Two-Time Emmy Winner Bruce Vilanch Returns to Host Fire Island Dance Festival Featuring Ailey, Momix, Cunningham, Travis Wall and More

The Fire Island Dance Festival returns to Fire Island Pines for a trio of first rate outdoor performances/parties on Saturday, July 17 and Sunday, July 18, 2010. This year’s festival will feature offerings from eleven internationally renowned dance companies and artists including premier dances by “So You Think You Can Dance” finalist/choreographer Travis Wall (July 17 only) and Stephen Petronio Company. Returning to emcee the event for a second year is two-time Emmy Award winner Bruce Vilanch.

Fire Island Pines, NY, July 09, 2010 –(PR.com)– Lauded by The New York Times, Out Magazine, (CBS News on) LOGO and The Village Voice, the Fire Island Dance Festival returns to Fire Island Pines for a trio of first rate outdoor performances / parties on Saturday, July 17 and Sunday, July 18, 2010. Now in its 16th year, Fire Island Dance Festival is the premier cultural event on Fire Island and is produced by and benefits Dancers Responding to AIDS (DRA), a program of Broadway Cares / Equity Fights AIDS. Returning to emcee the event for a second year will be two time Emmy Award winner Bruce Vilanch.

Performing outdoors against a stunning backdrop of the Great South Bay, FIDF 16 will feature an eclectic program of classical and contemporary ballet, and modern dance performed by eleven emerging and world renowned dance companies and artists. This year’s festival will prove to be yet another unforgettable event with performances by: Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, American Ballet Theatre principal Marcelo Gomes, Joffrey Ballet Chicago principals Fabrice Calmels and Erica Lynette Edwards, Camille A. Brown, Gallim Dance, Mark Stuart Dance Theatre and San Francisco Ballet principals Yuan Yuan Tan and Damian Smith performing choreography by Christopher Wheeldon. FIDF 16 will also showcase a pièce d’occasion by Shea Sullivan, mark premiere dances by Travis Wall (July 17 only) and Stephen Petronio Company and feature a “Legacy Tour” performance by Merce Cunningham Dance Company. MOMIX will present a special performance as part of an exclusive festival kick-off party for Leadership Supporters only on Friday July 16.

Dancegoers are offered a choice of show times. The opening performance is on Saturday, July 17th at 5:00 p.m. (party at 4:00 p.m.). The sunset performance is on Saturday, July 17th at 7:00 p.m. (party following). And the closing performance is on Sunday, July 18th at 5:00 p.m. (party following). Leadership Supporters are included in the special kick-off party on Friday evening July 16th at the Lepage Pavilion at Whyte Hall.

To charge tickets by phone, call 212.840.0770 x268 – Monday through Friday and in person on weekends in the Fire Island Pines harbor or order online on the Dancers Responding to AIDS website.

Corporate Sponsors for Fire Island Dance Festival 16 include: The New York Times, Continental Airlines, GRW Advertising, Absolut Vodka, Steel Gym, NEXT Magazine, PEEQ Media, BV Wines, and Movmnt Magazine.

Founded in 1991, by former Paul Taylor dancers Denise Roberts Hurlin and Hernando Cortez, Dancers Responding to AIDS (DRA) is a program of Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS the nation’s leading industry-based, nonprofit AIDS fundraising and grant-making organization. By drawing upon the talents, resources and generosity of the American theatre & dance communities, BC/EFA raises funds for AIDS-related causes and other critical illnesses across the United States. Since its founding in 1988, BC/EFA has raised over $175 million.

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Contact Information
Broadway Cares / Equity Fights AIDS
Bobby McGuire
212-840-0770
mcguire@broadwaycares.org
www.dradance.org

Broadway Bares Announces Special Guests
Posted on June 14, 2010 by bbbblogger

BROADWAY BARES XX
“STRIP-OPOLY”
ANNOUNCES SPECIAL GUESTS
OVER 200 OF BROADWAY’S HOTTEST DANCERS TO BE JOINED BY…
CHARLES BUSCH, KEVIN CHAMBERLIN, KRISTIN CHENOWETH,
ALAN CUMMING, DIANA DEGARMO, LEA DELARIA,
KATIE FINNERAN, BARRETT FOA, DEBBIE GRAVITTE,
JULIE HALSTON, JACKIE HOFFMAN, JANE KRAKOWSKI,
REICHEN LEHMKUHL, NORM LEWIS, LUCY LIU,
EUAN MORTON, JULIA MURNEY, CHRISTOPHER SIEBER,
BRUCE VILANCH, LILLIAS WHITE, VANESSA WILLIAMS,
AND MANY MORE
PRODUCED BY BROADWAY CARES/EQUITY FIGHTS AIDS
EXECUTIVE PRODUCER JERRY MITCHELL
BENEFITING BC/EFA
PRESENTED BY M·A·C VIVA GLAM
ROSELAND BALLROOM
(239 West 52nd Street)

BROADWAY BARES XX: “STRIP-OPOLY” is pleased to announce a few of the special guest stars who will join over 200 of New York’s sexiest dancers at Broadway’s hottest night in an event produced by and benefitting Broadway Cares/ Equity Fights AIDS.BROADWAY BARES will be held Sunday, June 20 with two performances only (9:30 PM & Midnight) at Roseland Ballroom (239 West 52nd Street). BROADWAY BARES XX: “STRIP-OPOLY” is produced by and benefits Broadway Cares/ Equity Fights AIDS.

