Arts & Entertainment
Out & About: D.C. and Baltimore
‘Normal Heart’ production opens, ‘Pariah’ screening planned and more
Arena Stage presents ‘The Normal Heart’ running from June 8-July 29. Photo by Carol Rosegg; courtesy Arena)
Kramer classic ‘Normal Heart’ opens D.C. run
Arena Stage at the Mead Center for American Theater’s production of the 2011 Tony-awaring winning production of Larry Kramer’s “The Normal Heart,” directed by George C. Wolfe, opens today.
The cast includes original cast members Patrick Breen and Luke MacFarlane, returning in new roles, and original production understudy Jon Levenson, as well as Patricia Wettig from ABC’s “Brothers & Sisters” and “thirtysomething,” Broadway stars Tom Berklund, Michael Berresse, Christopher J. Hanke, Nick Mennell, Chris Dinolgo and John Procaccino.
“The Normal Heart” tells the story of a group of friends struggling with the mysterious disease ravaging New York’s gay community, looking at sexual politics during the AIDS crisis.
This production is an Affiliated Independent Event of AIDS 2012, the biennial International Conference, to be held in D.C. from July 22-27. To spread awareness of the ongoing fight against AIDS, Arena will be holding related events and partnering with organizations throughout the production’s run.
Sections of the AIDS Memorial Quilt will be on display in the Mead Center along with images from the HIV/AIDS relation collections of the Archives Center at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History. Local clinics and HIV testing providers will have HIV testing vans parked outside the Mead Center on select weekends and panel discussions with guest speakers will follow select matinees.
Arena Stage and the Washington AIDS Partnership will host a benefit performance on July 23. The evening will include a pre-performance VIP cocktail hour, intermission champagne toast and a dance party following the performance.
Tickets range from $40-$94. Tickets for the benefit performance events start at $75.
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit arenastage.org.
Wolf Trap features bounty of summer shows
Wolf Trap’s summer season is heating up with a week full of concerts.
World-renowned contemporary instrumentalist Yanni begins the week tonight at 8 p.m. The concert will include music from his previous shows as well as songs from his newest album, “Truth of Touch.” Tickets range from $30-$55.
Gavin DeGraw and Colbie Caillat come together on Saturday at 7:30 p.m. The duo has performed several duets during previous joint tours. Tickets range from $25-$40.
Wolf Trap has its 23rd annual Louisiana Swamp Romp on Sunday at 2 p.m. The concert will feature Allen Toussaint Band, Dirty Dozen Brass Band and Big Sam’s Funky Nation. Southern dishes will also be available on the plaza. Tickets are $25.
Country superstar Martina McBride comes to Wolf Trap on Wednesday with Grammy-nominated David Nail. McBride is a four-time Country Music Awards Female Vocalist of the Year and dedicated her single, “I’m Gonna Love You Through It” to cancer survivors, performing on a pink-li Empire State Building to raise breast cancer awareness. Tickets range from $35 to $48.
Bonnie Raitt plays Thursday with special guest Mavis Staples. Tickets range from $30-$48.
For more information on the concerts and to purchase tickets, visit wolftrap.org.
‘Drag Race’ alums at Town this weekend
Town (2009 8th St., N.W.) is kicking off Pride weekend with performances from the stars of “RuPaul’s Drag Race.” Sharon Needles, Phi Phi O’Hara and Dida Ritz will all be performing during the club’s drag show starting at 10:30 p.m. They will also be sticking around to sign autographs and take pictures after the show.
The club is continuing its Pride celebration with a dance party on Saturday featuring DJ Manny Lehman, the Ladies of Town and Tha Dance Camp.
The Town drag show is hosted by Lena Lett and stars Tatiana, Shi-Queeta–Lee, Epiphany B Lee, Ba’Naka and special guests.
Doors open at 9 p.m. and admission is $20. Friday night attendees must be 18 or older and Saturday night attendees must be 21 or older.
For more information and future events, visit towndc.com.
