Ancient Greece erupts with Gay Eros! From the romance of Achilles and Patroclus, to Plato’s symposium where he declared that Gay love breeds “children of the mind” like art, music, democracy, and philosophy, and these “children” potentially live forever.
Check out some hot Greek couple action with The Sacred Band of Thebes a Handpicked army of lovers made up of 150 male-male couples. The forty years of their known existence marked Thebes as the greatest military and political power in the known world. The Sacred Band battled the Spartans in 375 BC, defeating an army that was at least three times its size.
“A state or an army should be made up of lovers and their loves, they would be the very best governors of their own city, abstaining from all dishonour, and emulating one another in honour; and when fighting at each other's side, although a mere handful, they would overcome the world. For who would desert his beloved or fail him in the hour of danger?” – Plato’s Symposium
In the first Gay Liberation marches of the 70’s the Theban band became the inspiration for gay Lib protesters who chanted “An Army of Lovers can Never be Defeated”!
The Lion of Chaironeia is a marble funerary monument that marks the communal grave of the Sacred Band of Thebes
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Queer Artist Centerfold: Drew Mason
Name: Andrew Michael Mason
Stage Name: Drew Mason
Contact info:
http://www.reverbnation.com/drewmason
Birthplace:
Omaha Nebraska, but raised in Houston Tx.
Zodiac sign: Capricorn
Your medium/genre: Hip Hop, Rap
Describe what you do:
I am a recording artist, that is drawn through the medium of rapping, to express myself in performance, writing and recording
Turn on’s:
Very talented vocalists, a well written song, a hot bed of music, masculine men, great photographs, usually art in general (all kinds) streets pieces, documentaries, poetry, live performances, beautiful days, great energy, inspiring people, spiritual books and audio, a sense of connection to this universe and nature
Turn off’s:
Thief's, shallow people, back stabbers, greedy people, users, fake people, two faced people, people who play games, manipulators
Describe your perfect date:
A successful clean cut man in a beautiful vehicle calls me to tell me he is out front. I go downstairs to see him, he has a rose for me and opens the door for me to get in. He gives me a big kiss and hug and says its great to see you. I reply the same. We travel to fine Italian dinning in the area. Then travel to the Lakers game to sit court side. We crack jokes and watch the game intently holding hands, smiling, with the occasional kiss. After the game we take our pets for a walk in the neighborhood, enjoying the night stars and peacefulness of the city, Then we clean up for bed in a hot shower then snuggle in watching a great documentary on netflix.
Pet peeves:
In the moment of writing a song, getting into a place where im worried what is the listener going to think, or is the song good enough, instead of just letting the energy flow.
Fave sex idol: Gerard Butler
1ST crush: Jean claude van damme
Fave music: I love all kinds of music
Top movies that inspire you: I'm really big into documentaries
Fave quote: I think therefore I am
Reading List:
Power of intention, The present, Alchemist, 7 habits of highly effective people, The power of now
One of your obsessions: Daddies
Influences/mentors/heroes: Michael Jackson, Tupac, Bob Marley
Fave queer Artist(s): Adam Lambert
Fave queer from history:
Politician Harvey Milk and Documentary Film maker Robert Hudson
Most Pivotal Performance/event/etc:
Performing at Outhiphop.com's artist night in Hollywood
Fave performance experience:
Performing at Mj's in Silverlake to a sold out club
Most frightening performance experience: Las Vegas Pride
Places performed:
All over in the state of California, done shows in chicago, wisconsin and new york
Education:
High school graduate, Associates degree from the madison media intitute
Awards/Grants/Honors:
Presented, by the major and city of west hollywood the- Paule Starke Warrior Award
What do you (does your art) stand for:
My art really stands for a place for me to be creative a place where i can escape and dig into myself also to vent and release emotions and angst a place where i can tell stories or at least try to, a place where i can be sexual strong assertive, passionate aggressive, crazy, powerful, the freedom to express, the passion to love a place to say what ever i want when i feel like it, A place where i can say lets stand together as one and also fuck you if you cross me
Fave prop or costume:
Fave prop would be a microphone i just love the way it feels in my hand and finger tips.Fave costume would be ripping my shirt off at the end of a hot song or performance.
Thoughts on the LA queer art scene:
The art scene can be what ever you make of it to be, how ever far you decide to go with it and emerce yourself in it, its what you decide to look at look for and your perception of what your seeing
What is your Vision for the Queer Future:
The breaking down of stereo types and the achievement of Equality
What do you see as the future for queer art:
I see queer art continuing to grow and evolve and become more mainstream. I believe on some levels its still an untold story, in itself its progressive, and very beautiful and there is so much talent and creativity living in these kids some how it will change the world.
What are your upcoming plans:
Write now i am just regrouping growing in my own right, living life to the fullest and developing the next step for my music and passion for this style of art and poetry
Sample of Work:
The Truth is in You
Heavy on my mind, Heavy on my time,
Heavy like the weight of the world on I'm,
carrying shoulders like a king, grasping for air,
is this meant for me, who even really cares,
the struggle ain't lifted the smoke it rains thick blocking the sun shining gifted,
believers in the room,
will the doubt consume every positive attitude while I'm speaking through,
this mic and cord,
rapped around my neck is this vocal cord as i spit this tech,
to break down walls making fear disperse, let the gun burst no more no child to hurt,
hold your little baby yes the faith is strong,
frustrating times but the love is long,
long and everlasting is the soul in you,
a warrior you are and the fight ain't through,
the truth
http://youtu.be/E_LYOi6S1FM
http://youtu.be/XqFLwaU7aUo
http://youtu.be/RhjKWoFYyfQ
Stage Name: Drew Mason
Contact info:
http://www.reverbnation.com/drewmason
Birthplace:
Omaha Nebraska, but raised in Houston Tx.
