Arts & Entertainment
Ruby Rose announces split from Veronicas singer Jess Origliasso
the couple started dating on the set of the ‘On Your Side’ music video
Ruby Rose and Jess Origliasso in The Veronicas’ music video ‘On Your Side’ (Photo courtesy of Instagram)
Ruby Rose announced that she and longtime girlfriend Jess Origliasso, one half of the duo The Veronicas, have parted ways in an emotional social media post on Sunday.
“Break ups are always incredibly hard on the people involved,” Rose writes. “But I can only be grateful for the experiences we shared. It’s with a heavy heart to share that Jess and I parted ways a few months ago.”
— Ruby Rose (@RubyRose) April 1, 2018
Rose posted the news on April Fools Day which caused some fans to think the breakup announcement was a prank. The “Orange is the New Black” actress immediately made it clear the split was serious.
“I understand it’s ‘April 1st’ but I would never use something so personal as an April fools joke,” Rose tweeted.
I understand it’s “April 1st” but I would never use something so personal as an April fools joke.
— Ruby Rose (@RubyRose) April 1, 2018
Rose, 32, and Origliasso, 33, were friends for years but began dating after starring together in The Veronicas’ music video “On Your Side” in 2016.
Fans began to speculate that the couple had split months ago after Origliasso unfollowed Rose on social media in December. In November, Rose had accussed Jess’ twin sister and The Vernonicas bandmate, Lisa, of making insentitive remarks regarding Australia’s same-sex marriage vote.
“So glad to see Lisa Origliasso screaming in excitement about the yes vote after telling us she thinks we should feel ‘lucky’ we don’t get stoned to death like they do in other countries and to get over it a few months ago. Really warms my heart,” Rose wrote in the since-deleted tweet.
Lisa denied she made “intolerant statements” and pledged her support to the LGBT community.
“I did not make those statements and I do not hold those views. Sexuality has never played a factor in my acceptance of people or their relationships,” Lisa wrote in a statement.“I have and always will continue to show my unwavering support for the LGBTI community with pride and continue to celebrate love, acceptance and tolerance within our country and community.”
— Lisa Veronica (@Lisa_Veronica) November 17, 2017
a&e features
Gay Men’s Chorus celebrates 45 years at annual gala
‘Sapphire & Sparkle’ Spring Affair held at the Ritz Carlton
The Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington held the annual Spring Affair gala at the Ritz Carlton Washington, D.C. on Saturday. The theme for this year’s fete was “Sapphire & Sparkle.” The chorus celebrated 45 years in D.C. with musical performances, food, entertainment, and an awards ceremony.
Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington Executive Director Justin Fyala and Artistic Director Thea Kano gave welcoming speeches. Opening remarks were delivered by Spring Affair co-chairs Tracy Barlow and Tomeika Bowden. Uproariously funny comedian Murray Hill performed a stand-up set and served as the emcee.
There were performances by Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington groups Potomac Fever, 17th Street Dance, the Rock Creek Singers, Seasons of Love, and the GenOUT Youth Chorus.
Anjali Murthy, a member of the chorus and a graduate of the GenOUT Youth Chorus, addressed the attendees of the gala.
“The LGBTQ+ community isn’t bound by blood ties: we are brought together by shared experience,” Murthy said. “Being Gen Z, I grew up with Ellen [DeGeneres] telling me through the TV screen that it gets better: that one day, it’ll all be okay. The sentiment isn’t wrong, but it’s passive. What I’ve learned from GMCW is that our future is something we practice together. It exists because people like you continue to show up for it, to believe in the possibilities of what we’re still becoming”
The event concluded with the presentation of the annual Harmony Awards. This year’s awardees included local drag artist and activist Tara Hoot, the human rights organization Rainbow Railroad as well as Rocky Mountain Arts Association Executive Director, Dr. Chipper Dean.
(Washington Blade photos and videos by Michael Key)
Equality Prince William Pride was held at the Harris Pavilion in Manassas, Va. on Saturday, May 16.
(Washington Blade photos by Landon Shackelford)
Photos
PHOTOS: Blade Summer Kickoff Party
Ashley Biden accepts award for Beau Biden at annual Rehoboth fundraiser
The 19th annual Blade Foundation Summer Kickoff Party was held on Friday, May 15 at Diego’s in Rehoboth Beach, Del. An award presentation was held for former Delaware Attorney General Beau Biden. Ashley Biden accepted the award on her brother’s behalf and gave remarks. Other speakers included Delaware state Rep. Claire Snyder-Hall, CAMP Rehoboth Executive Director Dr. Robin Brennan and Washington Blade Editor Kevin Naff. The event was a fundraiser for the Steve Elkins Memorial Fellowship in Journalism.
(Washington Blade photos by Daniel Truitt)
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PHOTOS: Blade Summer Kickoff Party