STAY ON TOP OF ALL THINGS PRIDE! DOWNLOAD THE DIGITAL PRIDE GUIDE TODAY!
‘Pariah’ screenings at Busboys & Poets
Busboys & Poets is offering a free screening of the film, “Pariah” at each of its four locations throughout the month continuing Sunday at its 14th and V streets location (2021 14th St., N.W.) at 8 p.m.
Written and directed by Dee Rees, the film follows Alike, a 17-year-old African American woman who lives with her parents and younger sister in Brooklyn, as she embraces her identity as a lesbian and wonders how much she can confide in her family.
The film stars Adepero Oduye as Alike, Kim Wayans as her mother Audry, Charles Parnell as her father Arthur, Sahra Mellesse as her sister Sharonda, Pernell Walker as her friend Laura and Aasha Davis as Bina, a potential love interest.
The other screenings will be June 17 at the Shirlington location at 7 p.m. and June 24 at the 5th and K streets location at 8 p.m.
— JULIETTE EBNER
Bock’s minimalist play is journey of self-discovery
Iron Crow Theatre Company’s “The Typographer’s Dream,” a play by Adam Bock, runs through June 16 at the Johns Hopkins University’s Swirnow Theatre (33rd St. and Charles St., Baltimore).
The play centers on a three characters: a stenographer, geographer and typographer. As the play progresses, the characters reveals how they’re defined by their jobs and the meaning and notions of their lives are called into question.
Bock is gay and has been nominated for two Outer Critics Circle Awards.
The play runs every night at 8 p.m. Regular tickets are $17 while students and seniors are $12. For more information, go to ironcrowtheatre.com
Mount Vernon club starts Baltimore Pride celebrations
S.H.E. Productions is kicking off Baltimore Pride at Grand Central (1001 North Charles St., Baltimore) with a party event on Thursday at 9 p.m.
S.H.E. Productions is an event production company in the Baltimore area that specializes in LGBT events of various types. Its staff often performs at clubs but they also host high energy boot camps for fitness and outings/excursions.
Grand Central is surrounded by several eateries and is within walking distance of the Inner Harbor and the Walters Art Museum.
Cover is $5 at the door. For details, visit centralstationpub.com or visit sheproductionsevents.com.
Baltimore Hons commemorates ‘60s culture
HonFest, an annual festival that celebrates the historic working women of Baltimore, is this weekend on 36th Street in the Hampden neighborhood.
Started in 1994, HonFest has grown into a nationally recognized festival. Women can participate to become Baltimore’s Best Hon by sporting beehive hairdos, bright-blue eye shadow and spandex pants. Exhibitions include local musicians and artists.
The event is free but it will be $5 to park. For more information, visit honfest.net.
Twilight on the Terrace starts Pride weekend
Twilight on the Terrace benefit cocktail party will be held at Gertrude’s Restaurant at the Baltimore Museum of Art (10 Art Museum Drive) on June 15 from 7-11 p.m.
The evening will include a silent auction including artwork, gift certificates to restaurants and shops, themed gift baskets, a Myrtle Beach vacation, an autographed photo of Doris Day and dates with local celebrities. Guests will also be able to meet Baltimore actor Vincent de Paul.
There will be hors d’oeuvres, a four-hour open bar and dancing to DJ Alex Funk.
Tickets are $100. For details, visit baltimorepride.org.
— ERIN DURKIN
The DC LGBTQ+ Community Center is marking a milestone year in its new home with a vibrant birthday celebration, inviting the community, allies, and media to join the festivities on Saturday, April 25 at 1 p.m.
Since opening its doors in Shaw, The DC LGBTQ+ Community Center has become a hub of support, advocacy, and celebration for LGBTQ+ residents across the District.
The birthday bash promises a day of programming including Yoga (Center Wellness), Micro Bouquet Making (Center Social), Zine Making (Center Arts), and so much more. Guests can also enjoy tours of the Center’s expanded facilities, showcasing spaces for programs, services, and community events.
