Metro Weekly - 05-14-15 - DC Sisters

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EDITORIAL

EDITOR-IN-CHIEFRandy Shulman

ART DIRECTORTodd Franson

NEWS & BUSINESS EDITORJohn Riley

ASSISTANT EDITORRhuaridh Marr

CONTRIBUTING EDITORDoug Rule

SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHERSWard Morrison, Julian Vankim

CONTRIBUTING ILLUSTRATORScott G. Brooks

CONTRIBUTING WRITERSChristian Gerard, Connor J. Hogan,

Troy Petenbrink, Kate Wingfield

WEBMASTERDavid Uy

PRODUCTION ASSISTANTJulian Vankim

SALES & MARKETING

PUBLISHERRandy Shulman

BRAND STRATEGY & MARKETINGChristopher Cunetto

Cunetto Creative

NATIONAL ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE

Rivendell Media Co.212-242-6863

DISTRIBUTION MANAGERDennis Havrilla

PATRON SAINTSSister Boom Boom (Jack Fertig)

Sister Florence Nightmare (Bobbi Campbell)

COVER PHOTOGRAPHYJulian Vankim

METRO WEEKLY1425 K St. NW, Suite 350Washington, DC 20005

202-638-6830

MetroWeekly.com

All material appearing in Metro Weekly is protected by federal copyright law and may not be

reproduced in whole or part without the permission of the publishers. Metro Weekly assumes noresponsibility for unsolicited materials submitted for publication. All such submissions are subject

to editing and will not be returned unless accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope.Metro Weekly is supported by many fine advertisers, but we cannot accept responsibility for claims

made by advertisers, nor can we accept responsibility for materials provided by advertisers or

their agents. Publication of the name or photograph of any person or organization in articles oradvertising in Metro Weekly is not to be construed as any indication of the sexual orientation of

such person or organization.

© 2015 Jansi LLC.

4

MAY 14, 2015Volume 22 / Issue 2

NEWS 6

GLAAD MEDIA AWARDS

by Rhuaridh Marr

8 TEXAS LAWMAKERS PUSH

ANTI-MARRIAGE EQUALITY MEASURES

by John Riley

10 IGE’S CHOICE

by John Riley

14 COMMUNITY CALENDAR

SCENE 19 NGLF’S NEXT GENERATION AWARDS

photography by Ward Morrison

and Julian Vankim

FEATURE 20 DC SISTERS OF PERPETUAL INDULGENCE

by Doug Rule

photography by Julian Vankim

OUT ON THE TOWN 28 IF THE SHOE FITS

by Connor J. Hogan

STAGE 34 CHARLES BUSCH

by Doug Rule

GEARS 37 A BRIEF HISTORY OF GM

by Rhuaridh Marr

OPERA 39 WNO’S CINDERELLA

by Kate Wingfieldr

GAMES 41 PROJECT CARS

by Rhuaridh Marr

NIGHTLIFE 45 ORANGE IS THE NEW CRACK AT TOWN

photography by Ward Morrison

54 LAST WORD


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Excellent AwardsGLAAD’s emotionally-charged Media Awards honored those who best

represent and advocate for the LGBT community

Ripa and Cooper

by Rhuaridh Marr

FOR KELLY RIPA, WINNINGGLAAD’s Excellence in Media

Award was “kind of odd.” In a

speech that brought thunder-ous applause to the Waldorf Astoria last

weekend, Ripa, host of ABC’s Live! with Kelly and Michael, told the audience that

her award was recognition that she sim-ply “[treats] people like people.”

“It’s kind of odd, in a way, that I should

be given an award based on the fact thatI’ve had the privilege of being surrounded

by, loved by and influenced by this com-munity my entire life,” she said. “Or, quite

frankly, that I should be celebrated for

C O U R T E S Y W I R E I M A G E

treating people like people.”

Indeed, Ripa, who executive producesLogo TV’s Secret Guide to Fabulous with

her husband Mark Consuelos, was hon-ored to have been awarded for her years

of LGBT advocacy. “It’s the biggest thrill

of my life,” she told Variety. “Besides thebirth of my children, it’s the most impor-

tant thing that’s happened to me.” Herchildren have been raised in a household

not only accepting of gay people, but filledwith them, as well. CNN host Anderson

Cooper, a close friend of Ripa’s, presented

her the award, and she playfully teasedhis good looks before praising the openly

gay newsman for the visibility he brings tothe LGBT community.

“Because of people like you, there arepeople out there that look up to you that

are able to be proud of who they are,” she

said. “On a personal note, I just want tothank you and Benjamin [Cooper’s part-

ner] for being such extraordinary friends,exceptional friends. You’re such a fine

example for my family, my children in par-

ticular. I feel like my kids are better peoplebecause they have you and Benjamin in

their lives. Seriously, I love you.”While Ripa’s win affirmed her status

as an LGBT ally, for MSNBC’s ThomasRoberts, winning GLAAD’s Vito Russo

Award for promoting LGBT equality

seemed a form of vindication for a daringdecision made nine years ago.

In 2006, Roberts — who was workingfor CNN at the time — told the National

Lesbian and Gay Journalists Associationconvention in Miami that he was gay. It

L G B TNews Now online at MetroWeekly.comNine Anti-Gay Billboards from Across the NationFDA Recommends Lifting Ban on MSM Blood Donations


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Olgin was pronounced dead at the scene.When Chapa took to the stage Saturday

night at GLAAD’s 26th annual Media

Awards, she received a standing ovation— the first of many during her speech.

For three years, Chapa has enduredphysical and occupational therapy. She

lost function in her left arm, but is slowlyworking to regain it, and recovered from

a traumatic head injury. She’s workingwith a writer to tell her story and hasbecome a beacon of resilience in the

face of extreme hate for the LGBT com-munity. Chapa, however, only wants for

one thing.“I just wish Mollie was here,” she

said. “She would have loved to see all ofthis, all the support from everyone.”

However, Chapa has been able to

draw some positives from her experi-ence, stating that the shooting “[is] a

tragedy, but it also brings a lot of people

together, and shows all the great peopleout there that’s willing to help and havegood hearts. It’s hard to be gay in south

Texas, but I believe that God loves every-

body, no matter if you’re gay or straight.”In between emotional speeches and

a moving cover of Miley Cyrus’ “TheClimb” by out country star Ty Herndon,

GLAAD presented numerous honoursto various news outlets, publications

and journalists for their contributions toLGBT representation in media.

John Oliver’s fledgling HBO show Last

was an uneasy decision for a man unsure

whether his sexuality would impact hiscareer. At the time, he was cable news’

only out gay anchor. “Coming out wasn’twithout its missteps and major learning

lessons,” he said. “But after every storm,

you can hope for a rainbow — or in mycase, a colorful peacock.”

It was a nod to Roberts’ position

at MSNBC, where he hosts Live withThomas Roberts. It is his weekly OutThere segment, however, that helped

secure his award. A roundup of all thingsLGBT, Roberts has used Out There to

talk frankly about his own struggles with

growing up gay, including contemplatingsuicide, something he referenced during

an emotional speech.“When I was growing up, I was bur-

dened with the feelings of thinking that Iwas less than because I knew I was gay,”

he said. “I was hopeless and because of

a culmination of events surrounding mysexuality at the age of 15, I attempted to

take my life. But my sister saved my life.People like me were considered immoral

at best, a joke and the option of being outmeant being an outcast. Sadly, that’s how

my mind worked then.”Unfortunately, for Kristene Chapa, it

wasn’t suicide that affected her life, but

the actions of a hateful individual. In2012, Chapa and her girlfriend, Mollie

Olgin, were shot execution-style in a parkin southern Texas. While Chapa survived,

Week Tonight with John Oliver scored a

win for Outstanding Talk Show Episode,thanks to an incredible interview with

Pepe Julian Onziema, a Ugandan gayrights activist who detailed the various

atrocities and hardships faced by thecountry’s LGBT population. MSNBC

collected an award for TV journalism

thanks to its “Fired for Being Gay?” seg-

ment. TIME’s landmark cover story “TheTransgender Tipping Point,” featuringtransgender actress Laverne Cox, won

for Outstanding Magazine article, whileSports Illustrated won for overall maga-

zine coverage, with out athletes Michael

Sam and Jason Collins accepting theaward. Lilting , a film about a mother and

her son’s lover as they each deal withthe son’s death, won for Outstanding

Limited Release (in our four-star reviewwe called it “a deeply moving examina-

tion of being lost in translation”).

While GLAAD’s awards have beencriticized as unnecessary, they still serve

as an important reminder of how far journalism and media have come in rep-

resenting LGBT people — and, indeed, ofhow far we have come as a community.

“The LGBT community has led theway in treating people like people,” Ripa

stated. “Oftentimes, those who are the

most discriminated against are the mostempathetic and the most inclusive. Quite

frankly, I should be giving this award toall of you.” l

MAY 14, 2015 METROWEEKLY.COM

Texas Lawmakers Push Anti-MarriageEquality Measures

Legislators seek to undercut any pro-marriage equality advances, including fining countyclerks who marry same-sex couples

by John Riley

THE TEXAS SENATE ON

Monday approved a measureprotecting anyone who refus-

es to accommodate same-sexmarriage from the threat of legal action.

The bill is part of a trio of measures aimedat undercutting any favorable decisions

that would legalize or seek to legitimizesame-sex marriages in the Lone Star

State.

Republican legislators have been fer-vent in their defense of the state’s 2005

voter-approved constitutional amend-

ment banning the recognition of same-sex

marriages or any legal relationship that

emulates a marriage. They hope to block,

by any means possible, any attempts tobring marriage equality to the Lone StarState, even if the U.S. Supreme Court

issues a sweeping decision in favor of it.The measures introduced by the

House and Senate imitate laws intro-duced in other states, such as Indiana and

Arkansas, known as Religious Freedom

Restoration Acts, or RFRAs. RFRAs areintended to allow people who object to

certain actions that violate their religiousconscience, from taking part in or aiding

the commission of such actions. In thecase of same-sex marriage, it allows indi-

viduals and businesses to refuse to assist

in the procurement of goods or services tobe used at a same-sex wedding ceremony

or reception.Bill SB 2065 protects a religious orga-

nization, an organization “supervised or

controlled by or in connection with” areligious organization, an employee of a

religious organization, or clergy or min-ister from having to solemnize a mar-

riage. The bill goes further, exemptingthose parties from threat of legal action

by allowing them to refuse to provide ser-

vices, accommodations, facilities, goodsor other privileges if the union in ques-

tion violates a person’s “sincerely heldreligious belief.” The measure also pro-


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believe may end up being a decision infavor of the right of same-sex couples to

marry.

