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Foolproof recipes for certain holiday cheer
By Bruce Yelk
© 2007 Bruce Yelk

SLEEPER HIT: Tony Award-winning musical comedy “The Drowsy Chaperone,” the story of a modern-day musical-theater addict, opens Nov. 27 at the Academy of Music, 240 S. Broad St. Photo: Joan Marcus

No matter what your particular taste may be, there’s no denying that everyone looks forward to some tradition during the holidays. As much as the holidays have a religious and spiritual meaning for many, they are a profoundly social celebration. And as with any holiday recipe, it takes a delicate mixture of ingredients for social success. To help you out, here’s my recipe for holiday cheer. Enjoy!

One dash of goodwill

The holiday spirit is lost if we don’t spend time giving something back. But when charity is paired with a fabulous party, it’s a homerun. That’s exactly what’s expected Nov. 24, for this year’s Santa Saturday event at the Raven Resort in New Hope. For over 30 years, Bucks MC has organized this gathering complete with a live auction and outrageous drag show. Beneficiaries this year include the Gay Rodeo and Bears Life. Cover for Santa Saturday is $20, which kicks off at noon and will continue into the evening. Visit www.theravenresort.com for more information.

A cup of sugar

If you make it back from New Hope by 9 p.m. tomorrow, head over to Tritone at 15th and South streets for Sugar Town: A Night of Lady Rockers and DJs. With local bands The Private Sea and Shooting Ropes performing, it’s sure to be a wild night of original music with an edge. Local DJs Version Girl and Carry Us will also spin sets throughout the evening. The cover is just $7.

Two pinches of spice

If you’ve never been to World Cafe Live, there’s no better time to make your way to 3025 Walnut St. than this Sunday night for the Eric Himan and Tom Goss concert event. You might have heard of Himan, who was featured numerous times on the über-popular site www.perezhilton.com. Goss isn’t quite as visible yet, but his talent is equally great. And here’s the kicker — both Himan and Goss are out! Tickets are only $10 and can be purchased by calling (215) 222-1400.

A touch of drama

In 2006, the Tony Awards were taken over by a musical comedy that burst onto the theater scene — “The Drowsy Chaperone.” Starting Nov. 27 and running through Dec. 2, the critically acclaimed performance will make its Philadelphia debut at the Academy of Music on the Avenue of the Arts. Often described by audience members as “magical” and “wonderful,” “The Drowsy Chaperone” is the perfect date-night activity. Visit www.academyofmusic.org for more information and to purchase tickets.

Time to reflect

As with any holiday season, it is always good to take some time to reflect on our past and remember our friends. World AIDS Day, Dec. 1, will be marked by many special events in Philadelphia. The William Way Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Community Center will exhibit panels from the AIDS Memorial Quilt, on display at the center from 11 a.m.-7 p.m., 1315 Spruce St. For more information, visit www.waygay.org or call (215) 732-2220.

Secondly, the AIDS Fund, Sapphire Fund and the Broad Street Ministry will collaborate with 20 local organizations to present artistic performances, visual art displays and commemorative ceremonies, as well as free testing and educational programming. It all takes place from 1-4 p.m. at the Broad Street Ministry, 315 S. Broad St. Visit www.broadstreetministry.org or call (215) 917-2251 for more information.

One spoonful of joy

The Philadelphia Gay Men’s Chorus will hold its annual holiday concert Dec. 7 at the Lutheran Church of the Holy Communion, 2110 Chestnut St. Tickets, which are bound to go fast, can be purchased at Matthew Izzo, 1109 Walnut St.; the PHAG Shop, 1225 Walnut St.; and Giovanni’s Room, 345 S. 12th St.

That’s it for now. ’Til next time, get offline and enjoy what our community has to offer!

If you have comments or information on upcoming events, e-mail Bruce at Bruce@nightlifegay.com.