The Purple Circuit promotes GLQBT
and feminist theater and performance.

Robert Hilliard, Charlie Wein, Michelle McKenzie-Voigt image: Jeff Bolek

Written by Jonathan Harvey
Directed by John Nasca
Produced by Pride Films and Plays

Jamie, a boy who skips school to avoid playing sports, is attracted to his next-door neighbor Ste, an athletic teen who is regularly beaten by his father and brothers. One night, Jamie’s mother Sandra offers Ste refuge from his abusive family, setting off a chain of events that changes their lives forever.

Set in a working-class area of southeast London, “Beautiful Thing” illustrates the struggle of growing up in a world that can be cruel and unforgiving to anyone perceived as different.

Cast includes: Robert Hilliard, Michelle McKenzie-Voigt, Kiah McKirnan, Patrick Rybarczyk, Charlie Wein.

January 17, 2013
Athenaeum Theatre, Chicago, Illinois

Ben Reece, Charles Herrera image: ?

Book, Music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim
Conceived and developed by Craig Lucas and Norman Rene
Directed by Jim Strait
Music direction by Douglas Wilson
Produced by Desert Rose Productions, Inc.

Two unattached, lonely strangers, alone in their studio apartments on a Saturday night, pass the time with secret fantasies, never knowing that they live just a floor away from each other.

An all-male, charming and bittersweet tale of love, loneliness, and survival as a modern single.

Cast includes: Ben Reece, Charles Herrera.

Desert Rose Productions, Inc., is the Valley’s live stage company for the LGBT community.

January 18, 2013
The Commissary, Rancho Mirage, California

Sean Wing, Darryl Stephens image: Megan J. Carroll

Written by Gary Lennon
Directed by Chris Fields
Produced by Lauren Bass and Chris Fields of Echo Theater Company

Three estranged brothers from Hell’s Kitchen, NYC — a felon, an addict, and a gay screenwriter — reunite to settle unfinished business. The writer is the youngest, who tries to evade the family legacy of mayhem and betrayal.

“A Family Thing” is a violent, comic and heartbreaking exploration of the way families bind us together, and can tear us apart. A world premiere.

Cast includes: Saverio Guerra, Johnny Messner, Sean Wing, Darryl Stephens, Elizabeth Regen, Maria Cina, Andrea Grano, Paul Caramagno.

February 16, 2013
Stage 52, Los Angeles, California

Terry Huber Hal O’Connell, Ryan Dominguez, Valorie Armstrong image: Jim Strait

Written by Joe Orton
Directed by Jim Strait
Produced by Paul Taylor

Kath takes in a border named Mr. Sloane. She takes a shine to him, as does her brother Ed. Their Dadda doesn't like Mr. Sloane at all, much to his ultimate regret. They all arrive at the perfect arrangement to suit everyone’s interests.

A very witty comedy of bad manners.

Cast includes: Valorie Armstrong, Ryan Domingez, Hal O’Connell, Terry Huber.

March 1, 2013
Desert Rose Playhouse at The Commissary, Rancho Mirage, California

Aryiel Hartman and company image: Chelsea Sutton

Written by Katie Polebaum
Directed by Sean T. Cawelti
Produced by Rogue Artists Ensemble

The true story of how, and why, a flamboyantly heterosexual, avant-garde Parisian novelist successfully impersonated a lesbian Greek poet in the most elaborate erotic literary hoax the world has ever known.

Multi-media projections, puppetry, dance movement, sophisticated live audio-sampling, and larger-than-life Greek masks transport us through a world of sexual power struggles and changing identities.

This erotic, wild, psychological thriller takes us through an innovative, theatrical journey and into our deepest desires.

Cast includes: Christina Aimerito, Angela Brockunier, Stephen Elrod, Estela Garcia, Aryiel Hartman, Heidi Hilliker, Zach Kanner, Steve Madar, Christopher Rivas.

Vimeo: “Songs of Bilitis” - production clips teaser 1:32

March 8, 2013
Bootleg Theater, Los Angeles, California

Katherine Skelton Matthew Magnusson, Andrew Crabtree image: Matthew Brian Denman

Written by Steve Yockey
Directed by Michael Matthews
Produced by Michael C.Kricfalusi, Michael O'Hara and Andrew Carlberg for Celebration Theatre

Ben is a timid young city dweller who freaks out when his ex-boyfriend, Jack, brings home a big bad wolf for a one night stand. Things get out of hand, and set off a dangerious chain of events that will change their world forever.

