Issue 37 - noiZe Magazine

Transcription

TM
The Pr emier G uide t o C ircuit E vents Worldwide
FROM THE EDITOR
Consensual Crime
“When sexuality finds overt expression in intimate conduct
with another person, the conduct can be but one element in
a personal bond that is more enduring. The liberty
protected by the Constitution allows homosexual persons
the right to make this choice.”
And so the Supreme Court made their decision to strike
down the laws that made my favorite physical activity into an
act that is legal in all fifty states. When I heard the details of
this ruling, part of me wanted to celebrate and part of me
wanted to cry.
Justice Kennedy, who wrote the statement above, had voted
against us in a very similar case back in 1986. It is inspiring
that he was able to grow in his social consciousness and that
he was able to admit in such a public way that he had made
a mistake in the earlier ruling. And it was awesome that this
decision was handed down just before the weekend of Gay
Pride. I can’t help but see that as an apologetic gesture to
our community.
Cover Photo
Circuit Mom
www.circuitmom.com
I find it shocking that up until this ruling I actually could have
been arrested for having the same sex I’ve been having for
more than twenty years. Even more of an outrage, though,
is the fact that Justice Scalia used the bench of the Supreme
Court to reiterate the old fear-based argument that this
decision opened the door to legalizing bestiality! Can
someone please tell Justice Scalia that we’re living in the
year 2003?
One of the biggest injustices of these types of “consensual
laws” is that they make many of this country’s citizens into
criminals for deeds that are not harmful to others. The
Supreme Court’s decision was historic in that it recognized
the flaws in all consensual laws, not just those related to
sodomy, when it stated: “(1) the prohibitions undermined
respect for the law by penalizing conduct many people
engaged in; (2) the statutes regulated private conduct not
harmful to others; and (3) the laws were arbitrarily enforced
and thus invited the danger of blackmail.”
It is encouraging that one of these unjust consensual laws
has been wiped out in such a broad statement made by the
highest court in the land. However, there are many others
still on the books - consider the Federal government’s War
on Drugs as well as the archaic gambling laws and laws
against prostitution, not to mention the Bush
administration’s preposterous fight against medical
marijuana.
Far too many of this country’s citizens are still made criminals
by laws that have not kept pace with the way that people
live their lives. When so many people are considered to be
on the wrong side of the laws of the land, is it the people or
the laws that are wrong?
-Steve Kammon
Circuit
4
Noize
Circuit Photo
Retrospectives by
Dr. Moody Mustafa
TM
Editor in Chief
Steve Kammon
editor@circuitnoize.com
Publisher
Stephen Ceplenski
stephen@circuitnoize.com
The Premier Guide to Circuit Events Worldwide
Advertising Director
Gary Steinberg
818-769-9390
gary@circuitnoize.com
TABLE OF CONTENTS
12
Desperately Seeking Cybersex
by John R. Ballew, M.S., L.P.C.
22
Folsom Street Fair Weekend
by Dominck Albano
26
Commitment Issue
by Michael Taylor
46
DJ Profile: Brett Henrichsen
by Scott Van Tussenbrook
58
Benefit Spotlight: Halloween
by Bruce Gallassero, Mark McKeown,
Price Mounger & Stephen Emling
62
Music Reviews
by DJ Mateo
68
Fall Circuit Schedule
86
Circuit Marriage Announcements
89
by Dennis Fleming
artwork by David Sexton
East Coast Office
954-764-8210 (voice)
954-764-6392 (fax)
The Power of Rags
West Coast Office
11288 Ventura Blvd #700
Studio City, CA 91604
818-769-9390 (voice)
818-769-5482 (fax)
E-mail
cninfo@circuitnoize.com
Website w w w. c i rc u i t n o i z e . c o m
www.partyfinder.com
travel.circuitnoize.com
by Mikel Paris
90
The Mythic Call
by Ariel Spilsbury and Michael Bryner
92
RAVE Act: Update
©Copyright 2003 Circuit Noize. All
rights reserved. Contents may not be
reproduced without permission from
the publisher. Publication of name or
photo of any person or organization
in Circuit Noize is not to be
construed as any indication of the
sexual orientation of that person or
organization.
by William D. McColl, Esq.
96
Senior Editor
Jeffery Taylor
Schedule Editor
Tony Hayden
Art Director
Stephen Ceplenski
Promotions
Circuit Boyz Productions
Cover Photo
Moody Mustafa
Event Accent Photos
Moody Mustafa
Circuit Photos
Circuit Boyz Productions
Moody Mustafa
Alejandro Marin
Jeffery Taylor
Shawn Walters
Robert W. Webber
Writers and Contributors
Dominck Albano
John Ballew
Michael Bryner
Stephen Emling
Dennis Fleming
Bruce Gallassero
DJ Mateo
William D. McColl, Esq.
Mark McKeown
Price Mounger
Mikel Paris
David Sexton
Ariel Spilsbury
Craig Smith
Michael Taylor
Scott Van Tussenbrook
Peculiar Travel Suggestions
by Craig Smith
Published in February, May, August
and November
Circuit
5
Noize
DESPERATELY SEEKING
CYBERSEX
by John R. Ballew, M.S., L.P.C.
“Leave it to gay men to invent the ‘Home Cruising Network,’” a friend of
mine said a few years ago. Like many men, he found that the Internet had
opened up a brave new world of sexual options.
Although we have always had ways to
find quick, anonymous sex to fulfill our
erotic needs, the advent of the World
Wide Web has opened up many new
windows of opportunities. It is now
possible to meet guys from all over
the globe – especially if by “meet”
one actually means “get off with”.
Cybersex opportunities fall more or
less into three categories: 1) finding
someone online via personals or a
chat room for a real-life encounter; 2)
using online porn, erotica, etc., for
sexual fantasy; 3) connecting with
someone via chat room, instant
messages, email, or video streaming
for mutual cybersex play.
The first two of these are variations on
what men have always done. Men
have cruised one another via personal
ads and phone lines for years. And
men have always been interested in
sexy images and stories – just look at
the success of porn mags and videos.
What the Internet has added is
immediacy and variety. Stimulation is
available all the time and caters to
every conceivable fetish and fantasy.
Got a thing for blond Russians into
watersports? Ivan and Igor are waiting
Circuit
for you right now! And check out their
web sites - hundreds of images! Please
have your credit card ready.
So what difference does all this make? Is
cybersex a good thing or a bad thing?
One point that should be noted is that
cybersex takes “safer sex” to a whole new
level. No body fluids are exchanged
when the sex is more or less electronic and that’s no small consideration.
Furthermore, people seem to feel freer to
express what they want online. Getting in
touch with one’s desires – especially, it
seems, the kinkier ones – can be the kind
of self-discovery that leads to a more
mature enjoyment of sex.
When cruising online, it’s important to
distinguish fantasy from reality. Creating
the perfect fantasy is easy when you’re
not going to meet face to face. But how
many men have invited someone over
only to find that their chat room buddy
had stretched the truth a little –
subtracting ten years and twenty-five
pounds from his self-description? In most
cases, chatting and exchanging email isn’t
the same thing as really getting to know
each another.
The impersonal nature of online sex can
12
Noize
be both a blessing and a curse. It
certainly makes it easy to find something
to turn yourself on. But can it become
too easy? Since sexual material is everywhere, we can find ourselves in sexual
situations without remembering exactly
how we got there - or find ourselves in
those situations a little too often.
sex partner. Or they take stupid risks –
engaging in illegal activities like
collecting child pornography or putting
themselves at risk in other ways.
The advice you heard in high school
health class about masturbation can also
apply to cybersex: normal and healthy as
long as you don’t do it “to excess.”
There is no need to get puritanical about
cybersex, but there are good reasons to
think about what you’re doing.
1.
Have sex when you’re horny – not
when you’re bored, anxious, or
distracting yourself from problems.
2.
Monitor your use (pun intended).
Spending too much time doing any
one thing is going to get out of
hand.
Get away from your
keyboard and do something else.
3.
Don’t lie about what you’re doing.
Keeping secrets can make cybersex
more powerfully attractive than it
needs to be.
4.
Take stock of your relationships. Is
there enough intimacy in your life?
Are you happy with the quality of
your interactions with others?
5.
Take a look at your sex life. A little
fantasy is a good thing, but if most
of your sex is masturbating at a
keyboard, you are sexually anorexic.
6.
If you decide you need professional
help, find a psychotherapist with a
positive attitude towards sexuality
and gay life. You need someone
who will help you make your life fulfilling on your own terms, not try to
fit you into someone else’s
definition of healthy sexuality.
Cruising for sex can become a way of
avoiding reality. Maybe we cruise
because we’re bored or stressed or just
have nothing better to do. We can find
ourselves wasting more and more time –
or becoming dependent on the Internet
as a sexual outlet (which can be especially
true for men who are anxious about sex
for one reason or another). When that
happens, cybersex becomes compulsive,
not recreation.
How much is too much? Can you be
considered a “sex addict” based on your
online sexual habits? Sure, you’re
entitled to your private fantasies without
having someone make you feel guilty
about having a little fun. However,
compulsive sexuality can lead to real
problems - wasting time that should be
spent more productively (working, for
instance), causing problems in committed
relationships, spending too much time
alone in front of the computer instead of
with friends.
Men who are compulsive about cybersex
tend to promise themselves they will cut
back - and then find that they can’t. They
become secretive about their computer
use. They find themselves spending
more and more time and energy around
erotic fantasies and may even begin to
think of their computer as an alternative
Circuit
How do you keep a problem from
developing?
Here are some
suggestions:
John R. Ballew, M.S., is a licensed
professional counselor in private
practice in Atlanta. He specializes in
issues related to coming out, sexuality
and relationships and spirituality. He can
be reached via the web at
www.bodymindsoul.org.
13
Noize
FOLSOM STREET FAIR
WEEKEND
by Dominck Albano
In the late 1970s, San Francisco’s South of Market Area (SOMA) was dotted
with storage warehouses, auto repair shops, and bohemian artists lofts. By
day, it was a blue-collar neighborhood of immigrant families.
fantasy that inspired many early Circuit
events.
At the peak of this movement, city
officials saw South of Market as the
ideal place for new development of
high-rise office buildings and highpriced condos. Development of this
area would provide the new residents
with a short trip to the bustling
downtown financial and retail center.
Fueled by federal funds to remove
Photographer: Fred R. McMullen
At night, the area came alive with
gay leather bars, bathhouses, and
dance clubs.
As a nightlife
destination, this area became known
as the “Miracle Mile”. The legends
and myths of this era live on today.
When one considers the names of
the gathering places of the time,
such as Toolbox, Arena, Ambush,
Ramrod, Boot Camp, Folsom
Barracks, Stud, Powerhouse and The
Eagle, it evokes the hyper-masculine
Circuit
22
Noize
urban blight, redevelopment
planners proposed significant
changes for SOMA. They assumed
that there would not be any
meaningful political opposition to
their plans.
Even
seasoned
community
organizers struggled with how to
motivate and mobilize the eclectic
neighborhood to take on City Hall.
Gay activists remembered that
Harvey Milk had used the annual
Castro Street Fair as a platform to
rally the community to become a
political force. In an ambitious 1984
effort, organizers Kathleen Connell
and Michael Valerio produced the
first “Megahood” event which
would later become known as the
Folsom Street Fair. The celebration
hoped to bring the neighborhood
together to resist encroaching
redevelopment. It also hoped to
show that SOMA was a vibrant
neighborhood.
A surprisingly large tur nout of
30,000 attendees helped return
roughly $20,000 to community
groups in the first year of this event.
It quickly became more than a local
event, drawing people from across
the U.S. and all over the world.
More importantly, it created a voice
that city planners could not ignore.
From the beginning, the street fair
also helped in fighting for the
survival of the gay, lesbian, and
leather communities and businesses.
These communities were feeling
particularly threatened as the full
realization of the impact of the AIDS
epidemic had begun to hit. While
there were many coalitions created
to tackle the variety of issues in the
Circuit
area, production of the annual street fair
went to the newly created South of
Market Merchants Individual Lifestyle
Events (SMMILE). The irony of this
acronym was a welcome reprieve to
these communities, who carried on after
the loss of many friends and lovers.
Over the years, SMMILE worked with
the founders of “Up Your Alley Fair”, a
smaller event originally set in Ringold
Alley and later moved to Dore Alley.
Both locations were just off Folsom and
infamous for their after-hours
anonymous sexual activities. These
street-based events utilized a new
system that set up barriers and solicited
donations at the entry. This fundraising
would not have been possible without
the assistance of the Sisters of
Perpetual Indulgence. Along with
hundreds of volunteers, SMMILE
enlisted the help of its beneficiaries
including the high-profile AIDS
organizations and the lesser known
SOMA homeless shelters and rehab
clinics to help with the set-up and
clean-up. In addition to the street fairs,
SMMILE also produced the successful
“Bare Chest Calendar” contests and
promotions sales, now in its 20th year.
