FIVE QUESTIONS FOR........Lance Bass

 

 

 

When you anyone first meets Lance Bass you sense his Mississippi upbringing immediately. He has an earned reputation in the tough entertainment industry as an extremely kind, well-mannered and charming man. With startling bright eyes and a charismatic smile, he wins anyone over almost immediately.

What that grace and thoughtfulness hides is one of the most broadly talented young persons in the entertainment industry. Along with his good manners comes enormous courage and a life lived on the edge. It is easier to list the accomplishments he has not achieved at the age of thirty-four than it is to list his amazing diverse array of achievements.

Lance Bass has a resume that would put anyone else in his age group, actually in any age group, to shame. The talented young man has been part of the largest pop group of his generation, a New York Times best-selling author, a documentary film maker, a successful actor, radio personality, in Hairspray on Broadway and, yes, even an astronaut! That is just for openers.

Of course, it is impossible not to talk about Lance Bass without first going to *NSYNC. The group sold over fifty million records in just seven years. Their second album No Strings Attached sold a million records in one day, over two million in the first week and became one of the best selling albums of all time! The group received eight Grammy nominations.

His other great passion is Space. In 2002, Bass started training to be a Cosmonaut. Lance even had heart surgery to correct an cardiac arrhythmia so he could qualify for the space flight. Lance was sponsored for a documentary and participated in intensive and exhaustive training for a flight to leave into outer space on Soyuz TMA-1 at the end of October. The flight was to fly to the International Space Station and return to land in Kazakhstan. Both NASA and Russian Space Program certified him for space travel after he completed his rigorous training. Because everyone feared he would die in space and it would be bad for business for the sponsors, his funding was cut off.

Bass came out of the closet in 2006 on the cover of PEOPLE Magazine making him one of the most prominent people in the music industry to come out. He joined the ranks of people like Elton John, Melissa Etheridge and George Michael. Since coming out he has been extremely supportive of the community in raising fund, serving as a spokesman for different events/groups and generously lending his name.

 

Over the last decade he has appeared in films, television, hosted a nationwide radio show, directed and produced a documentary on being gay in Mississippi and graced the stage on Broadway. In many ways, given his desire to take chances and embrace life on the edge, Lance's journey so far seems like just a warm-up for more success and adventures.

Lance Bass was born in Laurel, Mississippi and grew up in the small town of Clinton. He is in a relationship with an extremely talented young artist, Michael. Bass has a passion for animals and wildlife.

Here are "Five Questions For .....Lance Bass"

1. When with *NSYNC, how great was the fear of being 'outed' in the beginning? What kind of personal effect did living with such fear have on you?

I have known I was gay for as long as I can remember. The fear of being outed while in *NSYNC was huge. I feared it everyday. I thought the guys would figure it out because of the girls I wouldn't take home or my mannerisms. It was stressful and it in turn made me shy and introverted. I never wanted to get really close to anyone in fear of them finding out. I had many acquaintances, but no true friends.

2. You have an intense interest in space and even went to Russia to train to be part of a space flight for several months. Do you still hope to journey into space in the future? Do you believe there is life out there?

I always dream of making a flight to space. I put too much heart and energy into my certification. I think it would be very arrogant to think we are the only beings in the universe.

 3. What has been your greatest joy in coming out? Have we reached the place where there is no reason for entertainers to stay in the closet anymore?

My greatest joy in coming out is being able to live my life openly and honestly. With every entertainer that lives their lives honestly bring us closer and closer in helping bridge the gap for gay acceptance in the industry. There is a limited amount of jobs in this industry for gays. The majority of the jobs go to straight people in tv, film and music to appease Middle America. I don't think our industry is homophobic, but we have to keep Middle America happy as they are a HUGE group that watches TV and movies and listen to music.

4. Putting aside your current journey, what would have been your second choice for a career path outside of entertainment?

Definitely becoming an Astronaut. That has been my dream since I was a kid.

5. What is the most embarrassing or funny incident that happen to you while you were with *NSYNC?

Where do I begin? When we went to Germany--in the early *NSYNC days, the stage manager said to us, "Go! Go!" So I ran out on stage and realized that it wasn't our music and another act was mid-performance. I was so embarrassed and had to run back.

"FIVE QUESTIONS FOR.......Ally Sheedy

 

 

When you think of movies from the 1980's you would be hard put to make a list of successful films and not include War Games, The Breakfast Club, St. Elmo's Fire and Short Circuit. These were the films of the the 1980's young 'Brat Pack' which included Rob Lowe, Sean Penn, Emilio Estevez , Robert Downey, Jr., Matt Dillon, Andrew McCarthy, Demi Moore, Anthony Hall, Molly Ringwald and Ally Sheedy.

The young actress Ally Sheedy shot to fame starring in these movies and was much in demand. The 'Brat Pack' became part of Director John Hughes ensemble. Together they were a critical part of that decade. Sheedy was the center of the group and served as their resident intellectual. She is bright, charismatic and intelligent. Ally added grace and class to a rebellious and fun seeking collection of actors.

She received the Independent Spirit Award, the Los Angeles Film Critics Award and the National Society for Film Critics Award for Best Actress for her astounding performance in High Art about drug addiction, powerful women and a lesbian relationship. (Trailer below)

In the 1990's, Sheedy appeared in numerous television films and shows until she took an eight year break to raise her daughter Rebecca.

Ally Sheedy was born and raised in New York City. Her mother was a feminist and civil rights activist.

Sheedy dated Bon Jovi's guitarist Richie Sambora and struggle with her own drug addiction. She spent time recovering from the addiction in a treatment center. She has been married once to David Lansbury (nephew of Angela) for over fifteen year. They have a daughter Rebecca.

Rebecca, at age eleven came out to her mother Ally . Since then, Sheedy has been actively involved in the struggle for LGBT rights. She works especially hard for the Ali Forney Center for homeless LGBT youth. The actress is also an animal and wildlife activist. Currently she is shooting her first film in almost a decade and returning to the stage.

