Category Archives: Boystown
Margaret Cho “psyCHO” Brunch at Kit Kat
Margaret Cho “psyCHO” Brunch
Win Tickets to Cho’s Live Show at the Chicago Theatre
Sunday, September 20 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Stand up comedian Margaret Cho is coming to Chicago in October, and Kit Kat Lounge is celebrating with a midday soiree and ticket giveaway on Sunday, September 20. From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., the Lakeview lounge and supper club will host a Margaret Cho themed party featuring Chef JoAnn Witherell’s brunch fare
(Chicken and Waffles; Rice Krispie French Toast; Crab Cakes Benedict) and half-priced martinis, including the “psyCHO tini” made with Effen vodka, blood orange liqueur and splash of cranberry ($7).
Diva Madam X will provide live entertainment throughout the day, and lucky brunch guests will win a pair of tickets to see Margaret Cho’s “psyCHO tour” show at the Chicago Theatre on Saturday, October 3. For table reservations, please call Kit Kat at 773-525-1111.
Kit Kat Lounge & Supper Club
3700 N. Halsted Street
Chicago, IL 60613
773-525-1111
KitKatChicago.com
About the Show:
MSG Entertainment and Live Nation announced that three time Grammy and Emmy nominee, comedian Margaret Cho will take The Chicago Theatre stage on Saturday, October 3, 2015.
Margaret Cho has been developing brand new material over the last several months. “I’m so thrilled to announce that I will be back out on the road. This show is about insanity and about the anger I feel about everything happening in the world right now,” said Cho.
A big part of Cho’s show are tributes to her “father in comedy,” Robin Williams and her “mother in comedy,” Joan Rivers, who passed away within a month of one another. Margaret was very close to both of them; her friendship with Robin encouraged her to start the #BeRobin campaign to raise awareness and funds for the homeless community. Her friendship with Joan reinforced Margaret’s desire to remain fearless. For more information, visit: margaretcho.com
HYDRATE Labor Day Weekend Events
For those who stick around the city, Hydrate wants to upgrade the entertainment for a fun-filled trio of high-energy events you won’t soon forget!
Start the three-day weekend off with a bang Friday night to celebrate the return of DJ Deanne, who visited Hydrate from Miami in June. Drag queen Khloe will greet everyone.
Come back Saturday to dance the night away to the beats of internationally renowned London DJ duo Moto Blanco. Both shows will start at 11:30 pm with a $10 cover after midnight.
Close out the weekend on as high a note as you started it with an extended Sunday Funday featuring DJ Xtacy and extra Go-Go dancers. If you don’t work Monday, stick around and welcome the morning with DJ Spinsters, performing until 4 am. Hydrate opens at 2 pm. $5 cover after midnight.
Facebook invite: https://www.facebook.com/
Chicago Center on Halsted Events
Something for everyone at CENTER ON HALSTED in the upcoming weeks!
Limelight Series presents: An Evening with Pride Films and Plays – August 17th, 2015 7:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Join us as Center on Halsted’s Limelight Series presents: An Evening with Pride Films and Plays
Chicago’s Pride Films and Plays ‘utilizes stories with GLBT characters or themes and creates powerful theatrics and films that speak for the community and are essential viewing for all audiences.’ Pride Films and Plays, founded in 2010, has already established itself as a leader in the Chicago arts scene. Come get to know the company that the Huffington Post recently called “a powerful and empowering entity.”
7:00PM-7:30PM
Mix and mingle with PFP & COH staff and the program’s artists
7:30PM-9:00PM
Performances including a sneak peak of Design for Living, a talk from author Rick Kinnebrew about his new play Ten Dollar House, music from James Nedrud, performance artist Katherine Hawbaker-Krohn, one of our favorite short films from the Queer Bits Short Film Fest, songs from The Boy From Oz, PFP’s current smash hit!
You don’t want to miss this evening of arts and entertainment as we get to know one of Chicago’s great theater companies!
For more information on Pride Films and Plays, please visit:
http://pridefilmsandplays.com/
Center on Halsted’s Limelight Series gives you a chance to spend an evening with some of Chicago’s most creative people and organizations. Each event highlights the Windy City’s vibrant arts scene – from music and dance to literature and theater. Join us as we take a closer look at the creators and leaders of Chicago’s cultural landscape.
FREE
Register & reserve your seat by clicking the following link:
https://community.centeronhalsted.org/PrideFilms
Say you’re attending on Facebook!
Salve Regina: A Coming of Gay Story – August 22nd & 23rd, 2015
A solo show, written and performed by Javier Rivera*, remounted specifically for Center on Halsted, following a sold-out run at the United Solo Theatre Festival in NYC
*Winner of 2014 Best Actor Award at United Solo
Born in Puerto Rico to an ultra-religious mother and a domineering father is not easy, especially when it’s likely you are a big Queen. There are not enough novenas to pray, or candles to be lit. In this situation only a miracle will do, or better yet… a holy intervention. Thank God for Madonna.
