I was going for a leisurely stroll around Center City last Sunday morning, and a pleasant wind felt as if it was literally blowing new opportunities through the air. The streets and sidewalks were filled with people hurrying off to restaurants, shops and appointments — each with her/his own agenda, but joined by their enthusiasm, motivation and optimism about the day ahead of them. The energy of those around me was intoxicating and uplifting. I heard no arguments, saw no sad faces and witnessed no acts of selfishness.
It was a unique experience that made me remember how important it is to face each day with a fresh and positive outlook. Whether weekday or weekend, obligatory or compulsory, social or professional, how we approach each experience of each day plays a huge role in how things will turn out for us. It’s a simple lesson I was reminded of last Sunday, but one that we can’t remember too often. As you enjoy the events previewed below, remember that your outlook is the difference between truly engaging and merely going through the motions.
I featured Nightlifegay.com’s second annual Gayborhood Games in my last column, and I’m so excited that the event is finally upon us. On Sept. 18 at Voyeur Nightclub, 1221 St. James St., Philadelphia’s most talented singers, comedians, drag performers, hairstylists, chefs and bartenders will compete to be named Philadelphia’s “Most Outstanding.” If you haven’t purchased your tickets yet, visit www.Nightlifegay.com to order yours. A limited number of tickets will be available at the venue when the doors open at 8 p.m. The show will begin promptly at 9, with the after-party at Stir Lounge, 1705 Chancellor St., to start around 11:30. To learn more about the event and view video clips of the contestants, visit www.nightlifegay.com.
The Broadway hit “Jersey Boys,” will debut on Sept. 30 for an extended run through Dec. 12 at Philadelphia’s Forrest Theater, 1114 Walnut St. “Jersey Boys” tells the story of one of the most successful rock ’n’ roll groups of the 1960s, Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons. It received wonderful reviews from critics and theater-lovers alike when it debuted on Broadway in 2006. Though the show will be in town for several months, tickets are going fast. To check prices and availability, or to learn more about the Forrest Theater, visit www.forrest-theater.com.
Several mainstream music groups have achieved popularity within the gay community, but few have had the staying power of The B-52s. Since the late 1970s, The B-52s have played sold-out shows around the world, including in Philly. Described as a combination of post-punk and pop rock, the group had its biggest commercial success in the late 1980s with multi-platinum album “Cosmic Thing” and hit single “Love Shack.” Their wild style, queer members and unapologetic outspokenness have helped them build a substantial gay fan base that shows no signs of diminishing. On Oct. 1, The B-52s will take the stage at the Electric Factory, 421 N. Seventh St., for an exciting live performance. Visit www.ticketmaster.com to reserve your spot!
The William Way LGBT Community Center is one of Philadelphia’s most outstanding gay service organizations. Each fall, staff and volunteers host the Indigo Ball, the center’s annual fundraiser. With programs ranging from continuing education to peer counseling, the William Way staff provides information on issues relevant to everyone, but which are particularly tailored to LGBT community members. William Way’s diverse profile and commitment to its mission is worthy of everyone’s respect.
Indigo Ball will be held Oct. 2 at the Doubletree Hotel, 237 S. Broad St. This year’s event will be a less formal and more accessible affair than in years past. If you’re looking for a new organization to support, look no further than the center. Indigo Ball is the perfect opportunity to give a little back and get to know this outstanding nonprofit. Visit www.waygay.org for more information.
Remember to keep smiling in the coming weeks. For more event listings and breaking news affecting the gay community, visit www.nightlifegay.com. You can also e-mail any feedback to [email protected]. ’Til next time, get offline and see what your community has to offer!