Cast includes: Andrew Crabtree, Matt Magnusson, Nathan Mohebbi, Katherine Skelton.

March 8, 2013
Celebration Theatre, Hollywood, California

Nick Heskett, Thomas Turner image: Juli Inskeep

Written by Mark A. Ridge
Directed by Juli Inskeep
Produced by Theatre on the Square

A lonely gay man (who suffers from a borderline personality disorder), his best friend (who truly loves him), and the hustler from upstairs (in need of an escape from an abusive relationship), come together on New Year’s Eve.

A story of unlikely, yet lasting friendships; of loss and love, and the need for emotional and physical human interaction.

Cast includes: Thomas Turner, Shannon Samson, Nick Heskett.

March 8, 2013
Theatre on the Square, Indianapolis, Indiana

Marjorie Conn Alisa Pruner image: Marian Roth

Written by Marjorie Conn and Christine Emmert
Directed by Jack Wernick
Produced by Short Play Lab

Maisy and Daisy, two hermaphrodite snails, attempt to mate as gardener Fleur tries to remove them from her garden. This play light-heartedly explores gender, and modern society’s obsession with speed and time.

This comedy will be performed with a number of other short plays.

Cast includes: Marjorie Conn, Alisa Pruner, Jack Wernick.

March 16, 2013
Roy Arias, New York, New York

Written by Marjorie Conn
Directed by Megan Kosmoski
Produced by Fresh Produce’d

“Eve’s Adventures in Wonderland” is about Eve’s search for love, and, finally, finding her queen.

“All About Menstruation?” is what happened when “Eve’s Adventures in Wonderland” was censored from a scheduled performance.

Cast includes: Gretchen Schmoker, Colleen O’Conner, Nino Gurgenidze, Rebecca Steele, Nick DeMarco, Corey Camperioli.

March 21, 2013
Arthur Seelen Theater, New York, New York

Trey Gerrald and Mustafa Gatollari image: Allison Stock

Written by Joseph Samuel Wright
Directed by Samantha Shechtman
Produced by Roots and Wings Theatrical

In a decaying Roman Empire, debauchery and ruthlessness are de rigueur, but Boy-King Elagabalus’s excesses and flagrant disregard for religious tradition and sexual taboos shocks even the most callous citizens. Placed on the throne by the conniving machinations of his mother and grandmother, Elagabalus marries a sacred Vestal Virgin, skewers the national religion, and flaunts his exploits with men and women of all classes.

On the outskirts of LA, aspirations run high. Brick Richards has been a top player in porn for ten years, and his manager Myrna Malone desperately wants to convince him to transition to mainstream movies before his star fades. Myrna’s assistant Glenn wants something different from Brick: a great, sweeping romance to make life complete. Glenn’s roommate Mia doesn’t care about sweeping romances, she just wants to achieve her dream of launching the next big cosmetics line, and maybe Myrna or Brick can make that happen.

Through human history, one conflict is timeless: when personal ambition eclipses all other considerations, crossed desires lead to double crossing.

Rise is an opera-infused play intertwining the tale of Rome’s most infamous anarchist Emperor with the extravagant ambition of four modern-day misfits.

Cast includes: Crawford M. Collins*, Tafe Gato, Trey Gerrald*, Jamey Grisham*, Arielle Hader, Margaret Meyer, Jennifer Teska*, Jessica Wagner*.
(* Appear courtesy of Actor’s Equity Association)

April 5, 2013
Theatre 54 @ Shetler Studios, New York, New York

Michael Yavnieli, Jeff LeBeau image: ???

Written by Allen Barton
Directed by Joel Polis
Produced by Gary Grossman

Friends for decades, two men in their 40s have only cursorily kept in touch through the past four years. They meet for coffee where their long-anticipated “face to face” reaps surprising consequences. Finally, truthful and dramatic changes in their lives are revealed, including the disclosure that one of them is gay. Can this long-time relationship survive?

Cast includes: Jeff LeBeau, Michael Yavnieli.

