By Donna Sachet–
It was hastily arranged with limited publicity, but the recent fundraiser at Berber restaurant for Kippy Marks, frequent performer there who is facing daunting medical bills, gave us a chance to experience this space firsthand. Located on Broadway in a neighborhood we don’t frequent, Berber describes itself as a Moroccan restaurant with dinner shows. Both the food and the show exceeded our expectations. We were greeted by an engaging maitre’d in the spacious front room that seats dinner-only patrons, but the smaller, square back room hosts the shows, featuring aerialists, contortionists, musicians, dancers, and distinctly Moroccan entertainment. On the night we attended, a beautiful hostess started by singing a classic song and then introducing each solo performer, all dressed theatrically and displaying individual talents. Four courses of Moroccan-inspired cuisine, including duck, lamb, and beef, were served between performances, minimally, but effectively lit. For a very different night out, we recommend you give Berber a try!
Last month’s Divas & Drinks celebrated the birthday of the longest performing star of the longest lasting musical review in the country, Beach Blanket Babylon, none other than Renée Lubin. Many of her fellow alumni from that show, as well as friends and family, including her husband and son, packed the patio of The Academy with new faces. Special messages were delivered in her honor by Ralph Remington, Director of Cultural Affairs for the San Francisco Art Commission, representing the Mayor’s Office, Alysha Lofton of the Golden State Warriors, and special guest and fellow Beach Blanket Babylon star Curt Branom. The SF Lesbian/Gay Freedom Band under the direction of Mike Wong was on hand, as were DJ Rockaway, Carol Gancia of Kokak Chocolates, and Betty Sullivan and Jennifer Viegas of the San Francisco Bay Times, all bearing birthday gifts and well-wishes. But the highlight of the evening was a mini-concert sung by Renée accompanied by Dee Spencer on keyboard. It was truly magical as twilight approached, the white lights in the patio twinkled, the audience grew hushed, and Renée sang two familiar songs, giving them new life with her rich interpretations. Truly magical!
After the birthday song and cake and a short break, we reassembled for a brisk game of Name That Tune between returning champions Team SF Federal Credit Union and Team SF Golden State Warriors. This game grows in popularity and the competition is intense. Dancing and general frivolity continued into the night, as new friendships were formed and old friends reunited. Join us this month for the latest Divas & Drinks at The Academy to see what we mean.
The former Lesbian/Gay Chorus of San Francisco, a creation of the legendary Jon Reed Sims, has evolved into the Queer Chorus of San Francisco (QCSF), under the direction of Sven Edward Olbash. They caught our attention with the announcement of a Sing-Along screening of Xanadu at the New Parkway Theater in Oakland and, needless to say, we wouldn’t miss it. Still grieving the recent death of Olivia Newton-John and long a fan of this oddly enjoyable film, we found this event the perfect way to process some emotions. Xanadu has received its share of criticism, much of it valid, but in many ways it is a snapshot of the disco era, featuring music by Electric Light Orchestra (ELO), dizzying costumes, and ridiculously staged production numbers. Even the story line of Greed goddesses coming to life in Venice Beach causes more than a few eye-rolls. But to see Olivia Newton-John, beautifully filmed, singing songs that went on to top the charts, to see the incredible Gene Kelly in his final film role, and to surrender disbelief long enough to enjoy the dream of opening a fantastic dance club makes Xanadu worth watching.
The New Parkway Theater is an eclectic spot, offering a full menu of food in addition to the typical popcorn and soda selections and providing laid-back casual seating on well-worn sofas and chairs arranged on multi-tiered platforms. This created the perfect atmosphere for a sing-along event with the chorus often providing 4-part harmony to back up ELO. This was a welcome departure from so many other serious events and we appreciate QCSF organizing it. Watch this column for upcoming performances by this newly renamed chorus in the coming months.
Donna Sachet is a celebrated performer, fundraiser, activist, and philanthropist who has dedicated over two decades to the LGBTQ Community in San Francisco. Contact her at empsachet@gmail.com
Friday, September 9
Opening Night of the SF Opera
The event of the SF social calendar
City Hall reception, SF Opera House
6 pm
Prices vary
https://www.sfopera.com/
Saturday, September 10
SF Pride Annual General Membership Meeting
SF LGBT Community Center, 1800 Market Street
1 pm
Free with membership
https://sfpride.org/
Sunday, September 11
Golden Gate Gaymes
Imperial Court title contest & outdoor activities
National AIDS Memorial Grove, Golden Gate Park
11 am
Free
https://www.sfimperialcouncil.org/
Sunday, September 11
Golden Gate Competition Finale
Crowning of new Golden Gate titleholders
SF Eagle, 398 12th Street
7 pm
Free
https://www.sfimperialcouncil.org/
Friday, September 30
Divas & Drinks
San Francisco Bay Times monthly party at The Academy
Jeopardy! champion Amy Schneider, CHEER SF,
Transgender Law Center
Emcee Donna Sachet, DJ Rockaway, Bacardí drink specials, Name That Tune
7 pm
$10
https://www.academy-sf.com/
Donna’s Chronicles
Published on September 8, 2022
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