The 24th Annual
Night of a Thousand Gowns!


March 27th

Marriott Marquis Hotel
1535 Broadway and 46th Street

This year's fabulous ball, a charity coronation ball will benefit Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS and God's Love We Deliver.

Headliner Talent include: Broadway Bares, Kristine W, Crystal Waters, Coco Peru, Terri White, Kelly King, Jesse Volt and DJ Sherry Vine. 

IMPERIAL COURT NEW YORK

Since 1986, AIDS Walk New York has raised more than $105 million for HIV programs and services in the tri-state area, and has grown into the largest AIDS fundraising event in the world.

In 2009 alone, 45,000 participants, many of whom were members of 2,880 corporate and community teams, raised a record sum of over $5.6 million for Gay Men's Health Crisis (GMHC) and 50 other local AIDS service organizations.

This year marks the 25th year of AIDS Walk New York, the east coast’s first and the world’s largest such event. On Sunday, May 16, 2010, an expected 45,000 walkers will gather in Central Park and embark on the 10k route. The event will raise vital funds  for GMHC and dozens of local AIDS service organizations in the tri-state area.

GET  INVOLVED!

For more information, please call (212) 807-WALK (9255),

or visit aidswalk.net.

The  Best of Gay New York

 

Last year when flying to Prague, we had a  7 hour stop at  London's  Heathrow airport. So rather than drive into London to get a room and pay for a full night, we stayed at YOTEL and were able to book  a room  for 6 hours. Yotel is known for their "pod" rooms in Europe. Everything you would expect from a luxury hotel in a small space. GREAT DESIGN but inside the airport terminal building!

Now the Pod hotel chain Yotel  opening  in New York City next year. It will be  its first expansion outside of airport locations. And the hourly/pod concept of course will not be needed, but the company will focus on compact space with great design features and functionality.  

Yotel Times Square, to be located at 42nd Street and 10th Avenue, will feature 669 cabin rooms (about 185 square feet), making it the largest hotel opening planned for New York in 2011.

The firm says that it will feature a restaurant, bar, meeting rooms, Club Lounge and the largest outdoor terrace space of any hotel in New York.

"YOTEL will bring a unique mix of fun, excitement and luxury to New York and all at an affordable price," said Simon Woodroffe, founder of the YO! Sushi chain and Yotels.
                                                                                                    (photo below from Yotel pod rooms in Europe)

With the opening one year away and the ever changing hotel rates in Manhattan, it's hard to say what their rates will be. However the company  told me "we will make sure that we are great value for money and extremely competitive. Customers constantly tell us that they don’t want to pay for lots of space in rooms that they actually never use. It’s about the quality of sleep, flexibility and quality.


The rooms will  be compact  but really nicely designed and with hand made organic beds, large flat screen TV, free WiFi and wired internet, the best ever rain shower, plenty of storage space. In addition the facilities of the hotel will be fantastic – the largest outside terrace space in New York, a really funky bar, lovely concept restaurant."

The Best of Gay New York

BROADWAY HOTTIE 
MARTY THOMAS
is interviewed this week
at  Gay Life NYC.org

You may have seen Marty on the Great White Way in "The Secret Garden", "Wicked" or "Xanadu", or in concerts all over the world.

Marty Thomas is a singer of remarkable ability who made his Billboard debut with "Resurrect Me (Lift Me Up)" on Westend Records in 2001. His dance tunes soar into the realm of the club anthem with Marty's shining vocal delivery firmly at the helm.

Remixed by artists such as Tom Moulton, Hex Hector, Blaze and Julian Marsh, he was recognized with Grammy nominations and Billboard awarded the song, song of the year in the gospel/contemporary christian category.

He takes time out of busy schedule this month to chat with Michael Cavanaugh at Gay Life NYC.org


Later this month, there's a  special edition of "Scott Nevins' Curtain Call" with  Marty  over  at  Splash bar.  Monday, March 15th, 11:30pm, directly following the video madness of "Musical Mondays", co-host Emily McNamara welcomes Marty Thomas back to town and back to "Curtain Call to serve up a full set of Broadway's hottest tunes plus a few surprises!
 
Make sure to get there early to grab a seat to watch those legendary musical numbers on the big screens, and then sit tight as Marty  performs live in person!

 

Admission is free until 10pm, $5 after.
Must be 21 w/ id. Splash Bar
50 west 17th st (b/w 5th and 6th)

Friend  Marty on Facebook!


The  Best of Gay New York

You may remember
back in October we broke the story about KEPT,
the fourthcoming reality  television show, and its casting call.....

As the show was cast and went through some developmental stages this year, it is ready to begin shooting in May!  The show has been cast  but they are STILL LOOKING  FOR 
ONE more fab couple ...and an amazing SINGLE hottie that navigates the NYC gay social scene in search of his equally (or better) "other half"!!

BEST GAY NEW YORK  just got this official casting call today!

