a&e features
Straight director takes on Tom of Finland
telling the story of country’s infamous homoerotic export
‘Tom of Finland,’ from director Dome Karukoski, tells the story of Finland’s infamous homoerotic export. (Photo provided by Karukoski)
I’m speaking with Finnish film director Dome Karukoski via phone. He’s in Europe shooting his new project, a biopic of “Lord of the Rings” author J.R.R. Tolkien.
“I’m in England,” he says. “Unfortunately, I can’t tell anything about that project other than that.”
Luckily for us, “Tom of Finland,” his recently completed feature telling the story of Finland’s infamous homoerotic export, is a lot more accessible.
Finland’s entry for the 2018 Academy Awards, having screened at Outfest this past July, will now premiere Oct. 13 in New York City, and Oct. 20 in San Francisco and Los Angeles (The Nuart). A national release will follow.
The film is really good – strong Finnish cast, traditional three-act structure, beautiful cinematography and some unique dialogue. When was the last time you heard a character declare, “My cock is the boss?”
Karukoski has always felt like he doesn’t quite belong. It’s a theme tying his oeuvre of seven feature films together. Yes, seven. And he’s only 40.
“I’ve always done films about people who are longing to find a home, either spiritual or a complete home,” Karukoski explained. “A lot of my characters have been outsiders.”
Born on the island of Cyprus, he grew up in Finland. “I became bullied because I was an outsider. I traveled and I try to find a home, [but] it doesn’t really help when you travel 200 days a year.”
Touko Laaksonen (aka Tom of Finland) fought mightily for a home to call his own. He found it in the hills of Echo Park. Karukoski’s film uses the contrast of dim white light in Helsinki with that of sunny LA to accentuate the point.
“How did Tom feel arriving in LA in the late 70s?” Karukoski wondered. “We wanted to portray [the] feelings that he’s actually arriving into [a] movie world-slash-utopia.”
“That must have felt like liberation for him because his community had to hide in Finland.” The Nordic nation “was a really dark place at that time. It wasn’t legal to be gay until 1971.”
S.R. Sharp is vice president at the Tom of Finland Foundation. He and his “kinda like my boyfriend” Durk Dehner run what can only be called the largest and most passionate fan club for the erotic artist in the world.
“We’re collaborators on the film,” said Sharp. “We went with a Finnish production company for obvious reasons.”
In some ways, Tom of Finland, like the artist himself, is the latest example of a fabulous Finnish export.
“Tom humbly admitted before he died,” said Sharp, that “he had a global recognition in the queer community, but he didn’t have very much recognition in Finland.” In addition to petitioning the Finnish government for a Tom of Finland postage stamp (approved in 2014), the Foundation “just came back from a Finland 100 celebration in Stockholm. People are much more aware of Tom of Finland.”
Karukoski, lead actor Pekka Strang, and the film’s art director all made trips to “TOM House,” as Sharp calls it, to bone up on what it was that made Tom tick.
“We pulled out work from the safe,” Sharp said. “It’s not framed. It’s the actual paper.” Even through the phone line Sharp’s voice conveyed solemnity. The filmmakers “were able to experience how incredibly exquisite these pieces of work are.”
Karukoski acknowledged this. “A lot of research was done [there],” he said. “Those were people that met Tom in the later part of his life, a lot of people that worked with him.”
Actor Strang returns to LA for The Nuart premiere. Sharp has a wish. “Hopefully, he will be staying here at TOM House,” he said. “He’s been here a few times before, doing research…but I don’t think he’s stayed overnight…in Tom’s bed.”
If Strang brings his wife, that might be revolutionary.
Kake, a major, recurring character in Tom of Finland’s work appears throughout the film as a private, only-seen-by-the-artist, tongue-in-cheeks (sorry) muse.
Described by specialty publisher Taschen, Kake is “a sort of post-Stonewall, hyper-masculine Johnny Appleseed traveling the world on his motorcycle to spread the seeds of liberated, mutually satisfying, ecstatically explicit gay sex.”
“It’s always a question of how do you show,” Karukoski asked, “especially in films about artists, what’s going on in the artist’s head?”
Kake, which translates into “Butch” in English, is a fantasy character appearing throughout the movie. “The equivalent of the most beautiful man [Tom] can envision, [what] he wants every man to be.”
Kake “was also an homage,” said the director. “‘I think that’s something [Tom] would have valued.”
Karukoski is not casual about filmmaking. He’s all about preparation.
Over a five-year period he traveled to the Tom of Finland Foundation. “You learn,” Karukoski said. “When you are a straight director doing a film about a gay icon, you have to kind of rehearse your sensibility. You have to understand the beauty of a man’s neck, a man’s thighs, or the bulge…just the portraiture of a man.” Even more plainly: “Basically, what is the appraisal of the dick?”
Karukoski got it right. His sexuality as director never intruded upon my experience viewing the film. I assumed he was gay. He’s not. He has a son, Oliver, with his wife Nadia. They live in Helsinki most of the time.
“I’m a…How do you say?” Karukoski wondered. “I’m a straight guy…but I’m as gay as a straight guy can get.”
Really?
“Part of the research is also watching hot guys,” Karukoski admitted. “A lot, a lot of hot guys.” The director felt compelled to understand how his hero looked at men. Apparently, there have been some long-lasting effects.
“This morning I was walking with my assistant,” he said, “who’s a woman.” “We were walking in the studios and there’s a really good-looking guy. I said to [her], in Finnish, ‘That’s a hot guy.’”
And she says, “I was just thinking the same thing.”
a&e features
Musical Mondays, a mainstay in WeHo nightlife, celebrates 16 years
MuMo will be honored by the City of West Hollywood for its dedication toward the arts
MuMo will be presented with a Proclamation from the City of West Hollywood for Service to the Community.
Nearly every Monday night for 16 years, throngs of musical theatre lovers, from the LGBTQ community and beyond, have gathered together to celebrate the arts and community. MuMo has become the ideal safe and creative space with a diverse crowd that reflects the Los Angeles community. Everyone is welcome as MuMo go-ers sing along to video clips from Broadway, movies and more, while some of the crowd get up and shadow cast what’s happening on the screen.
The evening, now residing at The Chapel at The Abbey, culminates in “The Live Spot,” featuring some of the best live performances L.A has to offer. Headliners change every week, ranging from cast members from Broadway national touring shows, to local theatre members, to names from the cabaret world. This is where theatre professionals come to play.
The energy and love in the air are electric and for many, this is the one night during the week that everyone can escape and shut out the trials of the outside world and immerse themselves in love, laughs, and musical magic. MuMo fans are fierce and loyal. As part of the “Your Name Under the Stars” initiative at The Hollywood Bowl, the crowd raised funds to have brass plaques put on three seats in section Q1. These plaques read “Musical Mondays Los Angeles”, “The Fans of MuMo,” and “And one for Mahler!”
Some of Broadway’s best–including a few Tony Award winners–have joined MuMo in the audience and on stage. Broadway legends like Neil Patrick Harris, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Billy Porter, Laura Benanti, Sutton Foster, Alex Newell, Valerie Pettiford, Obba Babatunde, Lillias White, Corbin Bleu, Matt Lucas, Megan Hilty, Jai Rodriguez, Terri White, Davis Gaines, Gedde Watanabe, Michael Feinstein, Bruce Vilanch and Blake Hammond have stopped by to enjoy the show.
On April 21st, MUMO will be presented with a Proclamation from the City of West Hollywood for Service to the Community, organized through the offices of Assemblymember Rick Chavez Zbur (AD-51) and WeHo City Council Member Danny Hang.
Photo credit MUMO
The masterminds behind MuMo are Ishka Maher, a long-time and fierce ally of the queer community and the evening’s emcee, Darin Sanone, a veteran in showbiz. The two of them make a veritable team as they continue their mission to provide a safe space for all to come and celebrate the arts. We caught up with them in anticipation of their big anniversary celebration.
Ishka Maher:
What was your inspiration for starting Musical Mondays?
We started Musical Mondays because there was simply a need for a theatrical musical event in WeHo. No one else was doing it or realized there was such an interest. What it’s grown into is very organic.
Musical Mondays has such a die-hard fan base that has been long-lasting. What makes the event so popular?
Our fan base has grown with the night. They grew with us. They are a part of who we’ve become.
What is it about musicals that brings everyone together?
Musicals are emotional magic. Unlike stories told on the screen, an audience watching a musical is encouraged to react and be a part of the action. It is emotional crowdsourcing.
What has been one of your favorite memories from Musical Mondays?
Every single week, there is a moment of joy when I get to witness a performer realize they’ve rocked it. Or the fans of MuMo have the audience howling with laughter. Or the bravery of a first-time singer. Or a group of friends meeting up in their favorite corner every week. These things bring me joy. Big events like our “Wicked” show nights, I’ll always remember.
What do you want audiences from Musical Mondays to walk away with the most?
When our audience walks away I want them to have felt like they’ve been a part of something special and unique. And to feel seen and welcomed into our goofy MuMo family.
