Arts & Entertainment
Drama queens
Logo’s ‘A-List’ returns Monday; cast dishes on Reichen’s full-frontal pics, ‘evil’ Austin; Crews follow cast six days per week
The cast of Logo’s ‘A List: New York’s’ second season, which returns Monday night. From left are Rodiney Santiago, Mike Ruiz, Ryan Nickulas, Austin Armacost, Reichen Lehmkuhl, Nyasha Zimucha, Derek Saathoff and TJ Kelly. (Photo courtesy of Logo)
It’s the show gays love — and love to hate. But many, of course, end up watching anyway.
TV’s gayest, guiltiest pleasure — even its creators embrace the “guilty pleasure” label — is back. “A List: New York’s” second season debuts Monday at 10 p.m. on Logo. The entire season one cast returns for 11 new episodes, this time with a gal pal in tow. The Blade spoke with the cast and crew to get the lowdown on the new season, find out what it’s like shooting the controversial series and ponder the show’s appeal.
The reality show, from the same people (True Entertainment) who brought “Real Housewives of Atlanta” to the air, debuted last October and follows the lives of five gay (and one bi; six total) men in New York who claim they’re at the top of the Manhattan social totem pole through their lives, loves and career ventures. Reality show vet Reichen Lehmkuhl (he won the fourth season of “Amazing Race” and formerly dated Lance Bass) unofficially heads the cast. A central theme of the first season was his tempestuous relationship with Brazilian model Rodiney Santiago, with troublemaker Austin Armacost never missing an opportunity to keep their social pot stirred.
It was a hit and helped, along with “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” put Logo, which debuted in 2005, on the pop culture map. The channel, owned by Viacom’s MTV Networks, won’t release ratings for the show but says it’s the second-highest rated show in the gay channel’s history (after “Drag Race”). A Dallas-based spin-off is planned for a fall debut.
The show’s reception has been wildly mixed. Some reviewers and fans say it’s great to see a gay-centric reality show instead of a mainstream show with token gay characters. Others have been appalled at what they say is a superficial and stereotype-laden cringe fest. Still others agree with that assessment but admit it’s well constructed and addictive.
Executive producer Dominic Pupa, who’s gay, says the show is “absolutely” a guilty pleasure and says the critical drubbing doesn’t mean it’s not successful at what its creators are aiming for.
“People roll their eyes all the time, but it captures people’s attention because it’s three things — people with means and access who live in New York. That trifecta of factors means it’s fascinating to watch. There’s something fun about people who are of means and do have access and discovering their lives can be just as exciting, dramatic and disappointing as yours. Plus it’s an ensemble show and people love ensembles because they can pick their favorite and tune in to see how they’re faring. Even the ones people hate — I hate to say character because it’s reality, but in the sense of being a dramatic narrative, they do sort of become characters — you still love to watch the ones you hate.”
Reichen, during a gym break (it’s legs-and-shoulders day; he goes seven days a week), says he learned early on to let go of the naysayers. It was also hard, he says, watching the first season and seeing how much was left out that would have added context to some of the less-flattering scenes.
“I used to read the blogs but then half way through, I stopped. I got rid of my Google alert and I have become a much happier person,” he says. “I kind of live in my own world. There were so many comments about my relationship with Rodiney, they said I didn’t care about him, I just brought him here and dropped him, but the truth is I made sure he had everything he needed and every opportunity he wanted and you know got him on his feet so he could pursue the stuff he wanted to do. It was such a slap in the face to watch this kind of play out in a very one-sided way … Rodiney knew it too. He was like, ‘Oh my god, he tried his best and Reichen’s not like that with me at all.’”
Letting go of the negative energy has centered Reichen in other ways, he says. It helped him shrug off the full frontal nude photos that surfaced recently of him. He admitted the photos — shot from the neck down — are of him.