At the same time, San Francisco’s party
scene was taking root. A circle of
friends that had traveled to various
other parties decided to produce their
own event. They created “Real Bad” as
a post-Castro Street Fair house party in
1989. Among those attending the
invitation-only event were friends from
the Muscle Systems Gym, where “the
most beautiful men in The City” worked
out, according to an article in the San
Francisco Examiner. While others might
marvel at the attractive men, they
simply referred to each other
affectionately as “Muscle Sisters”.
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Noize
By the third year, the friends
organized under the name Grass
Roots Gay Rights/West (GRGR/
West), modeled after a Bostonbased group. Their mission was to
expand the base of fundraising
benefiting the gay and lesbian
community. GRGR/West asked DJ
Buc to make his San Francisco
debut, creating a tradition of
bringing new talent to the emerging
San Francisco party scene. Real Bad
would serve as the local showcase
for such talents as Susan Morabito,
Michael Fierman, Warren Gluck, Rob
Davis, Julian Marsh, Joe D’Espinosa,
Lydia Prim, and Wayne Arnold.
groups. Many of the volunteer cadre
worked in collaboration with the newly
created “HellBall” and “ReUnion”
events to leverage resources, true to
the GRGR/West spirit that “a circle of
friends is more important than a series
of parties.” This year, Real Bad marks
its 15th anniversary, making it San
Francisco’s longest running annual
Circuit event.
After the group decided against
holding their event on Saturday night,
Jito Garcia seized the opportunity to
build a new centerpiece event for the
Folsom weekend.
W ith a solid
reputation from the popular Sunday
“Time” parties, Garcia created
“Magnitude” in 1997 as a San Francisco
signature event.
He
envisioned hundreds of
men in black leather
dancing
in
the
warehouse-like
Concourse Exhibition Hall
that would combine the
underground feel of
Folsom folklore with the
sensual energy found at
big events in other cities.
In 1995, GRGR/West successfully
moved the event to the
more popular Folsom
weekend. By 1996,
they coordinated a
weekend series of
events,
extending
invitations to their now
national network of
Circuit brethren. The
first and only Saturday
night Real Bad was held
Photographer: Fred R. McMullen
at Sailors Union Hall,
To quickly establish the
and was produced by a dedicated
event, Garcia approached SMMILE to
group of volunteers working to
secure bragging rights as “the official
Saturday night party of Folsom Street
revitalize the local party scene.
Fair Weekend.” In exchange, Garcia
Although more than 1500 guests
agreed to become a major sponsor of
enjoyed the weekend of parties,
the Fair, contributing funds that would
many production logistics and
be distributed to local charities.
financial challenges presented
Magnitude’s production focused on
themselves.
world-class sound systems and state-ofthe-art light shows never before
experienced in San Francisco, but
Afterward, the group re-evaluated
familiar to Garcia’s native Brazil. He
its ambitious growth plans with
choose two emerging DJs, Phil B and
discussions that included disbanding
Neil Lewis, who enjoyed a local
completely. They agreed to return
following but had not yet established a
to the intimate Sunday post-Folsom
national presence, to introduce the San
format which continues today as a
Francisco sound to the international
benefit for AIDS service and political
Circuit.
Circuit
24
Noize
Garcia, along with Franco Beneduce,
tackled every promotional and
production detail that might otherwise
require an army of volunteers. They
selected the “Magnitude Men” whose
images would appear on promotional
material to evoke more than mere porn
fantasies.
Instead, these men
represented the men that one would
actually meet at the party.
The first year, nearly 2000 men from all
over the world, clad in leather, arrived
for Magnitude, which quickly found its
niche in the national Circuit calendar. In
its second year, a Friday night militarythemed party named “Link” was added
to welcome the scores of out-of-town
guests. Magnitude moved to the fivestory atrium of the Galleria Design
Center, once home to gay disco parties
of the late 1970s.
After twenty years of success, SMMILE is
reborn this year with the new name
Folsom Street Events (FSE). While the
former name was created to unify both
the leather community and SOMA
residents and merchants, this new name
better reflects the community
fundraising events benefiting AIDS/HIV
and alter native lifestyle groups
throughout San Francisco. Last year, the
group contributed more than $290,000
to almost a dozen beneficiaries. Today,
the fair features over 150 exhibitors and
thirty live performers and DJs.
Although more live-work lofts were built
in the past three years than in the past
three decades, SOMA is once again at a
crossroads with redevelopment plans
stalled by the slow economy and dotcom bust. The eclectic character of
Folsom lives on with new energy created
by the resurgence of the next generation
of bars, dance clubs, Circuit parties, and
the annual street fair.
Circuit
In addition to charitable contributions
that support housing, healthcare, and
community service, the Folsom Street
Festival and the surrounding Leather
Pride Week events generate millions of
dollars for hotels, restaurants, bars and
retail shops, with visitors from around
the world. The leather scene has
shown surprising ability to resist
displacement, although it no longer
dominates Folsom nightlife. Part of the
festivity of Folsom today is that it
recreates and celebrates the original
spirit of the Miracle Mile for the leather
community.
More than half a million locals and
visitors are expected to converge on
San Francisco for the 20 th annual
Folsom Street Fair on Sunday,
September 28th. Magnitude returns
for its seventh year as the official
Saturday night party, produced for the
first time by Folsom Street Events, in
collaboration with creator and Circuit
veteran Jito Garcia. Both groups
promise a seamless evolution. DJ Mark
Anthony spins this return to the defiant
underground energy filled with sensual
intensity that is the legend of Folsom
Street.
For more information on Folsom Street
Fair
and
Magnitude
visit
www.folsomstreetevents.org.
Dominick Albano is a former
GRGR/West Chair and the only
publicist to promote all three SF
Saturday night Circuit events
Magnitude, HellBall and ReUnion.
Background data was provided by FSE
from the LBGT Historical Society.
25
Noize
COMMITMENT ISSUE
by Michael Taylor
Flipping through my closet last night looking for something to wear to
Florent, I realized something that I’ve known for a long time but never fully
faced: I have nothing to wear. Not in the hyperbolic or figurative sense, as
in, “This is all so three seasons ago.”
There is literally nothing of
substance in my closet that I will ever
put on my body again. So I sighed
audibly, flipped through the notquite-ready-to-wear A-list side of the
closet one more time, lamely
scoured the B-list button-ups and
finally glanced at the back of the
rack to make sure all of those ratty
oversized shirts from my x-large
trend days could definitely continue
to be used as post-sex cleanup
tools. Then I pulled on my favorite
retro dress slacks and a black Calvin
Klein t-shirt. Again.
I’ve managed to carefully craft a
philosophy about looking smart that
conveniently avoids the practice of
actually purchasing new clothes.
“Accessorize!” is my mantra. Gucci
eyewear, Yves St. Laurent sunglasses,
Michele Watch (soon to be a Yurman
Thoroughbred), and one sadly missing-in-action powder-blue ring from
Fassbinder downtown. It’s like not
being able to cook a decent meal,
but craftily hiding that fact by
painting the plate in pesto and
topping everything with decorative
potato-string sculptures. In other
words, I ain’t foolin’ no one but
myself.
The delicious irony at play here is
Circuit
26
that for the past two years I have worked
in ad sales at a national fashion
magazine. One of the big ones, not
some low-circ British trendoid oversize
glossy. Each page of advertising we sell
costs our clients more than I make in a
whole year. We tell women in New York
how to dress for work, while the rest of
the 1.5 million readers flip through our
pages at the hair salon and dream about
working in New York. Some snarky
online commentators have accused us of
being a part of the “celebrity-fashion
complex” responsible for making so
many midwestern girls anorexic but, on
the whole, people rely on us to feel
connected to the world of fashion and
sophisticated urban trend-watching. I’m
three degrees separated from some of
the most influential style mavens in the
world, and work in an office that sees
more expensive high heels than a
season of Sex and the City.
Amidst all of this glamour and style, one
might think it would be easy for me to
shop for my own wardrobe. One would
be horribly and utterly wrong. It took
me a year to work up the nerve to even
go into the Gucci flagship store and five
minutes more to recoil in horror at a
$5000 knit pullover and walk out again.
I guess when Tom Ford finally realizes
that we belong together, I’ll be set, but
in the meantime the $15/item L.O.G.G.
Noize
collection at H&M across the street
just doesn’t seem to cut it. I seem to
have a crippling all-or-nothing
attitude about purchasing fashion
that prohibits me from obtaining any
at all.
Then along comes my new
boyfriend. The young, beautiful,
self-styled label whore that I have
been head-over-heels for these past
several months. Dressing “casual”
usually involves at least two different
designers for him. Emotionally we’re
moving along swimmingly, but when
it comes to our respective wardrobes
I feel a looming neurotic sense of
inadequacy. He impulse shops on
Fifth, while I continue to rationalize
wearing undershirts to work.
When I see other men’s closets, I
have no problem choosing items
that would look amazing on me which is probably why most of my
closet is filled with things that I have
borrowed permanently from friends,
acquaintances, and brief romantic
interludes. There’s less pressure to
get it right that way. If I don’t wear
the item very often, it’s their fault not
mine, right? I absolve myself of the
responsibility for choosing my own
look if I allow other people to make
fashion mistakes for me. Less
commitment and certainly less outof-pocket expense is involved.
I sometimes wonder if all of this has
some larger significance to my
personality that makes me a less
than ideal mate. I can’t commit to
creating a wardrobe for myself,
obviously. I hit the gym once or
twice a week at most - if I have
nothing else to do after work. My
bookshelves are filled with a
fabulous array of impressive titles
with bookmarks at page 15 in every
one of them. I managed to pick up
smoking again finally, but it makes
Circuit
me edgy and upsets my stomach so I
probably won’t even be able to stick to
a highly addictive commitment. I
wouldn’t fault any potential beau for
surmising that I probably have more
than two AOL screen names. But then I
look into my boyfriend’s adoring eyes
and my doubts are squelched. It seems
my commitment issues are limited to the
mundane and the trivial. This is small
comfort when I dread the inevitable
evenings out with him and his labelconscious friends. What’s a shoppingimpaired queen to do?
I suppose I could treat it as an illness,
and give myself some much needed
shock aversion therapy. I have to push
past the premature shopping fatigue
and force myself to purchase one or two
items at several different stores before I
run out into the street and shakily light
up another nervous cigarette. Set aside
money out of each paycheck to start a
Wardrobe Relief Fund, and give myself
time limits for spending it to improve
the sorry state of affairs in a closet that I
haven’t felt comfortable in since I came
out of it ten years ago.
Maybe the problem is that no one
makes clothes that really speak to me –
long slender pants with no pleats that
hug my small yet adorable butt. Snug
shirts that fit my lanky torso with clever
collars that hide the fact that I have no
shoulders. Bold colored fabrics with no
awful designs or patterns on them. Slipon half boots that go from day to
evening wear without skipping a beat.
Military issue for the fashionable don’t
ask, don’t tell crowd - it could be called
“Commitment Issue.”
For now though, all I have is the
knowledge that I have a problem, a lot
of black t-shirts, and a clever marketing
concept. Tom Ford himself wouldn’t be
able to tear me away from my boyfriend
at this point, so my work is clearly laid
out for me.
27
Noize
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Canada 416-972-0887
woodystoronto.com
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Cherry Ball, Chrome Party, Fireball, Freedom Party,
Gay Days Orlando, Gay Halloween-New Orleans, Gay
Mardi Gras-New Orleans, Gay New Year’s-New Orleans,
Heritage of Pride, Hotlanta River Expo, Motorball,
Pride South Florida, Red Ball, ReUNION Party,
Southern Decadence, Summer Camp Provincetown,
Winter Party, with the support of the Miami Beach
VCA creating tourism partnerships.
Buy It Now!
Party Groove-White Party 02Continuous Mix by DJ Tracy Young
White Party 2003 Sponsors as of 7/15/03
Mark Baker, Johnny Chisholm &
Jeffrey Sanker In association with
WHITE PARTY 2003
present A benefit for Care Resource
WHITE DREAMS
Friday, November 28th
At The Miami Seaquarium
9pm to 6am
Guest Superstar DJ's
David Knapp & Tony Moran
Tickets:
General
Admission:
$85 in advance
$95 at the door
VIP Room:
$160 includes
VIP admittance
and open bar
For more information or to order tickets go to www.whiteparty.com
THE 19th ANNUAL WHITE PARTY
PRESENTED BY SOUTHERN WINE & SPIRITS OF SOUTH FLORIDA
N O V E M B E R 2 6 – D E C E M B E R 1, 2 0 0 3
M I A M I , M I A M I B E A C H & F T. L A U D E R D A L E
Benefiting Care Resource
Florida’s One Source
For HIV/AIDS Care
,
,
I T S NOT YOUR PEE THEY RE TESTING,
,
IT S THE STRENGTH OF OUR CONSTITUTION.
