Arts & Entertainment
Queery: Angel McNatt
The She Scenes Entertainment co-founder answers 20 gay questions
Angel McNatt (Blade photo by Michael Key)
She Scenes Entertainment is having its three-year anniversary party Saturday from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. and co-founder Angel McNatt is excited about the event/clothing line company branching into new areas.
Saturday’s party, to be held at Argana (2147 P Street, N.W.), will feature performances by Lower Case Letters, DSCA and D-Ron and DDM. Tickets are $10 in advance or $15 at the door (visit sweetsceneent.com for details). McNatt expects a diverse crowd as Ashley Head, a local entrepreneur with Natural International talent Agency, is co-hosting. Another arm of McNatt’s company — Loverboi Apparel — is having the launch of a new T-shirt line called Cocky Edition that will be unveiled Saturday. And it’s just the start of what McNatt and co-owners Sharee Brown and Tia Gaymon hope will be a big year of expansion for the company. Though they’re all black lesbians, they hope the company is mor than that.
“We’re trying to diversify all the time,” McNatt says. “D.C. is so segregated. It’s like a subculture within a subculture and we’re trying to break that out so it’s not all black people. Saturday’s concert should be a good mixed crowd. With Ashley along, there’ll be lots of gay boys as well.”
McNatt works in property management by day — which she has been doing for years and still enjoys — but started She Scenes three years ago with Brown, her ex, and Gaymon, who has event planning background. Their first event — a fashion show at the Washington Convention Center — drew about 800 people according to McNatt and they felt they’d hit a nerve. Eventually they’d like to quit their day jobs and do She Scenes full time.
McNatt, 29, grew up in Washington but now lives in Hyattsville, Md., and works in Bethesda. She graduated from American University and still has family here. She’s single and enjoys working out, reading and attending happy hour and nightlife events in her free time. She and her team are working on more fashion shows and are hoping to launch an LGBT swimwear line this year. (Blade photo by Michael Key)
How long have you been out and who was the hardest person to tell?
I’ve been out for 13 years now and the hardest person to tell was my grandmother at that time. However, now she is totally accepting over it.
Who’s your LGBT hero?
Ellen Degeneres
What’s Washington’s best nightspot, past or present?
U Street, Dupont and Adam’s Morgan corridor.
Describe your dream wedding.
My dream wedding would be a destination wedding on the sand, on a beach. The attire would be extremely relaxed; white or tan linen, no shoes. Small ceremony of close friends, family and associates. Large reception, with open invitation plus one; live band, open bar and a sushi option is a must.
What non-LGBT issue are you most passionate about?
World hunger and homelessness — it really doesn’t have to be this way.
What historical outcome would you change?
George Bush becoming president.
What’s been the most memorable pop culture moment of your lifetime?
The life and legacy of Michael Jackson. The impact that he had globally was and still is phenomenal.
On what do you insist?
I insist that the U.S. government has something to do with the 9-11 events. I’m not a radical, but come on people.
What was your last Facebook post or Tweet?
“Picking out an outfit for my 3rd year anniversary on January 21, 2012 at Argana (formerly Pasha) at 2147 P street NW Washington, DC…Purchase online tickets at http://concertedition.
If your life were a book, what would the title be?
“Life in the fast lane — What will slow me down?”
If science discovered a way to change sexual orientation, what would you do?
I would leave the country and find a small island in the middle of nowhere to live on. A person’s sexual orientation is something they naturally have a connection with. Contrary what some may be believe, it’s not a choice; you are who you are and attempting to tamper with that changes who we are as people and what we “allegedly” stand for as a country.
What do you believe in beyond the physical world?
I believe that an acquired sense and acknowledgement of spirituality is the ultimate key to success and self preservation.
What’s your advice for LGBT movement leaders?
The fight is never over as long as you continue to believe in what you’re supporting, your sincerity and efforts will always prevail ultimately paving the way for those who don’t have the courage to stand up for themselves.
What would you walk across hot coals for?
I would walk across hot coals for overall equality across the nation. I believe that the abolition of different classes (economic and social) would serve as a platform to end world hunger, crime, financial deficits and constraints.
What LGBT stereotype annoys you most?
That women or men are gay because the opposite sex didn’t do their job.
What’s your favorite LGBT movie?
Spike Lee’s independent film “She Hate Me”
What’s the most overrated social custom?
I think that having to say excuse me when you burp or pass gas in so overrated, more so in American culture. Flatulence is natural and most people do it in their sleep.
What trophy or prize do you most covet?
All of my competitive trophies, which include basketball, football (yes I said football), soccer, basketball, track and even Bible Study. Among them all my Punt, Pass and Kick trophy is what I covet the most. It was the last year that they had both men and women completing against each other on a regional and national level. The competition is sponsored by the NFL and I was interviewed by the retired Charles Mann.
What do you wish you’d known at 18?
That life is too short and that what most people hold high or place value on really isn’t as important as family and friends. Although truly nice to have and lots of it, money can truly be the root of all evil.
Why Washington?
Why not? I was born and raised here. It’s the capitol of the United States; politically, economically and socially driven. The District has an incredible amount of accessibility to entertainment, museums, restaurants and economical stability (hey I can only speak for myself). Its thriving subculture seems to be ever changing.
Out & About
Plan your wedding the LGBTQ way
Washington D.C. LGBTQ+ Wedding Expo scheduled for Sunday
Rainbow Wedding Network will host “Washington D.C. LGBTQ+ Wedding Expo” on Sunday, March 1 at 12:30 p.m.