“If that had happened five years ago, I think I would have shut myself into a mental institution,” he says. “But now my skin is so thick, I knew as soon as they surfaced, there would be every possible reaction. People would make fun of me, they would hate me, some people would like them — you just get to a point where you can deal with it whether it’s good or bad. It totally sucks that they surfaced without my permission — it was supposed to be a private thing, not something I broadcast for the whole world … but I wasn’t gonna pull an Anthony Wiener and lie about it. I was like, ‘Yeah, it’s me, go ahead and start shooting your arrows and let’s get it over with.’ I did mention that a lot of gay men do this kind of thing. I don’t feel I did anything immoral or illegal. It just so happens that because it was me, people cared.”
Rodiney agrees the show complicated their dating life and admits he was naïve about what he was getting into when he signed on.
“Last year was not easy for me,” he says. “It was very intense. It’s like I do the show and I forget I have the cameras with me but it’s who I am and they’re shooting me. There were a lot of difficult people who liked to create drama in my life. I’m the kind of person who just wants to live my life and not worry about somebody else’s life.”
Reichen Lehmkuh (left) and his then-boyfriend Rodiney Santiago in a scene from the show’s first season. (Photo courtesy of Logo)
The couple broke up in November, shortly after the first season started airing. Rodiney admits the show was a factor. Might they still be together without “A-List”?
“I’d say it was half and half,” he says. “The show helped us to break up. We started to date and moved to New York together just six months into the relationship. It was very stressful for us. I can’t handle that.”
Reichen says he and Rodiney are now “friends in the best way possible” and says the second season has been much easier to shoot since he’s not in a relationship.
“It’s been more focused on my business ventures,” he says. “When it comes to the drama, I’ve been off the pedestal in the best way possible.”
New this season is 25-year-old Nyasha Zimucha, a straight entrepreneur and mega-achiever who runs her own business, hair-and-wig shop Embrace Your Hair. She was previously a judge on Little Miss Perfect. She’s a native of South Africa and came to the United States in 2001. She’s been in New York three years and knew “A-List”-er Mike Ruiz before joining the cast.
She says her presence adds an interesting punch to the new season.
“I think you’re going to be very entertained at how some of these relationships develop, both positive and negative,” she says. “It’s an interesting mix. Here you have this straight black girl with these six white, very handsome, very accomplished gay men. I think it’s historic because there’s really been nothing like it on television. You’re going to see not just the fights but the fun too, and I think that will be fun for the audience.”
The second season is still taping even as its first episodes are set to air. Three are fully edited and in the can. Pupa says he doesn’t know how long they’ll shoot — until he feels they have enough footage to bring the storylines to a sensible conclusion.
So how organic or contrived are the scenarios and does editing, obviously a necessity, sometimes distort the narrative?
“Like on any show, we like there to be a beginning, a middle and an end,” Pupa says. “You want to see the cast members start somewhere and end somewhere else. For each one it’s different. Last season we were still shooting until 10 days before the last episode, which is really unusual for this type of show … but it’s a lot more real than people think. They think it’s all very planned out but it’s really not. We ended last season with an argument between Austin and Reichen. That happened less than two weeks before it aired.”
None of the participants were contractually obligated to return for the second season. And the producers don’t tell them they have to meet with certain people or attend certain events. They take suggestions, though, and say they want to do their part to make the show as compelling as possible.
“It’s a nice relationship with cast and production,” Reichen says. “We all understand the result is trying to create something that people will want to watch.”
Camera crews follow cast members six days per week for about 10 hours each day when the show is shooting. Pupa says the cast does its best to schedule things more likely to be interesting when the show is shooting and save the boring stuff — like meeting with lawyers for their business ventures — off-camera. Reichen, for instance, says he traveled much of the six months between the two seasons, though he did see all the cast members at least once during that time, most often at charity events, which he says draw little media attention. He guesses he was only in New York for about 60 days of that six months. He’s been busy prepping a new book and getting ready to launch a fragrance line.
Often the best moments happen when the full cast is together.
“That’s when we have the greatest dynamic,” Pupa says. “Everybody loves Ryan. If he’s throwing a party, you know the whole cast will be there. If Austin throws a party, we don’t know who will walk through the door.”
And what about Austin — is he really the troublemaker he seemed to be from season one?
Reichen says there’s “some stuff” between them that goes down in season two. “You’ll just have to watch,” he says.
Rodiney has a tougher assessment.
