The Purple Circuit promotes GLQBT
and feminist theater and performance.

Tonya Pinkins image: Zachary Paris

Written by Paul Oakley Stovall
Directed by Krissy Vanderwarker
Produced by Hendel Productions West and David Tarlow

Jesse returns home to Chicago for his brother’s wedding, and surprises his family by bringing along his Swedish boyfriend, Christian. Each family member has a different reaction to the couple. Half-sister Ronnie is supportive; younger brother Tony, is resistant to welcoming a white man into their African-American family; deeply religious sister Evy thinks that Jesse is betraying the memory of their dead parents by “choosing” a sinful, unnatural “lifestyle.” Through card games, language lessons, and literature, they all strive to live, love, and give as much as they can.

Cast includes: Tonya Pinkins, Yassmin Alers, J. Nicole Brooks, Andrew Kelsey, Paul Oakley Stovall, Wes Ramsey, J. Karen Thomas.

Tonya Pinkins received a Tony for her performance in “Jelly’s Last Jam.” She also played in “Radio Golf,” “Merrily We Roll Along,” “Chronicle of a Death Foretold,” “House of Flowers,” “The Wild Party,” and got Tony nominations for “Play On!” and “Caroline, or Change.” She played Livia Frye Cudahy on the ABC serial “All My Children.”

Ms. Pinkins will not appear in the January 17 and 18 performances.

Januay 3, 2008
Celebration Theatre, Los Angeles, California

Dan Morrison Richard Payton image: Colleen Scribner

Written by Terrence McNally
Directed by Joe Bailey
Produced by Who Wants Cake?

Like the individual patches of a quilt, myriad aspects of gay male life are explored from 1925 to the present. In humorous and thought-provoking ways — and as an antidote to spare, post modern theater — the lives of gay men are vividly and introspectively revealed.

Cast includes: Jon Ager, Daniel Brengel, Tony Gross, Greg Miller, Dan Morrison, Dan Muldoon, Richard Payton, Jamie Richards, Charles Van Hoose.

January 5, 2008
The Ringwald Theatre, Ferndale, Michigan

Written by Tony Kushner
Directed by Brian Rivera
Produced by Lambda Players

In the mid-80s, a delirious AIDS patient is kept alive by the skill, cynical wit, and tough love of an ex-drag queen nurse. Their story is part of an apocalyptic (and sometimes comic) tale that deconstructs America, with religion and relationships under fire, and death everywhere. Throughout it all, an angel waits in the wings, ready to fall.

This epic story takes place during the Ronald Reagan years, an era of AIDS un-awareness, and the tightly shut gay closet. It reveals history’s gritty secrets in a mad swirl of irony, intense drama, outrageous humor, and unexpected twists and turns. An hopeful meditation on faith, morality, love and sex.

In 1993, Angels won a Pulitzer Prize in drama (for Part One “Millennium Approaches”) as well as a Drama Desk award for Best Play, a New York Drama Critics’ Circle award for Best Play, and a Tony award for Best Play.

Cast includes: Eric Baldwin, Kevin Caravalho, Jes Gonzales, Maggie Hollinbeck, Eddie Jacson, Evan Johnson, Martha Omiyo Kight.

January 11, 2008
Studio Theatre, Sacramento, California

Konima Parkinson-Jones, Julie Burrise image: Jay Lawton

Written by Howard Casner
Directed by Chrisanne Blankenship-Billings and Thomas Colby
Produced by Halsted Street Productions

Sweden’s Queen Christina abdicates her throne to have an affair with a nun. Pope Julius II, Edward II, Roy Cohn, and Peter Tchaikovsky are all alive at the same time. All modern conveniences, such as movies and planes exist, however, Galileo has just renounced his theory that the earth revolves around the sun. But in the end, does it matter? The more things change, the more they stay the same.

Cast includes: Levy Baguin, Gregory Blair, Mikhail Blokh, Julie Burrise, Thomas Colby, Konima Parkinson-Jones, Donaco Smyth.

January 12, 2008
The Complex, Hollywood, California

Jeffrey Hartgraves image: Kent Taylor / image: Brian Chavez

Written by Jeffrey Hartgraves
Directed by Libby O’Connell
Produced by Theatre Rhinoceros and The Ensemble

Jeffrey Hartgraves, presents 75 minutes of humorous humiliations and personal epiphanies, explaining how fear is the most basic human motivation.

An autobiographical work by a theater veteran, it is his first performance piece since being diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma (bone cancer). “Shark Bites” isn’t about cancer — Jeffrey is actually a Virgo — but it doesn’t shy away from the real (or imagined) fears that fill our lives.

Cast includes: Jeffrey Hartgraves, P.A. Cooley, David Bicha, Drew Todd, davidmahr, T.J. Lee.

January 17, 2008
Theatre Rhinoceros, San Francisco, California

Benjamin Shaffer, Andy Collins, Haley Heidemann image: Ken Jacques

Written by Patricia Loughrey
Music and lyrics by Rayme Sciaroni
Directed by Rayme Sciaroni and Siobhan Sullivan
Produced by Diversionary Theatre

Young Harry, disgruntled over not getting his favorite pancakes for breakfast, accidentally invents a machine that produces dads, complete with plates of pancakes. In a household of two moms, two kids, and one singing dog, most of the 62 dads are produced by audience participation. Anyone can be a dad when they walk through the daddy machine.

Cast includes: Jacob Caltrider, Andy Collins, Lirenza Gillette, Susan Hammons, Haley Heidemann, Max Oilman-Williams, Krista Page, Sven Salumaa, Benjamin Shaffer.

The play is based on the book of the same title by Johnny Valentine.

Sven Salumaa, Andy Collins, Max Oilman-Williams, Lirenza Gillette, Jacob Caltrider Alternate kid cast image: Ken Jacques

January 18, 2008
Diversionary Theatre, San Diego, California

Aynsley Bubbico, Sweet Baby J’ai image: Bea Lamar

Written by Dee Jae Cox
Original Songs by Michele Weiss
Directed by Kelly Ann Ford
Produced by LA Women’s Theatre Project, Theatre Planners, in association with Lilly Tomlin/Jane Wagner Cultural Arts Center

In 1929, some kinds of love could get you killed. A black blues singer and a wealthy, white socialite find that racism isn’t the only obstacle in their relationship. The Stock Market crash, visions derived from chicken bones and long guarded family secrets, weave together a drama infused with the passion of blues music and the dangers of forbidden love.

New Orleans voodoo and Harlem blues come together as sultry lovers on a hot summer’s night. The spell is sweet and the fever high during the end of this roaring era, as a new and forbidden love begins. While a new tradition in music was being born, some family secrets should have stayed buried.

Cast includes: Sweet Baby J’ai, Aynsley Bubbico, Deborah Kellar, Malik B. El Amin, Alan Brooks, Melinda Edmondson, Alan Keith Caldwell, Terrence Tatum.

“Glad I didn’t miss this. … I had seen the reading at the village and it was one of the best readings I had ever been to; the staged production exceeded that. … It has a period flavor, voodoo, and magic and wonderful singing, and a hot woman-to-woman relationship.” - Bill Kaiser, Purple Circuit

A world premiere.

The Los Angeles Women’s Theatre Project is dedicated to the education, support, promotion, and production of live performance projects that are of interest and benefit to women.

Lily Tomlin/Jane Wagner Cultural Arts Center believes that art is essential to the human spirit, and that art helps save lives. The revenues earned by the Tomlin/Wagner Center are used, in part, to provide services for people with HIV or AIDS.

January 19, 2008
The Stella Adler Theatre, Hollywood, California
Information: 818-471-9100; lawomenstheatre@aol.com

Luke Arnold, David Forster, Gary Abrahams image: Chris Kapa

Written by Tim Conigrave, edited by Tony Ayers
Directed by Robert Chuter
Produced by La Mama Theatre and Fly-On-The-Wall Theatre

Thieving Boy

    As his father lies dying in bed, Moxy must assess not only
    his troubled past, but in what direction life will lead him.

Like Stars in my Hands

    Simon, facing his own death, takes charge of his
    own life, and that of his lover Marcello.

Both plays are refreshing, uplifting, moving, as well as funny and sad celebratory stories of the power of love, sex and friendship. Conigrave’s plays deal with those matters that need to be resolved at the time of death: your own or someone else’s.

Cast includes: David Forster, Sam Shore, Gary Abrahams, Lachlan Macleod, Heath Miller, Luke Arnold, Christopher Pender.

These two, short, award-winning plays are by Conigrave, whose iconic memoir, “Holding the Man,” has become one of the most successful love stories in Australian publishing history.

These plays are part of the 2008 Midsumma Festival, a gay and lesbian cultural event, Melbourne, Australia.

