MAX TALISMAN: Bringing LGBTQ Voices to the Silver Screen

Writer, filmmaker, and actor, Max Talisman is a trailblazer among LGBTQ millennials. The Bethesda, Maryland, native is fighting for diversity and focusing all his efforts in creating content that will bring about change in the entertainment industry. Recently, Talisman spoke to Baltimore OUTloud regarding his upcoming work Things Like This, which is set to begin production this fall. Not only will Talisman star in the film, but he will make his directorial and screenwriting debut. The film, which has assembled an ensemble cast including Tionne “T-Boz” Watkins (TLC), Eric Roberts (The Dark Knight), Krista Allen (Significant Mother), Dyan Cannon (Kangaroo […]

Serious Adverse Effects: A Timely Production

Running until Sunday, May 23rd, Rapid Lemon Productions presents Serious Adverse Effects both on the in-person stage at the Motor House, as well as streaming platforms.  The production, written by Derek McPhatter, explores the story of an unconventional scientist on the cusp of a cure for a mysterious disease. But to complete her research she must find forgiveness from a family with no reason to trust her and embrace the transformative potential of her own healing. Baltimore OUTloud recently chatted with Ohio-native, and playwright Derek McPhatter to discuss the upcoming performance. Frankie Kujawa: In your own words can you tell […]

Two Strikes Theatre Collective Illuminates Black Female Voices

Baltimore’s newest theatre company, Two Strikes Theatre Collective, recently announced their 2021 season complete with virtual devised works, staged readings of original plays, a podcast, and the second annual Brown Sugar Bake-off play festival. The independent theatre company, founded in July 2019, celebrates, promotes, and encourages the intersectional voice of Black women and how it can be used for social change through art and community engagement.  Baltimore OUTloud recently chatted with Aladrian C. Wetzel, Executive Director of Two Strikes, to discuss the upcoming season, their upcoming work The Crown is Mine (May 22nd – See Sidebar), and why now more […]

Two Strikes Collective Theatre Presents This Crown is Mine

On Saturday, May 22nd, Two Strikes Theatre Collective will showcase the production of This Crown is Mine, which will feature a series of original performance art about hair types, acceptance, and the perception of curl patterns by others.  The production asks the question ‘How have Black women learned to love and appreciate our hair?’  Executive Director, Aladrian C. Wetzel chatted with Baltimore OUTloud about the upcoming performance.                “This Crown is Mine was created because we wanted to talk about Black hair.  It is a central part of being a Black woman.  Our hair has been politicized, it’s been sexualized, […]

Phil Stamper’s Releases Coming-of-Age Story: As Far As You’ll Take Me

Author Phil Stamper has recently released his sophomore novel, As Far As You’ll Take Me to the delight of readers everywhere. In As Far As You’ll Take Me, Marty escapes his small homophobic town and flies to London, to play music, travel and really be himself for the first time. Stamper recently chatted with Baltimore OUTloud regarding the recent book release. Frankie Kujawa: In your own words, how would you describe your book for audiences? Phil Stamper: As Far As You’ll Take Me is a coming-of-age story that follows Marty as he leaves an unwelcoming life in Kentucky to live […]

Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington Brings Genderosity to Virtual Audiences

It’s all about gender expression and being fabulous! That’s the tag line for the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington D.C.’s upcoming performance of Genderosity. The performance, which will be a glam rock spectacle celebrating self-expression, was previously scheduled for March 2020, but will now be available from the comfort of your living room. Streaming online from March 13th – March 28th, the performance heralds the upcoming 40th Anniversary of the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington DC (GMCW). “The goal was to have a really nice, high energy, colorful, joyful escape from everything else going on,” explained Dr. Thea Kano, Artistic […]

Draw With Me …Interview with School and Venetopoulos

The theatrical release of the film “Draw With Me” has garnered a lot of early Oscar buzz as awards season begins to descend upon Hollywood!  “Draw With Me” is the story of talented teen artist, Brendon Scholl, who identifies as trans non binary, and whose art has been a vital outlet for self-expression.  From coming out as trans and consequently attempting suicide, to becoming an advocate, this intimate portrait of Brendon and their supportive family’s trials dives deep into what endured and was overcome in this heartwarming journey of acceptance. The film features a special introduction by their aunt, Jennifer […]

She May Be Southern, But Don’t Ring Her Bell: Getting Real with Sutton Stracke

Southern Debutante-turned Beverly Hills socialite, Sutton Stracke is one of the newest cast members of this current season of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.  Sparkling with charm, style and utter sophistication, Stracke has garnered much popularity with viewers for her candid wit and social grace.  Baltimore OUTloud was thrilled to chat with Stracke regarding her commitment as an LGBTQ ally, her background in the arts, and the importance on giving back through philanthropic endeavors.                “Well, hi Frankie! How are you in Baltimore? Did y’all miss the hurricane?” inquired the delightful Stracke.  Chatting with Baltimore OUTloud a few days […]

Filmmaker Doug Spearman’s New Film Takes Audiences ‘From Zero to I Love You’

In the movie From Zero to I Love You, writer and director Doug Spearman takes audiences on a rollercoaster ride as the lives of characters Jack Dickinson and Pete Logsdon intertwine.  The LGBTQ film allows audiences to explore what happens when a one-night stand turns into a once-in-a-lifetime love for both characters.  Spearman recently chatted with Baltimore OUTloud regarding his inspiration for the film, what he’s most proud from the work, and his Maryland connection. “I have a very emotional, personal attachment to this film,” began Spearman, who grew up in Hyattsville, Maryland. “This is because [the film is] based […]

Actor Scott Bailey Charms Audiences in New LGBTQ Film

In the movie From Zero to I Love You, audiences find themselves on a passionate rollercoaster ride as the lives of Jack Dickinson (Scott Bailey, Guiding Light, Prayers for Bobby) and Pete Logsdon (Darryl Stephens, Noah’s Arc, Boy Culture) intertwine. The captivating LGBTQ film from writer and director Doug Spearman showcases an exceptionally talented cast. Devastatingly handsome actor and LGBTQ ally, Scott Bailey, recently discussed how he prepared for this role, what drew him to this film, and what he is most proud of with his performance.                Bailey first learned about this film when he was contacted for the […]