Thursday, 28 June 2018
‘Drag Race’ Alum Teaches Master Class on Drag, Gender Fluidity
Yuhua Hamasaki, the Asian sensation from RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 10, will be bringing her talents to Splash Bar in Panama City on Saturday, July 14. Just after the taping of the reunion show, we sat down with Yuhua for this exclusive Hotspots interview.
At what age did drag become an interest?
I used to be scared of drag queens. My Asian culture taught me that drag queens were mentally ill. When I finally experienced drag, I fell in love with it.
How did you pick your name?
Yuhua is my given name, and I really admire the Japanese singer Ayumi Hamasaki, so I took her last name.
How many times did you apply to be on RuPaul’s Drag Race?
I auditioned three times.
How did it feel when you found out you had been chosen?
It felt amazing! Thousands of girls try out for the show.
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Do you feel additional pressure now that RuPaul’s Drag Race has been on for nine seasons plus three season of All Stars?
Yes, because every year the competition gets stronger and tougher. You always want to do better than the girls before you.
Tell us about your Drag Race experience.
It was a lot of hard work. But I’m very grateful for the opportunity. It’s been very rewarding.
What’s your marital status?
I am very single.
What are you looking for in a man?
I’m looking for someone funny, someone I can relate to.
Tell us something people would be surprised to find out about you.
I’m not a real woman.
How was the taping of the reunion?
It was fun! It was excellent to see Ru and the rest of girls together in one room again. It’s been forever! It brought back so much nostalgia.
Who do you want to win Drag Race and why?
Myself! I’m delusional! I’m still in the competition. Every week I just morph into a different piece of furniture. I’m still in the work room. I was never eliminated!
You describe yourself as gender-fluid. Can you explain that for my readers?
For centuries and centuries, society has constructed two genders, male and female, and assigned duties to each of those genders. But not too long ago we learned about transgender, which is transitioning to the other gender.
Gender fluidity is a subject most people have not tapped into, but those who identify as gender-fluid have been around forever. Gender fluidity is when someone can shift between genders depending on how they’re feeling that day, hour, or even moment.
A lot of people get gender and drag confused: Gender is who I am, and drag is what I do. A lot of people wonder whether someone other than a cis-gender male can do drag? The answer is yes. Anyone can do drag: females, transgender, and even gender-fluid and gender-neutral people.
How did “The Ankh Song” come about and how do you feel about the response?
“The Ankh Song” was based on an outfit I made for Drag Race. The song is supposed to be silly and stupid. It’s not supposed to be like Beyoncé or Madonna. It’s a parody of commercials and music videos — and other Drag Race girls who have released videos!
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What should our readers expect from your show at Splash Bar?
As always, a high-energy fierce performance. But when I’m on the mic, I’m a funny person. It shows that I can be serious but also not take myself too seriously when it comes to drag. I’m the first person to make fun of myself because laughter is the best medicine.
It’s my first time in Panama City, and I cannot wait to meet everyone there!
What does the future hold for Yuhua?
I want to continue traveling the world and performing. Before Drag Race, the farthest I’d ever traveled was New Jersey. Now I get to go places I’ve never been before, and I am very thankful.
I also want to inspire people. When I was younger, I wanted to be a teacher. And now that I’m older and given this amazing platform, I want to educate and inspire people to do whatever they want in life. I want people to be who they are; regardless of what society and people tell them. Drag has given me the confidence and happiness I have now, and I want to share that knowledge.
Follow Yuhua Hamasaki on Instagram @YuhuaHamasaki. You can catch her on Saturday, July 14 at Splash Bar (6520 Thomas Dr, Panama City Beach). For info: splashbarflorida.com.
source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2018/06/28/drag-race-alum-teaches-master-class-on-drag-gender-fluidity/
Kaija Adonis: ‘I’ve Given my Drag Mothers Lots of Grandbabies’
Tell me about the first drag show you ever saw.
I went to Southern Nights [in Orlando], on the day before my 18th birthday. I stood outside the door waiting with a friend until it turned midnight and I was able to get in the club.
When the show started, Nazhoni walked out on stage and started performing her insane “Love Commandments” number, and I was gagged.
When did you decide you wanted to do drag?
It was actually that performance by Nazhoni that hooked me into drag. Before that, I didn’t really care for it.
When did you realize it would be a profession?
A few years after I began doing drag, I started to really make a name for myself. My husband, Blaze Adonis, and I created the house of Adonis. At that time I knew this could be a profession.
Who’s your drag mother?
Over the 17 years I’ve been doing drag, there are a few that have been my mothers, and they shaped me into the entertainer I am today. I’ve since given them lots of grandbabies!
I love them all dearly, so I can’t just name one: They are Nazhoni, Avalon Infiniti, and Power Infiniti. My first family was the Legendary House of Infiniti.
Besides your drag mothers, who’s your favorite queen?
Again, I can’t choose just one. I’ll always live for Sasha Colby [who moved to Orlando from Chicago], but our legendary queens of Central Florida always give a stunning performance.
Right now, I am living for the new girls on the scene: Waka, the Cavalli girls, Zeal, Venus, Dalia, Matryx, and so many more. They are so creative and a joy to watch on stage. There’s no way I could pick just one. There’s too many flavors to enjoy!
What’s your favorite number to perform and why?
I love a good old Broadway/Disney number, but Jessie J’s “Sexy Lady” makes me feel all of my jush, and it has a good message. It’s also upbeat and fun.
What’s the best thing that has happened to you in drag?
Knowing that you changed someone’s life for the better just by doing something you love is incredible. I’ve had people tell me that I’ve saved them at dark points in their lives, and it really makes you think that maybe you were put here to do just that. It’s humbling.
What differentiates you from other queens?
I would probably say my character/cosplay numbers. That’s when I’m my most creative self.
What does the future hold?
Who knows, honestly? The world is crazy right now, but I hope the future is bright and gay and full of warm hugs.
Follow Kaija on Instagram @kaijaadonis.
source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2018/06/28/kaija-adonis-ive-given-my-drag-mothers-lots-of-grandbabies/
What’s Hot Central Florida: July 2018
Saturday, June 30
America’s beloved sibling entertainers, Donny & Marie, will bring their equally beloved show to the Dr. Phillips Center for the performing Arts at 8pm. They will mix the spirit of their early television specials and recordings with a nostalgic look back on their storied career in a dynamic stage show showcasing fan favorites including “A Little Bit Country, A Little Bit Rock ‘n Roll,” “Paper Roses,” “Puppy Love” and “It Takes Two.” Check out the irresistible chemistry that made them international stars. Tickets start at: $55.
Southern Nights Tampa presents their 3 year Anniversary extravaganza hosted by Eureka O’hara from RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 10! They will also feature a Drag Show at 12:30am with Roxxxy Andrews, Jade Embers and Kitana Gemini. 18 and over welcome!
