It’s hard not to marvel at the sweet stuff concocted by TLC’s Cake Boss reality TV star Buddy Valastro. The acclaimed baker, who operates Carlo’s Bake Shop in Hoboken, N.J., makes a tantalizing assortment of cakes and pastries that anyone can whip up with one of his tell-all cookbooks.
But is it worth your conscience?
His treatment of transgender model, reality TV star and advocate of LGBT rights Carmen Carrera – who appeared on Cake Boss earlier this year – might have ruined my appetite. Carrera was misled about her role on the show, unknowingly participating in a practical joke when Valastro introduced her to his very interested cousin, later revealing to him that she was born a man. The incident publicly humiliated Carrera after the show aired.
Valastro, who apologized for his intolerant actions, visits the Queen City for a special holiday-themed show at Ovens Auditorium. For those willing to forgive and forget, the performance consists of his storytelling (about everything from family traditions to behind-the-scenes Cake Boss drama), demonstrations of his cake techniques, a Q&A session and an interactive cupcake/cake decorating demo with select members of the audience.
$35.75-$45.75.
Dec. 12, 7:30 p.m.
Ovens Auditorium,
2700 E. Independence Blvd.
704-335-3100.
This article appears in Dec 5-11, 2012.
