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EDITOR’S COMMENT
CONTENTS 19
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ape Town’s community has suffered two shocks in the space of a couple of weeks. The first was the sudden closure of the international institution that was the Bronx. There will be a void that will be difficult to fill. This was followed by the brutal murder of its owner Bruno Bronn three weeks later. Bruno was a kind and much-loved man and we extend our condolences to his friends and family. But life goes on and it’s Pride Season in Cape Town. This year Pride comes back home. You can read all about it in our fabulous pullout supplement which includes a calendar of all the events as well all the information you will need. Keeping in the spirit of Pride we bring a progress report on the Pride Shelter Trust which is about to celebrate the first anniversary of the opening of the continents’ first gay shelter. We were fortunate enough to meet and interview everybody’s favourite Mr GSA to date, Lance Weyer, who is also our cover boy. We also chatted to Linus Hamutenya, the first Mr Gay Namibia and to the first winner of the Golden Heel, Sonya Legs. John French caught up with Myrna Andrews to find out more about Cape Town’s lesbian icon and the fab new Beaulah. Talking of icons, we open up the music vaults and remember the great gay falsettos Sylvester and Jimmy Somerville. In this issue we introduce the last word in gay travel in the first of the Going Nowhere Queerly series. We are very excited about our very different cutting edge Shack Chic fashion spread featuring foul-mouthed pseudo-lesbo rocker Mary Scary. The first edition of the Out in Africa Gay & Lesbian Film Festival is about to hit the screens and we feature some of the highlights. And is that is not enough we bring you the usual array of book, film, food, music, theatre, health news, as well as photos from the hottest hot spots of the season. So live and love with Pride! Evan Tsouroulis
published by: Patterson Publications P.O. Box 397, Sea Point 8060 Tel/Fax: 021 434 6034 E-mail: outmagafrica@telkomsa.net evan@outafricamag.co.za Advertising Sales: Tommy Patterson 082 562 3358 Robert Simpson 072 266 7051
MANAGING EDITOR: Tommy Patterson Contributors: Sharon Knowles Gary Hopkins Glenn de Swardt Daniel Dercksen John French Veri Dre Sweet Simon Deviant - Photos Printed by ABC Press, Cape Town
Copyright: All articles, stories, interviews and other materials in OUT Africa Magazine are the copyright of the publication or are reproduced with permission from other copyright owners. All rights are reserved. No articles, stories, interviews and other materials may be copied, modified, published, broadcast or otherwise distributed without the prior written permission of OUT Africa Magazine or Patterson Publications. Disclaimer: The views, opinions, positions or strategies expressed by the authors and those providing comments in this publication are theirs alone, and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, positions or strategies of OUT Africa Magazine or any employee thereof. OUT Africa Magazine and Patterson Publications cc., will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in any information contained in the publication.
INTERVIEWS
8 GAY, PROUD & AFRICAN: Wendelinus Hamutenya is Mr Gay Namibia 10 LANCE WEYER: Our new Mr Gay SA 20 BEAULAH AND THE ANDREWS SISTA: Myrna Andrews is a gay icon and lesbian role model 34 SONYA LEGS: The winner of the Golden Heel Award
FASHION 14-15: WHEN RHYS MET MARY: Shack chic fashion
REVIEWS 43 OUT TO LUNCH: Some like it cold 44 OUT ON DVD: The best movies to watch at home. 45 MUSIC MOVES: A look at the latest sounds around. 46 OUT ON FILM: What to miss on the circuit...and what not to! 47 WORD PERFECT: Books 48 ON STAGE: The performing arts all over South Africa
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SCENE OUT
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28 - 35 Who’s been spotted out and about the party scene
FEATURES 1 EDITORS COMMENT: 2 WELCOME TO THE HOOD: SA’s Rainbow Neighbourhood 3 A SLEEK NEW BEAUTY: The refurbished Victoria Junction Hotel 4 SHELTER SUCCESS STORY: The Pride Shelter Trust is a success story 6 THE BUZZ: News, snippets & gossip 9 FOLLOWING THE FUTURE OF BUILDING TECHNOLOGY: 9 THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES: Looking back at the Bronx 12 EXCLUSIVE GETAWAY: The Last Word Constantia 16 CHRONICLES OF A DRAG QUEEN: Ms Gabriella Marquez finds her bearings in a new town 17 ROAR LIKE A GAY LION: New gay bar opens in Obs 18 FALSETTOS: Gay disco mafia 22 THE LAST ACCEPTABLE PREJUDICE: Why we still need pride 23 PRIDE CAPE TOWN PULL OUT SECTION 27 DJ @NTONELLO’S TOP TEN 31 KISS COMPETITION 35 SHEBEEN CHALLENGE: A new club opens in Cape Town 36 HEALTH ISSUES: To supplement or NOT to supplement Gay men’s health issues 36 LOVE SUNDAYS: Fab after-pride-party 38 KZN GAY GROUP WINS HUMAN RIGHTS AWARD 38 GLITTERBOYS WIN FILM PRIZE 38 TENNIS ANYONE? African Gay & Lesbian Open 39 SHOP ONLINE AT KINX 40 PREEN FOR PRIDE: At Petticoat Parlour 41 THE VERI SWEET LETTERS: KZN’s latest gossip 42 MORE MOFFIES AT OIA Cover: Lance Weyer - Photo: Simon Deviant
Mag 1
WELCOME TO THE HOOD Many cities have “Rainbow Neighbourhoods” which radiate liveliness and diversity, and the existence of such precincts signals that a city is socially open and tolerant. The de Waterkant district in Cape Town’s suburb of Green Point is recognised as such a neighbourhood, with its abundance of gay and gay-friendly establishments, and is unique in South Africa. It is an area where gay people can feel relaxed and safe, and is a neighbourhood which attracts gay residents and tourists alike. So it was fitting that the Mother City was represented at the “Building a Queer and Tolerant Neighbourhood” Conference held in Berlin at the end of last year. The threeday International Rainbow Neighbourhood Conference was organised by MANEO (Berlin AntiViolence Project), and was attended by some 130 delegates from around the world, and featured a range of talks, discussions and workshops.
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he cities of Amsterdam, Barcelona, Berlin, Chicago, Paris, Rio de Janeiro and Zurich sent official representatives as did the EU Commission in Brussels. Police representatives came from Toronto, Paris, Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Zurich, Munich and Berlin. Representatives from the queer economy and queer events in Berlin, Munich, Cologne, Hamburg, Amsterdam, Paris Sydney, Montreal and Cape Town, as well as other representatives from organisations and institutions in Los Angeles, Laramie, San Francisco, Montreal, Belfast, Dublin, Oslo, Liverpool and Tokyo also attended. Ian McMahon represented Cape Town. As one of the founders of Cape Town Pride, the current Chairman of the Pride Shelter Trust, owner of gay businesses in the Village (including Crew Bar and MCQP) and resident in de Waterkant, he was well qualified to talk about developments in our own “gaybourhood”. Representatives of these metropolitan centres exchanged information, ideas and experiences about developments in the world’s “gay villages”, “queer neighbourhoods”, “boys towns” and “gay hotspots”. These districts are developing and could be established in every major metropolitan area sooner or later. Such districts often have a tradition or history of being a rainbow neighbourhood. For example our own de Waterkant district was part of District 5 which also included the Bo Kaap, and has a Bohemian history dating back to the mid 19th. As such it falls within the definition of a “rainbow neighbourhood” rather than a gay ghetto in that it is an area of a city where people live together in all their diversity and with mutual respect for each other. It is an area where people can feel at home precisely because of their sexual orientation. The “rainbow neighbourhood” concept presents a positive picture as well as a goal and a vision. This picture is different to a ghetto where people who have been excluded and rejected, are forced to the margins of society. Every neighbourhood could become a rainbow neighbourhood and suburbs like Observatory are leaning that way. Many gay people want to live in such an area where they do not have to fear being excluded by neighbours, where they can participate in public, social and economic life and be valued for their contribution and commitment. Mag 2
The question about the need for these neighbourhoods came up time and again, and each time participants agreed that they continued to be a very important place in the life of so many gay people. Such neighbourhoods offer a feeling of security and belonging. As Vice President of the European Parliament Dagmar Roth-Behrendt, said: “Only by living together in peace and mutual respect can city life prosper and rainbow neighbourhoods develop freely. They are a visible symbol of tolerance in a city“ Apart from the Conference itself which provided useful networking opportunities, delegates were welcomed to an array of special events. These included, a reception at the Berlin Town Hall, a visit to Europe’s largest Revue theatre the “Friedrichstadtpalast”, a tour of the Berlin’s historic sites, and a discovery walk through “Pink Schöneberg” and its inimitable night club scene Ian McMahon said of his experience: “It was a great networking opportunity but moreover, it was also very humbling to see how small Cape Town is with respect to Berlin’s gay neighbourhood. Berlin has a huge scene with over 120 gay bars and clubs alone! Sexuality is just one-of-those-things in Berlin; people do not get hung up about it. Berlin’s mayor is openly gay and it’s taken as a ‘who cares’ kind of attitude with focus on his performance as mayor rather than his sexuality. In Los Angeles, the gay and Lesbian Community Centre has over 370 paid full-time staff and offers such a diverse set of support infrastructure for the community, from Senior and Youth programs, to a gay pharmacy, shelter as well as the mental and physical health services. I was impressed at how seriously the European cities took the conference, with mayors, councillors and even MPs attending all 3 day sessions – I’m not sure if that would happen here. What can Cape Town do and how does it compare? Well, we have everything they have but just on a far smaller scale. We as a community with City Marketing Departments and Cape Tourism need to promote Cape Town to pink travellers and have a specific pink marketing strategy to get them here, as many other cities do – and it shows in their pink tourist numbers.”
A SLEEK NEW BEAUTY
The fresh modern design lends substantially more light to the inroom experience. Facilities include new walk-in “rain showers”, Bravia LCD screens, iPod docking stations, international adaptor installations and bathrooms that feature more environmentally friendly fixtures. Standard features include air-conditioning, a choice of pillows, complimentary Wi-Fi, and a digital safe. The hotel is also equipped with a brand new gym. The stunning new restaurant and bar feature a lighter, openplan, free-flowing space, which is great for checking out who’s who. They have already become popular with locals wanting a trendy place to hang out after work, whether it be for a great cappuccino, cocktails or tapas. The new Tapas styled menu makes for social dining in an informal setting. The extensive wine by the glass list at extremely reasonable prices has also found favour with visitors and Capetonians alike. After all is said in done, “The VJ” may have a new dress, but she retains her cutting-edge quirkiness, as well as the same commitment to quality and excellent service.
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ince it opened in 1996, the Protea Hotel Victoria Junction quickly gained the reputation of being one of the most innovative hotels in Cape Town. The landmark hotel was completely refurbished last year, reclaiming its status as a trendsetter! Situated in the urban landscape of Green Point, one of Cape Town’s up and coming suburbs, the hotel is a mere few hundred metres away from the Pink Block and the Cape Quarter. It is also within easy walking distance of Cape Town Stadium, the City Centre, the Cape Town International Convention Centre and the V&A Waterfront. Following the urban renewal of the neighbourhood for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, the make-over of the Protea Hotel Victoria Junction sees the precinct’s regeneration come full circle.
For more information, please visit www.proteahotels.com/victoriajunction or follow on twitter @ProteaHotels
TIME OUT CHECK IN
PHDS 24905/12
The make-over was completed in a record four months and the new Protea Hotel Victoria Junction opened on time on the 1st of September 2011. “The project has seen the refurbishment of all 148 standard rooms and 24 loft rooms, as well as an extensive refurbishment of the restaurant, reception and other public areas on the ground floor,” said General Manager Pieter Buitendag.
FOR ONLY
*R450 PPS, PER NIGHT
CNR SOMERSET & EBENEZER ROADS, CAPE TOWN 8001 | TEL: +27 (0) 21 418 1234 FAX: +27 (0) 21 418 5678 | EMAIL: reservations@victoriajunction.com proteahotels.com/victoriajunction *TERMS AND CONDITIONS: VALID UNTIL 30 SEPTEMBER 2012. SINGLE RATE R899. MINIMUM 2 NIGHT STAY. RATES ARE FOR STANDARD ROOMS. UPGRADE FEES APPLY. FULL PRE-PAYMENT REQUIRED. NO CANCELLATIONS OR REFUNDS ALLOWED. SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY. PLEASE QUOTE “OUT MAGAZINE PROMO” WHEN MAKING A BOOKING.
