Summary
This edition of Equal Magazine from March 2013 focuses on the LGBTQIA+ community in Pittsburgh and features various articles, events, and personal stories.Key Features and Articles:
- Cover Story: Billy Porter in “Kinky Boots” (pages 24-27): An interview with Pittsburgh native Billy Porter about his role as Lola in the Broadway musical “Kinky Boots,” discussing his journey, the character’s sexuality, and his pride in his hometown.
- Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo (pages 2, 40-42): A preview of the all-male ballet company’s performance at the Byham Theater, highlighting their humorous and satirical take on traditional ballet.
- Lesbian and Gay Band Association (LGBA) (pages 38-39): Details about the LGBA’s participation in President Obama’s second Inaugural Parade, marking their second appearance in such an event.
- “So Bad It’s Good” at The Hollywood Theater (pages 14-15): A monthly movie series featuring live commentary by an improv troupe to make “bad” movies entertaining, also serving as a fundraiser to help the non-profit theater convert to digital format.
- Boy Scouts of America’s Stance on Homosexuality (pages 18-19): An article discussing the evolving policy of the Boy Scouts regarding gay members, contrasting it with the inclusive stance of the Girl Scouts.
- Profiles of Allies and Activists:
- Jim Sheppard (page 16): Special Assistant to the Mayor of Pittsburgh, focusing on community outreach to the LGBT community and his work with the Steel City Stonewall Democrats and the Commission on Human Relations.
- Doug Shields (page 32): Former City Council President honored as an “honorary lesbian” for his outspoken support of civil rights and his role in establishing the “Mutual Commitment Registry” bill for same-sex benefits in Pittsburgh.
- Fashion with Suede (page 33): An interview with “Project Runway” alum Suede about his new line of textiles and patterns for Jo-Ann Fabric & Craft Stores.
- “Hot Girl Reads a Book” (page 12): A review of Gillian Flynn’s “Gone Girl” by Frances Southwick.
- “Queer Linker” by Caldwell Linker (page 34): A recap of community events, including a rally against LGBTQ+ violence in the South Side.
- Q&A with Varla Jean Merman (pages 36-37): An interview with the drag comedy queen, who was set to perform at the PATF 27th Annual Benefit.
- “Beers for Queers” (page 10): A guide to breweries and liquor brands that support the LGBTQ+ community, citing the HRC Buyer’s Guide.
- “Is ‘Gay Culture’ Evolving or Dying?” (page 46): An opinion piece by Gary Van Horn reflecting on the changing landscape of gay culture in Pittsburgh, from the activism of 1995 to the more integrated community of 2013.
Event Listings and Ads:
- Calendar of Events (pages 4-5): Listings for various events in March 2013, including “XTREME BINGO” with Lady Bunny, “LEZ LIQUOR HOUR,” “PFLAG FUNDRAISER,” “PITTSBURGH PRIDE DRAG BRUNCH,” and the “PATF 27TH ANNUAL BENEFIT.”
- The Andy Warhol Museum Exhibition (page 13): “REGARDING WARHOL: SIXTY ARTISTS, FIFTY YEARS,” running from February 3 – April 28, 2013.
- Pittsburgh Marathon (page 17): Information on “PAWS OVER PITTSBURGH,” a fundraising team for the Animal Rescue League Shelter & Wildlife Center participating in the May 2013 marathon events.
- Cruze Bar Events (page 29): March events including “First Fridays with Kierra Darshell” and “80’s Night.”
- Club Pittsburgh Events (page 42): March events including “Deep, Dark & Naked” and “Big St Patrick’s Day After-Party,” with free HIV & syphilis testing.
- Discounts for Broadway Shows (page 45): A discount code for “Priscilla Queen of the Desert” and “Anything Goes” with a Q&A session with the cast of Priscilla on March 6.
Other Content:
- Contributors (page 6): A list of writers and photographers for the magazine.
- Editor’s Welcome (page 8): A message from Editor-in-Chief Joe King, highlighting the issue’s content and the magazine’s mission.
- Fitness (pages 30-31): Tips for trimming winter waistlines and a medicine ball workout routine.
- Food (pages 44-45): A recipe for “Simple Shepherd’s Pie” and a discussion of Irish cuisine.