JULY 2015
CONTENTS
GSCENE magazine ) www.gscene.org
DAVE LYNN RECEIVES A LIFE TIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD AT THE GOLDEN HANDBAGS
BULLDOG
t @gscene f GScene.Brighton PUBLISHED BY Peter Storrow TEL 01273 749 947 EDITORIAL info@gscene.com ADS+ARTWORK design@gscene.com EDITORIAL TEAM Graham Robson, Sarah Green, Gus Gustafson, Gary Hart, Alice Blezard ARTS EDITOR Michael Hootman SUB EDITOR Graham Robson DESIGN Michèle Allardyce
FRONT COVER
REVENGE
SUBLINE: THE BIG SCRUM
MODEL Maeve Devine PHOTOGRAPHY Sharon Kilgannon www.alonglines.com
CONTRIBUTORS Jaq Bayles, Jo Bourne, Nick Boston, Suchi Chatterjee, Craig Hanlon Smith, Enzo Marra, Netty, Carl Oprey, Mitchell Orriss, Eric Page, Del Sharp, Keith Sharpe, Rory Smith, Gay Socrates, Brian Stacey, Glen Stevens, Craig Storrie, Duncan Stewart, Paul Thorn, Roger Wheeler, Mike Wall, Morham White, Kate Wildblood
PHOTOGRAPHERS James Brooks, Revenge images Josh Hiatt, Michael Hootman, Ian Andrew Mager-Playford, James Ledward, Jack Lynn, Sharon Kilgannon www.alonglines.com
FEATURES
NEWS
32 RAINBOW FUND
8 News
A progress report from Chris Gull, Chair of the Rainbow Fund
34 POLICING BRIGHTON PRIDE
© GSCENE 2015 All work appearing in Gscene Ltd is copyright. It is to be assumed that the copyright for material rests with the magazine unless otherwise stated on the page concerned. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in an electronic or other retrieval system, transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without the prior knowledge and consent of the publishers. The appearance of any person or any organisation in Gscene is not to be construed as an implication of the sexual orientation or political persuasion of such persons or organisations.
SCENE LISTINGS
Chief Superintendent Nev Kemp talks to James Ledward
52 Brighton 70 Solent listings
36 SAMARITANS
ARTS
Brighton, Hove & Distict branch support Brighton and Trans*Pride
74 Arts News 76 Art Matters 78 Classical Notes
38 GOLDEN HANDBAG AWARDS Winners photos and results from this year’s Golden Handbag Awards
43 TRANS ARTS Luc Raesmith highlights the wealth of trans talent in Brighton & Hove
44 STAND UP & DELIVER! Craig Hanlon Smith talks to stand up comic Claire Parker
45 HEARTICHOKE A new LGBT comedy series featuring Fox, Lewis and Alice
46 DJ PRISSS “DJing is more than just making people dance”
47 BRIGHT FUTURE Kim Curran looks at the gaps in services for trans people
48 GENDER CLINICS Non-binary identities by Lola Olson
49 QUESTIONS
REGULARS 71 Dance Music 71 DJ Profile: Sami Kubu 72 Shopping 79 Geek Scene 81 Sam The Trans Man 82 Craig’s Thoughts 83 Netty’s World 83 Queenie’s Strip Service 84 Changing Attitude 85 Duncan’s Domain 85 Suchi’s World 86 Dad & Daddy 87 Hyde’s Hopes 87 LGBT Police Liaison 88 Del’s Sharp Words 89 MindOut
CAMELFORD ARMS
Poem by Alice Denny, Pride Ambassador for Pride 2015
77 NOT GIVIN’ UP OR GIVIN’ IN Craig Hanlon-Smith talks to the Three Degrees
80 MARK & TRACY Short Story by Carl Oprey
INFORMATION 90 Service Directory 91 Advertisers’ Map 92 Classifieds
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£5 ‘EARLY BIRD’ TICKETS FOR PRIDE VILLAGE PARTY 2015 ON SALE NOW
This year's PVP ticket price reflects increased operational costs to stage a safe PVP, such as street cleaning, traffic management and costs that have traditionally been picked up by the City Council and Sussex Police. With many cuts in public services, Pride organisers understand the PVP needs to move towards eventually covering all its costs to ensure a sustainable future for the event. Extra anticipated costs this year include £40,000 for security, £25,000 for policing, £15,000 for street cleaning and £15,000 for St John’s Ambulance cover that will now have to be paid by income from the PVP wristbands. Paul Kemp, Pride Director, said: “As a 'not for profit organisation' Pride are unable to underwrite the anticipated increase in costs to operate the Pride Village Party. Increasing the ticket prices is the only way to ensure the costs of producing a safe and sustainable PVP for the future and to meet our community fundraising objectives.
PAUL KEMP
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“We are committed to our ongoing fundraising for the Rainbow Fund, who make grants to local organisations providing effective front-line services to the LGBT Community in Brighton & Hove.
) The Pride Village Party (PVP) returns on August 1 for two days of community festivities in the heart of the city. Pride organisers have frozen Early Bird PVP wristbands at last year’s price of £5 (£2 per day + £1 donation to the Rainbow Fund). Online availability will be limited and then wristbands will cost £10 for the weekend. The PVP in 2014 was considered a successful community event by the authorities, with many people reporting a safer and more relaxed atmosphere for locals and visitors to the city than the year before. Each ticket sold for the PVP includes a ring-fenced £1 a head donation to the Rainbow Fund, who received £65,000 from Pride's fundraising activities in 2014. The Rainbow Fund make grants to LGBT+/HIV organisations providing effective frontline services to LGBT+ people in Brighton & Hove.
To benefit local residents, £5 weekend wristbands will also be available for a limited time exclusively through local venues from July 1. Joint tickets for the main Pride Festival on Preston Park and PVP are also available online. £5 Sundayonly wristbands will also be available at on-site box offices on the day.
“With the help of local venues and city-wide businesses who benefit from the Pride weekend, Pride are also committed to additional fundraising contributions to a Social Impact Fund, a new community fund that we hope will benefit local projects". Pride Village Party weekend tickets work out at £4.50 per day (cost of a bus pass or a pint of beer) plus a £1 Rainbow Fund donation.
Residents, businesses and hotel guests within the PVP zone will once again receive free passes and can make a donation if they wish to the new Social Impact No one is excluded from attending Brighton Pride. Fund, which will benefit local generic community You can get a free pass for the weekend by initiatives in areas impacted by both the main Pride volunteering just two hours of your time to help event on Preston Park and the PVP footprint. Pride. If you are unable to volunteer you can also The capacity for this year’s PVP has been restricted apply to the Rainbow Fund for a free pass. so it is advisable to purchase wristbands in advance, For more information to volunteer at Pride, view: when they are cheaper, to avoid being disappointed. www.brighton-pride.org/volunteer_signup.php Any wristbands remaining unsold will cost more on the day.
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) Friday, July 24 marks the official start of Trans*Pride Brighton with an epic film night at the Duke of York’s cinema. During the evening expect a few quick speeches, the fictional pilot of a new diverse comedy (from the creators of My Genderation) called Heartichoke, a short documentary film and as a special treat, there will be a screening of Kate Bornstein is a Queer & Pleasant Danger (http://katebornsteinthemovie.com ), followed by a special Q&A from the director, Sam Feder. The price is £7 per ticket and after hire costs of the cinema, all profit will go back to Trans*Pride Brighton.
ALICE DENNY: PHOTO BY SHARON KILGANNON, alonglines.com
her life as she wanted and has never looked back. Alice identifies primarily as a woman, parent and poet, and says that being trans is more coincidental, a reference to her development that she says has little current relevance, although, in practice it has a big impact on the way she interacts with the world and how the world treats her.
In July 2014 she was part of the Brighton Trans*formed Project. She said: “It was an honour and humbling to play a small part in Brighton Transformed. I am completely awed by the energy and commitment of people (not all trans but with a belief in human dignity) that drove this project along, placing trans issues and trans lives to the forefront. It did so much to affirm our lives and experiences and the Brighton populace responded with warm generosity. It felt really good.”
Her poetry is powerful and on May 17, she captivated the audience at the IDAHOBIT event in New Steine Gardens in Kemptown with a selection of her poems. Alice has been the subject of a My Genderation film produced by Lucky Tooth productions where she tells her story about transitioning and reads her poem, Alice's Dream. "I'm nobody's tranny, I'm nobody's bitch, Quite simply a woman, No more, No bit less."
Originally from Hastings,Alice found her way to Brighton and with the help of Switchboard and the Clare Project found the courage to live
To view the film and hear her read her poem, Alice's Dream, view: www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tn9D GqoBEvA
TRANS*PRIDE MERCHANDISE ) Trans*Pride merchandise, including T-shirts and badges designed by Fox Fisher, are on sale now at the Cowley Club and will be on sale at the main event in Dorset Gardens on Saturday, July 25. All profits from sales go to Trans*Pride. For more info and prices, view: http://transpridebrighton.tumblr.com
A CELEBRATION OF 'LOVE AND LIFE' WITH PRIDE ) A unique celebration of Love and Life in New Steine Gardens in the heart of the Gay Village on Sunday, August 2 from 8.30pm will bring Pride 2015 to a close. Brighton & Hove’s LGBTQ community will come together to remember friends and loved ones at a very special candle lit sunset event. The event will be hosted by the Brighton & Hove LGBT Community Safety Forum, and will provide a space for reflection and celebration, lit up by love and support of each other. PIC BY CHRIS JEPSON
Alice transitioned later in life than most after bringing up her children and says her transition gave her “a new lease of life, a new energy”.
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TRANS*PRIDE 2015
POET NAMED AS SECOND BRIGHTON PRIDE AMBASSADOR FOR 2015
) Alice Denny has been voted the second Pride Ambassador for 2015 and will represent the trans community at the front of the Pride Parade on August 1.
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The Pride Celebration of Love and Life will be an inclusive event, with guest speakers and music, giving Pride-goers a chance to come together for a wonderful act of commemoration and celebration.
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'REPORT IT!' EMPOWERS LGBT COMMUNITY TO REPORT TO POLICE!
BILLIE LEWIS
) Report It! was set up by the Brighton & Hove LGBT Community Safety Forum in 2014 with supportive funding from the Police & Crime Commissioner’s Safer in Sussex Community Fund (SiSCF). The aim of the project is to make it easier for members of the LGBT community to report a crime and get the help and support they need. Billie Lewis, Chair of the Forum, said: “Report It! is not just about hate crime, although that is its primary aim. Members of the community are also encouraged to use it as an anonymous, third-party reporting mechanism for incidents of lower-level harassment or abuse. Many such incidents have until now been shrugged off and not reported because the person being targeted thought nobody else, including the authorities, would be interested or supportive.
KATY BOURNE
“The LGBT Safety Forum is a non-profit organisation staffed by volunteers, so we were delighted to receive a grant from the SiSCF to help with the Report It! project. The funding also allowed us to run a personal safety and self-awareness class tailored to the specific needs of the LGBT community.” Katy Bourne, Sussex Police & Crime Commissioner, said: “We need projects like Report It! in order to empower those communities who may feel marginalised. I want every Sussex resident to feel confident and safe irrespective of who they are or what their background is. “Many minority groups have not always had trust in the police. Recent figures show a 40% rise in the number of hate crimes recorded between 2013 and 2014 in Brighton & Hove. I welcome an increase in reporting as it reflects confidence in police and partners from the more vulnerable in our society. However, for every person that reports a hate crime, I know there are some who do not feel able to. This is why I will continue to support local voluntary and community groups that tackle crime and improve safety.” More than £500,000 in funding from the SiSCF has been made available to over 100 community projects to date. For more information about Report It! and the LGBT Community Safety Forum, view: www.lgbt-safety-forumbrighton.com/report-it/ Or email: info@lgbt-help.com
STARS SIGN UP TO NATIONAL #SWITCHBOARDSELFIE CAMPAIGN
) Olympic diver Tom Daley, Radio 1 presenter Scott Mills and pop star Carly Rae Jepsen last month joined hundreds of people online to post a #SwitchboardSelfie to raise awareness of the charity and the work it does. London Lesbian & Gay Switchboard (LLGS) provides confidential phone, email and instant messaging services to support people who want to talk about sexuality and gender identity. Supporters from across the world have posted photos of themselves on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram using the international phone handsign. YouTuber Calum McSwiggan also supported the campaign by uploading a new video every day throughout June featuring various celebrities and YouTubers from the LGBT+ communities.
SCOTT MILLS
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TOM DALEY
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pleasure of working with drag queens, porn stars, football teams, musicians, as well as sex and dating experts. I'm really proud of the series and it's already receiving an incredible response.” Theatre and film artist, Topher Campbell, and independent filmmakers, Fox Fisher and Lewis Hancox (Channel 4's My Transsexual Summer), have joined the charity as patrons alongside existing supporters including author Sarah Waters and actor Mark Gatiss. Further announcements are due at LLGS’s Re-Launch Gala at The Waldorf Hilton, London, on Thursday, June 25.
More than 15,000 people use LLGS services every year to talk about a variety of subjects including coming out, discrimination, and sexual health. Volunteers are trained to listen, signpost people to specialist services Calum said: “It's so important to and to support them to make make young LGBT+ people aware of informed decisions for themselves. the incredible services LLGS To view celebrity photos posted on provides and that's why I wanted to Twitter: @switchboardLGBT try to reach them in a unique and different way. In celebration of LGBT For more information about LLGS, Pride Month, I've created a diverse view: www.switchboard.lgbt series of 25 videos. I've had the
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TERRENCE HIGGINS
) Terrence Higgins Trust (THT) commemorated Terrence Higgins‘ 70th birthday last month with the launch of five new centres dedicated to over 50s living with HIV. Terrence ‘Terry’ Higgins was among the first people known to die of an AIDS-related illness in the UK in 1982. To mark Terry's 70th birthday, THT, the UK’s leading sexual health and HIV charity rolled out a new national programme, Health Wealth And Happiness Project (HWHP), aimed at the one in four of those living with HIV in the UK who are over 50. The programme is funded by the Big Lottery Fund’s Silver Dreams scheme, and is available in London, Bristol, West Midlands, Brighton and Manchester.
EUROVISION PARTY RAISES £325 FOR PEER ACTION EUROVISION PARTY
HIV CHARITY COMMEMORATES TERRY HIGGINS’ 70TH BIRTHDAY
) On Saturday, May 23, Peer Action held their 3rd annual Eurovision Fundraiser at the Camelford Arms in Brighton. The Camelford Arms kindly allowed Peer Action to use the pub and their management team helped the charity set up and manage the night which was very busy and enjoyed by everyone present.
The fundraising was assisted with help from: Brighton Sauna, day pass and £50 donation; Las Iguanas, Brighton, £50 voucher; Nice'n'Naughty, Brighton, £25 The evening raised £325 from a mix voucher; Prowler Brighton, £15 voucher; Colourstream Brighton, £10 of a sweepstakes, donations and raffle. Peer Action would like to thank voucher; and of course the Camelford for donating the use of the everyone who helped make the evening a success. A spokesperson venue on a busy Saturday night. for Peer Action, said: “We’re a very Peer Action is a peer-led HIV+ peer small charity and fundraisers like this support and social group for people really do make a difference. We’d living with HIV. like to thank everyone who helped us
HWHP focuses on providing support, advice, counselling and information to the first generation of people living with HIV into older age. These numbers are set to rise significantly over the next decade with 53% (42,000) of people currently living with HIV in the UK in the 35-49 age group.
DR ROSEMARY GILLESPIE
raise £325. This will help the charity in so many ways and enable us to continue running our events to combat the side effects and social isolation of those affected by HIV.”
Dr Rosemary Gillespie, THT CEO, said:“As we commemorate Terry Higgins’ 70th birthday we are reminded that people with HIV are now living into older age. Our 50+ research (2012) revealed that a significant proportion of older people with HIV live alone, experience poverty, and have limited family support.
HOVE LANDLORD RAISES MONEY FOR THE BEACON
Tony Calvert, one of the original founders of THT, added: “Terry was the first of many friends I lost to HIV. He passed away at St Thomas's Hospital, London on Sunday, July 4, 1982, 25 days after his 37th birthday. It was the decision of his friends, as a group, to set-up a charity in his name Terrence Higgins Trust - shortly after. “I remember Terry with great fondness every time his birthday comes along.. Today (10th June) would have been my dear friend's 70th birthday. I would like to say thanks Terry - for being my friend, and to the charity that carries your great name, without which programmes like HWHP would not exist.”
ADAM BROOKS
TONY CALVERT
“HWHP was set up to tackle this through provisions such as debt management, one to one support, housing and benefit advice, volunteering opportunities, and complimentary therapy sessions.”
) Adam Brooks, landlord of the Bedford Tavern in Hove, raised £7,106.37 for the Sussex Beacon from his marathon run earlier this year in February. Adam said: “A huge heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported me and helped me raise much needed and deserved funds for The Beacon. I’m truly overwhelmed.”
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BEAR-PATROL RECEIVE QUEEN’S AWARD FOR VOLUNTARY SERVICE
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR PRIDE COMMUNITY CAFE
DANNY DWYER
Brighton-based Bear-Patrol have been recognised for their fundraising with the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service. ) Bear-Patrol, an LGBT social group who organise leisure, challenge and fundraising events to reduce isolation and provide a network for the local community, has been honoured with the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service, the highest award a voluntary group can receive in the UK. Danny Dwyer and John Cook from BearPatrol attended a garden party at Buckingham Palace on May 28 where they met the Queen and other recipients of this year’s award. Bear-Patrol are one of 187 national charities, social enterprises and voluntary groups to receive the prestigious award this year. Due to an increase in high quality applications, the number of awards handed out to groups has increased by over 60% from 2014, indicating that the voluntary sector is thriving and full of innovative ideas to tackle community challenges. The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service is the highest award given to volunteer groups to recognise outstanding work in their communities. The awards were created in 2002 to celebrate the Queen’s Golden Jubilee and winners are announced each year on June 2 – the anniversary of the Queen’s Coronation.
ROB WILSON MP
MARTYN LEWIS
Bear-Patrol will receive their award from the Lord Lieutenant of Sussex later this summer. Martyn Lewis CBE, The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service Committee Chair and former broadcast journalist, said: “I warmly congratulate all of the inspirational voluntary groups who have been rewarded for their community work with a Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service. The judging panel for this year’s awards were struck by the quality and breadth of all the successful groups. The thousands of volunteers who give up spare time to help others in their community and to help solve problems demonstrate the best of democracy in action.” Rob Wilson MP, Minister for Civil Society, added: “I would like to congratulate all groups who received this year’s Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, in recognition of their fantastic achievements. The hard work and commitment that goes into the work of these organisations is surpassed only by the passion and motivation of the individuals who volunteer. I hope these groups continue to inspire others to get involved and make a positive impact so that we can continue to build a bigger, stronger society.” Danny Dwyer, founder and leader of the Bear-Patrol, said: “To receive the nomination at first gave the group a huge boost but to actually win the award along with so many other well deserving charities and groups is just amazing and I am so proud of everyone involved that work so hard to make the Bear-Patrol group a continued success.” Bear-Patrol join a very exclusive group of LGBT organisations in Brighton & Hove who have received the award recognising their work within the LGBT community with the Gay Elderly Men's Society (GEMS) being the only other local LGBT volunteer-led group to receive the award in 2011. Since January 1, 2011 Bear Patrol have raised a total of £110,110.39 for a variety of organisations including: Sussex Beacon, £104,139.04; Canine Partners, £3,349.72; GMFA, £763.75; Lunch Positive, £505.73; MacMillan, £425; THT (South), £305; Rainbow Fund, £250; Peer Action, £180; Brighton Pride, £162.15; Demelza, £30. Any group of two or more people that has participated in voluntary work for more than three years can be nominated for the award. For details on how to nominate, view: http://qavs.direct.gov.uk/ Nominations for the 2016 awards close on September 18, 2015
extra special project this year, being part of the newly sited ‘Community Village’.
) Lunch Positive will be running a community café at Pride again this year on Saturday, August 1. The community café on Preston Park, will be provided entirely by volunteers to raise funds for the HIV charity, who provide a weekly nourishing meal for people with HIV every Friday at Dorset Gardens Methodist Church in Kemptown. The café will serve affordable hot food – all priced at £5, hot and cold drinks and homemade cakes. Lunch Positive is looking for extra volunteers to join its own volunteers on the day. There are a range of roles to fill including setting up and clearing away the marquee and equipment, serving food, and back of house housekeeping. Volunteering hours will vary, depending on the role allocated. Gary Pargeter, Volunteer Project Manager, said: “Our café at Pride is an
"We always have a great response from our own volunteers, but more hands make light work, and extra team members would make a big difference. We’ve invested in a new marquee and new equipment for Pride and we want to raise funds and also make a big impact at the event. GARY PARGETER
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“We stage our café every year, and we’re always told how much fun it is to be part of. There’ll be a team briefing in July, and lots of support on the day itself. It’s a very different experience to what most people are used to, but that’s the challenge and fun of it all!” To find out more about volunteering with Lunch Positive at Pride, email: cafe@lunchpositive.org Lunch Positive are also looking for keen Facebook fans to spread news of the Community Café, and invites anyone interested to like their Facebook page: www.facebook.com/lunchclubfriends
PARIS LEES SCOOPS TOP AWARD ) Paris Lees, University of Brighton alumna and transgender role model, has been named Young Campaigning Journalist of the Year. The writer, TV personality and transgender activist was presented with her gold award at a gala organised by MHP Communications. Paris was one of the winners of MHP’s 30 to Watch 2015, an annual awards ceremony which recognises up and coming media talent. The event took place at the home of the British Academy of Film & Television Arts in London in May. Paris, who graduated from Brighton University in 2009 with English Language and Literature BA (Hons), said: “This award is lovely on a personal level, but, more importantly, it validates a cause I’m so passionate about – human rights for trans people. “When I first transitioned, like many trans people, I was depressed and isolated. I looked to the media for inspiration and all I saw were people like me being ridiculed. Five years on and things are looking very different. I’m very proud to have shared a special moment at the
awards with so many promising young journalists who don’t hate but in fact celebrate diversity.” Paris, who has presented on Channel 4's Creative Diversity, has met with executives at the Daily Mail, EastEnders and BBC Comedy through her awareness raising project All About Trans. Last year she was named Ultimate Campaigner at the Cosmopolitan Ultimate Woman of the Year Awards and was invited to a reception at Downing Street with Samantha Cameron. She has also topped the Independent on Sunday's Pink List. Paris was previously honoured by Brighton University for her outstanding intellectual and public contribution to a variety of media to subjects surrounding transgender issues.
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BISEXUALS EXPERIENCE PREJUDICE WHEN ACCESSING LGBT SERVICES ) The Equality Network, the Scottish LGBTI equality charity, has launched the first UK-wide research report on bisexual people’s experiences of prejudice when accessing LGBT services. The Complicated? report is the first UK-wide research report to focus specifically on bisexual people’s experiences of accessing services and highlights examples of good practice and suggests how to make services more inclusive for bisexual people. The research surveyed 515 bisexuals across the UK, and found that nearly half had experienced biphobia while accessing mainstream services. Thirty-eight per-cent had experienced sexual harassment, often centred on negative stereotypes falsely labelling bisexual people as promiscuous or unfaithful. The report findings suggest that bisexuals experience higher levels of discrimination within health services than any other public services and 28% of those surveyed reported never feeling comfortable coming out to their GP. One respondent said: “A nurse refused to treat me due to being bisexual. My mother overheard him saying to the senior nurse, ‘I refuse to treat her, she’s not normal and just greedy, she needs to decide what gender she loves, it’s unnatural to love both’.”
TIM HOPKINS
The research also found that over a quarter of bisexual people have experienced prejudice when accessing LGBT services. Another respondent reported they had “heard lots of negative comments about bisexual people and dismissal of the need to include bisexual people.”, while someone else heard someone say: “bisexuals are ‘confused’ and not as good as ‘real gays’.” The report also highlights examples of good practice in service provision and proposes a roadmap to make services more inclusive for bisexual people. The respondents in the survey called for mainstream and LGBT services to involve bisexual people more in service development. Tim Hopkins, Director of the Equality Network, said: “Unfortunately, as the report findings show, bisexual people are often misunderstood and discriminated against by many services. This leaves them at high risk of not getting appropriate information and support. We hope that this report will help services to better understand and assist bisexual people.”
MENTAL HEALTH PROJECT TO RUN LGBTQ MENTAL HEALTH CAMPAIGN ) MindOut, the LGBT mental health project, will be running a campaign later this year to highlight LGBTQ mental health issues. Campaign organisers want LGBT people to get involved and tell them the following:
• Why LGBTQ mental health is important to them. • What they would like the rest of the world to know. • What they would like people to do. • What has helped/harmed their mental health. • If they use mental health services are they ‘out’?
MindOut want you to make short video selfies, write down your thoughts and share your experiences. They also want friends and family to share how they may have changed their attitudes and learnt about discrimination regarding mental health. For more information, or to submit your pieces, email: info@mindout.org.uk Or call 01273 234839 MindOut will be at Trans*Pride and LGBT Pride, so you can talk to them there.
BEING HOMOPHOBICALLY BULLIED AT WORK? )Do you work in the National Health Service and suffer from homophobic bullying in the work place or are you being discriminated against because of your gender or sexuality? Have you recently left you place of work because
of lack of support from your bosses. You can talk in complete confidence to Gscene Magazine. Email: info@gscene.com and tell us your story.
ACTUALLY HELP 'INCLUSION FOR ALL' TAKE ANTI-LGBT BULLYING MESSAGE ON TOUR
Sam Rankin, Intersectional Equalities Coordinator and lead author of the report, added: “When explaining why bisexual equality is important and how people are discriminated against it is vital that we have robust data and real life examples to illustrate our points. Now that we have these we, and others, will be better able to take more effective steps in providing appropriate, inclusive services.” For more info about The Equality Network, view: www.equality-network.org
BED… & BREAKFAST WITH THE BRIGHTON GAY MEN’S CHORUS ) Brighton Gay Men’s Chorus continue their 10th anniversary celebrations with their contribution to this year’s Pride Arts Festival: Bed... & Breakfast. Is it a holiday romance, or just a dirty weekend? High season or low rent? Check in with Brighton Gay Men's Chorus for a thoroughly musical probing of the ups and downs of the seaside mini-break. Whatever the weather, you are promised a warm welcome, a varied menu and some unexpected encounters. Getting away from it all can be an adventure, and whether you end up in a single, a double, or get a king-size upgrade, the Brighton Gay Men's Chorus hopes you have a pleasant stay… and far too much fun to be bothered with a good night's sleep! Chairman Paul Charlton, said: “We have exciting new additions to our repertoire, to which I’m sworn to secrecy by the Music Team, but with a title like Bed & Breakfast, it’s safe to say there’ll be love in the air of Brighton & Hove this summer.” Bed & Breakfast... With The Brighton Gay Men's Chorus, All Saints Church, The Drive, Hove, 7.30pm, July 24 & 25. Tickets £12 /£10 at: www.brightongmc.org
) For the last year, Actually Gay Men's Chorus have been raising money at their concerts for the national anti-bullying project, Inclusion For All (IFA). When Shaun Dellenty, the founder of IFA, called into a recent rehearsal at St Andrew’s church in Hove, Actually Gay Men’s Chorus were on hand to present him with a cheque for £1,408.40. All the money raised through chorus performances and their generous audiences, will support the important work that IFA does, tackling homophobic, transphobic and biphobic bullying and language in schools. The money is already earmarked and will be used to benefit young people and educators throughout the country, as IFA takes a brand new anti-LGBT bullying project on tour.
Actually have been working with Shaun Dellenty and IFA over the last 12 months and chorus members are pleased to be continuing this support over the coming year. Shaun was awarded Highly Commended at the Excellence In Diversity Awards in 2014 for challenging LGBT bullying. He said: “IFA is incredibly honoured and grateful to be partnered with the inspirational Actually Gay Men’s Chorus again this year. The funds raised through Actually’s concert performances will help fund IFA’s anti-LGBT bullying theatre in eduction tour, delivering vital messages about difference, diversity and acceptance to whole school communities.”
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RAINBOW CHORUS CELEBRATES 18TH BIRTHDAY IN JULY
ARE YOU A BOY OR ARE YOU A GIRL?
The Rainbow Chorus is the longest established LGBT choir in Brighton & Hove and has built a reputation as a non-audition community choir striving for choral excellence with an active commitment to inclusion and diversity. As a registered charity they raise awareness and promote cooperation in the LGBT choral movement and support local LGBT/HIV organisations, including Lunch Positive, Switchboard’s Older LGBT project and MindOut. Their recent performances at IDAHOBIT, Stand By Your Trans and their own Sing Out were well received and they’ll be headlining Trans*Pride on July 25 as well as being very visible on the Brighton Pride Parade.
“This book is not just for children who may be trans or gender variant, I have ) Writer and transgender community advocate, Sarah Savage, got tired with written it with everybody in mind in the hope of breaking down these out-dated children being put into pink and blue ideas of putting our children in pink and boxes when it came to gender issues. 377 backers agreed with her and pledged blue boxes. Parents who want to teach their kids that gender is a wide spectrum over £5,500 to help Sarah publish and and open to be explored with fun will be print her book, Are You A Boy Or Are able to use this book as a springboard for You A Girl? discussion. Sarah said: “One of the most common “We’re all unique and every child stories I hear from my trans friends is deserves to be taught how to cherish and how they first realised that something celebrate what makes them different and about their gender was different to other children at an early age, typically between to be proud of who they are. Hopefully my four to seven years-old. We start learning book will help some children realise they what being a boy or a girl is all about, not can be whoever they want to be.” just the physical but also the roles, Are You A Boy Or Are You A Girl? is expectations and stereotypes that exist in available from Amazon, Goodreads and all society. good book stores.
RAINBOW CHORUS
) The Rainbow Chorus will celebrate their 18th birthday in style with two concerts on July 17 and 18 at St George's Church in Kemptown called #RC18! The chorus, led by Musical Director Aneesa Chaudhry, and supported by accompanist Mojca Monte, will perform an eclectic selection of music from their repertoire developed over the years. Marco Nardi will provide BSL interpreting and the choir will also sing using some sign-supported English.
“After a successful Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign, and beautifully illustrated by Fox Fisher, Are You A Boy Or Are You A Girl? has been crafted as a tool to help talk about gender creatively with children and to assist parents, families and teachers in giving them the space to express themselves fully and grow into healthy adults.
The Rainbow Chorus has grown in confidence and numbers from their early days in 1997 and now has a membership of 80. Their motto is Strength in Harmony and their ever improving performances over the year is testament to that! #RC18! The Rainbow Chorus' 18th Birthday Concerts, St George's Church, St George's Road, Kemptown, Brighton, Friday 17 and Saturday 18 July, 7.30pm. Tickets: £12 (£10 conc) (booking/service fees apply), available online: www.brownpapertickets.com/event/1585628, or from members of the Rainbow Chorus.
“There is often little to no education to help kids who are gender variant, the grown ups who have never had cause to even in passing question their own gender are presented with someone who breaks the mould and it can be difficult to know what to do to support the child in the best possible way.
A PRIDE PERFORMANCE FROM ACTUALLY GAY MEN’S CHORUS! ) The build up to Pride 2015 sees a welcome return and pairing, as cabaret star Miss Jason joins forces once again with the Actually Gay Men’s Chorus, in what is becoming a bit of a Pride tradition. The evening, entitled Masquerade, promises carnival, diversity and masses of fun, as the Chorus and Miss Jason transport you back to the Oscars, Brits and Eurovision, for an eclectic programme of celebrated song. The Chorus welcome back guest soprano Samantha Howard for the evening. Samantha has performed with the boys many times and is always a hit with their audience.
MISS JASON WITH ACTUALLY GAY MEN'S CHORUS
JASON WILLIAMS
Masquerade starring Actually Gay Men's Chorus, Saturday, July 18 at 8pm in St Andrew’s Church, Waterloo Street, Hove. Tickets: £12 (£10 conc) available online www.actuallygmc.org (no booking fee) and from the Iron Duke on Waterloo Street, Hove.
TREMORS ) In the lead up to Trans*Pride, local photographer Nick Ford shows his support for a project created by a local, young member of the trans community. The project, entitled Tremors, comprises a series of images created by Jason Williams to illustrate the sense of disconnection often felt by members of the trans community in their hometown. Brighton born and bred, Jason is currently studying photography at Brighton City College and this is the first time he has exhibited his work outside of the college. Nick, who is keen to encourage the local community to embrace this rare opportunity to support Jason by viewing the young photographer's work, said: "When I first saw 'Tremors' I was
AUTHOR, SARAH SAVAGE & ILLUSTRATOR, FOX FISHER
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struck by the significance of the message Jason's work conveyed to me. What it said to me is that even here in Brighton & Hove, young trans people can still grow up having experiences that leave them feeling unsafe and uncertain of their place in the world. “As a young gay man myself, who also grew up in Brighton, I could relate to this in many ways and it also reminded me of the challenges I've also experienced over the years of living here. With Trans*Pride approaching, this is clearly an important opportunity to help Jason and hopefully other trans people by displaying this important and thought-provoking work." More info about Nick Ford Photography: www.nickfordphotography.co.uk Tremors exhibition of photography by Jason Williams takes place at Nick Ford Photography, Oxford Street Studio, 19 Oxford Street, Brighton BN1 4LA from Monday, July 20–Wednesday, July 22 from 10am–5pm. Entry is free.
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VELVET JACKS - QUIRKY BOUTIQUE CAFE BAR IN THE TOWN CENTRE
JAQI NAILS, JACKIE PERRY AND EVE PLEAVIN
) A new cafe bar owned by the wife and wife team, Jackie Perry and Eve Pleavin, has opened on Western Road in Hove opposite Norfolk Square.
Jackie and Eve became civil partners three years ago this September after a whirlwind romance. Jackie, a civil servant for 14 years, travelled the world and lived in America for three and a half-year before she met Eve. Eve, a tattoo artist for the last 14 years, lived in New Zealand before coming to settle in Brighton where three years ago she opened the tattoo parlour Velvet Tattoo at 48 Norfolk Square, just a few doors away from Velvet Jacks. Velvet Jacks, a quirky boutique cafe bar with seaviews, is on Western Road on the borders of Brighton & Hove. It’s been beautifully designed and decorated with the bar itself created from reclaimed wood. During the day they serve Dury coffees, teas and cakes. If you want something more savoury try a 10-inch wood-fired pizza, priced £7-£8, or rustic rolls and humous and olive snacks. The bar offers a fine selection of wines by the glass or by the bottle. A bottle of Parini Pinot Grigio delle Venezie is £16.50 with a bottle of red Short Mile Bay Shiraz costing just £14.50.