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SHELTER SUCCESS STORY
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n April 2011the Pride Shelter Trust finally opened the doors to Africa’s first autonomous shelter and crisis centre for gay, lesbian, transgender and intersexed people in Oranjezicht, Cape Town. The shelter provides a safe, nurturing and semistructured environment for people in crisis needing safe, temporary shelter and who might find other resources unsympathetic to alternative sexualities. This amazing achievement is the culmination of years of hard work, planning, networking and fundraising and is testament to what a community can achieve when it works together for a common goal. Since opening, the shelter has been the focus of extraordinary kindness and generosity from Capetonians, both gay and straight; from the neighbour who delivered one of Charlie’s Bakery’s famous cakes on Christmas day, to strangers dropping off food and clothing packages. Many individuals and companies have made once-off financial contributions, whilst others have committed to a monthly donation by debit order. Almost a year after opening its doors, interesting statistics vindicate the need for this essential facility. Between April and November 2011, the shelter has provided 74 people in crisis with a total of 2 761 bed nights! Residents remained at the facility for an average of 37.3 days, ranging from overnight stays to a maximum of 68 days. The oldest resident was 65 years of age whilst the youngest was aged 19. 83% of the residents were male, females made up 10% while 7% were transgender. 55% were white, 24 % black and 20% coloured. As for sexual orientation, 83% identified as gay or lesbian, 7% as bisexual and 10% as straight. 93% were South African with 7% being from other countries. The highest number of residents occupying the shelter simultaneously was 20, for a period of 4 days, during which it operated at maximum capacity. In addition to residents, meals were also provided to homeless non-residents who visited the facility, and to two live in staff members, culminating in over 3000 cooked dinners served. Residents were also provided with breakfast and a light lunch. Residents maintained a vegetable and herb garden growing spinach, carrots, tomatoes, sweet corn, onions, potatoes, butternut, green peppers, cauliflower, chillies, rosemary and basil. Working in the garden forms part of the residents’ therapeutic program, alongside having to undertake housekeeping chores. One of the residents with a pasta machine began making and selling fresh pasta, some of it flavoured with organic spinach grown in the shelter’s veggie patch. This is but one example of how a safe and nurturing environment can provide an impetus for creativity, entrepreneurship and self-reliance. The primary aim of the shelter is to help people get back on their feet after experiencing a crisis. Many residents secured jobs while staying at the shelter – visit the website (www,pridesheltertrust. co.za) for a detailed psychosocial report, including employment rates of residents. In December, an ex-resident invited his mother and the shelter’s matron to his graduation ceremony at UCT. During the same month a resident from another African country got his resident permit extended and found employment. Residents with medical complaints received free medical attention from Health4Men, and one resident received free emergency treatment from the Cape Town Medi-Clinic. Free mental health and psychiatric services were provided by Health4Men, in partnership with the Dept. of Psychiatry of Groote Schuur Hospital. Two residents Mag 4
underwent surgery, both related to cancer and one involving an amputation. One suicidal resident was admitted to hospital. 32 urine tests were conducted to screen residents suspected of recreational drug abuse. An autonomous gay AA/NA (Alcoholics Anonymous / Narcotics Anonymous) group met at the facility on a weekly basis. Now that the shelter has been operating for a while it has become possible to determine the costs of providing this invaluable service, and the funds needed to ensure its sustainability. With the calculated average cost of food being R13.08 per resident per day and the average bed night expense cost being R41.16 (per resident per day), it costs approximately R54.24 to maintain each individual resident per day. The as yet unaudited financials reveal that gross income for the year was R195 560.00. This amount includes R150 000.00 from a Trust Account of which the Pride Shelter Trust is a beneficiary, donations of R34 650.00, and the balance emanating from small fundraising initiatives. General expenditure, including salaries, was R113 636.41 plus an amount of R36 109.73 for consumables including food, resulting in a total of R149 827.35. A surplus of R45 778.22 was accrued. However, this positive balance would not have been possible without the luxury of drawing funds from the Trust Account or donations from the public. Expenditure was also reduced because of donations of food, toiletries and cleaning material. Marcellinos Bakery, for example, provides delicious fresh rolls on a regular basis, and Rutland Lodge, Abbey Manor, Acorn House, Amsterdam Guest House and Floreal House, which are all guest houses in the area, donate surplus food. Other donors include large amounts of funding from Herman Pretorius and Michael Ipsen (both of whom have set up monthly debit orders), Sister Mary James, Kevin Turner, Craig Matteson, David Thurgood, Dave Bester, David Kruger, ‘Chris & Marius & friends’, ‘Glenn Sullivan & friends’, Stephan Oliver, the Claremont AA Group as well as countless anonymous good Samaritans. Donated items included new and used clothing, household appliances, beds and linen, furniture and books… anything you can imagine! A record of thanks will be issued after the audit, at the end of March 2012. Much of the shelter’s success is due to the dedication and hard work of the matron, Jan Richter, whose warmth and compassion have made her a surrogate mother for many. The facility is managed by three volunteer executive directors of the organisational board: prominent attorney Andrew Massyn, psychosocial expert and head of Health4Men Glenn de Swardt, and leading gay businessman Ian McMahan. In all, the shelter is an amazing place doing fantastic work, a facility of which gay Cape Town can be incredibly proud. It is a rare asset that needs to be nurtured and sustained, as opposed to taken for granted, so please keep donating when you empty your closets of unwanted items, or consider taking out a nominal monthly debit order to support the shelter. Please contact the matron on 083 218 6081for more details or to arrange a visit to the facility, or visit www.pridesheltertrust. co.za for more comprehensive progress reports.
THE BUZZ A CHAMPAGNE TASTES
nyone who’s been to Bitchy Bingo at Beefcakes recently will have had a rude introduction to the new hostess, Champagne Le Roux – Namibian Glamour Poes de luxe. Not only does she call the numbers, but she sings live as well. But who is this Namibian beauty? She is reputed to be the heiress to a vast sand dune and boerewors fortune, as well as being the self proclaimed “first daughter” of Namibia and all round glamourpoes! (Yes, that is how she spells it). When she’s not on stage she’s promoting her book “Champagne Wishes and Caviar
larity of the Fan Walk during the 2010 World Cup and subsequent concerts at the Stadium makes it the perfect location for the spectacular parade, featuring 11 Carnival Academies with 11 floats and around 2000 dancers. The procession will be followed by a Street Party featuring some of the city’s top DJs and performers. All the action will be taking place on Somerset/Main Rd between Chiappini St and York Road on Saturday 24th March.
JOZI HOSTS MR GAY WORLD 2012
S 3 FAT LADIES
Dreams and Kak and S*%# ”, she is insinuating that South African president Jacob Zuma is actually in fact a closet homosexual. Ms le Roux has also had a string of highly publicised affairs with Jack Parow and Juju Malema, and is often the subject of scandalous stories in the press…well um…ja…in the Windhoek Daily Post. And if you think that Champagne le Roux bears a striking resemblance to Mary Scary, it is because they are both in fact creatures of actor Rhys Woods. Champagne Le Roux is a character from the Rhys Woods Show on 2Oceansvibe Radio: www.2oceansviberadio.com every Tuesday evening from 5-7pm. Catch Champagne le Roux live at Beefcakes every Tuesday, and Mary Scary every Thursday.
CAPE TOWN CARNIVAL
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n case anyone needs another excuse to plump up those feathers, this year’s Cape Town Carnival is spreading its wings and moving from the City Centre to the Fan Walk. The success of last year’s carnival, with over 60 000 people cramming into Long Street for a street party of note, means that more space is required! The popuMag 6
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ove over Tons of Fun! Underneath the city lights there is a world few know about, where rules don’t apply, and where you can’t keep a good girl down. Welcome on stage 3 Fat Ladies, except that one of them is slim and a not a lady but the inimitable drag artiste Shirley Beste best known for climbing mountains in high heels. She is teaming up and making it BIG with two naturally larger (real) women, Joy Alexander and Li-aat Mayer and all three will be singing live in a dynamic show inspired by Burlesque, Motown and Glee. Gauteng, you have been warned! Make sure not to miss them performing at various fab venues in and around Jozi from March. For event details follow Shirley Beste on Facebook, call Ms Beste on 071 930 5477 or mail davidandpink@yahoo.com
o will South Africa lift the title three times in a row? All will be revealed at the Mr Gay World Contest to be held in Johannesburg from 4th to 8th April, with the Grand Finale on Sunday, 8 April 2012 at 8 pm at The Lyric Theatre at Gold Reef City. MGW is an annual contest for gay men, seeking to establish ambassadors for gay and human rights, with winners of national contests competing as delegates in a variety of categories including leadership, sports, swimwear modelling and knowledge of gay world affairs. SA’s Charl van den Burg won the title in 2009 and Francois Nel from Pretoria won the year after. Tickets available at Computicket.
HEY DUDE, WHERE’S YOUR WIG
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ere’s something that has been a long time in coming and it is unsurprising that it should be occurring at Cape Town’s Bubbles Bar, which since opening a year ago has provided a platform for new drag performers. Up to now they have all been drag queens, but in a first for the Mother City, Drag King Saint Dude takes to the stage every Friday
night with his rough rhymes, covering the likes of Jay-Z, Lil’ Wayne, and Snoop Dogg as well as dropping original rhymes. This cocky smooth talking rapper is sure to impress with his tongue twisting beats and magnetic charisma. He lists his interests as women all day, every day. Saint Dude is a character created by Catherine Saint Jude Pretorius who is co-chair of Cape Town Lesbians. She hopes that Saint Dude will encourage others to explore gender fluidity and create a strong drag king presence in Cape Town and South Africa. Follow Saint Dude on Facebook.
AIN’T NO CLOSET BIG ENOUGH
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he Pink Lourie Mardi Gras & Arts Festival will be painting the Garden Route town of Knysna pink for the 12th year in a row from 26th April to 1st May. This year’s theme is “Ain’t No Closet Big Enough” and as usual the Freedom Long Weekend will be jam-packed with a range of parties, drag contests, sporting and cultural events. Apart from the Parade on Saturday 28th February, other highlights include the Mr & Miss Mardi Gras Pageants and the Toss Your Handbag Contest. Bruce Little will be reprising his box office hit “Little Poof” and Emile Minnie stars in “Disco”. Included in the range of parties will be the women’s only party hosted by SkIN Ladies Events. For more information visit.www.pinklourie.co.za
A CLOSE ENCOUNTER
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n her latest film Albert Nobbs Glenn Close plays a woman living in Dublin in the 19th Century who was orphaned as a chilled and sexually abused as a teenager. She dresses as a man to get a better job, avoid sexual harassment and become independent. Nobbs lives life as a man in a time before our modern notions of gender and sexuality. Close does not consider Nobbs as a lesbian of a transgender man, although he was for all intents and purposes married to a woman. She sees her as, like Julie Andrews’ character in Victor/Victoria, putting on a costume for a purpose, cross-dressing as an act of survival and economic necessity rather than out of an expression of attraction or gender identity. It is a fascinating story which Close spent 15 years to bring to the screen and she delivers an amazing performance. Mag 7
GAY, PROUD & AFRICAN Wendelinus Hamutenya, a 24-year-old personal financial consultant from Windhoek, was crowned the first-ever Mr. Gay Namibia in the Namibian capital on 26th November 2011. He will be representing Namibia at the 2012 Mr. Gay World final in Johannesburg on 8th April. OUT spoke with him to find out more about him and about gay life in Namibia. OUT: What made you enter the competition? WH: I entered because the LGBTI community should grab every opportunity to showcase their talents and abilities. I wanted to be an ambassador for the LGBTI community and help in creating a more positive image for us, particularly in rural areas. We need to raise awareness and seek to fight discrimination and stigmatisation as well as raising visibility. OUT: Did you have reservations, given the negative attitude many Namibians have towards homosexuality? WH: No because l feel that we as the LGBTI community have also fought for the freedom of this country. It’s no secret that progress has been incredibly difficult, but these issues also go to the heart of who we are, as a people. OUT: What was your first reaction when you heard you had won? WH: I knew l would win because l had the confidence and I believe in myself. I was very excited because my friends and some of my family members came to cheer for me and l regard such open support cannot taken for granted. OUT: How have people reacted to your win, specifically your family, work colleagues, society at large? Was your win publicised in the national press? WH: Most of the people in the country hailed my victory, including the main opposition party RDP (Rally for Democracy & Progress). Some of my family members came to cheer for me and there were very happy for me and I’m very proud of them. My boss and some of my colleagues attended the event. Yes it was covered by all press in the country. OUT: How has your life changed since winning the title? WH: I have become a public finger and everybody is watching me so l have to behave myself and respect myself and the people around me. But being the first Mr Gay Namibia really means a lot to me. OUT: You were assaulted soon after winning but some reports have suggested that the motive was robbery rather than a hate crime. Would you agree? Have the perpetrators been brought to justice yet. WH: l don’t agree. This was a hate crime and homophobia. Also I’m a member of the RDP. There is some speculation that it could have been radical SWAPO supporters linked to the ruling party’s youth wing whose idols are former president Sam Nujoma and Minister Jerry Ekandjo who is an outspoken anti-gay campaigner. Also the attacker was driving a government car. Nobody has been brought to justice yet. OUT: Homosexuality is not criminalised in Namibia, but sodomy remains an offence in common law though to our knowledge, it has not been used against gay citizens since Independence, despite some of previous president Sam Nujoma’s well publicised homophobic outbursts. How hard is it to be out of the closet in Namibia? Are gay men fearful that sodomy laws could be Mag 8
used against them? WH: Not really but homophobia makes many LGBTI people in Namibia feel isolated, lonely and ashamed. It creates an environment in which LGBTI people are harassed and even attacked physically in their schools, communities homes. OUT: There are gay organisations active in Namibia and events such as Mr Gay Namibia were allowed to happen. Is there much prejudice and discrimination against gays & lesbians in your country? WH: Not really because gays and lesbians have never been the problem. It’s only some bigots who stir up emotions to divert attention away from the real problems of this country, such as poverty, unemployment and lack of delivery of the most basic things likes housing, health and education. OUT: How can someone in your position improve conditions for Namibian gays and lesbians? WH: As young Gay Namibian my challenge will be to bridge the gap of understanding in our society. Our country is rich with gay men and women with intelligence, talent, strong work ethics, morals, the spirit to succeed, and most importantly, the need to be heard and recognized. I feel confident that as the first-ever Mr. Gay Namibia I will be a symbol of pride, excellence, and progress. OUT: Who is your role model and your inspiration? WH: Nelson Mandela and Hidipo Hamutenya (founder of the RDP) OUT: Do government and NGOs consider men who have sex with men in their safer sex education programs? WH: Some of the NGOs do but not the government. OUT: Are you excited about representing Namibia at Mr Gay World in Johannesburg in March and how do you rate your chances? WH: I’m very excited and confident that I will bring the title home! (LOL)
FOLLOWING THE FUTURE OF BUILDING TECHNOLOGY
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f you are in pursuit of builders and plumbers committed to integrity, professionalism, service and hard work, as well as being environmentally ethical, then look no further than the Quest Group, based in Cape Town. Quest Construction ensures that all buildings are designed, built and operated in an environmentally sustainable way that allows South Africans to work and live in healthy, efficient and productive environments. They are experts in Green Building techniques. A green building is one which is energy efficient and resource efficient as well as being environmentally responsible and can reduce energy consumption to less than half of that of a conventional building. It incorporates design, construction and operational practices that significantly reduce or eliminate its negative impact on the environment and its occupants. Building green is an opportunity to use resources efficiently and address climate change while creating healthier and more productive environments for people to live and work in. The Quest Plumbing division also operates with an eco-friendly ethos. They are way ahead of the pack when it comes to grey water systems, septic tanks, soak ways and Solar heating systems. They constantly keep up to date with the latest and greatest plumbing products, and always provide their clients with sound honest advice and guarantee all their work! The best part is that their team of dedicated hard working plumbers and assistants are available 24 hour seven day a week. Whatever one’s building or plumbing needs, the Quest Group’s commitment to service, quality workmanship and detail ensures customer satisfaction. See www.questgroup.co.za for more information
THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES
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he Bronx Action Bar holds a special place in the hearts of so many. One of the reasons is that it was Cape Town’s longest running gay club, no mean achievement in an industry catering to a very fickle clientele. They must have been doing something right. It was a joyous place. The original Bronx, housed in an old art deco building with big windows, had to move across the street in 2007 to make way for the new Cape Quarter. The jewel lost a bit of its lustre in the move to a building that was cramped and claustrophobic. But it still continued to attract a loyal following, partly due to the popularity of Navigaytion on the first floor. Since the city began to upgrade Green Point in the lead-up to the 2010 FIFA World Cup there were rumours that the building would be demolished to make way for a wider lane for pedestrians and cyclists as part of the non-motorised transport plan. Once the building next door was demolished, it was only a matter of time until the Bronx suffered the same fate. The Bronx eventually closed its doors at the end of January 2012, leading to much speculation as to whether it would re-open at all, and if so, where. Since the shocking murder of owner Bruno Bronn on 6th February, speculation about the future of the Bronx has intensified. But whatever does happen, the Bronx will forever live in the happy memories made there by so many. Mag 9
MEET OUR NEW MR GAY SA
Lance Weyer won the Mr Gay South Africa title at the end of November 2011. He is also the youngest member of the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, being elected on a Democratic Alliance ticket in the May 2011 Municipal Elections. He serves on the Health & Public Safety Standing Committee and Municipal Public Accounts Committee. He is also on the Board of Directors of the Frere Hospital. We caught up with him while he was in Cape Town in December, and were happy to discover that he was friendly and articulate, and that brains and brawn do happily coincide. Tell us a secret: I’m naturally very shy, so it takes a lot be so public with so many people! What made you enter Mr GSA? While spending 6 months teaching and working as a guidance counsellor at a high school I was exposed to several young gay men. It brought me back to my youth and the thoughts of self-disgust I often had. I think one of the biggest problems for me, particularly growing up in a small conservative town, was that I never saw any gay men around that I could look up to. I thought that the youth needed to see that they can be successful in life, regardless of their sexual orientation. I’m hoping to be a good role model to South African LGBTI youth and hope that they can see that if I can do it, so can they.
