuous upbringing, an irreverent stage coup d’état breaks out. The company of actors critique the script, and she quickly loses control, with her mother inserting her own hilarious commentary on the play. A comical and brazen deconstruction of theater, the dynamics of health, family, and Kron’s attempts to understand it all.

Cast includes Lisa Kron and Jane Houdyshell, who plays the mother.

“Something magical. … [One of the two] best new plays of the season.” - New York Times

West coast premiere - ran off-Broadway in March 2004
February 11, 2005
Geary Theater, San Francisco, California

Marissa Keltie, Skyler Cooper image: Chshire Dave

Othello is a dark-skinned African-American lesbian whose battlefield genius has earned her a position of power within the American military. Iago is a light-skinned African-American ensign whose ability to please and assimilate has won him the nickname “Honest Iago.” but whose rage, jealousy, and thirst for power bubble just beneath the surface. Controversy begins when Othello first promotes the inexperienced Cassio over Iago and then elopes with the beautiful young daughter of a conservative senator. When the troops are sent overseas, Iago begins a course of action that will tear Othello’s world apart.

Cast includes: Skyler Cooper, Casey Jackson, and Marissa Keltie.

February 11, 2005
La Val’s Subterranean Theatre, Berkeley, California

Chris Weikel, Heather Olt, Robert Locke image: ?

How we live, learn and love in the big city, as told in the words and music of legendary New York cabaret icon John Wallowitch.

Cast includes: Robert Locke, Heather Olt*, and Chris Weikel* - *Actor’s Equity members.

Songwriter John Wallowitch began at the Juilliard School of Music where his classical training led to his New York debut at Carnegie Recital Hall, followed by a concert tour of the continent under the aegis of the U.S. State Department. His more than 1,000 songs are recorded by, or in the repertory of, a long list of singers including: Karen Akers, Tony Bennett, Dixie Carter, Julius La Rosa, Doc Severinsen, and Margaret Whiting.

In 1984, John Wallowitch joined Bertram Ross in a program of arcane American song by the great composers, appearing throughout the United States, in Switzerland and at “Pizza on the Park” in their beloved London, and in New York at the White Barn. Their CD “Wallowitch and Ross” is available on the Miranda Music label, and “Wallowitch and Ross: This Moment,” a film by Richard Morris is available on VHS and DVD through wallowitchandross.com. A new CD, “Bertram’s Songs” with John Wallowitch singing and playing songs he wrote for Bertram Ross will be out later in 2005. Last September, Dixie Carter and John Wallowitch opened the 50th Anniversary Season at the Cafe Carlyle for a four week engagement.

“While Noel Coward is no longer around to set the standards for a certain kind of sophisticated songwriting sensibility, Mr. Wallowitch nimbly carries the torch.” - Stephen Holden, New York Times

Presented as the second installment of the “Musically Speaking” series; part of the Billy Blackwell Musical Theater Project, Igor Goldin, director.

February 17, 2005
Duplex Cabaret Theater, New York, New York

Tennessee Williams

An evening that celebrates Tennessee Williams’ work, from the ridiculous to the sublime.

• Talk to Me Like the Rain by Tennessee Williams
  Directed by Dan Oliverio
  A couple lost in the tiny wasteland of their relationship.
• The Case of the Crushed Petunias by Tennessee Williams
  Directed by Che’Rae Adams
  A woman is beckoned to leave the security of her notions shop to explore the great wide world.
• Something I Smoked Last Summer by Anna Baum
  Directed by Dan Oliverio
  A spoof of all our favorite Williams clichés and stereotypes.

Tennessee Williams is one of America’s greatest playwrights. He also wrote fiction and motion picture screenplays. His best known plays, for which he won Pulitzer Prizes, are “A Streetcar Named Desire” (1948), and “Cat On A Hot Tin Roof” (1955).

February 17, 2005
Elephant Lab Theater, Los Angeles, California

Jocelyn Adams, Andi Hogan

In the notorious Five Points lower Manhattan neighborhood of 1855, street vendors sell everything from sand to hand-sewn shirts. An Irishman and a free-born African-American woman cross a social and racial divide to marry. An orphan, tricked into marriage to a far older policeman, falls in love with her husband’s daughter. A famous, touring French actress, Rachel Felix, helps the two women.

Steeped in diversity and volatile prejudices, the play shows the place where “slumming” was invented, as well as the rich Broadway theatrical life of magicians, musicians and melodramas.

Cast includes: Stephanie Abbinanti, Jocelyn Adams, Evan Bass, Sansan Fibri, Andi Hogan, Robert Marlowe, Dan McVey, Collette Porteous, Kelsey Robinson, Sean Seibert, Taniya Sen.

Barbara Kahn received the 1995 Torch of Hope Award for lifetime achievement. Her plays have been produced in the U.S., France and Germany.

February 24, 2005
Theater for the New City, New York, New York

John Schaefer, Peter Mac image: Craig Hamrick

This new, musical cabaret show features Peter Mac as Judy Garland and John Schaefer as Bea Arthur performing songs and stories from the career days of the women. Two Dorothy’s reunited … for the first time. Songs include “Zing Went The Strings of My Heart,” and “The Man in the Moon.”

Peter Mac first impersonated Garland in his autobiographical play “Judy and Me.” John Schaefer impersonated Arthur in the hit “The Golden Girls: Live!” When not performing, Peter Mac and John Schaefer are an off-stage couple.

“Peter Mac’s Judy Garland is not merely impersonation; it is a knowing and affectionate portrayal of the woman and the artist, a Judy that is both funny and touching.” - Roy Sander, critic

“Schaefer plays so deftly that if you are sitting in the back of the room, you may just believe that the previously-incomparable Bea Arthur herself is on stage.” - Uproar Magazine

Nancy Barrett also appeared with stories and songs relevant to her experiences on “Dark Shadows.”

February 25, 2005
Helen’s Hideaway Room, New York, New York

Recovering alcohol and drug addict Cameron falls head-over-heels for Mark, an indecisive bank teller who has more skeletons than he does closets. Cameron’s ex-wife watches the whole debacle from the sidelines, waiting to say “I told you so!” This quirky, dark comedy, takes an honest look at what it really means to be in love, and what it really takes to get over it.

Cast includes: Joseph Barham, Jennifer Dean, Javier Galitó-Cava, Noah Kelly, Bill Olson.

March 2005
The New Conservatory Theatre Center, San Francisco, California

Kate Clinton image: Irene Young

Kate Clinton’s scorchingly funny take on America’s insane politics, crazy families, and the sometimes crazy-making experience of being gay in America. Acclaimed as one of the hippest, smartest, most outspoken, and funniest comedians working today, she has played to sold-out crowds in concert halls nationwide.

Kate Clinton is a faith-based, tax paying, America loving political humorist, and family entertainer. She has worked through economic booms and busts, Disneyfication and Walmartization, gay movements, gay markets, lesbian chic, and ten presidential inaugurals. She still believes that humor gets us through peacetime, wartime, and scoundrel time.

The show is a first comedy special she will tape for “here!” It is also a benefit for the L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center

“here!” offers original films and series, recent theatrical and video releases and a wide range of programming targeting gay and lesbian viewers. “here!” is available nationwide on satellite providers DirecTV and Dish. here! is also available on Adelphia, Time Warner, RCN, and Starpower cable systems.

March 2, 2005
The Renberg Theatre, L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center, Village at Ed Gould Plaza, Los Angeles

After dating for six months, Dan has decided that Steph is the woman he wants to marry. But before posing the question, Dan needs to tell Steph one little thing. Nothing big, just that he had a couple of gay sexual experiences. Well, three years worth. This one-man, autobiographical show is an hilarious exploration of the fluidity of sexuality, and how it effects those caught in the middle.

“His honesty, affability and good timing have made him a favorite.” - Jane Ganahl, San Francisco Examiner

March 4, 2005
Phoenix Arts Association Theater, San Francisco, California

image: Ken Friedman

Six women convicts are confined below deck on a transport vessel for the six-month journey from England to the new penal colony of Australia. As the women face the challenges of surviving captivity, disease, and oppression at the hands of a sadistic crew, they forge unlikely alliances and discover moments of humanity and hope within captivity.

Cast includes: Steven Anthony Jones, Gwynne Flanagan, Colleen Harris, Anna Moore, Reid Morgan, Sarayu Rao, Peter Allen Stone, Jomar Tagatac, Allison White, and Alexandra Wilson.

March 9, 2005
Zeum Theater, San Francisco, California

Therapists and patients are unsettled by a bad singles-ad matchup of Prudence, an existentially morose 30-year-old writer, and Bruce, an aging preppy with bisexual leanings. The play exposes the continuing American neurotic crisis that defies psychotherapy, and laughs at the premise of any logical hope for “standard American values” such as is exemplified by today’s moral grandstanding in politics. We are reminded that sanity — and all of life — is relative and subjective.