If you’re like us, you think it’s crazy that millions of Americans have to pee in a cup to get
or keep their jobs. You think drug testing violates your privacy. And you understand that
smoking a joint on Friday night doesn’t make you a bad employee on Monday morning.
We’re the Drug Policy Alliance. We stand for reason, compassion, and justice. If you’re
tired of the government pissing away your rights, join us.
Drug Policy Alliance Biennial Conference • Meadowlands, NJ • November 5-8, 2003
www.drugpolicy.org
DJ PROFILE
BRETT HENRICHSEN
by
Scott Van Tussenbrook
Just a few short years ago (as hard as this is to imagine today with search
engines, file-swapping, and Internet radio so readily accessible), it was
nearly impossible for partygoers to get the music they loved anywhere but
inside the clubs.
That all changed at White Party 1996
when, in the Marquis hotel
courtyard, a bright banner over a
table covered with colorful CD cases
proclaimed, “Take home the music!”
Thousands of enthusiastic partyboys
took that suggestion (as well as the
CDs), making the fledgling
MASTERbeat record label
an instant success, and
launching the career of its
founder,
DJ
Brett
Henrichsen. For those
who were new to the
Circuit and to “club
music” back then (and
especially for those living
in
smaller
cities
somewhere in Flyover
Land),
those
first
M A S T E R b e a t
compilations were like
musical time capsules.
Home from a big party
weekend, you could turn
one up loud, close your eyes, dance
around your living room, and relive
every blissful moment.
Today, even amid a veritable blizzard
of downloadable MP3’s, dance mix
CDs, and copycat compilations for
sale everywhere, MASTERbeat
remains one of the most popular
Circuit
46
series ever produced, and the credit
belongs entirely to Brett himself.
“Those first CDs were just all my favorite
songs,” he says. “If I didn’t like it, it
didn’t go on the CD.” The sound Brett
crafted for the label mirrors the bright,
lush musical style of West Coast dance
music in the late 90s. “We’re all just kind
of used to what we came out to,” he
adds, referring to the
soaring piano hooks, gospel
choirs, energetic trance, and
happy “mor ning music”
sound that has become
MASTERbeat’s trademark.
Building on the CDs’
immense popularity, Brett
conceived the idea of
“MASTERbeat: The Club” in effect, bringing the idea
full circle. Brett reasoned if
people liked the CDs at
home, why not give them a
whole night of it when they
go out? MASTERbeat: The
Club turned out to be as popular as the
CDs themselves. The first one broke all
attendance records at Probe in Los
Angeles. With 1800 people packed
inside the club, just as many were
turned away as the line snaked down
the street and around the block. One
unique feature of the MASTERbeat
parties that added to their appeal was
Noize
Wanting more creative control of the
music at his parties, Brett began to spin
them himself. Jeffrey Sanker, already
aware of Brett’s ability to program music,
understand what the crowd wants, and
drop in just the right song to get those
hands in the air, hired him to spin the
pool party in Palm Springs. Brett’s DJ
career took off.
the track information for each song
(title and artist) projected on the club
walls as it was playing. As the DJs
spun the music, (Probe residents
Mike Duretto and Bryan Pfeifer at
the first couple of parties), the info
was entered into a laptop connected
to the digital projector “on the fly”
so partiers down on the floor could
find out, often for the first time, the
names of the songs they were
hearing.
The popularity of those parties (as
well as the fact that hundreds of
people were being turned away) was
noticed by Jeffrey Sanker with whom
Brett had worked producing the
MASTERbeat White Party CDs.
Sanker was, at the time, impresario
of the successful Orbit party at
Circus Disco down the street. Circus
was a much larger venue than Probe,
and, in what seemed a natural
collaboration, MASTERbeat packed
Circus with a capacity crowd, without
even having a DJ billed. (That night,
Dawna Montel and Brett worked
together in the booth.)
Circuit
Although Brett has played many Circuit
events, headlining the Heritage of Pride
Pier Dance this year in New York, “was
definitely one of the highlights of my
career. The first Pier Dance I ever
attended was five years ago. I was with
Erin Hamilton - she was the main
performer. But when we got there, they
surprised us - Whitney Houston had
showed up! The event was just magical,
being backstage with Whitney, watching
her limousines pull up. It was like being
in the movie The Bodyguard. I never
dreamed that someday I’d actually be
playing that party. The energy and the
crowd - they were great! It was just such
an amazing experience.”
Because Brett’s musical roots and early
CDs were more of the "happy, vocal,
diva anthem style," he’s occasionally
been labeled an "outdoor party" DJ.
This past June at Gay Days in Orlando,
however, he was given an opportunity
by Mark Baker to show a different side
of his musical style at the Magic
Journeys after-hours party at Arabian
Nights. "This was my second year
spinning that event. I really have fun
playing a late-night shift. I’m definitely
able to play music that is appropriate for
an event and its time slot, while still
staying true to my overall style. I think
everyone left happy - from those who
love hard, dark and tribal to those that
love upbeat music with vocals. These
guys came up to me afterward and said,
‘We're from New York and we love
Junior and Victor and we’d usually hate
you, but whatever you did tonight was
great! We loved it!’"
47
Noize
He mentions the distinction between
‘Brett the Party Patron’ and ‘Brett the
DJ’ citing the unique set of insights
he brings to the table by being both.
“Way before becoming a DJ, I was
attending the parties and listening to
the music and checking out the
lights and the sound from the middle
of the dance floor with my friends.
So when I’m spinning, I’m always
asking myself, ‘If I were out there,
where would I want to go next?’”
As his earliest dance music
influences he cites Buc, Susan
Morabito, and Mark Tarbox. He also
recalls a trip to the Fire Island
Morning Party in 1995 and “the
morning music, the old classics, like
what we tried to do with
MASTERbeat then.” Look for more
of this sort of music at Brett’s parties,
as he has recently acquired Mark
Tarbox’ record collection. “What I
bought it for is the old stuff. I mean
Mark just has this great collection of
incredible rare classics. It’s gonna
take me six months just to find out
what all is in there,” he grins, like a
kid on Christmas.
So what’s on the immediate horizon
for Brett? “I would like to see some
more big, quality events happen
here in L.A. I mean, we’re one of the
biggest cities in the country and
events lately have gotten stale. We
don’t even have a big weekend
anymore.” Specifically, he’s got his
eye on making New Year’s Eve out to
be L.A.’s “must-do” stop on the
Circuit calendar. After teaming up
with Jeffrey Sanker again for
MASTERbeat Millennium 2000
(Jeffrey was in Miami running the
party there, while Brett handled
things in Palm Springs), a year off,
and another New Year’s in Palm
Springs, Brett brought the party back
to Los Angeles. This year’s party will
be back at the Grand Olympic
Circuit
48
Auditorium. “Last year, the online
advance ticket sales showed a surprising
number of people coming in from New
York, Miami, everywhere... and that was
just our first year - so we know that this
year we can really make it something
big. We’re gonna put L.A. back on the
map!” he beams.
His involvement in the production of his
parties and the excitement he shows for
MASTERbeat’s New Year’s Eve plans
reveals a third side to his professional
persona, ‘Brett the Producer.’ For those
who didn’t notice, Brett Henrichsen’s
name was attached to the party held at
the Wiltern Theatre during L.A. Gay
Pride this summer - an event which, for
the first time, was neither a
MASTERbeat event, nor one that Brett
spun. In addition to his years spent on
the dance floor as well as behind the
turntables, he’s now throwing a third hat
into the ring - that of promoter. “That’s
the unique thing I think I bring,” he says,
“a combination of all three aspects of
the party - as a customer, as a DJ, and
as a promoter.”
When pressed to name the absolute
highlight of his career so far, he replies,
“When I spun the White Party in Ibiza.
When I arrived on the island, I looked at
the schedule for Amnesia, the club I was
playing, and there were all these names
Noize
headline, “The Circuit Is
Coming To Town.”
Brett’s goal is for people
to see ‘MASTERbeat:
The Club’ and know that
they’re getting a certain
kind of music and a
certain
kind
of
experience that’s “more
than just your regular ol’
Saturday night out.”
- every major DJ in the
world - Paul Oakenfold,
BT, Danny Tenaglia,
Sasha & Digweed,
Chris Cox and... Brett
Henrichsen! I couldn’t
believe it!” His other
i n t e r n a t i o n a l
appearances include
London, Paris, and
Cologne
(for
Europride). Asked how
the crowds in Europe
differ
from
their
American counterparts,
he comments, “The
crowds are more mixed
and the music is either
much more trance,
more lounge-ish, or it’s
all the way techno. My ‘U.S. Circuit’
music was unique. It was fun;
people loved it!”
Tying together the
popularity
of
his
MASTERbeat endeavor,
his creative energy
behind the turntables,
and his experience as a
party producer, you can
bet that Brett will keep
the Circuit coming to town - and let you
take home the music - for years to
come.
Visit www.masterbeat.com for Brett’s
upcoming schedule of appearances and
information on the newest MASTERbeat
compilations as well as the entire
MASTERbeat catalog.
After inviting us six years ago to
“take home the music,” you can now
look for Brett’s music in a city near
you as the “MASTERbeat: The Club”
World Tour kicks off officially in
Vancouver this summer under the
10
BBRETT HENRICHSEN
TOP
01. Bucci Bag - Andrea Doria
02. Loneliness - Tomcraft
03. Real Lve - Deborah Cooper
04. Pavement Cracks - Annie Lennox
05. Magnifique - Tedd Paterson
06. Into the Sun - Weekend Players
07. Dangerous - Angelica De No
08. Bang On - Purple Kitty
09. You’re So Beautiful Donna Summer
10. After All - Delerium
Circuit
49
Noize
Extraordinary.
Cape Town, South Africa
New Year's 2003-2004
Member:
Cape Town.
Karamu.
Come join us on a once-in-a-lifetime journey to Africa.To a bustling,
cosmopolitan city that borders the
African wilderness.Where party
animals mix with wild animals. And
New Year's becomes an unforgettable travel experience.
Source Events is your host. Planned
activities are few but extraordinary:
a welcome party, official New Year's
Eve party with Cocolatte London,
and a farewell T-Dance to bring the
trip to an amazing close.
(Swahili for Gathering of Friends)
December 28, 2003 - January 4, 2004
Into Africa.
January 5-8, 2004
Source Events has pledged to return a portion of the proceeds from
these African journeys to the communities in which they take place.
At least 10% of the net proceeds will be donated to local AIDS
organizations in South Africa.
In between, you're free to explore
Wine Country, hike the coastline,
visit Table Mountain-whatever is
your pleasure. It's summer in
South Africa, so the
beach beckons. Or
how about a safari
to get in touch with
your primitive
side?
Call Now or visit our web site for details
1-888-SOURCE-8 • SourceEvents.com
SPONSORS:
WITH THE SUPPORT OF:
• MINISTRY: ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS AND
TOURISM – REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA
• CAPE TOWN TOURISM
• SOUTH AFRICAN NATIONAL PARKS
THE EARS HAVE IT
…you never know who’s listening!
"Do you think that bread is OK?
There was a fly on it."
"Honey, you lick strangers'
assholes. I'm sure it's fine."
"Is your chest naturally smooth?"
"Yes, is yours naturally stubbly?"
"Do you know how
many people I had to
sleep with to find you?"
"It might be a little more
discrete if you took the glow
stick out of your hand when
you're doing a bump."
Circuit
56
"Oh my god, he was so
hot, I wanted to sop him
up in a biscuit."
Noize
"I was pretty drunk last
night."
"Honey, there was nothin'
pretty about it."
"Is 'gay' capitalized? We're a
race, aren't we?"
"Yeah, a race to the next man!"
"I'm already here. I'm
already queer. And I'm
totally used to it."
"I have to lower my
standards."
"What, so you can date
pets?"
"Women can't wait to take their
heels off at the end of the day, gay
boys can't wait to put them on."
"You know, if I master
all this yoga relaxation
shit, I might become a
bottom again."
"I'm a little bit slow
and a lot sketchy."
"Don't you know
who I think I am?"
Circuit
57
Noize
BENEFIT SPOTLIGHT
by Bruce Gallassero, Mark McKeown, Price Mounger & Stephen Emling
On Halloween, little kids from all over the country dress up and go out
looking for tricks or treats and end up with a bag full of goodies that will
last for weeks
In New Orleans on Halloween, big
kids from all over the world dress up
and go out looking for tricks and
treats of a different variety and end
up with a head full of memories and
a heart full of emotions that will last
a lifetime.