Parliament House is celebrating America’s birthday with an American Idol: Ada Vox, live in concert. To Purchase VIP photo opp tickets go to: ParliamentHouse.com.
Monday, July 2
An Orlando legend turns 50, as the Parliament House presents Lisa Lane’s Golden Birthday celebration at 8pm. The night will feature performances by Shantell D’Marco, Chavela Belleza, Lineysha Sparx, Elishaly D’Witshes, Michelle Du Soleil, GizzelleFierze, Chachita Gift, Angelica Sanchez, Nouba Soleil, and Darcel Stevens. This is a free show and the invite the entire community to come out and celebrate Lisa’s 50th!
Thursday, July 5
The Straz Center for the Performing Arts presents Cinderella from today through July 8th. Rodgers + Hammerstein’s CINDERELLA is the Tony Award-winning Broadway musical from the creators of The Sound of Music and South Pacific that’s returning to delight Tampa audiences with its contemporary take on the classic tale. This lush production features an incredible orchestra, jaw-dropping transformations and all the moments you love – the pumpkin, the glass slipper, the masked ball and more – plus some surprising new twists! Be transported back to your childhood as you rediscover some of Rodgers + Hammerstein’s most beloved songs, including “In My Own little Corner,” “Impossible/It’s Possible” and “Ten Minutes Ago,” in this hilarious and romantic Broadway experience for anyone who’s ever has a wish, a dream … or a really great pair of shoes. Tickets start at $38.
Friday July 6
Southern Nights Orlando presents, direct from Bravo’s Real Housewives of New Jersey, Teresa Giudice as the hostess of their Flex Fridays. If you can’t make it tonight, head onto Southern Nights Tampa as Teresa will be the hostess of their Savage Saturdays tomorrow Saturday, July 7. 18+ welcome on both nights.
Stonewall Orlando presents Boot & Beards where they invite you to dust off your boots, brush out your beards and put on your patriotic underwear! The master of ceremonies with be their favorite bearded diva Bearonce with guest star Scarlette Diamond, and music by DJ Jay Skinner downstairs and DJ J B Burgos in the Sky Bar! No cover before 10 pm!
Speaking of Southern Nights Tampa, tonight they present NeiBEARhood Takeover celebrating International Kissing Day with DJ Throboy from Las Vegas, and sponsored by Gobearr Gear. They will feature a 1am Kissing Contest. This is a 21 and over event!
Sunday, July 8
Chris Pittman presents superstar DJ Hector Fonseca at Royal Tea Sundays at Eve (110 Orange Avenue). Doors open at 8pm and there e is no cover.
Dr. Phillips Center presents Erasure World Be Gone Tourat 8pm. Erasure (Andy Bell and Vince Clarke) announced a collaboration with Brussels-based Echo Collective that sees the entirety of Erasure’s latest album, World Be Gone, given a post-classical rework. This new collaboration gives fresh dimension to the tracks. World Beyond was recorded over 10 days by Andy and seven performers from Echo Collective: Margaret Hermant (violin, harp), Neil Leiter (viola), Thomas Engelen (cello), Jaroslaw Mroz (double bass), Gary De Cart (piano) and Antoine Dandoy (vibraphone, glockenspiel). Tickets start at: $34.50.
Wednesday, July 11
The Amway center presents Sam Smith in his The Thrill Of It All tour tonight at 8pm, with tickets ranging from $37-$122. The concert will also be playing at Tampa’s AMALIE Arena on Friday, July 13 at 8pm with tickets ranging from $26-$122. “Too Good At Goodbyes,” the album’s first single, is a global smash, hitting No. 1 on the U.K. and Global Spotify Charts and topping the U.K. and U.S. iTunes charts. It has captured the top spot on the U.K.’s Official Singles Chart Top 100 for three consecutive weeks, marking Smith’s sixth No. 1 single there. In the U.S., “Too Good At Goodbyes,” debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Digital Song Sales chart. Worldwide Spotify streams of the single already exceed 100 million.
Friday, July 13
The National Showgirl, Showgirl at Large and Showman pageants move their home bas this year to Hamburger Mary’s Daytona and the National Pageantry starts tonight honoring last years winners: Alexis Mateo, Crystal Belle, and Aries M. Kelly. Tonight and tomorrow will be prelim nights for all three divisions. On Sunday, July 15 is Final night for Showman and on Monday, July 16 is final night for Showgirl and Showgirl at Large. The categories include: Interview (with a platform to work and represent throughout the year), Showgirl/Showman Presentation (this is the highest scored category); Glitz Formal wear for the boys and Gown for the girls, and Talent. Admission is $20 per night, but only $60 for all four nights. For more information, go to NationalShowgielpageant.com.
Friday, July 20
The Orlando Improv presents, a true king of comedy, D.L. Hughley from today until July 22 in his Unapologetic Tour, based on his own one-hour special for HBO entitled Unapologetic. The special, D.L.’s fourth for the network (the others were in 1992, 1994 and 1999), premiered in September and is currently available on DVD. In its review, the Hollywood Reporter says the likable Hughley is the real deal, a guy who comes with his A-material and nails every line with smarts and savvy….connecting with the audience from the first minute through the last. Tickets are $35.
The Club Orlando presents “NTA: No Towels Allowed Party,” where no towels or clothes will be allowed to be worn in the building (except in the Gym and TV Lounge) from 10pm to 2am. For more information Club-Orlando.com.
Saturday, July 21
Neema’s upscale Latin Night: Amor at Stonewall Orlando presents Shakira tickets giveaway. The midnight drag show stars Miss Glamorous 2018: Amanda D’Rhod, Gadfrie Arbulu and Jenavive K. Mateo. Doors open at 9pm and there is no cover before 10pm and $10 thereafter. 21 and over!
Hamburger Mary’s Brandon presents “Paint Nite,” which features everything you need to create a one-of-a-kind painting. They will guide you and your friends through two lively hours of creativity, drinking, and laughing ‘til your cheeks hurt. What’s the best part? You don’t have to be an artist to have an amazing time. Food and drinks are not included, but are available for purchase from the venue. No outside food or drinks allowed. This Paint Nite Event is 21+!
Wednesday, July 25
Amalie Arena presents Grammy Award-winning, acclaimed alternative rock pioneers The Smashing Pumpkins in their Shiny And Oh So Bright Tour a7 pm, their first tour in nearly 20 years to feature founding members Billy Corgan, Jimmy Chamberlin, and James Iha. The monumental Shiny And Oh So Bright Tour, which coincides with the 30th anniversary of the band’s formation, will highlight music from the group’s inception through 2000, and will exclusively feature material from their groundbreaking debut Gish through Siamese Dream, Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness, Adore, and Machina. Longtime Smashing Pumpkins guitarist Jeff Schroeder will also take part, as the band moves to a three-guitar lineup to better emulate the signature tones and textures of their albums. Tickets range from $29 – $125.