From the producers of "The Real Housewives of Atlanta" and CEG Casting--We are pleased to announce "round 2" casting of our highly anticipated docu-series that chronicles the lives of a select group of fabulous gay guys who are A List and part of NYC’s social elite.

It will be a fun, entertaining and drama-filled peek into the lives of gay male couples and singles who are making it happen in NYC.

• You go to all the right clubs, support all the right charities and organizations, live in the right neighborhood, vacation in all the right places.

 

• You have worked hard for your place on the NYC Gay A-List and you have all the trappings that prove your success.

 

• You dress and accessorize for the part.

 

• Other gay guys either want to BE you…or want to BE WITH you!

 

• You are in your 20-30’s.

 

• You have a story to tell and a lot of great issues going on in your life.

 

Looking for:

Gay Power Couples – you have joined fabulous forces to create the ultimate partnership. You are hot and have the means to take care of yourself physically. You support each other in everything that you do. You navigate in amazing circles with other successful gay guys – both couples and singles. You are living the "good life" in the most fabulous city in the world – NYC.

 

Successful Gay Single Guys – you have the career, you have the looks, you have the GREAT apartment and you summer at all of the amazing summer gayborhoods!

The gym is your second home. Your weekends are made to socialize…you are out and about all week long too! You might enjoy being single … but ultimately might be looking for that power "other half" that is either AS successful as you – or more successful!

 

In short – we are looking for the cream of the crop in the NYC gay / social scene.
If that is you (or someone you know) we want to meet you!

Must live in the greater Manhattan area – or VERY close to the city.

TIME IS RUNNING  OUT -  APPLY  NOW!~

Please email the following information to 
GaySocialitesNY   @   gmail.com:

 

Full name(s):
Age:
Situation (single or couple):
Address:
Cell #:
Email address:

Photos are a must…we want to see everything about you!

We will then send you an application and set up a time for you to meet the casting director.

HURRY!

Best Gay New York

West End Intergenerational Residence HDFC, Inc. has closed financing and commenced construction on an exciting new housing development effort: True Colors Residence, located in Central Harlem.

True Colors Residence will be New York City's first permanent housing facility with support services for 18-24 year old lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) youth with a history of homelessness. The undertaking was conceived by West End Executive Director Colleen Jackson, and by musical artist Cyndi Lauper and Ms. Lauper's manager Lisa Barbaris. The project entails the construction of a new, energy-efficient multifamily building containing 30 studio apartments, indoor and outdoor community space for residents, and a computer room and resource library. The building is named in honor of  Lauper's support for the project and for West End, and references Cyndi Lauper's hit song, "True Colors."

"Gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender youth living on the streets and in foster care need our support more than ever," said Cyndi Lauper.

"In New York City, the True Colors Residence is going to play a big role in providing these young people with the leg up and encouragement they need. I am thrilled that construction has already begun and I am honored to be a part of this important project."


The Best of Gay New York

The New York cast may be going to London, but HAIR on Broadway has a hot and sexy new cast!

 
Broadway Hottie and American Idol Finalist Ace Young , American Idol Finalist Diana Degarmo and Canadian Singer Songwriter and Broadway Hottie Kyle Riabko.

GAY LIFE NYC.org has interviews with the new cast!


Founder Mike Cavnaugh
also interviews Project Runway
finalist Chris March
about his book  I Heart Chris March ,
 new shows, and his  dress for Meryle Streep!


Gaylifenyc.org is a non-profit entertainment news and AIDS Health Resources site dedicated to keeping you informed and keeping your spirits up where they should be.



The  Best of Gay New York

Move over Whoopi and Joy, there are some new gab queens in town!

Q-Talk is a gay live talk/variety show with four hosts (each of which is a theater veteran), held monthly at the Metropolitan Room (@ 34  W. 22nd St., between 5th and 6th Ave.) in NYC on the third Saturday of every month at 9:45pm.

Just like the “View”, there are four hosts (except this time there are three gay guys and a lesbian), a topic, and several guest performers. 

Qtalk, often described as "the Gay View" is much more fun, sassy and over-the-top. At the same time, Qtalk deals with very real issues, but manages to be entertaining and engaging. Qtalk’s live talk/variety show format is led by four hosts, Broadway veterans Joseph John, Frantz Hall, Stacey Todd Holt, and Angie McKnight.

The hosts tackle current events, fitness and lifestyle, punctuated by guest performances from Broadway, Cabaret, and the Pop world.

During the show, the hosts invite the audience to ask questions or offer their opinions on specific topics on the table, often leading to some lively discussions and perhaps opening some minds.

This month’s topic is “Gay Siblings.”
The three  gay Gamblin Brothers will be there chatting -  Is it Hereditary or Just Fabulous?

The date for this month’s show      is Sat. Feb. 20 at 9:45pm.





It's a lot of fun and worth checking out!

Time  

9:45pm. You need to arrive by 9:15pm to guarantee your seat.