Photographer: Moody Mustafa
It all began in 1984 when eight
friends got together to host a
costume party for their out-of-town
friends. The first year’s venue was
the old Civic Theater in downtown
New Orleans. This tur n-of-the-
century theater had met an
unceremonious end following its
conversion to a disco in the 70s. The
hosts converted the vacant building into
a great party space with a style unique
to New Orleans. Hundreds of people
from all over the country came and, as
instructed, showed up for the party in
costume.
The first Halloween party was such a
huge success that the number of hosts
doubled the following year. The second
party was another smashing success despite a hurricane that couldn’t make
up its mind where to go. The storm
generated a flash flood that literally
created a lake around the Civic Theater
forcing folks to wade through the water
to the party. In the true spirit of New
Orleans, the party went on as planned.
A new tradition had begun.
From its inception, the focus of
Halloween was to bring friends from
out-of-town to New Orleans so it was
quite appropriate that an event on
Friday night was added as the official
Circuit
58
Noize
welcome party. W ith a rather
humble beginning in the courtyard
of an apartment building on
Esplanade, this party has grown
over the years and has been held at
many signature locations in New
Orleans such as the Aquarium of the
Americas and City Park (complete
with carousels and roller coasters).
A Jazz Brunch was added on Sunday
to give everyone a chance to trade
stories about Saturday night’s
the hosts. The hosts would gather
every August to deter mine which
people would make up the guest list.
This concept of friends inviting friends
became a characteristic trademark of
the organization and is still one of its
greatest strengths. To this day, the
producing organization is composed of
a group of friends and their friends (now
350+ people strong) who host a
weekend of parties for their friends (and
their friends’ friends) from all over the
world. And while today the parties are
costume ball and to say goodbye to
friends before leaving town. The
first few Sunday brunches were held
at people’s homes but would move
to larger venues in the coming
years.
In the early years, there was no
charge to attend the events since
these were private parties given by
Circuit
open to the public, this personal touch
remains, creating an atmosphere of
friendliness, love, and celebration that
is hard to find at other parties.
These early years were also filled with
overwhelming loss and sorrow in the
gay community. In what was to become
another defining event for the
organization, it was suggested that the
59
Noize
main event could serve a dual
purpose – not only to entertain, as it
always had, but also to raise money
for the ever-growing AIDS crisis. In
1987, Halloween was incorporated
into
a
501-C-3
nonprofit
corporation. It was decided that the
proceeds from the event would be
dedicated to Project Lazarus, a
residential home in the community
for men and women living with
AIDS. A donation of $20 was
requested, but not required. That
year, the event raised over $15,000.
In 1988, a Thursday night event
consisting of a black-tie cocktail
party, seated dinner, and fashion
show was added to the lineup. This
additional fundraiser was held at the
Westin Hotel for the first three years.
The main event found a home for
many years at the Delta Queen
Steamship Terminal – Robin Street
Wharf. This event became and
remains a dazzling spectacle where
the people in costumes take over
the party as the primary visual
element. Attending a New Orleans
Halloween party is like going to the
circus, where everything at the circus
is the circus. Group costumes have
become commonplace with some
groups creating a common theme
with over a hundred people.
Competition for attention runs
rampant. Excess and extravagance
rule. Surprise and fantasy reign.
There was also the time a group of
Chalmette Cheerleaders entered the
party in a rented school bus. And who
can forget the year a group of guys
dressed as plumbers literally took things
into their own hands. During the course
of the evening, they would select some
unsuspecting hottie, swarm around him,
put their hands down his pants, and
then slap a sticker on him which read,
“Plumbing inspected by ABC
Plumbing.”
Attendees have often created the
most spectacular pageantry, like the
year that Cleopatra was carried
through the party by loyal and
hunky subjects. Another year,
firemen pulled up in a real fire truck.
Halloween X was held in 1993. Besides
being an anniversary for the
organization, it would mark the first
time the weekend would raise over
$100,000. It also marked the only time
the temperature would drop to 35
degrees. The boys who had chosen to
Circuit
60
Noize
wear skimpy little outfits snuggled
together in tight little packs on the
dance floor that year.
In the years that followed, the Friday
event evolved into a much larger
dance party, and the Sunday Jazz
Brunch became a Gospel Brunch
when it moved to the newly-opened
House of Blues in 1994. With live
gospel singers and typical New
Orleans-style cooking, this event
provides visitors with an experience
that is unique on the Circuit. The
Thursday event relaxed its formal
dress code, discontinued the fashion
show, added a silent auction, and
became a dinner buffet where folks
could mix and mingle all evening.
By 1996, the organization was raising
over a quarter of a million dollars
annually for Project Lazarus. It had
become, and remains to this day, the
largest HIV/AIDS fundraiser in the
Gulf South and the second largest
fundraiser in New Orleans. Ironically,
the largest contribution to Project
Lazarus occurred in 2001, when the
events of 9/11 left New Orleans with
a plethora of cheap hotel rooms (and
a bunch of people who needed a
good party by that time). A record
$420,000 was donated to Lazarus
that year by Halloween. The 2002
donation pushed the total to over
$3,000,000.
Total weekend
attendance now numbers over
10,000 people, and the events have an
economic impact of over $13 million
per year for New Orleans.
Hosts and corporate sponsors are the
financial backbone of the organization.
Host memberships begin at $350;
sponsorships begin at $5000.
Membership is open to the public. An
all-volunteer board of forty people
plans the events with the assistance of
hundreds of volunteers and friends
from New Orleans and throughout the
country.
2003 will mark Halloween’s twentieth
anniversary.
Halloween
XX
“Spectacular! Spectacular!” is slated to
celebrate New Orleans’ French history
with an over-the-top takeoff of Moulin
Rouge. This year’s events take place
October 23rd through the 26th. The
main event will return to the Municipal
Auditorium, a familiar location
conveniently located adjacent to the
French Quarter, with DJ Roland
Belmares retur ning for an encore
performance. The Thursday dinner and
silent auction will be held at the
incomparable Ritz-Carlton New
Orleans, and the Gospel Brunch will
return to the recently expanded House
of Blues.
So if you’re tired of trick and treating in
the same old neighborhood, hop on a
broomstick and get to New Orleans
this year for a Halloween you’ll never
forget.
For the latest on Halloween XX,
weekend passes, travel information, or
to find out how to become a host for
this
year’s
event,
visit
www.HalloweenNewOrleans.com.
Circuit
61
Noize
MUSIC REVIEWS
by DJ Mateo @ Perfectbeat.com
White Label Euphoria
Volume 2
Mixed By John ‘00’ Fleming
Telstar TV (UK)
Few import compilations manage
to find their way into the CD
collections of such a wide range of
music fans as the UK’s
internationally acclaimed Euphoria
series. This is probably because
there aren’t a whole lot of
compilations that appeal to the
die-hard dance fan, new-age
spiritualist, and those proud
collectors of vocal-driven Euro
anthems.
It may also help that the
collections are always impressively
packaged, bundling each of the
2CD series’ double discs in their
own jewel case, both of which
neatly slide inside a matte wallet
that invariably begins to
deteriorate as it suffers the abuse
of repeated use. Although the
“Euphoria” collections are most
often dedicated to featuring
hands-in-the-air trance anthems,
the “White Label” division of the
series focuses less on crowd-
Circuit
pleasing club tunes, instead featuring
more intelligent and ethereal efforts
from around the world. Call it
progressive, underground or just
plain cool, “White Label Euphoria
Level 2” offers over two hours of
some of the most breathtaking
trance tunes we’ve heard since
Telstar TV released the first volume
over one year ago.
Mixed by the always reliable John
‘00’ Fleming, who’s dedication to the
music he plays is clearly evident in
the seriousness with which he writes
the accompanying liner notes, the
second installment of “White Label
Euphoria”
includes
several
outstanding cuts from artists such as
Ofra Haza (“Love Song - Mike vs Zigi
Remix”), Airwave “I Want To Believe”
and Mandrake (“Universal Soul”). A
confidently recommended release.
62
Noize
Louie Devito’s Dance Factory
Level 2
Mixed By Louie Devito
Dee Vee Music
The self-appointed “Number 1 DJ In
America” returns yet again with
another
installment
of
his
unimaginatively titled “Dance
Factory” series. Correction: that’s
“Louie Devito’s Dance Factory
Vol.2,” likely to ensure anyone
reading the title would have to say
his name. Indeed, Devito’s been
quite the busy guy in his effort to
convince the world of his own
importance. He apparently even
went so far as to appear on an
episode of “Blind Date” just to plug
his current CD mix.
His effort to offer further appeal to
the gay audience was equally
indigestible, generically called
“Dance Divas,” the heinously
compiled collection featured an
inconsistent mix of expired gay
anthems (Angie Stone’s “I Wish I
Didn’t Miss You”) and ancient radio
anthems (Alice Deejay’s “Better Off
Alone”) that only a straight guy
could put together. Quickly returning
to the kind of music he’s most
comfortable with, “Dance Factory
Circuit
Vol.2” plays like an uncomfortable
visit to the beer-swilling bars of
Tijuana... only without all the kids
coming up to you every five minutes
asking if you want to buy some
Chicklets.
The
overall
itchiness
of
the
experience does remain, however,
thanks to Devito’s sloppily hurried
mixing style and a number of gaudy
hi-NRG anthems that’ll suddenly
make you appreciate the Vengaboys
for all their subtlety. An 80’s vibe is
evident with the inclusion of trance
remakes like “Boys Of Summer” and
a painful cover of A-Ha’s “Take On
Me.” Granted, a few strong tracks
such as Tomcraft’s “Loneliness” and
Gabry Ponte’s “Time To Rock” do
lighten Devito’s load, but with 20
tracks crammed onto just one disc,
they don’t last nearly long enough
to save this factory from shutting
down.
63
Noize
Star 69 Extended Mixes
Volume 3
Star 69 Entertainment
Given the huge demand yet
nevertheless infrequent release of
CD singles from Peter Rauhofer’s
white hot Star 69 label, it’s no
surprise that both volumes 1 and
2 of “Star 69 Extended Mixes”
were instantly snapped up by
savvy circuit boys all over the
world. Finally, dedicated dance
fans could get their very own CDquality copy of some of the label’s
best singles, the majority of which
were only ever released on vinyl.
While the success of the
preceding volumes almost
definitely meant there would be a
third installment, few could have
predicted it would arrive quite so
soon. Even more pleasantly
unexpected are the tracks that
Rauhofer chose to be included on
Circuit
“Star 69 extended Mixes Volume 3.”
The first two editions were definitely
cool, but they did leave some room
for a few dance fans to complain
about the overall age of the tracks,
several of which had long-since past
their peak on the charts. With brand
new tracks like Dark Clark’s fierce “If
U Want Me” and Friburn & Urik’s
apparently unstoppable anthem,
“Elefants,” the far more timely
“Volume 3” doesn’t suffer the same
fate as the two editions before it.
Other noteworthy tracks include
Oscar G’s sought after remix of Funky
Green Dogs “Rise Up,” DJ Vibe’s
remix of Celeda’s sensational “The
Underground” and Angelo Kortez’s
wicked tribal mix of Protribe’s
“Power.” Since “Extended Mixes” is
not mixed, it’s an especially
worthwhile collection for CD-DJs or
anyone who wants the full extended
mix of their favorite Star 69 single.
64
Buy these releases and all your other
dance music favorites at
Perfectbeat.com.
Noize
Anthem
Mixed By Junior Vasquez
Junior Vasquez Music
Perhaps no other DJ has so clearly
divided the lines between the
varying tastes of the West and East
Coast dance scenes better than
Junior Vasquez. While countless New
York club goers consider the veteran
play live to understand.” If what
dance producer’s legendary sets as
these converts claim is true, you just
nothing short of awe-inspiring, LA’s
might be able to save yourself the
average afterhours attendee shrugs
trip to the Big Apple and simply
and yawns at the mere mention of
snag a copy of Junior’s latest mixed
his name. Such opposing views are
CD, titled simply “Anthems.”
largely attributed to Junior’s own
attitude toward each respective
Available on Junior’s own label, the
scene; it’s hardly a secret that he far
cleverly compiled collection offers
prefers East Coast crowds who’re
ten of Vasquez’s most in-demand
apparently more apt to “get his
anthems of the moment, including
music”
Hollywood
floor-fillers from Deborah Cox
clubbers raised on remixes of pop
(“Mr.Lonely - Previously Unreleased
radio hits.