Zodiac sign: Capricorn
Your medium/genre: Hip Hop, Rap
Describe what you do:
I am a recording artist, that is drawn through the medium of rapping, to express myself in performance, writing and recording
Turn on’s:
Very talented vocalists, a well written song, a hot bed of music, masculine men, great photographs, usually art in general (all kinds) streets pieces, documentaries, poetry, live performances, beautiful days, great energy, inspiring people, spiritual books and audio, a sense of connection to this universe and nature
Turn off’s:
Thief's, shallow people, back stabbers, greedy people, users, fake people, two faced people, people who play games, manipulators
Describe your perfect date:
A successful clean cut man in a beautiful vehicle calls me to tell me he is out front. I go downstairs to see him, he has a rose for me and opens the door for me to get in. He gives me a big kiss and hug and says its great to see you. I reply the same. We travel to fine Italian dinning in the area. Then travel to the Lakers game to sit court side. We crack jokes and watch the game intently holding hands, smiling, with the occasional kiss. After the game we take our pets for a walk in the neighborhood, enjoying the night stars and peacefulness of the city, Then we clean up for bed in a hot shower then snuggle in watching a great documentary on netflix.
Pet peeves:
In the moment of writing a song, getting into a place where im worried what is the listener going to think, or is the song good enough, instead of just letting the energy flow.
Fave sex idol: Gerard Butler
1ST crush: Jean claude van damme
Fave music: I love all kinds of music
Top movies that inspire you: I'm really big into documentaries
Fave quote: I think therefore I am
Reading List:
Power of intention, The present, Alchemist, 7 habits of highly effective people, The power of now
One of your obsessions: Daddies
Influences/mentors/heroes: Michael Jackson, Tupac, Bob Marley
Fave queer Artist(s): Adam Lambert
Fave queer from history:
Politician Harvey Milk and Documentary Film maker Robert Hudson
Most Pivotal Performance/event/etc:
Performing at Outhiphop.com's artist night in Hollywood
Fave performance experience:
Performing at Mj's in Silverlake to a sold out club
Most frightening performance experience: Las Vegas Pride
Places performed:
All over in the state of California, done shows in chicago, wisconsin and new york
Education:
High school graduate, Associates degree from the madison media intitute
Awards/Grants/Honors:
Presented, by the major and city of west hollywood the- Paule Starke Warrior Award
What do you (does your art) stand for:
My art really stands for a place for me to be creative a place where i can escape and dig into myself also to vent and release emotions and angst a place where i can tell stories or at least try to, a place where i can be sexual strong assertive, passionate aggressive, crazy, powerful, the freedom to express, the passion to love a place to say what ever i want when i feel like it, A place where i can say lets stand together as one and also fuck you if you cross me
Fave prop or costume:
Fave prop would be a microphone i just love the way it feels in my hand and finger tips.Fave costume would be ripping my shirt off at the end of a hot song or performance.
Thoughts on the LA queer art scene:
The art scene can be what ever you make of it to be, how ever far you decide to go with it and emerce yourself in it, its what you decide to look at look for and your perception of what your seeing
What is your Vision for the Queer Future:
The breaking down of stereo types and the achievement of Equality
What do you see as the future for queer art:
I see queer art continuing to grow and evolve and become more mainstream. I believe on some levels its still an untold story, in itself its progressive, and very beautiful and there is so much talent and creativity living in these kids some how it will change the world.
What are your upcoming plans:
Write now i am just regrouping growing in my own right, living life to the fullest and developing the next step for my music and passion for this style of art and poetry
Sample of Work:
The Truth is in You
Heavy on my mind, Heavy on my time,
Heavy like the weight of the world on I'm,
carrying shoulders like a king, grasping for air,
is this meant for me, who even really cares,
the struggle ain't lifted the smoke it rains thick blocking the sun shining gifted,
believers in the room,
will the doubt consume every positive attitude while I'm speaking through,
this mic and cord,
rapped around my neck is this vocal cord as i spit this tech,
to break down walls making fear disperse, let the gun burst no more no child to hurt,
hold your little baby yes the faith is strong,
frustrating times but the love is long,
long and everlasting is the soul in you,
a warrior you are and the fight ain't through,
the truth
http://youtu.be/E_LYOi6S1FM
http://youtu.be/XqFLwaU7aUo
http://youtu.be/RhjKWoFYyfQ
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Queer Artist Centerfold: Derek Ringold
Name: Derek Ringold
Stage Name: Derek Ringold:)
Contact info: www.derekringold.webs.com
Birthplace: Queens, NY
Zodiac sign: Leo
Your medium/genre:
Performance Art/Acting/Dance
Describe what you do:
I write monologues and poetry about being a gay man basically. My personal narratives deal with the fight for equality, the temptation of the dark side and the search for true love. I then create performance pieces to my words using video imagery, dance, and spoken word. Once I've written enough material, I then create a full-length theatrical one man show.
Turn on’s:
Wisdom, confidence, humor, sensitivity, authenticity
Turn off’s:
Hate, ignorance, arrogance, selfishness, "woe is me" types
Describe your perfect date:
Oh God I can't stand dates, so much pressure! It's like a job interview!:)
The best dates are pleasant surprises that last longer than you anticipated Maybe start at the beach, go on a hike, or play a game of basketball; into dinner, drinks, and dancing.
Pet peeves:
People who talk WAY too much about themselves.
