New York State of Mind

Before we get into the groove of summer, it’s time to look back. On Wednesday, April 25, the AIDS activist group ACT UP is returning to its roots to stage a massive demonstration, to commemorate the group’s 25th anniversary—and bring much-needed attention to the cause. The demonstration starts at 11 a.m. at City Hall, and ends on Wall Street.

ACT UP (The AIDS Coalition to Unleash Power) is joined by Occupation Wall Street (OWS), in hopes of getting attention paid to the Financial Speculation Tax, needed to fill AIDS funding gaps and provide universal healthcare in the United States.

For more information, visit www.actupny.com or @actupny on Twitter.

Hearts in San Francisco

In the City By the Bay, the new exhibition at the GLBT History Museum, “Life and Death in Black and White: AIDS Direct Action in San Francisco, 1985-1990,” focuses on the work of five queer photographers who captured the community during that time, with sorrow and outrage, and a commitment to honoring the dead. The artists are Jane Philomen Cleland, Patrick Clifton, Marc Geller, Rick Gerharter, and Daniel Nicoletta.

Photo by Daniel Nicoletta

The exhibition is on display through July 1, 2012, in the front gallery of the museum, 4127 18th Street. For more information, visit www.glbthistorymuseum.org or call 415.621.1107.

Lullabye of Broadway

Leading up to this year’s annual Broadway Bares show (June 17), courtesy of Broadway Bares/Equity Fights AIDS, the guys behind the scenes are putting together a pre-show at XL Nightclub, Sunday, May 6, at 9 p.m. Titled “Broadway Bares: Solo Strips,” the benefit is produced by hot-shot Jerry Mitchell, and features 10 of the sexiest male dancers on the Great White Way.

Solo Flex: Cesar Abreu for Broadway Bares

“Strips” is a return to Mitchell’s roots in Will Rogers Follies, when the actor put on a show of himself and six friends taking it off for love, and money!

Tickets are limited, and there are both reserved ($25) and general admission ($10 donation). Get your rush now at www.broadwaybares.com.

The summer of love is about to start, so get ready and pucker up!

Cover Image: Dancer Sam Cahn.