Thursday, July 26
Amway Center presents Rod Stewart with Cyndi Lauper as his special tour guest at 7:30pm. Tickets start at $57.
The Tampa Improv presents Luenell, who is a force of nature from tonight through July 29. This talented comedienne, actress and singer, was born in Tollette, Arkansas, a town whose population barely registers with the U.S. census. She is best known for her breakthrough role as the “hooker with the heart of gold” in the blockbuster comedy Borat. Luenell is recognized by both mainstream AND urban sectors of the population. Luenell had appearances in three #1 feature films; Think like A Man, the 3D animated hit Hotel Transylvania and Taken 2. Must be 21 & up to enter; except on Friday’s at 10:30pm which is 18 & up. Tickets are $20
Saturday, July 28
Dr. Phillips Center presents Darci Lynne and Friends Live with special guest Pelican 212 at 7pm. Darci Lynne Farmer is a 13-year-old ventriloquist, singer and season 12 winner of America’s Got Talent. She first appeared on the show as a shy 12-year-old who used ventriloquism to overcome her stage fright, stunning the crowd with a surprising singing act. Darci Lynne captured hearts then—and continues to amaze now. The Oklahoma native is bringing her jaw-dropping voice, hilarious puppets and vibrant personality to Orlando for one night only with tickets starting at $30, with VIP tickets (Meet and greet) $100.
source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2018/06/28/whats-hot-central-florida-july-2018/
St. Pete Pride Parade 2018 Photos
Check out photos from St. Pete Pride Parade 2018:
source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2018/06/28/st-pete-pride-parade-2018-photos/
St. Pete Pride Festival 2018 Photos
Check out photos from St. Pete Pride Festival 2018:
source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2018/06/28/st-pete-pride-festival-2018-photos/
St. Pete Pride: Hotel Zamora Rooftop VIP Party Photos
Check out photos from St. Pete Prie: Hotel Zamora Rooftop VIP Party:
source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2018/06/28/st-pete-pride-hotel-zamora-rooftop-vip-party-photos/
Around Tampa Bay with Amy Demilo
Check out photos from Around Tampa Bay with Amy Demilo:
source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2018/06/28/around-tampa-bay-with-amy-demilo-2/
The Tasty Star of Netflix’s ‘Queer Eye’ Talks Fluid Sexuality
Antoni Porowski is known for his avocados. But on a recent afternoon he was contemplating the coconut, mapping every sultry detail of the tropical fruit as if it were the body of a new lover: the fleshy inside, the milky nectar.
It’s the first day of June when the Polish-Canadian wine-and-dine expert on Netflix’s Queer Eye reboot rings and, oh right, we’re talking about food. But gay America isn’t hungry: It’s thirsty AF.
And because real lives are being changed thanks to Porowski, designer Bobby Berk, culture advisor Karamo Brown, stylist Tan France, and groomer Jonathan Van Ness, it is also joyfully crying.
Season 2 of Queer Eye — note the dropped qualifier, a nod to the show’s new inclusivity — doesn’t skimp on opportunities for you to feel good about this otherwise not-good world, as the Fab Five imparts their best-life insight and general gay wisdom to a diverse group of clients, including the franchise’s first woman and transgender man.
As Porowski continues to process the experience, and the attendant upswing in gay male thirst and avocado sex puns, the 34-year-old subject of culinary controversy talked critics and why variety truly is the spice of life.
In the new promo video for the show, with Betty Who singing the theme, you’re cradling avocados and wearing a crop top. The avocado dick puns have been out in full force.
I guess I asked for it, right? I’m literally wearing a crop top and unsuccessfully trying to juggle avocados, so I shouldn’t be surprised.
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I must say, I do hope the crop top becomes your signature look in the third season.
[Laughs.] Thanks! I do have to give credit where it’s due, and that was 100 percent Tan France.
When it comes to you, the thirst is real. What is that kind of attention like from the gay community?
I do maintain a certain amount of ignorance to it — and a kind of detachment. There’s been a lot of really amazing and positive attention from the show. But with that, there’s also gonna be haters. If I’m gonna take the good, I have to take the bad, so I’ve decided to take neither.
I just try to focus on what my next move is with this show, with press that we’re working on, living out of hotels for the past couple of months, and hoping that people really enjoy [this season] as much as they did the first.
When you’re living out of hotels, how do you maintain a healthy diet?
I don’t! That’s the honest truth. I’m not one to deny myself the pleasures of, like, a good ripe stinky cheese on a crusty slice of fresh-baked bread in Paris.
Oh, I’ve seen you indulge on the show.
It happens.
You’re not afraid of some macaroni salad.
There ya go! Well, but that wasn’t my recipe.
It wasn’t, but you still ate it.
Oh, I ate it. I’ll try anything twice.
Are you still trying to wrap your head around your overnight fame?
Yeah. I mean, it certainly hits in waves. We were just in London, and when you experience people who’ve been waiting outside of your hotel with magazines to sign, it’s kind of like, “Wow, you’re a human with a life and a job, presumably, who wanted to wait to have a moment.” I’m grateful for it, but it’s not something I want to be too comfortable with. It’s very bizarre and very overwhelming.
What my therapist tells me is, “Don’t trust your feelings right now because you’re constantly basically running on adrenaline — your life right now is pure adrenaline.” It’s been like overdrive, so it’s just, take everything very lightly.
What are your gay fan interactions outside of hotels like?
I feel like I’m pretty good at reading people, but with fans, the energy and the direction of it is very different. So my thing is: Ask them a question about themselves, try to make this a human interaction, and try to normalize it, just to make sure that the person has a nice, meaningful experience and they can leave happy.
[But] sometimes I’m left, like, taking care of people. They’ll come up, and their mouths open and they don’t say anything. I have to kind of take care of them and be like, “Are you OK? It’s fine. Here, do you want a hug? Do you want a photo?”
You don’t just go right in for the hug?
No, I’m a little — yeah, I have more of a European sensibility. We like to kiss twice. Or, I don’t know, healthy boundaries?
Kiss twice, though? Everyone must just enjoy meeting you.
[Laughs.]
How has helping other people on this show changed your approach to your own life?
I’ve had many passions: I studied psychology; I worked as a gallery director; I photographed vintage furniture. And on the acting side of things, that was something that was always very ego[-driven]. I wanted people to look and see and feel my presence, whereas with the show, it actually isn’t that at all. The energy is directed in the other direction, so it’s really us being of service to this person that we’re helping.
We see that happen in the first episode of Season 2, with Mama Tammye
Mama Tammye is an example who spun it on us, and doesn’t even take care of herself and shows up as a teacher and as a member of her church, and for the five of us.