Cost     

$5 per person admission, plus two drink minimum.

Reservations are required. Please call 212-206-0440 or go to Metropolitan Room.com for a reservation.

For more information, go to Q TALK or FaceBook Q Talk.


The Best of Gay New York

KEITH  HARING

 was an artist and social activist whose work responded to the New York City street culture of the 1980s.

February 16th, 1990, the pop artist died is  HIV / AIDS related causes at the age of 31. But his art still lives on.

Haring achieved his first public attention with chalk drawings in the subways of New York (see public art). The exhibitions were filmed by the photographer Tseng Kwong Chi.

Around this time, "The Radiant baby" became his symbol. His bold lines, vivid colors, and active figures carry strong messages of life and unity. Starting in 1980, he organized exhibitions in Club 57. He participated in the Times Square Exhibition and drew, for the first time, animals and human faces. In 1981 he sketched his first chalk drawings on black paper and painted plastic, metal and found objects.

By expressing concepts of birth, death, love, sex and war, Haring's imagery has become a widely recognized visual language of the 20th century. In December 2007, an area of the American Textile Building in the TriBeCa neighborhood of New York City was discovered to contain a painting of Haring's from 1979^. May 4 2008 would have been Haring's 50th birthday. In June 2008 there was a retrospective exhibition containing 200 pieces of his work (from the collection of Sigrid Wecken) open to the public in Terrassa, Spain.



(Amazing  shot of Keith painting Grace Jones by Douglas Kirkland!)


The Keith Haring Foundation was established in 1989 to assist AIDS-related and children's charities, and maintains the largest resource of archives on the late artist, Keith Haring.

 

Haring's bold lines and active figures carry poignant messages of vitality and unity. His legacy made an impact on late 20th century art and grants us all a vision for the future.


Keith  generously contributed his talents and resources to numerous causes. He conducted art workshops with children, created logos and posters for public service agencies, and produced murals, sculptures, and paintings to benefit health centers and disadvantaged communities. The foundation  continues his philanthropic legacy...indefinitely.



Visit the Keith Haring site.

ARTIST / ACTIVIST  REVEREND BILLY  held an "unmarriage until gay marriage" ceremony
at Central Park's Bethesda Fountain on this past Sunday.

(Under the stage name of Bill Talen, REVEREND  BILLY uses  the form of a revival meeting, on sidewalks and in chain stores, Reverend Billy and his gospel choir exhort consumers to abandon the products of large corporations and mass media; the group also preaches a broader message of economic justice, environmental protection, and anti-militarism, protesting sweatshops and the Iraq War. Though it continues its street theatre activities, the Church has also appeared on stage and has toured internationally.)

The good Reverend held church in Central Park on Valentines Day  - straight couples reversed their vows in solidarity with the same sex marriage movement.  We could not be there, but the Village Voice said, "The happy twosomes -- some married, some in long-term relationships -- arranged themselves before a floral trellis. The theatrical activist and former mayoral candidate, who typically preaches an anti-consumerist gospel, then stepped forward to take a rather slushy pulpit, officiating the Valentine's Day mass "unwedding."

Clutching unmarriage certificates, couples said they would continue to fight for their gay and lesbian friends, whose enduring relationships lack the legal benefits that they enjoy. "After today, I'm just going back to Young," joked Georgina Young-Ellis, who unmarried her husband Jonathan of 22-years.

 You may remember we reported here a couple weeks ago that
THE AXEL hotels, based in Spain, were planning to break
 ground on a property here in NYC in 2011.

Well,  NOT GONNA HAPPEN.  I was in Barcelona last week and met with the Axel people, and even though they plan to come to NYC sometime in the future, it is not on the current radar screen.

It was just rumors and gossip.

Or was it.......


This week comes news that in fact  another "hetero-friendly" hotel will be opening here in the city. 

The Parkview Developers, run by a gay New York couple, are calling the project "The Out NYC."  (What an awful name!)

The development, to be completed by early next year, will consist of 123 guest rooms, a 10,000-square-foot dance club, a gym, spa, restaurant, and a 24/7 café. Much of the complex will be housed in the old Travel Inn, which was built in the 1960s, and is located at 508 W. 42nd St. (between 10th and 11th).

The $20 million "Urban Gay Resort" could bring nearly 80,000 square feet of new gayness to the city. If built, it will be New York's first full-service gay hotel, and the first new nightclub serving the gay community in more than five years to have a cabaret license.

There are lots of obstacles ahead for their idea but they are getting lots of support.  John Blair and Beto Sutter are also involved with the project. The most significant hurdle at this point — for the nightclub and for the overall character of the project that ends up being built — is approval of both a liquor license and a cabaret license for the nightclub.

With only three Manhattan gay nightclubs — Splash, the Monster, and Escuelita — licensed for dancing, and a total capacity of less than 2,300 patrons combined, Blair, Sutter, and the Parkview team clearly see a ripe opportunity to fill the void in nightlife options, particularly for Hell’s Kitchen’s swelling gay population.

