Newport Gay Night Kicks Off This Week at Dockside

Newport’s gay scene is about to step it up.

Dockside manager Tony Murgo needed a Thursday night theme and wondered about a gay night. He didn’t have to go far to look into the idea. Murgo walked across the wharf to their other venue, @ The Deck, and sat down with gay sous-chef Michael Johnson.  

“Tony recognized there was a need in town,” said Johnson. “There is a market for it.”

Johnson explained there is no venue that caters to Newport’s gay community and Dockside’s large space would be an ideal setting for a large-scale gay party that includes drag shows, special guests, deejays and dancing.

Johnson was so enthusiastic about the concept that he asked to organize and promote the night. After months of preparation and marketing, Dockside's first gay night is scheduled for this Thursday. 

“It’s called Dockside Bliss,” said Johnson. “You know every gay party has to have a name,” he laughed. He hopes the night will attract both locals and visitors from Providence, Boston and surrounding areas. 

Drag Queen Haley Starr, a popular YouTube comedian based out of Rhode Island, will perform at the weekly party.

The night will also feature guest bartender Adam Rose from the NBC reality TV show, Love in the Wild.  According to Rose’s Facebook page, he an aspiring actor, model and sports specific trainer. Rose competes in drug free bodybuilding contests and hopes to “set an example for natural bodybuilders and show that we're not the typically self centered stereotype.”

“He’s also absolutely gorgeous,” Johnson added.  Deejay Joey Dee, who spins at clubs in Providence and Boston, will bust out the dance music for the night.  

Johnson said he hopes that Dockside Bliss will help shape a gay scene in Newport and attract additional tourists to the area, particularly now that gay marriage is legal in Rhode Island.

“It will be a tremendous asset to Newport as a whole," he said. "There is a need; that’s what it comes down to.”

Want to check out the party? Dockside Bliss launches this Thursday, June 20. No cover before 10 p.m.; $10 cover after 10 p.m. Free parking is available. Follow Dockside Bliss on Facebook here.