Arts & Entertainment
Calendar through June 6
As Pride Week approaches, get in the spirit with a bevy of events
Matthew Morrison, an LGBT ally, releases a new album called ‘Where It All Began’ Tuesday with partial proceeds going to Human Rights Campaign. (Photo courtesy the Karpel Group)
Friday, May 31
The Club (5268 Williamsport Pike, Martinsburg, W.Va.) hosts The Decardeza Dynasty: A Royal Family of Illusion Friday. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the drag show starts at 10:30. The cover is $5, or $20 for unlimited rail and draft beverages from 8:30-midnight. Visit the Facebook event, “The Club: The Decardeza Dynasty,” for more details.
Town (2009 8th St., N.W.) hosts Bear Happy Hour Friday from 6-11 p.m. Admission is limited to guests 21 and over. There is no cover charge. For more information, visit towndc.com.
Whitman-Walker Health provides free HIV testing from 10 p.m-12:30 a.m. Friday at Glorious Health Club (2120 West Virginia Ave., N.E.). For more details, visit whitman-walker.org.
The AFI Silver (8633 Colesville Rd., Silver Spring, Md.) hosts the opening screening of “We Steal Secrets: The Story of WikiLeaks” Friday evening (no screening time had been announced by Blade press time). The documentary details Julian Assange’s creation of his controversial website and its facilitation of the largest security breach in U.S. history. Visit afi.com/silver for more information.
Trailer:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PUbav0DiwRs
The D.C. Queer Theater Festival continues Friday and Saturday night at Flashpoint Theater (916 G St., N.W.) The festival features six short plays that chronicle joys and hardships faced by the LGBT community, as well as performances by D.C.-based slam poets. Tickets are $15 and the proceeds benefit The D.C. Center for the LGBT Community. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit dcqueertheatrefest.org.
Saturday, June 1
DJ Cottontail spins Saturday at Town (2009 8th St., N.W.), wearing his signature pink rabbit suit. Doors open at 10 p.m. and admission is limited to guests 21 and over. Cover is $8 from 10-11 p.m., and $12 after 11. Visit towndc.com for details.
The Dupont-Kalorama Museums Consortium starts its annual Museum Walk Weekend Saturday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The event features free admission to nine neighborhood museums, including The Phillips Collection and Woodrow Wilson House, as well as a variety of special programs. If interested in volunteering, contact Katherine Neill Ridgeley at [email protected]. Visit dkmuseums.com for more information.
The Black Cat (1811 14th St., N.W.) hosts “Hellmouth Happy Hour” Saturday at 7 p.m. One episode of the gay cult classic television show “Buffy The Vampire Slayer” screens and a drink special will be served. Admission is free. Visit blackcatdc.com for details.
Sunday, June 2
The Bachelor’s Mill (1104 8th St., S.E.) hosts karaoke Sunday from 9 p.m.-midnight. There will also be pool, video gaming systems and card games. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and admission is $3 after 9. For more information, visit bachelorsmill.com.
“Love Makes a Family,” a traveling exhibit of photos of LGBT families, has its opening reception Sunday evening at 7:45 p.m. at Arlington Central Public Library (1015 N. Quincy Street, Arlington). The exhibit was arranged by the Unitarian Universalist Church of Arlington. The exhibit will be on display during regular library hours throughout June.
The D.C. Center hosts the Stonewall Kickball Drag Ball Game Sunday afternoon from 2-6 p.m. in Stead Park (17th St. & P St., N.W.). Visit thedccenter.org or the event on Facebook for more details.
The Dupont-Kalorama Museums Consortium continues its annual Museum Walk Weekend Sunday from 1-5 p.m. The event features free admission to nine neighborhood museums, including The Phillips Collection and Woodrow Wilson House, as well as a variety of special programs. If interested in volunteering, contact Katherine Neill Ridgeley at [email protected]. Visit dkmuseums.com for more information.