You cried at the end of that episode. Of the Fab Five, who cries the most?
You’re talking to him! When you hear somebody’s struggle, or especially when they’ve overcome something or made a choice like Tammye — there was a lot of pain and a lot of fear and borderline hateful feelings toward gays, and she realized that it was her perspective that was wrong, and she’s a beacon of hope for people.
It’s possible at any age. If you have people like Tammye who were able to figure it out, there’s no excuse for the rest of us.
Even though you’ve been with men and women, you’ve said that you don’t like to call yourself bisexual. Have you found the best way to explain your sexual orientation to people yet?
Not really. And it’s not something I feel too pressured to figure out.
I have very strong opinions about how to cook a filet of salmon so the skin remains crispy and doesn’t stick to the pan, but with a lot of things, I don’t like being the expert. I’d rather go in and be like, “I don’t know.” There’s a power in that for me. It’s sort of like going in with humility and saying, “I’m still trying to figure it out.”
While I don’t think I’m trying to figure out my sexuality, I’m just not as concerned with it anymore. It’s this dynamic process. I’d just rather keep it open and fluid, because that’s how I am with the books that I read, the music that I listen to. All of my interests are always changing, and it’s a constant dynamic process, and so is my sexuality.
Is today June 1?
Today is June 1.
It has me thinking about Pride and what Pride means: the ability to be the truest version of yourself without any negative consequence or fear of being persecuted or judged or criticized or hurt for it. And whatever that is for a person, however you define yourself or don’t define yourself, you should be able to do that with total freedom.
I read that you were a private chef for some high-profile clients.
It was something that kind of happened accidentally, cooking for people. I’m not a classically trained chef, where I’m in a kitchen and I’m doing my own thing; I’m an entertainer, that’s who I am. And I love food, and I love playing with it, and I love preparing it for people. It’s how I show my love.
It wasn’t an everyday thing, where I showed up and made breakfast, lunch, and dinner for someone. I’ve always had, like, 10 different things going on at the same time.
If you could cook for any celebrity, who would it be and what would you cook?
Dead or alive?
They can be dead.
I would take something off of the menu at Voltaire in Paris, and I would prepare it for Oscar Wilde. I would slap my copy of De Profundis in front of him and be like, “We’re gonna talk about this for five hours, and I’m gonna feed your belly, and I’m gonna get you drunk, and you’re just gonna tell me everything and answer all of my questions.”
You’re on a desert island and you have to survive on just one food: What is it?
I love a fresh coconut. You crack it and you have the milk, which is so delicious, but the flesh too. There’s that creamy part on the inside that you can scoop with a spoon, and then there’s the really hard shell part that, if you roast it with sugar, it gets caramelized and really nice and crunchy.
So, I think coconuts. I’d get fed up with them after a week, but I don’t know what food I wouldn’t get fed up about, truly. Ask me again tomorrow.
I’ve never thought about the flesh of a coconut until now, and it sounds weirdly sexy.
[Laughs.] Oh, think about it. Go buy a fresh coconut and think of me.
WATCH:
source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2018/06/28/the-tasty-star-of-netflixs-queer-eye-talks-fluid-sexuality/
Ladies and Gentlemen, There Can Only Be One Queen
Season 10 of RuPaul’s Drag Race is fast approaching its finale, and after watching the reunion, I am even more certain of who the winner should be. But before I give you my predictions, let’s talk a little about the reunion.
The show started with Ru on stage with all 14 girls. But 14 quickly dwindled down to 13 when The Vixen decided to exit around 20 minutes in. I found this to be very unfortunate since the reunion provided the perfect opportunity for the girl to right her wrongs, but she chose to leave without doing so. Clearly, The Vixen needs to work through some things, and I was hoping the reunion would be the place she would step up and make some amends.
I think all the other girls did successfully hash out their differences. Having interviewed all the Drag Race queens for the past eight years, I know the set can be a total pressure cooker while they’re filming. So, it’s always nice to see the girls patch things up at the end and become a sisterhood.
Ru then polled the eliminated contestants about who they wanted to win. Eureka, Asia, and Aquaria evenly split the votes. Kameron got zip.
So, who do I think is going to win?
Well, let’s just say I agree with the girls: It won’t be Kameron. First, she was in the bottom three for three weeks in a row. Girlfriend is a lip sync fiend, and she still ended up on the chopping block too many times. Also, as became clear during the reunion, she wasn’t showing her true self all season.
Having said that, I think Kameron is a true talent and could easily have a full-time career in drag if she chooses to. Odds of winning: 50 to 1.
Eureka has all the makings of a winner: She came out on top in many challenges, and she showed plenty of heart by coming back after getting hurt. Besides, she’s a plus-size girl, and a queen of size has yet to snatch the crown.
But Eureka also has a couple of strikes against her: She was in the bottom two a couple times, and she hasn’t overcome her demons to always get the last word in. Many of the girls pointed this out over the course of the season — and during the reunion. In other words, although Eureka means well, she’s not loved by all the contestants and isn’t a fan favorite. Can she win? Yes. Will she win? I hope not. I just don’t think she’s the right choice. Odds of winning: 10 to 1.
Asia started out gangbusters, then flagged for a while but has really come on strong in the stretch. A professional queen, she’s snatched numerous titles and is also an extraordinary seamstress. She’s brought it almost every week. Even in the weeks, she didn’t win, Asia was usually a contender. She’s also pretty in drag and well liked. Odds of winning: 5 to 2.
Which brings us to Aquaria… my pick to win. Although she started out with an attitude (can you say 21?), she’s the contestant who’s grown the most, maturing into an adult entertainer along the way. She’s also the only contestant to win three Maxi Challenges. And according to Ru, her flair for fashion places her among the top five contestants ever on Drag Race.
In addition, the three girls on the reunion who picked Aquaria to win cited compelling reasons for her to take the crown. The girls who voted for Asia or Eureka? They all said they were voting that way because they liked them. Aquari’s Instagram following (at press time) is 754K (compare to: Eureka 375K, Asia 252K, Kameron 496K), and her looks are untouchable. Odds of winning: 2 to 1.
As you can see, if it were up to me, Aquaria would be America’s Next Drag Superstar, with Asia a close second. Of course, I am not RuPaul and have no say on who takes the title.
Do you agree with my predictions? Let me know us know on Facebook!
source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2018/06/27/ladies-and-gentlemen-there-can-only-be-one-queen/
Deep Inside Hollywood: Simply Barbra, Barbra and More Barbra Comes to Netflix
Simply Barbra, Barbra and More Barbra Comes to Netflix
What becomes a legend most? A Netflix content package deal, of course. And that’s what’s coming soon from Barbra Streisand and the streaming platform.
