For those of us who enjoy the performing arts, digital tools like YouTube have made it easier than ever to experience new cultural content without having to buy a ticket. We can watch clips, listen to interviews and explore new performers to expand our artistic tastes and sensibilities. But neither man nor woman can live entirely online. There is no substitute for sitting in a theater, thumbing through a Playbill or concert guide and being enveloped by the artists and works, which cause us to feel joy, enlightenment, empathy and excitement. Over the next few weeks, several of my favorite artists, groups and shows are scheduled at venues throughout Philadelphia. It’s going to be a truly magical June and I hope you will join me at one or more of the events highlighted here.
This Sunday, June 13, I am excited to present the fourth annual “Triumphant Pride” from 4-8 p.m. at Mad River, 126 Chestnut St., in Old City, following the Philadelphia Gay Pride Parade and Festival at Penn’s Landing. This year’s event promises to be the biggest and best in “Triumphant Pride” history, as out local musician Aiden James will perform during the festivities. A self-described, self-taught indie artist who writes, produces and releases his own music through Songster Sounds, James is blazing his own trail using maps charted by other openly gay artists such as Elton John and Rufus Wainwright. James is currently touring the country and abroad, and recently gave a live performance and interview on 93.7 WSTW in Philadelphia called “Hometown Heroes.” For all the details about “Triumphant Pride,” visit www.nightlifegay.com.
Also taking place this weekend is the Philadelphia Gay Men’s Chorus concert in honor of Philly’s LGBT Pride celebration. The show, “Gayly Forward,” is an exciting musical romp through world culture. The chorus will perform songs inspired by the beaches of Rio, the resorts of Mexico, the quaint charm of European destinations and the history of U.S. cities, including Philadelphia, San Francisco, Chicago and New York. “Gayly Forward” will take place from 8-10 p.m. on June 11-12, at the Lutheran Church of the Holy Communion, 2111 Sansom St. Tickets range from $20-$30 for general admission, or $50 for VIP, which includes a pre-concert reception. For more information, visit www.pgmc.org.
Next weekend, Philadelphians will be treated to a special performance of the Broadway smash, “Avenue Q,” at the Academy of Music, 240 S. Broad St. The irreverent musical is one of the most critically acclaimed Broadway shows of the last decade, renowned for its soaring score, clever lyrics and dynamic cast performances. “Avenue Q” is only in town for a limited engagement from June 18-20, so make sure to visit www.kimmelcenter.org to check on show times, ticket prices and availability.
Apart from James’ performance at “Triumphant Pride,” the event I’m most excited this month will take place at 8 p.m. June 24 at The Mann Center for the Performing Arts, 5201 Parkside Ave., in Fairmount Park. That’s when undisputed star of stage, television and screen Idina Menzel will join forces with the world-renowned Philadelphia Orchestra for a special outdoor concert. Menzel got her start on Broadway playing Maureen Johnson in the original cast of “Rent.” Since that breakout performance, she’s played Elphaba in the original Broadway cast of “Wicked,” which earned her the 2004 Tony Award for Best Leading Actress in a Musical. Most recently, she starred on “Glee” as Shelby Corcoran, the director of McKinley High’s rival glee club, Vocal Adrenaline. Menzel has also released three studio albums and accumulated a number of film and television credits. Tickets are $10-$50, and can be purchased at www.manncenter.org.
For a slightly different type of stage show, but one that’s certain to be fun, don’t miss the “Mr. Gay Rehoboth Beach Competition” on June 19 at the Double L Bar, 622 Rehoboth Ave., Rehoboth, Del. Remember that the winner of Mr. Gay Rehoboth Beach will join representatives from cities all over the United States at Voyeur Nightclub on Nov. 13 for the “2010 United States Mr. Gay Competition.” For more information on “Mr. Gay Rehoboth Beach,” visit www.doublelbar.net.
I hope you find time to enjoy some live entertainment in the coming weeks. If you have any events to submit for the next column, send them to [email protected]. ’Til next time, get offline and see what your community has to offer!