This year’s BARES will feature stars spanning BARES’ 19 previous editions and some new faces to the Roseland stage. Notable names scheduled to appear include: Nick Adams (La Cage Aux Folles), Kevin Burrows (Spamalot on Tour), Charles Busch (The Divine Sister), Kevin Chamberlin (The Addams Family), Tony and Emmy Award winner Kristin Chenoweth (Promises, Promises),Jennifer Cody (Shrek The Musical), Tony Award winner Alan Cumming (“The Good Wife”), Diana DeGarmo (Hair), Lea DeLaria(The Rock Horror Show), Felicia Finley (The Wedding Singer), Tony Award winner Katie Finneran (Promises, Promises), Barrett Foa (Avenue Q), Tony Award winner Debbie Gravitte (Jerome Robbins’ Broadway), Julie Halston (The Divine Sister), Jackie Hoffman (The Addams Family), Denis Jones (Dirty Rotten Scoundrels), Tony Award winner Jane Krakowski (“30 Rock”),Sebastian LaCause (The Rocky Horror Show), reality television star Reichen Lehmkuhl (“The Amazing Race”), Norm Lewis(Sondheim on Sondheim), Lucy Liu (God of Carnage), Julia Murney (Wicked), Christopher Sieber (Shrek The Musical), Rachelle Rak (Dirty Rotten Scoundrels), Andrew Rannells (Jersey Boys) Bruce Vilanch (Hairspray), Tony Award winner Lillias White(Fela), Vanessa Williams (Sondheim on Sondheim), and more.

This year’s opening number is entitled “The Best Game in Town,” and is written by David Nehls (The Great American Trailer Park Musical). The number will be performed by Euan Morton (Sondheim on Sondheim).

Grab your favorite piece (Dog? Ship? Boot? Thimble?), roll the dice, and get ready to put money into the community chest to helpBROADWAY BARES XX: “STRIP-OPOLY” reach their $1 million fundraising goal to benefit BC/EFA. This year’s BROADWAY BARES will bring a whole new definition to the phrase “game night” when over 200 of Broadway’s sexiest dancers come together for the hottest burlesque show this side of Park Place.

BROADWAY BARES XX: “STRIP-OPOLY” is produced by Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, Executive Produced by Tony Award-winner Jerry Mitchell (Love Never Dies, Catch Me If You Can, Legally Blonde), and will be directed by Josh Rhodes (The Drowsy Chaperone, Fosse).

The first Broadway Bares in 1992 featured seven dancers stripping on a bar and raised over $8,000. Since then, the 19 subsequent editions of BROADWAY BARES have collectively raised over $6 million to benefit Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS and grown to a full-fledged production featuring over 200 of Broadway’s sexiest dancers.
TICKETING INFORMATION FOR BROADWAY BARES XX: “STRIP-OPOLY”:

Tickets can be purchased online at www.BroadwayCares.org or by calling (212) 840-0770 x 268.

9:30 PM SHOW: $650 Benefactor – includes reserved seat at a cocktail table and open bar before the show; $250 VIP – includes non-reserved standing ticket in VIP area closest to stage or VIP Mezzanine with open bar before the show; $100 Priority – includes non-reserved standing ticket in Priority Viewing area close to the stage; $55 General Admission -non-reserved standing ticket.
MIDNIGHT SHOW: $650 Benefactor – includes reserved seat at a cocktail table and open bar before the show; $250 VIP – includes non-reserved standing ticket in VIP mezzanine with open bar before the show; $55 General Admission – non-reserved standing ticket.

BC/EFA is pleased to announce the return of the “VIP BACKSTAGE PASS” PACKAGE ($10,000). You and a guest will be escorted into Roseland for a sneak peek of the dress rehearsal, and meet Jerry Mitchell and a guest celebrity. Enjoy dinner and drinks at a private cocktail party with Jerry and Broadway stars. Come back to Roseland and join the entire company backstage for a short visit before you are escorted to your table in the VIP lounge and stay for both shows. After the Midnight show, you will join the cast as VIP guests at the post-show cast-party. This package is extremely limited in availability.

BROADWAY BARES is the hotly anticipated annual event combining the naughtiness of burlesque and the razzle-dazzle of Broadway and has been a smashing success since its inception in 1992. The event features the hottest male and female dancers on Broadway and has become one of Broadway Cares / Equity Fights AIDS’ signature events. The 2010 edition, BROADWAY BARES XX: “STRIP-OPOLY” will be held at Roseland Ballroom (239 West 52nd Street) on Sunday, June 20 with performances at 9:30 PM and midnight. For tickets, information, and merchandise, visit www.BroadwayBares.com.
Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS is one of the nation’s leading industry-based, nonprofit AIDS fundraising and grant-making organizations. By drawing upon the talents, resources and generosity of the American theatre community, since 1988 BC/EFA has raised over $175 million for essential services for people with AIDS and other critical illnesses across the United States.