“Lisa Lennox and Chris Zezza are delightful as the romantic couple. They have good chemistry together. Ms. Lennox is a striking actress who is completely professional with an excellent theatre voice. Her timing is impeccable. Zezza gives a beautiful portrayal of a confused male, underplaying the roles marvelously. Matt Martinez, as the male lover Bob, captures the essence of the frustrated and bitchy gay character. However, you can’t help feeling sorry for him.” - Richard Connema, talkingbroadway.com

March 10, 2005
Shelton Theater, San Francisco, California

Clayton B. Hodges, Stephen Strobel image: David Wilson

Lyric, erotic, and complex, Lilies unfolds as a play-within-a-play when inmates of a Quebec prison re-enact the devastating tale of an impassioned love between two young men at a Catholic boys’ school in rural Canada in 1912.

Cast includes: Gregory Wallace, Will Huddleston, Tim Hendrixson, Steve Irish, Andy Butterfield, Clayton B. Hodges, Kevin Crook, Andrew Jackson, Kraig Kehrer, and Steven Strobel.

March 13, 2005
Zeum Theater, San Francisco, California

The colorful, exciting, and sometimes humorous musical depictions of both natural and human-created disasters. One of the pieces, “Godzilla Eats Las Vegas!” by Composer Eric Whitacre, will grab you and won’t let go.

This is the first installment of the 2005 Community Concert Series of the Band, which is the first openly “GLBTIQQ” music organization in the world, and the “Official Band” of the City of San Francisco.

“The San Francisco Lesbian/Gay Freedom band absolutely sparkled.” - San Francisco Bay Times

March 18, 2005
     James Lick Middle School Auditorium, San Francisco, California
March 19, 2005
     John Swett High School Auditorium, Crockett, California

A humorous look at one family as it reunites in celebration of their mother’s last birthday. Unknown to the others, the son plans to bring his boyfriend, whom no one else has met. As parents and children clash over religious, political, and sexual issues, alliances within the family keep shifting, until one family member makes a powerful decision.

Cast includes: ?

Reading on March 21, 2005
FirstStage, Los Angeles, California

Libby West (from earlier production), Nicole Marcks image: Sue Hamilton

Eight women, at an out-of-the-way Long Island vacation spot in 1980, encounter awakening, love and personal tragedy. Eva, newly separated from her husband, stumbles onto the enclave without knowing its special nature. She is befriended by Lil, who harbors a secret. The summer unfolds as the women laugh, love, and say good-bye. The women are flawed, funny, and, ultimately, a family.

Cast includes: Alison Arngrim, Laura Philbin Coyle, Peggy Goss, Cathy Ladman, Nicole Marcks, Cerris Morgan-Moyer, CB Spencer and Leslie Upson.

“All the performers hit the right comedic notes in Act I, and the ensemble work is exceptionally strong in Act II. Recommended!” - L.A. Weekly

Extended run from October 22, 2004.

March 25, 2005
The Davidson/Valentini Theatre, Hollywood, California

Carolyn Gage image: Linda K. Russell

Joan shares her story with contemporary women. She tells of her experiences with the highest levels of church, state, and military, and unmasks the brutal misogyny behind male institutions.

The Second Coming of Joan of Arc was nominated as a national finalist for the Lambda Literary Award in Drama. The collection includes seven, one-act plays, which show us the real women behind the sterile patriarchal stereotypes: the angry teenage lesbian Joan of Arc, the alcoholic butch Calamity Jane, the Louisa May Alcott with repressed incest memories, the political prisoner known as “Typhoid Mary,” and the lesbian Jane Addams. The title work was featured on National Public Radio, and has been produced in Rio and Sao Paolo, Brazil.

“This is great theatre … daring, heartbreaking, principled, bitter, and often very funny. Women’s mental health would improve instantly, were they able to see these plays performed.” - Phyllis Chesler

March 11, 2005
    A.P.E., Thorne’s Market, Northampton, Massachusetts
Sponsored in part by the Massachusetts Cultural Council

March 22, 2005
    Minsky Auditorium, U. Maine, Orono, Maine

March 26, 2005
17th Gulf Coast Sister Camp (formerly Festival) March 24-27, 2005
Camp Sister Spirit

Coco Peru

A solo cabaret show full of real stories, intelligent satire, and songs by drag artist Clinton Leupp.

Clinton Leupp, as Miss Coco Peru, is the wild and sassy star of stage and screen who has been featured in “To Wong Foo,” “Trick,” “Boy Meets Boy,” “Will and Grace,” “The Tragic Life of the Singing Nun,” “Miss Coco Peru’s Glorious Wounds … She’s Damaged,” and “Girls Will Be Girls.”

“The fabulous Miss Coco Peru, drag queen extraordinaire, can bend our ears — and our perceptions — anytime. Miss Coco is a heavenly hoot, a svelte diva with a belt voice, and a Bronx accent.” - Los Angeles Times

March 12, 2005
New Conservatory Theatre Center, San Francisco, California

J. L., Rene Alvarado image: Greg Grosh

A romp through today’s gay urban experience, and an exploration of how the possibility of love can come, even though thoroughly unexpected.

Cast includes: Parker Williams, Rene Alvarado, and others.

April 6, 2005
Adams Ave Theatre, San Diego, California

Jackie Hoffman image: Bruce Glikas

“Kvetching” skewers everything from show-biz legends such as Bernadette Peters, Mary Tyler Moore, gay parents, Eurotrash, to Hoffman’s own Broadway debut in “Hairspray.” Along with skyscraping rants, Hoffman also offers a handful of original, satirical songs.

“Kvetching” holds the record as the longest running show in the history of New York’s Joe’s Pub cabaret venue, where it garnered ecstatic reviews and sold out crowds.

“The tribulations of Broadway stardom — well, near stardom, anyway — are the subject of Jackie Hoffman’s endearingly bitter, explosively funny solo show. … Clearly, this is a world class kvetch. Attention must be paid!” - Variety

April 8, 2005
L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center, Renberg Theatre, Hollywood, California

image: behemothmedia.com

Directed by Curt Miller
Presented by Electric Productions

Using his own body as a filter, Michael puzzles his way through body language, the fitness craze, yoga, art, sex, and death, in a fascinating, funny search for wholeness. A highly physical, comedic and dramatic performance piece detailing one man’s search for balance — mind, soul, and body — within a culture in desperate need of integration.

Playwright and actor Michael Z.Keamy graduated from Emerson College and the A.R.T. at Harvard. He was a featured performer with Triangle Theatre Company with leading roles in “Bent,” “The Lisbon Traviata,” and the Boston Premiere of “Adam and the Experts.” He has also performed with Centastage, Threshold Theatre and The Provincetown Repertory Theatre. He is the writer and director of “Unlaunch’d Voices: an evening with Walt Whitman,” which is currently being performed nationally.

Body/Works premiered at The Provicetown Theater, August 2004.

April 28, 2005
The Theatre at Machine, 1254 Boylston St., Boston, Massachusetts

Nathan Johnson, Derek Staranowski image: Doric Wilson

Directed by Barry Childs
Produced by Marlon Hurt and Doric Wilson

Judith begins her career as an actress at an Indiana college in 1962. Martin and his partner Ken prepare, in 1998, to adopt a child in Manhattan. Two stories, simultaneously told, reveal how the actions we take influence people we may never know.

Cast includes: Paul Caiola, Gail Dennison, Nathan Johnson, Rachel Eve Moses, Karen Stanion, Derek Staranowski, Joe Tuttle.

May 5, 2005
Where Eagles Dare Theatre, New York, New York

Preston Britton, Sean Davis, Matthew Rush Photos: Dean Keefer

Directed by Ronnie Larsen
Produced by Caryn Horwitz

An examination of the lives of six people making porn, while exploring the “ins” and “outs” of the gay adult porn business.

Cast includes: Preston Britton, Sean Davis, Matthew Rush, and others.

May 11, 2005
Baltimore Theatre Project, Baltimore, Maryland

Photos: ?

Experience the joy, vibrancy and life of African American choral music, from its rich and deep historical roots to its modern innovative expression.

Saturday May 12, 2005 - 8pm
Wilshire United Methodist Church, Los Angeles, California

image: Diana Chapman

Directed by Michael Fosberg
Produced by The Bailiwick Repertory Theatre

Voyaging from the core of the sun to the outermost TNOs (Trans-Neptunian Objects, or perhaps Terrifying Naked Orgies), David attempts to discover what it means to be not one, not the other, and not both. An hilarious portrayal of the Solar System as a sexual identity obstacle course. Was Mercury that hot soccer player at summer camp? Wasn’t Venus the sultry vegetarian you dated in high school? Who cares about gender, when you are being bombarded by asteroids? Space helmets not provided.

May 17, 2005
Bailiwick Repertory, Chicago, Illinois

Joseph Ritsch image: Ron Lasko/Spin Cycle    image: bybilly.com

Directed by Billy Mitchell
Produced by Sunrize Productions

A rare, intimate, live concert evening which tells the story of Ms. Sunrize Highway’s life in “The Biz.” The show features unique renditions of showstoppers from Broadway and beyond, interspersed with Ms. Highway’s whimsical reflections, winsome musings, sage advice, cautionary tales, and insightful showbiz stories.