What can we expect from Musical Mondays in the future?
I’m working constantly for our unique event to stay strong and be a part of the community. I know we have a strong fan base but I love it when celebrities and casts from touring shows hang out with us. I hope for more of that.
What do you love most about working in queer nightlife?
I’ve been working in the gay community of WeHo for 35 years. I feel blessed. It’s always dynamic, and you never know what to expect.
What is your message to Musical Mondays fans?
I want MuMo Fans to know that the night is strong in this space. We have the support of the Abbey and their amazing staff, and we plan to build on what we’ve been doing so successfully. It’s my favorite night of the week!
Photo credit MUMO
Darin Sanone:
You have been on stage and behind the scenes in Weho for quite a while. How has nightlife changed the most?
I have been on stage and behind the scenes in Weho for 26 years. Nightlife has changed tremendously. When I started in Weho in 1999 the vibe was definitely the circuit vibe. The Music was fast and hard and the party scene was fast and hard. Drugs were the norm and widely used. The bars were packed and people went out to meet potential dates or relationship candidates. Now people go out to dance or drink and leave dating and relationship searches to Apps on their phones. The music has changed, and so has the culture. Hip-hop is the preferred music of the people in clubs, and weed is the preferred substance to escape. People still drink alcohol, but they usually pregame at home or in their cars, and weed is much more popular than designer drugs or alcohol. Bar owners have to really work hard to get people into the clubs and then to get them to buy drinks. Without promoters and promotions, clubs cannot survive. Since Covid-19 almost every bar [and] nightclub in WeHo has changed ownership at least once. Some have changed owners twice and are well on their way to a third owner.
You are the emcee extraordinaire for Musical Mondays. What do you love most about doing this event week after week?
It is the highlight of my week!
The thing I love most about doing the Musical Mondays every week is the people! We get the best singers in L.A every week at Musical Mondays, both in the Live Spot Singer Showcase and after for Broadway Karaoke. It is the most accepting and supportive crowd in all of WeHo. Many people can feel intimidated by the West Hollywood crowd and scene. At Musical Mondays, everyone is welcomed and embraced. No one is made to feel less than. Almost every week, I am brought to tears by the singers who grace our stage. I have been a musical theater lover my entire life and have been performing musical productions since I was a very young child. The musical is the greatest contribution to the giant umbrella of music America has made. I love Musical Mondays and am grateful to be a part of the musical magic that happens at the Chapel every Monday night!
Photo credit Darin Sanone at MUMO
In your opinion, what makes Musical Mondays so popular in the community?
I believe what makes Musical Mondays so popular in Weho is a quadruple combination! This is our secret recipe! First, we have an amazing sound team. Keith Jacobson spins the best in Broadway and movie musical clips, and Greg Watkins is the best sound engineer in all of Weho! Greg makes every singer and musician sound phenomenal. I have had the pleasure of working with Greg on shows I have produced and hosted for 23 years. There is no one better in L.A! Our Second secret ingredient is the Fans of MuMo! The Fans of MuMo evolved organically back when Musical Mondays was at Club 11. The Fans, or as we sometimes call them, the “MuMo’s,” perform lip sync comedy routines to almost every video Keith plays. They are the most unique and talented crew of actors you will find in California, and they show up every week and pour their heart and soul into every Monday night. The third secret element to our success is the Live Spot, which is where I join the show. The Live Spot is a singer showcase with professional singers from L.A and the world. We have all of the best local musical productions showcasing their shows and many of the Broadway National Tours that pass through L.A! The caliber of singers [and] actors in our Live Spot is paralleled only by Broadway in New York City. The final ingredient to Musical Mondays’ success is the Broadway Karaoke segment. You never know who might show up for our Karaoke portion! We get professional Broadway and film actors, karaoke die-hards, influencers, drag superstars, beginning singers and a rainbow of beautiful souls! It is the most supportive community you will ever find at a karaoke event. Everyone shines!
Why is celebrating musicals so important right now?
Celebrating musicals is so important right now for many reasons. Most importantly is the fact that the LGBTQ community is under assault in America right now.
Secondly, musical theater embraces and celebrates diversity. It is 100% supportive of the LGBTQ community and of all races in our globe. As America moves back toward racism and homophobia, Broadway marches forward, spotlighting racial diversity and sexual identity inclusion. Music and the musical unite people in love through song and dance.
As a performer, how do you feel with politics getting so involved with the arts right now? How do we fight back?
Politics has always been so involved in the arts. The best music is political. The best theatre is political. Politics is what fuels much of the arts. The Beatles, U2, Marvin Gaye, Bob Marley, Bob Dylan, Nina Simone, Pink Floyd, Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, Crosby Stills Nash and Young, Bruce Springsteen, Joan Baez, The Sex Pistols, Green Day, The Police, Madonna, and Lady Gaga are all famous because they were and are political.
ART IS POLITICAL! MUSIC IS POLITICAL IF IT’S GOOD! THEATER IS POLITICAL IF IT’S GOOD!
We fight back by voting, protesting, boycotting and most importantly by loving.
What do you love most about working in LA queer nightlife?
What I love most about working in WeHo nightlife is the beautiful colors of the rainbow. WeHo is for everyone, not just the LGBTQ community. West Hollywood has become much more like Europe in the last 25 years. The LGBTQ community now parties with the straight community. Nobody in the younger generations cares a bit what someone does in the bedroom. The youth of America don’t segregate themselves. The only way the LGBTQ community will survive in America during this dangerous time is if our straight friends stand up for us. We must allow our WeHo spaces to be safe for all of the rainbow. If WeHo doesn’t embrace everyone, especially our straight allies, the LGBTQ community will be in concentration camps wearing pink stars or worse. The greatest power is love. WeHo nightlife is ever evolving and as Darwin teaches us, survival happens for the most adaptable.
Adapt or perish!
Embrace all of the people. Musical Mondays is for everyone Gay, Straight. Bisexual, Trans, Black, White, Brown, and Pink! We are the Pink Pony Club–never forget that.
What is your message to Musical Mondays fans?
Thank you for supporting me, live performance and the greatest contribution of America to the genre of music–the Broadway Musical.
God bless WeHo! God Bless America! God bless Musical Mondays!
Photo courtesy of MUMO
For more information on MUMO, head to MuMoWeHo.com
a&e features
No longer just a go-go dancer, Prince Joshua debuts ‘Crowned’ EP
This WeHo go-go dancer and socialite shares his life beyond the dancing box
In this new “Meet Your Locals” column, we highlight the journey of a talented local dancer and emerging musical artist as part of Los Angeles Blade’s mission to get to know our community, we continue to do a deep dive into the personalities who make up the queer culture of Los Angeles.
Across queer bars along the West Coast, audiences and nightlife enthusiasts have come to appreciate Prince Joshua’s electrifying dance performances during his go-go sets. While renowned for his impressive dance skills, Prince took a career pivot last year by reintroducing himself as a musical artist with the release of “Coochie” by Baddie Gang.
In January of this year, Prince released his debut EP, “Crowned.” The project offers a deep dive into his personal experiences within nightlife culture, touching on themes such as navigating catcalling, dating, celebrating life and more.
We sat with Prince Joshua to get the exclusive insight on his new music.
Tell us your story of moving to LA:
I had always dreamed of moving to Hollywood and being on stages entertaining people. It’s amazing to fast-forward to living that exact lifestyle with dancing at bars like the world famous Abbey [bar] every weekend and entertaining my community as my job. Growing up in a small conservative town I never felt like the world was made for someone like me, the world I grew up in was made for heterosexual people who live ordinary lives. As I grew into the eccentric and charismatic homosexual that I am, I realized I needed to live somewhere where the things I was bullied for, would be celebrated. West Hollywood was made for people like me, people who dress up to express themselves, who aren’t afraid to be unapologetically themselves, and most importantly genuinely be who they are.
What do you love most about life in LA?
I love being surrounded by people with as much ambition and dreams as I have. There’s so much room in the sky for every star to shine and it makes me so excited when I hear that my friends are working on something new to achieve their goals and dreams. We’re all out here putting in hard work to make our art stand out and be seen, being around so much creativity and creatives helps push myself to chase my own dreams and hustle to achieve them.
Many people know you for your dancing, What got you into making music?
I’ve always had a love for poetry and have written songs and poems before, but my friend Tokeyo really pushed me into making music when he asked me to feature a verse on his song “Coochie.” I have such strong love for hip-hop and rap that once I learned the process of making my own verse, I wanted to continue making more. I began finding beats and writing songs which lead me to release my first EP with six songs and three music videos.
Who is your favorite artist?
None other than the queen of rap herself – Nicki Minaj. From her undisputed discography of hits, iconic visuals and unique delivery, she has inspired all of today’s current rappers from her use of voice animation, flow switching, metaphors and punch lines all in a perfectly constructed way.
Who is your favorite queer artist?
