Some of us were born this way. It's a fact of nature; beautiful, diverse flowering nature, where out here in California, in the dead of winter, we can enjoy wildflowers, sunshine and flagrantly fabulous gayness.
"We should declare our fabulousness, says Paul Vitagliano, the Los Angeles DJ and editor of Born This Way, the fabulous book based on blog posts about our young gay preteen awareness (see the fab photo above), along with some fab photos (see above!). Paul V. discusses his acclaimed project Thursday, Jan. 17, 7:30pm at Books Inc. 2275 Market St. www.BornThisWayBlog.com www.booksinc.net
Read my interview with Vitgaliano, HERE.
And now for some more nature-themed events sure to bring out your re-blossoming love of life.
Sat 12: Navigating
Queer Pacific Waves
@ Galeria de la Raza
Opening reception for a group exhibit of new works in various media by Jean Melesaine, Fuifuilupe Niumeitolu, Jorge Manuel Gonzales, Joy Enomoto, and collaborating artists who focus on their Pacific Islander roots and explore colonialism and LGBT oppression. 7:30pm-10pm. Exhibit thru March 2. Tue-Sat 12pm-6pm. 2857 24th St. at Bryant. 826-8009. www.galeriadelaraza.org
Sun 13: Magnificent Magnolias @ SF
Botanical Garden
New seasonal exhibit of colorful floral displays, with special events, for evening adult events, lectures, and kids events. Also, beautiful floral drawing exhibit of watercolor works by Ernest Clayton (thru April). $2-$15. 9am-7pm. Thru March. 9th Avenue at Lincoln Way, Golden Gate Park. 661-1316. www.sfbotanicalgarden.org
Sun 13: Rebels With a Cause @ Dance Palace, Point Reyes
Nancy Kelly and Kenji Yamamoto's documentary about the history of the environmental activists who saved the coastal wonders that became the Point Reyes National Seashore and Golden Gate National Recreational Area is narrated by Frances McDormand. $15. 6pm (3pm screening sold out). 503 B St., Point Reyes. 663-9480. www.ptreyesbooks.com
Sun 13: SF Hiking Club @ Eastern Shore
Join GLBT hikers for a 7-mile hike along San Francisco's eastern shore from the Bayview to India Basin and China Basin. See hidden gardens and parks and the port and power station. There will be hills, stairways, and murals. If the sky is clear, Mt. Diablo, Mt. San Bruno, Mt. Sutro, and Mt. Tam plus the Golden Gate Bridge and the Bay Bridge will be visible. Meet at 10am at the Muni T line stop at Third and Le Conte (the T line train leaving Castro at 9:17 and leaving Embarcadero at 9:27). Bring water, lunch, layers, hat, comfortable shoes. 794-2275. www.sfhiking.com
Thu 17: San Francisco Days @ Rayko Photo Center
Opening reception for a group exhibit of historic and contemporary Bay Area prints by several photographers. 6pm-8pm. Exhibit thru Feb 24. Tue-Thu 10am-10pm. Fri & Sun 10am-8pm. 428 3rd St. 495-3773. www.raykophoto.com
Gender blender
Variations on the staid binary gender code get a deserved shake-up in film, theatre, music, performance and even a nightclub party. �" J.P.
Thu 10: Maggots and Men @ Roxie Cinema
Frameline presents a one-night screening of Cary Cronewett's innovative faux-retro Russian-esque B&W film about sailors of the Soviet, and gender expression, performed by an all transgender cast. 7pm. 3117 16th St. www.frameline.org www.roxie.com
Fri 11: Hedwig and the Angry Inch @ Boxcar Theatre
New local production of John Cameron Mitchell and Stephen Trask's popular transgender rock operetta, with multiple actor-singers perfoming the lead (Arturo Galster, John Lewis, James Mayagoitia, Ste Fishell, Nikkie Arias, Nicole Julien, Anastasia Bonaccorso, and CC Sheldon). $25-$35. Wed-Sat 8pm. Also Sat 5pm. Thru Jan 26. 505 Natoma St. 967-2227. www.boxcartheatre.org
Fri 11: Peterson Toscano @ Quaker Hall, LGBT Center
The gay performance artists presents two of his comic queer takes on the Bible; Jesus Had Two Daddies, Donations, 7pm, SF Friends Meetings Hall, 65 9th St. Then, Jan 17, at 6:30pm, Transfigurations, Transgressing Gender in the Bible, his multi-character solo play about gender-variant biblical characters. 1800 Market St. www.petersontoscano.com
Sat 12: Timmy Spence Birthday Bash @ Rebel