Sunrize Highway is a loving satire of the great divas of contemporary musical theater, and is the creation of New York native, Joseph Ritsch. The character of Sunrize Highway, a rising musical theater ingenue, has appeared in four full-length solo shows and has been presented at venues including FEZ, The Duplex, Don’t Tell Mama, Judy’s, and The Lounge at elmo in NYC, as well as Fire Island’s Ice Palace and The Tides, Toronto’s Buddies in Bad Times Theater, and for four summer seasons aboard the Martha Jefferson Cruise Line.

“You’ll laugh so hard tears will roll down your cheeks!” - New York Newsday

May 26, 2005
The Alibi Bar & Cabaret, Provincetown, Massachusetts

Brock “G.” McClung, Monte J. Wolfe, Eric Nicholson David Richardson, Marlon Anthony Russ                image: Alan Sharpe

A reading, directed and produced by Alan Sharpe
Presented by African-American Collective Theater

Homophobic violence on a respected, “historically Black” college campus threatens the academic and personal lives of a young, gay, professor and the endangered freshman victim he attempts to empower.

Cast includes: Monte J. Wolfe, David Richardson, Marlon Eric Nicholson, Marlon Anthony Russ, Brock “G.” McClung.

Presented in observance of 15th annual D.C. Black Lesbian and Gay Pride Weekend. HIV+, playwright and director Alan Sharpe’s play has been selected for Juneteenth Legacy Theatre’s “Jamboree Festival of New Plays,” June 10, 2005 in Louisville, Kentucky

May 29, 2005
Round House Theater, Silver Spring, Maryland

Matthew Martin Photo source: ?

Directed by Matthew Martin
Produced by Steve Murray
Presented by Make It So Productions

A larger-than-life production staring two of the (literally) biggest drag personalities working today. A side-spliting parody of the original book and cult film “Hush…Hush, Sweet Charlotte” (1964), staring Bette Davis and Olivia DeHavilland.

Matthew Martin plays Charlotte. Jeffery Roberson (Varla Jean Merman) plays Miriam.

Cast also includes: André C. Andrée, Michael Sousa, Sandra Schlechter, Erika Atkinson, Vince Calabrese, Kai Brothers.

June 1, 2005
Lorainne Hansberry, San Francisco, California

Jeanie Antolini image: Jeanie Antolini

Destiny or predisposition? At the moment of conception, did the Supreme Being spin the giant “Wheel of Misfortune” and I ended up with the consolation prize? What triggered my early onset of dykness? How do you explain a little girl’s penchant for Hai Karate cologne? If I could do it again, what would my choice be? A 1.5 woman show, that explores sexuality.

Cast includes: Jeanie Antolini, Ruth Wyand

“Dykapalooza” has been selected to be performed at the New York International Fringe Festival in August 2005.

June 3, 2005
The Blackbox at Monmouth Piano, Neptune, New Jersey

Cadry Nelson, Andy Bakkum, Kelly Grete Ehlert image: Mayze James

Directed by Jessica Schroeder
Produced by Outlaw Style Thrance Co.

A wild west, gender-bent tale of a female gunslinger, her family, and the fight to take over the little town of Shakespeare, New Mexico.

Cast includes: Andy Bakkum, Kelly Grete Ehlert, Cadry Nelson, Melinda Kramer, Andrew Hernon, Joseph Beck, Victor Isaac, Konima Parkinson-Jones, Michelle O’Neil, Courtney Berlo.

June 3, 2005
Studio/Stage, Los Angeles, Calif.

Elizabeth Rex from the show’s poster by John Eue

Directed by Robin Johnson
Produced by The New Place

In 1601, the first Queen Elizabeth, visits William Shakespeare’s acting troupe for distraction on the eve of her lover’s death. William also faces losing a man he loves. Ned Lowenscoft, a gay actor who specializes in playing women, is dying. Ned and the queen must come to terms with who they truly are, and how they will cope with the inevitable. To do so, the Queen strikes a bargain: “If you will teach me how to be a woman, I will teach you how to be a man.”

Cast includes: Robin Johnson, Jeff Huset, Bob Webster, Michael R. Mikula, H. Wesley McClain, Joanne Voves, Craig Anderson, Isabel Nelson, Geoffrey Frethem, Korey Houska, Randy Kapelke, Benjamin Latz, Keith Reed, Daniel Sassenberg, Mary Jo Andrusko.

“It is a moment of peerless clarity, one that can happen only, as playwright Findley has again shown us, on the stage.” - Time Magazine

“The unmasking of queen and actor makes for powerful drama.” - Variety

June 9, 2005
Anne Simley Theatre, Hamline University, Saint Paul, Minnesota

Steve Soto, Justin Hilt, Brandon St. John image: Danny Ducello

Directed by Danny P. Ducello
Produced by George Kessinger, Terry Norman, Georgie’s Alibi

Street Theater is a graphical farce about life on the streets of Greenwich Village in the hours just prior to the raid on the Stonewall Inn and the ensuing riots in June of 1969.

Cast includes: Justin Hilt, John Hernandez, Kim Colangelo, Kelly Klingman, Sam Yazbeck, Jason Basilico, Brandon St. John, Steve Soto, Danny Ducello, Tom Lacey, Sean Muldoon, Sean Davis, Atilla Mathé

June 9, 2005
Gay and Lesbian Community Center of South Florida, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Kate Clinton image: Irene Young

Produced by Brava Theater Center

Kate riffs from the trenches of her U.S.O. (Utah Seems Odd) Tour, from the tiny island nation of New York City, to her favorite blue and red states, including the permanent vegetative state of Florida. She encounters blue state folks with such a level of post-traumatic-stress they could use a pill the size of a hubcap. Meanwhile, red state folks celebrate the return of the original girlie-man to the White House, Mr. Karen Hughes, who is all set to co-produce “Extreme Makeover: the International Edition with Condi Rice.”

On the Pope front, Kate was shocked to find she wasn’t even mentioned in the will, given her role as Irreverend of a Queer Nation that has proven to be the quintessential wedgie issue. That’s right, queers are the butt thong between the cheek of the church and the cheek of the state.

June 10, 2005
Brava Theater Center, San Francisco, California

Brock “G.” McClung, Monte J. Wolfe, Eric Nicholson David Richardson, Marlon Anthony Russ                image: Alan Sharpe

Produced by Lorna Littleway / Juneteenth Legacy Theatre

Homophobic violence on a respected, “Historically Black” college campus threatens both the academic and personal lives of a young, gay, professor and the endangered freshman victim he attempts to empower.

Cast includes: Monte J. Wolfe, David Richardson, Eric Nicholson, Marlon Anthony Russ, Brock “G.” McClung

The African-American Collective Theater (ACT) of Washington, DC, performs in Louisville, as a featured selection of Juneteenth Legacy Theatre’s 6th Anniversary “Juneteenth Jamboree.”

June 10, 2005
Actors Theatre of Louisville, Louisville, KY

Arthur Scappaticci, Estelle Mays, Kieleil De Leon Paige Boston, Nick Kealy image: Kent Taylor

Directed and produced by Adam Sandel and Richard Link

An irreverent, 80-year history and social evolution musical revue of the gay and lesbian experience, which takes place in about an hour.

An official event of San Francisco Pride 2005.

Cast includes: Paige Boston, Kieleil de Leon, Nick Kealy, Estelle Mays, Arthur Scappaticci, Jeffrey van Dyke.

June 15, 2005
Michael’s Octavia Lounge, San Francisco, California

Tim Miller image: John Aigner

Producer: Jon Imparato/Lily Tomlin Jane Wagner Cultural Arts Center

A fast, funny and furious re-thinking of the Broadway musical as inspiration for radical politics and queer identity. Exploring such issues as gay marriage, exile and the injustices lesbian and gay people face in the USA, “US” continues in the classic Tim Miller tradition: a funny, sassy, pissed-off exploration of the crazy-making contradictions in America’s tortured attitudes toward LGBT people.

Nominated for the 2004-2005 Drama Desk Award for Best Solo Performance.

Also, see our article: Touring Performers

June 17, 2005
Davidson/Valentini Theatre, Hollywood, California

Brooks Braselman, Jamie Morris image: Mitch Soileau; image: Dustin Woehrmann

Directed by Christopher Kenney
Produced by Tom Whitman and Joe Everett Michaels

Featuring an all-male cast, “Mommie Queerest” tells the now-famous story of movie star Joan Crawford and her tumultuous relationship with adopted daughter Christina.

But what if all those years Joan was really a man? And not just any man in drag, but the true Queen of Hollywood. For years she fooled the studio, her fans, her kids, and the world. That is until Christina finds out, plots her revenge, and publishes a scathing tell-all entitled “Daddy Dearest.” Even then, it’s Joan who has the last laugh.

