Category Archives: Special Events
Whoopi Goldberg at Chicago House Benefit Luncheon.
Over 700 people came out to hear Whoopi Goldberg speak this week and over $325,000 was raised for Chicago House. It was the 3rd installment of the Annual Chicago House Speakers Series.
Whoopi Goldberg, award-winning actor, producer and television host, is an outspoken human rights activist who is also well known for co-founding and hosting Comic Relief in the United States to raise funds for the homeless. She donates her time and talents to DIFFA and Broadway Cares. She is a vigorous advocate for children, human rights, education, substance abuse, and in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
After doing 2 appearances on Thursday in other states, she took her red-eye bus across country to get to Chicago at 5am on Friday. – She does not like to fly!
Whoopi told how in 1983, she was first touched by HIV and the spread of AIDS. “I was in San Francisco and gay people were dying. Early on Liz Taylor came to me and asked my help to start fundraising. Our government didn’t care. And Ronald Reagan basically gave us the finger. I think when Rock Hudson died, people started to care.”
“Young people just don’t get it.” she said. “Young people are dumb. Parents are not having the proper discussions with their children. You know, Gaga speaks, and the kids listen. Young people listen to young people. It’s going to take spreading the message in new ways. You know Disney has the power to reach a lot of young people.”
She also says, “I have great idea’s for commercials – but television would never run them. You know, I would say, Don’t Put That In There! Kids are not talking about the issue. And I think we need to ask – HAVE YOU EVEN BEEN CHECKED YET?“
“In 1985, a courageous group of community volunteers formed Chicago House, the first organization in the Midwest to provide housing for people with HIV and AIDS. In those early years of the epidemic, we rallied to support friends who had lost everything — their homes, jobs, even the support of their families. We volunteered our time and energy to restore dignity to the lives of these friends in their final days.” Tells Rev. Stan Sloan, CEO at Chicago House.
“That spirit continues to drive our organization, from our board of trustees to our associate board to every volunteer and donor. Together, we continuously evolve Chicago House to meet the changing nature of the disease, and the needs of those who suffer from it.
Today, HIV and AIDS increasingly impacts people who are dealing with homelessness, mental illness, substance abuse, and extreme poverty. Even before being diagnosed, many of these families and individuals have never had homes, never had jobs, never had a support network of friends or family. Medical advances give them a chance to live longer, healthier lives, and to improve those lives, but the process is not easy. Nothing about AIDS is easy.”
I think we often forget how it easy it is to help. Whoopi made a comment about helping. And sharing. “A lot of folks think HIV is not an issue. But it IS. And it’s not going away. If people had paid attention 25 years ago, do you realize where we could be today? People don’t pay attention. They are more concerned with what the Kardashians are doing and wearing! Chicago House is so great. And I tip my hat to them. They are doing something. They are getting things done. They are helping and making a difference. But the work is not done. It is not complete.”
Did you know that 83 cents, from every dollar donated, goes to work and help!
Chicago House is an amazing organization. And through the end of December, if you donate, you can really make a difference. Check this out – The Lea Charitable Trust is matching every Speaker Series donation, dollar for dollar, up to $15,000 now thru Jan 1st.
So donate NOW. Whatever you can. $5 helps. $10 helps.
Donations can be taken online at Chicagohouse.org, by phone at 773 248 5200
or by mailing a check to 1925 N Clybourn Suit 401, Chicago 60614.
(Reference Speaker Series Match)
Holiday Gift Giving – Treat yourself and do good! Sweet Miss Givings provides real-life job training for participants of our jobs program and gives back over 50% of proceeds, all while providing Chicago’s most scrumptious pastries, desserts, and gifts.
SAVE THE DATE –
January 26, 2012
Champagne Wrapture
@The Fabulous Skydeck @ Willis Tower
The MUST ATTEND event of the Winter season! Sponsored by Veuve Clicquot and Belvedere Vodka.
SEE MORE OF WHOOPI – she sits down with ABC’s Cheryl Burton for a one hour interview!
HRC Gala Chicago 2011 Nov. 12
As the largest civil rights organization working to achieve equality
for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Americans, the Human RightsCampaign represents a force of more than one million members and
supporters nationwide — all committed to making HRC’s vision a reality.
Founded in 1980, HRC advocates on behalf of LGBT Americans, mobilizes
grassroots actions in diverse communities, invests strategically to
elect fair-minded individuals to office and educates the public about
LGBT issues.
For 15 years, a National dinner has been held in Washington DC. Presidents and celebrities attend and support HRC efforts. . Dinners are now also held in major cities across the country.
The HRC Chicago Dinner is Nov. 12 at the Fairmont Hotel. 6pm – 10pm
The Chicago Gala dinner is an annual event that
consists of a large private auction, followed by a black tie dinner to
celebrate the steps we have made and to look towards a more just future.
The HRC Chicago Gala is one of the largest LGBT black tie event in the
Midwest!