BC/EFA is the major supporter of seven programs at The Actors’ Fund – including The AIDS Initiative, The Phyllis Newman Women’s Health Initiative, The Al Hirschfeld Free Health Clinic, The Dancers’ Resource and three supportive housing residences. BC/EFA also awards annual grants to over 400 AIDS and family service organizations nationwide.
For more information, please visit the BC/EFA website at www.broadwaycares.org.

Press Release
H.A.! The Series – The Web Series by Perry Laylon Ojeda
www.HaTheSeries.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Broadway actor and critically acclaimed playwright PERRY OJEDA joins forces with Television Legend BRUCE VILANCH, star of THE NANNY CHARLES SHAUGHNESSY, renowned actress DAWN DIDAWICK, Stand-up Comic RYAN HILL, NYC personality SCOTT NEVINS and newcomer ROBERT W. EVANS, and the accomplished comedienne LISA-BETH HARRIS to star in HA! the Series.

This new satiric comedy on the web at www.HaTheSeries.com, takes on the Ex-Gay Recovery movement. The 16 pod-cast/episodes, which will premier in early 2009, follows the misadventures of a sweet, wanna-be children’s book writer Roger, who is cajoled by his mother to join an Ex-Gay 14-step group (the two extra steps are for COMPLETE RECOVERY!) called Homosexuals Anonymous: H.A.!

Set in the conservative Deep South of America, Roger’s life gets complicated when our hero meets a sexy stranger, a Yoga instructor, who invites him to join a class at the local Young Men’s Christian Association. The two fall in love with delightfully disastrous results.

The high jinks are peppered with original songs with lyrics by Mr. Ojeda and music by RANDY REDD, fresh from his triumph with the hit show THE MUSIC OF JACOB STERLING and Grammy & two-time Emmy Award winner JOHN MCDANIEL, along with a soon to be hit tune from new Latino Hip Hop group MANOLETE.

HaTheSeries.com promises to be a political power punch that is timely, topical and hilarious! Based on experiences in the Mormon Church and the real life trauma of attending actual H.A. meetings in his youth, Mr. Ojeda has created a not to be missed comic tragedy that is a sexy biting-satire. Directed by Larry Raben and produced by Polar Bear Productions and Dr. Barry Kohn (the real life doctor who was the basis for Charles Busch’s THE TALE OF THE ALLERGIST’S WIFE), HaTheSeries.com is the beginning of a new wave of web based entertainment that will change how we think about ourselves, bigotry and intolerance.

HaTheSeries.com promises to be a political power punch that is timely, topical and hilarious! The stellar cast also includes, Brian Kirchoff, Becca Flinn, Derris Nyle, David Astone, William Ngo, Barry Kohn, Bobby Wise and Michael Solarez.

PRESS REPRESENTATIVE CONTACT:

Steven Webber: swebbernyc@aol.com

Bruce Vilanch to host 12th annual gay Miami Recognition Dinner
From the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force:

Join us for Miami’s premier annual celebration

The 12th Annual Miami Recognition Dinner
Saturday, October 18, 2008
6:30 PM – Midnight
InterContinental Miami

Honoring:

Ilene Chaiken
(The L Word)

Joan Schaeffer

Keith Boykin

Keith Boykin Confirmed as Third Honoree!
Keith Boykin has been actively involved in progressive causes since he worked on his first congressional campaign as a student in high school. A founder and the first board president of the National Black Justice Coalition, Keith has spoken to audiences all over the world and delivered a landmark speech to 200,000 people at the Millennium March on Washington. He served in the White House as a special assistant to President Bill Clinton, who appointed him, along with Coretta Scott King and Rev. Jesse Jackson, to the U.S. presidential trade delegation to Zimbabwe in 1997. Boykin is currently the editor of The Daily Voice newspaper and a host of the BET television show My Two Cents.

Writer/Performer Bruce Vilanch to Host the Awards Ceremony
After years behind the scenes writing topical jokes for Academy Award hosts such as Billy Crystal and comedy personalities like Bette Midler, Vilanch became a celebrity in his own right after becoming a wisecracking regular on the revamped Hollywood Squares game show, seated to the left of center square Whoopi Goldberg. He is openly gay and is notable for breaking the Hollywood stereotype of a homosexual man. In 2005 he starred on Broadway as Edna Turnbladt in the musical Hairspray and appeared on the VH-1 reality series Celebrity Fit Club 3.

For information on sponsoring the event or joining the Host Committee, please visit www.theTaskForce.org/miami or contact Michael Bath, Special Events Manager, at 305.571.1924 or mbath@theTaskForce.org.

The Richmond/Ermet AIDS Foundation presents One Night Only COMEDY TONIGHT ! An Evening of Outrageous Comedy & Decadent Divas.