Cast includes: *Brooks Braselman, *Jamie Morris, *Bradley Griffith, and Brian Rooney. [* original L.A. cast members]

2004 LA WEEKLY THEATER AWARDS for “Mommie Queerest”
Winner
     Best Direction (Comedy) - Christopher Kenney
Nominated
     Best Comedy Performance - Brooks Braselman
     Best Comedy Performance - Jamie Morris
     Best Adaptation - Jamie Morris

June 17, 2005
Hudson Backstage Theatre, Hollywood, California

Nick Scarnati (Jeb), Jerry Gibson (Dash) image: Ken Terrell

Directed by Ken Terrell
Produced by the Curan Repertory Company (NYC)

During the 20s and 30s, seven gay men in Washington, D.C. join to create their own vision of “family.” A true story of gay pioneers, presented to coincide with the lesbian and gay pride celebrations in New York City.

Based on the book of the same title by Ina Russell. The playwright, San Diego-based Michael Conley, will be in New York for the entire week.)

Cast includes: Cassandra Cruz, Brandon deSpain, Jerry Gibson, Terron Jones, Christopher Lococo, Alvaro Manrique, Yosvany Reyes, Nick Scarnati, Brian Shaer, Virginia Stringel

June 22, 2005
American Theatre of Actors, New York, New York

Mattachine Society Founding Members, c.1951 Harry Harry (top) Dale Jennings, Rudi Gernrich, Stan Witt, Bob Hull, Chuck Rowland (wearing glasses), Paul Benard (often misspelled “Bernard”) image: Jim Gruber

Directed by Mark Ramont
Produced by The Moral Values Festival at the Brick Theater

Young, communist Harry Hay and the Viennese refugee Rudi Gernreich fall in love. They combine forces to build the first gay, political organization in America, an unprecedented, and highly dangerous undertaking.

“Temperamental” was a code word for a gay person during the 50s. This is a reading of Marans’ play. He wrote “Old Wicked Songs,” a Pulitizer Prize finalist.

Cast includes: Arnie Burton, Tom Beckett, Andrew Nelson, Matthew Schneck, and Michael Urie.

June 25, 2005
Brick Theater, Williamsburg, New York

Tap Rockettes from 2002 image: Marik Boudreau

Produced by OUT Productions

= Meow Mix pre-party
July 1, 2005
With Lesbians on Ecstasy and guest DJ
La Sala Rossa, Montreal, QC, Canada

= Le Boudoir
July 2, 2005 - 9pm
A magical evening of retro entertainment, silent films, circus acts, and dance in a magnificent restored theatre. Inspired by early forms of Burlesque, Vaudeville and turn-of-the-century Music Hall, Le Boudoir echoes an artistic period of innovation and subversion in an historic, glamorous environment. A mainstay of the underground cultural scene, Montreal’s hottest sapphic event has been dazzling audiences for 12 years. Surrounding the main event are a pre-party on Friday night, and an all-day brunch social on Sunday afternoon.

Cast includes the Harlem Shake (San Francisco), Les Walkyries, La Flor de la Canela, the Tap Rockettes, Sasha Van Bon Bon and Christopher Noelle.

La Flor de la Canela from 2004 image: Sasha Brunelle

After-party event with disk jockey Denise Benson

Corona Theatre, Montreal, QC, Canada
Information: 514-409-BOUT; mim@aei.ca

= All-day Vegetarian Brunch
July 3, 2005
Café Esperanza, Montreal, QC, Canada

Greg Walloch image: ?

Produced by Dixon Place

Greg Walloch appears for this one night stand — to turn up the heat.

Walloch’s work consists of semi-autobiographical “life and times” monologues on a bare stage, in a style characterized by humor, poignancy, and sexuality. The power of his work is simply his story.

This performance is a Dixon Place exclusive, part of the HOT Festival’s Veteran Series.

Walloch has appeared in Moscow, Toronto, Vancouver, London, Australia, Ireland, Germany, and across the United States in such places as the Mark Taper Forum, Guggenheim Soho, The Public Theater, Westbeth Theater Center, New York Theater Workshop, The Knitting Factory, Catch A Rising Star, Caroline’s Comedy Club, Stand-Up NY, Ps 122, Gotham Comedy Club, The Comic Strip, and The Howard Stern Show.

Also, see our article: Touring Performers

July 6, 2005
The Marquee, New York, New York

Lily Sauvage image: ?

Directed by Tom Groenwald
Produced by Bill Kaiser/The Purple Circuit

Down-on-her-luck L.A. actress Marguerite Davis hasn’t had a juicy part for a year, so she creates one for herself in the form of a fabulously, tragic, one-woman show based on the life of Oscar Wilde’s heartbreaking niece Dolly. Brilliant, sexy, drug-addicted, and famously gay Dolly promises to be the break-through role of Marguerite’s career. But on the night of final dress rehearsal Marguerite has a break through of a very different kind.

Cast includes: Joey Bell, Marie Benoit, Kimberly Crowe, Tom Groenwald, Barry Saltzman, Lily Sauvage, Ursula Schmidt, Bibi Tinsley. Stage directions read by Ela Marin.

July 9, 2005
ONE National Gay & Lesbian Archives, Los Angeles, California

Directed by Tom Troupe and David Galligan
Produced by the New Conservatory Theatre Center

Carole Cooke recalls her life growing up in Texas, and her legendary career. Stories, songs and humor all collide in an hilarious evening, with Cook all dressed up, and making the most of it.

Stage, film, and television actress Cooke’s performance has been hailed as a “one woman ‘Chorus Line.’ ”

July 16, 2005
New Conservatory Theatre Center, San Francisco, California

Dan Rothenberg image: ?

Directed and produced by Dan Rothenberg

After dating for six months, Dan has decided that Steph is the woman he wants to marry. But before posing the question, Dan needs to tell Steph one little thing. Nothing big, just that he had a couple of gay sexual experiences. Well, three years worth.

This one-man, autobiographical show is an hilarious exploration of the fluidity of sexuality, and how it effects those caught in the middle.

“His honesty, affability and good timing have made him a favorite.” - Jane Ganahl, San Francisco Examiner

July 21, 2005
Phoenix Arts Association Theater, San Francisco, California

Adam Hawkins, Rikki Red image: Carlos Gonzalez

Directed by Todd Blauvelt and Donald James
Produced by New Orleans Alliance of Pride, Acting Executive Producer

A farce about life in June 1969 Greenwich Village, New York, in the hours just prior to the raid on the Stonewall Inn, and during the ensuing “Stonewall Riots,” which marked the birth of the modern gay and lesbian liberation movement.

Cast includes: Steven Patrick, Jamie Temple, Cammie West, Adam Hawkins, Jim Beeson, Winston Gray, Rommel Cummins, Dave Fuller, Ricki Redd, Michael Castrillio, Chris Schlumbrecht, Nancy Hammons, Carlos Gonzales, Michael Maggio.

August 4, 2005
Marigny Theater, New Orleans, Louisiana

Peter Sundby, Richard Gee Photo source: Juhani Naukkarinen

Directed by Peter Bull
Produced by Shamelessboyz Theatre Company

A raunchy and erotic modern day gay interpretation of “La Ronde” by Arthur Schnitzler.

Cast includes: Adam Blake, Richard Gee, Phil Price, Peter Sundby, Graham Townsend, Gareth Watkins.

“Sexually, it’s as full-blooded as a randy bull on Viagra! See it now!” - QX Magazine

“The perfect balance between drama and comedy” - realbrighton.com

August 12, 2005
NY International Fringe Festival, New York, New York

Jeanie Antolini Graphic: Jeanie Antolini

Destiny or Pre-disposition? How do you explain a little girl’s love for Hai karate cologne? If Jeanie Antolini could do it again, what would her choice be?

A New York City debut, Dykapalooza is part of the New York International Fringe Festival.

August 12, 2005
Ace of Clubs, New York, New York

Michael Burke image: Aron Kantor

Burke humorously explores queer identity, dating, prostitution, politics, pop culture, conspiracy theories, homosexual monkeys, and vegetables.

Highlights include a detailed account of Michael’s worst date — which involves cucumbers — helpful gardening tips, and striptease galore.

“Burke has a stand-up’s timing and a dancer’s grace.” - Patrick Rapa, Philadelphia City Paper

“I loved Cucumber Dreams! Burke’s honesty and naughty Tin Tin meets Candide queer narratives are a joy.” - Tim Miller

August 19, 2005
Breadline Theater, Chicago, Illinois

Directed by John Stix and associate director J. Clint Allen
Produced by the New Conservatory Theatre Center

Brian Quirk brings the art world to life depicting famous patrons, such as Diane Vreeland, Andy Warhol, and Patti Smith, as these figures from Robert Mappelthorpe’s life respond to his graphic photographic work. The play leaves the audience inspired — and assaulted — but most of all, feeling like a VIP guest in the provocative world of the 70s downtown art scene.

This bold, solo piece was inspired by Mapplethorpe’s first sex photography show.

August 27, 2005
New Conservatory Theatre Center, San Francisco, California

The play shows the rise and fall of the infamous, openly homosexual Plantagenet king of England, whose battles with a despotic and ambitious ruling class led to his deposition and murder.

Brecht casts a sharp and searing commentary on the nature of society and war.