 

"FIVE QUESTIONS FOR .....ALLY SHEEDY"

1. You enjoyed a great deal of success with your early films did that create unreal expectations for you?

I was particularly fortunate that Bad Boys with Sean Penn was my first film. I learned a great deal from watching him-a focus and a way of working that I have kept since. War Games was the second film. I auditioned for four months and the original director, Marty Brest, kept calling me back in and pairing me with different possible actors for “David Lightman”. I think that I was lucky they were set on Matthew Broderick. We went to high school just a few blocks from each other in NY and I actually saw him in Midsummer’s Night Dream when we were seniors. There was a familiarity and a comfort there in our screen test.

Breakfast Club was just a blessing. John Hughes saw something in me that was a different from the “girl next door” role. I loved him.

I don’t know that there were unrealistic expectations of me. I think the feeling out in Hollywood was that I had the potential to be a moneymaking star. It had nothing to do with my talent or with what I actually might want to do with my career. But the expectation was that I could be commercial. Those expectations are not unrealistic for a young actor who has been in successful films. But they had very little to do with what I wanted for myself.

2. You most acclaimed role was for 'High Art' which won you numerous awards and nominations. You say it was the story closest to your life? How?

My character in High Art, Lucy Berliner, is the closest to me I have ever played. I’m not a photographer or a heroin addict, but her emotional life and her way of thinking feel so right and so authentic to me…it’s a way of looking at the world and the specific environment around me at any time and the cast of characters that sometimes show up…I have been where she lives. I did not make the choice to overdose. But I know that darkness. It’s simple

3. You have an open lesbian daughter. How was the coming out process between her and you?

My beautiful queer daughter is the love of my life. She has changed everything for me: my priorities and the way in which I relate to the world. Rebecca started discussing her gender and sexual orientation with me when she was about 11. There were no surprises. It has been an ongoing conversation. She is making sense of things for herself and I am blessed that she has chosen to include me in her exploration. There is nothing I would not do for her. She is the person I have always wanted to be.

4. After raising your daughter, you are once again (much to the joy of many) performing and writing. How different is it from the 1980's time period for you?

I became a full time single Mom about 8 years ago. At that point, I restructured my life and my career around my life with Rebecca. I needed to be there through middle school and high school and to be her home base and her anchor. Now that she is in college, I’m able to work out of town and perhaps in theatre (working at night and weekends) and this is a huge transition. So I’m out and about-auditioning and meeting with casting people and directors and just generally reintroducing myself. I’m in a new place now and am ready for different kinds of roles and projects. I’m figuring this out as I go along. It’s an exciting time.

5. What is the most embarrassing moment to happen to you in show biz?

My most embarrassing moment in show biz! Oh so so many….

I worked with F. Murray Abraham in Russia. I was so nervous to meet him. He’s brilliant and did insane genius work in Amadeus. But can you believe that when I was introduced to him on the set (in Russia) that I said “Oh! I loved you in Schindler’s List!” ?????

THAT WAS BEN KINGSLEY!!!

Can you believe? There’s no recovery from that- except for Murray’s great good humor and sweetness. He was classy and lovely. I still cringe when I think about it.

Five Questions For.............Spencer Day

 

 

Over the last decade, Spencer Day has emerged as one of the most exciting and dynamic jazz and pop singers. With his crooner voice, the singer and songwriter has seduced audience after audience with his sexy good looks and charismatic stage presence. To make life just perfect, Spencer Day has been 'out' and proud.

The journey to being one of the nation's hottest upcoming young singers and out was not an easy one.

Spencer was born to a Mormon family in Utah in 1978. His young years were formed by a somewhat turbulent family life which ended in his parents getting divorced. After his father left, he headed to a small town in Arizona to live with this grandparents. To make ends meet, Spencer pumped gas at the local station.

Growing up he taught himself music and was a fixture in the isolated community at piano bars and retirement homes.

His appearance on Star Search in 2002-2203 set into motion what has become a stellar career. Day's first two albums, 'Introducing Spencer Day' and 'Movie of Your Life' were self produced and promoted.

His third album, 'Vagabond', was produced by Concord Jazz and was a hit on the jazz charts. His single 'Til You Come To Me' reached number three on those charts. Day's last album 'Mystery of You' is more autobiographical and also has become a hit.

Day has opened for k.d. Lang and Rufus Wainwright. He has performed at Joe's Pub, Monterey Jazz Festival, the Kennedy Center, San Francisco Jazz Festival, Dave Koz Tour, Craig Ferguson Show and Tanglewood Jazz Festival.

The singer/ songwriter has a huge fan base and pours his joy and heartaches into his lyrics.

Here are 'Five Questions For....Spencer Day'"

1. You grew up Mormon. How was the coming out process for you with your family? -

I think it was a more gradual continuation for me than some people. I find a lot of Mormons generally try to avoid any "unpleasant" conversations so I think a lot was implied before anything was out rightly said. I still feel a distance and am definitely kept at arms length from some of my extended family but my mom and my siblings have been wonderful. My mom actually asked me if I was gay when I was 21. I nodded and she cried and just said, "I love you no matter what. I just want you to be happy and don't want you to get sick". I think in the world she was coming from, that was really about all she had heard about gay men. Thankfully, we both know more now and we have both grown together. She is still Mormon but a big supporter and advocate, as well as being my biggest cheerleader.

2. You have stated that Rufus Wainwright and k.d. Lang gave you advice on coming out and your art. Share with us this important advice. -

More than what they have said (and they have said a lot about the matter) it is the example they have set that really inspired me. I figure, if they can be brave enough to take a chance and live authentically, regardless of whether or not it will "hurt" their career, why shouldn't I? I know my art will be better the more I am true to myself. My good friend Dave Koz has also been very inspirational in this regard. So many people have paved the way for me to be where I am and now it is up to my contemporaries and I to carry on that torch further.

3. You album "The Answer' pays homage to Roy Orbison and the 1960's seem to have influence your music, why is that? -

As a melancholy kid who was always daydreaming, I found myself drawn to any music that was lush and iconic and allowed me to escape into another world. I guess the era's sonic landscape and approach to music making simply makes me happy. I know KD Lang is very inspired by Roy and that era as well. After my last breakup I kept playing Roy Orbison on repeat. There is such an unapologetic drama to it all. I just love it!