Kim Petras has been one of my favorite pop girls since 2018. When I heard heart to break I instantly loved the artist. “Turn Off The Light” projects volumes one and two are some of my favorite works of hers. Spooky horror inspired pop music & she’s queer – it can’t get any better than that!
What do you hope to accomplish with your music?
I hope to give anyone who listens to my music the confidence to unapologetically be themselves and bust a move. I want people to dance, be themselves and not be ashamed by doing so. I used to get insecure when others would hear what music I listened to or saw me dancing or singing along, but I’ve learned something that has really reshaped my thoughts on that; no one’s opinion matters but your own, if it brings you joy and doesn’t harm anyone in the process, then go for it!
What do you love most about performing in the queer LA nightlife?
I just love the energy and fashion from my community. Seeing the incredible outfits of each individual expressing themselves their way with their own aesthetic is such a beautiful sight. When people see how hard you hustle and how much work you put into your art it’s an amazing feeling to see a crowd sing along, dance, or even stand shocked at what I’m doing on the stage. Just like Lady Gaga’s iconic, “I Live For The Applause.”
What are some misconceptions people have performers in LA?
A lot of people mistake dancers for porn stars and while they both have some similarities, not every dancer is a porn star and vice versa. Coming from a cheer background I put so many elements into my dancing and rap performances, such as kicks, splits, toe touches, etc. It’s so much more work than just having a nice body. While I respect and appreciate what porn actors do, I wish people wouldn’t put go-go dancers and porn actors in the same categories as they usually do. We entertain in very different ways, both taking a lot of hard work, but still very different worlds.
What are your favorite places to perform and why?
I love performing for music festivals. OutLoud’s WeHo Pride is one of my favorite events where I’ve not only had the opportunity to go-go dance but also perform my own music on stage. Seeing so many people in the crowd, being part of a sickening line up and getting to go all out in my ‘Princely’ way brings me a feeling of accomplishment and adrenaline like none other.
SUMMERTRAMP is another queer festival I’ve had the chance to perform at which I’m so grateful for. Every time I get to share my music to my community if I inspire just one person in the crowd to smile, dance, or embrace their inner selves then I know I’ve done my job.
How does being queer inform your music?
As I’ve stated before, this world was made for heterosexual, ordinary people. My music is made to take you out of that pouring world and into my eccentric queer and royal fantasy. Not many queer people can relate to the regular top 40 songs because they are all from a heterosexual lens. With my music, I hope that people can relate to my experiences or at least my experience as a queer person and be able to embrace their sexuality by giving them music that is made for them.
How do you balance your personal life with your professional life?
When you are chasing a dream while hustling as an entertainer your entire life is consumed with said dream. In my free time I am often stretching, working out, writing new music, or planning my next music video or photo shoot. My passion is my job so I never feel like my personal life is suffering when I’m consumed with working on what I love to do, but making sure I give myself time to rest and recharge is a vital key to ensuring I don’t burn out. I try to always give myself one day a week where I don’t focus on work or projects and allow myself to rest and recharge.
Any advice to people who want to start making music or dancing?
Just go for it! You’re always gonna be your own worst critic, but at the end of the day, you will see so much growth when you just allow yourself to put out the art that you’ve created and continue making new art. Find a support group that can help you level up whatever it is. You’re passionate about and continue pushing yourself to be better than you were the day before.
What’s next for your music career?
Right now im working on my next EP and I’m so thrilled because I know it’s better than my first. Being able to see my own growth inspires me so much to keep creating. You can also expect some collaborations with other up and coming queer artists!
What message do you have for the queer community?
Every day you wake up, you have the chance to genuinely be yourself and encourage others to do the same. While there’s so much in this world working against us, there are so many of us in the community to lean on and look for support when you feel alone. Be unapologetically yourself, stand strong with your friends and family within the community and take up as much space as you can by using your voice, sharing your art and being yourself.
To keep up with Prince, follow him on Instagram.
Rose Montoya is a renowned, award-winning, Trans, Latina, writer, advocate, educator, model, actor and viral content creator.
a&e features
Fashion icon Isaac Mizrahi brings performances to the West Coast
The legendary fashion designer and entertainment icon Isaac Mizrahi to perform in California
Isaac Mizrahi’s talents are many, equally at home in the worlds of fashion, entertainment and theatre. As a designer, he redefined elegance and innovation, making his mark with iconic collections and runway shows. But Mizrahi’s artistry doesn’t stop there. He’s captivated audiences as a Broadway star, a beloved television personality and a multifaceted performer with a gift for storytelling and humor. His unique ability to seamlessly blend wit, charm and deep creative expression, has earned him fans across every medium he touches.
Now he’s taking his talents back to the stage with an exciting new cabaret tour.
Ahead of his anticipated tour, we sat with Mizrahi to talk about his artistic process, stepping back into the spotlight and what to expect from his upcoming performances.
Can you give us a taste of your conception process? Share with us some of the inspiration for your upcoming show.
Though I think my act plays as well on a larger stage as it does in a cabaret, I think about the show I do as something that changes a lot the way a cabaret show does. My process starts with collecting ideas and writing monologues which I internalize, and which are always evolving. The music rehearsals are really important, in terms of coming up with arrangements that sound fresh. Also there’s a chemistry I have with the musicians that motivates me to express myself, to entertain them, make them laugh.
When did you first get the itch to step into the spotlight and how did it feel to step onto the stage for the first time?
You might know I was a trained performer before I was a clothing designer. I went to Performing Arts High School in NYC and I had every intention of continuing my ambition in show business but I got scared because I was a fat kid, not attractive, in a class full of gorgeous people whom I thought were much more cast-able than me. So I did the grown-up thing and subverted into the clothing business which was not a terrible idea. I’m pretty good at that too. But now I’m focusing my efforts in show business and when I step on stage and do well, the rewards are huge. It’s a dream come true, to use a very cliche phrase that in this case really nails the feeling.
Million Dollar Question: what are the most undeniable differences between performing for East and West Coast audiences?
Especially now in this crazy world we are living in, I feel very little difference between the West and East coast. I did a few shows last month in Florida and Arizona where I was treading lightly. When I started those shows I was a little scared they might not react in the way I expected but it was incredible because they were with me the entire time. But I will say those shows I did have to temper slightly. This kind of entertainment is inherently political. The minute a performer takes the stage they show who they are, it’s political whether it’s cabaret or concert. An audience knows who they are looking at. In the West [or] East coast of it right now, I’m really looking forward to being in California, a state that I feel very at home in.
You’re no stranger to reality television. Here’s a two-parter, brace yourself: Can you share one story with us about a reality tv appearance of yours that will make our readers gasp? Between RuPauls Drag Race, Project Runway and The Apprentice, which host called on the most foundation?
I will say in retrospect, having been on The Apprentice makes me gasp! And it wasn’t once I was on that show as a judge – twice. And though there’s no need to apologize, it does bear saying that even when I got the booking, I was furious at my manager for accepting it! Even before he was president, he was distasteful. But who knew?
What are some of your thoughts on today’s politics and their impact on the arts and the lives of the artists creating it?
I’m feeling devastated and exhausted not just about the policies on the arts but on every policy. And not just the obvious ones. The crazy trade wars that are being waged. This is only going to mean that everything is going to get even harder. And not just that t-shits and jeans are going to get more expensive. Tickets will be harder to sell. Food will be triple the price. What a disaster.
Fashion design, cabaret performer, actor, seems like you know how to keep yourself busy from one project to the next. That said, there’s no denying the importance of self care. What are some things you do to disconnect and reset on your downtime (assuming that you have downtime)?
I have a small place in Bridgehampton where I stay when I’m not working. I have two dogs and a husband. I love being there together with them. I love cooking. I love reading. And when I’m in the city I love going to the theatre and museums. I guess this sounds really boring.
With all that you do, I’m sure there have been some unexpected hiccups over the years. Can you share with us an experience of a time when things did not go to plan?
I feel like life is one long hiccup. When it seems obvious to the world that I’m experiencing a hiccup, as in 1998 when I closed my couture business or 2013 when I closed it for the second time, those times were weirdly freeing. Right now I feel very threatened by the current economy, by the instability of all industries and in the chaos being sown around the world. Right now, I would say, is a huge hiccup time.
Would you rather: grab brunch with Stephen Sondheim or have a spa day with Heidi Klum?
Sondheim and I were great friends. I wish he were alive to have lunch, though he wasn’t much for lunch, I suspect we would have dinner and then go see a show or play bridge… we played bridge together. I like Heidi too!
In one elaborately phrased sentence, can you tell us what to expect when we come to see your upcoming cabaret show?
In one sentence – when you come see my show you will be surprised and hopefully you will laugh and hear stories and music you did not expect to hear.
For tour information and tickets, head to his website.
a&e features
Meet the chef who built his legacy in the LGBTQ+ community
He is an icon in the Hollywood culinary scene and a fierce ally in the LGBTQ community
Editor’s note: The interview with Chef Juan featured in this article was done in Spanish and translated accordingly for this article, but kept in its original format.