Cast includes: Willie LeVasseur, Noshir Dalal, Janice Herndon, Frank Blocker, Joshua Marmer, Josh Billig, Oscar Castillo, John Dohrmann, Christian Felix, R.J. Foster, Avi Glickstein, Damian Houston, Jefferey James Keyes, Shannon Maddox, Christopher McAllister, and Matthew Trumbull.

September 8, 2005
Bank Street Theatre, New York, New York

Greg Wolf, Larrs Jackson image: G. Bruce Smith

Written by G. Bruce Smith
Directed by Jonathan Levit
Produced by Ruskin Group Theatre and Playwrights 6

Young, gay Sean Mitchell needs to figure out how to come out to his conservative parents before being outed on a nationally broadcast Diane Sawyer TV news special.

The comedy is based on “Christmas with the Mitchells,” a one-act that was a finalist in the 2003 GLAAD L.A. Outstanding Theatre Awards.

Cast includes: Larrs Jackson, Morris Nash, Lisa Robert, Peter James Smith, Amy Tofte, Jamie Virostko and Greg Wolf.

September 11, 2005
Ruskin Group Theatre, Santa Monica, California

John Cantwell, Nora Burns, Terrence Michael From the poster by David DeLeon

Written, directed and produced by The Nellie Olesons

The Nellies satire everyone from pathetic office workers and orgasmic newscasters, to c*nt supreme Ann Coulter and political pawn Terri Schiavo. An hour of 23 sketches with bad wigs, sexy costumes, and high-heels galore.

Heavily influenced by music, dance and classic films like “Psycho,” “Grey Gardens,” and “Mommie Dearest,” the Nellies delve into a twisted and surreal world full of queeny choreography, and maybe even a glimpse of mangina (or two). Like a suburban dad who leaves his doting wife, and well-manicured lawn, to spend time with a dirty whore, a night with the Nellies will leave you exhausted and a little sore.

Cast includes: Nora Burns, John Cantwell and Terrence Michael.

The Nellies recently headlined L.A.’s first gay and lesbian comedy festival, “Outlaugh!,” and, in June, inaugurated New York’s hottest (literally) new performance space, Ace of Clubs.

September 15, 2005
Cavern Club Theater in the Casita Del Campo Mexican Restaurant, Silverlake, California

September 29, 2005
Davidson/Valentini Theater, Gay and Lesbian Center, Los Angeles, California
Joined by the real Nellie Oleson, actress/activist/gay icon, Alison Arngrim.

image: Ben Olson

Written by: Bridget Carpenter, Julia Cho, Jordan Harrison, Itamar Moses, and Chay Yew
Directed by Jessica Finney
Produced by Emigrant Theater

A teenage Republican blogs in the Midwest. A Thai hustler makes ends meet. Strangers yearn for connection. In the aftermath of the tsunami, disparate lives intertwine in this commissioned collaboration by five of America’s top playwrights.

Cast includes: Sasha Andreev, Katie Leo, Erik Pearson, Kendyl Joi Watson, Lina Wiksten

September 15, 2005
The Playwrights’ Center, Minneapolis, Minnesota

Katie Johnson image: Jason Fleitz

Written by Federico Garcia Lorca
Newly translated by Nilo Cruz and Karin Coonrod
Directed by Julieanne Ehre
Produced by Greasy Joan & Co. Classic Theatre. Contemporary Edge

Power, desire, and betrayal brings a family to tragic ends. The play portrays how authoritarian repression of individual freedom destroys us.

Cast includes: Anne Adams, Marilyn Bielby, Lynn Hall, Salena Hanrahan, Katie Johnson, and Kristina Klemetti.

The play was Lorca’s last, written two months before the Fascists shot him to death at the outbreak of the Spanish Civil War. He was targeted because of his left-wing politics, and also because of his homosexuality.

A world premiere translation by Pulitzer prize-winning playwright Nilo Cruz, and Karin Coonrod

September 25, 2005
Victory Gardens Theater, Chicago, Illinois

Tom Patterson, Guenia Lemos, Justin D. Quackenbush image: Evan Sung

Written and directed by Frank J. Avella
Produced by New Cockpit Ensemble

Phil is a repressed, closeted, gay playwright who creates a potpourri of colorful characters for his new stage play. Phil’s creations give a glimpse into the crackpot mind of a randy scribe on the verge of a meltdown. During rehearsals, Phil seduces Lawrence, the twinkie actor who happens to be doing Xavier, the bombastic diva leading man.

This edgy, lunatic farce also explores Phil’s equally colorful home life, which includes his cousin Steve, an Auntie Mame with a dick, and the crush he may have on his usually-naked, younger brother.

Cast includes: Joe Pistone, Guenia Lemos, Brian Townes, Marie Lazzaro, Justin D. Quackenbush, Wind Klaison, Tom Patterson.

September 27, 2005
Bank Street Theatre, New York, New York

Emily Evans, Richard Roberts in “Ten Minutes with Julia Roberts” Richard played Julia. He is in “Neitzsche Ate Here” image: Judy Sclarsky

Produced by Another Country Productions

Eight, 10-minute works will be presented for the judges to score — Olympic-style — in a two-night celebration of multicultural theater.

With minimum set and props, plays by women, men, people of color, gay men, and lesbians compete to enter the Grand Slam — the best of the best.

Sarah and Samuel
by K.L. Kaye - directed by Deidre Purcell
Cast: Dylan Levers, Bertie Payne-Strange

Lawntocracy
by Robert Mattson - directed by David Frank
Cast: DeWayne Nelson, Lanny Rubin

And All the Roses Falling
by E.M. Lewis - directed by Foster Johns
Cast: Darren Kersey, Dylan Levers

Maternal Instincts
by Sherry Bonder and Tim Deal - directed by Ava Geffen
Cast: Diane DeCoste, Chris Wolfskehl, Yvonne Murphy, Emily Evans

Brown Rice and OJ
by Brenda Bell Brown - directed by Will Luera
Cast: Cheryl Singleton, Shauday Johnson-Jones, Dimie Poweigha

Neitzsche Ate Here
by Roy Berkowitz - directed by Daniel Bourque
Cast: Richard Roberts, Debbie Friedlander

My Sister Underground
by Jewel Seehaus-Fisher - directed by Janet Neely
Cast: Lorna McKenzie, Amie Brehm, Will ___?

The Racing Life
by Steve Totland - directed by Adam Sussman
Cast: Russ Woron-Simons, Born Bi Kim

Colin Stuart, Scott Cox image: Lois Tema

Written by Terrence McNally
Directed by Ed Decker
Produced by the New Conservatory Theatre Center

A high-profile TV producer is violently murdered by a Jesuit priest. As the eleven diverse characters explore the events leading up to this tragedy, they discover a labyrinth of relationships, secrets and revelations that span from New York, to San Francisco, to Los Angeles. Using multiple story-lines, the play explores the interconnectedness between us all within the social networks of family, community, and faith.

Award-winning, gay playwright Terrence McNally was commissioned to write this gay-themed play by the New Conservatory Theatre Center for its Pride Season. Almost all the characters in Crucifixion are gay or lesbian.

Cast includes: Paul Araquistain, Camilla Busnovestsky, Lissie Calogero, Scott Cox, Brad Cooreman, Cheryl Smith, Patrick Michael Dukeman, Amanda King, Andrew Nance, Colin Stuart, and Rick Wixo.

September 28, 2005
New Conservatory Theatre Center, San Francisco, California

Written by Carolyn Guillet
Directed by Diana Fajrajsl
Produced by Infinitheatre

Each one of these women is on the verge of apocalyptic discovery, outrageous revelation. Aged 17-71, these very different characters speak of hysterical truth and wild beauty. A vision of an acceptance of our noisy, messy, ever-evolving humanity.

Written, directed and performed by women, this new creation addresses issues that all women, straight, gay, and transgendered can relate to. Every woman will see herself on stage. Men will see a play that is completely unwilling to vilify or degrade men.

Cast includes: Jane Gilchrist, Michelle Girouard, Alexandria Haber, Djennie LaGuerre, Adrianne Richards, Renée Madeleine LeGuerrier, Felicia Shulman.

September 29, 2005
Bain St-Michel, Montréal, Québec, Canada

Alexandra Billings image: Jennifer Gerald

Written and performed by Alexandra Billings
Directed by Mary Beidler Gearen
Produced by Lampkin Music Group & MBG Productions, Inc.

A roller coaster journey — from boyhood, to womanhood — to the center of the world of transgendered rising star Alexandra Billings. The performance builds bridges through humor, drama, and song, however, it is not for the faint of heart. Fasten your seat belts.

September 30, 2005
Avery Schrieber Theatre, North Hollywood, California

Veronica Klaus image: Kent Taylor

Written and performed by Veronica Klaus
Directed by Jeffrey Hartgraves
Produced by Steinbeck Productions with the Theatre Rhinoceros

A depiction of a personal revolution — from Midwestern small town, schoolboy, husky boy — to voluptuous, glamorous, Bay Area chanteuse. Veronica Klaus has been a featured artist in concerts, theater and cabarets since 1989.