SAMARITANS VOLUNTEERS IN BRIGHTON & HOVE ANSWERED 61,796 CALLS FOR HELP LAST YEAR ) Last year, 224 Samaritans volunteers from the Brighton, Hove & District branch answered 61,796 calls for help, according to the latest figures released by the national suicide prevention charity last month. Overall, 21,007 volunteers responded to 5,331,295 calls for help in the UK and Republic of Ireland. The figures were released to coincide with Volunteers’ Week, a national initiative that ran from June 1-7. Samaritans’ volunteers are ordinary people who dedicate time every week to provide a safe space for anyone struggling to cope with whatever life has thrown at them. Volunteers from Brighton & Hove are also involved in outreach work, for example by supporting Listeners in Lewes Prison, supporting the local bail hostel, by their presence at events such as Pride and Sick festivals, as well as their support of young adults through their schools work and local universities. Daniel Cheesman, Director at Brighton, Hove & District Samaritans, welcomes the opportunity to celebrate the difference their volunteers make in their local community. He said: “I’m so grateful to all of our volunteers at the Brighton, Hove and District branch. I want to thank them all for their commitment and hard work. It’s great to see how they support people in ways that work well for our callers, on the phone, via email or visiting us in branch. We know that people who are struggling benefit from having a real person to connect with, someone who is trained to listen to them. "Samaritans wouldn’t exist without the dedication of our volunteers. As well as listening on the help line, there are lots of ways people can get involved
A huge bonus is that the bar is located on the sunny side of the street where you can sit outside to drink on draught beer, including; Oranjeboom, Asahi, Oyster Ale and Whistable Bay Blonde premium lager. During happy hour on weekdays between 4-7pm, you can buy a large glass of wine for the price of a medium. There will be a quiz night every Tuesday and regular live acoustic music performances. As they are conveniently located just 200 metres from the start of the Pride Parade, Velvet Jacks will be offering a pre-Pride Parade breakfast on Saturday, August 1. Velvet Jacks, 50 Norfolk Square, Brighton, tel: 07720 661290. Opening hours: Tues–Sat 11am-midnight; Sunday noon11pm. Closed Mondays
with Samaritans, whether it’s fundraising, marketing, helping with admin or IT, or offering other valuable skills. We are always looking for new volunteers, so get in touch. In fact you can find us in the foyer of Jubilee Library all this week, where we are handing out volunteers’ forms and giving you further information on volunteering for Brighton, Hove and District Samaritans.” ‘Duncan’ has been a local volunteer at for over nine years. He explains the benefits of working for Samaritans, many of whose volunteers are ordinary people who perform this extraordinary service. He said: “Volunteering with the Samaritans has given me a different outlook on life. I've met so many great people over the years, and developed so many skills that have been transferable to my work and to my everyday life. People call Samaritans for many reasons: loneliness and desperation being just two of them, and I often feel that by being there to listen, I might have helped.” To find out more about volunteering for Samaritans call 08705 627282 or email: volunteering@samaritans.org for more information. Samaritans’ support is available round the clock, every day of the year. They provide a safe place for anyone struggling to cope, whoever they are, however they feel, whatever life has thrown at them. For more info about Samaritans, view: www.samaritans.org
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QUEENS HOTEL, BRIGHTON 20TH SEPTEMBER 2015, 10:30AM UNTIL 3PM COMPLIMENTARY GLASS OF BUBBLY, GOODY BAG & WEDDING MAGAZINES
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HERVÉ AND GEORGES - A DOUBLE DON’T GET ANGRY, GET INVOLVED! LOCAL LIB DEMS RALLY TO THE PARTY ACT IN BUSINESS AND LOVE ) Hervé Guyet, owner of the New Steine Hotel & Bistro and Gulliver’s Hotel in New Steine Gardens, and his partner, Georges Amaru, have been residents and owned businesses in Kemptown for the last 15 years. They recently bought the Kemptown Trading Post & Café on St George's Road, Kemptown, presenting them with the perfect opportunity to work under the same roof while still doing their own thing. The Kemptown Trading Post, a long established business, already trading successfully, is full of interesting stalls and incorporates a café. Following a soft refurbishment to the décor and introduction of a new food menu, Hervé and Georges intend offering a great shopping experience mixed with great food, creating a one of a kind experience for people living in Kemptown. Hervé wanted to go back to his roots, having previously worked for Valentino in the 1980s, and other labels in London’s prestigious Bond and Sloane Streets. He will be looking after the market side of the business. Hervé said: “I love the hotel trade, but I wanted to use my creative side and love of fashion to take over the Kemptown Trading Post and do new things. Of course we are keeping the collectables and antiques. However, I also wanted to sell second-hand designer bags and accessories such as Louis Vuitton and Gucci wallets, and sun glasses for men as well as women. I also want to offer some vintage and designer men’s wear and second-hand or old collections at very reasonable prices. Brighton and Kemptown, which is a thriving area, is the perfect place to express oneself in the way we dress with its eclectic and colourful characters you see around. It reminds me of London and has brought the fashion bug back into me. I am looking forward to making Kemptown Trading Post a very interesting place with exciting and unusual finds.” Georges has worked in the food and beverage industry for the last 25 years. He started in the south of France before moving to London where he worked, among other places, at Le Suquet on Draycott Avenue. He opened his own French restaurant in Clapham, Brasserie Metz, which was reminiscent of his French home town. Georges sold his restaurant to move to Brighton and help his partner Hervé open the New Steine Hotel. Meanwhile, Georges developed his career working at the Seattle Hotel and Myhotel, before now opening his own business once again - Cup of Joe. Georges has brought to the Cup of Joe menu his trademark delicious salads and healthy food options, as well as classics like Eggs Benedict, Florentine and the traditional English breakfast; alongside French-inspired treats such as CroqueMonsieur and Goats’ Cheese toast. The coffee on offer is Verona Espresso Blend, which is delicious, and you can also enjoy a wide selection of afternoon teas, whilst tasting some classic English cakes, such as Victoria sponge, carrot, coffee and walnut cakes. Everyone is welcome, including our four-legged friends! Both businesses are open Mon–Fri 8am–5pm and Sat & Sun 9am–5pm. Their launch party is on Friday, July 3 from 5–8pm. The market will be open and each stall will donate 10% of sales to the Rainbow Fund and the Martlets and artist Romany Mark Bruce will be exhibiting some paintings. If you can’t make it to the launch party, stalls will still donate on purchases made that weekend from Friday, July 3 from 8am till Sunday, July 5 till 5pm. A fantastic way to treat yourself while helping great causes!
) As the Pride season starts, local Liberal Democrats, who have supported Brighton Pride since its inception, celebrate 40 years of delivering gay rights and supporting Brighton Pride. This year represents the 40th anniversary of our party (in the form of the Liberal Party in those days), being the first British political party to adopt gay rights as part of its manifesto. We are proud of this position.
they lack political power. We must push for the adoption of a fair and safe system giving people the right to die at a time and place of their choosing when they are suffering from terminal illness. We should push for electoral reform to enfranchise those supporting smaller parties. We should extend the vote to 16-year-olds, as has been our policy for several decades. We must push for equal priority to be given to mental health.
We’re also proud that we opposed Section 28 outright and without hesitation from the beginning. We’re proud of the lead we took in bringing the Gender Recognition Act 2004 into legislation. We’re proud that in 2011 we brought about changes to discriminatory blood donation policies. We’re proud that, despite more than half of Conservative MPs voting against it, we were able to deliver marriage equality in coalition in fulfilment of our manifesto commitments. We’re proud of our history of adopting human rights ideals before other parties are prepared to risk it. We must continue to fight for full LGBT equality. We must be brave enough to speak up for lesbians and gays in countries managed by illiberal governments. We must especially focus on the rights of the transgender community. We should do this because it’s the right thing to do, not just for the LGBT community, but for all people who find their rights at risk from those who misunderstand them or because
Even in a city like Brighton, and even in modern times, Brighton Pride remains an important tool for change. But of course, thankfully, participation carries much less stigma and risk than it did when those first brave individuals were willing to fight for their rights and the rights of others. As we enjoy this year's Pride we can recognise the achievement that is the legacy of those that have come before. What will be our legacy? If you too believe that we’re all better off when united in the pursuit of fairness and equal opportunities for all individuals - and if you believe that everyone deserves rights, even those you don't identify with, then maybe you’re more liberal than you realised! Since the elections our local party has more than doubled – don’t get angry, get involved. By Jeremy Gale For more information view: ) www.libdems.org.uk/join f /liberalbrighton t @liberalbrighton
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PROFESSOR MARTIN FISHER NOVEMBER 3, 1964 – APRIL 20, 2015 With the death of Martin Fisher on April 20 2015, the world of HIV lost one of its brightest stars. Although he is mourned globally, his loss is of course felt most keenly by his partner Adrian and his family, as well as friends, colleagues and patients here in Brighton and Hove. respiratory physicians in a specialist ward at Hove General Hospital (now Tennyson Court on Sackville Road), whilst outpatients were mainly seen by the GUM doctors at the recently-opened Lawson Unit. Consequently, many local people who wanted to access latest treatments went to London for care. These were the days before viral load and resistance testing were available, when there were only three licensed antiretrovirals, and when fewer than 15% of people attending the Lawson Unit were on treatment. Our six bedded ward was always full, and there were usually six-12 additional patients on other wards, all with HIV-related conditions. Over a third of people who were diagnosed with HIV already had advanced disease and in Brighton there were about two HIVrelated deaths each month (13 per 100 patient years).
) Martin was born in Cyprus, where his Dad was serving with the Royal Air Force, and on returning to England he was educated in Taunton, Somerset, before going on to study Medicine at Guy’s Hospital Medical School. After his general medical training he specialised in genitourinary medicine (GUM) and the relatively new specialty of HIV, first at the old Westminster Hospital (forerunner of the shiny new Chelsea and Westminster!) and then at St Mary’s in Paddington. In May 1995, aged 30, and not quite seven years since graduating from Guy’s, Martin applied for two Consultant posts: at Kings College Hospital in London and Brighton Health Care (as the Trust was then called). The rest, as they say, is history. After a short sabbatical in San Francisco, Martin started work in Brighton on October 2, just a few days after the results of the DELTA trial were presented at the European Aids Conference in Copenhagen. This was a defining moment in HIV medicine: after the disappointing results of the CONCORDE study (that showed AZT alone was no better than placebo), DELTA demonstrated that a combination of two drugs was superior to monotherapy, resulting in improvements in quality and length of life. He couldn’t have arrived at a better time! Considering the size of the local HIV population (one of the largest outside London) services were underdeveloped, though not for the want of campaigning by local activists (mainly from the LGBT community) and from within the NHS. Most inpatients were cared for by the nurses and
Now there are over 20 antivirals and more than 90% of Lawson patients are on treatment. People who are on treatment are rarely admitted to hospital for an HIV related problem, and their life expectancy is similar to those without the virus. Many factors have contributed to this seismic shift, and Martin played a part in most of them, locally and globally: from the development of new medicines and supporting people taking them, to reducing the number with undiagnosed HIV, and strengthening partnerships with GPs and other specialities. Martin worked tirelessly and fearlessly to transform the service, arguing his case eloquently and persistently with Trust managers and Commissioners. He was a strong supporter of the whole multidisciplinary team and never scorned a suggestion made by a junior colleague. He enjoyed healthy discussion (though it wasn’t easy to persuade him to change his mind!) and he valued and encouraged the contributions of anyone who shared his vision and passion to provide the very best care. He was a great advocate of patient involvement, championing the establishment of Patient Representatives in the clinic, and respected and valued the insights patients had into their own care and the development of the service. Martin had a deep affection for both the people he cared for and those he worked with, and continually strove to help them 'be the best that they could be'. His enthusiasm was infectious and his ‘can-do’ attitude empowering. This ethos ensured that, as the team grew, it attracted high calibre professionals who wanted to make Brighton the leading HIV centre. There isn’t space to list his many achievements, but one local example is the enormous contribution he
made to improving how and where services were provided. This began when Hove General closed in 1997, and he successfully lobbied the Elton John Aids Foundation to contribute generously towards the refurbishment and running costs of the new inpatient, day care and research unit at Brighton General. At the same time his support was also crucial in enabling the Sussex Eye Hospital Pharmacy to be re-opened and used for dispensing Lawson Unit and Claude Nicol Centre prescriptions, rather than patients having to trek over to the pharmacy in the tower block. Martin was a brilliant clinician, a prodigious researcher and a naturally gifted and engaging lecturer, so it’s no surprise that he was much in demand to speak at conferences, workshops and training courses worldwide. For many years he was an active member of the British HIV Association (BHIVA) and the British Association of Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH), serving on committees, writing guidelines and organising conferences. He was highly influential at a national and international level, and we in Brighton were fortunate to be represented by him. In February 2013 he was appointed to the Chair of HIV Medicine at Brighton and Sussex Medical School, and a few months later he was presented with a Golden Handbags Lifetime Achievement Award, for developing Brighton’s services for people with HIV. Characteristically, the award was a complete surprise to him: just one illustration that, despite his high profile professional role, Martin was very humble.
Apart from his incredibly successful career Martin had a wide range of interests, including cooking, DJing, piano playing and sailing. For many years he was an Arsenal Season Ticket holder, and on the rare occasions that his clinic finished on time it was usually because he was heading to North London for a match. So many wonderful tributes have been paid to Martin: from the HIV community in Sussex, from his patients and from colleagues around the world, reflecting the extraordinary contribution he made to HIV medicine, locally, nationally and internationally. He was many things to different people: to me he was an inspiration, a mentor, colleague and friend. The world is just that little bit dimmer without him, but his legacy will live on for generations through the lives he touched. Heather Leake Date
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LUNCH POSITIVE CELEBRATES 6TH BIRTHDAY PARTY ) Lunch Positive celebrated its 6th birthday in Dorset Gardens Peace Park last month with a buffet picnic. The community celebration was attended by over 120 supporters of the charity, including lunch club members, friends, wellwishers, other HIV services, small charities and LGBT community groups. The entire Lunch Positive volunteer team of 30 people were involved in putting together the event, and ‘Happy Birthday’ was sung to the crowd by The Rainbow Chorus. A bucket collection raised £220.39 towards the cost of food. Gary Pargeter, volunteer project manager: “Massive thanks to our volunteers and everyone who came along. It was great to spend time together with so many friends. We have a fantastic volunteer team who give so much time, commitment, enthusiasm and energy to everything we do. It means a great deal that their work is valued, and we heard fantastic feedback on their contributions. "Last year the team gave over 5,000 hours of their time, and are involved in all aspects of providing our service. Volunteering is a wonderful thing, and it was hugely enjoyable to share that with our friends and supporters. Thank you to everyone - being together as a community makes all the difference!” The only politician present was Phelim Mac Cafferty, the Convenor of the Green Group on Brighton & Hove City Council. He said: “Lunch positive is simply an amazing charity. Their work is a lifeline for many in our city, providing a nutritious hot meal once a week for people who are HIV+. I am proud to join the Lunch Positive team as they come together for a community Big Lunch, celebrating their sixth Birthday!” Adding: “The work of Lunch Positive is about more than just the food, although we all know just how important healthy food is for anyone who’s not well. In addition a welcome is made for everyone and they bring people together. Their inspiring work breaks down the stigma that is still thrown at people with HIV and helps build community resilience. We celebrate Lunch Positive’s six years of providing help in our city and we wish them every success for the future.”
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SAM CULPECK 24 JUL 1978 - 2 JUN 2015 I was broken from the winter I was washed up on the shore 'Till you came to me and calmed me Pulled the splinter from my paw Once my dreams were torn and broken Once my hope was almost spent Now the dream has re-awoken Let this be my last lament Oli Spleen, Last Lament (Song for Sam).
preferring to push the same commercial pop to gay men that is sold to teenage girls. As more of an outsider to the gay scene however, Sam loved to go out and felt more at ease on the scene than I, as she was less likely to be subjected to the sort of unwanted attention she would often get elsewhere.
) It is with great sorrow and a heavy heart that I write this. My dear friend, companion, soulmate and collaborator, Sam Culpeck, passed away in the late hours of Tuesday, June 2.
PETER LINDARS 2 JULY 1970 - 20 APR 2015
) Peter Steven Lindars passed away on April 20, 2015 and was laid to rest on Tuesday, May 12 following a service to celebrate his life at St Andrew’s Church, Waterloo Street, Hove. He was born to Maeve Lindars and the late Michael Cheevers on July 2, 1970, at North Middlesex Hospital in Edmonton. He attended Chesterfield Junior and then Enfield grammar schools, before leaving school to work for Bairstow Eves Estate Agency in London. Having worked in the estate agency business for a number of years, first in London then more recently in Brighton, Peter changed direction with his career in 2004 and became co-owner of the Iron Duke Hotel on Waterloo Street in Hove entering into business first with Bob Evans, then with Gerald Featherstone, before successfully running the pub and hotel on his own for the last few years. He entered into a civil partnership with Greg Clark in 2011, and they had lived together in Hove since 2004. Peter was a keen runner and ran more than 10 half and full marathons in the last 18 months of his life, both as a personal goal and to raise money for the various charities he supported. He was a great supporter and friend of the Actually Gay Men's Chorus who rehearsed and gave performances in St Andrew’s Church in Waterloo Street and used the Iron Duke for social purposes after choir rehearsals. He leaves an older brother, Mike Cheevers, and a younger half-sister, Emma Lindars. If you would like to make a donation to charity in memory of Peter Lindars, please go online to Virgin Giving and search for Peter Lindars to donate to Mind and Epilepsy Research, charities that Peter had himself been involved in raising money for.
) On Saturday, July 4 at 7pm you are invited to join friends and colleagues of Peter at the Dukebox Theatre in the Iron Duke at 3 Waterloo Street, Hove for an evening of music and comedy. The Peter Lindars Memorial Cabaret Fundraiser will be raising money for Epilepsy Research UK and Mind UK and will include performances from the Actually Gay Men's Chorus and a DJ set from Peter von Sleaze. Entry is by donation. Greg Clark
A little over three years ago, Cod Riverson, the bassist in my band Pink Narcissus, was approached by Channel 4 and asked if he would date a Brighton girl with dwarfism for the TV show The Undateables. When the show aired I was instantly struck by his date Sam's bubbly personality, adventurous nature and sense of humour. I felt sure we'd become friends, should we ever meet. I was also pleased that Cod had come across as the gentleman he is and was portrayed as the more successful of Sam's two dates, leaving her with hope for the future. I became a pen pal with Sam whilst she was on a skiing holiday and in the weeks after the TV show aired. When she came to a Pink Narcissus gig on my birthday we hit it off and became solid, inseparable friends. Sam was completing a Phd in psychology and her lust for life and sense of adventure was contagious, as I had first witnessed watching her skydive on TV.
I was on the cusp of releasing my debut solo album Fag Machine and Sam and I set about venturing on to the scene to recruit extras for a music video for the album's title track. The idea of the video was to send up gay culture and its stereotypes in a loving way. She located a venue for the shoot, Brighton's Queens Arms, where she had previously made friends and connections doing a charity fundraiser.
When I expressed to her my concern that we may have too many women in the video as many of the men she and I had headhunted for the shoot wanted to be in drag, Sam suggested that she could fill a male role and was For two and a half years Sam was a keen to play the moustached leather constant in my life and we went biker stereotype of Tom of Finland's everywhere together. Her love and generosity knew no bounds. She loved drawings and the Village People. Christmas, so she ensured that our The video was an immediate hit with Christmases were magical, giving me viewers and secured us a gig in a second Swiss Christmas with her Amsterdam - the first of many where family where a tree would be Sam would back me onstage. Whilst illuminated with real candles. there we got to witness a genderqueer/drag dance troupe Like Sam, I had suffered from depression and though by the time we perform their brilliant routine to the met I was at peace with my sexuality I Fag Machine track. On top of all this, the manager at the Queens Arms never felt at home in the gay scene asked us if we would be interested in where I had experienced loneliness hosting a night for them every week and rejection. I also felt that, while all to showcase whatever we liked. At subcultures were embraced in last we were finally given an Brighton, its gay scene seemed opportunity to bring to the gay scene predominantly mainstream and didn't truly embrace real gay culture,
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all that it had, in my opinion, been lacking. That is live music from LGBT+ artists and a DJ selection that actually draws from real gay culture, encompassing virtually all genres and queer-influenced subcultures with a focus on everything the other bars weren't including.
Wednesday nights at Subline where there were less volume restrictions and for one night of the week the venue would be open to all. The shock of Sam's passing was felt by so many. I had well over 100 tributes from friends and loved ones. It was humbling to see how many lives her big heart had touched.
I could never have realised this dream without Sam and with her help I had at last made peace with the gay scene and was able to enjoy a great night out without experiencing anxiety and panic attacks.
My heart goes out to her parents, Anna and Peter, and her beloved cats, Quincy and Alexis, as well as all who knew and loved her. She has left a hole in so many of our lives that no one else could fill. Ollie Spleen
Dr Sam became PHDJ and would book and choose the acts with me, giving a voice and platform to live LGBT+ talent that hadn’t had the chance to be heard on the scene before. She chose and played her brilliantly eclectic choice of tracks whilst I hosted, sang and introduced the guest performers.
Fag Machine, the club night, will relaunch in Sam’s honour with a tribute charity fundraiser for Sam's chosen charity, City Cat Shelter on Wednesday July 29 and will feature The Divine David Hoyle plus other guests to be announced nearer the date. Any donations will also be welcomed, you can donate online via www.citycatshelter.com.
When the Queens Arms changed Fag Machine will resume monthly hands I thought that would be the instead of weekly at Subline on the end of our night but Sam was quick last Wednesday of the month. to find a new venue, relocating us to
ROBERT ADDISON
20 JUN 1965 - 24 MAY 2015 ) 'Big Bob' was laid to rest on Wednesday, June 10 at the Downs Crematorium. Robert Addison aka 'Big Bob' died suddenly on Sunday, May 24 in the Royal Sussex County Hospital after being admitted suffering from dehydration and a chest infection. Bob had lived in Brighton since he was a teenager and was popular on the commercial gay scene. In his early years he worked in the hotel and leisure industry and more recently had been a gate guard on Southern Railways. Bob lived life to the full and over the years could be found at different times drinking in the much missed Harlequin in Providence Place, the Marine Tavern and more recently watching cabaret upstairs at the Bulldog on St James’ Street. Bob, a very private man, was estranged from his family. His friends Carlos and Ian organised a lovely funeral for him followed by a wake at Legends. James Ledward
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HAND IN HAND LGBT CHOIR FESTIVAL
VOLUNTEERS FROM LUNCH POSITIVE PROVIDED FOOD TO DELEGATES DURING THE HAND IN HAND LGBT CHOIRS FESTIVAL
) Following their successful concert at the Brighton Dome, during the Hand in Hand LGBT Choirs Festival on Saturday June 13, many of the choirs who had come from all over the country met on Sunday, June 14 for a picnic in Queens Park. Lunch Positive supplied the food and all the singers got a chance to relax, socialise and bring the festival to a close. Paul Charlton, Chair of the Brighton Gay Men’s Chorus, and Finola Brophy, Chair of the Rainbow Chorus, handed over the baton to the Manchester Lesbian and Gay Chorus, who will be organising the next Hand in Hand LGBT Choirs Festival in 2017.
Hand in Hand brought together LGBT choirs from all over the UK and Ireland and was jointly organised by Brighton Gay Men’s Chorus and the Rainbow Chorus, who commissioned the HIV charity Lunch Positive to feed all the singers during their stay in the city. On Saturday, June 13, Lunch Positive provided hot meals, sandwiches and five separate tea and coffee services for 600 people, and on the Sunday a picnic for 150.
BRIGHTON HAND THE BATON OVER TO MANCHESTER WHO WILL BE ORGANISING THE NEXT HAND IN HAND LGBT CHOIRS CONCERT IN 2017
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ARE YOU GOING TO BRIGHTON & HOVE PRIDE THIS YEAR?
DO YOU HAVE ACCESS NEEDS? ARE YOU DEAF, DISABLED, OLDER OR HAVE MOBILITY NEEDS? Sign up with us to make your day as inclusive & enjoyable as possible! www.lgbt-help.com/pride-2015/sign-up y y y y y y y
HIGH DEPENDENCY UNIT y COMMUNITY CAFE BSL INTERPRETERS y REPORT IT SERVICE EQUIPMENT CHARGING STATION y ACCESSIBLE TOILETS MOBILITY SCOOTER HIRE y BLUE BADGE PARKING GOLF BUGGY SERVICE TO PARK y FUN ACTIVITIES LISTENING EAR SERVICE y INFO HUB SAFE AND INCLUSIVE PERSONAL CHANGING AREA
THIS ADVERT WAS PAID FOR BY A GRANT FROM THE SAFER IN SUSSEX COMMUNITY FOUNDATION
WORKING WITH
LISTENING EAR SERVICE IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE SAMARITANS LISTENING VOLUNTEERS
FUNDED BY
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DAILY NEWS UPDATES ON
)
WWW.GSCENE.COM DANNY DWYER AND JASON SUTTON ARRIVE AT GUNWHARF QUAYS AT 7.30AM
SKINNAKER TOWER AT 8AM. FUNDRAISERS GET READY FOR THEIR SAFETY BRIEFING SECOND THOUGHTS FOR CHARLES CHAY?
BEAR-PATROL ABSEIL DOWN SPINNAKER TOWER FOR RAINBOW FUND
was Charleen Wood who brought Gunwharf Quays shopping centre to a stop as hundreds of shoppers cheered her onto a successful landing after she had experienced a few wobbles on the way down.
Bear-Patrol organiser Danny Dwyer and entertainer Jason Sutton, aka Miss Jason, joined with 17 friends and Bear-Patrol supporters at Gunwharf Quays in Portsmouth last month to abseil down the 560 foot high Spinnaker Tower.
Colin Blanchflower, aka The Pianoman, was among those to complete the jump safely and alone expects to raise in excess of £1,000 for the Rainbow Fund if everyone pays up their promised sponsorship.
) The purpose of the challenge was to raise funds for the Brighton-based Rainbow Fund, who make grants to LGBT/HIV organisations delivering effective front-line services to LGBT people in Brighton & Hove. After six months in the planning, more than 50 members and friends of Bear-Patrol reported for duty at 8am on the morning of Saturday, May 30 to receive safety training before 19 of them descended from the viewing deck platform at the top of the tower into the heart of the Gunwharf Quays shopping centre, 328 feet below. On the way there were a few tears and some worried faces as one by one the abseilers realised the enormity of the task in hand.
However, once the jump was completed any sad expressions turned to smiles as one by one each fundraiser punched the air in relief at finishing the task. Danny Dwyer, who organised the jump, said: “I have jumped out of airplanes but that was the most frightening thing I have ever done.” Entertainer Jason Sutton thought it would be a good idea to return next year and repeat the exercise with Dave Lynn, Sally Vate, Davina Sparke, Lola Lasagne, Drag With No Name, Jason Lee, Jennie Castell and Krissie Ducann coming down the wire. The final woman to abseil down the tower
The Spinnaker Tower, a world-class visitor attraction, soars 170 metres above Portsmouth Harbour and the Solent and is taller than the London Eye, Blackpool Tower, Big Ben and is now well established as an iconic British building. It offers amazing 350º panoramic views of Portsmouth Harbour, the historic Navel Dock Yards, the south coast and the Isle of Wight, with views stretching out for up to 23 miles – breathtaking by day and a glittering sea of lights by night. There are three viewing decks to explore, including the Café in the Clouds at 105 metres above sea level, plus a gift shop and Waterfront Café on ground level.
DAILY NEWS UPDATES ON
GSCENE 31 31
WWW.GSCENE.COM FIRST ABSEILER CELEBRATES GETTING DOWN SAFELY
THE PIANOMAN, COLIN BLANCHFLOWER COMPLETES HIS JUMP SAFELY RAISING MORE THAN £1,000 FOR THE RAINBOW FUND
JASON SUTTON IS CLEARLY APPREHENSIVE AS HE WAITS HIS TURN
BEAR PATROL MEMBERS OFFER SOME HELPFUL ADVICE HE DID IT!
NEVER AGAIN!
THEY CAME DOWN TWO BY TWO
MISS JASON SWINGS IN THE WIND
DANNY DWYER IS ALMOST THERE
A RELIEVED MISS JASON WAVES TO HER FANS
DANNY CELEBRATES!
THE TEAM ARE ALL SAFELY DOWN HAVING RAISED THOUSANDS OF POUNDS FOR THE RAINBOW FUND
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32 GSCENE
THE RAINBOW FUND With the announcement of the spring grants, and with Brighton Pride looming, Chris Gull, Chair of the Rainbow Fund gives a progress report on the activities of this unique fund communities and/or individuals affected by HIV. Most are small, and volunteer-led, they have no paid workers in administrative roles, and most have no premises and offices. They rent or use donated space, and are often run from somebody’s front room.
) First of all what do we do? Historically the Rainbow Fund started as a legacy project after successful fundraising for the commission and erection of the AIDS Memorial in New Steine. We’re therefore responsible for the ongoing cleaning and maintenance of the memorial. Currently we’re working with the artist who created it, Romany Mark Bruce, to get the inevitable build up of seagull poo removed, and a protective coating applied. We’re a fund that makes grants to LGBT and HIV groups and organisations in Brighton & Hove that are LGBT-led and volunteer-led. We’re NOT fundraisers, but we provide a safe clearing house for those that do want to fundraise or donate, safe in the knowledge that the funds donated will be used to best effect. This is useful for donors and fundraisers (such as local commercial venues) because they don’t have to try to second guess where the money they raise will give most benefit, and for the groups and organisations it means that they don’t have to spend time and effort trying to persuade venues to do benefits for them.
There are also bigger organisations, which, because of the nature of the services and support they provide, are, and should be, run like small businesses, with a mixture of paid administrators, sometimes paid fundraisers, and volunteers. In Brighton & Hove these organisations include THT, Sussex Beacon, Switchboard, MindOut and Allsorts. The Rainbow Fund itself has minimal overheads. We’re set up as a Community Interest Company (CIC), have no premises, and no paid staff. We have paid to register the CIC, and also the frames for the certificates we give to every group or organisation when we make a grant to them. That’s it, no other expenses. As Chair, I’m responsible for day to day management, and we also have a Grants Panel who meet twice a year in March/April and in August/September. The panel discusses grant applications, and advises on decisions. As Chair I take part in discussions, and vote, but we also have an Observer present who can contribute to the discussion, but cannot vote. After the Panel meeting we may meet with the applicants to discuss their applications and raise any questions that the grants panel had.
currently receive between £60,000 and £100,000 per year to give out as grants. For the past two years Pride has ‘ringfenced’ £1 from every ticket for entrance to the park (and now also from every wristband sold for the Village Street Party) for local LGBT and HIV groups and charities. One of the ways in which they aim to make a ‘Pride with Purpose’. This money is donated to the Rainbow Fund to make grants. We also receive donations from local groups such as Brighton Bear Weekender. Bear Patrol, venues and choirs, as well as individuals. We will also be setting up a local giving page for individuals who wish to set up a regular payment – for those wanting to give back and ‘look after our own’. Depending on how much money is available in the Fund, we decide on the criteria for each grants round, including the maximum amount for each grant. We try to keep the criteria fairly fluid, so that we can respond to changing needs, and encourage innovative projects. We’re very aware that the ‘small’ groups work best when they work together, and we’re very pleased to see the formation of the Small Groups Network in 2014. In terms of ‘best bang for your buck’, we seek to encourage this cooperation, encourage shared use of ‘community resources’ and discourage duplication of services. We can do this by making clear, as we did with the recent spring grants round, that priority is given to applications for community resources, and to joint applications, and partner applications where one group is funded for working to provide services or expertise for another group’s members.
Locally there are somewhere between 20 and 30 organisations and groups providing services specifically to members of the LGBT
In the past we’ve always asked for applications to be very specific about what the money would be used for, and this led to applications becoming ‘project focused’ when in fact they just needed money to keep going. We will now consider It’s vital that our ‘dealings’ are open and applications for core funding for members of the transparent. All grants given, and donations and Small Groups Network as such groups find it very funding received, are acknowledged in Gscene difficult to get this funding from other sources, Magazine and on the Rainbow Fund website. We especially when they first set up.
RAINBOW FUND SPRING 2015 GRANTS ROUND AWARDS
of their Short & Girlie Show at the Verdict during the Brighton Fringe Festival in May.
) In the spring grants round the Rainbow Fund has been able to support a range of LGBT/HIV groups, including two organisations providing front-line services to people with HIV, three trans* organisations working to build confidence within the local trans* community, two projects providing BSL signers to help members of the LGBT deaf community engage with arts events and funding for the LGBT Community Safety Forum to promote their core services to the LGBT+ community in the city. Priority was given in this grants round to small LGBT organisations with no paid workers.
• LGBT Small Groups Network awarded £192 to pay for hire of meeting space, training and development sessions.
• Brighton & Hove LGBT Community Safety Forum awarded £3,000 towards running costs – specifically costs of three phone lines, and advertising the services they provide.
• Trans*Pride awarded £2,500 towards the costs of staging Trans*Pride 2015 in Dorset Gardens on the weekend of July 24, 25 & 26.
• Rainbow Families awarded £3,000 towards an oral history project to raise their profile and learn from the organisation’s 20 years’ work since opening.
• Lunch Positive awarded £2,500 to deliver core services between Apr 1–Aug 1, 2015. This will enable Lunch Positive to run 18 weekly lunch club sessions, supporting a weekly average • Trans Alliance awarded £1,800 towards of 55 service users and involving 37 volunteers. singing workshops for trans people. There is increasing evidence of a link between regular • Short & Girlie Productions awarded £160 for singing and improved mental health achieved provision of an BSL signer for two performances through improved self-esteem, confidence and
the discipline of regular practice and breathing techniques. In addition, mental health is improved by engaging in social activities such as joining a choir which provides a supportive environment as well as an opportunity to make new friends.
• The Clare Project awarded £3,000 part-funding for a project which allows for trans individuals to gain both work experience and skills in facilitation, listening and counselling creating a cache of qualified and experienced individuals within the trans community itself. • Queer in Brighton awarded £800 to organise a BSL signer in the Brighton Pride literature tent and workshops in the run up to Pride
• Peer Action awarded £1,050 for setting up and advertising initiatives to make group therapy sessions accessible to individuals who may be hard to reach, or feel excluded, for instance women, gay male elders, trans and/or disabled. TOTAL grants agreed for the spring funding round: £18,002
GSCENE 33
WELCOME @ A BAR
BRIGHTON BEAR WEEKENDER ) Bears came from all over the UK and Europe for the Brighton Bear Weekender (BBWE) from June 19-21. Events were held at A-Bar, Legends, Envy, Camelford Arms, Subline and Latest Music Bar. Lunch Positive, the HIV Lunch Club provided the nosh at the Saturday bears picnic in Queens Park. Luckily the rain held off, just!. The BBWE Raffle was a huge success. Thank you to everyone who donated prizes. View: http://brightonbearweekender.co.uk/raffle/ for unclaimed prizes. All profits from the weekend will go to the Rainbow Fund. For more information about BBWE view: http://brightonbearweekender.co.uk/ Pics by James Brooks WELCOME @ A BAR
GRUNT @ SUBLINE
BEAR SHAFT @ LEGENDS
GRUNT @ SUBLINE
COME TO DADDY @ ENVY
GRUNT @ SUBLINE
COME TO DADDY @ ENVY
GRUNT @ SUBLINE
BEAR SHAFT @ LEGENDS
BEAR QUIZ @ CAMELFORD
BEAR PICNIC IN QUEENS PARK
BEAR PICNIC IN QUEENS PARK
BEAR QUIZ @ CAMELFORD
GRRR @ LATEST
GRRR @ LATEST
34 GSCENE “Drugs are quite a big challenge, especially when they are mixed with alcohol and last year in particular nitrous oxide legal highs proved to be a big problem. We seized thousands of capsules, the difficulty we had is that it is not illegal to sell them to people over 18, so we had to use a really old bit of legislation, which we don't often use, the Pedlars Act of 1881, to stop them being sold. If people selling the canisters didn't have a Pedlars Licence we were able to use that as the grounds to seize their stock. “For example there was one young girl who the consultant on duty at the Sussex County Hospital A&E thought was going to die. She had taken nitrous oxide and drunk alcohol. Her survival was touch and go. “For Sussex Police it’s not about preventing people at Pride having fun. We are never going to say don't drink, but last year the combination of nitrous oxide and alcohol did worry us. We did what we could, and seized thousands of capsules. This year we will be doing exactly the same.
