Pageant Aims to Blast Stereotypes
Palm Springs Mr. Gay contest will crown ‘boy-next-door’
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
By MATTHEW BAMBERG
Special to The Press-Enterprise
First there was Miss America, then Miss Universe, Miss Teen America, and Mrs. America, beauties who marched in front of millions for their contest’s coveted title. Move over, girls, because now, there’s Mr. Gay.
Finalists will compete for the United States Mr. Gay on Oct. 27 and the International title of Mr. Gay 2007 on Oct. 28.
Both events begin at 8 p.m. at the Palm Springs Convention Center, which are part of a weekend extravaganza to celebrate the diversity of the global gay community.
A cocktail reception precedes both events at 7 p.m. Tickets for one night range from $30 to $125 and for both nights, $48 to $200.
Comedian Bruce Vilanch, the star of “Hollywood Squares” and “Hairspray,” hosts.
Judges select the candidate who best represents America’s “boy-next-door.” But it takes more than looks to win, said producer Don Spradlin.
“The International Competition for Mr. Gay brings together non-stereotypical gay men from around the world to confront an oftentimes stereotypical bias in the mainstream press,” Spradlin said. “The competitive elements designed into the finals will allow judges to observe the character values and leadership talents of our contestants.”
Information: visit www.MrGayCompetition.com
