June 21, 2016A new series of LGBTQ programming from The Legacy Project, the Northalsted Business Alliance and the Center on Halsted aims to entertain as much as educate. The Legacy LIVE Series, uses art, film, music, discussion and more to explore LGBTQ history with an insightful series of programs
The series debuted to a sold out crowd on May 31 with "A Tribute to Billy Strayhorn." The event at Twisted Vine featured the Lakeside Pride Jazz and Vocal Ensembles celebrating the composer and arranger Billy Strayhorn, the openly gay musical genius behind Duke Ellington, on the 49th anniversary of his passing.
Northalsted Business Alliance Executive Director Christopher Barrett Politan explains the series concept. "It's important to bring the same dynamic and entertaining elements to all our programs, be it summer street festivals or educational efforts. The Legacy LIVE Series transcends generations to feature thought-provoking, enriching events for all."
A full slate of summer programs honors a range of LGBTQ pioneers. Further details available at www.northalsted.com .
THE LEGACY LIVE LINE-UP
Wednesday, June 29— "Judgments in June" - Center on Halsted and Sidetrack
Delve into the six most significant LGBTQ-related Supreme Court rulings in history featuring Lambda Legal's Camilla Taylor, renowned LGBTQ historian John D'Emilio, Windy City Times's Tracy Baim, The Legacy Project's Victor Salvo and moderated by Kim Hunt from The Pride Action Tank. A reception at Sidetrack follows the panel discussion.
Monday, July 11— "Vito" - Center on Halsted and Kit Kat Lounge & Supper club
Co-presented by the Queer Film Society, a screening of the award-winning documentary "Vito" about iconic LGBTQ activist Vito Russo, co-founder of both Act-UP and GLAAD — whose bronze memorial will join the Legacy Walk this fall. The screening will be followed by a reception at Kit Kat Lounge and Supper Club.
Thursday, July 29— "Salute to the Peanut"- Elixir Lounge
Celebrate the life of George Washington Carver on his 152nd Birthday by becoming a Nut Expert at Elixir Lounge. Sample peanut themed craft cocktails and delicious treats at one of Northalsted's premier cocktail bars.
Wednesday, August 24— "Remembering Bayard Rustin"
A community gathering at the Bayard Rustin bronze memorial on the Legacy Walk will commemorate the 29th anniversary of his passing. This celebration of the gay African American Civil Rights icon will be followed by the film Brother Outsider at the Center on Halsted.
Thursday, August 25— Screening of West Side Story - Gill Park
Celebrating the 98th Birthday of acclaimed Maestro Leonard Bernstein, whose bronze memorial joined the Legacy Walk last October, with a "Movie in the Park" screening of "West Side Story", co-written by Bernstein, Arthur Laurents, and Stephen Sondheim.
About the Northalsted Business Alliance ( NBA ):
Formed in 1980, NBA represents more than 100 businesses along the Halsted Street corridor. The organization hosts major events throughout the year including Chicago Pride Fest, Northalsted Market Days, Frost Fest, Pride Prom and the Halloween Parade. For information about NBA and The Legacy Project visit www.northalsted.com .