Guests can meet and mingle with a curated selection of LGBTQ-welcoming wedding professionals from across the region, each ready to help bring your vision to life, and spend a beautiful afternoon exploring everything they need to create a celebration that reflects them.
There will be a relaxed, self-guided look at the Watergate’s spaces and amenities, savor signature cocktails and delicious tasting samples, and connect with other couples who are on the same journey.
Visit Eventbrite to reserve a spot.
Friday, February 27
Center Aging Monthly Luncheon With Yoga and Drag Bingo 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.
Go Gay DC will host “LGBTQ+ Community Happy Hour Meetup” at 7 p.m. at Freddie’s Beach Bar and Restaurant. 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.
Trans Discussion Group will be at 7 p.m. on Zoom. This group 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, February 28
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.
The DC Center for the LGBT Community will host “Sunday Supper on Saturday” at 2 p.m. It’s more than just an event; it’s an opportunity to step away from the busyness of life and invest in something meaningful, and enjoy delicious food, genuine laughter, and conversations that spark connection and inspiration. For more details, visit the Center’s website.
Black Lesbian Support Group will be at 1 p.m. on Zoom. This is a peer-led support group devoted to the joys and challenges of being a Black lesbian. You do not need to be a member of the Beta Kappa Chapter or the Beta Phi Omega Sorority in order to join, but they do ask that you either identify as a lesbian or are questioning that aspect of your identity.Send an email to [email protected] to receive the zoom link.
Sunday, March 1
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, March 2
“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, March 3
Universal Pride Meeting will be at 7 p.m. on Zoom. This group seeks to support, educate, empower, and create change for people with disabilities. For more details, email [email protected].
Wednesday, March 4
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 www.thedccenter.org/careers.
Center Aging Women’s Social and 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. There will be discussion, activities, and a chance for guests to share what they want future events to include. For more information, email [email protected].
Thursday, March 5
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
Transmission DC breathes new life into a storied sound space
A fresh home for boundary-pushing culture on H Street
Late last year, phoenix-style, a fresh home for boundary-pushing culture arose on the H Street corridor. Transmission DC – a queer, trans, and POC-owned, operated, and centered community-focused venue – powered on in the former home to the Rock & Roll Hotel (famously, not a hotel, but very much rock & roll). Transmission (1353 H St., N.E.) arrives secure in its mandate – or even birthright – to provide a place to celebrate creativity and music through a lens of inclusivity and respect.
Transmission’s team brings experience, but also representation. Owners/partners Kabir Khanna (who is also programming director), Katii B, Ellie McDyre, and Kelli Kerrigan together previously managed 618 productions, a venue in Chinatown, crafting “some of D.C.’s freakiest parties, raves, and mosh pits” they note.
They packed up operations last fall to a space curated specifically for D.C.’s underground music and culture scene, building their efforts in Chinatown to bring in more fans in queer and POC circles.
Transmission, Khanna points out, is built on DIY values. In the music scene, DIY means that promoters and organizers – often disconnected from the mainstream and part of marginalized communities – build shows and programs collaboratively, but independently from institutions, supporting each other as smaller, independent venues close. Here, Transmission aims to ensure that those putting together these underground inclusive shows have a more permanent and stable home, can have access to resources, and can provide more sustainable income to artists. “We’re trying to get more people to support and enjoy the music, and also give artists and organizers within the DIY community more structure and a larger cut,” says Khanna.
Khanna also notes that Transmission operates “under the principles of safety, inclusivity, and respect.” McDyre added that even at venues that claim inclusivity, that statement might not take place in practice. We’re “not just pitting up a rainbow flag,” says McDyre, but as some of the owners are trans and POC, audiences can see themselves reflected at the top.
Much like the DIY nature of the music community, the Transmission owners brought a DIY ethos to turning around their space.
In March 2020 – the height of COVID lockdowns – Rock & Roll Hotel suddenly shuttered, though not due to the pandemic; instead, the venue claimed that decreasing sales and increasing competition led to the closure. For 14 years, it was the central spot for cheap beer and lesser-known and celebrated acts. The space stood vacant for more than five years, until Transmission turned the power back on.
“When we got into the space, it was effectively abandoned for years,” says Khanna. “There was a ton of mold, and paint primer covering all surfaces. It was nearly falling apart.” Khanna noted that many music venues like this one, regardless of how well it was maintained, “get the shit kicked out of it,” given the nature of shows. The team called in mold removal contractors, ripped up most of the floorboards, and started fresh.
Transmission’s first floor is styled as a stripped-down black box: the better to take in the music. “It’s minimal on purpose to act as a canvas for set design and music,” without a specific aesthetic, says Khanna. Moving upstairs, the second floor has been opened up, removing some walls, and now has a larger dance area than the first floor. Beyond the first two performance levels, and a holdover from Rock & Roll Hotel, is the rooftop. Though without a stage, the rooftop space is filled with murals splashed across the walls, with a full bar. Transmission’s current capacity is 496, but the team is looking to grow that number. Transmission will also leverage the full kitchen that Rock & Roll Hotel operated, bringing in Third Hand Kitchen to offer a variety of food, including vegan and vegetarian options.
Khanna pointed out an upcoming show reflective of Transmission’s inclusive ethos: Black Techo Matters on Feb. 27. The event is set to be “a dynamic, collaborative night of underground electronic music celebrating Black History Month.” Khanna says that techno came from Black music origins, and this event will celebrate this genesis with a host of artists, including DJ Stingray 313, Carlos Souffront, and Femanyst.
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