current issue | main page | infotainment | past editions | special events | classifieds...a-l | classifieds...m-z | feedback!

by Brad Benedict
BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA

Apollo's Follies Smashing Success

It was a night to remember as a record number of people turned out for one of the best shows to ever hit the old capital city. It was Apollo's Follies, held at the Baton Rouge Little Theater, and it was a summer extravaganza that will be remembered for some time to come. Captains Joe Boniol and Lester Mut put together a wonderful program, and it showed through as the crowd enjoyed this spectacular event. The Baton Rouge Krewe of Apollo has long been famous for their "summer extravaganzas," but this one has received more rave reviews than any I can recall in the past. There were many people helping Joe and Les, but I think everyone will agree that their participation in Apollo events has always produced the best whether it be entertainment, food, or costumes. I think they are both just absolutely great human beings. I love you, guys.

The professionalism of this show was astounding. From the overture by Louis Wendt and the opening "Beautiful Girls" from Follies by Don Hill, it was evident what the audience was about to experience. Krewe president Ken Gilbert welcomed everyone, and then stepped aside for the Showboat medley from Joe and Les. This dynamic duo then introduced the guests, and it was off to the races, darlings.

Celeste Veillon-Sutton did "So In Love," from Kiss Me Kate, followed by "I Hate You Then I Love You," performed by cutie-pie Chuck Chesteen and Camille Camelot (aka Scott Frederic) and "Maria" from the magic fingers of Don Hill. Tony Dees and Company did a Latin extravaganza that was outstanding, and Jackson, MS's Lauren Hart did a medley from Gypsy and Smokey Joe's Cafe.

The New Orleans Gay Men's Chorus performed "Cruella Deville," "Colors Of The Wind," and a Disney spectacular, and Veillon-Sutton returned to perform "Don't Rain On My Parade" from Funny Girl. Mary Bordelon and Charles Hartley did "I Shall Scream" from Oliver, and Chuck, Scott, Joe and Les ended things with "Vacation/No Holds Barred" from Pump Boys & Dinettes.

Hors d'oeuvres were served before the show began, and a buffet was presented afterwards. The krewe was in charge of the bar.

Krystal Kane Crowned Miss Mirror

The Mirror Lounge was packed for their latest pageant and their coveted Miss Mirror competition. Krystal Kane of Jackson, MS was named the winner with Effie Marie claiming first runner-up honor.

Performers for the evening included the absolutely fantastic Lady Rhonda, the beautiful and talented Sylvia Scarlett (Miss Gay Louisiana), Jessica Daniels (first runner-up to Miss Gay Louisiana), Shakier DeBlack (Miss Gay Southeast Louisiana, who relinquished her Miss Mirror title to Kane), Tori Wells, Mercedes Starr, and someone named Rose Royce, a very charming young woman.

The Lady wanted everyone to know that she was still employed at the Mirror Lounge in spite of what was printed elsewhere. Dan-oops, Don-and Tom were surprised to learn of her employment at the Blue Parrot.

For information on upcoming pageants, call Danny or Jeff at 504.387.9797.

Miscellanea

One of Baton Rouge's theater buffs, Richard of George's, was all praise for Apollo's Follies. He and Guy take in all the shows from New Orleans to New York and beyond, so that is a great compliment for a local presentation. Tommy met his fabulous Roger in Lake Charles last week, and they were guests of John and Billy, owners of Crystal's, for the Miss Lakeshores Pageant. Roger has his favorite bar in Houston and wanted to take some copies of Ambush back to place there. I made sure that he had enough to distribute.

Rose Royce walked away with a big title the other day. I think it was Miss BIG Gay Galaxy, or something like that. Congratulations, sweetie. It couldn't have happened to a nicer person.

Hotshotz, I heard, was sold this week to a straight couple, so when you are in the Monroe area, you may have to stay in and hit the Wet bottle until another Gay place opens. I think your closest drinking holes just might be in Jackson, MS or at Shreveport's Korner Lounge and Alexandria's Unique. I'll try to update you on this situation.

Hibiscus Bookstore and the Hide-A-Way are planning a super contest for the state. Miss Butch and Miss Femme will be the titles, and there are lots of darlings out there who can make the pitch for these honors. Call Hibiscus if you are interested in participating. The phone number is 504.387.4264. The show will be scheduled in the fall at Minette's fine establishment. Just remember, if you have a weenie, you can't qualify.

current issue | main page | infotainment | past editions | special events | classifieds...a-l | classifieds...m-z | feedback!