Follow the coming of age story of Javier, a young Puerto Rican man, as he triumphs and stumbles in his journey to self-discovery aided by the only person who ever understood him…
TWO PERFORMANCES ONLY!
Saturday, August 22nd @ 7:30PM
Sunday, August 23rd @ 3:00PM
$10.00 (Tickets may be purchased online as well as at the door prior to performance – cash only!)
*All profits will go to Center on Halsted, helping to support future events like this one!
Click the following link to purchase tickets for Saturday’s performance: https://community.centeronhalsted.org/SalveRegina22
Click the following link to purchase tickets for Sunday’s performance: https://community.centeronhalsted.org/SalveRegina23
Say you’re attending on Facebook!
3rd Annual Feel Good Health Fair – August 29th, 2015 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
On Saturday August 29th, 2014 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Center on Halsted will host its 3rd Annual Feel Good Health Fair, a community health and resource fair with a focus on healthy living for LGBTQ individuals.
The Feel Good Fair will be hosted in the Irving Harris Family Foundation Reception Hall and Hoover-Leppen Theatre at Center on Halsted. This year the fair will feature free fitness classes throughout the day, product giveaways from health-related vendors, and nutritious cooking demonstrations.
The primary goal of Center on Halsted’s Feel Good Health Fair is to educate participants about making healthy choices and creating good habits for healthy living in the LGBTQ community. Vendors for the resource fair will focus on physical health, mental and social well-being. Participants are also encouraged to stop by tables to learn more about Center on Halsted’s programs and services.
The fitness class schedule for the day is:
10:00AM-10:25AM: Ballroom Dancing with Get on the Floor Dance Company
10:30AM-10:55AM: Yoga with The ATTIC*
11:00AM-11:25AM: Queer Tango with Paola Bordon
11:30AM-11:55AM: Zumba with Andrew Martinez
12:00PM-12:25PM: Ballroom Dancing with Get on the Floor Dance Company
12:30PM-12:55PM: Yoga with The ATTIC*
1:00PM-1:25PM: Queer Tango with Paola Bordon
1:30PM-1:55PM: Zumba with Andrew Martinez
*A limited number of yoga mats will be provided – if possible, please supply your own
It is highly suggested that you pre-register for the exercise classes by visiting the link below:
https://community.centeronhalsted.org/FeelGood
TKO – September 6th, 2015 3:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Center on Halsted brings you the hottest Labor Day bash!
TKO: greatest t-dance ever.
battle for your pleasure and a Technical Knock Out
jump in! groove to the killer sound of our dueling djs.
Billy Brown vs. Gina Kozar
mc Pandora Boxx officiates
sept. 6 2015 T-time: 3 – 6 pm
coh rooftop & indoors
$20 entry/one drink, cash bar
feat. our one-two rum punch
community.centeronhalsted.org/TKO
Say you’re attending on Facebook!
Pride Films & Plays: LezFest – September 11th – 13th, 2015
More details to come! Check back soon!
Queer Clothing Swap – September 13th, 2015 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Please join Center on Halsted and GenderQueer Chicago at the 3rd Annual Queer Clothing Swap! Trade in your skirts for a pair of slacks or your loafers for a pair of heels or maybe you’re just looking to update your wardrobe!
This event is free, but we ask that each participant bring at least 3 items of gently worn clothing (or shoes and accessories) to be donated to the swap. In exchange, you’ll have the chance to take home the new items you find! BYOB (Bring Your Own Bag). Please refrain from donating stained clothing, t-shirts and undergarments. While the swap is particularly intended for Trans* and gender-variant folks to have a safe and fun space to exchange clothes, the event is open to all queer-affirming allies!
Say you’re attending on Facebook!
Kit Kat Madonna Brunch Aug 16th
Madonna Birthday Brunch at Kit Kat Lounge
Midday Soiree in Celebration of the Material Girl’s Birthday
Sunday, August 16
11 a.m.-4 p.m.
In honor of Madonna’s 57th birthday, Kit Kat Lounge and Supper Club will celebrate with a Madge-themed brunch party on Sunday, August 16. Throughout the afternoon, Madonna
Chef JoAnn Witherell’s brunch menu will be offered, featuring Chicken and Waffles, Rice Krispie French Toast, Crab Cake Benedict, Steak Quesadillas and more. In addition to half-priced martinis, guests may add a build-your-own beverage package ($14.95) that includes mimosas, bellinis, sangria, and “Bitch, I’m Madonna” cocktails with Stoli Oranji, fresh squeezed orange juice and champagne float. Lucky participants will win gift bags full of Madonna goodies and Stoli vodka products.
For table reservations, please contact Kit Kat at 773-525-1111.
