CONTENTS

MAY 25, 2017 Volume 24 Issue 4

19 PERSONAL NARRATIVES
Phill Branch is motivated by the power of storytelling to
foster better human connections

By Doug Rule

DARYL WILSON
LOVES YOU
For more than two decades, the legendary party promoter
has thrown the biggest, brightest parties associated with
DC Black Pride. He just wants people to have
the time of their lives.
44
55
Interview by John Riley Photography by Julian Vankim

CHRIST ALMIGHTY
Signatures high-spirited production of Jesus Christ
Superstar gives glorious life to an enduring score

By Andr Hereford

SPOTLIGHT: AUDRA MCDONALD p.7 OUT ON THE TOWN p.12

PERSONAL NARRATIVES: PHILL BRANCH p.19 SCENE: HELEN HAYES p.26 THE FEED p.29
SCENE: TRANS PRIDE p.31 COMMUNITY: HOUSE PARTY p.38 SCENE: VICTORY FUND BRUNCH p.41
COVER STORY: DARYL WILSON LOVES YOU p.44 BLACK PRIDE: WORKSHOPS AND EVENTS p.49
SCENE: BLACK PRIDE AWARDS p.50 BLACK PRIDE: PARTIES p.52
GALLERY: MARKUS LPERTZ p.53 STAGE: JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR p.55 MUSIC: ERASURE p.57
NIGHTLIFE p.61 SCENE: MR & MISS CAPITAL PRIDE p.61 LISTINGS p.63
LAST WORD p.70
Real LGBTQ News and Entertainment since 1994
Editorial Editor-in-Chief Randy Shulman Art Director Todd Franson Managing Editor Rhuaridh Marr Senior Editor John Riley Contributing Editor Doug Rule
Senior Photographers Ward Morrison, Julian Vankim Contributing Illustrator Scott G. Brooks Contributing Writers Andr Hereford,
Sean Maunier, Troy Petenbrink, Kate Wingfield Webmaster David Uy Production Assistant Julian Vankim
Sales & Marketing Publisher Randy Shulman National Advertising Representative Rivendell Media Co. 212-242-6863 Distribution Manager Dennis Havrilla
Patron Saint Welmore Cook Cover Photography Julian Vankim

Metro Weekly 1775 I St. NW, Suite 1150 Washington, DC 20006 202-638-6830
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 no responsibility for unsolicited materials submitted for publication. All such submissions are subject to
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2017 Jansi LLC.

4 MAY 25, 2017 METROWEEKLY

AUTUMN DE WILDE

Spotlight

Audra McDonald
A
LREADY SHOWERED WITH MORE TONYS THAN
any other actress in Broadway history, McDonald
arrives at Strathmore to display the range of produc-
tions shes been featured in from The Gershwins Porgy and
Bess to Ragtime to Master Class to, most recently, Lady Day
at Emersons Bar and Grill, the Billie Holiday tribute she will
revive in Londons West End this summer.
Also known from her work on TV, principally as a lead
character on ABCs Private Practice, McDonald long ago
adopted a Twitter handle that reflects her staunch support
for marriage equality @AudraEqualityMC. Certainly, Im
a child, a product of what came because of civil rights, she
told Metro Weekly. Without civil rights I certainly wouldnt
have been able to do half the things Ive done. And so I feel
its just my duty to do whatever I can to help push it along to
get marriage equality for everybody.

Friday, May 26, at 8 p.m. Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda. Tickets are $45 to $105.
Call 301-581-5100 or visit strathmore.org.

MAY 25, 2017 METROWEEKLY 7

 Spotlight
NOISES OFF
A love letter to the thrilling unpredictability of the stage, this
famed farce by Tony-winning British playwright Michael
Frayn is revived in an Everyman Theatre production directed
by Vincent M. Lancisi. Deborah Hazlett and Danny Gavigan
lead a cast of eight resident company members portraying a
cast of bumbling British thespians, whose backstage buffoon-
ery during a run of the play-within-a-play Nothing On steals
the show. You can expect wall-to-wall wackiness, carefully
choreographed hijinks and sight gags including flying
sardines from a comedy that the famed former New York
Times theater critic Frank Rich once called the funniest play
written in my lifetime. To June 18. Everyman Theatre, 315
West Fayette St. Baltimore. Tickets are $43 to $64. Call 410-
752-2208 or visit everymantheatre.org.

KENNEDY CENTER OPEN HOUSE:

CELEBRATING JFK AT 100
As part of a year-long centennial celebration of the life
and legacy of its namesake, the Kennedy Center throws
its doors open for a day of free performances, activities
and events. Among the highlights on tap: the interac-
tive hip-hop show for young audiences All The Way
Live!, a National Symphony Orchestra instrument
petting zoo, Boogie Woogie Piano Man Daryl Davis
with a tribute to Chuck Berry, D.C. Bluegrass Union
and Archie Edwards Blues Foundation jam sessions,
Washington National Opera costume trunk, storytell-
er Polarbear with Mouth Open, Story Jump Out, more
than 300 singers for the National memorial Day Choral
Festival and dance from the Washington Ballet, D.C.s
contemporary ensemble Company E, vertical pioneers
Bandaloop and street movers Flexn (pictured right).
There will also be an outdoor skatepark and music
stage Finding A Line, plus community yoga and tai chi.
Saturday, May 27, from 12 to 10 p.m. Kennedy Center.
Free. Call 202-467-4600 or visit kennedy-center.org.

NATIONAL MEMORIAL DAY

CONCERT
Now in its 28th year, this concert on the U.S.
Capitol grounds, airing live on PBS, features the
National Symphony Orchestra led by Jack Everly
performing patriotic classics. Joe Mantegna
(Criminal Minds) and Gary Sinise (CSI: New York)
co-host for the 12th year, and Colin L. Powell
also returns for a special tribute to our men
and women in uniform. Other featured perform-
ers this year include Laurence Fishburne, Renee
Fleming, Vanessa Williams, Aulii Cravalho,
Scotty McCreery, Five for Fighting, John Ortiz,
Christopher Jackson, Ana Ortiz, Ronan Tynan
and Russell Watson. Sunday, May 29, at 8 p.m.
U.S. Capitol Building, West Lawn. Free. Call 202-
467-4600 or visit pbs.org/memorialdayconcert.

8 MAY 25, 2017 METROWEEKLY

 Spotlight
BLACK MASALA
D.C.s nine-piece Balkan and funk band con-
sists of members from Thievery Corporation
and is focused on having fun both on record
including 2015s I Love You Madly and live.
Next up is a performance as part of Multiflora
Productions free monthly Ivy City Live pro-
gramming at a New Orleans-themed complex.
Delawares Dogfish Head Brewing sponsors
the event with $5 seasonal brews all night.
Thursday, June 1, at 8 p.m. Big Chief, 2002
Fenwick St. NE. Free. Call 202-465-4241 or
visit blackmasala.com.

ACT@25!
Launched 25 years ago during DC Black Pride,
the African-American Collective Theater
celebrates its silver anniversary with a spe-
cial event, a readers theater festival featur-
ing 25 LGBTQ-themed short plays offered
in three distinct programs. Program A, at 3
p.m., is an early, after church/brunch show
with primarily new and seldom-seen works;
Program B, at 6 p.m., is a before- or after-din-
ner show, a little naughty and bawdy; and
Program C, at 9 p.m., is a late-night show
for the grown and sexy. Sunday, May 28.
Undercroft Theater of Mount Vernon United
Methodist Church,, 900 Massachusetts Ave.
NW. Tickets are $15 per program, or $30 for
a pass to all three. Call 240-582-0050 or visit
actat25.homesteadcloud.com.

PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN:

DEAD MEN TELL NO TALES
While theres debate about what exactly
the trailer means when it states The Final
Adventure Begins, the tone is undeniably
intriguing. Directed by Joachim Ronning and
Espen Sandberg, the latest in the series seems
to be a darker affair than the recent, silly
sequels, which is something were very much
on board with. Javier Bardem stars as Captain
Armando Salazar, a powerful and merciless
ghost pirate who stalks Johnny Depps Jack
Sparrow across the seas. If Disney gets this
right, it could breathe new life into the fran-
chise. Opens Friday, May 26. Area theaters.
Visit fandango.com. (Rhuaridh Marr)

MAY 25, 2017 METROWEEKLY 9

ENOCH CHAN

Out On The Town

DANCEAFRICA DC: 30TH ANNIVERSARY

Dance Place hosts this annual celebration paying tribute to the vibrancy of African heritage through dance, music, visual
arts, food, clothing and crafts. The core of the event is a African Marketplace, where vendors sell food and wares on the
street in front of the venue and local dance groups offer performances inside and out. Companies participating include
Soul in Motion, Coyaba Dance Theater, Dance Place Step Team, KanKouran West African Dance Co., Sankofa Dance
Theater, Ezibu Muntu and Farafina Kan. DanceAfrica also features a series of Master Classes, launching with one by
Assane Konte of KanKouran on Tuesday, May 30, at 6:30 p.m. Marketplace hours are Friday, June 2, from 6:30 to 7:30
p.m., and Saturday, June 3, and Sunday, June 4, from 12 to 7 p.m. Dance Place, 3225 8th St. NE. Tickets for stage perfor-
mances are $25 in advance or $30 at the door, and $16 for Master Classes. Call 202-269-1600 or visit danceplace.org.

Compiled by Doug Rule
FILM
BAYWATCH
Another case of Who needed this?
Dwayne Johnson and Zac Efron
lead the cast in an action-come-
dy based on the eponymous TV
series and directed by Seth Gordon.
Expect callbacks and references,
slow-motion running, red swim-
suits, and a general sense of having
wasted money on your cinema tick-
et. Now playing. Area theaters. Visit
fandango.com. (Rhuaridh Marr)
BUENA VISTA SOCIAL CLUB:
ADIOS
Lucy Walkers documentary serves
as a follow-up 18 years after Wim
Wenders original helped spark a
renaissance in Cuban dance music
and launch international careers
for many of the featured musicians.
Adios follows the five original band
members from the first film as they
embark on one final international
tour ending in their Havana home-
town. Opens Friday, May 26. Area
theaters. Visit fandango.com.
GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY 2
Guardians maintains the scrappy,
jokesy, lovable nature that made the
first film such a huge success and
such a breath of fresh air compared
with the slightly stale, formulaic
nature of Marvels other franchis-
es. With its bold colors, brilliant
soundtrack and wonderful array of
performances, it was a necessary
jolt of adrenaline to the cinematic
superhero canon. But three years
and a bigger budget later, the orig-
inality has diminished. Whats here
isnt fresh, though its still very pal-
atable. Now playing. Area theaters.
Visit fandango.com. (RM)
UNION MARKET DRIVE-IN:
HONEY, I SHRUNK THE KIDS
Union Market readies the third
round of its monthly warm weather
Drive-In Series focused on Disneys
unexpected hit in 1989, a sci-fi com-
edy directed by Joe Johnston and
starring Rick Moranis as an inventor
whose experiment on his kids goes
awry. You dont have to have a car
to take it all in just grab a viewing
spot in the free picnic area. Food
and beer are available, delivered to
you or your car window by the DC
Rollergirls. Friday, June 2. Gates at
6 p.m., with the movie starting at
sunset around 8:15 p.m. In the
parking lot at Union Market, 1305
5th St. NE. Free for walk-ups or $10
per car. Call 800-680-9095 or visit
unionmarketdc.com.
WASHINGTON JEWISH FILM
FESTIVAL
Now in its 27th year, the festival
presents traditional film screenings
as well as related cultural and edu-
cational programs at six different
theaters. Six films at this years fes-
tival are Rated LGBTQ, explor-
ing sexuality, gender and identity
on screen: Cabaret, the hit 1972
adaptation of the stage musical
classic starring Joel Grey and Liza
Minnelli, which screens Saturday,
May 27, at 12:30 p.m., at AFI Silver
Theatre; Family Commitments, an
outrageously quirky comedy about a
Jewish-Arab same-sex wedding, in
its Mid-Atlantic Premiere Saturday,
May 27, at 6:30 p.m., at Edlavitch
DCJCC; and In Between, Maysaloun
Hamouds remarkable feature
debut about three Arab-Israeli
women sharing an apartment in
the vibrant heart of Tel Aviv and
struggling with contemporary and
traditional pressures, which screens
Sunday, May 28, at 1:45 p.m., at AFI
Silver Theatre. Landmark E Street
Cinema. Festival runs to Sunday,
May 28. Tickets are $14.95 for regu-
lar screenings. Visit wjff.org.
STAGE
FEAR EATS THE SOUL
A stage adaptation of eccentric
German filmmaker Rainer Werner
Fassbinders emotionally powerful
drama about star-crossed lovers
makes its U.S. premiere and closes
out the 30th Anniversary season

12 MAY 25, 2017 METROWEEKLY


STAN BAROUH
PROOF
With echoes of the recent Oscar-nominated film Hidden Figures, Proof explores the uphill
climb a woman faces in gaining recognition in the male-dominated field of mathematics,
even when she has genetics on her side. Dawn Ursula and Craig Wallace star in David
Auburns 2001 Tony-winning play by David Auburn. To June 18. Olney Theatre Center,
2001 Olney-Sandy Spring Road, Olney, Md. Call 301-924-3400 or visit olneytheatre.org.
of internationally focused Scena
Theatre. Centered on timely top-
ics such as race, immigration and
class, Helen Hayes Award winner
Nanna Ingvarsson plays Emmi, an
older German woman who falls
in love with a younger Moroccan
migrant worker, to the appall of
everyone around them. To June 4.
Atlas Performing Arts Center, 1333
H St. NE. Tickets are $35 to $45.
Call 202-399-7993 or visit scenathe-
atre.org.
HIR
Shana Cooper directs Taylor Macs
audacious, uproarious black comedy
billed as a kitchen-sink drama cov-
ered in glitter. The story focuses
on an Iraqi war veteran who returns
to his childhood home and discov-
ers that his family has transformed,
from a formerly timid mother out
to subvert the patriarchy, to a sister
who is now a genderqueer anar-
chist, to a father who now wears
clown makeup. Emily Townley and
Mitch Hebert are part of the cast.
To June 18. Woolly Mammoth, 641
D St. NW. Call 202-393-3939 or visit
woollymammoth.net.
JAZZ
A world premiere stage adapta-
tion of Tony Morrisons exhilarat-
ing novel, following a couple who
moves from the Virginia coun-
tryside to Harlem at the turn of
the 20th century as the genre of
jazz was just beginning to flourish.
14 MAY 25, 2017 METROWEEKLY
Shanesia Davis is Violet and Leon
Addison Brown is Joe, whose later
interactions with another woman
sets off a series of violent, unfor-
givable acts. Adapted by Nambi E.
Kelley and featuring a cast of 10,
including an on-stage Trombonist.
Opens Friday, May 26. To June 25.
Baltimore Center Stage, 700 North
Calvert St., Baltimore. Tickets are
$20 to $69. Call 410-332-0033 or
visit centerstage.org.
KALEIDOSCOPE
Florence Lacey stars in the latest
Bold New Work world premiere fiendish equivocation, and a love
from partners, in life and in show,
Matt Conner and Stephen Gregory
Smith (The Turn of the Screw).
Presented by Creative Cauldron,
the musical focuses on a legendary
Broadway performer and her come-
back one-woman show, foiled as
she forgets her prepared anecdotes
and attempts to make up new ones
on the fly, as the insidious signs
of Alzheimers become increasingly
apparent. Closes Sunday, May 28.
ArtSpace Falls Church, 410 South
Maple Ave. in Falls Church. Tickets
are $20 to $30. Call 703-436-9948
or visit creativecauldron.org.
LAURA BUSH KILLED A GUY
Billed as a smart, surreal and sur-
prising reexamination of the Bush
years, upstart local theater collec-
tive Klunch offers a world premiere
written by its artistic director Ian
Allen. John Vreeke directs ris-
ing local actress Lisa Hodsoll in
a one-woman show that imagines
the former First Lady ruminating
on killing a guy in 1963 and remi-
niscing about her Texas childhood
and married life with George W. To
June 4. Caos on F, 923 F St. NW.
Tickets are $25 to $35. Call 202-215-
6993 or visit theklunch.com.
MACBETH
The provocative Tony-nominated
director Liesl Tommy (Eclipsed)
helms a production of the Bards
exploration of murderous ambition,
the men take the title, the women
of terrifying intimacy. Shakespeare
Theatre Company regular Jesse
J. Perez takes on the titular role
alongside Nikkole Salter as Lady
MacBeth. With Naomi Jacobson,
Tim Getman and David Bishins.
Closes Sunday, May 28. Sidney
Harman Hall, Harman Center for
the Arts, 610 F St. NW. Call 202-
547-1122 or visit shakespearethe-
atre.org.
MASTER CLASS
Ilona Dulaski stars in Terrence
McNallys love letter to opera
great Maria Callas in a new pro-
duction at Virginias MetroStage.
Ayana Reed is the Second Soprano
(Sharon), a role made famous by
Audra McDonald, and Joseph
Walsh plays Accompanist while
serving as music director. Emily
Honzel, Ayana Reed, Daniel Noone
and Michael Sharp round out the
cast. Nick Olcott directs. To June 11.
MetroStage, 1201 North Royal St.,
Alexandria. Tickets are $55 to $60.
Call 800-494-8497 or visit metro-
stage.org.
MERCY KILLERS
SIDE EFFECTS
Michael Milligan offers a timely,
unblinking look at health care in
America with two new plays each
told from different perspectives.
Mercy Killers focuses on those
seeking care, such as a blue-col-
lar American grappling with his
red state ideals and his sickly wife,
while Side Effects follows a doc-
tor struggling to practice medicine
as bureaucratic pressures collide
with his professional and person-
al responsibilities. Taffety Punk
Theatre Company produces the two
plays in repertory to June 3. Capitol
Hill Arts Workshop, 545 7th St. SE.
Tickets are $15. Call 202-355-9441
or visit taffetypunk.com.
OUTSIDE MULLINGAR
Keegan Theatre harkens back to
its Irish roots with a comedy by
John Patrick Shanley that poses the
question, is it ever too late to take
a chance on love? The focus is on
neighbors whose families have been
squabbling for years over a patch of
land in rural Ireland. Mark A. Rhea
directs Rena Cherry Brown, Susan
Marie Rhea, Brandon McCoy, and
Kevin Adams. Closes Sunday, May
28. Keegan Theatre, 1742 Church
St. NW. Tickets are $35 to $45. Call
202-265-3768 or visit keeganthe-
atre.com.
SHE SPEAKS!
Suburban Maryland commu-
nity theater troupe the Rude
Mechanicals presents an ambitious
production subtitled Shakespeares
Women in Their Own Words.
Leanne Stump helms a new work
that laces together the voices of the
most memorable women written by
the Bard, from Beatrices sharp wit
to Juliets broken heart. Though
oft steal the show, goes a tagline
for the production, which goes even
further by letting the fairer sex
run away with it. Opens Thursday,
June 1, at 8 p.m. Weekends to June
17. Greenbelt Arts Center, 123
Centerway. Greenbelt, Md. Tickets
are $22. Call 301-441-8770 or visit
rudemechanicals.com.
THE ARABIAN NIGHTS
Ten years ago, Constellation
Theatre Company launched its first
season with a production of Mary
Zimmermans entrancing adapta-
tion of The Arabian Nights. Now,
Founding Artistic Director Allison
Arkell Stockman closes out the 10th
anniversary season by revisiting
the companys roots and reimagin-
ing the show, once again with live
music by Tom Teasley. Veronica del
Cerro leads the ensemble as famed
storyteller Scheherazade. To June