Love Hurts
 
is an inspirationjal stage play about 4 couples who keep secrets within their relationships.  One of the secrets that is reveiled is that 2 men in the play are on the "down low".  It's a dramedy featuring musical performances. It will make you laugh -  it will make you cry.

Four couples, who've known each other since high school are having their annual reunion. Every year they meet up at Diane and Wayne's summer house upstate. While on vacation, they play a game of Truth or Dare.

Hidden secrets, desires, and deceit are all revealed and pushed to the surface.  Secretly, there are two men that are on the downlow and have had a secret love affair unbenownst to their partners. 

These Secrets  threaten their long lasting bond of friendship, but also the marriages and families of all involved. Everything is revealed in the end and that's when all hell breaks loose.

DARRLY  JOHNSON presents this play examines the thoughts and desires of people in love and how much they hurt when secrets are kept.

Can the truth really set us free?


 
LOVE HURTS
 will keep you on the edge of your seats!




 LOVE  HURTS - MARCH 2-7, 2010   @   ROY ARIAS THEATRE, 300 W. 43rd street

TICKETS AT Smart Tix.com USE  PROMO CODE   "couple"   AND RECEIVE $10 OFF

LOVE HURTS ON FACEBOOK




The  Best of Gay New York

"Last Saturday I gave the first political speech of my life. I spoke to the Manhattan Libertarian party and told them I planning a campaign for Governor of New York State."  stated the Manhattan Madam, Kristin Davis.

" I have not decided whether to seek the Libertarian party nomination or form my own party based on my platform; legalization, regulation and taxation of prostitution, marijuana, and legalizing gay marriage.

When was the last time a candidate put forward this kind of honest, radical platform? When is the last time a politician offered the voters something different than higher taxes, more spending, greater debt and service cuts."

"I am the one who will be running and putting my name on the ballot. I am the one who will offer New York voters something different. I am the one advocating using our voice to speak out against inequality and the one who is ready to take on the career politicians and expose them for who they really are! I know the politicians and political reporters wont take me seriously at first. Let's see if they are still laughing when my campaign files three times the number of signatures needed to get on the ballot.

New York voters will have a chance to vote to legalize prostitution, pot and gay marriage next November.

What could be more exciting?"

You Go Kristin!  We'll  Support  You!

Read more at her blog Manhattan Madam


The Best of Gay New York

WHO WANT'S TO
MARRY A GAY MILLIONAIRE?!


Join THE MEN EVENT  for the launch of our NEW "Millionaire Matchmaking" Speed Dating.  Due to popular demand we are creating this exciting new event. 

Go on 8 short dates in one night! Each date lasts 6 to 8 minutes and is a really fun, quick and easy way for gay men to meet each other. If there is chemistry from both guys, we will connect the two and you can go on more dates. $25 registration

Successful men  (38 and over) will be matched with younger men (35 and younger) who admire successful men.  Remember, if you're looking for a serious stable relationship, no matter how much money a man has nothing can replace chemistry. If you tend to find chemistry with a guy who is outside of your age range, then this might be the event for you.

WEDNESDAY   FEBRUAY  17th       6:30pm check-in/cocktails / 7pm start

Location: Gossip, 733 9th Ave at 50th St

RSVP  at  MILLIONAIRE SPEED DATE



The Best of Gay New York

BOYS NIGHT

At Yank! A World War II Love Story

Thursday, February 18^th, 8 PM  

Set during World War II, Yank! chronicles the relationship between two servicemen long before ―Don‘t-ask-don‘t-tell‖ was part of the national discussion. With a lively score inspired by the pop sounds of the 1940‘s, Yank! captures the spirit and exuberance of the era as it explores questions of prejudice, courage and survival.

Bobby Steggert will enlist in the Off-Broadway premiere of Yank! 

"We are thrilled to welcome Bobby back to the cast of Yank! after his sensational performance in Ragtime," said Artistic Director Morgan said.

 

OFF-BROADWAY PREMIERE ENGAGEMENT BEGINS FEBRUARY 16, 2010 
OPENING NIGHT SET FOR FEBRUARY 24, 2010

BOYS NIGHT = Purchase a $39.50 ticket to Yank! on Thursday, February 18^th and receive a voucher for Free admission to the Post-Show Boys Night reception featuring wine, cheese and sodas. This is a perfect opportunity to see the show and mingle with fellow theatre-goers and the cast. Post-Show Boys Night Reception directly following the performance in the Music Room.

at The York Theatre Company - 619 Lexington Avenue (Corner of 54th St.)　