4. Where do you want to take your music and composing now? What are your next big projects?

I'm actually working on a one man show as well as a Broadway Musical. Writing for the stage is really one of my biggest dreams and I'm thrilled I'm getting to do it more and more. At the same time, I'm already working on my next record which will focus more on humanity and the crossroads we find ourselves at, politically and spiritually speaking. I'm also planning on completing an album of covers from some of my favorite composers including some songs I never felt free enough to sing before.

5. What is the most funny or embarrassing thing ever to happen to you on stage?

Oh wow. Well there are so many! Well, it's hard to think of just one but I suppose the time I was playing in Indonesia is a pretty good one. I am always trying to learn a little bit of the language wherever I go and try to make the effort whenever I can. However, sometimes that can backfire. We had just taken the stage and I meant to say "Hello Jarkarta! I am so happy to be here with you.", and ended up saying something to the effect of, "Jakarta. Hey! You have a nice anus!". Something like that. I could tell by their reaction that I hadn't said it right. Everybody laughed but nobody left so they must have known I meant well. I laughed too. If you aren't mortified and can lovingly laugh at yourself, then your audience can too.

Five Questions For........Harvey Fierstein

 

 

 

Perhaps more than anyone on Broadway, Harvey Fierstein has pioneered the way for actors on the Great White Way to be open about their sexuality. Consistently over the years he has shown great courage and sometimes at great cost. Despite the risks he took being out and proud, he is one of the most successful actors/writers on Broadway.

Harvey was born in Brooklyn to conservative Jewish parents. His mother, Harriet was a school librarian and his father Irving was a handkerchief manufacturer.

The deep voice became a trademark and was perfect for the stage. In 1982, as an out gay man, Fierstein burst unto the stage in a big way writing and acting in the famous Torch Song Trilogy.  For that production, he won two Tony Awards for Best Actor and Best Play. The play was a huge hit and later turned into a movie. The film won him a nomination for an Independent Spirit Award for Best Actor.

"Tony" loves this man! He won a Tony Award for Best Book of a Musical for La Cage aux Folles in 1983. He was also nominated as the writer for the Broadway hit "Newsies". Who can forget this Tony Award winning performance as Edna Turnblad in Hairspray (below)? Currently he has received another nomination this June for Kinky Boots for Best Book of a Musical!

Harvey also has won an Emmy Award for narrating "The Life and Times of Harvey Milk" and an Emmy nomination for his appearance on 'Cheers' Most importantly who can ever forget his role in the hysterical "Mrs. Doubtfire" with Robin Williams?

The list of films, television appearances and voice overs can go on and on. Harvey has never stopped working, acting and writing. For so many people, like myself, Harvey is one of the great heroes of the LGBT community. He stood tall and proud when so few in the entertainment industry were out. He is a pioneer and role model for young LGBT actors. He proved you could be a success and out in show business.

If you need evidence of his articulate bravery watch the interview by Barbara Walters at the end of this article done in 1982!

Harvey is special, a beautiful man and one of the great legends.

Here are the "Five Questions For Harvey Fierstein"

1. You came out at a time when most all performers were deeply in the closet. How do you think it impacted your career for better or worse?

I am more than aware that I fucked a lot of commercial opportunities that may have been available had I been, shall we say, circumspect. However, I never considered money or fame as goals. To me they were by-products of a life in the arts. I can't say that I haven't watched fellow closeted artists getting big gigs and wondered if they did it right and I wrong. But living ingenuously was simply never an option. I guess I was just brought up right. (Or wrong)

2, Do you believe there is any professional reason for an actor to stay in the closet today? What advice would you give someone in the industry who is closeted?

Every career is completely individual. Different for every one of us. I have no crystal ball. I give young gay actors the same bullshit advice that old farts have been handing out since the dawn of time, "You get one life. LIve it, as hard as you can, full out, and with no regrets. Don't leave anything in the locker room."

3.. You are one of the hardest working people in show business as a Tony Award winning Actor and Playwright. What projects have been the most challenging to you over the years?

What you would call challenging I would call joyous. I LOVE to get in there and get dirty and create and try stuff… To me the "challenging" work are the bullshit jobs you take to pay the rent. It's a real challenge to sit around a movie set for twelve hours just to get in front of the camera and say, "Would you like a cocktail?", and then go home.

4. As a living legend yourself, what was it like to work with icon Director Jerry Mitchell and Cyndi Lauper in the new amazing Broadway hit 'Kinky Boots'.

Jerry and I had already worked together on Broadway's HAIRSPRAY and several other incarnations of the same.We knew we wanted to do something new together. Cyndi and I had talked about writing a show together years earlier. So I guess when we finally all got together to work there was some relief that the wait was over. I love them both. We are family. We created a beautiful joyous miraculous baby together that will, I have no doubt, be around years after we are gone. Working don't get better than that!

5. What is the most embarrassing or funny incident to happen to you as an actor?

I was touring as TEVYE in the road company of FIDDLER ON THE ROOF. We were in Toronto and I was told, just before the curtain went up, that two of my favorite performers were in the house; legendary Captain Von Trapp himself - Mr Theodore Bikel, and the original star of MAMA MIA! - Louise Pitre. I entered the empty stage to begin the show with the famous monologue to the audience when suddenly I felt something wrong. I put my hand to my face and realized that the dry winter air had given me a very bad nosebleed. So there I stood, center stage, the audience waiting…. I pulled out my handkerchief, held it up to my face and went on with the show making certain that the audience never saw the blood gushing from my nose. Unfortunately, neither did they see much of a performance! Both of my idols left the theater without visiting me. But i could never fault them. They didn't know. Somehow I am both ashamed and proud of that

This is an extraordinary interview with Barbara Walters from 1983! You must watch this amazing man educate a nation when most people were still deeply in the closet! LGBT Americans should never forget contribution in our epic struggle for freedom!

Five Questions For.....Oscar Winning Producer Bruce Cohen

 

 

 

"When power leads men towards arrogance, poetry reminds him of his limitations. When power narrows the areas of man's concern, poetry reminds him of the richness and diversity of his existence. When power corrupts, poetry cleanses. For art establishes the basic human truth which must serve as the touchstone of our judgment."