Fave sex idol:
Mark Whalberg, Brandon Boyd, Idris Elba, Halle Berry to name a few:)
1ST crush:
Probably Patrick Swayze in Dirty Dancing! Omg, I remember being like "Whoa, what is happening to me?", after watching his shirtless scenes! Also I remember when I was 14, I met this 15 year old Mid-Western boy while vacationing in the Caribbean with my family. We became buddies for the entire weeklong trip. I remember feeling very attracted to him, physically and emotionally. For me, it was the first time it felt exciting to like another boy, at least in my mind. And It was ok. This was who I was. Of course he was straight but we remained pen pals all through high school and college. He was the guy that changed everything for me.
Fave music:
I seriously love all kinds of music, except I was never really feeling Country songs. Dance/Electronica/House is home to me. 90s Hip Hop brings me back. Classic rock, Indie Rock, R&B Soul, Disco, Pop(Britney is my girl!:), and World Music(African, Latin).
Top movies that inspire you:
The Color Purple, You Can Count On Me, Milk, Imitation of Life
Fave quote:
"You are a phenomenon no less magical than any possibility" D.W. Brown
Reading List:
I'm reading Gay Soul right now which is so beautifully rich. Obama's Dreams from My Father, The Velvet Rage.
One of your obsessions: Italian Bread!
Influences/mentors/heroes:
Michael Jackson is the only reason I first set foot on stage. I was 7 years old and performed "Thriller" in the school talent show. He will always be my hero. Also, the director of my first solo show Michael Kearns and everyone involved in the Rise Up and Shout organization are responsible for helping me find my voice as an openly gay artist.
Fave queer from history: Langston Hughes
Most Pivotal Performance/event/etc:
Performing in my solo show SO HARD closing night, the same day the California Supreme Court upheld the ban on same sex marriage in June 2009. SO HARD dealt heavily with marriage equality and after this devastating news, my emotion really flew beyond the theatre walls. It felt great to convey what so many of us in the LGBT community were feeling at that moment.
Most frightening performance experience:
I'm nervous as hell before EVERY performance no matter how big or small.
Places performed: Los Angeles:
Zephyr Theatre, Highways Performance Space, ONE Institute, Rise up and Shout! 1 & 2 (Barnsdall Gallery Theatre), Black LGBT Project, Village Variety Pack(Davidson/Valentini Theatre), City x1 LGBT Youth event.
Education:
Loyola Marymount University- Theatre Arts/Dance. Joffrey Ballet School, NY
Awards/Grants/Honors: City of West Hollywood Arts Grant
What do you (does your art) stand for:
Sharing my story to promote greater understanding and acceptance of the LGBT community worldwide.
Fave prop or costume: My black speedo:)
Thoughts on the LA queer art scene:
There is such an outlet in LA for queer art it's almost undeniable. Showcases, readings, theatrical productions, music. The amount of creativity and talent by gay artists out here continues to inspire me. I also love that we all assist one another and have each other's backs when it comes to getting our voices heard. We're like a family all working towards a common goal. I love it! Let's take this ride as far as we can, continuing to open more hearts and minds to our plight!
What is your Vision for the Queer Future:
Full equal rights and integration worldwide.
What do you see as the future for queer art:
I see a lot more openly gay figures being unapologetically visible internationally in all mediums- Film, TV, Music, Sports, Politics, News Reporting, Writing etc. Being honest about who we are and sharing our stories truthfully is key if we are to eliminate the hatred and stereotypes associated with being Gay.
What are your upcoming plans/shows/events/include dates and info:
I am currently about halfway done with writing my next solo show. As of yet it is untitled but its themes deal with my light and dark attributes as a gay man post turning 30 years old. Hoping to premiere it in the fall/winter 2011 at Studio C in Hollywood.
Sample of Work:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O-3wxTtcRpU
Stage Name: Derek Ringold:)
Contact info: www.derekringold.webs.com
Birthplace: Queens, NY
Zodiac sign: Leo
Your medium/genre:
Performance Art/Acting/Dance
Describe what you do:
I write monologues and poetry about being a gay man basically. My personal narratives deal with the fight for equality, the temptation of the dark side and the search for true love. I then create performance pieces to my words using video imagery, dance, and spoken word. Once I've written enough material, I then create a full-length theatrical one man show.
Turn on’s:
Wisdom, confidence, humor, sensitivity, authenticity
Turn off’s:
Hate, ignorance, arrogance, selfishness, "woe is me" types
Describe your perfect date:
Oh God I can't stand dates, so much pressure! It's like a job interview!:)
The best dates are pleasant surprises that last longer than you anticipated Maybe start at the beach, go on a hike, or play a game of basketball; into dinner, drinks, and dancing.
Pet peeves:
People who talk WAY too much about themselves.
Fave sex idol:
Mark Whalberg, Brandon Boyd, Idris Elba, Halle Berry to name a few:)
1ST crush:
Probably Patrick Swayze in Dirty Dancing! Omg, I remember being like "Whoa, what is happening to me?", after watching his shirtless scenes! Also I remember when I was 14, I met this 15 year old Mid-Western boy while vacationing in the Caribbean with my family. We became buddies for the entire weeklong trip. I remember feeling very attracted to him, physically and emotionally. For me, it was the first time it felt exciting to like another boy, at least in my mind. And It was ok. This was who I was. Of course he was straight but we remained pen pals all through high school and college. He was the guy that changed everything for me.
Fave music:
I seriously love all kinds of music, except I was never really feeling Country songs. Dance/Electronica/House is home to me. 90s Hip Hop brings me back. Classic rock, Indie Rock, R&B Soul, Disco, Pop(Britney is my girl!:), and World Music(African, Latin).
Top movies that inspire you:
The Color Purple, You Can Count On Me, Milk, Imitation of Life
Fave quote:
"You are a phenomenon no less magical than any possibility" D.W. Brown
Reading List:
I'm reading Gay Soul right now which is so beautifully rich. Obama's Dreams from My Father, The Velvet Rage.