Photo: Kyle Correia De Aranjo
But this isn’t your first title. No, I won the Mr Mardi Gras title at the Pink Loerie in Knynsa in April last year. What was your first reaction when you realised you had won? Excitement, Joy, Disbelief. You are councillor for Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality in the Eastern Cape. You are also very young to be a Councillor. How did you get into politics? I started getting involved at university where I served on the SRC. I got involved in my local branch of the DA as a way to get more involved with my community as they conducted many community development projects. This love of community grew to a point where I was asked to stand for public office. I stood in the Local Government Elections and made it into the city council as the youngest city council member in Buffalo City. The Eastern Cape is a lot more conservative and the council there is ANC run. Yet your colleagues gave you a standing ovation in Council after taking the Mr GSA title. Are things changing? I think that educated members of society that have a firm belief in our inclusive constitution are certainly very tolerant. There are some conservatives around, but the larger voice seems to be one of acceptance. What did Helen Zille say to you when she called to congratulate you? We spoke about a radio interview I had the night before, otherwise it was just a courtesy call to congratulate me. I was very impressed that she had taken the time out of her busy day to call.
How do you respond to the comments some people are making that you cannot be a metro councillor and Mr GSA and that you should resign from one of these positions? I haven’t heard these comments of yet, but I think that both “jobs” tie together quite nicely as they are both representative in nature. What many people don’t consider is that Mr GSA is a voluntary position and is not remunerated. All those involved in the organisation give of their time for free.
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Lance will represent South Africa at the Mr Gay World 2012 contest which this year will be held in Johannesburg from 4th to 8th April 2012. The Grand Finale will be on 8th April at the Lyric Theatre at Gold Reef City. Tickets available through Computicket. For more information see www. mrgayworld.org Main pic: Photographed at the Glen Hotel by Simon Deviant
Did you have to get permission from your party or Council to enter? I did discuss the contest with party leadership who encouraged me to enter. How has your life changed since winning the title? Life has begun to get even busier with the additional hat, but I think I’m coping well so far. Luckily I have a great support network to fall back on should I feel overwhelmed! What does your fiancé think of your win and the added attention you have been getting? I discussed the pros and cons with him before I entered Mr GSA and we both agreed to it. I think it’s something that you have to do with your partner’s full blessing as it will affect his life just as much as yours. Your family? My family has been very supportive and happy regarding the win, which is great! Who is your role model/inspiration? I have many, and most of them tend to be people who really went out on a limb to stand up for something they really believe in. People like Harvey Milk, Mahatma Gandhi and Desmond Tutu. Do you think that you could or should be a role model? It seems like a very self-absorbed question to answer! I’ll just try to do my job to the best of my ability, and what happens will happen. Which famous person, dead or alive, would you like to have
dinner with? There are so many. Maybe because of my current situation, Harvey Milk would be someone I could learn a lot from. I’d certainly love to pick his brain. How can someone in your position improve conditions for South African gays and lesbians? I think any LGBTI person with a voice should use that voice to educate the greater straight community as much as possible regarding LGBTI people. How would you break down gender and racial barriers within the gay community? Gender and racial barriers are not something that is isolated to the gay community. They are prevalent in all of South African society. It’s something that all South Africans should work on, but certainly in the LGBTI community we can lead the way with regard to tolerance. When dealing with LGBTI people (people in general actually) I like to highlight similarities between the various groups as that serves as point of unification. The Mr GSA Contest always seems to attract accusations of racism and elitism. There is a perception of noninclusiveness. Whether this is true or not, why do you think that there is limited participation by black gays? The truth of the matter is that the competition is open to all and that the organisers have been trying very hard to get people of colour to enter, but unfortunately the numbers remain low. I challenge those that are complaining to go out there and encourage candidates of colour to enter next year! I understand that it is hard for some non-white members to enter because of fear of persecution in their communities. For example, one of this year’s contestants Fahraaz Dockrat faced stiff resistance from the Muslim community. How would you encourage black gays to participate? As long as black LGBTI people are being attacked in townships we are going to battle to get black men people to enter. We should be concentrating on highlighting this issue so that safety is no longer a concern so that all South Africans can feel that entering such a contest will not be hazardous to their lives. Are you excited about representing South Africa at Mr Gay World in Johannesburg in March and can you pull off three in a row for Mr GSA? There is no reason that we cannot pull of 3-in-a-row! I’ll certainly try my best! Why should anyone, and particularly gay people, visit East London? East London is a great place, particularly if you’re looking for a quiet holiday. I find it to be much underrated. Buffalo City has a population of over 1 million people, so it’s certainly not as small as some people assume. There are some great beaches and game reserves in the area, and the moderate climate is always a plus. There are very few “gay only” events or venues, but this shouldn’t dissuade LGBTI people from enjoying the beauty of the Wild Coast!
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THE LAST WORD IN THE VALLEY Story: Sharon Knowles. Photos: Sharon Knowles & Ceryllene Sinclair
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here are two reasons to travel - business and pleasure. More often than not, we all try and customise our hotel stay to our own preferences and needs regardless of the reason. Google is in overdrive as we search and investigate all potential hotels for luxury, comfort, serene surroundings, excellent service, great food and (being an internet person) the holy wireless connection. The Last Word is a group of five, five-star Boutique Hotels, and forms part of the international “Preferred Boutique Hotel Group”. Each one is unique in its own right and offers the underlying reason to spend more time there to linger longer savouring the friendly hospitality. Our new home away from home is The Last Word Constantia, which is nestled in the Cape’s oldest and most beautiful wine valley. The estate of Groot Constantia (Great Constantia) was established in 1684 by the Dutch Colonial Governor of Cape Town, Simon van der Stel. Other notable wine farms in the area include the oldest estate, Steenberg (Mountain of Stone), established in 1682, Buitenverwachting (Beyond Expectations), Klein Constantia (Small Constantia) and Constantia Uitsig (View of Constantia). Before the twentieth century, the region was noted for its exports of Vin De Constance a sweet dessert wine. The Last Word Constantia has nine elegant suites, which offer everything a person could want, with the choices being a view of the mountain or a private pool. We opted for the private pool and
garden and never did we imagine that beauty and tranquillity like this could be found in the city. We were met by Sam Phiri, the concierge, who has been with the Last Word for five years. Sam showed us around the hotel, explaining the different types of suites and the services available. He was kind enough to tell us about the local jaunts and their offerings, and on his recommendation we allowed him to take care of our dinner arrangements. High Tea was to be served on Sunday afternoon and it brought visions of grandiose ladies sipping their beverages with their pinkie fingers raised towards the sky. However, the modern high tea is more closely related to afternoon tea. Light sandwiches and even bread and butter sandwiches are quite popular as are Scones and clotted cream. Cakes, pastries, petit fours and a number of other dessert items help make up a high tea. Sam went on to explain that all types of functions could be held at The Last Word Constantia up to forty people, even small, customised weddings. Our suite was enormous and had every little requirement that you could imagine. The bathroom was gigantic (big enough for two well-rounded people). The bed was elegantly made up and upon it lay a welcome letter from Chane, the manager, Sam and the rest of the staff, alongside a special and exquisite flower just for us. Sam left us to settle in and the one remarkable attribute
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that we have found whenever we stay at a The Last Word Boutique Hotel is that even though you are experiencing five-star hospitality, the warmth and genuine depth of service seem to be so natural and unforced. Breakfast is served until 11am, with different choices of cereals, a large spread of fruits, cheeses, cold meats and a range of pastries. The breakfast menu offers a choice of an English breakfast to a customised omelette, the personal touch is being encouraged to modify the ingredients and have your breakfast the way you would at home. A fact that Sam shared was that 90% of their guests are international travellers and that their local visitors often come for a weekend away. The Last Word is a gay friendly establishment and I was surprised that Sam was knowledgeable about the local bars and clubs. He explained that they have many gay patrons and strive to offer the best advice to all their guests; he also mentioned that more and more gay couples are now visiting their establishments and this applies to both men and women. We heartedly invite our local and international friends to make The Last Word Boutique Hotels your home away from home.
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WHEN RHYS MET MARY Actor and comedian Rhys Woods created the Mary Scary Show in July 2010. It has been performed over 100 times mostly at Beefcakes in Cape Town, but also at Tanz Cafe in Johannesburg and at Lounge Lover in Shoreditch, London. Later this year he will be taking a new production “Bitches Be Crazy�, to the Standard Bank National Arts Festival in Grahamstown, followed by shows in London and Amsterdam. This madcap spread pictorial morphs the zany, whacky Rhys with the pseudo-lesbo trailer park chic of Mary Scary - cutting-edge fashion beautifully shot by Tyler-Dolan Photography Shoot sponsored by Wildfire Tattoos Photographer and Graphic Design : Tyler Dolan Clothing from: MONOKO (Jessica Visser) Stylist: Tamaryn Isabella Burger
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CHRONICLES OF A DISPLACED DRAG QUEEN Ms Gabriella Marquez finds her bearings in a new town. night out on the town. Though this isn’t any ordinary town and you would be sorely mistaken if you thought I was referring to the Mother City, The Gay Capital of Africa, the place of my birth, my home. No, no, no. It is in fact Bloemfontein - Die Rosestad. Before my departure from the Cape I was warned that ‘’Bloemfontein is the dead city of South Africa”. It probably would be, for someone who has moved from the most cosmopolitan African city and I must admit, for a while there I thought it was just that. I was feeling a bit like Daffyd Thomas, “the only gay in the village”, but as days passed and I encountered some sisters here and some brothers there. In stark contrast to Cape Town, the fag population here seems to have a desire to blend into mainstream society.
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o, it’s 20:30 on a Saturday night, it’s hot and I start my fist transformation from Dreary Tyrone to Glitzy Gabriella for 2012. The make-up hardly stays on, as I start to apply (Luckily it’s not the cheap variant.) I feel confident that after four weeks of settling in, colour coding the stilettos and dry cleaning the frocks and most importantly, getting to know “Thy Neighbour” (and “Thy Enemy”) I decide to attempt a
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One hot and bothered afternoon I decided to pop in at one of the local bars on Kellner Street. After sipping on my “mock” tail for almost an hour, some guy came up to me to say hello. I was SO shocked! But he recognised me from University days at Stellenbosch, to my disappointment. He mentioned that looks can be deceiving and that here are many hot and willing participants in Bloemfontein but since they all come from some sort of conservative backgrounds, one would just have to work a bit harder in persuading them “to do the right thing”. This was my first great discovery. I enquired about any other gay events/spaces in town but before I could get an answer he asked me if I knew the group from Cape Town which passed through town last year - it seems The Flag Boys, Ms Lola Fine, Roxy Le Roux and Geneviève Le Coq made a lasting impression on this town (gay and straight). Of course, I told him. If you are from the Cape and you call yourself a drag queen you MUST know Ms Fine. Immediately I could see what this town was missing . . . some flair, glitz and most of all the sense of openness, to just be yourself and not worry about who, what, when and why. This is something often taken for granted in Cape Town. Anyway, that said, I’m off. My chauffeur is waiting. Till next time – Oh! And wish me luck!