January 19, 2008
La Mama Theatre, Carlton, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

(top-down) Cheryl Jackson, Denis Schryburt, Nancy Kenny, Chris Bickford (r) Lawrence Aronovitch image: Mark Webster

Written by David Lohrey (has link to read script)
Directed by Jim McNabb
Produced by Marc Barrette

A university chancellor has recently died. His son Dennis and his son’s fiancée, Lisa, have come to the chancellor’s home attic to retrieve personal possessions, before the estate reverts to the university. Dennis hopes to find a lost manuscript his father is said to have written. He hopes it will explain why his father left the family to live with another man. When the late Chancellor’s male lover, Chris, arrives, he and Dennis grapple with their conflicting memories of this once-powerful man.

Cast includes: Chris Bickford, Nancy Kenny, Cheryl Jackson, Lawrence Aronovitch, Denis Schryburt.

January 30, 2008
Arts Court Theatre, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada

Kirsten Holly Smith image: Michael Rababy

Written and performed by Kirsten Holly Smith
Additional written material by Patricia Cotter
Directed by Derick LaSalla
Produced by Lily Tomlin/ Jane Wagner Cultural Arts Center, Jorja Fox and Leslie Brockett

Dusty Springfield had a meteoric rise in the music industry; through Apartheid controversies, to her public outing as a lesbian. She was one of the most influential voices in the history of pop music. With such songs as “Son of a Preacher Man,” her career blazed a trail for generations of women and spread the rhythm and blues genre around the world.

Dynamic singer and actress Kirsten Holly Smith brings Dusty vibrantly back as she performs 13 classic Dusty songs in this moving one-woman musical.

February 7, 2008
The Renberg Theater, The Village, Los Angeles, California

Marjorie Conn image: Marian Roth

Written by Pat Bond
Directed by Marjorie Conn
Produced by The Provincetown Fringe Festival in Asbury Park

The amazing 30-year relationship between the First Lady of the Land and the top woman journalist in the United States is revealed. Lorena Hickok lived in the White House, and her story would be fascinating even if she hadn’t been Eleanor Roosevelt’s lover. She overcame incredible diversity including sexism and familial physical abuse, and her life story is inspiring.

Roosevelt wrote more than 2,000 letters to her “beloved Hick.” Bond researched these letters, as well other personal materials, at the Franklin D. Roosevelt Library in Hyde Park, N.Y. to create her masterpiece chronicle.

Cast includes: Marjorie Conn.

February 8, 2008
Stephen Crane House, Asbury Park, New Jersey

Tye Adams image: eyecandy-photo.biz

Written and directed by Bill Becker
Produced by ToBe Entertainment

At 16, Grady is thrown out of his home when his family discovers he is gay. He struggles with drug use and prostitution, while attempting to survive on the streets.

Mature, musical drama with nudity.

Cast includes: Tye Adams, Robb Connor, Kim Langley, Kien J, Jere Castro.

February 15, 2008
Gardner Stages, West Hollywood, California

Written by Jon Robin Baitz
Directed by Peter Levin
Produced by Susan Albert Loewenberg, L.A. Theatre Works

Wall Street powerhouse Sandy Sonenberg finds his personal and professional life threatened by the unraveling secrets of his past. After burying his true sexual identity, a lethal affair with a young, male associate forces Sonenberg to confront a lifetime of unrequited love and betrayal. A modern tragedy about power and money, and the ruinous effects they can have on friendship, love, marriage, and ultimately oneself.

“ ‘The Paris Letter’ has potential to rank beside works of Arthur Miller and Tennessee Williams. Baitz writes vibrant, stingingly literate dialogue.” - Variety

Cast includes: Ron Rifkin, John Glover, Neil Patrick Harris, Josh Radnor, Patricia Wettig.

All performances are recorded to air on L.A. Theatre Works’ nationally syndicated radio theater series, “The Play’s The Thing,” broadcasts weekly on XM Satellite Radio as well as on public radio: 89.3 KPCC Southern California, 89.7 WGBH Boston, 91.5 WBEZ Chicago, 94.9 KUOW Seattle, 93.5 KRTS Texas, 90.5 KUT Austin, 88.9 KUNM Albuquerque, 94.1 KPFA in Northern, California, 91.1 KRCB Sonoma County, 89.1 KUOR in Redlands.

February 20, 2008
Skirball Cultural Center, Los Angeles, California

Dana Benningfield, John Haggerty image: Peter Lau Photography

Written by Victor Bumbalo
Directed by Jeffery Corrick
Produced by Wings Theatre Company, Inc. Paul may have killed Lori’s son — or it was an accident — brought on by the homophobic taunts of a straight young man. Paul, obsessed with guilt, follows Lori, wanting to be relieved of guilt by first hating the world from which her son came. Eventually, he desperately attempts to bring relief to her suffering.

Cast includes: Krista Amigone, Dana Benningfield, Jason Alan Griffin, John Haggerty, Jeremiah Maestas, G. Alverez Reid, Danny Wildman.

February 23, 2008
Wings Theatre, New York, New York

Mallory Portnoy, Victoria Levin image: Calico Studio

Written and directed by Barbara Kahn
Produced by Theater for the New City

In the Biograph Studio, in 1908 New York City, actors are filming a “one-reeler.” Between shooting “takes,” they reveal their dreams and fall in love. A husband and wife acting team rehearse routines they hope will allow them to work in live theater, and thereby gain legitimacy. An immigrant housekeeper leaves her gangster husband. A dancer finds love at the gay hangout, while his sister laments her unrequited love for the housekeeper. An African-American dancer refuses to perform in blackface. Two stagehands are determined to win the New York Times Limerick Contest.

Later, a typical evening of Vaudeville — including music, dance, comedy skits, and female mimicry — takes place in the Olympic Theatre. It is here that the song “Yiddishe Yankee Doodle Boy” (Allison Tartalia, music, and Barbara Kahn, lyrics) is heard, and the finished Biograph film is seen. This comedy also has a gay male and a lesbian love story, as well as a lot of female mimicry, which was central to Vaudeville.

Cast includes: Jocelyn Adams, Dan Burkarth, Robert Gonzales, Jr., Larray Grimes, Matt Lara, Victoria Levin, Dan McVey, Jake Nicholson, Mallory Portnoy, Kyle Wood.

March 6, 2008
Theater for the New City, New York, New York

“Detective Loretta Salt” Puppet by Susan Simpson image: Susan Simpson

Written and directed by Susan Simpson
Produced by Automata

A prominent society maven and philanthropist — who secretly slums at lesbian dives — is murdered. Laconic L.A.P.D. beat cop Loretta Salt turns reluctant investigator and steps into an infested swamp of corruption, brutality, and subterfuge.

An emotionally gripping noir play, set in McCarthy-era Los Angeles, Concrete Folk Variations is told through intricately-crafted puppets, projections and a minimalist mid-century Los Angles cityscape. Part one of a series to be presented in installments throughout 2008.

Cast includes: Dan Rae Wilson, Katie Shook, Beth Peterson.

March 6, 2008
The Manual Archives, Los Angeles, California

Matthew Lowe AnnaMarie MacLeod, ?, Katie Anderson image: Dale Albright

Written by Paula Vogel
Directed by Rebecca Longworth
Produced by Theatre Q

Seven people in one New York City apartment can make for crowded living. But for lesbian couple Helen and Ruth, who, along with their gay friend Peter, are expecting their first child, it is not so bad. After all, three of their housemates are their imaginary children. But just to play it safe, the trio of adults decides it would be best to “get rid” of the make-believe kids.

Cast includes: Katie Anderson, Matthew Lowe, AnnaMarie MacLeod.

March 13, 2008
Dragon Theatre, Palo Alto, California

Mike Jones image: Mike Hicks

Written by Neal J. Davis
Directed by Mike Dempsey
Produced by Polimedia and Chris Johnson

On November 2, 2006, the Rev. Ted Haggard — husband and father to five children — stepped aside as senior pastor of the 14,000-member New Life Church, and resigned as president of the National Association of Evangelicals. Mike Jones, a former gay male escort, had exposed the fact that he and the reverend had a three-year, sexual relationship.

Mike now reveals — in person — how he began working as an escort, and what he thought about his gay client, who was also an anti-gay fundamentalist and strident opponent of legal marriage for same-sex couples. Mike tells all with humor, sadness and shock, as he discovers what happens after outing one of “God’s bullies.”

Cast: Mike Jones.

March 13, 2008 - 8pm
The Bug Theater, Denver, Colorado

Jo Anne Glover, Chris Buess image: Coast Highway Photography

Written by Zsa Zsa Gershick
Directed by Delicia Turner Sonnenberg
Produced by Diversionary Theatre and Moxie Theatre

In 1944, wisecracking Helen Burke (nee Berkowitz) is on her way from Manhattan to Hollywood, and a coveted spot as an MGM contract writer. When her car breaks down on the outskirts of Austin, Texas, she finds aspects of American culture that are deeply troubling, and difficult to confront. Beneath the story’s comic veil, racism, anti-Jewish sentiments, homophobia, and a fear of the “other” are discovered; as well as finding family in the most unusual places.