One of your obsessions: Italian Bread!
Influences/mentors/heroes:
Michael Jackson is the only reason I first set foot on stage. I was 7 years old and performed "Thriller" in the school talent show. He will always be my hero. Also, the director of my first solo show Michael Kearns and everyone involved in the Rise Up and Shout organization are responsible for helping me find my voice as an openly gay artist.
Fave queer from history: Langston Hughes
Most Pivotal Performance/event/etc:
Performing in my solo show SO HARD closing night, the same day the California Supreme Court upheld the ban on same sex marriage in June 2009. SO HARD dealt heavily with marriage equality and after this devastating news, my emotion really flew beyond the theatre walls. It felt great to convey what so many of us in the LGBT community were feeling at that moment.
Most frightening performance experience:
I'm nervous as hell before EVERY performance no matter how big or small.
Places performed: Los Angeles:
Zephyr Theatre, Highways Performance Space, ONE Institute, Rise up and Shout! 1 & 2 (Barnsdall Gallery Theatre), Black LGBT Project, Village Variety Pack(Davidson/Valentini Theatre), City x1 LGBT Youth event.
Education:
Loyola Marymount University- Theatre Arts/Dance. Joffrey Ballet School, NY
Awards/Grants/Honors: City of West Hollywood Arts Grant
What do you (does your art) stand for:
Sharing my story to promote greater understanding and acceptance of the LGBT community worldwide.
Fave prop or costume: My black speedo:)
Thoughts on the LA queer art scene:
There is such an outlet in LA for queer art it's almost undeniable. Showcases, readings, theatrical productions, music. The amount of creativity and talent by gay artists out here continues to inspire me. I also love that we all assist one another and have each other's backs when it comes to getting our voices heard. We're like a family all working towards a common goal. I love it! Let's take this ride as far as we can, continuing to open more hearts and minds to our plight!
What is your Vision for the Queer Future:
Full equal rights and integration worldwide.
What do you see as the future for queer art:
I see a lot more openly gay figures being unapologetically visible internationally in all mediums- Film, TV, Music, Sports, Politics, News Reporting, Writing etc. Being honest about who we are and sharing our stories truthfully is key if we are to eliminate the hatred and stereotypes associated with being Gay.
What are your upcoming plans/shows/events/include dates and info:
I am currently about halfway done with writing my next solo show. As of yet it is untitled but its themes deal with my light and dark attributes as a gay man post turning 30 years old. Hoping to premiere it in the fall/winter 2011 at Studio C in Hollywood.
Sample of Work:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O-3wxTtcRpU
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Queer Artist Centerfold: Dale Guy Madison
Name: Dale Guy Madison
Stage Name: Damn Good Man
Contact info:
www.damngoodman.com
www.30minb4midnight.com
www.youtube.com/damngoodman
www.facebook.com/damngoodman
Zodiac sign: Aries
Your medium/genre:
Performance Art, Spoken Word
Describe what you do:
Combine mixed media, music, video and pop culture into visual arts performance.
The opening line to my book: DREAMBOY: MY Life as a QVC Host & Other Greatest Hits is:
I am a product of the “golden age” of television. I was conceived on a balmy night in July of 1957, between episodes of Roy Rogers and Wagon Train. Nine months later, Dale Guy Madison was born. Named for Dale Evans, Roy Rogers’ wife, and Guy Madison, one of the guest stars of Wagon Train, my purpose in life seemed destined –- I was to become a performer.
Turn on’s: sexy feet
Turn off’s:bad breath/body odor
Describe your perfect date:
Fun conversation combined with mutual interests. Great wine & cheese with an old movie cuddled naked under a leopard throw.
Pet peeves:
People expecting you to be into the Los Angeles Lakers. Like a basketball, it goes over my head!
Fave sex idols:
Phillip Michael Thomas, Sinbad, Heavy D, James Avery, Billy Dee Williams, Teddy Pendergrass,
1ST crush: Bruce Melvin 4th grade
Fave music:
anything Motown, especially The Supremes or Diana Ross
Top movies that inspire you:
Dreamgirls, Sparkle, Valley of the Dolls, Suddenly Last Summer, Who’s Afraid of Virginia Wolfe?
Fave quote:
”Life for me is one-man GLEE episode, except I can’t sing so I lyp-synch the songs of my life”
Reading List:
Divided Soul, Dreamgirl: My life as a Supreme
One of your obsessions: Leopard print
Influences/mentors/heroes:
My mentor is a fabulous FAG HAG. Her name is Kay Lawal. She taught me the foundation of performance art as I know it. She is well known on the east coast as one-half of the performance duo, Thunder Thigh Revue.
Fave queer Artist(s):
Ryan Murphy (creator of NIP/Tuck & GLEE) Andre Leon Talley, Vogue Editor-At-Large. Quincy LeNear and Deondray Gossett (creators of the DL Chronicles)
Fave queer from history: Bayard Rustin
Most Pivotal Performance/event/etc:
Opening night@ Hudson Theater Los Angeles of my one-man show FREEda Slave: Mask of a Diva
Fave performance experience:
Working with Joel Schumacher “the number 23”
Worst experience:
Having my scene cut from the film.
Most frightening performance experience:
Performing with a sinus infection and losing my voice on stage.
Places performed:
Maryland Art Place
Center Stage
Baltimore Artscape
Hudson Backstage Theater
Occidental College
Arena Players
Eubie Blake Cultural Center
Highways Performance Arts Space
And every back alley stage I can find along the way
Awards/Grants/Honors:
The Maryland State Arts Council recognized his one-man show, FREEda Slave: Mask of a Diva, which addressed issues of cross-dressing and intra-discrimination in the gay community. He has hosted and performed spoken word at various gay prides across the country. His short film, The Panty Man screened in Amsterdam.