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE BIRCHMERE
THE SELDOM SCENE
Formed over 40 years ago in Bethesda, the progressive bluegrass band Seldom Scene
remains especially popular in its hometown region. They return to Alexandrias seated
show palace to usher in Memorial Day. Sunday, May 28, at 7:30 p.m. The Birchmere, 3701
Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria. Tickets are $25. Call 703-549-7500 or visit birchmere.com.
4. Source, 1835 14th St. NW. Tickets
$20 to $45. Call 202-204-7741 or
visit constellationtheatre.org.
THE FATHER
Ted Van Griethuysen stars as an
80-year-old man whose world
starts unraveling in an original and
moving play from Florian Zeller,
one of Frances most prolific con-
temporary playwrights, translated
by two-time Tony Award winner
Christopher Hampton. The Father
won a Moliere Award, the French
equivalent of the Tony, in 2014.
Kate Eastwood Norris, Caroline
Dubberly, Erika Rose, Manny
Buckley, and Daniel Harray also
star. David Muse directs. To June
18. Studio Theatre, 14th & P Streets
NW. Call 202-332-3300 or visit stu-
diotheatre.org.
THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE
DAME
Synetic Theaters Founding Artistic
Director Paata Tsikurishvili brings
his mind-bending, cinematic style to
Victor Hugos gothic, heartbreaking
epic relayed, like many Synetic
productions, in wordless fash-
ion, stripped of Hugos dialogue.
Vato Tsikurishvili is Quasimodo,
Phillip Fletcher is Frollo, and Irina
Kavsadze is Esmeralda. To June 11.
Synetic Theater, 1800 South Bell St.,
Arlington. Tickets are $35 to $60.
Call 800-494-8497 or visit synet-
ictheater.org.
TIMON OF ATHENS
Sparing no expense on lavish par-
16 MAY 25, 2017 METROWEEKLY
ties, expensive gifts and charity,
the abundantly generous Timon
suffers a downturn of fortune and
friendship in Shakespeares tragic
satire. Director Robert Richmond
sets the action in modern times,
where technology has taken over
and high finance takes place online.
Ian Merrill Peakes stars in the final
production of Folger Theatres
25th anniversary season. To June
11. Folger Shakespeare Library, 201
East Capitol St. SE. Tickets are $35
to $75. Call 202-544-7077 or visit
folger.edu.
ULYSSES ON BOTTLES
The culmination of its second sea-
son, Mosaic Theater Company
presents the 2017 Voices From a
Changing Middle East Festival in
the 50th year since the Six Day War
and the start of the Occupation.
The festival launches with Israeli
playwright Gilad Evrons poet-
ic and poignant allegory about an
Israeli-Arab ex-teachers attempts
to sail into Gaza on a raft made
of plastic bottles. Serge Seiden
directs Michael Kevin Darnall as
Ulysses, an anonymous school-
teacher locked in an Israeli prison
for a fanciful attempt to smuggle
Russian literature to the children
of Gaza, and Matthew Boston as an
attorney assigned to defend him.
Sarah Marshall, Elizabeth Pierotti
and Chris Genebach round out the
ensemble cast of Ulysses on Bottles,
as translated by Evan Fallenberg.
To June 11. Atlas Performing Arts
Center, 1333 H St. NE. Tickets are
$20 to $60. Call 202-399-7993 or
visit mosaictheater.org.
MUSIC
BROODS
Brother-sister duo Georgia and
Caleb Nott are the reigning young
pop act from New Zealand aside
from Lorde, whos a co-writer on
one of the strong synth-pop songs
(Heartlines) on Broods smashing
sophomore set Conscious released
last summer. Swedish sensation
Tove-Lo also shows up on Freak
of Nature, dueting with Georgia,
whose breathy voice is similar to
Ellie Goulding. The Kiwis offered an
extensive U.S. tour last year, includ-
ing a stop at the 9:30 Club. But if you
missed that, you get another chance
though youll have to journey to
Baltimore. Tuesday, June 6, at 8
p.m. Rams Head Live, 20 Market
Place. Tickets are $22 in advance,
or $25 day-of. Call 410-244-1131 or
visit ramsheadlive.com.
CAPITAL JAZZ FEST
As much about pop and R&B/soul
as it is jazz, this annual three-day
festival returns to Merriweather
and kicks off Friday, June 2,
with gates at 6:30 p.m., for per-
formances by Charlie Wilson and
Robin Thicke. Highlights to come
Saturday, June 3, include Corinne
Bailey Rae, Jaheim, El Debarge,
Avery*Sunshine, Pieces of a Dream
and Kelly Price, while Sunday, June
4, offers George Benson, Anthony
Hamilton, Chris Botti, Sheila E,
Loose Ends, Maysa and the headlin-
ing hunk from this years DC Black
Pride, rapper Tank. Merriweather
Post Pavilion, 10475 Little Patuxent
Parkway, Columbia. Tickets are
$64.50 to $115. Call 800-551-SEAT
or visit capitaljazz.com.
COLOR PALETTE
Though a monthly series co-pre-
sented by D.C.-based podcast and
website Hometown Sounds, the
Kennedy Center presents this local
synth-rock band comprised of Jay
Nemeyer, Joshua Hunter, Matt
Hartenau, Rogerio Naressi and
Maryjo Mattea. Color Palette tours
in support of its latest release, Live at
Bender Arena, a four-track EP drawn
from a performance on the campus
of American University. Tuesday,
May 30, at 6 p.m. Millennium Stage.
Free. Call 202-467-4600 or visit ken-
nedy-center.org.
CONGRESSIONAL CHORUS:
MUSIC WITHOUT BORDERS
The 160 voices from this family of
choruses will unite for the 30th
season closer, a diverse celebration
focused on the power of music, the
international language, to tear down
the walls that divide nations. The
centerpiece of the concert is the
D.C. premiere of Calling All Dawns
by Grammy-winning Chinese-
American composer Christopher
Tin. A 12-movement song cycle in
12 languages, this lush, cinematic
masterwork is inspired by musi-
cal traditions from every corner
of our planet and includes texts
drawn from both sacred and sec-
ular sources, from Japanese haiku
to Portuguese poetry, the Latin
mass to Maori proverbs. Also on
tap is Ethan Sperrys a capella cho-
ral arrangement of A.R. Rahmans
Oscar- and Grammy-winning song
Jai Ho! from Slumdog Millionaire.
Saturday, June 3, at 7:30 p.m.
National City Christian Church, 5
Thomas Circle NW. Tickets are $15
to $30. Call 202-347-2635 or visit
congressionalchorus.org.
FIFTH HARMONY
Dubbed Americas most popular
girl group by Rolling Stone, the
former X Factor contestants come
to Wolf Trap to perform from their
catchy repertoire of hits including
Work From Home, Worth It
and Thats My Girl. Saturday,
May 27, at 8 p.m. The Filene
Center at Wolf Trap, 1551 Trap
Road, Vienna. Tickets are $35 to
$65. Call 877-WOLFTRAP or visit
wolftrap.org.
GAY MENS CHORUS: AND THE
TONY GOES TO
You might say the gay mens cho-
rus singing Broadway, what else
is new? Yet Thea Kano of the
Gay Mens Chorus of Washington
explains that for its spring con-
cert, the group isnt just singing
Broadway. A concept conceived by
the choruss longtime stage director
John Moran, who died last year,
the Tony-themed show traces the
history of gays and gay issues in the
musical theater. It all started with
the death of Judy Garland in 1969.
That was, of course, the impetus
for the LGBTQ movement, Kano
says, but it was also the impe-
tus for gay [actors and characters]
showing up on the Broadway stage.
That same year ushered in what
is touted as the first openly gay
character on Broadway, the flam-
boyant gay villain in Andre Previn
and Alan Jay Lerners musical Coco.

PHOTO COURTESY OF STORY DISTRICT

Later came Seesaw, a musical about
a gay choreographer that earned
its star Tommy Tune a Tony in
1974, followed the next year by
the Tony-winning blockbuster A
Chorus Line with two more gay
characters. Frank Shutts directs
and Craig Cipollini and James Ellzy
co-choreograph the concert featur-
ing the full chorus, the GenOUT
Chorus, the 17th Street Dance and
vocal ensembles Potomac Fever and

PERSONAL NARRATIVES
Seasons of Love. Saturday, June 3,
at 8 p.m., and Sunday, June 4, at
3 p.m. Lincoln Theatre, 1215 U St.
NW. Tickets are $25 to $65. Call
202-888-0050 or visit gmcw.org.
Phill Branch is motivated by the power of storytelling to foster
JMSN better human connections
A few years ago Usher proclaimed

Albanian-American singer-song-
writer Christian Berishaj, better
known as JMSN, as his favorite
new act. Yet the music of the pro-
lific alt-R&B/blue-eyed soul artist
from Michigan has only gotten
better over time. A kindred spir-
it of the Weeknd, drawing obvi-
ous influence from Prince and
Radiohead, to name two, JMSN
pronounced like the Irish whiskey
brand returns to D.C. to support
his fourth solo set, Whatever Makes
You Happy. Tuesday, May 30. Doors
at 7 p.m. 9:30 Club, 815 V St. NW.
Tickets are $20. Call 202-265-0930
or visit 930.com.
JOHN PIZZARELLI
John Pizzarelli has established him-
self as one of the prime interpreters
of the Great American Songbook
and early rock and pop, putting jazz
guitar spins on tunes from Rodgers,
Gershwin, Lennon and McCartney,
and Jobim. But Nat King Cole is
his biggest inspiration. Thursday,
June 1, through Sunday, June 4,
at 8 and 10 p.m. Blues Alley, 1073
Wisconsin Ave. NW. Tickets are
$45, plus $12 minimum purchase.
Call 202-337-4141 or visit bluesal-
ley.com.
OTTMAR LIEBERT
& LUNA NEGRA
A German guitarist and songwrit-
er performs with his band origi-
nal Spanish-influenced New Age
instrumental music. Lieberts new
album Slow celebrates the positive
impact on heart rate and blood
pressure that some studies have
suggested can result from listening
I
N HIS HOUR-LONG DOCUMENTARY SEARCHING FOR SHANIQUA, PHILL BRANCH EXPLORES
the bias that people face when they have names that are considered to be ghetto. I have these
women and men talk about their own personal experiences with their names, he says. And what
happens is, [viewers] realize, I make fun of this name. But when I do that, theres a real human being sort of
judged, whos being hurt, whos not getting a job, whos not being considered for opportunities.
Searching for Shaniqua made the rounds of the festival circuit last year, winning the HBO Award at
Marthas Vineyard African American Film Festival. Its also spawned an unexpected side gig for Branch:
The Howard University English professor has been consulting for corporations, universities and health care
entities, sharing lessons about diversity, inclusion and implicit bias that hes learned as a direct result of
the film.
Branch was motivated to make his documentary for all the people in his life whose names are far more
out of the ordinary than his own, from his brother, Abdul Kadir Mustafa, to his students at Howard, to
the eight children he and his husband have fostered in their home in Baltimore. I look at these kids, who
already, by the age of two, have had rougher lives than some people live by the time theyre 90, he says.
And I think about these kids surviving what they have to survive and then going on a job interview and
someone still not seeing their worth because of their name. So its very personal to me, because its impacting
the people who I love.
For Branch, the power and resonance of Searching for Shaniqua boils down to its focus on storytelling
and his own passion for the craft of sharing personal stories, including through the popular D.C. organi-
zation Story District.
At a Story District show, there may be 500 people in the audience and someone is talking about the
struggles of being a trans woman, he says. Not preaching about it theyre not telling you youre wrong
because you believe this or that. Theyre just telling you what its like to be them. I think that has so much
impact on people.
Branch has shared six or seven of his own experiences through Story District, including a riff on aging
as a gay black man, Gray Matter, which the 43-year-old performed at the annual LGBTQ-themed event a
few years ago. For this years Pride show, Out/Spoken, he is directing a diverse group of eight storytellers,
helping them tease out the more interesting, entertaining and relatable aspects of their personal stories.
Im really moved by what they have to say, he says. A lot of times shows that talk about LGBTQ issues
often are about the despair, about things being so rough and bad. What I like about these stories is that
theres hope. That people see the light, that people see that things do get better, that things can be good, that
theyre making mistakes that anybody can make, that theyre making choices that anybody can make. I think
it really shows the humanity. Doug Rule
Out/Spoken is Saturday, June 4, with doors at 6 p.m. at Nightclub 9:30, 815 V St. NW.
Tickets are $22. Call 202-265-0930 or visit storydistrict.com.

MAY 25, 2017 METROWEEKLY 19

to what he calls slow music, oth-
erwise known as easy listening or
smooth jazz. Friday, May 26, at 7:30
p.m. The Birchmere, 3701 Mount
Vernon Ave., Alexandria. Tickets
are $35. Call 703-549-7500 or visit
birchmere.com.

DANCE
THE WASHINGTON BALLET:
FRONTIER
The Washington Ballet premieres
a commission by choreographer
Ethan Stiefel, featuring music by
Adam Crystal performed by the