Juan Raigosa Chavez is the living embodiment of the American dream that many can only hope for. During his 40-year culinary journey, he was able to become a legal citizen and has enjoyed the privileges of living and working in Los Angeles for four decades.
Chef Juan migrated here from Zacatecas, Mexico in 1985 and since then he has worked his way up to his current position as one of West Hollywood’s most beloved chefs in the LGBTQ+ bar scene.
He started his journey as a dishwasher and through his hard work, dedication to achieving the American dream and meticulous work ethic, he was able to climb the ranks in the kitchen team hierarchy.
“Primero empecé lavando platos en 1985 en Marix Tex Mex [Café] en Hollywood. Y después me hice preparador, después me hice cocinero. Y luego me hicieron kitchen manager, primero de Marix y luego de Basix Café haciendo creatividad de menús, variedad de comida, y más,” nos dice Chef Juan. “Me mandaron a las mejores escuelas culinarias de San Francisco pagados por la dueña de Basix.”
“First, I started washing dishes in 1985 at Marix Tex Mex [Café] in Hollywood. Then, I was promoted to food prep, then kitchen cook. Finally, I became kitchen manager—first at Marix and then an Basix Café—creating menus and a variety of dishes,” said Chef Juan. “[The restaurant owners] sent me to the best culinary schools in San Francisco, all paid for by the owners.”
Chef Juan was living the American dream and had worked very hard to get to the position he was in when Covid-19 hit and many restaurants, including both Marix and Basix were forced to close. As of earlier this year, it seems like Marix Tex Mex Café is apparently set to re-open at the same location, while the location Basix was in, is still up for lease.
WeHo times first reported that workers have been adding finishing touches to the exterior of the building, but the significant delay in re-opening is due to extensive water damage that happened while the location was closed.
“Mucha gente lloró, porque teníamos más de cuarenta personas a mi cargo allí,” recalls Chef Juan.
“A lot of people cried because there were over forty people who worked under my leadership during that time,” said Chef Juan.
He was laid-off for two years and then when he stopped receiving federal assistance, he uploaded his resume online and the previous owners of GymBar WeHo, immediately called him up to hire him as their chef.
During his time at Marix and Basix, he says he gained a lot of valuable experience and gained a deep respect for the rich and diverse community of Hollywood.
Within three days of uploading his resume, he was hired.
“No duraron ni tres días cuando ya estaba contratado por que, como te dire–me hice un poco famoso,” Chef Juan tells the Los Angeles Blade. “Muchos de la ‘community’ me reconocen.”
“Not even three days passed until I was fully hired, because how do I say this? I guess I got a little bit famous,” Chef Juan tells the Los Angeles Blade. “A lot of people in the community recognize me.”
At that moment, a patron from the restaurant kindly interrupted the interview to say goodbye to Chef Juan and thank him for the food.
“Si ves, siempre me saludan porque me conocen y saben quién soy,” nos dice Chef Juan.
“See? People always say hello to me because they recognize me and know who I am,” Chef Juan tells us.
He also tells us that many people who know that he started working at GymBar have asked him to recreate some of his famous dishes from when he worked at Marix and Basix.
Chef Juan says his favorite part about working in a kitchen is his ability and freedom to create new dishes and elevate recipes that have always been staple dishes in his life and culture.
Due to his heartwarming attitude, friendly face and incomparable work ethic, he is now a sought-after chef and iconic member of the Hollywood community.
“Bastante gente me ha buscado desde que empecé aquí,” said Chef Juan.
“Plenty of people have looked for me here since I started,” said Chef Juan.
When asked how he wins over new customers, he said he likes to start off by asking customers what their favorite dishes are and then he builds on that until he’s able to find something that they are excited to try.
He spoke passionately about how much he loves to win over new customers and continue to impress his loyal customers. He says that to avoid mistakes, he likes to personally train each person who works under him, saying this is how he ensures the quality of the food is consistently to his standards.
“Es hacer las cosas con amor—porque cuando estás enojado no te va a salir bien—la comida te sale perfecta,” said Chef Juan.
“It’s about doing everything with love so it comes out perfect, because when you’re angry, nothing will taste right,” said Chef Juan.
It goes without saying that he is an icon and when we asked him how he felt about his entire career and legacy being built around the LGBTQ+ community of West Hollywood as a Latin American person, his answer was heartwarming.
“I love my people of West Hollywood, my neighborhood and for me it’s all normal,” said Chef Juan in both English and Spanish. “For many people, I understand it’s scary, but I understand [them] and I love my people no matter what they do.”
Chef Juan continues his legacy as he celebrates his 40th year, now working at WeHo’s GymBar, which is run by one of the Dodgers executive’s, along with his husband. As an avid Dodger fan, Chef Juan has also had the opportunity to participate in cooking demonstrations led by chefs at Dodger Stadium. GymBar WeHo is actually one of the only other locations in LA—other than Dodger Stadium that sells the authentic Dodger Dog.
Now that baseball season is underway, Chef Juan invites everyone in the nearby communities to join them for a game and a Dodger Dog.
a&e features
Creator Max Mutchnick on inspirations for ‘Mid-Century Modern’
Real-life friendships and loss inform plot of new Hulu show
It’s been a long time – maybe 25 years when “Will & Grace” debuted – since there’s been so much excitement about a new, queer sitcom premiering. “Mid-Century Modern,” which debuted on Hulu last week, is the creation of Max Mutchnick and David Kohan, the gay men who were also behind “Will & Grace.”
Set in Palm Springs, Calif., following the death of the one of their closest friends, three gay men gather to mourn. Swept up in the emotions of the moment, Bunny (Nathan Lane) suggests that Atlanta-based flight attendant Jerry (Matt Bomer) and New York-based fashion editor Arthur (Nathan Lee Graham) move into the mid-century modern home he shares with his mother Sybil (the late Linda Lavin). Over the course of the first season’s 10 episodes, hilarity ensues. That is, except for the episode in which they address Sybil’s passing. The three male leads are all fabulous, and the ensemble cast, including Pamela Adlon as Bunny’s sister Mindy, and the stellar line-up of guest stars, such as Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Vanessa Bayer, Richard Kind, and Cheri Oteri, keep humor buzzing. Shortly before the premiere of “Mid-Century Modern,” Mutchnick made time for an interview with the Blade.
BLADE: I’d like to begin by saying it’s always a delight to speak to a fellow Emerson College alum. In ways would you say that Emerson impacted your professional and creative life?
MAX MUTCHNICK: I think Emerson was the first place that reflected back to me that my voice, my thoughts were good, and they were worth listening to. I developed a confidence at Emerson that did not exist in my body and soul. It was a collection of a lot of things that took place in Boston, but I mean we can just put it all under the Emerson umbrella.
BLADE: Before “Will & Grace,” you co-created the NBC sitcom “Boston Common,” which starred fellow Emerson alum Anthony Clark. Is it important for you to maintain those kinds of alumni relationships?
MUTCHNICK: Because Emersonians are such scrappy little monkeys and they end up being everywhere in the world, you can’t help but work with someone from Emerson at some point in your career. I’m certainly more inclined to engage with someone from Emerson once I learn that they went to my alma mater. For me, it has much more to do with history and loyalty. I don’t think of myself as one of those guys that says, “Loyalty means a lot to me. I’m someone that really leans into history.” It’s just what my life and career turned out to be. The longer I worked with people and the more often I worked with them, the safer that I felt, which means that I was more creative and that’s the name of the game. I’ve got to be as comfortable as possible so I can be as creative as possible. If that means that a person from Emerson is in the room, so be it. (Costume designer) Lori Eskowitz would be the Emerson version. And then (writer and actor) Dan Bucatinsky would be another version. When I’m around them for a long time, that’s when the best stuff comes.
BLADE: Relationships are important. On that subject, your new Hulu sitcom “Mid-Century Modern” is about the longstanding friendship among three friends, Bunny (Nathan Lane), Jerry (Matt Bomer), and Arthur (Nathan Lee Graham). Do you have a friendship like the one shared by these three men?
MUTCHNICK: I’m absolutely engaged in a real version of what we’re projecting on the show. I have that in my life. I cannot say that I’m Jerry in any way, but the one thing that we do have in common is that in my group, I’m the young one. But I think that that’s very common in these families that we create. There’s usually a young one. Our culture is built on learning from our elders. I didn’t have a father growing up, so maybe that made me that much more inclined to seek out older, wiser, funnier, meaner friends. I mean the reason why you’re looking at a mouthful of straight, white teeth is because one of those old bitches sat across from me about 25 years ago at a diner and said, “Girl, your teeth are a disaster, and you need to get that fixed immediately.” What did I know? I was just a kid from Chicago with two nickels in my pocket. But I found three nickels and I went and had new teeth put in my head. But that came from one of my dearest in the group.
BLADE: Do you think that calling “Mid-Century Modern” a gay “Golden Girls” is a fair description?