“This end-run play to subvert aSupreme Court ruling on same-sex mar-

riage, to which the State of Texas wouldbe constitutionally bound, makes Texas

a laughingstock and flies in the face ofTexas values,” Teri Burke, the executive

director of the American Civil LibertiesUnion (ACLU) of Texas, said in a state-ment reacting to the bill’s introduction.

“Reasonable Texas legislators need tostep forward and stop this shameful

attack on LGBT Texans.”But another provision in the bill —

viewed by many as the most perniciousand mean-spirited — goes after indi-

vidual county clerks who issue licenses

or recognize same-sex marriages. Anydocument “associated with a union other

than a union between one man and one

woman” must be provided to the attor-ney general. If a marriage license fee wascollected for a same-sex union, the coun-

ty clerk must pay $30 to the state comp-

troller for each occurrence. An informaldeclaration of marriage for a same-sex

union would set a county clerk back$12.50 for each occurrence. The money

collected from the penalties enforced onthe county clerks is to be deposited into

the state’s general revenue fund.The bill also states that if it takes

effect before June 1, it not only applies to

same-sex marriages going forward, but

hibits the state or local counties or cities

from penalizing or withholding benefitsor privileges such as tax exemptions,

government contracts, grants or licenses,from organizations or individuals who

refuse to provide services to same-sex

couples.Democrats tried to introduce two

amendments to the bill, both of which

were rejected. The first would have spec-ified that a minister could only refuseto solemnize or provide services to a

same-sex wedding when acting in anofficial capacity as a minister, rather than

as an agent of the state, such as a county

clerk. The second amendment wouldhave required businesses that reserve the

right of refusal to provide services to postnotice of that refusal, and the accompa-

nying religious objection, in their placeof business and on their website. The

amendment would have also required

that notice to specifically state to whomthey are refusing service.

All but one Democrat voted for thefirst amendment, while all 11 Democrats

in the chamber voted for the second. Thefinal bill passed 21-10, with Democrat

Eddie Lucio, Jr. (D-Brownsville) votingwith the Republicans.

An identical bill, HB 3567, has

been introduced in the House ofRepresentatives, passing its second read-

ing on Tuesday. The bill was scheduledto be voted after press time but is widely

expected to pass, as did its Senate coun-terpart.

The third measure in the trio, HB

4105, is the most far-reaching and by farthe most defiant, as it prevents the recog-

nition of same-sex marriages even in thecase of the Supreme Court issuing a deci-

sion legalizing marriage equality, penal-izing those county clerks who decide to

move forward with same-sex marriages.The so-called “Preservation of

Sovereignty and Marriage Act,” as writ-

ten, says it seeks to “affirm that thedefinition and regulation of marriage is

within the sole authority and realm ofthe separate states and the people within

those states.” In practice, the bill prohib-its the state or any political subdivision

from using funds to issue, enforce, or rec-

ognize a marriage license or declarationof an informal marriage for a same-sex

couple. It also prevents state employeesor officials from issuing licenses, or from

using funds to enforce any order requir-ing the issuance or recognition of a same-

sex union. The last point is widely seenas an attempt to undermine what some

to other same-sex marriages that were

previously licensed, such as those per-mitted in Travis County, which includes

the state capital of Austin, beginning inFebruary of this year.

Other LGBT rights advocates decriedHB 4105, in particular, as out-of-touch

and motivated by animus.

“This bill has nothing to do with

Texas values and has everything to dowith enshrining discrimination into statelaw,” said Marty Rouse, national field

director for the Human Rights Campaign(HRC). “At a moment when people across

this state — and across this country — are

calling for people to be treated fairly,the Texas Legislature must not send this

state backwards with dangerous and hos-tile Indiana-style legislation.”

Chuck Smith, the executive directorof Equality Texas, also weighed in.

“Extremist lawmakers in Texas are

trying to preserve the right to discrimi-nate no matter what the Supreme Court

might say about marriage,” Smith said.“Passing this bill would make Texas look

intolerant and unwelcoming and wouldharm the state. It must be rejected.”

If, as expected, all three bills receivetwo-thirds support in each chamber —

or 100 votes in the House and 21 in the

Senate — they take effect immediately, asallowed by the Texas Constitution. If the

bills do not meet the two-thirds thresh-old in either chamber, they won’t take

effect until Sept. 1.l


Ige’s Choice Hawaii’s governor must decide whether to approve trans birth

certificate bill that eliminates surgical requirement

by John Riley

HAWAII HAS SIMPLIFIED

the process by which trans-gender and intersex indi-

viduals may obtain a new,clean version of their birth certificate.

The Hawaii Legislature last Wednesdayapproved the measure, sending it to the

desk of Gov. David Ige (D) for his signa-

ture.The bill, HB 631, amends a statute

governing the issuance of new birth cer-tificates, eliminating a requirement that

an individual undergo surgical treatment

for gender dysphoria and replacing it

with a statement from a licensed medi-

cal provider attesting that the person hasundergone treatment appropriate for a

gender transition. The legislation alsorequires that amended birth certificates

not contain any marks indicating theywere amended, and that the original birth

certificate with the incorrect gender besealed and filed away, only to be reopened

either by a court order or at the request

of the individual to whom the certificateapplies.

Six other states — California, Oregon,New York, Rhode Island, Vermont and

Washington state, as well as the jurisdic-tions of the District of Columbia and New


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measure in Colorado was defeated and

a third measure, in Connecticut, is stillworking its way through the legislature.

Arli Christian, policy counsel for

the National Center for TransgenderEquality (NCTE) who works with vari-

ous state-level advocates to modernizename change laws and regulations gov-

York City, which issues its own birthcertificates — have either passed similar

legislation or enacted department-levelregulations that eliminate the surgical

requirement for changing one’s birth cer-tificate. A similar bill passed the Maryland

General Assembly and is awaiting Gov.Larry Hogan’s (R) signature, while a

erning the procurement of identity docu-

ments that correctly reflect one’s gen-der identity, said that her organization

worked closely with state-level organiza-tions, including a birth certificate mod-

ernization working group. Together, theyproposed language that would eliminate

the surgical requirements, which can be

costly and burdensome, and allow trans-

gender people to retain their privacyrather than having to “prove” it beforea judge.

“Putting the process into the hands ofpatients and physicians is more appropri-

ate,” Christian said of the change. She

recommended that Ige sign the bill intolaw, something she expects him to do as a

result of conversations had with on-the-ground activists.

Although there was a proposedamendment to the bill that sought to

require transgender individuals to obtain

a court order before changing their birthcertificates, the state-level groups and

NCTE worked with the state attorneygeneral’s office to explain why the court

order requirement posed an undue bur-den to those seeking to change their birth

certificates. Of the other states that haveeliminated the surgical requirement, only

Oregon currently requires a court order

before changing one’s gender on a birthcertificate.

“This is a particularly important pro-cess to make sure transgender individu-

als have access to identity documents andreduce the discrimination that transgen-

der individuals may face,” Christian said.The National LGBTQ Task Force

issued its own statement celebrating the

bill’s passage, noting that 90 percent oftransgender people have experienced

discrimination, harassment or mistreat-ment.

“For transgender people who don’thave identification that truly corresponds

to their gender identity, applying for a

job, registering for school, and check-ing into a hotel while on vacation can be

scary, embarrassing, and an impossibleprocess,” Kylar Broadus, the director of

the Task Force’s Transgender Civil RightsProject, said. “Hawaii legislature’s remov-

al of the unnecessary and expensive sur-gery requirement was very important and

the right thing to do. A medical pro-

cedure doesn’t determine one’s genderidentity. This bill continues the momen-

tum around the globe to allow transgen-der people to live their lives openly and

authentically. We urge Governor Ige tosign this measure into law.” l


O F F I C I A L P O R T R A I T

Ige


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REEL AFFIRMATIONS screens Eat with Me at theHuman Rights Campaign headquarters. 7-11 p.m.1640 Rhode Island Ave. NW. For more information, visit reelaffirmations.org.

WASHINGTON HUMANE SOCIETY’s mobileanimal adoption vehicle, Adopt Force 1, hostsCapital Harvest on the Plaza. 11 a.m.-3 p.m.Woodrow Wilson Plaza at the Ronald ReaganBuilding and International Trade Center, 1300

Pennsylvania Ave. NW. For more information, visitwashhumane.org/adopt.

WEEKLY EVENTS

ANDROMEDA TRANSCULTURAL HEALTHoffers free HIV testing, 9-5 p.m., and HIVservices (by appointment). 202-291-4707,andromedatransculturalhealth.org.

DC AQUATICS CLUB (DCAC) practice sessionat Hains Point, 927 Ohio Dr. SW. 6:30-8 p.m. Visitswimdcac.org.

GAY DISTRICT holds facilitated discussion forGBTQ men, 18-35, first and third Fridays. 8:30 p.m.

The DC Center, 2000 14th St. NW, Suite 105. 202-682-2245, gaydistrict.org.

HIV TESTING at Whitman-Walker Health. Atthe Elizabeth Taylor Medical Center, 1701 14th St.NW, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. At the Max Robinson Center,2301 MLK Jr. Ave. SE, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. For anappointment call 202-745-7000. Visit whitman-walker.org.

METROHEALTH CENTER offers free, rapid HIVtesting. Appointment needed. 1012 14th St. NW,Suite 700. 202-638-0750.

PROJECT STRIPES hosts LGBT-affirming socialgroup for ages 11-24. 4-6 p.m. 1419 Columbia RoadNW. Contact Tamara, 202-319-0422, layc-dc.org.

