The bar and nightclub owners, party promoters, and theatre companies too,
were working hard to make certain there was plenty to do.

So my friends with their costumes removed, and I, in my newly purchased harness,
all got ready for the Visit Gay Charlotte Featured Weekend Agenda to harvest…

ok – you get the idea, so without further adieu:

Friday Quick view

Metrolina Expo Marketplace – Fall Extravaganza International Collectibles and Antique Show

Pre-Party: 50 Studz to Mammogram

BENT

Halloween Party at the Lake

Meet and Greet the Charlotte Royals and Nashville Grizzlies

Sylvia

FaBuLoUs Fridays

Hannibal at Petra’s Piano Bar

Thanks For Giving ~ LGBT 1st FRIDAY’S… PHI NU KAPPA PROBATE

‘FORWARD’ – The Four More Years Party

Fusion 1st Friday

Want More?

Remember this is only the Featured agenda – make certain to check the Visit Gay Charlotte Event Calendar.  Our lgbtCLT agenda is the most comprehensive in the city!

Is your event/bar night listed?
Why not?  It’s easy to list and it’s always free. Our calendar provides maps, and links to Facebook, Twitter and most calendars.  Give it a try!

That statement alone may not seem shocking to many.   After all how many people are ignorant of the other victims of the Nazi mass murders (besides the overwhelmingly targeted extermination of Jews) which included Poles, Gypsies, deaf, mentally ill or handicapped, and physically handicapped?

The fact that the homosexual and transgender victims don’t register on the average person’s mind when you say “Holocaust” may not be a surprise, but what if you were told that the person who is referenced in that quote was in fact a gay man?

This author would suggest that such a statement demonstrates just how far LGBTs have come – that is to say, how far they’ve come in returning to a state of blissful ignorance that aided their persecution historically and which  continues to enable many to use our community for political divisiveness today.

It would also be a clear statement on the need for a look at Queen City Theatre Company’s Production of Bent running November 1st through the 17th at the Duke Energy Theater at Spirit Square.

The opening quote was part of the discussion I had with Queen City Theatre Company’s Artistic Director, Glenn T. Griffin and  QCTC Managing Director, Kristian A. Wedlowski in discussing why the chose the show as their current production.

Bent follows Max as a young homosexual in 1930′s Berlin who is arrested by the Gestapo and is sent to a concentration camp. because of he is gay.  Within the arc of the story are themes of  love, sex, betrayal, hiding oneself, and brutal persecution of a population.

Griffin and  Wedlowski decided to produce Bent after travelling to Poland, Germany and East Europe this past summer.  Both were touched by the haunting beauty of many of the the modern day locations of the Holocaust.  The sites had a sereneness that seemed to belie the truth of witnessing some of humankind’s worst atrocities.  After reflection and realization of just how far society in general has come  they also realized how far society has yet to go.

Whether world leaders such as  Iran’s President,  Mahmoud Ahmadinejad’s chilling statement against  LGBTs – not to mention that country’s practice of executing LGBTS) to local Charlotte-area people such as Rev Charles Worley of Maiden calling for rounding up  LGBTs  behind electric fences, or Mecklenburg County Commissioner Bill James constant rants about his perceptions of the illegality and depravity of homosexuality – it was clear to Queen City Theatre that the past experience of the persecution of LGBTS is very much a part of our present day existence.

It may (unfortunately) surprise many to know that this production is not a theatrical adaption of the movie which starred Clive Owens but is based off the original theatrical production which originated in London in 1979 with Ian McKellen in the title role,  and then a 1980 New York Production starring Richard Gere.

According to Griffin, the movie, while having a special place in many viewers hearts, can not compare to the theatrical production of the story.

“When you are sitting just feet from these men who are experiencing terror, fear, and in a very famous scene arousal – nothing on a screen can compare to the intimacy offered by theater.”

Also, while a film may be able to offer the viewer dramatic and spectacular visuals – it is the theater that realizes the strength of this story as it is a focus on the words and voices.

As Griffin explains when you look at  Max and Horst who  become lovers while in the Nazi camp, they can do so only through verbal intercourse something the theatrical experience is far superior at conveying as the physical format of a theater forces audiences to focus and “listen to these voices as their voices are all that they have.”

Speaking of voices, one of the innovations of this production is that the audience will never hear the Nazi soldiers directly speak as their dialogue will always be presented via overhead sound system thus reinforcing the feeling of the inhumanity of the actions of the Nazis.

So why now?  And Why Charlotte?

Right now in Charlotte there is a controversy over elected officials who have attended a Louis Farrakhan event and refused to publicly state (at the writing of this article) that they disagree with the speaker’s strong anti-Semitic and anti-LGBT views.

When in modern day many people can make excuses for and refuse to distance themselves from antisemitism and homophobia which in the past led to the murder of millions it bears repeating that  the past seem be simultaneously further and closer than ever.  Queen City Theatre Company‘s production of Bent is the necessary reminder that words are important and how ignoring the past directly influences your role in the present and the future.

For dates of the production and information on how to purchase tickets, please see the Visit Gay Charlotte, LGBT Community Center, and QNotes Collaborative Community Calender for details.

