Help Fire Island-Loving Artists Strut Their Stuff

This year marks the first Fire Island summer since Superstorm Sandy swept through the region, disrupting a gay haven already shaken by the fiery destruction of the legendary Pavilion nightclub, a space that's been rebuilt and will soon be open for business. And as Fire Island rebuilds, it appears to be, thankfully, losing some of its circuit party charm and reclaiming its truly creative spirit, the spirit that lured artists like Robert Mapplethorpe, Truman Capote and Christopher Isherwood away from always-awake Manhattan and the ritzy-glitzy Hamptons.

In addition to the new and improved Pavilion, a nightclub-cum-community center designed by Hollwich Kushner, Fire Island will host the second annual Fire Island Performance Series. A three-week smattering of works by up-and-coming artists like Marcelo Krasilcic, Emily Sundbland, and Ryan McNamara, the series' events puts queer performance center stage, offering a unique, often confounding departure from Fire Island's typical entertainment. And, really, where else but Fire Island can you watch amazing artists while wearing your tightest speedo and sipping Perrier or guzzling Brooklyn Lager?

Before things kick off this August, though,the team needs a bit of support. They are, after all, starving artists. If you're around New York and want to help out, head down to the Elizabeth St. Garden for a one-time fundraiser Monday night. Hang out, drink some booze, make some friends and enjoy musical stylings from Lauren Dillard from Brooklyn-based band CREEP, the gorgeous Lissy Trullie, and JD Samson of Le Tigre fame, as well as performances by artists McNamara, whose work is seen above and below, Megha Barnabas, and Tyler Ashley.

For more information, here's the pitch from Fire Island Performance Series and, as a bonus, a video from Samson and his latest outfit, MEN. The track is called "Off Our Backs." Also, video of McNamara's explaining his artistic process.