The weekend forecast calls for rain (cue singing "Don't Rain on My Parade") but that doesn't mean you should lock yourself indoors this weekend. While we're always up for a rainy day movie marathons, there are too many GLBT events happening across Middle Tennessee to stay inside. So save the DVR for another weekend and check out this weekend's GLBT Best Bets
Friday May 3
Get a taste of Torch Song Trilogy- Can't wait for next weekend's first full performance of "International Stud," the first play of the Torch Song Trilogy? Swing by OutCentral Friday at 8 p.m. for a sneak peek of Malachi Taylor and Steve Raimo aka Veronika Electronika and get ready to be blown away. Sneak Peek starts at 8 p.m. and we're sure you'll be able to reserve tickets for next week's performance. For more information on the upcoming Torch Song trilogy performances click here.
Pink Panthers Beer Bust at Tribe- Last weekend's softball games were rained out (and it's looking like this weekend's may be too) but that won't stop the Pink Panthers from playing with their . . . beer. Ready for some all-you-can-drink draft beer? Then Tribe is the spot you'll want to be in Friday night when the Pink Panthers host their Beer Bust at 9 p.m.. And don't forget to wear white as Tribe hosts their White party as well.
The Black Keys at Bridgestone- In the mood for a live arena show? Check out The Black Keys at Bridgestone Arena. Fresh off their multiple Grammy wins this year, The Black Keys are sure to rock Nashville. With opening act The Flaming Lips, one can only hope that Nashville-raised Ke$ha will make an appearance since they've announced they are working on an album together. Don't have tickets yet? Hurry there are only a few left.
Saturday May 4
Upper Cumberland Pride 2013- Held for the first time last year, Upper Cumberland Pride in Cookeville Tennessee saw large crowds for their inaugural event. The crowds were so large and supportive that it was a no-brainer to bring back the event for a second year. Partnering with the Tennessee Equality Project (TEP), the organizers for Upper Cumberland Pride have numerous events planned for Saturday.
This year's event, dubbed Love is Never Wrong, takes place in downtown Cookeville in Dogwood Park from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.. There will be a performance from Nashville in Harmony, appearances from The Music City Sisters, live performances from this year's Upper Cumberland Pride King and Queen, Gabriel Raider and Summer Starr, poetry from local poets, additional drag kings and queens as well as clogging?!? Yes, you read that right clogging.
While you're out at Dogwood Park make sure you get to know the local and regional organizations that have banded together in support of Upper Cumberland Pride. These include: PFLAG Cookeville, Nashville CARES, Tennessee Tech Lambda, United Church of Cookeville and Cookevlle Friends.
Rain or shine, the celebration doesn't stop at 7 p.m.. Upper Cumberland Pride carries its way through the night with the premiere performance of The Laramie Project: Ten Years Later, presented with the United Church of Cookeville. Directed by Kathleen Gilpatrick, the play will first be seen Saturday May 4 at 8 p.m. at The Wesley Foundation Theater before continuing performances the following week (May 9-11). Ticket are $10 and can be purchased at the Upper Cumberland Pride Festival.
After you visit the theater, be prepared to party the rest of the night away at Off Broad. They've planned Cookeville's biggest Pride celebration after-party with a cookout following the festivities in the park as well so many drag performances your head will spin faster than a night out with Ke$ha. Shows will take places at 9 p.m., 11 p.m. and 1 a.m..
Update: Due to rain Upper Cumberland Pride has been relocated from Dogwood Park to The Old Wilson Building located at 39 Depot Street. all performances will go on as planned.
Nashville Pride presents Martinis and Jazz- Can't get out to Cookeville for Upper Cumberland Pride? Then stay right in your own backyard and support Nashville Pride with their annual Martinis and Jazz fundraiser from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.. Open air and open bar, this year's event will take place at the East Centric Paviion. With food provided by the The Chef and I Catering, the event will also include a silent auction. Tickets are on sale for $25 and you can get them here.
Sunday May 5
Knoxville Gay Men’s Chorus present Beautiful Friendships- The Knoxville Gay Men's Chorus are kicking their second season into high gear Sunday with Beautiful Friendships. The performance will include special guests Nashville in Harmony and is taking place at the James R. Cox Auditorium on UT-Knoxville's campus. Tickets are $15 in advance and can be purchased here or $20 at the door. For more information on the Knoxville Gay Men's Chorus click here.
Tom Goss and Matt Alber at OutCentral- Get your fill of GLBT, sexy, singer-songwriters Sunday at OutCentral when Tom Goss and Matt Alber perform at OutCentral. These are two performers you won't be able to take your eyes off ... literally. Want more information? Visit the OutCentral website.
Have an upcoming event you want O&An to know about? Email jbrownell@outandaboutnashville.com