Heklina and Peaches Christ cohost a 60th birthday tribute to a "legendary drag fossil," with Arturo Galster, Miss X, Laurie Bushman, Darlin', Pippi Lovestocking, D'Arcy Drollinger, Deena Davenport, Sexitude and others. Aso, a tribute to the films of Doris Wishman. DJs Chicken and Dank. 8pm-1am. 1760 Market St. at Octavia. www.rebel-sf.com
Thu 17: Lady Gaga @ HP Pavilion, San Jose
The pop music icon performs her Born This Way Ball concert. Madeon and Lady Starlight open. $50-$240. 7:30pm. 525 W Santa Clara, San Jose. www.Ticketmaster.com
Thu 17: Fauxgirls @ Infusion Lounge
The classy drag revue (3rd Thursdays) has moved to a new location, and celebrates its 11th year; Victoria Secret, Alexandria, Chanel, Maria Garza, Mini Minerva, Kipper, Daffney Deluxe and Ruby LeBrowne, with special guest Anya; dinner seating at 7pm. Show at 8pm. No cover. 124 Ellis St. 421-8700. www.fauxgirls.com
Events Jan 10�"17, 2012
Thu 10
Comedy Bodega @ Esta Nocha
The weekly LGBT and indie comic stand-up night. 8pm-9:30pm. 3079 16th St. at Mission. www.comedybodega.com
The Future Imagined @ Performance Art Institute
The Future as the Design, a panel discussion about design elements of future human-machine interective products like prosthetic limbs, and unusual creative variations; with Scott Summit, Tim McNeil, Jonathan Keats, and reps from Bespoke Innovations and CoDame. 7pm. Part of the last week of the exhibit, thru Jan 12 (appintment only: 566-7515 ) 75 Boardman Place. www.thefutureimagined.com
How-To Nightlife @ California Academy of Sciences
Craft stations, T-shirt designs, silkscreening, and lots of tutorial experts host tables and booths; plus food, cocktails and DJed dancing. $10-$12. 6pm-10pm, 55 Music Concourse Drive, Golden Gate Park. 379-8000. www.calacademy.org
I Want It All @ Oddball Films
Consumer Culture on the Skids, a screening of '50s to '80s shorts films and commercials from the crass consumerist culture. 8pm. Fri Jan 11, a 'Triple Fisher' night with screenings of the three �"count 'em; three�" biopics made about slutty attempted murderess Amy Fisher. 8pm. Each night $10. 275 Capp St. 558-8117. www.oddballfilms.com
The Lion King @ Orpheum Theatre
Disney's long-running musical (and the highest grossing Broadway show in history) based on the animated film, makes a return to the Bay Area. $32.50-$150. Tue-Sat 8pm. Sat 2pm, Sun 1pm. (closed or different times for some holidays). Thru Jan. 13, 2013. (888) 746-1799. www.shnsf.com
Maggots and Men @ Roxie Cinema
Frameline presents a one-night screening of Cary Cronewett's innovative faux-retro Russian-esque B&W film about sailors of the Soviet, and gender expression, performed by an all transgender cast. 7pm. 3117 16th St. www.frameline.org www.roxie.com
The Marvelous Wonderettes @ New Conservatory Theatre Center
NCTC's production of the upbeat hit Off-Broadway musical about three women in the late 1950s who reminisce while singing '50s and early '60s pop tunes. $20-$50 (fun-pack). Wed-Sat 8pm, Sun 2pm. Thru Jan 13. 25 Van Ness Ave., lower level. 861-8972. www.nctcsf.org
Nayland Blake @ YBCA
FREE!LOVE!TOOL!BOX!, the former Bay Area artist's new exhibit of conceptual and assembled found-object, personal installations and artworks, each with queer themes, including a DJ booth with his own large record collection. Also, Nathalie Djurberg's amazing colorful creature sculptures. $12-$15. Thru Jan. 27. Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, 701 Mission St. 979-2787. www.naylandblake.net www.ybca.org
On the Road Panel @ SF Public Library
Jack Kerouac's classic book On the Road is soon to be released as a new film. Kerouac biographer Gerald Nicosia chairs a panel discussion with Kerouac and Beat experts Peter Coyote, Dennis McNally, Joanna McClure, Rick Dale and Brad Parker. They will examine the cultural and artistic impact of the novel over the past 55 years and how the new movie is likely to affect Beat influence in our culture as well as how the Beats themselves are viewed in the new film and as icons. 6pm. Main Library, Lower Level, Koret Auditorium, 100 Larkin St. at Grove. www.sfpl.org
Pictorialism @ Robert Tat Gallery