Monday, June 3
Cobalt (1639 R St., N.W.) hosts its weekly “Monday’s a total drag [show]!” party starting at 9 p.m. with host Kristina Kelly. $4 vodka specials will be served until close. For more details, visit cobaltdc.com.
Mombian, an award-winning LGBT parenting website, posts all blog entries submitted for the eighth annual Blogging for LGBT Families Day today. The event, held each year during June, is run by Mombian and sponsored by Family Equality Council. The blog posts raise awareness about the diversity of LGBT families and the prejudices they face. Visit mombian.com to view posts and participate.
Tuesday, June 4
Black Fox Lounge (1723 Connecticut Ave., N.W.) features performances by jazz musician Bill “Magic” Lavender Bey from 8-11 p.m. this evening. Admission is free. Visit blackfoxlounge.com for details.
Melissa Ferrick releases her new album “the truth is” today. Known for her indie-rock sound, Ferrick experiments with an alternative-country approach on this album. For more information and to pre-order an autographed copy of “the truth is,” visit melissaferrick.com.
Matthew Morrison releases his new album “Where It All Began” today. Partial proceeds for the pre-sale of the album will benefit Human Rights Campaign. Morrison features classic standards, many from Broadway musicals, on the album. For more information, visit matthewmorrison.com.
The D.C. Trans Coalition hosts its monthly planning meeting tonight from 7:30-9 p.m. at Casa Ruby (2822 Georgia Ave., N.W.). For more information, visit dctranscoalition.org.
Wednesday, June 5
Whitman-Walker Health (1701 14th St., N.W.) holds its HIV+ Newly Diagnosed Support Group tonight from 7-8:30 p.m. It’s a confidential support group for anyone recently diagnosed with HIV and is inclusive of all genders and sexual orientations. Attendees must call 202-797-3580 or email [email protected] to register. Visit whitman-walker.org for more information.
The Lambda Bridge Club meets tonight at 7:30 p.m. at the Dignity Center (721 8th St., S.E.) for social bridge. No partner needed. Visit lambdadc.org, or call 301-345-1571 for more details.
Bookmen D.C., an informal literature group for gay men, discusses Michael Cunningham’s novel “By Nightfall” this evening at 7:30 p.m. at Tenleytown Library (4450 Wisconsin Ave., N.W.). All are welcome. For more information, visit bookmendc.blogspot.com.
The Black Cat (1811 14th St., N.W.) presents “Story League Contest: Gay Love” tonight at 8 p.m. for guests 21 and over. Seven LGBT contestants tell seven-minute stories on their love relationships and four expert judges will decide who wins a $100 prize. Admission is $12. For more information and to pre-submit a story idea, visit blackcatdc.com.
Thursday, June 6
Cobalt (1639 R St., N.W.) hosts a hot body contest from 10 p.m.-2 a.m. tonight to kick off Pride. Contestants can win up to $200 in prizes. Admission is free and $2 rail drinks will be served from 9-11 p.m. Visit cobaltdc.com for details.
Two events are slated for a new book called “Your Queer Career: the Ultimate Career Guide for LGBTQ Job Seekers” by local gay author Riley Folds. Tonight there will be a book launch party and signing from 6-8 p.m. at MOVA Lounge (2204 14th Street, NW). RSVP is requested at [email protected]. And on Friday (June 7), Folds will conduct a reading and discussion on the topic at the D.C. Center (1318 U Street, NW) from 6:30-8 p.m. Folds is the founder of Out for Work, a national non-profit dedicated to educating, empowering and preparing LGBT students to transition into the workplace.
Phase 1 (525 8th St., S.E.) features “Rock the Rainbow Karaoke” at 9 p.m. this evening for Pride week. Admission is free and limited to guests 21 and over. For more information, visit the Phase 1 Facebook page or phase1dc.com.
The Fireplace (2161 P St., N.W.) hosts a happy hour today from 1-8 p.m. Admission is free and limited to guests 21 and over and $3 rail liquor drinks and domestic beer will be served. For more details, visit fireplacedc.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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