Leather weekend is here. See www.imrl.com for details on all the parties, contests, fairs and more. Welcome to town, and play safe!
Get yourself over to see the BETTY RULES! rock musical at Lakeshore Theatre. It is funny (with a few tears of sadness), well-acted, and a rockin' musical good time. At 3175 N. Broadway, (773) 472-3492.
Lori Petrushkevich, longtime owner of Andersonville's hip Karma Salon and Gallery, has announced the grand opening of her newest venture, Joie de Vine, 1744 W. Balmoral, just down from Karma. Joie de Vine is an upscale wine bar, featuring an extensive wine list, appetizers and more. Call (773) 989-6846.
Chicago Historical Society's OUT at CHS: Exploring the LGBT Past is May 27. The next topic up is 'From Drag Ball to Vogue Ball.' North Avenue and Clark Streets; (312) 662-4600 or visit www.chicagohistory.org
Maneuvers' Pride Drag Show is May 28, 118 E. Jefferson St., Joliet.
Star Gaze hosts Passionate Women 2005 Calendar Contest May 28.
OK, Thursday, June 3 is insane, with major events in town, including:
— Lambda Literary book awards, Mart Plaza Hotel, (202) 682-0952,
— About Face Youth Theatre Wonka Ball, Architectural Artifacts, 4325 N. Ravenswood, (773) 784-8565, ext. 111.
— Dance Divas benefit for Dance for Life, (312) 922-2322
— Gloria Gaynor Headlines Genesis House's Monster Ball, FOR women with HIV/AIDS, Park West, (773) 533-8701.
— Gerber/Hart Library Unveils The NAKED truth, part of RAW, an edgy evening of discussion for gay men, jimberlypickett@aol.com .
— ACLU hosts a marriage discussion, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Chicago Historical Society, 1601 N. Clark