A special benefit to raise money for beloved theater director, playwright and actor Jeffrey Hartgraves as he battles bone cancer.

“Handsomely created with and directed by Jeffrey Hartgraves … Klaus is indeed a legitimate singer … you’ll adore Family Jewels” - Bay Area Reporter

Veronica Klaus was named “Best Chanteuse” by the San Francisco Bay Guardian in 2004.

October 2, 2005
Theatre Rhinoceros, San Francisco, California

Directed by Eric Barry and ensemble
Produced by the New Conservatory Theatre Center

Using allegory and fantasy to dissect the notions of the American family, media and politics, we see a world where homosexuality is the norm, and being straight is a crime.

A biting social satire, the play comes directly from its world premiere at this year’s Edinburgh Fringe Festival in Scotland. This production is the U.S. premiere.

Cast includes: Eric Barry, Josh Forum, Jay Kerzner, Olivia Rosaldo-Pratt, Rachel Schlessinger.

October 15, 2005
New Conservatory Theatre Center, San Francisco, California

Carlo D’Amore, Emily Weiner image: Amy Elliott

Directed by Jeffrey Solomon
Produced by: Houses on the Moon Theatre Co.

A remarkable mosaic of stories that evoke the isolation, as well as the courage and hopefulness of youth on the frontier of inclusion.

Inspired by internet posts from lesbian, gay, bi and trans youth, the play has been embraced by student groups and educators as a powerful tool for change. It was featured at the National 2003 GLSEN “Teaching Respect for All” conference. This production won the Awards for “Best Playwright” and “Best Male and Female Performance for an Ensemble” at the 2004 Columbus National Gay and Lesbian Theater Festival.

Cast includes: Carlo D’Amore and Emily Weiner

“Thoughtful, at times funny, and often poignant … an extraordinary theater piece!” - Inside Out

Also, see our article: Touring Performers

October 19, 2005 - North Huntington High School, New Jersey
October TBA, 2005 - Miss Hall’s School, Massachusetts

Davie Neufeld, Sally Clawson, Dracy Brown-Martin, Robert Anthony Peters    image: Dale Albright

Directed by Bobby Weinapple
Produced by Dale Albright and Bob Miller

Three pairs of lovers try to enjoy a night of romance, each in their own unique way. However, each couple is blocked from satisfaction by a mixture of circumstance, honesty, stubbornness, identity, and selfishness. A disagreement during sex leads Nancy to believe that her boyfriend, Ben, may be gay. He sends her out of his bedroom — and into the apartment of her friend Grace.

Grace is being visited by a hit man at the time, but that’s a good thing. Nancy’s arrival prompts Grace to call Gene’s brother Mark, a gay therapist of questionable repute, who has an interesting visitor of his own. All three couples end up connected by an uproarious conference call with hilarious results.

Cast includes: Remi Barron, Darcy Brown-Martin, Sally Clawson, David Neufeld, Robert Anthony Peters and Chris Yule.

October 20, 2005
Phoenix Theater, San Francisco, California

Directed by Donna Jean Fogel
Produced by the New Conservatory Theatre Center

A sexy, funny look at gay New Yorkers falling in and out of love. Among the multitude of characters solo performer Moe Bertain portrays, there is a twenty-year old hustler falling for his kinky mentor, a fifty-something martini drinker whose partner wants to have a sexually open relationship, and a drag diva ending her search for a rich husband, only to settle for true love.

Cast: Moe Bertain

October 22, 2005
New Conservatory Theatre Center, San Francisco, California

Directed by Diane Rodriguez
Produced by Brava Theater Center

A father and son relationship, as well as a treasured boyhood friendship with Carlos Almaraz (who became a internationally renowned artist before dying of AIDS in 1989), drive the piece through decades of Chicano history and the gay experience from a unique perspective.

Dan Guerrero, son of Chicano music legend Lalo Guerrero, takes us on a remarkable fifty-year journey in story and song — from Cesar Chavez to Sondheim — from East L.A., to NYC’s “Great White Way,” and back to Hollywood.

When Dan’s father was composing classic Mexican anthems like “Cancion Mexicana” and “Nunca Jamas,” little Danny was lip-syncing in the basement to Ethel Merman and Judy Garland records. And when Lalo finally made it to Broadway with his music for Zoot Suit, Dan had moved from song-and-dance man to Broadway agent.

October 28, 2005
Brava Theater Center, San Francisco, California

Robert Patrick 1967 / 2005 photos: Fred W. McDarrah / Ross J. McLean

Coffeehouse Chronicles directed by Chris Kapp, Michael Arian
Produced by Ellen Stewart

Mirage directed by Robert Dahdah

First, a one-hour videotape of the life and career of playwright Robert Patrick.

Second, a live production of Robert Patrick’s first play at the La Mama, “Mirage” (1965).

Cast of “Mirage” includes: Sasha Painter and Brian Trybom.

October 29, 2005
La Mama E.T.C., New York, New York

Josh Schumaker, Anthony Huntoon, Jeffrey Trowbridge, Josh Perkins, Josh Wetzel image: Melody Caranza

Conceived by Robert Schrock
Directed by Mark Hooker
Produced by Uncommon Theatre Company

Naked men sing for you.

The long-running, hit, all male musical revue finally can be seen in Milwaukee. In August of 2005, the show was closed by the Milwaukee Vice Squad, but not because of the content of the show. No, the charge was neglecting to file a particular permit; one that was never required in the first place. The boys now return — hopefully unmolested — for a two month season.

Phil Price image: REALbrighton.com

Cast includes: Josh Perkins, Jeffrey M. Trowbridge, Josh Schumaker, Josh Wetzel. British actor Phil Price, of London’s Shamelessboyz Theatre Co.) joins the cast for the performances on December 8 and 9, 2005.

October 29, 2005
Milwaukee Gay Arts Center, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Nathan Frizzell, Cesili Williams Michael A. Shepperd, Blaine Vedros image: David Elzer

Written by Christopher Shinn
Directed by Michael Matthews
Produced by Allain Rochel

On Independence Day, a black, closeted, married man dates a 16-year-old white boy he met on the internet. His teenager daughter dates a 20-year-old low-level drug dealer. The two couples discover the limits of desire, and the possibilities for transcendence.

Cast includes: Nathan Frizzell, Blaine Vedros, Michael A. Shepperd, Cesili Williams.

November 4, 2005
Celebration Theatre, Los Angeles, California

Nine gay men are trapped in an old, dark house next to the rising Russian River, and the bodies begin piling up — and not in a good way. It’s a scream. It’s Murder, Mary! One part Agatha Christie, and two parts Bruce Vilanch, add up to a farcical, one-hour, murder mystery comedy staged reading.

Cast includes: Trauma Flintstone, Greg Gutting, Howard Miller, Ed Kimak, Kenyon Brown, Joe Rende, Jason Jeremy.

November 8, 2005
Off-Market Theatre, San Francisco, California

Eight, 10-minute works are presented for the judges to score, Olympic-style, in a two-night celebration of multicultural theater. With minimum set and props, plays by women, men, people of color, gay men and lesbians compete to enter the Grand Slam — the best of the best. This is the second in its 2005-2006 monthly SLAM Series.

Satan Offers Lassie a Room of Her Own by Bill Johnson
Directed by Adam Sussman
Cast includes: Emily Evans, Diane DeCoste

Partners by EM (Ellen)Lewis
Directed by Melissa J Wentworth Cast includes: Lyralen Kaye, Angela Gunn, Steve Falcone

Anointed: Verse II by Renee Lucas Wayne
Directed by Ava Geffen
Cast: ?

Something Short of Balance by Roxanne Linnea Ray
Directed by Jeffry Gray
Cast includes: Sheryl Johns, Karen Katz, Bernice Sim, Kelly McCabe

Moving Day by Sandra Perlman
Directed by Bill Doscher
Cast includes: Jeanette Lake Jackson, Paul Shafer, Diana Raiselis, Maria Schaedler

Tough Stains by Roy Berkowitz
Directed by Will Luera
Cast includes: Dylan Levers, Garbin Molina

Checkmate by Edith Weiss
Directed by Deidre Purcell
Cast includes: Born Bi Kim, Don Foley, Emily Evans, Yvonne Murphy

Next by Jewel Seehaus-Fisher
Directed by Krista D’Agostino
Cast includes: Amie Brehm, Natasha Carter, Lorna McKenzie, Sheryl Johns, Jackinson Mena

November 8, 9, 2005
Devanaughn Theatre, Boston, Massachusetts

Upcoming Slams:
January 17, 18, 2006
February 21, 22, 2006
March 28, 29, 2006
April 18, 19, 2006

In 1985, Gorbechev took office, new Coke came out, and so does the lead character in Celebration’s first sketch comedy show. A sometimes hilarious, mostly funny, and periodically amusing journey about gay life in 1985. Or just come for the wine.

Todd Milliner was executive producer of “Situation: Comedy” on the Bravo channel. Rob Mello was a veteran of The Second City and Improv Olympic in Chicago.

