Pride Entertainment Lineup: Rebecca Scott

Rebecca Scott has been performing her unique brand of folk-rock in the Northwest for over 20 years. For the seventh straight year, Rebecca was named Best Singer for 2011 in the Boise Weekly’s coveted Best of Boise Readers’ Choice Awards. And for 11 years running, she was also voted in the top three for Best Local Musician (winning in 2011, 2010, 2009, 2008, 2006, 2005 & 2004), and earned 2nd place for Best Band behind national act Built To Spill. In December of 2003, Rebecca was named the top “Mover & Shaker” in Boise entertainment by the Idaho Statesman’s Thrive Magazine. Rebecca performs as a solo, duo, trio or full band, always providing high energy and feel good music for people of all ages.

She has recorded three all-original studio albums.

The first album, Wave To The Elephants, received national attention when the song Diggin  a Path was used in an MTV movie soundtrack “The Anatomy Of A Hate Crime: The Matthew Sheppard Story” as well as the television show “Good vs. Evil”. Her second album, United, was acclaimed when Billboard Magazine named her one in six of the country s top unsigned bands of 1999. The third release, The Game, was Rebecca’s first self-produced endeavor, completed at Little House Recordings with Ben Burdick. Her fourth release, Can’t Get It Out Of My Head (2003), is a live compilation of her previously recorded original material plus two new cuts. And last but not least, her 2010 CD, By Request, features cover songs that have been requested the most by her audiences.
During her musical career, Rebecca has had the opportunity to perform with Candy Coburn, Jonatha Brooke, Shawn Colvin, and with Dar Williams and other artists at Lilith Fair and other NW music festivals. The band recently shared billing with Keb Mo, Cowboy Junkies, Dishwalla, Shelby Lynne, Curtis Stigers, Melissa Ferrick and Garrison Starr.

Rebecca and her band are currently in the recording studio working on her sixth album.

Pride Entertainment Lineup: Hot Dog Sandwich

 

Hot Dog Sandwich was formed in 1997. There have been rotating members throughout the years, but the rhythm section has always been Bart and Stephanie Bell. Bart on drums, Steff on bass. We are joined this year at Boise Pridefest by Tony Merrick on guitar. We as a band believe strongly in equal rights for all people. HDS hosts an event called Equality Rocks each year in support of LGBTQ rights. Proceeds benefit Pride Foundation of the Northwest.

 

Pride Entertainment Lineup: Erika Gaga

Erika Moul has been impersonating Lady Gaga since 2008. With her BFA degree in Musical Theatre/Acting from Michigan State University, she became a star in Vegas as a headlining performer in ‘Tribute Royalty’ at Planet Hollywood. Being recognized by Lady Gaga herself and having a fan base of her own, she has traveled the world since singing as the legendary Pop Artist and owns a published title of being ‘The Best of the Best Tributes’. Erika prides herself on not only giving her most intricately genuine 100% LIVE impersonation of Gaga, but focuses on spreading her Born This Way message of love, freedom, & acceptance. “It isn’t equal, if it’s only sometimes. Be brave & paws up Little Monsters!”

Nocturnum

by Nichole Weaver

As members of the LGBTQIA community, we often discover that safe and friendly places to hang out are not easy to find. Though many people are accepting of our differences, places where we can gather and feel free from negative attention are not as common as we would wish them to be. This goes double for the LGBTQIA nightlife, where friendly faces and our personal safety are much more important to us than they are during the day.

However, these groups do exist. One of them is Wicked Wonderland Productions, a company that puts on weekly gatherings called Nocturnum. Wicked Wonderland uses an interesting business model, hosting events at various clubs for weekly, monthly and yearly events which all use the Wicked Wonderland name. It is an ingenious idea that allows a great deal of locational variety while still ensuring the events are well organized and exciting. Nocturnum is always in the same location and at the same time, while the other events vary in location and exact date.

The weekly Nocturnum is a tastefully unique Goth Industrial event. Attendees are encouraged to try new styles, or very old ones, and enjoy letting their inner selves run free. Costumes are completely acceptable and the special events sometimes look more like a second Halloween than a regular party. Welcoming to people from all walks of life, Wicked Wonderland is specifically supportive of members of the LGBTQIA community, as well people from other marginalized backgrounds.

Recently I spoke with three influential individuals who keep the weekly Nocturnum event running and regularly contribute to the monthly events. Ginger is the owner and operator of Wicked Wonderland. The second person I spoke to was the main DJ of the various events who goes by the moniker DJ Bones. Last was a fire performer, model and dancer, who prefers to be known as The Dannimal and is the poster girl for many of the big events.