April 6, 2013
Beverly Hills Playhouse, Beverly Hills, California

Daniel Wood, Jaryl Draper image: Michael Brunk, NW Lens

Written by Jon Marans
Directed by Roy Arauz
Produced by Arouet

In Los Angeles, during the pre-Stonewall McCarthy era, a deeply closeted 39-year-old married father and Communist Harry Hay and Jewish, Viennese, holocaust refugee Rudi Gernreich are in love. At the beginning, Harry can’t find any gay men willing to join him fighting for their own civil rights. However, when Rudi reads Harry’s manifesto he says, “This document is the most dangerous thing I’ve ever seen. Count me in.” Rudi, a clothing designer, then tries, and fails, to recruit big Hollywood names, such as his colleague Vincente Minnelli, as supporters.

One of their friends is entrapped by an undercover cop, and is convince to fight the charges, which was unheard of in those days. His acquittal encourages membership in their Mattachine Society, the first sustained, gay rights organization in the United States.

The term “temperamental” was early 1950s slang for “homosexual.” It was used as a code for protection, because those perceived to be homosexual were harassed, persecuted, subject to arrest and loss of jobs, as well as sometimes murdered.

Cast includes: Greg Bee, Jaryl Draper, Will Halsey, Justin Ison, Daniel Wood.

“Eminently likable docudrama about gay identity in the age of Eisenhower.” - Ben Brantley, The New York Times

“ ‘The Temperamentals’ is particularly successful in dramatizing the horror of a world in which two men publicly holding hands could be arrested.” - Erik Haagensen, Backstage

“The script incisively illuminates the hazards of being openly gay during these times, as individuality was cloaked by generic business attire and stuffy behavioral codes.” - Les Spindle, Backstage

May 10, 2013
The Ballard Underground, Seattle, Washington

David Pevsner image: Jim Strait

Written and performed by David Pevsner
Directed by Randy Brenner
Piano accompyment by Patrick Karst
Produced by Desert Rose Productions, Inc.

David Pevsner engages with wit, honesty, shamelessness, while sharing intensely intimate sexual milestones, introspection, and a lot of witty tunes. Join him as he journys on a difficult, emotional, and often hilarious road to the ultimate acceptance of himself.

As a writer and performer, Pevsner has never shied away from sensitive, risqué, or outrageous subject matter. Therefore, this show is recommended for mature audiences.

David Pevsner was one of the writers of “Naked Boys Singing.” He was in “Fiddler on the Roof” on Broadway, and performed in the long-running Off-Broadway shows “When Pigs Fly,” and “Party,” in New York and Los Angeles. His film work includes “Scrooge and Marley,” “Joshua Tree 1951: A Portrait of James Dean,” and “Role/Play.” He performed in several television series including “Modern Family,” and starred in the Internet series “Old Dogs & New Tricks.”

“ ‘Musical Comedy Whore’ is a wild, funny and thoughtful journey with a gifted and versatile performer and playwright.” - Sex, Secrets, and Show Tunes

May 17, 2013
The Desert Rose Playhouse @ The Commissary, Rancho Mirage, California

Elaine Bromka image: ???

Written by Eric H. Weinberger with Elaine Bromka
Directed by Byam Stevens
Produced by Donna Trinkoff

Lady Bird Johnson, Pat Nixon and Betty Ford give their witty, intimate and thought-provoking perspectives on the politics of love, devotion, and first ladydom. This play presents revealations about the personal cost of what Mrs. Pat Nixon called the “hardest unpaid job in the world.”

Emmy Award-winning actress Elaine Bromka becomes all three women, who suddenly found themselves celebrities in politically tumultuous times.

Cast includes: Elaine Bromka.

“A fascinating evening … laced with insight, emotion and humor.” - Times Herald-Record, NY

“Elaine Bromka is a very talented lady!” - Rich Little, comedian

“Run - do not walk - to ‘Tea for Three!’ Elaine Bromka is remarkable.” - Lee Grant,actress

“I was reliving 15 years of my life … I can tell you from first-hand experience, [Tea for Three] has done an amazing job.” - Ron Nessen, former White House Press Secretary

“A wrenching … haunting portrait of a private woman leading a public life … Ms. Bromka ably evokes without cheap mimicry.” - The Berkshire Eagle, MA

Video preview: teaforthree.com/video.html

May 30, 2013
30th Street Theater, New York, New York

Ian MacKinnon image: Don Tinling

Written, produced and performed by Ian MacKinnon
Directed by Wendell Jones

With the aid of Ian’s magic, time-traveling chaps, and sexy Genie guide, Ian explores the world of homo-mythology. Starting in ancient Sumeria with The Epic of Gilgamesh, Ian traces themes in gay world mythology from the Greeks to the Americas and beyond, all the while fighting assimilation in order to discover a new homosexual myth of meaning.