SMYAL’S REC NIGHT provides a socialatmosphere for GLBT and questioning youth,featuring dance parties, vogue nights, movies andgames. More info, [email protected].

SMYAL offers free HIV Testing, 3-6 p.m., byappointment and walk-in, for youth 21 and younger. Youth Center, 410 7th St. SE. 202-567-3155,[email protected].

SATURDAY, MAY 16BURGUNDY CRESCENT, a gay volunteerorganization, volunteers today for Lost Dog & Cat

Rescue Foundation at Falls Church PetSmart. Toparticipate, burgundycrescent.org.

CAPITAL TRANS PRIDE celebrates family, friendsand allies of the transgender community. The dayincludes workshops, presentations, networkingopportunities and various vendors. 10 a.m.-4p.m. Reeves Center, 2000 14th St. NW. For moreinformation, visit capitalpride.org/transpride.

CHRYSALIS arts & culture group holds potluckdinner on roof deck of Kalorama co-op buildingoverlooking downtown. 7 p.m. All welcome. Bringappetizer, salad, entrée, vegetable dish or dessert,plus serving utensils. Kevin, 703-464-9040, [email protected].

DC LAMBDA SQUARES gay and lesbian square-dancing group features mainstream throughadvanced square dancing at the National CityChristian Church, 5 Thomas Circle NW, 7-9:30 p.m.Casual dress. 301-257-0517, dclambdasquares.org.

The DULLES TRIANGLES Northern Virginia socialgroup meets for happy hour at Sheraton in Reston,11810 Sunrise Valley Drive, second-floor bar, 7-9

p.m. All welcome. dullestriangles.com.

HIV TESTING at Whitman-Walker Health. Atthe Elizabeth Taylor Medical Center, 1701 14th St.NW, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. At the Max Robinson Center,2301 MLK Jr. Ave. SE, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. For anappointment call 202-745-7000. Visit whitman-walker.org.

IDENTITY offers free and confidential HIV testingin Gaithersburg, 414 East Diamond Ave., and inTakoma Park, 7676 New Hampshire Ave., Suite 411.Walk-ins 2-6 p.m. For appointments other hours,call Gaithersburg, 301-300-9978, or Takoma Park,

301-422-2398.

METROHEALTH CENTER offers free, rapid HIVtesting. Appointment needed. 1012 14th St. NW,Suite 700. 202-638-0750.

SMYAL offers free HIV Testing, 3-5 p.m., byappointment and walk-in, for youth 21 and younger.202-567-3155 or [email protected].

US HELPING US hosts a Narcotics AnonymousMeeting, 6:30-7:30 p.m., 3636 Georgia Ave. NW.The group is independent of UHU. 202-446-1100.

WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE for youngLBTQ women, 13-21, interested in leadershipdevelopment. 5-6:30 p.m. SMYAL Youth Center,410 7th St. SE. 202-567-3163, [email protected].

FRIDAY, MAY 15LGB PSYCHOTHERAPY GROUP for adults inMontgomery County meets every Friday to exploreissues of identity. 10-11:30 a.m. 16220 S. FrederickRd., Suite 512, Gaithersburg, Md. For moreinformation, visit thedccenter.org.

LGBT FALLEN HEROES WEEK DINING FORDOLLARS AND JAIL & BAIL FUNDRAISINGSOCIAL takes place at Town Danceboutique.Fundraising benefits LGBT Fallen Heroes Fund.6-11 p.m. 2009 8th St. NW. For more information, visit towndc.com.

THURSDAY, MAY 14BURGUNDY CRESCENT, a gay volunteerorganization, volunteers today for Food & Friends.To participate, burgundycrescent.org.

COP CAKES FOR A CAUSE 5, a fundraiser benefiting the Concerns of Police Survivors, as

part of LGBT Fallen Heroes Week, takes place atThe Brixton. 901 U St. NW. For more information,contact Charger Stone, [email protected].

LAMBDA SQUARES presents “Shall We Dance?”at National City Christian Church. 7:30-8:30 p.m.5 Thomas Circle NW. For more information, visitdclambdasquares.org.

Join METRO DC PFLAG’S Cocktail Party. 6-9 p.m. Vida Penthouse, 1602 U Street NW. pflagdc.org/ event/penthouse/

MISSION: ENGAGE, D.C.’s inaugural LGBTconference for LGBT veterans, militaryservicemembers and families, takes place forthree days at the Reeves Center. Speakers and

presentations cover topics like he ban on transservice, LGBT military families, PTS and mentalhealth issues. Thursday, May 14 at 12 p.m.-Saturday, May 16 at 8 p.m. 2000 14th St. NW. Toregister, missionengage.eventbrite.com. For moreinformation, contact Eric Perez, 202-682-2245 [email protected].

RAINBOW HISTORY PROJECT hosts an LGBTCommunity Pioneers Reception, at the ThurgoodMarshall Center. 6:30-8 p.m. 1816 12th St. NW. Formore information, visit thedccenter.org.

THE DENIM COLLECTION and several localcommunity partners host “Play It Safe,” a discussionon intimate partner violence within the LGBTcommunity. 6-7 p.m. The Loft, 600 F St. NW, Suite

300. For more information, visit thedccenter.org.

TRANS* PEER SUPPORT GROUP meets atWhitman-Walker Health. 6:30-8 p.m. 1701 14th St.NW. For more information, visitwhitman-walker.org.

WEEKLY EVENTS

ANDROMEDA TRANSCULTURAL HEALTHoffers free HIV testing, 9-5 p.m., and HIV services(by appointment). Call 202-291-4707, or visitandromedatransculturalhealth.org.

DC AQUATICS CLUB (DCAC) practice session atTakoma Aquatic Center, 300 Van Buren St. NW.

7:30-9 p.m. swimdcac.org.

Metro Weekly’s Community Calendar highlights important events in

the D.C.-area LGBT community, from alternative social events to

volunteer opportunities. Event information should be sent by email to

[email protected]. Deadline for inclusion is noon

of the Friday before Thursday’s publication. Questions about

the calendar may be directed to the Metro Weekly office at

202-638-6830 or the calendar email address.

LGBTCommunityCalendar


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MISSION: ENGAGE features a speech by ArmyReserve officer and Brigadier General TammySmith, the first gay general to serve openly in themilitary, at Level One Restaurant. 12 p.m. 1639 RSt. NW. For more information, visit missionengage.eventbrite.com.

PRAYERS FOR PETS, an event of BJC, providesan afternoon for pet owners to socialize with eachother. 1-2:30 p.m. 6601 Bradley Blvd., Bethesda, Md.

For more information, visit bethesdajewish.org orcall 301-469-8636.

THE DC CENTER’S ASYLUM SEEKERS/ASYLEES FORUM for LGBT refugees and asyleesand the people who support them, meets once amonth. 7-9 p.m. 2000 14th St. NW, Suite 105. Formore information, visit thedccenter.org.

WASHINGTON HUMANE SOCIETY’s mobileanimal adoption vehicle, Adopt Force 1, comes tothe Sugar House Day Spa & Salon. 10 a.m.-1 p.m.111 North Alfred St., Alexandria, Va. For moreinformation, visit washhumane.org/adopt.

WEEKLY EVENTS

ANDROMEDA TRANSCULTURAL HEALTHoffers free HIV testing, 9-5 p.m., and HIVservices (by appointment). 202-291-4707 orandromedatransculturalhealth.org.

BET MISHPACHAH, founded by members of theLGBT community, holds Saturday morning Shabbatservices, 10 a.m., followed by Kiddush luncheon.Services in DCJCC Community Room, 1529 16th St.NW. betmish.org.

BRAZILIAN GLBT GROUP, including othersinterested in Brazilian culture, meets. For location/ time, email [email protected].

DC AQUATICS CLUB (DCAC) practice session at

Hains Point, 972 Ohio Dr., SW. 8:30-10 a.m. Visitswimdcac.org.

DC FRONT RUNNERS running/walking/socialclub welcomes all levels for exercise in a fun andsupportive environment, socializing afterward.Meet 9:30 a.m., 23rd & P Streets NW, for a walk; or10 a.m. for fun run. dcfrontrunners.org.

DC SENTINELS basketball team meets at TurkeyThicket Recreation Center, 1100 Michigan Ave. NE,2-4 p.m. For players of all levels, gay or straight.teamdcbasketball.org.

DIGNITYUSA sponsors Mass for LGBT community,family and friends. 6:30 p.m., Immanuel Church-on-the-Hill, 3606 Seminary Road, Alexandria. All

welcome. For more info, visit dignitynova.org.

GAY LANGUAGE CLUB discusses criticallanguages and foreign languages. 7 p.m. Nellie’s,900 U St. NW. RVSP preferred. [email protected].



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IDENTITY offers free andconfidential HIV testing in TakomaPark, 7676 New Hampshire Ave.,Suite 411. Walk-ins 12-3 p.m. Forappointments other hours, call 301-422-2398.

SUNDAY, MAY 17

ADVENTURING outdoors grouphikes 8 miles on Appalachian Trail inMd., north of I-70. Bring beverages,lunch, sturdy boots, bug spray,sunscreen and about $12 for fees.Carpool at 9 a.m. from Grosvenor-Strathmore Metro Station. Dale, 808-782-3027. 4-8 p.m. Potluck dinner tofollow in private home in Alexandria.John, 703-914-1439. adventuring.org.

DC’S DIFFERENT DRUMMERSprovides a social event to meet newpeople at Mr. Henry’s Restaurant.Performance by the DC Swing Band.5-8 p.m. 601 Pennsylvania Ave. SE.For more information, visit

QUEER QUEENS COMEDY hostsan evening with queer comediansPoppy Champlin and Karen Williams.7-8 p.m. Jammin Java, 227 Maple Ave. East, Vienna, Va. For moreinformation, visit jamminjava.com.

WEEKLY EVENTS

LGBT-inclusive ALL SOULSMEMORIAL EPISCOPAL CHURCH celebrates Low Mass at 8:30 a.m.,High Mass at 11 a.m. 2300 Cathedral Ave. NW. 202-232-4244,allsoulsdc.org.

