I was delighted when I first learned that the NOH8 anniversary celebration was to be held at House of Blues. Not just because the vibrant city of West Hollywood is the perfect place for such an event, but also because HOB is a spacious, conveniently located venue used for unique events of all types. Obviously, music's A-listers as well as up-and-coming acts perform here, but I have personally attended a variety of functions throughout the years ranging from corporate events and press conferences to a touching memorial service for L.A. talk radio personality Tracey Miller who left us in 2005. HOB also seemed a wise choice for tonight's event because last year's NOH8 anniversary celebration was held in a smaller venue in neighboring Hollywood which really seemed quite crowded.

As I arrive, I notice a long line of people waiting to get inside. When asking a member of the staff what the line is for, they inform me that it is the line to walk the red carpet. Really? I know that a number of celebrities are expected to attend tonight, but it is quite a long line. As the line starts to move forward and the red carpet ceremony begins, I notice that the line consists of actual celebrities, lesser known actors and musical artists, and quite a few PR reps dragging their clients down the red carpet hoping that someday they will be celebrities. As the procession continues, I hear fellow journalists asking "Is that anybody?" Chances are that if you have to ask, it probably isn't. At least, not yet. No matter, as everyone is here for the same reason - to celebrate an outstanding campaign.
 

Hal Sparks

Tabatha Coffey

LeeAnn Rimes

Louis Van Amstel

There are indeed some celebrities in attendance tonight, ranging from actors Hal Sparks (Queer As Folk) and Lea Thompson (Back to the Future; Caroline in the City) to singer LeAnn Rimes and reality TV star Tabatha Coffey (of Bravo's newly renamed Tabatha Takes Over.) Everyone seems quite Glee-ful with the arrival of Ashley Fink (Lauren on Glee). Jai Rodriguez (Queer Eye for the Straight Guy) has arrived, as has dancer and choreographer Louis Van Amstel (Dancing with the Stars.) Of the lesser known celebrities, viral music sensation Rebecca Black is here. She recorded the popular (and, to some, really annoying) song "Friday." Good news, Rebecca - record a song for each day of the week and you'll have an album!

Tonight's event is enjoyable and quite well organized. As the procession along the red carpet continues, some of the celebrities have made their way downstairs to the main stage to have their NOH8 photos taken by Adam Bouska. Normally, NOH8 photos are not taken in front of an audience of hundreds but doing this certainly adds to the event and, hey, most celebrities crave the attention of an audience anyway. To date, tens of thousands of people, both celebrities and non-celebrities alike (including yours truly) have had their photos taken in support of the NOH8 Campaign at photo shoots around the country.
 

Lea Thompson

Daniel Joseph Baker

NOH8 Gallery

Jeff Parshley, John Duran, John D'Amico, Adam Bouska

But an event like this is not without entertainment. Throughout the evening, Adam's portable photo studio is moved aside for stage entertainment, featuring a number of talented performers including the L.A.-based band Metro Station and Daniel Joseph Baker from Season 6 of America's Got Talent. Daniel's personality and enthusiasm light up the stage. It's no wonder that he was a popular favorite on the NBC talent competition. Aside from enjoying the entertainment and mingling with others in attendance, guests may enjoy an impressive photo gallery that stretches from one side of the building to the other featuring many of the NOH8 photos that have been taken over the last three years.

As the evening progresses, NOH8 co-founders Adam Bouska and Jeff Parshley are called to the stage by the honorable John Duran, Mayor of West Hollywood, and Councilmember John D'Amico to receive a proclamation of "NOH8 Day" in West Hollywood. Certainly a well deserved honor for an outstanding campaign that has gained much attention and support in a relatively short amount of time.

On the web: http://www.noh8campaign.com