Two Easy Ways to Purchase Boys Night Tickets

Join Boys Night at Yank! on Thursday, February 18^th for just $39.50 (regularly $67.50)

1. Visit   YorkTheatre.org   and mention code BOYS39
2. CALL (212) 935-5820 and mention code BOYS39

Restrictions: 

This offer is valid for the 8PM performance on February 18th only. Regular service charges apply to online and phone orders. Subject to availability. Not valid for prior purchases or in combination with any other offer. Limit 8 tickets per order. Offer may be revoked at any time. One party admission voucher is available per ticket purchased. Admittance to party is contingent on redemption of voucher and can only be redeemed for those 21 and over with valid ID.



The  Best of Gay New York

       

Anyone who has been to Holland knows it is the perfect place to just be amazed, just be relaxed and just be yourself! That’s why the Netherlands Board of Tourism and Conventions (NBTC) is launching its newest marketing campaign on February 4th in North America, “Just be. In Holland.” to appeal to every type of traveler. Whether your style is classic or contemporary, Holland has something for everyone, from iconic Dutch canals and windmills to innovative design shops and cutting-edge fashion.
 
To mark the launch of this new year-long campaign, NBTC will test potential travelers’ knowledge of Holland through a series of contests on Holland.com.  A new contest will be posted every Thursday in February.  Each correct online entry will be entered into a weekly drawing for a chance to win an incredible prize that highlights a different aspect of Holland’s unique style.

Prizes include -
·         A monthly delivery of fresh tulips for a year
·         An exclusive Gassan 121 diamond made in Amsterdam
·         A quintessentially BATAVUS Dutch bicycle
·         An iconic $1000 Carbon chair designed by Marcel Wanders and Bertjan Pot

In addition to the weekly prizes, one grand prize winner will be awarded the ultimate experience: a chance to just be in Holland! In order to qualify for the grand prize—two round-trip, business class tickets on KLM Royal Dutch Airlines to Amsterdam and a four-night stay at the Sofitel Amsterdam The Grand—potential travelers simply need to upload a photo showing how they would “Just be. In Holland.” between February 4 and March 4, 2010. The most creative entry will be selected.
 
In addition to the weekly contests running on Holland.com throughout February, those who live in New York City will have a chance to be transported to Holland via themed subway cars on the S subway shuttle line, which runs between Grand Central and Times Square. Each car—wrapped inside and out—will represent Holland’s cultural, classic and contemporary aspects and include translations of fun Dutch phrases and words.  In addition, street teams will be deployed at the Grand Central and Times Square stations each week to distribute Holland-themed giveaways. 

Conrad van Tiggelen, Director, NBTC North America, looks forward to engaging with potential travelers for the launch of the new campaign. “The new ‘Just be. In Holland.’ campaign epitomizes what repeat visitors to Holland already know—that Holland is a place where you can truly be yourself and discover a world of authentic and modern experiences, whether you are interested in art, culture, design, fashion or architecture.”


The Best of Gay New York

Michael Cavanaugh
from GayLifeNYC.org

is back with a
February Valentines
Broadyway Hottie -
Dan Robinson!

He is a super hottie and was the main featured star last year at Broadway Bares in New York.  This year, he is going behind the camera to film a documentary about the event.

On his video interview Dan talks about being on Broadway with Harvey Fierstein as well as his work in The Big Gay Musical .



Gaylifenyc.org is an AIDS Health Resources website with Entertainment News and On The Town updates.

It's also dedicated to helping people getting around, get through and get over the system that hinders timely assistance for the newly diagnosed & people living with HIV/AIDS.

And it's dedicated to entertaining you, and keeping your spirits up where they should be!



The  Best of Gay New York

Critics hail

The Temperamentals

as intelligent, political, witty, moving, wise, and most importantly, entertaining. 

It tells the story of a group of courageous men who joined together to build the Mattachine Society, the first gay rights organization in the United States.  The play features the intimate and complex relationship between Harry Hay and young fashion designer Rudy Gernreich, set against the backdrop of 1950’s Hollywood and the McCarthy era.



“it’s impossible not to be moved” - Time Out New York 


“‘Evocative…The Temperamentals succeeds... the cast is, to a man, excellent” - New York Times

Michael  Urie  is an actor, television producer and director, best known for his portrayal of Marc St. James on the ABC dramedy series Ugly Betty. He joins  The Tempermentals, as Rudy, in New York City this month!

“Temperamental” was code for “homosexual” in the early 1950’s, part of a created language of secret words that gay men used to communicate. The Temperamentals tells the story of two men – the communist Harry Hay and the Viennese refugee and designer Rudi Gernreich – as they fall in love while building the first gay rights organization in the pre-Stonewall United States.



Previews begin February 18th
Opening Night – February 28th

Tickets on sale NOW!
$19.52 Preview Tickets! Limited time offer!

You have one of three ways
 to use the following discount code:   TEPREV12
Call (212) 947-8844

Go to the New World Stages Box Office

or   Visit Broadwayoffers.com

New World Stages  @   340 West 50th Street

For all other performance times and tickets, please visit   Telecharge or call (646)871-1730






The  Best of Gay New York

    

The Gays Love Chelsea Handler!