PHOTO COURTESY OF UNION MARKET

Washington Ballet Orchestra con-
ducted by Martin West. Inspired by
President John F. Kennedy and his
aspirations for America to be a lead-
er of artistic, cultural and intellectu-
al excellence, Stiefels work is per-
formed as part of a JFK Centennial
Celebration program also including
works by Antony Tudor and Sir
Frederick Ashton. Thursday, May
25, and Friday, May 26, at 7:30 p.m.,
and Saturday, May 27, at 1:30 and
7:30 p.m. Kennedy Center Opera
House. Tickets are $25 to $140. Call
202-467-4600 or visit kennedy-cen-
ter.org.
READINGS
WHOOPI GOLDBERG
A rare opportunity to catch the
comedy and acting legend in an inti-
mate setting for her thought-pro-
voking commentary including a
Q&A with the audience. From The
Color Purple and Ghost to The View
today, Goldberg has shown her
versatility as an actress, comedian
and talk show host and is part of
the elite group of artists who have
won Grammy, Oscar, Golden Globe,
Emmy and Tony Awards. Saturday,
May 27, at 8 p.m. Music Center at
Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane,
North Bethesda. Tickets are $65
to $130. Call 301-581-5100 or visit
strathmore.org.
EXHIBITS
AMENDING AMERICA
Featuring more than 50 origi-
nal documents from the National
Archives, this exhibit highlights the
remarkably American story of how
we have amended, or attempted to
amend, the Constitution in order
to form a more perfect union. Of
course it all started 226 years ago
when the Bill of Rights was rati-
fied, addressing some of the most
pressing issues of the day that are
still very much timely. Since then,
there have been 11,000 proposed
amendments but only 17 rati-
fied. Through Sept. 4. Lawrence
F. OBrien Gallery of the National
Archives Museum, Constitution
Avenue at 9th Street NW. NW. Call
202-357-5000 or visit archives.gov/
museum.
SUNDAY SUPPER BENEFIT AT UNION MARKET
A Latin-inspired Flavors of the Americas food event celebrates community and com-
munal dining as well as being a benefit for the James Beard Foundations new Womens
Entrepreneurial Leadership Program supporting the next generation of women business
leaders. Participating chefs and cocktail masters include Jose Garces (Rural Society),
Amy Brandwein (Centrolina), Victor Albisu (Del Campo), Camila Arango and Tom
Wellings (Bluebird Bakery), Anna Bran-Leis (DC Empanada), Giana Cavaliere (Volt), Gina
Chersevani (Buffalo & Bergen), Violeta Edelman and Robb Duncan (Dolcezza), Gabriela
Febres (Arepa Zone), Mario Monte, Daniella Senior and Juan Coronado (Colada Shop),
Omar Rodriguez (Oyamel) and the team from Latin wine shop Grand Cata. Also whipping
up concoctions at this event, initiated by Jodie W. McLean of Union Markets parent
retail company Edens, is San Franciscos Traci Des Jardins (Jardiniere), Philadelphias
Douglas Rodriguez (Amada de Cuba), New Orleanss pastry chef Kelly Fields (Willa Jean)
and New Yorks Alex Raij and Eder Montero (El Quinto Pino) and Carolina Santos-Neves
(Comodo). Sunday, June 4, at 5 p.m. Union Market, 1309 5th St. NE. Tickets are $250 per
person. Call 800-680-9095 or visit unionmarketdc.com/sundaysupper.
ART14 SPRING 2017 SHOW: ing the stigmas associated with a MARCIA COPPEL: CONNECT/
MATT CORRADO, KELLY womans menstrual cycle. That DISCONNECT 2
TOWLES
includes works by Samera Paz and A former speech pathologist, Coppel
Recent works by two Washington Iman Person who use their own was inspired for her new series of
artists are featured as part of an menstrual blood as a medium. paintings by a sign she saw at an out-
ongoing series at Coldwell Banker Meanwhile, Lisa Hills installation door cafe in Mexico, Talk to Each
Dupont/Logan office, organized references the invisible inheritance Other. We dont have Wi-Fi. Some
by realtor Ericka S. Black. Local passed down from mother to off- of the whimsical, colorful works in
creative collective BL_NK WORLD spring by reproducing the shed- the show feature people talking to
curates a show featuring more than ding, scarring and regeneration of each other in cafes and at the beach,
20 original paintings. Through May skin on handmade paper. For the others are in their own worlds,
31. Coldwell Banker, 1617 14th St. performance portion of the exhibit, floating in the air as well as sitting
NW. Call 202-387-6180 or visitface- Tsedaye Makonnen focuses on the under umbrellas, and some are seat-
book.com/ErickaSBlackRealtor/. intense physicality of birth with The ed in a group with no interaction.
Crowning on Thursday, May 25, at Closes Sunday, May 28. Gallery B in
BLOODLINES: CURATED BY 6:30 p.m., while the queer, black and Touchstone Gallery, 901 New York
MARTINA DODD trans-media j collective explores Ave. NW Call 202-347-2787 or visit
Transformer offers a group exhi- the erotic complexities of menstru- touchstonegallery.com.
bition of works on paper, sculp- al blood with Cosmic Meditation
ture and performance that seek on Saturday, June 3, at 8 p.m. The SPEAK YOUR MIND
to challenge the societal norms non-performative works are on dis- A show coinciding with Mental
and restraints imposed on the play through June 24. Transformer, Health Awareness Month, Virginias
female form. Works in Bloodlines 1404 P St. NW. Call 202-483-1102 or Del Ray Artisans presents works
tow the line between fascination visit transformerdc.org. by member artists celebrating the
and repulsion in directly address- relationship between art and the

MAY 25, 2017 METROWEEKLY 23

human mind as a form of nonverbal
communication. Artists were chal-
lenged to express themselves and
to address complex mental impres-
sions. Opening reception is Friday,
May 5, from 7 to 9 p.m. On exhibit
through May 28. Del Ray Artisans
Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Ave.
Alexandria. Call 703-731-8802 or
visit thedelrayartisans.org.
WOODCUT PRINTS: EVE
STOCKTON, MATT NEUMAN
Stocktons studies in science and
love of nature combine to create
a contemporary and unexpected
result: mesmerizing large-scale,
multi-layered wood block prints
representing a unique approach to a
traditional process. Neumans cur-
rent body of work focuses on color
and uses a unique combination of
painting and building techniques
to craft abstract, geometric paint-
ings that have a strong material and
sculptural presence. Closes Sunday,
May 28. Long View Gallery, 1234
9th St. NW. Call 202-232-4788 or
visit longviewgallery.com.
FOOD AND DRINK
NOPA KITCHEN+BAR: $70
WEEKEND DINNER FOR TWO
MENU
Across from the Smithsonian
American Art Museum in Penn
Quarter, this 160-seat American
brasserie, part of the same family as
24 MAY 25, 2017 METROWEEKLY
Rasika, Bibiana and the Oval Room,
should already be on your shortlist
NIGHTLIFE DC to retain the spirit and ener-
gy of the true underground sound
for brunch. On Sundays between of garage music. DJ StrikeStone!
BOOTCAMP WITH
11 a.m. and 3 p.m., each diner can kicks off the party with an explosion
DJ BARRY HARRIS
choose between an appetizer and of disco and techno. Friday, June 2,
In the late 90s and early aughts
entree or sandwich, as well as a spe- starting at 10 p.m. Green Lantern,
Barry Harris was known as the
cial mimosa or bloody Mary, for $28 1335 Green Ct. NW. Cover is $5.
gay half of sensational DJ/produc-
to $30 each (or $38 with bottomless Call 202-347-4533 or visit facebook.
tion duo Thunderpuss (with Chris
classic mimosas). Now Executive com/ottercrossing.
Cox), responsible for, among other
Chef Matt Kuhn is working to get
bombastic dance hits, the remix of
Nopa on your radar earlier in the
weekend as well, with a new dinner
Whitney Houstons Its Not Right ABOVE & BEYOND
But Its Okay that still gets regular
menu focused on composed dish-
spins at clubs the world over. Now STORY DISTRICT: OUT/SPOKEN
es designed for couples, whether
the Canadian artist (who also had a In 2010, the organization original-
lovers or close friends, reasonably
hit with I Beg Your Pardon from his ly known as SpeakeasyDC began
priced at $70 for two, before tax
debut act Kon Kan) returns to D.C. holding its first LGBTQ storytell-
and tip. Though the menu chang-
to inaugurate a new party at the DC ing night. We really wanted to
es weekly, regular options include:
Eagle, co-presented by Meat Locker offer a platform for our LGBTQ
Nopa Spring Mixed Grill, with bites
with veteran D.C./Chicago DJ Steve performers, Story District founder
of quail, fennel sausage, ribeye, red
Henderson, who will spin an opening Amy Friedman told Metro Weekly
prawns and grilled asparagus, plus
set. Saturday, May 27, starting at 9 in 2015. But more importantly, be
garlic custard and ramp salsa verde;
p.m. DC Eagle, 3701 Benning Rd. NE. part of the dialogue that was hap-
Crispy Chesapeake Soft Shell Crabs,
Tickets are $15. Call 202-347-6025 or pening at the time. Sharing hilar-
three jumbo crustaceans served
visit dceagle.com. ious or heartfelt true stories at the
with Old Bay sweet corn and crab
succotash, smoked new potatoes seventh annual Out/Spoken: Queer,
OTTER CROSSING FEAT. Questioning, Bold & Proud are:
and pickled ramps; and the stand-
THE SPREADLOVE PROJECT, Robin Katcher, Mike Boyd, Elyse
out Maine Lobster Bake, a whole
STRIKESTONE! Hannah, Patrick McBride, Darryl
lobster with Old Bay-seasoned kiel-
DJ Nav and Jett Chandon are the Smith, Sean Wells, Rebecca Kling
basa, local clams and red prawns,
featured guests at the first of two and Melvin Thomas. Saturday, June
and sides of roasted sweet corn,
pee-wee potatoes and smoked
house-loving, hirsute-oriented 3. Doors at 6 p.m. Nightclub 9:30,
Otter Crossing parties in June. The 815 V St. NW. Tickets are $22. Call
tomato butter. Available exclusive-
focus is on an incredibly bouncy, 202-265-0930 or visit storydistrict.
ly on Fridays and Saturdays during
happy variant of dance music mint- com. l
dinner service, 5 to 11 p.m., subject
ed in the U.K. in the 90s. The duo
to availability. Nopa Kitchen+Bar,
have launched a SpreadLove Project
800 F St. NW. Call 202-347-4667 or
visit nopadc.com.
 Scene
Helen Hayes Awards After Party at 9:30 Club - Monday, May 15
Photography by Free Akins
See and purchase more photos from this event at www.metroweekly.com/scene

26 MAY 25, 2017 METROWEEKLY

MAY 25, 2017 METROWEEKLY 27
 theFeed
EQUALITY CHOICE
Equality Virginia PAC and Pride Fund endorse Ralph Northam for governor By John Riley
E
QUALITY VIRGINIA ADVOCATES HAS ENDORSED
Lt. Gov. Ralph Northams bid for governor, citing his
support for pro-LGBTQ legislation. In a conference
call on Tuesday, Equality Virginia Executive Director James
Parrish painted Northam as a longtime ally with a steadfast
commitment to Virginias LGBTQ community and a shared
vision of Virginia that is free from discrimination.
Parrish pointed to his organizations positive past deal-
ings with Northam as justification for the endorsement,
following a question as to why the organization decided to
endorse in a competitive primary.
Northam, who faces former Congressman Tom Perriello
(D-Va.) in the Democratic primary, served as a state senator
representing parts of Norfolk, Virginia Beach, and Virginias
Eastern Shore prior to his election as lieutenant governor in
2013. As a candidate, he endorsed marriage equality prior to
its legalization, and as lieutenant governor he has used his
tie-breaking vote to advance crucial legislation, including a bill
prohibiting anti-LGBTQ discrimination in public employment.
Equality is a Virginia value, Northam said in a state-
ment. Thats why Ive been a committed partner to Equality
Virginias mission of making sure that every Virginian, no
matter who you are, no matter who you love, feels welcome,
safe, and free from discrimination in this commonwealth.
Equality Virginia Advocates endorsement comes just one
day after Northam received the endorsement of the Pride
Fund to End Gun Violence, a national group formed in the
wake of last years massacre at Pulse nightclub in Orlando
that pushes for reforms to national and state gun laws.
As lieutenant governor, Northam cast the deciding vote
against a bill that would have allowed people to carry con-
cealed firearms without a permit. As a state senator, he
CHECHNYAS SHAME
Russian newspaper claims three more gay men have been killed in Chechnya By John Riley
A
RUSSIAN NEWSPAPER IS REPORTING THAT
the number of gay men who have died in Chechnya
has risen to 26. Thats three more than the paper
originally reported when it broke the story of gay men being
persecuted in the region earlier this year.
Novaya Gazeta claims that one of the men killed was a
member of the Rosgvardia, Russias National Guard. The
Rosgvardia has denied that claim, according to Gay Times
Novaya Gazeta says it has handed over the informa-
tion, including a list of the names of the victims, to the
Investigative Committee of Russia, so the committee can
look into the claims. The committee has said it is in a pre-in-
vestigation stage.
The Chechen capital of Groznys police chief has denied
voted against allowing people to carry concealed weapons
in establishments that serve alcohol, and against a law that
would have allowed non-gun dealers to purchase multiple
guns within a single 30-day period.
Lieutenant Governor Ralph Northam has been a consis-
tent and strong advocate for commonsense gun safety laws
and LGBTQ equality, Jason Lindsay, the executive director
of Pride Fund, said in a statement. He supported marriage
equality long before it became the politically correct thing
to do, and he stood up to the NRA when it mattered most.
Virginians deserve a Governor like Ralph Northam who will
stand up for whats right and keep all Virginians safe.
For Democrats, the governors seat is a must-win race
this November. Given the ridiculously gerrymandered state
of districts for the House of Delegates, and the fact that the
Republican-controlled Senate isnt up for re-election until
2019, it is highly unlikely that Democrats will win the major-
ity in either chamber.
As a result, a Democratic loss would mean the loss of a
gubernatorial veto that Gov. Terry McAuliffe has used to
block discriminatory legislation. Equality supporters could
then be subjected to a flood of bills targeting the LGBTQ
community for discrimination, which would likely be signed
into effect by a Republican governor.
All three Republican candidates Ed Gillespie, Sen.
Frank Wagner (R-Virginia Beach) and Prince William
County Supervisor Corey Stewart have expressed support
for measures like a religious freedom bill allowing people
to refuse goods or services to LGBTQ people and a proposed
bathroom bill that mirrors laws in North Carolina and
Texas restricting transgender peoples ability to access pub-
lic restrooms and changing facilities. l
reports of anti-gay persecution a position embraced by
Chechen President Ramzan Kadyrov and the Kremlin and
has spoken in favor of holding a gay parade in the majori-
ty-Muslim Russian republic.
Novaya Gazeta also reported that families of the men
who had been detained were forced to sign agreements that
the men had left the region of their own accord. As a result,
there is no record of official complaint something Russian
officials noted when they determined that there were no
victims of persecution in Chechnya, and that some of the
sites where men say they were held against their will were
common storerooms or businesses.
Relatives have been asked to contact the victims to
urge them not to answer any questions if approached by
MAY 25, 2017 METROWEEKLY 29
 theFeed
investigators. Some families have also begun hunting their
relatives to met out their own form of vengeance through
honor killings.
UNDER THREAT
Indonesian police arrest 141 men at alleged gay sauna party By John Riley
I
NDONESIAN POLICE HAVE ARRESTED 141 MEN
in a weekend raid on a gay sauna. It occurred just one
day before two other men were caned for engaging in
same-sex relations. Authorities have alleged they broke up a
sex party, which had been promoted as The Wild One at
Atlantis Gym & Sauna in Jakarta, according to The Guardian.
A police spokesman confirmed the number of men arrested,
including the owner and several performers. He said the
men who were arrested could be charged under Indonesias
anti-pornography law.
Human rights activists are alarmed at what seems to be an
increase in government-backed raids, using the anti-pornog-
raphy statute to target LGBTQ websites and gatherings. They
have also expressed concern over reports of anti-gay discrim-
ination and attacks in the past months.
Human Rights Watch has previously called on Indonesian
President Joko Widodo to intervene, and has criticized him
for giving lip service to equal rights while failing to stop anti-
gay harassment.
Indonesian police are again violating the basic rights
of LGBT people by invading their privacy, Phelim Kine,
30 MAY 25, 2017 METROWEEKLY
Earlier this week, Chechnya was accused of committing
genocide against gay people in a complaint filed with the
International Criminal Court. l
the deputy Asia director at Human Rights Watch, said in a
statement following the Surabaya raid. So long as the gov-
ernment permits police raids on private gatherings under a
discriminatory law, it will fail to curb anti-LGBT harassment
and intimidation. President Jokowi should make good on
his commitments to protect privacy rights and put an end to
state-sanctioned discrimination.
Homosexuality is not technically illegal in Indonesia,
but the province of Aceh does enforce Sharia law. Recently,
two men were arrested on suspicion of homosexuality and
convicted of sodomy. They were sentenced to 85 lashes
with a cane, carried out in public on Tuesday the first
time the provinces courts have sentenced people to flog-
ging for homosexuality.
Jessica Stern, the executive director of OutRight Action
International, said in a statement: What is happening in
Indonesia is dangerous and scary. Officials are using their own
personal biases on morality to oppress different groups and
especially LGBTIQ people....LGBTIQ Indonesians are equal
citizens and must not be singled out and oppressed simply for
who they love or who they are. l
Scene
Capital Trans Pride at Studio Theatre - Sunday, May 20
Photography by Ward Morrison
See and purchase more photos from this event at www.metroweekly.com/scene