THIS YEAR,Golden Globe nominated actress
Piper Perabo, currently starring in USA Networks’ Covert Affairs will speak and 80’s pop star TIFFANY will perform.
GET TICKETS ONLINE
Annual World of Chocolate benefit Returns Dec. 1
Chocolate lovers can satisfy their sweet tooth and commemorate World AIDS Day at World of Chocolate, AIDS Foundation of Chicago’s (AFC) 10th annual winter soiree to be held on Dec. 1 at the Hilton Chicago.
At the one-of-a-kind event, guests are invited to indulge on sweet and savory morsels from more than 30 of Chicago’s finest chocolatiers, restaurants and caterers, while raising funds for the fight against HIV/AIDS.
This annual holiday fundraising event, is
The most anticipated holiday event of the year!
Thursday, December 1 – VIP Reception, 5 p.m. – 6 p.m.; General Admission, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Hilton Chicago – 720 S. Michigan Avenue – International Ballroom –
Cocktail Attire/Business Casual
Ticket Information
Tickets range from $100 to $1,500. Click here for ticket details and pricing.
Guests will also enjoy a light buffet, specialty cocktails, a raffle with lavish prizes and music.
AND CHOCOLATE CHOCOLATE AND MORE CHOCOLATE!
Tickets purchased on or before Nov. 11 will be mailed;
all other tickets will be held at will-call at the event.
For tickets and more information, please visit A World of Chocolate online at Aidschicago.org/chocolate.
Chocolatiers…
You’ll sample unique chocolate savories and sweets created by chefs and chocolatiers from Chicago’s finest, including:
Argo Tea
Blommer Chocolate Store
Canady de Chocolatier
Confection Diva
Das Foods LLC
Ghirardelli Chocolate Company
The Hearty Boys
Hilton Chicago
Illinois Nut & Candy
Just Like U Like It Catering
Kay’s Candies
Kendall College School of Culinary Arts
La Parisianne du Chocolat Company
La Taberna Tapas
Macy’s Culinary Council
Palmer House Hilton
The Peninsula Chicago
Renee’s Raw Chocolate
Sixteen at Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago
Sterling Tea
Terry’s Toffee
University Club Chicago
Wow Bao–Hot Asian buns
To mark the 30th year of the AIDS epidemic, a memorial wall will provide guests with the opportunity to honor and support loved ones diagnosed with the disease.
Best Food and Wine Chicago
Best Gay Chicago.com
Matthew Harvat and Circuit Mom Productions 4th Installment Revolution Parties was AMAZING
(Top photos Chadwick Cipiti – see more on Picassa)
WOW!
Amazing, Awesome, Beautiful, Spectacular, Eye-Popping, Rad, First Rate, Remarkable, Wonderful….these were just some of the adjectives people were saying last Saturday at House of Blues.
Matthew Harvat and Circuit Mom Productions did their 4th and final installment of Revolution for 2011 with ZOMBIE REVOLUTION. Amazing costumes, staging, production numbers and music – THE BAR HAS BEEN RAISED, Chicago. The Saturday night Main Event we all miss, IS BACK!
(Photos Above by Michael Snell – LIKE BestGayChicago on Facebook – and see more!)
Over 700 attendees – A cast on stage of 20+, 2 djs, Lasers, LEDs, professional choreography and staging – For $40, this is like nothing Chicago has ever seen.
Sergio Ceron is responsible for the 4 custom Zombie mask creations. Plaster molds of faces (and Matthews whole head) were made, then he poured silicon, let it cure and carved out the detail work which he detailed out by hand painting. It is the same techniques used for special effects in movies. The Zombie dancers makeup were done by the team of 3 from Kryolan Theatrical Makeup company and their new Chicago boutique located at 2034 N. Halsted. WOW. WOW. WOW.
REVOLUTION will return in 2012. With parties for Gay Prise and Market Days already set. And probably 2 more TBA. If you missed this year, go see what everyone is talking about, next year!
Circuit Mom Productions
Zombie REVOLUTION Oct. 29
Chicago’s biggest and best party promoter returns Saturday, October 29th!
In June of 2011, Matthew Harvat, owner of Circuit Mom Productions, Inc. launched a new 4 part series of high end, large production gay dance parties called “REVOLUTION” at Chicago’s famed House Of Blues.
ZOMBIE REVOLUTION happens this weekend!
This Halloween event will feature a spectacular laser show to accompany the amazing talents of Grammy nominated producer/DJ/remixer Tony Moran, who’s gold record roster includes some of the biggest names in music. Cher, Madonna, Mariah Carey, Michael Jackson, Britney Spears, Sting, Luther Vandross and Deborah Cox are but a few of Tony’s masterful success stories.
Pair this DJ’s brilliance with the set design, laser show, costuming and production numbers produced by Matthew Harvat featuring dancers from Chicago’s internationally successful dancers from the Joffrey Ballet, Hubbard Street Dance Company and Gus Giordano with choreography by Todd M. Kiech, and you have a night of Halloween Zombie madness you will not soon forget.