-President John F. Kennedy

Oscar winning Producer Bruce Cohen fits President Kennedy's description perfectly. Through his art combined with his activism, Cohen has changed the world. From winning his Oscar for 'Best Picture' for American Beauty to his hard hitting filmed biography of the great Harvey Milk, this gentle man has left a major mark on society.

Cohen's films are like a litany of our times with American Beauty, Milk and Silver Lining Playbook being the most prominent of his talented career. In each there is a basic truth of politics, human sexuality, challenging lives, activism's ability to change the world and the joy of breaking through personal barriers by walking through fear. Cohen has held up a large mirror and in the process challenged each and everyone of us to do more.

He was nominated for an Emmy Award for his producing the 83rd Academy Awards. Currently, along with Dan Jinks, he is bringing Big Fish to Broadway.

The producer asks of us no more than he himself is willing to give back. As President of the American Foundation For Equal Rights (AFER), he has been instrumented in bringing the Proposition 8 case to the Supreme Court. However, he is no 'Johnny-come-lately' to the halls of activism. For decades he has fought for LGBT Americans to have full equality, to elect progressive politicians and to combat HIV/AIDS.

Cohen was married to his husband Gabe Catone by Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa in May, 2008. They have one child and live in Los Angeles and New York.

Here are 'Five Questions For......Bruce Cohen'

1. Are you now living your childhood dreams?

From the time I was nine and my grandmothers let me stay up to watch the Oscars my dream in life was to win one. So, now with three Best Picture nominations to my credit and a win for AMERICAN BEAUTY, yes, I am absolutely living my childhood dream!

2. When did you come out and has it made your path in the entertainment industry more difficult.

I came out to myself and then my friends as a 19 year old sophomore at Yale in 1981. I came out to my parents in 1985. Professionally, I kept it mostly hidden until I mustered the courage to come out to my boss, who happened to be Steven Speilberg, in 1992. He had the warmest, most wonderful reaction. After that, I've never given a crap who knew and have never felt that it made my path in the entertainment industry more difficult. If anything, I feel it has been a plus, as it has allowed me to be who I am and bring my full creativity and passion to the projects I've been involved in.

3. You have won an Academy Award for "American Beauty" and had "Milk" and "Silver Lining Playbook" wins Oscar nominations for Best Picture. What story/movie are you dying to make in the future? What is your dream project?

My dream is just to continue to get the chance to work with brilliant directors, writers and actors on projects that entertain and inspire us... oh, and maybe change the world just a little... oh, and an original movie musical-- that's a definite fantasy I hope to make real.

4. You are one of the great LGBT pioneers and activists. In addition, you are heavily involved in American politics. What do you believe is the role of the arts in changing the world?

With a film like MILK, which I will be forever honored and humbled to be a part of, I have experienced first hand the power of film to make a permanent difference on an important issue worldwide. When we were getting ready to shoot the film, we would meet out, proud kids in the Castro who hadn't heard of Harvey. ON HARVEY MILK PLAZA-- and they didn't know who he was.... but no more.

5. What is the funniest or most embarrassing thing ever to happen to you while making a movie?

Well, for better or worse, there have been many funny and embarrassing moments on sets over the years. If I had to pick one that was both, I guess I'll go with one Friday night on ALWAYS, a Speilberg movie. I was the second assistant director on, when Steven asked me to get him his formal yarmulke. This request threw me into a bit of a panic, since, even though it was shabbat, I had never known Steven to be that religious and I certainly didn't know he had a formal yarmulke-- or even what that was-- or where I would find it. Thankfully, I finally realized he was actually asking for the all-terrain vehicle he used to get around the set in Montana-- his four-wheel yamaha.

Five Questions For.........Activist Alan Van Capelle

 

 

 

When creating a list of the best young organizers in America you would have to put in the top five New York City's Alan van Capelle. Now President and CEO of Bend the Arc, a faith based Jewish organization, dedicated to domestic issues of economic and social justice, van Capelle has spent a life time organizing for a better world.

Alan's rise as one of the more powerful activists in the country began with organized labor. For ten years he worked to make life better for nursing home attendants, janitors, security officers, doormen and healthcare employees. While at SEIU 32BJ, he created an effective and powerful political action committee for the union.

As an openly gay man, he accepted the job of being Executive Director of the Empire State Pride Agenda (ESPA). For seven years he created a massive coalition in New York state that made it possible for marriage equality to become the law. He created outreach to faith based communities, labor and corporations. ESPA under his direction became a powerhouse in New York politics.

Broadening his outreach, Alan accepted the challenge of taking the Progressive Jewish Alliance and Jewish Funds for Justice and creating a new national organization called "Bend The Arc". The organization under his leadership has become a powerful new presence on domestic issues. In many ways, van Capelle has taken the Jewish community back to its historical activist roots as champions for social and economic justice.

In his bio, it reads, "

Mr. van Capelle has been named to the National Leadership Council’s “40 under 40” list, and has been quoted by The New York Times, CNN, New York 1, Newsweek and New York Magazine. Acknowledged as a national civil rights leader with special ties to his home state of New York, he served on the transition committees for Governor Eliot Spitzer and Attorney General Andrew Cuomo.

Alan van Capelle lives with his husband Matt Morningstar and their adorable and delightful son Ethan in the Lower Eastside of Manhattan.

Here are "Five Questions For.......Alan van Capelle'

1. You have a long history of activism and fighting for progressive causes. Where and when did you know your passion for organizing?

Going from growing up in a middle class family to, while I was still a child, seeing my parents lose their money and become working class, had a big impact on me. When we went from being among the “haves” to the “have-nots” I saw the importance of things like a public school education, unions that ensure workers can earn a decent income, social security and a public safety net. Since then I’ve always found myself on the side of those things that I saw benefit my parents and my family. 

2. You were instrumental in the passage of marriage equality in New York as Executive Director of the Empire State Pride Agenda. Where should the movement focus if the Supreme Court rules that marriage equality is a constitutional right?