MAY 25, 2017 METROWEEKLY 31

32 MAY 25, 2017 METROWEEKLY

THURSDAY, May 25
The DC ANTI-VIOLENCE
PROJECT, a group dedicated
to combating anti-LGBT hate
crimes, holds its monthly meet-
ing at The DC Center. 7-8:30
PHOTO COURTESY OF WOODY
p.m. 2000 14th St. NW, Suite
105. For more information, visit
thedccenter.org.
The DC Center hosts a reunion
of the LATINX LGBTQI
COALITION, to discuss issues
affecting queer Latinos. 7-8:30
p.m. 2000 14th St. NW, Suite
105. For more information, visit
thedccenter.org.
The DC Center hosts a monthly
meeting of the LGBTQ AGING
FOCUS GROUP, intended for
LGBTQ seniors and their care-
givers. 5-6:30 p.m. 2000 14th St.
NW, Suite 105. For more infor-
mation, visit thedccenter.org.
Weekly Events
ANDROMEDA
TRANSCULTURAL HEALTH
offers free HIV testing and HIV
services (by appointment). 9
a.m.-5 p.m. Decatur Center,
1400 Decatur St. NW. To
arrange an appointment, call
202-291-4707, or visit androm-
edatransculturalhealth.org.
DC AQUATICS CLUB practice
session at Takoma Aquatic
Center. 7:30-9 p.m. 300 Van
Buren St. NW. For more infor-
mation, visit swimdcac.org.
DC FRONT RUNNERS run-
ning/walking/social club
welcomes runners of all ability
levels for exercise in a fun and
supportive environment, with
socializing afterward. Route
distance is 3-6 miles. Meet at
7 p.m. at 23rd & P Streets NW.
For more information, visit
dcfrontrunners.org.
DC LAMBDA SQUARES gay
and lesbian square-dancing
group features mainstream
through advanced square
dancing at the National City
Christian Church, 5 Thomas
Circle NW, 7-9:30 p.m. Casual
dress. 301-257-0517, dclamb-
dasquares.org.
DC SCANDALS RUGBY holds
practice. The team is always
looking for new members. All
welcome. 7:30-9:30 p.m. King
Greenleaf Recreation Center,
201 N St. SW. For more infor-
mation, visit scandalsrfc.org or
dcscandals@gmail.com.
34 MAY 25, 2017 METROWEEKLY
Community
The DULLES TRIANGLES
Northern Virginia social
group meets for happy hour at
Sheraton in Reston. All wel-
come. 7-9 p.m. 11810 Sunrise
Valley Drive, second-floor bar.
For more information, visit
dullestriangles.com.
HIV TESTING at Whitman-
Walker Health. 8 a.m.-8 p.m. at
1525 14th St. NW, 8 a.m.-6 p.m.
at the Elizabeth Taylor Medical
Center, 1701 14th St. NW, and 8
Woody a.m-5 p.m. at the Max Robinson
Center, 2301 MLK Jr. Ave.
SE. For an appointment call
HOUSE PARTY
202-745-7000 or visit whit-
man-walker.org.
IDENTITY offers free and
confidential HIV testing at
Marys House for Older Adults wants more spaces two separate locations. Walk-
ins accepted from 2-6 p.m.,
where LGBTQ elders can feel welcomed by appointment for all other
and appreciated hours. 414 East Diamond Ave.,
Gaithersburg, Md. or 7676
D
New Hampshire Ave., Suite
411, Takoma Park, Md. To set
R. IMANI WOODY IS A STEP CLOSER TO REAL- up an appointment or for more
izing her dream of converting her childhood home
information, call Gaithersburg,
into affordable housing for older LGBTQ adults. 301-300-9978, or Takoma Park,
Marys House for Older Adults, which Woody heads, 301-422-2398.
recently won zoning approval to operate as a Continuing
METROHEALTH CENTER
Care Community Residence. This allows them to obtain a offers free, rapid HIV testing.
building permit the first step in turning the Southeast D.C. Appointment needed. 1012 14th
St. NW, Suite 700. To arrange
property into 16 communal-style housing units. an appointment, call 202-638-
Its a Golden Girls model of communal living, Woody 0750.
says. You have your own bathroom, closet, and living space,
but if you want to cook a big meal, youll have to come out SMYAL offers free HIV Testing,
3-5 p.m., by appointment and
[of your room].... Its really easy to isolate even in your walk-in, for youth 21 and
20s if you dont know anybody. We want to change that younger. Youth Center, 410 7th
atmosphere so people care about each other more. St. SE. 202-567-3155 or test-
ing@smyal.org.
To fight the isolation that many elders feel, Woody is
constantly on the lookout for LGBTQ events that are inclu- Us Helping Us hosts a
sive of older adults. One such upcoming opportunity is NARCOTICS ANONYMOUS
Party with a Purpose, an old-school-style dance party MEETING. The group is inde-
pendent of UHU. 6:30-7:30
thats been part of DC Black Pride for the past five years. p.m., 3636 Georgia Ave. NW.
We wanted to host a party for older adults who wouldnt For more information, call 202-
necessarily feel comfortable at the bars or the other events 446-1100.
that happen during Black Pride, Woody says. She notes WOMENS LEADERSHIP
that, for the first time, the dance will be held in the Grand
INSTITUTE for young LBTQ
Hyatt Washington, the official host hotel of DC Black Pride. women, 13-21, interested in
We have food, we dance, we socialize, and it brings in leadership development. 5-6:30
p.m. SMYAL Youth Center, 410
people from 18 to 83, and all ages in between, she says. 7th St. SE. For more informa-
Last year, we had a millennial going down the Soul Train tion, call 202-567-3163, or email
aisle with a person who had her oxygen tank. It was a hoot. catherine.chu@smyal.org.
John Riley
FRIDAY, May 26
Marys House for Older Adults holds its 5th annual Party DC BLACK PRIDE kicks off
with a Purpose on Saturday, May 27, from 3:30-7 p.m. at the from May 26-29 at the Grand
Grand Hyatt Washington, 1000 H St. NW. Admission is $20 Hyatt Washington, 1000 H
St. NW. For more details on
beforehand or $30 at the door. For more information, visit upcoming events, visit dcblack-
dcblackpride.org or call 202-269-5736. pride.org.
The DC Center holds its
For more information on Marys House for Older Adults, CENTER AGING MONTHLY
visit maryshousedc.org. LUNCH social for members of
D.C.s senior community. 12-2 p.m.
2000 14th St. NW, Suite 105. For
more information, visit thedccen-
ter.org or call 202-682-2245.
GAMMA is a peer support group
for gay or bi men who are now
or who have been in a relation-
ship with a woman. Luther Place
Memorial Church, 1226 Vermont
Ave, NW. 7:30-9:30 p.m. Meetings
are also held in Vienna, Va and in
Frederick, Md. For more info, visit
gammaindc.org.
WOMEN IN THEIR TWENTIES
(AND THIRTIES), a social discus-
sion and activity group for queer
women, meets at The DC Center
on the second and fourth Friday of
each month. Group social activity to
follow the meeting. 8-9:30 p.m. 2000
14th St. NW, Suite 105. For more
information, visit thedccenter.org.
Weekly Events
BET MISHPACHAH, founded by
members of the LGBT community,
holds Friday evening Shabbat ser-
vices in the DC Jewish Community
Centers Community Room. 8 p.m.
1529 16th St. NW. For more infor-
mation, visit betmish.org.
DC AQUATICS CLUB holds a prac-
tice session at Howard University.
6:30-8 p.m. Burr Gymnasium, 2400
6th St. NW. For more information,
visit swimdcac.org.
PROJECT STRIPES hosts LGBT-
affirming social group for ages
11-24. 4-6 p.m. 1419 Columbia Road
NW. Contact Tamara, 202-319-
0422, layc-dc.org.
SMYALS REC NIGHT provides a
social atmosphere for LGBT and
questioning youth, featuring dance
parties, vogue nights, movies and
games. For more info, email cather-
ine.chu@smyal.org.
SATURDAY, May 27
BOOK READING UPLIFTS HIS
SPIRIT (BRUHS DC), a monthly
book and movie discussion group
for same gender-loving men of
color, holds Brother to Brother
3, featuring work by multiple
authors at the Martin Luther King,
Jr. Library. 12-4 p.m. 901 G St. NW.
For more information, contact
Darrell Johnson at darscorpius@
gmail.com
Join The DC Center as it vol-
unteers for FOOD & FRIENDS,
packing meals and groceries for
people living with serious ailments.
10 a.m.-12 p.m. 219 Riggs Rd. NE.
Near the Fort Totten Metro. For a
ride from the Metro, call the Food
& Friends shuttle at 202-669-6437.
For more information, visit thedc-
center.org or foodandfriends.org.
38 MAY 25, 2017 METROWEEKLY
Weekly Events
BRAZILIAN GLBT GROUP, includ-
ing others interested in Brazilian cul-
ture, meets. For location/time, email
braziliangaygroup@yahoo.com.
DC AQUATICS CLUB holds a prac-
tice session at Montgomery College
Aquatics Club. 8:30-10 a.m. 7600
Takoma Ave., Takoma, Md. For
more information, visit swimdcac.
org.
DC FRONT RUNNERS running/
walking/social club welcomes run-
ners of all ability levels for exercise
in a fun and supportive environ-
ment, with socializing afterward.
Route distance will be 3-6 miles.
Walker meet at 9:30 a.m. and run-
ners at 10 a.m. at 23rd & P Streets
NW. For more information, visit
dcfrontrunners.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
critical languages and foreign lan-
guages. 7 p.m. Nellies, 900 U St.
NW. RSVP preferred. Email bren-
dandarcy@gmail.com.
SUNDAY, May 28
Weekly Events
LGBT-inclusive ALL SOULS
MEMORIAL 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 progressive
and radically inclusive church
holds services at 11:30 a.m. 2217
Minnesota Ave. SE. 202-248-1895,
betheldc.org.
DC AQUATICS CLUB holds a
practice session at Wilson Aquatic
Center. 9:30-11 a.m. 4551 Fort Dr.
NW. For more information, visit
swimdcac.org.
DC FRONT RUNNERS running/
walking/social club welcomes run-
ners of all ability levels for exercise
in a fun and supportive environ-
ment, with socializing afterward.
Route will be a distance run of 8, 10
or 12 miles. Meet at 9 a.m. at 23rd
& P Streets NW. For more informa-
tion, visit dcfrontrunners.org.
DIGNITYUSA offers Roman
Catholic Mass for the LGBT
community. All welcome. Sign
interpreted. 6 p.m. St. Margarets
Church, 1820 Connecticut Ave.
NW. For more info, visit dignity-
washington.org.
FAIRLINGTON UNITED
METHODIST CHURCH is an open,
inclusive church. All welcome,
including the LGBTQ commu-
nity. Member of the Reconciling
Ministries Network. Services at
9:30 and 11:00 a.m. 3900 King
Street, Alexandria, Va. 703-671-
8557. For more info, visit fairling-
tonumc.org.
FIRST CONGREGATIONAL
UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST
welcomes all to 10:30 a.m. service,
945 G St. NW. firstuccdc.org or
202-628-4317.
FRIENDS MEETING OF
WASHINGTON meets for worship,
10:30 a.m., 2111 Florida Ave. NW,
Quaker House Living Room (next
to Meeting House on Decatur
Place), 2nd floor. Special welcome
to lesbians and gays. Handicapped
accessible from Phelps Place gate.
Hearing assistance. quakersdc.org.
HOPE UNITED CHURCH OF
CHRIST welcomes GLBT commu-
nity for worship. 10:30 a.m., 6130
Old Telegraph Road, Alexandria.
hopeucc.org.
HSV-2 SOCIAL AND SUPPORT
GROUP for gay men living in the
DC metro area. This group will be
meeting once a month. For infor-
mation on location and time, visit
H2gether.com.
INSTITUTE FOR SPIRITUAL
DEVELOPMENT, God-centered
new age church & learning center.
Sunday Services and Workshops
event. 5419 Sherier Place NW. isd-
dc.org.
Join LINCOLN
CONGREGATIONAL TEMPLE
UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST for
an inclusive, loving and progressive
faith community every Sunday. 11
a.m. 1701 11th Street NW, near R in
Shaw/Logan neighborhood. lincol-
ntemple.org.
LUTHERAN CHURCH OF
REFORMATION invites all to
Sunday worship at 8:30 or 11 a.m.
Childcare is available at both ser-
vices. Welcoming LGBT people for
25 years. 212 East Capitol St. NE.
reformationdc.org.
METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY
CHURCH OF NORTHERN
VIRGINIA services at 11 a.m., led
by Rev. Emma Chattin. Childrens
Sunday School, 11 a.m. 10383
Democracy Lane, Fairfax. 703-691-
0930, mccnova.com.
METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY
CHURCH OF WASHINGTON, D.C.
services at 9 a.m. (ASL interpret-
ed) and 11 a.m. Childrens Sunday
School at 11 a.m. 474 Ridge St. NW.
202-638-7373, mccdc.com.
NATIONAL CITY CHRISTIAN
CHURCH, inclusive church with
GLBT fellowship, offers gospel
worship, 8:30 a.m., and traditional
worship, 11 a.m. 5 Thomas Circle
NW. 202-232-0323, nationalcitycc.
org.
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 THE
INCARNATION, an interra-
cial, multi-ethnic Christian
Community offers services in
English, 8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m., and
in Spanish at 5:15 p.m. 1525 Newton
St. NW. 202-232-0900, saintste-
phensdc.org.
UNITARIAN CHURCH OF
ARLINGTON, an LGBTQ welcom-
ing-and-affirming congregation,
offers services at 10 a.m. Virginia
Rainbow UU Ministry. 4444
Arlington Blvd. uucava.org.
UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST
CHURCH OF SILVER SPRING
invites LGBTQ families and indi-
viduals of all creeds and cultures to
join the church. Services 9:15 and
11:15 a.m. 10309 New Hampshire
Ave. uucss.org.
UNIVERSALIST NATIONAL
MEMORIAL CHURCH, a welcom-
ing and inclusive church. GLBT
Interweave social/service group
meets monthly. Services at 11 a.m.,
Romanesque sanctuary. 1810 16th St.
NW. 202-387-3411, universalist.org.
MONDAY, May 29
Weekly Events
GETEQUAL meets 6:30-8 p.m. at
Quaker House, 2111 Florida Ave.
NW. For more information, email
getequal.wdc@gmail.com.
NOVASALUD offers free HIV test-
ing. 5-7 p.m. 2049 N. 15th St., Suite
200, Arlington. Appointments: 703-
789-4467.
The DC Center hosts COFFEE
DROP-IN FOR THE SENIOR LGBT
COMMUNITY. 10 a.m.-noon. 2000
14th St. NW. For more information,
call 202-682-2245 or visit thedc-
center.org.
US HELPING US hosts a black gay
mens evening affinity group for
GBT black men. Light refreshments
provided. 7-9 p.m. 3636 Georgia
Ave. NW. 202-446-1100.
WASHINGTON WETSKINS
WATER POLO TEAM practices 7-9
p.m. Newcomers with at least basic
swimming ability always welcome.
Takoma Aquatic Center, 300 Van
Buren St. NW. For more informa-
tion, contact Tom, 703-299-0504
or secretary@wetskins.org, or visit
wetskins.org.
WHITMAN-WALKER HEALTH
HIV/AIDS Support Group for
newly diagnosed individuals,
meets 7 p.m. Registration required.
202-939-7671, hivsupport@whit-
man-walker.org.
TUESDAY, May 30
Weekly Events
ASIANS AND FRIENDS weekly
dinner in Dupont/Logan Circle
area, 6:30 p.m. For more informa-
tion, email afwash@aol.com, or
visit afwashington.net.
DC SCANDALS RUGBY holds prac-
tice. The team is always looking for
new members. All welcome. 7:30-
9:30 p.m. King Greenleaf Recreation
Center, 201 N St. SW. For more
information, visit scandalsrfc.org or
dcscandals@gmail.com.
THE GAY MENS HEALTH
COLLABORATIVE offers free
HIV testing and STI screening
and treatment every Tuesday.
5-6:30 p.m. Rainbow Tuesday
LGBT Clinic, Alexandria Health
Department, 4480 King St. 703-
746-4986 or text 571-214-9617.
james.leslie@inova.org.
40 MAY 25, 2017 METROWEEKLY
OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS
LGBT focused meeting every
Tuesday, 7 p.m. St. Georges
Episcopal Church, 915 Oakland
Ave., Arlington, just steps from
Virginia Square Metro. For
more info. call Dick, 703-521-
1999. Handicapped accessible.
Newcomers welcome. liveandletli-
veoa@gmail.com.
SUPPORT GROUP FOR LGBTQ
YOUTH ages 13-21 meets at
SMYAL. 5-6:30 p.m. 410 7th St.
SE. For more information, contact
Cathy Chu, 202-567-3163, or cath-
erine.chu@smyal.org.
Whitman-Walker Health holds its
weekly GAY MENS HEALTH AND
WELLNESS/STD CLINIC. Patients
are seen on walk-in basis. No-cost
screening for HIV, syphilis, gon-
orrhea and chlamydia. Hepatitis
and herpes testing available for fee.
Testing starts at 6 p.m, but should
arrive early to ensure a spot. 1701
14th St. NW. For more information,
visit whitman-walker.org.
WEDNESDAY, May 31
THE TOM DAVOREN SOCIAL
BRIDGE CLUB meet for Social
Bridge. No partners needed, all
welcome. 7:30 p.m. Dignity Center,
721 8th St., SE (across from Marine
Barracks). Call 301-345-1571 for
more information.
Weekly Events
AD LIB, a group for freestyle con-
versation, meets about 6-6:30 p.m.,
Steam, 17th and R NW. All wel-
come. For more information, call
Fausto Fernandez, 703-732-5174.
DC AQUATICS CLUB (DCAC)
holds a practice session at Dunbar
Aquatic Center. 7:30-9 p.m. 101 N
St. NW. For more information, visit
swimdcac.org.
FREEDOM FROM SMOKING, a
group for LGBT people looking
to quit cigarettes and tobacco use,
holds a weekly support meeting at
The DC Center. 7-8 p.m. 2000 14th
St. NW, Suite 105. For more infor-
mation, visit thedccenter.org.
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.
JOB CLUB, a weekly support pro-
gram for job entrants and seekers,
meets at The DC Center. 6-7:30 p.m.
2000 14th St. NW, Suite 105. For
more info, www.centercareers.org.
METROHEALTH CENTER offers
free, rapid HIV testing. No appoint-
ment needed. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. 1012
14th St. NW, Suite 700. For more
information, call 202-638-0750.
NOVASALUD offers free HIV
testing. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 2049 N.
15th St., Suite 200, Arlington.
Appointments: 703-789-4467.
PRIME TIMERS OF DC, social club
for mature gay men, hosts weekly
happy hour/dinner. 6:30 p.m.,
Windows Bar above Dupont Italian
Kitchen, 1637 17th St. NW. More
info, contact Carl, 703-573-8316.
WASHINGTON WETSKINS
WATER POLO TEAM practices 7-9
p.m. Newcomers with at least basic
swimming ability always welcome.
Takoma Aquatic Center, 300 Van
Buren St. NW. For more informa-
tion, contact Tom, 703-299-0504
or secretary@wetskins.org, or visit
wetskins.org. l
Submit your community event for
consideration at least 10 days prior
to the Thursday publication you
would like it to appear. Email to
calendar@metroweekly.com.
Scene
Victory Funds National Champagne Brunch - Sunday, May 21
Photography by Ward Morrison
See and purchase more photos from this event at www.metroweekly.com/scene

