Sochi Gay Scene Thriving

A performer prepares for a nightly cabaret show in "Mayak," one of two gay nightclubs in the Black Sea resort of Sochi, Russia.

Dancers change costumes during a break in their show at the gay nightclub "Mayak" on September 23.

A visitor to "Mayak" dances the "lezginka," a Caucasian national dance, with a performer at the cabaret show.

Sergei Baklykov (front) and other dancers backstage during a break in the cabaret show.

Dancers performing in the cabaret show.

A dancer preparing for the nightly cabaret at "Mayak."

A wardrobe change during a break in the cabaret show.

A performer at the cabaret show.