November 11, 2005
Celebration Theatre, Los Angeles, California

Aundré Chin, Jeffrey Solomon image: Ryan Jensen

Directed by Steve Satta
Produced by Houses on the Moon Theatre Co.

A transgender refugee from Guyana mounts an uphill battle to prove her claims of persecution from within the confines of a U.S. Immigration detention center. The play is one of the first to deal with political asylum for sexual minority refugees, and was inspired by interviews with asylum-seekers from around the world.

Cast includes: Aundré Chin, Emily Weiner, Ian Eaton, Nysheva-Star and Jeffrey Solomon.

“Revealing and Tender” - The Village Voice
“Remarkable, Moving and Captivating” - NyTheatre.com
“A marvelously poignant story. … This one deserves a big audience!” - Kate Bornstein

Also, see our article: Touring Performers

November 17, 2005
New York University, New York, New York

image: ?

Directed by Danny Ducello
Produced by Georgie’s Alibi and the Wilton Manors Theatre Group

Ebenezer Scrooge is an interior designer. His stern and rigid ways have cost him the love of his life, which makes him a “very rich and very dull, middle-aged man.” Tim, Cratchit, and the rest of the characters in Scrooge’s circle come to life with the help of the Ghost of Christmas Past (Marilyn Monroe) — and three more unbelievable “spirits” — designed to make you laugh, cry, and love again.

A year 2000, gay version of the Dickens classic set in Manhattan. This wonderfully funny and poignant play about relationships, delivers with colorful, wacky characters. Merry Christmas!

Cast includes: D. Ducello, Tom Lacey, Brandon St. John, Steve Soto, Sean Muldoon, Dwayne Tuttle, Bill Ellis, Nelson Vianey, John Hernandez.

November 30, 2005
Studio at Fort Lauderdale Children’s Theater, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Suzanne Westenhoefer image: ?

Written and performed by Suzanne Westenhoefer

Produced by Brava Theater Center

“Expect a break from reality and a lot of jokes about everyday life. It’s not memorized, and it’s all true, told the way I feel that night.” - Suzanne Westenhoefer

This award-winning, comedian presents her solo show for one night only.

Touring for the last 14 years, Suzanne has three best-selling, comedy CDs that have received rave reviews. She was the first openly lesbian performer to have an HBO special show; it was nominated for a Cable Ace Award. She has appeared on “The Late Show” with Dave Letterman.

December 3, 2005
Brava Theater Center, San Francisco, California

Will Trice, MaryAnn Walsh, Frank Blocker, Frank Blocker, Will Trice image: E-MergingWriters.com

Written by Frank Blocker and Chuck Richards
Directed by Murray Scott Changar
Produced by E-Merging Writers

Eula Mae is expanding her roadside business by adding “ ‘beauty’ to her title and to her community.” And she is going to have to finally give longtime boyfriend, Carl Joe, an answer to his never ending marriage proposals. Meanwhile, her niece, Rita Mae, is making her ninth attempt at Miss Alabama as her Tammy-Wynette-wannabe mother, Eva Mae, battles it out with alcoholic pageant coach Sue-Sue Daniels. Eula Mae’s aging, saucy mama provides her pearls of wisdom, “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and if his eye offendeth thee, pluck it out.”

“Laugh so hard your stomach will hurt.” - Atlanta Journal-Constitution

“Mr. Blocker has more than his share of Dame Edna Everage moments.” - The New York Times

Cast incudes: Frank Blocker, Will Trice, MaryAnn Walsh.

December 7, 2005
The Duplex Cabaret Theatre, New York, New York

Christine Lakin, Deb Snyder Lori Scarlett, Heidi Godt, Patrick Bristow image: Michael Lamont

Book by Patricia Cotter
Music and lyrics by Lori Scarlett
Directed by Sue Hamilton
Musical direction by David Manning
Produced by Rose Marcario

33-year-old Helen Hill is heartbroken because her girlfriend recently dumped her. Even though stunned, she is determined to find a new partner. With the support of her best gay boyfriend Bob, and her butch/femme gal pals Monica and Joannie, she jumps back into the dating pool.

Cast includes: Whitney Allen, Patrick Bristow, Melody Butiu, Jodi Domenick, Heidi Godt, Christine Lakin, Kara Maguire, Jacqueline Maloney, Amy Reiss, Lori Scarlett, Deb Snyder.

December 10, 2005
The Hudson Backstage, Hollywood, California

Marga Gomez image: David Wilson

Produced by Theatre Rhinoceros

Marga will exhaust all remaining civil liberties as she dissects George Bush’s brain, Karl Rove’s penis, and propositions Pat Robertson in a salacious, audacious, and brazen display of stand-up comedy. 2005 brought many CIA operatives into Marga’s boudoir and she will be prepared to leak this information to the audience.

Both shows include a fake midnight countdown, and a real balloon drop. One of the worst years ever will end up bubbly and gay, thanks to the queer comedy stylings of Marga Gomez and her special guest, the dry, loveable Nick Leonard.

Cast includes: Marga Gomez and Nick Leonard.

Before opening her work Off-Broadway in 2006, Marga Gomez will hereby raise a glass (and cash) for the Theatre Rhinoceros.

December 31, 2005
Victoria Theatre, San Francisco, California

, From “Aint We Got Fun” by Michael McFaden image: ?

Artistic Direction by Carol Polcovar
Produced by All Out Arts

This year’s Festival brings you to the villages of Africa, the punk rock scene, the mean streets of Brooklyn, a speakeasy in Chicago, to Calamity Jane, to the “journey of the soul.” Enjoy the wonder and diversity of LGBT lives and talent.

Central to the Festival is the belief that the “fruit,” “queer,” “freak,” and “weirdo” are essential to the creation of art.

July 11-31, 2005
Multiple locations in New York City

● Opening Gala at the Museum of Sex - Bananas and Apples, Oh, My!
Food from the best restaurants in New York, drinks, and a walk through the galleries of sex — featuring “Men Without Suits” — plus a chance to mingle with the stars of this year’s Festival.
July 11, 2005
Museum of Sex, New York, NY

● Fresh Fruit Play House and Open Mic - Hosted by Didi Delicious and Clover Honey
Bring your talent and celebrate the opening of the Festival. 5-6 minutes of anything you want. Arrive fifteen minutes before show time to sign up. Performers who bring a friend are addmitted for free.
July 12, 2005
Bowery Poetry Club, New York, NY

● The Girl that I Marry starring Elaine St. George
Soprano Elaine St. George takes a new look at old standards as she sets out her funny, tender, and satiric point of view in favor of same-sex marriage. Tunes by Arlen, Berlin, Kern, Mercer, and Sondheim.
July 13, 2005
The Duplex, New York, NY

● Fresh Fruit Cocktail conceived and directed by Bob Ost
All un-natural ingredients. A Benefit for the Festival
MAC award-winning LGBT cabaret artists include: Fred Barton, David Gurland, Marieanne Meringolo, Carolyn Montgomery, Richard Skipper, Marcus Simeone, and John Wallowitch break stereotypes and expectations as they perform songs by the best contemporary LGBT songwriters including: Tom Anderson Fred Barton, Karen Benedetto, Gerry Dieffenbach, Dick Gallagher, Michael Holland, Jeff Matson, Jim Morgan, Bob Ost, and John Wallowitch.
July 13, 2005
The Duplex, New York, NY

● Cocktails with Coward by Daniel Lavender
“I’ve been to a marvelous party,
We didn’t start dinner till ten,
And young Bobby Carr,
Did a stint at the bar,
With a lot of extraordinary men.” - N. Coward
Sophisticated, witty, brilliant and gay Mr. Coward lit up stages from London to Broadway.
July 15, 2005
Bowery Poetry Club, New York, NY

● Trans/Gender/Rock Explosion hosted by Robert Urban
Presented by The Fresh Fruit Festival and Urban Productions
Party with the girls that rocked rock. Lisa Johnson, Georgie Jessup, Vibralux, Temptress and Buck Shot and Bebe Gun.
July 16, 2005
The Bowery Poetry Club, New York, NY

● Fruit à la Mode, an evening of LGBT poetry curated by Vittoria repetto
Vittoria heads the Italian-American Writers Association, and hosts Bluestockings Bookstore’s Women’s Poetry Jam. Poets include: Ayin Adams, Cheryl B. Ahimsa, Timoteo Bodhrán, CA Conrad, Carol Polcovar, and Vittoria repetto.
July 19, 2005
The Bowery Poetry Club, New York, NY

● Pen Pals by Barbara Kahn
Imagine an America with right wing Christians in power, and thereby civil rights are destroyed. In this America, two women, one a Christian fundamentalist, the other a radical lesbian, navigate a friendship begun in adolescence.
July 21, 2005
The Blue Heron Arts Center, New York, NY

● Waafrika by Nanna Mwaluko
In a Kenyan village, a white women and a black women fight to survive where being gay is punishable by death.
July 21, 2005
Blue Heron Arts Center, New York, NY