For the diva’s superfans, this means a bounty of musical riches, including TV specials dating back to the beginning of her career. Netflix will stream My Name Is Barbra (1965), Color Me Barbra (1966), Barbra Streisand: A Happening in Central Park (1968), Barbra Streisand and Other Musical Instruments (1973), Barbra Streisand: The Concert (1994), and Barbra Streisand: Timeless (2001).
But it’s the extended version of her 1976 remake of A Star Is Born, tinkered with and re-worked by Streisand herself, that will probably draw the most fascinated attention (and maybe some funny Twitter commentary, too, if we’re being honest). It’ll have new footage, an alternate ending, and who knows what else.
No drop dates yet, but we’re hoping it happens this summer, while we’re on staycation and perhaps… doing some day-drinking. We deserve this.
Billy Eichner Is a Time Travelin’ Jerk
His TV series, Billy on the Street, scaled new heights of ironic celebrity obsession — and public screaming — but you can’t run around the streets of New York City shouting at strangers forever without someone eventually punching you, so Billy Eichner’s next project will find him safely in the production office and the voice-over booth.
Along with co-producers Anna Wenger and Doug Brady, Eichner will bring the animated series Time Travelin’ Jerk to the small screen. Created by Brady and written by Brady, Wenger, and Eichner, the series is described as Back to the Future meets Groundhog Day, telling the story of a young girl stuck traveling in time with an accountant (voiced by Eichner) as her main sidekick.
We’re hopeful for this, if only because we’re still deeply upset by Hulu’s cancellation of Difficult People, and we want Eichner to soothe our pain by any means necessary. We also want cartoons made for adults to be inadvertently watched by unsuspecting children and their families — to be followed by the inevitable awkward conversations.
Romeo San Vicente generally travels without his accountant.
source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2018/06/28/deep-inside-hollywood-simply-barbra-barbra-and-more-barbra-comes-to-netflix/
The Six Household Chores You Should Farm Out
In my other life as a gay personal finance expert, I write a lot about saving money, but what about time? That’s worth something too, especially if you can save more of it by eliminating some of the tasks you dread doing. From having your groceries shopped and delivered to hiring an occasional housekeeper, here are a few affordable ways to farm out your chores and leave yourself the time to enjoy life a little more.
- Yard Work/Lawn Care
There’s not much I won’t do around the house: I clean toilets, pick up the dog poo. I even scrub the bottoms of those nasty trash bins every once in while. But I avoid yard work and mowing the lawn at all costs. I just don’t like it, and it takes up more of my leisure time in the summer than I want to give up.
A 2017 survey conducted by Harris Poll on behalf of TruGreen, the lawn care giant, found that of the 12 hours Americans spend in their yards per week in the summer, more than half are used working to maintain their lawns.
Who needs that when there are burgers to grill and margaritas to blend?
To me, hiring a lawn care specialist to tidy up my space so I can enjoy it is well worth the cost. It runs about $500 for the first visit right after a long winter of neglect (there’s a lot to clean up on my small parcel of land) and then about half that or less for a spruce up every other month while the weather is nice. To save money, I generally don’t have the backyard serviced from October to May since nobody uses it for recreation.
During the summer, I still have to mow the lawn a few times in between visits, but not nearly as much as if I didn’t have someone coming in monthly. Rates will vary, of course, depending on where you live and how much work you need done, but it’s worth checking out if you want to wash your hands of one of the most universally despised household chores.
- Pool Maintenance
Maintaining a backyard pool can seem like a full-time job during the warm months — at least it seems that way. The time commitment may be manageable in four-season locales, but it can prove insufferable if you’re lucky enough to live in a climate where you have to do it year round.
Money-saving expert Andrea Woroch (andreaworoch.com) says she fought her husband on hiring out the pool maintenance at first because it seemed like an easy job, though admittedly she had never cleaned the pool herself. She eventually caved when pool care started really cutting into his free time.
“The truth was, it was hard to keep up with, and he found himself working extra over the weekend to get the right balance of chemicals,” she explains. “Not only were we already paying a lot for chemicals and supplies, but it sometimes cost us more to fix issues that a professional would’ve maintained from the start. We spend approximately $100 per month for maintenance service, and this includes supplies, so it really isn’t that much more of a cost.”
If you want to try out a maintenance service for your pool, ask friends and family for recommendations and collect bids from multiple contractors. You can always try haggling, too.
- Grocery Shopping
I don’t have my groceries delivered on a regular basis, but I’ve tried several different services to mixed results. The deliveries are fine, aside from one or two missing items over the years, but for a couple services it was hard to justify the fees that I would have saved by doing it myself. In one case, there was about a $40 markup on the groceries — and that was with free delivery; I decided not to use that service again.
Busy small business owner Marty Estelle Lundstrom — a senior attorney with a large firm and the founder of Manners Pro, which offers etiquette and social skills classes and seminars — swears by grocery delivery, however.
“I live and die by Instacart and Amazon Prime,” she says. “It saves traffic time, line waiting, hunting and gathering in stores, and my budget because I don’t idly buy things; I only buy from my list. Instacart can be about $10 for each delivery, but I have an annual membership for $129 [now $149] for as many deliveries a year as I want at no additional cost. But don’t forget to budget for tips for your shoppers. Amazon Prime is typically $99 a year and allows for free two-day shipping on many items.”
- House Cleaning
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2015 women spent an average of two hours and 15 minutes per day performing tasks such as cleaning, food preparation and laundry. Men spent one hour and 25 minutes. Just hiring a cleaning service could save the average American family nearly six hours per week.
I recently hired a housekeeper to give myself a break, and it’s really made a difference. My cleaner comes every two weeks on Fridays (coming home to a clean house at the end of the workweek totally helps me relax going in to the weekend). She spends about four hours cleaning my three-bedroom home and charges me $70. That’s very affordable in my opinion, especially when you consider that she mops my floors, which is right up there with mowing the lawn on the list of tasks I like to pretend don’t exist.
The fee my housekeeper charges is rather low, I think (I’m a bargain hunter!), but anywhere between $80 and $120 per clean is quite reasonable, depending on the size of your home.
- Pet Grooming
I’ve never attempted to groom my dog — it would probably look like Attack of the Flowbees if I did — but some folks do, including Woroch, who has a shaggy Goldendoodle who needs regular grooming to keep his hair from getting matted and unmanageable.
“We bathe him in our backyard and dry him using our Shop-Vac in the garage, which saves us some money,’ she says. “But we decided after a couple of years that it was worth sending him to a groomer to get a proper haircut every few months. This costs us $80 each time but saves us so much time.”