Kit Kat Lounge & Supper Club
3700 N. Halsted Street
Chicago, IL 60613
773-525-1111
kitkatchicago.com
3700 N. Halsted Street
Chicago, IL 60613
773-525-1111
kitkatchicago.com
Chicago Market Days BRUNCH Boystown
GET A RESERVATION – Before it’s filled up!
Join us from 11AM to 4PM on Saturday and Sunday, August 8th and 9th, for a divalicious pre-party brunch to celebrate the famous Northalsted Summer Market Days!
Enjoy $7 Stoli Cocktails, a build-your-own Bloodys, Bellinis and Sangrias bar, as well as legendary performances from Kit Kat’s own Madam X!
Call the Kit Kat Lounge at (773) 525-1111 to reserve your spot! Don’t miss it, this party is sure to be sizzling!
Hydrate and Market Days and Dinosaurs!
Northalsted Market Days is upon us!
Bringing party goers from across the country and around the block to Boystown for a weekend of friends and fun!
Why not kickoff the holiday weekend right with a can’t-miss event at Hydrate on Friday, August 7 at 10 pm? Halsted’s hottest dance club is planning a party of Jurassic proportions, featuring two nationally acclaimed spin masters that will unite for the first time in Chicago.
DJ Nina Flowers, who shot to fame as the runner-up on season one of RuPaul’s Drag Race, and Puerto Rican superstar DJ Cindel, will perform at mixing unstoppable beats and keep the crowd moving until 4 am. Transforming for its Jurassic World theme, Hydrate will transport guests to Isla Nublar for the night without the risk of being hunted…at least not by dinosaurs.
Entry to the show is FREE from 10-11 pm and $10 after 11 pm.
Join the Facebook page HERE.
MYA at Seven – August 1
The arrival of SEVEN happens this weekend, in the old SPIN space. (3206 N. Halsted at Belmont)
GRAMMY AWARD WINNING ARTIST MYA! PERFORMING LIVE!
Join us for our Grand Opening Weekend Celebration and party with Grammy Award winning artist, MYA…live at SEVEN DANCECLUB!
Doors open at 8pm and MYA will be taking the stage at 10pm!
Advance General Admission Tickets are only $20!
MEET AND GREET TICKETS ARE ONLY $30! LIMITED QUANTITIES AVAILABLE!
Purchase yours at http://
VIP TICKETS AND TABLES AVAILABLE… E-mail us as vip@whatisseven.com for more information.
Beats by DJ Laura Bee
New gay boy in town …By Sebastian Saenz
A few days after I arrived to the windy city, a friend of mine told me that Chicago has the advantages of big cities, without it actually being to big and chaotic. Also that it is beautiful and the gay scene not too complicated; and so far he has been right. I got here a month ago from Mexico City, and so far my expectations have not been let down. I actually visited this city a couple years ago for St. Patrick’s Day weekend, and I have great memories from those crazy days, but this time it’s different since I intend to stay for a few months, looking for a change in my life.
I’ve actually been privileged and visited and even lived in some of the most exciting and multicultural cities in the world: London, Paris, Berlin, Florence, Lima, Cancun, Oslo, New York, and of course, Mexico City, just to name a few. And even though I love the beach for quiet vacations every now and then, and I am capable of camping for a few weeks, I have to admit I’m a city boy. I love the people, the night life, the culture, the history, the food, the streets, the fashion… So, of course, I am having a lot of fun adapting to this city.
Of course Chicago has a lot to offer to everybody, tourists and locals. Seems a bit unnecessary to mention Millennium and Lincoln parks, the zoos, the museums, the shops, the baseball and hockey games, the theaters, the river, the breathtakingly tall buildings, and of course, the deep dish pizza and the hot dogs. However, I must confess, I come from a blessed place in terms of weather, and this June has been a roller coaster, and I’ve been told to get ready for a very cold winter if I am still here by then.
But let’s get to the point, the scene: Soho, Les Marais, The Pink Zone, Castro, WeHo… and now we have Boystown and Andersonville. Gay districts all over the world have become famous for welcoming our community, offering friendly entertainment and nightlife options that satisfy our taste of music and people. And I could not have arrived to Illinois in a better time of the year for my community, since June is Pride month, and expectations have been exceeded. The gay scene in Chicago has given me some interesting perspectives.
Obviously the locals are gorgeous, and the variety is immense: twinks, bears, daddies, redheads, Middle Eastern, Caucasian, Black, Hispanic, athletic, jocks, preppy, trashy, trendy, and the list goes on. But this has gone beyond: an unintentional social experiment. In some ways Chicago hardly differs from other cities in the Western hemisphere. We all wear Calvin Klein and Banana Republic, we all smell of Abercrombie and Paco Rabanne, we all dance to RiRi and Madge, we all drink beer and Cosmos, and we all use Grindr. However, some differences have appeared too. Chicagoans do not dress up as much to go out dancing, they are more into Hip Hop (not my favorite style), and are a bit more aggressive when it comes to… let’s say getting numbers (not that I’m complaining, but maybe I’m more used to Mexico’s more timid approach).
