Arts & Entertainment
Queery: D’Arcee Charington Neal
The Gay Men’s Chorus baritone answers 20 gay questions
D’Arcee Neal (Blade photo by Michael Key)
D’Arcee Charington Neal got in the Gay Men’s Chorus by the narrowest of margins.
A friend was auditioning back in August and Neal asked about it. Initially thinking he’d missed the deadline, he double checked the date and realized about 3 p.m. on the final day, he had until 5 to try out, so he did. He had never heard the Chorus or even realized there was such an outfit, but is enjoying his first season with the group. He sings baritone. Next weekend, the group gives three performances of its “Winter Nights” show at Lisner Auditorium (730 21st Street, NW; gmcw.org for details).
Neal is excited for the show.
“It will just be marvelous,” Neal says. “I’ve never really seen anything like it. … It’s everything from Bollywood to West African holiday music to traditional Latin choral arrangements.”
Neal, a 26-year-old Cary, N.C., native, came to Washington in 2007 for an internship. After completing a master’s degree (in creative and professional wiring) at London’s University of Roehampton, he returned to the District mostly because the Metro system makes it easy for him to get around.
“People in D.C. make fun of it, but they really have no idea,” he says. “From a disabled person’s perspective, it’s really the best thing in the U.S. I’ve ridden almost every underground in the country and D.C.’s is by far the best I’ve ever been on.”
Neal is single and lives in College Park, Md. He’s looking for writing work and says his disability has made finding employment difficult. He eventually wants to move into the District.
In his free time, he enjoys writing, cooking, singing and playing Call of Duty.
How long have you been out and who was the hardest person to tell?
I’ve been out since I was 17, and it was definitely my parents. My mother looked me in my face and said that she wished that I would have gotten AIDS and died so they could’ve mourned me and moved on already. That’s rough. But I know as older black people, they come from a different time. And as a disabled black person, they feel like I already have two strikes on my life, so they think being gay is something else I’m adding to make my life harder. (Editor’s note — Neal’s mother, Katherine Neal e-mailed the Blade and said she never said this.)
Who’s your LGBT hero?
Lady Gaga. Outside of being outrageously talented, I can’t think of anyone who genuinely works for the good of the gays and really believes in what they do, on her level. As a megastar she could be about anything, but she has taken this platform up, and I can’t thank her enough for it.
What’s Washington’s best nightspot, past or present?
I was a huge fan of club Apex. Coming from Bible Belt North Carolina, it was like this holy megaplex of debauchery. Multiple floors of thumping bass, and flashing lights, and all those shirtless men!
Describe your dream wedding.
Oh God, I’ve spent forever fantasizing about this. Probably in the courtyard of the Louvre Museum at night, candles everywhere standing in front of that glass pyramid, black and white roses scattered the ground. But my tux would be the star of the show. People don’t seem to understand that when you’re in a wheelchair you never get to be passionate about clothes, because half the time you can’t show them off! I’d want a three foot white silk train on the back of my coat draped down behind my chair in between the wheels and a matching fedora with a veil attached over my face. It’d be the most fabulous thing since J-Lo’s “The Dress.”
What non-LGBT issue are you most passionate about?
Without a doubt, disability acceptance in America. For the life of me, I cannot understand why disabled unemployment is at 75 percent, compared to the national average of 7.9 percent. … It feels like as a country, America is choosing to leave us behind. My parents fought to make sure I had a good education, and graduating from London in 2011, with my master’s degree, I felt like they did a great job. But the reality is, I’ve been unemployed for nearly two years, and while I’m waiting for the right opportunity, my disability makes employers believe I can’t work as a waiter, or in a grocery store or as a barista. And so I, like a lot of people, live off benefits, in an attempt to wait the economy out. And it’s not just me. This is the situation for lots of recent graduates with disabilities.
What historical outcome would you change?