Featured are hot hookups with homo-deities: Apollo (Greek god of the sun), Horus and Set (Egyptian secret lovers), Hercules (Mighty hero with more than a dozen boyfriends), Xochipilli (Aztec god of psychedelic drugs and homosexuality), Coyote (Native American spirit who loved Tehoma), boyfriends Shooting God and Talking God, Ganesha (Keeper of the Anus), Baron Samedi (cross-dressing god of the dead), Rabbit God (protector of gay love), plus gods of homosexuality: Chow Wang, Abbata’, Chin, and more.

“Mondo Mythological” is an all-new multimedia one-man show with performance activist Ian MacKinnon, who brings the past to life by tracing the history of gay people in new ways never before seen on stage. The Gay Hist-Orgy is more than a show; it draws from the roots of gay liberation to reveal gayness as something unique, radical, and beautiful, with the potential to change the world for the better. It’s a hot and horny evening of laughs and lust, humor and heroism; a sexy, wild, educational, and fun theatrical adventure.

June 1, 2013
Spirit Studio Silverlake, Los Angeles, California
Information: 323-449-0246; imackinn1@hotmail.com

Nicky image: Jim Strait

Written, produced and performed by Nicky
Produced by Desert Rose Productions, Inc.

Nicky performs live — no lip-synching — some of Carol Channing’s legendary songs, including “Hello, Dolly,” “Diamonds are a Girl’s Best Friend,” “I’m Just a Little Girl from Little Rock.” Because the performances are live, each show is unique and spontaneous, based on audience reaction. Nicky’s physical mimicry, facial expressions, costumes, make-up, and a spot-on recreation of Channing’s unique voice produce not only rave reviews, but an evening to remember.

When it comes to portraying the essence of Carol Channing, few artists have had Nicky's advantage. For several years, he was Miss Channing's personal assistant. Now, with her blessing, he brings his take on one of the greatest artists of the American musical theater to life.

June 15, 2013 - 2pm
The Desert Rose Playhouse @ The Commissary, Rancho Mirage, California

image by: Howard Cruse

Written by Doric Wilson
Directed by Mark Finley
Produced by Barry Childs, TOSOS

A panorama of drags, dykes, leathermen, flower children, vice cops, cruisers and bystanders gather in and around the Stonewall Inn, a mafia-controlled, frequently-raided-by-police bar on Christopher Street, in New York City.

A depiction of the innocent (and not-so-innocent) participants who would turn June 28, 1969 into the D-day of gay liberation, which would grow into the most successful modern-day, gay equality movement in American history.

A participant in the Stonewall uprising, Doric Wilson wrote “Street Theater” not so much as a history of the event, but as a record of the people he knew, and the incidents of which he participated on Christopher Street during the months leading up to the night gays fought back.

Cast includes: Chad Austin, Eilis Cahill, Rebecca Nayahay, Christopher Borg, Chris Andersson, Michael Lynch, Ben Strohmann, Russell Jordan, J. Stephen Brantley, Brett Warwick, Tim Abrams, Desmond Dutcher, Jeremy Lawrence.

June 20, 2013
LGBT Center, New York, New York
Information: 917-697-3344; tososnyc@gmail.com

David Trudell image: Christopher Glenn Hertrich

Written and performed by David Trudell
Directed by Michael Kearns
Produced by David Trudell and Michael Kearns

Dave, a small-town, good boy, comes to the streets of L.A. in search of his “bad” boy. Or does he? Those messages from childhood turn out to be the darkest memories, while it is light that Dave discovers when he bursts onto the homo landscape at a fever pitch. Boy-man dualism is explored in this intimate confessional, as our hero confronts the dissenting voices from within, and realizes the voice of his authentic self.

Funny, sexy, and sure to trigger your good boy persona, as well as your perfectly adjusted bad boy.