Cast includes: Chris Buess, Monique Gaffney, Jo Anne Glover, Lisel Gorell-Getz, Fred Harlow, Leigh Scarritt, Wendy Waddell.

“Bluebonnet Court” won the 2007 GLAAD “Media Award for Outstanding Los Angeles Theatre.”

Playwright Zsa Zsa Gershick is the author of “Secret Service: Untold Stories of Lesbians in the Military” (Alyson, 2005), and was a 2005 NPR “Summer Reading Pick,” and a 2006 winner of ForeWord Magazine’s “Best Gay & Lesbian Nonfiction Book of the Year.” Gershick’s “Gay Old Girls” (Alyson Books, 1998), was winner of ForeWord’s “Best Gay & Lesbian Nonfiction Book of the Year,” a finalist for the “Lambda Literary Award,” and a nominee for the American Library Association’s “Best Gay & Lesbian Book.” Her screenplay “Rozzie & Harriet” (Marion Levine co-writer) was a 1999 Los Angeles OutFest finalist.

March 20, 2008
Diversionary Theatre, San Diego, California

Micail Buse Andy Anthony, Tygar Hicks, Chad Jayson image: West Ramsey

Written by Jimmy Cliff George and Kurt Gregory VanDover
Directed by Kurt Kurtis and West Ramsey
Produced by the Lambda Players

Just past the turn-of-the-century, down a lonely stretch of road in the middle of the woods, is found the fictional small town of Burnt Fields, Mississippi. Three young lovers set into motion a chain of events that haunt the town’s inhabitants forever. Bigotry, friendship, prejudice, and revenge are all found in this hypnotic and tender lesson for life.

Burnt Fields began as a series of unconnected monologues written by Jimmy Cliff George. He collaborated with Kurt Gregory VanDover, intertwining the stories, creating a tapestry of small town life. The first version of the play was performed in 1992, at the Sacramento Metropolitan Community Church, after receiving a new works award grant through the Sacramento Metropolitan Arts Commission.

This production of Burnt Fields is being performed in honor, and in memory of, Jimmy Cliff George.

Cast includes: Jackie Schultz, Mark Hoffman, Kurt Kurtis, Tygar Hicks, Chad Jayson, Andy Anthony, Micail Buse, Noemi Rios, Cameron Smith, Carissa Meagher, Olivia Stevensen, Mahlon Hall, Lynnette Blaney, Brittany Sims.

March 21, 2008
The Studio Theatre, Sacramento, California

Leon Acord, Jeffrey Hartgraves, P.A. Cooley image: Kent Taylor

Written by Jeffrey Hartgraves and cast
Directed by Leon Acord
Produced by Theatre Rhinoceros and Larilee Productions

Variety Show and auction to assist Jeffrey Hartgraves, one of San Francisco’s stage favorites. Friends of Jeffrey — from all aspects of the artistic community — gather to support him with this benefit gala. Included is a live and on-line auction of donated works, raffles, and an evening filled with music and laughter.

Jeffrey, Bay Area veteran playwright, director and actor, was diagnosed with bone cancer in 2005. Following a year of remission, he wrote and starred in his critically acclaimed “Shark Bites (a very nearly solo show)” at The Rhino. Hartgraves is now on another round of painful chemotherapy.

Cast includes: Veronica Klaus, Matthew Martin, Connie Champagne, Leigh Crow, Trauma Flintstone, T.J. Lee, Leon Acord, David Bicha, Don Seaver, David Mahr, Donald Currie, Liz Ryan.

April 20, 2008
Theatre Rhinoceros, San Francisco, California

Drew Caiden image: Peter Bull

Written by Drew Caiden
Directed by Peter Bull
Produced by Shamelessboyz Theatre Company

Realms of relationships and ambiguity are explored through the eyes of a man who has come to re-enter the life of the “woman” he once loved. A kaleidoscope journey through gender identity, confusion, and manipulation: a mystery to unfold.

Cast includes: Drew Caiden.

April 25, 2008
Bucketworks Playspace, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Edisol Wayne Dotson image: Michelle Gold

Written, directed and produced by Edisol Wayne Dotson

Four, seemingly disparate tales find their story lines entwined in song. A cautionary cavalcade of dating, relationships and sex.

A reading of the play, with lyrics spoken.

Cast includes: Brent Anderson, Alex Garner, Jason Boegh, Flip Laffoon, Dylan Vox, James Tumminia, Peter McGlynn, Jonathan Bierner, Marcus Proctor, Rodney J. Hobbs, Julie Inmon, Vita Lusty, Cindy Clark, Francette Castilla.

April 26, 2008
Hudson Theatre, Main Stage, Hollywood, California

Rich Carrillo, Trevor Bowles image: HenzelDesign.com

Written by Terrence McNally
Directed by Nic Arnzen
Produced by Diversionary Theatre

Thirteen barefoot actors perform a play within a play, starting with the birth of Joshua/Jesus in a Texas motel. Soon evils emerge, such as wife-beating, loveless sex, gay-bashing and clerical humiliations.

A contemporary telling of the life of Jesus, as if he were a gay man and grew up in Texas during the 1950s. This parallel story of Christ tells a colloquial tale of the fight against cruelty, division, hatred, and, above all, hypocrisy.

Cast includes: Trevor Bowles, Rich Carrillo, Scott Amiotte, Zachary Bryant, Tom Doyle, Kate Hewitt, Keifla, Brian Mackey, Jesse Allen Moore, Jessica Parsell, Anna Rebek, John Whitley, Rachael Van Wormer.

May 1, 2008
Diversionary Theatre, San Diego, California

Jimmy Shaw image: ?

Written by James Carroll Pickett
Directed by Michael Kearns
Produced by Camelot Artists

One night in the life of a phone sex hustler. Universal themes of loneliness and isolation; an aria for the brokenhearted.

“Dream Man” was written in 1985 and remains one of the most emotionally-charged responses to the emotional intricacies of the AIDS crisis. Premiered in 1986 at the Skylight Theatre in Los Angeles — where it now plays — “Dream Man” has been performed all over the world. Director Kearns has performed the role on stage numerous times, as well as in a (now rare and hard to find) 1991 VHS video.

Cast includes: Jimmy Shaw.

“He spared us nothing in the intensity of his phone calls, his skill at arousal, his intense vocal dexterity and vivid compulsive imagination. … Shaw is a pleasure to behold.” - Dublin ID Magazine, 2007

“Dream Man rips through loneliness, despair, passing youth, isolation, grief and fear in a masterful way.” - Dublin ID Magazine, 2007

May 9, 2008
Skylight Theatre, Los Feliz, California

Andrea Phox, Susan Pellegrini, Charlita Williams, Marjorie Conn, Cheryl Fitzmaurice Vivian Taormina Anne Berkowitz, Ku’uipo Latonia-Radice, Susan Marco. Leslie Castellini, Sharon Lucas image: Andrea Phox

Written by Susan Marco, Ku’uipo Latonio-Radice, Anne Berkowitz, Ima Kamra, Shareen Knight, Christine Emmert, Magic Morningstar, Elyse Nass, John Leslie Martin, Chris Shaw Swanson, Ruthie Levy, Patricia Florio, Carol MacAllister, Susan Pellegrini, Katheryn White, Randy Lee Hartwig, Cheryl Fitzmaurice, Vivian Taormina, Katy Dierlam, Miriam Devorah, Isabella Russell-Ides
Directed by Marjorie Conn
Produced by Provincetown Fringe Festival in Asbury Park and Mattison Park

Personal stories are told in monologue, dialogue, poems, and skits with outrageous humor, complexity, poignancy, and complete realism. It is a celebration of our sensuality, sexuality and who we are as women. Enter into this forbidden zone with us. We will peel off the layers, and you will see what is at the heart of every woman.

Special surprise guest star every week in this performance piece created for nine women.

Cast includes: Andrea Phox, Anna Oleinik, Anne Berkowitz, Charlita Williams, Cheryl Fitzmaurice, Christine Emmert, Dr. Geena, Ku’uipo Latonio-Radice, Lesley Castellini, Lorraine Stone, Marie Cathleen, Marjorie Conn, Sharon Lucas, Susan Marco, Susan Pellegrini, Vivian Taormina.

May 13, 2008
Mattison Park Restaurant, Asbury Park, New Jersey

Richard Payton image: Colleen Scribner

Written by Paul Rudnick
Directed by Joe Bailey
Produced by Who Wants Cake?

It’s 1993 and Jeffrey, a gay actor/waiter, has sworn off sex after too many bouts with his partners about what is “safe” and what is not. Suddenly, just after he has reconciled himself to celibacy, Jeffrey’s flamboyant friends introduce him to the man of his dreams, who happens to be HIV-positive. What follows is an audacious and moving romantic comedy, one in which the quest for love and really fabulous clothes meet, and where unflagging humor prevails even when tragedy might be just around the corner.