I think I’d go back to the day Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. got shot and stop that. I honestly believe that a lot of the drama and the situations that Americans have been through since the end of Civil Rights (gangs, drugs, welfare, 9-11, education gaps, etc.) wouldn’t be half of what they are today.
What’s been the most memorable pop culture moment of your lifetime?
I think that would have to be when I sat in a room with Nikki Giovanni practically by myself and talked with her for half an hour. This woman embodies the last of everything my parents talk about in regards to American history, and she’s simply phenomenal in every way.
On what do you insist?
That there is no better food on earth than in the American Southeast.
What was your last Facebook post or Tweet?
Turducken is a deliciously grotesque mutation of God’s humblest creations.
If your life were a book, what would the title be?
“Life is Like a [Multifacted, Hypersensitive, Cracked, Racist, Overrated and Underappreciated] Box of Chocolates”
If science discovered a way to change sexual orientation, what would you do?
Read the fine print for the inevitably horrible side effects.
What do you believe in beyond the physical world?
Existence beyond emotions. An end to caring.
What’s your advice for LGBT movement leaders?
Consider all of your audience, and not just the popular section.
What would you walk across hot coals for?
Love. Someone who sees me a whole person, not in sections.
What LGBT stereotype annoys you most?
The idea that all gay men are weak and feminine. I’ve dated some men who could rip phonebooks in half, as well as a 2008 Olympian.
What’s your favorite LGBT movie?
“To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything, Julie Newmar.” Noxzema is a chocolate goddess.
What’s the most overrated social custom?
Hugging. Being in a wheelchair, people are always so awkward about it. Either do it right, or don’t.
What trophy or prize do you most covet?
Probably my master’s degree from London. Considering what I had to do to get it, it definitely took the most work.
What do you wish you’d known at 18?
That I am not ugly or broken, and that not all men mean what they say.
Why Washington?
Two words: The Metro.
Out & About
A roundup of fall events not to be missed
Laverne Cox, Oktoberfest, arts celebrations, and more
Colder temperatures don’t mean you have to stay indoors — here’s a roundup of what to do this fall.
Laverne Cox will discuss her memoir, “Transcendent,” with Dr. Melanie Bryant on Saturday, Sept. 19 at 7 p.m. at Baltimore Book Fest. Cox will share her journey as a transgender woman in Hollywood, confronting childhood trauma, shame, gender identity, her transition, body image issues, her search for romantic love, deep-seated feelings of unworthiness, and ultimately, healing.
Dacha Beer Garden will launch its longest and loudest Oktoberfest yet on Friday, Sept. 18. This will be 17 consecutive days of Bavarian festivities across both locations — the original Shaw beer garden and the 800-person Navy Yard garden — running through Sunday, Oct. 4. On opening night, DC Brau will tap the ceremonial first keg and then Manuela Horn, the six-foot-two Austrian yodel queen, will trade sets with Johnny Koenig and his four-piece band in a live back-and-forth of yodeling, polka, and crowd games that can only be described as Oktoberfest ping pong.
Fay Jacobs will host “Aging Gracefully: 2nd Annual Farewell Tour” on Friday, Oct. 9 and Saturday, Oct. 10 at CAMP Rehoboth Community Center. This show will feature a new script with lots of new stories, and only a couple of “signature” tales.
Capital One Center will host its “Celebration of the Arts” starting on Saturday, Sept. 19 at its location in Tysons, Va. There will be art, music, food trucks, local vendors, and family-friendly outdoor entertainment. This curated experience invites you to engage with hands-on workshops, immersive art activations, and live performances. More details are available on Eventbrite.
Spark Social will host “open Mic Night” on Thursday, Oct. 8 at 8 p.m. Get ready to share your talent or just kick back and enjoy some great performances at Spark Social. Sign Ups are first-come-first-serve,, but you can also message the venue on Instagram to reserve a performance spot. Whether you’re a singer, poet, or comedian, this is your chance to get on stage and share your art. Tickets are $13.26 and are available on Eventbrite.