August 11, 2013
Spirit Studio Silverlake, 2601 Hyperion Ave. (off Evans St. behind Barbarella Bar), Los Angeles, California

poster: Lillian Theatre

Written by Steve Julian
Directed by Aaron Lyons
Produced by Steve Julian

Under the aegis of the world’s largest religion, power and hypocrisy threaten to silence the faithful. This play discusses the price paid by victims of the Catholic Church sex abuse scandal. Dark humor underpins serious themes, including teen sexual identity, homosexuality in the church, and religious faith vs. belief.

A world premiere, written by KPCC morning show host Steve Julian. The first play in a trilogy he is writing as part of a new social awareness campaign he calls “Silence No One.”

Cast includes: Brett Donaldson, Emily Faris. Steve Julian, Robert Keasler, Katherine McGehee.

September 12, 2013
Lillian Theatre, Los Angeles, California

poster: Fountain Theatre

Written by Larry Kramer
Directed by Simon Levy
Produced by Deborah Lawlor and Stephen Sachs

Fueled by love, anger, hope and pride, a circle of friends struggle to contain the mysterious disease ravaging New York’s gay community. Dismissed by politicians, frustrated by doctors and fighting with each other, their differences could tear them apart, or change the world.

Received the 2011 Tony Award for “Best Revival” on Broadway. An unflinching look at sexual politics during the AIDS crisis. An iconic American play about a nation in denial.

Cast includes: Verton R. Banks, Bill Brochtrup, Tim Cummings, Matt Gottlieb, Fred Koehler, Stephen O’Mahoney, Lisa Pelikan, Ray Paolantonio, Dan Shaked, Jeff Witzke.

September 21, 2013
The Fountain Theatre, Los Angeles, California

Jeff Rosenberg, John Ferrare image: Jim Strait

Written by Tom Jacobson
Directed by Jim Strait
Produced by The Desert Rose Playhouse

Parasitologist Dr. Trent Varro brings his younger lover, Felix, back to New Orleans to meet his wealthy relatives; the courtly, but distant, Garrett, and the apparently homophobic Bowen. Ghostly sightings, gravestone rubbings, and the unexpected revelations of an ancient, and exceptional, family dynasty make for a carnival fun house,ťand ghostly entertainment.

House of the Rising Son channels the supernatural imagination of Anne Rice, and the languid style of Tennessee Williams, in a mysterious and decadent romance that evokes the steamy atmosphere of the New Orleans French Quarter.

House of the Rising Son was first produced by Ensemble Studio Theatre-LA — with Gates McFadden, artistic director and Laura Flanagan and Sarah Malkin, producing directors — in 2011.

Cast includes: John Ferrare, Jeff Rosenberg, Terry Huber, Garnett Smith.

September 27, 2013
The Desert Rose Playhouse, Rancho Mirage, California

Terrence McNally image: ?

“A Conversation with Terrence McNally about Writing Gay Themes and Characters”

Produced by Skylight Theatre Company

Skylight Theatre Company honors Terrence McNally with an Industry Writers Panel

Panelists include:
      Max Mutchnick (Emmy Award winner, creator, executive producer of “Will and Grace”)
      Joan Rater (executive producer, writer of “Grey’s Anatomy”)
      Dan Bucatinsky (Emmy nominee, actor in “Scandal,” and executive producer of “Web Therapy”)
      Don Roos (writer, director of “The Opposite of Sex” and “Web Therapy”)
      Geoffrey Nauffts (Tony Award nominee for “Next Fall” and producer, writer of “Brothers and Sisters”)
      Peter Paige (actor in “Queer as Folk” and creator of “The Fosters”)
      Ilene Chaiken (creator, executive producer of “The L Word”)

Terrence McNally is a four-time Tony Award winner, an Emmy Award winning playwright and librettist, with many other awards to his credit.
      A brief list of his plays include:
“The Ritz” (1975), “The Tubs” (1974), “Frankie and Johnny in the Clair de Lune” (1982), “It’s Only a Play” (1986), “Andre’s Mother” (1988), “The Lisbon Traviata” (1989), “Lips Together, Teeth Apart” (1991), “A Perfect Ganesh” (1993), “Love! Valour! Compassion!” (1994), “Master Class” (1995), “Corpus Christi” (1998), “Some Men” (2006), “Mothers and Sons” (2013)
      His musical plays include:
“Kiss of the Spider Woman” (1992), “Ragtime” (1996), “The Full Monty” (2000), “A Man of No Importance” (2002), “Ganesha, A Perfect God” (2010), “Catch Me If You Can” (2011)
      His operas:
“The Food of Love” (1999), music by Robert Beaser; “Dead Man Walking” (2000), music by Jake Heggie; “Three Decembers” (Last Acts) (2008), music by Jake Heggie
      His film scripts:
“The Ritz” (1976), “Frankie and Johnny” (1991), “Love! Valour! Compassion!” (1997)