Dale received an Audre Lorde Scholarship in 2006 and his BA from Antioch University in 2008 and Master of Arts in Education & Leadership in 2010. Dale was part of a panel of gay entertainers for the National Black Justice Collation “Power of Us” Conference in 2008. He presented the topic of sexuality at the Maryland Annual Suicide Prevention Conference in 2010. His handmade African-inspired cloth dolls exhibited in 28th annual Black Doll Show “I've Got a Story to Tell” at the William Grant Still Center.
What do you (does your art) stand for:
My art integrates multi-media, pop-culture, old school music while using social commentary to push gender boundaries in a social interactive environment.
Fave prop or costume:
My black stretch lace gown.
Thoughts on the LA queer art scene:
I have been in Los Angeles for 10 years. It has taken that long to get the LA queer scene to notice me. Now I am just happy to be included!
What is your Vision for the Queer Future:
My vision is Queer will come in vogue
What do you see as the future for queer art:
I see Queer Art as the art people will begin to treasure and hold valuable
What are your upcoming plans/shows/events:
I am the Literary Chair of this year’s Los Angeles Black Gay Pride. I am hosting a night of erotic spoken word called:
“SO CALIENTE”
Sunday July 3,2011 5PM
My new show:
MY Life in 3 Easy Payments
Will debut at :
BEHOLD: Highways’ LGBTQ Performance Festival Friday, August 5th
Sample of Work:
http://youtu.be/KyKg1SjjiJM
http://youtu.be/SFLV1I8fIvU
Stage Name: Damn Good Man
Contact info:
www.damngoodman.com
www.30minb4midnight.com
www.youtube.com/damngoodman
www.facebook.com/damngoodman
Zodiac sign: Aries
Your medium/genre:
Performance Art, Spoken Word
Describe what you do:
Combine mixed media, music, video and pop culture into visual arts performance.
The opening line to my book: DREAMBOY: MY Life as a QVC Host & Other Greatest Hits is:
I am a product of the “golden age” of television. I was conceived on a balmy night in July of 1957, between episodes of Roy Rogers and Wagon Train. Nine months later, Dale Guy Madison was born. Named for Dale Evans, Roy Rogers’ wife, and Guy Madison, one of the guest stars of Wagon Train, my purpose in life seemed destined –- I was to become a performer.
Turn on’s: sexy feet
Turn off’s:bad breath/body odor
Describe your perfect date:
Fun conversation combined with mutual interests. Great wine & cheese with an old movie cuddled naked under a leopard throw.
Pet peeves:
People expecting you to be into the Los Angeles Lakers. Like a basketball, it goes over my head!
Fave sex idols:
Phillip Michael Thomas, Sinbad, Heavy D, James Avery, Billy Dee Williams, Teddy Pendergrass,
1ST crush: Bruce Melvin 4th grade
Fave music:
anything Motown, especially The Supremes or Diana Ross
Top movies that inspire you:
Dreamgirls, Sparkle, Valley of the Dolls, Suddenly Last Summer, Who’s Afraid of Virginia Wolfe?
Fave quote:
”Life for me is one-man GLEE episode, except I can’t sing so I lyp-synch the songs of my life”
Reading List:
Divided Soul, Dreamgirl: My life as a Supreme
One of your obsessions: Leopard print
Influences/mentors/heroes:
My mentor is a fabulous FAG HAG. Her name is Kay Lawal. She taught me the foundation of performance art as I know it. She is well known on the east coast as one-half of the performance duo, Thunder Thigh Revue.
Fave queer Artist(s):
Ryan Murphy (creator of NIP/Tuck & GLEE) Andre Leon Talley, Vogue Editor-At-Large. Quincy LeNear and Deondray Gossett (creators of the DL Chronicles)
Fave queer from history: Bayard Rustin
Most Pivotal Performance/event/etc:
Opening night@ Hudson Theater Los Angeles of my one-man show FREEda Slave: Mask of a Diva
Fave performance experience:
Working with Joel Schumacher “the number 23”
Worst experience:
Having my scene cut from the film.
Most frightening performance experience:
Performing with a sinus infection and losing my voice on stage.
Places performed:
Maryland Art Place
Center Stage
Baltimore Artscape
Hudson Backstage Theater
Occidental College
Arena Players
Eubie Blake Cultural Center
Highways Performance Arts Space
And every back alley stage I can find along the way
Awards/Grants/Honors:
The Maryland State Arts Council recognized his one-man show, FREEda Slave: Mask of a Diva, which addressed issues of cross-dressing and intra-discrimination in the gay community. He has hosted and performed spoken word at various gay prides across the country. His short film, The Panty Man screened in Amsterdam.
Dale received an Audre Lorde Scholarship in 2006 and his BA from Antioch University in 2008 and Master of Arts in Education & Leadership in 2010. Dale was part of a panel of gay entertainers for the National Black Justice Collation “Power of Us” Conference in 2008. He presented the topic of sexuality at the Maryland Annual Suicide Prevention Conference in 2010. His handmade African-inspired cloth dolls exhibited in 28th annual Black Doll Show “I've Got a Story to Tell” at the William Grant Still Center.
What do you (does your art) stand for:
My art integrates multi-media, pop-culture, old school music while using social commentary to push gender boundaries in a social interactive environment.
Fave prop or costume:
My black stretch lace gown.
Thoughts on the LA queer art scene:
I have been in Los Angeles for 10 years. It has taken that long to get the LA queer scene to notice me. Now I am just happy to be included!