Howard University’s School of Social Work will host “Intergenerational Trauma in the BIPOC Community and the Use of Art” on Thursday, Sept. 17 at 3 p.m. This in-person, interactive workshop explores the role of art as a creative and supportive tool for understanding and addressing intergenerational trauma. Participants will examine the meaning and impact of intergenerational trauma, with particular attention to its historical roots and ongoing effects within Black and other BIPOC communities. More details are available on Eventbrite.
9:30 Club will host “BERTHA: Grateful Drag” on Thursday, Oct. 8 at 7 p.m. The group has partnered with PLUS1 so that $1 from every ticket sold goes to SMYAL and their work supporting and empowering LGBTQ+ youth. Tickets are available on 9:30 Club’s website.
Steve Lacy’s “Oh Yeah?” tour is coming to The Anthem on Sunday, Oct. 18 at 6 p.m. Tickets are available on The Anthem’s website.
Rapper Cupcakke will perform at Howard Theatre on Sunday, Oct. 25 at 7 p.m. More details are available on the theater’s website.
Team DC will host “Open Play: A Celebration of LGBTQ+ Athletes and Sports Fans” on Saturday, Oct. 10 at 6 p.m. at Trade. Join Athlete Ally, Team DC and District Wrestling for a casual, in-person mixer as they celebrate LGBTQ+ sports fans and athletes at all levels of the game. Whether you’re part of an LGBTQ+ recreational league or just love watching sports, this is the place to connect, celebrate, and share the love of the game with other queer athletes, fans, business leaders, policymakers and more. Reserve a spot on Eventbrite.
The DC LGBTQ+ Community Center will host “2026 LGBT Intergenerational Extravaganza” on Sunday, Sept. 20 at 12 p.m.This is an event to connect, build relationships, and have fun with LGBTQ folks from other generations, and it will include lunch, an intergenerational dialogue and breakout sessions. More details are available on Eventbrite.
Music & Concerts
Queer mega stars coming to D.C. this fall
Indigo Girls, Charli XCX, Doja Cat headed our way
As D.C. enters the fall season, LGBTQ performers and allies will take the stage. This fall’s lineup is massive and diverse, from rock to electronic dance music.
Ryan Beatty, a gay musical artist, will bring his show, “Arms Over Armor North American Tour ’26” to the Lincoln Theater (1215 U St. N.W.) in D.C. on Sep. 26, at 6:30 p.m. Tickets go for $43.15 per attendee. Visit https://www.thelincolndc.com/#block-3 for more information.
All Things Go Music Festival: A major lineup of allies, including Mitski, Ethal Cain, Rebecca Black, Underscores, and many more. The festival, known for being LGBTQ-friendly, will take place at Merriweather Post Pavilion (10475 Little Patuxent Pkwy., Columbia, Md.) from Sept. 26-28. Visit allthingsgofestival.com for tickets and details.
Bisexual singer Charli XCX will bring her “Music, Fashion, Film Tour” to Capital One Area (601 F St, N.W.) in D.C. on Sep. 28 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets go from $102 – $500. capitalonearena.com for more info.
Bisexual artist Phoebe Bridgers will bring her “The Lost Tour 2026” to Capital One Arena on Sep. 29 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets go from $157-$500.
Power To the People Festival, another fantastic festival will take place at Merriweather Post Pavilion (10475 Little Patuxent Pkwy., Columbia, Md.). It will feature LGBTQ artists and allies, such as Bruce Springsteen and Brittney Howard. The festival is on Oct. 3 and doors open at 12 p.m.
Anabel Englund, calls herself a “heterosexual ally” on Instagram. She will perform at the Diplo’s Glow Block Party at Echo Stage (2135 Queens Chapel Road, N.E.) in D.C., Oct. 3. Doors Open at 3 p.m. Tickets range from $106-$154.
