Arts & Entertainment

Goss to perform in holiday cabaret

Spotlighters to feature D.C. artist on Dec. 28

Published

13 years ago

December 3, 2013

Steve Charing

Tom Goss (Photo by Michael Key; courtesy of Tom Goss Music)

Popular gay artist Tom Goss will appear at the Spotlighters Theatre, 817 St. Paul St., on Dec. 28 for what is being billed as “an intimate evening” with the singer/songwriter. The one-night only cabaret, which begins at 8 p.m., is a benefit for the Spotlighters. Tickets are $25.

Goss’ music is often compared to acoustic-pop peers such as Jason Mraz and Jack Johnson, but his lyrics have propelled him to serious singer/songwriter status.

Goss is working on a new album, which he promises will be the best record he’s made.

“We’re in the early stages of making the record so all the songs have not been chosen yet,” Goss told the Blade. “That said, as songs get selected and worked out with my band I’m beginning to appreciate the maturity in this record — not only sonically, but lyrically as well. There is a definite edge to some of these songs, an edge that comes with experience and commitment, not disillusionment. I’m very excited for folks to hear what’s to come.”

Goss’ outspoken stance and his personal life (he married his husband Mike in 2010) have earned him a considerable following in the LGBT community, but his music appeals to anyone with a taste for power-pop and an appreciation for meaningful lyrics in the singer/songwriter tradition.

He also takes pride in giving back to the community. When he’s not touring the U.S., Goss is the development director for a small non-profit called Charlie’s Place, which provides meals, nursing services and case management services (housing and job placement) for the homeless and poor in the neighborhoods of Dupont Circle, Adams Morgan and Columbia Heights in Washington, D.C. Of his involvement in this important cause, Goss explains, “It’s great to be able to stay grounded in social justice.”

Goss says he’s looking forward to his appearance at the Spotlighters and once again entertaining the Baltimore audience. “You can expect a night of storytelling and song,” he says of the cabaret, “with a lot of laughing, smiling and even sometimes crying.” For the crying part, he apologizes.

“My favorite part of performing is connecting with an audience,” he explains. “I’m excited to be back up in Baltimore connecting with you all!”

For tickets, visit spotlighters.org.

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PHOTOS: Lambda Legal in the Pines

Fundraiser held at ‘Normal Heart’ house

Published

14 hours ago

July 31, 2026

Guest photographer

A scene from the 'Lambda Legal in the Pines' fundraiser on July 25. (Photo by Santiago Felipe)

The LGBTQ organization Lambda Legal held its annual “Lambda Legal in the Pines” fundraiser on Saturday, July 25. The event was held at a house on Fire Island featured in Ryan Murphy’s 2014 HBO film, “The Normal Heart.”

Organizers say over $500,000 was raised to support Lambda Legal’s national litigation and advocacy work.

(Photos by Santiago Felipe)

Out & About

Come showcase your singing, poetry talent

Spark Social open mic night planned for Aug. 13

Published

18 hours ago

July 31, 2026

Tinashe Chingarande

Spark Social will host “Open Mic Night” on Thursday, Aug. 13 at 8 p.m. (Washington Blade file photo by Michael Key)

Spark Social will host “Open Mic Night” on Thursday, Aug. 13 at 8 p.m.

Get ready to share your talent or just kick back and enjoy some great performances. This event is a fun, laid-back vibe where everyone’s welcome to take the stage. Sign-ups are first-come, first-served, but you can also DM Spark Social on Instagram to reserve a performance spot. Whether you’re a singer, poet, or comedian, this is your chance to get on stage and share your art. More details are available on Eventbrite.

Calendar

Calendar: July 31-August 6

LGBTQ events in the days to come

Published

22 hours ago

July 31, 2026

Tinashe Chingarande

Friday, July 31

Go Gay DC will host “LGBTQ+ Community Happy Hour” at 7 p.m. at DIK Bar. 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.

Saturday, August 1

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, August 2

“Black Gay Flea: Summer Kickback” will be at 12 p.m. at Wunder Garten. This is a space created to celebrate Black LGBTQ+ creatives, artists, makers, entrepreneurs, and the community that shows up for them. Come spend the afternoon shopping with local vendors, discovering new brands, supporting small businesses, and connecting with people from across the DMV. More details are on Eventbrite.

Monday, August 3

“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, August 4

The DC Anti-Violence Project will host “Soul Centered” at 7 p.m. at Thurst Lounge. This is not a dating event in the traditional sense. It is a space to meet kindred spirits, future collaborators, mentors, friends, or maybe someone who reminds you of what’s possible. Romance may happen, but it’s not the expectation. For more details, visit DCAVP website.

Wednesday, August 5

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 & 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. To register, visit the DC LGBTQ+ Community Center’s website.

Thursday, August 6

The DC LGBTQ+ Community Center’s Fresh Produce Program will be held all day at the Center. 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 LGBTQ+ Community Center’s website.