I asked Ginger how long Wicked Wonderland has been around and exactly what its mission statement is. She explained it all started about 14 years ago here in Boise Idaho as her birthday party. Eventually her events merged with the previously existing Goth Industrial night. Since then Wicked Wonderland has grown into a company and is capable of hosting multiple large events. At this time, the company hosts events in multiple cities, states and two countries.

Currently Wicked Wonderland has regular events in Albuquerque New Mexico, Boise Idaho, New Orleans Louisiana, Seattle Washington, and Winnipeg Manitoba(Canada). The company is dedicated to creating safe places in each location for people to let loose and be themselves without fear of discrimination, or as Ginger likes to say “to safely be freaky among friends”.

Ginger was very open about what brings her to run event after event for a city with the size and temperament of Boise Idaho. She says it comes from loving the place where it all started and a deep enjoyment of watching unique people of different backgrounds realize they are accepted.

When asked what her biggest event is, she says it is the Exotica Fetish Ball, which is her original big birthday bash. The party is the catalyst that ignited her drive to spread good cheer and great times to as many people as possible. The Exotica Fetish Ball is consistently the largest event of the year, and the most well known. Normally in June, it is an event well worth attending with a variety of special acts, crafts, vendors and excellent music.

Addressing the LGBTQIA community directly, Ginger wants it known her company is all inclusive and welcoming to people of different backgrounds and sexual orientations. She asks you all to “Come down and be spooky and fun with us!”.

Happily I was able to catch DJ Bones the same night just before the evening started. He joined Wicked Wonderland officially about 2 years ago, though he has been part of the crowd since 2003 and has worked closely with Ginger and her company throughout that time. DJ Bones considers Nocturnum to be an inclusive outlet where as long as everyone is friendly with each other, they are welcome to enjoy the fun.

DJ Bones also takes part in the security side of Wicked Wonderland, supporting a network among the group that makes sure the club bouncer is appraised of any potential rough spot in the club. This hands off, but supportive attitude means Wicked Wonderland events are remarkably problem free, and the rare few times the bouncer is needed, he is always in the right place at the right time. A bouncer who knows he has the support of an entire club is a happy bouncer.

DJ Bones believes rather strongly that discrimination and marginalizing behavior is unacceptable. Everyone should feel free to have fun in their own way, as long as it is not hurting anyone else.

When asked to characterize his music choices, DJ Bones mentioned Goth Industrial, Centpop, EBM and Noise. He says he prefers music from the underground that has a message. DJ Bones enjoys mixing things up and has regular guest DJ’s, so there is a wide variety of music every week.

The Dannimal seemed to be having a great night. She says she joined Wicked Wonderland in 2010 when she discovered the Goth community in Idaho. She had been stationed here since 2004 and thought she was the only person in the state with a similar state of mind. Happily she was wrong.

She has quite the list of interests, from fire performances, to go-go dancing, modeling and was even a radio advertiser for Club Sin in 2011. The Dannimal’s fire performances are legendary and she can be seen on most Wicked Wonderland promotional flyers. She says she has more surprises in store for the near future.

The Dannimal actively works to encourage diversity in the community. People from all walks of life are welcome, with members of the LGBTQIA community, Burlesque performers, the BDSM community and even members of the Furry community. The point is that anyone who is friendly and out to have fun is someone she hopes will come to visit. Everyone from those who consider themselves completely normal, to those who consider themselves outside of society are welcome.

Her favorite event is The Exotica Fetish Ball. She loves to see the creativity people put into their freak side, even if only for a night. There are guest events, bands, displays of exotic dancing and a sensual side to the attendees you will rarely find elsewhere.

Wicked Wonderland extends an invite to anyone who is looking for a fabulous night out. Amazing new friends await you 10:00pm Sunday nights at Liquid Lounge, the weekly home of Nocturnum.

For more information, contact: Wicked Wonderland Facebook Page

Cocked & Loaded

 

We caught up with the boys from Cocked & Loaded, Portland’s boylesque troop. Founded by Tod Alan and Romeo Bedwell, and backed by Justin Buckles Entertainment (founder of Caravan of GLAM) to find out more about the boys, and their upcoming performance, Saturday May 9th at the Lucky Dog.

 

Tod Alan

Age: 30

Hometown: Milwaukee WI

Special Talents: Choreographer, Jazz/Tap/Contemporary/HipHop dancer, prop work, show production.

