Queer Voices

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Imagine stepping into the sequined boots of a pop culture icon; that's the exhilarating challenge Ella Perez takes on night after night as Babe Cher in "The Cher Show." As I sit with her, we peel back the curtain on channeling Cher's spirit without falling into imitation—no easy feat when you're portraying the Goddess of Pop. Ella's own voyage of musical discovery lends an intimate touch to our conversation, as we marvel at the enduring influence of Cher over generations, and the thrills of performing for diverse fans who find a piece of themselves in her songs.

The dynamics backstage can be as captivating as the show itself, and Ella returns to share tales from the touring trenches. The bond between the cast of "The Cher Show" is palpable, a family forged in the spotlight, sharing both laughter and support as they crisscross the country. Our heartfelt discussion doesn't shy away from the show's impact on the LGBTQIA+ community, or the dreams that glimmer on the horizon for Ella and the cast. The universal quest for authenticity, so central to Cher's legacy, rings out as a powerful message for us all.

As the episode waltzes through a variety of intriguing topics, we're joined by an ensemble of voices that enrich the tapestry of our conversation. From Dan Knetchges' insights into Theatre Under the Stars' upcoming season to Davis Mendoza Darusman's candid exploration of pansexuality, each narrative thread weaves into the next. Julia Grossman's leap from food trucks to Fusion Eats serves as a delectable side dish to our main course, reminding us of the transformative power of passion, be it under the stage lights or in the bustling heart of a kitchen. Join us for an episode that celebrates the stories that bind us, challenge us, and inspire us to keep reaching for the stars.

Queer Voices airs in Houston Texas on 90.1FM KPFT and is heard as a podcast here.  Queer Voices hopes to entertain as well as illuminate LGBTQ issues in Houston and beyond.  Check out our socials at:

https://www.facebook.com/QueerVoicesKPFT/ and
https://www.instagram.com/queervoices90.1kpft/

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When love and human interaction get tangled in extremities, the heart yearns for a voice that dares to explore these infinite complexities. That's why we called upon Walt Zipprian, Houston's alternative theater virtuoso, to unravel the threads of Sarah Kane's "Cleansed" in its regional premiere. Alongside this deep dive into the transformative power of performance, we celebrate the sheer resilience of Houston's queer community, personified by icons like Roxanne Collins, whose journey from drag legend to a Tina Turner tribute artist encapsulates the spirit of authenticity.

The stage isn't just a platform; it's a mirror reflecting the most profound parts of our identities. This episode peels back the curtain on the self-discovery that can happen under the spotlight, as seen through Roxanne's evolution and the poignant tales from Houston's vibrant 1990s drag scene. We also step into the advocacy arena with Chris Berry, who, in the face of discrimination, remains a bastion of community-building and inclusivity in his work with the Human Rights Campaign. It's a reminder that our voices, when woven together, can create a tapestry of support and solidarity.

Wrapping up, you'll get a taste of the global stage of LGBTQIA+ rights and how local actions in Houston resonate with broader conversations, from landmark court decisions to the ongoing support for transgender student-athletes. We spotlight the collaborative efforts of our community and the allies who contribute to the rich tapestry of Queer Voices. With gratitude and humor, we extend an invitation to join in on this exploration of diversity, tenacity, and the endless pursuit of our collective rights and joys.

Queer Voices airs in Houston Texas on 90.1FM KPFT and is heard as a podcast here.  Queer Voices hopes to entertain as well as illuminate LGBTQ issues in Houston and beyond.  Check out our socials at:

https://www.facebook.com/QueerVoicesKPFT/ and
https://www.instagram.com/queervoices90.1kpft/

Send us Fan Mail

Queer Voices airs in Houston Texas on 90.1FM KPFT and is heard as a podcast here.  Queer Voices hopes to entertain as well as illuminate LGBTQ issues in Houston and beyond.  Check out our socials at:

https://www.facebook.com/QueerVoicesKPFT/ and
https://www.instagram.com/queervoices90.1kpft/

Send us Fan Mail

Join the celebration of resilience and jubilation as we spotlight Kevin Anderson, a lighthouse of advocacy in Houston's vibrant LGBTQ community and a nominee for Grand Marshal at the city's Pride 365 Pride Parade. Kevin bestows upon us the transformative power of storytelling, emphasizing how it fosters healing and fortitude, especially among queer people of color and those affected by HIV. Meanwhile, we trudge through the rodeo dust with Eric Hulsey, president of Out at the Rodeo, who's hitching a rainbow flag to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo—reminiscent of Disney's Gay Days, this initiative promises to expand the horizons of inclusion in spaces where the LGBTQ+ presence is still a frontier.