Editor’s Note:  This is part of a two part article on Queen City Theatre Company with an initial focus on their production of Bent.  A feature on QCTC focusing on their place in the Charlotte Arts scene and thoughts on the local LGBT community and Charlotte will be coming.

Visitors - Did you enjoy your visit to the Queen City?  Catch a pic of a you and your loved one smooching in front of the NASCAR Hall of Fame?  Want to be represented as a visitor to Charlotte who had a great time?  Send us your photos!

Residents – Is your favorite establishment off the radar of most and you want to change that?  Is there a place where you and friends suggest for visitors?  Have great pictures of supporting an LGBT business or event? Send us your photos!

Nightclub and establishment owners – is there a picture you would like us to use as the cover photo for your listing?  Send it to us.  We’ll also be setting up a photo wall within establishment listings soon and encourage you to help us showcase your business whether people dancing the night away or enjoying conversation during coffee.  Send us your photos!

Visit Gay Charlotte wants to continue to highlight the Queen City as a great place to live, work, and visit for the LGBT community.  Your pictures add another layer to the multi-dimension portrait of the city that we proudly promote!

Disclaimer

When sending photos, please include your contact information and statement that you are the creator of the photo and have authorization to share the photo (including authorization of individuals depicted in photos) and are allowing Visit Gay Charlotte to display.  We will attempt to confirm that information for all photos that do not include that initial reference and will reject any photos that do not receive initial statement and/or confirmation.  All Photos sent to Visit Gay Charlotte become property of and are available for fair usage for the site.

Credit:  Cover Photo courtesy of Alex Aguilar

But outside of that general enjoyable activity it is also when the world of adults get most in touch with their childlike side of play and enjoyment.  From dressing up to scaring your friends its all about having a good time – maybe that’s why it’s also known as the gayest holiday of the year!

So without further adieu – let’s get on to the horrific happenings in the Queen undead city!

Friday, October 26th

The weekend kicks off with a scary good event with the trifecta of horrifically good events promoters: Sugawalls, Elite Rainbow and Destini Productions joining forces to celebrate both Halloween and HBCU Homecoming weekend (shout out to our men and women at Johnson C Smith) for their Nightmare on Tryon Street event at Marigny Dance Club.

Get a jump on your tricking and treating at the inaugural HalloQween, a ghoulish dance party and scream fest benefiting One Voice Chorus at Extravaganza Depot with music by DJ Peter Presta & Haunted Warehouse for your screaming delight!   Afterwards there is not one but two afterparties:  The Official Halloqwueen After Party at Cathode Azure, and the Peter Presta After Party at Bar at 316.

Not sure what event to do?  Why not hit a whole jack o’latern full of them and hitch a ride on Buff Faye’s “Spooks & Horrors” Party Bus with stops throughout the city.

The bus departs from and ends the night at Hartigan’s which is a great thing as you’ll be able to catch Rocky Horror Picture Show at Hartigans!

Finally if you feel like heading just outside the city limits and want some sexy scary good times, join the boys of the Charlotte Royals Rugby Club for their A Royal Haunting at Camp Massacre in Fort Mill.   Who knows what things will go bump in the night?

Saturday, October 27th

If you thought Friday was a good show I can tell you that you ain’t seen nothing yet because Saturday is just getting thing decked out in tremors of tumultuous terror.

It all starts with a Charlotte tradition – The Southern Country Charlotte Annual Halloween Barn Dance at Hartigan’s.  Hang around at Hartigans after the barn dance for their Halloween Spooktacular with a costume contest and DJ Little Betty.

Now tying together the political season and Halloween is a very well-titled event that is sure to attract all the demons of electoral colleges past and present, Cathode Azure is hosting Asylum where you can showcase your insanity!  Each room in the lounge will be converted into a different, unique holding cell. Just be careful, or you could be the one left in the Asylum…

And speaking of old glamorous ghosts of lore, make certain you get to Sidelines for their Tinseltown Terror party. Who knows?  Maybe Gloria Swanson will be ready for her close-up!

Speaking of scary girls – Blue Bar is hosting their Ghouls Gone Wild event which btw will be the last ever event at Blue Bar as after tonight they are closing for renovations and a name change.  Now if they drop the “r” and  ”lls” as part of the moniker I’m sure they’ll hit a special resonant chord in the Queen City…

One place that you have no fear of changing though is the always a good time Petra’s who are hosting their always a scary good time Pertrafied… The Annual Petra’s Spooktacular.  They have a stellar line up of artists lined up to entertain you, including the Elves, Jason Herring and the Mystery Plan, Miami Dice and Scott Weaver.

Now Perta’s is not the only one displaying an amazing array of music for the night because Nickel Bar’s Halloween Party will feature Hip Hop, R&B, Reggae and House for those who like their their beats with a more urbane kick!

And for a different kind of kick altogether get thee to the Woodshed for their Rocky Horror Gala Ball!  Not only will a winner be taking home a cool $1000 in cash for the contest but the best Rocky Horror Character will also win $100.  The eerie Amanda Shoviten is host of the evening with Gary Hudgins spinning the tunes!

