Arts & Entertainment
Queery: Lee Whitman
The local filmmaker answers 20 gay questions
Lee Whitman (Blade photo by Jonathan Ellis)
Lee Whitman has been making films almost as long as he can remember.
The 29-year-old Derby, Kan., native grew up using his father’s video camera to make shorts and all through high school and college (he studied broadcast journalism at Wichita State Universtiy) he continued.
His first feature-length project, “War Stories” was on the festival circuit in 2009 and is now out on DVD. It tells the story of a kid named Tim who grew up believing his father was killed in the Gulf War but discovers he may still be alive. Whitman says he recouped the $20,000 he put into the film and is now at work on another with the working title of “16 Days and Counting,” which he says will be an LGBT-themed “relationship thriller.”
He also makes shorts and hopes to post a new one, as yet untitled, on YouTube within a week or so. Visit uncheckablefilms.com or find him on YouTube under the name “aedude01” to see his work.
Whitman says he’s lucky his “day job” is also creative. He works as a government contractor writing and directing TV commercials and PSAs for the Department of Defense.
“I love it because not only is it a field I really enjoy, I get to learn a lot of techniques with the PSAs I’d never use in a feature film,” he says.
Whitman has won two regional Emmy Awards for his government work.
He and boyfriend Quang Nguyen have been dating about a year. In his free time, Whitman enjoys photography, working out, wine, writing, running, tennis, the beach and, of course, watching movies.
He came to D.C. about five years ago from Kansas after his father’s Air Force career gave him the chance to live in California, Arkansas, Colorado, Wyoming, Illinois, South Carolina, Virginia and, of course, Kansas.
Whitman lives on Capitol Hill. (Blade photo by Jonathan Ellis)
How long have you been out and who was the hardest person to tell?
I’ve been out for just over 11 years now and it hasn’t always been the easiest journey. I would say the hardest people to tell were my immediate family: my mom, dad and little brother. They’re conservative Christian and they didn’t take it too well though they’ve gotten much better as time has gone on and now my little brother is one of my biggest supporters.
Who’s your LGBT hero?
Probably Eric Alva or Dan Savage. Alva for showing those who had their doubts that LGBT people can serve in our nation’s military with dignity and honor; Savage for his work for bullied teens and gay rights in general.
What’s Washington’s best nightspot, past or present?
The Gibson, hands down. Great drinks, fun atmosphere, hot waitstaff.
Describe your dream wedding.
I have two: one is a quiet beach wedding with close friends. The other is a gigantic state-style wedding with all the trappings. In both scenarios my family puts aside their religious views and is there to support me.
What non-LGBT issue are you most passionate about?
Support for military families and for our veterans; I feel like both groups have been overlooked throughout our nation’s history. It’s only been in the past few years that people have started to notice that military families really serve too and that they need support! With Veterans there’s quite a bit more that we could and should be doing for them when it comes to health care, education, post-military job placement, etc.
What historical outcome would you change?
The election of George W. Bush and preventing 9-11 would be a good start.
What’s been the most memorable pop culture moment of your lifetime?
Either the Janet Jackson halftime nipple slip (and the following FCC court case) or the moment when the show “Battlestar Galactica” (2004) had the colonists arrive at earth midway through season four.
On what do you insist?
Integrity
What was your last Facebook post or Tweet?
FB: “A quick preview of what I’m working on … (Attached to an image from my upcoming short film debuting on YouTube next week.)”
If your life were a book, what would the title be?
“Swimming in Celluloid: The Lee Whitman Story”
If science discovered a way to change sexual orientation, what would you do?
Stay gay. My struggles with my orientation, and for acceptance because of my orientation, have made me into the strong-willed, extroverted individual I am today. Why would I want to change that?
What do you believe in beyond the physical world?
I believe in the basic tenets of Christianity, but I do not adhere to a specific church doctrine.
What’s your advice for LGBT movement leaders?
Focus on what’s important; The entire ordeal with Chick-fil-A was just silly. All that time and effort should have been focused on passing ENDA and repealing DOMA.
What would you walk across hot coals for?
A multi-picture film contract with a prominent film studio. Also my amazing boyfriend.
What LGBT stereotype annoys you most?
The bitchy queen
What’s your favorite LGBT movie?
“C.R.A.Z.Y.” — It’s a fun nostalgia trip and does a great job creating realistic characters that aren’t usually found in gay cinema.
What’s the most overrated social custom?
Passing greetings: When people walk by and say, “Hi how are you?”
and then past before you have a chance to answer them.
What trophy or prize do you most covet?
An Oscar
What do you wish you’d known at 18?
Most of the crap you worry about happening won’t come to pass, so
don’t waste your time stressing about it! Focus on today, not tomorrow.
Why Washington?
