Wanzie Goes Full Frontal
Wanzie Presents' latest one-act play, Mr. Charles, Currently of Palm Beach, focuses on the exuberant Mr. Charles, who has been exiled from New York City for being â┚¬Å”too gay.â┚¬Â He now hosts his own late-night cable TV show in South Florida, taking questions from the audience regarding all things homosexual.
The role of Mr. Charles' dim but amiable boy toy Shane is played by hunky Parliament House bartender Vinnie in all his full frontal glory. Together they confront every hot-button topic from gay marriage to the history of gay theater, finally delving into the highest matters of identity and flamboyance.
Thespian Frank McLaine will reprise his role as the deliciously queer Mr. Charles in this newly envisioned interpretation of the Paul Rudnik play. Michael Wanzie is directing the production.
Showtime is at 8 p.m. Saturdays, July 9, 16 and 23, with an additional performance at 8 p.m. Tuesday, July 19 at Parliament House's Footlight Theatre.
Leading Lidy
My Fair Lidy a new film project, will begin shooting here in Orlando July 7. Lidy plays homage to the great femme fatale Marlene Dietrich. The film tells the story of tolerance and illusion through light-hearted comedy.
Ritzy Rags, Wigs & More owner and celebrity female impersonator Leigh Shannon will co-produce as well as co-star alongside Christopher Backus. The SAG Indie Film is being filmed entirely in Orange County, Fla., at locations such as Parliament House, Shakers Cafe, Church Street, Hot Dog Heaven, Winter Haven, Ritzy Rags Wigs & More and Lake Ivanhoe.
With over 30 speaking roles, 95% of the actors are local talent and 90% of the crew are local filmmakers. In addition, many of the actors are members of the gay or transgender community, including Tia Devine as Fallex, Melissa Mason as Cherry Nougatt, Crystle Chambers as Cher, Page King as Donna Summer, Mercedes Deverore as Liza, Darcel Stevens as Sugar and Sassy Devine.