ROAR LIKE A GAY LION
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ape Town’s suburb of Observatory has always had a bohemian flair about it. And now a famous old landmark on Lower Main Rd has had a sprinkling of fairy dust bringing it back to life. The Lion Corner Tavern has been revamped and reopened as a gay bar, something that has long been missing in Obs. At the end of last year Hardus Lindeque and Casper Potgieter stumbled upon the building which had seen better days and they instantly recognised the potential. They decided to take the plunge, and since November 2011they spent every spare moment in paint and sawdust bringing the old Victorian diva back to life. Months of hard work has paid off and now they, along with their business partner Gert du Preez, who has had years of experience in the hospitality industry, are ready to entertain the deprived queens of suburbia. This Purple Paradise, with its eclectic menu, lush atmosphere and fabulous affordable drinks and cocktail menu, is a great place to hang out with friends, or to make new ones, have an intimate dinner or party at the bar. Be sure to check out the courtyard - the fireplace makes it usable in winter! The boys have a lot of exciting plans for Lion Corner so keep abreast at www.lioncorner.com or Facebook – Lion Corner Tavern. Lion Corner Tavern is at 205 Lower main Rd, Observatory and is easily accessible by bus and train. Trading hours are 10am till late, Monday to Sunday.
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THE FALSETTOS GAY DISCO MAFIA So if The Sopranos are a fictional Italian- American crime family, who the hell are the Falsettos? We take a look at two Mighty Real falsettos, Jimmy Somerville and the late Sylvester, both out and proud, both the epitome of the Disco Diva, and whose voices have thrilled a couple of generations of gay folk with their unique art. the 80s) and they became an integral part of Sylvester’s success, adding stage presence as well as reminders of his gospel roots.
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ylvester James, more than Gloria Gaynor or Donna Summer, was truly the Queen of Disco. He was one of the few chart-topping artistes in the 70s not afraid of acknowledging his homosexuality. Mind you, he was also an outrageous drag queen so he could hardly conceal it. John Rockwell of the New York Times wrote that ‘’Sylvester gives a show that makes most performers look positively dowdy. All of this might be of mostly sociological or psychological interest, except that Sylvester also sings extremely well in a high tenor or in falsetto.’’ A true superstar, Sylvester represented the black and gay cultural origins of disco to mainstream America and made it possible for the later success of artistes such like RuPaul. His body of work includes crucial contributions to the disco songbook, but his ballads proved he was a versatile stylist who brought a realness and depth to all material. His soulful, glittery performance style influenced future stars like the Manhattan Transfer, Bette Midler and the Pointer Sisters. According to his own account, despite being a child gospel star, his life began in 1967 when he moved to San Francisco where he spent time with the experimental psychedelic drag troupe, the Cockettes, which at one time also included Divine as a member. He spent years as a solo cabaret artiste, but Sylvester’s luck changed after meeting Harvey Fuqua of Fantasy Records who signed him up in 1977. While working on his self-named album, Sylvester came across Izora Whitehead and Martha Wash singing background vocals. He renamed the hefty pair the Two Tons of Fun (transformed into the Weather Girls in Mag 18
But it was Sylvester’s collaboration with legendary producer Patrick Cowley on his second album Step II that put him on the course of superstardom. As the LP was being recorded, Sylvester let Patrick Cowley remix an early version of You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real). Cowley’s synth overlays, the driving beat and keyboard flourishes transformed the former ballad into a disco tour de force. This reflected the intensity of gay disco at its best, while Sylvester’s soaring impassioned vocals communicated the anticipation of sex. Arriving at the height of Disco Mania, the combination proved irresistible and much to the horror of disco haters and homophobes (who were largely one and the same), Sylvester was launched into the mainstream. The accompanying video where Sylvester strolls around the disco in full drag, made a mockery of previous producers’ attempts to tone down his flamboyance. Mighty Real and the other single from the album Dance (Disco Heat) went to Number 1, shooting Sylvester into disco’s stratosphere. The following album, Stars, his only pure disco album was a celebration of nightlife which defied anyone not to dance. By 1982, Sylvester joined Cowley’s Megatone label and was at the forefront of the Hi-NRG phenomenon. The ensuing album All I Need was highlighted by the driving Do You Wanna Funk, a more aggressive sequel to Mighty Real that was a huge hit and set the template for Hi-NRG. After Cowley’s death from AIDS, Sylvester never quite reached his previous peaks, but still managed to record hit sings like Take Me to Heaven in1984. After being diagnosed with AIDS, Sylvester stopped performing, but stayed in the spotlight to raise awareness about the disease. He died in 1988, only 42 years old, but with a legacy that will forever endure. Despite the obvious magic he had with dance material, Sylvester never viewed himself as a disco act. You see, he really wanted to be Patti Labelle. But his legacy endures with his songs being repeatedly covered or sampled by other artists, notably by other falsettos like Jimmy Somerville and Byron Stingily. He had a huge impact on contemporary music and popular culture. He refused to trade his deeply drag-rooted flamboyant image for a more masculine one during the newly hyper-masculine gay male culture of the ‘70s. He remains a truly gay icon.
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immy Somerville is Sylvester’s natural successor. He lent his soaring falsetto to two of the premier dance-pop outfits of the ‘80s, Bronski Beat and the Communards, before embarking on a solo career. He co-founded Brit Synthpop band Bronski Beat in 1984. Unlike some other major pop stars of the time such as George Michael and Boy George
who were firmly encased in their closets, all the members of Bronski Beat were openly gay and their songs often contained political commentary on gay-related issues. From the band’s debut single Smalltown Boy onward, Somerville’s songs dealt openly with his own homosexuality, a recurring theme that met with surprisingly little commercial resistance, as both the record and its follow-up, Why?, about homo-prejudice, cracked the U.K. Top Ten. The inner sleeve of the much-acclaimed album Age of Consent listed the varying ages of consent for gay men in different countries. At that time the age of consent for gay men in Britain was 21 compared to 16 for straight couples. And just when you thought they couldn’t get any camper, Bronski Beat teamed up with also openly gay Marc Almond to record a cover of Donna Summer’s I Feel Love in 1985. Bronski Beat provided the soundtrack for the lives of so many young gay men at the time. Soon after, Somerville left the group to form the Communards, a duo that topped the British charts in 1986 with a euphoric rendition of another disco classic, Thelma Houston’s Don’t Leave Me This Way. Their 1987 album Red featured a cover of another disco classic, Gloria Gaynor’s Never Can Say Goodbye. The next year, Somerville began his solo career. His 1989 album Read My Lips, included his inspirational hit cover of Sylvester’s disco classic You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real), introducing a younger generation of queers to one of the gayest anthems of all time. In 1990, Somerville contributed the song From This Moment On to the Cole Porter tribute album Red Hot + Blue produced by the Red Hot Organization, the proceeds from which benefited AIDS research. Jimmy Somerville is still recording and touring, often appearing at Gay Pride celebrations throughout the world, including at Jo’burg Pride in 2000. The joyful exuberance of his music, his openness about his sexuality, and that incredible falsetto trill, like his precursor Sylvester, guarantee him his place is the Gay Disco Diva Hall of Fame!
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BEAULAH AND THE ANDREWS SISTA! Interview by John French
The new Beaulah Bar and nightclub on Somerset Road in Green Point, Cape Town, was the talk of the town over the December festive season. This new nightclub has been opened by the legendary lesbian, Myrna Andrews. Sexy, soulful and tremendously insightful, Myrna has definitely earned her iconic status as a gay icon and lesbian role model. John French caught up with her to find out about her sophisticated new nightclub as well as what experiences have shaped the amazing woman she is today. How was your first season at the new Beaulah? Our season was great! It can be put down to two things: a) We’re a new venue and everybody was dying to see what we had done, and b) We are an established name. I even have foreign tourists coming here telling me they have heard about Beaulah. What is the difference between the old Beaulah downstairs, and your newly created venue upstairs? Well, for starters, it’s bright and new and fabulous - it’s double the size and has a chill area and a VIP area. The most important thing is that the music is still the same and my staff are warm, friendly and good at what they do. The venue is obviously new and much bigger, but the fundamentals are still the same. And, best of all, we’re drawing a mixed crowd – guys and girls – which is what I wanted from the outset. How many patrons have you been attracting on an average evening? About 300 people. What has the response and feedback from your patrons been like? Extremely positive! The general response has been “Wow!” On opening night it was so wonderful to see people walk in and have their jaws drop. My response to all this positivity is that all those loyal Beaulah customers over the past 4 years deserved something fabulous from us. Why should we settle for something that is down a back street somewhere and that is dark and dodgy? Smoking policies and regulations in clubs and the general non-conformance thereof has raised huge contention on social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter. What are your views on the subject? Smoking is such a huge issue for me … and I’m a smoker! I would love to have a non-smoking venue. I think it’s unfair for us to inflict our filthy habit on non-smokers. The problem is on a business level, unless every establishment on the block agrees to run a non-smoking venue, I cannot afford to do the same thing. My patrons would just leave and go to a venue where they Mag 20
can smoke. What I want to do, and it is going to be difficult, is to encourage smokers to do it outside so I’m considering opening up the roof deck. We are allowed 30 people up there at a time – it’s really beautiful up there and would be the ideal smoking section. Zooming in on you, Myrna, you have become such an admired role model and icon on the lesbian landscape. How do you feel about such accolades? When I first started my girls parties, about 14 years ago, a lot
of these girls were only 18 back then. They have grown up with me. I’ve listened to them - I’ve seen them go through break-ups and make-ups, and everything else. They know that I am always there for them. I don’t necessarily have all the answers, but I’m known to have a lovely all-encompassing hug and very broad shoulders. I would love to do more. I think I have just been doing it for so long, and I have been visible for so long, that people have come to see me as a constant. It is very important to me that people know that I’m someone who is responsible - not boring - and approachable. And I like to think that’s what I am. You entered a straight marriage at 21 and that marriage lasted 7 years. You then came out the closet and went through all the associated challenges. During my marriage, I never really had inkling that I was even remotely lesbian. I was happily married. I fell pregnant, and as I walked in to the hospital to have my baby, a female nurse came out and I remember thinking: “Wow! She’s really cute!” And I suddenly thought: “I’m about to have a baby and I am having these thoughts. This is just wrong!!!” Well, it turns out she was my midwife. We subsequently became friends and that friendship grew, until one day I realised that I could no longer stay in my marriage. I finally took the bull by the horns and left my husband. I felt guilty about it for years because he was a good man. As a result, my parents disowned me for a couple of years. But I stuck to my guns. I was extremely comfortable in my new lesbian relationship. I had no regrets. I was extremely open about the fact that I was now gay. My daughter was only 13 months old when I left my marriage. What advice would you give to women coming out of the closet? As far as coming out is concerned, I have so many girls coming to me and asking me: Should we tell our folks we’re gay? My advice: DON’T! Your parents know anyway. 99% of the time, they know. My girlfriend made a very good observation. She said: The very first thing your parents think about when you tell them you’re gay is “SEX”. What do they do in bed …?!? I tell the young girls: When parents want to know, they are going to ask you. Just let it be. There are parents who will love a gay child as she is, but the reality is that most parents don’t want to know about it. It’s very brave to “come out”, but don’t rub your parents’ noses in it. Maybe I’m a little old fashioned where that is concerned, but tread softly. You’ve had both straight and gay relationships? What are the fundamental differences between them? I don’t really think there is a difference, certainly not as far
as I am concerned. Everybody brings different strengths to a relationship. I know it’s an old line, but only a woman can know what another woman needs. On every level, it just works amazingly well. We kind of know how we tick. I’ve been both sides of the fence and honestly, this works better for me. You have one daughter and two grandchildren. Do you find the gay world ageist? I am an extremely proud to say I’m a Granny! Luckily, most people don’t really see me as being “old”. People tend to think that I am much younger than I am, so I take great pride in telling them how old I am! But it doesn’t worry me. I obviously hate growing older, like most people I want to be around for a long, long time. You’ve been with your current partner for 9 years. What has been your recipe for relationship success? She’s my recipe for success! She’s a Scorpio, and she doesn’t give up. We have a huge age difference: she is 27 years younger than me. I think that trust is the biggest thing. We trust each other implicitly and we love each other’s company. I am also a firm believer that if you make a commitment, you stick with it. I have had 4 long term relationships (13 years, 5 years, 3 years, and now 9 years). I believe that if I make a commitment, it’s for real. You make it work. In 2007 you opened the original Beaulah. What brought you to that point in your life? My girlfriend and I had partied for years at the old Bronx those were wonderful days! I had also been doing my “Girl Parties” for a long time. I used to do them upstairs at Sliver. The number of boys that used to come in and say “Please can we come in” “We love the music up here” and I’d have to turn them away because some of the girls did not want the guys there. Ironically, one of the car guards tipped me off that the old Beaulah premises was up for rental and he said I should go and open a club there. And that’s exactly what I did. Finally, if you had to describe yourself in 3 words, what would they be? Loyal, honest, and … committed. I care very much about the gay community. They matter to me. Beaulah is open every Friday and Saturday night from 9.00pm till late and on the eve of public holidays. R20.00. Follow Beaulah on Facebook to find out what’s happening.