Wed., June 11, 2008, 8:00 pm Theatre 39 on Pier 39 – (Beach St. and The Embarcadero) – in SF 94133 (Complimentary Validated Parking at Pier 39 garage)

A benefit for The Richmond / Ermet AIDS Foundation (REAF)

THE COMICS

JUDY TENUTA American Comedy Awards “Best Female Comedian” / TV, film star BRUCE VILANCH Broadway (Hairspray) / TV (Hollywood Squares) star JOHNNY STEELE Winner San Francisco Comedy Competition MARILYN PITTMAN Lesbian comic and radio talk show host AUNDRE THE WONDERWOMAN Finalist SF Int’l. Comedy Competition

THE DIVAS

SHARON MCNIGHT Tony nominated (Starmites) cabaret star MAUREEN McVERRY Cabaret star / actress LEANNE BORGHESI Cabaret star, aka Anita Cocktail plus Cast Members from INSIGNFICANT OTHERS – Theatre 39’s resident show

Musical Director Scrumbly Koldewyn

Tickets and Information Call 415/ 273 -1620 Show only $35 Show + Dessert After Party with the cast at Hard Rock Café $50 Pre-Comedy show Option – Special pre-fixe dinner at Hard Rock Café $25 (a portion of the dinner ticket will benefit REAF)

Order tickets online at http //www.helpisontheway.org

The Richmond/Ermet AIDS Foundation l 942 Divisadero St., #. 201, SF, CA 94115

lhelman@sbcglobal.net

L.A. Outfest, NY NewFest and Breckenridge Festival of Film Announce New LGBT Movie TRU LOVED to Highlight Their ‘08 Festivals

Students from Los Angeles Unified School District’s Miguel Contreras School of Social Justice – first teens to screen the film – call TRU LOVED the next ‘Juno’

HOLLYWOOD, Calif., April 30 /PRNewswire/ — Given unprecedented pre-release attention by leading civil rights organizations and students at an early screening, a number of festivals including Los Angeles LGBT fest Outfest, mainstream Breckenridge Festival of Film, and NewFest: The 20th Anniversary New York LGBT Film Festival (where the film is programmed foropening night on June 5th), have made announcements of their selection of TRU LOVED — the inspiring new family-friendly film about LGBTQ youth andtheir families — as a highlight of their 2008 fests.

Last week, the filmmakers allied with The School of Social Justice atL.A. Unified School District’s Miguel Contreras Learning Complex (MCLC), where more than 900 students participated in the National Day of Silence. The three-day event honored the students and school as role models in stopping homophobia before it starts.

The film’s producer, Antonio Brown of BrownBag Productions, along with Eric Borsum, the film’s Executive in Charge of Social Partnerships, formed early alliances with numerous organizations, including Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG); the Gay-Straight Alliance Network (GSA Network); the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (GLSEN); the California Coalition Against Sexual Assault (CALCASA), and others. The support of these groups has been vital to early positive word-of-mouth on the film, and the filmmakers reached out to their leaders to join stars of the film in thanking the MCLC students for their year-round commitment to the protection of LGBTQ students and families.

“Seeing positive, healthy images of GLBT people and their families … is critical in transforming hearts and minds,” said PFLAG Executive Director Jody M. Huckaby, who during production presented director Wade with PFLAG’s “Focus on Equality” Award. “TRU LOVED does this perfectly, and shows how, alongside our straight allies, we all can create real change.”

At the event, civil rights leaders such as Huckaby, Kevin Jennings of GLSEN, Carolyn Laub of GSA Network, and TRU LOVED stars Jasmine Guy, Bruce Vilanch and Nichelle Nichols spoke to students and celebrated their leadership in protecting LGBTQ students against bullying and harassment.

In her address to the students, Nichols said, “As someone who knew and was inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King, I believe he would be very proud of your efforts, for he too fought against discrimination and unfairness and for a better world.”

Melissa Etheridge, whose music is included in the film’s soundtrack, sent a message to students, stating, “I’m so pleased that TRU LOVED and the LAUSD are working with GLSEN, PFLAG, The GSA Network and other organizations to lead the charge on this year’s Day of Silence … congratulations to the LAUSD for showing the movie TRU LOVED to get the dialogue going, so that we can all use our voices to end bigotry and make our world safe for ourselves and our children.”

Actor T.R. Knight (“Grey’s Anatomy”) was also in attendance, speaking to students from the heart, saying, “Thank you so much for what you’re doing, because if I … had this support when I was your age, I wouldn’t have wasted so many years … I would have gone out there and made a
difference.”

TRU LOVED (http://www.truloved.com), written and directed by Stewart Wade (“Coffee Date”) tells the story of Tru, a sixteen year old uprooted by her lesbian moms from her gay-friendly home in San Francisco and moved to a conservative community in Southern California. Tru’s only friend is a closeted football player, and that friendship is jeopardized when she starts the school’s first Gay-Straight Alliance.