“I don’t trust him and we cannot be friends,” he says. “He’s the kind of person I want him far away from my life. He’s evil and he does crazy stuff and I don’t want him part of my life.”
Pupa says Austin is reality’s answer to characters like Alexis and J.R.
“The golden rule of docu soap TV is that just because someone is hated doesn’t mean they’re not watchable,” he says. “It’s a Joan Collins thing for sure. Sometimes you don’t want to admit to liking Austin, but you love watching him.”
Nyasha says the title is a bit of a misnomer and says the show ultimately works because it’s real and people from all walks of life can relate.
“What it’s really about is interesting, dynamic people living in New York,” she says. “Some have great careers and some ain’t doing nothing, but it unfolds as great TV because it’s honest. Even a young straight woman can relate to this or that. Some might think, ‘I don’t relate, what the hell am I doing watching this crap?’ but any level of negative is part of the drama of any relationship and there’s not one person who doesn’t have some level of drama. If there is, give me their number. … It’s just heightened because it’s on TV.”
Photos
PHOTOS: Taste of Point
Annual fundraiser held for LGBTQ youth scholarship, mentorship organization
The Point Foundation held its annual Taste of Point fundraiser at Room & Board on May 2.
(Washington Blade photos by Michael Key)
Theater
Miss Kitty tackles classical mythology in ‘Metamorphoses’
Folger production seen through the lens of the African diaspora
‘Metamorphoses’
May 7-June 16
Folger Theatre
201 East Capitol St., S.E.
$20-$84
Folger.edu
Miss Kitty’s words are thoughtful and measured, occasionally punctuated by flamboyant flourishes and uplifting proclamations. Her tried and tested tagline is “live in fierce not fear.”
She describes herself as “AMAB (assigned male at birth), nonbinary, genderqueer, transfemme” as well as “chanteuse, noble blacktress, and dancer.”
Currently, Miss Kitty is testing her talents in Mary Zimmerman’s “Metamorphoses” at Folger Theatre on Capitol Hill.
At 90 minutes, “Metamorphoses,” is made up of interwoven vignettes from classical mythology including the tales of Midas and his daughter, Alcyone and Ceyx, and Eros and Psyche.
“It’s all stories that relate to the human condition: the follies, the happiness, the love, the loss,” Miss Kitty explains. “And a thorough knowledge of mythology isn’t a requirement for enjoyment.”
The language is contemporary and with its 11-person ensemble cast – comprised exclusively of Black or indigenous people of color – they’re adding their own spin to its present-day feel, she adds.
In Zimmerman’s famously staged premiere production, the actors performed in and around a pool of water. At Folger, director Psalmayene 24 has ditched actual aquatics; instead, he suggests the element by introducing Water Nymph, a new character constructed around Miss Kitty.
Water Nymph doesn’t speak, but she’s very visible from the opening number and throughout the play on stage and popping up in unexpected places around the venue.
“It’s a lot of dancing; I haven’t danced the way Tony Thomas is choreographing me in a very long time. At 40, can she still make theater with just my body as her instrument?
The name “Miss Kitty” was born over a decade ago.
Miss Kitty recalls, “She was still presenting as male and going by her dead name. Someone commented that with the wig she was wearing for a part, she looked like Eartha Kitt whom she deeply admires.”
Her penchant for illeism (referring to oneself in third person) isn’t without good reason. She explains, “It’s to reiterate that however she might look, she’s always there; and if you misgender, she will let you know.”
Initially, the moniker was a drag persona at Capital Pride or the occasional fabulous cabaret performance at a nightclub.
But as time passed, she realized that Miss Kitty was something she couldn’t take off. She had always been a part of her.
“She’s helped me to grow and flourish; she’s given me the strength that I never would have had before. I’m so proud of myself for realizing that before it was too late.”
Bringing Miss Kitty into her theatrical career presented some concerns. Would theater folks be open to the new her, especially those she’d worked with before?
Not always, but she’s found new companies who’ve welcomed Miss Kitty with open arms including Avant Bard, Spooky Action Theater, and now Folger.