Cast includes: Joe Bailey, Melissa Beckwith, Tony Gross, Gary Lehman, Dan Morrison, Richard Payton, Joe Plambeck, John Prakapas.

May 16, 2008
Ringwald Theatre, Ferndale, Michigan

Rusty Hamrick, Beth Whitney, Barrett Kime, Mercy Malick, James Gaudioso image: ?

Written and composed by Gib Wallis
Directed by Gib Wallis
Musical direction by Brian Murphy
Produced by Playwrights 6

An aspiring gay singer moves into New York’s famous Ansonia Hotel, where the apartment’s resident nymph offers him stardom in return for some fleshly relief.

Two thirds farce, and one third backstage musical, there is a lot of door-slamming and towel-dropping, mistaken identities, double-entendres, a few melodic pop songs, and one over-sexed nymph.

Cast includes: James Gaudioso, Rusty Hamrick, Barrett Kime, Mercy Malick, Beth Whitney.

May 17, 2008
Meta Theatre, Los Angeles, California

Rick Lattimer, Miguel Belmonte image: Dave McCracken

Written by Dave McCracken
Directed by Dave McCracken
Produced by DJM Productions, Inc.

On a scorching desert landscape, under a relentless sun, two great warriors and mortal enemies, Atrox and Bonitas, have momentarily retired to their corners. Atrox enlists a handsome young soldier to seduce and capture Bonitas. It is a desperate battle between good and evil for the very souls of mankind. Will mankind continue in light and truth, or wither in darkness and deception?

“Fever” is loosely based on Sophocles’ classic play “Philoctetes.”

Cast includes: Miguel Belmonte, Rick Lattimer, Gregory Thornsbury.

May 21, 2008
Dionysus Theatre’s L’il Peach, New York, New York

Sara Felder image: ?

Written, directed and produced by Sara Felder

A nearly blind woman and her adult lesbian daughter struggle for balance in their relationship. Their differing views of the Israeli-Palestinian crisis underscores intergenerational differences that they must overcome in order to find common ground.

Solo theater artist and world-class juggler, Sara Felder uniquely integrates circus arts, shadow puppetry, and personal narrative, while exploring the big questions of life.

Cast includes: Sara Felder.

May 21, 2008
Skirball Cultural Center, Los Angeles, California

Written and directed by Alan Sharpe
Produced by African-American Collective Theater

Friends and fans fray the volatile relationship between an exotic dancer and a male escort.

This is the 10th consecutive D.C. Black Pride Weekend staged reading presented by the African-American Collective Theater, which was been devoted to positive and affirming images of the BLGBT community since 1971.

Cast includes: J.R. Rolley, Monte J. Wolfe, Michael Sainte-Andress, David Richardson, Donald Burch, James Foster, Jr., Ronald King, Talmach White.

May 25, 2008 - 6pm
Warehouse Theatre, Washington, D.C.

Kevin Copps, Frederick Goris, Scott Ludwig, Patrick Hilt, John Aney, Matthew Lowe, Michael Moerman, Kevin Hseih, Thomas Azar image: Dale Albright

Written by Moises Kaufman
Directed by George Quick
Produced by theatre Q

Oscar Wilde was one of the greatest English playwrights, and also the center of one of history’s most heartbreaking stories. The play weaves together the transcripts from Wilde’s three trials with other writings on the subject, depicting the events that led to Wilde’s imprisonment, exile and ultimately his death. An account of the decline of the most notorious artist of his time, and a major turning point in the history of gay men and lesbians.

Cast includes: John Aney, Thomas Azar, Kevin Copps, Frederick Goris, Patrick Hilt, Kevin Hseih, Matthew Lowe, Scott Ludwig, Michael Moerman.

May 29, 2008
Dragon Theatre, Palo Alto, California

Dave Barrus image: Maia Rosenfeld

Written by Mark Campbell
Music by Debra Barsha, Mark Bennett, Peter Foley, Jenny Giering, Peter Golub, Jake Heggie, Stephen Hoffman, Lance Horn, Gihieh Lee, Steven Lutvak, Steve Marzullo, Brendan Milburn, Chris Miller, Greg Pliska, Duncan Sheik, Kim D. Sherman, Jeffrey Stock, Joseph Thalken
Directed by Patrick Pearson
Music direction by Jake Anthony
Produced by David Tarlow

Broadway veteran Dave Barrus performs this funny, sexy, elegiac, ironic work of urban romance.

Part of LA’s Festival of New American Musicals.

Cast includes: Dave Barrus.

June 4, 2008
Celebration Theatre, Los Angeles, California

? image: ?

Written, directed and produced by Robert Croonquist

Join the largest New York gathering of Cockettes since their theatrical catastrophe at the Anderson Theater in 1971. In 1968 this psychedelic-fueled, gender bending troupe of men, women, children, gay, straight and in-between became legendary for their performances at San Francisco’s Palace Theater. At the cultural forefront of gay liberation, these bearded, hippie, drag queens showed generations to come the creative potential within us all.

Cast includes: Steven Watson, Mink Stole, HRH Lee Mentley, Scrumbly, Sweet Pam, Rumi, Fayette, Harlow, Jet, Tahara, Sebastian, Toots Taraval, Dolores DeLuce.

June 5, 2008
New York City Gay Center, New York City, New York

Brian Foyster, Chris Rydell in “And Tell Sad Stories of the Deaths of Queens …” image: Allison Moon

Written by Tennessee Williams
Directed by Jack Heller, Robert Burgos, Brian Foyster
Produced by The LA Gay & Lesbian Center’s Lily Tomlin/Jane Wagner Cultural Arts Center, The Coast Playhouse, and Jon Imparato

“Mister Paradise” (1939)
As war clouds gather, a shambling, reclusive poet is visited by a female fan who, having discovered a slim volume of his work in an antique shop, plans to restore him to literary fame and fortune on the lecture circuit.

“The Palooka” (1937)
A has-been prizefighter follows his own advice to “do or die” when he willingly allows the trainer to feed his old body to newer competition.

“And Tell Sad Stories of the Deaths of Queens …” (late 50s)
Deserted by his long-time partner, a rich but fading drag queen brings home a menacing, brutal sailor.

These plays are from a collection of one-acts that were written over the course of Tennessee Williams’s career, which were posthumously published. Williams had a distinct talent for writing short plays, and these new discoveries include some of his most poignant and hilarious characters.

“Miraculous pure theater!” - Critic’s Pick!, LA Times

Cast includes: Chris Carver, Brian Foyster, Jack Heller, Melissa Lechner, Jason Lopez, Preston Maybank, Jonathan Runyon, Chris Rydell.

June 5, 2008
The Coast Playhouse, West Hollywood, California

Blake Anthony, Josh Gordon image: ?

Written by Daniel MacIvor
Directed by Michael Van Duzer
Produced by August Viverito for The Production Company

The play explores the unraveling of a gay relationship, the dissolution of a marriage, infidelity, sudden loss, and a playwright’s guilty secret. An exploration of the hairline border between living and dying, and a meditation on how artists create art from life. Who knew life could be so much fun? A buoyant, three-tier, bittersweet comedy about life, love and silly dances.

“In on It” premiered Off-Broadway in 2001, and won the Obie in 2002.

Cast includes: Josh Gordon, Blake Anthony.

June 6, 2008 - Friday
The Chandler Studio Theatre, North Hollywood, California

Written and directed by Anthony Garcia-Copian
Produced by Common Ground Theatre

When Russian dancer and choreographer Bronislava Nijinska decides to stage her dance “Les Biches,” she hires a young American dancer who suffers from mediocre-pop absorption, but hungers for fame. Bronislava’s famous gay ballet dancer brother, Nijinsky, makes a ghostly appearance on stage and stirs memories for his sister. As the American dancer learns the dance, she questions if fame and dance are more important than a secret love she left behind. Nijinska realizes the world has become a vapid place, and that, perhaps, she no longer belongs in it.

Cast includes: Rachel Klem, Jake Axelbank, Heather Fisher.

June 8, 2008
Common Ground Theatre, Durham, North Carolina

? image: Sanford Kaplan

Written by Carol Polcovar
Directed by David Gaard
Produced by The Entertainment Agora in association with Nick Curto & All Out Arts, Inc.

On June 27, 1969, the New York Police raided The Stonewall, a routine made largely to collect protection money as much as to harass lesbians, gay men, and transsexuals. They were shocked when the patrons resisted and their raid resulted in a riot that lasted for days. That moment of fighting back inspired gay men and lesbians throughout the country, which resulted in the birth of the modern gay rights movement. The lives of lesbian, gay, bi, and transsexual people around the world were forever changed.