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very time Pride comes along one tends to hear a lot of silly statements such as “what’s Pride for?”; “What! Me go to Pride? I’m not that kind of moffie!”; “Humph! It’s those kinds of people who give us gays a bad name.” Normally these profound statements of self-loving/ loathing (it’s hard to tell which) come out of the mouths of queens who should know better, or from young bright things newly out of the closet/platteland who don’t. They are often ignorant of our history, know nothing of the battles fought to get to the position where discrimination on the grounds of gender or sexual orientation is banned by our Constitution, and certainly lack empathy for other Africans who not only do not enjoy the kind of rights (not privileges) we have, but who could be severely punished just for being born this way.
documentary film “Beyond Gay – The Politics of Pride” written by Durban artist and cultural activist Helge Janssen. The film focuses on how Pride is celebrated in different parts of the world, from cities where local government sponsors Pride to places like Moscow where the church and state collude against any form of public display of Gay Pride. The film gives an alarming account on human rights abuses in several countries, particularly in relation to homosexuality. While gays in many European and American states, and some extent here in South Africa too, tend to take Pride for granted, gays living under less democratic or in theocratic regimes often risk life and limb to be able to participate in a Gay Pride March. In the case of Cape Town, it is only when there was a strong possibility that there might not have been a Pride event this year
thereby institutionally promoting a culture of hatred. • Only 49 countries worldwide have antidiscrimination laws that include sexual orientation • In the United States, there is no federal law to protect people from workplace discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity. • Only 8 states have legislation that provides specific laws to prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation • Seven countries still penalize consensual same sex acts with the death penalty • Same-sex sexual relations are illegal in 38 countries in Africa with penalties including execution in Mauritania, Sudan, and northern Nigeria, and life imprisonment In Uganda. • Moscow stands out as a city that has rejected over 165 applications to permit
THE LAST ACCEPTABLE PREDJUDICE
Why we still need Pride We need Pride to remember how we got here and remind ourselves that although we have these rights, there are people within our country who would take them back. Steven Roche, senior psychology lecturer UKZN has said that “homosexuality is the last acceptable prejudice.” The recent hateful comments by Zulu King Goodwill Zwelithini KaBhekizulu that “traditionally, there were no people who engaged in same sex relationships… same sex is not acceptable” are proof of this. Unfortunately his prejudice is shared by many of our fellow citizens of all political, ethnic and religious persuasions. So we need Pride to remind ourselves that we have to continue being vigilant lest we lose what we have gained. We need Pride to celebrate who we are and what we have achieved. And we need Pride just so that for one day a year we can let our hair down, wear silly clothes, and act crazy. But Pride is more than a parade and a party. It remains a subversive political act with a strong message. I recently came across a review of a Canadian Mag 22
that people began having the discussion again as to the nature of Pride and to whether we still need it. Clearly we do. But back to Janssen’s review. There was something he wrote that struck a chord with me, bearing in mind the priss queens who worry that putting on some glitter and make up one day a year puts us in a bad light. He a says “I see the Pride parade as pushing the boundaries of visual expression so as to make the ‘normal’ gay person appear quite sane in comparison. This becomes an interesting psychological perspective thus challenging the narrow minded to allow these eccentricities of expression to happen within a broader spectrum of acceptance and tolerance.” Yes, like him I’m all for a bit of gay abandon! So where do we now stand, 43 years after the Stonewall Riots in New York which got the ball rolling? While huge strides have been made, lots still has to be done. Here are some interesting facts: • More than 80 member states of the United Nations still criminalize consensual same sex acts among adults,
a pride event. Meanwhile all the South African cities where Pride is celebrated support Pride • In 1995, I had the privilege of being the only African delegate at the ILGA (International Gay & Lesbian Association) Conference and marched in the first Gay Pride March in Rio de Janeiro after the overthrow of the dictatorship the year before. There were a couple of thousand people at the most. Now Brazil’s Ministry of Tourism actively promotes Pride which is now hosted in 30 cities, including Sao Paulo which, with over 4 million participants, is the world’s biggest Pride celebration. So I will be celebrating Pride in Cape Town in March and Jo’burg in October and any other Pride I can get to because I can, and also because I see it as my duty. I will spare a thought for those around the world who cannot, and for all those who are insulted, bashed, bullied and even murdered for being different. And then I am going to count my lucky stars and have an absolutely fagulous time, just because I can! – Evan Tsouroulis
SHAME.PRIDE.JOY.DECADENCE.LIFE.PEACE.ACCEPTANCE.HATE.DOUBT.LOV E.POSITIVITY.HUMILITY.DECISION.DEDICATION.REASON.DREAM.PRUDENCE LUCK.FAITH.OBSSESION.STRENGHT.UNITY.DIVERSITY.PASSION.HAPPINESS
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YOUR PULL OUT GUIDE TO
Mag 23
Pride is one of the most anticipated events on the gay soci In and exciting development, Pride CT has been working major ones has been to take the Pride Parade back throug hood. The after parade party will take the form of a Pride and clubs on the Pink Strip. It will be held in Napier, Cobu will have its own stage with a selection of DJs and live ac be held on the first Saturday, 3rd March, with MR SPEEDOMAN Who’s got the balls to fill Werner’s Speedo? Come find out at the Mr Speedoman 2010 happening at the Pride Pool Party at the Glen Hotel on Saturday 2 February
SATURDAY 25TH FEBRUARY
Pride Pool Party, featuring OUT Africa Magazine’s Mr Speedoman 2010. - Start Pride with a Splash! DJs Red Richard and @ntonello will be spinning some of the sexiest, sultriest, funkiest tracks this side of Ibiza and some of Cape Town’s hottest hunks will be strutting their stuff in their sexiest swim wear in the battle to win Mr Speedoman Contest at 5.00pm. The contestants will be judged on only two categories: package and audience response! Glen Hotel. Sea Point. 2.00pm -8.00pm. Tickets R50 at Computicket & R60 at the door. Mr & Miss Pride Pageant The one and only ODIDVA hosts the most glamorous event on the Pride Calendar. The Pavilion at V & A. 8,00pm. Tickets: R50 & VIP R120 @ Computicket; R60 & R130 at the door,
FRIDAY 2ND MARCH ODIDIVA The original No lipsynching, Live, Gay and proud Drag Performer with attitude will be hosting the Mr & Miss Pride Pageant as well as performing live on stage at the Pride Village Fair Day.
Boys’ Night Out Amsterdam Action Bar, Coburn St. 7.00pm. R20 Computicket. R 30 at door Pride Photo Exhibition Some of the Cape Town’s best photographers display their unique take on queer life in the Mother City. photographers include David Lee, Simon Deviant and Alpha Boy. Also on show are photos of the SA Gay Flag Priscilla Pride Tour. 7.00pm. Venue tba
SATURDAY 3RD MARCH
Pride Parade - The Queers are taking back the City! Parade departs from Gallows Hill Traffic Department at noon and continues along its traditional route from Somerset Rd, down Adderley, Wale and Loop Streets before coming back up Somerset for a party in the Village. Pride Village Fair Day - Pride comes back home to the Village! Parts of Napier, Coburn & Liddle Streets will be transformed into a space for a mother party featuring top live entertainment from acts including Odidiva, 3D, Co-B, MC2, Lola Fine, Flourish, The Soap Girls, Ex-Hoza La Familia, Victoria Caballaire, Tracey Rose, Spinsista Mitzi, Miles Ford and Elario. Fab Food stalls and separate, secure under-18s section. 1.00 -8.00pm. R20 Computicket. R30 at the Door
SUNDAY 4TH MARCH 3D Since bursting on the scene a year ago, this fabulous Trio’s hair has been getting bigger, their skirts have been getting shorter, and their fans more frenzied in their support. They will be appearing at the Pride Pageant, Valerie’s Diva evening and at the Pride Village Fair Day
Mag 24
Drink
Pride Comedy Night Lesbian comic Kellyn Coetzee headlines a fabulous line up. Beefcakes, 8.00pm. R50 Computicket. R60 at door
MONDAY 5TH MARCH
Dames, Divas & Drags Part 1 Bubbles Bar, 9.00pm. R30 Computicket, R40 at door
with Pride
ial calendar and this year PRIDE CT 2012 is coming home! g with the community in making key decisions. One of the gh the Cape Town City Centre, and end it in the Gayboure Village Fair Day, organised in conjunction with the bars urn and Liddle Streets adjoining Somerset Rd. Each street cts. In another departure, the Pride Parade and Party will more events scheduled for the following week. TUESDAY 6TH MARCH
Pride Interfaith Service 7.00pm, venue tba Dames, Divas & Drags Part 2 Bubbles Bar, 9.00pm. R30 Computicket, R40 at door
WEDNESDAY 7TH MARCH
Sunset Beach Picnic Clifton 3rd Beach, 6.30pm Book Event. Meet Trevor Kleinhans who will be talking about Secrets Make You Sick, his brutally honest and sometimes shocking autobiography. Alexander Bar, 76 Strand St. 6.30pm Divas of The North The Fabulous 3D are joined by Anastacia Khan for a hi-energy drag show. Valerie’s, River Park Centre, New Nooiensfontein Drive, Kuils River. 9.00pm. R30.00.
THURSDAY 8TH MARCH
Dames, Divas & Drags Part 3 Bubbles Bar, 9.00pm. R30 Computicket, R40 at door Open Mic Comedy Show So you think you can sing, be a stand-up commedian? Come and try your luck. Beaulah Bar, 8.00pm. R 20 Computicket, R30 at door.
MC2 This is the latest incarnation of the ongoing collaboration of Drag Divas Madones & Celeste: MC2. Veterans of Bond Ambition and Chernobyl House, this terrific twosome will be appearing on all three stages at the Pride Village Fair Day.
FRIDAY 9TH MARCH
Crew’s Amateur Strip Show Crew Bar. 7.00pm. R20 at Door. Who is going to win the R5000.00 prize for getting his kit off? Show at 11.00pm. Men only until midnight
SATURDAY 10TH MARCH
Red Party Pride’s Closing Party to be held at Alexander Bar, Amsterdam Action Bar, Backroom Bar, Barcode, Beefcakes, Beaulah, Café Manhattan Green Point, Crew Bar, Darkspot and Valerie’s. Wear RED for AIDS Awareness and get a chance of winning a spot prize for the Best Dressed. 7.00pm. R20 Computicket. R30 at door. Band gives access to all participating venues.
SUNDAY 11TH MARCH
Pride Shelter Trust Open Day 1 Molteno Rd, Orangezicht Pride Country Pool Party Shisa Guest Farm, Tulbach. (Men Only). R170 Computicket. R180 on departure Pride Celebration Service Thank God we’ve made it through another Pride! Good Hope Metropolitan Community Church, Zonnebloem. 6.00pm
Drink
EX-HOZA These five talented poets and rappers from Khayelitsha produce Hip-Hop music in their own studios where the whole creation of their craft is made. They will be performing at the Pride Village Fair Day.
with Pride
Mag 25
TREVOR KLEINHANS
Advance tickets can be purchased at Computicket, where they will be R10 cheaper than at the door.
This Durban based author of the best selling Secrets Make You Sick will be talking about his book at the Pride Book Event at Alexander Bar on Wednesday 7 March
FLOURISH This gay electro-dance-pop couple have been getting lots of radio airplay with their catchy tunes. They will be performing tracks from their debut album Moving Up at the Pride Village Fair Day
Information correct at time of going to press. Please consult www. capetownpride.org or Cape Town Pride Festival on Facebook. Also follow on Twitter: #capetownpride
KELLYN Who?... Oh Her! COETZEE This comical creature has been spotted in Cape Town comedy bars with either a Tequila or a microphone in her hand and often both. Diet is not a word to be found within her vocabuary, however she has been known to pray upon the weak and feeble witted. Approach with caution... or tequila! On stage a Beefcakes Pride Comedy Night on Sunday 4 March.
VICTORIA CABALLAIRE Miss Caballaire is a legend of the Mother City who promises to add something naughty and nasty on the stage at the Pride Fair Day.
PRIDE PAGEANT Who will be crowned as Mr and Miss Pride at the most glamourous affair of the Pride season? The Pavilion at the V & A will be glittering with stars on and off stage at the Red Carpet event of the year, on 25 February
THE SOAP GIRLS These super-sassy sexy sisters have taken the country by storm with songs like Sour and Lucky Tonight from their album Xperience. They will be rocking the stage at the Pride Village Fair Day.
Drink
MISS LOLA FINE Miss Fine is allegedly the most photographed drag queen in South Africa. She will be adding some Eastern delight when she appears on stage at the Pride Village Fair Day.
with Pride
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DJ @NTONELLO’S TOP 10
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Anyone who has been to the Glen Hotel’s infamous Shame Pool Parties this summer will have grooved to Italian Stallion DJ @ ntonello’s London Style uplifting soulful, funky progressive house tunes. We keep the Summer Vibe going with his Top 10 Tracks:
2012/01/19 3:52 PM
Photo: Simon Deviant
*Your Love (Ian Pooley Remix) - Noel Nanton *C’est L’amour - Frank Ti-Aya Feat. Francesco Palmeri * Shake Your Body (Main Mix) - Nightrhymes Feat. Natasha Watts *2People (2011 Rework) feat. Tara Busch (DCUP Remix) - Jean Jacques Smoothie, Tara Busch * Then Came You feat. India (Jamie Lewis Where We Came From Mix) - Harley & Muscle, India * Pump Up the Jam (Alfred Azzetto Re-Work) - Max “Macho” Marotto * Le Bump feat. Crystal Waters (Original) - Crystal Waters, Yolanda * Fuck the Disco - Original Mix - Bob Sinclar *Cry (Just a Little) (Original Mix) - Bingo Players * Gone (Alias Rhythm Dub) - Yasmeen Mag 27
BACKROOM BAR CAPE TOWN
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Mag 33
Roland
LEGGY SONIA LETS RIP Newcomer Sonya Legs walked away with the Golden Heel Award held at Bubbles Bar in Cape Town at the end of last year. The contest, hosted over a period of four weeks by drag mistress Samantha Knight, attracted some of the Mother City’s most talented drag artistes. Miss Legs’ highly energetic and spirited performance impressed the crowd and the judges. We just had to catch up with the young drama student to find out more.
SONYA: Beyonce! She’s just WOW! She’s the ultimate triple treat. Everything about her is WOW! She’s so talented! All the songs I performed were Beyonce songs. She inspired the Sonya character.
OUT: Tell us a secret….. SONYA: I’m the biggest Lil’ Wayne fan
OUT: Love or Money? SONYA: Well at the moment I have neither, so I think I’ll go for love because its one thing that I’m still searching for.