“We used to spend over two hours trying to cut and buzz him — yes, it took both of us to do; my husband to cut and me to hold him — and another 30 minutes cleaning up the mounds of hair and then another hour the next day trying to fix the jagged cut. It was always the thing we dreaded doing the most. You can find companies that come to your home to save you the hassle of driving to a groomer, and often there are coupons available for pet store groomers for additional savings.”
Check your local papers for pet grooming coupons and deals, daily-deal sites, and the websites of the grooming services.
- Home Energy Audit
Is your heating and air conditioning system working as efficiently as possible — even if you don’t have energy-efficient models? You probably don’t know, or you may be trying to fix problems that don’t need fixing because you can’t identify the real culprit. That’s where the professionals come in.
“We keep up with general energy maintenance like caulking around windows or sealing drafts around doors, but we have a HVAC company reassess our heating and cooling system every year to ensure there are no leaks in the air ducts so that it runs efficiently to maintain costs,” says Woroch. “It gets really hot here [in Bakersfield, CA] so our A/C goes into overdrive, and it’s really important for us to make sure it runs smoothly and efficiently.”
This service usually costs around $120. Angie’s List is a great resource for more information on a home energy audit.
source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2018/06/28/the-six-household-chores-you-should-farm-out/
Don’t Take Off Those Cowboy Boots! Scandals is Reopening
I am not a country/western guy. But I had been to Scandals Saloon in Wilton Manors many times over the years, a fan of the friendly atmosphere, great drink prices, and the hospitality of owner Ken Kelley and General Manager Howard Merritt.
So, you can imagine my dismay when I heard last month that the club was closing.
I made it a point to be there for the Sunday closing party — as did about a thousand other people. Even though there was an aura of sadness, there was joy in hearing all the regulars recount their favorite Scandals stories.
We all thought that Sunday would be the last day we would ever set foot in Scandals. But a few weeks later, two angels came forward and bought the storied saloon. The club that we all know and love will open its doors. once again, in the beginning of July.
The new owners are Bob DeBenedictis and Khan Bashir. I’ve known Bob for years because I worked in nightclubs in New York City before moving to South Florida, and Bob is the longtime owner of a number of LGBT businesses in New York City, including The Townhouse Bar, The East Side Club, and The West Side Club. He’s also owned many well-known LGBT businesses right here in Fort Lauderdale including Lips, Windamar Beach Resort, Better Bodies Gym, and many more.
Khan is Bob’s partner in Scandals, he’s also his friend of 20 years. Khan is an entrepreneur himself, having owned businesses including a car rental establishment, a travel agency, a limo company, and a restaurant.
Over the years, many people have asked Bob to open a Townhouse Bar here in Fort Lauderdale, but he didn’t believe The Townhouse formula would work in South Florida. Still, Bob has always been interested in opening a bar in his southern home; he was just waiting for the right opportunity.
Bob is admittedly a homebody when he’s not working. Khan, on the other hand, likes to go out. Scandals was his favorite bar, and he was understandably upset when he got back into town from a month-long visit to his native Pakistan last month and heard that Scandals was closing in a few days. Khan discussed the matter with Bob, and they agreed this would be a great opportunity for them.
With the help of realtor Joe Birmingham and community leader Toni Barrone, they were able to set up a meeting with Kelley and make the deal happen.
I had the opportunity to sit down with Bob and Khan and ask them a few questions about the new Scandals.
Why didn’t you reopen the doors the moment you purchased Scandals?
We know everyone loved Scandals the way it was, but we wanted to give it a fresh look, to show the club’s longtime customers that we care about them and are taking good care of the place they love. Basically, they have simply upgraded and cleaned up the place.
You are keeping the name, correct?
It’s Scandals we bought, and we have no intention of changing the name. We have, however, changed the bar’s tagline from “A Cure for the Common Bar” to “The Place to Make Friends” because it is more meaningful and we feel that’s what Scandals is all about. It’s a place where you make friends.
Scandals’ staff was very well loved. Have you been able to hire back any of them?
So far, we’ve confirmed seven familiar faces. And we’re hoping for a few more. But we can assure you, any new staff will have the same friendly demeanor that Scandals is known for.
How did you choose your general managers, Howard Merritt and Dan Boutin?
Well, Howard has been the GM of Scandals from the moment it moved to its present location. No one knows Scandals better than he. Besides that, he’s been in the industry for 47 years. Dan’s family is in the hospitality industry, so he grew up in it. He spent many years in Key West involved in restaurants, guest houses, and other businesses. Most recently he was the GM of Tropics for almost four years. Howard and Dan will make an amazing team.
How are you getting the facelift done in less than a month?
A lot of the credit goes to the two guys we just mentioned, our fabulous GM’s, Howard and Dan. Plus, the team we have doing the cosmetic work is top notch.
Here’s the question on everybody’s lips: What’s the parking situation?
Parking will be free!
Is the weekly lineup going to remain as it was?
Basically. The format will remain the same.
How excited are you?
This is our first venture into a country/western bar, and we are extremely excited about its differences, and for this new project. We want to make it the best of its genre. More important, we’re happy to be able to give the community the bar they’ve known and loved for so long.
For the latest on Scandals reopening, visit ScandalsFla.com.
source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2018/06/28/dont-take-off-those-cowboy-boots-scandals-is-reopening/
Wednesday, 27 June 2018
What’s Hot South Florida: June 28 –July 4
Thursday, June 28
The Hospitality Council of the Miami-Dade Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (only active members of the Chamber can participate) presents a Hospitality Council Meeting from 10-11am at 1 Homes South Beach (2341 Collins Ave, South Beach). This group was established to guide the Chamber in all matters relating to: Advocacy and industry trends &analysis, LGBT tourism trends and tracking, Pink Flamingo Hospitality Certification Program, and Marketing Greater Miami and Beaches as a premier LGBT travel destination. Admission is free.
My TropiXXX is featuring their monthly Ruby Member Sale, where Rub y Members get 40% OFF in the store only. The sale starts today, and goes to Sunday, July 1.
Friday, June 29
The Museum of Contemporary Art North Miami (MOCA… 770 NE 125th Street, Miami) is celebrating Caribbean Heritage Month with a unique performance by Julio Montalvo as part of its monthly “Jazz at MOCA” series. Montalvo is a leading trombonist from the island of Cuba. Inspired by his island roots, Montalvo blends Afro-Cuban rhythms with elements of modern jazz to create his original style – New Latin Jazz. This event is free and open to the public. For more information, visit mocanomi.org, call 305-893-6211.