THE CHALLENGE OF POLICING BRIGHTON PRIDE IN 2015 As Pride approaches, James Ledward talks to Chief Superintendent Nev Kemp about the challenges, in the present economic climate, of policing Brighton Pride and the Pride Village Party in 2015 ) Chief Superintendent Nev Kemp was appointed Divisional Commander for Brighton & Hove in 2013, 17 years after joining the police. On becoming Division Commander he took on the role of the force’s LGBT Champion. As the Gold Commander policing Pride it is his responsibility to deliver a safe event, not only for the LGBT community, but also for local residents and visitors to the city. He understands the economic importance of Pride to the City of Brighton & Hove, and most importantly to the Rainbow Fund, who receive £1 a head from every ticket sold to distribute to LGBT/HIV organisations providing effective front-line services to the LGBT community in Brighton & Hove. However, in 2013 problems emerged during the Pride Village Party. His feedback from police officers was that the event was darker and less safe than in previous years. Officers reported that the tone of the event was less friendly and that areas of the Pride Village Party were at times dangerous and threatening. A new approach to the Village Party was required and an agreement was reached to work in partnership with the Pride organisers, the City Council and other agencies to produce and deliver a paid for Pride Village Party event in 2014 that was safer for everyone and would give visitors to the city a positive impression of Brighton & Hove. Commander Kemp said: “I spoke to a police officer last year who said this is now a great event, and if off duty, he could now come and would really enjoy it, whereas the previous year it felt unsafe. “Pride is one of the most challenging events we deliver in Brighton & Hove. For Sussex Police it is up there with the Lewes Bonfire, except there are many more people at Pride with estimates of up to 160,000 revellers on the streets. “With Pride, there are a number of events that go on throughout the day stretching officers’ shifts. We need to refresh our numbers which means we use a lot of officers and need to bring some in from outside Sussex to provide cover.
“Another fairly big challenge for us was the issue of respect for people, including police officers on duty. During the day, sexual assaults were going unreported, including on some of the uniformed security staff and police officers on duty. I have not only a responsibility for the public but also for my own officers, so this year I would like to see more emphasis on respecting people's boundaries. From a policing perspective, officers involved tell me Pride is a great event and they really want to support it. We don't want to cause upset by being kill joys but on the other-hand people are entitled not to be groped and grabbed during the event. “The officers we use on the day are a mixture of specialist public order and general neighbourhood policing officers. I spoke to some officers last year who had worked on Pride for the first time. Most of them really enjoyed the day and were more concerned that they had been on their feet 15 hours with only a bite to eat at the start of the day. “Pride generally has a great atmosphere and people are really pleased to see the police marching on the Pride Parade. For my officers it is a unique experience and those officers from outside Sussex are often quite goggle-eyed at the scale of Pride, what goes on and the general carnival atmosphere. “Last year my daughters who are 15 and 16 came. They absolutely loved it and want to come again this year. I personally would like one year not to police it and just go with my family and enjoy Pride with them. “The safety of people at Pride is really important and that does cost money from the police budget. “In terms of partnership working, I have got a very good relationship with Pride and they have been very responsive to concerns raised in the post-event agency debrief. This year, for the first time, I have tried to agree with Pride how things are going to look over at least the next three years, rather than doing it just a year at a time.
GSCENE 35 The LGBT Community Safety Forum is an independent group of lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans* (LGBT) volunteers in Brighton & Hove. For more info visit: lgbt-help.com
“Now that Pride is a ticketed and paid for event we have guidelines to follow and are required to charge for elements of the services we provide when we are policing inside Preston Park and the Pride Village Party. “This will not include officers who are working in plain clothes, identifying people who are trying to steal people's bags and that sort of thing. “The Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) have guidance which says if an event is ticketed, 100% of the policing costs should be charged. “I want Pride to be a success because I think it’s brilliant for the city. It’s one of the best things that happens and the last thing I want is to do anything that undermines its success. However, on the other hand my budgets have been hugely reduced this year. “From a policing perspective if Pride were not running the Village Party it would be a massive headache for us. The last thing we want to do is undermine that or compromise it in any way. The Pride organisers work very hard, do a very good job and deserve to be rewarded for their efforts like everyone else.”
PERSONAL SAFETY TIPS AT PRIDE FROM SUSSEX POLICE Pride should be a fun and joyous occasion for everyone attending the various different celebrations and parties during the weekend. Unfortunately that’s not always the case as a minority of people spoil the fun by acting inappropriately and sometimes even breaking the law whilst doing so. Sussex Police ask that everyone plays their part in keeping Pride a safe and enjoyable event. We can all do this by respecting one another. ) Respecting the dignity of our various identities and presentations. This means celebrating who we are rather than calling strangers hurtful names. Everyone has a place at Pride, including transgender and bisexual people. ) Respecting our physical boundaries. It is never acceptable to touch another person without their consent, especially in a sexual manner. Groping is a criminal offence regardless of who it is; whether this is your friend, someone you’ve just met, or even a police officer. Consent is very sexy!
LGBT SAFETY FORUM
PUBLIC MEETING WEDNESDAY 15TH JULY 7PM• QUEENS HOTEL BRIGHTON Come along and find out more about our NEW HELPLINE and PARTNERSHIP with THE BRIGHTON & HOVE SAMARITANS Meet your local SUSSEX POLICE LGBT and BME LIAISON OFFICERS See our plans for the ACCESS TENT at BRIGHTON PRIDE For more information visit www.lgbt-help.com
SUNDAY 2ND AUGUST
CELEBRATION OF LOVE 8.30PM • NEW STEINE GARDENS Join us for our second Celebration Of Love
CANDLELIGHT GATHERING GUEST SPEAKERS & MUSIC For more info visit www.lgbt-help.com/pride/celebration-of-love BRIGHTON & HOVE
LGBT COMMUNITY GROUPS NETWORK
Brighton & Hove LGBT Community Safety Forum is is a member of The LGBT Community Groups Network and funded by the Rainbow Fund and Safer in Sussex This advertisement has been funded by a grant from the Safer in Sussex Community Foundation
PEER ACTION JULY DIARY KNITTING & CHATTING: SATURDAY 4TH 14.00-16.00 social at Emporium café, 88 London Rd, Brighton
) Respecting your own body. Take care to know your own limits. Pride isn’t a contest on how much you consume. It’s no fun to not remember the day before and even less to end it in A&E.
BENT DOUBLE COMEDY: SUNDAY 5TH
TOP TIPS:
13.50 onwards at Sussex Beacon, 10 Bevendean Rd, BN2 4DE
) The telephone signal in Preston Park and elsewhere in the city can get jammed so contacting friends becomes difficult. Make plans beforehand and stick to them. ) Stay with friends you trust. ) Don’t accept drinks from strangers or take substances you can’t verify what it is.
IF THINGS GO WRONG: ) Seek out help. Police are on hand to assist but may need to refer you onto a designated team or place where you can report crime, hate crime or any other issue you might have. Call 999 in an emergency or 101 if it’s less urgent. ) If you don’t feel able to speak to police, you can also report hate incidents to the LGBT Community Safety Forum at the Access Tent at the south end of Preston Park. You can also talk to them after the event on 01273 231189.
18:45 for 19:00 at Komedia 44-47 Gardner St, Brighton
HOLISTIC THERAPIES: SUNDAY 5TH SWIMMING: TUESDAY 7TH/14TH 12.30 at Kemptown Swimming Centre, Eastern Rd, Brighton
YOGA: TUESDAY 7TH/14TH/21ST/28TH 17.45 with Dan, Hampshire Lodge, Upper St James’ St, Brighton
BOWLING SUNDAY 19TH 19.00 at the Bowlplex Lanes, Brighton Marina, BN2 5UT
HOLISTIC THERAPIES: SUNDAY 25TH 13.50 onwards at Terrence Higgins Trust, 61 Ship St, Brighton
SOCIAL GAMES NIGHT: WEDNESDAY 29TH 19.30 with Chris & Julia, at the Barley Mow Pub, Kemptown Peer Action is a group for all those affected by HIV and provides a range of holistic and social activities to help break down the isolation, build new friendships and share interesting experiences. We’re looking for volunteers to help trustees with some day-to-day tasks that keep Peer Action running. Help out as little or as much as you want, sharing your time with fellow peers is extremely rewarding, worthwhile and fun. If you’re interested, please reply to: peeractionmail@gmail.com For info about events see: www.peeraction.co.uk Or our f Facebook page: www.facebook.com/peeraction
36 GSCENE than the national average. This may be reflective of the local population. With over 61,000 contacts in the last 12 months, Brighton, Hove and District Samaritans relies on its committed team of volunteers and they are actively keen on recruiting more members from the LGBT community. Lyn, a bisexual woman who has been a volunteer for four years, said: “I chose Samaritans because I have been a caller in the past. I found the power of talking to somebody who was nonjudgmental and not related to my family took away my fear. I decided I wanted to be able to offer that back to other people.
BE YOURSELF Volunteers from Brighton, Hove and District Samaritans will be supporting Pride again this summer with an active presence at both Pride and Trans*Pride events. ) Over the last 12 months the local branch of Samaritans has been building links with the LGBT community to raise awareness of the service. Branch Director, Daniel, who is committed to continuing to raise the profile of Samaritans within the LGBT community, said: “It’s really important that we let people know that we’re here and are available to listen to them. Samaritans provides non-judgemental and confidential support and as a local service we are committed to supporting members of the LGBT community. As a branch we have a number of volunteers who identify as LGBT and as a gay man myself I know there have been times when having a safe space to talk, where you won’t be judged, is important.” The branch has recently worked with the trans* community to raise awareness of trans* issues with its volunteers through some bespoke training. The training helped volunteers gain a better understanding of some of the barriers that trans* individuals can face in day to day life as well as contacting organisations like Samaritans. Suicide rates among the trans* community is above the national average, with 59% of trans individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts, and 48% attempting suicide compared to a national average of 6% amongst all 16 to 24 year-olds (Pace, 2010-2014). Angela Green, a trans woman and one of the trainers who supported Samaritans, said: “Many trans people don't come and ask for help because they fear that raising concerns
about their mental health may be a barrier to getting treatment. So I fear that the true percentages are a lot higher than reported. “In the face of statistics like this, I’m so grateful and proud that the Samaritans are working with us to make themselves aware of some of the barriers that trans people face when seeking help when feeling suicidal. Samaritans plays a vital role in allowing trans people to ask for help anonymously, and now trans people can access the service locally and know that the people on the other end of the line have some awareness of what it means to be trans and some of the difficulties they face.” Many young LGBT people experience discrimination, bullying, rejection and in some cases intolerance and violence and, while there has been improvements and changes in legislation, many people expressing trans gender variances are still met with negative responses. Depression, anxiety and self-harm is also higher in the LGBT community. According to an ONS poll, men are three times more likely to commit suicide than women. In 1981 63% of suicides in the UK were men, but by 2013, the figure was 78% and suicide remains the leading cause of death for men between 20 and 34 in England and Wales, representing 24% of all deaths in 2013, and 13% for men aged 35-49. National statistics suggest the number of men who die by suicide is 20 men per 100,000. In Brighton & Hove that figure is 30 per 100,000, a third higher
“Being a volunteer has given me a sense of value and purpose within a great organisation and has given me increased confidence in my ability to deal with difficult and emotionally painful situations with my friends and family. If you are thinking about volunteering come along to one of our information events, take a risk on us and you will encounter a very supportive training process where you will learn about yourself. “As a bisexual woman myself I found that the policy of being non-judgmental is integral within the organisation, no assumptions are made about sexuality whether you’re a volunteer or a caller. The training that you will receive as a volunteer from Samaritans is second to none and as you become an established volunteer you’ll find that there are many more training opportunities including leadership training, recruitment and community outreach. There is something to suit everybody and you’ll be made to feel welcome.” This year the number of people expected to attend Brighton Pride is thought to exceed the record number of attendees last year. The carnival of diversity in the city is a chance for the LGBT community to come together to celebrate. This year Samaritans Brighton, Hove and District will be promoting the theme Be Yourself. Look out for the Samaritans’ stall in the community village where you can pick up information and if you want to talk to a Samaritan listener on the day there will be volunteers available in the Access Tent. If you are interested in finding out more about volunteering for Samaritans, visit: www.brightonsamaritans.org Remember Samaritans are here to listen as not everyone will experience a happy Pride. You don’t have to be suicidal to talk to us; we are here for anyone and at anytime. Be Yourself.
samaritans If you would like to find out more about joining Samaritans then please ) call: 01273 772277 ) or send an email to: volunteering@brightonsamaritans.org ) or just drop into the Brighton & Hove branch: Dubarry House, Newtown Road, Hove, BN3 6AE.
FAVOURITE TRANS*VENUE/EVENT: TRANS*PRIDE
GOLDEN HANDBAGS AWARDS CEREMONY, JUNE 21, 2015 ) Many thanks to the Hilton Brighton Metropole the Oxford Suite and to the duty manager on the night, Martyn Wheeler, who made sure everything ran smoothly. To Matt Constable and his team at ALPHABASS Sound & Light, Terry Wing and the Resolve security team, Billie Lewis Promotions for dressing the tables, Justin Lloyd Estate Agents for sponsoring the frames and Brian Sharkey from Barclays Bank. All artists appearing: Zoe Lyons, Aneesa Chaudhry, Drag With No Name and Jennie Castell who donated their services free of charge as did the back stage team of Billie Lewis, Eric Page, David Holland, Joanna Rowland-Stuart, Gavin Kerruish and guest presenters Lorraine Bowen, Chris Steed, David Raven, Alice Denny, Jason Sutton, Carole Todd, Police and Crime Commissioner, Katy Bourne, Alderman Brian Fitch and his wife Nora who almost stole the show.
FAVOURITE LANDLORD: ADAM BROOKS @ BEDFORD TAVERN
Thanks to Nick Wade from www.candyflossandbowties.com for taking photos during the evening and Joan Bond and Sonia Marmite for hosting the front door. As always a special thank you to Stephen Richards aka Lola Lasagne for holding everything together on the night and Besmir Ledward for producing the powerpoint display of the nominations and winners on the big screens. Huge apologies to Charles Street for the mistake made when announcing the Cabaret Category, it was the first time in 20 years this had happened. James Ledward FAVOURITE CLUB: BASEMENT CLUB @ LEGENDS
FAVOURITE CLUB NIGHT: FOMO @ REVENGE
FAVOURITE BIG BAR: CHARLES STREET
FAVOURITE SUNDAY LUNCH: CAMELFORD ARMS
FAVOURITE SMALL BAR: CAMELFORD
FAVOURITE OUT OF TOWN VENUE: LONDON HOTEL, SOUTHAMPTON
GSCENE 39 FAVOURITE HOSTESS: JOAN BOND
FAVOURITE CABARET VENUE: LEGENDS
FAVOURITE WOMEN’S VENUE: MARLBOROUGH
FAVOURITE NON LICENSED BUSINESS: PROWLER
FAVOURITE ENTERTAINER (SINGER): JENNIE CASTELL
COMMUNITY CHAMPION SPECIAL AWARD: JAMES LEDWARD
FAVOURITE DJ: CLAIRE FULLER
FAVOURITE ENTERTAINER (DRAG): DRAG WITH NO NAME
FAVOURITE CAFE: RED ROASTER
FAVOURITE HOTEL: LEGENDS
FAVOURITE BAR BOY: MATT RICHARDS, BEDFORD TAVERN
FAVOURITE BAR GIRL: RACHEL FEELEY, CHARLES ST
FAVOURITE DOOR SECURITY: LIZ BLYTH, BAR REVENGE
FAVOURITE LGBT SOCIAL GROUP: BEAR-PATROL
GSCENE COMMUNITY AWARD: ROSS BOSELEY
FAVOURITE HIV ORGANISATION: SUSSEX BEACON
SPECIAL LIFE ACHIEVEMENT AWARD: DAVE LYNN
FAVOURITE LGBT VOLUNTARY SECTOR ORGANISATION: MINDOUT
SPECIAL AWARD: IN RECOGNITION OF LGBT SWITCHBOARD 40TH ANNIVERSARY
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AWARD: BRIGHTON GAY MEN’S CHORUS & RAINBOW CHORUS FOR BRINGING HAND IN HAND LGBT CHOIRS FESTIVAL TO BRIGHTON & HOVE
SONIA MARMITE
LORRAINE BOWEN
GSCENE 41
ANEESA CHAUDHRY
HANDBAG AWARD WINNERS GAY CLUB
LOCAL ENTERTAINER SINGER BUSINESS (NON LICENSED)
1 BASEMENT CLUB at Legends 2 Revenge 2 Subline 4 Boutique 5 Envy at Charles Street 6 Funky Fish Club
1 JENNIE CASTELL 2 Jason Lee 3 Spice 4 Gabriella Parish 5 Krissie Du Cann
1 PROWLER 2 Brighton Sauna 3 The Boiler Room 4 Nice ‘N’ Naughty 5 Sussex Beacon Shop
BRIGHTON LOCAL DJ
BAR BOY
1 CLAIRE FULLER (Legends) 2 DJ Little Rob 3 DJ Marcia (Bulldog) 4 Ruby Roo (Charles street) 5 Peter Castle (Basement Club)
1 MATT RICHARDS (Bedfor Tavern) 2 Sam Stephens (Charles Street) 3 Ed Stocker (Charles Street) 4 Wayne Durrant (Dr Brightons) 5 Alan Cooper-Teague (The Edge) 6 Rupert Williams (Bar Broadway) 7 Richard Maloney (Queens Arms)
GAY CLUB NIGHT 1 FOMO at Revenge 2 Big Scrum at Subline 3 Fag Machine at Subline 4 Traumfrau 5 Pop Candy at Legends ZOE LYONS
VENUE FOR WOMEN 1 MARLBOROUGH 2 Bar Revenge 3 Revenge 4 Charles Street
VENUE FOR TRANS* 1 TRANS*PRIDE 2 Traumfrau 3 Poison Ivy 4 Legends 5 Revenge 6 The Boiler Room
SMALL BAR 1 CAMELFORD 2 Bulldog 3 Bar Broadway 4 Queens Arms 5 Bedford Tavern 6 Poison Ivy DRAG WITH NO NAME
IN ORDER
DOOR HOSTESS 1 JOAN BOND (Charles Street) 2 Stephanie Starlet (Poison Ivy) 3 Stewart Bamborough (The Edge) 4 Sonia Marmite (Poison Ivy) 5 Paul ‘Polly’ Thompson (Subline)
DOOR SECURITY 1 LIZ BLYTH (Bar Revenge) 2 Sam Pack (The Edge) 3 Sharon Walsh (Legends) 4 Richard Bailey (The Zone) 5 David ‘Irish’ Wheatley (Revenge)
BRIGHTON HOTEL 1 LEGENDS 2 Queens Hotel 3 Metropole Hotel 4 New Steine Hotel 5 The Amsterdam Hotel 6 The Grand Hotel
OUT OF TOWN VENUE
1 CHARLE STREET 2 Doctor Brightons 3 Bar Revenge 4 Legends 5 A Bar
1 LONDON HOTEL (Southampton) 2 The Edge (Southampton) 3 Half Way To Heaven (London) 4 Two Brewers (London) 5 Bar 7 (Crawley) 6 Black Horse (Rottingdean)
CABARET VENUE
GOLDEN QUIZ TEAM
LARGE BAR
1 LEGENDS 2 Bar Broadway 3 Queens Arms 4 Charles Street 5 Bulldog 6 Poison Ivy 7 The Zone
1 CHARLES STREET 2 Bear Patrol 3 Gscene Team B
BAR GIRL 1 RACHEL FEELEY (Charles Street) 2 Rachel Hogg (Bedford Tavern) 3 Collette Newbound (A-Bar) 4 Louise Foley (Bar Revenge) 5 Jemela Quick (Legends) 6 Bella Donna (The Edge) 7 Ra Woolf (Dr Brightons)
CAFE 1 RED ROASTER 2 The Farm 3 Neighbourhood Bar 4 Diva 5 Love Fit Café 6 Betty La La’s
LGBT SOCIAL/LEISURE NETWORKING GROUP 1 BEAR PATROL 2 Brighton Gay Men's Chorus 3 Actually Gay Men's Chorus 4 Brighton Bear Weekender 5 Rainbow Chorus
LGBT VOLUNTARY SECTOR ORGANISATION 1 MINDOUT
LGBT VOLUNTARY HIV ORGANISATION 1 SUSSEX BEACON
HOSTESS & COMPERE: LOLA LASAGNE
SUNDAY LUNCH VENUE
JENNIE CASTELL
1 CAMELFORD ARMS 2 A-Bar 3 Bedford Tavern 4 Marine Tavern 5 Legends 6 Charles Street
LANDLORD/LANDLADY 1 ADAM BROOKES (Bedford Tavern) 2 Collin Day (Grosvenor) 3 Barry Nelson (Queens Arms) 4 Harry Woodhams (Revenge) 5 Charles Childs (Dr Brightons) 6 Lee Cockshott (Marine Tavern)
DRAG ENTERTAINER 1 DRAG WITH NO NAME 2 Lola Lasagne 3 Miss Jason 4 Sally Vate 5 Davina Sparkle 6 Dave Lynn 7 Maisie trollette
GSCENE COMMUNITY/SPECIAL ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS • Ross Bosely (Gscene Community Award) • Dave Lynn (Life Achievement Award) • Brighton Gay Men’s Chorus & Rainbow Chorus (Community Development Award) • Switchboard (In recognition of 40 years anniversary)
LUC RAESMITH: PHOTO BY SHARON KILGANNON, Alonglines.com
TRANS FOLK AND CREATIVITY IN THE ARTS Trans Creatives: Luc Raesmith highlights the wealth of trans talent in Brighton & Hove ) May 2015: another mixed-weather spring, mixed-bag election, mixed-media festival and fringe. The arts scene continues loud and proud (rain or shine) in the People’s Republic of Brighton & Hove – with trans people making their mark on the varied and vibrant cultural life of the city. To name but a few of those people: actor and stand-up comedian, Ben Pritchard, has been appearing regularly at the New Venture Theatre on the Hove border; during the Fringe he played his ‘dream role’ taking the lead in Jez Butterworth’s Parlour Song. Off the boards, Ben creates his own stand-up material and is involved in writing new drama. When not involved in trans activism for the Trans Alliance and FTM Brighton, Ed Whelan is managing to find time to write and develop a trans serial for TV. Also-stand-up, Claire Parker presents her monthly Time for T, Europe’s only trans-themed FM radio show, on Brighton & Hove’s own Radio Reverb. Fox Fisher and Lewis Hancock continue to make My Genderation films for their cofounded Lucky Tooth Productions; not just
behind the camera and editing desk, Fox and Lew star in their new diverse comedy series Heartichoke. Now local resident Sarah Savage (also of CH4’s My Transsexual Summer) published, with Fox Fisher’s design and illustration, the children’s picture book Are You A Boy Or Are You A Girl? Creative recycling artist Luc Raesmith showed collaged self-portraits and computer board assemblage works in the Festival’s House exhibition at the Phoenix Gallery curated in collaboration with the Outside In project of Chichester’s Pallant House Gallery. Luc will bring experience of visual art practice for recovery to the well-being workshops now being facilitated by the city’s transgender support organisation, the Clare Project, in conjunction with MindOut, the LGBT mental health project. Rowan Louie Reid showed their 2D and sculptural assemblage work in ONE, a collaborative exhibition of Brighton artists and designers, in the café area of Jubilee Library earlier this year.
Jules Bartl and Cass Hoskins both work in the field of graphic arts illustration and animation. Jules’ animation client list includes the BBC, Bookstart and Marmite. Cass, Art Director for Brightwave, releases tasters online of her work-in-progress graphic novel exploring transition and gender identity. Luc and Cass were co-curators of last summer’s exhibition trail, alongside Heston Darcy and E-j Scott, long-term curator at Brighton & Hove Museum & Art Gallery. The exhibition, including a cabinet-of-curiosities in the Marlborough Theatre pub, accompanied September’s launch of the highly regarded Brighton Trans*formed, oral history and photographic representation by local trans people, published by the city’s QueenSpark Books. On the wordsmithing scene, Alice Denny is a star-already-risen in poetry performance, appearing at varied political and social events, not least the main stage of Trans*Pride. In 2013, Andie Davidson published her book of poems Realisations; she gives regular readings at Red Roaster café, and blows her own trumpet for Adur Concert Band. Other songwriter/musicians recording and gigging in the city include Maeve Devine and Michelle Steele of Daskinsey4 and Slum of Legs renown. Catch some of these creatives, and others, at Trans*Pride Brighton 2015 and be inspired!
44 GSCENE kind of environment. Does the safety factor never cross you mind? “I’ve only been physically attacked once. You know the scene in Crocodile Dundee where he [Paul Hogan] grabs the crotch? After a gig, this guy came up to me and, well he thought he had the right to re-enact that scene. As he grabbed me he even said “Crocodile Dundee!” as though that made it acceptable, explaining why he was doing it you know?” Have you noticed attitudes begin to change over the years? Caitlyn Jenner has received a lot of attention recently, does this kind of international attention help at all? ”Look, it’s been great for her although I understand there’s a little backlash happening right now. I just wish celebrities would come out sooner and not wait until it’s safe to ride on the established bandwagon.” Is it right for the trans community to only get this level of attention in the celebrity domain? ”Let me ask you Craig; what do you think of it? Does this attention push our message on or normalise what it’s like to be trans?”
STAND-UP AND DELIVER! Craig Hanlon-Smith talks to comedian Claire Parker ) Claire Parker is a stand-up comedian, blogger, radio presenter, BBC writers’ consultant, project lead, oh and is a woman who also happens to be trans. She is also effortlessly calm and on her BBC writers’ room blog states: Why don't we all put down our mud. Draw a line under it all and invite each other to the party. Making the trip to Brighton via Redhill, I began by asking Claire how she first developed an interest in performing on the stand-up comedy circuit. “The comedy started around seven or eight years ago. I’d wanted to do some acting and dabbled in amateur dramatics, some directing and sound and lighting, but then I took the Jill Edwards course in Brighton and it went from there to Edinburgh and all around the country.” As part of the BBC writers’ room blog, Claire writes: “I realised a long time ago that people were fed up with the myriad of documentaries and shock, voyeuristic programs purporting to show the trans experience. Contrary to the popular tropes and memes on telly, I do not spend 62% of my time in front of a mirror putting on make-up. Neither do I supplement my pension by working the streets for money.” She explained to me; “When I started I did that whole trans-angst thing but quickly realised people didn’t want to know about the gory side of what my life might mean to me, people are much more engaged in your comedy, and conversation, when they discover the bits in the middle. What helps people
come over to your side are the bridges you’re able to build between people and as a comedian I accept that some just don’t want to hear about the trans stuff. Eddie Izzard used to talk about his transvestism in his act but he doesn’t now, not that transvestism and trans issues are at all the same, they’re not.” And how do audiences receive you? Do you notice much of a change depending on where you are in the country? ”Where I am can determine how the material lands. Sometimes, the further I am away from the culture the jaws drop and I can hear the gasps, but to be honest it’s only the Daily Mail reading chattering classes that are really difficult. If an audience starts to go quiet you know you’re losing them, if they start talking it’s getting worse and then once the heckles come you just have to say ‘hey – I tried’. Sometimes the audiences you think might be trouble are not at all.” Such as? “I’ve had some great gigs in what are essentially builders’ pubs. Most people are quite matter of fact, skin deep. Loads of guys want to come up and say hello but they do what I call the ‘I’M NOT GAY handshake’.” What’s that? “They thrust their upper body forward but push their arse as far away as possible because they don’t see that there’s a difference between homosexuality and trans. Preference and gender are just not the same thing.” It must take guts to stand up on stage in that
I thought Jon Stewart’s comments were interesting, the ‘welcome to what it means to be an American woman’ approach. Your athletic achievements no longer have meaning it’s all about your appearance, and give it two years, as soon as you’re 65 you’ll disappear from view like all older women who are no longer considered young enough to be attractive. “Exactly, the danger with Caitlyn Jenner being the celebrity face of trans is an expectation that all trans women must conform to a particular type of what is considered beautiful. It’s just not realistic.” Why do you think it took Stonewall so long to add the ‘T’ to their organisation? “I would love Ruth [Hunt, Chief Executive of Stonewall] to come onto my radio show so that I can ask her exactly that question. It is great that they are recognising the ‘T’ aspect of LGBT and I don’t want to be negative about what happened in the past. I guess they were getting to a particular stage with the LGB, I don’t believe they were intentionally exclusive, they just didn’t have that experience of being exposed to the everyday life of the trans community.” What do you think changed for them? “When enough pressure builds up it just washes in and whilst it would be fantastic to know what changed, it’s fantastic to have that credibility now.”
info ) Claire can be heard on her monthly outing on Radio Reverb with Time 4 T, Europe’s only dedicated transgender FM radio show, 97.2FM ) Follow her blog at: www.transcomedyaward.org t @ItsClaireParker t @ItsTime4T t @radioreverb t @CraigsContinuum
GSCENE 45 another girl. If he were still a lady would Macy still be interested?
PET, WOLF & JAY
The episode includes an obligatory song from the band simply titled: Girls.
HEARTICHOKE
Pet is down to earth, sarcastic and pretty sensible 99.9% of the time. She keeps Wolf and Jay grounded. Pet (full first name Petunia,
WOLF
Wolf, who set up the band ‘Heartichoke’, is Jay’s housemate, landlord, and best buddy. He’s cocky, stubborn and keeps his emotions boxed up (literally) but is a big softy deep down and cares for his band-mates a great deal. He transitioned fairly recently and has a habit of fancying lesbians then getting frustrated that they don’t like him back. He runs a diverse dating website to help others in his situation but mostly just to help himself find ‘the one’. Jay is neurotic, obsessive and always anxious. He transitioned 5 years ago and gets embarrassed when he has to disclose that he’s trans. All he’s ever wanted is a regular straight relationship but how easily will that be to
but shh, it’s a secret) lives on the outskirts of Brighton with her partner Lilly. They’re a typical lesbian family - 2 point 4 cats. Pet works a boring 9-5 office job but has always dreamed of becoming a tattoo artist, although she doesn’t have a single tattoo… yet. Sometime soon she’s going to come out of her shell and start acting like a true 20-year-old teenager. At the moment the team are working on the final edit of a pilot episode called Girls. Pet and her O.C.D partner Lilly are having another domestic. Will Pet be pushed over the edge? Jay is in the early stages of dating loudmouthed Sophie who doesn’t yet know his trans status. Will he tell her? Wolf is reminiscing over his ex-girlfriend Macy, who he got with before he transitioned and now has to cope with the fact that she’s dating
Lewis Hancox is a filmmaker, writer and actor. He has worked with Hollyoaks directing and presenting backstage videos about the trans-themed storyline, available to watch on 4OD. He was a finalist in the Northern Writers Award 2015 and won a place on The Guardian’s Top 30 Young People in Digital Media. He writes his own sketches and shorts and recently played a supporting role in awardwinning writer Jake Graf’s short, Chance, that screened at BFI Flare. LEWIS
find? He comes from a small northern town and moved to Brighton in the hope that he’ll feel more at ease. He works at a bar a couple of nights a week to scrape by and is the least musically talented - he plays his smart phone in the band.
PET
Heartichoke explores LGBT issues in an authentic, awkward, silly and surreal manner which is non-sensationalised and based upon the writers’ own experiences making the show relatable to its target age range of 18-35. One thing for sure is that you don’t have to identify as LGBT to enjoy Heartichoke – dating, daydreaming, job-hunting, hitting your quarter-life crisis… these themes are universal.
Fox Fisher is a filmmaker, writer, actor and artist. He is director of Lucky Tooth Films and is set to co-present his own documentary Transgender UK on Channel 4 in 2015. He starred in My Transsexual Summer during 2011 and since then has been an activist for the trans community, co-creating the My Genderation project, setting up Trans*Pride Brighton, doing a TED Talk on gender and illustrating the first trans-themed children’s book. More info: www.foxfisher.com
Alice Hannon is an actor, writer and improv comic. She is part of the multi-award-winning Brighton-based sketch comedy group Short and Girlie. She’s part of the LGBT committee at American Express and won the LGBT Network of the Year award at the British LGBT Awards. ALICE
Wolf and Jay are both transgender and dealing with unusual dating dilemmas while Pet has been in a long-term lesbian relationship since high school that’s on the brink of a breakup.
JAY
) From the creators of the My Genderation documentary project comes Heartichoke - a quirky Brighton-based comedy series with a diverse cast, revolving around three 20somethings in a band, Pet (Alice Hannon), Wolf (Fox Fisher) and Jay (Lewis Hancox), who sing awful(ly) catchy songs about love troubles and life.
Never before has there been a comedy written about trans and LGB issues, by trans writers, starring trans and LGB actors. FOX
Local writers produce pilot for new comedy series about three LGBT band members looking for love in all the wrong places
Visually bright and colourful with subtle animation and surreal music video scenes, the show has a comic-book-esque style. Sound effects and camera tricks, inspired by Edgar Wright are utilised for humorous effect.
For more information on Lucky Tooth Films, view: www.luckytoothfilms.com To watch a short trailer, view: https://vimeo.com/128483967
“DJING IS MORE THAN JUST MAKING PEOPLE DANCE!” ) So, Prisss, what do you do? “I love putting collages of creative unheard sounds onto the dancefloor. Creating delightful soundscapes woven with deep textures, processed clips of geo-political commentary and other carefully chosen noises.
NOV 2013 PRISSS AT FAT BEACHES! PHOTO BY BN1BOI
“I am fascinated with synthesising ideas from all realms and communicating messages whilst keeping the dancefloor smiling and laughing. I aim to someday be so creative to make people dance to random noise!”
It sounds like DJing is deeply meaningful to you beyond just making folks dance? “Most definitely! I'm kinaesthetic and see music as morphing coloured landscapes. For me, good music is a privilege and honour to share with people, it is like a window to a composer's stream of consciousness.” How long have you been doing this? Why did you start? “At nine, I made my first wind-up turntable out of Meccano, a sewing needle and a margarine tub. It played records very well. But
only once! Later that evening I added old bits from the dump, speakers inside a cereal box, and mixed Bach and David Bowie Hunky Dory at full volume. “I learned the flute and piano. Judy Blame introduced me to The Residents which led me to avant-garde jazz and Zappa. Clubbing was initially a stress relief, but then I realised I wanted to share the fun of playing good music to appreciative crowds. “I DJed for the first time in 2009, at the Stone Bar in Thailand that had massive bass bins that you could hear across the bay! I played whatever I liked all evening long there, hung out with all sorts of people, musicians and explored my style.”