Last fall, Miss Kitty appeared in Spooky Action’s Agreste (Drylands), a stunning queer story penned by gay Brazilian playwright Newton Moreno.
After being invited to audition and reading the script, Miss Kitty was determined to be a part of the production.
A work dealing with love and being trans, and transphobia, and how people can turn on a dime once they learn the truth about someone, resonated deeply with the actor.
“The play speaks to the idea that if people just let people be who they are and love who they want to love we’d all be a lot happier,” she says.
For her sublime efforts, Miss Kitty nabbed a Helen Hayes Award nomination in the Outstanding Lead Performer category (winner to be determined on Monday, May 20 during a ceremony at The Anthem).
It’s her first time nominated and first time attending. She’s thrilled.
Miss Kitty grew up in Oxen Hill, Md., and now lives near Washington Harbor. Her entry into performance was through music followed by high school plays. She graduated from Catholic University with a degree in music/concentration in musical theater, and from there dove directly into showbiz.
Looking back, Miss Kitty says, “being a person of color AND queer can be a double whammy of difficulty. You have to live in light and do the things you’re afraid to do. That’s the game changer.”
Presenting “Metamorphoses” through the lens of the African diaspora (the cast also includes Jon Hudson Odom and Billie Krishawn, among others) helps us to realize that every story can be universal, especially for marginalized people — South Asian, Native American, or fully queer perspectives, she says.
“Having an all-Black ensemble opens all new worlds for everyone.”
Las Vegas, known for its vibrant and inclusive atmosphere, embraces LGBTQ culture with open arms, making it a thriving hub for the community. Iconic events like the annual Las Vegas Pride Parade and Festival bring together people from all walks of life to celebrate diversity and unity. The 2024 Las Vegas Pride festival is scheduled for Oct. 12, so start planning now.
The city’s commitment to inclusivity is reflected in the diverse range of LGBTQ-friendly accommodations, ensuring that visitors feel welcome and respected. Beyond the nightlife, Las Vegas hosts a variety of LGBTQ-focused community organizations, support groups, and cultural events that contribute to the rich tapestry of the city’s inclusive ethos. Whether exploring the famous entertainment offerings or participating in community-driven initiatives, LGBTQ individuals and allies alike find a warm and accepting home in the vibrant tapestry of LGBTQ culture in Las Vegas.
Ever since I was young, I have always wanted to stay at Bellagio. Its iconic foundations have fascinated me for decades. The hotel stands as an epitome of luxury and sophistication, offering an unparalleled experience that seamlessly blends opulence, entertainment, and fine dining. From the moment you step into the grand lobby, it’s evident that Bellagio is committed to providing a world-class stay, especially when you glance at the ceiling adorned with Chihuly glass sculptures.
I stayed in a recently renovated room in the Spa Tower with an unobstructed view of the Vegas Strip and the fountains. The attention to detail is evident in the tasteful decor, plush furnishings, and modern amenities. Beginning at 3 p.m. on weekdays and noon on weekends, the choreographed water show set against the backdrop of the Las Vegas Strip is a mesmerizing display of artistry, combining music, light, and water in perfect harmony. It sets the tone for the exquisite experiences that await within Bellagio.
Bellagio is also home to the famous Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, a lush oasis that undergoes seasonal transformations, displaying stunning floral displays and thematic installations. This botanical escape provides a serene contrast to the lively atmosphere of the casino and the bustling Strip. During our stay, the staff were completing the new springtime exhibition, which gave us Alice in Wonderland vibes.
For those seeking entertainment, Bellagio offers the spectacular “O” by Cirque du Soleil, a water-themed extravaganza that complements the hotel’s overall theme. Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art is another cultural gem within the hotel, featuring rotating exhibitions that display masterpieces from around the world.
Although it is possible to never leave the hotel, we wanted to experience other MGM Resorts properties, so we headed to LPM at the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas for dinner. LPM offers an exquisite dining experience that effortlessly marries Mediterranean charm with the vibrant energy of the Strip. From the moment you step through the entrance, you are greeted by an ambiance that strikes a perfect balance between sophistication and conviviality.