Pictorialism: The Photograph Becomes Art, a new exhibit of historic prints that visualize the posed, artistic aspect of early art photographers (Alfred Stieglitz, Imogen Cunningham and many others). Thru Feb 23. Tue-Sat 11am-5:30pm. (first Thursdays til 7:30pm). 49 Geary St. Suite 410. 781-1122. www.roberttat.com
Really Rosie @ New Conservatory Theatre Center
Carole King's musical adaptation of the popular Maurice Sendak children's book series Nutshell Kids, about some imaginative Brooklyn children; performed by NCTC's Youth Conservatory Program. Sat 2pm & 4pm. Sun 2pm. Thru Jan 13. 25 Van Ness Ave., lower level. 861-8972. www.nctcsf.org
Russ Lorenson @ Live at the Rrazz
The local crooner performs his Bobby Darin tribute. $30. 2pm. 1000 Van Ness Ave. (800) 380-3095. www.liveattherrazz.com
Samsara, Beau Travail @ Castro Theatre
Two evocative visual films, one environmental (3pm, 7pm), the other homoerotic (5pm, 9pm). $8-$11. 429 Castro St. www.castrotheatre.com
Something Cloudy, Something Clear @ Eureka Theatre
Theatre Rhinoceros' production of Tennessee Williams' rarely-produced play about a game of love and death between a playwright and two drifters. $10-$15. Wed-Sat 8pm. Sun 3pm. Thru Jan 13. 215 Jackson St. (800) 838-3006. www.TheRhino.org
Fri 11
Alfred Hitchcock Films @ Pacific Film Archive, Berkeley
Screening of the major works of the master of cinematic suspense. Tonight, The 39 Steps. 7pm. Sabotage at 8:45pm. Jan 12, 6:30pm, The Man Who Knew Too Much. Jan. 16, 7pm, Rebecca (7pm). Other films thru April 24. $5.50-$13.50. UC Berkeley Art Museum, 2575 Bancroft Way, Berkeley. (510) 642-1124. www.bampfa.berkeley.edu
Cherrelle & Alexander O'Neal @ Yoshi's
R&B duo known for '80s hit singles perform live. $34-$42. 8pm & 10:30pm. Also Jan 12. 1330 Fillmore St. 655-5600. www.yoshis.com
Desert Jewels @ MOAD
North African Jewelry and Photography from the Xavier Guerrand-Hermes Collection, an exhibit of nearly 100 pieces of jewelry from Egypt, Tunisia, Morocco and Algeria, plus documentary photographs. Thru Jan 21. $5-$10. Members free. Wed-Sat 11am-6pm. Sun 12pm-5pm. Museum of the African Diaspora, 685 Mission St. 358-7200. www.moadsf.org
Foodies, the Musical @ Shelton Theater
Morris Bobrow's musical comedy revue of songs and sketches about food. $32-$34. Fri & Sat 8pm. Open run. 533 Sutter St. (800) 838-3006. www.foodiesthemusical.com
Hedwig and the Angry Inch @ Boxcar Theatre
New local production of John Cameron Mitchell and Stephen Trask's popular transgender rock operetta, with multiple actor-singers performing the lead (Arturo Galster, John Lewis, James Mayagoitia, Ste Fishell, Nikkie Arias, Nicole Julien, Anastasia Bonaccorso, and CC Sheldon). $25-$35. Wed-Sat 8pm. Also Sat 5pm. Thru Jan 26. 505 Natoma St. 967-2227. www.boxcartheatre.org
Hippy Icon @ Berkeley Marsh
Wavy Gravy performs his informal unpredictable solo show Hippy Icon, Flower Geezer and Temple of Accumulated Error, his stories of Woodstock, meeting Bob Dylan, Albert Einstein, and other people and events. $15-$50. Fri 8pm, Sat 5pm, Sun 2pm. Thru Feb 10. 2120 Allston Way at Shattuck. 282-3055. www.themarsh.org
New and Classic Films @ Castro Theatre
Jan 11: Midnites for Maniacs screens Wayne's World, Step Brothers and Freddy Got Fingered. Jan 12: Raiders of the Lost Ark and Superman, the Movie (Christopher Reeve version). Jan 13: Cloud Atlas. Jan 15: Argo. Jan 16: Holy Motors and Being John Malkovich. Jan 17: Taxi Driver and Drive. $8.50-$12. 429 Castro St. www.castrotheatre.com
Out of Character @ Asian Art Museum
Decoding Chinese Calligraphy, an exhibit of modern and ancient scripted art, with numerous special events, workshops and discussions. Free-$12. Tue-Sun 10am-5pm. Thru Jan 13. 200 Larkin St. 581-3500. www.asianart.org
Peterson Toscano @ Quaker Hall, LGBT Center
The gay performance artists presents two of his comic queer takes on the Bible; Jesus Had Two Daddies, Donations, 7pm, SF Friends Meetings Hall, 65 9th St. Then, Jan 17, at 6:30pm, Transfigurations, Transgressing Gender in the Bible, his multi-character solo play about gender-variant biblical characters. 1800 Market St. www.petersontoscano.com