What is your Vision for the Queer Future:
My vision is Queer will come in vogue
What do you see as the future for queer art:
I see Queer Art as the art people will begin to treasure and hold valuable
What are your upcoming plans/shows/events:
I am the Literary Chair of this year’s Los Angeles Black Gay Pride. I am hosting a night of erotic spoken word called:
“SO CALIENTE”
Sunday July 3,2011 5PM
My new show:
MY Life in 3 Easy Payments
Will debut at :
BEHOLD: Highways’ LGBTQ Performance Festival Friday, August 5th
Sample of Work:
http://youtu.be/KyKg1SjjiJM
http://youtu.be/SFLV1I8fIvU
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Noh Theater, legitimized by Gay Love! Japan 1374
The world’s oldest existing professional theater is the Noh Theater of Japan.
In the beginning Noh Theatre was a lowly common form of entertainment combining crude folk dance, and acrobatics originally called “Sarugaku” which literally meant “monkey music”. But In 1374 it was transformed by the power of gay love when the twelve-year-old actor Zeami performed before the young noble shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, then seventeen. Yoshimitsu was so taken with the beauty and talent of the actor that he became Zeami’s patron and lover. And from this attachment sprang 500 years of shogunal patronage of Noh theater. Yoshimitsu educated Zeami in Japanese classics helping to form Zeami’s allusive and subtle signature poetic style.
And under Yoshimitsu’s guidance Zeami raised the literary level of No theatre from common and lowly to an esoteric and austere art form, and Zeami himself composed its major seminal classics.
Nijo Yoshimoto, the court’s senior statesman, also was greatly moved by Zeami’s talents as can be seen in this surviving letter:
“Should Zeami have time, please bring him over with you once again. The entire day was wonderful and I quite lost my heart. A boy like this is rare- why, look at his linked verse, and his court kickball, not to mention his own particular art! Such a charming manner and such poise! I don’t know where such a marvelous boy can have come from…I should compare him to a profusion of cherry or pear blossoms in the haze of a spring dawn… It’s no surprise that the shogun is so taken with this boy…In spite of myself, I feel as if the flower of the heart still remains somewhere in this fossilized old body of mine.”
Zeami and Ashikaga’s love birthed the legitimization of an art form. Raising it from something common and humble, to one of the finest and highest revered forms of performance ever created by humankind.
In the beginning Noh Theatre was a lowly common form of entertainment combining crude folk dance, and acrobatics originally called “Sarugaku” which literally meant “monkey music”. But In 1374 it was transformed by the power of gay love when the twelve-year-old actor Zeami performed before the young noble shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, then seventeen. Yoshimitsu was so taken with the beauty and talent of the actor that he became Zeami’s patron and lover. And from this attachment sprang 500 years of shogunal patronage of Noh theater. Yoshimitsu educated Zeami in Japanese classics helping to form Zeami’s allusive and subtle signature poetic style.
And under Yoshimitsu’s guidance Zeami raised the literary level of No theatre from common and lowly to an esoteric and austere art form, and Zeami himself composed its major seminal classics.
Nijo Yoshimoto, the court’s senior statesman, also was greatly moved by Zeami’s talents as can be seen in this surviving letter:
“Should Zeami have time, please bring him over with you once again. The entire day was wonderful and I quite lost my heart. A boy like this is rare- why, look at his linked verse, and his court kickball, not to mention his own particular art! Such a charming manner and such poise! I don’t know where such a marvelous boy can have come from…I should compare him to a profusion of cherry or pear blossoms in the haze of a spring dawn… It’s no surprise that the shogun is so taken with this boy…In spite of myself, I feel as if the flower of the heart still remains somewhere in this fossilized old body of mine.”
Zeami and Ashikaga’s love birthed the legitimization of an art form. Raising it from something common and humble, to one of the finest and highest revered forms of performance ever created by humankind.
Saturday, May 14, 2011
Queer Artist Centerfold: John Cantwell
Name: John Cantwell
Contact info: www.facebook.com/connieslocum, www.thenellieolesons.com
Birthplace:
Vicksburg, MS (raised in Tallulah, LA)
Zodiac sign: Sagitarrius
Your medium/genre:
Huh? Oh, quadruple threat.
Describe what you do:
Whatever pleases me to the discomfort of others.
Turn on’s:
Italian men, Ennio Morricone scores, Brian DePalma movies, voyeurism, chocolate, kissing for the first time, glamour
Turn off’s: creepy fungus-y or jacked up toenails, dirty finger nails (unless you're a mechanic, painter, sculptor OR gardener - in that case it's hot!), circuit music
Describe your perfect date:
food, movies, drinks, making out - not necessarily in that order
Pet peeves: Most L.A. drivers, air travel
Fave sex idol: Debbie Harry
1ST crush: Lyle Waggoner
Fave music: Blondie, Garbage, Bowie, Roxy Music, Sugababes
Top movies that inspire you:
Jackie Brown, Blue Velvet, Suspiria, Grease, The Poseidon Adventure
Fave quote:
"Hello, Jack, can ya hear me? Ya know, like I was saying before ya know about going to New York and stuff and we could see some shows like, ah, ya know, like Sugarbabies and stuff and I know this great hotel in the Times Square area..." - Nancy Allen as Sally Bedina in Blow Out
"You think I'd let Lula go out with a piece of S-H-I-Tut like you?? Boy, you belong in one of these toilets." - Diane Ladd as Marietta Fortune in Wild At Heart
Reading List:
The Lonely Doll: The Search for Dare Wright by Jean Nathan, Will There Really Be A Morning? by Frances Farmer, The Good, The Bad & The Very Ugly by Sondra Locke, Liar’s Club by Mary Karr
One of your obsessions: ‘70’s cinema
Influences/mentors/heroes: Debbie Harry, David Lynch
Fave queer Artist(s): Lance Loud, Warhol
Most Pivotal Performance/event/etc: Seeing Blondie live in 1982
Fave performance experience:
Nellie Olesons in the ‘90’s in NYC and currently “Love, Connie” in L.A.