Produced by BrownBag Productions, TRU LOVED stars Najarra Townsend (“Me And You And Everyone We Know”), Jake Abel (“The Lovely Bones”), Matthew Thompson (“Drake and Josh”), Alexandra Paul (“Baywatch”), Cynda Williams (“Tales of the City”), Alec Mapa (“Ugly Betty”), Bruce Vilanch (“Hairspray”), Nichelle Nichols (“Heroes”), Jasmine Guy (“A Different World”) and Jane Lynch (“The 40 Year Old Virgin”).

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE SAN FRANCISCO, April 22, 2008

For press materials and hi-res color press photos,

Visit http://www.shawnryanlive.com

SHAWN RYAN and FRIENDS! An All-Star Benefit Concert Tues., June 3, 2008 (7:30 pm) One Night Only The Rrazz Room in SF (All Ages Welcome)

Shawn Ryan from NBC’s America’s Got Talent Semi-Finalist returns to SF to Headline a Benefit Concert for The Young Actors’ Theatre Camp Scholarship Fund. Featuring Bruce Vilanch, Wesla Whitfield, Terese Genecco, Shaynee Rainbolt, Sony Holland, Connie Champagne, Spencer Day, Barry Lloyd, and Nicole Julien !

Whether it is acting, singing, or charming Regis Philbin on America’s Got Talent, Pleasanton native Shawn Ryan is taking the world by storm, one song at a time! Shawn Ryan is Entertainment! And this evening’s line up of entertainment makes this a Not to be Missed event to be sure! (Theatre Camp Info is below)

Tickets ($45) are now on sale at http://www.therrazzroom.com or by calling 866/ 468- 3399.

To arrange an interview with any Cast Member, please call John Ainsworth at 323/ 401- 4342.

Shawn Ryan is one of the rising stars performing jazz and standards today – having what the LA Times calls “a charm that is rare!” After placing in the semi-finals of NBC’s 2006 Summer hit, America’s Got Talent, Shawn’s star continues to ascend. He currently has two albums and numerous national TV appearances. Most recently taking on the gender-bending role of Karen Adams in ABC’s Women’s Murder Club. Shawn is also the co-founder of The Young Actors’ Theatre Camp (YATC) along with his partner of 7 years, John Ainsworth. YATC is an Overnight Intensive Theatre Training program for students, ages 8-18 that allows for students to work alongside industry professionals.

View Shawn Ryan’s performance on America’s Got Talent : www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ZEwC-tKoo8 View The Young Actors’ Theatre Camp Footage: www.youtube.com/watch?v=bvMcPxoSXZo

Calendar Editors, please note…

What: SHAWN RYAN and FRIENDS!

Who: Shawn Ryan returns to SF for a Star-Studded Benefit featuring Bruce Vilanch, Wesla Whitfield, Terese Genecco, Shaynee Rainbolt, Sony Holland, Spencer Day, Nicole Julien, Connie Champagne, Barry Lloyd, and the Kelly Park Trio for an unforgettable evening to raise money for the Young Actors’ Theatre Camp Scholarship Fund.

Date: Tues., June 3, 2008 – 7:30 pm

Venue: Rrazz Room at the Hotel Nikko 222 Mason St., San Francisco, CA 94102

Tickets: $45 in Advance / $60 at The Door, All Ages Welcome

Telephone: 866/ 468- 3399

Website: http://www.shawnryanlive.com

PRESS RELEASE
Bruce Vilanch Loses Battle with Semi Truck

On April 17, 2008, famed comedic writer Bruce Vilanch lost his battle with a semi truck. Bruce was filming a commercial for a new footwear company called Gravity Defyer. Vilanch was shooting a spoof video of Kobe Bryant’s jump over an Aston Martin.

Hollywood, CA (PRWEB) April 18, 2008 — Famed comedic writer Bruce Vilanch tragically lost his battle with a semi truck in a commercial.

Vilanch was filming the commercial for a new footwear company called Gravity Defyer (www.gravitydefyer.com). The video is a spoof of Kobe Bryant’s jump over an Aston Martin. In the footage Vilanch gets distracted and never jumps, getting run over by a semi truck. The footage has been released online at www.brucegetshit.com.

The company Gravity Defyer debuts their technologically advanced footwear this week. Gravity Defyers are scientifically constructed footwear with a patented shock absorption system. Three shock absorbers in every sole give Gravity Defyers ultimate comfort and stability. With each step the hidden shocks absorb the impact walking and running creates.

Each Gravity Defyer is handcrafted using the finest leather, materials, and components from around the world and designed by the best shoe designers from three continents. Bruce Vilanch was a perfect fit for Gravity Defyer.

Winner of two Primetime Emmys, Vilanch attended Ohio State University as a theater and journalism student and graduated with a BFA in theatre in 1970. Known for his witty wisecracking humor Bruce’s career is colorful to a T, literally.

The larger than life personality has a recognizable trademarked look; colorful wacky T-shirts, wild untamed hair, and an avant-garde taste in eye glasses.