OUT: Tell us what not to wear this summer SONYA: Long pants. A pair of shorts will do the job
OUT: Beach or Mountain? SONYA: Beach
OUT: What item in your closet can you not do without? SONYA: My black spotted shiny sequined jacket, because whenever I wear it somebody will say something about it OUT: What’s in your handbag? SONYA: My eyebrow brush, cell-phone, keys, a bit of concealer. Inglot undermakeup base works wonders OUT: What’s your greatest extravagance? SONYA: Shoes and shorts. The more dramatic the pattern of the fabric, the better OUT: What made you want to perform in drag and when did you start? SONYA: I have never been into the whole drag thing. I was dared to it. I went to Bubbles Bar one night with friends and they happened to announce the Golden Heel Awards that night, so I entered. I did it once and everybody loved it, so I went through to the next round and it just got bigger. I’m a dance student at the Waterfront Theatre School, and although I’ve been in theatre productions in my home town East London and in Hairspray in Cape Town, I’ve never done drag before this. OUT: Which famous person, dead or alive, would you like to have dinner with? Mag 34
OUT: Chocolate or Vanilla? SONYA: Chocolate. Lol! OUT: What was for your first reaction when you realised you had won the Golden Heel? SONYA: I was very excited, but at same time I was surprised that I actually won, because it was something that started as a dare and I was new at it while the other contestants were regulars. First time lucky! But because I come from a performance background, my main goal when I came up with my character of Sonya Legs was to make it a performance the audience would remember. As for the character’s name, some of my college friends call be Sonya, so when I was thinking of what to call myself, that, along with the fact that I have great legs, was the natural choice. OUT: Who is Sonya Legs off stage? SONYA: I’m a simple person. Very fussy, quiet to a certain extent but fun and outgoing. I am a friendly, bubbly character and very talkative. To relax, I like putting on my headphones, going to the beach and listening to Ella Fitzgerald and Tina Turner OUT: Is drag a political statement? SONYA: It depends on the context. OUT: What’s next for Sonya the performer? SONYA: I would like to do a full length show with other performers.
SHEBEEN CHALLENGE
O
n World AIDS Day, OUT Africa Magazine accompanied Health4Men on a tour of 10 shebeens in Cape Town as part of its ongoing Ukwazana AIDS awareness campaign the townships. Ukwazana means “getting to know you” and the campaign is targeted at marginalized MSM (men who have sex with men but who don’t necessarily identify as gay) who reside in the township communities across Cape Town. The aim of the campaign is to address prejudice, stigma and discrimination directed towards men who like other men. It strives at encouraging people to be more accepting and tolerant of other people and also encourage men to get to know their status and reduce the number of their sexual partners. There are about 32 shebeens in marginalised areas of Cape Town that Ukwazana is working with, and the number is growing. For the World AIDS Day Shebeen Challenge on 1st December, 10 gay-friendly establishments volunteered to participate in a contest to raise community awareness around HIV and to solidify Health4men’s relationships with the shebeens in order to address HIV and AIDS within the MSM population. Each participating shebeen was given an identical kit consisting of fabric, balloons, ribbons, condoms, lube, posters and other educational material such as pamphlets to do with as they will. They were scored on pre-identified criteria such as visibility and accessibility of condoms and lube, visibility of educational materials, creativity, initiative and decor in promoting World Aids Day. There were additional criteria such as general cleanliness, and so on. Ultimately only seven taverns were evaluated as three withdrew at the last moment. Some of the
shebeens displayed a great deal of creativity and it was obvious where there had been a queen’s touch. However, sometimes the emphasis was on décor and not education. In a couple of places, the condom dispenser was behind the cage in the bar area… not conducive to discretion. However, in most cases, the venues bought into the spirit of the occasion. The overall winner was Mina’s Place in Old Crossroads, followed by Fanie’s Place in Langa and Zibele’s in Delft. While Mina’s décor may not have been the most fabulous, they scored high on the visibility of condoms, lube, posters and other educational material. When we arrived in the early afternoon, a workshop was in progress, and when we identified ourselves, people were wanting to engage with the team. Unfortunately we had to move on as we were on a tight schedule. Apart from visiting all the shebeens, we also called in on the Health4Men clinic in Khayelitsha. Mina’s Place was presented with a floating trophy together with a framed citation. Other participating shebeens also received a certificate of recognition for participating in the event. Apart from myself, the other two judges were Lumnkile Sizila, Treatment Action Campaign Co-ordinator for Khayelitsha, and Mnyamana Rhoro of Khayelitsha Sport Council, two organisations that work closely with Health4Men. For me, the experience was an eye-opener and it was gratifying to witness the great strides that have been made at grass roots levels in educating straight as well as gay people about stigma and homo-prejudice in neighbourhoods that are often less than gayfriendly. – Evan Tsouroulis
Mag 35
TO SUPPLEMENT OR NOT TO SUPPLEMENT
by Glenn de Swardt
HIV positive people are often advised to eat a healthy diet with additional supplements and vitamins to remain healthy and “boost their immune systems”. This intuitive and seemingly good advice is harder to follow than you might think. How do you know what a “healthy diet” actually means, and which of the massive choice of vitamins and other pills might benefit your health? Much of the nutritional advice out there is perfectly safe and could be beneficial but how do you know you are really benefiting? Also how do you know that something proven to work for Americans or Europeans is going to work for South Africans who have different genetics, a different HIV viral strain, different diets and of course, different levels of poverty and living conditions? It is not helpful promoting supplements to people who don’t know where their next meal is coming from. They should use whatever funds they have to buy food, not vitamins or supplements. Clearly people who have an inadequate diet which lacks calories and nutrients will suffer compared to those with enough high quality food with a lot of variety. Many people in South Africa have diets restricted by poverty and eat mainly starch or carbohydrate. These people would probably benefit more from a table spoon of peanut butter daily which is full of essential fats, oils, vitamins and protein than some proprietary products which are comparatively expensive. Anyone considering nutritional support should review the evidence for their chosen product. What you are looking for is independent testing by researchers to show that a particular supplement is effective. The evidence should preferably have come from something called a randomised controlled trial which is the Rolls Royce of evidence. It pays to be wary of evidence, claims or patient testimonials posted on a manufacturer’s
NEVER ON SUNDAY
S
undays will never be the same. G-Events will be throwing a fabulous Pride After Party at Societi Bistro on Orange St in Gardens, on Sunday 4 March., from 3 to 10pm. What Cape Town has been lacking is a Tea Dance and hopefully this chilled out party with a heart will remedy this. Amazing music, gorgeous people and a relaxed atmosphere will give you a whole new reason for you to LOVE Sundays. Numbers are limited so don’t hesitate to contact Patrizia: 078 378 4776 - patrizia@g-events.co.za to book.
Mag 36
websites and promotional products; they are trying to sell you something and are not impartial. Unfortunately, the vast majority of supplements have not been tested in HIV positive patients, and particularly not in people with exactly your staging, CD4 count and life circumstances. Supposedly expert groups also get it wrong. For example, a local website for MSM recently promoted selenium supplementation on the basis of a trial published recently in a highly respected medical journal. When one takes a closer look at the study that they quoted, one finds it was conducted in pregnant women (who are a little different from MSM!) and showed no benefit to the HIV positive mothers anyway. The benefit was slightly increased weight in the newborn babies. This doesn’t mean that selenium isn’t beneficial for HIV positive MSM, but this trial doesn’t give us that information. The bottom line is that it pays to be maintain a healthy level of suspicion for all products that claim to improve health related to HIV and of course, don’t believe everything that you read. Glenn is the project director of Health4Men,a project of the Anova Health Institute that provides free sexual healthcare to gay and bisexual men, including free ARV treatment and support groups. Contact him directly at glenn@health4men.co.za
MARCH diary Friday 2rd Leather Night Free entrance with leather gear · Wednesday 8th Full Moon – Celebrate hedonism with free libation wine · Friday 9th Long Schlong Night Free entrance for 20cm + · Friday 16th Fetish Night – Indulge your fantasies · Wednesday 21st GAY HUMAN RIGHTS PARTY – Activists & NGOs get in at half price · Friday 30th Public Pigz Night Be a pig on the bar counter for an entrance refund APRIL diary Friday 6th Full Moon – Celebrate hedonism with free libation wine · Sunday 8th Queer Family Party - Cum escape the family · Friday 13th Leather Night Free entrance with leather gear · Friday 20th Long Schlong Night Free entrance for 20cm + · Thursday 26th Freedom Day Party – Cum feel free · Friday 27th Public Pigz Night Be a pig on the bar counter for an entrance refund · Monday 30th Workers Day Party – Cum work it MAY diary Friday 4th Leather Night Free entrance with leather gear · Saturday 5th Full Moon – Celebrate hedonism with free libation wine · Friday 11th Long Schlong Night Free entrance for 20cm + · Friday 18th Fetish Night – Indulge your fantasies · Friday 25th Public Pigz Night Be a pig on the bar counter for an entrance refund
Mag 37
KZN GAY GROUP WINS FRENCH HUMAN RIGHTS AWARD
T
he Gay and Lesbian Network in Pietermaritzburg was one of the two South African Human Rights groups to receive a special distinction award from the French National Consultative Commission on Human Rights (CNNDH) at an awards ceremony hosted at the French Embassy in Pretoria at the end of January. Every year since 1988, the CNNDH awards the Human Rights Prize of the French Republic to human rights defenders around the world. The selected theme for 2011 focussed on fighting against human rights violations on the grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity, and combating violence against women. While the Gay and Lesbian Network did not win the 2011 Human Rights Prize, it was recognised for its work and active involvement in supporting the advancement of Human Rights in South Africa, especially with regards to fighting against human rights violations on the grounds of sexual orientation and gender. Anthony Waldhausen, director of the Gay & Lesbian Network said that it was an honour and privilege to receive the award
and recognition. He dedicated the award to all gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, intersex people worldwide who face ongoing discrimination, persecution and even murder. He said “We will endure with the struggle and are with you all, each day of your life in the hope that this scourge of homophobia is eliminated from the face of the earth. Nothing will stop our resolve to ensure a just and free society for all.” It seems fitting that a Kwa-Zulu based organisation should receive the award in the same month as the Zulu King made derogatory remarks about gay people. The other South African organisation to receive a distinction was the Sonke Gender Justice Network for its action in combating violence against women, preventing domestic and sexual violence and promoting gender equality. The organisation recognises that homophobia is also a gender issue and that much of the work they do with gay people is about the right to be human, and not so much about being gay.
GLITTERBOYS TENNIS WINS FILM PRIZE ANYONE?
African Gay & Lesbian Open
T
T
he South African documentary Glitterboys and Ganglands walked away with the best film in the LGBT category at the 10th Annual San Diego Black Film Festival in the USA in January. The film, directed by award winning author Lauren Beukes, takes a behind the scene look at the Miss Gay Western Cape Pageant in 2010, focussing on three contestants’ preparations for Cape Town’s biggest and most glamorous drag competition. The San Diego Black Film Foundation, which organises the festival, is dedicated to preserving and promoting African American and African Diaspora cinema. Held each year in January, it is one of the largest black film festivals in the United States. Mag 38
he GLTA (Gay and Lesbian Tennis Association) hosts an international series of tournaments in countries all across the world. The AGLO (African Gay and Lesbian Open) will be the first one to be held in Africa. South Africa is a shining beacon in terms of freedom for gays and lesbians in Africa, and Cape Town will play host to this tournament over the Freedom Day weekend in April. It is apt that the tournament will be held at this time. While gay South Africans can celebrate freedom, it must be remembered that in most of the rest of Africa, homosexuality is illegal. So it is important to host such events on the continent. But the primary aim of the tournament is to promote tennis through competitive playing whilst being a social event as well. The end of each day’s play will be followed by a fun activity, including a banquet on the final night attended by the players. Players of all skill levels are encouraged to play. As in events such as the Gay games, the emphasis is on participation so beginners are encouraged to join for some competitive fun! The Open will be held at the Green Point Tennis Club on 27th, 28th and 29th April 2012. Entrance fees are R300 per player and registration is now open. Go to www.theaglo.yolasite.com for more information or contact Paul Smit at paul.smit@mazars.co.za
SHOP ONLINE @
K
INX has now launched its online store where you can go online, view our products and make your purchases. It is that simple! You can pay using your credit card or via eft. With over hundreds of different products online we aim to give you the customer more options to decide from. Location is no longer a problem you could be in Durban, Cape Town, London and still be able to shop at KINX. At KINX we believe in communicating with our customers so you can be assured that if you place an order online, you will get a friendly KINX representative contacting you, to confirm your order and to assist you with any questions or queries that you might have. Shopping online at KINX is an experience from viewing our products, to reading up on information about the leather scene, to finding out the latest events in and around South Africa. So if you are looking for leather fetish wear, visit our online store, WWW.KINX.CO.ZA where you can shop at your own leisure, 24hours, 7 days a week. Be sure to be on the lookout for the launch of our Bears Collection in the next few months.
Mag 39
THE VERI SWEET LETTERS...
KZN pinK Post: Corner to Coast #3 Signed: Veri Dre Sweet eyes and ears baby!
T
his Letter is the first of the 2012 Post - looking to special corners, traveling west from the east coast. One memorable past, one decadent future; two carefree venues and a theatre-arts feature…
Following the madness of New Years Eve I must thank Ballito for the grandest FOKKEN Eve - ‘twas something like Skype by 5FM and Savanna , I’ve never been hugged by so many mense. Alas, I will not speak of that Fabulousness Past and the rain wet the dance-floor, coz we set it on FIRE! I do now profess that the north’s worth a look; let’s see what’s on offer, ever place has its nook…
Who Likes to Swallow?
own words, how about fire-dancing, mountain-biking - trekking, or crazy hours recreating? There are family arrangements and some strict rules apply - but police are for security, and unlikely to schnaai.
Durban’s a DRAG: re-Dress-ing the issue As these Letters will have you know, Corner to Coast we put on a show! Fair Rhumbelow Theatre set in Umbilo - a historical venture, has had a make-over. With new tribute singers, piano times two - it’s hard to say why not, there’s delight awaiting you! Online you can find a full HOW and WHO; there’s even a dash of DRAG artistry too. Two comedies a month, and its just getting started; I’ve got my heels ready and the Duck-tape sorted…
All this summer sunlight must be put to good use; not only for Gay Pride, which Cape Town is to host. The eastern coast heat is simply hardcore; maybe it’s good to be away from that shore… Mount Moreland offers you a natural wonder of today, one I’d say marvels any indoor display.
