The Tampa International Gay and Lesbian Film Festival is about films, sure. But there are also plenty of events surrounding the festival that gets the community out of the theater seats and in social gatherings throughout the October celebration.
The parties range in theme, from the 2012 launch party at the Tampa Museum of Art to the closing WRAPture party, which is a new feature this year. Here’s a quick rundown of a few of the don’t miss events taking place outside of the theaters this TIGLFF season.
Friday, Sept. 21â┚¬â€ÂLaunch Party at the Tampa Museum of Art
Celebrate the lineup of this year’s film when TIGLFF shows trailers and releases more details about this year’s selections. The TIGLFF Launch Party always brings out the who’s who of the community and this year is no exception. Tampa Police Chief Jane Castor and Hillsborough County Commissioner Kevin Beckner are scheduled to speak and local performer Katheryn Nevets will present her best “Bette Midler” to entertain the crowd.
Also on tap to attend is the comic duo Homo and Coco, fresh out of Hollywood, and 2012 Mr. St. Pete Pride Vinnie Marconi. A photo booth will be available to help those celebrating capture some memories.
Tickets are $30 online and $35 at the door. The party is 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 5â┚¬â€ÂFood Truck Rally outside the Tampa Theater
For the first time ever, a Food Truck Rally will help initiate the 2012 TIGLFF outside the historic Tampa Theater in downtown Tampa. The rally features food trucks of all varieties and plenty of live music, beer and wine will help push the celebration well into the night.
The inaugural rally benefits the Tampa Bay Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (formerly known as the Tampa Bay Business Guild) and is literally within steps of the opening night films.
For details and more information, visit TIGLFF.com or TBBG.org.
Thursday, Oct. 13â┚¬â€ÂWRAPture closing party, Club Czar
For the past several years, the Film Festival has ended with two late night parties in Ybor City for men and women. Sugar and Surge, as they were called, were both open to men and women, but each one was themed to attract just one gender.
Despite their successes, many in the community voiced concern over segregation, and this year, WRAPture was born. The 2012 closing night party at Czar on 7th Avenue in Ybor City kicks off at 9 p.m. and tickets are only $10 in advance and $15 at the door. The large venue, which has several rooms, will still have the male/female themes.
For the men, expect to see DJ Jalil Z out of New York City and a slew of hot Miami Latin dancers provided by Beat Puppy Entertainment.
There is plenty to attract the women as well. Hostess and emcee babyBlue of Orlando will mingle with the crowd and the ladies of Peekaboo Lounge will put on some spectacular performances. Also, local favorite Halcyon will perform some live music before DJ Irene takes over with dance music well into the early morning hours.
For tickets, visit TIGLFF.com.