He has a musical comedy background and contributed to concert shows starring Bette Midler, Diana Ross, and Michael Feinstein. Vilanch is also known for his writing on a number of awards shows, most notably the Academy Awards. He commands high fees for emergency Hollywood script rewrites, having “punched up” scripts for films like Die Hard 2 and Raiders of the Lost Ark.

He was a favorite on Hollywood Squares with best friend Whoopi Goldberg and was recently on the third edition of Celebrity Fit Club where he lost 21 pounds. In 2005, he starred on Broadway as Edna Turnblad in the musical Hairspray.

His inner circle of friends include an array of entertainment greats such as Bette Midler, Whoopi Goldberg, Elizabeth Taylor, Billy Crystal, Robin Williams, Rosie O’Donnell, Paul Reiser, Lily Tomlin, Roseanne Barr, and many many more.

Vilanch is openly gay, and a supporter of many gay charitable organizations. Vilanch was the subject of two documentaries: Get Bruce (1999) and Laughing Matters…The Men, also released as Laughing Matters: Gay Comedy in America (2007).

Bruce Vilanch is one of the greatest writers entertainment has ever had.

I’m in New York and chilling out, but I found this from my friend Richard Knight. Jr at Windy City Times out of Chicago. Here are his own words. He’s SO shameless!:

From the department of shameless self-promotion:

For almost four years now I’ve been writing film reviews and doing interviews for Windy City Times from a queer perspective, and for the last year I’ve also been working on a TV pilot that incorporates those two things—and more. The project is called “Movie Queens,” and my co-host is performer-playwright and fellow film fanatic David Kodeski, who worked as a producer for almost 10 years on “At the Movies with Ebert & Roeper.” I’m happy to announce that the Web site for “Movie Queens” is now online with about 20 minutes of content ( with more to come ) —including a mini-version of our interview with queer icon Bruce Vilanch. Stop on by Movie Queen Manor at www.moviequeens.net and say hello.

And as always, you can check out my archived reviews at www.windycitymediagroup.com or www.knightatthemovies.com . Readers can leave feedback at the latter Web site, where there is also ordering information on my book of collected film reviews, Knight at the Movies 2004-2006.

Friends for Life 2: A Night of Comedy to Benefit LifeWorks Mentoring

Featuring a Sneak Preview of the here! Special of Jason Stuart: Making it to the Middle

Performing LIVE:
Wendy Liebman
Alec Mapa
Bruce Vilanch
and Suzanne Westenhoefer!

VIP Reception with Celebrity Special Guests at 7pm for VIP Ticket holders!

To buy tickets: Click Here

About LifeWorks:

LifeWorks offers one on one, peer, and group mentoring opportunities for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender youth ages 14-24. Our goal is to help GLBTQ youth to realize their goals and dreams with a safe space, positive and affirming role models, and workshops & activities that are fun and educational.

See you can become a mentor: Click Here

Organization’s Annual Fundraiser Honors Ellen DeGeneres and Clear Channel Radio Los Angeles; Jodie Foster Presents The Trevor Founders Award

The Trevor Project Raises Record Amount at Cracked Xmas 10

LOS ANGELES, Dec. 10 /PRNewswire/ — The Trevor Project (Trevor), the non-profit organization that operates the nation’s only around-the-clock suicide prevention helpline for gay and questioning youth, today announced that it raised more than $463,000 at its tenth annual Cracked Xmas event. The amount raised is a record for the organization and came from corporate sponsorships, ticket sales and the sale of live and silent auction items. The fundraiser, sponsored in major part by presenting sponsor Washington Mutual and premier sponsors, Absolut Vodka, Blue Collar Productions, TNT and Wells Fargo, recognized the recipients of the organization’s annual honorary awards. Ellen DeGeneres, host of the The Ellen DeGeneres Show, which has won 21 Emmy Awards(R), received The Trevor Life Award; Clear Channel Radio Los Angeles, recently named as a best place to work for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender employees by the Human Rights Campaign Corporate Equality Index, received The Trevor Hope Award. The event was held on December 2, 2007 at the Wiltern Theatre in Los Angeles.

“We are extremely encouraged by the funds raised at Cracked Xmas 10 to help the organization support desperate gay and questioning young people,” said Charles Robbins, executive director of The Trevor Project. “The Trevor Project urgently needs increased funding to meet the growing demand for our critical work. The record amount raised at this year’s event will enable us to expand our outreach, raise our visibility and continue to provide our confidential helpline, website and educational materials to our nation’s youth.”

In one of the evening’s most emotional moments, two-time Academy Award(R)-winning actress Jodie Foster presented The Trevor Founders Award to screenwriter James Lecesne and director Peggy Rajski. Ms. Foster accepted the award, posthumously, on behalf of her dear friend, producer Randy Stone. The award was given to the organization’s founders in recognition of the tenth anniversary of the first Cracked Xmas benefit and was presented in memory of Mr. Stone, who passed away unexpectedly in February of 2007.