MAY 25, 2017 METROWEEKLY 41

42 MAY 25, 2017 METROWEEKLY
 for several major law firms. On weekends,
Wilson and his partner would host parties
for black gay men in their one-room apart-
ment.
I was working a full-time job, relation-
ship, partner, and home, and all that stuff,
he says. I wasnt even thinking about the
money or how I was going to be successful,
or if this was going to be my career. It was
just about having a good time in the com-
munity.
Wilsons house parties grew so popular
that they outgrew his apartment. Working
with the now-shuttered black gay night-
club Delta Elite, Wilson organized a weekly
Saturday party that ran for nine years. He
later launched Daryl Wilson Promotions,
and started booking big-name talent for
events, initially at Edge/Wet, and later
branching out to other venues, including
the Park at Fourteenth, where he currently
hosts a weekly Sunday party.
Wilson, 50, is best known for his two
decades of work with DC Black Pride,
where his annual Wet Dreamz Reloaded
array of events has introduced Pride par-
ticipants to any number of unique and spa-
cious party venues, including Nationals
Stadium and the Walter E. Washington
Convention Center.
On May 23, Wilson became the first party
promoter to be honored by DC Black Pride
For more than two decades, the legendary party promoter has with the Welmore Cook Award. Named for
thrown the biggest, brightest parties associated with DC Black one of DC Black Prides co-founders, the
Pride. He just wants people to have the time of their lives. award is presented each year to two peo-
ple who have demonstrated outstanding
Interview by John Riley Photography by Julian Vankim leadership.
Earl Fowlkes, CEO of the Center for
Black Equity, which organizes the annu-
Note to Tyson Beckford: Daryl Wilson wants his red sweater back. al Black Pride celebration, says Wilson
In February 2006, Wilson was working with Washingtons now closed Edge/Wet has managed to succeed despite a drop in
nightclub to book a celebrity headliner for its Red Party. He pulled off a coup in snag- the number of promoters, a decrease in
ging Beckford, who at the time was the spokesmodel for Ralph Lauren, and whose the number of LGBTQ bars, and a declin-
face and abs were plastered over billboards across America. ing number of spaces specifically geared
No one really believed that Tyson Beckford was going to come to that party, toward black LGBTQ people in the District.
says Wilson. I remember picking him up at the airport and walking through the Over the years, as Black Pride has
airport going back to my car. I was like, Okay, Im with Tyson Beckford. What would changed, and the promoter scene has
the average gay guy be thinking right now? changed, Daryl Wilson, despite economic
When we got to the hotel, he was in his room getting changed, and he came out. changes and gentrification in D.C., manages
He had no shirt on. He was like, I dont have anything red. I was looking at him, and to put out quality product on a regular basis,
I was like, Holy shit. I literally took off my red sweater and gave it to him. He wore not just during Pride but throughout the
it at my party. I never got it back to this day. year, he says. I have often times told peo-
A major event promoter in the D.C. region, Wilson, himself a native Washingtonian, ple over the years that professionally, Daryl
admits that party planning is something that comes naturally. It dates back to his Wilson and I are in a relationship. Were
childhood, when he organized impromptu barbecues with the other kids from his married to each other, and we actually need
neighborhood in Southeast. each other.
I used to be the little kid on the block who would corral the kids together, and Daryls been very generous to us, very
take my allowance money and go and buy a bunch of food and burgers, he says. I willing to assist us, especially letting us use
was grilling on a grill probably at the age of 15, making burgers and giving them to all his space [this year], letting us have access
the kids in the neighborhood, just having a good time. to his people, without cost, and letting
The youngest of nine, Wilson attended Cardozo Senior High School in Northwest our sponsors have access to his people. he
Washington. Upon graduation, he worked in human resources at D.C. General doesnt ask for anything in return, he con-
Hospital for nearly two decades and then later served as an events coordinator tinues. We appreciate that, and we want to

44 MAY 25, 2017 METROWEEKLY

make certain that he knows we would not be where we are if it
werent for the promoters, Daryl Wilson included. [People] keep
saying hes going to retire. I hope he doesnt. birthed, it gave us an opportunity to say, Hey, this is our culture.
METRO WEEKLY: Lets talk about your first Black Pride. What was
it like?
DARYL WILSON: It was like a family reunion, because it gave me
an opportunity to spend a lot of time with dear friends as well as
family. That was probably in May of 93. It was more like a love
fest more so than anything. They used to hold this huge outdoor
festival on Sundays at Banneker Field. That was something
like Ive never seen before. Thousands of people off of Georgia
Avenue near Howard University in this big open field, with a
huge show, vendors and food. It was absolutely incredible.
MW: Is there a particular Black Pride that sticks out in your mind
over the years?
WILSON: The most memorable pride for me was 2007. I did an
event at Dream nightclub, which had just opened. I had Patti
LaBelle there her first time ever doing a pride event. I was
honored that she said yes. Jennifer Hudson, whos a personal
The younger generation is just more out
today. Theyre more out than my generation
was.... [My generation] didnt want to be seen.
IT WAS THE STIGMA OF BEING AN AFRICAN-
AMERICAN BLACK GAY MAN. YOU DIDNT
WANT ANYONE IN YOUR BUSINESS.
friend of mine, actually came in and performed in that same
show as well. She surprised Patti LaBelle, and sang Happy
Birthday to her. That was really spectacular. I also had Remy
Ma perform in that same show. So three artists in one night.
There were thousands of people trying to get into the place. It
was great.
MW: When you reflect back on past DC Black Prides, have you
noticed a change in the community in terms of being more out or
in terms of being more public about their sexuality?
WILSON: The younger generation is just more out today. Theyre
more out than my generation was. Theyre more free, because
they have more resources and cellphones and all that. A lot of
the guys my age were not as much out. During the late 80s, early
90s, people were more prone to be in the background. They
didnt want to be seen. It was the stigma of being an African-
American black gay man. That was already enough. You didnt
want anyone in your business.
My generation we were that working generation of gay
men. We had full-time jobs. We were partying hard on the
weekend, but we were up early Monday morning at work. We
had bills to pay. We never wanted to be out there in the public,
and want everyone to know about our lifestyle. Today, things
have changed. People are more outspoken. The awareness is out
there. People really have a no-nonsense attitude about things.
Its not like we have to hide in the shadows anymore.
MW: Some critics wonder why its necessary to hold a separate
pride event for the Black LGBTQ community. They feel that all the
prides should be combined. What would you say to them?
46 MAY 25, 2017 METROWEEKLY
WILSON: I think, for the Black community, we never really had
something that we could say was ours. When Black Pride was
This is our moment. This is our time to build a legacy. Now we
have a piece of history. Something that will last forever. Even
when Im gone, there will always be this history of DC Black
Pride.
MW: There was some friction a few years back between you and DC
Black Pride. Can you address that?
WILSON: I wouldnt say friction, I would say more of a misunder-
standing. It happens in business. In this situation, you know, you
deal with the situation and you just keep moving.
MW: What was the problem?
WILSON: It was more so I am a very outspoken person. I am very
passionate about what I do. I think that sometimes gets miscon-
strued when people see how I do things. I think it was more so
just a misunderstanding than anything. We just moved on.
I march to the beat of my own drum. Ive never been one of
those people who follows people. Thats never been my thing.
Im just a loner, so a lot of people dont understand me. Some
people have called me shady.
Some people think Im distant. Im
just a loner at heart. Ive always been
that way from a child. Im always
very open to having conversations
with anyone, but at the end of the
day, I always roll back into my little
bubble.
MW: Youre describing yourself as
an introvert, yet youre a party pro-
moter.
WILSON: Yeah, isnt that weird?
Heres the thing. I went to a party
several weeks ago. I normally dont
go to a lot of house parties. Im a
little older now. Ill go to places here and there, and Ill frequent
Ziegfelds and Secrets, because I love to see a good ol cabaret
drag show. I love to see the dancers. Ill go to Town and Ill go to
Nellies. Ill go to Bachelors Mill.
But when its over, I immediately roll back into that kind of
secluded bubble. People think that Im all [over] the world. Im
in every party, every cabaret, every function, but often, Im really
at home with my dogs.
Most people dont know Im really kind of a loner. I have a
very small niche of friends I deal with. I love my friends dearly.
Im a Scorpio so Im very loyal to my friends. Im very loyal to
everything in my life. Im an old-fashioned little church boy,
raised in a church, loved the church, very spiritual.
I dont have kids. So Im very protective about my dogs. I have
three Pomeranians. Everyone who personally knows me, knows
that my first dog, Cashmere, is my everything. That little dog has
been in my life through every trial, tribulation, heartache, pain.
He gives me everything I need. Hes like an angel. I just thank
God for him all the time.
MW: Have you looked at Black Prides in other cities, and how do
they compare to ours?
WILSON: For a long time, no one could compete with DC Black
Pride, because it was the granddaddy of all Prides. After 15 or 16
years, it took a nosedive. Then you had all these other Prides, like
Atlanta, that became very popular. Everybody thought it migrat-
ed and went to Atlanta. Even today, Atlanta still has a very good
pride they host every year on Labor Day Weekend.
Then they started this new party called Sizzle Miami. People
thought Sizzle was an actual Black Pride, but it wasnt. It was a panies to now take the leash off of these artists and put them out
circuit party. So Sizzle Miami came in, and out of nowhere, put a there in the gay community, and put them out here at Prides.
huge dent into DC Prides numbers, because its held on the same Once they do that, they will see that not only is it going to help
weekend, Memorial Day Weekend. That has changed again. D.C. that artist generate a huge fan base, but its also going to help
has now taken its rightful place back as the number one Black their artist stay relevant and get other bookings at other Prides
Pride in the world. around the world.
MW: What does D.C. do differently with Black Pride that makes MW: Has hip-hop as a genre been more embracing of the LGBTQ
people want to return year after year?
WILSON: I think its the events, the parties, the
entertainment, the film festivals, the poetry
slams, and a lot of the things that they do at the
official host hotel. They have dance parties for
the older generation. They have all different
kinds of workshops and speed dating and all
of those things take place inside the host hotel.
Sometimes I get aggravated, because a lot
of the patrons that are coming here dont really
support those things, they dont hear about it
as much as they should. When people go to my
website and ask about the activities, I imme-
diately kind of push those things out there,
because I dont want people to come to DC
Pride thinking its all about a party, because
thats not what DC Pride was built on. It was
built about bringing the community together
as a whole. The parties and all of the other
stuff is just an added bonus to give you some-
thing to do at night, outside of the cultural
events and the host hotel events.
MW: This year, you have straight male artists
Phresher, Safaree, Tank appearing at your
events. Do you think they understand and sup-
port the LGBTQ community, or are they just
doing it for the money?
WILSON: I dont think its about the dollar for
them. Things have changed since the early
90s. Its now okay to go out and support the
gay community. Its now okay to say, Im a
straight man and I have a gay friend and I
can make it public. Its okay now for them to
come in front of 3,000 gay men and lesbians
and show their support, because at the end of
the day, these 3,000 people that are here to see
you are the same ones that have been buying
your records for years, that have been keeping
you relevant for years.
I think this is our time. This is our moment.
This is our season to embrace them and bring
them in, so that opens doors for more artists.
My goal is to have Usher at Pride. My goal is to
have Trey Songz and Bruno Mars. My goal is
to go after these artists, and when Pride is over, I will be making Black experience than, say, R&B?
phone calls to management companies, trying to get these other WILSON: I would have to tread very lightly on that question,
male artists to now do their part. because I think the hip-hop community is still on unsettled
MW: Is there still reticence on the part of male artists or their han- ground. When you start talking about artists like Future and
dlers to be associated with an LGBTQ event? Drake, and all of these huge multimillion dollar artists, because
WILSON: I think their handlers sometimes just dont want them their brand is so huge, I think the management companies and
in that scene, because they feel like there will be backlash. I I cant speak directly for them, but I can speak to what I have
dont think they understand that this is not 1990. This is 2017. observed are still uneasy about them coming into those mar-
Its okay to be gay now. Its okay for a young man to admit to his kets, because of whatever kind of backlash they may get.
parents that, Hey, mom, dad, Im gay. This is who I am. Dont Im still waiting for these artists, especially some of the huge
try to change me. female artists that are in the industry that have these huge, huge
Its okay now for these handlers or these management com- gay followings. Like Beyonc, her whole entire fan base is basi-

MAY 25, 2017 METROWEEKLY 47

cally the gay community. What I dont understand is why is she
not performing at any Black Prides? I dont understand, and I
dont know if its because of management, or if its just because of
whatever. I think artists of her caliber, when you have a fan base
as big as that, it should be on your books. I think management at
these labels should have it on their books to support at least one
Black Pride, if not two, a year. Its imperative.
MW: How does it make you feel when you try to book an artist and
it just doesnt work out?
WILSON: For me, its just like, Okay, well, moving on. I dont
really waste time on being concerned about, Oh, shes not
going to do it. Hes not going to do it. Because at the end of the
day, if you knock on enough locked doors, someones going to
answer. Im about making sure I have conversations and healthy
relationship with people in the industry. Bringing someone like
When Black Pride was birthed, it gave
us an opportunity to say, Hey, this is our
culture. This is our moment. This is our
time to build a legacy. NOW WE HAVE A
PIECE OF HISTORY. SOMETHING THAT
WILL LAST FOREVER.
Tank and Safaree now opens the door for other male artists to
now come in. I keep knocking. Im going to knock until I get
what I need.
MW: This year, for the Capital Pride Concert, the headliner is Miley
Cyrus.
WILSON: Amazing.
MW: Shes made some comments about hip-hop she says were
taken out of context, but were not well-received. Some people have
also accused her of appropriating black culture through her dance
moves in her videos. Whats your take?
WILSON: I dont try to get caught up into the politics of any of
this. At the end of the day, this is a business, whether its her
business or her managements business or my business or even
your business. Were all human and we all make mistakes even
me, even you. Nobodys perfect. I think when you try to hold
peoples feet in the fire until their feet just burn completely off,
its just unfair. People say things that they really dont mean.
People do things that they dont really mean. It depends on the
circumstances and the situation.
When I saw the announcement that Miley Cyrus was coming
to Capital Pride, I was floored, because I love Miley Cyrus. I
dont get caught up into the politics. I enjoy the artist.
MW: How do you feel about Tinashe and the Pointer Sisters coming
as well?
WILSON: I have got to give a thumbs up to Capital Pride this year.
I am just like, they have shit it this year. The Pointer Sisters?
What can you say? Youre talking about a cultural movement.
Youre talking about the Pointer Sisters. You have to align them
with your Michael Jacksons, your Whitney Houstons, your Tina
Turners, your Angela Bassetts, your Denzel Washingtons. Those
women are a cultural movement in the black community, peri-
od. Lets take out gay. For them to be on stage at Capital Pride, I
dont even know what to say.
48 MAY 25, 2017 METROWEEKLY
MW: Some people commented after they announced it, Thats
the throwback artist, an artist for the older attendees of Capital
Pride.
WILSON: Thats how you have to look at it. I look at the club
scene today and then I revert back to when I first came out in
1987 as a black gay man. There was no hip-hop. There was no
rap. In the club, we had nothing but house music. The only thing
we knew about rap during that time is when you turn on the
radio and you heard Queen Latifah or you heard MC Lyte. Then
you had your male rappers like LL Cool J and Kool Moe Dee
and Kurtis Blow and all those. None of that was played in the
club. Now, you have this whole new genre of hip-hop and rap
just being played in the clubs and house music kind of sits on the
sidelines. But I make sure that I have house music at all of my
parties, every year, and have been from day one.
MW: Why is that?
WILSON: I think its important that we
keep house music in clubs because that
was one of the foundations of gay clubs,
period. House music is how we set
ourselves free, how we just let our
hair down and have a good time and
just have a wonderful time with your
friends on the dance floor. The good
old days.
You hear house music. You hear
them bumping that bass, that hard bass,
that drive. Thats when you can just
take your shirt off and just party and
just sweat. Youd go home and wake up
and say, What about last night? Oh, with the beats! The beats!
It was about the beats back then. A lot of the younger generation
today, they dont even understand. They cant even imagine what
the parties were like back then.
MW: How has the club experience changed, from your perspective?
WILSON: When you rewind the clock back to late 80s and 90s,
especially in the black gay clubs, everybody partied together.
The men and the women. I dont care if you were transgender,
if you were just one of those kids that nobody really wanted to
hang around, or you were the misfit, or were not the cutest guy,
or didnt have the body, or had the body and didnt have the
face, or you were the pretty boy. It didnt matter. No one cared.
Everybody partied together.
Over the years, I dont know what happened. I dont know if
its just the way that the promoters started marketing their par-
ties in the communities, but you would have people that would
put out fliers, This party is for the boys, This party is for the
body boys, No fems allowed, This party is for the tank top,
the hot body contest. If you dont have a hot body, you cant
come.
For a young gay man, that could be almost like shunning
them. Its like youre trying to fight gay with gay. Youre trying
to separate a culture of people. Youre trying to pull them apart.
I just think its so sad. I think that everybody should party and
have a good time together.
Thats why for my parties, I want the women just as well as
the men. I dont care if you dont have a hot body. Youre still
welcome at Daryl Wilsons party. I dont care if you have an issue
and no one loves you. Daryl Wilson loves you.
Im not a promoter that you cant come and talk to. Ill talk
to anybody. I can have a conversation with anyone. I meet a lot
of young kids that come to me. They will say to me, You said
something to me years ago, and it stuck with me. I just want to
say thank you.
MW: What has been your biggest trial or tribulation in life?
WILSON: People not understanding who I am. A lot of people
have this horrible misrepresentation of me. One of my dear
friends who lived in Atlanta, I remember him saying to me one
day, I just really want to fight everybody, because they dont
know you. They dont know you, the person that you are, how
loving, how compassionate, how giving.
I think people have a really bad misrepresentation of who
I am as a person, because Im just this person that lives in my
own little world. Im okay living in my bubble, with me and my
three dogs and my boyfriend, in my own home, just doing my
own thing.
I think people just dont know me, so theyre very quick to
judge me, not knowing that Im just this little, big-lipped, D.C.
boy from Southeast thats just a gay man now, that I have a big
heart, and I love people. I love to see people have a good time. I
love to see people come together.
If you come to my parties, you never see me on the dance
floor. You never see me turnt up. You never see me drinking.
Im sober. Im watching everything. Every patron that comes
through the door, Im looking at how you are enjoying your
experience at Daryl Wilsons party. If youre not, then Im not
doing what Im supposed to do at the party. If your drink is not
good, then Im not doing my job as a promoter. People think they
cant approach me. You can approach me with a concern, an
issue, and Im very proactive about getting your problem solved
right then and there. I care about people. I always have. l
Daryl Wilsons Wet Dreamz Reloaded 2017 is May 25th to May
29th. Weekend passes are available Thursday, May 25 at Stonefish
Lounge, 1708 L St. NW, or Friday, May 26 at the Grand Hyatt
Washington, 1000 H St. NW. For a complete schedule of Daryls
Black Pride parties, visit darylwilsondc.com.