Why not? It’s a fantastic town! It has equal rights, fantastic
food, intelligent discourse, handsome men and interesting museums.
What’s not to love?
Friday, May 1
Go Gay DC will host “First Friday LGBTQ+ Community Social” at 7 p.m. at Silver Diner Ballston. This is a chance to relax, make new friends, and enjoy happy hour specials at this classic retro venue. Attendance is free and more details are available on Eventbrite.
“Illusions The Drag Queen Show Washington, D.C.” will be at 7 p.m. at 2323 18th St., N.W. Come see this amazing D.C. drag show and laugh all night long while being amazed by the stellar performances in tribute to some of your old-time favorite classics as well as the latest pop favorites. Come see the likes of Madonna, Cher, Tina Turner, Whitney Houston, Joan Rivers, Phyllis Diller, Beyoncé, Pink, and many more. Tickets are $12.97 and are available on Eventbrite.
Saturday, May 2
Go Gay DC will host “LGBTQ+ Community Brunch” at 11:00a.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.
Drag Queen Sip and Paint Washington DC will be at 4 p.m. at Town Tavern DC. This event combines the joy of painting with the lively energy of a drag queen, offering an hour and a half of fun, creativity, and entertainment. Participants paint a canvas while enjoying cocktails, all under the guidance of a glamorous drag queen host. Tickets are $47.19 and are available on Eventbrite.
Monday, May 4
“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]).
Tuesday, May 5
Universal Pride Meeting will be at 7 p.m. on Zoom. This group seeks to support, educate, empower, and create change for people with disabilities. For more details, email [email protected].
Wednesday, May 6
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.
Center Aging Women’s Social and Discussion Group will be at 6 p.m. on Zoom. This group is a place where older LGBTQ+ women can meet and socialize with one another. There will be discussion, activities, and a chance for guests to share what they want future events to include. For more information, email [email protected].
Thursday, May 7
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, breath work 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.
The new monthly 90’s Flashback Drag Brunch premiered at Red Bear Brewing Co. on Sunday, April 26. Performers included Logan Stone, Tiffany D. Carter and Charlemagne Chateau.
(Washington Blade photos by Michael Key)
Celebrity News
Madonna makes rare club appearance in West Hollywood
Gay icon brought ‘Confessions II’ to The Abbey
A line of celebrities, “Drag Race” queens, influencers, media, and West Hollywood socialites lined the block around West Hollywood’s The Abbey, all clamoring to get into the invite-only celebration of owner Tristan Schukraft’s birthday. The rumor, which became verified gossip, was that Madonna, the Queen of Pop herself, would be taking the stage. Of course, the Blade had to be there.
With disco balls and Abbey statues covered in pink chiffon, it was clear. This party was a direct tie-in to Madonna’s much-anticipated “Confessions on A Dance Floor” album sequel, “Confessions II.” That night, the Abbey also unveiled its remodeled dance floor, a fitting collaboration.
The club was filled to capacity with a completely open bar, keeping the crowd liquored up. Go-go dancers in black leather collars and thongs lined the room, and celebrities that included Lilly Allen, Bebe Rexha, Tori Spelling, Julia Fox, Sam Asghari, Daniel Frenzese, Cynthia Bailey, Meredith Marks, Tom Daley, and more filled the VIP booths alongside World of Wonder personalities. It was a veritable who’s who of queer folk and allies.
The lights began to dim, the dance floor began to rumble, and Madonna graphics hit the screens. At around 1 am, it was time. Introduced by Addison Rae, Madonna grabbed the mic and started chanting, welcoming her “gays.” The venue resounded in thunderous chants of “freedom,” “mother,” and “bitch.”
Madonna was not there to perform. She was there to dance. She took the stage for about 15 minutes, keeping the crowd going with her naughty and fun commentary. There is no list that needs to be provided on how Madonna’s career has become part of queer culture. Going back to her dance music roots and going back to her gay fans is smart.
Released in 2005 (yes, it has been that long), “Confessions on a Dance Floor” was an instant hit, with four singles from the album being released. The album’s lead single, “Hung Up,” topped the charts in 41 countries with Billboard calling it the most successful dance song of the decade. The album had hints of 60s and 70s flair, mixed in with dance music prevalent at that time. The music still dominates at queer clubs across the globe.
Madonna knows we need a little queer joy; she also knows that fans miss the Madonna we all knew and loved. With the nation in such turbulence, we all need some comfort, and going back to a time when we felt safer and had more to celebrate just feels good. For the new album release, she has even partnered with Grindr for a limited edition vinyl release and exclusive behind-the-scenes content.
Her night at The Abbey presented snippets of her new music mixed in with some of her classics. The new material sounded good, sounded familiar in an exciting way, and shows that this diva has still got it.
“Confessions II” releases on July 3.
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