Another Busy Night in the Gayborhood!

Executive Director of PhillyGayCalendar


You probably assumed that the "busy" season for Philadelphia events was long past. That was my assumption too until I checked my calendar for last night, (11/12); I quickly realized I had committed myself to 3 different events, and of course they were spread across the city. The three events I attended were just a small portion of the things happening in the city last night, unfortunately I can only talk about the activities I participated in… Bosses orders, without further adieu, this is what you missed.

First I had a chance to check out Delaware Valley Legacy Fund's "OurNightOut." A once a month networking event that happens at a variety of bars around the city. Think of it like a once a month pop-up homo garden. Last night their event took place at The Ritz Carlton. Over 250 men and women showed up for the happy hour in order to mix and mingle with each other. The slew of well dressed members of LGBT community and their allies took over the grand lobby of the ritz and enjoyed an on assortment of appetizers while they got to know each other. Loosely, The "purpose" of the event is to raise awareness for the largest LGBT fund raiser of the season TOY. The event felt right and I enjoyed the laid back atmosphere. It was also nice to meet the other side of the gay community, the guys that don't always make it to the second floor of Woody's.

After my jaunt at the networking event I hastily walked over to "America's Oldest Theatre, wit the largest subscription base," The Walnut Street Theatre for Opening Night of their "holiday show" Mary Poppins. While there wasn't a Christmas carol to be heard, the light-hearted musical kept me engaged with its constant "stage magic" … Spoiler alert, Marry Poppin's bag is deeper than sugar daddies wallet. On a side note I never knew Mary Poppins was such a conceited bitch, she sings an entire song called "practically perfect". On another side note, to the patrons that thought mid-song was the best time to leave the theatre, myself and everyone behind me would like to let you know we missed a great tap number because of you. If you're looking to get your mind off the stress of the holidays, it plays through January 4th.

While I would have loved to rub elbows with the actors and bigwigs at the after party, I knew I had just under 15 minutes to get to Venture Inn for their monthly variety show. Hosted by Billy Cavallo, dressed in only tight red briefs. I knew I was in for a treat. The show featured Shanae St. Cartier, Shanae Morgan Yaya, Christina Jennifer Cross, Jose Corrigan, Gemini Rose and Dan Callahan.

I had a chance to take with Dan Callahan before the show and he let me know he'd be tackling two numbers tonight, "Settle down" by Kimbra and "Colors Of The Wind." From Disney's classic "Thanksgiving" tale Pocahontas. I asked him what brought him out tonight and he told me, "I do this for the drink tickets. And because well… Pocahontas,” he (Dan) felt it an appropriate Thanksgiving song … It might make me "racist" but I agree, a good choice.

When the show started, the crowed was informed this was not only a show, but a Social Media Experience. The crowd was encouraged to snap photos and upload them to Instagram using the hashtag #VentureVariety. The pictures with the most likes got "Gay Man Gold” … aka Drink Tickets. Watching Billy perform it became clear he's circumcised (which he later confirmed) and good news dudes, he's single! I asked him what his favorite part of hosting the show is and he replied "I like being able to showcase other performers in the city, and show off their talents." The Next Venture Variety date is pending, and I'm sure PhillyGayCalandar will keep you up to date.

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