Arts & Entertainment
AIDS-themed ‘80s play gets reading
Several local gay actors to participate

Actor Rick Hammerly will participate in a reading of ‘The Normal Heart’ next week. (Photo courtesy Forum Theatre)
The Forum Theatre (8641 Colesville Rd.) in Silver Spring is doing a one-night-only reading of the Tony award-winning play, “The Normal Heart” on Monday at 7:30 p.m. It features several gay actors including Will Gartshore, Holly Twyford, J. Fred Shiffman and Rick Hammerly.
Larry Kramer’s “Normal” tells the story of a group of friends who refuse to allow those in power to keep hiding the truth about the AIDS epidemic.
The play premiered Off-Broadway in 1985 then had a couple revivals in Los Angeles and London, before debuting on Broadway that spring.
Tickets are $100 for premium seating which guarantees first or second row seats with a table for whole party and $75 for general admissions. Go to forum-theatre.org for more information.
The DC Black Pride Opening Reception was held at the Westin DC Downtown on Friday, May 22. Grammy Award-winning artist Durand Bernarr was the headline performer. Comedian Anthony Oakes was the host. Speakers included Human Rights Campaign President Kelley Robinson and Center For Black Equity President Kenya Hutton, as well as speakers from health organizations and sponsors. The event featured performances from Billy the Goat, Jay Columbus, Akeem Woods, Rue Pratt, Be Steadwell and Bennu Byrd.
(Washington Blade photos by Michael Key)
















Photos
PHOTOS: Black Pride Pageant and Unity Ball
Back-to-back events held on first night of D.C. Black Pride
The Mr. and Miss DC Black Pride Pageant was held at the Westin DC Downtown on Thursday, May 21. Following the pageant, Black Pride events continued with the 10th annual DC Black Pride Unity Ball.
(Washington Blade photos by Landon Shackelford)
























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PHOTOS: Helen Hayes Awards
D.C.-area productions honored at Theatre Washington’s annual ceremony
Theatre Washington’s 42nd Helen Hayes Awards were held at The Anthem on Monday, May 18.
(Washington Blade photos by Michael Key)


































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