Arts & Entertainment
Calendar through May 16
Miss Black National Plus Pageant, GI Film Festival, Camelot Requiem, and so much more this week!
Chris Mann, a finalist on ‘The Voice,’ makes two Washington-area appearances this week (Courtesy of chrismannmusic.com)
Friday, May 10
Black National Pageantry System presents “The Miss Black National Plus Pageant: A Night of Fantasy” honoring Tanisha Cassadine tonight at 9 p.m. at Remingtons (639 Pennsylvania Ave., SE). Tickets are $20. For more information, visit remingtonsdc.com.
The GI Film Festival continues tonight with a screening of the short documentary “Do Tell” at 10 p.m. The film follows gay American military members stationed in an outpost in Japan pre- and post-“Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.” Tickets to this event are $30. Attendees can buy passes for $50-$350. The festival is the only one to celebrate and commemorate the military through the medium of film. Visit gifilmfestival.com.
GI Film Festival:
The Figaro Project presents “Camelot Requiem” tonight and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. at the First & Franklin Street Presbyterian Church (210 West Madison St., Baltimore). The opera takes place in two hospital waiting rooms by members of John F. Kennedy’s family and staff for 14 hours after his death. Admission is $15. For more information, visit thefigaroproject.com.
Camelot Requiem:
Unity of Fairfax (2854 Hunter Mill Road, Oakton, Va.) holds its fourth annual “Who is My Neighbor” benefit concert called “Breaking the Silence: Finding Your Voice” tonight at 7:30 p.m. The show’s goal is to raise awareness around issues of abuse, bullying and mental illness with music, video, poetry and prose. Proceeds will benefit two non-profit organizations: the Women’s Center’s “Let’s Talk,” which aims to improve the psychological and financial well being of men, women and families in Northern Virginia, and KIVA, which helps alleviate poverty around the world through microfinance lending. Unity of Fairfax is a positive progressive Christian church. Admission is $15. For details, visit unityoffairfax.org.
Special Agent Galactica returns with her happy hour show this evening at 6 p.m. at the Black Fox Lounge (1732 Connecticut Ave., NW). This week she welcomes Shakespearean and classical actor Jefferson Farber. The show includes live jazz, blue cabaret, standards and comedy. There is no cover charge. For more information, visit pinkhairedone.com.
Saturday, May 11
Mayor Vincent Gray hosts his first LGBT Youth Hall Meeting today at noon at the Eastern Market’s North Hall (225 7th St., SE). Visit dc.gov for more information.
The Bethesda Fine Arts Festival returns to downtown Bethesda’s Woodmont Triangle along Norfolk, Auburn, Del Ray and Cordell Avenues starting today at 10 a.m. and ends Sunday at 5 p.m. Artists from around the country and Canada will showcase their original works, including painting, drawing, photography, furniture, jewelry, mixed media, wood and ceramics. For more information, visit Bethesda.org.
Freddie’s Beach Bar (555 South 23rd St., Crystal City, Va.) hosts the 2013 Mr. Freddie’s contest tonight at 8 p.m. The night includes over $400 in cash and prizes. Categories in which contestants participate are presentation, Q&A, beach attire and talent. Visit freddiesbeachbar.com for more information.
Burgundy Crescent, a gay volunteer organization, volunteers today for the Casey Trees as part of its Community Tree Planting Program at Oxon Run Park (3787 Wheeler Rd., SE) starting at 9 a.m. Volunteers will be planting 63 shade trees. For more information, visit burgundycrescent.org.
Sunday, May 12
Brian Stokes Mitchell joins the Choral Arts Chorus in the show “Broadway’s Show-Stoppers,” at the Kennedy Center (2700 F Street, NW) today, Mother’s Day, at 5 p.m. Mitchell is an award-winning Broadway, television and film star baritone who is known to “Frasier” fans as the upstairs neighbor Cam Winston and as Rachel Berry’s gay dad on “Glee.” The show will include his signature “The Impossible Dream” from “Man of La Mancha,” as well as other Gershwin tunes and songs from “South Pacific,” “Kiss Me Kate,” “Camelot” and “Porgy and Bess.” Tickets are $29-$85. For more information, visit kennedy-center.org.
Brian Stokes Mitchell:
Lambda Sci-Fi has its monthly LGBT science fiction, fantasy and horror meeting at 1425 S St., NW. Attendees are asked to bring a non-alcoholic drink or snack to share. Visit lambdascifi.org for more information.
Burgundy Crescent volunteers at the D.C. Central Kitchen (425 2nd St., NW) this morning from 9 a.m.-noon. Volunteers will prepare food along the D.C. Central Kitchen checks to help find hunger. For more information, visit burgundycrescent.org.
Monday, May 13
“The Voice” finalist Chris Mann comes to Rams Head On Stage (33 West St., Annapolis) tonight at 8 p.m. and on Tuesday will play the Birchmere (3701 Mt. Vernon Ave., Alexandria, Va.) at 7:30 p.m. Mann’s music is a blend of classically trained material with contemporary. For more information, visit chrismannmusic.com.
The D.C. Center (1318 U St., NW) holds coffee drop-in for the senior LGBT community today from 10 a.m.-noon. The Center will provide complimentary coffee and a community to chat with. For more information, visit thedccenter.org.
Bears do Yoga takes place this evening 6:30 p.m. as part of a series at the Green Lantern (1335 Green Court, NW). This is part of a basic yoga series that takes place every Monday and is open to people of varying body types and experience. There is no charge. For more information, visit thedccenter.org.
Tuesday, May 14
The D.C. chapter of the National Gay and Lesbian Journalists Association (NLGJA) with the National Press Club presents a panel discussion tonight from 6-8 p.m. called “The Endangered Ombudsman” at the Press Club (529 14th Street, NW). It’s billed as a “lively discussion on why the press is changing how they monitor themselves and why the public may no longer have direct access to someone who is able to register complaints and bring up issues without restraint about what and how news is reported.” Several distinguished local journalists will be on the panel including Patrick Pexton, the last Washington Post ombudsman.
Green Lantern (1335 Green Court, N.W.) hosts its Safer Sex Kit-packing program tonight from 7-10:30. The packing program is looking for more volunteers to help produce the kits because they say they are barely keeping up with demand. Admission is free and volunteers can just show up. For more information, visit thedccenter.org.
Wednesday, May 15
The Tom Davoren Social Bridge Club meets tonight at the Dignity Center (721 8th St., SE) at 7:30 p.m. for social bridge. Newcomers are welcome and no reservations are needed. For more information or if you need a partner, visit lambdabridge.com.
Maryland Corporate Council presents “Keeping the Balance: Methods of Creating Balance at Home and in Business” tonight from 6-8 p.m. at the Ritz-Carlton Residences (801 Key Highway) at the Inner Harbor in Baltimore. Cocktails and hors d’oeuvres will be served as Kimberly Eastburn, creator of the Interior Design Shrink blog, will share tips on transforming your life by recalibrating your home. She advises clients to “awaken” by first clearing out the unnecessary possessions that keep them tied to the past and reduce their energy blocking new opportunities from coming their way.
Thursday, May 16
Team D.C. hosts “Holy Spirits” LGBT Catholic and Christian Happy Hour at Nellie’s Sports Bar (900 U St., NW) tonight at 6 p.m. For more information, visit teamdcsports.com.
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.
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