MUTCHNICK: No. I think the gay “Golden Girls” was really just used as a tool to pitch the show quickly. We have an expression in town, which is “give me the elevator pitch,” because nobody has an attention span. The fastest way you can tell someone what David (Kohan) and I wanted to write, was to say, “It’s gay Golden Girls.” When you say that to somebody, then they say, “OK, sit down now, tell me more.” We did that and then we started to dive into the show and realized pretty quickly that it’s not the gay “Golden Girls.” No disrespect to the “Golden Girls.” It’s a masterpiece.
BLADE: “Mid-Century Modern” is set in Palm Springs. I’m based in Fort Lauderdale, a few blocks south of Wilton Manors, and I was wondering if that gay enclave was ever in consideration for the setting, or was it always going to be in Palm Springs?
MUTCHNICK: You just asked a really incredible question! Because, during COVID, Matt Bomer and I used to walk, because we live close by. We had a little walking group of a few gay gentlemen. On one of those walks, Matt proposed a comedy set in Wilton Manors. He said it would be great to title the show “Wilton Manors.” I will tell you that in the building blocks of what got us to “Mid-Century Modern,” Wilton Manors, and that suggestion from Matt Bomer on our COVID walks, was part of it.
BLADE: Is Sybil, played by the late Linda Lavin, modeled after a mother you know?
MUTCHNICK: Rhea Kohan (mother of David and Jenji). When we met with Linda for the first time over Zoom, when she was abroad, David and I explained to her that this was all based on Rhea Kohan. In fact, some of the lines that she (Sybil) speaks in the pilot are the words that Jenji Kohan spoke about her mother in her eulogy at the funeral because it really summed up what the character was all about. Yes, it’s very much based on someone.
BLADE: The Donny Osmond jokes in the second episode of “Mid-Century Modern” reminded me of the Barry Manilow “fanilows” on “Will & Grace.” Do you know if Donny is aware that he’s featured in the show?
MUTCHNICK: I don’t. To tell you the truth, the “fanilow” episode was written when I was not on the show. I was on a forced hiatus, thanks to Jeff Zucker. That was a show that I was not part of. We don’t really work that way. The Donny Osmond thing came more from Matt’s character being a Mormon, and also one of the writers. It’s very important to mention that the writing room at “Mid-Century Modern,” is (made up of) wonderful and diverse and colorful incredible humans – one of them is an old, white, Irish guy named Don Roos who’s brilliant…
BLADE: …he’s Dan Bucatinsky’s husband.
MUTCHNICK: Right! Dan is also part of the writing room. But I believe it was Don who had a thing for Donny, and that’s where it comes from. I don’t know if Donny has any awareness. The only thing I care about when we turn in an episode like that is I just want to hear from legal that we’re approved.
BLADE: “Mid-Century Modern” also includes opportunities for the singers in the cast. Linda Lavin sang the Jerome Kern/Ira Gershwin tune “Long Ago (And Far Away)” and Nathan Lane and the guys sang “He Had It Coming” from “Chicago.” Was it important to give them the chance to exercise those muscles?
MUTCHNICK: I don’t think it was. I think it really is just the managers’ choice. David Kohan and I like that kind of stuff, so we write that kind of stuff. But by no means was there an edict to write that. We know what our cast is capable of, and we will absolutely exploit that if we’re lucky enough to have a second season. I have a funky relationship with the song “Long Ago (And Far Away).” It doesn’t float my boat, but everybody else loved it. We run a meritocracy, and the best idea will out. That’s how that song ended up being in the show. I far prefer the recording of Linda singing “I’ll Be Seeing You” over her montage in episode eight, “Here’s To You, Mrs. Schneiderman.” We were just lucky that Linda had recorded that. That recording was something that she had done and sent to somebody during COVID because she was held up in her apartment. That’s what motivated her to make that video and send it. That’s how we were able to use that audio.
BLADE: Being on a streaming service like Hulu allows for characters to say things they might not get away with on network TV, including a foreskin joke, as well as Sybil’s propensity for cursing.
MUTCHNICK: And the third line in the show is about him looking like a “reluctant bottom.” I don’t think that’s something you’re going to see on ABC anytime soon. David and I liked the opportunity to open up the language of this show because it might possibly open the door to bringing people…I’m going to mix metaphors…into the tent that have never been there before. A generation that writes off a sitcom because that language and that type of comedy isn’t the way that they sound. One of the gifts of doing this show on Hulu is that we get to write dialogue that sounds a little bit more like you and I sound. As always, we don’t want to do anything just to do it.
BLADE: It didn’t feel that way.
MUTCHNICK: It’s there when it’s right. [Laughs] I want to have a shirt made with Linda’s line, as her mother always used to say, “Time is a cunt.”
BLADE: “Mid-Century Modern” also utilizes a lot of Jewish humor. How important is it for you to include that at this time when there is a measurable rise in anti-Semitism?
MUTCHNICK: I think it’s important, but I don’t think it’s the reason why we did it. We tried very hard to not write from a place of teaching or preaching. We really are just writing about the stuff that makes us laugh. One of the things that makes something better and something that you can invest in is if it’s more specific. We’re creating a character whose name is Bunny Schneiderman and his mother’s name is Sybil and they made their money in a family-run business, it gets Jewy, and we’re not going to shy away from it. But we’re definitely not going to address what’s going on in the world. That doesn’t mean I don’t find it very upsetting, but I’m writing always from the point of view of entertaining the largest number of people that I can every week.
BLADE: “Mid-Century Modern” has a fantastic roster of guest stars including Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Vanessa Bayer, Billie Lourd, Cheri Oteri, Richard Kind, Rhea Perlman, and Judd Hirsch. Are there plans to continue that in future seasons?
MUTCHNICK: Yes. As I keep saying, if we’re so lucky that we get to continue, I don’t want to do “The Love Boat.” Those are fine comic actors, so I don’t think it feels like that. But if we get to keep going, what I want to do is broaden the world because that gives us more to write about. I want to start to introduce characters that are auxiliary to the individuals. I want to start to meet Arthur’s family, so we can return to people. I want to introduce other neighbors, and different types of gay men because we come in so many different flavors. I think that we should do that only because I’m sure it’s what your life is and it’s what my life is. I’ve got a lot of different types. So, yes, we will be doing more.
BLADE: Finally, Linda Lavin passed away in December 2024, and in a later episode, the subject of her character Sybil’s passing is handled sensitively, including the humorous parts.
MUTCHNICK: We knew we had a tall order. We suffered an incredible loss in the middle of making this comedy. One of the reasons why I think this show works is because we are surrounded by a lot of really talented people. Jim Burrows and Ryan Murphy, to name two. Ryan played a very big role in telling us that it was important that we address this, that we address it immediately. That we show the world and the show goes on. That wasn’t my instinct because I was so inside the grief of losing a friend, because she really was. It wasn’t like one of those showbizzy-type relationships. And this is who she was, by the way, to everybody at the show. It was the way that we decided to go. Let’s write this now. Let’s not put this at the end of the season. Let’s not satellite her in. Let’s not “Darren Stevens” the character, which is something we would never do. The other thing that Jim Burrows made very clear to us was the import of the comedy. You have to write something that starts exactly in the place that these shows start. A set comedy piece that takes place in the kitchen. Because for David and me, as writers, we said we just want to tell the truth. That’s what we want to do with this episode and that’s the way that this will probably go best for us. The way that we’ve dealt with grief in our lives is with humor. That is the way that we framed writing this episode. We wanted it to be a chapter from our lives, and how we experience this loss and how we recover and move on.
a&e features
Over a dozen renowned queer poets, authors to come together for literary event
Precinct DTLA will host free event celebrating poetry
During a time when members of politics seem hell-bent on keeping queer voices silenced, Los Angles continues to be home to a thriving, queer community of poets. On March 28th at 5 pm, 19 renowned LGBTQ+ poets and authors from across the country will be tongue tied at Precinct in Downtown Los Angeles for a free poetry event titled ‘Tongue Tied.’
This group of writers will be reading their queerest work while shibari bondage artist Jupiter will create rope ties on the poets while they perform. The night asks: what does it mean to create under restraint?
The mastermind behind Poetry Unbound is Brian Sonia-Wallace, a leading figure in the literary world with published work and who also served as the 4th Poet Laureate of West Hollywood. He is also a performance artist who has written poetry for strangers in the most unconventional of ways. We talked with Sonia-Wallace about his career, the literary community in L.A and what to expect from the event.
What was your first exposure to poetry, and what attracted you to get into that literary genre?
I was a fantasy nerd growing up and loved the songs and spells in Tolkien, CS Lewis, Ursula Le Guin, and Susan Cooper. The idea that you could invent a world with words — and new languages to inhabit that world — blew my little gay mind. Wizards always need a magic word.
This has, I think, affected my view of poetry in the world. I have, well, an academic interest in poetry’s history and structure, but I’m more curious about how pure language can short-circuit our ability to feel. People use poetry — at weddings, at funerals, on anniversaries. I think the goal of all artists is to say the ‘unsayable’ and in that little piece of magic make it suddenly sayable by anyone. Poetry feels to me like the most pure way to do this.