Poet, playwright and political activist Carol Polcovar spent two years interviewing participants in, and observers of, the 1969 Stone Wall Rebellion. From these interviews she created this award-winning evening of theater.

Cast includes: Dolores Kenan, Michael Buoni, Aaron King, Mary Murphy.

“Stonewall Stories” was named “Best Docudrama” in the 2006 Summer Festival Season by Theatremania.com and TalkinBroadway.com

A portion of every ticket sold benefits the Metropolitan Community Church’s Sylvia’s Place, a shelter for homeless lgbt and questioning teenagers.

June 25, 2008
Lerner Auditorium, LGBT Community Center, New York City, New York

Brandon Finch, Kyle Payne image: Justin Chin

Written and directed by Ron Lytle
Produced by Lyte-Hart Productions

Albert, a young, gay man living in San Francisco, dreams of escaping his homophobic stepmother and stepsisters. In his search for true love, he meets the dashing “it-boy” prince. When the prince tries to see Albert again, he has no idea how to find him. However, Albert has a fun and dishy Godmother who saves the day with his sage and outrageous advice. The show has lots of zany humor, snappy dialogue, and soaring romance.

Cast includes: Brandon Finch, Kyle Payne, Scott Phillips, Tomas Theriot, Steve Yates, John Erreca, Jenifer Tice, Lisa Otterstetter, Julia Etzel, Caleb Haven Draper, Ken Handler, Donny Landers, Gilbert Michael, Jessica Payne, Libby Wood.

June 26, 2008
Zeum Theater, San Francisco, California

Lisa Davis, Karen Shields image: Glenn Meche

Written by Win Wells
Directed by Glenn Meche
Produced by To Do Productions

The life and times of the relationship between Gertrude Stein and Alice B. Toklas.

Cast includes: Karen Shields, Lisa Davis.

June 26, 2008
Marigny Theatre, New Orleans, Louisiana

Tom Wilson Weinberg, Keith Kaczorowski image: Rachel Taylor Brown

Written by Tom Wilson Weinberg
Directed by Tom Wilson Weinberg and Keith Kaczorowski
Musical accompaniment by Tom Wilson Weinberg and guest pianist Naoto Tanaka
Produced by David Alan Perkiss

Tom Wilson Weinberg and Keith Kaczorowski perform great songs in an intimate cabaret setting, putting their own spin on both familiar and some wonderful lesser-known tunes. The duo interpret the musical work of Jacques Brel, Leonard Cohen, Noel Coward, Gershwin, Sondheim, Lerner and Loewe, Strouse and Adams, Rodgers and Hammerstein, Adler and Ross, Frank Loesser, and Tom Wilson Weinberg.

Cast includes: Tom Wilson Weinberg, Keith Kazcorowski.

A portion of this cabaret performance benefits TransWay, a program of the William Way Community Center, which provides social and educational opportunities for male-to-female transgender members of our community.

June 27, 2008
Willie Way Cabaret, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Tom Doyle, Tom Zohar image: Barron Henzel

Book and lyrics by David Zellnik
Music by Joe Zellnik
Directed by Igor Goldin
Musical direction by Amy Dalton
Produced by Diversionary Theatre

Stu, a war reporter, and Mitch, an army private, fall in love and struggle to survive in a time and place where the odds are stacked against them.

This musical play is suffused with period songs — swing, big band, boogie-woogie — and the type of story that gets told in wartime. It explores how WWII became a catalyst which helped gay men find each other and brought lesbians together. “Yank!” is a love song to the “it takes one of every kind” Hollywood platoon flick and to 1940s Broadway.

Cast includes: Amy Biedel, Zachary Bryant, Jacob Caltrider, Rocky DeHaro, Eric Dowdy, Tom Doyle, Juston Harlin, Tony Houck, Trevor Peringer, Sven Salumaa, John Whitley, Tom Zohar.

July 10, 2008
Diversionary Theatre, San Diego, California

Monica Palacios image: Sunny Bak

Written, directed and performed by Monica Palacios
Produced by Breath of Fire Latina Theater Ensemble

Wholesome lesbo raunch and righteous rants of nationality, sexuality and middle age flab.

Monica Palacios is Breath Theater’s resident artist, and, for 26 years, has been on the forefront of queer Latina/o writing and performing. She created one-woman shows including “The OH! Show,” “Get Your Feet Wet,” “Queer Soul: A 20-year retrospective,” “Besame Mucho,” and “Latin Lezbo Comic,” which have toured and been performed Off-Broadway. Ms. Palacios is featured in the films “In the Bag,” and in “Serious Jokers,” a PBS award-winning documentary by Arthur Dong. She was a finalist in “Many Voices Project” (Chicago Dramatists, 2006), awarded a postdoctoral Rockefeller Fellowship from the Center for Chicano Studies at U.C., Santa Barbara (2003-2004), and received an “Indie Award for Excellence in Play Writing” from the Santa Barbara Independent Newspaper (May 2004).

July 11, 2008
Breath of Fire Latina Theater Ensemble, Santa Ana, California

Yanick Dufresne, Nathan Loyer, Marc Barrette, Andy Williams, Jen Vallance image: Mark Webster

Written by David Blue
Directed by David Ferguson
Produced by TotoToo Theatre and Lawrence Aronovitch

40-something gay white male Brad Lewis has a good job, great friends and a loving family. Oh yes, he is also single and there’s nothing wrong with that.

Cast includes: Mark Barrette, Jen Vallance, Nathan Loyer, Yanick Dufresne, Andy Williams.

“David Blue’s celebratory new play, by turns wry and witty, is further evidence that the closet itself has simply exploded.” - Review Vancouver

July 16, 2008
Arts Court Theatre, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada

Charles Hayter image: Christopher Dew

Written by Charles Hayter
Directed by Mat Howard
Produced by Alix Stirling

Dr. Kenneth Kain is a lonely, middle-aged, gay man and burnt-out doctor whose life is transformed when Princess Louisa introduces him to the world of drag. Kenneth launches a double life; doctor by day, drag queen by night. One fateful evening, his carefully-partitioned life collapses, with consequences both funny and poignant. Ultimately, it is the drag queen who leads the doctor on a voyage to reclaim his lost humanity.

Official Selection of Montreal’s Village Scene Productions for the July 2008 Fresh Fruit Festival.

“Fantastic … laugh out loud funny in a terribly dark and wonderful way.” - Judith Thompson, Canadian Governor-General’s award winning playwright, script reading, February 2005

“A bubbly cocktail of wit and sass, with a little medical ethics thrown in.” - Jason Rip, London, Ontario critic’s show review, August 2006

Cast includes: Charles Hayter.

July 19, 2008
Algonquin Theatre, New York, New York
September 9, 2008
Buddies Theatre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Ian Cullity, Lucas Blair image: Nic Candito

Written by John Hartmere Jr. and Damon Intrabartolo
Music by Damon Intrabartolo
Lyrics by Jon Hartmere Jr.
Directed by Kevin Caravalho
Musical direction by Maggie Hollinbeck
Produced by Erik Daniells/Artistic Differences Theatre Company

Peter and Jason are seniors at St. Cecilia’s Catholic Boarding School. They form a secret relationship, despite possible repercussions from family, friends, and the church. They search for love, acceptance, forgiveness, and faith in an unforgiving world.

“bare” features a driving pop/rock score.

Cast includes: Ian Cullity, Kelly Daniells, Lucas Blair, Josh Robertson, Joelle Wirth.

July 31, 2008
The Space, Sacramento, California

Eric Luddick, Joshua Peterson image: Glenn Meche

Book music and lyrics by Stephen Dolginoff
Directed by Glenn Meche
Produced by To Do Productions and The Marigny Theatre Group

A musical adaptation of the crime of the century. Two brilliant, sexually involved with each other law students set out to commit the perfect murder, no one must ever know. But then, what’s the point?

Cast includes: Eric Liddick, Joshua Peterson.

August 29, 2008
Marigny Theatre, New Orleans, Louisiana

Melenie Eleneke, Greg Gutting, Rachel Garcia, Lucas Biasch, Kat Evasco image: Greg Lawler

Written by John Caldon
Directed by John Caldon and Thu Tran
Produced by Guerrilla Rep

A documentary exploration — and sometimes a deconstruction of — traditional views of love and marriage. The characters (and cast) consist of all sexual orientations.

Author John Caldon taped conversations with five racially, culturally and sexually diverse people who share their poignant, and often humorous, stories about longing, love, family and marriage.

Cast member Melenie Eleneke is a human rights, HIV/AIDS, and transgender activist. One of Caldon’s interview subjects, she plays herself.

Cast includes: Melenie Eleneke, Greg Gutting, Lucas Biasch, Kat Evasco, Rachel Garcia, Ryan Fuimaono.

Live music by Ryan Fuimaono.