Before the award presentation, Ms. Foster appeared in a moving filmed tribute to Mr. Stone with the founders and Jeffrey Stone, Mr. Stone’s brother. During the course of the poignant film, Ms. Foster observed, “I think Randy wishes that he had had a hotline that he could have called, that there was a hand for him that he could have held. And the Trevor mission really is an opportunity, I think, for all of us to look back at our lives and say ‘how can we give back to young people?’ How can we provide almost a face of family for young people who are questioning?”

In accepting The Trevor Life Award, Ms. DeGeneres movingly reflected on her own youth and how she has dealt with challenging periods in her life. “I had parents who loved me and I still felt different,” said Ms. DeGeneres. “I think that what I don’t understand — what I will never understand — is how different is bad or different is wrong. I don’t know why different is wrong… If there is a message that I can send to kids out there struggling, to anyone struggling, and it’s a weird one, but when you get through it, when you’re in that dark, dark place and when you’re devastated, when you get through it, those are some of the most beautiful, most important lessons you’ll ever learn in life.”

Among the celebrities who supported the organization through their presence were Grey’s Anatomy’s T. R. Knight, comedian Margaret Cho, Carmen Electra, Ricki Lake, Bruce Vilanch, Ugly Betty’s Alec Mapa, Entourage’s Rex Lee and vocalist Frenchie Davis. The live auction items included luxurious trips to the Hamptons and Hawaii and special VIP packages to attend tapings of The Ellen DeGeneres Show. The auctioneers were Andrea Fiuczynski, president of Christie’s Los Angeles, and Scott McPhail, Cracked Xmas event co-chair.

The Trevor Life Award honors an individual who through his or her example, support, volunteerism and/or occupation, is an inspiration to gay and questioning youth. The Trevor Hope Award honors a company or organization that, through its policies, initiatives and other efforts, demonstrates a commitment to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) causes and is a prominent, public example of corporate acceptance of individuals regardless of sexual orientation. Past recipients of The Trevor Life Award are Roseanne Barr (2006), Marc Cherry (2005), Debra Messing and Megan Mullally (2004), Rosie O’Donnell (2003) and Armistead Maupin (2002). Prior recipients of The Trevor Hope Award are HBO (2006), LPI Media Inc. (2005) and Wells Fargo (2004).

In 1998, The Trevor Project held its first annual Cracked Xmas fundraising gala in order to keep The Trevor Helpline open and available to gay and questioning youth. Now an annual event, Cracked Xmas brings together top entertainers to raise financial resources necessary to fund the organization’s services.

About The Trevor Project

The Trevor Project is a non-profit organization that operates the only nationwide, around-the-clock suicide prevention helpline for gay and questioning youth. The Trevor Helpline, 866-4-U-TREVOR, is a free and confidential service that offers hope through its trained counselors. In addition to the helpline, the organization’s website provides information on identifying and assisting potentially suicidal youth and “Dear Trevor,” a confidential resource where youth can ask questions about sexual orientation and identity issues. The Trevor Project also provides lifesaving guidance and vital resources to educators and parents. The organization was founded by three filmmakers whose film, Trevor, about a teenager who attempts suicide after realizing that he might be gay, received the 1994 Academy Award(R) for Best Short Film (Live Action).

For more information about The Trevor Project, visit http://www.TheTrevorProject.org. The Trevor Project is a 501(c)(3) organization.

Website: http://www.thetrevorproject.org/

Earthtimes.org (Press Release)
Trevor Project to Honor Ellen DeGeneres and Clear Channel at 10th Annual Cracked Xmas Event
News Category : PressRelease

LOS ANGELES, Nov. 21 /PRNewswire/ —

WHAT: The Trevor Project’s 10th annual gala event on December 2nd with presentations of The Trevor Life Award to Ellen DeGeneres and The Trevor Hope Honoree to Clear Channel Communications.

WHEN: Sunday, December 2, 2007 3:00pm – Press check in 3:30pm – VIP Pre-show Reception & Silent Auction 5:00pm – Cracked Xmas Show and Live Auction

WHERE: The Wiltern Theatre 3790 Wilshire Blvd. Los Angeles, CA, 90010 WHO: Honorees Ellen DeGeneres and Clear Channel’s Jim Murphy; Special appearances by Jodie Foster, T. R. Knight, Rikki Lake, Bruce Vilanch, Alec Mapa (Ugly Betty), Rex Lee (Entourage), Ana Ortiz (Ugly Betty), Brittany Snow (Hairspray), Jeremy Sumpter (Peter Pan), J.P. Calderone (Survivor) and more.

INFO: The Trevor Project is a non-profit organization that operates the only nationwide, around-the-clock suicide prevention helpline for gay and questioning youth. The Trevor Helpline, 866.4.U.TREVOR, is a free and confidential service that offers hope through its trained counselors.

In addition to the helpline, the organization’s website provides information on identifying and assisting potentially suicidal youth and “Dear Trevor,” a confidential resource where youth can ask questions about sexual orientation and identity issues.