● Low Brow written and performed by Pedro Angel Serrano
A gay, skin head, punk rock, elder encounters the gay and punk rock culture, which illuminates a world of hilarious complexity.
July 31, 2005
The Blue Heron Arts Center, New York, NY

● Somewhere in Between by Ronny Almog
What sex is God? What is a man? A woman? And do we have to choose up side, or is there something in between? Transgender Israeli playwright Ronny Almog and his troop of talented performers challenge our ideas about “the other sex” — and our own — in this clever, funny, multimedia assault on cherished gender notions.
July 24, 2005
Blue Heron Arts Center, New York, NY

● Diagnosis: Jew Pain written and performed by Michael Feldman
What does a nice Jewish boy do when both the boy and girl next door look equally appealing?
July 27, 2005
Blue Heron Arts Center, New York, NY

● What’s Your Problem?! by Hector Coris and Paul L. Johnson
Saving the world from rampant stupidity is the goal of this fun-filled musical revue. Snappy tunes look at celebrity, love, sex, and the afterlife.
July 25, 2005
Blue Heron Arts Center, New York, NY

● Ain’t We Got Fun book by Michel McFaden
In a Chicago prohibition era speakeasy, two boys are in love. They dance, sing, and kiss, all the while fighting obstacles that keeps them apart, including a stock market crash, gangsters, bootlegged alcohol, and the closet. 20s songs include: “Gay Love,” and “He’s a Good Man to Have Around.”
July 28, 2005
Blue Heron Arts Center, New York, NY

● Homo Hip Hop Poetry Jam 2 curated by baron
Top spoken-word LGBT artists amaze with their verbal acrobatics, while revealing the courage and desperation of growing up different in a hostile world.
July 29, 2005
Blue Heron Arts Center, New York, NY

● Master/Bate by Aprilija Luzôr
Slovenian artist-activist talks about women’s bodies and sexuality.
July 30, 2005
Blue Heron Arts Center, New York, NY

● Fruit Melange: An evening of short works by women
July 29, 2005
Blue Heron Arts Center, New York, NY

• From Brooklyn to Maui written and performed by Ayin Adams
  African-American poet and performer Ayin explores these Who are we? How do we learn to be ourselves? Where do we belong? as she struggles to find her own place in the universe.
  
  
• Calamity Jane Sends a Message to Her Daughter by Carolyn Gage featuring Leslie Bernardini
  Hear the real Calamity Jane: vulgar, debauched and raunchy. Jane is, as you always imagined, a feisty butch woman.
  
  
• Woman’s Taxi video by Slovenian artist-activist Aprilija Luzôr
  Women talk about their experiences with rape, violence and its aftermath.
  
  
• Pamachene Belle by Carolyn Gage - featuring Leslie Bernadini
  Cornelia “Fly Rod” Crosby, a 19th century lesbian and first hunting guide in Maine was not the 19th century’s ideal of womanhood. While she knew and loved Annie Oakley, we witness her struggle to find a place in an inhospitable terrain.
  
  
• Tender Hooks written and performed by Colette Paige
  It isn’t easy being a mafia wife, especially when your daughter chooses an “alternative lifestyle.” Collette Paige hilariously takes you through the ins and outs of marriage, divorce, and child-rearing … mafia-style.

March 11-12

● Ballroom by Danielle Abrams
Upon retirement, Bob, a ballroom dance teacher, and government employee, hoarded office supplies and Duane Reade’s out-of-season stock. This is a site visit to Bob’s garden apartment in Bayside, Queens; a granddaughter’s inheritance of birthday lists and show tunes, of cleaning up the mess, and of memories as illusory as dancing on clouds.

● New Work by Melissa Briggs
BAX Dance Artist in Residence Melissa Briggs presents a new trio with two adult dancers and one young dancer. This piece abstractly examines the idea of age in the female experience.

● In Heat by Lisa Haas
Directed by Jocelyn Sawyer
Cast includes: Kent Gibson and Sally Sockwell
A satire of a culture where sexual fluidity has more rules than the NFL, and anyone who deviates is thrown into in the penalty box. A lampoon of “lesbos” and their toys, “grrls,” and “bois,” and other things that make sex-crazed noise.

March 13, 11

● The Gathering: A Circle of Women Unbroken
FREE adult workshop
Bring: Bare feet, comfortable clothes, journal
Choreographer Marlies Yearby (Movin’ Spirits Dance Theater)
Composer/cellist Nioka Workman
Video artist Michelle Halsell
Songs of power, gesture dances, voicing, and breath are tools to illuminate the dynamics of women working together. Participants experience the strength of the circle, building on the dynamic of a group at creative work. Limited to 16 women.

March 18-19

● Cherry Pie by Jen Abrams
Cherry Pie is a new dance/theater work that follows the anatomy of a lesbian relationship, from the awkward initial pursuit to the giddy-flirty first dates to settled-in comfort, progressing to nitpicking arguments, conflict over plans, and eventual breakup. An entire watermelon is consumed onstage, a hundred cherries falling from the sky, and we witness a hefty dose of ironic references to lesbian stereotypes.

● Honey Toes Makes a Scene by Amy Jo Goddard
HoneyToes is a fierce, Goddess-worshipping mistress, known for her succulent toes and worship-worthy feet. HoneyToes, with her queer self-love and a propensity towards a healthy sort of torture, allows the audience into her laboratory — her dressing room, where she concocts the perfect scene for a client with unique requests. The audience is invited to participate in her plan-making, and provides a bit of education on the feminine Divine that wholly embraces all faces of sexuality.

● New Work by Melissa Briggs
BAX Dance Artist in Residence Melissa Briggs presents a new trio with two adult dancers and one young dancer. This piece abstractly examines the idea of age in the female experience.

March 20

● (Woom’en)n In Performance
Directed by Marlies Yearby
Choreography by Marlies Yearby
Composer Nioka Workman
Video installation by Michelle Halsell
A multimedia work driven by the potent interplay of live music, video, language, gesture dances, and environment. This work, built with herstories gathered through videotaped interviews and community workshops, examines women’s ever-shifting identities redefined by age and experience. Power, rites of passage, blood, mothers’ voices, the first time, the last time, fathers’ words, private dances, abuse, and aging woven into a tapestry/celebration/deconstruction to locate women’s true voice.

● Swing Santa, Swing!
This year’s holiday production features the 200-plus voices of the chorus performing a “swing a-long” that includes “Jingle Bell Rock,” “Winter Wonderland,” “Boogie Woogie Hanukkah,” as well as a Broadway holiday medley, and El Nino Perdito (from “Zat You, Santa Claus?”)
     December 17, 2004
     December 18
     December 19

● Have I Reached the Party to Whom I am Speaking?
Concert with guest Lily Tomlin
     April 1, 2, 2005
     April 3

● They Had It Coming: The Music of John Kander and Fred Ebb
With guest Susan Egan
     July 8, 9, 2005
     July 10

During the past three years, the Chorus has appeared on TV shows — “Mad TV,” “Will and Grace,” “Six Feet Under” — released two compact disks — “Jerry’s Boys: the Music of Jerry Herman,” “Red, White and Blues: An American Music Celebration” — and has had appearances by Jerry Herman, Nancy Dussault, Malcolm Gets, Joanna Gleason, Marilynn Lovell Matz, Vox Femina Los Angeles, Albert McNeil Jubilee Singers, the Southeast Symphony Orchestra, and the Chinese Classical Music Ensemble.

image: John MacLellan

In Volume 1, meet Sappho, Michelangelo, Oscar, Gertrude, Sylvia, and Ellen. One day, they decided to make history. From the island of Lesbos — to the Sistine Chapel — to the Stonewall Inn — to “Yep, I’m Gay” on the cover of Time Magazine. Vol. 1 debuted September 12, 2002 at the Columbus National Gay and Lesbian Theatre Festival in Columbus, Ohio.

Volume 2 is a musical journey of LGBT history using the voices of Alexander the Great, Queen Christina of Sweden, Susan B. Anthony, Billie Jean King, Harvey Milk and 9/11 hero Mark Bingham. Vol. 2 won the “Audience Favorite Award” in Solo Performance at the 2004 Columbus National Gay and Lesbian Theatre Festival.

“Estrada takes his audiences on a hilarious whirlwind tour!” - New York Times

“An irreverent, funny and moving solo musical. A feel-good session for gay people” - Tom Sime, Dallas Morning News

Jade Esteban Estrada is a playwright, composer, singer, actor, choreographer and director. From 1996 to 2000, he was chief choreographer to Latin TV star Charo. He founded and is artistic director for the Experiencia Dance Company, New York.

For engagement dates, see our article: Touring Performers

QComedy’s “Monday Night Gay Comedy” is San Francisco’s only ongoing gay comedy showcase.
LGBT Community Center, 1800 Market St., San Francisco, Calif.
Wheelchair accessible
Information: 415-541-5610

January 10, 2005
Talent included: Scott Capurro (host), Dolores Trevino, Erin Souza, David Guiney, Lisa Geduldig, Bob Douglas, Grace White, Nick Leonard, and Bridget Schwartz (show’s regular closing monologue)