How does your queerness add to your poetry?
I think queer people are natural poets — we’re masters of the ‘unsayable.’ We’ve all had long conversations with ourselves before deciding whether or not to let anyone in.
As a type of performance art meets poetry, you have literally written poetry for strangers on the street. What is your mission with this type of writing?
Capitalism, baby! Honestly, this is how I accidentally started my business (we do lots of everything from weddings to corporate events to museums now with poets at typewriters).
But getting a little deeper, let me share this passage from my book:
“It seems to me that most people just need their stories to be heard. And that need is the right word. That we lose something when our stories are not heard. That something not only in us, but in the world, dies.
With every poem I write, I remember that the value of a story doesn’t depend on how many likes or retweets it gets, or how many people it reaches.
Sometimes, just one person hearing a story — is enough.”
-The Poetry of Strangers
Does any particular stranger you wrote for stick out in your memory?
So we did an event this week for Sketchers (thanks for the shoes, Sketchers!) where I got to write for various shoe executives from around the country. Almost all the women wanted poems about their kids, toddlers or young adults, on whom these mothers had spent so many thankless hours. About half of them cried, hearing their stories reflected back – having them witnessed. How often is that love and labor seen and acknowledged?
Likewise, one young man spent 15 minutes just pouring out his gratitude for his mom. She was his biggest cheerleader growing up, and when he packed up to move for this job a quilt she made him was the first thing he packed and unpacked. Who else can a man gush to about his mom?
Finally, an older man, from the South, white-haired, almost-military-bearing. Traditional, you understand. Who knows how he voted? I didn’t ask. He wanted a poem for his mom. The first thing he told me was that she was an alcoholic, but had been sober 30+ years, ever since his daughter was born and he’d given her an ultimatum: booze or the grandkid. The grandkid won. And now grandma was dying of cancer, he felt guilty his wife was taking care of her back home. His mom could always laugh at herself, he told me. He remembered when he was six her running down the sidelines with him all the way to a touchdown in a peewee football game.
After I read him his poem, he hugged me so hard the event photographer practically jumped on top of us and started snapping photos, eager to capture the emotion.
It’s become cliche to talk about the crisis of masculinity in the US. What these experiences show me is that there’s a vulnerability and even an eagerness to engage with it, but we’re not always helping people find the tools. Therapy is one. But so’s poetry. So’s bowling. You know. Being with people. Seeing and being seen.
You also served as the fourth West Hollywood City Poet Laureate for a number of years. What was your biggest accomplishment or best memory from serving in that position?
The Laureateship taught me so much and really helped me feel like I could and should speak about and with our community. I think I’m most proud of helping re-start the APLA Health Writers’ Group for older adults living with HIV, which has existed since 1989 but was defunct until we relaunched it on Zoom during the COVID lockdowns. That, or the poetry walk on Santa Monica Blvd on the median strip west of The Abbey, check it out!
One of my goals is always to bring poetry to unlikely places, and where better to start in WeHo than the gay bars on the Santa Monica Blvd strip? We started an open mic at Micky’s and now are at The Wild (check out our UnBound series, March 19 is the next one!) — it’s been a joy running an event that focuses on people’s voices and stories in places that are often purely physical, and creating a platform for hundreds of artists in our community.
Tongue Tied — what is the correlation between poetry and shibari?
When Jupiter first tied me up I knew I had to get him for a poetry show. The work he does with shibari, the exploration of discomfort and trust, felt weirdly similar to what I do, emotionally, at the typewriter. It’s about a moment of intentionality and slowing down that has the potential to be transformational.
That said, I’m also a theater person and get bored at poetry readings. I need visuals! Cue: watching poets get tied up. I love the juxtaposition, the reminder that these minds are also bodies, and the challenge to the poets to not just come do their usual schtick but to have a genuine, first-time moment with their work and with all of us.
You have quite an impressive group of poets for this event, how did you gather them all together?
Gosh, some great people said yes, didn’t they? These queens have Pulitzers and professorships. I’ve attended the AWP Conference for three years now, and built relationships through that time — but I’ve also just been a fan and asked! There’s nothing like when your idol says they’ll do your show.
What do you want the audience to walk away with the most from experiencing Tongue Tied?
I hope they leave tongue-tied! Ok, ok, I couldn’t resist. I hope folks will go away having seen something they’ve never seen before and will never see again, that they find their new favorite artist, befriend their idol, and, if they’ve never written a poem before, promptly go and do so.
Tell us about the thriving queer poetry community in Los Angeles.
LA is one of those cities where I’m constantly finding out about new events and pockets I’d never heard of. The Nonfiction Show at Nico’s Wines in Glendale? So cool! Empty Trash (formerly at The Ruby Fruit)? How do they get these writers?! Act 3 Open Mic in DTLA (@act3openmic)? So many queer rappers practicing their craft.
And that’s not counting the bookstores. I don’t know if you’ve been following the news, but reading is gay now. Always has been.
What are the biggest challenges facing a queer poet in today’s social and political climate?
It’s a sign of my middling success in the literary world that none of my books has been banned yet, and I’ve been known to talk about trans witches and pups getting fisted, so go figure. But we know about book banning.
I think the thing we’ll be seeing coming up is a shift in our language. Queer folks have always developed their own language to pass undetected (think Polari) and now as we’re seeing the widespread destruction of funding and even mention of anything BTQ+ and even LG, I’m thinking with some smart people about how to shore up support at the local level and lie convincingly, in a way that lets only friend in, at the national level.
It’s bleak, but we’ve always found each other. Always will.
What else can we look forward to from your group this year?
Pride Poets will be at the WeHo/LGBT Center’s Pride Arts Festival, and partnering with Beverly Hills to help with their 4th ever Pride celebration — and look out for some poetics at World Pride in DC as well! I have a commission out there premiering that week at a certain highly reputable institution with a new cheeto-haired chairman, if I don’t blow it by being too gay first.
What is your message to the queer community?
Be gay, do crime.
Always gotta lead with that. But really: find your people, trust your people are out there, and don’t be afraid of anyone, especially yourself.
Event Details:
Location: Precinct, 357 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013
Date & Time: Friday March 28, 5-7 pm
Free Admission
The featured poets include Pulitzer Prize winners, Poets Laureate, professors, activists, and published authors: Paul Tran, Chen Chen, Lloyd Schwartz, Kai Coggin, Shangyang Fang, Benjamin Garcia, Sam Sax, Randall Mann, Armen Davoudian, Gustavo Hernandez, Hieu Minh Nguyen, Yazmin Monet Watkins, Dorothy Randall Grey, Elizabeth Burch-Hudson, KÁNYIN Olorunnisola, Yosimar Reyes, Frankie Tan, and Pastiche Queen.
a&e features
Interview with Actor D.K. Uzoukwu shines light on new role
Uzoukwu chatted about his family, career, self-discovery journey and joining the Norman Lear legacy
Uzoukwu is enjoying his time in the spotlight, holding his own alongside Laverne Cox and comedy great, George Wallace in Norman Lear’s last comedy. Clean Slate centers on Desiree (Cox), a proud trans woman who is finding her footing in life as she returns to her small hometown and tries to re-build a relationship with her father (Wallace) as his now-daughter.
The show is a comedy with many touching moments and comes at a time when trans representation is so needed. Uzoukwu shines as Desiree’s best friend Louis a closeted gay man who serves as the local church’s choir director. Together the two find their way.
Uzoukwu is also a 2021 Acting Fellow of the Hillman Grad Mentorship Program, led by Lena Waithe. He is also a writer and co-wrote two seasons of Issa Rae’s audio drama “Fruit,” and has been Reader-Endorsed on The Black List for his award-winning spec pilot “Kinfolk.”
We chatted with Uzoukwu about his family, career, self-discovery journey and joining the Norman Lear legacy.
He credits a strong family foundation for teaching him the tools for life as a proud son of immigrant parents.
“I was raised first generation by very proud Nigerian parents, who definitely had their sights set on me being a doctor or a pharmacist. Those are very stable jobs, especially in a country that doesn’t really give you a lot of breaks as an immigrant, even more. They just wanted something that was stable for me. My parents have shown me just what it takes to live in this country as an immigrant. The tenacity, the persistence, the strive to be better. They instilled all of those attributes in me.”
Despite Uzoukwu’s parents wanting him to work in a stable profession, they came to support his dream to become an actor. He ended up graduating cum laude from Temple University, with a Bachelors in Film and Theatre.
“They chose to support my dreams instead of admonishing me for them and it takes a very open and honest heart to say, ‘I want my child to be the best they can be in whatever they choose to do in this life, because it’s their life and not mine.’ That isn’t always easy for parents, but especially more so for immigrant parents, especially Nigerian parents, that’s just something that we did not grow up with. So beyond the tenacity and the perseverance, they also taught me unconditional love and support and those are attributes that I carry with me to this day. They were with me at the [Clean Slate] premier and it was just great to have my father and mom there by my side. It’s a dream come true.”