Santa Rosa Symphony String Quartet @ Old First Church
The North Bay ensemble performs works by Boccerini, Beethoven and Haydn. $14-$17. 8pm. 1751 Sacramento St. www.oldfirstconcerts.org
The Waiting Period @ The Marsh
Brian Copeland returns with his popular solo show about chronic depression and his near-suicidal thoughts while awaiting a gun permit. $30-$35. Fri 8pm. Sat 5pm. Thru Jan 26. 1062 Valencia St. at 22nd. 282-3055. www.themarsh.org
Woyzeck @ Ashby Stage, Berkeley
Shotgun Players' production of Robert Wilson's re-conceived musical revision of Georg Buchner's stage play, with music and lyrcis by Tom Waits and Kathleen Brennan; a tragic tale about a soldier who returns home to find his girl is having an affair. $25-$35. Wed & Thu 7pm. Fri & Sat 8pm. Sun 5pm. Thru Jan 27. 1901 Ashby Ave., Berkeley. (510) 841-6500. www.shotgunplayers.org
Your Body is Not a Shark @ ODC Theater
Choreographer Cid Pearlman, composer Joan Jeanrenaud and other performers and artists' performance work that explores the creative impulse inspired by physical limitations and disability. $18-$24. Fri & Sat 8pm. Sun 3pm. Thru Jan 13. 3153 17th St. 863-9834. www.odctheater.org
Sat 12
100 Years of Rural California @ California Historical Society
Exhibit of 150 large-scale color prints by writer-photographer Lisa Hamilton, and archival selections dating back to the 1880s. Thru Mar. 24. 2013. 678 Mission St. 357-1848. www.californiahistoricalsociety.org
Acid Test @ The Berkeley Marsh
Warren David Keith performs Lynne Kaufman's solo show Acid Test: The Many Incarnations of Ram Dass, a biographical look at a spiritual contemporary of Timothy Leary. $15-$50. Sat 8pm. Sun 5pm. Thru Feb 17. 2120 Allston Way at Shattuck. 282-3055. www.themarsh.org
Beach Blanket Babylon @ Club Fugazi
Musical comedy revue, now in its 35th year, with an ever-changing lineup of political and pop culture icons, all in gigantic wigs. Reg: $25-$130. Wed, Thu, Fri at 8pm. Sat 6:30, 9:30pm. Sun 2pm, 5pm. (Beer/wine served; cash only). 678 Beach Blanket Babylon Blvd (Green St.). 421-4222. www.beachblanketbabylon.com
Bell, Book and Candle @ SF Playhouse
Romantic comedy about a mortal man and a witch (the play and film inspired Bewitched). $30-$60. Tue-Thu 7pm. Fri & Sat 8pm. Sun 3pm. Thru Jan 19. 450 Post St. above Farallon Restaurant. 677-9596. www.sfplayhouse.org
Dancing in the Dragon's Jaws: Gay San Francisco, 1985-1988 @ SF Public Library
Thomas Alleman's exhibit of fascinating new large-print photos from San Francisco's mid-1980s gay community, from the onslaught of AIDS to nightlife and arts celebrations. Exhibit thru Feb 10. Jewitt Gallery, lower level, 100 Larkin St. at Grove. www.allemanphoto.com www.sfpl.org
Earthquake @ California Academy of Sciences
New exhibit and planetarium show with various live, interactive and installed exhibits about our ever-shifting earth. $20-$30. Mon-Sat 9:30am-5pm. Sun 11am-5pm. 55 Music Concourse Drive, Golden Gate Park. 379-8000. www.calacademy.org
Eric Fischl @ San Jose Museum of Art
Exhibit of a dozen-plus large paintings, and other works by the prominent post-modern neo-realist. Thru May 12, 2013. 110 South Market St. www.SanJoseMuseumofArt.org
Frank Jackson @ Live at the Rrazz
The veteran vocalist performs jazz favorites with his band. $30. 8pm. Also Jan 13, 4pm. 1000 Van Ness Ave. (800) 380-3095. www.liveattherrazz.com
Jasper Johns, Jay DeFeo @ SF MOMA
Two exhibits of the American artists' works. Thru Feb 3. Also, Paul Klee's Circus, Alessandro Pessoli, the photo exhibit South Africa in Apartheid and After (Thru Mar 3), and other works and ongoing Modern art exhibits. Free-$18. 151 3rd St. at Mission. Thu-Tue 11am-5:45pm (8:45 Thursdays). 357-4000. www.sfmoma.org
The Listener @ The Marsh
Charlie Varon performs his new show of five original comic stories in a workshop production. $15-$50. Sat 8pm, Sun 5pm. Thru Jan 27. 1062 Valencia St. 282-3055. www.themarsh.org
Love Will Fix It @ Hot Spot
DJ Bus Station John's intimate monthly (2nd Saturdays) retro disco night with an R&B focus, re-decorates the cozy dive bar into a cool dance hangout; popular with a gaily diverse crowd. $5. 9pm-2am. 1414 Market St. at Polk.