Since relocating, the Center has expanded its programs, providing critical services. The birthday bash underscores the DC LGBTQ+ Community Center’s commitment to creating an inclusive space where everyone regardless of identity, age, or background can find community and empowerment.
For more details, contact Paul Marengo at 202-705-2890.
Friday, April 24
Center Aging Monthly Luncheon With Yoga will be at 12 p.m. at the DC Center for the LGBT Community. Email Mac at [email protected] if you require ASL interpreter assistance, have any dietary restrictions, or questions about this event.
Lesbian Visibility Week will be at 7 p.m. at the DC Center for the LGBT Community. There will be a special screening of “Ahead of the Curve.” Enjoy an evening of film, conversation, and community, with cocktails and beverages available throughout the night For more details, visit the DC Center’s website.
Trans Discussion Group will be at 7 p.m. on Zoom. This event is intended to provide an emotionally and physically safe space for trans people and those who may be questioning their gender identity/expression to join together in community and learn from one another. For more details, email [email protected].
Saturday, April 25
Go Gay DC will host “LGBTQ+ Community Brunch” at 11 a.m. at Freddie’s Beach Bar & Restaurant. This fun weekly event brings the DMV area LGBTQ+ community, including allies, together for delicious food and conversation. Attendance is free and more details are available on Eventbrite.
Sunday, April 26
Nellie’s Sports Bar will host “Nellie’s DC Drag Brunch” at 12 p.m. Join Sapphire Blue, Deja Diamond and their team of drag performers for the most fun you’ll have all weekend. Tickets start at $58.51 and are available on Eventbrite.
LGBTQ+ Community Coffee and Conversation will be at 12 p.m. at As You Are. This event is for people looking to make more friends and meaningful connections in the LGBTQ community. Attendance is free and more details are available on Eventbrite.
Monday, April 27
“Center Aging: Monday Coffee Klatch” will be at 10 a.m. on Zoom. This is a social hour for older LGBTQ+ adults. Guests are encouraged to bring a beverage of choice. For more information, contact Adam ([email protected]).
Genderqueer DC will be at 7 p.m. on Zoom. This is a support group for people who identify outside of the gender binary, whether you’re bigender, agender, genderfluid, or just know that you’re not 100% cis. For more details, visit genderqueerdc.org or Facebook.
Tuesday, April 28
The DC Center for the LGBT Community will host “Candlelight Vigil” at 6:30 p.m. This is a vigil centered on reflection, support, and collective care. Attendees are encouraged to gather at 6:30 p.m., with the program beginning promptly at 7 p.m. and concluding by 8 p.m. The event will take place on the closed-off Wiltberger Street, providing a dedicated and intimate space for remembrance. Electronic candle lights will be available to participants. For those seeking additional support or who have questions ahead of the event, please contact [email protected].
Wednesday, April 29
Job Club will be at 6 p.m. on Zoom upon request. This is a weekly job support program to help job entrants and seekers, including the long-term unemployed, improve self-confidence, motivation, resilience and productivity for effective job searches and networking — allowing participants to move away from being merely “applicants” toward being “candidates.” For more information, email [email protected] or visit thedccenter.org/careers.
The DC Center for the LGBT Community will host “Movement for Healing” at 3 p.m. This trauma- and yoga therapy–informed class is designed to help guests gently reconnect with their body and their breath. Through mindful movement, somatic awareness, and grounding practices, guests will explore how to release tension, increase mobility, and cultivate a deeper sense of safety and ease within. For more details, visit the DC Center’s website.
Thursday, April 30
The DC Center’s Fresh Produce Program will be held all day at the DC Center for the LGBT Community. People will be informed on Wednesday at 5 p.m. if they are picked to receive a produce box. No proof of residency or income is required. For more information, email [email protected] or call 202-682-2245.
