Project Runway viewing party Jan. 14
Gays love Project Runway, that’s no secret. Just check out our cover story in this issue! But rarely do fans get to chum with the celeb designers while the show is airing on the tube. Locals will get a chance to chat up and celebrate with Season 7 designer Ben Chmura at Rawbar Sushi during the Thursday, Jan. 14 premiere of the Lifetime show. Ben and his adorable husband Bobbie are throwing the posh party on the N. Ashley Drive restaurant in Tampa at 8:30 p.m. On top of taking photo ops with the reality star and local designer, attendees can partake in drink and food specials and win several raffle prizes donated by such luminary fashionistas as Andrew Ashton of LaPosh Salon, Fashion Week Tampa Bay and New Identities. Grab your posh outfit and head out for a night to remember and cheer on our local contestant.
Gypsy closer to finding a home
The ongoing hunt for a new home for Gypsy Productions seems to be never-ending. The professional alternative theater company began at the Suncoast Resort and has drifted from place to place since the resort closed in 2007. After years of frustration and several potential new homes vanishing, Trevor Keller, artistic director, is hopeful that his company will have a permanent home sometime this year. Keller said that he has toured a theater on Central Avenue that would not only house the theater company permanently, but incorporate two bars as well. While Keller has several themes in mind for the club, he doesn’t want to unveil too much too soon. What he did say, however, was that an artistic theme would flow throughout the large building and a dance club could be a part of the package. Here’s to hoping that the gay theater company finally lands on solid footing in 2010—it definitely deserves it.
Turnon’s time to party
Nikki Turnon has become an LGBT advocate since taking over the Chelsea Night Club in Tampa last year. Now, the straight owner of the neighborhood gay club wants to celebrate her birthday with patrons and friends alike. Special entertainment is promised for the Jan. 14 shindig and Turnon promises to announce details soon.
