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Philadelphia gears up for the Mr. Gay Philadelphia pageant by Jim Teti
EDGE ContributorThursday Aug 7, 2008 Bruce Yelk put on an event last year called Mr. Gay Philadelphia as a test to see whether gay Philadelphians would respond positively to a night of queer pageantry in the City of Brotherly Love. The result was nothing less than stellar, and the pageant has returned bigger and better than ever.
Structured in three different sections, the show somewhat resembles the structure of a traditional pageant. There is an evening wear section accompanied by a swimwear portion so that the contestants can show off their glamour and sculpted physiques. Special attention is devoted, however, to the last part of the show in which the guest judges question the five finalists about their involvement with the community.
That theme seems to be a constant running through this entire competition. This year, every contestant is represented from a local business. Woody’s, Bump, Pure and other bars even went a step further and held various contests to narrow down a choice to represent their establishment. This is another testament to the ultimate intent of the event, which is to choose someone who truly cares, represents, and has something to give back to gay Philadelphia-he is going to be Mr. Gay Philadelphia after all.
The contestants this year are more diversified than last. With no real age limit, participants range from 23 to 42 years. Though similarities between them are unavoidable, care has been taken from pageant creators and outside businesses to assemble a varied group of individuals with charm, depth, and personality. Expect some surprises when it comes to those running.
This year also sees a brand new component, and that is one of charity. A portion of the ticket proceeds will be donated to ActionAids in Philadelphia. Bar proceeds will also be donated and 100 percent of the funds raised in a silent auction will also go to ActionAids.
And finally, a pageant wouldn’t be a pageant without a gaggle of celebrity judges, and this year’s event doesn’t disappoint. Jack Mackenroth, the adorable (and unjustly voted off!) designer from this season’s Project Runway will be on hand to judge the contest. Jesse Archer, OUT columnist and star of films, such as A Four Letter Word, will be here to lend his pathos as well. Village Voice gossip columnist Michael Musto and Bruce Hayes, the first Olympic gold medal winner to come out, are other notable additions. Local drag sensation Britney Lynn will host.
Mr. Gay Philadelphia will take place at the Gershman YMCA (104 S. Broad St.) in Center City on Friday, Aug. 8, at 9 p.m. Tickets range from $30 to $60 and can be purchased at www.nightlifegay.com/mrgay.html. Limited tickets are available at the door.
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