Known for: Cast member in Portland’s longest running burlesque show Burlescape. Cast member of the traveling queer cabaret, Caravan of Glam. Co-founder of Cocked&Loaded.

“I’m so excited to bring the guys of Cocked&Loaded to Boise. It’s one of my favorite cities to perform in. The crowd is always super receptive and respectful; and the guys in Boise are cute! (Is it the potatoes?)
This show is all about the boys. You’re gonna get some comedy, theatrics, some deep emotion, technical dance and choreographed group acts, a lot of nerdy pop culture references, maybe a few political statements, more laughs, a little bro love, and a group of beautiful guys titillated, tease, and show off their best ASSets.”

Romeo Bedwell

Critical Hit Burlesque’s “Burlynomicon” held at the Lovecraft Bar in Portland, Ore. on August 12, 2014. (photo by Casey Campbell http://www.CaseyCampbellPhotography.com)

Age: 30

Hometown: Portland, OR

Special Talents: “Well…. Bedwell isn’t just a name… but in terms of stage performance, I’m most well known for my acting and comedy. “

Known for: “Critical Hit Burlesque shows, Productions by the infamous Zora Phoenix, appearances in the Caravan of Glam, shameless flirtation, wardrobe malfunctions resulting in accidental nudity, great suits, a fantastic butt, and my infamous Banana routine.”

“I had the pleasure of performing in Boise just this past January. I was blown away by the beauty of Idaho, the vibe of the city, and the incredible audience. I can’t wait to return with brand new acts, as well as a never before seen revamped costume and performance of my most popular act. I promise I will bring something that is a’peeling to everyone.”

 

Jaxin Yoff

Age: 29

Hometown: Hudson, NH

Special Talents: Emotive stage artist

Known for (shows performed in, special performances): Burlescape a monthly Portland burlesque and boylesque showcase, Graduate of the Rose City School of Burlesque, Brutalesque a Seattle based metal themed burlesque show, and Ctrl+Alt+Tease a monthly nerdy burlesque show.

“I have not had the pleasure of visiting Boise, however I have had the opportunity to work closely with people who have performed in Boise and I have heard amazing things. I’m thrilled to be a part of Cocked & Loaded and to be able to express our deep interest for our unique talents on a stage in Boise. I believe we will bring an experience unlike anything this city has seen just yet in comedic, emotive, and rock-your-pants off fashion!”

 

Gabriel Green

(A.K.A. GabROYALE)

Age: 31

Hometown: Cedar City UT

Special Talent: I am an avid pianist, composer and choreographer and can also ride a unicycle.

Known for: I once performed for thousands for the 2002 Salt Lake City Olympic torch relay.

“Having grown up in the wilds of Utardia with its close proximity to Idaho, I have never spent much time there. I am thrilled to make my debut and experience your fine city!”

 

OutBoise also took the time to speak with Justin Buckles (Justin Buckles Productions) about his involvement with this project, in addition to Caravan of GLAM, the burlesque troop we featured in our January edition.

What made you decide to take on Cocked & Loaded, in addition to The
Caravan of Glam?

“The popularity of BOYlesque is currently on the rise and I’ve been following it for sometime now. Tod and Romeo have impressed me with what they’ve done with Cocked & Loaded and it’s been successful here in Portland where we are all based. When something is successful you want to spread that success around. As I am expanding my brand and they boys wanted to expand their brand it just made sense that at some point we come together and hit the road.“
Where do you plan to take Cocked & Loaded?

I plan on taking Cocked & Loaded anywhere that will have us. We have inquiries coming from San Francisco and Sand Diego at the moment as well as many inquiries from the Mid-West. Really the sky the is the limit on where and what we can do with the show.

Where are you on tour with Caravan these days?

The Caravan of GLAM is busier now that it’s ever been. Last November we were scouted by America’s Got Talent and we met with producers last February. We made a good impression and they flew us all out to New York City for several days in March to meet with the judges and perform. We’re currently in negotiations to continue with the show now and should be able to share more information once we are given permission to do so.

We also debuted in Missoula Montana at the beginning of April and had camera crews documenting our every move along with producers from Los Angeles calling the shots. This is a completely separate project from America’s Got Talent. We have a couple very seasoned producers who have taken us under their wing and we currently have a couple networks very interested in what the Caravan of GLAM is all about.

We’re also expanding our territory as well and will branch out into Utah in May.
With Pride coming, where all do you plan to take your performers?