Virtual Yoga Class will be at 7 p.m. on Zoom. This free weekly class is a combination of yoga, breathwork and meditation that allows LGBTQ+ community members to continue their healing journey with somatic and mindfulness practices. For more details, visit the DC Center’s website.
a&e features
Memorial for groundbreaking bisexual activist set for May 2
Loraine Hutchins remembered as a ‘force of nature’
The Montgomery County Pride Center will host a celebration honoring the life and legacy of Loraine Hutchins, Ph.D., on May 2. People are invited to attend the onsite memorial or a livestream event. The on-site event will begin at 10 a.m. with a meet-and-greet mixer before moving into a memorial service around the theme “Loraine a Force of Nature!” at 11 a.m., a panel talk at 12 p.m., break out sessions for artists, academics, and activists to build on her legacy at 1 p.m. and a closing reception at 2 p.m.
Attendees are encouraged to register for the on-site memorial gathering or the livestreamed memorial. The goal of this event is also to collect stories and memories of Loraine. Attendees and others can share their stories at padlet.com.
An obituary for Hutchins was published in the Bladelast Nov. 24, where people can learn more about her activism in the bisexual community. A private service for friends and family was held in December but this memorial service is open to all.
Alongside her groundbreaking work organizing for U.S. bisexual rights and liberation including co-editing “Bi Any Other Name: BIsexual People Speak Out” (1991), she also integrated faith into her sexual education and advocacy work. Her 2001 doctoral dissertation, “Erotic Rites: A Cultural Analysis of Contemporary U.S. Sacred Sexuality Traditions and Trends,” offered a pointed queer and feminist analysis to sex-neutral and sex-positive spiritual traditions in the United States. Her thesis was also groundbreaking in exploring the intersections between sex workers and those in caregiving professionals, including spiritual ones.
In an oral history interview conducted by Michelle Mueller back in August 2023, Hutchins described herself as a “priestess without a congregation.” While she has occasionally had a sense of community and feels part of a group of loving people, she admitted that “I don’t feel like we have the shape or the purpose that we need.”
“I’ve often experienced being the Cassandra in the room, the Cassandra in the community. Somebody who’s kind of way out there ahead, thinking through the strategic action points that my community hasn’t gotten to yet, and getting a lot of resistance and hostile responses from people who are frightened by dissent and conflict and not ready for the changes we have to make to survive,” she said.
“For somebody who’s bisexual in an out political way and who’s been a spokesperson for the polyamory movement in an out political way, it’s very exposing. And it’s very important to me to be able to try to explain and help other people understand the connection between spirituality and sexuality,” she explained citing how even as a graduate student she was “exploring how to feel erotic and spiritual, and not feel them in conflict with each other in my own spiritual contemplative life and my own sensual body awareness of being alive in the world.”
“Every religion has a sense of sacred sexuality. It’s just they put a lot of boundaries and regulations on it, and if we have a spiritual practice that is totally affirming of women’s priesthood and of gay people, queer people’s ability to minister to everyone and to be ministered to be everyone, what does that do to the gender of God, or our understanding of how we practice our spirituality and our sexuality in community and privately?”
“There’s no easy answer,” she concludes, and she continued to grapple with these questions throughout her life, co-editing another seminal text, “Sexuality, Religion and the Sacred: Bisexual, Pansexual, and Polysexual Perspectives,” published in 2012. Her work blending spiritual and queer liberation remains groundbreaking to this day.
Rev. Eric Eldritch, a local community organizer and ordained Pagan minister with Circle Sanctuary who has worked for decades with the DC Center’s Center Faith to organize the Pride Interfaith Service, is eager to highlight this element of her legacy at the memorial service next month.
Why we need to recognize and celebrate Lesbian Day of Visibility
Prominent activists join ‘Living History’ panel at Freddie’s Beach Bar
How arts institutions built the city that politics couldn’t
DC Center marks one year at new location
Calendar: April 24-30
Inside the lonely world of MAGA gay men
PHOTOS: Night of Champions
PHOTOS: National Champagne Brunch
‘Big Mistakes’ an uneven – but worthy – comedic showcase