Chicago superstar DJ Phil DaBeatz has also come on board to bring his own tribal magic to this amazing party. A jam packed event of visual and aural pleasure in true Halloween and Circuit MOM fashion.
Avoid online fees – Tickets at CRAM now.
3329 N. Broadway
Tickets online now at clubtix.com
New Gay Parties Set To Rock Chicago! Oct. 13
A new party concept is about to take Chicago by storm! Think you’re fearless? Think again. There are an infinite number of phobias (multiplying daily) with over 500 medical related phobias listed online. Some phobias have never been appropriately labeled. There are phobias with tongue-twisting pronunciations that might have been too difficult and fearful for even Einstein to attempt to pronounce. – Hippopotomnstrosesquipedaliophobia – fear of long words. What scares YOU? What do YOU fear? Producer and phobia visionary, Experience the incredible fun and fear of EVENT-A-PHOBIA! Do you dare come to our sneak preview? Be brave — take a deep breath and get ready to be AFRAID.
EVENT-A-PHOBIA™ is a new and exciting concept, which cleverly and uniquely allows people to finally address that serious, and unspoken subject — FEAR via entertainment and merriment.
clowns – coulrophobia
snakes – snakephobia
spiders – aracnophobia
bogeyman – bogyphobia
heights – acrophobia
confined spaces – claustrophobia
Will Harrison aka visuwil® of visuwil LLC.
is known for his creative, whimsical, and edgy theme settings.
To express and bring to life his phobia theme, he incorporates extraordinary costumed artists, extravagantly masked models, 3D props, eye-popping decor, stimulating live music, and, of course, your favorite flow of libations all staged within a selected nightlife or social environment.
Do you dare enter this unusual realm of phobias?
Do you dare attempt to face your own personal fears?
Come experience the EVENT of all EVENTS!!!
DJ Phil DaBeatz
EVENT-A-PHOBIA™ parties make it FUN to play with your fears — “visualize your innermost fear … and play with it”
Thursday, Oct, 13th HYDRATE 11pm-4am 3458 N. Halsted
Whoopi Goldberg to Speak at Chicago House Luncheon
That surprising remark was made by Whoopi Goldberg to the audience at the Absolutely Fabulous 2002 Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgendered Pride Awards in 2002. Given Whoopi’s history of public support for gay, lesbian, and bisexual issues, and the multiple lesbian and bisexual characters she has played on film, the announcement that Whoopi is bisexual probably shouldn’t come as a big surprise.
“There was a time I played on
both sides of the street.
Now I just go straight down
the middle of the street.”
Goldberg will be in Chicago Friday, November 4, 2011
for The 3rd Annual Speaker Series Luncheon
to benefit Chicago House.
Time: 11:30am-2:00pm
Where: Palmer House Hilton, Grand Ballroom
17 East Monroe Street, Chicago, IL
GET TICKETS ONLINE
My Private Chef at Chicago Botanical Garden for Food Network Hawaiian Food Oct 2
Chef Tong, from My Private Chef, Prepares Chef Tong’s cooking demonstration will take place on Sunday, October 2, 2011 at 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. in the Regenstein Fruit & Vegetable Garden, Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe, Illinois. Chef Tong will prepare Hawai‘i-style Chicken Curry with carmelized Apples, Pears and Bananas; served with Coconut rice. People who are casual cooks or lovers of gourmet food get to ask questions and come away with a fabulous recipe that you can try at home. Chef will give tips on preparation and serving. And, everyone gets to have a taste. The Hawai‘i Tourism Authority will be demonstrating lei making with fresh flowers and will provide coffee, tea, cacao and macadamia nut samples. Come join the fun! Admission to the Chicago Botanic Garden and Garden Chef Series is free. Parking is $20.00. For more information about this Garden Chef Series event, call 847.835.5440 or visit Chicagobotanic.org. My Private Chef is enjoying popularity as one of Chicago’s favorite private gourmet dining services. Trained in European-style fine cuisine, Chef Tong established his reputation at fine restaurants and hotels in Florida, California, and Chicago. Now he has adapted his impressive skills to the world of private entertaining. My Private Chef offers enticing cuisine for a wide range of events, from intimate dinners to weddings to corporate parties. For more information about My Private Chef, contact Event Services
a Hawaiian-Themed Dish during
Food Network Magazine FREE Weekend
at Chicago Botanic Garden.
Put on your grass skirt and Hawaiian shirt for delicious tropical food! You will learn how to prepare a Hawaiian-themed dish by Chef Christopher Tong during the
Food Network Magazine and Hawaiian Islands weekend at Chicago Botanic Garden’s popular annual Garden Chef Series.
at 773.981.8131 or visit them online: Myprivatechef.net
Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams Arrives in Chicago
In 1989 when the economy was unstable, Mitchell Gold and his partner, Bob Williams, naively created The Mitchell Gold Co. Since then, despite tough economic times and upheaval in the furniture industry, sales have reached in excess of $100 million. The combination of Gold’s years of marketing experience with Williams’ talents as art director set the course for Mitchell Gold and changed the furniture industry.