A portion of all ticket sales benefits the Equality California Institute’s public education campaign, “Let California Ring,” which opens hearts and minds about the freedom to marry and the respect, support, protections, and responsibilities that come with marriage.

September 4, 2008
Mama Calizo’s Voice Factory, San Francisco, California

Spencer Perrenoud, Katie Swinehart, Alex D. Hill image: Colleen Scribner

Written by Stephen Karam
Directed by Joe Bailey
Produced by Who Wants Cake?

High school misfits Solomon, Diwata, and Howie attend the same high school, however, they never met until one of their teachers is involved with a gay sex scandal. Through an unexpected chain of events, they realize three voices are stronger than one. Since their school has no speech and debate squad, maybe this is their chance to at last be heard by the school, and, perhaps, even by the world.

Cast includes: Alex D. Hill, Spencer Perrenoud, Katie Swinehart, Jamie Warrow.

September 5, 2008
The Ringwald Theatre, Ferndale, Michigan

Steven Lone, Rhianna Basore, Monique Gaffney image: Barron Henzel

Written by Jean-Paul Sartre
Adapted from the French by Paul Bowles
Directed by Esther Emery
Produced by Diversionary Theatre

Three strangers mercilessly exploit one another’s fears and weaknesses in a windowless room. Cradeau is a gutless, womanizing journalist who collaborated with the Germans in World War II France. The sadistic Inez is a onetime postal clerk who destroyed her same-sex lover. Inez eagerly preys upon the frivolous society lady Estelle, who has her own dark, secret past.

With surprising flashes of humor and cruelty, the interpersonal dynamics shift ceaselessly, each individual displaying moments of power and weakness, exhilaration, and despair. Sartre, an esteemed existentialist philosopher, wrote his seminal play, in 1944. It popularized the expression: “Hell is other people.”

Cast includes: Monique Gaffney, Steven Lone, Rhianna Basore, Kevin Morrison.

September 11, 2008
Diversionary Theatre, San Diego, California

Nate Levine image: Michael Behrens

Written by Morgan Ludlow
Directed by Soumyaa Kapil
Produced by Wily West Productions

In 1850 San Francisco, and in the throes of gold fever, Billy, a young, naive prospector, tries to make his fortune. In a city of 30,000 men — all clobbering each other to get ahead — Billy survives by becoming a woman.

Transformed into the “most eligible girl in town,” Billy finds himself fighting off the insatiable lusts of some of the the city’s most prominent citizens. Billy hides a suiter in the closet when another suiter shows up, fends marriage proposals from a man already married, and deals with a dangerous gunslinger, who seems to be on to the truth.

Two men marry in San Francisco, at the very beginning of the city’s history.

Cast includes: Billy Hayes, Jason Jeremy, Kat Kneisel, Nate Levine, Gwyneth Richards, Mark Shepard, Kirk Matthew White, Janice Wright.

September 11, 2008
Stage Werx, San Francisco, California

Tom Wilson Weinberg, Keith Kaczorowski image: Kevin Broad

Written, music, and direction by Tom Wilson Weinberg
Produced by David Alan Perkiss

Every composer has a trunk, a footlocker full of gems scrapped at dress rehearsal, novelty numbers that ended up on the cutting room floor, romantic ballads for lovable villains and character songs for characters who went missing. Keith Kaczorowski dives into Tom Wilson Weinberg’s trunk and emerges with songs and sketches tossed and shoved, lost, found, and loved. Weinberg at his piano and Kaczorowski at his best, the duo provides a quirky, tuneful hour of words and music.

Cast includes: Tom Wilson Weinberg, Keith Kaczorowski.

September 12, 2008
Willie Way Cabaret, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Daniel Landroche, Fae Kievman image: Luz Dekorum

Written by Edgar Pussywillow
Music by ?
Directed and produced by the SF Buffoons

During the San Francisco Gold Rush of 1849, a dandy, a thief, and a beautiful ship’s cabin boy hustle to get rich quick by any means necessary. Amidst the largest migration in world history — which included almost no women — this uninhibited trio quickly descends into a world of vice and violence, a world where they may just have to sacrifice their dreams in order to survive.

The all-male cast utilizes a hybrid “buffoon” technique codified from years of street shows, rife with drama, debauch, vulgarity, cross dressing, and skin.

The SF Buffoons have been awarded a grant from the Arch and Bruce Foundation, and a DIY Residency at Mama Calizo’s Voice Factory to support development of this new work.

“I was insulted directly, I was smelled, I was offended, I wanted to leave, and yet I was unexpectedly moved by a message both political and emotional.” - Cris Moore, critic

Cast includes: Nathaniel Justiniano, Fae Kievman, Paul Knowles, Daniel Landroche, Michael Riddle, Eric Wilcox, Mars Wind.

September 18, 2008
Mama Calizo’s Voice Factory, San Francisco, California

Ryan Yu, Lisa Tharps, Nick Cimiluca, Fran de Leon, Clay Storseth image: Allison Moon

Written by Nick Salamone
Directed by John Lawrence Rivera
Produced by The LA Gay & Lesbian Center

Twenty-five years ago, five friends — three gay men and two lesbians — set sail on an adventure to begin their lives. Now, they return to the same boat, having survived AIDS, breakups, deaths and births. A tale about love, mythology, sexuality, faith, friendship, and the stories we tell ourselves in order to survive.

Cast includes: Nick Cimiluca, Fran de Leon, Clay Storseth, Lisa Tharps, Ryan Yu.

September 19, 2008
Davidson/Valentini Theatre, Los Angeles, California

David Tran, Brian Salero image: Jay Fraley

Written and directed by Aurelio Locsin
Produced by Rude Guerrilla Theater Company

Can a gay Hometown Buffet manager and his hunky demon seducer fall in love through their real and imagined histories? This dark comedy propels them from Orange County to several afterlives, prompting encounters with a sexy demoness, a fabulous stylist, bewildered tribesmen, and talking trees.

Cast includes: Frank Aranda, Trina Estanislao, Adam J. Ferry, Rick Kopps, Ashley Jo Navarro, Alexander Price, Brian Chayane Salero, David Tran, Maggie Zamora.

September 19, 2008
Rude Guerrilla Theater, Santa Ana, California

?, ?, ?, ?, ? image: David Vance

Written by Terrence McNally
Directed by David Goldyn
Produced by Rising Action Theatre

Nine men look back on the romance and influences of their lives while attending a gay wedding at the Waldorf Astoria. A loving look at gay culture — life, relationships, marriage and history — as it evoloved through the last century, shown through the eyes of the men who lived it.

Cast includes: Larry Williams, John Hernandez, Larry Brooks, David Leddick, Joseph Long, Ted Dvorcek, Daniel Lugo, Ricardo Rodriquez.

September 28, 2008
Rising Action Theatre, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida

Greg Thornsbury, Erin Roberts, Joelle Wayland-Lewis, Doug Spagnola Dale Church, Jonah Dill-D’Ascoli, Tony Musco, Johnathan Cedano, Megan Simard image: Dave McCracken

Written and directed by Dave McCracken
Produced by DJM Productions, Inc.

At the “Lip Service,” a New York City gay bar with go-go boys and back rooms, a group of lovable regulars meet nightly to pump each other up, and tear each other down — along with any new faces that dare to enter and play.

This original story features musical gems from the heyday of Vaudeville and Burlesque. One of the show highlights is “The Senator Craig Stomp,” an homage to the illustrious Senator from Idaho who put a whole new spin on “potty training.”

Cast includes: Johnathan Cedano, Dale Church, Jonah Dill-D’Ascoli, Tony Musco, Erin Roberts, Megan Simard, Doug Spagnola, Greg Thornsbury, Joelle Wayland-Lewis.

October 8, 2008
Dionysus Theater’s L’il Peach, New York, New York

Monica Palacios image: Patricia Varela

Written, directed and performed by Monica Palacios
Produced by 4th Annual Latino New Works Festival at Highways Performance Space

Same-sex marriage = Love and Revolution.
Power to the California Supreme Court.
“Proposition 8” could make marriage only for opposite-sex couples.
Laugh, cry, and shout: “Equality for all!”

An exploration of how same-sex marriage affects our society, highlighting the victory of the new California law, and how it empowers the LGBT community. Same-sex marriage is the ultimate love and revolution.

October 10, 2008
Highways Performance Space, Santa Monica, California

Thomas LaBarbera Christensen, Bob Simpson, Christopher Young, Michael Mullen seated: West Liang image: Kurt Boetcher

Written by Chay Yew
Directed by Michael Matthews
Produced by Jason Moyer

19-year-old, Asian John Lee confesses to killing his gay lover in a London public lavatory. The psychologist assigned to the case unravels the reasons for this crime of passion.

Cast includes: West Liang, Bob Simpson, Thomas La Barbara Christensen, Michael Mullen, Christopher Young.