“I've just finished a short-run series of Sunday afternoon down-tempo, chill out sessions called The Living Room. And I also play in various clubs in Thailand when I'm over there and in pubs and clubs around Brighton.” What interesting projects have you got coming up next? “A custom-built top quality horn-loaded valveamped sound system in our [beep] venue; something like Larry Levan's Big Bertha in Paradise Garage, NY. “I also perform as part of Breaking Robots, where we try to go a bit further in terms of experimental improvisation with an underlying message.”
What is your favourite gig? “Playing the first [beep] gig in 2013. I'd spent a long time preparing a special set: a conscious sound scape with a story, which I performed in front of a new crowd of people. And it went great: everyone piled downstairs, packed it out and seemed to love it! It made me feel alive, connected and hungry for more.” What is [beep]? “[beep] - Brighton Experimental Electronic Party - is a collective for electronic musicians to start performing. No rules, just a bunch of open-minded artists who share skills, and who love expressing and enjoying ourselves holding gigs at - The Verdict jazz cafe, Edward Street our spiritual home first Saturday every month. I'm really happy to be involved and playing regularly.
OCT 2014: PRISS AT [BEEP] PHOTO BY NJ STRANGE
JUNE 2015 PRISSS AT THE LIVING ROOM, PHOTO BY BN1BOI
DJ PRISSS
DJ Prisss info ) More information about DJ Prisss at: www.mixcloud.com/Prisss/ ) To listen to some tracks: https://soundcloud.com/prisss f For Facebook: /brighton.beep ) For meetup: www.meetup.com/brighton-electronic/
GSCENE 47
TRANS PRIDE 2014: PHOTO BY SHARON KILGANNON, Alonglines.com
person who uttered it can be oblivious to what they have done. Most people don’t want to cause pain and don’t realise the misery they cause by using a wrong pronoun. But it takes time to loosen up a simplistic genderbinary viewpoint on the world… However, young trans people, braver than previous generations, are now on the brink of a breakthrough. They are gaining support from family, friends and workmates, and breaking down barriers of ignorance and prejudice.
THE FUTURE’S NEVER BEEN BRIGHTER Kim Curran shares some personal views and points to where gaps in services for trans people in Brighton & Hove can be improved ) Being trans is never easy – but there has never been a better time for us than today. There is a growing public awareness of trans identities, a recognition that trans people deserve respect and can contribute a great deal to society. Progress is patchy. In Brighton we sometimes forget that the progressive attitudes in this city haven’t reached other parts of Britain. Across the world, intolerance, even hatred, thrives. Yet, from a western perspective, acceptance of being transgender is seeping into our culture. Slowly transgender role models are breaking down barriers – not only in the arts but many other professions.
had no one to turn to, no hope of acceptance, and no way of integrating into the society around them. Today popular culture has its part to play in opening the minds of people who have never questioned simplistic gender stereotypes. When you hear that EastEnders plans to introduce a transgender character, with a trans actor playing the part, and BBC2 is launching a new trans sitcom later this year, it’s clear progress is being made. Public indifference and ignorance is sometimes difficult for trans people to accept. A simple misgendering wounds us deeply while the
Of course many still suffer hardships over relationships that break up, and face rejection from family members who can't accept change. Despite equality and employment regulations, work colleagues may not react well and, when you leave a job, it’s not always easy to find a new one with the same earning power. Financial stresses can lead to mental stress. That is when your ability to be adaptable and maintain self-confidence is put to the greatest test. Even so, there has never been a better time for trans people – despite obstacles and outdated attitudes. Our increased visibility, better organisation, and involvement in decision making (locally, particularly through Brighton Council’s Trans Equality Scrutiny panel), mean we can start to work on these problems. The future lies in taking up the challenges – improving public education, and developing work prospects for trans people with better employment advice, better training of employers (Trans Alliance has started this) and creating new work opportunities. An improved network of housing information and access for trans people is needed, and more support for those feeling the stresses that inevitably come with such profound changes in our lives. To that end, the Clare Project has started a series of workshops with MindOut. You can find out more at www.clareproject.org.uk
But even 50 years ago being trans was a much more lonely existence. The trans world was known to, and understood by, relatively few people. Many who felt this was their destiny
TRANS PRIDE 2014: PHOTO BY SHARON KILGANNON, Alonglines.com
We can be proud of transgender pioneers, and the list of 20th century trans biographies at http://zagria.blogspot.co.uk/ is inspiring.
48 GSCENE
NON-BINARY IDENTITIES AND GENDER IDENTITY CLINICS I have yet to meet a non-binary person who has had a positive experience with a gender identity clinic (GIC) by Lola Olson
) In case you don’t know, a non-binary person is someone who doesn’t identify as male or female. In my case, I am agender - meaning I don’t identify as either. Despite the poor track record of General Identity Clinics (GIC) in the non-binary community, I wanted to believe that they would treat me. I was also running out of options. After two years of being fussed around by GPs or being flat-out denied an option to get corrective surgery, I felt like the GIC was my last hope. After a change of GP, I secured a referral to the GIC. That was back in June 2013.
I called and asked. They said they weren’t taking any new appointments for people referred after May 2014 at all. I tried not to cry. I tried not to panic or fret. And instead I tried to cope, hoping that one day I’d be seen and I could start looking forward to a referral to a surgeon. And then I waited. And waited… Summer came and went and one Saturday in October 2014, in the middle of Camden High Street, I received a call asking if I could come in the following Monday. Being unable to notify my work, I regretfully said no, but then was able to schedule an appointment in the beginning of September 2014. This was much better than was previously promised. I smiled and hoped. And then I waited…
LOLA OLSON
I attended my first appointment in September 2014. The psychiatrist seemed more worried about my hormones than I was. Being born with a condition where I don’t make sex hormones, I have been on hormone replacement therapy since I was 12. Recently I was put on a low dose of testosterone, just so I could produce body hair. “You have to tell them you don’t want a beard,” the psychiatrist said to me gravely. She was more bothered about beards than I was. I couldn’t grow armpit hair and I knew well enough from trans friends that some trans men on even very high doses of testosterone don’t get close to growing beards until they’d been on it for a while. I thought it strange And then I waited… that someone working in a GIC would seem so By November 2013, I received a letter asking unfamiliar with what hormones can actually me if I was really sure I wanted to attend a GIC do. But still I had hope. and warning me not to miss appointments. I After my first appointment, I waited… enthusiastically ticked ‘Yes!’. And then I waited… By January 2014, I was getting antsy. Even though it stays cold in England well after the winter months, the approach of summer fills me with dread. Nothing makes me more aware of my chest than feeling sweaty. And even though binders bring my mind comfort, they cut into my sides painfully and don’t breathe so sweating is likely.
I was scheduled for another appointment in late February 2015. I got excited. I thought I might get some real answers about how long it would take for me to get referred for surgery. When the appointment came, I told my story. My lack of financial support due to having no family. My incredible need for chest surgery. My previous unsuccessful attempts at fundraising. All of it. I, if you’ll pardon the pun, got it all off my chest.
The psychiatrist said he had to meet with the team and he would be in touch with an answer. And then I waited… Recently, just before Transgender Day of Visibility, I received a letter discharging me from the GIC, denying me surgery. The letter, in addition to spelling my name wrong, getting my chest size wrong, and referring to me with the wrong pronoun throughout, said: “We would not countenance endorsement of an irreversible surgical procedure unless the individual had been able to demonstrably consolidate a social transition including name change to the preferred gender role.” I can’t argue my case. I actually would pursue a name change, but only when it was more feasible for me to do so. The process currently and in the past two years seeking visas has not been simple or ideal for me to do. It would have created more hassle for me as an immigrant to change my name, and destroy my credit history. I don’t recall ever being asked if I was planning to change my name. And in terms of “consolidate a social transition”… What does that mean for someone who is agender? I’m not capable due to the current position of agender people as invisible of socially transitioning. I am not able to remove my gender marker from any legal documents or use a gender neutral title. All of my close friends know my identity. I am not out at work - but I’m also not necessarily out or advertising my bisexuality or disability… That doesn’t mean I am not serious about those identities either. I don't recall being asked about this at either of my assessments. My only steps now are to complain or try to get re-referred. Both of which will take time. And as time passes and passes, my life is stagnating. You can’t know or understand the feeling of your body not being right unless you’ve had that feeling. It’s like an aggressive skin tag right in my line of sight that won’t go away. Sometimes I secretly hope that I have a form of cancer that will give them no choice but to remove my chest - and then I’m disgusted with myself for thinking that. Surely this is not the way people who don’t need surgery feel about their bodies? While the world passes me by, and I wonder how much longer I will have to deal with this cloud over my head, I am doing my best to pursue all options. But in the meantime, I want people to know what it takes. What transgender people face when trying to get medical help. What hoops we have to jump through and what retired ridiculous standards of gender we have to bow to. And how easy it is for everything we’ve worked for to slip away. And now... I wait… Lola is currently fundraising for her corrective chest surgery on YouCaring. If you would like to donate, view: www.youcaring.com/medicalfundraiser/help-fund-lola-s-surgery/330368 @LolaOlson
QUESTIONS Am I normal - in your eyes Am I welcome here? Is this chair free or Must I go elsewhere? May I sit down, please, share the conversation and a beer?
ALICE DENNY: PHOTO BY SHARON KILGANNON, Alonglines.com
Could you bare to invite me for a visit, just a drink? Or do you care far more what your neighbours must think ? Is it you’re scared, ashamed to be seen with me by a friend maybe walking through your city? Would you rather I pretend That I’m not here? Should I simply disappear? Would you defend me or disown me? Would you mind me Talking to your kids, let them be alone with me? Or do you fear I’d do them harm? Are you alarmed as I draw near and cross the street? Would you protect me or shrug and walk away if someone were to beat me, say “What does she expect when she is dressed that way?” Could you accept me as your sister, refer to me as Her, She, Miss, never Sir, He, Mister? Do you respect me, always use my chosen name or is your heart so frozen by malice that rather than call me Alice you’d like to see me fall apart, bare my soul in shame? Then you could say “There I knew all along She is really not so brave nor strong as she appears or claims. Just see how she’s reduced to tears by such a little ‘honesty.’ ” Would you touch me while we speak, as others do? Is it too much to ask you to smile, to look me in the eye, and seek the me inside?
Do you abuse me, deride me behind my back, think unkind thoughts, believe there’s something lacking, my mind is warped, by rights I ought to be locked up and taught a lesson? Perhaps some psychotropic medication is your preferred solution. Or electroshock. Then, drugged, strapped to a bed, contacts fixed to my head I’d be zapped (with) therapeutic electrocution. Now I have news for you, for if you bet I’d break down and cry “I made a mistake, can someone try to turn back time,” feel guilt or blame Let me disabuse you, I’m really not afraid and not ashamed. Nor have I ever felt One moment of regret. So get this into your head when I say I refuse to play your spiteful game I may let you share MY life If you accept me as I am, Not with condescension or reservations. But completely. Understand, I am a woman, there can be no compromise. so tell me, please: Am I normal - in your eyes? Alice Denny, July 2014.
LEGENDS
QUEENS ARMS
LEGENDS
QUEENS ARMS
SUBLINE: THE BIG SCRUM
BAR REVENGE
BAR REVENGE
CHARLES STREET
CHARLES STREET
50 GSCENE
GSCENE OUT & ABOUT
DAVE LYNN’S BIRTHDAY @ DOWNSTAIRS CLUB
BULLDOG
DAVE LYNN’S BIRTHDAY @ DOWNSTAIRS CLUB
BULLDOG
DAVE LYNN’S BIRTHDAY @ DOWNSTAIRS CLUB
CAMELFORD ARMS
BAR BROADWAY
DAVE LYNN’S BIRTHDAY @ DOWNSTAIRS CLUB
BAR BROADWAY
DAVE LYNN’S BIRTHDAY @ DOWNSTAIRS CLUB
GSCENE 51
52 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT
PICS FROM A BAR + BAR BROADWAY
JULY
LISTINGS
A-BAR
BAR BROADWAY
) 11-12 Marine Parade, BN2 1TL, 01273 696691, www.abarbrighton.co.uk ) OPEN Sun–Thur 12pm–12am; Fri & Sat 12pm–2am. Pride: Fri (31), Sat (1)
) 10 Steine Street, BN2 1TE, Tel: 01273 609777, www.barbroadway.co.uk ) OPEN Sun-Thur 4pm-1am; Fri & Sat 4pm-3am ) PRIDE Sat (1) Aug is PRIDE AT BAR BROADWAY with a live music stage on Steine Street, entry from Old Steine, from 12pm–3.30am. ) Continues on Sun (2)
& Sat (2) Aug 12pm–3am ) FOOD Mon–Sat & Sunday roasts 12–8pm (last orders 7.30pm). Kitchen closed Sat (1) & Sun (2) Aug.
MICK FULLER
) PRIDE Free entry all weekend but PVP wristbands compulsory Sat (1) & Sun (2) Aug. ) Fri (31) is the SANFRANDISCO Pre-Pride Special with DJ Mick Fuller spinning tunes from 8.30pm–late, free entry. Mick says: “We offera mixed, diverse, exciting environment with a nod to the diversity and freedom of the 70s & 80s! For disco freaks, drag queens & kings, boogie-heads, fierce dancers, flashy dressers, sexy girls, hot boys, DJs & dancers, artists and fashionistas! Bring your flashiest, trashiest, classiest, sexiest, craziest style! Bring an open mind! Bring a big smile!”
Information is correct at the time of going to press. Gscene cannot be held responsible for any changes or alterations to the listings
WEDNESDAY 1
l A-BAR Regency Singers’ Piano Bar 8.30pm l BAR 7@CRAWLEY DJ 9pm l BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Ice: DJ Claire Fuller 11pm l BRIGHTON SAUNA Naked Day 11am l BULLDOG Diva Rush: DJ Marcia 10pm l CAMELFORD ARMS Seniors’ lunch 23.30pm l CHARLES STREET Myra Dubois’ Bingo Balls 9pm
l MARINE TAVERN Boudoir: trans night 9pm l QUEEN’S ARMS An Audience with Sally Vate 9.30pm l SUBLINE Happy Hump Day 9pm l THREE JOLLY BUTCHERS Open mic with hosts The Purple Shoes 8.30pm
THURSDAY 2
l A-BAR Karaoke with Jai 8pm l BAR 7@CRAWLEY Boogie Nights 9pm l BAR BROADWAY Vince Venus hosts a Stars in their Eyes special with the Broadway Babies & friends 9pm l BAR REVENGE Throwback Thur 9pm l BULLDOG Release: DJ Grant 11pm l CAMELFORD ARMS £300 Big Cash Quiz 9pm l CHARLES ST Mad Cow’s Tea Party: Ms Joan Bond, DJs Lee Jeffery & Ruby Roo 9pm l DOWNSTAIRS BAR & CLUB It’s Showbiz: Dave Lynn & guests 10pm l MARINE TAVERN Throwback Thur 8pm l PARIS HOUSE live music: Fleur de Paris 8pm l QUEEN’S ARMS Don’t Miss Jason 9.30pm l REVENGE FOMO: DJs 11pm l SUBLINE Leathered 9pm l THREE JOLLY BUTCHERS Big Cash Quiz: £150 jackpot 7.30pm
FRIDAY 3
l A-BAR Live entertainment: TBA 9.30pm l BAR 7@CRAWLEY DJs 10pm
Aug with a live music stage on Steine Street between 2–8pm, then it’s HAZEL’S KARAOKE with Queer as Folk and Coronation Street star, Denise Black.
) ONE FOR THE DIARY Celebrate BAR BROADWAY’S 1ST BIRTHDAY in style Fri (31) with live music, incl Frank Sanazi, Jason Lee & Gabriella Parish, 7pm. Alasdair, Bar Broadway’s owner, says: “We are 1! It seems just like yesterday we were creating teaser adverts in Gscene - with everyone thinking Bar Broadway was taking over the old Aquarium. Whilst the showtune spirit still rings true - we’re quite at home at number 10 Steine Street and what a year it's been. Looking back at the highlights of last year, it’s difficult to remember them all, but the ones that stand out are Charlie Hides, the MindOut Charity Night with Boogaloo Stu & Lorraine Bowen, Denise Black's karaoke nights, Nicole Faraday, the whirlwind of entertainment energy that is Jason Lee, Nicki French and our Eurovision week, West End Wendies do Broadway and so, so much more. But the thing that tops it all off, even over all of these nights, is the warm welcome that Michael and I have received since moving down from Manchester. It's been a humbling experience and we made friends that have made the move to Brighton more than our wildest expectations. “So onto the 2nd year, and what to expect... Well, it's more of the same and a little bit more. The Gods will hopefully grow as a theatre and function venue. We'll continue the theatre and comedy nights - but there will be new nights coming, such as variety nights. Brighton is rich in its creative side - so this is a perfect opportunity to put on a show, because in the words of Ethel, there's no business like showbusiness!” l BAR BROADWAY Summertime Special @ The Gods 8pm; Broadway Jukebox 9pm l BAR REVENGE Club warm-up: DJs 9pm l BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Glitter: DJs Claire Fuller & Peter Castle 11pm l BEDFORD TAVERN Karaoke 9pm l BOUTIQUE i-Candy: DJ Glitch 10pm l BULLDOG DJ Marcia’s Throwback Friday 10pm; cabaret: Topping & Butch + DJ Grant 12am l CAMELFORD ARMS Friday Club 6pm l CHARLES ST Fruity Friday Fix: DJ Leeroy 9pm l DR BRIGHTONS Funky Friday: DJ Nick Hirst 9.30pm l FUNKYFISH CLUB I Love the 80s v I Love the 90s 10pm l GROSVENOR BAR Karaoke 9pm l MARINE TAVERN Jukebox Disco 8pm l OHSO SOCIAL Social Werk: DJs 8pm l PARIS HOUSE DJ Havoxx 9pm
l QUEEN’S ARMS Double cabaret: Jason Lee 6pm & 9.30pm l REVENGE Girls on Top DJs pres Clique on level 2; Pop Tartz on level 1: DJs 8pm l SUBLINE Steam 9pm l ZONE live music: Paul Diello 10pm
SATURDAY 4
l A-BAR Sanfrandisco: DJ Mick Fuller 8.30pm l BAR 7@CRAWLEY 4th July Party: Cassidy Connors & rat pack singer 11pm l BAR BROADWAY Jukebox 4pm l BAR REVENGE Sweet Revenge warm-up 9pm l BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Fusion: DJ Peter Castle 11pm l BEDFORD TAVERN USA Fancy Dress Party with Miss Treated 8.30pm l BOILER ROOM Naked Day 10am
PICS FROM BOILER ROOM + BAR 7
GSCENE OUT & ABOUT 53
JULY
LISTINGS
BAR 7 CRAWLEY
) 84 Denmark Villas, Hove, BN3 3TJ, Tel: 01273 723 733 ) OPEN Daily 10am–11pm Event details at www.theboilerroomsauna.com
) 7 Pegler Way, Crawley, RH11 7AG, Tel: 01293 511177, www.7crawley.co.uk ) OPEN Sun, Tue & Wed 6pm–12.30am, Thur–Sat 6pm–2.30am
) ONE FOR THE DIARY After the regular monthly CUMUNION on Fri (10), is an extra special CumUnion for Brighton Pride on Sat (1) Aug from 11.30pm–8am. By far one of the horniest, raunchiest parties in the South East, CumUnion is for you hardcore cum lovers out there! This party offers a non-judgemental environment for men to meet. They are pro-choice and members can decide for themselves what is safe and what is not. In this environment, visitors pledge to communicate openly and honestly with their partners. They understand in having the ability to choose which activities to engage in with others, without fear of rejection or humiliation. A licensed bar will keep you watered through to 3am and, as ever, condoms and lube are provided free of charge, as are the washing facilities, showers and towels. THT will be on site for advice and testing services 9pm–midnight. Entry £15 (no concessions), or an extra £5 if you arrive 9–11pm. Dress code: Naked (no towels to be worn).
) PRIDE Check in on Sat (1) Aug for an AFTER PRIDE PARTY with DJ from 9pm.
Adam Bailey, Boiler Room’s owner, says: “Our CumUnion parties are growing with three parties every month in Hove, London and Manchester, all run by me now from the Boiler Room Sauna in Hove. These are some of the most full-on sexy parties in the UK, and always pull a very mixed, laid-back crowd, with tons of action all night long. Even if you prefer smaller groups or 1-on-1, there's always a quiet corner to go to. We’ll be opening a new CumUnion in Sheffield soon.” www.cumunion.uk
l BOUTIQUE se-XXY Pimms rooftop party: DJ Klipz 10pm l BULLDOG Main bar: DJ V John 10pm; Lil Alex 3am; upstairs karaoke bar 10pm; upstairs club bar 3.30am l CHARLES ST The Boys In The Bar: DJs Lil Alex, Grant Knowles, Leeroy 9pm l DR BRIGHTONS Sexy Saturday: DJ Tony B 9pm l FUNKYFISH CLUB Ultimate Old School Party 10pm l GROSVENOR BAR Cabaret: Krissie DuCann 9.30pm l LEGENDS BAR pre-club DJs 7pm l MARINE TAVERN Disco 8pm l PARIS HOUSE Live jazz 4pm; TC’s Joyful Noise: DJ Kenny 9pm l QUEEN’S ARMS Cabaret: Dr Beverly Ballcrusher 9.30pm l REGENCY TAVERN Gary Peacock’s Mobile Disco: 70s/80s vinyl night 8.30pm l REVENGE Sweet Revenge on level 1; live PA: Hoxton Whores on level 2 10.30pm l SUBLINE Men’s Room: DJ Screwpulous 9pm l THREE JOLLY BUTCHERS Holophonic Sounds: DJ Bagpuss 7pm l ZONE Cabaret: Cassidy Connors 10pm
SUNDAY 5
l A-BAR Glowsticks & Lollipops karaoke with Jai 8pm; roasts 12-8pm l BAR BROADWAY Fireplace Sessions: Corinne Williams 8.30pm l BAR REVENGE Sunday Funday: Micklos hosts giant board games & karaoke 8.30pm l BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Pop!Candy: DJ Claire Fuller 11pm l BEDFORD TAVERN Sunday roasts from 12.30pm; Piano Bingo 5pm l BRIGHTON SAUNA Naked Day 12pm l BULLDOG DJ Grant Knowles 10pm l CAMELFORD ARMS Bear Bash, Free Food & Raffle 5pm; roasts & select menu 12pm–till gone l CHARLES ST Cabaret: Sandra 7.30pm; Tranny Rock & Roll Bingo: Sally Vate 8.30pm: roasts 12–7pm l LEGENDS BAR Cabaret: Dave Lynn 3.30pm; roasts 12–3pm l MARINE TAVERN Sunday roasts 126pm l QUEEN’S ARMS Double cabaret: Lucinda Lashes 6pm & 9.30pm l REGENCY TAVERN Sunday lunch with live piano 12-5pm; Sunday Revue with Jerome Lloyd & David Rumelle: ‘La Gage Aux Fall’ 6pm
CASSIDY CONNORS
BOILER ROOM SAUNA
) ONE FOR THE DIARY Deck yourself out in stars and stripes for the 4TH JULY RED, WHITE & BLUE USA-themed party on Sat (4) from 11pm with a rat pack singer performing the best of the American Songbook and Cassidy Connors, who’ll be bringing her unique style of female impersonation, sophisticated comedy and a voice that'll dazzle the toughest critics. Cassidy Connors says: “I'm so excited to be coming back to Crawley's Bar 7! What's that I smell in the air? The American Dream... A spectacular treat! It's been a long time since I've performed at Bar 7 and be sure to know I'm gonna take you to 7th heaven!”
l SUBLINE Guilty Pleasures: DJ Screwpulous 9pm l THREE JOLLY BUTCHERS Jazz Roast 3pm; Sunday roasts 1-6pm l ZONE Karaoke 7.30pm
MONDAY 6
l A-BAR Luvlies: Stephanie Von Clitz 8pm l BAR BROADWAY After Work Showbiz Quiz 6.30pm l BULLDOG DJ Marcia’s Glitter Ball 10pm l CHARLES STREET Studio 150 10pm l LEGENDS BAR Miss Jason’s Monday Madness 9.30pm l MARINE TAVERN Mon Madness 8pm
TUESDAY 7
l A-BAR Luvlies: Stephanie Von Clitz 8pm l BAR REVENGE Orange is the New Black Viewing Party 8pm l BOILER ROOM Naked Day 10am l MARINE TAVERN Nat’s Retro Quiz 9pm l QUEEN’S ARMS Davina Sparkle’s Big Fat Quiz 9pm l REVENGE Drop Out: DJ Trick 11pm
WEDNESDAY 8
l A-BAR Regency Singers’ Piano Bar 8.30pm l BAR 7@CRAWLEY DJ 9pm l BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Ice: DJ Claire Fuller 11pm
54 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT
PICS FROM BOUTIQUE CLUB + BULLDOG
JULY
LISTINGS
BOUTIQUE
BULLDOG
) 2 Boyces St @ West St, BN11AN, 01273 327607 www.boutiqueclubbrighton.com ) OPEN daily from 1pm–very late ) FOOD all day, every day till midnight
) 31 St James's St, BN2 1RF, Tel: 01273 696996 www.bulldogbrighton.com ) OPEN Mon–Wed 11–2am; Thur 11–3am; Fri 11–7am; Sat 11–8am; Sun 11–3am. Pride: open 92-Hours Non-Stop from 11am on Thur (30) till 7am on Mon (3) Aug.
) PRIDE Fri (31) is the Pre-Pride special with special rainbow cocktails being given away on the roof terrace from 1pm. ) Sat (1) Aug is the big day itself with
) PRIDE Kick-start your epic Pride weekend on Fri (31) with DJ Marcia's THROWBACK FRIDAYS with Drag With No Name on stage just after midnight in the Top Bar and DJ Grant Knowles in the main bar at 12am-7am. Drag With No Name’s satirical characterisations of famous ladies, from Susan Boyle to Lady Gaga, or whoever is currently in vogue, are hilarious. Expect lots of live vocals, patter, impressions and visual comedy. Then slip on your dancing shoes and keep going till dawn on Sat (1) Aug from 6pm and Sun (2) Aug from 2pm at the Pride Street Parties with some of the best DJs the country has to offer, including: Ross Alexander, Steve Mac, David Noakes, Mark Wilkinson, Pierre Parnis, Lee Jeffery, Chad Jackson, Lil Alex, Vague, Marcia, W.H.A.T.A.M.I, Affy and Ali, Jason Pepperell and Mikalis.
Becky, Sales & Marketing Manager, says: “The atmosphere we are creating for Pride is simple: FUN! We are giving you a fun-loving environment with VIP vibes, all mixes of people coming to do one thing: celebrate Pride in style! “If you want everything wrapped into one for Pride weekend then come to us! Not only are we right in the middle of the Parade, we are also the most beautiful venue, with the most outrageous (in a good way!) prices, including: five J Bombs for £5, 2-for-1 cocktails, two vodka mixers with two shots for £5, two beers with two shots for £5, all being served by the most beautiful faces! We also have the best commercial DJs in town and the most fabulous atmosphere!”
l BRIGHTON SAUNA Naked Day 11am l BULLDOG Diva Rush: DJ Marcia 10pm l CAMELFORD ARMS Seniors’ lunch 23.30pm l CHARLES STREET Myra Dubois’ Bingo Balls 9pm l MARINE TAVERN Boudoir: trans night 9pm l QUEEN’S ARMS An Audience with Sally Vate 9.30pm l SUBLINE Happy Hump Day 9pm
l DOWNSTAIRS BAR & CLUB It’s Showbiz: Dave Lynn & guests 10pm l MARINE TAVERN Throwback Thur 8pm l QUEEN’S ARMS Don’t Miss Jason 9.30pm l REVENGE FOMO: DJs 11pm l SUBLINE Leathered 9pm l THREE JOLLY BUTCHERS Big Cash Quiz: £150 jackpot 7.30pm
FRIDAY 10
l A-BAR Live entertainment: Paul Diello 9.30pm l BAR 7@CRAWLEY DJs 10pm l A-BAR Karaoke with Jai 8pm l BAR 7@CRAWLEY Boogie Nights 9pm l BAR BROADWAY Summertime Special @ The Gods 8pm; Broadway Jukebox 9pm l BAR BROADWAY Tabitha & friends’ l BAR REVENGE Club warm-up: DJs 9pm sing-along 9pm l BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Glitter: l BAR REVENGE Throwback Thur 9pm DJs Claire Fuller & Peter Castle 11pm l BULLDOG 36th Birthday Party 11pm l BEDFORD TAVERN Karaoke 9pm l CAMELFORD ARMS £300 Big Cash l BOILER ROOM CumUnion International Quiz 9pm l CHARLES ST Mad Cow’s Tea Party: Ms Sex Party 11pm l BOUTIQUE i-Candy: DJ Glitch 10pm Joan Bond, DJs Lee Jeffery & Ruby Roo l BULLDOG DJ Marcia’s Throwback Friday 9pm
THURSDAY 9
MIKALIS
the ALL DAY BRUNCH CLUB from 11am–late with a DJ on the sun terrace playing an commercial tunes and a DJ inside till the wee hours. Get there straight after the Parade or watch the Parade whilst sipping free stylish shot cocktails and munching on delicious canapés! ) Sun (2) Aug is PRIDE SUNDAY SESSIONS, an all day 'house' party-style event with little pockets of magical around every corner, from 1pm. If you want (or need!) a more chilled one, then lounge on the beds whilst being waited on by hot waiters and waitresses. If you want something a little harder then make your way to the dance floor for funky tunes and festival vibes.
A house music producing star with an ear for the sublime, Mikalis, DJ, producer, remixer, and all-round good guy, is the type of DJ who gets the clubbers’ groove, whose take on house ensures the admiration of both clubbers and his colleagues. He says: “Our set at the Pride Street Party will see me joining forces with my production partner and good friend Mark Wilkinson who is also the label head of Kidology. Despite us working together for a long time this will the first time we’ve played together back to back, which we’re really excited about! You can expect lots of upfront and exclusive tracks and remixes from the label mixed together with vocal anthems, total uplifting house music to put a smile on people’s faces! We’ll be celebrating the diversity of artists on the label, with recent releases and remixes from scene favourites Jon Pleased Wimmin, Hi-fi Sean, Louis Lennon and Gordon John. I’ll also be debuting a new collaboration I’m working on with Amrick Channa! It’s a real honour for us to get to DJ at the Street Party!“
10pm; cabaret: Lascel Wood & DJ Grant 12am l CAMELFORD ARMS Friday Club 6pm l CHARLES ST Fruity Friday Fix: DJ Leeroy 9pm l DR BRIGHTONS Funky Friday: DJ Nick Hirst 9.30pm l FUNKYFISH CLUB I Love the 80s v I Love the 90s 10pm l GROSVENOR BAR Karaoke 9pm l MARINE TAVERN Jukebox Disco 8pm l OHSO SOCIAL Social Werk: DJs 8pm l PARIS HOUSE DJs Funk Food 9pm l QUEEN’S ARMS Double cabaret: Little Cosmic 6pm & 9.30pm l REVENGE Doggy Style: DJ Fifilicious on level 2; Pop Tartz on level 1 10.30pm l SUBLINE Steam 9pm l ZONE Cabaret: Lascel Wood 10pm
SATURDAY 11
l A-BAR Sanfrandisco: DJ Mick Fuller 8.30pm l BAR 7@CRAWLEY DJs 10pm l BAR BROADWAY Jukebox 4pm l BAR REVENGE Sweet Revenge warm-up 9pm l BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Fusion: DJ Little Rob 11pm l BOILER ROOM Naked Day 10am l BOUTIQUE se-XXY Marbella Party: DJ Max Denham 10pm l BULLDOG Main bar: DJ V John 10pm; Lil Alex 3am; upstairs karaoke bar 10pm; upstairs club bar 3.30am l CHARLES ST The Boys In The Bar: DJs Lil Alex, Grant Knowles, Leeroy 9pm l DR BRIGHTONS Sexy Saturday: DJ Tony B 9.30pm
PICS FROM CAMELFORD ARMS
GSCENE OUT & ABOUT 55
CAMELFORD ARMS ) 30-31 Camelford St, BN2 1TQ, Tel: 01273 622386, www.camelfordarms.com ) OPEN daily from 12pm Extended opening Fri (31), Sat (1) Aug & Sun (2) Aug. ) FOOD Mon–Fri 12–3pm & 6–9pm; Sat 12–9pm; Sunday roast & select menu 12pm–till gone; seniors' lunch Wed 2–3.30pm.
) PRIDE Thur (30) is the £300 BIG CASH PRE-PRIDE QUIZ NIGHT at 9PM. Fri (31) is the Pre-Pride Party and FRIDAY CLUB at 6pm. Sat (1) & Sun (2) Aug are PRIDE PARTIES with an outside bar and tunes all day till very late.
) ONE FOR THE DIARY See in the summer with the Camelford’s delicious food cooked to perfection! Start with fresh Smoked Haddock Fishcakes with tartar sauce (£6.90) or graze with a mate (eat for two!) and order a plate of Nachos ‘covered in all the usual messy stuff’ (small £6.80/large £8.80). To get beach bod ready try one of these refreshing summery salads (£10.40): Chicken, Bacon & Avocado; Ham, Chicken, Smoked Salmon or Cheese with a sweet mustard dressing; or a traditional Ploughman’s with cheese and/or ham plus all the trimmings! Camelford Classic meals (£9.90) everyday, include a free drink Mon–Wed: Gourmet burger (prime beef, chicken or veggie) with chips, salad and onion marmalade; or heat it up at Curry Corner with traditional Chicken Tikka Masala, spicy Beef Madras, Red Thai Prawn or Veggie with garlic & coriander naan bread, rice and chutney. Sunday just isn’t Sunday without a roast, even when it’s scorching hot outside, so make sure you book a table to enjoy one of the Camelford’s Golden Handbag awardwinning roasts with all the trimmings: roasties, seasonal and roasted veg, Yorkshire pud and gallons of yummy gravy. Roast meats include: sirloin or rib of beef, lamb, pork, chicken, gammon or vegetarian nut roast. Many regular menu items are served on Sunday so you won’t be without choice and if you’re feeling sinful then take a peak at the boards to finish off your meal with a moreish pudding! Whatever you choose, you will not be going home hungry! l FUNKYFISH CLUB Ultimate Old School Party 10pm l GROSVENOR BAR Cabaret: Miss Jason 9.30pm l LEGENDS BAR Pre-club DJs 7pm l MARINE TAVERN Marine Late: DJ Little Rob, 80s disco 11.30pm-3.30am l PARIS HOUSE Live jazz 4pm; TC’s Joyful Noise: DJ Kenny 9pm l QUEEN’S ARMS Cabaret: Lola Lasagne + Monkey’s birthday 9.30pm l REVENGE Sweet Revenge on level 1; RHaus: DJs on level 2 10.30pm l SUBLINE Men’s Room: DJ Screwpulous 9pm l THREE JOLLY BUTCHERS Holophonic Sounds: DJ Bagpuss 7pm l ZONE Cabaret: Sally Vate 10pm
SUNDAY 12
l A-BAR Glowsticks & Lollipops karaoke with Jai 8pm; roasts 12-8pm l BAR BROADWAY Fireplace Sessions: Keith Pemberton 8.30pm l BAR REVENGE Sunday Funday: Micklos hosts giant board games & karaoke 8.30pm l BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Pop!Candy: DJ Claire Fuller 11pm l BEDFORD TAVERN Sunday roasts from 12.30pm; Piano Bingo 5pm l BRIGHTON SAUNA Naked Day 12pm l BULLDOG DJ Grant 10pm l CAMELFORD ARMS Bear Bash, Free Food & Raffle 5pm; roasts & select menu 12pm–till gone
56 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT
PICS FROM CHARLES STREET, ENVY + DR BRIGHTONS
JULY
LISTINGS
CHARLES STREET BAR
DOCTOR BRIGHTONS
) 8 Marine Parade, BN2 1TA, Tel: 01273 624091, www.charles-street.com ) OPEN daily from 12pm ) FOOD Mon–Sat 12–8pm; Sunday roasts served 12–7pm, £6.95.