Mix”), Billie Ray Martin (“Honey -
than
West
Junior’s Earth Anthem”), and the
It’s only after the typical Californian
Pretenders (“Time”). There’s even a
takes a trip to NYC and hear Junior
bit of unexpected buzz surrounding
spin live that they retur n as
his remix of Jody Whatley’s new
dedicated Vasquez enthusiasts.
single, “Whenever,” which aims to
Seriously, it’s almost like they’ve been
dominate dance floors throughout
brainwashed as they gush with wide-
the summer.
eyes “how amazing Junior’s set was”
and “how you just have to hear him
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A Circuit Mom
Retrospective
All photos by Moody Mustafa
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FALL
CI RCU IT
2003
Perhaps one of the only benefits of global warming is that Fall has actually become
an extension of summer across much of North America. It's not until mid to late
October that the weather actually requires a jacket be worn over skimpy sleeveless
shirts when heading to an event. The Fall ushers in a number of events that tend to
"bring out the costumes": hardcore leather in Toronto for Leather Ball 8;
outrageous Mardi Gras outfits for Southern Decadence in New Orleans; sleazy
avante-gard rags for the Sleaze Ball in Sydney; and a wide range of outfits for
Halloween everywhere.
October also hosts the largest event in North America: The Black and Blue. This
cross-cultural, gay/straight festival is a weeklong experience of art, culture, music,
dancing, entertainment, education and, well, lots of friendly Canadian boys. And
with a 2:1 exchange rate - a bargain for Americans. Save some of your energy
though, because the White Party in Miami is a non-stop party and you'd better
arrive fresh and ready to dance.
This fall two of the Circuit's defining events celebrate their twentieth anniversary:
Folsom Street Fair in San Francisco and Halloween New Orleans. See the articles
in this issue for the complete historical perspective on these two events.
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August 7 - 11
WHITE PARTY IBIZA - Ibiza, Spain
The kings of White unite! During the second weekend in August, White Party
weekend on Ibiza is not to be missed. World-renowned for its breathtaking
beaches and beautiful bodies, Ibiza is the ultimate pleasure paradise. Everything
you have heard about or even dreamed about Ibiza is true and White Party
weekend is no exception. World famous promoter Steven Gomez in association
with Riedijk Productions and Sebastion & Co will be hosting events at Club
Privilege, the world’s largest dance club. This weekend has something for everyone
and won’t disappoint those of you willing to take the challenge. Friday night is The
Loverboy Party, Saturday is Mardi Gras Carnival and Sunday is the white main
event. White Party 3 features DJ Manny Lehman along with performances by Kevin
Aviance and Funky Green Dogs.
Info: www.gayeventseurope.com / www.gayevents.nl
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August 8 - 9
Market Days - World Market - Chicago, Illinois
Voted one of the best values on the Circuit scene in 2002, Circuit Mom brings you
“World Market” with a dazzling array of themes and DJ’s! Friday’s “Carnivale in Rio
de Janeiro” kicks off the weekend with Grammy-nominated DJ/Producer Tony
Moran. The “Taj Mahal “ serves as the backdrop for Saturday’s main event with DJ
Manny Lehman and Circuit Mom teaming up for an India flavored extravaganza.
The super Saturday event takes over the Aragon Ballroom for a celebration with all
the trimmings. Super Soviet spy DJ Lydia Prim returns for her fourth year for the
Sunday “Closing Regime” with Moscow’s Kremlin setting the tone for the final
event. Add all of this to the amazing daytime street fair in the heart of boystown
with live DJs, food and over 100,000 people and you’ve got to see it to believe it!
A sexy new host hotel awaits your arrival with the largest rooms in Chicago along
with amazing views and convenient location.
Info: www.circuitmom.com
Hotel 71 (800)621-4005
Look for the Circuit Noize QuickTrip Logo to make
fast travel and ticket reservations for selected
events. Enter to Win FREE Airline and Party
Tickets online at:
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August 8 - 10
SUNDANCE - Guerneville, California
Yes, Sundance is happening! The 6th-annual Russian River Morning Party is back;
bigger, stronger and with music by Circuit sweetheart Kimberly S. - this year should
be better than ever! This beloved Circuit weekend under the redwoods is known
for its big fun and low attitude vibe. Nearly 4,000 hotties take over the Russian
River town of Guerneville for a weekend of fun, sun and lots of dancing! This
“summer camp weekend for muscle boys” features 5 parties over 3 days, including
the “Dusk” cocktail and dinner party, “Moondance” on Saturday with DJ Phil B,
and “Sunset” Sunday night closing T-dance with DJ Manny Lehman. The main
event is the Sundance Morning Party on Sunday afternoon and this year it is
located at a fabulous new location just steps from Fifes. A portion of the proceeds
from the Sundance event will be donated to the Russian River Chamber of
Commerce, the Guerneville Educational Foundation, and Face to Face.
Info: www.guspresents.com
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August 15 – 16
LEATHER BALL 8 - Toronto, Canada
Get your gear in order and get ready to party as North America’s most sensual
dance experience happens again in Toronto this summer. Leather Ball 8 spins out
of control when DJ Bill Bennett takes full control of The Opera House for Saturday’s
main event. Don’t let those half-naked, sweaty, muscle boys heat you up too
much, Woody’s is open all weekend long to cool you down. The hot and hunky
host hotel is Ramada Hotel and Suites. For Leather Ball weekend special rates call
Rainbow High Vacations, (800)387-1240.
Info: www.leatherball.com
August 15 - 25, 2003
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EUROPRIDE MANCHESTER 2003 - Manchester, United Kingdom
The heart of EuroPride is Manchester's gay village - an area around Sackville Street
and Canal Street where there are a large number of bars, restaurants and clubs run
by, and for, the gay community. Up to 300,000 visitors are expected to attend
EuroPride and its ten days of events. Saturday, August 23rd will find 7000 dancing
until dawn with a full color laser show, pyrotechnics and the best DJ names on the
UK Gay Dance circuit. Sunday's party will be "Huge" - a clubbers night in the
Printworks in Manchester. "Huge" is the name and huge it is with 10,000 who will
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come to dance at this six hour non-stop party.
Info: www.europridemanchester.com
__________________________________________________________________________
August 17
MORNING PARTY - Laguna Beach, California
The Morning Party wakes up West Street Beach in Laguna Beach for its seventh
incredible year. Get down on the right side of the bed because DJ Susan Morabito
is perking up a fresh hot pot of soulful brew for a perfect West Coast Sunday.
Supporting the Laguna Beach Community Clinic, this ocean side tea is located
directly on Laguna’s beautiful West Street Beach. This year, the event expands its
VIP area into a private beach side estate as the increased attendance pushes boys
off of the dance floor and into the ocean. Other weekend parties include Official
After Party at Boom Boom Room with music by Brett Henrichsen. Also, don’t miss
the Official Pre-Parties: Friday with DJ Kio Kio and Saturday with Frank Abraham at
Boom. Host Hotel is the Coast Inn: (949) 494-7588.
Info: www.willgorges.com
__________________________________________________________________________
August 24
STEAM - Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Time to let off a little “Steam”? The Cabanas Guesthouse in Fort Lauderdale and
DJ Don Bishop are ready to help you release. This guesthouse sits on little more
then an acre of property along the waterways of Ft Lauderdale and is home to this
new T-dance event. With a special performance by Gioia formerly of Expose, this is
the perfect way to blow off a little Steam. Part of the proceeds to benefit Tuesdays
Angels, a not-for-profit organization that gives direct funding to people
experiencing hardships living with AIDS.
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August 28 - September 1
SOUTHERN DECADENCE - New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans’ gay Mardi Gras is a weekend where everyone tries to be more
decadent than the boy next door. All types of boys come for this wild 30-year-old
For recent changes or updates to this schedule, please visit us online at:
www.circuitnoize.com and www.partyfinder.com
Search 100’s of events by city, state, date or DJ.
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event. Bourbon Pub is “Porn Again” when the Diva of Decadence –Miss Chi Chi
LaRue returns to reign over the festivities with a helping hand from porn legend
Logan Reed. Also on hand at Bourbon Pub Parade are DJs Kimberly S., Rick
Mitchell, Lydia Prim, Max Rodriguez, Jayskee and Darren Thomas. DecaDance XV,
the largest event of Southern Decadence weekend, returns for its 15th year and
Meltdown is the climax of Southern Decadence weekend. Club 735 has four days
of parties filled with hot southern boys and great music. Dance to the exciting
sounds of Susan Morabito, Alyson Calagna, Robert Rodriguez, and Dave Myers.
Enjoy exciting performances by Power throughout the weekend. Oz gives you
more dancers, more men, more great DJs and more partying. It’s hot, it’s sultry, it’s
Oz. Need a rest from the boom boom boom? Margaret Cho is taking Southern
Decadence and New Orleans by storm with a funny and powerful show on
Saturday night August 30th, at the classical New Orlean’s Saenger Theater.
Info: www.bourbonpub.com / southerndecadence.net / pmparties.com
__________________________________________________________________________
August 29 - September 1
PERFECT DAY ‘FLESH’ - Austin, Texas
Get here in the Flesh! Bare it all as you bask in the rays of the sun around the crown
jewel of Texas for Labor Day. Thousands of guys give us some skin this Labor Day
at the Hyatt Hotel on beautiful Town Lake in Downtown Austin. Join our
superheroes as DJ Jon Herseth (Minneapolis) spins you around Friday night at the
River Boat Cocktails Cruise, trust us when we tell you DJ Ric de Barros (Austin) will
force you to get your groove on at Lake Travis leaving you in your bare essentials.
Saturday Night, DJ Mark Tarbox (LA) dares you to show your skin as the sun goes
down and you slip into ‘the Flesh’. Once you are left in the Flesh, help DJ Michael
T. Diamond (NY) fight the moonlight with after-hours until dawn. Of course, Labor
Day would not be complete without the BareDevil himself, DJ Don Bishop (Ft.
Lauderdale), playing his all at the Pool Tea Dance. Finally, Sunday Night, join Mr.
Dyn-o-mite himself, DJ Roland Belmares (LA) as the weekend culminates with
DynaDance! With six amazing parties all centered around Saturday’s AquaBoy
party on Lake Travis, this Labor Day will surely leave you shirtless.
Info: www.partyaustin.com, 888-558-1791.
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ATLANTIS CRUISE - Barcelona-Italy-Ibiza
What better way to experience the magic of the Mediterranean than to sail across
it? Once again, Atlantis creates the largest all-gay cruise ever to sail Europe with
1800 gay and lesbian guests. From beautiful Barcelona Atlantis will explore six of
Europe’s most fascinating cities aboard the majestic Splendour of the Seas, one of
the finest ships ever to sail the Med.
Info: www.atlantisevents.com
__________________________________________________________________________
August 31
LABOR DAY NEW YORK - New York, New York
Now there are plenty of reasons to get your ass back to the city for Labor Day
Weekend. Ric Sena’s legendary man-magnet returns on Sunday night. If you’ve
been to Alegria then you know it is an incredible event and this Labor Day heats up
Sound Factory once again with resident DJ Abel for the sizzling and the spicy
“Rio”. Level 4 music by DJ Dudu Marques (Rio de Janeiro). Also don’t miss the
opportunity to slip and slide into Chelsea’s happening night spot, SBNY,
throughout the weekend. Splash Bar features DJs Max Rodriguez, Billy Carroll and
Hex Hector.
Info: www.alegriaevents.com / www.splashbar.com
__________________________________________________________________________
August 31
RESOLUTION - Los Angeles, California
Labor Day Weekend offers some sweaty boy action at the Mayan Theater on
Sunday night. Pleasures include Manny Lehman, Angelo Kortez, Joe Gauthreaux
and some mouth-watering men. This will be a LA Labor Day of a lasting
impression.
Info: john.wojas@hobconcerts.com
__________________________________________________________________________
September 6 - 7
CHAMPAGNE PARTY - Saint-Tropez, France
Do you Saint Tropez? An extraordinary villa party on a lovely private and fully
equipped beach is waiting for you. Experience the ultimate music with the best
DJs as you live an unforgettable experience against the breathtaking backdrop of
Saint-Tropez. Soak in and savor the finest pleasure of life with style and freedom.
Info: champagne-party.chez.tiscali.fr
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September 13
MASTERBEAT WORLD TOUR - Los Angeles, California
Stir your senses and surround yourself with LA’s greatest scenery. Jeffrey Sanker
presents the second in his series of the hottest Circuit parties to hit LA at the
Wiltern Theater. Masterbeat DJ Brett Henrichsen will headline and the evening will
be highlighted by special performances that will take your breath away. Tickets will
be on sale at Los Angeles Sporting Club and Perfect Beat beginning Labor Day
weekend.