BETHEL CHURCH-DC progressiveand radically inclusive church holdsservices at 11:30 a.m. 2217 Minnesota Ave. SE. 202-248-1895, betheldc.org.

DC AQUATICS CLUB (DCAC)practice session at Hains Point, 972Ohio Dr., SW. 9:30-11 a.m. Visitswimdcac.org.

DIGNITYUSA offers Roman CatholicMass for the LGBT community. 6p.m., St. Margaret’s Church, 1820Connecticut Ave. NW. All welcome.Sign interpreted. For more info, visitdignitynova.org.

FIRST CONGREGATIONAL UNITEDCHURCH OF CHRIST welcomes allto 10:30 a.m. service, 945 G St. NW.firstuccdc.org or 202-628-4317.

FRIENDS MEETING OFWASHINGTON meets for worship,10:30 a.m., 2111 Florida Ave. NW,Quaker House Living Room (next toMeeting House on Decatur Place),2nd floor. Special welcome to lesbiansand gays. Handicapped accessiblefrom Phelps Place gate. Hearingassistance. quakersdc.org.

HOPE UNITED CHURCH OFCHRIST welcomes GLBT communityfor worship. 10:30 a.m., 6130 OldTelegraph Road, Alexandria.hopeucc.org.

INSTITUTE FOR SPIRITUALDEVELOPMENT, God-centered newage church & learning center. SundayServices and Workshops event. 5419Sherier Place NW. isd-dc.org.

Join LINCOLN CONGREGATIONALTEMPLE – UNITED CHURCH OFCHRIST for an inclusive, loving andprogressive faith community everySunday. 11 a.m. 1701 11th Street NW,near R in Shaw/Logan neighborhood.lincolntemple.org.

LUTHERAN CHURCH OFREFORMATION invites all to Sundayworship at 8:30 or 11 a.m. Childcare isavailable at both services. WelcomingLGBT people for 25 years. 212 EastCapitol St. NE. reformationdc.org.

METROPOLITAN COMMUNITYCHURCH OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA services at 11 a.m., led by Rev. OnettaBrooks. Children’s Sunday School, 11a.m. 10383 Democracy Lane, Fairfax.703-691-0930, mccnova.com.

METROPOLITAN COMMUNITYCHURCH OF WASHINGTON, D.C. services at 9 a.m. (ASL interpreted)and 11 a.m. Children’s Sunday Schoolat 11 a.m. 474 Ridge St. NW. 202-638-7373, mccdc.com.

NATIONAL CITY CHRISTIANCHURCH, inclusive church with

GLBT fellowship, offers gospelworship, 8:30 a.m., and traditionalworship, 11 a.m. 5 Thomas Circle NW.202-232-0323, nationalcitycc.org.

NEW HSV-2 SOCIAL ANDSUPPORT GROUP for gay menliving in the DC metro area. Thisgroup will be meeting once a month.For information on location and time,email to [email protected].

RIVERSIDE BAPTIST CHURCH,a Christ-centered, interracial,welcoming-and-affirming church,offers service at 10 a.m. 680 I St. SW.

202-554-4330, riversidedc.org.

ST. STEPHEN AND THEINCARNATION, an “interracial,multi-ethnic Christian Community”offers services in English, 8 a.m. and10:30 a.m., and in Spanish at 5:15 p.m.1525 Newton St. NW. 202-232-0900,saintstephensdc.org.

UNITARIAN CHURCH OFARLINGTON, an LGBTQ welcoming-and-affirming congregation, offersservices at 10 a.m. Virginia RainbowUU Ministry. 4444 Arlington Blvd.uucava.org.


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THE HIV WORKING GROUP of THEDC CENTER hosts “Packing Party,”where volunteers assemble safe-sexkits of condoms and lube. 7 p.m.,Green Lantern, 1335 Green CourtNW. thedccenter.org.

IDENTITY offers free andconfidential HIV testing inGaithersburg, 414 East Diamond Ave., and in Takoma Park, 7676 New

Hampshire Ave., Suite 411. Walk-ins2-6 p.m. For appointments otherhours, call Gaithersburg at 301-300-9978 or Takoma Park at 301-422-

2398.

KARING WITH INDIVIDUALITY(K.I.) SERVICES, at 3333 Duke St., Alexandria, offers free “rapid” HIVtesting and counseling, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.703-823-4401.

METROHEALTH CENTER offersfree, rapid HIV testing. Appointmentneeded. 1012 14th St. NW, Suite 700.202-638-0750.

OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS—LGBT focused meeting everyTuesday, 7 p.m. St. George’sEpiscopal Church, 915 Oakland Ave., Arlington, just steps from VirginiaSquare Metro. For more info. callDick, 703-521-1999. Handicappedaccessible. Newcomers [email protected].

SMYAL offers free HIV Testing, 3-5p.m., by appointment and walk-in,for youth 21 and younger. YouthCenter, 410 7th St. SE. 202-567-3155,[email protected].

SUPPORT GROUP FOR LGBTQ YOUTH ages 13-21 meets at SMYAL,410 7th St. SE, 5-6:30 p.m. CathyChu, 202-567-3163, [email protected].

US HELPING US hosts a supportgroup for black gay men 40 and older.7-9 p.m., 3636 Georgia Ave. NW. 202-446-1100.

Whitman-Walker Health’s GAYMEN’S HEALTH AND WELLNESS/STD CLINIC opens at 6 p.m., 170114th St. NW. Patients are seen onwalk-in basis. No-cost screeningfor HIV, syphilis, gonorrhea andchlamydia. Hepatitis and herpestesting available for fee. whitman-walker.org.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 20BOOKMEN DC, an informal men’sgay-literature group, discusses “Gay American Autobiography: Writingsfrom Whitman to Sedaris.” DavidBergman, editor. 7:30 p.m. DC Center,2000 14th St NW, Suite 105. All arewelcome. bookmendc.blogspot.com.

THE LAMBDA BRIDGE CLUB meetsfor Duplicate Bridge. 7:30 p.m. DignityCenter, 721 8th St. SE, across fromthe Marine Barracks. No reservationneeded. 703-407-6540 if you need apartner.

WOMAN TO WOMAN: A SUPPORTGROUP FOR HIV-POSITIVEWOMEN WHO LOVE WOMEN,meets on the third Wednesday of the

month at the Women’s Collective.Light refreshments served. 5:30-7 p.m.1331 Rhode Island Ave. NE. For moreinformation, contact June Pollydore,202-483-7003.

WEEKLY EVENTS

AD LIB, a group for freestyleconversation, meets about 6:30-6 p.m.,Steam, 17th and R NW. All welcome.For more information, call FaustoFernandez, 703-732-5174.

DC AQUATICS CLUB (DCAC)practice session at Hains Point, 927

Ohio Dr. SW. 7-8:30 p.m. Visitswimdcac.org.

DC SCANDALS RUGBY holdspractice, 6:30-8:30 p.m. GarrisonElementary, 1200 S St. NW.dcscandals.wordpress.com.

HISTORIC CHRIST CHURCH offers Wednesday worship 7:15 a.m.and 12:05 p.m. All welcome. 118 N.Washington St., Alexandria. 703-549-1450, historicchristchurch.org.

HIV TESTING at Whitman-WalkerHealth. At the Elizabeth TaylorMedical Center, 1701 14th St. NW,

9 a.m.-5 p.m. At the Max RobinsonCenter, 2301 MLK Jr. Ave. SE, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. For an appointment call 202-745-7000. Visit whitman-walker.org.

IDENTITY offers free and confidentialHIV testing in Gaithersburg, 414East Diamond Ave. Walk-ins 2-7 p.m.For appointments other hours, call

Gaithersburg at 301-300-9978.

JOB CLUB, a weekly support programfor job entrants and seekers, meets atThe DC Center. 2000 14th St. NW,Suite 105. 6 p.m.-7:30 p.m. More info,www.centercareers.org.

METROHEALTH CENTER offers free,rapid HIV testing. No appointmentneeded. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. 1012 14th St.NW, Suite 700. 202-638-0750.

NOVASALUD offers free HIV testing.11 a.m.-2 p.m. 2049 N. 15th St., Suite200, Arlington. Appointments: 703-789-4467.

PRIME TIMERS OF DC, social clubfor mature gay men, hosts weeklyhappy hour/dinner. 6:30 p.m.,Windows Bar above Dupont ItalianKitchen, 1637 17th St. NW. Carl,703-573-8316.l

OralFixation

you can listen to any stoy at

MetroWeekly.com just look for the“speak” button


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19SEE MORE PHOTOS FROM THIS EVENT AT WWW.METROWEEKLY.COM/SCENE

scene

scan this tag

with your

smartphone

for bonus scene

pics online!

NGLF’s NextGeneration Awards at

Beacon Bar & Grill

Wednesday,

November 27

PHOTOGRAPHY BY WARD MORRISON

AND JULIAN V ANKIM


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SA[Sisters Act ]

AMONG THE THOUSANDS OF DEMONSTRATORS ON THE STEPS OF THE

Supreme Court last month in the lead-up to oral arguments over marriage equality, seven proponents stoodout. They wore habits, headdresses and painted faces.

Neither true nuns nor traditional drag queens, yet drawing inspiration from both, the Sisters of PerpetualIndulgence no doubt unsettled, even offended, at least a few fellow activists — particularly on Saturday, Aug.

25, when approximately 6,000 protesters were assembled on behalf of the anti-gay National Organizationfor Marriage.

Even some LGBT activists have been critical or wary of the infamous Sisters organization, a mostly gaycollective started 36 years ago in San Francisco.

“The Sisters are often accused of ruining it for everyone,” says Christopher Thompson, better known as

Sister Sedusa Poly Tishun. “To an extent, that’s kind of the point. We’re ruining the guilt that people try tothrow upon us.... We have been made to feel guilty for so long for being gay, to feel guilty for wanting the

same rights and respect that everyone else has. And sometimes, the loudest wheel is the one you take careof first, so that’s kind of what we are. We are that loud, squeaky wheel.”