Set before sunset, 45 minutes is grand: for this you’ll experience in Lake Victoria wetland. From October’s middle, right up until April, three million swallows roost until April. As the brochure says bring a picnic and lawn chairs, some refreshing drinks and a pair of binoculars. Mosquito repellant is the all-important other - you can call Enquiries to make sure of the weather. If it’s too much kak keeping your bum on a spot, dress up that body in an outdoorsy frock. Relatively in the bush - very happy and sorta rough - it’s only 225 kilometres from Durban, go south. Book Thursday April 5th, or any till the 9th for the Splashy Fen Music Fest which boasts 10 000 party people on site. Hosted in the Underberg since the year 1990 it’s usually five-days-long, five days to freakin’ PARTY!!! Artists come from near and far, it’s like SA Music’s bar mitzvah. Original paintings and handmade art, philosophy of living that’s from the good heart. Other than real music, it’s a holistic soiree held at The Freestyle Tribal Village, what more could I say? If it’s not my Mag 40
I must bid you adieu, I’m marching through March - as if it was February that didn’t go fast. Be swell and be blessed Stay happily ever after; Your KZN writer, for queer OUTAfrica Linkage from postage: 1. www.skype.com 2. www.5fm.co.za/events/new-years-eve-live-city-link-up 3. Mount Moreland Enquiries - 031 568 1557 or visit www. barnswallow.co.za 4. www.splashyfen.co.za - booking can be made via Computicket 5. www.rhumbelow.za.net
PREENING FOR PRIDE AT PETTICOAT PARLOUR With Pride CT 2012 fast approaching, everyone wants to look good. Petticoat Parlour has all the right tools to help you look Absolutely Fabulous, not only during Pride but all year long!
ter option with results lasting up to six weeks. Don’t forget, a smoother body makes it easier to apply that painted glamour during Pride. And with the Cape Argus Cycling Tour happening the week after Pride, everyone knows that hairless legs help you glide faster! Cast in Bronze - Having an all over body glow is essential to looking and feeling healthy, however with skin cancer on the rise, sitting for hours in the sun exposed to harmful UVA and UVB rays, is not such a good idea. SunFX is a professional salon spray tan made with 100% natural ingredients, is the new healthy way of achieving that bronzed look. It combines highly purified water with natural bronzers and contains no harsh chemicals, oil, parabens or, alcohol. Best of all, with no odour or that 80’s orange tint, this wonder-tan is quick drying and will last through a pool party or two.
Petticoat Parlour is one of Cape Town’s best kept secrets for personal pampering. Located in Green Point, just a stone’s throw away from the gaybourhood, Wendy Chait and her team have developed the quintessential SOS package for men. This encompasses a day of five star treatments aimed at the 21st century man serious about his long term health. Wendy has especially designed male oriented treatment rooms to ensure her clients leave feeling invigorated, well groomed, and ready to face the most ruthless scrutiny on the beach, in a club or on a Pride Parade!
How to avoid Hair-Raising Moments- Whilst many guys prefer their men hirsute, others do not. We are often faced with a few hairy dilemmas such as ear and nose hair that have a tendency to sprout unwanted tendrils; thick furry caterpillars, otherwise known as the ‘uni-brow’ or untamed, rampant body hair more akin to King Kong than Don Juan. With Petticoat Parlour’s tailored ‘full hair service’, even the most risqué of outfits will benefit from a luxurious anointment of warmed wax to the chest, legs, back and arms. (Please note that the “crack and sack” option is not available). Waxing is a quicker and far more effective means of controlling the “yeti”, although when it comes to tackling wayward eyebrows and upper lips, threading is probably a bet-
Mag 41
MORE MOFFIES AT OIA
As was the case last year, the Out in Africa Gay and Lesbian Film Festival will come in three instalments in 2012. This popular innovation makes sense as it allows gay cinemaphiles to see more movies throughout the year without breaking the bank. The first edition of this year’s Festival runs from Friday 23 March until April Fools’ Day in both Johannesburg and Cape Town. It will include a special gala screening of Glenn Close’ s latest project Albert Nobbs, black tie/cocktail dresses compulsory. Most of the films will be screened in smaller cinemas this year so there is limited seating. Make sure to get your tickets early. As usual, the OIA team have scouted the planet to bring us some of the best queerest cinema. Here’s the line-up:
9 Dead Gay Guys
9 Dead Gay Guys
Wickedly funny – two popular Paddies in London looking for the money, but someone’s bumping off the clientele.
Albert Nobbs
Glenn Close in an Oscar nominated role as a cross-dresser. Nuff said.
Christopher and His Kind
Lush drama depicting the real story of Christopher Isherwood’s Berlin, the fabric of the cult classic Cabaret.
Kiss Me (Kyss Mig)
Lekker lesbo Swedish fliek, script, actors, cinematography – what a pleasure!
Christopher & His Kind Marine Story
A Marine Story
‘Don’t ask, don’t tell’ – she should have been a hero, but there’s life and love after the Army in this multiple-award winner.
My Last Round
Exquisite Chilean sleeper, in the fashion of last year’s runaway hit Undertow.
North Sea Texas (Noordzee Texas)
Oh, what a Beautiful Thing! Subtle, nuanced, satisfying film from Belgium.
Romeos
My Last Round
Lukas has a secret and must think on his feet, surrounded as he is by a host of nice and not-so-nice teens, as intent as any to get laid, party and have a good time. From Germany
The Secret(Imfhilo)
A married man is in denial, but there’s help in the form of the BF. Intriguing contemporary South African cinema with lots of humour Two short South African films will be screened with The Secret:
Anders
Small dorp Johan must find the courage to find acceptance, from family and ultimately, himself.
Paving Forward
Short doc about a fabulous 50 year old dyke and her journey to acceptance, especially from her kids. Features Musoia Lekota! For up to date screening details please visit: www.oia.co.za Mag 42
North Sea Texas
WIN TICKETS Five lucky readers in Gauteng and five in Cape Town can win a ticket to OIA by telling us which Hollywood actress takes the lead as the Victorian cross-dresser in Albert Nobbs. Answers to: outmagafrica@telkomsa.co.za by Tuesday 20th March 2012.
SOME LIKE IT COLD with Gary Hopkins
OUT TO LUNCH
Who can resist a mouthful of the delicious white stuff? I’m talking sensual, sexy ice cream. OUT when in search of the ice cream hot spots in Cape Town. Marcel’s Marcel’s is one of the oldest and most successful chains around and can be found in most shopping malls. They pretty much started the frozen yoghurt trend in SA. Their stores have undergone a revamp but they still offer between 4 – 6 flavours daily plus a full range of dips and toppings. Best of all you can order a mix of two flavours in one swirl.
Myjög
Sinful If you grow tired of the eye candy on Clifton 3rd head to their Camp’s Bay or Sea Point and indulge your sweet tooth in another way. Their service could do with a shakeup but you can’t fault their range of flavours which are truly decadent. They’re also stocked by Pick’n’Pay so you can pig out in the privacy of your home.
This new kid on the block opened just two months ago next to the Checkers in Kloof Street and is causing quite a buzz. The decor is funky white and pink with astro turf on the floor. Their focus is on health and boast about being 98% fat free. It also means their toppings are heavy on fresh fruit and light on the bad things. What really took me by surprise was how tasty the frozen yoghurt is (kind of sour and sweet at the same time). They offer just 2 varieties: Plain and chocolate. Grab a loyalty card, if you plan to go back often.
Ice Cream Ninjas Gelato Mania This family owned chain (Green Point circle and Canal Walk) makes choice obscenely difficult. Not only are you faced with a bank of flavours, but they also cater for halal and diabetic customers. They don’t add preservatives or additives so they are as close as your can get to the real Italian deal in Cape Town. If your find yourself at Canal Walk try their frozen yoghurt stand in metres from their main shop. They produce yoghurt swirls with the flavouring in a syrup on the outside. It’s a lot sexier than it sounds.
Located in the bowels of Tyger Valley Shopping Centre (near the soon to be reopened KFC) this isn’t easy to find but really worth braving the mall renovations for. When I visited, the gorgeous Ashton was on duty and was only too happy to explain the concept. Essentially you choose a flavour of ice cream; select your toppings and these are mashed together on a chilled slab before being put into a cone. I had vanilla ice cream with wasabi peas and ginger. The ice cream itself wasn’t sensational but the sum of the parts was. I’ll definitely be back to see what’s on the slab, and to visit Ashton. Mag 43
OUT ON DVD Real Steel
The Tempest
This sensational story of Adam, an underdog boxing robot, and Max, a hot-headed rebellious teenager, is one you will always remember. Hugh Jackman scores top points as a loser father and cocky washed-up boxer who regains his confidence through Adam, and discovers himself through the courage of his son. Dakota Goyo delivers a fantastic performance as a boy who refuses to stop dreaming. If you are looking for first rate entertainment that’s got heart and offers soulful escapism, this is your kind of film. It is not a sports film about boxing robots, but more in the tradition of The Champ and Rocky, offering a meaningful and rewarding experience. Rating 5/5
Julie Taymor’s extraordinarily inventive interpretation of Shakespeare’s immortal classic offers a fresh and invigorating blend of fantasy, romance, realism, tragicomedy, supernatural and illusory surrealism. She brings an original dynamic to the story by changing the gender of the traditionally male sorcerer Prospero into the sorceress— Prospera— portrayed by Helen Mirren. Prospera’s journey spirals through vengeance to forgiveness as she reigns over a magical island and cares for her young daughter, Miranda, while unleashing her powers against shipwrecked enemies. For director Taymor’s Shakespeare was “funny, he is forever contemporary, he is more daring than most writers. He’s outrageous and he’s deep. There’s nothing better!” This DVD includes a few first rate bonus features such as a one-hour journey into ‘Raising The Tempest’ ,an insightful audio commentary by Julie Taymor, a mustsee rehearsal riff by Russell Brand, and Carney’s music video of the epilogue. As if this is not enough, there is a second audio commentary by Shakespeare experts Jonathan Bate and Virginia Vaughan. Rating 5/5
Apollo 18 If you put Blair Witch Project and Paranormal Activity through a blender, the result is this frightening journey into the realm of astronauts and their ‘real-life’ encounters on the moon. Directed by Gonzalo Lopez-Gallego, this sci-fi horror centres on a fictional premise of an actual Apollo 18 mission that was launched in December 1974 but which never returned. As a result, the United States never commissioned another expedition to the Moon. The film is shot in a mockumentary style, supposedly of the lost footage of the Apollo 18 mission that was only recently discovered. Is it real or ‘fake’? You have to decide. Rating 4/5
Shark Night A sexy summer weekend turns into a blood-soaked nightmare for a group of college students hunted by blood-thirsty underwater predators in a terrifying thrill-ride featuring a red-hot young cast. What makes this ‘Jaws’ unique is that it is not set in the deep blue, but in the Louisiana swamps. And before you question the validity of a shark in the swamps, the resolution of this monster thriller will provide all the answers. It turns the ordinary upside down and shows that the obvious monster lurking in the shadows is not as scary as real killers that are cleverly masked in the plot. Rating: 3/5 Mag 44
Home entertainment...
Dustin Milligan Shark Night For more information on the latest DVD releases, visit www.writingstudio.co.za
By Daniel Dercksen
The
Help
writer-director Tate Taylor. As friendship is so vital to the story of “The Help,” so was friendship vital to how the film became a reality. Director/ Screenwriter Tate Taylor and Kathryn Stockett, author of the book “The Help,” were childhood friends who grew up together in Jackson, Miss., in the 1970s.
We reviewed this exceptional film directed by Tate Taylor, who also wrote the screenplay, based on Kathryn Stockett’s No 1 New York Times best selling novel, in our last issue. And now you can own it for yourself. 5 lucky readers can win a DVD of The Help. All you have to do is tell us who wrote the screenplay and send your answer with you contact details and ‘The Help’ in the subject line to: daniel@ writingstudio.co.za. Deadline May 31, 2012
MUSIC MOVES by Gary Hopkins
M83 – Hurry Up, We’re Dreaming Who are they? Essentially a one man band who occasionally works with his brother and pals. What’s their bag? Layers of moody electronic pop, ethereal vocals and sound bites. Sounds like? It is very 80’s. At times
Lana Del Ray – Born to Die Who is she? An American Singer/ Songwriter that is causing a worldwide debate as to whether she is really good or really, really bad. What’s her bag? She looks like she could be part of the cast of Mad Men and sings like someone out of the 60’s
they sound like Peter Gabriel and at others The Killers, The CD: The double CD was inspired by and aims to reflect dreams, so each track is designed to sound completely different from the one before and the one after. That said, it isn’t the least bit disjointed and is getting substantial air play on 5FM. The track to download: Midnight City
Sounds like? Critics are calling her the hybrid of Portishead and Nancy Sinatra. They’re right. Her CD: To look at her you might think that she is an Adele wannabe. She isn’t. On the down side she doesn’t have her range but on the plus side she doesn’t need her heart stomped on to write a good song. Despite singing about video games this is a very ‘old fashioned’ CD. Like Marmite you’ll either love it or hate it. The track to download: Video Games
Kimbra – Vows Who is she? The chick that sings towards the end of Gotye’s “Somebody that I Used to Know” What’s her bag? Alternative, jazz pop. Sounds like? A little bit of Bjork and a touch of Amy Winehouse The CD: It is quite kooky but in a nice way. It may take a couple of listens to really get into it but it is a fun and lighthearted journey. She’s from New Zealand but not that you’d notice. The track to download: Good Intent Foster the People – Torches Who are they? A little independent band from Los Angeles that the world has fallen in love with What’s their bag? The lead singer used to make a living writing jingles and continues to make catchy indie rock and pop tunes Sounds like? Imagine a mix REM and the Beach Boys. Their CD: Even though it was released in the middle of last year the CD has only really starting to catch on now thanks to the success of the track Pumped Up Kicks and 2 Grammy nominations. The CD is the equivalent of a feel good Sunday movie on M Net. The track to download: Call it What You Want Example – Playing in the Shadows Who is he? If you looked up the word cool in the dictionary it would say: Example – electro hip hop rapper from the UK. What’s his bag? He has a magical way of interweaving dance and rap in a totally fresh way Sounds like? The kind of guy you want to invite to your next house party. The CD: A joyous rollercoaster ride of funky beats, happy raps and English wit. Check out the video for Natural Disaster which puts an interesting spin on scoring for a rave The track to download: Change the Way You Kiss Me.