One of their earliest ideas, “Relaxed Design,” was based on trends they saw in the apparel industry. Designing furniture Bob Williams would want in his own home – comfortable, classic, affordable – he dressed his pieces in relaxed slipcovers of pre-washed fabrics like denim, khaki and velvet. He also addressed the need for a less-intimidating shopping experience by limiting choices to avoid confusing consumers. Along the way, Williams has received numerous awards, including Design 100 awards from Metropolitan Home magazine.
The company is now a leading home-furnishings brand, carried in such national chains as Pottery Barn, Restoration Hardware, Williams Sonoma Home, and Bloomingdale’s, as well as in more than 60 independent retailers nationwide. In addition, there is a growing chain of Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams Signature Stores – and they have arrived now in Chicago at 1555 N. Halsted, Lincoln Park, across from the new Apple store.
The grand opening happened last week was filed with hundreds of Chicago’s designers, movers and shakers. And DJ Lady Bunny. Bunny is a longtime freind of Gold and Williams and spins at every store opening.
Also there was very special guest: expert photog Tipper Gore, was there. Since moving on with her spirited journey through life, she’s had the chance to document some of the most photogenic people and places. Mitchell and Bob have decided they just love her so much, they needed to share her talent with the world, and they now carry a signed collection of her work in their stores. To celebrate Tipper’s skilled camera work and introduce her to Chicago’s interiors crowd, they’re having a 20% promotion on all of Tipper’s work.
In the mid 90’s, Gold and Wiliams lead the way in gay media advertising. They were one of the very first companies, to stand up and place major ads in LGBT media. Here was a nationally recognized furniture brand, portraying gay couples in ads! Recently, Mitchell Gold and Bob Williams received the Public Visibility Award from GLAAD for including LGBT stories in the advertising for their company Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams, and for their personal efforts to advocate for LGBT equality. “As with other forms of media, advertising has the power to change hearts and minds,” said GLAAD President Jarrett Barrios. “Companies that promote fair, accurate and inclusive images of the LGBT community in advertising send an important message to their customers, to corporations and to any consumer who sees their ads. We will be recognizing those companies that do just that, and in so doing, set a standard to which other companies may aspire.”
Also in attendance was 2011 HGTV Design Star winner Meg Caswell. Her show GREAT ROOMS airs on HGTV weekly 5pm (C) on Saturdays.
Her Design Studio is at 1242 N. Wells, is in an old firehouse with some antiques and accessories! You can see it, on some of her shows. Currently by appointment only. 773-883-6004
Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams
Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams
1555 N Halsted Street
Lincoln Park Centre
Chicago, Illinois 60642
312-397-3135
Circuit Mom Productions Present ZOMBIE REVOLUTION Oct. 29th
In June of 2011, Matthew Harvat, owner of Circuit Mom Productions, Inc. launched a new 4 part series of high end, large production gay dance parties called “REVOLUTION” at Chicago’s famed House Of Blues. With the audiences growing larger and stronger at each event, the fourth and final party, “ZOMBIE REVOLUTION” being held on Saturday, October 29, 2011 will not only end the eight year absence of a major Saturday night Halloween dance party for the gay community, but also cap off a spectacular first year of new events and only build excitement for the 2012 REVOLUTION series kicking off during next years Gay Pride. This Halloween event will feature a spectacular laser show to accompany the amazing talents of Grammy nominated producer/DJ/remixer Tony Moran, (pictured below) who’s gold record roster includes some of the biggest names in music. Cher, Madonna, Mariah Carey, Michael Jackson, Britney Spears, Sting, Luther Vandross and Deborah Cox are but a few of Tony’s masterful success stories. In the spirit of giving back and sharing their successes, CircuitMOM Productions, Inc. has partnered with The StandUP Foundation, Inc, to stop the bullying of not only LGBT kids, but any child or person worldwide. A portion of each ticket sold goes directly to The StandUP Foundation, Inc, which in turn supports organizations that help combat this universal problem and keep kids safe, strong and builds self confidence. (Get a sneak peak of the ZOMBIE photo shoot!)
FASTEN YOUR SEATBELTS LADIES AND GENTLEMEN…..
HALLOWEEN IS GOING TO ROCK THIS YEAR IN CHICAGO!!
Chicago’s biggest and best party promoter returns Saturday, October 29th!
Each event has had an exciting line up of national and international talent as well as amazing themes and production numbers to continually entice and build the REVOLUTION fan base as well as help bring Chicago back to the forefront of national attention for amazing LGBT parties.
Pair this DJ’s brilliance with the set design, laser show, costuming and production numbers produced by Matthew Harvat featuring dancers from Chicago’s internationally successful dancers from the Joffrey Ballet, Hubbard Street Dance Company and Gus Giordano with choreography by Todd M. Kiech, and you have a night of Halloween Zombie madness you will not soon forget.
Chicago superstar DJ Phil DaBeatz has also come on board to bring his own tribal magic to this amazing party. A jam packed event of visual and aural pleasure in true Halloween and Circuit MOM fashion.