LPM’s interior is a visual feast, adorned with chic decor, warm lighting, and an intimate atmosphere. The combination of contemporary design elements and classic French accents creates a welcoming space that feels both elegant and comfortable. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or seeking a romantic dinner, LPM’s ambiance sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience.
LPM’s menu is a culinary triumph, highlighting the rich and diverse flavors of the French Riviera. The emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients is evident in every dish. We began our meal with a variety of appetizers, including the Yellowtail Carpaccio, Escargots, and their signature Burrata prepared with heritage tomatoes and basil and topped with white truffles. For our main courses, we decided to focus on seafood entrees, so we tried the Lobster Risotto and grilled Chilean Bass. Both were prepared to perfection and paired very well together if you are looking to share entrees.
Of course, one of the biggest attractions of Las Vegas is the Strip itself. Spend a few hours meandering through each hotel and taking in the Vegas vibe. There is no other place in the world quite like it.
If you are in the mood for a little adventure, head to Area15, located about 10 minutes from the strip. Area15 is an immersive entertainment complex that blends art, technology, and entertainment in a unique and captivating way. Boasting an otherworldly exterior and a dynamic interior, Area15 is home to a variety of innovative experiences, including interactive art installations and virtual reality adventures. Its anchor tenant, the Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart, is a surreal supermarket-like environment filled with mind-bending art and hidden mysteries. The venue also hosts concerts and live events including Beyond Brunch, a variety show hosted by drag queen extraordinaire Andrew Ryan. The two-hour spectacle includes a wonderful buffet and performances by talented acts ranging from hoop dancers to Cirque-style entertainers. The show is well worth the price of admission; it is not your typical drag brunch.
Spend the afternoon touring Area15 or head to The Sphere, Las Vegas’s newest concert venue. Rock icons U2 opened the venue with a 40-night run, but guests can purchase tickets to Darren Aronofsky’s multi-sensory film “Postcard from Earth.”
For a trip down memory lane, especially if you are in you were born in the ‘70s or ‘80s, check out Retro by Voltaggio at Mandalay Bay. The restaurant owned by Top Chef stars, Bryan and Michael Voltaggio, takes diners on a nostalgic journey through time, blending modern culinary techniques with comforting flavors reminiscent of classic American dishes set in a retro-chic environment. The space is adorned with quirky memorabilia, neon accents, and a colorful palette that captures a sense of nostalgia without feeling overly kitschy, creating a welcoming environment for diners to unwind and enjoy the culinary adventure.
Retro by Voltaggio’s menu is a playful exploration of classic American favorites. We started our dinner with the deviled eggs with smoked trout roe along with the beet steak tartare, which was incredible. Next came the bluefin tuna ceviche served over coconut crushed ice. For our entrees we tried the trout meuniere, which was served in a lemon and caper sauce, as well as the lobster thermidor with lobster waffles — yes, you read that correctly. It was as delicious as it sounds.
Save room for the dessert cart, which contains innovative creations that satisfy the sweet tooth. Whether you’re a fan of nostalgic flavors or simply seeking a unique and enjoyable meal, Retro by Voltaggio is worth the visit.
After dinner, catch a performance of Michael Jackson “ONE” by Cirque du Soleil also at Mandalay Bay. The show is a captivating tribute to the King of Pop that seamlessly blends the magic of Cirque du Soleil with the timeless music and iconic choreography of Michael Jackson. From the moment the lights dim to the final bow, the show is a high-energy, emotionally charged celebration of the legendary entertainer’s life and legacy. This isn’t your typical Cirque du Soleil show and is more like a concert featuring all of Michael’s greatest hits, memorable dance moves, and state-of-the-art production. I felt like “ONE” is the type of concert Michael would have wanted to perform if he were still with us.
The thing I like most about Vegas is it is always evolving. Every time you visit, there is something new to see or do. Viva Las Vegas!
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Comings & Goings
Pride season has begun
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a&e features4 days agoPride season has begun
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Federal Government5 days ago4th Circuit rules gender identity is a protected characteristic
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The White House1 day agoJudy Shepard to receive Presidential Medal of Freedom
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World4 days agoNew World Bank US executive director: LGBTQ rights are human rights