) 16-17 Kings Rd, BN1 1NE, Tel: 01273 208113 www.doctorbrightons.co.uk ) OPEN Mon–Thur 3pm–midnight; Fri & Sat 1pm–2am; Sun 1pm–midnight.
Pride: open Sat (1) Aug from 10am for Pride Day and from 12pm on Sun (2) Aug. ) PRIDE Free entry all weekend. Thur (30) is the BIG GAY PUB QUIZ at 8pm, £2 per person and happy hour till 10pm. Warm-up to the big day on Fri (31) with the PRE-PRIDE PARTY with free shots and DJ Nick Hirst spinning an uplifting set from 9pm. Get there early on the big day on Sat (1) Aug for great views of the parade and drinks from 10am. The STREET PARTY is then from 6pm with an express bar and DJ Tony B till late. On Sun (2) Aug it’s an extra special REFLEX Pride Special with DJ Adam Rice spinning the best of the 80s from 7.30pm.
) PRIDE Fri (31) sees Charles Street join forces with Smirnoff for the 1 NIGHT
DJ GRANT
DJ Grant says: “So it’s nearly here again, but this year it promises to be the biggest party ever to celebrate 25 years of Gay Pride! This is nearly as long as I’ve been DJing, when my passion for the business started at the tender age of fourteen when I got paid to DJ at my own school discos! I’m so excited to be returning to Brighton’s largest gay venue, Charles Street and Envy, which boasts a massive two floors which I will proudly be a part of over the Pride weekend along with the fab and friendly staff who are always on hand and always looking very dapper! So whether it’s downstairs in the bar or upstairs in the fabulous club Envy, I will be mixing up a storm of commercial pop and dance mixes with a little housey twist! It’s not to be missed!
ENVY@ CHARLES STREET ) PRIDE Sat (1) Aug is FIERCE PRIDE PARTY with two dance zones over two floors from 9pm–4am. Expect funky house and dance in room 1 and commercial dance in room 2. Free Entry b4 10pm, £8 b4 midnight, £8 queue jumpers available at the bar now! l CHARLES ST Cabaret: Bitch N’Sync 7.30pm; Tranny Rock & Roll Bingo: Sally Vate 8.30pm; roasts 12–7pm l LEGENDS BAR Cabaret: Lola Lasagne 3.30pm; roasts 12–3pm l MARINE TAVERN Sunday roast 12-6pm l PARIS HOUSE Bastille Day Celebrations: Fleur de Paris, CanCan Girls & food 12pm l QUEEN’S ARMS Double cabaret: Davina Sparkle 6pm & 9.30pm l REGENCY TAVERN Sunday lunch with live piano 12-5pm; Sunday Revue with Jerome Lloyd & David Rumelle: ‘La Gage Aux Fall’ 6pm
l SUBLINE Guilty Pleasures: DJ Screwpulous 9pm l THREE JOLLY BUTCHERS The Jazz Roast 3pm; Sunday roasts 1-6pm
MONDAY 13
l A-BAR Luvlies: Stephanie Von Clitz 8pm l BAR BROADWAY After Work Showbiz Quiz 6.30pm l BULLDOG DJ Marcia’s Glitter Ball 10pm l CHARLES STREET Studio 150 10pm l LEGENDS BAR Miss Jason’s Monday Madness 9.30pm l MARINE TAVERN Mon Madness 8pm
DJ NICK
ONLY party from 10pm to kick off Pride Weekend with amazing live entertainers, a searing light show, pumping hot tunes to heat you up all night long and multi-cannon CO2 jets to cool you down ensuring the evening is a blast! Entry: £5. Smirnoff’s ‘1 Night Only’ parties have been getting incredible press this summer up and down the country and Charles Street can’t wait to host the exclusive party to open Pride weekend! ) Sat (1) Aug is FIERCE PRIDE PARTY with two dance zones over two floors from 9pm–4am. Expect funky house and dance in room 1 and commercial dance in room 2. Free Entry b4 10pm, £8 b4 midnight, £8 queue jumpers available at the bar now! ) Sun (2) Aug is APRÈS PRIDE with resident DJs Lil’ Alex, Grant Knowles and Lee(roy) from 7pm, free entry b4 10pm. Food available from 12pm.
DJ Nick says: “Dr Brightons is a second home to me, it's where my Brighton family live. I play big vocal house tunes, with uplifting piano riffs, but I also enjoy playing new remixes of classic dance tracks that people know and love. It fires you up seeing people recognise a song but loving the new twist! Pride truly starts on a Friday at Dr Brightons, the party people are out that night, kicking off their weekend. It's such a vibrant atmosphere with people dancing, smiling and having a good time. If you’re coming to Pride, and looking to begin your party weekend in style, come along. You will love it!” Wayne Durant, Doctor Brightons’ bar manager, says: “Come and help Doctor Brightons celebrate 25 years of Pride with the friendliest atmosphere, best DJs and of course free entry. Go on, treat yourself!”
TUESDAY 14
l A-BAR Luvlies: Stephanie Von Clitz 8pm l BAR REVENGE Orange is the New Black Viewing Party 8pm l BOILER ROOM Naked Day 10am l MARINE TAVERN Nat’s Retro Quiz 9pm l QUEEN’S ARMS Davina Sparkle’s Big Fat Quiz 9pm l REVENGE Drop Out: DJ Trick 11pm
WEDNESDAY 15
l A-BAR Regency Singers’ Piano Bar 8.30pm l BAR 7@CRAWLEY DJ 9pm l BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Ice: DJ Claire Fuller 11pm l BRIGHTON SAUNA Naked Day 11am l BULLDOG Diva Rush: DJ Marcia 10pm l CAMELFORD ARMS Seniors’ lunch 23.30pm l CHARLES STREET Myra Dubois’ Bingo Balls 9pm l MARINE TAVERN Boudoir: trans night 9pm
l QUEEN’S ARMS An Audience with Sally Vate 9.30pm l SUBLINE Happy Hump Day 9pm l THREE JOLLY BUTCHERS Open mic with hosts The Purple Shoes 8.30pm
THURSDAY 16
l A-BAR Karaoke with Jai 8pm l BAR 7@CRAWLEY Boogie Nights 9pm l BAR BROADWAY Tabitha & friends’ sing-along 9pm l BAR REVENGE Throwback Thur 9pm l BULLDOG Release: DJ Grant 11pm l CAMELFORD ARMS £300 Big Cash Quiz 9pm l CHARLES ST Mad Cow’s Tea Party: Ms Joan Bond, DJs Lee Jeffery & Ruby Roo 9pm l DOWNSTAIRS BAR & CLUB It’s Showbiz: Dave Lynn & guests 10pm l MARINE TAVERN Throwback Thur 8pm l QUEEN’S ARMS Don’t Miss Jason 9.30pm l REVENGE FOMO: DJs 10.30pm l SUBLINE Leathered 9pm
58 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT
PICS FROM FUNKY FISH CLUB + GROSVENOR
JULY
LISTINGS
FUNKY FISH CLUB & BAR RED
GROSVENOR
) 19-23 Marine Parade, BN2 1TL, 01273 698331, www.funkyfishclub.co.uk ) OPEN Bar Red open every Fri & Sat 3pm-late, all other days 3-10.30pm.
) 16 Western Street, Hove, BN1 2PG, www.thegrosvenorbar.com ) OPEN daily from noon–late Pride: Pre-Pride Party on Fri (31) from 8pm and
then on Sat (1) Aug open 10am–late for Pride Day.
show filled with debauchery and glamour with House of Grand Parade, special guests and superstar DJs Kate Shields & Sir Prize from 8pm. Hosted by the incomparable Cherry Liquor, expect acts of an adult nature, from campy to revolting, from disturbed to arousing, from mouth-gapingly bad-ass to absolutely terrifying, all courtesy of the gruesome HOGP and special guests Ginger Johnson, Imma Mess, Alfie Ordinary, Coco Deville and Penelope Pitbul. This is one pre-Pride party you don’t want to miss! ) But it doesn’t stop there! Straight after the show it’s the after-party in association with MINE, a club night in which the party-goer who spends longer than five hours to get ready can dance/mince about to an unforgivable mesh of hits and bratty pop music, all the while having glamorous photos taken! Tickets for the show & after-party: £7 online (£10 on door). Tickets for after-party £3 online (£5 on door after midnight). ) Sat (1) Aug is WE ARE FAMILY, Funky Fish’s Pride Day party, with hot DJs playing the best party anthems across two bars and two dance floors at 7pm, free entry. ) On Sun (2) Aug, Funky Fish opens up for the Pride Fetish Market in association with Brighton Twisted Market and terrace party with DJs, performers and leather galore from 1pm, free entry. For nfo about Pride Fetsh Market visit: www.brightontwistedmarket.com For tickets and more info, visit: www.brightonpride2015.com l GROSVENOR BAR Sonia Marmite’s Birthday Bash & karaoke 8pm l MARINE TAVERN Jukebox Disco 8pm l OHSO SOCIAL Social Werk: DJs 8pm FRIDAY 17 l QUEEN’S ARMS Double cabaret: l A-BAR Cabaret: Stephanie Von Clitz Stephanie Von Clitz 6pm; Saucy Sophie 9.30pm 9.30pm l BAR 7@CRAWLEY DJs 10pm l REVENGE Pop Tartz on level 1 10.30pm l BAR BROADWAY Myra Dubois & The l SUBLINE Steam 9pm Spiders in Bras 8pm l BAR REVENGE Club warm-up: DJs 9pm l ZONE Cabaret: Miss Jason 10pm l BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Glitter: DJs Claire Fuller & Peter Castle 11pm SATURDAY 18 l BEDFORD TAVERN Karaoke 9pm l A-BAR Sanfrandisco: DJ Mick Fuller l BOILER ROOM T-Girls & Admirers 8.30pm 11.30pm l BAR 7@CRAWLEY DJs 10pm l BOUTIQUE i-Candy: DJ Glitch 10pm l BAR BROADWAY Jukebox 4pm l BULLDOG DJ Marcia’s Throwback Friday l BAR REVENGE Sweet Revenge warm-up 10pm; cabaret: Kylie + DJ Grant 12am 9pm l CAMELFORD ARMS Friday Club 6pm l BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Fusion: l CHARLES ST Fruity Friday Fix: DJ DJ Peter Castle 11pm Leeroy 9pm l BOILER ROOM Naked Day 10am l DOWNSTAIRS BAR & CLUB Launch of l BOUTIQUE se-XXY Malibu & Canapes Upstairs Bar & Grill: music & food 7pm rooftop party: DJ Glitch 10pm l DR BRIGHTONS Funky Friday: DJ Nick l BULLDOG Main bar: DJ V John 10pm; Hirst 9.30pm Lil Alex 3am; upstairs karaoke bar 10pm; l FUNKYFISH CLUB I Love the 80s v I upstairs club bar 3.30am Love the 90s 10pm l CHARLES ST The Boys In The Bar: DJs l THREE JOLLY BUTCHERS Big Cash Quiz: £150 jackpot 7.30pm
) PRIDE Drag Queens Mysterry and Miss Pooh La May welcome you to help raise funds for Brighton Pride alongside the Bear-Patrol at a Pre-Pride Fundraiser on Sun (26) from 3pm. There will be a raffle fundraiser for Pride with super prizes to win and cabaret with camp tunes galore!
MYSTERRY
IMAGE BY ERIN CONSIDINE
) PRIDE Fri (31) is PRIDAY, an outrageous pre-Pride
Mysterry says: ‘We welcome you to an afternoon of cabaret entertainment with songs from the shows, rat pack and a singa-long, also a raffle raising funds for Pride. Come and support us, supporting Pride - we have come a long way in this country with LGBTQ rights but as we well know there are still so many issues for our LGBTQ brothers and sisters in other parts of the world. Pride isn't just a celebration of our freedom, but an event to bring attention to the long journey until there is LGBTQ equality worldwide.”
Lil Alex, Grant Knowles, Leeroy 9pm l DR BRIGHTONS Sexy Saturday: DJ Tony B 9.30pm l FUNKYFISH CLUB Ultimate Old School Party 10pm l GROSVENOR BAR Cabaret: Maisie Trollette 9.30pm l LEGENDS BAR Pre-club DJs 7pm l MARINE TAVERN Disco 8pm l PARIS HOUSE Live jazz 4pm; TC’s Joyful Noise: DJ Kenny 9pm l QUEEN’S ARMS Cabaret: Baga Chipz 9.30pm l REVENGE Sweet Revenge on level 1; RHaus: DJs on level 2 10.30pm
l SUBLINE Barcode Berlin Showcase 4pm; Men’s Room: DJ Screwpulous 9pm l THREE JOLLY BUTCHERS live music: Hearth + Moonlight 8.30pm l ZONE Cabaret: Tanya Hyde 10pm
SUNDAY 19
l A-BAR Glowsticks & Lollipops karaoke with Jai 8pm; roasts 12-8pm l BAR BROADWAY Fireplace Sessions: Jason Lee 8.30pm l BAR REVENGE Sunday Funday: Micklos hosts giant board games & karaoke 8.30pm l BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Pop!Candy: DJ Claire Fuller 11pm
60 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT
PICS FROM LEGENDS BAR & BASEMENT CLUB
JULY
LISTINGS
LEGENDS BAR
LEGENDS BASEMENT CLUB
) 31-34 Marine Parade, BN2 1TR Tel: 01273 624462, www.legendsbrighton.com ) OPEN daily from 11am–5am
) 31-34 Marine Parade, BN2 1TR Tel: 01273 624462, www.legendsbrighton.com ) OPEN Wed & Fri–Sun from 11pm. Free entry to the club every day. Pride:
) FOOD Mon–Sat 12–4pm; Sunday lunch served 12–3pm
open for Glitter-ing Two-Floor Pride Terrace Party on Fri (31), £5 from 8pm; and Two-Floor Pride Terrace Party with DJs on Sat (1) Aug, £5 from 8pm.
) PRIDE Fri (31) is GLITTER-ING 2 FLOOR PRIDE TERRACE PARTY with the
) ONE FOR THE DIARY Basement Club manager Jemela Quick moved to
Chris, who has worked with pop producers Xenomania and Ed Case and has supported Melanie C, Robbie Williams and McFly, says: “I’m originally from a very small village in South Wales. Growing up in the 1990s I was totally engrossed by bands like the Backstreet Boys, Spice Girls and N'Sync. When I was younger the thought of moving to a big city like London seemed like a fantasy and so far from where I’m from, but I wanted to turn that fantasy into a reality! I’m currently performing all over the world at venues I never thought I’d be performing at. I love Brighton as I love the coast and the people are very friendly and good fun! That's the impression I get and I can’t wait to perform for you all at Legends!” ) Sat (1) Aug is PRIDE TWO-FLOOR TERRACE PARTY with some of the best DJs spinning the best tunes till the sun comes up. Entry £5 from 8pm. ) Sun (2) Aug is PRIDE CABARET RAINBOW FUND FUNDRAISER from 3pm with hostess Lola Lasagne and a fab line-up of top cabaret acts, including: Miss Jason, Mary Mac, Mrs Moore, Dolly Diamond, Topsie Redfern, Sally Vate, Stephanie Von Klitz, Lucinda Lashes, Martha D'Arthur, Gabriella Parrish, Maisie Trollette, Rose Garden, Myra Dubois, Cassidy Connors, Davina Sparkle & Dave Lynn. Entry is free, but donations are encouraged!
Lola Lasagne says: "Pride Sunday - a chance to carry on the celebrations from the park and where better than in the gay village and at Legends! There's a chance to catch acts you may have missed on Saturday and see many new ones. Seventeen acts giving their absolute best and asking for a few more pennies/pounds for the Rainbow Fund. Pride is the best time to remind us and our visitors of the excellent groups/organisations we have in Brighton that can benefit from our donations and carry on their excellent work" l BEDFORD TAVERN Sunday roasts from 12.30pm; Piano Bingo 5pm l BRIGHTON SAUNA Naked Day 12pm l BULLDOG DJ Grant 10pm l CAMELFORD ARMS Bear Bash, Free Food & Raffle 5pm; roasts & select menu 12pm–till gone l CHARLES ST Cabaret: Lucinda Lashes 7.30pm; Tranny Rock & Roll Bingo: Sally Vate 8.30pm; roasts 12–7pm l LEGENDS BAR Cabaret: Miss Jason 3.30pm; roasts 12–3pm l MARINE TAVERN Sunday roasts 126pm l QUEEN’S ARMS Double cabaret: Martha D’Arthur 6pm & 9.30pm
l REGENCY TAVERN Sunday lunch, live piano 12-5pm; Sunday Revue with Jerome Lloyd & David Rumelle: ‘La Gage Aux Fall’ 6pm l SUBLINE Guilty Pleasures: DJ Screwpulous 9pm l THREE JOLLY BUTCHERS The Jazz Roast 3pm; Sunday roasts 1-6pm
MONDAY 20
l A-BAR Luvlies: Stephanie Von Clitz 8pm l BAR BROADWAY After Work Showbiz Quiz 6.30pm l BULLDOG DJ Marcia’s Glitter Ball 10pm l CHARLES STREET Studio 150 7.30pm
Brighton 13 years ago with her family. Before coming a manager at Legends she worked for Revenge for four years whilst doing retail management and then became assistant manager at Bar Revenge. She started at Legends five years ago and has been bar manager for the last two years. Outside of work she likes nothing better than spending time with her friends and girlfriend, watching films, reading, quiz shows and going out whenever she can.
JEMELA QUICK
CHRIS SHALDERS
best DJs and gorgeous Chris Shalders performing his special brand of pop-rock (think One Republic meets Bruno Mars crossed with Coldplay/James Morrison). Entry £5 from 8pm.
Jemela says: “Legends club is a friendly, happy place to work. It's great to see people enjoying themselves. The customers are always so friendly and we’re so thankful to everyone that chooses to spend their time in our venue. “Legends is definitely the best place I’ve ever worked and that’s not only down to my colleagues but also the amazing clientele. Customers really can make your night and I can say that without having a doubt that Legends’ customers are the best. Every night Legends club offers a great array of music and drinks deals. My favourite night is Sunday with Pop!Candy, as not only do we have drinks deals to suit everyone but we also have Golden Handbag Award winning DJ Claire Fuller playing all the best pop music from past and present. “I think people should choose Legends club because there’s always something (or someone!) to suit everyone. Legends club has a great atmosphere and caters for every personality, you can always be yourself no matter what and Legends embraces everyone that walks through its doors.”
l LEGENDS BAR Miss Jason’s Monday Madness 9.30pm l MARINE TAVERN Mon Madness 8pm
TUESDAY 21
l A-BAR Luvlies: Stephanie Von Clitz 8pm l BAR REVENGE Orange is the New Black Viewing Party 8pm l BOILER ROOM Naked Day 10am l MARINE TAVERN Nat’s Retro Quiz 9pm l QUEEN’S ARMS Davina Sparkle’s Big Fat Quiz 9pm l REVENGE Drop Out: DJ Trick 11pm
WEDNESDAY 22
l A-BAR Regency Singers’ Piano Bar 8.30pm l BAR 7@CRAWLEY DJ 9pm l BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Ice: DJ Claire Fuller 11pm l BRIGHTON SAUNA Naked Day 11am l BULLDOG Diva Rush: DJ Marcia 10pm
l CAMELFORD ARMS Seniors’ lunch 23.30pm l CHARLES STREET Myra Dubois’ Bingo Balls 9pm l MARINE TAVERN Boudoir: trans night 9pm l QUEEN’S ARMS An Audience with Sally Vate 9.30pm l SUBLINE Happy Hump Day 9pm l THREE JOLLY BUTCHERS TARTE: art, food & music 5pm
THURSDAY 23
l A-BAR Karaoke with Jai 8pm l BAR 7@CRAWLEY Boogie Nights 9pm l BAR BROADWAY Tabitha & friends’ sing-along 9pm l BAR REVENGE Throwback Thur 9pm l BULLDOG Release: DJ Grant 11pm l CAMELFORD ARMS £300 Big Cash Quiz 9pm
PICS FROM MARINE TAVERN
GSCENE OUT & ABOUT 61
MARINE TAVERN ) 13 Broad St, BN2 1TJ, Tel: 01273 905578, www.marinetavern.co.uk ) OPEN daily from 12pm–1am. Open till 3.30am on Sat (11).
) FOOD Daily from 12-9pm; Sunday roasts served 12–6pm
SUNDAY ROAST
) PRIDE Sat (1) & Sun (2) Aug, the Marine Tavern Street Party is the place to be seen with a cabaret stage both days featuring 25 acts, including hostess Candy Rel, Stephanie Von Clitz & Gabriella Parish, plus an outside bar, burger & hotdog stand, elevated DJ booth & live PAs. ) ONE FOR THE DIARY The Marine Tavern offers Sunday Lunch, served 12–6pm. Bee is the chef in the upstairs kitchen, ably assisted by Joe who cuts a fine figure in his chef’s whites. All food is fresh and cooked to order with a choice of Lamb, Beef, Chicken or Nut Roast for the main (£5.95 or £10 for two people). Choose two meats for an extra £1 per head. Amazing value! Starters at £3.95, include Salmon & Haddock Fish Cakes, Deep-fried Brie and Soup of the Day. Desserts from £2.95 include Cheesecake, Fruit Salad, Pavlova and ice cream.
Gscene editor James said; “To start I had the Salmon & Haddock Fish Cakes, which were moist and very fishy, just as they should be! For mains I had thick slices of roast beef, tender and tasty, with Carrots, Broccoli, Leeks, Mashed Potatoes, wonderful crisp Roast Potatoes and Yorkshire Pudding with Cheese Sauce served in a little pot on the side. Everything was cooked to perfection.” l CHARLES ST Mad Cow’s Tea Party: Ms Joan Bond, DJs Lee Jeffery & Ruby Roo 9pm l DOWNSTAIRS BAR & CLUB It’s Showbiz: Dave Lynn & guests 10pm l MARINE TAVERN Throwback Thur 8pm l QUEEN’S ARMS Don’t Miss Jason 9.30pm l REVENGE FOMO: DJs 10.30pm l SUBLINE Leathered 9pm l THREE JOLLY BUTCHERS Big Cash Quiz: £150 jackpot 7.30pm
FRIDAY 24
l A-BAR Live music: Sophie Causbrook 9.30pm l BAR 7@CRAWLEY DJs 10pm l BAR BROADWAY Summertime Special @ The Gods 8pm; Broadway Jukebox 9pm l BAR REVENGE Club warm-up: DJs 9pm l BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Glitter: DJs Claire Fuller & Peter Castle 11pm l BEDFORD TAVERN Karaoke 9pm l BOILER ROOM T-Girls 11.30pm l BOUTIQUE i-Candy: DJ Glitch 10pm l BULLDOG DJ Marcia’s Throwback Fridays 10pm; cabaret: TBA + DJ Grant 12am
l CAMELFORD ARMS Friday Club 6pm l CHARLES ST Fruity Friday Fix: DJ Leeroy 9pm l DR BRIGHTONS Funky Friday: DJ Nick Hirst 9.30pm l FUNKYFISH CLUB I Love the 80s v I Love the 90s 10pm l GROSVENOR BAR Pooh La May’s Birthday Bash & karaoke 8pm l MARINE TAVERN Jukebox Disco 8pm l OHSO SOCIAL Social Werk: DJs 8pm l PARIS HOUSE DJs Funk Food 9pm l QUEEN’S ARMS Double cabaret: Sally Vate 6pm; Myra Dubois 9.30pm l REVENGE Fat Lip: DJ Fifi on level 2; Pop Tartz on level 1 10.30pm l SUBLINE Steam 9pm l ZONE Live music: Back Beat 10pm
SATURDAY 25
l A-BAR Sanfrandisco: DJ Mick Fuller 8.30pm l BAR 7@CRAWLEY DJs 10pm l BAR BROADWAY Broadway Jukebox 4pm; Giggle@The Gods 9.30pm l BAR REVENGE Sweet Revenge warm-up 9.30pm l BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Fusion: DJ Peter Castle 11pm
62 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT
PICS FROM OHSO SOCIAL + QUEENS ARMS
JULY
LISTINGS
OHSO SOCIAL
QUEENS ARMS
) 250a Kings Rd Arches, BN1 1NB, 01273 746067, www.ohsobrighton.co.uk ) OPEN Mon–Thur, 9–12am; Fri–Sun, 9–2am.
) 7 George St, BN2 1RH, 01273 696873, www.thequeensarms.wix.com/thequeensarms ) OPEN 4pm Tue–Fri; 2pm Sat & Sun.
) FOOD new summer menu daily with cooked breakfasts, sides & light bites, sharing platters, burgers, sandwiches, salads, fresh seafood and fish & chips.
) PRIDE The QA has gone cabaret and live music mad with two stages chockablock
with performers over Pride weekend with hostess Davina Sparkle, an outside bar and a higher stage so everyone can see! Get the Pride party started on Sat (1) Aug with vocalists Tom Stevens, Amrick Channa (The Voice), Sandra, Caroline Heyes Smith, Allan Jay and many more from 2pm. On Sun (2) Aug it’s feisty cabaret from 5pm with Miss Jason, Mary Mac, Sally Vate, Myra Dubois, Martha D’Arthur, Baga Chipz, Son of a Tutu, Topsie Redfern, Stephanie Von Clitz, Mrs Moore, Rose Garden, Cassidy Connors, Kara Von Park, Dave Lynn and of course The Dowager herself Maisie Trollette with a fabulous finale!
DJ Chris Pullin says: “Pride is such an important event for me. The scene has been instrumental in playing a part in house music, which I’m madly passionate about! I love the vibe, disco feeling, happy piano drops and sing-along vocals! The Freemasons have been crucial in creating the music I love so it's a real honour to play the Wildfruit Dance Tent AND the after-party at Ohso! It’s a cracking venue! Right on the beach for an Ibiza-style party, with thumping happy tunes and a great vibe! I can't wait!” The Freemasons at Ohso is a Brighton Pride event, with all profits going to the Rainbow Fund. Advance tickets £15 from: www.brighton-pride.org/opp_tickets.php l BEDFORD TAVERN West End Wendies: Spice 9.30pm l BOILER ROOM Liberation Swingers Private Party 11.30pm l BOUTIQUE se-XXY Giveaway Party: DJ Klipz 10pm l BULLDOG Main bar: DJ V John 10pm; Lil Alex 3am; upstairs karaoke bar 10pm; upstairs club bar 3.30am
l CAMELFORD ARMS Trans*Pride 12pm l CHARLES ST The Boys In The Bar: DJs Lil Alex, Grant Knowles, Leeroy 9pm l DR BRIGHTONS Sexy Saturday: DJ Tony B 9.30pm l FUNKYFISH CLUB Ultimate Old School Party 10pm l GROSVENOR BAR Cabaret: Lola Lasagne 9.30pm
PARIS HOUSE ) 21 Western Rd, BN3 1AF, Tel: 01273 724195, www.parishousebrighton.com ) OPEN daily from 12pm ) FOOD daily from 12pm–close. ) ONE FOR THE DIARY Sat (1) Aug live PRIDE JAZZ at 4pm, and TC’s Pride
Joyful Noise with DJ Kenny at 9pm, free. Sun (2) Aug is Pride Chill Out with food served 12pm–close. ) REGULARS Thur (2) live music Fleur de Paris performing 1930-50s chansons 8pm, free. ) Fri (3) DJ Havoxx Motown/funk/r&b/Mento 9pm; (10 & 24) is with DJs Funk Food spinning funk/soul at 9pm. ) Sat free live jazz at 4pm; TC's Joyful Noise with DJ Kenny at 9pm, free. ) Sun (12) is the Bastille Day Celebrations with Fleur de Paris, CanCan Girls and food outside from 12pm–close; (26) is live Tex-Mex/Cajun/blues/bluegrass from Area 273 at 6.30pm, free.
Davina Sparkle, co-organiser and host, says: “Loads more acts want to do the stage this year as word got round that it’s really fun! I hope we get Miss Jason crowd-surfing again like last year! Watch out for Kara Van Park and Topsie Redfern, who are first timers to the outside stage! Saturday is the QA Stage for vocalists and Tom Stevens (formerly OMT) has organised some amazing talent. Sunday is dedicated to Drag Queens, lots of camp, colour and fabulousness with a little bit of outrageousness thrown in! It’s a great atmosphere, lots of people from all over get together to party on and have a great day out!” Performer Amrick Channa says: “I've been clubbing since the acid house and rave era of the early 1990s and that's where my love affair with dance music began. I'm the only British Asian male house diva! My performances are energetic and my unique image and soulful vocal style had Kylie Minogue on The Voice 2014 declare that I was amazing! Brighton crowds are the best ever! Great energy all the time and I love it! The LGBT audience is the best. No one else parties as hard as we do - nor with as much style!”
l BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Pop!Candy: DJ Claire Fuller 11pm l BEDFORD TAVERN cabaret: Mrs Moore 6pm; Sunday roasts from 12.30pm; Piano Bingo 5pm l BRIGHTON SAUNA Naked Day 12pm l BULLDOG DJ Grant 10pm l CAMELFORD ARMS Bear Bash, Free Food & Raffle 5pm; roasts & select menu 12pm–till gone l CHARLES ST Cabaret: Cassidy Connors 7.30pm; Tranny Rock & Roll Bingo: Sally Vate 8.30pm: roasts 12–7pm l GROSVENOR BAR Pride Charity Cabaret Fundraiser: Mysterry & Pooh La May 3pm SUNDAY 26 l LEGENDS BAR Cabaret: Dolly Diamond l A-BAR Glowsticks & Lollipops karaoke 3.30pm; roasts 12–3pm with Jai 8pm; roasts 12-8pm l MARINE TAVERN Sunday roasts 12l BAR BROADWAY Fireplace Sessions: 6pm Aaron Lawrence (Spice) 8.30pm l BAR REVENGE Sunday Funday: Micklos l PARIS HOUSE live music: Area 273 hosts giant board games & karaoke 8.30pm 6.30pm l LEGENDS BAR Pre-club DJs 7pm l MARINE TAVERN Disco 8pm l PARIS HOUSE Live jazz 4pm; TC’s Joyful Noise: DJ Kenny 9pm l QUEEN’S ARMS Cabaret: Kara Van Park 9.30pm l REVENGE Sweet Revenge on level 1; RHaus: DJs on level 2 10.30pm l SUBLINE Men’s Room: DJ Screwpulous 9pm l THREE JOLLY BUTCHERS Holophonic Sounds: DJ Bagpuss 7pm l ZONE Cabaret: Sally Vate 10pm
AMRICK CHANNA
CHRIS PULLIN
Grammy award-winning producers & DJs, invite us to shakedown at OFFICIAL AFTER BRIGHTON PRIDE BEACH PARTY on Sat (1) Aug, 9pm–4am for a night of hedonistic beachside clubbing under the stars right on Brighton beach. Set to get pulses racing this Pride, they are joined by some of Brighton’s finest purveyors of anthemic house music, including Smartie Partie’s deck king Chris Pullin, Kidology’s mix maestro Mikalis and Clique’s queen of dirty beats, DJ Alpha. ) Sun (2) Aug is the Official Brighton Pride GIRLS WEEKENDER BEACH TERRACE PARTY with house tunes courtesy of all-girl DJs Maze & Masters, Summerdaze, Ellie Cocks, Alpha, Lady Lola, Sami & Missy B from 8pm. All Neighbourhood & Concorde2 attendees get a free pass valid b4 11pm.
DAVINA SPARKLE
) PRIDE The Freemasons, Brighton’s chart-topping, multi-platinum selling,
7 GEORGE STREET BRIGHTON 01273 696873
http://thequeensarms.wix.com/thequeensarms
TUESDAY 9.00PM
DAVINA SPARKLE’S
BIG FAT QUIZ WEDNESDAY 9.30PM
AN AUDIENCE WITH
SALLY VATE
THURSDAY 9.30PM
MISS JASON FRIDAY PM
2 SHOWS 6 & 9.30PM
3 JUL JASON LEE DOUBLE SHOW 10 JUL LITTLE COSMIC DOUBLE SHOW 17 JUL STEPHANIE VON CLITZ
SAUCY SOPHIE 24 JUL SALLY VATE MYRA DUBOIS 31 JUL DAVINA SPARKLE
DOUBLE SHOW
PRIDE STREET CABARET STAGE
SATURDAY1AUG TOM STEVENS, AMRICK CHANNA (THE VOICE) SANDRA, CAROLINE HEYES SMITH, ALLAN JAY AND MANY MORE SUNDAY 2AUG MISS JASON, MAISIE TROLLETTE, DAVE LYNN, DAVINA SPARKLE, KARA VAN PARK, MYRA DUBOIS, MARY MAC, MARTHA D’ARTHER, SALLY VATE, SON OFA TUTU PLUS MANY MORE
SATURDAY 9.30
PM
4 JUL DR BEVERLY BALLCRUSHER 11 JUL LOLA LASANGE 18JUL BAGA CHIPZ 25JUL KARA VAN PARK
SUNDAYPM
PM 2 SHOWS 6 & 9.30 JUL
5 LUCINDA LASHES 12 JUL DAVINA SPARKLE 19JUL MARTHA D’ARTHER 26 JUL CASSIDY CONNORS
66 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT
PICS FROM BAR REVENGE + CLUB REVENGE
JULY
LISTINGS
BAR REVENGE
REVENGE
) 32-34 Old Steine, BN1 1EL Tel: 01273 606064, www.revenge.co.uk ) OPEN Sun-Wed 12pm-1am; Thur 12pm-2am; Fri & Sat 12pm-6am
) 32-34 Old Steine, BN1 1EL, Tel: 01273 606064, www.revenge.co.uk ) OPEN Tue from 11pm, Thur, Fri & Sat from 10.30pm
) PRIDE Thur (30) is Pre-Pride THROWBACK THURSDAY with DJ Missy B
) PRIDE Platinum wristbands from at www.revenge.co.uk get you free entry and Q-Jump b4 midnight Thur, Fri, Sat & Sun of Pride weekend! Kick-start your Pride weekend at FOMO PRIDE OPENING PARTY on Thur (30) with 2 floors of pop/urban/ house tunes and drinks from £1. ) Fri (31) POPTARTZ & CLIQUE all-out popathon on level 1 and Girls on Top DJs presenting Clique, for girls who like house on level 2 with resident DJ Alpha and special guest DJ Becky Perry. ) Sat (1) Aug is PRIDE ROOF TERRACE PARTY with DJs playing house from 2pm; free till 6pm with pop anthems on level 2. At 9pm it’s Revenge’s biggest party of the year with pop/urban & more on level 1 with DJs Toby Lawrence, Trick & Missy B. Level 2 is R-HAUS with DJs Jonesy, King K & Zach Burns, hot podium dancers and more till 7am. Q-jump tickets from www.revenge.co.uk ) Keep the Pride party going on Sun (2) Aug at the ROOF TERRACE PARTY at 3pm with Ibiza-style house music (think Bora Bora beach) from Brighton’s finest DJs and free entry till 10pm when the whole club opens for the FOMO: NEON RAVE with free glowsticks, UV face painting, a UV bubble machine and more! House tunes continue on level 2 with DJ Jonesy playing vocal anthems, while on level 1 there’s FOMO’s infamous mash-up of pop, urban and bass magic!