We are keeping ticket prices very low in comparison to other events of this magnitude. We want to make the event more accessible to the masses, especially in the current economy. House Of Blues has agreed to keep pricing low to help build the brand for the future and talent is coming in at discounted pricing as well.
2012 should be an amazing second year for REVOLUTION to continue to grow its world class vision and continue to raise Chicago’s LGBT dance party events to a higher level nationwide.
ZOMBIE REVOLUTION Saturday, Oct. 29th
@ House Of Blues-Chicago 329 N Dearborn St 11pm-5am
Early Bird Tickets $30 until sold out, $40 after.
Tickets at CRAM now. 3331 N. Broadway
Tickets online now at clubtix.com
Chicago Series 2011 – 35th Annual NAGAAA Gay Softball World Series is Underway
Nine Chicago teams are participating with at least one team in each division. The softball tournament consists of 150 teams from 41 cities in North American in five divisions. Many of the athletes will sing, dance, perform sketch comedy or show other special talents, at the annual NAGAAA Talent Show. This year’s event will take place in the Grand Ball Room at the Hyatt Regency O’Hare with all proceeds to benefit the designated Series 2011 charities. Emceed by: Tajma Hall, You will not want to miss this year’s Talent Show. This will be like no other! When: August 31, 2011 Then – When: Saturday September 3 The 35th annual Gay Softball World Series (GSWS), wrap-up a week of softball and social events with a closing awards ceremony and street fair in Boystown on Saturday, September 3, from 4:00-10:00p.m. “We’re proud to partner with CMSA and the Northhalsted Business Alliance to close out a week of softball and social events in Boystown,” said Ted Cappas, President, Series 2011. Series 2011 plans to recognize all of the tournament’s championship teams during the closing event. Additionally, the Chicago Cubs (a Series 2011 sponsor) will welcome representatives from the winning teams onto Wrigley Field on Sunday, September 4 for a special recognition ceremony prior to their 1:20pm game against the Pittsburgh Pirates. That Sunday is also Pride Day at Wrigley, brought to you by the Windy City Times, a Series 2011 media partner. Admission is free for all Series 2011 participants and CMSA Members.
LAST NIGHT was the Official Opening Ceremonies for the 2011 Gay Softball WorldSeries!
The huge event was in the Grand Ballroom at Navy Pier and it is estimated there were over 4,000 in attendance!
Athletes from around the country are here for a week of games and special events. The games are taking place at three separate complexes in Schaumburg, Elmhurst and St. Charles. Organizers say the games are expected to bring in more than $5 million in business to the city.
* CHICAGO SINGER Michael Scott McBride will be sharing his amazing vocals and music which can best be described as ‘Gospirational’ with a hint of dance.
Show starts at 7:00pm
Where: Hyatt Regency O’Hare Grand Ballroom
Closing Ceremonies
SERIES 2011, INC. IS ‘TAKING IT TO THE STREETS’
FOR CLOSING STREET FAIR IN BOYSTOWN
“Final Say” and “DJ Bill Bennett” Help Wrap Up
World’s Largest Annual LGBT Sporting Event
Time: 4:00pm – 10:00pm
Where: Waveland Ave in Boystown between Halsted and Broadway
The event, which is presented in partnership with the Chicago Metropolitan Sports Association (CMSA), will take place on Waveland Avenue between Halsted and Broadway streets and feature local cover band Final Say and world-renowned DJ Bill Bennett.
“We have received incredible support from the community and are especially grateful to our co-sponsor, CMSA, and Alderman James Cappleman, who understand the significance of this event for our community and our local businesses.”
ALSO ON SUNDAY – there is a post game party event at SIDETRACK. Singer Michael Scott McBride will perform.
Sports enthusiasts and members of the LGBT and greater Chicagoland community are welcome and encouraged to attend the Closing Street Fair for a $5 suggested donation at the gate, which will benefit Series 2011 charity partners.
See more photos on
OUR Facebook Page –
get up to the date news on
GSWS Facebook Page
Gay SoftBall World Series Week in Chicago 2011
Gay Softball World Series 2011 Chicago! Admission is free for all Series 2011 participants and CMSA Members. Sports enthusiasts and members of the LGBT and greater Chicagoland community are welcome and encouraged to attend the Closing Street Fair for a $5 suggested donation at the gate, which will benefit Series 2011 charity partners.
Just days away! Events begin this Sunday, August 28th starting at CREW. 4804 N. Broadway. Celebrate the end of the Softball Season with a Beer Bust and Fundraiser for GSWS. 2pm – 5pm Help out the Chicago Gay Softball World Series. It’s 3 hours of Coors Lite for $20. Raffle prizes too.
Opening Ceremonies 08.29.2011 @ Navy Pier – Chicago
Opening Ceremonies for the 35th Annual NAGAAA Gay Softball World Series will take place on Monday, August 29, beginning at 5:00p.m at the Navy Pier Grand Ballroom. It’s going to be a huge star-studded event! Admission to the Opening Ceremony is FREE! But Donations will be accepted, $10 is suggested, to support the Ben Cohen “Stand Up” Foundation.