September 27, 2013
UCLA’s James Bridges Theatre, Los Angeles, California

René Marie image: Lens of Ansar

Written, produced, and performed by René Marie
Directed by Donnie Betts

U’Dean Morgan speaks her mind as an elderly, yet ageless, woman whose harrowing life experiences have left her anything but speechless. From the opening song, she tells you exactly what she thinks about sex, heaven, lies, truth, you, herself and whatever else you might ask her; if you have the nerve!

Nearly five years in the making, the music, lyrics, and script by René Marie tells one woman’s amazing story about abuse, laughter, life, and pushin’ on through to the other side.

This show is part of the All For One Theater Festival.

October 12, 2013
Cherry Lane Theater, New York, New York

Sylvia Milo image: Daniel Murtagh

Written, produced, and performed by Sylvia Milo
Composed by Nathan Davis, Phyllis Chen
Directed by Isaac Byrne

Nannerl Mozart was the sister of Amadeus and a keyboard virtuoso and composer prodigy, who, as a child, toured through all of Europe performing with her brother. They were equally acclaimed, but she faded away and left behind nothing of her own.

Original music was composed for instruments Nannerl knew intimately, such as clavichords, music boxes, and bells, as well as teacups, fans, and other ordinary objects that might have captured her imagination.

The show is set in, on, and underneath a costume; a stunning dress some 18 feet in diameter, which spills over the entire stage. With the opulent beauty of the dress, the sweet smells of perfume, and the clouds of dusting powder rising from the stage, the performance creates a multi-sensual experience and transports the audience into a world of outsized beauty and delight, but also of overwhelming restrictions and prejudice. There, in communion with the audience, this other Mozart, at last, tells her story.

This show is part of the All For One Theater Festival.

October 12, 2013
Cherry Lane Theater, New York, New York

Bill Bowers image: Yoshio Itagaki

Written, produced, and performed by Bill Bowers
Directed by Scott Illingsworth

In a visual poetical world, Bill Bowers takes us on a journey from Boyhood to Manhood, and explores how culture informs and influences gender. Facing the struggles of growing up gay in a small town, Bowers employs a mixture of music, monologue, and mime to create a vibrant montage.

Bowers draws his characters from life. With both audacity and compassion, he explores what it means to be a boy and the messages we receive on our way to becoming men. It is an inclusive montage that celebrates maleness and humanity in capacious terms, rather than any narrow punitive viewpoint that diminishes us all.

One the most acclaimed multi-disciplinary artists in America today, Bill Bowers employs an eloquent mixture of music, monologues and mime in his on-going investigation of the silence surrounding the enigmatic matters of gender in our culture today. Often compared to Chaplin and Keaton, he has performed throughout the U.S., Europe, and Asia.

This show is part of the All For One Theater Festival.

October 12, 2013
Cherry Lane Theater, New York, New York

Tom Hewitt image: Aaron Mark

Written, directed and produced by Aaron Mark

In this contemporary gay adaption of Medea, Marcus Sharp, a charismatic and enigmatic, one-time New York actor, recounts, while incarcerated and in gruesome detail, how his obsessions with a wealthy doctor named Jason, and the myth of Medea, lead to horrific, unspeakable events.

Tony nominated, Tom Hewitt plays Marcus and others in this frighteningly provocative, unique, minimalist monodrama. An examination of the use and prevalence of myth in our lives, as well as the dangers of becoming too immersed in a role. Marcus’ tale is the story of the ultimate outsider, and is, at once, ancient and contemporary. Inspired by true events, and the work of Euripides Another Medea could be described as Grand Guignol horror in the style of Spalding Gray.

This show is part of the All For One Theater Festival.

Cast: Tom Hewitt.