I believe that equality is the basement and justice is the ceiling. Without equality it’s hard to fight for justice. Achieving marriage equality will free up energy and resources of LGBTQ folks to stand with and strategize with other groups to fight for the issues they care about, and the America they want to live in, whether that means living wage jobs, clean water, or the right of all people to grow old with dignity. We also need to remember that just because we may have won some important legal recognition that does not mean we are treated equally in everyday life. There is still so much more we can do to ensure the next generations of LGBTQ people have an easier road than the one we traveled.

3. You are now Executive Director of Bend The Arc a Jewish organization devoted to economic justice and civil rights issue. What has been the most important lesson you have learned as an open gay man in a leadership position in a faith based organization?

I quickly learned that there are not many openly gay leaders in Jewish organizations and so I take every opportunity to talk about my husband Matt and my son Ethan. I speak about them in synagogues, in donor meetings, and in halls of Congress. I want people to know that you can be gay and a person of faith; that you can, in fact, be the leader of a faith-based organization.

4, Bend the Arc focuses on only domestic issues. Has there been pressure or backlash for the organization to focus also on the Middle East?

Not really. Bend the Arc is one of the only tables in the country where Jews can gather together regardless of their Middle East politics. This makes us a very valuable organization for Jews nationally and I think most people understand and appreciate that.

5. What is the most embarrassing or funny moment to happen to you in all your years of activism.

A few years ago Matt and I were borrowing a friend’s house in the Hamptons and we had David Patterson for dinner one night. I was still at the Pride Agenda and we had just published a book of the 1324 rights that LGBTQ people were denied because New York did not yet have marriage equality. I was so excited to show David the book that I pressed a copy into his hands, forgetting for a moment that he is legally blind, urging him to read it. A few moments later I came to my senses, grabbed the book back, downed my martini and began to recite from memory the most important rights we were being deprived of.

Five Questions For .........Director Sean Mathias

 

 

Sean Mathias (R) chatting with Breakfast at Tiffanys stars Cory Michael Smith and Emila Clark

Actor, writer and director Sean Mathias is as close to a Renaissance man as you will find.

The talented British import to Broadway is directing the new Broadway version of Breakfast at Tiffany's. The play, based on the Truman Capote book, has just opened at the Cort Theatre (at 138 West 48th Street).

 

Mathias was selected by the Sunday Independent as one of the most influential LGBT people in Britain. The talented man worked closely with Sir Ian McKellen and was also his partner in life for a number of years.

While having acted in several plays in the West End of London, it is as a director that Mathias has achieved the most acclaim.

Many people around the globe will best know him for brilliant direction of the film Bent. Both the stage version and film about homosexual inmates in a Nazi Concentration Camp moved people to tears.

When he directed a revival of Bent by Martin Sherman as a benefit, the production became legendary in the theater community. The play that night starred Sir. Ian McKellen, Ian Charleson and Ralph Fiennes. They young handsome Charleson, who was the star of Chariots of Fire, was dying of AIDS.

The film version starred Jude Law, Rupert Graves, Clive Owen, Sir. Ian McKellen, Mick Jagger,and Lothaire Bluteau. The Cannes Film Festival bestowed the "Prix de la Jeunesse'.

 

The credits for Mathias role as director are international. There is hardly a major star of the stage that has not clamor to work with him. Among those who he has directed on stage are Sir Ian McKellen, Jude Law, Judi Dench, Rupert Graves, Kathleen Turner, Cynthia Nixon, Billy Crudup, Alan Rickman, Helen Mirren and so many others.

Mathias has been honored for his work both with nominations and awards. Born in Wales, he lived in South Africa for awhile but has returned home to his native United Kingdom.

Here are Five Questions For...........Sean Mathias: 

1. When did you come 'out' and what was that experience for you?

When I wrote the screenplay for the BBC film The Lost Language of Cranes. It is a story about coming out. In order to promote it in the press, I described how I had come out at home. It is never easy.

2. You have been an actor, writer and director. Which one has given you the greatest satisfaction and why?

They have all fed each other. Romantically I am a writer but pragmatically I am a director.

3. You directed the film and stage versions of 'Bent' to great acclaim. There was a famous benefit performance in 1989 for Stonewall in London. The famous actor Ian Charleson (Chariots of Fire) was in that production and in the last stages of HIV/AIDs. What was it like that night to see his courage on the stage? Can you share a little about that legendary night?

Ian was a very close friend and I knew he was dying of AIDS. He played Greta, the Drag Queen, and had to change from female costume to male costume on stage. I placed screens all around the set to give him privacy. His body was covered with KS but his spirit was so beautiful, brave and true. It was one of the most memorable experiences of my life.

Ian Charleson

4. What project would you give your left arm to direct?

I am hanging on to my left arm.

5. What is the most embarrassing or funny event to happen to you as a director or actor?

When I made my debut in Hair on tour and they inserted a naked bath scene to be extra provocative, and I was the boy in the bath being bathed by two girls. We played my home town and my parents came to see, and my mother yelled out "Oh no, I can see his dick-dock!"

Five Questions For .........Lance Horne

 

 

You know someone is talented when they have played with Kristen Chenoweth for Queen Elizabeth II, entertained the President and Ms. Obama and they have been mentored by Stephen Sondheim. Without question, Lance Horne is an astonishingly gifted composer and lyricist with few peers in America.

Lance Horne is 35 and was born in Sheridan, Wyoming. He father was a construction engineer and his mother a special education school teacher. Horne most likely gets his music genes from his grandmother who was a pick-up singer for the touring big bands in their hey-day.

The winner of an Emmy Award for 'Best Original Song', he has composed for and performed with such stars as Alan Cumming, Kelli O'Hara, Cheyenne Jackson, Michael Feinstein and Dwight Yokum just to mention a few. The Boston Pops invited him to their prized stage. The talented composed has released his first album entitled First Things Last

Some of the world's great concert halls have been graced with his presence including the Sydney Opera House, Apollo Theater, Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, The British National Theater and different venues in Vegas! You can find him entertaining from families at the Macy's Thanksgiving Parade to performing with Meow, Meow! Nothing daunts this much in demand musical genius.