The Trevor Project also provides lifesaving guidance and vital resources to educators and parents. The organization was founded by three filmmakers whose film, Trevor, about a teenager who attempts suicide after realizing that he might be gay, received the 1994 Academy Award(R) for Best Short Film (Live Action). Tickets Available For tickets and more information http://www.thetrevorproject.org/

For more information about The Trevor Project, please visit www.thetrevorproject.org.

The Trevor Project is a 501 (c)(3) organization.

The Trevor Project.

Recently, since the writer’s strike began, a lot of the major on-line news and gossip columns have reported on a site attributed to Bruce Vilanch which is absolutley false, complete with fake signs/slogans and a false email address…it’s not his! I am gladly passing on this message from Mr. Vilanch at his request:

“I have nothing to do with Brucestrikes.com. I’ve been punked bigtime. However, I am pleased to see in the photo I look thin.

thanks!”

Bruce and his camp are doing what they can to stifle this. I’m going to go one step farther and ask everyone….if you see this posted anywhere, please take the time to comment that this whole thing is erroneous. You can refer them back to this site and article. Just click on the tile of this article to make the link.

Or if you’d like, you can also write me if you see the erroneous news and I’ll be glad to forward the site to Mr. Vilanch and his management so that they can contact the editor personally.

Thanks so much,

Love, Mister D

PS: We can be the “Bruce Brigade!”

Mister D: Check out the Jury Duty site to see local listings!

Press Release: Sept 17, 2007

Court is now in session for Celebrity Attorney Vicki Roberts on new TV show “Jury Duty.” This isn’t about a pool cue — who stole whose girl?!

Los Angeles, CA (PRWEB) September 17, 2007 — Executive Producer Vincent Dymon has been busy serving up jury duty notices to celebrities for his new syndicated series, “Jury Duty.” Phyllis Diller, Bruce Vilanch, Paula Poundstone, and celebrity attorney/actress Vicki Roberts are among the celebrities set to serve as jurors in the newly, much-anticipated original series. According to Radar Entertainment, the independent company headed up by Vincent and Linda Dymon that is distributing and producing the show, which utilizes real small claims cases, the celebrity court reality show has already cleared more than 80% of the U.S. markets for its September 17th launch.

“Jury Duty,” which is presided over by Judge Bruce Cutler (New York lawyer famous for defending mob boss John Gotti and recently part of the Phil Spector defense team), features celebrities serving as jury members who would normally be excused from jury duty because of their public status.

Sharing the juror’s box with television’s “Growing Pains” Tracey Gold and two-time Olympic gold medal winner Maurice Greene, longtime veteran at civil litigation, Vicki Roberts, was able to bring her expertise in California law to the television show.

“I was caught off guard when they served me a notice to show up for jury duty!” said Vicki Roberts, celebrity attorney and actress. I am used to standing in front of the judge, so being a part of the jury gave me the opportunity to deliberate with my peers on each case. It was challenging, comical, and fascinating!”

Unlike a normal court case, “Jury Duty” features three celebrity jurors who take turns asking the litigants questions about the case. During one segment with Roberts, two men were arguing over a stolen pool cue and who should pay for its theft. Roberts astutely exclaimed, “This isn’t about a pool cue — who stole whose girl?!”

“Vicki Roberts is a talented and inspirational lady,” stated Executive Producer, Vincent Dymon. “I personally have great respect for her and the mark she’s made in this industry. I look forward to having her return to Jury Duty next season.”

With over twenty-four years of experience in the courtroom, Vicki Roberts has represented some of the most recognizable faces in the entertainment industry. She has served as a legal commentator for Celebrity Justice, Extra, MSNBC’s The Abrams Report, and VH1’s legal music show, Rock and a Hard Place. Her expertise in the legal system can also be found in her contribution to the newly released book introduced by Larry King, Beyond a Reasonable Doubt.

Vicki Roberts is also known for her guest-starring role in the critically acclaimed feature film “Being Michael Madsen” where she actually consulted and wrote much of her dialogue consistent with her experience as a litigator. The highly anticipated film will premiere at the Raindance Film Festival in London this fall. She is also the Executive Producer of and is featured in the documentary drama, “Through Your Eyes” which features the only deaf-blind triplets in the world, and was the executive producer and co-producer of the short film, “Passengers” directed by Luis Cuenca Castro.

The guest stars on “Jury Duty” agree that being served by TV pioneer, self distributor Vincent Dymon is a good thing. Not only did Dymon shake up the usual way of doing business in the world of TV, but he managed to score top markets of New York (WPIX), Los Angeles (KCAL) and Chicago (WCIU) on an all-barter basis and sell the format to broadcasters in at least three international territories.

Vicki Roberts can be seen on five separate court cases where she and her guest co-stars will render verdicts on five separate shows that will be aired randomly throughout the season.

Media Contact: Heather J. Taylor at Alliance Worldwide Communications, Inc. htaylor @ alliancewc.com – For more information on Vicki Roberts, visit Vicki Roberts (II) – For more information about “Jury Duty”, visit www.juryduty.tv.