Even though in Mexico we celebrate Pride every last Saturday of June, I had no idea Chicago made a month out of it. Parties, festivals and special events throughout the whole month have been vast and fun. Pride Month was everything I could have asked for, with maybe some extra harnesses. I loved that the parade was not only for fun, but that actual activist groups (such as police men, politicians, NGOs, judges and families) were present, raising civic participation. All the festivities were organized, clean and amusing. And of course, we all had to celebrate the now national possibility to walk down the aisle.
Chicago has been welcoming, and a great experience so far. I really hope to find ways to stay longer. It is, without a doubt, a city that offers everything, no matter your background. I definitely made the correct decision coming here, and most people that have visited this city might agree with me. So, for those who have not come, put it at the top of the To Do pile.
Pride Fest Weekend at Kit Kat Lounge
Pride Fest Weekend at Kit Kat Lounge and Supper Club
Two Day Celebration Includes Magic Mike XXL Brunch
Saturday, June 20 and Sunday, June 21 11 a.m.-2 a.m.
Kit Kat Lounge and Supper Club, located at the corner of Halsted and Waveland, will celebrate Pride Fest with a two day party on Saturday, June 20 and Sunday, June 21. Throughout the weekend, live performances will take place on Kit Kat’s alfresco, elevated runway stage, including female impersonators, acrobatics, burlesque, boylesque and more (schedule is outlined below).
Each day, the Lakeview-located lounge and supper club will offer their “Divalicious” brunch from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., featuring performances by Diva Madam X. During brunch services, Kit Kat will raffle off advanced screening passes, complimentary movie tickets and schwag from the upcoming film, Magic Mike XXL (prizes include official t-shirts, duffel bags, dog tags, beach balls, collectable post cards and more; the movie is in theaters on Wednesday, July 1).
In addition to the regular dinner menu, Kit Kat will offer a special Pride Menu, as well as Pride Martinis and Magic Mike XXL Martinis (outlined below). Kit Kat will be open on Saturday, June 21 and Sunday, June 22 from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. For table reservations, call 773-525-1111.
Saturday, June 20
11 a.m.-2 p.m. Magic Mike XXL Brunch with Diva Madam X
2 p.m.-2 a.m. Divas Sara Andrews and Kinley Preston will perform intermittently
4:30 p.m. Emcee Joseph C. Vorteque will introduce Angela Eve’s and Eve’s Parlor Cabaret Acts and Jet Adore will perform boylesque
5:30 p.m. Strong men acrobatics by Mr. Spring and Tulga
6:30 p.m. Shana Vaughn Gabor will perform ballet with a twist
7:30 p.m. Ray Gun will perform burlesque
Sunday, June 21
11 a.m.-2 p.m. Magic Mike XXL Brunch with Diva Madam X
2 p.m.-2 a.m. Divas Sara Andrews and Kinley Preston will perform intermittently
3:30 p.m. Emcees Angela Eve and Joseph C. Vorteque will introduce Angela Eve’s and Eve’s Parlor Cabaret Acts and Jet Adore will perform boylesque
4:30 p.m. Ray Gun will perform burlesque
5:30 p.m. Angela Eve and Big Mike will perform burlesque and boylesque
6:30 p.m. Strong men acrobatics by Mr. Spring and Tulga
Pride Menu
available 11 a.m. to 12 a.m.
Mac ‘n Cheese & Salad – creamy cheddar and parmesan in a light truffle cream sauce with bacon, topped with crunchy breadcrumbs, served with an arugula side salad tossed with balsamic vinaigrette $12
Croque Monsieur Panini – applewood smoked ham, gruyere cheese and mustard aioli, served with parmesan truffle fries $14
Ravioli – ricotta and spinach stuffed ravioli in a pesto parmesan cream sauce with asparagus, shallots, mushrooms and peas with crunchy bread crumb garnish $14
Sliders – two mini burgers with Brie, caramelized red onions, dijon aioli and arugula tossed with balsamic dressing, served with parmesan truffle fries $14
Quesadillas – grilled chicken, caramelized onions and pepper jack cheese, served with salsa, guacamole and sour cream $13
Quinoa – Cajun spiced chicken breast served atop a quinoa salad with kalamata olives, cherry tomatoes, pine nuts and feta cheese $14
Steak Salad – grilled skirt steak served atop mixed greens tossed in balsamic vinaigrette with crumbled blue cheese, cherry tomatoes and kalamata olives, garnished with an onion ring $17
Buffalo Glazed Chicken Sandwich – coleslaw and pomme frites $14
Kit Kat Lounge & Supper Club
3700 N. Halsted Street
Chicago, IL 60657
773.525.1111
KitKatChicago.com
Chigaygo LGBT Gay Pride Comedy
Chigaygo, Laugh Factory Chicago’s premiere queer comedy showcase, is kicking off Pride Week with “The All-Star Sparkly Unicorn Pride Show” on June 21, 2015 at 8pm.