And  we love GUY BRANUM and CHRIS FRANJOLA from Chelsea Lately.

As you may remember, Harrah's Atlantic City have  started launching special events and parties geared exclusively for the LGBT community. And we were there for their big kick-off weekend back in late September.  Guy and Chris from Chelsea Lately also joined us for the festivities. And today this short video was released on the  E! Chelsea website.

(watch for the Gay Pimps and Micah Jesse)



The Best of Gay New York

  "New York City loves their small dogs," said Lisa Peterson, spokeswoman for the American Kennel Club, which released the list of the most popular pure breeds. "It just reinforces the fact that New Yorkers live a busy, fast-paced lifestyle and need their portable pooches."

NYC & Company, the City's marketing, tourism and partnership organization, today announced the return of On the House, a program to boost ticket sales at 25 Off-Broadway productions throughout Manhattan. The three-week promotion, which takes place February 8–28, offers two-for-one Off-Broadway theater tickets for New Yorkers and visitors alike. Reservations open today, January 25, and complete booking information can be accessed at nycgo.com/onthehouse.
 
"Off Broadway is an important cornerstone of New York City's arts and entertainment scene, and On the House gives us a forum to showcase the wealth of talent found in these unique productions throughout the City," said George Fertitta, CEO of NYC & Company. "The program also provides an affordable platform for residents and visitors to enjoy some of the City's best theater."
 
Theaters participating in the promotion are scattered throughout Manhattan, including Chelsea, Midtown, the Upper East Side, the Upper West Side, the East Village and the West Village. Long-running shows such as The Fantasticks and Perfect Crime join limited-engagement productions such as Mr. & Mrs. Fitch (starring John Lithgow) in this year's promotion.
 
"On behalf of the Off-Broadway League, I am excited to see the return of the On the House program for the second year and also to see it extended an additional  week this year," said George Forbes, president of the Off-Broadway League. "The Off-Broadway theater community looks forward to offering this tremendous value to New Yorkers and visitors alike."
 
Productions participating in On the House: A Lie of the Mind, Ages of the Moon, Avenue Q, Awesome 80s Prom, Candida, Circumcise Me, Clybourne Park, Equivocation, The Fantasticks, Fuerza Bruta, The Gazillion Bubble Show, Happy Now?, MazelTov Cocktail, Measure for Measure, Mr. & Mrs. Fitch, Naked Boys Singing!, Perfect Crime, The Pride, The Scottsboro Boys, Signs of Life, STOMP, The Tempermentals, Top Secret: The Battle for the Pentagon Papers, Venus in Fur and Yank!

Check out NYC GO for details.


The  Best of Gay New York

                  

 
“ When Joey Married Bobby”, starring Lady Bunny, two-time S.A.G.Award Nominee Tina McKissick and  introducing  former Detroit Tiger Pitcher Matthew Pender as Joey, opens February 6, 2010 for an open-ended run at Off-Broadway house Theatre 80 St. Marks, between 1st & 2nd Avenues.


From the comic mind, of GLAAD Award winning playwright, William Wyatt (Peachtree Battle, A Sunday Afternoon At Loehmans, The Limousine Ride and Veranda) comes a tale about gay marriage in an ultra conservative household.
 
Bright-eyed hunk Joey (Matthew Pender) has finally met the man of his dreams and ready to take a plunge into marriage. The thought of a gay wedding has Joey's southern socialite mother Sarah Edwards (Tina McKissick) in quite a tizzy.
 
Worried that the news of her son's nuptials might jeopardize her chances of winning "Christian of the Year," Sarah stops at nothing to protect her name, image and reputation. The legendary Lady Bunny co-stars in the play as the power-wielding, Baptist Minister's Wife, Charity Divine.




The play runs Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays
at 8pm and Sundays at 3pm. ...


There is a special Valentines Day
show on Sunday, February 14th at 7pm.
 


Tickets range from $26.00-$30.00
Rows A-C: $30    Rows D-G: $26     

All seating is reserved


 
Tickets can be purchased by calling:
212.388.0388 or by visiting: Theatre 80





Sorry Nick,
I think my heart now belongs to Matthew....sigh





When Joey Married Bobby       
 


Lady Bunny


Photo Matthew Pender by  DELGAR



The Best of Gay New York

ARI  GOLD  said  today,
 
"Last night, thanks to YOU voting, "Human" took home 3 Pill Awards last night for Best Art Direction and Best Pop Video!

I also wanted to say thanks again for everyone who joined this Fan Page and has supported my music. I can't do it without you!

We are gonna rock 2010!!"

In a new interview, he talks about his upcoming album...

You are now hard at work on your next album, which is right now untitled. What makes the new album stand out from the past three? Can you tell fans yet what the major theme of this album will be?

"I can’t tell you too much about it yet, but I will say that it will definitely be the most dance-oriented album I’ve ever made. I’ve had the concept for it since I finished Transport Systems and its great to finally see it coming together.