In typical Norman Lear style, Clean Slate pushes the envelope and makes current hot topics part of the norm. The show deals with trans and queer community narratives, deals with self-acceptance in the face of bigotry, faith v. religion struggles and questions what exactly a family looks like in today’s age. The show, which focuses on a Black family, is part of the current boom in queer storylines in minority-driven programming.
Uzoukwu explains the increase in representation:
“I just think we are more aware of what’s out there. We have so much more access to other people’s lives at our fingertips. Social media has been a very huge plus in that respect. In a way, it has normalized the idea of having queer people in our lives. We always have, we just weren’t allowed to really be public about it. But now it is normalized and hopefully even more so going forward. I think there is a little bit of a pushback. People talk about a pendulum swing right now, but I think that it forces us to be even more brave and adamant about staking our place in society. We have a right to be here. We all have a right to exist and pursue lives of love and freedom, our God-given rights. I think the more we press forward and continue to live our lives, the more that presence and existence will be seen in our media because we are what we see.”
Uzoukwu nailed his audition for Clean Slate. Reading the sides, he resonated at once with the character of Louis. He sent in his audition tape – which also required singing and two and a half weeks later – he did his screen test. Then BOOM, it was booked. As a queer actor, did Uzoukwu have any trepidation about taking this role for fear of being pigeon-holed?
“There’s always going to be fears about only being seen as one thing. I’m not going to lie, I did kind of have that fear. But I get that anytime I do a bigger project that kind of feels like something that could establish me as a performer in other people’s eyes. You watch a great performance of somebody and you’re like, wow, I could only see them as that. That is something that happens a lot. So there’s always that fear, but I don’t know if it’s something that I necessarily have to worry about. My team is very aware of my talent and what I can do, so my goal is to just go out and try to play as many parts as I can. I just want to keep looking forward and see what else is next, hopefully a season two. Fingers crossed!”
With Norman Lear’s recent passing, being part of the legacy that created All in the Family, One Day at a Time, Maude, The Jeffersons, and so many others, is an actor’s dream. Especially for someone as young as Uzoukwu.
“I definitely still have to pinch myself sometimes when I think about that aspect. I never really saw myself being a comedy actor when I first started out. I thought I was just so much better at drama. So for me to land my first big role in a comedy is kind of like, ‘Oh, you thought you knew what you were about? You thought you knew what you could do, but God had a different story for you.’ You just don’t know what the world, what life will bring. So to be a part of a comedy like this, but also one that is connected to that legacy is a huge deal.
I definitely don’t take it for granted. It means the world to me. When we talked about the show and sort of leading the charge on telling stories of other people and how we can all coexist, he was that person for generations. To be a part of his last comedy is truly a gift. You never could have had me predict that for my future.”
Uzoukwu hopes his personal journey serves as an example for other actors. His message to the community is also his message to himself.
“I spent a lot of time trying to figure out what kind of person I wanted to be in this industry, whether or not I was going to be comfortable enough to come out and be an out gay actor in Hollywood. I didn’t know if it was the smart choice or the right choice.
I realized that in order for me to really tell the stories the way they needed to be told, I had to commit to an identity for myself. I had to choose to be comfortable with myself. That’s something I hope future generations don’t have to sort of battle with or try to figure out for themselves that they can just be and that’s okay. It wasn’t always the case. I am glad that I took this circuitous journey to choose myself. I hope that the community continues to choose themselves and that they don’t feel that they have to decide between safety and freedom, that we can have both. Because we deserve both.”
Clean Slate is now streaming on Prime.
a&e features
Pose’s Dyllón Burnside takes on most ambitious role yet in latest film
In this Blade exclusive, actor Dyllón Burnside gives us a candid look at his latest role
Actor Dyllón Burnside made an impressionable splash by playing Ricky Evangelista in FX’s Pose. Not only was he able to infuse sincerity and pathos into his role, but he has used his platform to speak against toxic masculinity, advocate for LGBTQ safe spaces and inspire activism.
Recently, he has partnered with BET+ for the film Fighting To Be Me, playing perhaps his most ambitious role to date. Dyllón plays Dwen Curry in a new biopic where he plays a celebrity stylist known for working with big names like Missy Elliott, DMX, Mariah Carey and more.
Leading a double life in many ways, Dwen also spearheaded a multi-million dollar fraud ring that came to be known as The Gay Gangsters. The film is part true crime, part Hollywood glam and all LGBTQ+ storytelling. The film is about family, identity, survival and self-acceptance as Dwen transitions from a gay man, to a proud transgender woman.
The film comes at a crucial time, where the nation is experiencing cutbacks in DEI initiatives that are affecting both the Black and the queer community. Fighting To Be Me is the latest in BET+’s efforts to highlight stories from the queer community.
Representing both the Black and queer communities in this film, it was essential for Dyllón to portray Dwen in a way that was both truthful and sincere.
We chatted with Dyllón ahead of the film’s premiere about his experience.
“It’s unlike any other project that I’ve been a part of. I have my processes and the things that I do as an actor to prepare that are my baseline. It’s rooted in my background in the theater and the things that I learned from my teachers in drama school and the different directors that I’ve worked with.”
But this process, while those things definitely helped Dyllón, there was so much of that, that Dyllón couldn’t pull from. He says he had to really stretch himself to immerse himself in Dwen’s story and world.
“I had a lot of conversations with her. It required me to be more curious than I think I’ve ever been in a role. I’m a seeker in that way, and I think that’s what I really love about working as an actor is really that process of discovery and getting curious and finding connections and doing the research. I love that kind of stuff.”
Dyllón was not familiar with Dwen’s story at first. After reading the script, he was compelled to tell her story, but it was imperative that he received the blessing from Dwen herself.
“I needed to have a conversation with her to make sure that she wanted me to play her. I wanted to be clear that this person, this trans person wants me to play them and they feel like I am the right person to portray them in this story. We had a beautiful conversation and it was that talk, just getting to look her in her eyes and understand her heart that made me decide I want to be a part of this project.”
Fighting To Be Me comes at a time when the nation is divided. Dyllón’s involvement as both the star and as one of the film’s executive producers is a testament to his belief that now is the time for this story to be shared.
“When we look at the times that we’re living in, when trans people are being attacked daily by the current administration, it is really troubling. The dehumanization of trans folks has gotten out of hand. I think we need to all have the opportunity to sit with the fact that my lived reality is not the same as someone else’s reality, but that doesn’t make their lived reality any less human or any less important or any less true.”
“I think that one of the beautiful things about this story is that it’s unlike any other story that I’ve ever heard or told. Yes, there’s the trans element, but it’s a full life story. It’s important to talk about trans issues as a means of advocacy. I’m also really interested in talking about Dwen Curry as a human being. What are the circumstances that conspired to create the situations that forced Dwen Curry to make the decisions that Dwen Curry made? We’re talking about the socioeconomic climate of the eighties. We’re talking about the politics of the eighties. We’re talking about HIV and AIDS. We’re talking about the stigma around being queer. We’re talking about poverty. All of these issues conspire to create a situation where the wind has to make certain decisions in order to survive and thrive.”
According to Dyllón, the story directly relates to what is happening right now. He elaborates:
“So many of us find ourselves in that position right now where there are all of these different systems and institutions that seem to be closing in around us and putting us between a rock and a hard place. We have to figure out how to stay true to ourselves. How do we protect ourselves? How do we eat? How do we stay safe from the cops shooting us down in the streets or from some person who hates us because of the color of our skin, or our gender or sexual identity? All of these things create a situation for people that drives them to make really hard decisions. And I think I’m more critical of those systems than I am the individual who is forced to exist in those systems.”
BET+’s inclusion of queer stories is a milestone. Typically, minority programming was resistant to talking about queer people. As part of that representation with Pose and now with this film, Dyllón has his take on the growing trend of inclusion.
“I may not say that minorities don’t celebrate folks, but I will say that historically we’ve seen that the media companies across the board have not supported stories. I think folks see we’re able to recognize the cultural impact as well as the fiscal benefits of telling more inclusive and expansive stories about who we are, who we get to be. I hope that continues. I hope we continue to see that in spite of all of the efforts to roll back DEI, and that media companies will stand firm in their commitment and desire to tell stories, real authentic stories about real authentic people.”
Totally giving himself over to the portrayal of Dwen on her journey of self-discovery and acceptance, Dyllón has started to look at his own relationship with identity and being true to himself. It is the message he has for himself, it is the message he has to his fans.
“One of the things that I’m really striving for in my life is integration, this idea that I don’t have to be a separate human being with my family that I am with my friends, that I am at work on set, that I am on stage, performing my music, that I am in the recording studio, that I am when I give a speech somewhere as the advocate in a political space. I don’t have to compartmentalize myself in those ways and I get to bring all of myself to every space that I’m in, even if that means I’m overwhelmed, or I’m tired, or I’m stressed, or I’m afraid.