Our narrative tapestry weaves further with the compelling journey of Avery Belyeu, CEO of the Montrose Center, who unveils the rich spectrum of support services offered to Houston's LGBTQ populace. Avery takes us through a transformative trek from the Trevor Project to the Montrose Center, spotlighting the invaluable strides in mental health and community connection. As the episode progresses, Jacques Bourgeois, president of Buddies on the Bayou, orchestrates an overview of their philanthropic crescendo, turning celebratory events into vehicles of support for numerous LGBTQIA+ nonprofits, while teasing an exhilarating line-up for their not-to-be-missed annual festival.

Finally, we unfurl the banners of legal triumphs from across the globe, from the recognition of co-motherhood in Israel to the outlawing of conversion therapy in New South Wales, painting a vivid picture of progress amidst adversity. This tapestry of tales not only illustrates the relentless march towards equality but also serves as an invigorating call to join the dance of activism, community solidarity, and the persistent pursuit of joy within the LGBTQ+ family. We're not just sharing stories; we're charting the milestones of change and inviting you to be part of the movement.

Queer Voices airs in Houston Texas on 90.1FM KPFT and is heard as a podcast here.  Queer Voices hopes to entertain as well as illuminate LGBTQ issues in Houston and beyond.  Check out our socials at:

https://www.facebook.com/QueerVoicesKPFT/ and
https://www.instagram.com/queervoices90.1kpft/

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Odyssey Oakengrove - Grand Marshal nominee -- Kevin O'Connor, LGBTQ author --Mr. Prime Choice James Martinez

We speak with Odyssey Oakengrove. Odyssey Oakengrove grew up in Houston and quickly moved back after their boyfriend broke off the relationships, saying that Odyssey was “too involved in the gay community, the trans community, and Black Lives Matter.” Not having recognized their transness, they simply said, “I am the gay community” and packed their stuff to move back home.  Once here, they found a home with Black Lives Matter activists, learning advocacy and unlearning their colonized mindset. They realized they were genderqueer at an ACLU abortion access seminar, not simply a “really strong ally.” They have volunteered time with Clinic Access Support Network, Black Lives Matter: Houston, and Showing Up for Racial Justice. They have spoken with state reps at the 2021 and 2023 Texas Legislative Session, fighting for queer students, public education, and against oppressive immigration policies. Odyssey is a candidate for grand marshal for the Pride Houston 365 parade.

Then, we speak with Kevin O'Connor, author of “Two Floors Above Grief: A Memoir of Two Families in the Unique Place We Called Home”.  Kevin O’Connor enjoys chronicling the stories of families and friends through tracing genealogical histories and writing. He is an expert at organizing family letters and artifacts. He sings and performs in theaters and is active with SMART Ride, a bicycling group that rides annually from Miami to Key West, raising funds for HIV awareness, treatment, and education. Kevin was an elementary teacher, principal, professor, and curriculum coordinator in California, Illinois, and Florida from 1973 to 2020. He authored content and provided training in areas including support for substitute teachers, LGBTQ advocacy, and Sexual Health/Family Life. Kevin resides in Ft. Lauderdale with his husband, Leon. Their family includes five sons and seven granddaughters.

Finally, we speak with James Martinez, Mr. Prime Choice 2024. Mr. Prime Choice is open to any male identified individual 40 or older living in the state of Texas.  James is founder of Texas Men of Leather. We talk about what being Mr. Prime Choice is like.

Queer Voices airs in Houston Texas on 90.1FM KPFT and is heard as a podcast here.  Queer Voices hopes to entertain as well as illuminate LGBTQ issues in Houston and beyond.  Check out our socials at:

https://www.facebook.com/QueerVoicesKPFT/ and
https://www.instagram.com/queervoices90.1kpft/

Send us Fan Mail

Grand marshal finalists 2024

As we unfurl the banners of Pride and allyship, I'm thrilled to bring you heartening conversations from Queer Voices that not only celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community but also highlight the relentless support of our allies. We engage with State Representative John Rosenthal, whose journey from the energy sector to a beacon of advocacy in public office exemplifies true allyship. He carries the torch for marginalized groups, particularly trans, intersex, and non-binary individuals, and his illustrious nomination as ally Grand Marshal for the Pride Parade further cements his commitment to championing queer rights. With the backdrop of current legislative challenges, John's voice is a clarion call for unity and resistance.