In terms of shock value, it doesn’t get much louder than the Sisters and its brand of “drag activism.”Thompson cites that as a key reason D.C. has struggled for decades to establish a mission affiliated with the

THEY’RE

HERE,THEY’RE

QUEER,

AND D.C.

IS GETTING

USED TO THE

SISTERS OF

PERPETUAL

INDULGENCE

AND THEIR“DRAG

ACTIVISM”

BY

DOUG RULE

PHOTOGRAPHY

BY

JULIAN VANKIM


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international Sisters organization.“While D.C. is politically liberal, it tends to be very

socially conservative — and that’s not necessarily a bad

thing. That’s just how it falls. I think with D.C. beingthe place of political power, sometimes it gets stuck in

its own head. And gets stuck in the mentality — I don’tmean this in a bad way — of keeping up appearances and

being respectable.”But less than two years ago, Thompson, a federal

contractor by day, decided to try to shake things up. Hevowed “to bring a little frivolity and rebelliousness and

sister magic to the District.” A native of Alabama who had

recently moved to D.C. from Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley,Thompson worked with a sister originally from Seattle to

identify some prospective local siblings, mostly via socialmedia. By October 2013, Thompson had become Sedusa

Poly Tishun, a name partly triggered by lust for “a certainPennsylvania Representative who broke Facebook with a

college football photo” (openly gay U.S. Rep. Brian Sims).

Eventually, Sedusa recruited the minimum six “aspirants”needed to form a proper mission.

In mid-March of this year, the San Francisco-basedUnited Nuns Privy Council, the rather loosely organized

Sisters main governing body, granted mission statusto the DC Sisters. The lofty official name, inspired by

Charles Dickens’s term for early Washington, is theAbbey of Magnificent Intentions. Sedusa serves as the

Abbess of the mission, leading its work in “fundraising,

fun-raising and hell-raising.”Each sister had her own reasons for joining the

group, whether drawn to the style of drag — clownish,very hair-friendly and androgynous — or style of activ-

ism, or both. The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence firstgained national attention in the 1980s helping out dur-

ing the AIDS crisis, and advocacy of safer sex and HIV

prevention and treatment remains a key motivation for

many. Most of the community outreach happens at bars.In just the past few months, the DC Sisters have becomea regular presence at the DC Eagle, JR.’s, Number Nine

and the Green Lantern. Anyone can become a sister —straight or gay, man or woman, and anything in between

— as long as they believe in the organization’s queer-friendly “come as you are” outlook and dedication “to

promulgate universal joy.”

“It’s all about seeing people smile and laugh and havea good time,” Sister Sedusa says. “As well as reminding

people, there’s nothing wrong with being gay, there’snothing wrong with being trans, there’s nothing wrong

with being HIV positive. And helping people accepttheir own lives and live their reality.”

The DC Sisters next appear at the Dining for Dollars fundraiser for the LGBT Fallen Heroes Fund during

Bear Happy Hour this Friday, May 15, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. downstairs at Town Danceboutique, 2009 8th St.

NW. Tickets, including food from Mission BBQ and onespecialty cocktail, are $20. Call 202-234-TOWN or visit

lgbtfallenheroesfund.org.

For more information on the DC Sisters, visit

facebook.com/dcsisters.

Additional reporting by John Rileyl

S N SS P T

“I take pride in being one of the two tallest of the DC Sisters,

as well as having amazing lips!”

What inspired you to join?

“I’d heard of them before, but they were never in an area close to where I

was living. Then a few years ago, I had the pleasure of meeting the Atlanta

Sisters, and something just clicked in my brain. I knew

I wanted to bring that magic and joy to D.C.”

Have you ever done drag before?

“I had considered it in the past. Unfortunately,

it involves way too much hair removal

for my liking.”

What’s your catchphrase?

“I don’t have one! I need to

correct that!”


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S N ST B’R

“A fun-loving southern girl with a tambourine.”


“I first encountered the Sisters in the early ’90s in San

Francisco. I was drawn to their HIV/AIDS outreach/activ-

ism and their speaking out against The Church (Catholic

and Protestant) — both areas about which I am passionate.

During that time I was in the military so I was

unable to be active with The Sisters.

Have you ever done drag before?

“Yes, mainly for fun. I performed in Grand Forks, North

Dakota, but have never done drag professionally.”

Have you ever been involved in activism before?

“I’ve worked in HIV/AIDS outreach and activism since 1996.

As the youth leader for MCC-DC from 2000 to 2006, thanks

to Sister Ray Dee, I would like to join in the movement

speaking out against conversion therapy because of its con-

nection, in most cases, with religious fundamentalism. While

great advances have been made in both areas, HIV stigma

continues — even in the gay community — and LGBTQ

youth (and adults) are still being hurt by

hatred disguised as Christianity.”


“Live life to its fullest — no regrets, only lessons learned.”

S N S A L

“I adore Catholic nuns and the work they do. While

subtle, and not always the case, I do try to dre

like many of the modern nun

What inspired you to jo

“I love all that nuns stand for: faith, dedication, ho

justice, service. I learned of the Sisters of Perpet

Indulgence in a course on religions waging peace. I

in love with the unique way Sisters minister to our co

munities. I was brought to tears when I heard stories

Sisters, with white face and crazy outfits, walking to tstore with a person with AIDS so that people would sta

at the queerdo and not the sickly person next to the

And I knew I had to join the first time I met a Sister, a

she blessed me and told me to go and sin some mor

Have you ever been involved in activism befo

“Activism and advocacy have been part of my ent

adult life. I cut my teeth in activism while in colleg

I was a young adult organizer for a queer faith-bas

organization that works to make churches more LGBT

friendly. Since then, I have been involved in seve

justice-seeking movements, including camping out w

the Occupy Wall Street. In my secular life, I work fo

national, faith-based reproductive justice organizatio

What’s your catchphras

“Talk to your doc

about PrE


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S B

The only thing I take seriously is my nails, so if I can bring a smile to your

ce, a chuckle to your heart and you can bring me a doughnut,

have done my job.”


he Sisters offer me an outlet where I can do my drag the way I want,

d be an active member of the gay community. They allow me the free-

m to explore who I am and hone the skills I have so I can become a bet-

r person and offer out the best of me.”

ave you ever been involved in drag before?

After college I dabbled in drag but I didn’t like having to shave (face,

est, arms, pits, back. Get me a weed whacker!). And the tuck — this

rl was not meant to tuck. I put my drag persona away for a

w years but every once in a while I would pull out the heels

vacuum. A little while later Novice Sister Queen

entioned SPI and the rest is a glittery release.”

ave you ever been involved in

tivism before?

No, prior to this I didn’t find

tivism to be my calling.

be honest, I still don’t.

nd my best way of

nnecting with people

through laughterd lightheartedness.”

S N ST U

“Southern charm With lots of

glitter and pearls. A southern lady

always wears her pearls!”


“There’s just so much good that needs to

be done in this world, so much hate to over-

come. I just want to be a part of the good!”

Have you ever been involved

in activism before?

“Just volunteering with groups

such as HRC.”


“Hugs and love, Darling!”

S N S J! T

“I have a loving and joyful heart,

and I try to spread warmth and magic

in all of my encounters. Come and say hi!”


“I see the Sisters’ commitment to ‘raising fun, raising funds,

and raising hell’ as a way to promote social justice,

raise consciousness, and give back to the community.”


“I have been involved in safer sex education and

HIV prevention work since the early 1990s.”


“Everyone needs a little joy in their life!”


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N SD A DM

“I pull from my grandmother, who used to be

a Geisha clown that would perform for chil-

dren in hospitals.”


“I learned about the Sisters when I was

young and was immediately entranced by

the work that they do. I thought that as a

cisgender woman, I could not be a Sister

but after becoming friends with a Sister

from San Francisco, I decided I wantedto take the vows and work to making

the world a better place as

a Drag Queen Nun.”


in drag before?

“I work as a performance artist that

focuses in burlesque and drag. I have performed as a king

though primarily as a queen, for 8 years u

and down the East Coast.

Have you ever been involved in activism before

“I have always tried to include activism in my life. I feel it is ou

job to make the world a better place for everyone and to be th

change we want. Complacency is a killer and it’s wonderful to b

part of an organization where that is not an option.

What’s your catchphrase

“All you need is your own imagination so use it, that’

what it’s for. Go inside, for your finest inspiration

Your dreams will open the door.... Vogue.

S N SR D O’A

“I am the slutty one. And the nerdy one.

#sexynerd”


“The Sisters mission is in complete align-

ment with my passion for removing the guilt

people feel every day (unjustly placed on

them, let your freak flag fly!) and the joy the

Sisters bring is so, so, so beautiful.”

Have you ever been involved in drag before?

“I’ve only done drag a couple times,but I’ve been in heels for years.”


in activism before?

“I am very involved in the activism work

to end conversion therapy. As a survivor, I

speak for those traumatized by the horrible

practice of conversion therapy and work with

advocates to bring legislation, litigation, and

public education to the efforts

to end conversion therapy.”


“Let the radiant glow of joy

guide your day.”


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N SQ I F

“Heather! Really? OMG! Heather!”


“I wanted to do more than I could through an

organization that was more than I could be.”


“While always interested in activism, I never had

the ovarian fortitude to get off the

couch and care until the Sisters.”


“On behalf of her royal travesty.”

S N SM T

“I never really do the same face twice.”


“I have extreme body image issues and with the Sisters, I’ve

found a family that accepts me for the person that I am...not

the person people expect me to be.”

Have you ever been involved in drag before?

Not really...


Somewhat.


“Bless your heart, my dearie.”l


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MAY 14 - 21, 2015


Shoes with Souls

Utility and Beauty. Style and Safety.Our shoes say a lot more than you think

CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN ONCE SAID: “Ashoe isn’t only a design...it’s a part of your

body language.” Nowadays, Louboutin issynonymous with style, but there was a time when

shoes had nothing to do with style. They werefunctional items to protect our ancestors’ feet. So,

how did something that was originally utilitarian

become a symbol for beauty?In “If the Shoe Fits”, currently at the Strathmore

Mansion, Harriet Lesser explores this question.“This exhibit examines, extends, transforms, and

informs our ideas about shoes as art,” Lesser says,“and art as shoes.”

