D.C. arts briefs: May 4

Cyndi Lauper in D.C. two years ago for an HRC dinner. (Blade file photo by Michael Key)

Lauper to receive award for LGBT advocacy

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration is honoring singer Cyndi Lauper for her advocacy efforts on behalf of homeless LGBT youth through her foundation the True Colors Fund at “Heroes of Hope” on Wednesday at Lisner Auditorium (730 24st St., N.W.) at 7:30 p.m.

Lauper started her True Colors Fund in 2007 to encourage people to become active in the advancement of LGBT equality and raise awareness to bring an end to LGBT youth homelessness.

In 2010, the fund launched the Give a Damn Campaign, a web-based education and awareness initiative to inspire straight people to get informed and care about LGBT equality.

The tribute will be emceed by ABC-7/WJLA-TV’s Leon Harris. Before the event, there will be a reception sponsored by the Child Mind Institute featuring an exhibit with artwork from students across the country.

This event is free and open to the public. For more information and to reserve tickets, visit awarenessevent.org.

To learn more about the True Colors Fund, visit truecolorsfund.org.

Food truck rally in D.C. at RFK Stadium

D.C.’s original food truck festival is returning Saturday with “Curbside Cookoff: Trucko De Mayo” on Saturday at the RFK Stadium festival grounds from noon to 9 p.m.

“Hosting the Curbside Cookoff on the RFK Stadium Festival Grounds allows us to showcase the largest number of food trucks, giving attendees the greatest number of food options in event history,” said Erik Moses, managing director of the Events D.C. Sports and Entertainment Division, in a press release. “In addition to good food and entertainment, attendees can enjoy the festival atmosphere and camaraderie throughout the day.”

There will be live music, two bars and about 35 food trucks.

Admission and parking are free.

Gay Men’s Chorus having spring gala this weekend

The Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington is having its Spring Affair, its largest annual fundraiser, on Saturday at the Grand Hyatt Washington (1000 H St., N.W.).

The evening begins with a VIP Sponsors’ reception at 5:30 p.m. The guest reception begins at 6:30 with the dinner and live entertainment beginning at 7:30. The 2012 Harmony Award presentation will be at 8:45 with the live auction starting at 9, following by an after party and dessert.

Tickets are $175 for guests and $300 for sponsors. A patron table can be bought for $1,750 and a benefactor table for $3,000.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit gmcw.org.