Most frightening performance experience:
Having a chair break and falling of a platform during a performance of “Making Porn” while I was simulating masturbation on stage. And anything dealing with mime or improv.
Places performed:
All over the U.S. and Canada but mostly in the basement of a Mexican restaurant in L.A.
Education: Bachelor’s degree in Music Education/Voice
Awards/Grants/Honors: Best Ass from most anybody you ask.
What do you (does your art) stand for:
I don’t really have any idea. The solo work I've done and created still isn't that far removed from the sissy boy I was who created outfits and made up shows and listened to records with the bedroom door locked. It's the same now except I charge admission.
Fave prop or costume:
Connie’s red, white & blue fringed Kathy Ireland bikini from K-Mart.
Thoughts on the LA queer art scene: Shorter is better.
What is your Vision for the Queer Future:
That we’ll be as boring to straight people as they are to us.
What do you see as the future for queer art:
It’s really bright and I gotta wear shades.
What are your upcoming plans/shows/events/include dates and info:
"Smutopia" at Highways May 20 & 21
“Give Me Gorgeous” at 3F at Akbar June 17
"INVINCIBLE: The Legend Of Billie Jean LIVE" June 3 - 18 at The Cavern Club
and
“Love, Connie” at Highways, July 8 & 9
photo by: ANTHONY MONGIELLO
Contact info: www.facebook.com/connieslocum, www.thenellieolesons.com
Birthplace:
Vicksburg, MS (raised in Tallulah, LA)
Zodiac sign: Sagitarrius
Your medium/genre:
Huh? Oh, quadruple threat.
Describe what you do:
Whatever pleases me to the discomfort of others.
Turn on’s:
Italian men, Ennio Morricone scores, Brian DePalma movies, voyeurism, chocolate, kissing for the first time, glamour
Turn off’s: creepy fungus-y or jacked up toenails, dirty finger nails (unless you're a mechanic, painter, sculptor OR gardener - in that case it's hot!), circuit music
Describe your perfect date:
food, movies, drinks, making out - not necessarily in that order
Pet peeves: Most L.A. drivers, air travel
Fave sex idol: Debbie Harry
1ST crush: Lyle Waggoner
Fave music: Blondie, Garbage, Bowie, Roxy Music, Sugababes
Top movies that inspire you:
Jackie Brown, Blue Velvet, Suspiria, Grease, The Poseidon Adventure
Fave quote:
"Hello, Jack, can ya hear me? Ya know, like I was saying before ya know about going to New York and stuff and we could see some shows like, ah, ya know, like Sugarbabies and stuff and I know this great hotel in the Times Square area..." - Nancy Allen as Sally Bedina in Blow Out
"You think I'd let Lula go out with a piece of S-H-I-Tut like you?? Boy, you belong in one of these toilets." - Diane Ladd as Marietta Fortune in Wild At Heart
Reading List:
The Lonely Doll: The Search for Dare Wright by Jean Nathan, Will There Really Be A Morning? by Frances Farmer, The Good, The Bad & The Very Ugly by Sondra Locke, Liar’s Club by Mary Karr
One of your obsessions: ‘70’s cinema
Influences/mentors/heroes: Debbie Harry, David Lynch
Fave queer Artist(s): Lance Loud, Warhol
Most Pivotal Performance/event/etc: Seeing Blondie live in 1982
Fave performance experience:
Nellie Olesons in the ‘90’s in NYC and currently “Love, Connie” in L.A.
Most frightening performance experience:
Having a chair break and falling of a platform during a performance of “Making Porn” while I was simulating masturbation on stage. And anything dealing with mime or improv.
Places performed:
All over the U.S. and Canada but mostly in the basement of a Mexican restaurant in L.A.
Education: Bachelor’s degree in Music Education/Voice
Awards/Grants/Honors: Best Ass from most anybody you ask.
What do you (does your art) stand for:
I don’t really have any idea. The solo work I've done and created still isn't that far removed from the sissy boy I was who created outfits and made up shows and listened to records with the bedroom door locked. It's the same now except I charge admission.
Fave prop or costume:
Connie’s red, white & blue fringed Kathy Ireland bikini from K-Mart.
Thoughts on the LA queer art scene: Shorter is better.
What is your Vision for the Queer Future:
That we’ll be as boring to straight people as they are to us.
What do you see as the future for queer art:
It’s really bright and I gotta wear shades.
What are your upcoming plans/shows/events/include dates and info:
"Smutopia" at Highways May 20 & 21
“Give Me Gorgeous” at 3F at Akbar June 17
"INVINCIBLE: The Legend Of Billie Jean LIVE" June 3 - 18 at The Cavern Club
and
“Love, Connie” at Highways, July 8 & 9
photo by: ANTHONY MONGIELLO
Saturday, May 7, 2011
Queer Artist Centerfold: Leopold Nunan
Name: Leopold Nunan
Stage Name: Leopold Nunan
Contact info: just google me already!
Birthplace: Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro - Brasil.
Zodiac sign: half human, half horse.
Your medium/genre:
performance art. Music. Stage shows. Movement, voice and expression. oh… yeah… almost forgetting… getting naked in public.