Info: www.jeffreysanker.com
__________________________________________________________________________
September 19 - 21
A WEEKEND IN OZ - Denver, Colorado
Click and kick up your heels in Denver for a new party weekend. Take Shelter! as
the first of four amazing parties kicks off with DJ Warren Gluck. Saturday’s main
event is at the amazing Gothic Theatre! Flava Presents & MDB Productions will take
you into the magical world of Oz, where you’ll sweat the night away with the best
of the best. DJ Phil B and DJ Paulo will take you on a journey into the wee hours of
Sunday morning. Throughout the evening you will be amazed by the performances
of Kim English and Flava. Rest Sunday afternoon, only to “Return to Oz” as DJ
Alyson Calagna creates the feeling of dancing through the poppy fields with
Dorothy herself. Dolce’s performance will be sure you experience the same
euphoric visions that Dorothy and her friends did, as they followed the yellow brick
road to “A Weekend in Oz.” This is a fundraising event for the People with AIDS
Coalition Colorado.
Info: www.aweekendinoz.com
__________________________________________________________________________
September 26 – 28
Chrome - Columbus, Ohio
Following in the footsteps of the incomparable Red Party is no easy task. The
Chrome Foundation, Inc. is now in its second year of producing this benefit event.
The party kicks off on Friday night with DJ Abel at “Quake”. On Saturday you can
go into “The Deep” as DJ Ralphi Rosario of Chicago leads a wondrous trip below
the sea at the historic Valley Dale Ballroom. Resurrection T on Sunday features DJ
Alyson Calagna. And Monty Q wraps it up on Sunday night promising to bring
everyone to a state of “Euphoria”. These events benefit the Columbus AIDS Task
Force and Stonewall Columbus.
Info: www.chromeparty.com
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September 27 - 28
FOLSOM STREET FAIR - San Francisco, California
Buckle up! It’s going to be a bumpy weekend in San Francisco. This is the most
famous street fair for those who crave the sight, sound and smell of leather. Jito’s
infamous Magnitude is now a benefit for the Folsom Street Fair. The notoriously
wicked party returns with DJ Mark Anthony pounding you hard through the night.
Immediately following Magnitude is Aftershock with DJ Abel at 715 Harrison. It’s
good to be bad Sunday after the Folsom Street Fair. GRGR/West presents Real
Bad XV on Sunday night with DJ Jerry Bonham.
Info: www.jito.com / www.realbad.org
__________________________________________________________________________
October 3 – 5
VIVA LAS VEGAS 7 - Las Vegas, Nevada
“High Rollers on the Vegas Strip” has a whole new meaning. If you like amazing
first-class venues and high profile DJs then this is your dance destination. This
signature all-gay Las Vegas party weekend is one of the most fun weekends on the
Circuit calendar and the Saturday water park party is one of the splashiest.
Info: www.atlantisevents.com
__________________________________________________________________________
October 3 – 5
GAY DAYS AT DISNEYLAND - Anaheim, California
The happiest place on earth is seeing red as Gay Days takes over California
Disneyland. Dive down the rabbit hole once again on Friday for “Wonderland”.
This year the Friday night kick-off party comes of age in the gigantic Grand
Ballroom at the Disneyland Hotel! DJ Ray Rhodes returns to spin and LA drag diva
Momma hosts. Saturday spend all day at Disneyland Park for the gayest day on the
planet. And Saturday night, prepare for your close-up as the Hollywood Pictures
Backlot becomes home to an amazing dance party. “Kingdom2” is the first-ever
gay dance party inside Disney’s California Adventure and DJ Chris Cox of
Thunderpuss returns to work the turntables.
Info: www.gayday2.com
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October 4
SLEAZE BALL - Sydney, Australia
Originally planned as a fundraiser for Sydney’s grand Mardi Gras celebration, this
risqué event has taken on a life of its own. The exotic and the wicked turn out for
one of the largest events in the world. The concept of “sleaze” as a style is an
invention of the gay subculture. Everything from high camp drag to full S&M
leather can have an element of sleaze in it. The Sleaze Ball is to be a celebration of
this aspect of our gay culture.
Info: www.mardigras.org.au
__________________________________________________________________________
October 8 - 14
BLACK & BLUE FESTIVAL - Montreal, Canada
There are some parties that could be anywhere, and then there is Black and Blue.
The BBCM has launched a new era in parties and it is unlike anything you’ve
experienced before. The largest festival of its kind in the world, it features 50
activities, including major parties, art exhibits, brunches, cocktails, museum visits,
sports events, etc. Friday night, the intoxicating smell of leather is once again in
the air and this year DJ Alex Lauterstein headlines this sexy, steamy party. Your
commanding officers DJ Serge Duchesne and Manny Lehman order you to dance
your ass off at Saturday’s Military Ball. The main event, the Black & Blue Party will
take place on Sunday, October 12, and will feature major production with various
multimedia shows during the night and international DJs Mat St-Marie, James
Anderson, Paulette, Tedd Patterson and Mark Anthony. Every workout needs a
Recovery and Monday night DJ’s Norm Roberts and Escape keep your heart rate
up at Metropolis. Other favorite main parties will happen during the Black and
Blue weekend, and this year Stereo after-hours is home to the grand talents of DJ’s
Abel, Michael Kaiser, Gilles Massicotte, Tracy Young, Alan Vinet and Victor
Calderone. The VIP passes for the Black & Blue Festival are now on sale and early
purchase is highly recommended.
Info: www.bbcm.org / (514) 875-7026 / www.admission.com
__________________________________________________________________________
October 10 – 12
GAY DAYS TAMPA BAY - Tampa, Florida
Gay Days Tampa Bay has announced its inaugural year with a gay and lesbian “getaway weekend” schedule of events that include a “Gay Day” at Busch Gardens and
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a juicy Circuit party coined “Better Than Wet” at Adventure Island. DJ Roland
Belmares makes a splash at this 30-acre water park which is considered one of the
best in the country. The weekend winds up with a Sunday Pool Party and Expo
event at the host hotel, the Holiday Inn near Busch Gardens.
Info: www.gaydaystampabay.com / www.betterthanwet.com
__________________________________________________________________________
October 10 – 12
STEEL WEEKEND - Houston, Texas
There’s a new tradition in Houston to celebrate and improve the quality of life for
members of the GLBT community. Grey Party Inc. presents an all-new 3-day
destination event called Steel Weekend. “Iron” is the Friday kick-off party and
Saturday’s main event pounds out some seething “hard as Steel” beats at Riches.
You’ll find plenty of pumping and gyrating, thrusting and pounding men of steel all
weekend long. Grey Party Inc.’s goal is to raise money for all members of the GLBT
community including support for women’s, pediatric, and minority issues, as well as
individuals with HIV.
Info: www.steelparty.com
__________________________________________________________________________
October 12
ALEGRIA - New York, New York
Stake claim to some prime dance floor real estate that Columbus didn’t discover.
Sunday night, New York City and a holiday weekend all add up to Alegria- Ric
Sena’s legendary Sound Factory party. Resident DJ Abel shakes up the night and
works the ultimate studly and sexy crowd.
Info: www.alegriaevents.com
__________________________________________________________________________
October 23 – 26
HALLOWEEN NEW ORLEANS - New Orleans, Louisiana
Bienvenue au Moulin Rouge. 2003 will mark Halloween’s twentieth anniversary.
Halloween XX “Spectacular! Spectacular!” - is slated to celebrate New Orleans’
French history with an over-the-top takeoff of Moulin Rouge. The main event
returns to the Municipal Auditorium, a familiar location conveniently located
adjacent to the French Quarter, but the event is guaranteed to look nothing like
anything before. DJ Roland Belmares returns for an encore performance. The
Thursday Dinner and Silent Auction will be held at the incomparable Ritz-Carlton
New Orleans, and the Gospel Brunch will return to the recently expanded House of
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Blues. Hotel rooms and travel booked through DMI (877) 447-7284. Proceeds
benefit Project Lazarus. All of the traditional New Orleans haunts will be rattling
and shaking your bones all Halloween weekend. The Bourbon Pub / Parade
promises to be your wildest ticket in town with DJs Kimberly S., Masterbeat’s Brett
Henrichsen, Lydia Prim, Rick Mitchell, Darren Thomas, and Jayskee. Not interested
in a costume or any clothes for that matter? Every year thousands of people look
for something to do in New Orleans during the day as they wait for the big
Halloween Parties at night. “Uncut Halloween 2003” gives you four days to soak up
the Southern Sun with DJ Christopher Finland at the only clothing optional, fullscale, private gay country club in the USA. Power will be hosting & performing all
weekend long at Club735.
Info: www.halloweenneworleans.com / www.bigeasytravel.com /
www.ozneworleans.com / www.gayhalloween.com /
www.countryclubneworleans.com
__________________________________________________________________________
October 25
HELLBALL 7 - San Francisco, California
HellBall returns to San Francisco this Saturday October 25th! Gravity defying
entertainment, outrageous costumes and thousands of the West Coast’s hottest
boys make this one event you won’t want to miss. In its 7th year, HellBall kicks off a
whole week’s worth of Halloween celebrations with the main event haunting the
Galleria Design Center. There’s gold up in them thar San Francisco Hills, as this
year’s “El Dorado: City of Gold” glimmers as the HellBall 7 theme. Come for the
weekend and stay through Friday October 31 for the Castro “March of Light”
Halloween Parade, also produced by the all-volunteer New Heritage Foundation.
Net proceeds to benefit Maitri and Continuum.
Info: www.hellball.org
__________________________________________________________________________
October 31, 2003
RESOLUTION HALLOWEEN - Los Angeles, California
Are you prepared for a special Mayan Halloween flesh fantasy? Since the
costumed night lands on a Friday, there should be plenty of spooky man-fun inside
the historic Mayan for this homo holiday. Let your body and mind explore the
sounds and sights as only Resolution can deliver.
Info: john.wojas@hobconcerts.com
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November 26
ALEGRIA - New York, New York
This is one New York Thanksgiving hunk parade you DON’T want to miss. Ric Sena
presents a special Alegria on the biggest party night of the year. Wednesday,
Thanksgiving Eve – Sound Factory opens its doors for the legendary man-magnet
of a party. The ultimate in horny studs will be busy doing some holiday cooking to
the sounds of DJ Roland Belmares.
__________________________________________________________________________
November 26 - December 1
WHITE PARTY MIAMI - Miami, Florida
Make your plans now to attend the 19th Annual White Party at Vizcaya and the
week of events leading up to it. This year’s dance parties feature more than a
dozen of the world’s A-list DJ/Producers including Victor Calderone, Abel, Tracy
Young, David Knapp, Susan Morabito, Monty Q, Hex Hector, Peter Rauhofer,
Ivanno Bellini, Tony Moran, DJ Pride, Alyson Calagna, Roland Belmares and Manny
Lehman spinning at the 19th Annual White Party at Vizcaya. The Royal Palm
Crowne Plaza Resort on Miami Beach will be the Official White Party Host Hotel
and will be the location of the official White Party Welcome Center for the second
year in a row. This luxury hotel features state-of-the art amenities and is within
walking distance from the hottest clubs, trendy shops and cafes in Miami Beach’s
historic Art Deco district. To make your White Party reservations call (305)604-5700
now. Use the code: “White Party” to take advantage of their exceptionally low
White Party Week rate. The amazing week of events benefits Care ResourceSouth Florida’s oldest and largest HIV/AIDS service organization serving both Dade
and Broward Counties.
Info: www.whiteparty.com
Look for the Circuit Noize QuickTrip Logo to make
fast travel and ticket reservations for selected
events. Enter to Win FREE Airline and Party
Tickets online at:
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November 27 - 30
MR. LEATHERMAN TORONTO - Toronto, Canada
Mr. Leatherman Toronto (MLT) hosts one of North America’s largest leather
gatherings during America’s Thanksgiving weekend. Four days of parties, meetand-greets, dinners, brunches, a leather market and much more, climaxing at the
Mr. Leatherman Toronto Competition 2004 and Victory Ball on Saturday night. If
the hunks competing for the coveted title of Mr. Leatherman Toronto 2004 don’t
get your attention, try the daddies, muscle boys, titleholders, and beautiful leather
folk in attendance from all over the world.
Info: www.MrlLT.com / Host & Tickets: 1-800-387-1240
__________________________________________________________________________
November 27 – December 3
LATIN FEVER - Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
On Thanksgiving Weekend, Will Gorges and Gilles Belanger give you “Fever” and
more than just the temperatures are rising in Puerto Vallarta this November.
Everybody is dancing all weekend long and celebrating at events like the Welcome
Party, Noche de Blanco, Squirt Gun Party and an Adios Farewell Party. “We Give
You Fever” is the main event on Saturday night and will feature international DJs at
Cactus. Plenty of warm weather and lickable Latin men are waiting for you at this
Mexican resort town. Contact Rob Bell with House of LaFabula for travel
arrangements: (800) 667-2474.