Miss Adventure, DJ on Fri (31) and Sat (1) Aug, hails from Sydney, Australia and started DJing back in 2007. She moved to the UK in 2014 and has since has been playing at Brighton’s Revenge Bar and Club. Miss Adventure is a music-loving chameleon and can be heard playing anything from house to r&b/indie/pop/soul. She says: “Catch me playing at Bar Revenge on Friday and Saturday of Pride Weekend, where I’ll be warming up for the Club Revenge DJs and getting you into the spirit of Pride with a mix of pop, urban and house from the nineties, noughties and today! I love rocking a crowd and having fun with my song selections; expect to hear anything from Robin S and Snap! to Clean Bandit, Nicki Minaj or Omi, and MUCH more!” l QUEEN’S ARMS Double cabaret: Cassidy Connors 6pm & 9.30pm l REGENCY TAVERN Sunday lunch with live piano 12-5pm; Sunday Revue with Jerome Lloyd & David Rumelle: ‘La Gage Aux Fall’ 6pm l SUBLINE Cum In Your Pants: DJ Nude 9pm l THREE JOLLY BUTCHERS The Jazz Roast 3pm; Sunday roasts 1-6pm l ZONE Sunday Sessions with Stone & Street 6.30pm
MONDAY 27
l A-BAR Luvvies: Stephanie Von Clitz 8pm l BAR BROADWAY After Work Showbiz Quiz 6.30pm l BULLDOG DJ Marcia’s Glitter Ball 10pm l CHARLES STREET Studio 150 7.30pm l LEGENDS BAR Miss Jason’s Monday Madness 9.30pm l MARINE TAVERN Mon Madness 8pm
TUESDAY 28
l A-BAR Luvvies: Stephanie Von Clitz 8pm l BAR REVENGE Orange is the New Black Viewing Party 8pm l BOILER ROOM Naked Day 10am l MARINE TAVERN Nat’s Retro Quiz 9pm l QUEEN’S ARMS Davina Sparkle’s Big Fat Quiz 9pm l REVENGE Drop Out: DJ Trick 11pm
WEDNESDAY 29
l A-BAR Regency Singers’ Piano Bar 8.30pm l BAR 7@CRAWLEY DJ 9pm l BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Ice: DJ Claire Fuller 11pm l BRIGHTON SAUNA Naked Day 11am l BULLDOG Diva Rush: DJ Marcia 10pm l CAMELFORD ARMS Seniors’ lunch 23.30pm l CHARLES STREET Myra Dubois’ Bingo Balls 9pm
TOBY LAWRENCE
MISS ADVENTURE
spinning early 90s dance from 9pm. Get there early to indulge in 2-for-1 drinks from 5–9pm. Fri (31) then sees DJs Miss Adventure and Toby Lawrence spin pop/ urban/house tunes to warm you up for the big party at Club Revenge. Free entry all night and bar till 7am! ) Sat (1) Aug is the massive PRIDE PARTY from 11am with DJs, including Miss Adventure, from 2pm getting you in the Pride spirit! Don’t miss the outside bar and street party area with hot dancers, chill-out zones and surprises from 6pm–midnight! Free entry till midnight and bar till 7am! ) If you’re still standing then don’t miss the FOMO UV Rave Warm-up on Sun (2) Aug with DJs from 8pm. Also, don’t miss the outside bar and street party area for Pride with hot dancers, chill-out zones and surprises from 2-8pm! Free entry all night and bar till 3am.
DJ Toby Lawrence says: “You can guarantee the atmosphere will be electric! I can’t wait to see hundreds of people singing their hearts out to their favourite songs and celebrating. My sets are high in energy, uplifting with a ‘hands in the air’ party vibe from start to finish. I love all styles of music - something for everyone, whether you’re into hip-hop, house, pop and more!”
l MARINE TAVERN Boudoir: trans night 9pm l QUEEN’S ARMS An Audience with Sally Vate 9.30pm l SUBLINE Fag Machine: Sam Culpeck tribute, fundraiser & guest David Hoyle 9pm l THREE JOLLY BUTCHERS Open mic with hosts The Purple Shoes 8.30pm
THURSDAY 30
l A-BAR Karaoke with Jai 8pm l BAR 7@CRAWLEY Boogie Nights 9pm l BAR BROADWAY Miss Treated@The Gods 8pm; Tabitha & friends’ sing-along 10pm l BAR REVENGE Throwback Thur: DJ Missy B 9pm l BOUTIQUE Pride warm-up 10pm l BULLDOG 92 Hour-Long Pride Weekend: Release: DJ Grant 11pm l CAMELFORD ARMS £300 Big Cash Quiz 9pm l CHARLES ST Mad Cow’s Tea Party: Ms Joan Bond, DJs Lee Jeffery & Ruby Roo 9pm
l DOWNSTAIRS BAR & CLUB It’s Showbiz: Dave Lynn & guests 10pm l DR BRIGHTONS Big Gay Pub Quiz 8pm l MARINE TAVERN Throwback Thur 8pm l QUEEN’S ARMS Don’t Miss Jason 9.30pm l REGENCY TAVERN Thai & Jazz Jam Night 8.30pm l REVENGE Pride Opening Party 10.30pm l SUBLINE Leathered 9pm l THREE JOLLY BUTCHERS Big Cash Quiz: £150 jackpot 7.30pm
FRIDAY 31
l A-BAR SanFranDisco Pride Special: DJ Mick Fuller 8.30pm l BAR 7@CRAWLEY DJs 10pm l BAR BROADWAY 1st Birthday Party: Frank Sanazi, Jason Lee, Gabriella Parish & many more 7pm l BAR REVENGE Pre-Pride: DJs Miss Adventure & Toby Lawrence 9pm
PICS FROM REGENCY TAVERN + SUBLINE
GSCENE OUT & ABOUT 67
JULY
LISTINGS
REGENCY TAVERN
SUBLINE
) 32/34 Russell Sq, BN1 2EF, 01273 325652 www.regencytavern.co.uk ) OPEN Mon–Thurs, 12–11pm; Fri & Sat, 11–12am; Sun, 12am–11pm. ) FOOD Mon–Wed 12–2.30pm & 6–8.30pm; Thurs & Fri 12–2.30pm &
) 129 St James' St, BN2 1TH, Tel: 01273 624100, www.sublinebrighton.co.uk ) OPEN Wed–Sun from 9pm. ) PRIDE Fri (31) BIG SCRUM PRIDE SPECIAL from 9pm, entry £4 mems/or £6
6–9pm. Sat 11am–12pm breakfast, 12–6pm general menu; Sun 12–5pm for Sunday lunch.
and £1 off if in sports kit. Sat (1) Aug is the MEN’S ROOM PRIDE SPECIAL at 10pm, entry £5 for mems/£8. Sun (2) Aug is the CUM AS YOU ARE at 8pm, entry £5 for mems/ £8.
GARY PEACOCK
) PRIDE Doors open early 8.30am Sat (1) Aug for delicious Pride Breakfasts and drinks to set you up for the Pride Parade. Get the party started in style with a glass of bubbly (£3) and choose from Regency Full English Breakfast (£9.95) or smaller Regency 1/2 English Breakfast (£6.95). Croque-Monsieur (£5.95) homecooked ham & cheese toasted sandwich, or for no extra cost the Croque-Madame, topped with a poached or fried egg; Croque-Provençal, with tomato instead of ham; or the Croque-Norvégien, with smoked salmon instead of ham. Also on the menu are Eggs Benedict, Royale or Florentine (v) (£6.95), Smoked Salmon & Scrambled Egg (£5.95), Kippers & Scrambled Egg (£6.95) and French Toast (£5.95). Pre-booking is advised - call 01273 325652. In the evening it’s Gary Peacock’s 70S/80S MOBILE DISCO, an all-vinyl night of pure cheese from 8pm with free entry. Gary says: “It’s free to get in… and out! A perfect pride party of the finest pop and disco, wrapped up beautifully on fabulous vinyl, featuring a free raffle with prizes that money literally cannot buy!” l BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Glittering Pride Terrace & Club Party: 2 floors & 3 DJs 11pm l BEDFORD TAVERN Pre-Pride cabaret: Crystal D’Canter 9.30pm l BOUTIQUE Pre-Pride Roof Terrace Party 1pm; i-Candy Pride: DJ Glitch 10pm l BULLDOG 92 Hour-Long Pride Weekend: DJ Marcia’s Pre-Pride Party 10pm; cabaret: Drag With No Name + DJ Grant 12am l CAMELFORD ARMS Friday Club & PrePride Party 6pm-very late l CHARLES ST Smirnoff ‘1 Night Only’ Pride Opening Party: live entertainment, multi-cannon CO2 jets, light shows 10pm l DOWNSTAIRS BAR & CLUB Tribute Night 10pm l DR BRIGHTONS 92 hour-long weekend: Pre-Pride Party: DJ Nick Hirst 9.30pm l FUNKYFISH CLUB Priday Pre-Pride party with House of Grand Parade, host Cherry Liquor, DJs Kate Shields & Sir Prize, special guests Ginger Johnson, Imma Mess, Alfie Ordinary, Coco Deville & Penelope Pitbul 8pm; MINE afterparty 12am l GROSVENOR BAR Pre-Pride Party 8pm
l LEGENDS BAR Glitter-ing Pride Terrace & Club Party: 2 floors & 3 DJs + live PA by Chris Shalders 7pm l MARINE TAVERN Pre-Big Scrum 8pm l OHSO SOCIAL Social Werk Pride Terrace Party: DJs Zach Burns, Summerdaze, Alex Baker & DJ PC 6pm l QUEEN’S ARMS Double cabaret: Davina Sparkle 6pm & 9.30pm l REVENGE Pre-Pride Girls on Top DJs pres Clique: DJ Alpha & guest Becky Perry on level 2; Pop Tartz: level 1 10.30pm l SUBLINE Pre-Pride Big Scrum 9pm l ZONE Pre-Pride cabaret: Sally Vate 10pm
SATURDAY 1 AUG
l A-BAR Pride@A-Bar 12pm l BAR 7@CRAWLEY Pride Party: DJs 9pm l BAR BROADWAY Pride: outside bar & live music stage 6pm-3.30am l BAR REVENGE Pride Party: DJs 2pm; outdoor bar & street party 6pm l BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Pride Terrace & Club Party: 2 floors, 3 DJs 11pm l BOILER ROOM SAUNA Pride Cum
) ONE FOR THE DIARY LEATHERMEN SOUTH celebrates its 1st Birthday on Sat (25) with a party 10.30pm–late. This social networking group was launched in July last year to build and support the local gay leather community and provides a forum and regular meet-ups for the leather men of Sussex, Surrey, Kent and further afield. One year on and with over 170 members on Facebook alone, organisers Carl, Al and Wolfgang are extremely pleased with the response so far: “Our success is down to our members. The support is heart-warming and we’re also networking with other leather groups across the country and the globe as well as other cross-over groups such as the Brighton Bears. Special thanks to our friends here in Brighton, Leather West in Bristol, London Leather Social, Manchester Leather Men, Leather Flashmobs and BLUF. Particular thanks also to Steve at Subline, Brighton’s premier fetish club, who has supported us from the start and provides the perfect venue with local DJs, friendly bar staff, changing rooms and lockers, whilst being centrally located to all the gay nightlife in and around the gay village. In addition, we have agreed discounts with local hotels for those that wish to stay in town overnight. Details are on our FB page and website. This is a very exciting time for us and the leather community and we’re welcoming new members to the group daily. Our 1st Birthday party marks a milestone in our history and we hope all our members and friends join us in celebrating this landmark event.” www.leathermensouth.co.uk
Union International Sex Party 11.30pm l BOUTIQUE Pride All Day Brunch Club: DJ & sun terrace 11am l BULLDOG 92 Hour-Long Pride Weekend: Pride Street Party: DJs Lee Jeffery, Chad Jackson, Lil Alex, Vague, Marcia, W.H.A.T.A.M.I, Affy and Ali, Jason Pepperell, Ross Alexander, Steve Mac, David Noakes, Mark Wilkinson, Pierre Parnis, Mikalis 5pm l CAMELFORD ARMS Pride Party 12pmvery late l CHARLES ST Fierce Pride 2-floor party: DJs 9pm l DR BRIGHTONS Pre-Pride Parade drinks 10am; Street Party & DJs 6pm l ENVY Fierce Pride 2-floor party: DJs 9pm l FUNKYFISH CLUB We Are Family Pride party: DJs 6pm l GROSVENOR BAR Pride@Grosvenor 10am
l LEGENDS BAR Pride Terrace & Club Party: 2 floors, 3 DJs 7pm l MARINE TAVERN Pride Street Party: cabaret stage, 25 acts incl host Candy Rel, Stephanie Von Clitz & Gabriella Parish + outside bar, burger & hotdog stand, elevated DJ booth & live PAs 1pm l OHSO SOCIAL Official Brighton Pride After Party with The Freemasons + DJs Chris Pullin, Alpha & Mikalis 9pm l PARIS HOUSE Live Pride jazz 4pm; TC’s Joyful Noise: DJ Kenny 9pm l QUEEN’S ARMS Pride Cabaret Stage in the Street: Tom Stevens, Amrick Channa (The Voice), Sandra, Caroline Heyes Smith, Allan Jay & many more 5pm l REGENCY TAVERN Pride Breakfasts 8.30am; Gary Peacock’s Mobile 70s/80s Disco 8.30pm
68 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT
PICS FROM THE BRIGHTON SAUNA + ZONE
JULY
LISTINGS
THE BRIGHTON SAUNA
ZONE BAR
) 75 Grand Parade, N2 9JA, Tel: 01273 689966, www.thebrightonsauna.com ) OPEN Mon–Thur 10–1am; Fri 10am until 1am on Sun night.
) 33 St James’ St, BN2 1RF, Tel: 01273 682249, www.zonebar.co.uk ) OPEN daily from 10am Pride: 10am–4am on Fri (31), Sat (1) & Sun (2) Aug. ) PRIDE Pride at the Zone kicks off on Fri (31) with one of the scene’s best belters, Sally Vate, at 10pm. Then, on Sat (1) & Sun (2) Aug DJs throw out the best tunes right in the heart of the gay village!
you the best sauna experience around, with all the facilities you could need, in a comfortable, warm, pleasant and friendly environment. No attitude, no unfriendly staff, no mess or dirt and no excuses about things not working. Facilities include: dry sauna with own dark room, steam room, jacuzzi spa, cinema, private cabins, glory hole cabins, sling rooms, large lounge with two TVs, large dark room with bench, eight showers, massage room, with professional masseurs (no sexual or sensual massage), dining area and a smoking area (enclosed and discreet, no need to get dressed). We all love a freebie and the lads at the Brighton Sauna offer guests free filter coffee, tea, chilled filtered water, towels, locker, Internet and Wi-Fi! They run a licensed bar 7 days a week; Sun–Thur 11–1am and Fri & Sat 11–2am. Their most popular events are the NAKED DAYS every Wed 11–1am and now, due to popular demand, every Sun from 12pm–1am. You’ll get a small towel for your drips, and a regular towel to shower with before you leave, but no towels can be worn at all on Naked Day! l REVENGE Pride Roof Terrace Party on level 2 2pm; Ultimate Pride Party: DJs Toby Lawrence, Trick & Missy B on level 1, RHaus DJs Jonesy, King K & Zach Burns 9pm l SUBLINE Pride Men’s Room: DJ Screwpulous 9pm l THREE JOLLY BUTCHERS Pride Breakfasts 9am; Pride Holophonic Sounds: DJ Bagpuss 7pm l ZONE Pride Street Party: outside bar, exclusive dance area, DJs 10am
street party 2pm; FOMO Neon Party WarmUp: DJs 8pm l BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Pride Pop!Candy: DJ Claire Fuller 11pm l BRIGHTON SAUNA Naked Day 12pm l BOUTIQUE Pride Sunday Sessions 1pm l BULLDOG 92 Hour-Long Pride Weekend: Pride Street Party: DJs Lee Jeffery, Chad Jackson, Lil Alex, Vague, Marcia, W.H.A.T.A.M.I, Affy & Ali, Jason Pepperell, Ross Alexander, Steve Mac, David Noakes, Mark Wilkinson, Pierre Parnis, Mikalis 2pm l CAMELFORD ARMS Pride Party 12pm SUNDAY 2 AUG l CHARLES ST Apres Pride: DJs Lil Alex, l A-BAR Pride@A-Bar 12pm l BAR BROADWAY Pride: outside bar, live Grant Knowles, Leeroy 7pm; food from music stage 2pm; Hazel’s Karaoke hosted by 12pm l DR BRIGHTONS Reflex Pride Special: Denise Black 8pm 80s party, DJ Adam Rice 8pm l BAR REVENGE Pride outdoor bar &
THREE JOLLY BUTCHERS ) 59 North Rd, Brighton, BN1 1YD, Tel: 01273 608571, www.3jollybutchers.com ) OPEN Mon–Sat from 12pm, Sun from 1pm. Private function room available. ) FOOD Mon–Fri 12–9pm; Sat 12–8pm; Sunday roasts 1–6pm. ) PRIDE Sat (1) Aug Pre-Pride Breakfasts from 9am; Pride HOLOPHONIC
SOUNDS with DJ Bagpuss, 7pm, free. Sun (2) Aug Pride CALM-DOWN Sunday lunch, free live Pride Jazz at 3pm.. ) REGULARS Sat HOLOPHONIC SOUNDS, DJ Bagpuss electro/exotica & beyond, 7pm, free. Sat (18) live folk & Americana with Hearth-Moonlight, 8.30pm, free. ) Wed (1, 15 & 29) OPEN MIC with The Purple Shoes, 8.30pm; (22) TARTE art, food and music, 5pm.) Thur LET'S GET QUIZZY, £150 cash prize, 7.30pm. ) Sun is Jazz Roast at 3pm, free entry.
SALLY VATE
) ONE FOR THE DIARY The Brighton Sauna boys have one simple aim: to bring
Rachel Midgley, Bar Manager, says: “This year the Zone Bar and the Bulldog are joining forces to give you a quality and fun Pride Street Party experience. We are fencing off our area together to create an exclusive dance area, to which various Brighton DJs will be throwing out the tunes. There will be outside bars and brilliant music throughout. Special effect lighting will enhance your enjoyment. We offer some of the cleanest toilets in Brighton, and we’re one of the only bars that does not increase its prices, Fact! So join in the fun with the Zone Bar and the Bulldog and have a fun and safe Pride weekend.”
l FUNKYFISH CLUB Pride Fetish Market & terrace party: DJs & performers 1pm l LEGENDS BAR Pride Cabaret Fundraiser: host Lola Lasagne + Miss Jason, Mary Mac, Mrs Moore, Dolly Diamond, Topsie Redfern, Sally Vate, Stephanie Von Klitz, Lucinda Lashes, Martha D'Arthur, Gabriella Parrish, Maisie Trollette, Rose Garden, Myra Dubois, Cassidy Connors, Davina Sparkle & Dave Lynn 3pm l MARINE TAVERN Pride Street Party: cabaret stage, 25 acts incl host Candy Rel, Stephanie Von Clitz & Gabriella Parish + outside bar, burger & hotdog stand, elevated DJ booth & live PAs 1pm l OHSO SOCIAL Official Brighton Pride Girls Weekender: beach terrace party, all-girl
DJ line-up Maze & Masters, Summerdaze, Ellie Cocks, Alpha, Lady Lola, Sami & Missy B 8pm l PARIS HOUSE Pride chill-out 12pm l QUEEN’S ARMS Pride Cabaret Stage in the Street: Miss Jason, Davina Sparkle, Kara Van Park, Myra Dubois, Mary Mac, Martha D’Arthur, Sally Vate, Maisie Trollette, Son of a Tutu, Dave Lynn & many more 2pm l REVENGE Pride Ibiza-Style Roof Terrace Party: DJs 3pm; FOMO Neon Rave: twofloors, DJ Jonesy on level 2 9pm l SUBLINE Pride Cum As You Are: DJ 8pm l THREE JOLLY BUTCHERS Pride CalmDown Jazz Roast 3pm; Sunday roasts 1-6pm l ZONE Pride Street Party: outside bar, exclusive dance area, DJs 10am
GSCENE OUT & ABOUT 69
70 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT
PICS FROM LONDON HOTEL SOUTHAMPTON
SOLENT
l HAMPSHIRE BOULEVARD 1 Hampshire Terrace, Southsea TEL: 2392 297509 l OLD VIC 104 St Paul’s Rd, Southsea TEL: 02392 297013, www.oldvicportsmouth.co.uk l TROPICS SAUNA 2 Market Way, PO1 4BX TEL: 02380 296100, www.tropics-sauna.com OPEN: 7 days a week from 11am
SOUTHAMPTON
l ISOBAR 100c St Mary’s St TEL: 02380 222028 Modern bar, decked garden l LONDON HOTEL 2 Terminus Terr, SO14 3DT TEL: 02380 710652, www.the-london.co.uk Friendly bar with regular cabaret, DJs & food OPEN: Mon-Wed 12-11pm, Thur 12-12.30am, Fri & Sat 12-1.30am, Sun 12-11.30pm FOOD: Mon-Sat 12-3pm; Sun roasts 12-3pm DRINK PROMOS: Mon-Wed all day l TITANIC Simnel St, SO14 2BE TEL: 023 8021 1879, www.thetitanicpub.co.uk OPEN: daily fom 12pm FOOD: Mon 12-3pm; Tue-Sat 12-3pm & 6-8.30pm; Sunday roast 12-3pm l EDGE Compton Walk, SO14 0BH TEL: 02380 366163, www.theedgesouthampton.com Club with 2 floors & 3 bars l PINK BROADWAY SAUNA 797/80 East St TEL: 02380 238804, www.pink-broadway.com
WEDNESDAY 1
SOUTHAMPTON l EDGE Bar 150: DJs & karaoke 10pm l LONDON HOTEL food 12-3pm
THURSDAY 2
PORTSMOUTH l HAMPSHIRE BLVD karaoke till 2am l OLD VIC karaoke 8pm SOUTHAMPTON l EDGE Pop!: DJ 11pm l LONDON HOTEL Karaoke Cruising: Kara Van Park 8.30pm; food 12-3pm
FRIDAY 3
PORTSMOUTH l HAMPSHIRE BLVD DJ till 3am SOUTHAMPTON l EDGE Get Some: DJs 10pm l LONDON HOTEL Fairylea: DJ Ruby Roo + Sandra 9pm; food 12-3pm
SATURDAY 4
PORTSMOUTH l HAMPSHIRE BLVD DJ till 3am l OLD VIC DJs all night SOUTHAMPTON l EDGE The Big One: DJs 10pm l LONDON HOTEL Guilty Pleasures: DJ Neil Sackley 8.30pm; Jacquii Cann 10pm; food 12-3pm
SUNDAY 5
SOUTHAMPTON l EDGE video jukebox 11pm l LONDON HOTEL food 12-3pm
WEDNESDAY 8
SOUTHAMPTON l EDGE Bar 150: DJs & karaoke 10pm l LONDON HOTEL food 12-3pm
THURSDAY 9
PORTSMOUTH l HAMPSHIRE BLVD karaoke till 2am l OLD VIC karaoke 8pm SOUTHAMPTON l EDGE Pop!: DJ 11pm l LONDON HOTEL Karaoke Cruising: Kara Van Park 8.30pm; food 12-3pm
KARA VAN PARK KARAOKE CRUISE THUR
PORTSMOUTH
LA VOIX SUN (5)
LISTINGS
LONDON HOTEL
SOUTHAMPTON
FRIDAY 10
) 2 Terminus Terr, SO14 3DT, Tel: 02380 710652, www.the-london.co.uk ) OPEN daily from 12pm. www.the-london.co.uk ) FOOD served Mon–Sat 12–3pm; Sunday lunch 12–3.30pm.
SATURDAY 11
) ONE FOR THE DIARY Thursday it’s KARAOKE CRUISE with new host Kara Van Park at 8.30pm. ) REGULARS Fri is FAIRYLEA with DJ Ruby Roo, high camp/pure cheese & cabaret at 9pm: Sandra (3), Lola Lasagne (10), Tanya Hyde (17), Martha D’Arthur (24) and Kevin Cruise (31). ) Sat is GUILTY PLEASURES with DJs from 8.30pm and cabaret from 10pm: Neil Sackley & Jacquii Cann (4), Dazza (11), Tiny & Sam Solace (18) and Lucinda (25). ) SUNDAY NIGHT ON THE LONDON PODIUM features Mary Mac at 8pm and cabaret at 9pm: La Voix (5), Dave Lynn (12), Son of a Tutu (19) and Nan (26).
PORTSMOUTH l HAMPSHIRE BLVD DJ till 3am SOUTHAMPTON l EDGE Get Some: DJs 10pm l LONDON HOTEL Fairylea: DJ Ruby Roo + Lola Lasagne 9pm; food 12-3pm PORTSMOUTH l HAMPSHIRE BLVD DJ till 3am l OLD VIC DJs all night SOUTHAMPTON l EDGE The Big One: DJs 10pm l LONDON HOTEL Guilty Pleasures: DJ Dazza 8.30pm; food 12-3pm
SUNDAY 12
PORTSMOUTH l HAMPSHIRE BLVD karaoke till 2am SOUTHAMPTON l EDGE Pounded: DJ 11pm l LONDON HOTEL The London Podium: Mary Mac 8pm; Dave Lynn 9pm; roasts 12-3pm
MONDAY 13
PORTSMOUTH l HAMPSHIRE BLVD DJ till 2am SOUTHAMPTON l EDGE Pop!: DJ 11pm l LONDON HOTEL food 12-3pm
TUESDAY 14
PORTSMOUTH l OLD VIC Quiz 8pm SOUTHAMPTON l EDGE video jukebox 11pm l LONDON HOTEL food 12-3pm
WEDNESDAY 15
SOUTHAMPTON l EDGE Bar 150: DJs & karaoke 10pm l LONDON HOTEL food 12-3pm
THURSDAY 16
PORTSMOUTH l HAMPSHIRE BLVD karaoke till 2am l OLD VIC karaoke 8pm SOUTHAMPTON l EDGE Pop!: DJ 11pm l LONDON HOTEL Karaoke Cruising: Kara Van Park 8.30pm; food 12-3pm
PORTSMOUTH l HAMPSHIRE BLVD karaoke till 2am SOUTHAMPTON l EDGE Pounded: DJ 11pm FRIDAY 17 l LONDON HOTEL The London Podium: Mary PORTSMOUTH Mac 8pm; La Voix 9pm; roasts 12-3pm l HAMPSHIRE BLVD DJ till 3am SOUTHAMPTON MONDAY 6 l EDGE Get Some: DJs 10pm PORTSMOUTH l LONDON HOTEL Fairylea: DJ Ruby Roo + l HAMPSHIRE BLVD DJ till 2am Tanya Hyde 10pm; food 12-3pm SOUTHAMPTON l EDGE DJs 11pm SATURDAY 18 l LONDON HOTEL food 12-3pm PORTSMOUTH l HAMPSHIRE BLVD DJ till 3am TUESDAY 7 l OLD VIC DJs all night PORTSMOUTH SOUTHAMPTON l OLD VIC Quiz 8pm l EDGE The Big One: DJs 10pm
l LONDON HOTEL Guilty Pleasures: DJ Tiny 8.30pm; Sam Solace 10pm; food 12-3pm
SUNDAY 19
PORTSMOUTH l HAMPSHIRE BLVD karaoke till 2am SOUTHAMPTON l EDGE Pounded: DJ 11pm l LONDON HOTEL The London Podium: Mary Mac 8pm; Son of a Tutu 9pm; roasts 12-3pm
MONDAY 20
PORTSMOUTH l HAMPSHIRE BLVD DJ till 2am SOUTHAMPTON l EDGE Pop!: DJ 11pm l LONDON HOTEL food 12-3pm
TUESDAY 21
PORTSMOUTH l OLD VIC Quiz 8pm SOUTHAMPTON l EDGE video jukebox 11pm l LONDON HOTEL food 12-3pm
WEDNESDAY 22
SOUTHAMPTON l EDGE Bar 150: DJs & karaoke 10pm l LONDON HOTEL food 12-3pm
THURSDAY 23
PORTSMOUTH l HAMPSHIRE BLVD karaoke till 2am l OLD VIC karaoke 8pm SOUTHAMPTON l EDGE Pop!: DJ 11pm l LONDON HOTEL Karaoke Cruising: Kara Van Park 8.30pm; food 12-3pm
FRIDAY 24
PORTSMOUTH l HAMPSHIRE BLVD DJ till 3am SOUTHAMPTON l EDGE Get Some: DJs 10pm l LONDON HOTEL Fairylea: DJ Ruby Roo + Martha D’Arthur 10pm; food 12-3pm
SATURDAY 25
PORTSMOUTH l HAMPSHIRE BLVD DJ till 3am
l OLD VIC DJs all night SOUTHAMPTON l EDGE The Big One: DJs 10pm l LONDON HOTEL Guilty Pleasures: DJ Lucinda 8.30pm; food 12-3pm
SUNDAY 26
PORTSMOUTH l HAMPSHIRE BLVD karaoke till 2am SOUTHAMPTON l EDGE Pounded: DJ 11pm l LONDON HOTEL The London Podium: Mary Mac 8pm; Nan 9pm; roasts 12-3pm
MONDAY 27
PORTSMOUTH l HAMPSHIRE BLVD DJ till 2am SOUTHAMPTON l EDGE Pop!: DJ 11pm l LONDON HOTEL food 12-3pm
TUESDAY 28
PORTSMOUTH l OLD VIC Quiz 8pm SOUTHAMPTON l EDGE video jukebox 11pm l LONDON HOTEL food 12-3pm
WEDNESDAY 29
SOUTHAMPTON l EDGE Bar 150: DJs & karaoke 10pm l LONDON HOTEL food 12-3pm
THURSDAY 30
PORTSMOUTH l HAMPSHIRE BLVD karaoke till 2am l OLD VIC karaoke 8pm SOUTHAMPTON l EDGE Pop!: DJ 11pm l LONDON HOTEL Karaoke Cruising: Kara Van Park 8.30pm; food 12-3pm
FRIDAY 31
PORTSMOUTH l HAMPSHIRE BLVD DJ till 3am SOUTHAMPTON l EDGE Get Some: DJs 10pm l LONDON HOTEL Fairylea: DJ Ruby Roo + Kevin Cruise 10pm; food 12-3pm
GSCENE 71
DANCE MUSIC BY QUEEN JOSEPHINE & KATE WILDBLOOD
ALBUMS Summer in Brighton. Nothing gets more glorious. So here are a few essential tunes to keep you wiggling in the sunshine. ) Fabulous surname aside, the low-key electronica of Seb Wildblood’s Foreign Parts on SW Records with thoughtful and enchanting beats had us hooked from first listen. As has the brooding melodies of Happyghost’s Cache on The Pool House, and the brilliance of Woolfy vs Projections’ Stations on Permanent Vacation. Sunsets are about to get very special with Woolfy and co in your ears!
Love. House of the sunshine kind it is destined to be a summer staple. ) Two top wonders for July. If you’ve not acquainted yourself with Hot Chip’s latest long-player Why Make Sense? on Domino Records now is the time. One listen to Need You Now and everything makes sense as these genius’ of electronica deliver yet another masterpiece.
) And Jamie XX’s In Colour on Young Turks is a remarkable piece of work with reflective moody melodies, summer top down ) Also worth a cruising anthems and sunset lovein soundtracks. Jamie XX and sashay in your birkenstocks this gang, oh my gosh you’ve got us. We’re smitten. summer is 5 Years of Gruuv Catch Wildblood & Queenie (EP 1 & 2) on RadioReverb’s Home Service, at Gruuv. A truly fabulous celebration Brighton Pride’s Wild Fruit Big of this on point label as Gorge, Top, Wild Fruit @ Patterns, Waifs & Strays, Luna City Secret Garden Party @ Express, Julien Chaptal gather for Neighbourhood and Sunday some right proper house action. Sundae @ Patterns. Also check out the glory that is perfectdistractions.com Good Voodoo Society’s Universal
DJ PROFILE: SAMI KUBU With Brighton Pride looming large and beautiful on the horizon, this month Queenie catches up with the gorgeous Sami Kubu to hear about her plans, discover where to find her busy dancefloors or to hear her on the radio, and to find out about her secret guitar wielding past… Where do you DJ and what are your plans for Brighton Pride? I’m playing in the Women's Dance Tent at Pride; you can also hear me down at BeAvantGarde at The Hub some Fridays; Saturdays I do Nightshift at The Duke of Norfolk; as well as a few dates in London to be confirmed so stay tuned for that! And you'll be able to catch me at DPM during the summer. On Wednesdays for all your airwave junkies, you can listen to me on Codesouth from 10pm–12am playing all sorts of house & techno. DJ style? I’d say my style has got a lot of groove, and strong basslines. I like to remix tracks live, so you’ll always hear a classic vocal line over a bouncy tech house beat. Favourite tune ever? A bit of a random one but it’d have to be Bruce Springsteen Blood Brothers. Tune that always fills your dancefloor? Recently it’s been Format:B Chunky. It’s a great tune and goes down well no matter where I’m playing. Ultimate dream gig? DEFINITELY DC10 or Vista Club in Ibiza and Watergate in Berlin! Standout tune you’ll definitely be playing this Pride? I Can’t Stop Sandy Rivera.