Chigaygo is celebrating its second anniversary and third Pride show (we know…the math is confusing) with Chicago’s most fabulously funny queer comics.
Hosted by Scott Duff (WCPT’s OUT CHICAGO, Laugh Factory), the evening features a veritable who’s who of queer Chicago comics including Cody Melcher, Peter Kim, Gwen La Roka, Ali Clayton, Marla Depew, and Rachel McCartney. “It has been such an incredible journey,” says Duff of working on Chigaygo. “Over the past two years, we have been lucky enough to have hosted some of the funniest comics in the country. And, I couldn’t be more excited about this amazing line up of local talent for our Pride Show.”
Since its beginning, Chigaygo has featured top gay and gay-friendly comics from Chicago and around the country including Poppy Champlin, Jessica Halem, Liza Treyger, Bill Cruz, Joel Kim Booster, The Puterbaugh Sisters, Candy Lawrence, Megan Gailey, Drew Anderson, Kenny DeForest, Matt Griffo, The Fruit Flies, and many more!
Doors open at 7 p.m.; show starts at 8 p.m. It’s first-come-first-serve seating, and you never know what surprises might show up. So bring your family, your big gay lover, or gay best friend and come out for a night of pride and laughter.
Laugh Factory Chicago is located 3175 N. Broadway at Broadway and Belmont. All shows are 18 and over. For details and reservations please go to www.LaughFactory.com or call (773) 327-3175.
Scott Duff (Host/Producer):
Scott Duff is a Chicago based comic, radio host, and professional gay. He is the host/producer of OUT CHICAGO, a weekly live talk show for the LGBT community airing Sundays from 11am-1pm on WCPT, Chicago’s Progressive Talk AM & FM, as well as a founding member of About Face Theatre, Chicago’s premiere LGBT theatre dedicated to creating and producing plays that advance the national dialogue on gender and sexuality. In addition to over performing at stand up venues across the city, Duff’s theatre credits include work with the Goodman, Steppenwolf, Chicago Shakespeare, Lookingglass, iO, and ATC.
Laugh Factory’s History in the Gay Community:
The Laugh Factory has always fought against adversity. It was born during a time when comedians were striking against the very clubs that they perform in. Laugh Factory and its owner Jamie Masada started with one simple philosophy, “Let’s treat comics with respect.” As the Laugh Factory grew into the brand it is today, the philosophy grew with it. Masada and the Laugh Factory had front row seats to the gay rights movement of the 1980s. As AIDS began to ravage the gay community, Masada began passing out condoms at all of his shows. Masada was also instrumental in the creation of West Hollywood, which is considered one of the most gay-friendly cities in the country. Soon, this little underdog of a club was receiving national news coverage for its efforts to fight the AIDS epidemic. Masada, a noted philanthropist, has always strived to make his clubs a forward thinking, progressive and safe place for all who enter. When Masada discovered that some of his comics were remaining in the closet for fear of crowd backlash, he decided to start “Coming Out of the Closet” one of the nation’s first all gay comedy shows. The show became a huge success and to this day the Laugh Factory is seen as a shining beacon of the now safe and gay-friendly West Hollywood. In 2012, the Laugh Factory brought its brand, and philosophy of respect to Chicago. Laugh Factory Chicago set up camp in Boys Town, where it hopes to continue its tradition of supporting those in need. Masada is excited to work with the Chicago’s LGBTQ community to keep the city loving, tolerant and of course, laughing.
Cazwell at Chicago PrideFest
HE’S BACK! CAZWELL!
The seventh single from Cazwell’s Hard 2 B Fresh album is a head-to-toe ratchet trap club banger with hard twerk beats, raunchy, sex-fueled lyrics and a killer drop.
Produced by Richie Beretta, “Downtown” was originally composed for Major Lazer, the electronic music project comprising of record producing DJ Diplo and DJs Jillionaire and Walshy Fire. Cazwell admits he begged Beretta for the opportunity to write lyrics to and record the single as he felt it was the one crucial sound missing from his album. “I needed this vibe for Hard 2 B Fresh,” he explains. “I can be pretty convincing when I want to be.” Cazwell’s “Downtown” is available on iTunes and at all major online music retailers now.
“To take it “downtown” means you’re gonna turn up and not give two fucks about the repercussions,” explains Cazwell from his Manhattan home. The term has become something of a mantra for the party-going rapper whose songs defy convention by mixing gay themes with sharp-edged east coast Hip Hop. He’s even adopted Hip Hop’s large-living lifestyle, something he raps about it in his song.
“I have the money now but there was a time I was ‘downtown’ bougie,” he admits. “That’s when you spend way more money than you can actually afford on dumb shit, not caring about what happens next. If you spend the last of your savings on a bottle of Goose at the club so you can impress your friends, you’re just dead wrong bougie.”