October 19, 2013
Cherry Lane Theater, New York, New York

Words and music by Tom Wilson Weinberg
Directed by Bill Buddendorf
Produced by Lee Kramer

1932: Lorena Hickok, hot-shot reporter for the Associated Press, is assigned to interview Eleanor Roosevelt, wife of New York State’s Governor and Presidential candidate. Hickok wants to cover wars,crime and corruption. The shy, reluctant Eleanor wants to be left alone. This awkward interview changes the lives of both women.

1962: Ray Corry, an ambitious, young curator at the Franklin D. Roosevelt Museum, pressures the ill and aged Hickok to donate her 30 years of letters, including the intimate correspondence of the two remarkable women. Corry is shaken by the content he discovers. The passion and complexity of the Eleanor/Hick relationship, and, subsequently, the impact the letters have on his own life.

Cast includes: Lauren Hope Gates, Heidi Hayes, Brendan Dalton.

Based on “Eleanor & Hick” with words and music by Tom Wilson Weinberg, book by Peggy Stafford.
Performances benefit the ACLU-PA Foundation.

October 25, 2013
William Way Community Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Paul Outlaw photos: JC Earle, Leo Garcia, Alex Monti Fox

Written by Paul Outlaw
Musical compositions by Jonathan Snipes, William Hutson
Directed by Asher Hartman
Produced by Bootleg Theater/OutlawPlay

Follow a vampire’s 300-year journey; from slave, to abolitionist, speakeasy crooner, and gender-bending diva.

This hilarious, chilling, musical environmental production showcases the work of several generations of Los Angeles-based musicians, actors, visual artists, writers and performance artists. The play utilizes Bootleg Theater’s bar, theater and backyard.

Cast includes: Paul Outlaw, David Crittendon, Ian Harrower, Owen Clapp, Casey Holmberg, Derek Chariton.

October 31, 2013
Bootleg Theater, Los Angeles, California

Erin Fleck image: Aviva Armour-Ostroff

Written, produced, and performed by Erin Fleck
Directed by Shari Hollett

Shame haunts high school teacher, Lillian Campbell; for her own sake, as well as for her students’, when she finds herself in the middle of a high school sex scandal involving her nineth grade girls and the majority of the senior hockey team. In order to battle the humiliation and sexual shame forced upon the girls, she must first battle her own.

The play portrays Lillian at various stages of her sexual development, and also gives voice to the school staff, parents, and students affected by the scandal.

This show is part of the All For One Theater Festival.

November 1, 2013
Cherry Lane Theater, New York, New York

David Trudell image: Christopher Glenn Hertrich

Written and performed by David Trudell
Directed by Michael Kearns
Produced by Malibu Playhouse

On his first day of kindergarten, solo performer David Trudell knew that he was not like the other boys. He quickly discovered that his inner voice differed greatly from his outward persona.

In this intimate confessional, Trudell begins with that moment, and takes you on a hilarious, sexy and poignant journey that traverses the awkward teen years, and then into young adulthood. Buoyed by his love for Hollywood, he escapes his small town and moves to Los Angeles. He plunges into a dizzying array of gay experiences, determined to confront his dissenting voices from within, and realize the voice of his authentic self.

November 2, 2013
Malibu Playhouse, Malibu, California

Karen Anzoategui image: Karen Anzoategui

Written and performed by Karen Anzoategui
Writing collaboration with Louie Pérez of Los Lobos
Directed by Marcos Nájera
Produced by Latino Theater Company

A riveting, personal narrative that examines a queer Latina’s strained relationship with each of her two homes: Los Angeles, and Buenos Aires. Spending years in both cities, she dreams of a pilgrimage to meet her soccer idol, Diego Maradona, and see him play. The back and forth migration of her upbringing, amidst major moments in Argentine history, leaves her with few role models, save an over-sexed Argentinean English teacher, and a mute who communicates via horn.

In this comedic, solo show, Karen delights audiences by sharing her zany journey to find community, and love, in pursuit of her ˇGOL!

A world premiere, featuring live music by CAVA and Walter Miranda, as well as Karen’s own soccer skills.

November 16, 2013
Los Angeles Theater Center, Los Angeles, California

Daniel Cimo, Xander Wong image: John MacLellan

Written by David Sexton, Albert Evans, Eric Alsford, Andrew Sargeant
Directed by Keith Fitzgerald
Produced by Richmond Triangle Players

Joe is having a very rough holiday season, as writer, and star, of The Lavender Players production of “Randolph the Rainbow Reindeer.” Family tensions, demanding divas, and backstage backstabbing cause him to wish he had never been born. Well, born gay at least. That’s when an angel named Arthur comes and shows him how different things would be, if he had been straight!