Navigating Queer Pacific Waves @ Galeria de la Raza
Opening reception for a group exhibit of new works in various media by Jean Melesaine, Fuifuilupe Niumeitolu, Jorge Manuel Gonzales, Joy Enomoto, and collaborating artists, with a focus on their Pacific Islander roots, and explore colonialism and LGBT oppression. 7:30pm-10pm. Exhibit thru March 2. Tue-Sat 12pm-6pm. 2857 24th St. at Bryant. 826-8009. www.galeriadelaraza.org
Queer Dharma @ San Francisco Zen Center
Monthly Zen Buddhist meditation and discussion group offered by and for members of the LGBTIQ community. Everyone is welcome. 1-3pm. 300 Page St. with speaker Tova Green. www.sfzc.org
Royal Treasures from the Louvre @ Legion of Honor
Exhibit of decorative arts, most never seen in the U.S., from the reigns of Louis XIV to Marie-Antoinette, from the Musee du Louvre, Paris. Free-$20. Tue-Sun 9:30am-5:15pm. Thru March 17. Lincoln Park, 34th Ave and Clement St. www.legionofhonor.org
Rudolf Nureyev: A Life in Dance @ de Young Museum
Direct from the Centre National du Costume de Scene in Moulins, France, this exhibit displays costumes, photos, videos and ephemera documenting the amazing dancing and choreography of the world-famous gay dancer. Thru Feb 17. Also, Chuck Close and Crown Point Press , an exhibit of the painter's printmaking works; also, permanent exhibits of Modern art. $6-$20. Tue-Sun 9:30am-5:15pm. 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive, Golden Gate Park. 750-3600. www.famsf.org
Timmy Spence Birthday Bash @ Rebel
Heklina and Peaches Christ cohost a 60th birthday tribute to a "legendary drag fossil," with Arturo Galster, Miss X, Laurie Bushman, Darlin', Pippi Lovestocking, D'Arcy Drollinger, Deena Davenport, Sexitude and others. Aso, a tribute to the films of Doris Wishman. DJs Chicken and Dank. 8pm-1am. 1760 Market St. at Octavia. www.rebel-sf.com
Tom Wopat @ Livermore Performing Arts Center
TV and Tony-nominated Broadway star (Dukes of Hazzard, Annie Get Your Gun) performs his cabaret act of jazz and standard songs in his husky baritone. $34-$54. 8pm. 2400 First St., Livermore. (925) 373-6800. www.mylvpac.com
Troublemaker @ Berkeley Rep
Berkeley Repertory's production of Dan LeFranc's commissioned Troublemaker, or The Freakin' Kick-A Adventures of Bradley Boatright, about a teenager who sees himself as a protective superhero. $29-$77. Tue, Thu-Sat 8pm. Wed & Sun 7pm. Sat & Sun 2pm. Thru Feb 3. Thrust Stage, 2025 Addison St., Berkeley. (510) 647-2917. www.berkeleyrep.org
Vision Your Best 2013 @ Rainbow Community Center, Concord
The RCC Spirituality Group kicks off its first monthly meeting in 2013 with the workshop, "What do you want your life to be like in 2013?" Free/donations appreciated. 10am-12pm. 2118 Willow Pass Road Ste 500. (925) 692-0090 ext 338. www.rainbowcc.org
The William S. Paley Collection: A Taste for Modernism @ de Young Museum
New exhibit of varied and little-seen Modern Art works collected by the New York art patron with a diverse taste, including paintings by Cezanne, Picasso, Matisse Degas, Toulouse-Lautrec and others. Also, This World Is Not My Home: Photographs by Danny Lyon, thru Jan. 27. $10-$20. Tue-Sun 9:30am-5:15pm. (til 8:45pm Fridays) Thru Dec. 30. Golden Gate Park, 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive. 750-3600. www.famsf.org
Where We're Going, We Don't Need Roads @ Gauntlet Gallery
Witty group exhibit of pop art in various media, all dealing with imagery from 1980s movies, at the new gallery. 11am-6pm Tue-Sat. Thru Jan 17. 1040 Larkin St. (650) 209-0278. www.gauntletgallery.com
You Are Here @ NIAD Art Center, Richmond
Opening reception for a group exhibit of NIAD artists, also Cache: New Work From Ken Weathersby and Real And Imagined Landscape: Lois Ann Barnett's Paintings. Reception 2pm-5pm. Reg hours Mon-Fri 9am-4pm. Thru Feb 25. 551 23rd St. (510) 620-0326. www.niadart.org