Lesser believes humans have a genetic affinityfor aesthetics. “When we first made bowls,” Lesser

says, “the first thing we did was decorate them.Why? They would have held the soup regardless. Ithink attraction to beauty is in our nature.”

The exhibit gathers work from 23 artists, eachwith their own approach to the theme of foot-

wear. Joyce Zippener embraces the inflexibilityimposed on women in their shoes by crafting heels

out of metal and wood. Austrian-born Carolin

Holzhuber embraces leather, making shoes thatlook organic and chimerical.

While the exhibition features many heels, theyaren’t the only style on display. The work of Anne

Marika Verploegh Chasse and her students are

masterpieces of bespoke boots and original oxfords just for men. And

Ruth Pettus uses shoes as an illustration of where the wearer has been, andwhere they are going.

The exhibit deconstructs footwear to challenge the viewer not only to

look at shoes differently, but to find beauty in the mundane objects we useevery day. So whether they be pumps, topsiders, or sneakers, slip on your

favorite pair, and head on down to the Strathmore to catch these shoesbefore the last one drops. — Connor J. Hogan

“If the Shoe Fits” runs at The Strathmore Mansion at 10701 Rockville Pike, Rockville, Md. until Sunday, May 31. The Gallery is open Tuesdays,

Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Wednesdays from 10a.m.–9 p.m; and Sundays from 12 p.m.-4 p.m. They are closed on Mondays.

Admission is free to the public. l

P

H O T O C O U R T E S Y O F S T R A T H M O R E


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PITCH PERFECT 2 A surprise global hit the first time around, the BardenBellas are back, only this time the competition goesglobal. If the same chemistry, humor and toe-tappingmashups are in place for this sequel, we’ll happilydance to its beat. Fortunately, Anna Kendrick, RebelWilson and Brittany Snow are among those returningfor this sequel, directed by Elizabeth Banks — yes,that Elizabeth Banks. Don’t worry, the actress whowas one of the hysterical commentators from thefirst film returns to that role too. Opens Friday, May15. Now playing. Area theaters. Visit fandango.com.

FILM

AFI FILM SERIES: ADVENTURES IN 3DThe American Film Institute’s Silver Theatre con-tinues its months-long series focused on use of3D technology in various artistic genres, includ-ing in stage productions and animation. Next up:The fantasy Coraline from stop-motion animatorHenry Selick ( The Nightmare Before Christmas ), based on the novel by Neil Gaiman and releasedin 2009 with Dakota Fanning voicing the title role.Coraline screens Saturday, May 16, at 3:30 p.m. AFISilver Theatre, 8633 Colesville Road, Silver Spring.Tickets are $9 to $12. Call 301-495-6720 or visit afi.com/Silver.

MAD MAX: FURY ROADRetro not just in name, this reboot of the Mel Gibsonfranchise drops Hollywood’s penchant for CGI infavor of live stunts and real crashes. Expect carnage— delicious, loud, endless carnage. Tom Hardy isMax and Charlize Theron is his co-conspirator insurviving post-apocalypse in this film directed by theoriginal’s George Miller. Opens Friday, May 15. Nowplaying. Area theaters. Visit fandango.com.

STAGE

ROSENCRANTZ AND GUILDENSTERN ARE DEAD Aaron Posner directs the Tom Stoppard classic, aninventive, existentialist tragicomedy that thrusts twoof Shakespeare’s most incidental characters intothe limelight. Ian Merrill Peakes and Brynn Tucker bring to life these intrepid, somewhat bewildered,characters — famously killed off in Hamlet — whoin Stoppard’s Tony-winning play from 1966 have been summoned by the king to learn what afflictsHamlet. Now in previews. To June 21. A pre-show“Brews and Banter,” with beer and light fare for $15,is Thursday, May 21, at 6:30 p.m. Folger Theatre, 201East Capitol St. SE. Tickets are $30 to $75. Call 202-544-7077 or visit folger.edu.

SWING TIME! THE MUSICALMike Thornton, an actor who has worked withthe satire group the Capitol Steps, and his wife,

Cecelia Fex, have teamed up as co-producers for this big band-era musical revue about a group of per-formers putting together a wartime radio broadcast.Featuring film clips plus a live jazz band, the showfeatures tunes made popular by Duke Ellington,Benny Goodman, Glenn Miller, Tommy Dorsey andCab Calloway. Next shows are Saturday, May 16, at 2p.m., Wednesday, May 20, at 7:30 p.m., and Saturday,May 23, at 2 p.m. Select dates to June 27. U.S. NavyMemorial’s Burke Theater, 701 Pennsylvania Ave.NW. Tickets are $39 or $49. Call 202-393-4266 or visit swingtimethemusical.com.

SPOTLIGHT

BALTIMORE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRAMario Venzago conducts the BSO and pianist OliverSchnyder for a program that includes the shim-mering La Mer, one of Debussy’s most admiredworks, Richard Strauss’s Don Juan and Schubert’s Symphony No. 8 “Unfinished.” Friday, May 15, at 8p.m., and Sunday, May 17, at 3 p.m. Joseph MeyerhoffSymphony Hall, 1212 Cathedral St., Baltimore. Also Saturday, May 16, at 8 p.m. Music Center at

Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda.Tickets are $29 to $95. Call 410-783-8000 or visit bsomusic.org.

EAT WITH MEReel Affirmations presents this directorial debut byDavid Au, focused on a mother who decides to livefor a while with her estranged son, a chef, in down-town Los Angeles. Mom needs to come to terms withher gay son, and her boy needs to get over his fearsof intimacy. They learn to communicate throughfood when not with words. Sharon Omi, Teddy ChenCulver and Nicole Sullivan star in this film featuringa surprise moment from George Takei. A Chinese teaceremony and reception by the Social Tea House andcatered by chef Tyonne follows the 7 p.m. screening.Friday, May 15, at 7 p.m. and 9:15 p.m. HRC Equality

Center, 1640 Rhode Island Ave. NW. Tickets are $10or $25 for VIP including one cocktail, one popcornand designated seating. Call 202-682-2245 or visitreelaffirmations.org.

GAY MEN’S CHORUS OF WASHINGTON“Born This Way” is the title of the latest concert byeveryone’s favorite gay men’s chorus, a toast to theequal rights movements, with the full choir joined by special guest Maiya Sykes from NBC’s The Voice,members of the Metropolitan Community Churchchoir and, in its debut, the organization’s GenOutChorus of area high school students. Friday, May15, at 8 p.m., Saturday, May 16, at 3 p.m. and 8 p.m.Lincoln Theatre, 1215 U St. NW. Tickets are $25 to$59. Call 202-328-6000 or visit thelincolndc.com.

GOURMET SYMPHONYWashington’s newest classical music organization isunlike all the rest. Created partly to shake up howpeople experience and engage with classical music,the Gourmet Symphony includes a pre-concert cock-tail reception and a four-course dinner, which will be served during the concert. After a Valentine’s Daydebut at the Atlas, the organization goes al fresco byperforming on the garden patio at Beuchert’s Saloonon Capitol Hill. The focus is on the craft of woodwork-ing and its influence on music, whiskey productionand the open-flame culinary arts. Veteran D.C. craft beverage expert Jeff Wells and chef Andrew Markertwill offer drink and food pairings to be enjoyed asJohn Devlin leads a chamber ensemble. Wednesday,May 20, starting at 6 p.m. Beuchert’s Saloon, 623Pennsylvania Ave. SE. Tickets are $35, including

spirits tastings paired with custom small plates. Call202-733-1384 or visit gourmetsymphony.org.

JUMPERS FOR GOALPOSTSStudio Theatre offers the U.S. premiere by up-and-coming British playwright Tom Wells with a produc-tion of his play Jumpers for Goalposts, about an ama-teur gay soccer team — with the great name Barely Athletic — in a rundown town. Matt Torney directs acast including Liam Forde, Michael Glenn, JonathanJudge-Russo, Zenko Martin and the great, newlyHelen Hayes Award-winning Kimberly Gilbert. Nowin previews. Runs to June 21. Studio Theatre, 14th& P Streets NW. Call 202-332-3300 or visit studio-theatre.org.

THE BLOOD QUILTFour disconnected African-American sisters reuniteat their childhood island home off the coast ofGeorgia to create a family quilt honoring their recent-ly deceased mother. Arena Stage offers this worldpremiere by the company’s inaugural resident play-wright Katori Hall ( The Mountaintop ), directed byKamilah Forbes and featuring Afi Bijou, CarolineClay, Meeya Davis, Nikiya Mathis and Tonye Patano.To June 7. Mead Center for American Theater, 11016th St. SW. Call 202-488-3300 or visit arenastage.org.

THE CALLWhen Annie and Peter decide to adopt, they settheir sights on a child from Africa in Tanya Barfield’sdrama. Shirley Serotsky directs a Theater J produc-tion hosted by the Atlas. To May 31. Atlas Performing Arts Center, 1333 H St. NE. Tickets are $25 to $45.Call 202-399-7993 or visit atlasarts.org.

THE ORIGINALISTMolly Smith directs an Arena Stage world premiereof John Strand’s play about one of the biggest ene-mies to the LGBT cause and civil rights in general:Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia. It’s hard toget excited about this one, although no doubt four-time Helen Hayes Award winner Edward Gero willdo Scalia justice. The play is performed in the MeadCenter’s Kogod Cradle in a new three-quarter thrust

configuration. Next show is Tuesday, May 19, at 7:30p.m. Extended to May 31. Mead Center for AmericanTheater, 1101 6th St. SW. Call 202-488-3300 or visitarenastage.org.

THE FIRE AND THE RAINThe ever ambitious and adept Constellation TheatreCompany once again dares to stage an internationalepic, this time a family drama drawn from The Mahabharata written by India’s most celebrated con-temporary playwright Girish Karnad. Allison ArkellStockman directs the production with live music byTom Teasley. To May 24. Source Theatre, 1835 14thSt. NW. Tickets are $35 to $45. Call 202-204-7741 or visit constellationtheatre.org.