WILDBLOOD & QUEENIE’S JULY GEMS ) MAXXI SOUNDSYSTEM In The Woods Futureboogie Not a Meryl in sight – just cracking good house music. ) FABIO TOSTI Keep It Down Salted Music Bouncy bass lines, cute vocals and funky heart. Just how we like it. ) JON PLEASED WIMMIN Don’t Be Scared (Hifi Sean remix) Kidology Two legends come together to create a, well, legendary tune. ) ALEXIS RAPHAEL More Than A French Kiss Lower East Get seduce by Alexis with this deep delight and you’ll not regret it. ) JAMMHOT See Me Right Lost My Dog Piano heaven on this hot house hit. ) ASHWORTH Cork (12 mix) Needwant Understated genius from the label we all love to love. ) WAIFS & STRAYS Work On You Of Unsound Mind We defy you to stay still to this! ) NICOLA BALDACCI In The Mood (Daniele Petronelli remix) Decide Don’t just stand there, let’s get to it. ) SYSTEM2 Everybody's Freakin’ Viva Music The White Isle beckons ) THE MEKANISM Acid Love Play It Say It Back in the day acid grooves for the 21st century.
Tune you wish you’d never played? Honestly, Beyonce Drunk In Love (Full Crate Remix) Guilty pleasure? Where Are Ü Now by Skrillex & Diplo. I hate myself for liking this track but when it drops in, it’s just so damn catchy! Best ever gig? Last year’s Pride Sunday at Neighbourhood! It was incredible, things just went off!! Such a good vibe! Tell us a secret? I used to play guitar in a punk band - haha!
CURRENT TOP FIVE ) KEVIN KNAPP Do Work (original) OFF Recordings ) BUTLER & BONTAN featuring Vula Live My Life (original) Ultra ) DISCLOSURE Bang That (original) PMR ) MARC ROMBOY Ghetto What Systematic ) ENZO SIFFREDI SOMETIMES (original) [Defected] My new track Think Outside The Box will be out on LLR next month! You can check it out here: https://soundcloud.com/djkubu/thinkoutsidethe-box-original-mix
72 GSCENE ) Pit Stop Pizza Cutter, £14.50 (England at Home, 22b Ship St, Brighton, 01273 205544)
SHOPPING WITH MICHAEL HOOTMAN
) FORTY GUNS (Eureka blu-ray). Although a Westernophobe I realise there are exceptions to its roster of paper-thin characters and boring gun fights. Sam Fuller’s movie is so weird, dramatic, camp and occasionally experimental it’s barely a Western at all (its other title, Woman With a Whip, is a more accurate reflection of its refusal to fit in with the genre’s conventions). Barbara Stanwyck is the woman who, in a nice fairytale touch, is in charge of a band of 40 ne’er-do-wells. Gun-for-hire Barry Sullivan has come to clean up the town which means he has Stanwyck’s psychotic brother in his sights. Its action-packed 80 minute running time constitutes the cinematic equivalent of a smash-and-grab raid.
) Familjen Tray, £29.95 (in house space, 28 Gloucester Road, Brighton, 01273 682845)
) A LETTER TO THREE WIVES (Eureka blu-ray). Joseph L Mankiewicz’s elegant, acid-sharp drama is perhaps not as well-known as his later hit All About Eve but it may just be the better film. Its plot revolves around a brilliant conceit: three women receive a letter from a mutual friend saying she’s running away with one of their husbands, but she neglects to say which. The title characters played by Ann Sothern, Linda Darnell and Jeanne Crain are beautifully drawn and, intriguingly for a Hollywood film, are the main focus - its the men in their lives who are really the supporting players. The film brilliantly juggles its themes of class and gender inequality, yet is never anything less than smart, witty entertainment. ) Provisions Candles. Scents include Pink Strawberry Balsamic, Salted Caramel and Blue Violet Macaroon (Edited, 3 Gardner St, Brighton, 01273 604006, editedbrighton.com)
) Swimwear from £49.95; Coitus Magazine, £10 (Prowler, 112-113 St James's St, Brighton, 01273 683680)
) Compass Flask, £14.99 (Junkfunk, 27 Gloucester Road, Brighton, 01273 680555)
) Swan Planter from £6.99 (Pussy, 3a Kensington Gardens, Brighton, 01273 604861)
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ARTS
B Y MIC HA E L HO O TMA N
DUCKIE DUCKIE
The Dome, New Road, Brighton Box office: 01273 709709 ) DUCKIE: BORDER FORCE (Sat 1 Aug). Duckie’s new globalised clubland challenges national identity, queers the borders and confronts xenophobia in an immersive kunst-diskoteque about migration and desire. Clubbers attempt to travel between countries, but the Border Force are strict, corruption is rife and there’s no such thing as jeux sans frontiers. Back after the riotous Mods vs Rockers last year, queer performance purveyors Duckie return with a brand new clubbing spectacular for Brighton Pride’s 25th birthday weekend. Passports are potluck: where will you land?
Proud Cabaret, 83 St George’s Rd, Brighton, proudcabaretbrighton.com ) ACROSS THE POND: SUSSEX BEACON FUNDRAISER (8pm, Wed 29). An evening of song, dance and comedy directed by West End director and choreographer Carole Todd (Starlight Express, Jesus Christ Superstar, Return To The Forbidden Planet, Dreamboats & Petticoats)
10 Steine St, Brighton ) GIGGLE @ THE GODS (9.30pm, Sat 26). Head upstairs at Bar Broadway for some hilarious late night stand-up comedy, £3.
ACTUALLY GAY MEN’S CHORUS
MISS JASON & AGMC
Dukebox Theatre, Waterloo St, Hove, www.dukeboxtheatre.com ) PETER LINDARS MEMORIAL FUNDRAISER (7pm, Sat 4). An evening of music and comedy to raise money for Epilepsy Research UK and Mind UK, in memory of the Iron Duke landlord, Peter Lindars. With the Actually Gay Men's Chorus and DJ set from Peter von Sleaze. Entry by Donation.
MASQUERADE St Andrew’s Church, Waterloo St, Hove, www.actuallygmc.org ) MASQUERADE (8pm, Sat 18). Miss Jason and Actually Gay Men’s Chorus, transport you back to the Oscars, Brits and Eurovision, for an eclectic programme of celebrated song, with guest soprano Samantha Howard. Tickets £12/£10 from www.actuallygmc.org (no booking fee) or Iron Duke, Waterloo St, Hove.
PINK FRINGE
) QUICHE (Thur 16–Sat 18). John and his partner Jenny are having a dinner party. John intends to make an exciting but delicate proposition to their guests Jo and Jake, one that Jenny has reluctantly accepted. Frank McHugh’s comedy challenges fantasy against reality and explores the true nature of the sexual experience. A raunchy, energetic and somewhat tragic recount of a dinner party that John and Jenny will never forget.
) DOUBLE BILL: ARTFUNSHACK! & RITUALS FOR CHANGE (Thur 23). The first part is a fast-moving art show hosted by Evan with eyecatching visuals and tips for making fun stuff out of rubbish. By weaving together video, word play and audience interaction, tales of a queer reality become the glue that binds the papier mache hammer together. The second is a new performance from None of Us Is Yet A Robot company, exploring gender identity and politics of transition through a series of live/ online events. Using projection, conversation and visual art.
Marlborough Theatre, 4 Princes St, Brighton, Box office: www.brownpapertickets.com ) EDIT PROFILE (Thur 2–Sat 4). What you into? Into Chemsex? BB? Groups? Up for joining us? Wherever, whenever, tap the app BTN GAY MEN’S CHORUS and you’re just a few meters and a All Saints Church, The Drive, Hove few words away from a world of hot ) BED… AND BREAKFAST' WITH guys waiting for you. An explicit BRIGHTON GAY MEN’S CHORUS and raunchy exploration of the (7pm, Fri 24 & Sat 25). Brighton escapades of a recently single hard Gay Men’s Chorus continue their and horny gay man as he navigates 10th anniversary celebrations with the world of dating apps, chem sex their contribution to this years and group play. With all this nonPride Arts Festival. Is it a holiday stop pleasure at his fingertips what ) PANTI: HIGH HEELS IN LOW romance, or just a dirty weekend? could possibly go wrong? Q&A with PLACES (Fri 31). Panti landed High season or low rent? Check in herself in the middle of a media THT after the show on Friday 3. with Brighton Gay Men's Chorus for shitstorm christened ‘Pantigate’ a thoroughly musical probing of the that rocked Ireland in 2014. Soon ups and downs of the seaside miniafter, she became a Youtube break. Tickets: £12/£10 from sensation when a speech she made www.brightongmc.org about homophobia, described as “the most eloquent Irish speech” in EMPORIUM 200 years by an Irish Times 88 London Rd, Brighton columnist. This is her riotous standthelittleboxoffice.com/emporium ) THE JUNGLE BOOK (Tue 7–Fri 31). This adaptation of Rudyard Kipling's classic story, follows Jubilee Library, Jubilee St, Brighton, BN1 1GE Mowgli who is abandoned, raised ) OLDER LGBT WRITING WORKSHOP led by Sue Walker, no by the wolves, and who is taught experience necessary (10.30am-12.30pm, Sat 11). To book a place the laws of the jungle by Baloo the email: rachel.whitbread@brighton-hove.gov.uk Bear. But, Shere Kahn the tiger has ) HAVE A WORD: (7.30-9.30pm, Thurs 16). Brighton & Hove made a vow to kill the man-cub Library Service hosts HAVE A WORD before he grows up. An epic as part of its pre-Pride celebrations. adventure live on stage, suitable Line-up includes Peter Daniels, Sue for children aged 3+. With magical Walker and Gerry Potter. £5 tickets special effects, puppets, live score from Merlin & Ellis, 9 Manchester and audience participation. St, Brighton. PANTI
with host Mysterry Drag-Queen and performers Paul Hazel, Miss Jason, Laura Nixon, Marianne Robinson and Maisie Trollette. Act one is themed with a tropical Latin feel, then it’s off to America after the interval. Tickets: £10 from Sussex Beacon shops (St James’s St & London Rd), or email mysterry@email.com.
BGMC
BAR BROADWAY
MYSTERRY
ACROSS THE POND
Komedia, Gardner St, Brighton ) BENT DOUBLE (Sun 5). An irreverent night of fun and frolics hosted by Zoe Lyons (Mock The Week and Michael McIntyre's Comedy Roadshow). With Tom Allen 'Gives the tradition of camp comedy a 21st century twist’ The Guardian; Harriet Dyer 'Her instinctively funny standup is packed full of weird and wonderful incidents from her strange life’ Chortle and Abigoliah Schamaun 'not just funny, she’s hilarious’ Three Weeks.
ARTFUNSHACK
ZOE LYONS
JUBILEE LIBRARY
GSCENE 75 up show about life after ‘Pantigate’, which charts brushes with infamy, near misses with fame, and adventures in the seedy underbelly.
the Brighton Pride Parade. Tickets: £12/£10 online from: www.brownpapertickets.com/eve nt/1585628 or from members of the Rainbow Chorus.
RAINBOW CHORUS 18TH BIRTHDAY CONCERTS
SHEILA FEST
Musical Director Aneesa Chaudhry, with accompanist Mojca Monte, they will perform an eclectic selection of music from their repertoire developed over the years. Marco Nardi will provide BSL interpreting and the choir will also sing using some signsupported English. Their recent performances at IDAHOBIT, Stand By Your Trans and their own Sing Out were well received and they’ll be headlining Trans*Pride (July 25) as well as being very visible on
Otherplace @ The Basement, 24 Kensington St, BN1 4AJ Box office: 01273 987516 www.otherplacebrighton.co.uk Women’s Performance Tent Brighton presents SHEILAFEST (7.30pm, Fri 31), a Pride Eve night of live music and laughs celebrating the life Sheila McWattie, much loved Brighton based journalist, community activist and passionate supporter
SHEILA MCWATTIE
RAINBOW CHORUS
St George’s Church, Kemptown www.rainbowchorus.org.uk ) #RC18! (7.30pm, Fri 17 & Sat 18) THE RAINBOW CHORUS celebrate their 18th birthday in style with two concerts. Led by
of the Brighton Women's Centre, who died in February this year. Featuring Greymatter, Nicky Mitchell, Qukulele, Al Start Band, DJ Lonesome M (Frockabilly, Diablo) plus more TBA. Doors open 7.30pm and show starts 8pm with bar till midnight. Tickets: £10/£8.50 - booking essential.
SONGBOOK OF JUDY GARLAND Theatre Royal, New Rd, Brighton, Box office: 08448 717650 ) JUDY - THE SONGBOOK OF JUDY GARLAND (Tue 7–Sat 11) is a new show highlighting the legendary life and career of Miss Judy Garland. With official blessing from Judy's family, the evening takes the audience on a magical musical journey through the songs that made Judy a legend in show business history. Along with never before seen film highlights and interviews, it brings Judy's dazzling songbook to life on stage with an awardwinning cast who are the cream of London's West End. Special guest, Judy's daughter Lorna Luft, will lead the way through this remarkable show.
TRAUMFRAU The Old Market, Upper Market St, Hove, Box office: 01273 201801 ) TRAUMFRAU PRIDE FREAKY FRIDAY (Fri 31). Get ready for a weekend to remember. Expect disco, live performance and art - warm up your muscles, practice your parade, wear your hot pants, and give it all you’ve got. This year’s Pride starts earlier, better, and sweatier. Special guests: CAR, DJ Von Petrovosky and DJ Sina Sparrow plus surprises, a lot of camp and glitter.
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LET’S GET PHYSICAL
ART MATTERS
Charleston Firle, Lewes, East Sussex, BN8 6LL, Tel: 01323 811265 www.charleston.org.uk ) A GAY OUTING (6pm, Sun 26). Bodybuilding magazines such as Physique Pictorial had a big influence on the output of British male homosexual artists working in the post-WW2 period. DUNCAN GRANT used British and American magazines as influence for a large amount of private homo-erotic work. Charleston’s curator, Dr Darren Clarke, explores Grant’s responses to this source material and also considers a younger generation of artists including David Hockney, Keith Vaughan and Francis Bacon. Strictly over 16s. Tickets from £15 include house visit and Charleston cocktail in the Walled Garden. For more information and to book online, view: www.charleston.org.uk
B Y E NZO MA RRA
TOWNER Devonshire Park, College Road, Eastbourne, BN21 4JJ www.townereastbourne.org.uk ) I’m concentrating on the Towner Art Gallery this month beginning with the EAST SUSSEX OPEN 2015 (Jul 11 –Sept 20). The East Sussex Open brings together artists and makers from across the East Sussex region, taking in Rye to Eastbourne and Brighton & Hove. Hailing from all parts of East Sussex, including Lewes, Saltdean, St Leonards on Sea, Hastings, Hove, Brighton, Forest Row, Portslade, Hailsham, Ewhurst Green, Hassocks, Eastbourne, Seaford, Saltdean, and Bexhill, this year’s 44 selected artists include: Alexander Johnson, Tom Banks, Maslen & Mehra in collaboration with Shuby and Delete, Nicholas May, Ros Faram, Gary Goodman, Mike Stoakes and Chris Shaw Hughes.
THE OUCH HOUSE 200
) Also at the Towner is WILLIAM GEAR 1915-1997: THE PAINTER THAT BRITAIN FORGOT (Jul 18–Sept 27), which celebrates the centenary of the birth of abstract painter William Gear. There is an entry fee, but well worth it for the sights on show. This large-scale retrospective traces his work, from the near-monochrome abstractions of the 1950s to his exuberant mature style from the 1960s until his death in 1997. From quite early in his career Gear demonstrated a fondness for heavy black line as a division of colour. He acknowledged that this probably derived in part from his childhood – subconscious memories of the pit-head winding gear and the engineering marvel of the Forth Bridge. He regarded structure, architecture, buildings, scaffolding, as the most essential basis of his painting. ) A RADICAL VIEW: WILLIAM GEAR AS CURATOR 1958–64 (until Aug 31). During Gear’s time as curator he added to the diversity and modernity of the permanent collection with his acquisitions, including paintings by major British abstract artists of the 1950s and 1960s, such as Sandra Blow, Alan Davie, Roger Hilton, Ceri Richards, and prints by both young and established printmakers, earning the accolade of ‘most go-ahead municipal gallery of its size in the country’ - The Observer, 1962. He became a Senior Royal Academician in 1995. This Collection Display celebrates Gear’s time at Towner and brings together some of the key purchases and acquisitions that demonstrate the important role he played in the gallery’s story.
OUCH! DEC 2013
Saskia is a London-based artist, represented by Maureen Paley, London and Galerie Diana Stigter, Amsterdam. Since the mid-1990s she has made videos that combine fictional and documentary elements with fabricated otherworldly analogue imagery. Saskia has exhibited widely including Mori museum in Tokyo, Hirshhorn Museum in Washington DC, Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam and Tate Britain in London. In 2003 she won the Baloise Prize at Statements Basel and in 2004 the Beck’s Futures Prize.
Duke Of Norfolk, 113-114 Western Road, Brighton, BN1 2AB www.brighton-pride.org/event.php?id=143195236 ) OUCH HOUSE 200 by Brighton DJ, RadioReverb presenter and cartoonist Queen Josephine is part of Brighton Pride Arts & Film Festival fundraising Community Art Show Pride Exhibition (Jul 25–August 21) alongside artists from across the city’s diverse LGBTQ community. A Queen will always rise again after a fall. No matter how Ouchy the fall. On Boxing Day 2013 Queen Josephine had a horrible accident, ending up in hospital with a fractured skull, broken elbow and her writing arm shattered in eight places. Little was going to raise her spirits as she lay recovering in the Royal Sussex County Hospital. Except perhaps pen and paper. Resurrecting her love of cartooning Queen Josephine began to chronicle her long recovery from surgery with the cartoon strip Ouch House Diaries. Left handed scribbles became right handed drawn delights as she used honesty and humour to deal with the trials, tribulations and occasional humiliations of her sick bed. Aided and abetted by her two feline nurses, Madge and Hubbell, and partner-inline, Kate Wildblood, Queen Josephine’s adventures soon gained followers as she shared her Ouch House Diaries on social media, Tumblr and Queenie’s Strip Service in Gscene Magazine. To celebrate 356 days of pen and ink, Queen Josephine created Ouch House 200, an A2 cartoon featuring everyone who made it into the Ouch House Diaries. A kind of Where’s Queenie? version of Where’s Wally? Supported by very generous framers ArtsWerk, all profits from the sale will be donated to Brighton Pride and the Rainbow Fund for their support of local LGBT charities and organisations as well as The Friends of Brighton & Hove Hospitals in recognition of the amazing support and care she received from staff whilst at Royal Sussex County Hospital. www.perfectdistractions.com http://queenjo1.tumblr.com/
EXCERPT FROM OUCH HOUSE 200
ALAN DAVIE SEAGATE 1960
WILLIAM GEAR COMPOSITION BLUE CENTRE 1949
The guest selectors are Jonathan Watkins and Saskia Olde Wolbers. Jonathan is the current Director of the Ikon Gallery (since 1999); curator of the Serpentine Gallery (1995-1997); and director of the Chisenhale Gallery (1990-1995) and curated international exhibitions: Iraqi Pavilion for the Venice Biennale in 2013, the Guangzhou Triennial, the Shanghai Biennale, the Sharjah Biennial and the Tate Triennial. He is the author of the Phaidon monograph on Japanese artist On Kawara.
GSCENE 77 “We are not the kind of group, like The Supremes, or Martha Reeves and The Vandellas, or even Patti Labelle with The Blue Belles where one woman took the lead you know? We have never been about the one person but always the voice and the voices. It’s about what we can all give to the audiences, and what we then get back from them in return.”
NO SIGNS OF GIVIN’ UP OR GIVIN’ IN 50 years of precious moments with The Three Degrees (and Craig Hanlon-Smith) paid $90. But you have to remember this was the 1960s and I was 16 years-old – that was a lot of money then. Another would be our association with the Royal Family, and I don’t say that to be, you know, but when we were invited to the [Charles & Diana’s] wedding reception, it was incredible”.
) The Three Degrees formed in Philadelphia more than 50 years ago in 1963 but their most notable recording success in the UK was during the mid to late 1970s with massive hits such as When Will I See You Again, Woman In Love, Givin’ Up, Givin’ In and Dirty Ol’ Man to name but a few. The current line-up Helen Scott, Valerie Holiday (both from that 1970s heyday) and Freddie Pool are currently on tour part way through their 50th anniversary celebrations. I caught up with original and founding member Helen Scott and asked, after all this time, what do you consider to be the secret of your enduring appeal? “Well for one thing it certainly doesn’t feel like 50 years! It feels like no time at all but I think that after all this time, the reason people still want to come out and see us, is because we absolutely love what we do. And at the end of performance when we see that audience, their response and feel their energy, we will continue for as long as we can.” Fifty years is an incredible amount of time to be performing, if you could pluck out any particular highlights from the past 50 years, what would they be? “Receiving my first pay cheque, [with the group]. I was 16 and we were in Philadelphia performing on a TV show that was a little like American Bandstand, or Top of the Pops. I was
So how did that come about? “The Palace liaison people were in touch with a promotion agency who contacted our management, and we were asked to perform as part of the Prince of Wales’ 30th birthday celebrations (at the time Prince Charles said The Three Degrees were his favourite group). I remember they built this stage for us right in the middle of this great doorway, which was situated between two rooms, so we played to one room and the other was our backstage area. It was such a beautiful experience, and one we have always remembered.”
Helen, the first record I can remember going out to buy with my own money as a child was The Runner by The Three Degrees (she finds this uncomfortably [for me] amusing and it’s a while before she stops laughing). If you were going to pick out three of your recordings from the past 50 years, which would you choose? “Woman In Love.” That was said without hesitation, why that one in particular? “It’s just such a beautiful song and my goodness was written by two men. I just thought they captured the emotional perspective of a woman in love so perfectly and I have often thought ‘how on earth do they know?’” (she laughs again, she laughs a lot). “When Will I See You Again of course because of what that song means to so many people. When we recorded that it wasn’t necessarily the favourite song of the group at the time, but it became the biggest song and just catapulted us into, well you know.” But The Runner? (and the reason for the laughing now becomes clear) “I don’t know if that is my favourite. It reminds me of them making us dress up in these jogging suits and we had to sing it while running around Hyde Park, and it was cold! So I’d say Starlight [from the 3D album], I really love that song and Valerie did such a wonderful job of singing the lead vocal.” You’re coming to Brighton on July 7, what can your audience by the sea expect from the show? “Those of you who know us will not be disappointed, you know what you’ll get, and those of you who haven’t? Well you guys had better hold onto your seats!”
The group has been through a number of lineup changes over the years. Helen Scott, although an original member, left in the late 1960s before returning a few years later to form the line-up many disco fans remember, with Valerie Holiday and Sheila Ferguson. I asked Helen with so many personnel changes over the years, what she considered to be the heart of The Three Degrees. “Although there have been changes in the line-up, and I’m truly grateful to everyone who has ever worked with us, I’m not sure that all of those people truly aspired to be a ‘Three Degree’. It was so important to us that we kept moving as a group and didn’t stop; some were simply gracious enough to step in temporarily for a tour, or just a show. We had no idea in the beginning that it could have endured this long but what’s central to our work is that the harmonies prevail. We all sang on stage, in choirs, in churches and all of us have always had something special to add.
info ) The Three Degrees play Concorde2 on July 7, the full tour dates are available from www.thethreedegrees.com. Their legendary disco albums 3D and New Dimensions are now available in repackaged re-mastered formats. t @TThreeDegrees t @CraigsContinuum
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REVIEWS
recitative ending. The disc ends in a brighter mood, with the lilting ballad-like Op. 37 No. 2. A most interesting presentation of the Waltzes, with Lortie once again showing himself to be a thoughtful and insightful performer. Chandos CHAN10852
) British conductor Sir Andrew Davis lives in Chicago where he conducts the Lyric Opera, but he must spend a lot of time in the air, as he also conducts the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, the BBC SO and the Melbourne Symphony ) Canadian pianist Louis Lortie Orchestra, and it is with the last has reached the fourth volume of of these that he has released a live his recordings of Chopin’s piano recording of an works, and for this latest release all Strauss he again uses Nocturnes to vary programme. The the programme of the disc’s main disc opens with genre focus, in this case the a lively Waltzes. Of all his genres, the performance of Waltzes might initially appear to the swashbuckling tone poem, Don be the least profound – in fact Juan. They performed this when Chopin only thought eight were they visited the Proms in London worthy of publishing as proper in 2014. It was well-received then, ‘works’ in his lifetime. Included and Davis certainly brings out the here however are 11 further detail of this imaginatively (and Waltzes published posthumously – challengingly for most of these, one (B150) is considered instruments) scored piece here, spurious, and a further one (B46) letting the music tell the story, is now considered to be probably making this a great disc opener. by one of Chopin’s students. Lortie This is followed by Strauss’ sublime emphasises the dance qualities of Four Last Songs, with soprano these miniatures. He has a Erin Wall. Her voice is beautifully lightness of touch, even in the rich without being too heavy or more virtuosic moments, such as in dark, and September is particularly Op. 70 No. 1, never letting the enchanting here. The rest of the rapid figurations get bogged down disc is given over to Also Sprach in any way. He uses rubato (a Zaruthustra, his most ambitious pulling about of the tempo) tone poem. Despite the somewhat appropriately but never episodic writing here, the work has indulgently, and the tempi of the symphonic proportions, and Davis faster examples (such as the shows that he fully understands famous ‘Minute Waltz’, Op. 64 No. the architecture, giving perfect 1, and the Grande Valse Brillante, sense to the frequent changes of Op. 18) are perfectly judged. mood. The orchestra are on fine However, the downside of this form, and as in the Don Juan, they focus on dance means that one or rise to the challenges of Strauss’ two of the slower Waltzes feel writing. The final sequence of slightly rushed – the darker A alternating wind and strings quiet minor Waltz, Op. 34 No. 2, chords are perfectly placed – all marked ‘lento’, for example, needs the more impressive in a live a bit more time for the mournful, recording. As the first of a mysterious outer sections. Yet promised Strauss cycle of there are moments where the recordings, this certainly bodes poignancy and delicacy of Chopin well. ABC Classics ABC4811122 at his most deceptively simple ) Chandos have gathered really shine through. The five together their recordings of Sir Nocturnes here pick up on the Malcolm Arnold’s (1921-2006) darker atmosphere, particularly in Op. 32 No. 1, whose simple lyrical nine Symphonies in a box-set rerelease. The first six symphonies opening leads through darker are performed by the London moods to a strange, dramatic
and he pretty much stopped composing altogether from 1982 to 1986, and it was only thanks to the help of his companion and carer, Anthony Day, that he was able to regain his creative inspiration to compose the Symphony No. 9. It is a particularly desolate creation, and it struggled to receive a first performance, owing partly to the delay in its completion, but also to its stark, bare scoring. Yet it is a work of remarkable if uncomfortable intensity, and in many ways makes perfect sense in the context of the progression through the symphonies, which makes this box-set particularly powerful. The recordings are exemplary throughout, with the LSO, under Hickox, perhaps achieving a tad more intensity than Gamba and the BBC Phil – it would have been great to hear Hickox perform the ninth. This is an important collection, and hopefully will add further to the belated reappraisal of this troubled and misunderstood composer. Chandos CHAN10853(4)X Reviews, comments and events: nicks-classical-notes.blogspot.co.uk Email: nbclassical@hotmail.co.uk
CINEMA ) Rossini’s Guillaume Tell is being broadcast live from the Royal Opera House (Sun5). Cast includes Gerald Finley, John Osborn and Malin Byström in a new production by Damiano Michieletto.
GUILLAUME TELL
B Y NIC K B O STO N
Symphony Orchestra, conducted by the late Richard Hickox, and the final three are from the BBC Philharmonic under Rumon Gamba. Arnold’s music was somewhat unfairly dismissed by many in his lifetime, with many not able to separate his more substantial and ‘serious’ output from his more popular works, particularly his extensive filmscore output. Yet the symphonies, which span most of his career from 1949 when the Symphony No. 1 was composed, right through to 1986 when he finished the Symphony No. 9. The early symphonies show influences of Sibelius and Mahler, yet very soon Arnold develops his own particular style, and the symphonies become progressively darker, and more disturbing, somewhat reflecting Arnold’s own difficult mental health. It is perhaps not surprising that the Symphony No. 5, the most disturbing, labelled by one critic as ‘a study in disintegration’, was apparently Arnold’s favourite. His mental health deteriorated significantly in the early eighties,
) You can also see Mozart’s Die Entfurhrung aus dem Serail, live from Glyndebourne (Sun 19), directed by David McVicar, with cast including Sally Matthews, Edgaras Montvidas and Tobias Kehrer. Both in a range of local cinemas, including: Dukes at the Komedia, Brighton, the Odeon Cinema, Brighton, Cineworld Eastbourne, and the Connaught Cinema, Worthing. Check for times and dates.
CONCERTS ST LUKE’S CHURCH Queens Park Road, Brighton, www.stlukesconcerts.webeden.co.uk ) The Reigate Wind Ensemble with pianist Erik Azzopardi perform Mozart, Poulenc, Barber and Debussy (7.30pm, Fri 3), ) Pianist Manuel Lopéz Jorge plays Mozart, Albéniz, Chopin and Brighton-based composer Guy Richardson (7.30pm, Fri 17). ) Mark Gibbs (viola) and Christopher Atkinson (piano) perform Schumann, Brahms and Shostakovich (7.30pm, Fri 31).
REIGATE WIND ENSEMBLE
CLASSICAL NOTES
GSCENE 79
GEEK SCENE COMICS & GAMES BY CRAIG STORRIE
COMICS ) This month sees the release of the much-anticipated Marvel film AntMan. Starring and co-written by Paul Rudd the story follows Rudd as Scott Lang, a highly talented thief as he aids his mentor Hank Pym (Michael Douglas) in safe guarding the mysterious Ant-Man technology. This technology, which was invented by Pym, allows its user to decrease in size but increase in strength: Lang must use this special ability to protect the one of a kind technology from various new threats and plot a heist that will have worldwide consequences. The film has had a troubled development and has been a long time coming with the initial hiring of director Edgar Wright, he of Scott Pilgrim fame all the way back in 2006. After completing the script by 2011 and shooting test footage in 2012, pre-production finally began in October 2013. Sadly in May 2014 Wright left the project due to creative differences and was replaced with new director Payton Reed with the story being tweaked by Paul Rudd and Adam McKay. Finally, after almost 10 years since it began gestation, we are finally getting to see what Marvel has in store for one of its most unique and obscure characters. In celebration of this, I thought we should take a look where Ant-Man came from and why he is such an interesting character. Originally the superhero identity of Hank Pym, Ant-Man was created by the Marvel legends Stan Lee, Larry Lieber and Jack Kirby. Pym first appeared way back in 1962’s Tales to Astonish #27 whilst his first appearance as AntMan was in Tales to Astonish #35 a mere nine months later. Although a talented and renowned biophysicist, Pym decides to become a superhero after discovering a chemical substance that allows the user to alter his or her size. Originally the user could only shrink to the size of an insect until it was discovered later on that the particles could also cause its user to grow over 100 feet tall. Pym also created a helmet that allowed him to communicate with and control ants hence the name Ant-Man. After a while he shared his discovery with his then girlfriend, Janet Van Dyne, who would become his crime-fighting partner the Wasp. The shrinking duo went on to become founding members of The Avengers alongside Iron Man, Thor and the Hulk and went on to have a long and successful crime-fighting career. Pym is famous for having a multitude of different aliases since giving up the Ant-Man persona such as Giant-Man, Goliath and YellowJacket (who is the villain in the new movie but played by the character Darren Cross). Since leaving his original identity vacant, two successors have taken on the mantle of Ant-Man. These are good natured and reformed thief Scott Lang who is the Ant-Man of the movie and Eric O’Grady, a selfish manipulating Agent of S.H.I.E.L.D who steals the technology for his own needs before redeeming himself and dying a hero protecting a child.
GAMES ) As I am a huge fan of fighting games there isn’t much I haven’t seen in a beat ‘em up, until now. Have you ever wanted a fighting game that solely features LGBT characters kicking the crap out of each other? Then want no more as I think I have the perfect game for you guys: Gay Fighter Supreme! The latest game from Handsome Woman productions and Bearded Man studios, Gay Fighter Supreme sees you take control of one of an eclectic mix of characters to battle to the literal death and achieve rainbowcoloured glory, usually whist standing over a pile of your opponent’s bones. Fights take place like a 2D beat ‘em up, bringing back memories of being a teenager and playing Street Fighter 2 with my friends on the SNES. Everything seems to pop off the screen thanks to the beautifully designed and rendered characters with the fighters themselves being the major focus over the background and any other elements, which is rightly so. The announcer should be applauded for being able to bring back nostalgic memories of 16-bit fighters from back in the day by being over the top and excited about everything you do. In fact all the voice acting is pretty top notch, with each character having their own distinct identity, which helps to immerse you into the game and want your fighter to win even more. There is a good array of characters from drag queen Carrie Cupcake to dog lover Timmy Spears with each having their own personality, which, when coupled with the voice acting, helps to define the fighters even more. Sure there are a lot of stereotypes amongst the combatants but as it’s all done firmly tongue in cheek you can’t help but enjoy the humour. The actual fights themselves are like a rhythm action game with several coloured lights running across the bottom of the screen, when these light flash you press them as you would a button. Successfully doing so causes your character to unleash an attack, keep going and you will activate a special move. The more consecutive presses, the better your chance at winning the match. Connecting special moves on your opponents causes the characters to yell taunts and quips at one another making the fights seem like a physical and verbal slanging match. My personal favourite being powerful lesbian Sappho Ethrudges yells of “Carpet munch punch” and “Death by scissors!” If you win the fight and manage to press the last few light flashes your character will perform a ‘Gayality’ and murder your rival on the spot. Once again these are character specific and can range from someone being cut in half by scissoring legs to being set on fire by a burning red carpet that is flung at your opponent from a fighter’s blade’adorned handbag. Gay Fighter Supreme is available on mobiles now and remember, the only colours in this rainbow are black and blue!