Sun 13
Antonio Iturrioz @ Old First Church
Enjoy Romantic and Post-Romantic music by Bach-Godowsky, Chopin, Liszt, Strauss, Scriabin and other composers, performed by the acclaimed concert pianist. $14-$17. 4pm. 1751 Sacramento St. 474-1608. www.oldfirstconcerts.org
Arrival From Sweden @ Yoshi's
ABBA cover band performs many of the Swedish pop quartet's hits, with an open dance floor so you can shake it in your 70s groovy garb. $22 (6pm) & $28 (8pm). 1330 Fillmore St. 655-5600. www.yoshis.com
Boys With Balls @ Classic Bowling Center, Daly City
Annual bowl-a-thon for charity, with lots of gay guys, DJs Jame Torres and Matt Consola, and VIP lane vouchers. Proceeds benefit the Castro Country Club and GLBT History Museum. $40-$200. 5pm-9pm. 900 King Drive, King Plaza Shopping Center, Daly City ($6 party bus to and from Castro district). www.boyswithballs.com
Cabaret Showcase Showdown @ Martuni's
The Countess Katya Smirnoff-Skyy and Mrs. Trauma Flintstone cohost the schedule announcement of the singing competition, with performances by Cara Burgoyne, Anne Marie Burgoyne and Dennis Sanchez. $7. 7pm. 4 Valencia St. at Market.
Ezra Jack Keats @ Contemporary Jewish Museum
The Snowy Day and the Art of Ezra Jack Keats, an exhibit of original artwork from the popular children's book author/illustrator. Thru Feb 24. Also, The Radical Camera: New York's Photo League, a group exhibition of fascinating photos from 1936-1951 taken by members of the progressive collective that documented the eras of postwar struggles, McCarthy blacklists, and urban life. Other exhibits (California Dreaming and Black Sabbath) ongoing. Free (members)-$12. Thu-Tue 11am-5pm (Thu 1pm-8pm) 736 Mission St. 655-7800. www.thecjm.org
David Barnett @ Castro Country Club
Exhibit of landscape and pet paintings by the local gay artist. Sales benefit the artist and the CCC; pet portrait commissions also available. Exhibit through Jan 18. 4058 18th St. www.DavidBarnettArt.com www.CastroCountryClub.org
Jonathan Poretz @ Live at the Rrazz
The Vegas-style crooner performs his Sinatra songbook. $30. 7pm. 1000 Van Ness Ave. (800) 380-3095. www.liveattherrazz.com
Magnificent Magnolias @ SF Botanical Garden
New seasonal exhibit of colorful floral displays, with special events, for evening adult events, lectures, and kids events. Also, beautiful floral drawing exhibit of watercolor works by Ernest Clayton (thru April). $2-$15. 9am-7pm. Thru March. 9th Avenue at Lincoln Way, Golden Gate Park. 661-1316. www.sfbotanicalgarden.org
Rebels With a Cause @ Dance Palace, Point Reyes
Nancy Kelly and Kenji Yamamoto's documentary about the history of the environmental activists who saved the coastal wonders that became the Point Reyes National Seashore and Golden Gate National Recreational Area; narrated by Frances McDormand. $15. 6pm (3pm screening sold out). 503 B St., Point Reyes. 663-9480. www.ptreyesbooks.com
SF Hiking Club @ Eastern Shore
Join GLBT hikers for a 7-mile hike along San Francisco's eastern shore from the Bayview to India Basin to China Basin. See hidden gardens and parks and the port and power station. There will be hills, stairways, and murals. If the sky is clear, Mt. Diablo, Mt. San Bruno, Mt. Sutro, and Mt. Tam plus the Golden Gate Bridge and the Bay Bridge will be visible. Meet at 10am at the Muni T line stop at Third and Le Conte (the T line train leaving Castro at 9:17 and leaving Embarcadero at 9:27). Bring water, lunch, layers, hat, comfortable shoes. 794-2275. www.sfhiking.com
Sundance Saloon @ Space 550
Popular country western LGBT dance night $5-$8. 6:30pm-10:30pm with lessons from 7:00 - 8:00 pm. Also Sundays 5pm-10:30pm with lessons from 5:30-7:15 pm. 550 Barneveld Ave. www.sundancesaloon.org
Sunday's a Drag @ Starlight Room
Donna Sachet and Harry Denton host the weekly fabulous brunch and drag show. $45. 11am, show at noon; 1:30pm, show at 2:30pm. 450 Powell St. in Union Square. 395-8595. www.harrydenton.com