October 10, 2008
Celebration Theatre, Los Angeles, California

Enzo Lombard image: Steve Savage

Written and performed by Enzo Lombard
Directed by W. Kamau Bell
Produced by Bruce Pachtman

A Filipino transvestite’s karaoke machine drives the neighbors crazy. Wedding guests are left waiting while the groom’s best friend unveils brand new genitals. In the jungles near Burma, a man attempts to overcome an intense phobia of elephants. And that’s not the weird part, which is that, by the end of all this, it will all make perfect sense.

October 12, 2008 Stagewerx Theater, San Francisco, California

Salomé and John (sans body) image: Aubrey Beardsley

Written by Oscar Wilde and others
Produced by Antebellum and The Purple Circuit

Celebration of Oscar Wilde’s 154th Birthday with the theme of his “Salome” and the setting is a Victorian male brothel.

This adults-only event features tea, cucumber sandwiches, sweets, film and performances, with a lot of eye candy.

Co-hosted by Rick Castro and Bill Kaiser.

Cast includes: Kevin Dulude, Joel Evans, Promis, Jazzmun.

October 16, 2008
Antebellum Gallery, Hollywood, California

Joe Bailey, Christa Coulter, (below) Chris Jakob image: Colleen Scribner

Written by Brad Fraser
Directed by Joe Plambeck
Produced by Who Wants Cake?

Seven friends are on the prowl — gay, lesbian, straight — for relationships, fun, love, or just plain sex. (Not quite plain, there is a dash of S&M.) A serial killer is on the loose, as one-night stands lead to bad feelings, and the stalker becomes the stalked. The true nature of love becomes entangled in the true nature of lies, and it becomes apparent that the killer is dangerously close to them all.

Cast includes: Jon Ager, Joe Bailey, Melissa Beckwith, Christa Coulter, Chris Jakob, Brian Rohe, Vanessa Sawson.

October 17, 2008
The Ringwald Theatre, Ferndale, Michigan

Neil Phipps image: Bob Seary

Written by Matthew Todd
Directed by Pete Nettell
Produced by Alice Livingstone and Pete Nettell / Focus Theatre

Nigel and Jamie are a long-term couple in a sexually open relationship. On the eve of their 10th anniversary, they go cruising online and meet “Cumboy_17.” The next 24 hours changes their lives forever.

“Blowing Whistles” is a comedy about being gay, being in love, little white lies, and internet dating.

“So much soul is laid out on that stage that it’s hard not to let it affect you” - SameSame

“One of the most exciting plays to come out of Mardi Gras in years” - Aussie Theatre Network

For 18 years and older: nudity, language, scenes of sexual nature.

Cast includes: Lachlan Mantell, Lindsay Moss, Neil Phipps.

October 23, 2008
Darlinghurst Theatre, Potts Point, Sydney, NSW, Australia

Cass King, John Woods image: ?

Written, directed and performed by Cass King and John Woods
Produced by LA Gay & Lesbian Center’s Lily Tomlin Jane Wagner Cultural Arts Center

A bisexual, polyamorous husband-and-wife team from the golden age of comedy, who sing sweetly about threesomes and spanking! Spicy entertainment for the thinking person.

The Wet Spots are an internationally-acclaimed cabaret duo, who present a lively blend of original songs, audience interaction, and sing-along.

Proceeds benefit the LA Gay & Lesbian Center.

October 28, 2008
The Renberg Theatre, Los Angeles, California

Leon Ancliffe, Richard Gee image: Peter Bull

Written by Jim Dalaglish, Jack Heifner, David Johnston, Tom W. Kelly (former Purple Circuit reporter), Ronnie Larsen, Howard Walters
Directed by Peter Bull
Produced by Shamelessboyz Theatre Company

Sexy new short plays from America’s hottest playwrights. An evening of funny, sad, poignant, and naughty entertainment.

Plays include:

“The Virgin Tango” by Tom W. Kelly
“The Phone Bill” (part 1) by Ronnie Larsen
“The Student and The Handyman” by Jack Heifner
“The Student and The Professor” by Jack Heifner
“Your Friend Michael” by Howard Walters
“Isaac and His Sex Addiction” by Ronnie Larsen
“The Black Eye” by Jim Dalglish
“The Phone Bill” (part 2 ) by Ronnie Larsen
“Letters” by David Johnston
“Faded Photographs” by Tom W. Kelly

Cast includes: Leon Ancliffe, Gareth Watkins, Richard Gee, Graham Townsend.

The plays are performed in the new home of Shamelessboyz Theatre Company, the “Above the Stag Theatre,” a new Off-West End theater situated above The Stag Pub (a gay bar 100 metres from Victoria Station).

October 28, 2008
Above the Stag, London, U.K.

image: Glenn Meche

Written by Randy Bibb
Directed by Glenn Meche
Produced by To Do Productions, Marigny Theatre LLC

A Splashy Musicial - an original musical lampooning the Ester Williams MGM water musical movies of the 40s .

Cast includes: Chris Wecklein, Cammie West, Wendy Michaels, Rebecca Fox, Josh Peterson, Tony Fennelly, T.J. Toups.

November 5, 2008
Marigny Theatre, New Orleans, Louisiana

? image: ?

Written by Jamie Morris
Directed by Christopher kenny
Produced by Tom Whitman and Joe Everett Michaels

In this parody, inspired by “The Facts of Life,” budget cuts threaten to force Mrs. Garrett to leave Eastland. Blair, Tootie, Natalie, and Jo will do anything to raise the money so she can stay. Anything. They become hookers, and they sing and dance about it! The evil Headmaster has a thing for Mrs. G, while there are lesbian overtones between Jo and Blair.

All female roles are played by men. From the writer who brought you “Mommie Queerest” and “The Silence of the Clams” comes the raunchiest show in his repertoire. Rated R.

Cast includes: Jamie Morris, Brooks Braselman, Darren Gibson.

November 6, 2008
The Macha Theatre, West Hollywood, California

Fiely A. Matias image: Eric Esteban

Written by Dennis T. Giacino and Fiely A. Matias
Directed by Dennis T. Giacino
Produced by Fiely A. Matias (The OOPS GUYS Comedy Troupe) [See their listing in our Touring Performers article.]

Witness a reality competition show in which gay, lesbian, bisexual, straight, drag queen contestants do anything for a buck as they compete for the title of “Sexiest Person in America.” This hilarious, raunchy, improvised game show send-up features zany contestants, naughty dollar store prizes, whipped cream, and bananas.

Caution: This game show contains adult humor, sexual situations, and may cause uncontrollable fits of side-splitting laughter.

Cast includes: Fiely A. Matias, Dennis T. Giacino, plus 6 new nightly contestants.

“Lewd, cheap, hilarious … laugh until (your) sides ache.” - Orlando Sentinel

“Big laughs! Unabashed indecent fun” - Orlando Weekly

November 7, 2008
Just the Funny Theater, Miami, Florida

Tony Houck, Kim Strassburger image: Barron Henzel

Book and lyrics by Ricky Graham
Music composed by Jefferson Turner
Additional material by Jeffrey Roberson (aka Varla Jean Merman), and Yvette Hargis
Directed by Rayme Sciaroni
Pianist Ric Shaffer
Produced by Diversionary Theatre

In this British Music Hall version of Dickens’ Christmas Carol, quick changes, and cross-dressing propels three actors through 23 roles.

Cast includes: Eric Vest, Kim Srassburger, Tony Houck.

“The clever pleasures of Scrooge in Rouge are abundant, varied, risque and virtually nonstop. It is uproarious entertainment; a brilliantly constructed funhouse that works on so many levels. … It plays giddy games of gender, identity, reality and theatricality, all within the framework of the music hall.” - The Times Picayune

November 20, 2008
Diversionary Theatre, San Diego, California

Ed Comely, Denis Khoroshka, Bette Rinse, Jay Nelson image: Peter Kosta

Written by Simon Gross
Direction by Simon Gross and Peter Kosta
Produced PanArts

When the actor playing Cinderella fails to arrive, the Fairy Godmother panics and persuades well-known drag artiste Bette Rinse to step into the role. Mayhem ensues, with sugar-sweet language thrown out of the window, and the cast hoodwinked by a magic spell into believing that Bette really is Cinderella.

A wicked twist on the traditional fairy tale, Sinderfella is an adult pantomime not suitable for children.

Cast includes: Ed Comley, Simon Gross, Denis Khoroshka, Jay Nelson, Bette Rinse, Sarah Whitlock.

December 3, 2008
Above the Stag, London SW1 5DD, U.K.

Jan Michael Hicks, Leon Ancliffe image: Omar F. Okai

Written by Leon Ancliffe, Kasper Cornish, Omar F. Okai
Direction by Omar F. Okai
Produced Leon Anliffe, Omar F. Okai

Burlesque has come to Victoria and it follows the adage “Burlesque is playing to the whole house and it is the house that pays you.” It promises to be a fun, sexy, wild, and promiscuous ride. So belt up, and get “sublimely wet” at this original and inventive Burlesque production.

