Broadway Bares began 30 years ago in a gay bar in Chelsea to raise money for HIV/AIDS at a time when people were afraid of sensuality- afraid that their body might turn against them. This year Director @layabarak asked me to create something to celebrate that first year- 1992. I reached out to my good friend @jasonwilliams86 to ask if he would like to collaborate on a dance to honor those that came before and laid so much groundwork for the work that we do now. We’ve both been so inspired by iconic artists like Frank Hatchett (we borrowed 2 8’s from Papa if you can spot them), @barrylather, @paulaabdul , and OF COURSE the creator of Bares Jerry Mitchell. He said YES and we got to work looking for the perfect song. It is meaningful to me that the one we landed on is an anthem at @718sessions- a community that has taught me so much about joy. I brought on @laur.starobin to do costumes and @david_ferguson and @dance10amy to assist. @marccardarelli made a gorgeous mix of the music and we were ready to cast. The group of dancers could not have been more kind, humble, enthusiastic, and fabulous- I am so grateful to them for all of the work that they poured into not only the choreography but the fund as well. As a team we raised over $35,000 to help people in need all over the world. Thank you so much to all of the people in my life that donated to my page- it truly means the world. Dance can bring so many good people together to do so much. I am so lucky to be a part of it all especially at a time when I can be open about who I love and how I feel. I love being gay. I would never want to change that part of who I am even if I could. I love being a New Yorker. I thank and honor those that came before me to make my life and work possible and I salute everyone at @bcefa, my fellow choreographers, and anyone that came out to support. These are not easy times but what we can do together can truly make a difference. Lastly, @jasonwilliams86 you inspire me, push me, and remind me why I love this thing called JAZZ DANCE. Thank you. Love Will Save the Day. ✨#whitneyhouston #frankhatchett