Info: www.willgorges.com
__________________________________________________________________________
December 30 – 31
NEW YEAR’S LA - Los Angeles, California
It’s “Victor Calderone and The Temple of BOOM” at the Mayan on Tuesday the
30th. Let the dance floor take you to where you haven’t gone before as LA’s
sexiest turn out for Resolution at the Mayan Theater. On Wednesday, celebrate
New Year’s Eve Masterbeat-style at the Grand Olympic Auditorium in Los Angeles
with DJ Brett Henrichsen. This is where all the boys in Los Angeles spent New
Year’s last year, so be prepared for another year of hot men, hot music and the best
New Year’s celebration on the West Coast!
Info: www.jeffreysanker.com / Resolution john.wojas@hobconcerts.com
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December 31
ALEGRIA 2004 - New York, New York
Tired of holiday turkeys? Well, come get some beef. Ric Sena presents a half
naked, sweaty way to bring in the New Year. The legendary man-magnet is home
to the dancing faithful with resident DJ Abel’s end-of-the-year pounding. Dance
the night away and into the New Year with New York’s sexiest crowd.
__________________________________________________________________________
December 31
MIAMI 2004 - Miami Beach, Florida
Didn’t get enough eye-candy in your holiday stocking? The million-dollar sandbar
has plenty of year-end hunky treats for you. Be prepared to celebrate Miami 2004,
a weekend of events in Miami with the best DJs in the country. Start your New Year
off the right way with the new tradition of sunny South Florida.
Info: www.jeffreysanker.com
__________________________________________________________________________
December 31
UNISON NEW YEAR’S EVE - Vancouver, Canada
Let the music lift you up to Vancouver for the final chapter of 2002. TBB
Productions once again holds your ticket to the hottest parties in Vancouver and
this New Year’s promises to leave a lasting impression. Expect an event that
provides top value for the community’s entertainment dollar.
Info: www.UnisonVancouver.com
__________________________________________________________________________
December 31
BAL DES BOYS - Montreal, Canada
When the BBCM are involved, you can always expect plenty of production value.
New Year’s Montreal is going to pack all the fierce and meaty men into their end of
the year blowout, so expect plenty of fervent, fleshy fun.
Info: www.bbcm.org
Circuit
81
Noize
FALL CIRCUIT 2003
December 2, 2003 – January 4, 2004
KARAMU NEW YEAR’S - Cape Town, South Africa
This New Year’s Eve could be the most memorable of your life. The location is
Cape Town at the bottom tip of the African continent. It is summer there in
December and the weather is perfect for sunbathing or hiking in the countryside.
The scheduled events are few, but extraordinary. Opening Party on Sunday is
planned and of course an official New Year’s Eve party on December 31st with
Cocolatte London. The weekend will feature DJs from London, Africa and the US.
This indoor/outdoor celebration will take place in the heart of the city at the center
of nightlife. This is a vacation for those who are curious, open-minded, and ready
and willing to go beyond the ordinary to a once-in-a-lifetime travel experience.
Info: www.sourceevents.com
__________________________________________________________________________
January 30 - February 1, 2004
BLUE BALL - Philadelphia
Welcome the new Circuit year in Philadelphia for the first event of 2004. Come see
for yourself why Blue Ball is rated among the best parties on the Circuit. You will
be mesmerized as Blue Ball 2004 beckons you to ascend to, shall we say, "angelic"
places.
Begin the weekend at Friday's ShamBlue, which will undoubtedly leave you
longing for more. Saturday's Main Event, "Ascension," promises to take you to
that "heavenly" space you've only dreamed about. Cobalt after-hours is no place
for angels. On Sunday, help us celebrate Susan Morabito's legendary closing party
as we say goodbye to the Wigs during the final production of Blue Redo. Final
Blue finishes the weekend in style.
Produced by Sapphire Fund, Blue Ball is produced by volunteers and with all
proceeds directed to the GLBT community. Join us in the city of Brotherly Love
and Sisterly Affection to support this worthy cause and start your year with an
"uplifting" experience.
Info: www.blueballphilly.com
__________________________________________________________________________
February 1 – 9, 2004
ALTITUDE TWELVE - Whistler Resort, Canada
A winter adventure with over 3000 friends from around the world. Altitude Twelve
has become the premier Gay & Lesbian Ski Week with complete packages
including world-renowned Canadian skiing and snowboarding. Picturesque
European-styled hotels and a week packed full of more than 24 events that range
from daily après skis to the renowned Snow Ball wait for you this February.
Info: www.outontheslopes.com
Circuit
82
Noize
"...Hey did you ever notice?
The bumper and the penis are
more similar than you think.
They are both roughly the same
shape, and both have a little hole on the end.
They both need to be manipulated
by the hand to procure a white substance.
This substance can be both pleasurable
and harmful....Be aware!"
From the mind of Kat Coric
www.artistesmontreal.com/kat
CIRCUIT MARRIAGE
ANNOUNCEMENTS
by Dennis Fleming
artwork by David Sexton
Love is found in many ways, shapes, and forms on the Circuit. Some find
Mr. Right. Some fall for Mr. Right Now. Others may have to settle for Mr.
I’ll Be Right Back. Following the lead of The New York Times, we are
proud to announce the following Circuit Marriages for 2003.
HARDWOOD /
AINTRIGHT
Clint Hardwood and Dieter
Aintright became united into
gay matrimony on Sunday,
March 9th, in Miami Beach.
The couple met during Susan
Morabito’s morning party on
March 8th at Crobar during
Winter Party weekend. Clint
was working security for the
club and caught Dieter
committing “cheap and
tawdry” acts in the men’s
room. Clint liked what he saw,
but professional obligations
forced him to ask Dieter to
leave the club. To make it up
to him and show there were
no hard feelings (only
Hardwood), Clint asked Dieter
to come by his apartment later
in the afternoon. After a day
of blissful sex, the two
decided they were meant to
be together - for at least the rest of the weekend. They stated their vows to each
other between the beverage tent and porta-potties during the Winter Party’ s main
beach event. Aintright wore a peek-a-boo white bikini bathing suit with matching
white thongs and a simple string of fake pearls. Clint sported a pair of blue surfer
shorts with gold piping from No Fear. Clint continues to live in Miami Beach and
still works at Crobar. Dieter’s whereabouts are unknown at this time.
Circuit
86
Noize
DOMINIC AND SLAVIN TIE KNOTS AT BLACK PARTY
Sir Dominic and his boy, Stanley Slavin, both of San Francisco, sealed their sadomasochist partnership during a visit to this year’s Saint-At-Large Black Party on March
22nd in New York City. The ritual, which was witnessed by throngs of leather-clad
partiers, was performed by an anonymous leather master using a standard cat-o’nine-tails and wearing the traditional executioner’s mask. The submissive Stanley
sported a spiked leather dog collar hooked to a short chain leash. Accessories
included a studded leather harness with cock ring attachment and freshly shaven
genitals. Slavin was pulled downstage by Sir Dominic who featured a pair of
skintight, lace-up-the-side leather chaps. A two-inch steel cock ring accentuated the
master’s endowments. After the ceremony, Dominic used several large slipknots to
tie Slavin to a makeshift chainlink fence where he was displayed for several hours.
The couple’s bridal registry included both Wicked Leather and Ace Hardware, and
they used the many gifts they received as they honeymooned at a weeklong sex
party at a loft in SoHo.
Circuit
87
Noize
BEN DOVER BETROTHED TO HARDY BALL
Ben Dover, an art gallery owner, and Hardy Ball, an attorney in private practice, made
their ten-year relationship official when they wed while vacationing on an RSVP cruise
off the coast of Thailand in March. The couple met in 1993 on the dance floor of the
former Probe nightclub in Los Angeles. Soon afterwards, Ben moved into Hardy’s
Laguna Niguel home. The couple split briefly in 2000 when Hardy came home to
find the pool boy pumping more than chlorine into the swimming pool. The two
have each racked up more than 100,000 frequent Circuit miles with trips to Ibiza,
Sydney Mardi Gras and the Queen’s Birthday in Amsterdam to name just the most
fabulous. The couple chose a Greek theme for their nuptial service. Ben wore a
simple toga made of white cotton to signify “Greek passive” while Hardy’s elaborate
toga of gold lam¾ with black satin edging labeled him the “Greek active”. Both
men featured lace-up sandals while wreaths of wild orchids and olive leaves adorned
their heads. Attendants included an array of tricks from the previous two nights. The
ship’s captain performed the marriage ceremony, and guests danced at an elaborate
reception to club music provided by Robbie Leslie – the very DJ who was spinning
the night Ben and Hardy met.
Circuit
88
Noize
THE POWER OF RAGS
by Mikel Paris
Kaleidoscope colors
a motion in swirl
The charming begins
The moment unfurled.
Like dandelions
Blooming at night
Like ocean-wave ripples
reflecting moonlight.
Clockwise it brings
all fortunous deeds.
Counterclockwise removes
Your past life’s misdeeds.
I never believed
such power in rags
“Excuse me, sir,
May I borrow your flags?”
89
C i rC
c ui ri tc u i t
NNooi zi ze e
THE MYTHIC CALL
by Ariel Spilsbury and Michael Bryner
Once upon a time, a galactic council was called and a mythic call was sent
out to countless light beings: the children of the Sun, the angelic winged
ones, the Sun runners, the rainbow warriors, and other luminous ones from
many star systems.
This great circle of light beings
gathered from far and wide. At the
appointed nexus, the Love of the
Spinning Galaxies, the Great Spirit,
entered, gracing them all with
celestial light and the following
words.
“You are invited to incarnate upon a
world where a great transformation
will take place,” began the Love of
the Spinning Galaxies. “You who
respond to this call will go to a place
of planetary evolution where the
illusions of fear and separation are
strong teachers. I am calling those
with the needed talents and gifts to
act as my emissaries there, to lift and
transform the frequencies of planet
Earth, simply by embodying and
anchoring love’s presence there. In
this myth, you will be the creators of
a new reality, the reality of the
golden octave.”
The Love of the Spinning Galaxies
continued: “On other journeys, each
of you has proven to be a ‘feeling
navigator,’ able to awaken your
consciousness and align your heart
Circuit
90
to the promptings of pure love and
compassionate service. As Sun runners
and torch bearers, you have already
demonstrated that you will hold the light
high. And so, I invite you to incarnate
en masse among the tribes of Earth to
assist Gaia and all her children in their
transformation.
“It is part of the plan that you will be
veiled in forgetting,” the Mystery of the
Spinning Galaxies went on. “However,
as you remember the feeling of childlike
innocence and trust, you will become
the harmonic leavening in this cycle of
initiation for Earth. You will incarnate
strategically, often in some of the most
vibrationally dense areas of the planet.
To some, this illusion of separation from
love may create feelings of
hopelessness, lack of support, and
alienation. But by embracing your
humanness, your love will transform the
depths of duality, and your light will
quicken the many.
“Your participation on this quest is
purely voluntary; however, this
transformational shift on Earth is very
rare and precious. Should you choose
Noize
to accept this mission, you will have
the opportunity to catalyze and
synthesize all that you have been
during many incarnations, receiving
a rarely offered quantum leap in
consciousness. It is up to you to
choose how you will dance with
Terra Gaia and her children as she
completes her ceremony of light!”
So spoke the Creator, the Light of
the Spinning Galaxies. And so it was
that the luminous beings who
for med the countless alliances,
federations, and councils of the
faithful of the stars chose to
incarnate on planet Earth to assist in
this crucial event, the awakening of
the planetary dream. There was
even a fail-safe process built into the
plan to awaken these beings from
the illusion of separation and the veil
of forgetfulness that is so rife upon
Earth. The luminous ones who
would journey to Gaia’s assistance
agreed to spark each other’s
remembrance. Thus, these starseeded ones were encoded in many
ways with sounds, colors, lights,
images, words, and symbols – a
vibrational resonance that would
assist them in remembering their
commitment to the light. It was
agreed that those coded clues
would appear everywhere: in
visionary art and music, in penetrating looks, in speech and feelings
– all creating a deep yearning to
awaken
and
become
the
embodiment of love.
So it is that you, the children of the
Sun, are now being bathed in the
Circuit
waters of remembrance, prepared as
rainbow warriors to fulfill the promise of
the new and ancient myth. By simply
anchoring love’s presence on Earth, you
lovingly draw down the mantle of the
gods, sending waves of healing and love
through Gaia’s eagerly receptive body.
As you emerge in this time, your gifts
awaken and empower others. Utilizing
the tools of laughter, song, dance,
humor, joy, trust, and love, you are
creating the powerful surge of
transformation that will transmute the
limitations of the old myth of duality and
separation, birthing the miracle of unity
and peace on Earth.
Utilize your gifts on behalf of Gaia. In a
supernova of consciousness, Gaia and
her children will ascend in robes of light,
forming a luminous light body of love,
to be reborn among the stars! The
mythic call has been sounded. The
great quest has begun. Awaken,
rainbow warriors, Sun runners, luminous
beings from the galactic alliances,
federations, and councils! Ancient
skywalkers, newly for med in this
moment, stand in the beauty and power
of your true identity as love’s gift to
Gaia. Set aside self-doubt. You are a
divine child of the Sun! Go where your
heart draws you to share your great
gifts. Surrender to the magic and the
light. The miracle will be manifested on
Earth. Remember, we dance and sing
here for the One Heart!