Allyship doesn't stop at mere support; it's an active and ongoing commitment to advocacy and understanding. In this spirit, I speak with Grand Marshal nominees like Kailey Posterick and Leslie Briones who, through their personal stories, embody the unwavering dedication required to stand shoulder to shoulder with the LGBTQIA+ community. From Kaylee's role as a supportive therapist to Leslie's multifaceted experiences as a mother, teacher, and judge, their narratives are a testament to the transformative power of visibility and support. The upcoming parade's theme, "You Won't Break Our Pride," resonates with their tales, echoing the resilience and hope that define our vibrant community.

The quest for equality spans beyond our local communities to the global stage, and it's vital to stay abreast of the triumphs and setbacks that shape our collective journey. Leslie Briones' gratitude mirrors the sentiment felt by many as we navigate the landscape of global LGBTQ rights, discussing the impacts of international legislation and movements. From the shores of Ghana to the streets of Serbia, and even within the halls of American governance, we dissect the myriad ways our fights intersect. Join us as we honor the spirit of Pride through these powerful voices, each contributing an essential note to the symphony of liberation and justice that sings in the heart of the LGBTQ+ community.

Queer Voices airs in Houston Texas on 90.1FM KPFT and is heard as a podcast here.  Queer Voices hopes to entertain as well as illuminate LGBTQ issues in Houston and beyond.  Check out our socials at:

https://www.facebook.com/QueerVoicesKPFT/ and
https://www.instagram.com/queervoices90.1kpft/

Send us Fan Mail

Dylan Forbis - transgender activist, Jimbo - Drag All Star, Late Night Catechism Nun

As the vibrant hues of Houston's Pride rainbow unfurl, we're joined by Dylan Forbis, a transgender man whose tapestry of activism has positioned him as a candidate for Houston Pride 365 Grand Marshal. Dillon's story is a beacon for the LGBTQIA community, a testament to resilience amidst Texas' evolving legislative landscape. His dreams of reveling in the joyous celebrations of World Pride and Mexico City's Pride remind us of the universal quest for equality and acceptance. This week, our conversation also dazzles with the unexpected twists of Jimbo, the beloved queen from RuPaul's Drag Race All-Stars, whose artistry at the crossroads of clowning and drag promises a kaleidoscope of joyful surprises. Simultaneously, Denise Fennell's emotive discourse on her role in "Sisters Irish Catechism" reveals the nurturing embrace of Houston's theater scene for growth and inclusivity.

Venture behind the sequins and extravagant breastplates with Jimbo as she recounts her journey from a biologist to a theatrical costume designer and, ultimately, to a drag performer who captures hearts with her authenticity. Hear how her 'gay audacity' led her from sewing to the spotlight, crafting a drag persona that defies convention and captivates audiences. Meanwhile, Denise Fennell opens up about the serendipitous twists in her acting career that have woven her into the fabric of Houston's artistic community, including the unexpected challenges and triumphs of performing one-woman shows and fostering a sense of belonging within the diverse tapestry of the local theater.

This episode isn't just about the spotlights; it's a salute to the unseen threads of support and solidarity that hold our community together. As artists, we navigate the peaks and valleys of critiques, drawing strength from the shared experiences and wisdom of our peers. We honor the mentors who shape our paths and the emotional resilience required to keep the show going. With a nod to our contributors Andrew Edmondson and Deborah Moncrief Bell, we reaffirm our commitment to stories that resonate with authenticity and vibrancy, ensuring the spirit of Queer Voices remains a beacon of inclusivity for all who listen.

Queer Voices airs in Houston Texas on 90.1FM KPFT and is heard as a podcast here.  Queer Voices hopes to entertain as well as illuminate LGBTQ issues in Houston and beyond.  Check out our socials at:

https://www.facebook.com/QueerVoicesKPFT/ and
https://www.instagram.com/queervoices90.1kpft/

Send us Fan Mail

As we sit down with the remarkable Atlantis Narcisse, her story unfolds, revealing the heart and soul she pours into Save Our Sisters United and her crucial role as a house mother. This week's conversation is nothing short of inspiring as we honor her nomination for Grand Marshal at Houston's Pride 365 Parade and delve into her commitment to offering stigma-free spaces for HIV/STD testing. Witness a powerful reflection on the importance of Atlantis's visibility as a black trans woman over 50, leaving an indelible mark on Houston's LGBTQ+ community.

The air buzzes with anticipation for the Annual Walk to End HIV, where we come together in an expression of support and unity. Atlantis shares with us the vibrant ways the community participates, from the whimsy of unicycling to the charm of a dog dressing contest. The conversation takes a poignant turn as we remember those we've lost to AIDS and celebrate the progress in HIV treatment and housing as a cornerstone of healthcare. Atlantis's voice carries the weight and warmth of experience as she reminisces about the evolution of support services like the Stone Soup food pantry and the declining young attendance at Camp Hope, a testament to advancements in HIV prevention.