Between Caravan of GLAM and Cocked & Loaded we’ll be making stops in Portland, Seattle, Olympia, Bend, Missoula, Pocatello, Humboldt County, and we’re talking with a handful of other cities now.

We know you can’t provide many details on your performances with America’s Got Talent, but how is it affecting your tour dates? If your troop continues through the competition, are we still to expect tour dates?

As of now nothing has been affected tour wise. We’re in discussions with the show now and they are fully aware that they cannot inhibit anyone on their show from making a living and providing for themselves. Although the contract is rather binding we just need to ensure that we are available for all the filming dates, which we will have no problem doing.

I really cannot share any more details than that. Our experiences with the show have been great thus far, very stressful, but completely worth it to all of us.
Any other ideas or surprises people can expect?

There’s always a handful of things up our sleeves. You’ll just have to wait!

What’s New at The Balcony

by Gary Simpson

Things have been moving and shaking over at The Balcony Club. It has been six months since the club changed hands, and Emre Houser took charge of making the club the best it can be.

The Balcony has been a part of our community for over 18 years, and was voted Boise Weekly’s “Best Gay Bar” for 10 years running, and “Best Dance Club” for seven years now.

According to Houser, taking over the club was a big challenge. As a straight man, he was highly concerned with the community’s reaction to his acquisition of the venue. But, these fears were quickly dispelled. Despite his initial lack of knowledge of the industry, Houser has proven several times over, that he is able to rise to the challenge.

“The first couple of months I spent trying to ramp up my knowledge as much as possible.” He said. “ We’ve gotten past that point, but still a bunch of learning to do on my part. We are now at the point of changing and improving things. Some have been visible to our patrons, and others are behind the scenes kind of changes. All of them, however, have been made to improve the employee and customer experiences, with an eye on raising the bar and making The Balcony the best place to be.”

A few of the improvements to the bar have already taken place, including refinishing the dance floor, fresh paint, and a newly installed sound system. Houser also reports that he and the staff took to the difficult challenge of cleaning up the ceiling , as well.

“We had dust bunnies EVERYWHERE. It was difficult to see at night, but very embarrassing during the day,” he added.

As for the newly installed sound system, Houser reports the sound as “phenomenal – loud, but crystal clear.”

Houser also made note of the calendar they’ve installed in their facility. Located right at the entry of the bar, he hopes to keep patrons informed of local events, and provide he and his staff a medium to communicate with everyone. He also provides a space on this wall to allow for customers to provide feedback as well.

“We want to hear the good, bad and ugly,” Houser added.

The club boasts four rotating DJs every week to help keep the music fresh, and bring different styles to the club.

The most recent project, which should begin to take shape, is freshening up the outdoor tables. Houser hopes thee improvements will improve the overall experience from anyone who stops in.

As for future improvements, Houser says they’re taking things one step at a time. After the tables, The Balcony expects to upgrade their lighting systems, and possibly add some laser lighting.

Making improvements to the club aren’t the only thing he plans to do either. The Balcony currently is offering up an all-Idaho lineup of beers on tap, and has changed up some of their liquors.

“I am not a beer drinker myself, but we have a hard ginger ale and a hard root beer that I just can’t stop raving about!! They are really good!” Houser added.

In addition, they have brought back some popular beverage options that have been missing from The Balcony for some time.

With the changes he’s made around the club, and the plans he has for the future, Houser has had one big thing in mind. Many of his patrons have come to him asking him to make The Balcony a gay bar again. He recently took to Facebook to find a definitive answer to his question, and while he wasn’t able to find an exact answer about what makes a bar, a “gay bar,” he is more determined than ever to ensure the club stays recognized as a gay nightclub.

Much of the feedback he has received has been geared toward more events, more themed parties, and more entertainment.

“We’re talking with some out of town talent and bringing them to The Balcony,” Houser said. “We have to balance this with the fact that we are a nightclub and want to stay true to that, so it is a little bit of a balancing act.”

The Balcony currently has plans to bring in a few guest DJs in the months to come, including a few well-known names, something Houser is quite excited about.

The biggest challenge Houser says he’s come across is getting everything done. “It takes a lot of work to run this place,” he said.

The hard work and dedication has begun to pay off, he added. “People have been awesome! My staff has been awesome, and the customers have been great. Everyone has been great. I couldn’t have asked for a better group of people to associate myself with!”

While Houser has high hopes for the future, he says he is always open for feedback from the community. “I sometimes feel like I might be dropping the ball and I hope nobody takes it personally. Please keep coming back at me if I have dropped the ball. I promise to be fair and honest with everyone.”