The conversation that I’m having with myself in this moment, and by extension having with my audience, is this message around integration. And standing firmly 10 toes down in the truth of who I am and allowing that to be messy and allowing that to be uncertain and weird and to be unapologetic about the messiness and the weirdness and the lack of clarity.
Just show up as your full self wherever you find yourself and trust that your spirit will lead you and guide you in the way that you should go. Unplug from social media and get outside.”
Fighting to Be Me: The Dwen Curry Story is now available on BET+
a&e features
Margaret Cho Returns to Music with ‘Lucky Gift’
In her first music release in 8 years, Margaret Cho is back with a new album…and a lot to say!
It has been 8 years since Margaret Cho released her Grammy-nominated American Myth album. She’s back to the music scene with her new album, Lucky Gift, an 11-track collection of anthems and pop tunes, a tribute to Robin Williams, and a shout-out to non-binary and gender non-conforming people.
The album captures the whirlwind that is Margaret and all of the different facets of her talents that have made her a powerhouse in entertainment and a leader in activism. In Lucky Gift, she’s getting her point across while having fun and getting glam.
We caught up with the activist and artist to chat about her music, our political climate, and
Known for her comedy, acting and activism, she felt it was long overdue to get her music back out there too.
Cho shares some insight on her next moves:
“I make music often. It’s a part of my daily life, it’s a big part of my social life, and it’s just something that I just love to do for my own relaxation and fun. I had enough for an album and I wanted to finally put them out. I was just really proud of how it all sounded together,” shares Cho.
“It’s a power pop record. For me, the songs are really meaningful. They’re all in their own way love songs. I’m a big fan of my own music (laughs), I really like the way that I sound and it’s really special to do. People know me as a comedian, and I have also made music for a long time, but it’s sort of a side project, and so it was time to put more out again.”
Her album also includes a touching tribute to Robin Williams. The entertainment community is finally more comfortable talking about mental health more openly. When relating mental health to her own life, Margaret, in true Margaret form, quickly turned the conversation to reflect today’s political climate.
“I have to maintain a level of peace and quiet and sometimes maybe get away from the news, although that’s tough because I am obsessed. I want to know what is happening. I’m really worried for our community, especially the trans community. I’m worried that this Administration is trying to separate T and the Q from the LGBTQIA, and it’s really frightening.”
As an elder, Cho says she has to also remember that we’ve been through this before and it’s actually been much worse. The LGBTQ+ community has been through a similar situation and at that point we were facing down a pandemic which was killing the community by the millions. Now, Cho says at least we don’t have to fight AIDS, as well as this onslaught of homophobia.
“We have fought for our rights, and we still have them, but we may not have them for long. So our mental health is very important to preserve now because we have to fight. The one thing to remember is they can’t do everything at once. They can’t take away trans rights, queer rights, gay rights, gay marriage, antidepressants (ha!) at the same time. So what we can do is just try to remain as calm as possible and fight as strongly as we can. But yeah, mental health is really vitally important right now.”
Cho’s long history of queer activism stands for itself. She does not shy away from current issues, she uses her platforms to incite, educate, and question. For Margaret, there is no time off from being an activist. She was born into it, so to speak, being raised in San Francisco in the 1970s, her parents the owners of a gay bookstore and their employees, followers of Harvey Milk.
“My activism is that I don’t have a choice. I’m going to be an activist no matter what. We’re doing this together, we’re going through this together. I will always be political. It’s just disheartening to see the ignorance of people and the lies that are being told that are believed.”
Lucky Gift comes at a perfect time when the queer community can come together over music. Cho looks at her album as a tool to empower an underdog community through the power of music.
“It’s the triumph of pop above all. We need to look to our pop divas above all. So now I’m more than ever, leaning on Madonna. Thank God for [Lady Gaga’s] “Abracadabra” because I think that things like that boost our community so much. When you can just get together and have a “brat summer,” that boosts our community so much in this togetherness, this explosion of excitement. I think Chappell Roan really ignited the pop capacity for healing. I love Lucky Gift because it is my stepping into a pop diva moment. Pop Divas should not be discounted for how important they are to our society and how much they lift us up.”
In addition to releasing her new album, Margaret will continue to hit the road this year with her Live and LIVID! Tour, celebrating over four decades of live stand-up shows. On this tour, she promises to rage about homophobia, sexism, racism, and the fight to stay alive. The five-time Grammy and Emmy-nominated performer is not holding back. According to her, the nation is not divided, just a little lost.
“We’re not divided. Everybody hates this. We all hate this. The fact is, the majority of the country does not want this. Unfortunately, a lot of people just didn’t vote because they just didn’t want to participate. That’s why we’re in the situation that we’re in. So to be on the road is a pleasure. And I rarely come against opposition. Every once in a while there’s something, but it’s something that we all handle. I think we all need a voice, a strong voice of reason to combat all of the hysteria.”
And her message to her fans?
“We’ll get through this. We’ll get through this with Pop Divas. “Abracadabra,” learn the choreography, you do it sitting down. At least we have pop music, I have my hat in the ring here. But at least we have each other and we’re going to be okay. It’s going to be a ride, it’s going to be intense, but we can do this. We’ve been through this before and we are going to be fine.”
Lucky Gift is now available on all major streaming platforms
a&e features
Saldaña triumphs amid ‘Emilia Pérez’ collapse at Oscars
Karla Sofía Gascón loses top award to Mikey Madison after scandal
It’s no wonder the camera caught actress Michele Yeoh crying after watching queer singer Cynthia Erivo (nominated for best actress) and Ariana Grande (nominated for best supporting actress) perform one of the much-loved songs from “Wicked,” as they were simply magnificent.
Grande opened with Judy Garland’s “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” and Erivo sang “Home” from “The Wiz.” That was one of the many bright spots in the 97th annual Academy Awards, which took place Sunday night at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood.
While the duo sadly didn’t take away any awards, the magical film did — gay costume designer Paul Tazewell won the Oscar for Best Costume Design.
“This is absolutely astounding,” Tazewell enthused onstage, in his acceptance speech. “Thank you Academy for this very significant honor. I’m the first Black man to receive a costume design award for my work on ‘Wicked.’ I’m so proud of this.”
In the pressroom, Tazewell elaborated on his well deserved win.
“This is the pinnacle of my career. I’ve been designing costumes for over 35 years,” he said. “Much has been on Broadway and now into film, and the whole way through there was never a Black male designer that I saw that I could follow, that I could see as inspiration. And to realize that that’s actually me, it becomes a ‘Wizard of Oz’ moment, you know, it’s like no place like home. So to come back to the inspiration being inside of me was — is really remarkable.”
Tazewell said he achieved the award with the help of a lot of really amazing and talented costume artisans of all types and an amazing staff and assistants and crew.
“Because, you know, there’s no way for me to do it alone! And that also is my greatest joy — to be collaborating with other very talented artists, so I respect what that artistry is, and I share this with them because I value what their input is.”
The veteran costume designer knew the movie was going to be pretty spectacular, but he was “absolutely blown away,” because of their approach.
“We were working on two films at the same time. It wasn’t until I actually saw a pretty complete cut that I actually experienced the journey that we have created for audiences. And so, to experience that –I was beside myself. And it defined why I do costume design, why I am a costume designer.”
“Wicked” also won the Oscar for Best Production Design.
“Emilia Pérez,” Netflix’s mesmerizing Spanish language, trans crime musical, had a whopping 13 nominations, with first-time nominee Karla Sofia Gascón making history as the first trans woman to be nominated for best actress. This would have been the most nominated foreign film in the history of the Academy Awards.
Unfortunately, after the controversy surrounding her past tweets, the film only won two awards: for best supporting actress (Zoe Saldaña) and best original song (“El Mal”).
While the U.S. is in an era of anti-trans political maneuvering, Sunday night’s broadcast included no mention of trans people.
In the pressroom, during an interview with “Emilia” composers Clément Ducol, Camille, and director Jacques Audiard, a journalist asked if anyone wanted to address what was happening.
Speaking in French via a translator, Audiard said, “Since I didn’t win Best Film or Best Director, I didn’t have the opportunity to speak, but had I had that opportunity, I would have spoken up.”
Saldaña, who starred as Rita, a lawyer who gets enmeshed with the trans cartel leader’s transition, was thrilled to win.
“I am floored by this honor. Thank you to the Academy for recognizing the quiet heroism and the power in a woman like Rita. And talking about powerful women, my fellow nominees, the love and community that you have offered me is a true gift, and I will pay it forward. Thank you so much Jacques Audiard, you are forever a beloved character in my life. Thank you for taking the interest, thank you for being so curious about these women to tell this story to my cast and my crew of ‘Emilia Pérez.’”
Saldaña’s nephew is trans; a few weeks ago, while winning the best supporting actress at the BAFTAs, she told journalists that she was dedicating the award to him.
“I’m dedicating all of these awards and the film ‘Emilia Pérez’ to my nephew, Eli. He is the reason — they are the reason — I signed up to do this film in the first place,” she said. “So as the proud aunt of a trans life, I will always stand with my community of trans people.”
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