I know, I know. I'm way behind, but a friend just introduced me to "THE MEETING of the International Order of Sodomites," Justin Sayre's live comedy/variety shows from Joe's Pub and 54 Below. This guy is hilarious. Anyone been to one of these shows?
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Updated On: 6/10/14 at 09:02 PM
Broadway Legend Joined: 7/22/03
Oh I've heard nothing but raves from people in the audience and people behind the scenes.
And of course the new hanky code piece is a marvel. I told my friend who knows him that Justin Sayre is the Anna Russell of the gay male community that we had no idea we needed.
Two "discoveries" in one day! Namo, I'm afraid I'd never heard of Anna Russell until seeing your post. What a wonderfully nutty talent.
As for Justin Sayre? Now, THIS, is a rallying call:
Broadway Legend Joined: 7/22/03
After listening to Anna Russell you will now get the reference I make every couple of months: "I'm not making this up, you know."
I have been several times. His events are fun and he is truly and uniquely funny. But underneath his manic energy lies a beautiful writer of enormous depth.
Never heard of either of them before this thread.
I haven't checked out Russell yet, but I love Sayre.
Never heard of him either...new fan here!
I've been lucky enough to be a part of both The Meeting, as well as other theatrical works by Justin, and I'm even more lucky that I get to call him a friend.
He also creates and hosts the annual Ali Forney Benefit NIGHT OF A THOUSAND JUDYS, which celebrates Judy Garland, Pride and raises money for a cause that is very near and dear to his heart and mine. And it just so happens that it's this coming Monday evening! I'll be there! I believe there are still tickets left, so if you can, come! It will be magnificent.
Night of a Thousand Judys 2014
Updated On: 6/11/14 at 11:15 AM
SonofRobbieJ - that's wonderful to hear. Although he's obviously got a sharp wit, he's far from your typical catty comedian (not that we don't all enjoy a taste of that from time to time). I'm not at all surprised to hear about the humanity behind the laughs. There's an undeniable warmth - even kindness - behind even the sharpest of his jabs. Since you brought it up, is your involvement behind-the-scenes or on stage? Any chance of the show becoming bi.... coastal?
My involvement has been on stage. I've guested at The Meeting several times and was in his Ars Nova show Justin Sayre Is Alive and Well...and Writing. He's also written one of the most beautiful plays I've ever had the honor or being a part of, The Click of the Lock. It takes place in the fairy resorts that were on the Bowery at the turn of the (last) century. We did the last reading at The Players Club and it was magical. He's a deeply smart, deeply lovely person and I'm thrilled that he's starting to get the notice he deserves. I wouldn't even label him a comedian, though I have been in the audience when he's done some stand-up and he's terrific at that. He's more a raconteur, performance artist and monologist who is incredibly funny, but also very, very deep. He has performed The Meeting on the West Coast, and I'm sure he'll be doing it again VERY soon. Like the Facebook page for it and you'll be able to follow where and when it's being performed. It's absolutely worth a visit!
Marvelous. Thanks for the history, Robbie. Hopefully he'll be able to keep doing his live work when the inevitable sitcom writing job comes his way.
Broadway Legend Joined: 7/22/03
Justin, Sarah & Justin, ready for tonight's big Night of 1000 Judys
What a great lineup. Anyone going?
I was there last night! It was a great evening. Justin was, of course, hilarious - and presented a two-part sketch homage to the Judy and Mickey "let's put on a show" films.
He also gave a stirring speech about the need for true activism from the queer community.
I wish I knew you were there, Kad!! I would have grabbed you inappropriately!
The singing was magnificent last night. And Justin was sensational. And there were Rockett...wait...we're not allowed to say it. There were ladies who do high kicks seasonally at a theater that's named after an oyster dish.
Broadway Legend Joined: 7/22/03
I had no idea The Gaiety was an oyster dish.
Are you actually Spencer Day, Robbie? Because, if so.. grab away.
Wait...RIGHT? I chatted him up a bit at the after-party. He's just DREAMY. And learned that song that afternoon. I mean...
Can we also discuss how amazing it was that Sarah Dash came dressed as a Disney villain? Just magnificent!
A great, great night!
So sorry I missed it! What did you sing?
I was a spectator last night! Not singing again until Sunday night at 54 Below for Sondheim Unplugged. Tickets still available!*
*I am the worst.
I was introduced to Spencer at the reception before the show and had no idea who he was. What a fool I was.
Also, god bless Jackie Hoffman.
I was, too...and had no idea he was a performer that evening. I was all, 'Who's the lanky gay I just met?' But, hot damn, did he kill it.
And yes...bless Jackie Hoffman for making it work! But there really wasn't a weak or even 'just ok' performance last night. All of it was terrific.
I can't believe we were at the same so-gay-it-glittered social event and didn't know it.
And, oh gurl...did it glitter! I was in my ruby-red pants and I STILL felt like the gay Republican at Wigstock.
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