Cast includes: Leon Ancliffe, Chloe Elizabeth Hunter, Jan Michael Hicks, Martyn Niele.

December 5, 2008
Above the Stag, London, UK

image: Bruce Eyster

Written and direction by David Gaard
Produced by The Entertainment Agora and Archlight Theater

Lou Bartel, a boozy, brassy, drag king, is an integral part of New York City’s club scene. When his future is threatened by a long-hidden secret, his fellow desperadoes, divas, derelicts, drag queens, and dykes come to his rescue, and the word “family” takes on a whole new meaning.

Cast includes: Tracey Rosten, Steven Tylor Connor, Dolores Kenan, Michael Arias, Bruce Eyster, Michael Tyrell, Nick Westmeyer, Aaron King.

A benefit performance for Metropolitan Community Church Homeless Youth Services.

December 27, 2008
Archlight Theater, New York, New York

July 11
The Cavalcade of Fruits
Preview (and post-view) of the remarkable Fresh Fruit Festival.
Features comedian Kelli Dunham, jazz performer Nhojj, Rome Neal, and scenes from Chip Deffaa’s musical comedy Theater Boy, Linda Ann Loschiavo’s Courting Mae West, and more.
7:30pm - BN - $FREE

July 12
Open Mic
Hosted by Clover Honey and Raven Hall. 6:30pm sign up. Advance Sign up: artisticdirector@freshfruitfestival.com
7pm-8:30pm - NC - $5

July 13
Celebration
Tribute to LGBT jazz greats and out jazz performers. Produced by Rome Neal
7pm - JP - $25 / $65 VIP seats / $20 seniors, students

July 14
Drag Show Video Vérité - producer/directer Joe E. Jeffreys, editer Seth S. Hauser
8pm - CC - $10

July 15
Theater Boys - musical by Chip Deffaa
6pm - KT - $18
Bed and Breakfast - by Sam Sommers
9pm - KT - $18

July 16
Strike a Pose!: Gender 2008 Visual Arts Show
Runs to July 23 - LL - $FREE
Bed and Breakfast - by Sam Sommers
6pm - KT - $18
Theater Boys - musical by Chip Deffaa
9pm - KT - $18

July 17
Theater Boys - Musical by Chip Deffaa
6pm - KT - $18
Bed and Breakfast - by Sam Sommers
9pm - KT - $18

July 18
Excerpts from Stonewall Stories and a panel discussion
7:30pm - BN - $FREE
Bed and Breakfast - by Sam Sommers
6pm - KT - $18
Theater Boys
Musical by Chip Deffaa
9pm - KT - $18

July 19
Free Reading
11am - KT - $FREE
Every Soul Has a Song - by J. Fitzgerald, dir. Mia Anderson
1pm - KT - $18
Courting Mae West - by LindaAnn Loschiavo, dir. Louis Lopardi
6pm - KT - $18
Mary Christmas - by Kevin Podgorski
3pm - KT - $18
Lady-in-Waiting - writer/performer Charles Hayter, dir. Mat Howard
9pm - KT - $20

July 20
Courting Mae West - by LindaAnn Loschiavo, dir. Louis Lopardi
2pm - KT - $18
Every Soul has a Song - by J. Fitzgerald, dir. Mia Anderson
5pm - KT - $18
Mary Christmas - by Kevin Podgorski
7pm - KT - $18
Lady-in-Waiting - writer/performer Charles Hayter, dir. Mat Howard
10pm - KT - $20

July 21
Courting Mae West - by LindaAnn Loschiavo, dir. Louis Lopardi
6pm - KT - $18
Mary Christmas - by Kevin Podgorski
9pm - KT - $18

July 22
Mary Christmas - by Kevin Podgorski
6pm - KT - $18
Courting Mae West - by LindaAnn Loschiavo, dir. Louis Lopardi
9pm - KT - $18
Talk: Gender & Art 1950-1960 - by Lois Lazarus
7pm - LL - $FREE

July 23
Sapphire’s Kiss - by Maggie Zarillo-Gouldin, dir. Ronnie Prism
6pm - KT - $18
Are Women Human? - by Nanna Mwaluko, dir. Jose Zayas
9pm - KT - $18

July 24
Are Women Human? - by Nanna Mwaluko, dir. Jose Zayas
6pm - KT - $18
Sapphire’s Kiss - by Maggie Zarillo-Gouldin, dir. Ronnie Prism
9pm - KT - $18

July 25
Sapphire’s Kiss - by Maggie Zarillo-Gouldin, dir. Ronnie Prism
6pm - KT - $18
Are Women Human? - by Nanna Mwaluko, dir. Jose Zayas
9pm - KT - $18

July 26
Dylan Wants to Dance - A play for children on freedom
Story by Carol Polcovar, developed with dir. Juliana Lira
11am - KT - $15
Are Women Human? - by Nanna Mwaluko, dir. Jose Zayas
1pm - KT - $18
Sapphire’s Kiss - by Maggie Zarillo-Gouldin, dir. Ronnie Prism
3pm - KT - $18
Finding Ways to Prove You’re Not an Al-Qaeda Terrorist When You’re Brown
Writer/performer Snehal Desai
6pm - KT - $20
Bully Proof Vest - writer/performer Veronica Harper
8pm - KT - $20
It Goes Without Saying - writer/performer Bill Bowers, dir. Martha Banta
10pm - KT - $20

July 27
Bully Proof Vest - writer/performer Veronica Harper
1pm - KT - $20
Finding Ways to Prove You’re Not an Al-Qaeda Terrorist when You’re Brown
Writer/performer Snehal Desai
3pm - KT - $20
It Goes without Saying - writer/performer Bill Bowers, dir. Martha Banta
6pm - KT - $20

Free presentations by writers, archivists, performers, artists, and activists. These events take place in the ONE National Gay & Lesbian Archives, which houses the world’s largest research library on gay, lesbian, bisexual,and transgendered heritage and concerns.

Produced by Bill Kaiser

July 20
    Author Boze Hadleigh

Aug 17
    Asian American activist Andre Ting

Sept 21
    Cheri Gaulke and Terry Wolverton - “The Woman’s Building: An Organization of Our Own”

Oct 19
    Pioneer Don Kilhefner - “Gay Consciousness Versus Gay Assimilation”

Nov 16
    Jeff Auer - “Bette at The Bathhouse: The Divine Miss M’s Continental Baths Career”

Dec 21
    Michael Kearns, Bill Kaiser, and others - Holiday party, “Purple Stages: A Holiday Celebration of the Gay and Lesbian Theatre Movement in L.A.”

ONE Archives, 909 W. Adams Blvd., Los Angeles, California
Wheelchair accessible with obsticles
FREE - no reservations
Information: 213-741-0094; purplecir@aol.com

Holly Woodlawn, Justin Bond

Festival include headliners Holly Woodlawn (GLBT Transgender Icon and star of Warhol/Morrisey movies “Trash” and “Women in Revolt”) in her critically acclaimed cabaret. And Tony-nominated Justin Bond (of “Kiki and Herb,” and “Shortbus” fame) in his internationally acclaimed one-man show.

The 10-day festival includes dance, visual and performance art, new plays, cabaret and choral performance, stand-up comedy, GLBT youth event, and a Warhol movie event with live commentary by Holly Woodlawn.

Performers include (as of June 28):
     Holly Woodlawn (actor)
     Justin Bond (actor)
     Matt Henry (comedy)
     Rick Hammerly (filmmaker)
     Special Agent Galactica (comedy, singer)
     Elizabeth Loosemore (choreographer)
     Corey Landolt (choreographer)
     Tyler Savoie (choreographer)
     Michael Bobbitt (choreographer)
     The Mesmers (band)
     Tom Goss (band)
     Jonathan Powers (composer)
Plus more than 125 GLBT performance and visual artists.

Ganymedearts is dedicated to the gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender (GLBT) experience. Its mission is to provide high-quality, professional theater and art that fosters social and cultural awareness of, and for, the GLBT community.

Church Street Theatre, 1742 Church St., N.W., Washington, D.C.
No wheelie access
$10-100
Information: 202-390-1502
Reservation: 800-494-8497

Marga Gomez image: David Wilson

Written by Marga Gomez, Ali Mafi, Ronn Vigh, and more.
Directed and Produced by Marga Gomez

A 10-show weekly, comedy series featuring the best gay and gay-friendly comics on earth. Hosted by Marga Gomez.

Cast includes: Marga Gomez, Rene Hicks, Tom Ammiano, Nick Leonard, Dana Corey and more.

February 26-April 29, 2008 - Tuesdays 9pm
Harvey’s, 500 Castro St., San Francisco, California
No wheelie access
FREE

2nd & 4th Sundays of the month - 8pm - ongoing series - in San Francisco, California