Currently his next major project is the opening of Amandine in January in New York. The story of a 'intersex person'  in 19th century Paris is extraordinary. Having personally listen to it in a workshop, the music is breath-taking.

The Amandine group is currently in the middle of a Kickstarter campaign to raise the final $30,000 and you can obtain all the information by clicking here. I strongly urge you to contribute to this stunning and powerful musical.

Here are five questions for Lance Horne.......

1. When did your love of music develop and what influenced it?

I've always heard music in my head, despite or thanks to having been born deaf in my right ear. The doctors said it may have been caused by my pressing against the side of the womb, so I like to think I was listening. I was born and raised in Wyoming, and worked the ranch with all the music that goes with it; I have a killer mp3 of me singing "Mama, Don't Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys" before I could walk. On my second birthday, my Grandma gave me a miniature piano, my Dad gave me a football, I sat on the football and started playing the piano, and that was that. Sondheim pulled a "mon oeil" when I told him, but it's true. I would mow the lawn and listen to my four cassette tapes growing up-- Annie Get Your Gun, Easter Parade, The Sound of Music, and Pacific Overtures. I think someone meant for me to have South Pacific, but there I was with my Sondheim's most ambitious score. I would tune to the Golden Oldies radio at night and slept to Tommy Dorsey and Bennie Goodman. I sang in the Phoenix Boys Choir, and we backed up rockers Mister Mister on the song "Kyrie Eleison", and Bobby McFerrin on "Don't Worry, Be Happy" and "Ave Maria". I went to Interlochen, and that's when everything hit critical mass.

2. You are so talented in some many areas - composer, songwriter, cabaret performer, etc - how do you focus your energy and what is your priority?

Thank you. Someone changed my life when they told me to "schedule my priorities rather than prioritize my schedule." There are times when it's necessary to stay up all night writing or making charts, but there are other times when it's just as necessary to grab a salad at the Glass House Tavern with someone who makes your soul bloom. Whenever possible, I try to exercise different musical muscles in alternation. I love writing for the stage, film and television, and I love performing and mentoring. I'm a Libra, so I'm always an admirer of balance. I'm also haunted by the amount of things in the world that need our help. I am for whatever artistic means can help people awaken to social change.

In terms of focusing energy: I try to do one thing a day that scares me. That could be tackling an arrangement for Alan & Liza or doing the dishes! I try to only touch a piece of paper once, and I'm learning to ask for help. I avoid synthesizers, as they always mess up my body trying to make them sound right. I eat well, drink water, sleep, let my brain entertain itself with puns and mash-ups, and as John Cleese said, allow the creativity as much time as possible to form itself. I have an amazing, loving chosen family, and love collaborating with many of them; when Alan Cumming, Meow, Justin Bond, Ricki Lake, or Alexandra Silber call, I am there. There is enough time to do it all, and there is enough abundance. What is it Judith Light said in her Tony acceptance speech? "Divine choreography." She also told me, "Be where your ass is," and I'm committed to that as well.

Alan Cumming, Lance Horne and Cheyenne Jackson

3. In ten years, what do you want to have accomplished with your incredible talents?

I would like to have composed a few stage works with successful runs in New York and London, have Broadway runs with Alan Cumming & Meow, complete my Tennessee Williams dream piece, likewise with my Stephen King dream opera, have the stars align so Sydney Dance Company and I can create a full work together, put out the album I've been promising with my own vocals, would love to share a small or big screen with Alan (we call each other our musical husbands), reconnect with my parents, gather together our band of artists to claim a space in Manhattan to foster new productions (ideally? reclaim the Mark Hellenger theater for Broadway), give copiously to True Colors Foundation, ASTEP and AMFAR, create something from the ground up with Ricki Lake, score a film that can change people's hearts for the better, and a great team in place to make it all happen and mentor the next generation. I want to have struck a balance between work and private life with my boyfriend, loving each other and supporting each other's dreams.

4. What is the most embarrassing moment for you on stage?

Halloween a few years back in Connecticut at a fancy dress ball in a bank. I was on keys with the brilliant Stephen Brinberg (Simply Barbara) and Tommy Femia (a killer Judy Garland). You can imagine the stage set for great duets of Happy Days/Get Happy, etc. Unfortunately: Firstly, it was in a bank. Secondly, the husbands of the wives who had booked the act were incredibly conservative, and confused. Only they were allowed to dress in drag on Halloween, not two talented gender illusionists. And so it began-- during the opening number, members of the audience came up, insisting I stop playing. Barbara was coming down the stairs to Don't Rain on My Parade, and I had no intention of doing so. And so it began, a systematic war with the audience in which people dismantled the piano's mic, removed my sheet music (like I can't play The Man That Got Away by heart!), slammed down the keyboard cover as I was playing, and eventually cut off the lights and sound entirely, leaving Stephen and Tommy blinded halfway up the stairs. I ran up and got them, and we literally hid in the basement. The woman who booked us came downstairs with the news that she didn't have our payment (we were in a bank), and they had forgotten to book return travel to the city. As Dina Martina says, "The hits just keep on comin!"

And, come to think of it, there's a tie for this question. Meow Meow and I were playing at the Sydney Opera House, and the construct of the show was that the stingy producers had cut the budget, rendering comedic moments as we tried to make do without the Rockettes, a revolving stage, and the like. In my defense, no two Meow shows are alike, and I had simply mixed up which show we were likely to do that night. That said, when Meow ordered the band to strip to our underwear to save on dry cleaning costs, I suddenly realized it was near laundry day on the tour and I was wearing nothing but an incredibly skimpy bright green number leaving little to the imagination. I resisted and she recapitulated, in German, and as gave in to her and the audience's insistence and dropped trou, she and I both had to look upstage lest we break character. Hello, Sydney Opera House! And that may answer an unasked question-- as to why there are so many clips on the net of me accompanying Meow Meow in my skivvies.

5. Who are your musical heroes and mentors?

Stephen Sondheim

Heroes:

Benjamin Britten "War Requem", Leonard Bernstein "Mass", Mark Blitzstein "Cradle Will Rock", Jonathan Larson "Rent", John Adams "Fearful Symmetries", and the complete works of writer-performers Marvin Hamlisch, Nadia Boulanger and Annie Lennox.