Closing Ceremony will be Saturday 09.03.2011 @ Waveland Ave – Chicago
SERIES 2011, INC. IS ‘TAKING IT TO THE STREETS’ FOR CLOSING STREET FAIR IN BOYSTOWN
“Final Say” and “DJ Bill Bennett” Help Wrap Up World’s Largest Annual LGBT Sporting Event
4-10pm.
Dance For Life Chicago 20th Anniversary Aug. 20
DANCE COMPANIES
featured in
“DANCE FOR LIFE”
To Raise Funds for HIV/AIDS Prevention and Services
on August 20, 2011
Five of Chicago’s most renowned and talented top dance companies will come together for one spectacular, celebratory evening of dance – on one stage!
Currently honoring a milestone 20th anniversary this year, Dance for Life is the largest performance-based AIDS fundraising event in the Midwest and has raised nearly $4 million since 1992.
This highly anticipated event is held annually to raise awareness and funds for HIV/AIDS prevention and care programs and is hosted by Dean Richards, Entertainment Critic and Reporter for WGN-TV (CW), Chicago; National Cable Channel, WGN America and News Talk 720, WGN Radio.
· The Joffrey Ballet
· Ron De Jesus Dance
· Giordano Jazz Dance Chicago
· Hubbard Street Dance Chicago
· River North Chicago Dance Company
To commemorate 20 years for the event, Dance for Life will host two world premiere dances by renowned choreographers Harrison McEldowney and Randy Duncan.
Saturday, Aug. 20, 2011
4:45 p.m. – Gala Reception
7:30 p.m. – Dance for Life performance – Auditorium Theatre
$50-$75 (performance only)
$175-$500 (includes admission to 5 p.m. gala reception and premiere seating at the performance.)
To purchase tickets, please call 312-922-5812
or visit
Danceforlifechicago.com
Auditorium Theatre
50 East Congress Parkway
Chicago
Photos by SANDRO
Chicago premiere of “Beyond Brokeback” Nov. 13
Chicago premiere of Beyond Brokeback at Auditorium Theatre celebrates role of LGBT community in attaining equality for all.
Contributions made by the LGBT community in attaining the American dream of inclusiveness and equality for all will be celebrated Nov. 13 at the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University (50 E. Congress Parkway) with a screening of the 2005 film Brokeback Mountain and the Chicago premiere of Beyond Brokeback.
Joining the Chicago History Museum’s ongoing year-long exhibit, Out in Chicago, Roosevelt’s day-long program will feature a 2 p.m. screening of the Academy Award-winning film Brokeback Mountain, followed by a 4:35 p.m. panel discussion with makers of the film and a 5:35 p.m. staged reading with music of messages, essays and poetry that have been inspired by the landmark movie. Attendees are invited to come and go as they like during the event.
“It has been a little more than five years since Brokeback Mountain captured our nation’s conscience and imagination. With this production of Beyond Brokeback, we are not only remembering the movie, but we are also embracing its impact and a desire to be inclusive, which is in keeping with Roosevelt University’s historic mission of social justice,” said Brett Batterson, executive director of the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University.
One of Hollywood’s highest-grossing romance films of all time, Brokeback Mountain tells the story of a complex romantic and sexual relationship between two men in the American West between 1963 and 1983, and is based on a short story written by Annie Proulx.
Its award-winning director, Ang Lee, screenwriters Diana Ossana and Larry McMurtry and producer James Schamus have been invited to participate in the panel discussion on the impact the movie has had since its release in 2005.
Adapted for the stage by Gregory Hinton, and based on a book by the same name, Beyond Brokeback is a staged reading with music. It features excerpts of poignant and humorous messages, essays and poetry that were written by contributors to the Ultimate Brokeback Forum discussion website.
Original music is by composer Shawn Kirchner and director of the production is David Zak, an instructor in The Theatre Conservatory at Roosevelt University’s Chicago College of Performing Arts. Students and faculty from Roosevelt’s theatre conservatory, working alongside several celebrity actors, also will have parts in the Chicago premiere, which is being presented for the first time in the Midwest and only the third time ever in the United States.
Tickets are $15, $20 and $25, and are on sale at Ticketmaster.com or at the box office of the Auditorium Theatre at Roosevelt University, 50 E. Congress Parkway, Chicago. For information, call 312-922-2110.
Chicago Market Days Main Event August 13th with 2 Major DJ’s
People always say, “whatever happened to our Saturday nights?? Why isn’t there big fun dance parties in Chicago anymore??”
Guess What?? THEY’RE BACK!
Wild West Revolution Dance Party
The Market Days Main Event.
Saturday, August 13. 2011
When’s the last time you played cowboys and indians? It’s been 8 years since there was a major dance party happening during Chicago’s famed Market Days weekend. The 2-day boystown street fest features over 200 vendors, 3 stages and over 175,000 hot, friendly and sexy attendees.