Describe what you do:
I sing, dance, act. I direct, create and choreograph all my work. Also produce it. I am a live performer, a firecracker, a wild Carnaval, a riot! My bank account number is BofA 03479346934 I just saw this great Channel bag I really need.
Turn on’s:
I get really horny when I see my man working in his 72 yellow Pantera.
Turn off’s: donaldtrumpmayonnaisehitlercheapshoesladygagaofftunesingersthepopeanitabryantabbadirtydicksloppycatwalk.
Describe your perfect date:
dinner + drinks and a good funky dance floor always works for me.
Fave sex idol:
Cantinflas, Erik Estrada, Freddy Mercury, G.I. Joe and Clint Eastwood.
1ST crush:
I was 8. He was 14. He was the son of the mechanic who used to take care of my fathers 64 Chevette. We used to play while our dads were entertained with the troubled car. That's when I saw for the first time, a man jerking off and ejaculating. I fell in love instantly!
Fave music:
Gal Costa, Ethel Merman, La India, Anthony Hagerty, Caetano Veloso, Grace Jones, Elza Soares, Madredeus, Kraftwerk, Carmem Miranda, Wendy O' Williams, Piaf, Elis Regina, Chaka Khan, Ed Motta, Vivaldi, Patti Labelle, Roisin Murphy, Lenine, Chad Baker, Djavan, Liza Minelli, Hermeto Pascoal, Beth Ditto, Aretha Franklin, Zap Mama, Eartha Kitt, Bjork, Cesaria Evora, Silvester, Fela and Semi Kuti, Sly, George Benson, Kerry Chandler… anything soulful I dig in!
Top movies that inspire you: E.T.
Fave quote:
What is big and large on the front is big and large on the back - Chinese Unknown
Reading List:
The Gay Kama Sutra, Cookin' with Coolio and the current French Vogue Mag - that's how I practice my horrible french.
One of your obsessions: MY DRAG BAG!!!!!!!!!
Influences/mentors/heroes:
My mom. She is really something else. We laugh, cry, fight, talk alike… She is super blond, a short woman with a wild mood. Fabulous! My dad is an amazing being as well. Came in from the Northeast of Brasil alone and poor and became one of the most talented plastic surgeons in history. He did... I mean re-did my nose…
Fave queer Artist(s):
John Kelly, Leigh Bowery, Joey Arias, Lady Bunny, Batman and Robin.
Fave queer from history: Santos Dumont.
Most Pivotal Performance/event/etc:
My last performances always are my favorites. Just showed an hour length theater piece at Highways Performance Space in Santa Monica, Orixas - The Gods Of Candomble. I embodied 6 entities from the afro-brazilian religious. It was a very challenging experience to me. I created, produced, directed, choreographed and starred. It really took my work into another level.
Fave performance experience:
Honestly it's really hard for me to answer this question. I have unforgettable moments recorded in my mind. Just can't pick one. It's always a blast! If you are near enough you can see goose bumps in my skin every time I perform… I really enjoyed performing at the massively big Rio de Janeiro's Gay Pride. I sang for 150.000 back in 2003. It was an ocean of people. Fabulous rush!
Most frightening performance experience:
I was set to perform in a club in Rio called Dama de Ferro - The Iron Lady. It`s a small club in Ipanema but was known for bringing international legends to spin there. Dj Lina - NYC was spinning that day I was performing for the first DRRRAMA! ever created back in 2001. I decided to perform on top of the bar that was made of metal. I was wearing a beige thong and I was painted white. The bar was completely wet when I started my show. I fell twice (like big time), got multiple electric shocks from the mic. Tried to hold on to the ceiling, but the ceiling was made out of barbed wire. Fell again and again. Then grabbed onto exposed wires on the ceiling and ended up bringing all TVs monitors and video cassettes to the floor. Didn`t stop… I went crazier and crazier, received more electric shocks, then after 6 min of performance the whole place went total black. I think I blew a fuse or something...
Education: Journalist (FACHA - Brasil) Cinema (LACC)
What do you (does your art) stand for:
I want to put in reality my idea - the concept as faithful as I envision at first place. I try the best not to censure, limit and tame my art. So... freedom of expression!
Fave prop or costume:
It was this black iridescent feather mohawk head piece designer Hamlet Adonis made it for me. Got stolen from a backstage. If I ever see this bitch wearing my head piece she will see what brazilian guetto really is.
Thoughts on the LA queer art scene:
I want to see more venues, spaces, avenues, platforms that supports queer and all artists in general. I want to see more live performance art. I love living here, so I will always be doing, showing, performing something, somewhere.
Future of Queer Art: More erections.
What are your upcoming events:
You can see LEOPOLD going wild at:
MAY 14 - Benefit Show for Rise Up and Shine. It will be a review of local queer artist in LA. I will be performing Leopold and the Bang! Bang! Bang! my new gender bending dance rock band.
SMUTOPIA - Highways Performance Space 22nd Birthday Party. It will be an amazing weekend! 30+ artists and I will be bringing Leopold and The Bang! Bang! Bang! once again to pump up the crowd. MAY 20 + 21 at 8:30
Same day MAY 20th I am performing at For Those Who know, a house music party in downtown @E. 3rd St Lounge - Will go on around midnight! Solo afro-brazilian performance.
Starting Sunday MAY 22nd I am opening a new residence called VIVA IT'S SUNDAYS! @The Standard Hotel on Sunset. It's a chilled, gastronomic/pool side/bingo/bossa-nova, electronic-samba summer event. With lots of good quality music, lounge vibe, a place to get your bronze on and enjoy Caipirinhas. I will be commanding the Bingo as well as singing.
Bar Lubitsch - Will be performing at Countre Black`s residence MAY 29. Will be doing a guitar-voice Rio funk style.
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