Mentors:

Stephen Sondheim wrote me letters back in High School and told me to study with his teacher, Milton Babbitt. I took his advice and it changed my life, on top of the mentoring he has offered ever since. Hal Prince took me under his wing the day after I graduated high school. I interned for him before going to Juilliard, and he taught me integrity and attention to detail. Mary Rodgers Guettel was the President of the Board at Juilliard and looked out for me above and beyond the call of duty, giving me my first ASCAP prize and sneaking me in alongside her to her revival of Once Upon a Mattress as well. Adam Guettel and I met thanks to his mom and Public Theater's Wiley Hausam. Wiley gave me my first break at Joe's Pub during its opening week, and Adam produced my demos that ended up receiving the Jonathan Larson Prize. Throughout my Bachelor's and Masters in Composition at Juilliard, Milton Babbitt taught me composition with equal time spent on serialism and musical theater, working me through his own unpublished musical and reviving the lessons he'd taught Sondheim. My first day at Juilliard, the air conditioner had broken. I walked in to my first lesson with Milton, and he was at the piano, belting out "We're havin' a heat wave... a tropical heat wave!" and I knew I'd met a mentor for life. Mary Anthony Cox took me under her wing at Juilliard, putting me through the paces Nadia Boulanger had put her through, as did Phillip Lasser in Paris. Stephen Schwartz gave me a lesson while I was interning for Hal, and continues to call me on my birthday. It's my favorite call of the year. Diane Borger puts together new work at ART in Boston, and straddles the line between a hero and mentor. Likewise, Michael John LaChiusa, who always writes the right thing at the right time on every level.

Here is Alan Cumming with Lance Horne singing Lance's "American" at a benefit for Obama this past September.

"Five Questions For..... Governor Martin O'Malley"

 

 

A person doesn't have to look far to find Governor Martin O'Malley's heart because he wears it out in the open.

The Democratic Governor of Maryland has been in the forefront in the epic battle of marriage equality. Using his remarkable ability to bring people together in non-traditional alliances, the Governor was instrumental in the passage of marriage equality in The Free State.

Now the radical right has placed on the November ballot a measure to repeal the legislation. The Governor has been on the phone raising funds and has spoken publicly about the urgency of passing "Yes On Question Six" which would protect marriage equality in his state.

O'Malley has had an interesting  path to the Governor's mansion and is perhaps on his way to the White House.

Born and raised in Maryland, he is the product of a Catholic education. In 1984, he became one of the new generation of Democrats that supported Gary Hart for President.  Barbara Mikulski appointed him as her state field director when she was first running for the United States Senate. In 1991, O'Malley ran for Baltimore City Council and served for 8 years in that position.

After his outstanding leadership on the City Council, he won election as Mayor of Baltimore in 1999 and won re-election in 2003 with 67% of the vote. "Esquire" named him  "The Best Young Mayor In America" He developed a reputation among other Mayors for creating innovative and pilot programs for Homeland Security and reducing crime.

In 2006, the O'Malley was elected Governor of Maryland, defeating incumbent Republican  Bob Ehrlich. For good measure, O'Malley defeated him again in 2010 with 56% of the vote. The Governor has one of the most progressive records in America. He supported Hillary Clinton in her race for President but strongly supported President Obama in the general.

The Governor is married to Catherine "Katie" Curran O'Malley and they have four children. O'Malley, in addition to great humor, is a great musician. He has played in a number of bands and last St. Patrick's Day played at the White House!

 

1. Where did you develop your passion for politics and who was the greatest influence on you in choosing that path?

My biggest influence, far and away, are my parents, Tom and Barbara O’Malley. They taught my sisters, brothers, and me to love God, love our family and love our country.

I was also influenced a great deal by the Jesuit education I received at Gonzaga College High School - a high school that refused to leave its Washington, D.C. location after the 1968 riots. It’s mission is to produce “Men for Others.”

I learned about Arnold Toynbee's theory of the progress of man. Namely, that man (and by man he meant men and women) progresses in response to adversity: when the adversity is too great man (or society) perishes or moves away; when the adversity is too little, he atrophies or stagnates. I learned that expectations become behavior.

And I learned that it is not enough to have faith, you must also have the courage to risk action on that faith, to risk failure upon that faith: the faith that one person can make a difference and that each of us must try.

I have also been blessed with the opportunity to work and learn from some truly great public servants. Former Senator Gary Hart and Maryland’s legendary Senator, Barbara Mikulski. My father-in-law, Joseph Curran has also been a great mentor.

2. You grew up attending a Catholic high school and attended Catholic University of America. How do you reconcile your deep faith with your progressive stances on social issues?

I was taught at home and school to love your family, love your country and love God. I was also taught repeatedly in school to respect the dignity of every individual. Finally, I have worked with many gay and lesbian people in the course of my life. I've had the honor to know, socialize, and interact with a number of families headed and provided for by gay parents.

Every child's home should be protected equally under the law. I feel passionately about that categorical imperative.

We are a diverse people of many different faiths and yet we all share the Common Good of a just society and a personal responsibility to advance and protect the Common Good.

3. You have been a successful Mayor and Governor and clearly you are on everyone's short list for President in 2016. How do you not lose your inner self in all the hoopla? What do you do to keep centered?

Spending a half-hour alone and in silence at the beginning of every morning—being mindful, grateful, and reading good things – helps me stay centered and focused on the service I’m blessed to be able to offer.

Knowing there is suffering in this world, in my state, in my city, in my community and knowing I can do something to alleviate that suffering is what motivates me. Making progress is what makes me happy. I look at my four children and all of the children of Maryland and work every day to leave them with a better future than the ones our parents and grandparents left us.

4. You were instrumental in passing the marriage equality legislation in Maryland which opponents are attempting to repeal on the ballot in November. What brought you around to be such a forceful and courageous advocate for marriage equality?

                 

 

It is not right or just that the children of gay couples should have lesser protections than the children of other families in our State. It also wouldn't be right to force religious institutions to conduct marriages that conflict with their own beliefs and their own teachings.