Whoa Nellies @ Hemlock Tavern
The local retro-fun cover band performs with La gay country singer Glen Meadmore. $5. 7pm. 1131 Polk St. www.thewhoanellies.com
Mon 14
Animation Exhibits
@ Walt Disney Museum
See biographical exhibits about Walt Disney, early sketches and ephemera from historic Disney movies. Frequent lectures and film screenings. $5-$20. 104 Montgomery St., The Presidio. www.waltdisney.org
Comedy Returns @ El Rio
Laugh it up with stand-up comics Dhaya Lakshminarayanan, Steven Alan Green, Kenny Yun, Bobby Golden, and Lisa Geduldig. $7-$20. 8pm. 3158 Missioon St. www.koshercomedy.com www.elriosf.com
Piano Bar 101 @ Martuni's
Sing-along night with talented locals, and charming accompanist Joe Wicht (aka Trauma Flintstone). 9pm-1:30am. 4 Valencia St. at Market.
Ten Percent @ Comcast 104
David Perry's talk show about LGBT people and issues. This week, Perry interviews Martin Rawlings-Fein, organizer for the Bay Area Bisexual Network, and special events guru Andrew Freeman. Mon-Fri 11:30am & 10:30pm. Sat & Sun 10:30pm. www.comcasthometown.com
Tue 15
Curtis Stigers @ Live at the Rrazz
The popular saxophonist and singer performs music from his new album, Let's Go Oyt Tonight./ $35. 8pm. Also Jan 16. 1000 Van Ness Ave. (800) 380-3095. www.curtisstigers.com www.liveattherrazz.com
Dear Harvey Preview @ SF Public Library
Preview some scenes and meet the cast of Patricia Loughrey's new play based on the writings of and about Harvey Milk; presented by New Conservatory Theatre Center. Free. 6pm. Hormel Gay and Lesbian Center, Main Library Third Floor, 100 Larkin St. www.sfpl.org
Dot (Tom Schmidt) @ Magnet
Exhibit of photos from the photographer's book, Escort, portraiture of local male sex workers. Proceeds from book sales benefit the St. James Infirmary. Thru Jan. 4122 18th St. www.magnetsf.org
The Drag Show @ Various Channels
Stu Smith's weekly LGBT variety show features local talents, and not just drag artistes. Channels 29 & 76 on Comcast; 99 on AT&T and 30 on Astound. www.thedragshow.org
Feast of Words @ SOMArts Cultural Center
The montly series A Literary Potluck, with performer-playwright Thao K. Nguyen leading a writing workshop, and culinary expert Celia Racicot sharing French comfort food; potluck, bring food. $5-$12. 7pm-9pm. 934 Brannan St. at 9th. www.somarts.org
Funny Tuesdays @ Harvey's
Ronn Vigh hosts the weekly LGBT and gay-friendly comedy night. One drink or menu item minimum. 9pm. 500 Castro St. at 18th. 431-HARV. www.harveyssf.com
Kadir Nelson @ SF Public Library
Author of the new illustrated book edition of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr's "I Have a Dream" speech discusses his work. 6pm. Latino-Hispanic Meeting Roomn, lower level, main library, 100 Larkin st. www.sfpl.org
Safeway Holiday Ice Rink @ Union Square
The popular downtown ice skating rink is open. $5-$10. Open daily 10am-11:30pm thru Jan 21. Powell St. at Geary. www.unionsquareicerink.com
Wed 16
The Art of Dr. Seuss @ Dennis Rae Fine Art
Fascinating exhibit of rarely seen prints, paintings, sculptures and a few of the more known drawings by Theodor Geisel, the author/illustrator of the immensely popular children's books. Ongoing, with updates and new items. 351A Geary St. 391-1948. www.dennisraefineart.com
Candlelight Flow Yoga @ LGBT Center
David Clark leads various yoga poses and practices, plus meditation and breathing exercises. Bring your own mat and water bottle, etc. $10. 7pm-8:30pm. 1800 Market St. www.4dbliss.com
John Waguespack @ 111 Minna Gallery
Large-scale pop culture icon portraits and paintings by the local artist. Thru Jan. 26. Wed-Fri 12pm-5pm. 111 Minna St. 974-1719. www.111minnagallery.com/2012/new-works-by-john-waguespack/
Quit Smoking Class @ LGBT Center