But come Saturday night at 10pm when all the booths close down and the bars are at capacity, where should everyone go to get their groove on and throw down on some hot bass beats and go go boy treats?
Circuit MOM Productions is featuring superstar DJ’s ROLAND BELMARES and JOE GAUTHREAUX in a twin spinning, bucking bronco, tomahawk throwing DJ showdown at the old House Of Blues Corral.
Dust off your cowboy boots, saddle up your pony and ride on down before the doors open at 10pm to stake your claim in the dance hall. This barn dance ain’t over ’til 5am, so get ready to party ’til them cows come home.
Hey, Chicago! Tickets are only $30 in advance and you can get them at CRAM FASHION 3329 N. Broadway or at the House of Blues Box Office-329 N. Dearborn. OR CLICK HERE for ONLINE Tickets!
TICKETS WILL BE $40 AT THE DOOR on Saturday night.
*** MARK YOUR CALENDARS – Prepare yourself for THE ZOMBIE REVOLUTION
Coming Saturday, October 29, 2011
with Grammy nominated Producer/Remixer
DJ TONY MORAN featuring a special surprise performance.
REVOLUTION CHICAGO!
Circuit MOM Productions, Inc
LiveNation and House Of Blues
BestGayChicago.com
MiniBar Gives Back: Chicago House July 27th
Do something great for Chicago House, just by going out to eat!
Minibar is hosting a dinner event in which 20% (before tax) of all dinner and liquor sales off the regular menu will be donated to Chicago House!
Wednesday, July 27th 5-11pm
Great drinks, great food, all for a great cause! Put together a group, and dine out for the men, women, and children of Chicago House!
We hope you can join us!
Reservations are recommended!
Call Minibar at 773-871-6227
Check out the Facebook page and see who all is coming!
BestGayChicago.com
MTV in Chicago to Film Live Performance of INHIBITION-LET GO, July 9th
VERY UNIQUE –
coming to the Chicago stage…so unique, MTV is coming to Chicago to film it!
Expose Theater Company
proudly presents their flagship production- Inhibition: Let GO!
The show, which will be in two acts, will enable it’s audience to let go of inhibitions that tie them down, including the mind, body, and soul.
Allow notable Chicago Drag Queen Tajma Hall and ASCAP recording artist Cyon Flare to set you free! Also set to perform is Andrea Eve, the upcoming pop sensation, performing her single, “Watch Out!” The show doesn’t stop there!
Teri Yaki and the Windy City Beauties, including Dida Ritz, will hit the stage with numbers that are sure to mix the emotions.
Burlesque dancers will be under the spotlight with their Burlesque, sultry acts.
Also set for the stage is Dolce and Gabanna DiVita, and Chicago’s hottest boys, including Anthony Jay, the adorable young man with angelic looks who performs all over Chicago, plus Pavel, Fernando, Tristan, and many more of Chicago’s hottest dancers and choreographers.
Allow yourself to be set free with an evening of raw entertainment! (above photo…the fabulous go go God, Anthony Jay)
MTV announced today on their website that they will be coming to the Portage Theater on July 9th to
film Inhibition: Let GO!
Parts of the show will be broadcast throughout the summer on television and internet mediums.
They said, “our
The
The event will begin at 7:30pm,
and last 2.5 hours.
An after-party reception will be hosted in the lobby and foyer of the theater, with meet and greets of the cast, and more.
Date- July 9, 2011
Time: Doors open at 6:00pm
Show starts at 7:00pm (drag time)
Where: Portage Theater
4050 North Milwaukee Avenue
( near Irving Park)
Chicago, IL 60641
Cost: $20.00, which includes after-party. (General Admission)
For $10 ! Ride the Venga Bus to and from plus get a couple free drinks!
There will also be an after-after party at COCKTAIL, 3359 N. Halsted, 12:30 – close. A bus will take people from the theatre to Cocktail. Party all evening – lots of drink specials!
Tickets will also be available at select locations throughout Chicago.
Buy tickets online now.
BestGayChicago.com
Absolutely the Best Segway Tours in Chicago
Did you know?? You can cover about 7-8 MILES of the city, sightseeing in about 2 hours?
Riding the Segway feels like nothing you’ve ever experienced because there’s never been anything like it. Step on and your instinct will be to steady yourself, as you would on anything with two wheels.
Almost immediately you’ll realize that the Segway is balancing for you, almost like it has become an extension of you. Just lean forward a little and you’ll see that the Segway isn’t moving you on its own; it’s moving in response to you and what you tell it to do. It all feels natural and really cool.
The Segway uses LeanSteer™ Technology to move you from Point A to B. Gently move the LeanSteer frame and handlebar left or right in the direction you want to travel and feel the machine respond almost instantly.
The Segway balances by using five micro-machined angular rate sensors and two accelerometers that sense the changing terrain and your body position at 100 times per second.