Amy Ray and Emily Saliers are the two lesbian singers who make up the Indigo Girls, one of the most recognizable folk duos who have sold more than 2 million albums with two singles: “Closer to Fine” and “Kid Fears” alone. Both will be performing at the Anthem (901 Wharf St., S.W.) in D.C. on Oct. 4. Doors open at 5 p.m. and the show starts at 7:30 p.m.
Grateful Drag, featuring PLUS 1, will take place at the 9:30 Club (815 V St., N.W.) in D.C. on Oct. 8 at 7 p.m.
Lauren Sanderson is a lesbian and queer performer with viral tracks that include “GAY 4 ME” (with G Flip). She will bring her “COME SAY SUM TOUR” to the Alantis (2047 9th St., N.W.) in D.C. on Oct. 15.
Steve Lacy, a bisexual artist, will bring his “Oh yeah?” tour to the Anthem on Oct. 18. Doors open at 6 p.m. and show starts at 7 p.m.
Washington Concert Opera‘s ARMIDA, staring Daniel Laucerica, Andrew Wilkowske, and Jonathan Pierce Rhodes, will take place at the Lisner Auditorium (730 21st St., N.W.) in D.C. on Oct. 24 at 6 p.m.
Yebba, a bisexual and queer artist, is a singer and songwriter within the genre of contemporary music who has performed alongside Ed Sheeran, Drake, and A$AP Rocky. Yebba will perform on Oct. 31 at the Anthem. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the show starts at 8:30 p.m.
Brutalismus 3000 is a longtime LGBTQ ally. They will bring their “Harmony US Tour 2026” show to Echo Stage on Nov. 13 at 10 p.m. Tickets range from $48-$66.
The Washington National Opera Orchestra will feature Andrea Gibson, a queer, nonbinary, and genderqueer poet/spoken-word artist, who will perform “Andrea Gibson’s Love Letter from the Afterlife” on Nov. 17 at the Anthem. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the show starts at 7:30 p.m.
Doja Cat, a bisexual artist who previously worked with Laurel Charleston, a trans women makeup artist, will bring her “Ma Vie World Tour” to Capital One Arena on Nov. 21. The show is at 7:30 p.m. and tickets range from $69-$316.
Victoria Monét: A bisexual R&B singer and a three-time Grammy winner, will bring her Frequency of Love Tour to the Anthem on Nov. 27 at 8 p.m.
Nightlife
Parties, dinners, concerts and more on tap for fall nightlife
Blade’s 25th Best Of party among highlights
The heat is on in the city this fall for gala season, culture, and nightlife, including many LGBTQ and ally artists. Select shows, parties, and events for the season are below.
September
9/18-20: Fuchsia Fest – The inaugural Fuchsia Fest is a new multi-day celebration created to highlight LGBTQ community and expression, bringing together a mix of community gatherings, entertainment, and nightlife. Hosted by Capital Pride, Fuchsia Fests’s various events take place across the city throughout the weekend.
9/24: Katie Pruitt – The Americana/indie-fold singer-songwriter is known for her soaring vocals and deeply personal storytelling. She is on tour for her latest album, released Sept. 18, “Fools for the Fleeting.” She is part of the LGBTQ community.
9/25-27: All Things Go. This annual music festival at Merriweather Post Pavilion includes performers like Mitski, Hayley Williams, Brandi Carlile, MUNA, Zara Larsson, Ethel Cain, and many more beloved artists. Featuring and highlighting female artists, the festival has turned into a must-see for many LGBTQ audience members. There are single-day and three-day tickets.
9/26: Human Rights Campaign National Dinner – This annual big-ticket fundraiser for HRC (black tie, of course) celebrates achievements and recognizes the road ahead for LGBTQ+ equality. Taking place at the Mayflower, look out for D.C. stars, like members of Congress, former first ladies, and Broadway actors.
9/26 Gorillaz – Two decades strong, this artistic group unites visuals, storytelling, and music across diverse genres, from rock to reggae to electronic, for a show at Capital One Arena.