SUPPORTIVE PRIDE
DC Black Pride seeks to provide emotional and educational
support to a community that feelspolitically under siege By John Riley

W
EVE REACHED THE POINT FOR THE LAST FEW
years where people dont ask, Why do we have
Black Pride? says Earl Fowlkes. I think people
in our community understand the importance of this, for
those who are of communities of duality, black and gay.
Fowlkes is the longtime head of the Center for Black Morning Workshops DC Black Pride Film Festival
Equity, which organizes DC Black Pride, an annual celebra- 11 a.m.-12:20 p.m. 2 p.m.-7:15 p.m.
tion that draws thousands to Washington every Memorial Interfaith Workshop, presented by Moonlight at 2 p.m., Kiki at
Day weekend. Pastor Mitchell Jones, (Lafayette 4 p.m., and Check It at 5:45 p.m.
After this last election, I think all people feel vulner- Park Room) The House/ (Independence Ballroom FGHI).
Ballroom Community: A Legacy of
able, he continues. Particularly if you live in certain #BlackExcellence (Latrobe Room) Poetry Slam
parts of the country.... Were only into the first half-year of Dont Forget the T (Burnham Room) Hosted by Mary Bowman
the administration, and its frightening to look already at The Intergenerational Queers 7 p.m.-9 p.m.
whats being done to attack and undermine LGBTQ rights. Project, presented by Women in the A competition highlighting the
Its the outside threats against LGBTQ people of color, Life Association (Franklin Square spoken word talents of the black
whether physical, emotional, or political, that attendees Room) LGBTQ community. Cash prizes.
of DC Black Pride seek to insulate themselves from as To participate, sign up online at
Resume Writing and Interview dcblackpride.org or in the hospitality
they gather with other LGBTQ black people, basking in the Prep Workshop suite by 1 p.m. Saturday (Farragut
weekends positive energy and support. Noon-2 p.m. Square/Lafayette Park Room)
The weekend, at 27 the longest-running Black Pride in Farragut Square Room
the world, may be saturated with parties, but its also edu- Booz Allen Hamilton provide
cational. Some of the weekends panels and workshops are job-hunting tips and answers. Sunday, May 28
geared towards those needs, everything from advice on Interfaith Worship Service
Afternoon Workshops
jobs, sexual health, and aging. 12:30 p.m.-2:30 p.m. 9:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m.
Below are a few highlights of the this weekends Overcoming Church Hurt in the Guest speaker: Pastor Mitchell
events. All events are at the Grand Hyatt Washington, Black Church, presented by Pastor Jones, featuring a combined guest
Darren Phelps of Bethel Christian choir from various D.C.
1000 H St. NW, unless noted. Most events are free affirming churches.
Church (Lafayette Park Room)
and open to the public. Visit dcblackpride.org for Masculine of Center Panel (Farragut Square/Lafayette Park
more details. Discussion (Latrobe Room) Room)
Understanding the Trans Attracted
Man (Burnham Room) ManDate Cultural Arts & Wellness Festival
Friday, May 26 Saturday, May 27 presents Sex, Drugs and Alcohol Noon-6:00 p.m.
Walter E. Washington
(Franklin Square Room) Black, Gay
Grown Folks Speak Out & Greek: A Panel Discussion, pre- Convention Center
DC Black Pride Opening
Presented by Marys House for sented by Beta Phi Omega Sorority, 801 Mt. Vernon Pl. NW
Reception
Older Adults Inc. (McPherson Square Room) A resource fair with booths highlight-
6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.
9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. ing various social, cultural, and health
Wilson/Roosevelt Room resources for the LGBTQ commu-
LGBTQ Speed Dating
A day-long workshop examining nity. Attendees also get access to
8:30 p.m.-10:30 p.m.
what life looks like for black LGBTQ Daryl Wilsons Epic Live party. $20
(check-in at 7:30 p.m.)
and same-gender loving people. admission from 12-2 p.m. and $25
Farragut Square/Lafayette Park
Topics include aging, intergenera- after 2 p.m. Free to Wet Dreamz
Room
tional interaction. Free. Reloaded 2017 Passholders. l

MAY 25, 2017 METROWEEKLY 49

 Scene
DC Black Pride Awards Reception at HRC - Tuesday, May 23
Photography by Ward Morrison
See and purchase more photos from this event at www.metroweekly.com/scene

50 MAY 25, 2017 METROWEEKLY

MAY 25, 2017 METROWEEKLY 51
DC BLACK
Candyland Womens Party DC Black Pride Brunch
3:00 p.m.-10:00 p.m. 12:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m.
Stadium Club, Dirty Martini,
2127 Queens Chapel Rd. NE 1223 Connecticut Ave. NW

PRIDE PARTIES
$12 Cover in advance, $40 Cover RSVP required
$15 at the door Unlimited food by Kitchen Cray &
Hosted by CJ Da Juice & MC Tuffy Brunch Royalty
Unlimited mimosas
Party with a Purpose, presented Various DJs
DC Black Pride has always been part educational, part by Marys House for Older Adults
entertainment a tradition that continues to this day. 3:30 p.m.-7:00 p.m. The Pride Manhunt
In addition to workshops, informational sessions, and Grand Hyatt Washington, Super Day Party
1000 H St. NW 3:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m.
a resource fair, it also has a host of diverse parties Admission is $20 beforehand or Ultrabar, 911 F St. NW
designed to entice even the most choosy of clubgoers. $30 at the door (while tickets last) Featuring Big Freedia
Program Director Kenya Hutton says that this years Four floors, four DJs,
political situation where many LGBTQ and people The Grandiose Fantasy Mega and GoGo Dancers
Pride Party Hosted by MCs Roy Jones and
of color feel under siege has led attendees to seek 9:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m. Keelon
refuge in Pride as a safe space where they can relax. Washington Marriott Wardman Park,
I think with a lot of the stresses that were getting Royal Wardman Grand Ballroom ULIVE Pride-N-The-Park Womens
2660 Woodley Rd. NW Festival 2017
from the media and from politics right now, DC Black Lil Kim performs live 3:00 p.m.-10:00 p.m.
Pride is kind of like a breather, where people are going DJs Damon, Momoney, and Tone The Gateway Pavilion,
to be able to come here and just exist, and enjoy them- MCs Roy Jones and Keelon 2700 Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave. SE
selves, regardless of whats going on with the rest of GoGo Dancers Live music, visual artists, fashion
spotlight, female organizations,
the world, says Hutton. Its a time to come together Loud, by Wet Dreamz Reloaded group panels, paint & sip, and more
and celebrate our history, our identity. 10:00 p.m.-4:00 a.m. $20 Early Bird Admission
Below is a list of DC Black Prides official parties. For Echostage, $40 Cover for Paint & Sip
2135 Queens Chapel Rd. NE
a full schedule of events, visit dcblackpride.org. $20 Cover before midnight Pride Closeout Rooftop Day Party
Free for Wet Dreamz Reloaded 2017 4:00 p.m.-10:00 p.m.
Party Pass holders Averys Bar and Lounge,
Thursday, May 25 DC Friday #Lituation: The Official
DC Black Pride Ladies Party
Featuring rap superstar Phresher 1370 H St. NE
with special guest Safaree Music by DJ Mim and DJ Deluxx
Welcome 2 DC Happy Hour 10:00 p.m.-3:00 a.m.
DJs Scrilla and Sedrick $10 Cover
7:00 p.m.-12:00 a.m. Vita Lounge, 1318 9th St. NW
MCs Hypeman Antman and
Dirty Martini, Featuring DJs, premium drinks, VIP
Brandon Anthony Wet Dreamz Super Party
1223 Connecticut Ave. NW sections, and hookah
9:00 p.m.-4:00 a.m.
Admission free before 8:00 p.m. The D.C. Takeover Mega Party The Park at Fourteenth,
Men-N-Demand Black Pride
10:00 p.m.-4:00 a.m. 920 14th St. NW
Welcome to DC Ladies Party Party, presented by Daryl Wilson
Touch, 1123 H St. NW DJs Scrilla, Unknown, Sedrick,
Greet HER: 2017 Black Pride 10:30 p.m.-7:00 a.m.
Hosted by The Princess of Yezzy and Mikeal
Takeover The DC Eagle, 3701 Benning Rd. NE
Comedy Jess Hilarious MCs Hypeman Antman, Brandon
7:00 p.m.-1:00 a.m. Live performance by Cardi B
Featuring DJ L*Stackz and DJ Face, Anthony, and Marc Simpson
L8 Lounge, 27 15th St. NW Monday Night Skating on Club Bar
DJ Honey, and DJ Shye $20 Cover before midnight
Admission free before 8:00 p.m. Emcees Dnyce and Mac Lyfe Free for Wet Dreamz Reloaded 2017
Featuring two DJs, VIP service, Pride Deux Club Crawl
Party Pass holders
hookah and Happy Hour TMS- 11:00 p.m.-3:00 a.m.
Crme de la Crme Ladies Party
themed drinks Start at Bistro Bistro DC,
11:00 p.m.-4:00 a.m. DC Black Pride Finale Womens
1727 Connecticut Ave. NW
Howard Theater, 620 T St. NW Party
The Jump Off: DC Black Pride Finish at Madrid,
Featuring DJ Mim and 10:00 p.m.-4:00 a.m.
Kickoff Party 1714 Connecticut Ave. NW
DJ Sammii Blendz Club XO, 15 K St. NE
10:00 p.m.-2:00 a.m. Featuring surprise celebrity guests,
Hosted by The Wire and Love Performance by Capital Dollhouse
Stonefish Lounge, 1708 L St. NW with music by Adotnet, DJ TMF, DJ
& Hip-Hop New Yorks Felicia Entertainment
Featuring DJ Sedrick X and Kidd Swagg, and DJ Deluxx
Pearson, a.k.a. Snoop Bottle service, hookah and DJs
GoGo Dancers Hosted by Poca and Mac
$15 cover in advance, $20 (and up)
at door The Pride Empire Annual Climax
Friday, May 26 Saturday, May 27 Pride Mega Party
10:00 p.m-4:00 a.m.
The Chill Out Ultimate Day Party
Sunday, May 28 Karma DC, 2221 Adams Pl. NE
Wet Dreamz Reloaded 2017 Party Featuring Serayah, DJs Damon,
Pass Distribution & Happy Hour 2:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m.
Daryl Wilson Promotions, LLC & Momoney, and Tone
3:00 p.m.-9:00 a.m. The Park at Fourteenth,
DC Black Pride presents Epic Live MCs Kellon and Roy Jones
Grand Hyatt Washington, 920 14th St. NW
12:00 p.m.-10:00 p.m. GoGo Dancers
1000 H St. NW. Hosted by Milan Christopher
Walter E. Washington Convention
Featuring 4 floors, massive patio,
Center, 801 Mt. Vernon Pl. NW
The Annual 5,000 Men Pride DJs Scrilla, Unknown, Sedrick,
Yezzy, and Mikeal
Variety Show at 4:00 p.m. Monday, May 29
Mega Party Tank performs live on stage
9:30 p.m.-4:00 a.m. MCs Hypeman Antman, Brandon
at 5:15 p.m. The Block Party Strip-Down: DC
Bliss Nightclub, 2122 24th Pl. NE Anthony and Marc Simpson
Music by DJ Sedrick and DJ Scrilla Black Pride Closing Party
Featuring a live performance Food and drink specials all day
$20 cover from 12-2pm and 4:00 p.m.-2:00 a.m.
by K. Michelle $20 Cover
$25 after The DC Eagle, 3701 Benning Rd. NE
Music by DJs Damon, Momoney, Free admission for Wet Dreamz
Free for Wet Dreamz Reloaded 2017
Camron, and Tone Reloaded 2017 Party Pass holders
Party Pass holders The Apocalypse Mega Party
MCs Roy Jones and Keelon and 9:30 p.m.-2:30 a.m.
GoGo Dancers Stadium Club,
2127 Queens Chapel Rd. NE
Dancers, DJ Damon, and MCs
Keelon and Roy Jones l

52 MAY 25, 2017 METROWEEKLY

 Gallery
Markus Lpertz
O
NE OF GERMANYS MOST PROMINENT AND PROVOC-
ative living artists is celebrated this spring and summer
at two D.C. museums with two distinct but complemen-
tary displays of the neo-expressionists works. Taken together,
the exhibitions at the Hirshhorn Museum and the Phillips
Collection mark the first in-depth U.S. survey of Lupertzs prac-
tice, and the two museums have teamed up for a joint catalog.
Evelyn Hankins curates the Hirshhorn show, Threads of History,
offering an in-depth exploration of his early years and over 30
groundbreaking paintings from the 60s and 70s, including the
40-foot-long Westwall (Siegfried Line), on view for the first time
in the U.S. Runs to Sept. 10. Hirshhorn Museum, Independence
Avenue and Seventh Street SW. Free. Call 202-633-1000 or visit
hirshhorn.si.edu.
Nearly 50 works are in the comprehensive survey at the
Phillips curated by Dorothy Kosinski in close collaboration with
Lupertz and Michael Werner and including works spanning his
career, including important examples from his dithyrambic
pictures and provocative paintings of German motifs. opens
Saturday, May 27. Runs to Sept. 20. The Phillips Collection,
1600 21st St. NW. Tickets $12. Call 202-387-2151 x247 or visit
phillipscollection.org.
MAY 25, 2017 METROWEEKLY 53
C. STANLEY PHOTOGRAPHY
Stage

comes to be used against Jesus, raising the

Christ Almighty
doubts of his apostle Judas Iscariot (Ari
McKay Wilford) and enraging the priest
Caiaphas (Thomas Adrian Simpson), the
mobs collective energy turns chillingly
Signatures high-spirited production of Jesus Christ Superstar gives cold. In riveting fashion, belief is manipu-
glorious life to an enduring score By Andr Hereford lated into distrust, leading to a wrenching
crucifixion.

I
At nearly every step, the show walks
N SIGNATURE THEATRES POWERFULLY IMMERSIVE NEW PRODUCTION with Jesus and his ultimate betrayer
of Andrew Lloyd Webbers Jesus Christ Superstar, director Joe Calarco adroitly Judas, both fleshed out with nuance and
crosses religion, art, and politics for a divinely entertaining take on the classic rock conviction by Edwards and Wilford. Rice
opera. Set among shifting slabs of stone, Calarcos modern-dress staging marked by and Webber conceived a Christ who is
minimalist set design and maximum commitment teems with the energy and raw no meek shepherd, but rather forceful in
emotion of its first-rate cast and musicians. holding his followers accountable for how
Featuring lyrics by Tim Rice and a score by Webber, Jesus Christ Superstar they worship. Edwards captures that rigor
(HHHHH) began its life as a chart-topping 1970 concept album about the final days and strength, but occasionally comes close
of Jesus of Nazareth. Given a persuasive rock, gospel, and blues interpretation by to a portrayal more strident than merely
musical director William Yanesh, the songs from the rousing Whats the Buzz to strict. By contrast, he wields his pleasing
the plaintive I Dont Know How to Love Him are as dynamic and moving as ever. falsetto gently, and embodies the charisma
Conducting a mighty mini-orchestra, Yanesh, on piano, leads the band in laying down a of a caring leader.
rich bed of melody and rhythm for the shows uniformly fine singers. As Judas, Wilford impresses while per-
Channelling choreographer Karma Camps slinky, peppy moves, the performers forming triple duty singing fabulously,
faithfully flock around Jesus (Nicholas Edwards) with infectious joy and physical depicting crucial elements of the story,
abandon. Singing and bouncing off nearly every surface of Luciana Stecconis austere and rocking a mean guitar. His Judas is
set, which evokes everything from ancient temples to Houstons serene Rothko Chapel, already turned up to 11, leaving little room
the actors capture the boundless spirit of the devoted. As their outsized devotion to modulate bigger. But for the most part

MAY 25, 2017 METROWEEKLY 55

 Diaz shines.
Augmented by dazzling lights and shift-
ing trompe loeil projections, the production
falls squarely between concert, theater, per-
formance art, and religious ceremony. Not
every scenario pays off, as is the case with
the less than imposing figures shown silhou-
etted behind flowing curtains during the first
acts The Temple. The theatrical effect fails
to match the potency of Jesus anger and
disappointment upon finding the temple in
Jerusalem being used as a marketplace, rather
than a house of religion although, neither
the original score, nor Calarcos direction, go
to any great lengths to clarify exactly what
C. STANLEY PHOTOGRAPHY

religion Jesus is preaching. The message feels

more philosophical than spiritual. I look for
truth, Jesus proclaims, emphasizing Rice and
Webbers intent to reflect with Superstar the
way many orthodox societies have responded
with fear and hatred when an individual voice
Wilfords confident delivery suits the concert-style presentation. rises up claiming to be a truth-teller.
Several Signature favorites give standout performances in Still, theres inspiration to be found here, regardless of ones
supporting roles. As the viciously critical priest Annas, Sam affiliations. While short on visual splendor, the energy onstage is
Ludwig pitches his tenor sharply towards comic derision, adding dazzling, and the storytelling so accessible that the production
a bite of humor to the proceedings. As does Sherri L. Edelen in a manages to provoke, delight, frighten, and comfort. Powered by
brief, taunting turn as King Herod. Bobby Smith is equally mem- its energized ensemble, Signatures rendition of Rice and Lloyd-
orable as an imperious but not impervious Pontius Pilate, and, Webbers justifiably beloved classic might make believers of all
playing a heartfelt, dulcet-voiced Mary Magdalene, Natascia who enter here. l
Jesus Christ Superstar runs to July 2 at Signature Theatre, 4200 Campbell Avenue, Arlington. Tickets are $40 to $100.
Call 703-820-9771, or visit sigtheatre.org.

