CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A local LGBT-centered web series — whose creator went viral with a spoof of disgraced former Mayor Patrick Cannon in March — will compete this weekend for grant from an organization that supports local artists.
Joanne Spataro’s web series “Pillow Talk with Joanne” is among four finalists for Project Art Aid’s Queen City Soup, a quarterly event which awards a micro-grant worth $1,500-$2,500. Spataro will perform her show — which is filmed in a unique interview and talk show format — in front of a live audience on Sunday, June 22 at Charlotte Ballet. Audience members will determine by vote the winner of the grant.
“I’m really excited about doing a live performance of ‘Pillow Talk’ for the first time,” Spataro says in a release. “I want to show people why we need this web series in Charlotte.”
Spataro’s web series began airing in January on YouTube and The Charlotte Observer. Her first guest was former Mecklenburg County Commissioner Jennifer Roberts, who announced she was running for mayor last month. The show features guests primarily in the local LGBT and ally community. She describes her interview style as both irreverent and informative. Greg LaCour called her a “sassy Sicilian chick” in his review of the first episode for Charlotte magazine.
Spataro plans to use the grant money to fund season two of the show, which will include shooting new episodes and a launch event held at a soon-to-be-selected performance space.
Donald Devet of Now & Then Video is “Pillow Talk” videographer and co-producer.
— Queen City Soup, Sunday, June 22, 4-7 p.m. at The Charlotte Ballet, 701 N. Tryon St. Tickets are $10 in advance, $15 at the door. BBQ and drinks will be served. Tickets are available at www.projectartaid.org.