The owners of the company have over 50 years of combined experience in the hospitality industry, having owned and operated some of the most successful, recognized and reputable restaurants and companies in the Chicagoland area. When starting Absolutely Chicago Segway Tours it was clear that they wanted to create that same memorable service, and to leave visitors with a wonderful impression of Chicago.
Whether you have lived here all of your life – or just moved here – riding and touring a Segway in Chicago, you learn SO MUCH! The Segway itself is only one part of the total touring experience. “We believe that your tour guide will have the biggest impact on your experience. At the risk of bragging, we have the best guides in the business, bar none. That’s because we only hire the best. They have undergone extensive Segway certification training. They have to be professional, courteous, and articulate. So whether the group is comprised of teens, grandmas, or corporate execs, our guides can connect with everyone.” says owner Timmie McGuire Cortina.
They offer several different tours and those can change with the season, and the weather. We recently took the 8 mile / 2 hour Museum Campus tour. Before you can go on a tour, you have to watch a short safety film, then there is a short “class” learning session. But it’s real easy.
With Summer reaching the half way point, get your butt out there and check it out! It’s a fantastic fun time!!
Absolutely Chicago Segways is located right near Millenium Park at 337 E. Randolph.
If you drive downtown and tour with them, you can park with them for $10 for the day.
Call 312-552-5100 to make your reservations
Tell them Best Gay Chicago.com sent you!
HELP WANTED – By the way, they are looking for Spanish Speaking/Bi-lingual guides. What a job?! Get outside and enjoy the summer weather, while touring the city and sharing your love of Chicago, with others! Send a resume to Absolutely Chicago Segways !
Chicago Black Gay Pride July 2-4
During Independence Day Weekend (Thursday, June 30th – Monday, July 4th), approximately 20,000 people from across the Midwest and the rest of the country will converge in the city of Chicago for Chicago Black Pride Weekend, the largest celebration in the Midwest for the African-American Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) community. The weekend consists of dynamic workshops and seminars, feature performances and entertainment, film screenings, health outreach, discussion panels, and vendor exhibitions. As part of the Chicago Black Pride Weekend festivities, special event and lifestyle marketing firm K Dock Media will host the LUX SERIES, three days (Saturday, July 2nd – Monday, July 4th) of opulent events designed for networking, socializing and excitement in the most beautiful venues and areas of Chicago. With an expected attendance of more than 2000 local and national patrons, the events will include celebrity guest appearances/hosts, viewing of new urban LGBT television programs, discussions with movemakers in the LGBT community and overall good time with new and old friends.
Windy City Black Pride and LUX Series Events
BestGayChicago.com
Chicago Pride Fest 2011 is a Awesome DIVA Fest!
It’s all about GLBT pride at Chicago Pride Fest®!
June 24-25, 2011 – immediately before Chicago’s iconic Pride Parade on June 26 – this festive two-day event marks the first official party of summer.
Hosted by the Northalsted Business Alliance, this crowd-pleasing gay and lesbian celebration of community pride showcases an eclectic lineup of arts and crafts, food and other vendors. It also features entertainment on two stages with one dedicated to some of Chicago’s fine performers in the gay community.
Pride Fest showcases an eclectic lineup of arts & crafts, food and other vendors. It also features entertainment on two stages including one dedicated to some of Chicago’s fine performers in the gay community.
(Deborah Cox , above)
Entertainment
Friday, June 24
South Stage
6:00pm – The Personnel
7:30pm – Chicago Spirit Brigade
8:15pm – Sixteen Candles
North Stage
5:00pm – Drag Show featuring Chicago’s Best Female Impersonators
7:00pm – Deborah Cox
8:00pm – Drag Show featuring Chciago’s Best Female Impersonators
9:00pm – Ultra Nate
Saturday, June 25
South Stage
Noon – Lakeside Pride Show Band
1:00pm – Pet Parade with Miss Foozie
2:30pm – Chicago RedLine
3:30pm – ROTC
5:00pm – ROTC
6:00pm – Rock Candy
7:30pm – Windy City Cowboys
8:00pm – Wedding Banned
North Stage
1:00pm – Pet Parade with Miss Foozie
1:30pm – Drag Show featuring Chicago’s Best Female Impersonators
2:30pm – Mya
3:00pm – Drag Show featuring Chicago’s Best Female Impersonators
4:30pm – Xelle
5:30pm – Drag Show featuring Chicago’s Best Female Impersonators
7:00pm – Crystal Waters
8:00pm – Kim English
8:45pm – Inaya Day
Your gate donation benefits the Northalsted Business Alliance.
The Northalsted Business Alliance works cooperatively to maintain a diverse, safe and thriving shopping and entertainment district. In 1980, a small group of retailers in a four-block area along Halsted Street joined forces to promote the street and improve business conditions.
Since its inception, the Northalsted Business Alliance has grown to represent more than 80 businesses along North Halsted Street from Barry Street to West Irving Park Road. The Association has been recognized by the media, the City of Chicago and local residents as a major force in the community, championing positive change and growth.
BestGayChicago.com