One thing I can say is that this album explores the dark side a bit more than in the past. I think before I was very conscious of being a positive role model, but with this album I’ve sort of let that go being that I don’t feel the burden of representation so heavily on my shoulders anymore. I’m very excited about it and can’t wait to share it with the world."

Read the full interview at Queeried

Join his Facebook Fan page




The Best of Gay New York

THIS IS
   SO FUNNY!

Gay Comedian Billy Eichner's version of Jay Z's hit song Empire State of Mind. Featuring the hilarious Rachel Dratch (Saturday Night Live) as Alicia Keys!!!

Billy Eichner has been making a name for himself in New York City for quite some time.  Eichner is the star, writer, and co-creator of Creation Nation: A Live Talk Show. Creation Nation, which plays regularly in New York City, was called a "late night theatrical phenomenon" by the New York Times and Mr. Eichner was recently given the Time Out New York Critic's Award as well as Time Out New York's "Biggest Industry Darling" Award.





Watch the Eichner Dratch Video         Q & A with After Elton           Billy Eichner on FaceBook




The  Best of Gay New York

Gossip is already flying about Fire Island, the getaway for New York's A-list gays. Long-time monopolizer Eric von Kuersteiner — who owns practically everything in the community - is selling all his properties to a mysterious 23/24-year-old gay kid. Public records lists his age as 26, but sometimes these things are wrong.

NEXT Magazine broke the story first, that Von Kuersteiner and his business partner Tony Roncalli—whose empire includes two bars, a restaurant, a dance club, a small gym, a grocery store, a clothing store, a construction business, a freight business, the community's dock, and the only hotel in town—has sold most of their properties to Seth Weissman, a young kid who no one knows anything about other than that he is from a rich family and is connected to the Hamptons and that he is an analyst at hedge fund Perry Capital who lives in Gramercy Park.

The deal—which is set to close next week—is reportedly $18 million for everything but the dock and freight companies.

GAWKER reports...Von Kuersteiner and Roncalli rescued the small resort five years ago since it had fallen into disrepair, but their business practices—especially von Kuersteiner's, always the more public of the two—were often called into question. Since the town is so small and they were one of only three business owners, they often exercised their monopoly. They opened a grocery store to compete with the only other place to buy food—a small, family-owned store that had been there for decades. They had an acrimonious relationship with many of the local home owners and other business because they controlled the dock which means they controlled access to the island. Anything they asked for—or more often, demanded—they got.

Von Kuersteiner and Co especially had hard feelings for the neighboring gay community, Cherry Grove, and used their dock access to stop boats from taking visitors from one village to the next, and for anyone who has drunkenly stumbled through the Meat Rack—the dense forest between the two towns—at 3am, not having a boat to bring you to and fro is more than enough to keep you partying closer to your summer share and putting cash into Von Kuersteiner and Roncalli's pockets. They also reportedly demanded that the army of young pretty boys they hired to staff all their properties were forbidden from hanging out in the Grove, even on their nights off.



Rumors are flying left and right he's changing everything, he's not changing a thing, this is great, this is horrible, blah, blah, blah, talk amongst yourselves. The summer season is still a few months  away!

Celebrating the 10th year of the 21st century, NEXT MAGAZINE took a look back over the past 10 years, at the dearly departed gay haunts that are no longer with us.

Remember lounging with Joey Arias and Raven O at Bar D'O?
Staying up until the wee hours of the morning at The Roxy?
Gay Church at Limelight?
Shaking your Groove Thang at the Gaiety?
Legendary nights at Twilo?

Ah memories, sweet  memories!



The Best of Gay New York

Lady Gaga, in conjunction with Out In AC, present "Hands Up for Marriage Equality” and an evening in support of the LGBT civil rights movement.


Out in AC, the lesbian, gay, bi-Sexual and transgender signature event brand of Harrah's Entertainment in Atlantic City, NJ, will feature a "Hands Up for Marriage Equality" benefit on Saturday, January 16, 2010 at Club Worship in the House of Blues at Showboat, hosted by LGBT advocate, Lady Gaga.  

 Lady Gaga has been an outspoken supporter of LGBT equality, joining the call for full civil rights protections for LGBT people at the National Equality March in Washington, D.C. last October and declaring her opposition to all homophobia and sexism in the music industry.  

In a statement today announcing the event Lady Gaga commented "I am honored to be able to continue to raise awareness and money for this cause and these outstanding organizations.  Organizations like these are in the trenches every day working on behalf of all of us whether you are LGBT or straight.  Equal and full civil rights are supposed to be for all of us.”



In addition to the famed pop star, fans and supporters can take to the dance floor as DJ's  Michael DeCero and Vito Fun will rock the decks at Club Worship.  

Doors open at 10pm,
admission is a minimum donation of $20 at the door. 