56 MAY 25, 2017 METROWEEKLY

DORON GILD
Music

ing into pessimism. The overtone is grim,

World Weary
but is buoyed by the pure pop escapism of
the opener Love You to the Sky and the
starry-eyed optimism of the closing track
Just a Little Love. It cant be a coinci-
British synth pop icons Erasure get poignant and political with their dence that Erasure chose to bookend the
new album, World Be Gone By Sean Maunier album with its two brightest and most
upbeat tracks. They are also the ones that

A
sound the most like Erasures biggest hits.
FTER THREE DECADES AND 17 ALBUMS OF BRIGHT DANCE-POP, Despite its heavier tone, World Be
Erasure has stepped off the dancefloor. On World Be Gone ( ), Vince Gone remains highly accessible. The pair
Clark turns his mastery of the synthesizer towards a richer, more expan- spend most of the album moving from one
sive sound, while Andy Bells vocals are deeper, darker, and sound appropriately plaintive pop ballad to another, a stylis-
world-weary. The lyrics trade the sunny escapism of synthpop for a starker, more tic choice that allows them to highlight
anxious outlook on the world. The duo, who have rarely shied away from politics and Bells vocals, linger on certain ideas, and
activism in the past, have found inspiration in Brexit, the rise of Trump, and the global generally create a heavier, richer mood.
upswell of right wing populism. While its not exactly a manifesto, its about as close to Anxious and brooding is an odd look for
a protest album as Erasure is likely to get, and an interesting choice for two musicians the band that gave us Always, but its one
best known for their catchy dance-pop singles. Its a timely moment of reflection, given that lands surprisingly well. The droning,
Erasures longevity. angst-heavy Oh What a World almost
Apart from a handful of easy pop tunes that recall their best work, World Be Gone sounds like a call-back to Clarkes work
is largely a sombre, thoughtful, focused affair. The political bent is unmistakable, but with Depeche Mode decades ago, and its
it comes across as more of a sober observation than a call to arms. Clarke and Bell opt ominous, industrial build-ups could easily
instead for musings on the passage of time, marked by a pervasive anxiety about a have been written for his old band.
world in disarray. They may have some harsh words, but they avoid completely sink- The end result is somewhat mixed,

MAY 25, 2017 METROWEEKLY 57

however. The albums slower be overlooked, there are some
pace saps Erasure of some incredibly good moments
of their characteristic ener- worth paying attention to. A
gy, and highlights traces of Bitter Parting is followed by
awkwardness in the song- the poignant and unexpect-
writing. While the vocals are edly touching Still Its Not
definitely a strength here, Over, a song that finds Bell
focusing on them makes for a reflecting on the struggle for
handful of uneasy moments. gay rights, its cost, and the
The problem may be one of progress left to be made. Less
structure. Erasures simple autobiographical, but just
rhymes and repetitive nature as affecting, Lousy Sum of
are well-suited to the bright, Nothing is a lament on the
fast-paced pop they are general state of the world that
known for, but sound a lit- soars over Clarkes synths.
tle off when paired with the While World Be Gone finds
more sombre mood on World Erasure in a noticeably differ-
Be Gone. Pairing brood- ent mood, there is otherwise
ing electronica with upbeat little deviation from their
synthpop would have been familiar style. Bringing that
an odd choice at the best of formulaic dance-pop song-
times, but it can certainly be writing to a heavier tone and
done, and they do pull it off subject matter doesnt always
well on Oh What a World. land perfectly, but Clarke and
The only real clunker comes midway through, with A Bitter Bell delivered an album that confronts a tumultuous and uncer-
Parting, a song that meanders for what feels longer than its tain world and offers it a bit of hope. World Be Gone may not be
three-minute runtime. the most memorable or consistent Erasure album, but it is ener-
Still, if the awkwardness running through World Be Gone can getic, dramatic, moving, and altogether a worthwhile listen. l

World Be Gone is available to stream on Apple Music and Spotify.