MUSIC ANI DIFRANCO, THE BLIND BOYS OF ALABAMAJusticeAid presents this concert, a benefit for theMid-Atlantic Innocence Project and the InnocenceProject New Orleans, and featuring the queer-pop-ular indie-rock pioneer Ani DiFranco and the eight-man-strong gospel group the Blind Boys of Alabama.Sunday, May 17. Doors at 6:30 p.m. Lincoln Theatre,1215 U St. NW. Tickets are $75 to $150. Call 202-328-6000 or visit thelincolndc.com.

ARMIN VAN BUUREN, CHILDISH GAMBINO AT PREAKNESS INFIELDFESTBefore the 140th running of the Preakness Stakescomes performances, organized by IMP Productions,

this year headlined by veteran Dutch EDM DJ/ producer Armin Van Buuren and rapper ChildishGambino, also known as actor Donald Glover. Also onthe bill for the InFieldFest: Easton Corbin, Trampled by Turtles and A Thousand Horses. Glenn Morrison,Frank Walker, Switchfoot, Eli Young Band, SundyBest and Go Go Gadjet. Saturday, May 16. Startingat 8 a.m. — yes, that’s a.m. Pimlico Race Course,5201 Park Heights Ave., Baltimore. Tickets are $50to $140. Call 877-206-8042, ext. 300, or visit preak-ness.com.

CAPITAL CITY SYMPHONYMichael Jacko conducts a toast to the 150th anniversary of Sibelius, performing the great compos-er’s Symphony No. 5. with violinist Petteri Iivonen.Sunday, May 17, at 5 p.m. Atlas Performing Arts

Center, 1333 H St. NE. Tickets are $25. Call 202-399-7993 or visit atlasarts.org.


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CHUS & CEBALLOS, FLASHY SUNDAYSOver Memorial Day weekend the sharply designed,intimate nightclub Flash in Shaw offers twoDJ-driven house music nights with serious gayappeal. On Saturday, May 23, Chus Esteban andPablo Ceballos, who perform as Chus & Ceballos, oneof the world’s best progressive house acts, return fora third time in less than a year to control arguably thecity’s best sound system. The gay-popular straightSpaniards just can’t seem to get enough of the mixedgay/straight crowd’s enthusiastic response. And thenthe next night, Sunday, May 24, another de-facto DJ

duo, Sean Morris and Kurt “TWiN” Graves — two ofD.C.’s best gay house mixmasters — once again tagteam on the turntables as part of their regular holidayweekend party Flashy Sundays. Flash Nightclub, 645Florida Ave. NW. Tickets are $15 to $20 for Chus &Ceballos, $10 for Flashy Sundays. Call 202-827-8791or visit flashdc.com.

DROP ELECTRIC AND LAUGHING MAN A past performer at PhaseFest, the local Radiohead/ Sigur Ros-inspired band Drop Electric has had itsmusic featured in the trailer to 300: Rise of an Empire.Film is integral to the band, which incorporates cel-luloid into its live act. They stop for another speciallycreated hometown show at Artisphere, co-presented by DC Music Download and also featuring local bandLaughing Man, whose album Be Black Baby was

named one of the best of 2014 by the Washington City Paper. Saturday, May 16, at 8 p.m. Artisphere, 1101Wilson Blvd. Arlington. Tickets are $15. Call 703-875-1100 or visit artisphere.com.

GREAT NOISE ENSEMBLESince composer and conductor Armando Bayolofounded it in 2005, the Great Noise Ensemble has become one of the most important and adventurousensembles in D.C. focused on contemporary classi-

cal music. The ensemble closes its 10th season withSean Doyle’s Letters From Zelda featuring sopranoLisa Perry, Tom Schnauber’s The Walrus and theCarpenter, and Armando Bayolo’s epic and hilarious Sacred Cows featuring mezzo-soprano Megan Ihnenand baritone Andrew Sauvageau. Friday, May 15, at8 p.m. Atlas Performing Arts Center, 1333 H St. NE.Tickets are $20 to $32. Call 202-399-7993 or visitatlasarts.org.

LENA SEIKALY A month after the 100th anniversary of Baltimore-

born jazz legend Billie Holiday, this celebrated localchanteuse offers another tribute with her quartetfeaturing pianist Chris Grasso, bassist Zack Prideand drummer Lenny Robinson. Saturday, May 16, at8 p.m. Atlas Performing Arts Center, 1333 H St. NE.Tickets are $22 to $28. Call 202-399-7993 or visitatlasarts.org.

PAPADOSIOFormed in Ohio but hailing from Asheville, N.C., thisquintet combines progressive rock with psychedelia,folk with electronica and dance music with jam bandsounds. Papadosio continues to tour in support of2012’s double-set T.E.T.I.O.S., which stands for “ToEnd The Illusion of Separation,” a plea for unison.Friday, May 15. Doors at 8 p.m. 9:30 Club, 815 V St. NW.Tickets are $18. Call 202-265-0930 or visit 930.com.

THE CHORAL ARTS SOCIETY OF WASHINGTONCarl Orff’s Carmina Burana gets performed in full— not just the well-known first and last movementsof this 24-movement masterpiece — at this perfor-mance led by Scott Tucker and featuring soloists andBoy and Girl Choristers of the Washington NationalCathedral, all accompanied by a large orchestra. OFortuna, indeed. Sunday, May 17, at 8 p.m. Kennedy

Center Concert Hall. Tickets are $15 to $75. Call 202-467-4600 or visit www.kennedy-center.org.

TV ON THE RADIOThe Associated Press has called this band “the most vital, current band in America.” But if somehow you’ve missed out on this quartet’s David Bowie-esque progressive-rock output over the past decade, you could easily begin your fandom with the band’sfifth studio set released last year: Seeds is easily themost immediate and sharpest yet. Tuesday, May19. Doors at 7 p.m. Echostage, 2135 Queens Chapel

Rd. NE. Tickets are $40. Call 202-503-2330 or visitechostage.com.

WASHINGTON NATIONAL OPERASpanish director Joan Font directs a bright andwhimsical production of Rossini’s retelling ofCinderella, adding a few twists and featuring twoopera singers alternating in the title role: IsabelLeonard and Tara Erraught, making her U.S. debut.WNO offers this opera in an international co-produc-tion with four other opera companies from Europeand the U.S. To May 21. Kennedy Center OperaHouse. Tickets are $25 to $300. Call 202-467-4600or visit kennedy-center.org.

WILLIAM FITZSIMMONSRaised by blind parents in Pittsburgh who valued

playing music as a key way to engage and com-municate, William Fitzsimmons’ folk music as aprofessional singer-songwriter is as expressive andrichly orchestrated as you might expect from thatsort-of upbringing, akin to Iron & Wine or SufjanStevens. But it’s also dramatically colored by years oftraining and work as a counselor and therapist, withlyrics often exploring complicated issues, such as thepersonal and psychological effects of divorce andmental health. The 9:30 Club presents this concert at



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GANZEER: INJUSTICE AMONG USReCreative Spaces presents, in conjunction with(Up)Rising Festival, a solo gallery exhibit by Ganzeer,a politically engaged artist who aims to offer a visu-ally and emotionally compelling look at what itmeans to live in America today from the perspec-tive of those too-often silenced. Through May 30.ReCreative Spaces at 1613 Rhode Island Ave. NE. Visit recreativespaces.com.

MODERN SCULPTURE:DIALOGUES IN THREE DIMENSIONSWhile its galleries are closed for renovation andexpansion, the National Gallery of Art has set upthroughout its East Building a special installation ofmodern sculpture from its renowned holdings. Andthree times a week, the gallery offers a new 60-min-ute guided tour highlighting these works, allowingpatrons to engage with each other in open-endeddiscussions about, in addition to the guide pointingout connections between, the works on view, from Alexander Calder’s monumental mobile Untitledfrom 1976 to Andy Goldsworthy’s decade-old Roof.The relationship between I.M. Pei’s East Buildingand John Russell Pop’s West Building is also exam-ined. Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays, at 1:30 p.m.National Gallery of Art East Building InformationDesk, 3rd Street at Constitution Avenue NW. Call202-737-4215 or visit nga.gov.

MONSTER FISH:IN SEARCH OF THE LAST RIVER GIANTSBased on the popular National Geographic Wildseries, this interactive exhibit includes clips from theseries, life-size fish sculptures and several family-friendly activities designed to educate visitors aboutthe massive fish that Dr. Zeb Hogan, the aquatic ecol-ogist who is the host of the Monster Fish series, hasspent decades exploring. Through Oct. 11. NationalGeographic Museum, 1145 17th St. NW. Tickets are$11. Call 202-857-7588 or visit ngmuseum.org.

ONCE THERE WERE BILLIONSOnce There Were Billions: Vanished Birds of North America documents those species of birds we’ve loston this continent over the past two centuries, from

the puffin-like great auck to the Carolina parakeetto the heath hen to the passenger pigeon, not to be confused with the commonplace carrier pigeon.Through October. National Museum of NaturalHistory, 10th Street and Constitution Avenue NW.Call 202-633-1000 or visit mnh.si.edu.

SPLENDOR & SURPRISE:ELEGANT CONTAINERS, ANTIQUE TO MODERNThe Hillwood Museum presents a special exhibitionfeaturing more than 80 remarkable boxes, coffers,chests and other containers that reveal the ways inwhich cultures have contained their most treasureditems and everyday objects over the past four centu-ries. Through June 7. Hillwood Estate, 4155 Linnean Ave. NW. Suggested donation is $12. Call 202-686-5807 or visit HillwoodMuseum.org.

THE VISIONARY EXPERIENCE:SAINT FRANCIS TO FINSTERBaltimore’s quirky Visionary Art Museum offersits 20th annual exhibition, this one championinglife’s grand “Eureka!” moments, held in common by Earth’s most dynamic and intuitive “evolution-aries,” from inventors, scientists, America’s foundingfathers, dreamers and saints. The show was co-curat-ed by filmmaker and publisher Jodi Wille and AVAMfounder and director Rebecca Alban Hoffberger.Through Aug. 30. American Visionary Art Museum,800 Key Highway. Baltimore. Tickets are $15.95. Call410-244-1900 or visit avam.org.