If you are looking for something a little more, uhm, salty this weekend (and you really couldn’t find that at the Woodshed?!)  I’ve got one thing to to say to you: Arr! Matey!  The boys at Bar at 316 want you to surrender your booty as they team up with Smirnoff  Vodka for their annual Halloween event, The Ghost Ship Party!  You might even find a merman or two (just hopefully not the Joss Whedon version).

Returning to the themes of Fantasy there are two events tonight exploring that idea and they want you to join the party:  First up is Sophisticated Lyfe’s Fetish vs. Fantasy Halloween event taking place at The Venue @ 1801.  Guests are encouraged to embrace the theme and wear the outfit that most embraces your innermost fantasy, or is it fetish?

The second event with the theme of the fantastical is no other than Marigny Dance Club’s Fantasy Land:  Halloween 2012 party where they want you to get ready to go beyond your WILDEST Fantasy.  The Boys at Marginy promise that amidst the pulsing beats and hypnotizing illuminations-frolic with the other creatures of the night and lose your mind on the dance floor!! Opening set: DJ Sammy Glowstixx; DJ Jay-R in the Main Room and DJ Pepito in the Empire Room.

Sunday, October 28th

Bet your just starving after the last couple days?  Care for a… BITE?  Well then get your red-blooded self down to Hartigan’s for Buff Faye’s HALLOWEENIE Tramps & Vamps Sunday Drag Brunch! Festivities feature the Horrors Kiana Layne, Miley Virus, Detra Panucci and special guests Felicia Monet, Lita Alexander Storm, and back from the dead: Sierra Santana!!!!

Monday, October 29th

Still Hungry?  Want some more scares?  Didn’t get enough of the returned from the dead?  You’re in luck because Hartigan’s again hosts BUFF FAYE’S HALLOWEEN MURDER MYSTERY DRAG DINER!   This year Buff Faye’s gang of witches and horrors will attempt to resERECT Buff’s old and tired Drag Momma — SIERRA SANTANA — who was killed by Miley Virus last year with poisonous hairspray. Then somebody will DIE AGAIN!? But who DIES & WHO DONE IT — Come FIND OUT!

Tuesday, October 30th

uhm – we’ve got nothing.  Apparently everyone will be resting up for the main event:

Wednesday, October 31st

SHARON NEEDLES LIVE AT THE SCORPIO!!!

Join us in welcoming back Sharon Needles after her win in the RuPaul Drag Race this year!! If you missed her last show now is your chance to catch the excitement and experience the thrill of an engaging night with this multi-talented star.

Hosted by the internationally acclaimed Tiffany Storm. Come be a part of our legendary costume contests with cash prizes awarded during the show and free Bud Light draft.

The VIP Loft overlooking Scorpio’s glowing & sparkling dance floor, pulsating lights and atmosphere is where you will mingle arm in arm with a small crowd along side Sharon and enjoy complimentary sparkling champagne and tasty hors d’oeuvres.

This event will follow directly after the main stage show. This will be the ONLY place where Sharon Needles will meet and greet.

Want More?

Remember this is only the Featured agenda – make certain to check the Visit Gay Charlotte Event Calendar.  Our lgbtCLT agenda is the most comprehensive in the city!

Is your event/bar night listed?
Why not?  It’s easy to list and it’s always free. Our calendar provides maps, and links to Facebook, Twitter and most calendars.  Give it a try!

The new site when completed will be even more mobile friendly and will offer a seamless user experience whether viewing on a desktop, laptop, tablet or smartphone.

We’ll be making it easier to explore lgbtCLT right from the top bar menu which will also include quick links to the current featured agenda and events calendar.

Finally, we are revisiting the news/blog section of the site to be less focused on general  Charlotte LGBT news features and more highlights of the events, people and places that make the Queen City the place to call home for many LGBTs as well as a growing LGBT tourism destination.

We’re grateful for all the support we have received in our first 14 months of operation and we look forward to your continued support as we streamline both the site and its mission.

Want More?

Remember this is only the Featured agenda – make certain to check the Visit Gay Charlotte Event Calendar.  Our lgbtCLT agenda is the most comprehensive in the city!

Is your event/bar night listed?
Why not?  It’s easy to list and it’s always free. Our calendar provides maps, and links to Facebook, Twitter and most calendars.  Give it a try!

Want More?

Remember this is only the Featured agenda – make certain to check the Visit Gay Charlotte Event Calendar.  Our lgbtCLT agenda is the most comprehensive in the city!

Is your event/bar night listed?
Why not?  It’s easy to list and it’s always free. Our calendar provides maps, and links to Facebook, Twitter and most calendars.  Give it a try!

Want More?

Remember this is only the Featured agenda – make certain to check the Visit Gay Charlotte Event Calendar.  Our lgbtCLT agenda is the most comprehensive in the city!

Is your event/bar night listed?
Why not?  It’s easy to list and it’s always free. Our calendar provides maps, and links to Facebook, Twitter and most calendars.  Give it a try!