GLAAD, the world’s largest LGBTQ media advocacy organization, today announced a first-of-its-kind, three-hour broadcast called “Pride Live,” which will stream live from 3-6 p.m., on GLAAD’s YouTube channel. The brainchild of award-winning comedian and GLAAD board member Hannah Hart, the interactive variety program will harness the power of celebrities and social media to raise $50,000 for LGBTQ youth. Musicians, performers and beloved online personalities will converge at YouTube Space LA for the event, hosted by Hart, YouTube Space, BuzzFeed and INTO. One-hundred percent of proceeds raised will go toward GLAAD’s youth initiatives, including their Amp Your Voice campaign which empowers LGBTQ young people to speak up, speak out, register to vote, and then take the issues that matter most to them to the polls on November 6th. The multi-stage event will include performances by country artist Brandon Stansell, The Voice finalist Stephanie Rice, soul singer Shea Diamond, YouTube sensation Sam Tsui, and more.
The Pub presents their monthly event (last Friday of every month) starring Electra at 9:30pm, and if you know Electra, you never know who she will show up as.
Starting today and going through Sunday, July 8, The Club Fort Lauderdale is offering a 50% off special on a six month membership. The price drops from $40 to only $20.
Saturday, June 30
Noche Latina Saturdays inside the Ivy Dance Room and Patio at the Manor Complex is featuring a Luau Party in honor of summer. The night will star Champagne Bordeaux and Sasha Lords as well as resident DJ Larry Larr and sexy Latin Go-Go Papi’s in Hawaiian skirts. Saturdays at the Manor are from 11pm to 4 am and there is no cover before midnight (FL Res) and only $7 after midnight for members and $10 for non-members (18-20 $12 all night long).
Sunday, July 1
Flip Flops Dockside Eatery presents their monthly T Dance (first Sunday of the month) from 4 to 7p.m., hosted by Amanda Austin with DJ Robert Lavalle spinning and this month’s special guests: Marci Mogul, Melissa Hilton and Miss Florida F.I. at Large 2018, Noel Leon.
Tuesday, July 3
Johnsons, who is normally closed on Tuesdays, will be open tonight to celebrate Independence eve, and there present to the community…No Cover! Johnson’s will be closed on Wed July 4, so if you want to have fireworks for Independence Day with their dancers, you need to stop by tonight!
Georgie’s Alibi/Monkey Bar presents “IndepenDANCE Party” from 9pm to 2am starring DJ AJ Reddy with no cover.
Quick wit takes on a whole new meaning when a group of fiercely funny, emerging comics take the mic for a series of 15-minute stand-up sets, filmed live in front of an intimate crowd at Atlanta’s historic Terminal West. The eclectic mix of comedians bring fresh takes on life’s issues, big and small, in a series of solo sets. The Comedy Lineup: Part 1 includes Michelle Buteau, Phil Wang, Taylor Tomlinson, Ian Karmel, Jak Knight, Sam Jay, Sabrina Jalees, and Tim Dillon. The Comedy Lineup: Part 1 will premiere today on Netflix.
Wednesday, July 4
The Pub presents Brut Bears Independence with DJ Barry Huffine and sexy bear dancers.
This is Hot
It’s the last week of Pride month, so I figured I would focus on one more fabulous Pride product…Barefoot Wine, an ally to the LGBTQ community since 1988, is launching its “Barefoot Bestie Labels,” allowing wine lovers everywhere to customize Barefoot wine labels for them and their best friends to enjoy. Now through September 8, anyone looking to celebrate their best friend or “sole mate” can choose from three varietals – Pinot Noir, Rosé, or Pinot Grigio – to customize their own special rainbow labels through the “Barefoot Bestie Labels” website found at barefootbestielabel.com. Barefoot fans can craft their own special message or select one of six fun compliments for their bestie such as, “You always leave a little sparkle wherever you go” and “You’re made of 100% best friend material.”
Barefoot, America’s most awarded wine and bubbly brand, has been a long-standing ally to the LGBTQ community, making its first donation to an LGBTQ charity in 1988 and proudly sponsoring more than 200 LGBTQ events around the globe each year. For every “Barefoot Bestie Label” ordered, Barefoot will donate $1 to Outfest, the leading organization in promoting equality by creating, sharing, and protecting LGBTQ stories on the screen. Proceeds will be used by Outfest to continue building community by connecting diverse populations to discover, discuss, and celebrate stories of LGBTQ lives.
“At Barefoot, we believe that wine is better when we’re together, and we continuously celebrate inclusivity, authenticity and community,” said Anna Bell, Senior Director of Marketing at Barefoot. “We’re thrilled to partner with Outfest to support its many initiatives that celebrate and share Barefoot’s similar values.”
source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2018/06/27/whats-hot-south-florida-june-28-july-4/
Thursday, 21 June 2018
Out Pop-Star Hayley Kiyoko Puts Her Authentic Self Out There
Even lesbian Jesuses get swept up by the grandeur of the Statue of Liberty.
“I’ve never seen it before! It’s huge! Oh my god, it’s huge!” enthuses a giddy-as-ever Hayley Kiyoko, proclaimed “the lesbian Jesus” by her adoring disciples. The unapologetic pop fixture can’t help but check out of our conversation to soak up the moment, her driver cruising over a bridge in New York City. “It’s on my left. I had to, like, gasp. Oh my god, it’s so cool.”
The 27-year-old singer is doing a string of press calls to tout her debut album, Expectations, and though I’ve understandably lost her to a colossal Neoclassical monument, Kiyoko eventually remembers why she’s on the phone in the first place: oh, right, music.
Kiyoko’s DIY solo music career launched in 2013, when her partially crowdfunded debut EP A Belle to Remember was released. This Side of Paradise followed in 2015 and featured “Girls Like Girls.” The single’s video, which has amassed more than 92 million views on YouTube (collectively, her self-directed videos have eclipsed 180 million views), took a hard, unflinching look at the challenges of facing same-sex desire.
Kiyoko released her third EP, CITRINE, in 2016, which included single “Gravel to Tempo”; in the song’s video, she leaves a group of mean girls speechless with her seductive dance moves. “Curious,” a single from her first full-length, released in March on Atlantic Records, is as brazenly sensual as any straight pop star’s lustfulness. And the newly dropped video for the latest single “What I Need,” a duet with Kehlani, features the two photogenic, budding pop stars on a Sapphic road trip à la Thelma and Louise.
WATCH:
While taking in the historic NYC views, Kiyoko opened up to me about letting her music tell her queer story (even when it came to coming out to her grandma) and the “gentle and vulnerable and emotional” bond she has with her fans.
[Editor’s note: Fans can catch Kiyoko (with Panic! at the Disco) at The BB&T Center in Sunrise on Tuesday, July 31.]
Your 94-year-old grandma recently discovered you’re lesbian thanks to one of your music videos. What was that like?
[Laughs.] It’s funny: I’ve just been gently sending her videos I’ve been directing, but I don’t know if she’s been watching them or not, because that was the first time she responded directly about my music. I still don’t know what video she watched, but with every video, it’s very obvious that I like girls, so I feel like the cat’s out of the bag — finally.