LGBT community weekly support group and class on quitting cigarettes; 7 sessions, wEd. nights, with one Sat. afternoon. 7pm-9pm. 1800 Market St. 339-STOP. www.lastdrag.org
Play Fair @ GLBT History Museum
Play Fair! The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence Make Sex Safer, an exhibit of safe sex promotional efforts. Also, For Love and Community: Queer Asian Pacific Islanders Take Action 1960-1990s, an exhibit organized by queer and transgender Asian Pacific Islanders. Mon-Sat 11am-7pm. Sun 12pm-5pm. 4127 18th St. 621-1107. www.glbthistorymuseum.org
The Witch House @ The Garage
Anthony Julius Williams directs a production of Morgan Bassichs' queer take on the Salem with trials, where some young boys set out to make some money, but wind up involved in a supernatural adventure. $15. 8pm. Also Jan 17, 25, 26 (also 11:30pm) and 27 at 8pm. 715 Bryand St. at 5th. 663-6746. www.715bryant.org
Thu 17
4000 Miles @ American Conservatory Theatre
A.C.T. presents Amy Herzog's Obie Award-winning comic drama about growing up and growing old; when a 19-year-old visits his grandmother after a cross-country cycling trip, political and personal sparks fly. Special Bike to Theater Night Jan 17, with valet bike parking (bring your own lock!). $30-$125. Tue 7pm. Wed-Sat 8pm. Sat & Sun 2pm. Thru Feb 10. 415 Geary St. 749-2228. www.act-sf.org
Born This Way @ Books Inc
Paul Vitagliano, editor of the fabulous book based on blog posts about our young gay preteen awareness, along with some fab photos, reads from and discusses his book. 7:30pm. 2275 Market St. www.BornThisWayBlog.com www.booksinc.net
Comedy Bodega @ Esta Nocha
The new weekly LGBT and indie comic stand-up night. This week, Comedy Bodega's one-year Anniversary Show: Mark Davis, Dhaya Lakshminarayanan, Marga Gomez, Kate Willet, Miss Per Sia and other talents. 8pm-9:30pm. 3079 16th St. at Mission. www.comedybodega.com
Fauxgirls @ Infusion Lounge
The classy drag revue (3rd Thursdays) has moved to a new location, and celebrates its 11th year; Victoria Secret, Alexandria, Chanel, Maria Garza, Mini Minerva, Kipper, Daffney Deluxe and Ruby LeBrowne, with special guest Anya; dinner seating at 7pm. Show at 8pm. No cover. 124 Ellis St. 421-8700. www.fauxgirls.com
Gallery Crawl Nightlife @ Cal. Academy of Sciences
Enjoy pop-up gallery showcases from Ever Gold and others; All-Draw event, science art exhibits, plus food, cocktails and DJed dancing. $10-$12. 6pm-10pm, 55 Music Concourse Drive, Golden Gate Park. 379-8000. www.calacademy.org
Jefferson Starship @ Live at the Rrazz
The groovy rock band performs their hits and classics. $55-$65. 8pm. Jan 18 & 19, 7pm & 9:30pm. Jan 20, 7pm. 1000 Van Ness Ave. (800) 380-3095. www.liveattherrazz.com
Lady Gaga @ HP Pavilion, San Jose
The pop music icon performs her Born This Way Ball concert. Madeon and Lady Starlight open. $50-$240. 7:30pm. 525 W Santa Clara, San Jose. www.Ticketmaster.com
San Francisco Days @ Rayko Photo Center
Opening reception for a group exhibit of historic and contemporary Bay Area prints by several photographers. 6pm-8pm. Exhibit thru Feb 24. Tue-Thu 10am-10pm. Fri & Sun 10am-8pm. 428 3rd St. 495-3773. www.raykophoto.com
San Francisco Magic Parlor @ Chancellor Hotel
Whimsical Belle Epoque-style sketch and magic show that also includes historical San Francisco stories; hosted by Walt Anthony. with optional pre-show light dinner and desserts. $40. Thu-Sat 8pm. 433 Powell St. www.SFMagicParlor.com
Sundance Saloon @ Space 550
The popular country western LGBT dance night. $5. 6:30pm-10:30pm with lessons from 7:00 - 8:00 pm. Also Sundays 5pm-10:30pm with lessons from 5:30-7:15 pm. 550 Barneveld Ave. www.sundancesaloon.org
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To submit event listings, email [email protected].
Deadline is each Thursday, a week before publication.
For more bar and nightlife events, go to www.bartabsf.com