He traces his attraction for lavish street flash to a youth spent listening to classic nineties rap. “I remember the legendary MC Lyte singing how she was ‘funky fresh, dressed to impress, ready to party’. That line always resonated with me.”
It’s even echoed in “Downtown” when Cazwell raps how he is ‘pressed fresh and I don’t give a fuck’. “It essentially means the same thing,” he acknowledges. “I’m squeaky clean, I’m dressed fly as all hell, I’m moisturized, my clothes are wrinkle free and my kicks are crispy. I’m about to show off and nobody can tell me nothin’.”
It’s not the song’s only throwback to pre-millennium fabulousness. There’s also a nod to nineties supermodels Cindy Crawford, Christy Turlington, and Naomi Campbell. “You know I had to give a little old school shout out to the ladies,” he laughs. “If you’re sitting pretty that’s one thing, but if you’re sitting pretty with the original supermodels than you must be fresh and pressed.”
The larger than life downtown fantasy is carried into the song’s music video, directed by 19-year-old first-time music video directors, Bob Bottle and Ben Evans. It’s a style of video fans will likely view as atypical for Cazwell, harkening back to the homegrown (and initially banned) feel of his first hit, “All Over Your Face”.
“We were inspired by the films “Spring Breakers” and “Clockwork Orange”, and the new generation of gay teenagers on Tumblr who are curating sexy boy pics like they’re some kind of world renowned art collection,” explains Cazwell. “We bring their digital fantasy to life by submerging gay porn stars, models, and go-go boys in a surreal New York City house party overloaded with Tumblr-inspired imagery.”
When conceiving the video, they paid close attention to creating shots they thought would make great GIFS and still frames. Many contain pop culture references, including a cameo from New York nightlife icon, Amanda Lepore, who truly embodies the magic of Downtown. “Amanda is the extra something special with any video she has a cameo in, and since the song is very New York, it made a lot of sense to have her included,” says Cazwell.
“I thought it would be especially funny if she showed up when the party was over and was basically like ‘where is everybody?’”
A Massachusetts native, Cazwell has been described as what would have happened if Eminem had grown up on Madonna’s front lawn. He became a You Tube sensation after a million people viewed his ‘Ice Cream Truck’ music video in a single week. He has since earned hipster credibility with a steady flow of danceable hip hop tracks that impressively showcase his hypomanic take on pop culture.
Earlier this year, Cazwell released his first full-length album in four years, “Hard 2 B Fresh” on Brooklyn indie, Peace Bisquit. The new batch of Hip Hop comedy gems features seventeen tracks including his latest that is currently tearing up dance floors, “Dance Like You Got Good Credit,” “Spicy”, “The Biscuit” and “Don’t Get It Twisted.”
WATCH THE NEW VIDEO DOWNTOWN
Catch Cazwell in Chicago at PrideFest Sunday June 21st at 5pm!
For more information, visit Cazwell.com and PeaceBisquit.com. The “Downtown” Tumblr page is at: http://downtowncazwell.tumblr.com/
Kit Kat Lounge Benefit June 16
Water With Blessings Fundraiser at Kit Kat Lounge and Supper Club
Dine, Drink and Donate to Benefit Nepal’s Earthquake Victims
Tuesday, June 16 6-8 p.m. $20 donation
Kit Kat Lounge and Supper Club invites you to drink, dine and donate to those affected by the earthquakes in Nepal. On Tuesday, June 16, the Lakeview-located restaurant will offer an Effen vodka hosted bar and passed hors-d’oeuvres from 6-8 p.m. to benefit Water With Blessings, an organization that is dedicated to bringing clean water to families in Nepal. The minimum participation fee is $20 per person (tickets available at the door). For every $30 the charity receives, they will be able to provide three needy families with a water filtration system.For more information, visit waterwithblessings.org
Kit Kat Lounge & Supper Club
3700 N. Halsted Street
Chicago, Illinois 60613
773.525.1111
KitKatChicago.com
3700 N. Halsted Street
Chicago, Illinois 60613
773.525.1111
KitKatChicago.com
Chicago pride Week new Events
Now that PrideFest and the Parade have been pushed apart on 2 different weekends, promoters are filling in the week, to make Chicago a real destination for out of towners visiting the city!
6 new events this year!
Monday June 22nd – From the producers of OUT IN THE PARK @ Six Flags Great America, comes a brand new exclusive LGBTQ Event; OUT IN THE HARBOR @ Hurricane Harbor! Hosted by Andrew Christian! SPLASH, DRINK AND DANCE! 5pm – 10pm
Music by the DJs of Scarlet and DJ Jalil Z from Miami. GO GO GODS! and Costumes by NVRLND!
Hostess with the Mostess Trannika Rex! Lots of food and drink choices available for purchase. Tickets $33 and FREE Parking (TAXES INCLUDED) SEASON PASSES ARE NOT VALID FOR PRIVATE EVENTS.