There will be no advance ticket sales and you
 must be at least 21-years-old with valid identification.

Most importantly, one hundred percent of admission to this event will benefit Empire State Pride Agenda, Equality Pennsylvania, Garden State Equality, and The Power.   

Four organizations whose mission is to advocate and empower the LGBT Community and Marriage Equality efforts in the Tri-State region and beyond.



For more information on this event and the organizations,
please visit the following websites: 


Equality Pennsylvania is the leading statewide lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) advocacy and civil rights organization in Pennsylvania.



Garden State Equality is the largest advocacy organization in New Jersey, LGBT or otherwise.  

 
 Founded in 1990, the Empire State Pride Agenda is New York's statewide civil rights organization committed to achieving full equality and justice for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) New Yorkers and our families. 


 
The Power is an online organizing network that empowers grassroots and netroots activists from every state in the country and from all over the world to fight for equal rights for LGBT people.  


 About "Out in AC" and Harrah's Entertainment-
Harrah's Entertainment participates in the Human Rights Campaign's Corporate Equality Index, which rates Fortune 500 companies in offering equal benefits, training, and protections for LGBT employees.  We are the first and only gaming entertainment company to achieve a perfect score, which we've done twice - making Harrah's a "Best Places to Work for LGBT" company. Additionally, Harrah's is the only gaming entertainment company to endorse the Employment Non-Discrimination Act on a Federal Level.  Harrah's also maintains long standing partnerships with organizations such International Gay & Lesbian Travel Association(IGLTA) and National Lesbian & Gay Journalists Association (NLGJA). The Harrah's Foundation has supported the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation for several years.



The Best of Gay New York and New Jersey!

Started by New Yorker Mike Cavnaugh just this past November, Gaylifenyc.org is a non-profit AIDS Health Resources website with Entertainment News and On The Town updates. It's also dedicated to helping people getting around, get through and get over the system that hinders timely assistance for the newly diagnosed & people living with HIV/AIDS. And it's dedicated to entertaining you, and keeping your spirits up where they should be.

"I was diagnosed about 2 years  ago and found the system difficult and cumberson," explains Mike. "So I wanted to bring together all the  resources  someone would need, under one umbrella. And mix  in  entertainment and  video to provide a fun online experience."

"It's really a  one-man show right now!  But I am growing  and  volunteers are  helping.  Jesse Archer  is a great friend and he helps a  lot with many of the interviews. Our  hottie of the month  has been really popular and with the upcoming dance season  we are expanding to include  a  dancer of the month.  I have been talking with a chef who wants to start a healthy cooking  show  for  people  with  living with HIV."

Last month Nick Adams , (who we can never get enough of, and will make up any reason to run a shirtless photo of him!) was featured on their site and this month we meet Tyrick Wiltez Jones from Finians Rainbow.  Later today an interview will get posted with the gay comedy writer/actor  Bruce Vilanch. 



DO THIS    -- The most exciting events not to be missed

SEE THIS   -- Arts /Theatre reviews, openings

GET HELP  -- Resource pages give you quick links and information on getting assistance, free confidential testing and medical services regardless of your ability to pay.


Mike partnered with  5 New York City  resources to help people diagnosed with HIV. Everything from getting help with medicine and  housing  to food assistance is available.


GayLifeNYC is new, but growing at leaps and bounds. But they need help spreading the word and can always use volunteers.

Help us help others!  We are looking for dedicated people to help with marketing, filming, promotion, on-air talent, interns, lawyers any anyone else who just wants to make a difference.

DONATE-- PLEASE CONTACT MIKE AT 646 872-5239

320 west 38th street  Suite 1912     New York, New York  10018
or  email  gaylifenyc @  Yahoo.com


Check out GayLifeNYC on YouTube too!


The Best of Gay New York

 

Commuters across the United States shed their pants on Sunday for "No Pants Day."

The event started 8 years ago in New York City where participants with bare legs were required to mingle with other-- equally half-naked-- travelers.

Improv Everywhere causes scenes of chaos and joy in public places. Created in August of 2001 by Charlie Todd, Improv Everywhere has executed over 85 missions involving thousands of undercover agents. The group is based in New York.

The annual event encourages riders to strip down to their underwear on the Subway as they go about their normal routine.

The event's organizers, Improv Everywhere, said that as many as 3,000 people participated in the "No Pants Day" event in New York alone, with more participating in  other cities including Chicago and  Washington DC. It is estimated as many as 44  similar events took place in  transit systems in 16 countries!

 

According to its official website, Improv Everywhere is a long form improvisation troupe that executes pre-planned "missions" or performances that usually involve socially awkward or unusual situations.

 

Some commuters who participated in "No Pants Day" said they got phone calls from friends or invitations to join the event on Facebook.

The first Friday in May is another  "No Pants Day".   But no pants in the Winter is a  little  funnier and crazier! 

It is said that earlier versions of No Pants date back to the 1990's.