The Christmas classic, “It’s a Wonderful Life,” gets a makeover in this merry musical romp.

Cast includes: Chris Hester, Ramon Licairac, Xander Wong, Daniel Cimo, Daniel Braunstein, Thomas E. Nowlin, Karla Brown, Doug Schneider, Keydron Dunn, Stevie Rice, Craig Smith.

November 20, 2013
Richmond Triangle Players Theatre, Richmond, Virginia

Robert Agis, Chris Rivera, Daniel Keith, David M. Farrington image: Elsbeth Denman

Written and directed by Mark Hooker
Produced by David Berg

A gay Thanksgiving celebration at the Longview East Texas Victorian home of former drag performer, Dinky, and his partner, Renny, replete with pinecone turkeys and apple martinis. Everyone anticipates an evening Drag Contest at the local high school, to be judged by, none other than, hometown boy and film star, Matthew McConaughey.

The gathering is complicated by the unwelcome arrival of a saucy high school teacher, and her sexually ambiguous former husband, the town sheriff, who expose secrets and deceptions of invited guests. Further mayhem ensues when an escaped convict takes the group hostage, and a mysterious light from the sky conjures thoughts of unwelcome alien guests, forcing everyone to ask the question, “Are we alone in the universe?”

This wild, new comedy promises outrageous fun, and an amusing homage to vintage television.

Cast includes: Robert Agis, David M. Farrington, Annabel Guevara, Daniel Keith, Chris Rivera, Max Henry Schloner, Nathan Shapiro, Scott Silvestro, Ali Wetzel.

December 12, 2013
Brazen Theatre at Theatre Nuance Space, New York, New York
Information: markhooker1@mac.com

Mariachi Divas de Cindy Shea image: Ed Krieger

Produced by the Los Angeles County Arts Commission

Your L.A. tradition! Perfect for the whole family.
More than 20 music ensembles, choirs and dance companies from the many neighborhoods and cultures of Los Angeles.
Celebrate the season during this free, three-hour holiday show.

Highlights include:
      Gay Men’s Chorus of Los Angeles - returning with their holiday repertoire
      Gypsy Allstars - featuring sons of the internationally recognized Gipsy Kings
      Harana Men’s Chorus - performing seasonal repertoire in English and Tagalog
      Mariachi Divas de Cindy Shea - Grammy Award winners

Dance highlights include:
      Ate9 Dance Company, directed by former Batsheva dancer Danielle Agami
      Jung Im Lee Korean Dance Academy performing a traditional Korean drumming dance.

Gay Men’s Chorus of Los Angeles image: Ed Krieger

December 24, 2013
Dorothy Chandler Pavilion at the Music Center, Los Angeles, California
Watch it live on KCET-TV and KCET.org - 3-6pm, and repeated 8-11pm

Written by Dustin Lance Black

A chronicle of the historic trial in the federal constitutional challenge to California’s Proposition 8, which stripped same-sex couples of the right to legally marry their partner.

Usually produced as a staged reading, the play allows an audience to witness the Proposition 8 trial. Witness inequality and discrimination unequivocally rejected in a court of law, where truth and facts matter. Hear the testimonies which clarify that marriage equality is a basic constitutional right.

Vimeo: " ‘8’ the play" - trailer 4:27

Writer Dustin Lance Black won an Academy Award in 2009 for his script of “Milk.” He is also a founding member of American Foundation for Equal Rights (AFER), which was the sole sponsor of Perry v. Schwarzenegger (now known as Hollingsworth v Perry), the successful federal suit to nullify California’s Proposition 8.

This play has multiple performances around the country.
Information on current productions and how to produce it yourself: “8” the Play

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 ONE Archives and Bill Kaiser, Culture Series chair

Note: This series was discontinued, in July 2013, when Bill Kaiser retired from the One Board.

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

See Web site for GLBT comedy listings in San Francisco, as well as worldwide.

QComedy Showcase occurs on the first Monday of each month.
Mama Calizo’s, 1519 Mission St., San Francisco, California
Information and comedy bookings: Nick Leonard, 415-533-9133; nickdammit@gmail.com