9/29 Charli XCX – British singer-songwriter and pop diva known for her bold expression, mixes electronic, pop, and dance, will bring thrilled audiences to her show at Capital One Arena as part of her Music, Fashion, Film Tour.
Multiple dates: Smithsonian Festival – This fall, the Smithsonian Institutions is debuting a festival called Rhythms, Roots, Recipes: Community Stories of Food and Music. Across this five-part series, each session features cooking demos, discussions, and live music. All programs are free and open to the public, and take place in the demo kitchen at the National Museum of American History.
October
10/3: GLOW BLock Party – GLOW is back! After throwing a giant party this spring with 10,000-plus dancing fans dancing against the Capitol dome at sunset, GLOW returns with an even more epic lineup: legendary Grammy-winning DJ and producer Diplo leading a seven-hour party with vendors, activations, and a number of other huge acts like Westend, Anabel Englund, Monty Kiddo, and D.C.’s own Ratalina.
10/3: Home Rule Music Festival – Now in its fifth year, this is a free, all-day community-driven event of local music, food trucks, and vendors at the Parks at Walter Reed. The D.C.-focused event features bands playing go-go, soul, hip-hop, jazz, and more, plus a record fair and live art.
10/3: PRIDEtoberfest – Gay-owned Wunder Garten presents PRIDEtoberfest, marrying the festive spirit of Oktoberfest and the joy of the LGBTQIA+ community for an all-day celebration of Pride, community, live music, DJs, overflowing steins of beer, and entertainment. Food will be available from Little Miner Taco and CaliBurger, plus plenty of friendly men in lederhosen.
10/3: Power to the People Festival – The inaugural Power to the People Festival will take place at Merriweather Post Pavilion in Columbia, Md. The festival, curated by Rock & Roll Hall of Fame guitarist and acclaimed activist Tom Morello, is a celebration of peace, justice, solidarity, music, and community action.
10/10: Jessie Ware – British singer and songwriter fully embraced by the LGBTQ community brings her impassioned mix of pop, disco, and electronic genres to Capital One Arena supporting her latest album Superbloom,
10/19: Chefs for Equality – This annual dinner fundraiser for HRC remains in its remixed, diffused form this year. Under the theme of United Plates of America, there will be six different activations: four multi-course collab dinners (at CUT by Wolfgang Puck, Marcus DC, Moon Rabbit, and Centrolina); Drag Brunch for Dinner at Perry’s; and a lavish cocktail party at cocktail lounge Silver Lyan. In any form, Chefs for Equality is a signature benefit toward the fight for full LGBTQ+ equality.
10/20 Rodrigo y Gabriela – Grammy-winning Mexican acoustic guitar duo that blends flamenco, rock, and heavy metal is coming to The Anthem. They have been playing at 9:30 Club and sister venues since 2007.
10/22: Washington Blade Best of Party – Celebrate the best of LGBTQ DC at the Blade’s epic Halloween party: Murder on the Dance Floor. Winners of the Blade’s annual Best of DC will be announced at this party at Longview Gallery. This marks the 25th anniversary of the Blade’s Best Of competition. “Real Housewives” star Ashley Darby hosts.
10/31: Into the Shadows – An immersive, indoor/outdoor Halloween party actually on the spooky day itself at Berhta. With multiple stages across multiple rooms, there are various DJs and activations.
November
11/11: Whitman-Walker Gala – This annual fundraiser at the Ritz-Carlton is themed “A Celebration of Impact & Innovation.” It aims to showcase the impact of Whitman-Walker’s healthcare, research, and policy programs, and will include presentation of the Groundbreaker Award for Community Philanthropy.
11/20: Ilana Glazer – Comedian, actor, advocate, and creator best known for co-creating and co-starring in the acclaimed series Broad City brings her act to Lincoln Theater. Her first show is already sold out, but a second show has been added.
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A roundup of fall events not to be missed
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