That’s why we came together to pass a bill that treats people fairly and equally under the law while also protecting religious freedom. Now in November, we are growing the consensus and mutual understanding necessary to become the first State ever to defend marriage equality at the ballot box.

For a free and diverse people of many faiths, the way forward is always found through the greater respect for the equal rights of all; for the human dignity of all.

We are One Maryland and I am confident that we will move forward toward a more just society.

5. What is the most embarrassing and funny moment in your political career?

I've avoided many embarrassing moments by never missing a field goal when I visit the Baltimore Ravens practices. (I may or may not practice with my kids in the backyard before I go,...)

This is a fun blooper roll sent by the Governor's office of the Governor and Ms O'Malley attempting to film a "It Gets Better" video! A real sense of fun!

Five Questions for......Henry Winkler"

 

 

Henry Winkler is an American Icon.

The talented actor, writer, producer and director is the classic American story of immigrant parents, overcoming a disability, creating a remarkable family and achieving great international success in the arts. He is universally viewed as one of the most gentle and kind people in the entertainment industry. 

His parents, Ilse Anna Maria and Harry Irving Winkler were German Jews. In 1939, they managed to escape from the Nazi regime and seek protection and safety in America. Settling in New York, his father continued in the lumber business and they gave birth to Henry in 1945. The young Henry was somewhat of a loner who dreamed of entering the entertainment industry.

Television commercials were his first move into 'the industry'. In 1973, he began the television series Happy Days and captured America's heart by playing "The Fonz"! At the same time he began to appear in film projects such as The Lords of Flatbush, Night Shift , Heroes and An American Christmas Carol.

After the television series. Winkler focused on directing and producing projects including MacGyver, Memories of Me, Cop and a Half and Mr. Sunshine.

Winker returned to television with a vengeance in Arrested Development, Royal Pains and other projects.

This renaissance man is the author of 27 children's books with the most prominent being the Hank Zipzer series. He also wrote the adult book about fly fishing called Never Met An Idiot On the River.

This month is a big month for Henry Winkler.

He opens in the Broadway romantic comedy The Performers (photograph below) which will be at the Longacre Theater. The David West Read play opens in previews on October 23.

Henry also has a new movie coming out with Kevin James called Here Comes the Boom (see trailer) and a new Ghost Buddy book.

Winkler has won two Golden Globes out of four nominations and two Emmy Awards out of seven nominations. He has been made an honorary Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE).

Henry is married to Stacey Winkler who in her own right is known for her endless work with children charities. They have three children Zoe, Max and Jeb.

Here are five questions for Henry Winkler!

1. When did you realize that you wanted to go into acting and the arts? Did you have a mentor?

From about when I was seven years old, I so desperately wanted to be an actor. When I woke in the morning, ate during the day and went to bed at night I thought of being an actor. From where those feelings originated, I am not sure to this day. In my childhood I was haunted with dyslexia and it made my ability to be a good student very hard. There was little time for school plays and extracurricular activities at school because all my time was taken by struggling with my studies. My parents were not that supportive of my dreams of being on the stage and screen so there really wasn't any mentoring.

In my senior year at Emerson University, I auditioned for Yale Repertory Theater and received an acceptance letter. When the letter arrived I almost fainted when it stated that they had accepted me. Somehow I just knew I had to act.

2. Your father and mother fled Germany in 1939 to come to America seeking protection and a better life. How do you feel about the young people attempting a better life today in America by fighting for the Dream Act?

My father owned a lumber business in Germany. My mother and he were able to flee in 1939 leaving everything behind except my aunt's jewelry. The two of them dipped the jewels in chocolate and put them back in the candy box. The Nazi's never checked inside the candy and the two of them got out of Germany just in time.

With the exception of one aunt, almost all of my fathers and mothers families died in the Holocaust. They were taken to camps and never survived. My parents came to Ellis Island and if they hadn't, I wouldn't exist today. This great country, America, opened up their arms to them and gave them shelter.

Seems to me if a young girl or boy is born in this country to non-citizens that America should embrace them. Especially if they were born here, went to school here and are willing to serve in this nation's military. The country can only benefit from their skills and talents.

3. You have lived the life of a renaissance man being an award winning actor, director, producer and author. What project in your professional life has given you the greatest joy and pride?

Without question it is my 26 novels for children that I have written. He it was my final victory over my struggle with dyslexia. Twenty-three of them were in the Hank Zipzer series and three for the Ghost Buddy series. The joy of writing so much after my dyslexia is overwhelming. In fact, Hank Zipzer is a young kid in fourth grade who struggles with it too. I also released an adult book about fly-fishing called Never Met An Idiot On the River.

This month is an incredible month for me with writing books, the movie Here Comes The Boom with Kevin James, my television shows and the opening of a Broadway show - The Performers. That is a long way from the lonely struggling seven year old boy in New York City! 

4. Your new project, The Performers opens up on Broadway in previews on October 28th with amazing co-stars including Cheyenne Jackson and Alicia Silverstone. The story is about the adult film industry. What attracted you to this project?

Actually, David, it isn't about the adult movie business. The play only takes place the night of an award dinner where I play an adult film producer who is to receive a 'Lifetime Achievement Award". The play is actually a wonderful romantic comedy and is very funny. Two couples meet up at the Convention and struggle with the issue of love.

I am extremely blessed with excellent and wonderful cast and crew. David West Read, who is the incredible playwright, is young enough to be my son. He is so amazingly talented.

5. Finally what is the most embarrassing moment for you as an actor?

Oh that is an easy one and it never even happened on stage. After Happy Days the great playwright Neil Simon wanted to meet and invited my wife Stacey and I to dinner. Heading for the dinner I became out of my mind with fear and nerves. I was so wound up and intense that it left me completely tongue tied for the evening. What did come out of my mouth didn't make sense. Afterwards, I leaned over the top of my car as Stacey was getting in on the other side and said, "Oh my God, I just blew it didn't I?" She looked at me and said, "Unfortunately, yes you did!" Nevertheless, I got to work with Simon.