This essay is excerpted from the book
“The Mayan Oracle” by Angela
Spilsbury and Michael Bryner.
91
Noize
RAVE ACT: UPDATE
by William D. McColl, Esq.
In April of this year, the Senate and House Conference Committee, without
public notice, hearing, or debate in Congress, attached the Illicit Drug
Anti-Proliferation Act (formerly known as the RAVE Act) onto the AMBER
Alert Bill, a wildly popular child abduction bill that has nothing to do with
drug policy.
The bill was then approved by both
houses and sent to the President
who signed the bill into law on April
30, 2003.
Because the bill had garnered such
strong support due to the child
safety measures it contained, it had
been “abused as a sweetener for
highly controversial add-ons,”
according to Senator Patrick Leahy
(D-VT). One of these was the Illicit
Drug Anti-Proliferation Act which
was stuck onto the AMBER Alert Bill
at the very last minute by Senator
Biden (D-DE), its original sponsor.
As a result, it passed in a manner
that was so undemocratic only
fourteen Members of Congress ever
really voted on it.
Many questions have been pouring
into the offices of the Drug Policy
Alliance on this topic. Hopefully, the
following will answer some of them.
Why is this a problem?
The
Illicit
Drug
AntiProliferation Act allows the
government to prosecute owners
and
promoters
of
places,
including nightclubs, who hold
an event for the purpose of
Circuit
92
using or distributing illegal
drugs.
The problem is that the
phrase, “for the purpose of use or
distribution” does not have a
clear meaning.
Some courts have
said that the purpose of the owner
or promoter is not what matters;
they have viewed this law as
applicable if the customer’s
purpose is to use drugs.
Since
it’s almost impossible to stop
people from using drugs, owners
and promoters could be placed at
risk because of the actions of
their patrons.
There have been cases where
prosecutors have tried to show
that owners and promoters knew
about drug use because they hiked
up prices on water and had
ambulances available to take people to hospitals.
There is much
concern that such cases will cause
venues to stop taking common sense
safety measures like having water
or medical personnel available.
Deciding on the exact meaning of
the phrase “for the purpose of”
will probably take more court
cases and may take years.
If I’m just a customer and like to
go to dance clubs and Circuit
parties, can I get into trouble
from the RAVE Act provisions?
This is not really a likely
scenario.
These provisions are
designed to go after promoters and
Noize
owners. Of course, if you are
caught with drugs, you can be
prosecuted for drug possession.
I’m a promoter of a Circuit
party. Should I cancel it?
The DEA has stated that:
“Legitimate property owners and
event promoters are not in
violation of the law just
because a patron engages in
illegal drug activity on their
property.
DEA Agents have
clear guidance specifically
advising them that property
owners not personally involved
in illicit drug activity are
not in violation of the law.”
The Drug Policy Alliance is
currently recommending that
nightclubs and promoters have a
written policy about drugs and
stick to it. We are working on
writing a model drug policy
which we hope to release by
September.
In general, we suggest that you
institute a “no drugs” policy
and make customers aware of it.
Drug use by customers should be
discouraged in your written
materials.
Patrons who are
caught with drugs should be
removed from the event.
Don’t advertise your event
using code words referencing
drug use.
Ensure that free water is
available to patrons. Frankly,
that should be a matter of
safety, but it will also help
protect you legally.
We urge you not to abandon the
presence of on-site medical
personnel.
Although we cannot
predict the DEA’s reaction to
the presence of ambulances or
medics, as long as they are not
being used to cover up evidence
of drug use, their presence
should be welcomed.
Circuit
Is there anything we can do now
that the law has passed?
Drug Policy Alliance is forming a
coalition to repeal or modify the
RAVE Act. Please participate. If
you or your organization would
like to get involved, there is
contact information at the end of
this article.
If you’d like to donate to help in
this fight you can do so at
http://www.nomoredrugwar.org/donate.
Say thank you to those elected
officials who spoke out against
the RAVE Act, including openly gay
Representative Barney Frank (DMA).
He felt so strongly about
this issue he actually voted
against the child abduction bill.
That was truly courageous!
My dear friend Todd was as
disappointed about the passage of the
RAVE Act as I was. Instead of getting
angry, he dragged me out to my first
Circuit party (Cherry 2003 in
Washington, D.C.), introduced me to
about a thousand people, and made me
dance all night. I was reminded why I
care so much.
I hope that even as we work to repeal or
modify this legislation, it will help us all
to think about what is really important.
Our bottom line needs to be joy,
happiness, health and life. We must
build safety into our celebrations and we
must be responsible to ourselves and to
our fellow dancers.
Bill McColl is the Director of National
Affairs for the Drug Policy Alliance. He
can be reached via email at
wmccoll@drugpolicy.org. Promoters
can contact him to get a copy of the
model drug policy or to join the
coalition fighting to change the RAVE
Act.
93
Noize
Advertise!
Everyone Else Does.
Next issue: November 1, 2003
Ad Deadline: October 1, 2003
ads@circuitnoize.com
(818) 769-9390
All gay Cruises
on the fantastic new
Holland America
Oosterdam
up to $300 early discount
Mexican Riviera Cruise from San Diego
April 25 - May 2, 2004
Caribbean Cruise from Ft. Lauderdale
Feb 22 - 29, 2004
All gay Resort
Club RSVP, Ixtapa Mexico
Nov. 8-15, 2003
from $799 (excludes air
which is also available).
Party in style!
Find these and other RSVP
Vacations including Africa,
Ireland, Peru, and
Budapest and Prague at
RsvpVacations.com,
or see your travel agent.
Select images © 2003, Blue Door
Productions, Inc, RSVP Productions, Inc,
or Holland America;
Registry Netherlands.
All information subject to change.
CST#2020963-50
PECULIAR TRAVEL
SUGGESTIONS
by Craig Smith
“Peculiar travel suggestions are
dancing lessons from God.”
-Kurt Vonnegut, Cat’s Cradle
This is a story of my personal journey
and how I came to be a producer of
gay events. It is a very personal
conversation about my road to
freedom and self-discovery. My
story takes several turns that are the
result of peculiar travel suggestions.
I have found such suggestions to be
gateways to life transformations.
The beginning of this story is set in
the winter of 1995 in San Francisco.
I had moved to “The City” for a
lover who left me not long after my
arrival. Other than Garth, my
chocolate Lab, I found myself alone
in a beautiful, but strange, city. The
gay community in the city was
reeling, having just experienced the
peak of the AIDS epidemic. There
was not a lot of hope in the air.
Beyond the physical destruction of
this disease, the fear it had fostered
was tearing out the heart of the gay
community.
Back then, I saw HIV the way the rest
of our society saw it – as a gay man’s
disease. Imagine my rage and my
Circuit
96
pain when my mother was diagnosed
and died from AIDS. The disease that
was striking at the heart of my
community had also reached into the
heart of my family. I didn’t know what to
do with my anger. I felt helpless as I
watched how the fear of AIDS was
destroying the spirit of a city that had
held one of the most vibrant gay
communities.
The path out of my angry state began
with a peculiar travel suggestion . A
friend invited me to join the California
AIDS Ride from San Francisco to Los
Angeles. Training for a 575 mile, sevenday bicycle ride connected me with new
friends and reconnected me with my
body and spirit. Here we were, 1500
ordinary people, joining together as one
to raise awareness and money for
something we cared deeply about. The
high point of the ride came while riding
through a North California town and
being greeted by hundreds of children
cheering us on and holding up
handmade signs. In that moment, I
knew that someday, somehow, there
would be an end to AIDS. In those days
Noize
of helpless anger, I had little passion
for anything. But now, a new
passion to help my community
recover from the trauma it had
suffered was born. The first peculiar
travel suggestion had been a catalyst
for change.
Shortly after the ride, I was invited to
the Miami White Party. This was
another peculiar travel suggestion
because, up until this point in my
life, I had some very righteous
judgments about the Circuit and the
people that went to these parties.
But after my bike ride I was open to
trying new things. I was the world’s
most unlikely gay man to find the
road map to my spiritual adventure
inside the Circuit. But it was at the
White Party that I discovered the
wondrous world of spirit and dance
and music and light. It was there
that I allowed myself the freedom to
explore this mysterious world of
beautiful men, to connect with new
friends, and to allow myself to feel
so many of the things I had been
denying and resisting. I found the
feeling of community that I had been
longing for.
While learning to play and to dance
again, a new realization also grew.
My solo law practice in San Francisco
was just enough to keep me
comfortable, but not challenging
enough to help me grow. I wanted
to find a way to express my passion,
a way to help in the fight against this
epidemic and to regrow the spirit of
my community. I set out to find the
expression of my passion in work
that I could love. How could I make
Circuit
the transition to living the life of my
dream?
The next year I met Rafael, the love of
my life and my life partner, and that was
the beginning of my great adventure
into the unknown. I sold the law
practice, packed my bags and, along
with my chocolate Lab, moved to Miami
Beach. It took me a while to get settled
but I soon found my footing when I
began volunteering in the community. I
joined the Phoenix Rising Board, an
organization that produced benefit
dance parties in Miami. I ran for local
office and won and helped fight for the
Human Rights Ordinance in Miami-Dade
County.
During this time I also became the
director of events for the Dade Human
Rights Foundation and in charge of the
Winter Party. This was a dream come
true. This was peculiar travel suggestion
come full circle. Here I was getting to
work in a realm that had been my
playground. This dance event was
funding a variety of interests that were
bringing heart to my community. Best
of all was the privilege of working with a
wonderful staff of creative people and
those light beings known as volunteers
who shared a common vision of building
community through magnificent events.
After three years of working in my
dream job, I was comfortable. Enter
Linda, my life coach. She started asking
me the tough questions, the ones for
which I had to dig deep to find the
answers. What were my dreams? What
would it mean to “live a balanced life”?
What were my goals and, once known,
how was I going to make them real?
Being coached by an inspired woman
97
Noize
whose sole purpose was my success
and happiness was life transforming.
Working on Winter Party was, and
still is, one of the favorite
experiences in my life. But it was
time for me to move on. It was time
for me to create enough space in my
life to allow the new - whatever that
might be - to come along.
This time my friend, Ed, asked me to
partner with him in creating a
peculiar travel suggestion for others.
We produced a gay cruise onboard
one of the W indjammer historic
sailing ships, the S.V. Mandalay, in
the Caribbean. I founded a new
company, Source Events, dedicated
to creating travel adventures and
events. Source Events is more than
that, however - it is an “experience
company”- a producer of travel,
events, and memories designed for
the gay community and our friends
who are curious, imaginative, and
freethinking. It aims to create
peculiar travel suggestions that offer
the opportunity for growth and
transformation.
Our Caribbean sailing adventure was
an intimate affair with 61 passengers
and 30 crewmembers. It was a week
filled with friends, music, and
exploration. One night, we had a
full moon beach party where we ate
lobsters, danced to Julian March,
and flagged beside a bonfire. As we
witnessed one of the Universe’s
great wonders - a total lunar eclipse
- a gentle, sublime magic crept up
on us. This feeling was born from
this peaceful place and a feeling of
connection between us and the
moon and the stars. Some islanders
Circuit
98
joined our dance (as did one of the local
monkeys). Our fun was so contagious
that guests from a neighboring hotel
also joined the party. For one week,
there was no TV, radio, or newspapers
reminding us of the state of the world.
For one week, we celebrated ourselves
and gave each other the freedom to just
simply be. Maybe e. e. cummings’
quote sums it up best: “For whatever
we lose (like a you or a me) it’s always
ourselves we find in the sea.”
I believe the Circuit can evolve beyond
its current state to provide us with richer
travel experiences. Perhaps some
things will have to end to make room for
new events and experiences. Or
perhaps there will just be new options
beyond those available today. The next
level of our journey involves travel to
exotic places and new experiences on
the dance floor and beyond. My ambitious goal is to create events that can
foster magic, friendship, and the love
that will renew our spirit. If this or some
other peculiar travel suggestion calls to
you, I hope you will answer its call.
Source Events is offering a peculiar
travel suggestion for you and your
friends: “Karamu Cape Town”. Karamu
means “gathering of friends” in Swahili.
The city of Cape Town, at the tip of the
African continent, is one of the most
picturesque places in the world. It will
be a weeklong celebration taking place
from December 28, 2003 through
January 8, 2004. This experience will
include dance events in breathtaking
surroundings, nature activities, and a
safari to the Kruger National Park. Visit
www.sourceevents.com for more
information.
Noize

Issue 37 - noiZe Magazine

Transcription

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