WIN
FLOURISH - MOVING UP Flourish is an exciting electronic dance-pop duo from Cape Town that have been getting their sound out there this past year performing their unique sexy retro-fresh sound from the ultra-chic La Bottega in Woodstock, to Bubbles & Beaulah on the Pink Block, to Club Voom Voom. Their 10 tracks debut album, Moving Up, just released, delivers house, disco and club music plus their very own brand of protean powerhouse pop. To win this fabulous flourishing CD, write and give us the name of one of the popular venues on the Cape Town’s Pink Block where Flourish have performed TREVOR NOAH’S CRAZY NORMAL DVD Crazy Normal, recorded live at the Nelson Mandela Theatre in Jo’burg, cements Trevor Noah’s position as one of SA’s top comedians, one who has perfected the art of turning his own experience of day to day life on the southern tip of Africa into a feast of roll-in-the aisles laughter. Nobody is safe from his sharp insights and offbeat views. Win the Crazy Normal DVD by answering the following: “Where did Trevor Noah record his Crazy Normal DVD?” GORILLAZ – The Singles Collection 2001-2011 This CD brings all the Greatest Hits of the last 10 years of this quirky British band together on one album, including a fab remix of Clint Eastwood. Win this Gorillaz compilation by telling us where the band come from. Enter all three competitions by mailing outmagafrica@telkomsa.net with your answers by 30th April 2012. Mag 45
OUT ON FILM Action!
For big screen action with attitude, here are some super-hot action guys and gals ready to save the world. Taylor Kitsch muscles his way to fame as war-weary, former military captain John Carter (from March 9) who is inexplicably transported to Mars and reluctantly becomes embroiled in an epic conflict amongst the inhabitants of the planet. Kitsch can also be seen as a heroic naval officer in the epic action-adventure Battleship (May 4) that unfolds across the seas, in the skies and over land as our planet fights for survival against a superior force. Sam Worthington makes a welcome return as Perseus in Clash 2: Wrath of the Titans (March 30), enlisting the help of the warrior Queen Andromeda (Rosamund Pike), Poseidon’s demigod son Argenor (Toby Kebbell), and fallen god Hephaestus (Bill Nighy) to rescue Zeus, overthrow the Titans and save mankind. The Avengers (April 27) marks the superhero team up of a lifetime with iconic Marvel Super Heroes Iron Man (Robert Downey), The Incredible Hulk (Mark Ruffalo), Thor (Chris Hemsworth), Captain America (Chris Evans), Hawkeye (Jeremy Renner) and Black Widow (Scarlett Johansson) for the first time ever. When an unexpected enemy emerges that threatens global safety and security, Nick Fury, director of the international peacekeeping agency known as S.H.I.E.L.D., finds himself in need of a team to pull the world back from the brink of disaster.
Women rule
By Daniel Dercksen Taylor Kitsch, who plays John Carter, can also be seen in Battleship
Michelle Williams as Marilyn Monroe in My Week With Marilyn
Meryl Streep deserves every accolade as one of greatest actresses of our time. She miraculously transforms into Margaret Thatcher, comfortably slipping under the hardened skin of rational ruler and the gentle soul of a romantic idealist in The Iron Lady. This exceptional master work affords the viewer a unique opportunity to step into the shoes of one of the most famous women in history and grasp an understanding of fame, glory and infamy. Michelle Williams truly becomes iconic legend Marilyn Monroe in the superb My Week with Marilyn. Director Simon Curtis exquisitely captures the spirit of the screen goddess who changed the world she tried to escape from, and gives us an intimate glimpse into the madness of stardom. Charlize Theron plays Mavis Gary, a writer of teen literature who returns to her small hometown to relive her glory days and attempt to reclaim her happily married high school sweetheart (Patrick Wilson) in Young Adult (April 13). Glenn Close plays a woman passing as a man in order to work and survive in 19th century Ireland in Albert Nobbs (April 27). Some thirty years after donning men’s clothing, she finds herself trapped in a prison of her own making. (See the Buzz, page )
Discerning viewing
One of the most talked about films of the year is The Artist (April 6), which takes place in 1927 Hollywood and focuses on a silent movie star whose career seems about to end because of the arrival of the talkies. The Met Opera, Broadway National Theatre Live Seasons continues at Cinema Nouveau with Verdi’s thrilling early operatic gem Ernani (March 16), Anna Netrebko plays the tragic heroine in Manon (April 27), and Natalie Dessay and Matthew Polenzani play the doomed lovers in La Traviata (May 4). Broadway musical lovers can look forward to Stephen Sondheim’s Putting It Together (April 5), a humorous, poignant and sophisticated musical “review” of material taken from a number of his original musicals. Theatre lovers can indulge in Shakespeare’s furiously paced The Comedy of Errors (from March 28). .
Horse power
Jeremy Irvine in War Horse
The spectacle, scale and splendor of War Horse is overwhelming. Steven Spielberg’s casting is exceptional, particularly his discovery of Jeremy Irvine, who truly embodies a spirited and hopeful young man whose bond with his horse Joey results in magical and authentic eagerness. War Horse is a must see experience that you will definitely revisit and always remember. The Cup (April 20) is more than just the story of a horse race. At heart of this true story is Damien Oliver, a young jockey who triumphed at the 2002 Melbourne Cup in one of the most thrilling finales in sporting history.
For more information on these releases and other films now showing, visit www.writingstudio.co.za Mag 46
Daniel Derckson
WORD PERFECT THE BIG STICK
Richard de Nooy Jacana – Bonsela Edition R150.00 After the recent spate of somewhat overwrought, introspective confessional autobiographies, it is almost a relief to read a well written work of fiction which succeeds in telling a story that many gay readers will relate to in an entertaining and engrossing way. The blurb on this novel’s sleeve tells us that Alma Nel leaves her rural home in Zeerust to retrieve the body of Staal, her gay son living in exile in Amsterdam in the late 80s. Driven by guilt and grief, she tries to reconstruct his life and the events leading up to his death, undertaking a bizarre quest in a world that is strange and surreal to her. This is a very broad outline of a story unfolding on various levels, told from the point of view of an odd cast of protagonists including a Rasta “cock dealer”, an aging Caribbean Trolley Dolly Sugar Daddy, a drug-addled Polish rent piece, a tomboy sister, a former SADF aversion therapist and a wellmeaning macho older step-brother trying to butch up his moffie sibling, to mention just a few. It is so much more than just a tale of a mother looking for answers. The Big Stick illustrates a collision course between South Africa in the dying days of Apartheid and licentious Amsterdam, which is of course the original Mother City. The novel is as much about Alma finding ways to deal with something that is evident but unspeakable, as it is about a young gay South African man finding his wings in the land of his Calvinist forefathers. Alma recognises that her son Staal is not like other boys. Her intuition is informed by the knowledge that Staal’s father was himself gay, and the scandal that this discovery caused. She realises that Staal would not survive National Service and her solution, which seems cruel on the surface, is to buy him a one way ticket to Amsterdam. She has enough sense to understand that he will find his own people in this liberal city away from his volk. She has to be cruel to be kind. But then Staal dies in mysterious circumstances. Alma decides to visit Amsterdam to try and piece together his last days. She finds her life turned upside down. The Dutch confound her. They are like her is so many ways, yet so very different. All her beliefs are challenged. It is a Black man who has never been to Africa who ends up assisting her. She is shocked to discover Staal’s lover is an older man of mixed race. But despite it all, she wants to know all there is to know about Staal’s new life even if she has to force her way through
the sleazy underbelly of gay Amsterdam. As it is explained, “Alma had never heard the truth so unadorned”. There’s no escaping it. But she makes every effort to overcome her prejudices and to alter her perception of the world. The thing about The Big Stick is that it actually is very funny whilst dealing with some really heavy issues. There are some really side-splittingly parts. The Herman Charles Bosman parody especially comes to mind. But it is also a very poignant story of self-discovery for both mother and son. Author Richard de Nooy’s grew up in Johannesburg but has lived in Amsterdam for the past 25 years. His first novel Six Fang Marks and a Tetanus Shot (Jacana, 2007) won the University of Johannesburg Prize for Best First Book. De Nooy was awarded a grant by the Dutch Foundation for Literature to write his second novel in Dutch. The Big Stick is the English version of Zacht als Staal. Mag 47
ON STAGE At the theatre with Daniel Dercksen KALK BAY THEATRE CAPE TOWN There are lots of interesting happenings in this independent theatre in the Southern Suburbs. The eagerly awaited Coward & Cole is a brand new cabaret featuring the music of Noel Coward and Cole Porter performed by two of the best piano men around. With Godfrey Johnson and Roland Perold, it is four hands, two pianos and one evening of frightfully good entertainment! Coward & Cole, from 7 – 24 March, highlights the best of an era and is filled with witticisms, social commentary and clever word play. Slight-of-hand whizz Stuart Lightbody returns with his blend of magic and comedy for a limited season from 28 March until 1 April. Peter Gilchrist presents The Divine Oscar, his acclaimed one-man tribute to Oscar Wilde on Sunday 29 April, and 6 & 13 May. Gilchrist brings much of the humour and a little of the tragedy that was the life of this flawed genius. He plays seven different characters, bringing to life scenes from ‘The Importance of being Earnest’ and ‘An Ideal Husband’. Many of us remember the lovely moment when Earnest admits he was born in a handbag! The show stopper however is Gilchrist’s introduction to Lady Bracknell in all her majestic glory. Tonight Neither Hamlet, directed by Chris Weare and featuring Guy de Lancey, takes to the stage from 4 April to 5 May. What happens behind the theatre curtain is revealed by one of the forgotten characters of theatre, the curtain puller. Pushed front and Mag 48
Godfrey Johnson
centre by a co-incidence of occurrences, he exposes what the audience doesn’t see, whilst at the same time revealing some of his own theatrical dreams and ambitions. Funny, poignant and entertaining. And of course every Tuesday night, there is the popular TheatreSports with their high-octane non-stop, laugh-aminute improvised antics. Two lucky couples can win seats to the first week of Cole and Coward at the Kalk Bay Theatre. Name your favourite Cole or Porter number and send it with your contact details and ‘Cole and Coward’ to daniel@writingstudio.co.za, before March 5, 2012.
ON STAGE IN CAPE TOWN The Cape Town City Ballet presents Giselle at the Artscape Opera House from April 13 – 22, accompanied by the Cape Philharmonic Orchestra. Daria Klimentova and Vadim Muntagirov from the English National Ballet and Maxim Quiroga from the Vienna State Opera Ballet company star in this production .A new production of David Kramer and Taliep Petersen’s hit musical Kat & the Kings opens at the Fugard Theatre on May 1. This Mag 48
Roland Perold
award winning high energy, smash hit musical comes home to the heart of District 6 with a combination of award-winning soloists and a dazzling new young cast. The Cape Town Opera presents La Boheme at the Artscape from May 5 to 16. It is directed by Matthew Wild with Given Nkosi as Rodolfo and Nozuka Teto as Mimi. American tenor Lawrence Brownlee makes his Cape Town debut in a spectacular Bel Canto Gala Concert, with South African born soprano Sally Silver and mezzo-soprano Violina Anguelov on May 13 also at the Artscape. Israel Horovitz’s comedy Line is on for the very first time in Cape Town from April 18 to 29 at the Little Theatre, Orange Street. This absurdist-style play centres on five people waiting in a queue, none of them seemingly know what they are waiting for, but all are desperate to get first place in line. South Africa’s award-winning musical African Footprint is an explosive song-and-dance show that tells the story of the people of Africa through the poignant words of poet Don Mattera. The production fuses Kwela-jive, traditional gum boot, tap, contemporary ballet and hip-hop pantsula, performed with high energy by a superb cast. Shows run at Artscape from 22 May until 11 June.
AT THE JOBURG THEATRE Pieter-Dirk Uys celebrates 2012 as a year of radical change in South Africa through political paralysis with his new show Adapt or Fly! Evita Bezuidenhout, Kidi Amin, Pik Botha, Nowell Fine, Mrs Petersen, the old Krokodil, Madiba and the dancing DA will be coming to
the rescue from 3 to 29 April! What could be better than a good laugh at the expense of those who depress, recess, frighten and annoy us? Uys’s chorus-line of characters includes a motley medley of past National Party leaders balanced with the more familiar quartet of ANC Presidents. Moscow Circus on Ice is on from May 2 to 13 and delivers a sensational collection of big top performances on skates from the land of plentiful snow. Clad in dazzling outfits, the talented stars juggle, leap and spin their way through a series of balletic acts on the points of their blades, transforming circus acts into art. Le Grand Cirque Adrenaline from May 23 to June 17 is a jaw dropping visual feast of the most thrilling and exciting Cirque acts on earth. Featuring a cast of over 40, the troupe explodes onto the stage with death-defying, edge-ofyour-seat acrobatics.
ON STAGE IN DURBAN KickstArt proudly presents the South African premiere of John Logan’s 2010 Tony Award winning play Red. It explores the fascinating creative process and inner conflict of famous American artist Mark Rothko, who is painting a group of murals in his New York studio 1958-9, for the expensive and exclusive Four Seasons restaurant. Red stars Michael Richard as Rothko, with Jeremy Richard, recently seen in The History Boys, as his assistant Ken. The play is directed by Steven Stead. It launches at the Playhouse Loft Theatre from 27 March-1 April, before going to the Grahamstown Festival in June. For more information on live shows visit www.writingstudio.co.za
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m tolerant