A portion of ticket price will benefit Northalsted Business Alliance this year! Transportation to and from Boystown $30! All ages welcome – must be 21+ to drink.
Get Tickets and Info @ www.PrideSplashChicago.com
Thursday, June 25th –
Zoo Pride @ Brookfield Zoo
Brookfield Zoo celebrates LGBTQ Pride! Brookfield Zoo becomes the 2nd Zoo in the country to recognize and celebrate PRIDE!
2 Events: Daytime and Evening:
During the day from 10am-5pm, the Zoo will be open to the public but with an Officially sanctioned PRIDE Day at the Zoo. Rainbow flags will be flying and there will be entertainment in the afternoon! During the day there will a LGBTQ vendor expo with gay and gay-friendly businesses showcasing their business and /or products. – There will also be a short program with inspirational speakers and some entertainment. $15 Advance Tickets and transportation info @ www.ZooPrideChicago.com
Then From 7-10pm, a very special exclusive evening cocktail party will take place in the Pavilions area. TALK TO THE ANIMALS! Only a portion of the zoo will open from 7-10; Curators and docents will be on hand to answer questions and provide information about the exhibits.
Most of the excitement will happen in the Pavilions area! We’ll be able to sip cocktails and taste delicious lite snacks and sweets. Here, we will Lounge with the Animals and Talk to them! As curators create a very special experience for us, by bringing out numerous animals for us to have an up close and personal meet and greet, and learn more about them. Lounge music will set the tone with the Dj’s of Scarlet. Silent Auction with cool animal items from artists and local businesses. Tickets are $60 includes open bar, food and the experience. Tickets and transportation info @ www.ZooPrideChicago.com
Ty Herndon at Chicago Pride Parade
Country singer Ty Herndon hopes that the support he received after coming out last year is indicative of a progressive Nashville, one that’s becoming more tolerant toward the LGBT community than in years past.
“One of the biggest fears I had in coming out and being authentic was that I wouldn’t get to continue doing what I do for a living, and that’s country music,” he told The Huffington Post in an interview. “How great is it that I have the opportunity, for the first time in my life, to sing about truth? That makes me a very happy man.”
Herndon, 53, sees his latest project as a prime opportunity for him to pay that happiness forward. On June 12, he’ll take the stage at the first Concert For Love and Acceptance at Nashville’s City Winery, which he is co-hosting with Meghan McCain, the daughter of former Republican presidential hopeful John McCain and an outspoken advocate for LGBT rights.
PRIDEChicago, the organizers of Chicago’s annual gay pride parade, announced Monday that out country star Ty Herndon will be the Grand Marshal for the 46th Annual Chicago Pride Parade.
“I have struggled with being gay my entire career and life,” Herndon told ChicagoPride.com just days after that interview. “Of course, I’ve had so much support from my friends and close family that supported me, that knew I was gay. But it’s been so freeing for the fans to know; the fans in country music, especially. They have really been supportive and awesome.”
BEST Cinco De Mayo Deals!
5 Days of Parties! 2 Locations!
El Mariachi and Revolution!!
Cinco de Mayo is a celebration held on May 5. It is celebrated in the United States and in Mexico, primarily in the state of Puebla, where the holiday is called El Día de la Batalla de Puebla. Mexican Americans also often see the day as a source of pride; one way they can honor their ethnicity is to celebrate this day. Over the years, Cinco de Mayo has gained huge popularity!
Come celebrate in Lakeview at El mariachi or Revolucion…or BOTH!
Leann Rimes at Roscoes May 8th
Roscoe’s Presents LeAnn Rimes LIVE
on the Dance Floor Stage, Friday May 8!
LeAnn is One of Pop/Country Music’s Biggest Superstars of the Past Century
with over 37 Million Albums Sold Worlwide and Countless Awards Including the Grammy Award for Best New Artist of 1997!
Known for her Hits “How Do I Lie”, “Can’t Figth the Moonlight” & “Blue” – Join us for this Spring’s Biggest Night on Halsted as LeeAnn Performs Remixes of All Your Favorites!
Doors Open at 10PM
$40 Advance Ticket Sale*
$20 General Admission**
*Tickets guarantee admission & are extremely limited. They can be purchased by calling 773.281.3355 ext 2 or by emailing shawn@roscoes.com.
**Cannot be purchased in advance and is based on availability and cannot be guaranteed.
Chicago Pride Fest Entertainment Announced!
TWO DAYS and LOTS of Entertainment!
CHICAGO PRIDE FEST TO SHOWCASE ECLECTIC MUSIC MIX
‘Keep Pride Proud’ Motto Transcends Festival
Chicago Pride Fest returns to Boystown June 20 – 21 with a mix of national headliners and festival favorites. The annual event, hosted by the Northalsted Business Alliance, debuts the ‘Keep Pride Proud’ catchphrase to capture the enduring spirit of not only the festival, but the neighborhood and community at-large.