Which videos of yours would be a good gay conversation-starter for grandmas to watch?
[Laughs.] I feel like “Girls Like Girls” is a good introduction.
Tell me how you came to be so open about your sexuality as a pop musician.
It’s just been baby steps. I did the “Girls Like Girls” music video, which was the introduction; still, people didn’t really know where I was at. Then, I released “Gravel to Tempo.” Every video I’m wanting to challenge myself and tell a different story and [show] a different perspective on a situation that I’ve experienced.
Now, obviously, looking back at all these videos, it tells a very solidified story. I like girls, and I was never… as you know, it’s a difficult thing to want to be open about because it’s very personal. It’s something you don’t feel like you need to share, but I’ve connected with so many people through it.
I’ve kind of had to really own it and feel confident about it because I realize there aren’t a lot of people who do that. So, you have to lead by example, and that’s the best way to help normalize those feelings. That’s always been my goal: just to normalize things and not have it be a conversation. I always told my manager: “I don’t want to come out. I just want people to watch my art and take it for what it is.”
Talk about some of the queer themes on this album and how your life inspired those songs.
I have a song “He’ll Never Love You (HNLY).” It talks about a situation I was in where this girl wanted to be with me but was too afraid to own her sexuality, so I had to let that person go. It was always a frustrating situation because I knew how she felt, but you can’t encourage anyone to love themselves. That’s a journey on their own.
When, as a public figure, did you first feel 100 percent comfortable being open about your sexuality?
Probably the music video after “Girls Like Girls,” “Cliff’s Edge.” You can’t argue with what’s going on in that video. [Laughs.] So, that was definitely a moment where I was like, “I’m gonna own this and I’m gonna own who I am,” because, to be honest, I’ve always known who I was. But sharing that with the world is another level of pressure, I would say.
How would you compare how you felt about your sexuality during “Girls Like Girls” versus “Cliff’s Edge”?
I almost didn’t put “Girls Like Girls” on my EP. It was a very last-minute decision. And then I was seeing the reactions, and I didn’t know what my next step was. I didn’t really know where I was going with my career and what my message was. I made “Girls Like Girls” in a very honest place, just like every other video I do. But after you do something [like that], it’s like, what do I do now?
WATCH:
How did you gauge what was next regarding your queer music narrative? Do you have a team of queer people who are guiding you?
No, I don’t think that’s a reality. [Laughs.] I mean, I don’t know. I’m just being myself, and I really don’t consult anyone. I just put it out.
But a lot of pop acts have a team working with them.
Oh, yeah. No, no, no. My team is my manager and my day-to-day. I have my team, but they’re all straight [laughs] and they can’t relate. So I go, “This is what I’m doing,” and then we do it.
There’s nothing contrived or manipulated with what I do. It’s really: Write a song; OK, I wanna shoot a music video; we create a music video; I do whatever I want with it, and then I decide when I wanna release it, and then I put it out on YouTube.
That’s really the process. I’m sure it’s different for other artists, but I’ve always been extremely controlling with my art. And when I signed to Atlantic they knew that, so they let me do whatever I want to do.
That control has probably been one of the reasons you’ve been able to connect with all these fans who call you their “lesbian Jesus.” Could you describe the connection you have with your queer fans?
I think the connection is very gentle and vulnerable and emotional. Sometimes kids will say things to me that they’ve never said to anyone else. It’s really an open space, and I think that they know I’m accepting of them.
Are you the lesbian pop star you wished for when you were a struggling queer teen?
I don’t know. I guess I don’t think about it that much. I’m not really looking at myself all the time in the sense of, look who I am. I’m like everyone else, just trying to get through life day to day. And I really want to get to a point in my career where people are just listening to my music and giving me an opportunity and a platform, so I don’t really reflect, because I feel like I have so much to share.
As a young person you were pretty hungry for representation, though.
Oh, yeah, 100 percent. And there were some great acts out there that I loved, like Tegan and Sara, for example. I love them. But I didn’t have a person where I was like, “She knows exactly what I’m going through, and we are connected.” I had icons and idols but not someone that I really connected with.
I read in The Guardian that Katy Perry’s “I Kissed a Girl” influenced you.
It did? I mean, I wouldn’t say… I don’t think I said it was an influence. They asked me what I thought about that [song], what my take on it was, because a lot of people were saying negative things.
I have nothing negative to say. It reminded me, OK, there’s Katy Perry singing about experimenting and kissing a girl, and that’s great and I support that. I’m gonna be someone who likes girls all the time and sing about that. So, I thought it was a positive thing. I thought it was a step toward what I was gonna do down the line one day.
source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2018/06/21/out-pop-star-hayley-kiyoko-puts-her-authentic-self-out-there/
Deep Inside Hollywood: A Look at Aniston’s ‘First Ladies’
Jennifer Aniston and Tig Notaro Will Be First Ladies
“Jennifer Aniston is very attractive… and I was just like, hey, how about…we’re married,” says lesbian comic Tig Notaro (One Mississippi). And now they are.
Or will be on film, anyway.
The premise — one that Aniston agreed to based on nothing more than a pitch — is part of an in-progress script called First Ladies, and it involves Aniston as the first woman president and Notaro as her wife. It came about when Notaro and her real-life wife and screenwriting partner, Stephanie Allynne, joked with each other about running for office. Then it became an idea for a movie, and then Jennifer Aniston said yes, and then Will Ferrell jumped on board, too.
This is not the normal way projects come to life in Hollywood, but Notaro is on a roll, in spite of One Mississippi’s cancellation, and if she’s given the chance to do it her way, very funny material happens. This one could take a couple years to see movie screens, but it’s a reason to keep on living.
Amandla Stenberg Talks “Salty” Reshoots for The Hate U Give
A film about systemic racism fires a cast member for racism. You can’t make up this stuff, and it happened recently to the film adaptation of Angie Thomas’s National Book Award-finalist YA novel The Hate U Give.
WATCH:
The story of a young girl (Amandla Stenberg) who witnesses a close friend’s murder by police, and who then gravitates toward the Black Lives Matter movement, the film from George Tillman Jr. (Soul Food) was in the can when it came to light that supporting actor Kian Lawley, a YouTube star, had posted videos with racist language.
He was fired and replaced with Riverdale’s Archie, K.J. Apa, and Stenberg — who identifies as pansexual, non-binary, and prefers the pronoun “they” — was, in their own words, “salty” (for readers who don’t keep up with young-people slang, it means angry or agitated; you’re welcome!) during reshoots but says that it improved their performance.
Slated for later this year, the drama also stars Anthony Mackie, Regina Hall, Common, Issa Rae and Grimm star Russell Hornsby.
Romeo San Vicente can be quite tangy but is never salty.
source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2018/06/21/deep-inside-hollywood-a-look-at-anistons-first-ladies/