U Street Music Hall, another local stop in support oflast year’s Lions, produced by Death Cab for Cutie’sChris Walla. Thursday, May 21, at 7 p.m. U StreetMusic Hall, 1115A U St. NW. Tickets are $20. Call202-588-1880 or visit ustreetmusichall.com.

DANCE

THE WASHINGTON BALLETThree years ago, Septime Webre’s brand-new bal-let Alice (In Wonderland), based on Lewis Carroll’s

150-year-old classic fantasy, broke all box officerecords for the Washington Ballet — save for itsannual run of The Nutcracker — and all before ithad even started its run. Now the whimsical pro-duction, featuring music by Matthew Pierce, cos-tumes by Cirque du Soleil veteran Liz Vandal anda grand, 24-foot puppet designed by Eric Van Wyk,returns for another weekend at the Kennedy Center.Thursday, May 14, and Friday, May 16, at 7:30 p.m.,Saturday, May 16, at 1:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., andSunday, May 17, at 1:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. KennedyCenter Eisenhower Theater. Tickets are $46 to $135.Call 202-467-4600 or visit kennedy-center.org.

READINGS AND DISCUSSIONS

RITA DOVE A professor of English at the University of Virginiaand former U.S. Poet Laureate, Rita Dove stops bythe Folger Shakespeare Library to share her favoritepoems by other poets as well as reading from herown work, which includes 1987’s Thomas and Beulah,which earned her a Pulitzer Prize. Tuesday, May19, at 7 p.m. Folger Theatre, 201 East Capitol St. SE.Tickets are $15. Call 202-544-7077 or visit folger.edu.

STORY LEAGUE SINGSD.C. storytelling organization Story League offers itsfifth event in which funny stories are bookended byrelated karaoke-style songs — and now “Story LeagueSings” has become a competition, with the audi-ence determining the winner of a $500 prize. TheDC Improv’s Benjy Himmelfarb emcees this year’sfirst-ever competition featuring five competitorsaccompanied by local group the HariKaraoke BandGong Show, as well as a special story performance byStory League’s New York-based founder SM Shrake.Saturday, May 16, at 9 p.m. 1811 14th St. NW. Ticketsare $20. Call 202-667-4490 or visit blackcatdc.com.

GALLERIES

BEYOND BOLLYWOOD:INDIAN AMERICANS SHAPE THE NATIONSmithsonian Asian Pacific American Center pres-ents this ambitious and colorful exhibition on thesecond floor of the National Museum of NaturalHistory, exploring the heritage, daily experiences

and diverse contributions of Indians and Indian Americans. Through Aug. 16. National Museum ofNatural History, 10th Street and Constitution AvenueNW. Call 202-633-1000 or visit mnh.si.edu.

ELAINE DE KOONING: PORTRAITSJohn F. Kennedy, poets Frank O’Hara and AllenGinsberg, critic Harold Rosenberg, choreographerMerce Cunningham, and painters Willem de Kooningand Fairfield Porter are among the friends and familymembers represented in a National Portrait Galleryretrospective of this abstract expressionist painter’swork. Most of de Kooning’s paintings hang in privatecollection and have rarely been seen by the public before. Through Jan. 10, 2016. National PortraitGallery, 8th and F Streets. NW. Call 202-633-8300 or visit npg.si.edu.

WINDOW TO WASHINGTONWindow to Washington: The Kiplinger Collection at HSW is an exhibition at Washington’s CarnegieLibrary that traces the development of the nation’scapital from a sleepy Southern town to a modernmetropolis, as documented through the works ofartists. The Historical Society of Washington, D.C.,exhibition was made possible by a donation from theKiplinger family. It’s also an early step in a reorgani-zation effort by the society, which has struggled torevive ever since its short-lived effort a decade ago torun a City Museum of Washington proved too ambi-tious. Open Tuesdays through Fridays from 10 a.m.

to 4 p.m. The Historical Society of Washington, D.C.,at the Carnegie Library, 801 K St. NW. Call 202-393-1420 or visit dchistory.org.

ZEN, TEA AND CHINESE ARTIN MEDIEVAL JAPAN Well-known expressions of Japanese culture havetheir roots in Chinese arts and ideas, from Buddhismto tea to ink painting. The Smithsonian Institution’sFreer Gallery of Art offers an exhibition featuringChinese and Japanese paintings, lacquer ware andceramics from the 13th through the 19th centuries.Through June 14. Freer Gallery of Art, JeffersonDrive at 12th Street SW. Call 202-633-1000 or visitasia.si.edu.

ABOVE AND BEYOND

A PRAIRIE HOME COMPANIONPublic radio star Garrison Keillor makes his annualtrek over Memorial Day weekend to Wolf Trap togive D.C. another trip to his fictional-but-oh-so-real Lake Wobegon, including a live broadcast onSaturday, May 23. This year’s Wolf Trap stop bringsspecial guests Sara Watkins of the bluegrass trioNickel Creek, Americana artist Sarah Jarosz and Aoife O’Donovan of the progressive bluegrass bandCrooked Still, in association with Minnesota PublicRadio and WAMU. Friday, May 22, at 8 p.m., andSaturday, May 23, at 5:45 p.m. Wolf Trap, 1645 TrapRd., Vienna. Lawn seats are available for $25 to $65.Call 703-255-1900 or visit wolf-trap.org.

JONATHAN TUZMAN AT LA-TI-DORegie Cabico and DonMike Mendoza’s La-Ti-Do variety show is neither karaoke nor simply caba-ret. In addition to higher-quality singing than mostimpromptu karaoke, Cabico and co-host Mendozaalso select storytellers who offer spoken-word poet-ry and comedy. Now moved to James Hoban’s onDupont Circle, the next La-Ti-Do, Monday, May18, serves as a Summer Kick-off Show with a trib-ute to Ben Folds from a full band led by JonathanTuzman, the event’s resident pianist and HelenHayes Award-winning musical director, plus the Alexandria Singers. Monday nights at 8 p.m. JamesHoban’s Irish Restaurant & Bar, 1 Dupont CircleNW. Tickets are $15, or only $7 if you eat dinner atthe restaurant beforehand. Call 202-223-8440 or visit

latidodc.wix.com.

MARYLAND HOUSE AND GARDEN PILGRIMAGENearly 50 extraordinary historic properties through-out Maryland are featured on this annual tour, nowin its 78th year. Sites include an Indian Village, aPlantation house on the Patuxent River and otherlandmarks in the War of 1812, with catered lunch-es available. The pilgrimage has raised more than$1 million over the decades for the preservationand restoration of architecturally significant prop-erties in the state. The tour showcases homes instages by county, with remaining stops in: Anne Arundel County on Saturday, May 16, BaltimoreCity on Sunday, May 17, and Washington County onSaturday, May 30. Tickets are $30 in advance, $35day-of. Call 410-821-6933 or visit mhgp.org. l



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D

O YOU REALIZE WE PASSED ON THE YOUNG

James Franco and Ryan Reynolds?”Charles Busch was as surprised as anyone when

director Robert Lee King recently revealed his cast-

ing notions for the small-budget 2000 film Psycho Beach Party.“I couldn’t believe it,” says Busch, who wrote the screenplay buthad no involvement in selecting the actors. “At the time, I guess

Ryan Reynolds was real skinny and just didn’t seem sexy enough.

And James Franco was a little too subdued for the character.”Even without Reynolds and Franco the movie holds its own

in the celebrity department. A few years ago Metro Weekly

included this clever send-up of mid-20th century Hollywood

genres on its list of “13 Camp Films ThatEveryone Should See,” noting that the film

helped launch the career of lead protagonistLauren Ambrose — a year before she became

known as Claire, the prickly daughter on

HBO’s Six Feet Under. And the film’s residentmean girl who gets her comeuppance? “Who

would have thought that the girl who has arather small role in the movie turned out to be

Amy Adams?” Busch says, referring to the nowfive-time Oscar-nominated actress.

Of course, before it became a movie with a

cult following, Psycho Beach Party was a playwith a cult following, a 1987 Off-Broadway

production written and starring Busch in thesame role that Ambrose portrays in the film.

“I used to always say that I didn’t want to be awoman, but I wanted to be an actress,” Busch says. “I just seem

to have a talent and an interest in playing female roles.”In fact, Busch has become best known as a writer of genre-

parody plays with female protagonists — and as an actor who

plays his characters in drag. The clearest and probably bestexample is 2003’s hysterical Die Mommie Die!, in which Busch is

on screen for nearly every scene.“I have a bit of a crackpot theory,” Busch says, when asked

what could have triggered this fascination with the feminine.“In the past, when there really was no gay imagery in movies

at all — pre-1970s, let’s say — except for killers and villains, I

wonder whether it was easier for a certain kind of gay man toidentify with Bette Davis or Joan Crawford more than with John

Wayne or Humphrey Bogart, stories with a strong but vulner-able woman attracted to a man. I don’t know, maybe that’s a little

simplistic, but one wonders whether, in some strange alternate

universe, if there had been androgynous gay men playing leads inmovies with same-sex love stories, would we have needed those

female icons?”

Maybe the answer will come with the next gay generation,who are growing up with a pop culture that is far gayer thanthat of previous generations. Or, Busch volleys back, maybe not:

“Are there really that many more roles for androgynous young

men out there? How many times can you play Prior in Angels in America?”

Drag artists are certainly far more visible in American cul-ture now than they were four decades ago when Busch started

donning wigs. In fact, the 60-year-old doesn’treally think of himself as a drag queen, but

as an actor who just happens to perform indrag. Drag is just part of the job, something he

had to put on in order to play to his strength,

which is playing female characters.Still, the culture of drag that has sprung

up in recent decades, even just the past fewyears, fascinates Busch. A couple of weeks

ago he was invited to participate in the firstInternational Austin Drag Festival, held in

Austin, Tex. “They put me u

Documents

Metro Weekly - 05-14-15 - DC Sisters