This year’s entertainment line-up is a blend of big names and beloved local bands. On Saturday Deb Gibson, Jessica Sutta and The Veronicas take to the Main Stage. Sunday features Big Freedia, Estelle and St. Lucia.
The Red Bull Dance Stage and Kit Kat Lounge & Supper Club Runway add to the celebratory scene. The ever popular Pet Parade returns, led by Miss Foozie and serves as Sunday’s opening ‘act.’
Northalsted Business Alliance Executive Director Christopher Barrett Politan expanded on the ‘Keep Pride Proud’ movement. “Our vibrant neighborhood has an enduring respect for both our history and future and that is something we want to share with everyone who visits Boystown, be it for a festival or event, or just an average day.”
Saturday, June 20
Main Stage (Halsted and Grace)
2:45 pm Deb Gibson
4:55 pm Adam Barta
6:40 pm Alicia Madison
8:15 pm Jessica Sutta
9:00 pm The Veronicas
South Stage (Halsted and Addison)
3:30 pm Ginger
7:45 pm Wedding Banned
Sunday, June 21
Main Stage (Halsted and Grace)
12:30 pm Pet Parade
1:30 pm Estelle
3:00 pm Crystal Waters
3:50 pm Big Freedia
5:05 pm Cazwell
6:15 pm Inaya Day
7:30 pm St. Lucia
South Stage (Halsted and Addison)
2:15 pm Catfight
4:10 Rod Tuffcurls
6:50 pm 16 Candles
Chicago Pride Fest-June 20-June 21
Halsted from Addison to Grace
11 am to 10 pm $10 Suggested Donation
About the Northalsted Business Alliance (NBA)
Formed in 1980, NBA represents more than 80 businesses along the North Halsted Street corridor. The organization hosts major events throughout the year including Chicago Pride Fest, Northalsted Market Days and the Halloween Parade.
For information about NBA visit www.northalsted.com.
PLUS – the party continues
MONDAY JUNE 22nd 5pm- 10pm
PRIDE SPLASH! @ Hurricane Harbor!
Hydrate-Bianca Del Rio and Crochet Jockstraps
SUPER JOCKS in SUPER JOCKS!
Sunday May 10th @ Hydrate.
The FABULOUS BIANCA DEL RIO will be on hand to host the First Annual Crochet Empire Jockstrap Fashion Show!
Andy Boyer of Chicago founded The Crochet Empire after making a gag gift for his boyfriend. Little did he know that this gag would be taken very seriously and explode. He took up crochet after wanting to make a connection back to previous generations in his family.
Andy started crochet as a hobby because both of his grandmothers worked in the craft. He wanted to feet a connection to the generations that came before him. Then a jockstrap for his boyfriend was LOVED by friends and EVERYONE wanted one! A Kickstarter program was launched and Crochet Empire was born.
“At The Crochet Empire we pride ourselves on custom orders and designs. Solids, stripes, checks, college logos or whatever. If you can think it up, I bet we can come up with a way to make it. Most jocks hold too tightly or don’t cover enough ground, but I’ve now learned about the power of crochet! We use a very thin yarn, which makes them super comfortable.”
Alex from UNB did a video review HERE. He emphasizes the best part of these, is they gently hold and cup you, unlike most jockstraps.
They also offer sleek, hand made bow ties that are extremely fashionable and easy to wear. Each one is adjustable to fit your neck size and are made out of materials that will not irritate you skin. They hold their shape and will not stretch.
There are lots of color and custom options.
Sunday MAY 10th, The first annual Crochet Empire jockstrap fashion show to benefit TPAN and The Ride for AIDS Chicago happens at HYDRATE.
The evening will include a sexy fashion show, comedy and a live auction for fabulous prizes and the jockstraps worn in the show. BIANCA DEL RIO will host the evening!
Doors open at 6:00 and the show starts at 7:00.
$20 general admission IN ADVANCE. ($25 at door)
$35 VIP (includes two drink tickets and a meet and greet with Ms. de Rio.)
All proceeds benefit Test Positive Aware Network (www.tpan.org) and Chicago House. Facebook page HERE.
3458 N Halsted Street
Chicago, IL 60657
(773) 975-9244
Todd Kiech Wins Stoli Drink Contest Locally
“Todd Kiech, the Chicago winner for THE Stoli Key West Cocktail Classic creates the winning drink, Blue Marlin, featuring Stoli Bluberri, on Wednesday, April 15, at Sidetrack.”
2015 Stoli Key West Cocktail Classic Champion for Chicago is Todd Kiech from SideTrack!
Todd was crowned winner for creating his Blue Marlin cocktail, featuring Stoli Bluberri. Todd will move on to finale week during Key West Pride, competing for his charity of choice, Chicago House.