The episode takes a creative twist with Alan Cumming, who offers an exclusive glimpse into his show "Alan Cumming Is Not Acting His Age," a captivating blend of storytelling, music, and musings on the art of growing older with flair. We then transition to the sobering story of the 1963 16th Street Baptist Church bombing, reimagined in the powerful play "Tide," with insights from actor Jason Carmichael and director Bruce Lumpkin. The narrative comes full circle as we round out the episode with global LGBTQ+ rights updates, highlighting triumphs and acknowledging hurdles in the universal quest for equality. Remember to join us on our new journey as a home-produced podcast, where we continue to amplify these vital conversations.

Queer Voices airs in Houston Texas on 90.1FM KPFT and is heard as a podcast here.  Queer Voices hopes to entertain as well as illuminate LGBTQ issues in Houston and beyond.  Check out our socials at:

https://www.facebook.com/QueerVoicesKPFT/ and
https://www.instagram.com/queervoices90.1kpft/

Send us Fan Mail

Join me, Bryan Hlavinka, as I sit down with the insightful Brandon Mack to peel back the curtain on the Houston LGBTQ+ Political Caucus's intense endorsement process. Discover the weight such an endorsement carries and the grueling scrutiny candidates endure to secure this emblem of progressive support. We navigate the significance of Dr. Cody Pyke’s historic appointment and the essential healthcare services for incarcerated populations, illuminating the challenges and triumphs of advocacy within the system.

The episode takes a creative turn with Tamarie Cooper, co-founder and artistic director of the Catastrophic Theatre, as we discuss the powerful storytelling and satire in their productions. Explore the resonance of shared human experiences in the play "It Is Magic," and learn how the theater's 'pay what you can' model breaks down barriers to cultural experiences. Get a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the vibrant world of Houston's drag scene with Catastrophic Theatre's 'This Party is a Drag' gala, a testament to the art form's diversity and expression.

To wrap up, we delve into the evolution of Tamarie Cooper's one-woman shows that blend dance, storytelling, cooking, and live music to create authentic performances that defy traditional theater norms. And don't forget to check out QueerVoices.org for a wealth of information on the people and events we discuss. You'll come away from this episode with a deeper understanding of the intersections of bioethics, law, advocacy, and the arts, and the persistent fight to amplify underrepresented voices.

Queer Voices airs in Houston Texas on 90.1FM KPFT and is heard as a podcast here.  Queer Voices hopes to entertain as well as illuminate LGBTQ issues in Houston and beyond.  Check out our socials at:

https://www.facebook.com/QueerVoicesKPFT/ and
https://www.instagram.com/queervoices90.1kpft/

Send us Fan Mail

As the curtains rise on another episode of Queer Voices, we're whisked backstage into the world of "On Your Feet," where the effervescent Gaby Albo lets us in on the subtleties of channeling Gloria Estefan's spirit. Gaby’s anecdotes about her journey from the gymnastics vault to the theatre stage are not only inspiring but brimming with revelations, like her aspiration to plant her feet firmly on American soil. Our chat dances through the exciting intricacies of her role, from choreography that's rich in cultural heritage to the beloved songs that have audiences swaying in their seats.

Turning the spotlight on community representation, we're joined by Deborah Montcrief Bell and Kendra Walker, who eloquently speak on selecting Pride Parade Grand Marshals. They underscore the process's democratic heart, reflecting a broader theme of inclusivity that resonates through our discussions on creating accessible events and embracing intersectionality within the LGBTQ+ Jewish community. Queer Voices echoes with laughter and learning as we explore how our collective identities shape our experiences, from the ebullience of Pride celebrations to the solemnity of traditional Jewish seders.

As the final notes of our episode fade, Katelyn Hartman and I reflect on the powerful narratives that have unfolded – stories that span from the personal triumphs of individuals like Gabby to the steadfast resilience of our broader LGBTQ+ community. The voices that have shared their journeys with us stand as a testament to the strength found in unity and the beauty of diverse identities coming together. Queer Voices may be a podcast, but the connections it fosters carry the weight and warmth of real-life conversations, inviting you to be a part of something that transcends the airwaves.

Queer Voices airs in Houston Texas on 90.1FM KPFT and is heard as a podcast here.  Queer Voices hopes to entertain as well as illuminate LGBTQ issues in Houston and beyond.  Check out our socials at:

https://www.facebook.com/QueerVoicesKPFT/ and
https://www.instagram.com/queervoices90.1kpft/