58 MAY 25, 2017 METROWEEKLY

NightLife
Photography by
Ward Morrison

MAY 25, 2017 METROWEEKLY 61


DrinksDragDJsEtc...
Thursday,
May 25
9 1/2
Happy Hour: 2 for 1 on any
drink, 5-9pm Multiple TVs
showing movies, shows, sports
Expanded craft beer selection
Music videos featuring
DJ Wess
BALTIMORE EAGLE
2022 N. Charles St.
410-200-9828
Happy Hour, 5-9pm, all liquors,
beers and wines up to 50% off
$3 Well Drinks All Night
Underwear Night, 9pm-2am
For men in underwear, all well
drinks $2 from 9pm-12am ONLY
Best Underwear Contest at
Midnight Code enforced in
Code Bar after 9pm No Cover
thebaltimoreeagle.com
COBALT/30 DEGREES
Happy Hour: Tops Down $6
Top Shelf, Bottoms Up $3
Rail, $3 Bud Light, 4-9pm
Locker Room Thursday Nights,
Scene
10pm-close $3 Rail Drinks,
10pm-midnight, $5 Red Bull and
Frozen Virgin Drinks DJs Sean
Morris and MadScience Best
Package Contest at midnight,
hosted by BaNaka & Kristina
Kelly $200 Cash Prize Doors
open 10pm, 21+ $5 Cover or
free with college ID
DC EAGLE
Doors open at 8pm Strip
Down Thursdays Happy Hour
Shirtless guys get $2 off
all drinks, 8-10pm Jock or
underwear gets $2 off all drinks,
10pm-2am No Cover 21+
BLACK PRIDE PARTY!
DIRTY MARTINI
1223 Connecticut Ave. NW
3rd Annual Welcome 2 DC
Happy Hour, 7pm-12am
Admission free before 8pm
FREDDIES BEACH BAR
Crazy Hour, 4-7pm First
Annual Rainbow Democrats
Extravaganza, 7-9pm help
raise money for Democratic Va.
House of Delegates candidates
Mr. & Miss Capital Pride 2017 Pageant at the DC Eagle
Friday, May 19 Photography by Ward Morrison
See and purchase more photos from this event at www.metroweekly.com/scene
as they seek to win back
the majority Tickets ($25
for those under age 35, $50
general admission) available at
marklevine.ngpvanhost.com
Karaoke, 9pm-close
GREEN LANTERN
Happy Hour, 4-9pm Ladies
Drink Free Power Hour, 4-5pm
Shirtless Thursday, 10-11pm
DJs BacK2bACk
BLACK PRIDE PARTY!
L8 LOUNGE
27 15th St. NW
Welcome to DC Ladies
Party Greet HER: 2017 Black
Pride Takeover, 7pm-1am
Admission free before 8pm
Featuring two DJs, VIP service,
hookah and Happy Hour TMS-
themed drinks
NELLIES SPORTS BAR
Beat the Clock Happy Hour
$2 (5-6pm), $3 (6-7pm), $4
(7-8pm) Buckets of Beer $15
Drag Bingo
NUMBER NINE
Happy Hour: 2 for 1 on any
drink, 5-9pm No Cover
SHAWS TAVERN
Happy Hour, 4-7pm $3 Miller
Lite, $4 Blue Moon, $5 Rails
and House Wines & Half-Priced
Pizzas $4 Heineken and
Coronas, 5pm-close
BLACK PRIDE PARTY!
STONEFISH LOUNGE
1708 L St. NW
202-827-4980
The Jump Off: DC Black Pride
Kickoff Party, 10pm-2am
Featuring DJ Sedrick X and
GoGo Dancers
TRADE
Doors open 5pm Huge Happy
Hour: Any drink normally served
in a cocktail glass served in
a huge glass for the same
price, 5-10pm Beer and wine
only $4
ZIEGFELDS/SECRETS
All male, nude dancers DJ
9pm Cover 21+
MAY 25, 2017 METROWEEKLY
Friday,
May 26
9 1/2
Open at 5pm Happy Hour:
2 for 1 on any drink, 5-9pm
Friday Night Videos with
DJ Chord Bezerra, 9:30pm
Expanded craft beer selection
No Cover
BALTIMORE EAGLE
2022 N. Charles St.
410-200-9828
Happy Hour, 5-9pm, all liquors,
beers and wines up to 50% off
RuPauls Drag Race viewing
party in The Nest, 7:30-9:30pm
The Nest presents Divas
Concert Live! Featuring Onyx D
Pearl, Sue Nami, Abbi Kadabra,
Shaunda Leer, and Whitney
GucciGoo Freaky Bear Fridays
in the Code Bar Elyx Vodka
and Any Red Bull Flavor for $7
all day long thebaltimoreea-
gle.com
BLACK PRIDE PARTY!
BISTRO BISTRO DC
1727 Connecticut Ave. NW
Pride Deux Club Crawl,
11pm-3am Surprise Celebrity
Guests Music by DCs
Adotnet and DJ TMF, NYCs
DJ Kidd Swagg and Phillys
DJ Deluxx Hosted by Poca
and Mac
BLACK PRIDE PARTY!
BLISS NIGHTCLUB
2122 24th Pl. NE
The Annual 5,000 Men Pride
Mega Party, 9:30pm-4am
Featuring K. Michelle live DJs
Damon, Momoney, Camron, and
Tone, with MCs Roy Jones and
Keelon and GoGo Dancers
COBALT/30 DEGREES
All You Can Drink Happy Hour
$15 Rail and Domestic, $21 Call
& Imports, 6-9pm Fancy Ass
Fridays, 10pm $6 Grey Goose
all night Two 30-minute open
bars featuring Grey Goose,
11-11:30pm and 1-1:30am
DJ MadScience upstairs DJ
Keenan Orr downstairs $10
cover 10pm-close 21+
DC EAGLE
Doors open at 8pm Happy
Hour, 8-10pm $2 off all
drinks Monday Night Skating
on Club Bar, 9pm-2am Men-
N-Demand Black Pride Party,
presented by Daryl Wilson,
10:30pm-7am Featuring a live
performance by Cardi B 21+
63
FREDDIES BEACH BAR
Crazy Hour, 4-7pm Karaoke,
8pm
BLACK PRIDE PARTY!
GRAND HYATT
WASHINGTON
1000 H St. NW.
Wet Dreamz Reloaded 2017
Party Pass Distribution &
Happy Hour, 3-9pm Opening
Reception, 6:30-8:30pm
LGBTQ Speed Dating, 8:30-
10:30pm (check-in at 7:30pm)
GREEN LANTERN
Happy Hour, 4-9pm $5
Smirnoff, all flavors, all
night long
BLACK PRIDE PARTY!
MADRID
1714 Connecticut Ave. NW
Pride Deux Club Crawl,
11pm-3am Surprise Celebrity
Guests Music by DCs
Adotnet and DJ TMF, NYCs
DJ Kidd Swagg and Phillys
DJ Deluxx Hosted by Poca
and Mac
NELLIES SPORTS BAR
DJ Matt Bailer Videos,
Dancing Beat the Clock
Happy Hour $2 (5-6pm), $3
(6-7pm), $4 (7-8pm) Buckets
of Beer $15
NUMBER NINE
Open 5pm Happy Hour: 2 for
1 on any drink, 5-9pm No
Cover Friday Night Piano with
Chris, 7:30pm
64 MAY 25, 2017 METROWEEKLY
SHAWS TAVERN
Happy Hour, 4-7pm $3 Miller
Lite, $4 Blue Moon, $5 Rails
and House Wines & Half-Priced
Pizzas
TOWN
Patio open 6pm DC Bear Crue
Happy Hour, 6-11pm $3 Rail,
$3 Draft, $3 Bud Bottles Free
Pizza, 7pm No cover before
9:30pm 21+ Drag Show
starts at 10:30pm Hosted
by Lena Lett and featuring
Tatianna, Shi-Queeta-Lee,
Riley Knoxx and BaNaka DJ
Wess upstairs, DJs BacK2bACk
downstairs following the show
GoGo Boys after 11pm
Doors open at 10pm For
those 21 and over, $12 For
those 18-20, $15 Club: 18+
Patio: 21+
TRADE
Doors open 5pm Huge Happy
Hour: Any drink normally served
in a cocktail glass served in
a huge glass for the same
price, 5-10pm Beer and wine
only $4
BLACK PRIDE PARTY!
VITA LOUNGE
1318 9th St. NW
DC Friday #Lituation: The
Official DC Black Pride Ladies
Party, 10pm-3am Featuring
DJs, premium drinks, VIP sec-
tions, and Hookah
ZIEGFELDS/SECRETS
Men of Secrets, 9pm Guest
dancers Ladies of Illusion
Drag Show Doors at 9pm,
Shows at 11:30pm and 1:30am
DJ Don T. in Secrets Doors open 3pm Welcome
Cover 21+
Saturday,
May 27
9 1/2
Happy Hour: 2 for 1 on any
drink, 2-9pm $5 Absolut &
Titos, $3 Miller Lite after 9pm
Expanded craft beer selection
No Cover
BALTIMORE EAGLE
2022 N. Charles St.
410-200-9828
Long Island Leather and Fetish
Saturdays, Code Bar, 8pm-2am
$5 Drinks all day Code
enforced after 9pm in the Code
Bar Joe Whitaker presents
Baltimore DILF in the Eagle,
9pm-2am Featuring Music by
DJ J Warren Jock/Harness
Dance Party in the Nest, 9:30-
2am clothes check available
thebaltimoreeagle.com
COBALT/30 DEGREES
Drag Yourself to Brunch at Level
One, 11am-2pm and 2-4pm
Featuring Kristina Kelly and the
Ladies of Illusion Bottomless
Mimosas and Bloody Marys
Happy Hour: Tops Down $6
Top Shelf, Bottoms Up $3 Rail,
$3 Bud Light, 4-9pm Arabian
Nights, 10pm-close Doors
open 10pm $5 Cover 21+
DC EAGLE
Happy Hour, 4-9pm $5
to The Tea House, 3-7pm
everything you love about
Provincetowns Tea Dances,
right in your own backyard!
The sun, the men, the punch,
the music! $5 Cover
Knighthawks and Cavaliers
hosts the Club Bar, 9pm-2am
Meat Locker Boot Camp DJ
Barry Harris & Steve Henderson
in the Exile, 9pm-3am Role
Modelz in the Annex, 10pm-4am
BLACK PRIDE PARTY!
DECADES DC
1219 Connecticut Ave. NW
Day Treat Super Party, 3-9pm
Complimentary buffet and two
drinks for pass holders Three
floors and an amazing rooftop
Four DJs, with MCs Keelon and
Roy Jones
BLACK PRIDE PARTY!
ECHOSTAGE
2135 Queens Chapel Rd. NE
Loud by Wet Dreamz Reloaded,
10pm-4am $20 Cover before
midnight Featuring rap super-
star Phresher with special guest
Safaree DJs Scrilla, Sedrick
with MCs Hypeman Antman
and Brandon Anthony Free
for Wet Dreamz Reloaded 2017
Party Pass holders
FREDDIES BEACH BAR
Drag Queen Broadway Brunch,
10am-3pm Starring Freddies
Broadway Babes Crazy Hour,
4-7pm Freddies Follies Drag
Show, hosted by Miss Destiny
B. Childs, 8-10pm Karaoke,
10pm-close
GREEN LANTERN
STADIUM CLUB
Bacardi, all flavors, all night
long JOX: The GL Underwear
Party, 9pm-close $5 Cover
(includes clothes check)
BLACK PRIDE PARTY!
HOWARD THEATER
620 T St. NW
Crme de la Crme Ladies Party,
11pm-4am Featuring DJ Mim
and DJ Sammii Blendz Hosted
by The Wire and VH-1s Love &
Hip-Hop New Yorks own Felicia
Pearson, a.k.a. Snoop General
admission: $15 in advance, $20
and up at door
NELLIES SPORTS BAR
Guest DJs Zing Zang Bloody
Marys, Nellie Beer, House
Rail Drinks and Mimosas,
$4, 11am-5pm Buckets of
Beer, $15
NUMBER NINE
Doors open 2pm Happy Hour:
2 for 1 on any drink, 2-9pm
$5 Absolut and $5 Bulleit
Bourbon Jawbreaker: Music
of the 80s and 90s, with DJs
BacK2bACk, 9:30pm
SHAWS TAVERN
Brunch with Bottomless
Mimosas, 10am-3pm Happy
Hour, 5-7pm $3 Miller Lite, $4
Blue Moon, $5 Rails and House
Wines & Half-Priced Pizzas
BLACK PRIDE PARTY!
2127 Queens Chapel Rd. NE
Candyland Womens Party,
3-10pm $12 Cover in advance,
$15 at the door Hosted by CJ
Da Juice & MC Tuffy
BLACK PRIDE PARTY!
THE PARK AT FOURTEENTH
920 14th St. NW
The Chill Out Ultimate Day
Party, 2-9pm Hosted by Milan
Christopher Featuring 4 floors,
massive patio, 5 DJs (Scrilla,
Unknown, Sedrick, Yezzy, and
Mikeal), with MCs Hypeman
Antman, Brandon Anthony and
Marc Simpson, food and drink
specials all day $20 Cover
Free admission for Wet
Dreamz Reloaded 2017 Party
Pass holders
BLACK PRIDE PARTY!
TOUCH
1123 H St. NW
The D.C. Takeover Mega
Party, 10pm-4am Hosted
by The Princess of Comedy
Jess Hilarious Featuring
DJ L*Stackz and DJ Face, DJ
Honey, and DJ Shye, with
Emcees Dnyce and Mac Lyfe
TOWN
CTRL DC: Thirst Trappist-1,
featuring DJs Adam Koussari-
Amin, Devon Trotter and Jeff
Prior, 10:30pm Drag Show
starts at 10:30pm Hosted
by Lena Lett and featuring
Tatianna, Shi-Queeta-Lee, Riley
Knoxx and BaNaka Doors
open at 10pm Cover $15 from
10pm-midnight and $12 after
midnight 21+
TRADE
Doors open 2pm Huge Happy
Hour: Any drink normally served
in a cocktail glass served in
a huge glass for the same
price, 2-10pm Beer and wine
only $4
BLACK PRIDE PARTY!
WASHINGTON MARRIOTT
WARDMAN PARK
Royal Wardman Grand Ballroom
2660 Woodley Rd. NW
The Grandiose Fantasy Mega
Pride Party, 9:30-3:30pm
Lil Kim performing live DJs
Damon, Momoney, and Tone
with MC Roy Jones and Keelon
and GoGo Dancers
ZIEGFELDS/SECRETS
Men of Secrets, 9pm-4am
Guest dancers Ladies of
Illusion Drag Show with host
Ella Fitzgerald Doors at 9pm,
Shows at 11:30pm and 1:30am
DJ Don T. in Ziegfelds DJ
Steve Henderson in Secrets
Cover 21+
Sunday,
May 28
9 1/2
Happy Hour: 2 for 1 on any
drink, 2-9pm Multiple TVs
showing movies, shows, sports
Expanded craft beer selection
No Cover
BLACK PRIDE PARTY!
AVERYS BAR AND LOUNGE
1370 H St. NE
Pride Closeout Rooftop Day
Party, 4-10pm Music by
DJ Mim and DJ Deluxx
$10 Cover
BALTIMORE EAGLE
2022 N. Charles St.
410-200-9828
T-Dance Sundays, 4-9pm Buy
a cup for $5 and fill it with any
Absolut Flavor and Mixer for
$3 each time (excluding energy
drink mixers) thebaltimoreea-
gle.com
BLACK PRIDE PARTY!
CLUB XO
15 K St. NE
DC Black Pride Finale Womens
Party, 10pm-4am Peformance
by Capital Dollhouse
Entertainment Bottle Service,
Hookah and DJs
COBALT/30 DEGREES
Happy Hour: Tops Down $6 Top
Shelf, Bottoms Up $3 Rail, $3
Bud Light, 4-9pm Homowood
Karaoke, hosted by Robert Bise,
10pm-close 21+
DC EAGLE
Doors open at 3pm Happy
Hour, 3-6pm $2 off every-
thing $2 Bud and Bud Light
Draughts all day and night
DC 2 Mykonos Beach Party with
DJs Dani Toro and Jack Chang,
10pm-8am, 3rd Floor Exile
Free admission for the first hour
Tickets available at distrktc.
com and at the door
BLACK PRIDE PARTY!
DIRTY MARTINI
1223 Connecticut Ave. NW
DC Black Pride Brunch, 12-6pm
$40 Cover RSVP required
DJs, unlimited food by
Kitchen Cray & Brunch Royalty,
with unlimited mimosas
FREDDIES BEACH BAR
Champagne Brunch Buffet,
10am-3pm Crazy Hour, 4-7pm
Karaoke, 8pm-1am
GREEN LANTERN
Happy Hour, 4-9pm Mamas
Trailer Park Karaoke downstairs,
9:30pm-close
BLACK PRIDE PARTY!
KARMA DC
2221 Adams Pl. NE
The Pride Empire Annual Climax
Pride Mega Party, 10pm-4am
Featuring Serayah, DJs Damon,
Momoney, and Tone with MCs
Kellon and Roy Jones GoGo
Dancers
NELLIES SPORTS BAR
Drag Brunch, hosted by Shi-
Queeta-Lee, 11am-3pm $20
Brunch Buffet House Rail
Drinks, Zing Zang Bloody Marys,
Nellie Beer and Mimosas,
$4, 11am-close Buckets of
Beer, $15
NUMBER NINE
Pop Goes the World with Wes
Della Volla at 9:30pm Happy
Hour: 2 for 1 on any drink,
2-9pm No Cover
ROCK HARD SUNDAYS
@The House Nightclub
3530 Georgia Ave. NW
Diverse group of all male, all
nude dancers Nonstop on
three stages, 9:30pm-close
Intimate setting $12 Cover
For reservations, call 202-487-
6646 rockharddc.com
SHAWS TAVERN
Brunch with Bottomless
Mimosas, 10am-3pm Stoli
Sundays: $5 Stol Specials with
DJ, 3:30-7:30pm Happy Hour,
5-7pm $3 Miller Lite, $4 Jones and Keelon
Blue Moon, $5 Rails and House
Wines & Half-Priced Pizzas
BLACK PRIDE PARTY!
THE GATEWAY PAVILLION
2700 Martin Luther King, Jr.
Ave. SE
ULIVE Pride-N-The-Park
Womens Festival 2017, 3-10pm
Live music, visual artists,
fashion spotlight, female orga-
nizations, group panels, paint
& sip, and more $20 Early
Bird Admission $40 Cover for
Paint & Sip
BLACK PRIDE PARTY!
THE PARK AT FOURTEENTH
920 14th St. NW
Wet Dreamz Super Party,
9pm-4am DJs Scrilla,
Unknown, Sedrick, Yezzy and
Mikeal with MCs Hypeman
Antman, Brandon Anthony, and
Marc Simpson $20 Cover
before midnight Free for Wet
Dreamz Reloaded 2017 Party
Pass holders
MAY 25, 2017 METROWEEKLY
TRADE
Doors open 2pm Huge Happy Monday,
Hour: Any drink normally served
in a cocktail glass served in
May 29
a huge glass for the same
9 1/2
price, 2-10pm Beer and wine
Happy Hour: 2 for 1 on any
only $4
drink, 5-9pm Multiple TVs
showing movies, shows, sports
BLACK PRIDE PARTY!
Expanded craft beer selection
ULTRABAR
No Cover
911 F St. NW
The Pride Manhunt Super Day
BALTIMORE EAGLE
Party, 3-9pm Featuring Big
2022 N. Charles St.
Freedia Four floors, four DJs,
410-200-9828
GoGo Dancers with MCs Roy
Happy Hour, 5-9pm, all liquors,
beers and wines up to 50%
off
BLACK PRIDE PARTY!
Micro Brew Draft/Bottle
WALTER E. WASHINGTON
Mondays $4 all day the-
CONVENTION CENTER
baltimoreeagle.com
801 Mt. Vernon Pl. NW
Daryl Wilson Promotions, LLC
COBALT/30 DEGREES
& DC Black Pride presents Epic
Happy Hour: Tops Down $6 Top
Live, 12-10pm Variety Show,
Shelf, Bottoms Up $3 Rail, $3
4pm Featuring Tank live on
Bud Light, 4-9pm Monday
stage, 5:15pm Music by DJ
Nights A Drag, featuring Miss
Sedrick and DJ Scrilla $25
Kristina Kelly Doors open at
Cover before 2pm Free for
10pm Showtime at 11:30pm
Wet Dreamz Reloaded 2017
$3 Skyy Cocktails, $8 Skyy
Party Pass holders
and Red Bull $8 Long Islands
No Cover, 18+
ZIEGFELDS/SECRETS
All male, nude dancers
DC EAGLE
Decades of Dance DJ Tim-e
in Secrets Doors 9pm
Doors open at 4pm The Block
Party Strip-Down: DC Black
Cover 21+
Pride Closing Party, by Daryl
Wilson, 4pm-2am
FREDDIES BEACH BAR
Crazy Hour, 4-7pm Singles
Night Karaoke, 8pm
GREEN LANTERN
Happy Hour all night long
Open Mic Night Karaoke with
Kevin, 9:30pm-close
65
JR.S
Showtunes Songs & Singalongs,
9pm-close DJ James $3
Draft Pints, 8pm-midnight
NELLIES SPORTS BAR
Beat the Clock Happy Hour
$2 (5-6pm), $3 (6-7pm), $4
(7-8pm) Buckets of Beer $15
Texas Holdem Poker, 8pm
Dart Boards
NUMBER NINE
Happy Hour: 2 for 1 on any
drink, 5-9pm No Cover
SHAWS TAVERN
Memorial Day Brunch
with Bottomless Mimosas,
11am-3pm Happy Hour,
4-7pm $3 Miller Lite, $4
Blue Moon, $5 Rails and House
Wines and Half-Priced Pizzas
Trivia with Jeremy, 7:30pm
STADIUM CLUB
2127 Queens Chapel Rd. NE
The Apocalypse Mega Party,
9:30pm-2:30am Dancers
DJ Damon MCs Keelon and
Roy Jones
TRADE
Doors open 5pm Huge Happy
Hour: Any drink normally served
in a cocktail glass served in
a huge glass for the same
price, 5-10pm Beer and wine
only $4
66 MAY 25, 2017 METROWEEKLY
Tuesday,
May 30
9 1/2
Happy Hour: 2 for 1 on any
drink, 5-9pm Multiple TVs
showing movies, shows, sports
Expanded craft beer selection
a huge glass for the same
No Cover
BALTIMORE EAGLE
2022 N. Charles St.
410-200-9828
Happy Hour, 5-9pm, all liquors,
beers and wines up to 50% off
Well Bomb Shots $4 all Day
thebaltimoreeagle.com
COBALT/30 DEGREES
DJ Honey Happy Hour: Tops
Down $6 Top Shelf, Bottoms
Up $3 Rail, $3 Bud Light, 4-9pm
SIN Service Industry Night,
10pm-close $1 Rail Drinks
all night
FREDDIES BEACH BAR
Crazy Hour, 4-7pm Karaoke,
8pm
GREEN LANTERN
Happy Hour all night long,
4pm-close
NELLIES SPORTS BAR
Beat the Clock Happy Hour
$2 (5-6pm), $3 (6-7pm), $4
(7-8pm) Buckets of Beer $15
Karaoke and Drag Bingo
NUMBER NINE
Happy Hour: 2 for 1 on any
drink, 5-9pm No Cover
After 9pm, $3 Absolut, Bulleit
& Stella
SHAWS TAVERN
Half-Priced Burgers and Pizzas,
5-10pm $5 House Wines and
$5 Sam Adams
TRADE
Doors open 5pm Huge Happy
Hour: Any drink normally served
in a cocktail glass served in
4pm-close Bear Yoga
price, 5-10pm Beer and wine
only $4
Wednesday,
May 31
9 1/2
Happy Hour: 2 for 1 on any
drink, 5-9pm Multiple TVs
showing movies, shows, sports
Expanded craft beer selection
No Cover
BALTIMORE EAGLE
2022 N. Charles St.
410-200-9828
Happy Hour, 5-9pm, all liquors,
beers and wines up to 50% off
Domestic Bottles are $3 all
day thebaltimoreeagle.com
COBALT/30 DEGREES
Happy Hour: Tops Down $6
Top Shelf, Bottoms Up $3 Rail,
$3 Bud Light, 4-9pm $4 Stoli
and Stoli Flavors and Miller Lite
all night Wednesday Night
Karaoke, hosted by India Larelle
Houston, 10pm-close No
Cover 21+
FREDDIES BEACH BAR
Crazy Hour, 4-7pm $6 Burgers
Drag Bingo Night, hosted
by Ms. Regina Jozet Adams,
8pm Bingo prizes Karaoke,
10pm-1am
GREEN LANTERN
Happy Hour all night long,
with Greg Leo, 6-7pm $10
per class
NELLIES SPORTS BAR
SmartAss Trivia Night, 8pm and
9pm Prizes include bar tabs
and tickets to shows at the 9:30
Club $15 Buckets of Beer for
SmartAss Teams only Bring a
new team member and each get
a free $10 Dinner
NUMBER NINE
Happy Hour: 2 for 1 on any
drink, 5-9pm No Cover
SHAWS TAVERN
Happy Hour, 4-7pm $3 Miller
Lite, $4 Blue Moon, $5 Rails
and House Wines and Half-
Priced Pizzas Piano Bar with
Jill, downstairs, 8pm
TRADE
Doors open 5pm Huge Happy
Hour: Any drink normally served
in a cocktail glass served in
a huge glass for the same
price, 5-10pm Beer and wine
only $4
Thursday,
June 1
9 1/2
Happy Hour: 2 for 1 on any
drink, 5-9pm Multiple TVs
showing movies, shows, sports
Expanded craft beer selection
Music videos featuring Crazy Hour, 4-7pm Karaoke,
DJ Wess
BALTIMORE EAGLE
2022 N. Charles St.
410-200-9828
Happy Hour, 5-9pm all
liquors, beers and wines up
to 50% off $3 Well Drinks
All Night Underwear Night,
9pm-2am For men in
underwear, all well drinks $2
from 9pm-12am ONLY Best
Underwear Contest at 11pm
No Cover thebaltimoreea-
gle.com
COBALT/30 DEGREES
Happy Hour: Tops Down $6
Top Shelf, Bottoms Up $3
Rail, $3 Bud Light, 4-9pm
Locker Room Thursday Nights,
10pm-close $3 Rail Drinks,
10pm-midnight, $5 Red Bull and
Frozen Virgin Drinks DJs Sean
Morris and MadScience Best
Package Contest at midnight,
hosted by BaNaka & Kristina
Kelly $200 Cash Prize Doors
open 10pm, 21+ $5 Cover or
free with college ID
DC EAGLE
Doors open at 8pm Strip
Down Thursdays Happy Hour
Shirtless guys get $2 off
all drinks, 8-10pm Jock or
underwear gets $2 off all drinks,
10pm-2am No Cover 21+
FREDDIES BEACH BAR
8pm
GREEN LANTERN
Happy Hour, 4-9pm Ladies
Drink Free Power Hour, 4-5pm
Shirtless Thursday, 10-11pm
DJs BacK2bACk
NELLIES SPORTS BAR
Beat the Clock Happy Hour
$2 (5-6pm), $3 (6-7pm), $4
(7-8pm) Buckets of Beer $15
Drag Bingo
NUMBER NINE
Happy Hour: 2 for 1 on any
drink, 5-9pm No Cover
SHAWS TAVERN
Happy Hour, 4-7pm $3 Miller
Lite, $4 Blue Moon, $5 Rails
and House Wines & Half-Priced
Pizzas $4 Heineken and
Coronas, 5pm-close
TRADE
1410 14th St. NW
Doors open 5pm Huge Happy
Hour: Any drink normally served
in a cocktail glass served in
a huge glass for the same
price, 5-10pm Beer and wine
only $4
ZIEGFELDS/SECRETS
All male, nude dancers DJ
9pm Cover 21+ l
 Scene
Mr. & Miss Capital Pride 2017 Pageant at the DC Eagle
Friday, May 19 Photography by Ward Morrison
See and purchase more photos from this event at www.metroweekly.com/scene

68 MAY 25, 2017 METROWEEKLY

MAY 25, 2017 METROWEEKLY 69
 LastWord.
People say the queerest things

The courts less-than-maximum sentence of 85 lashes is not act of compassion. It does not
change the reality that

flogging is a grotesque display of

medieval torture.
PHELIM KINE, deputy Asia director at Human Rights Watch, commenting on the public caning of two men convicted
of homosexuality in Indonesias Aceh province. The men, who were subjected to 83 lashes,
could have been sentenced to 100 under Sharia law.

No one should be persecuted based on their sexual orientation, activity, or gender identity alone.
What counts is their service, not their sexuality.
ROSEANN RIFE, East Asia Research Director at Amnesty International, calling for the overturn of a criminal conviction of a South
Korean soldier for having a same-sex relationship. Under South Koreas military code, soldiers are prohibited
from engaging in gay sex while actively serving.

We are facing a national epidemic of violence

with 11 trans people, many of them transgender people of color, murdered in 2017.

AMES SIMMONS, director of transgender policy for Equality NC, in a statement responding to the murder of Sherrell Faulkner,
a transgender woman from Charlotte. Faulkner passed away earlier this week from complications
arising from a brutal attack in November.

Whether it be the loss of insurance, or changes in the law, I have been stopped at every single turn from
completing my transition.
JANE DOE, a transgender woman in Colorado, explaining why she agreed to undergo a back-alley surgery to remove her testicles.
Doe is trying to defend James Pennington, who has been charged with first-degree assault for performing the procedure
without a medical license.

We need better queer sex scenes on TV,

ones that represent all colors and gender expressions and body types.

ALEXANDER CHEVES, writing in The Advocate about a much-talked about gay sex scene on the TV series American Gods
and the importance of realistically portraying gay sexual relationships.

70 MAY 25, 2017 METROWEEKLY