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MARK AND TRACY A nail-biting story by author Carl Oprey ) At the edge of the town centre, on the side of the pavement just outside the bar, stands a solitary table and two metal chairs. The chair where Mark once sat remains empty whilst opposite Tracy sits with her arms folded squarely across her bosom. A mouthful of some sticky liqueur remains in her glass. With the twilight comes a swarm of punters heading toward the bars and clubs of the quarter. Some of the young men and women head into her bar and a man shouts something from the doorway making a tilting gesture with his hand. Tracy nods gently and within a few minutes her glass is replenished. There were many times, before she was ever in his life, when things went badly for Mark. Before Tracy had changed his mind, he struggled hard against what he called the ‘little resistances’. Tracy said she understood. He said later, it was only after he found Tracy that he finally accepted anything. He said that this time, for the first time in his life, he relaxed. Tracy had this effect on him. Tracy has this effect on everyone. His life before Tracy was one of minor successes that eventually became swamped in drugs just before he could achieve the big breakthrough. “It’s as if I need to keep starting over all the time,” he said. “As if I need to clear things up before I can ever move on.” “What things do you need to clear up?” “I don’t know. Issues perhaps. Baggage I’ve been carrying round all my life. Bad debts. And I’m sick of saying sorry all the time.” “You can forget all the baggage with me,” she said. He’d change the subject, as if he didn’t need or want her in his life anymore; as if she too by merely enquiring, would become part of the same heavy luggage he’d mention in the future. Eventually he forced a break-up after a night of street ketamine. He said he needed to move on. If he stayed, she thought, he would only deteriorate further and probably kill them both. She felt that she forced a change on him too fast. It would no longer be about the bars and the drugs and beatings he received whenever he propositioned the drunken straight boys of the quarter. Perhaps it was the lack of care, or even thought about himself or his body that hurt Tracy the most. There was a single point in their youth when Mark had been stronger and happier and things were more equal. They’d play with each other, goading each other on, loving each other. But then there was a blending away for
Mark into something else. It wasn’t just the drugs and booze that made his once taut and spine-revealing frame bloated and his thoughts darker, something else kicked in, something that was a stranger to them both. Around this time, when he was still a teenager, Mark developed a love-hate relationship with Tracy. He insulted her regularly, but not in the way boys his age did as a means of disguising their real need to be closer. Like when a younger boy gets confused and hits out at a girl to get any form of emotional reaction. And the girls deal with the pain because it gives the boys a chance to apologise and become closer, until they’d eventually put their arms around them and offer a sort of protection from what they’d just done. At the same time, there seemed to be a clearer psychology moving into place with Tracy; like the suppression of desire felt only when one is learning to love. This was the way Mark and Tracy were changing, apart yet together, in their so-called adolescence. Sometimes, they’d be at peace in each other’s company and sometimes his hatred for her would manifest into feelings so intense that she grew fearful and silent And when it got too much, he’d take himself off to the quarry where he’d sit close to the edge and throw stones down and wait to hear them drop. He’d count the seconds and guess the speed between the larger rocks and pebbles as they hit the water below, like it was just another empty space between two things. When he was done, he walked back along the edge of the quarry without ever realising how much time had passed, only acknowledging the time he’d spent away from Tracy and of how much he needed her in his life. At the table outside the bar, Tracy is given a shot of Tequila by the doorman. She slugs it down without salt or lemon, without wincing. It is now a year since Mark sat on the street outside the bar. She’d sat alone ever since, knowing silently that he would never return. It was Mark who had started up the bar. He began by painting it back to white using eight coats of industrial exterior paint. He salvaged frames from some 1980s posters and filled them with images of his own heroes: Sylvester and Judy Garland, Betty Grable, Sharon Stone with her legs crossed... “Do you think we’ve done the right thing?” He said to Tracy as he hung the last frame. “I think we’ve done just marvelous, Mark.”
Tonight, on the hottest night of the year, Tracy sat at the small table, occasionally beckoning old friends to join her. The doorman would bring them drinks from the bar and Tracy would nurture a quiet conversation. When she grew restless, she ended with a piece of advice, perhaps a caveat she’d woven carefully into the line of the conversation and delivered as they stood and left. ‘Remember, danger makes you stronger’ or, ‘don’t head backwards into your own future – just stay still.’ The youngest punters hung onto her every word and she secretly saw it as the passing on of important codes to another generation. Tracy, known to many and bypassed by none, was finally exalted. Her last contact with Mark was at the edge of the quarry. They’d argued and she’d stormed off. It began as an ordinary walk past the canal and towards the quarry edge, but something, somewhere was building. Her frustration at what he had been thinking whipped into fullon fury inside of her. At one point she wished Mark would slip and fall or, if she only had the guts, that they would jump together in a fall that would have no end. Even when she held her hands over her ears, she could still hear him. She sang loudly until she drowned out his words. And when that stopped working, she walked away, stomping along the dust path towards the road without looking back. This was the last time she had contact with Mark, or heard his voice. It took a few weeks for her not to care anymore. She missed the banter about the business they’d built up together and about the characters that found their way into the bar. She missed the feeling of otherness within her own thoughts and feelings, but she never missed him – Mark - her childhood sweetheart and constant companion. Now, only Tracy remained, the boy she was had finally gone. The boy she was, who finally set her free. She left him at the side of the quarry that day and never looked back. And she never brought him back within her soul. As if something happened on the journey back from the edge of the quarry. She returned to the flat that evening and began by destroying Mark’s clothes. She burned his books and albums, then smashed the framed family photographs of him as a boy. She threw away the piss stained teddy they carried around when they were both, one baby. When it got close to three, Tracy gathered her carpetbag, cigarettes and phone from the table outside of her bar. Drunks and police jostled past her on the pavement. They parted and cut a path between Tracy and the doorway. And a group of stag-night lads held the rest back, allowing Tracy through, towards the doorman at the entrance of her bar. And then one of them whistled as she passed and Tracy smiled.
“It’s an important step for us, this.” “An important step in the right direction, Mark.”
) Carl Oprey’s most recent novel is The Lawn of Sleeping Soldiers
GSCENE 81
SAM TRANS MAN A GOOD START WHY EDUCATION BREEDS UNDERSTANDING BY DR SAMUEL JAMES HALL ) It’s that time of year again! Pride and its smaller cousin Trans*Pride loom. Trans*Pride is in its third year and looks to be even better and further-reaching than ever. Since the event was first held in 2013, it has gone from strength to strength, increasing in accessibility and reaching out way beyond Brighton & Hove to trans people and their friends and families all over the UK and beyond. Trans*Pride is set to be another great celebration of all that it means to identify as trans, whether it be non-binary, transsexual, transmasculine, transfeminine, agender, genderqueer, and/or one of the many other labels that are self-applied in order to express a gender identity that doesn’t comply with societal norms. Last year’s landmark publication by QueenSpark Books, under the direction of the inimitable Kathy Caton and team, saw an unprecedented rise in visibility of the trans community in the city, with an exhibition trail and giant projections of Sharon Kilgannon’s wonderful portraits on the front of the Unitarian Church in the town centre. The book has been a huge success and continues to inspire both locally and nationally. Such events do wonders for a community renowned for living in the shadows for fear of being shamed or abused in public. It’s a joy to see how many people have been given a new lease of life and a real boost in self-esteem simply by taking part in such a celebratory project. The effects have been born out by a real shift in cohesiveness as well as an increasing tendency to “come out” into the open and be proud to be seen as a transperson. The trans community, although lively and active in the city, is also small in comparison to the LGB community, so one of our biggest problems is human resources. Many trans-identified people in Brighton are working a day job as well as engaging in activism and promotion of health and wellbeing. Activist exhaustion is a real threat. We often need to lean heavily on our allies for manpower and resources. There is a fine line between empowering and patronising; an empowered community developed resilience and capacity. Patronisation gives an initial impression of change but cannot be sustained without growth from within. The Trans Alliance, an umbrella organisation that communicates with all the support groups and coordinates participation in wider dialogue, is growing in strength and recognition. Recently Trans Alliance members have developed Trans Awareness training as a community-led initiative, using their combined expertise and personal experience to ensure a training package that is responsive, and comprehensively up-todate. All proceeds from training contracts are fed back into the community via the various support groups and initiatives, thus ensuring
that the community benefits directly from its own efforts to educate wider society. There is still a lot of work to be done in both private and public sectors. In the last year there have been considerable changes in the city, with BHCC continuing to pledge commitment to inclusivity and improving the lot of trans-identified inhabitants and service users. The Trans Needs Assessment, a ground-breaking piece of research, nears publication as I write, and should form the framework for ongoing investment into this community who suffer discrimination and misunderstanding in the workplace, in our homes, on the street, and as service users ranging from health and social care to studying in Brighton & Hove. It takes a long time to educate and change society’s misconceptions, and the work of stamping out ignorance and its vicious side effect - transphobia - will never be complete, but inroads are being made. One of the hardest nuts to crack is the medical profession and healthcare provision. Trans people have unique healthcare needs, especially if medical transition is undertaken. The institutional transphobia that is rife in the NHS is partly responsible for the appalling waiting times and poor access to services. Beyond supporting medical transition is the simple issue of a lack of appreciation of how deeply distressing it can be to be misgendered, disregarded, sidelined as “of unsound mind”, or challenged on the spot about names/pronouns. I suspect one of the issues in the medical profession and within the wider NHS is a false sense of satisfaction/achievement. Many doctors I know think they know all that they need to about the matter and have no need of further (or indeed any) training in dealing with transgender patients and their needs. This extends to colleagues as well. I am an NHS clinician working in Brighton, and although I transitioned socially three years ago, I still endure daily the use of the wrong pronoun, which regularly ‘outs’ me when I really don’t want to be, and results in embarrassing and awkward situations, often in front of patients. Until there is better understanding, good education and a recognition that here is a group of disadvantaged patients and colleagues for whom inclusive and accessible service provision is not the norm, change is going to be slow and painful. However I remain optimistic that it will happen, and that here in Brighton & Hove we have the opportunity to develop first class service provision, modelling the way forward for the rest of the UK. Thanks to complaints from service users who identify as trans, the local hospital has mandated trans awareness training for its medical teams. This is a solid start and a good example of how dissatisfaction can combine with activism to produce a favourable outcome. More and more we are seeing unrest and/or dissatisfaction with facilities or services that are not trans-inclusive being openly expressed. It’s only through using formal channels to raise issues that concrete change is made possible. At an individual level as well as organisational, we cannot change what we are not aware of. It is incumbent therefore upon the trans community to raise issues through proper channels as and when they arise. It is not our responsibility, however, to correct /educate/inform or effect change. That is up to the individual/ organisation in question. If in the process of accessing education, and raising awareness, the community itself is engaged and remunerated for provision of such training, all the better for all of us.
CLARE PROJECT meets every
TUESDAY 2.30–5.30PM at
Based in central Brighton, the
CLARE PROJECT WEEKLY DROP-IN is a safe and confidential space to explore issues around gender identity. Facilitated peer support is an important element, as well as providing access to low-cost psychotherapy and speech therapy.
DORSET GARDENS METHODIST CHURCH Dorset Gardens (off St James Street) Brighton BN2 1RL Except 1st Tues when there’s an optional meal out preceded by the drop-in from 5–7.30PM
WEEKLY MENTAL HEALTH & WELLBEING SUPPORT GROUP for transmen/masculine identified people Please see website for further details
www.clareproject.org.uk f Clare Project clareprojectinfo@gmail.com
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CRAIG’S THOUGHTS EUROVISION SAVE YOUR KISSES FOR AUNTIE OR JUST WHAT IS IT THAT AUNTIE DOESN’T WANT YOU TO SEE? BY CRAIG HANLON-SMITH @craigscontinuum ) I’m not sure I fully understand the origins between the homosexual world and the Eurovision Song Contest. Perhaps as far back as 1955 in its earliest forms, the sight of a stoic woman with sensible hair carried a certain exotic mystique to the secretive lesbian community, whilst the confirmed bachelors next door were busy rearranging the flower display on the table behind her. It could be that by the time we were all Boom Bang A Bang-ing or Ding Ding A Dong-ing the inane lyrical appeal of the pan-European contest was speaking directly to the CarryOn-style humour of a repressed people who found equal amusement in Charles Hawtrey’s faux heterosexual pursuit of the on-screen femme fatale as they did Mrs Slocombe’s pussy. Or perhaps it all began with ABBA. That combination of Agnetha’s tight electric blue satin pants (gay boys), the tightly permed Valerie Singleton look of Frida (gay girls), and the bittersweet symphony of likening our latest romantic disaster to an international war tragedy, during which approximately 50,000 of the battle fatigued were either slain or injured (all of us). However it began, in more recent years we have been served up increasingly ludicrous stage antics, drag queens masquerading as aircrew, winning lesbians from Serbia (although the latest news from Serbia is that there are no lesbians to be found in them there hills) and in short the path betwixt Eurovision and gays is not only well trodden, it has now been excavated into an eight-lane motorway and once a year toward the merry month of May, we all veer off into the service station and pop along for a pee and an overpriced latté. The Eurovision Song Contest is as gay as it gets. One might argue the culmination of this was Conchita’s rise from the ashes of a forgotten Austrian reality TV show to an international symbol of hope, freedom and acceptance and I’m deadly serious. Graham Norton stated on a recent BBC documentary, 60 Years of Eurovision, that as the Eurovision viewing public are now able to televote, Conchita’s win was one in the eye for all those governments who for years have been beating their drum of hate. That given the opportunity, the ordinary townsfolk of those far flung European (and Russian, and Israeli, and sometimes Turkish) villages and hamlets, picked up the phone and voted for a man, in a beard, in a dress, singing a song about rebirth following oppression. Did you hear that in the Baltic? Europe, even Austria, birth place of Adolf, loves the gays after all.
“As the public are now able to tele-vote, Conchita’s win was one in the eye for all those governments who for years have been beating their drum of hate” This year’s contest was of course held in the immediate happy shadow of the Irish marriage referendum, at which more than two thirds of the Irish population voted in favour of widening the Irish constitution to include same-gender marriage. The real people of Ireland, the you and me and everyone in between, voted for change, progress, fairness and love; for all their citizens to be extended the equality of opportunity in
their personal, public and professional lives. And whilst I am not suggesting that Conchita and the Eurovision Song Contest have singlehandedly changed or saved the world, I am affording them a reasonable and respectful connection. Imagine then my surprise, when the morning after the Eurovision broadcast I drop into BBC iPlayer for a brief sojourn through both the high and lowlights of this year’s contest, only to be faced with ‘PARENT CONTROL PIN REQUIRED’. You know, the sort of PIN reserved for horror or violent movies and perhaps a late-night Hollyoaks. So what was it about this year’s Eurovision televised extravaganza that required this additional security? It was much more of a serious contest this year. We had a notable absence of novelty acts even throughout the semi-finals. There wasn’t a Jedward-style act in the house, nor a singing turkey. Poland had decided not to send its team of pornographic butter churning milkmaids and even Vladimir Putin, having learned three years ago that the traditional angle of the bread baking OAPs wouldn’t necessarily improve his chances of world domination, sent in a very Swedish looking Russian with a sensible uplifting ballad that very nearly took the crown. It was a contest of quality song (I know, yes really) and in the main, terrific performances befitting of each country’s finest performers, except of course the United Kingdom who sent Julie and Bernard from Doncaster who love a spot of karaoke. So why the PIN?
I have requested a response to my question from dear old Auntie but nothing, only silence. In the absence of an intelligent response from those in the know we are therefore left to draw our own conclusions. Two men in the audience did kiss. A slightly contrived moment from the opportunistic pair but fairly innocuous as kisses go, certainly not one you could describe as a snog, no tongues or waving dildos just an oldfashioned man on man lips kiss. There was the protest of non-waving rainbow flags during Russia’s performance, a mere holding aloft in stillness throughout, and I’m sorry Russia but you should be thankful that is all you got. And of course we had the man, with a beard, in a range of dresses singing not this time about his phoenix but that we are unstoppable. No one was raped, no one had their throat cut and there was not a moment of memorable nudity or a sex scene. So why the PIN? Are we still saving our parents from awkward child-led questions about the two men kissing? Do we not want to give Joseph, Mirabelle or Abdul any encouragement by revealing that some men wear dresses just as some women wear trousers? Or do the beige cardigan-wearing masses still not get Conchita? Is it a man? Is it a woman? Just f***ing tell me which one? Young children are much more resilient, carefree and in the main uninterested by the poisonous judgements heaped upon the world by their grown up parents and community leaders, and any prejudices they do develop are gifted to them by those who should know better. As the national broadcaster, the BBC have a duty to take on their responsibility positively and in the main, I believe they usually do. Take the ‘Parent Control PIN’ off Eurovision. We really won’t frighten the horses.
GSCENE 83
NETTY’S WORLD BY NETTY WENDT
QUEENIE’S
STRIP SERVICE BY QUEEN JOSEPHINE
HENS IN THE SKIRTING BOARDS ) I wonder if I’m alone in this. I absolutely HATE ‘Stag & Hen’ parties. I know LGBT people sometimes have them, but I’ve yet to meet one who genuinely enjoyed theirs. We seem to be cajoled into this tacky custom, a weird aping of heterosexual tradition. It’s bizarre because the gender apartheid doesn’t even apply to us. My partner and I didn’t have a ‘hen do’ because we enjoy going out with each other, not a disparate mob of drunkards on a mission of enforced merrymaking, that’s too much like bloody New Year’s Eve. Stag & Hen parties are targeting Brighton & Hove as a prime destination for their shenanigans. They’re often obnoxious, patronising, or downright homophobic, trampling into our gay venues demanding a piece of the action. At least in bygone days they booked into hotels and said goodnight. Now the majority of these fools cram into so called ‘Party Houses’ and subject our neighbourhoods to their antics. Residents have tried to get these houses under control but seeing as Brighton often appears to be run by Sepp Blatter, I won’t hold my breath they’ll be sufficiently regulated any time soon. The Stag & Hen party business is estimated to be worth around £280 million annually. Greedy companies and landlords who accommodate this trade would have us believe they bring invaluable tourist revenue to our city. I live within a stone’s throw of one ‘Party House’ and I’ve been tempted to throw that stone when they wake me up at 3am. The first thing to arrive after revellers have decamped is a supermarket van filled with booze and food for the duration. No local shop or restaurant benefits there. How about our beleaguered local pubs? In my experience pubs are horrified by shrieking hordes of L-plate brides with blow-up willies descending on them, pissing off valued customers. If anyone accuses me of being ‘nimby’ about this, they’re dead right. The place for Stag & Hens’ lewd, disgusting, dangerous behaviour has always been around West Street at night, or as I call it, the Gaza Strip. Now they’re migrating, slapping up and down Kemptown, taking over gay venues, vomiting on the doorsteps of Hove.
“Now they’re migrating... slapping up and down Kemptown, taking over gay venues, vomiting on the doorsteps of Hove” Once, hens in a gay pub approached me. The bride sidled up, her teeth stained black with red wine and Cheeky Vimto. Slurring, she announced she’d been dared to “kisssh a lezzzbian” (don’t remember that one in the twelve tasks of Hercules). My partner was not impressed, but I let her. I never underestimate the stupidity of drunken herds, and the potential for violence to erupt from nothing. And that’s my point. As a city that hosts a vast LGBT community, I think sometimes a sad factor motivating pre-married morons to party here, is to point and laugh at the ‘freaks’. Stag & Hen parties in the city centre are a necessary evil, like dog shit. However, like dog shit, I think they should be cleaned up, kept at bay, and not deposited on taxpayers’ doorsteps.
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KEITH SHARPE SEXED UP! HOW MANY SEXES ARE THERE? ASKS DR KEITH SHARPE CHANGING ATTITUDE SUSSEX
) The commonsense view of course is that the answer is obvious: there are two, male and female. Furthermore it is also commonsensically obvious that the two sexes are very different from each other with much discussion of how they fail hopelessly to understand each other. Men are from Mars and women are from Venus. In much commonsense thinking males and females are each really alien to the other. This commonsense view is nowadays thought by many Christians to be an intentional part of God's plan in creation. Here's a quote from the Book of Genesis they often use: So God created mankind in his own image, In the image of God he created him, Male and female he created them. Genesis 2:24 In the last four decades or so some Christian churches have gone further and argued that the two sexes are not only distinct but also 'complementary'. Male and female 'complement' each other. Complementarity implies not just that the physical sexual bits fit together like the pieces of a jigsaw puzzle, but that also the distinctive attributes of a masculine personality in some sense 'match' the distinctive attributes of a female personality so that together they make a whole: the two parts of humanity coming together to be complete. Now actually both the commonsense view that there are two sexes and the complementarity theory that they fit nicely together as God intended raise a lot of problems. Firstly, it is obvious that many people do not feel that they are male or female. Significant numbers of babies are born without clearly definable male or female genitalia and their gender assignment becomes a matter of medical decision rather than a self-evident given. Many of these intersex people decide later that they are not the gender the doctors made them. And some wish to live without any gender identity at all. Some transgendered people experience similar feelings. Anthropological research reveals a huge diversity in gender identifications and the theory of a single universal binary divide between male and female is simply not borne out by the evidence. Secondly, for most of history until the 18th century people did not think there were really two separate sexes. This includes doctors and medical practitioners, such as they were before the 1700s. The interpretation of Genesis emphasised the singularity of 'mankind' made in the image of God, not the diversity of males and females. In this view there was only one sex – 'man' – and all human beings could be placed on a sliding scale with masculine males having the greatest human perfection and feminine females having the least degree of human perfection. Christianity has always talked about 'man' eg 'God was made man and dwelt among us'. All of this was thought to be obvious and was believed to be underwritten by the work of Greek physicians such as Galen, who even thought that women could produce sperm and that they got pregnant when their sperm mixed with male sperm. Biblical support for this view can be found in the letter to the Hebrews: 'Through faith also Sara herself received strength to conceive seed.' Hebrews 11:11. Galen thought that women's genitalia were simply inferior forms of male genitalia. Thus the vagina is an inverted penis, the ovaries were a poor form of testicles, and the womb a substandard scrotum.
Of course this belief in there being only one sex, which seems so odd to us now, explains why homosexuality was viewed then with such horror. Men were superior, rational and powerful. Their presumed natural role with their hard bodies was to dominate, control and penetrate the soft, passive and submissive bodies of inferior, irrational and weak women. For a man to allow himself to be penetrated was a gross betrayal of his manhood, a terrible offence against the God-given natural order of things. And equally shameful was the male penetrating partner of a submissive man for aiding and abetting the act described in the Bible as a vile abomination. For committing such an outrage the death penalty was prescribed. Paradoxically of course, however erroneous it may be, the one-sex view did at least have the advantage of stressing the common humanity of all people irrespective of gender, even if it did also simultaneously condemn women inexorably to inferiority in social status. It may be wrong and misconceived but it did underlie some of the progress in humanitarianism throughout the centuries. We gay people should also remember it is this fallacious view that underpins the principal Biblical injunctions used to condemn us: 'With a male you shall not lie the lyings of a woman: it is an abomination...‘ ''Both of them shall be put to death for their abominable deed...' Leviticus 18:22 and Leviticus 20:13 Since nobody now believes the one-sex theory that women are essentially defective males the injunctions no longer have any rational basis. It is scandalous that some Christians continue to deploy these terrible verses to attack gay people and LGBT rights.
“There is an inherent contradiction between saying on the one hand that every individual is complete in him or herself as an image of God, and on the other saying that they are incomplete until they are one half of a couple” But two-sex complementarity also has its difficulties. There is an inherent contradiction between saying on the one hand that every individual is complete in him or herself as an image of God, and on the other saying that they are incomplete until they are one half of a couple. This is a particular inconsistency in Roman Catholicism which has long emphasised the virtue of celibacy as the most superior form of being (supposedly like Jesus). Since the 12th century celibacy has been enforced on all Roman Catholic clergy, yet in the last two hundred years the teaching has been all about complementarity in marriage. And of course two-sex complementarity can slip easily into a kind of gender apartheid in which the principle is supposed to be different but equal, but which in practice all too often becomes different but unequal. What we now know is that gender and sexuality are infinitely more subtle, varied and nuanced than our ancestors imagined, and that there is no 'built-in' superiority for any particular given sex or orientation. It is this realisation which should guide our policy making. Arguably such respect for the dignity of all persons is what Christ's Sermon on the Mount was all about, even if his church continues to ignore it.
OPEN AND WELCOMING CHURCHES Changing Attitude Sussex is committed to telling the truth about Christian teaching on homosexuality, and works for the full inclusion of LGBT people in every province of the Anglican Communion and more widely in all Christian Churches.
GSCENE 85
SUCHI’S WORLD BY SUCHI CHATTERJEE
BY DUNCAN STEWART
PRETTY GIRLS
CHOICE CUTS
) I went to see the Lady Boys of Bangkok during the Fringe Festival. I’ve been two or three times time before with friends, family and even work colleagues. I love cabaret, burlesque and musicals so what better way to get my fix all in one go? This year I went with a group of friends from a disability group that I’m a member of. Gorgeous girls in fabulous dresses sang, danced and made us laugh out loud. The humour was risqué but not coarse, songs were cheesy but not too cheesy and during the break there was a chance to take your photo with some of the girls from the show, what more could you ask for?
) So our, currently, united nation has voted, or rather 66% of the electorate has, and an opportunity for political change has passed for another five years. The party of the Right, keen to increase personal wealth and the options it offers, has been returned to power leaving the broad Left, with its intention to promote equality and fairer distribution of resources, in a demoralised state of disarray. Ironically the promise to allow us all to vote in a referendum on continuing EU membership may well scupper the Tory party, the saviour of our economy. As our election clearly demonstrates this country has no real appetite for significant political change, we seem to prefer economic stability at any cost.
But as I headed home, after a night of music, song, laughter and saucy innuendo, I felt very guilty. When talking about the Lady Boys a while back with a friend they had said “I don't like it, I don't like the fact that people go there to gawp and whisper things like, ‘you'd never believe they are actually boys’ and ‘I wonder if they’ve had the op?’. It's degrading, I just don't like it...” His words stunned me. When I think about this show, I think about the wonderful dancing, the sexy outfits, the great music, great big belly laughs we all have at the cheeky comedic moments, and of course admiring the very pretty girls on stage who are not only pretty but talented too. His words made me feel slightly sick and also made me realise how naive I am at the ripe old age of 51. Until he put forward his views, I looked at the yearly Lady Boys show as being the best the Fringe has to offer. Enjoyable, fun and worth raving about it on Facebook afterwards. I contemplated cancelling the outing but I didn't want to spoil it for my friends who were really looking forward to it. Afterwards I was really quiet and one of my friends, a girl with Downs Syndrome, asked me what was the matter. I tried to explain what was bothering me but how can you put into easy to understand words that the show you’ve just gone to and enjoyed could have had a load of transphobic people in the audience who weren’t there to enjoy the show for it's own sake but to tell all and sundry that they’ve been to see a load of men trying to be women, prancing up and down on stage making fools of themselves. She listened to me stumbling over my words and then said thoughtfully, “I really liked the show, I think the girls in it are really pretty, my favourite was the girl in the Frozen dress. I want a dress like that, I want to be able to dance like them too, can we dance like them Suchi?" SUCHI & LUCY
DUNCAN’S DOMAIN
Her words put a smile on my face and made me realise that I can't paint everyone with the same brush. Not everyone going to the Lady Boys is transphobic. I totally take on board what my friend said to me about his concerns but seeing the show through the eyes of another friend who sees only the colours, the pretty girls, and the dancing has made realise that goodness comes in all shapes and sizes and it is more powerful than hatred and cruelty will ever be. So for Lucy, who gave me back my love of the Lady Boys, here is the photo of you and me dancing at the bus stop on our way back from a great show put on by "pretty girls in pretty dresses...”
“Ironically the promise to allow us all to vote in a referendum on continuing EU membership may well scupper the Tory party” Making choices isn’t an unmitigated benefit but it does give one the illusion of having power which is enjoyable. But do we really need so many options? After months of research I recently bought a new car and am currently ploughing through magazines to find a worthy successor to my old camera. The sheer number of suitable items is frankly ridiculous and in the end it really wouldn’t much matter which one I purchased from a ‘short’-list of at least a dozen. On a more serious level is it acceptable that wealth confers the ability to choose private schooling or medicine, both of which I have experienced, which clearly offer advantages but should they even be available? Stalin, Pol Pot and Mao (and of course Hitler) all considered those members of their communities who could exercise personal choice to be so dangerous that they systematically murdered most of them; but all that bloodshed was pointless since all their regimes have been replaced by new governments which have re-embraced some form of capitalism with varying degrees of democracy and choice. What really saddens me is the huge number of people all over the world who slave away making things we want but don’t need, in pointless profusion while wily advertisers seduce us with half truths and lies. I recently overheard a conversation during which someone said that “people are poor because of what they want not what they have”. My immediate reaction was that this was patronising nonsense in a world where most people do not even have what they need, but for those of us who are fortunate to have what we need and much of what we want - should we be voluntarily promoting a bit of self-denial or would that simply swell the global number of the unemployed and underpaid? As I’m neither a politician nor an economist I’m fortunately not expected to provide a solution to this problem, but I suspect the answer lies in our own individual behaviour. Being able to make choices is, like drinking wine, fine in moderation but dangerous in excess. A few more megapixels are not going to turn me into David Bailey and stop me taking off centre portraits of people with their eyes closed. As my Irish friend often remarks “Stevie Wonder could see that” so maybe I should forget the new camera and do a photography course.
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DAD & DADDY ‘MEAN GIRLS’ SYD SPENCER ON WHY THE REASONS FOR BULLYING AREN’T AS CLEAR CUT AS WE MAY THINK ) Bullying has entered our family, the vileness and secret infestation of intimidation and hurt has invaded our life and it has literally knocked the wind out of us. I should imagine that bullying, in all forms, is something that every parent dreads to hear about. It was always something that we feared as parents. We had prepared ourselves for a day when our two may come home with stories of the other kids teasing them about not having a mother, about them having two dads and even the odd bruise from a physical attack. We had planned it all, the answers were all prepared and the talks had already been had with teachers and the head mistress. Children can be especially mean to each other, taunts about weight, height, hair and looks. Teasing someone about their family or about any physical or learning disabilities they may have. Like many, we had often commented that surely the parents are to blame, through lack of boundaries and awareness of what their child is up had to, the easy access to social media, some kids being left to fend for themselves, growing up too soon, being on the receiving end of abuse at home, all had to be the reasons why their children were so mean to others. For us, that all turned on its head when we found out recently that it is our daughter who is involved in bullying behaviour at school. Our beautiful, clever, polite daughter has fallen in with a group of ‘Mean Girls’ and is now circling around her oldest friend with them and picking at her like a wake of vultures. Our girl is loving, funny and very caring, she really isn’t cruel, and she doesn’t pull wings off flies or hurt our pets or secretly bully her little brother - but she is a girl that struggles to find her place in life. She still has this desire to be liked by the majority of those around her rather than seeing the quality of being loved by a few. She is a small person who is full of doubt and confusion about how she fits in. In any one day she will experience inside herself, love,
fear, hate, happiness, anger and joy and at 10 years old she just doesn’t know how to process any of it or recognise which emotion is justified at that given time. When these up and down emotions overpower her, they are projected as anger and it results in her doing hurtful things. Instant gratification and love along with that need to belong is craved and I guess that the encouragement and laughter from those three or four girls is more of an instant high for her than the normal friendship from one. Bullying is always dreadful and never acceptable. It always causes hurt, pain and confusion; but I think the reasons behind the bullying behaviour isn’t always as clear cut as what we are led to believe. I’m just not sure that bullying is just to do with having power over someone else, which is what I’ve read and been told by a couple of anti-bullying charities recently. Surely not everyone does it for the same reason? Our daughter has a need, a must have, you could even call it an addiction, and that is to be loved. Now yes you’re right, all kids want to be loved but due to the neglectful and abusive life she had before us it appears that she will literally do anything that someone asks to get their acceptance. Even if that means hurting someone else. At these moments she doesn’t think about the consequences of what she says to her chosen target.
“I knew at that moment that she didn’t have a clue that this girl was taking all that pain home with her and it was making her afraid to go back to school the next day” My first thought when we found out about it was what had we done wrong? Was she doing this because we weren’t parenting her correctly? Was I too strict? Did she sometimes feel that she was bullied at home? My mind raced looking for an answer. Yes, we have boundaries and we are consistent, and yes at times the kids have tested those boundaries and as a result missed out on fun things and days out, but I soon realised, after talking to other parents, that we really are just a regular family - whatever that means. With Kevin working long hours I’m the main parent at home. So that means, as Katy has told me many times, usually in a high-pitched screaming voice, I am ‘a meany’ and I am ‘so unfair’. So how do we deal with it? How can we make sure that it stops and that no other girls are hurt by these ‘Mean Girls’? Well, through meetings with the school, educating our kids more on bullying and how devastating it can be and more sanctions at home I guess. When we spoke to her about how she had made someone else feel our daughter was genuinely shocked and broke down in tears and I knew at that moment that she didn’t have a clue that this girl was taking all that pain home with her and it was making her afraid to go back to school the next day. So now we need to work with her, to show her that these ‘Mean Girls’ are not her friends, or even friends to each other, but that her old friend, who always forgives her, truly is.
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HYDES’ HOPES BY REV MICHAEL HYDES
SYLVIA RIVERA
LIAISON TEAM BY PC SARAH LAKER & RORY SMITH
SYLVIA RIVERA
HAPPY PRIDES!
) Sylvia Rivera was a transgender woman of Puerto Rican and Venezuelan decent. Abandoned, she was an 11 years-old when she began working the streets. Living in a New York commune of drag queens on the lower east side when gay rights were still a dream, she was central to the Stonewall riots of 1969. As a transgender person of colour, abused and marginalised, Sylvia was a hero who made a stand for human rights and paved the way for the LGBT equality enjoyed in so many places today.
) Trans is a professional and a personal issue for me. The ‘T’ has very much been part of the LGBT team for the three years I’ve been in post as the LGBT liaison.
In the mid-1990s she was banned from New York's Gay & Lesbian Community Centre because, on a cold winter's night, she aggressively demanded that the centre take care of the homeless queer youth sleeping rough in the streets. Not many people know that Sylvia was a Christian woman of faith. After a Christmas Eve church service at MCCNY (The Metropolitan Community Church of New York), where she was a member, Sylvia brought together the Street Transgender Action Revolutionaries group - STAR - (so named after the 'Christmas star'). They fought for the New York City Transgender Rights Bill and for the trans-inclusive New York State Sexual Orientation NonDiscrimination Act. Just a few short months after Sylvia died in 2002 I joined MCCNY on staff and we opened Sylvia's Place, which even today remains Manhattan's only emergency shelter for queer youth - a fitting legacy for a remarkable woman.
Sylvia's ashes have a home in the church sanctuary and I believe that she protects the kids that find shelter there - the majority of whom are transgender. So many of our youth are abused, beaten, even murdered. Last year there were 226 recorded transgender hate murders, and many more not reported as hate crimes. Our youth need protecting as much now as ever.
JUSTIN TANIS
POLICE LGBT
I was privileged to work with many of New York's transgender community, and I was always awed by their strength of spirit and depth of heart. Much of my own spiritual life has been formed by those experiences, along with the work of such transgender theologians as Justin Tanis, (whose most recent book, Opening The Door To The Full Inclusion Of Transgender People, was written with Lisa Mottet of the Transgender Civil Rights Project), and spiritual guides like Sam Wyman, a deeply spiritual Christian trans man who works out of the Lancaster Seminary in Pennsylvania. It has been my privilege to walk with dozens of transgender friends and colleagues on their journeys, and even though there are often common mile markers each story is unique. More often than not a new spirituality is born as mind, body and spirit line up into one accord. The world often looks very different, sometimes confusing, and it has been my privilege to act as chaplain, providing a listening ear and sounding board. I still do. If you would like a confidential non-judgemental listening ear then I'm here for you. It's a part of the ministry of The Village MCC. There's no charge and no agenda - except to provide a reminder that your journey is sacred and holy - just as Sylvia was, and just as you are too.
It has been serendipitous that my time working with Sussex Police has also been during a very active and visible period for the trans community both locally and globally. This month we celebrate the third Trans Pride that Brighton has seen. It is a source of joy to me that my employer can support such an event, allowing me to be proud of who I am, both in and outside of the workplace. Not everyone is so lucky; I hear too many stories of workplace discrimination which is simply unacceptable in this day and age. The confidence that the trans community has at the moment has been a long time coming. From my experience the allies we have won in the past few years have been immensely helpful to the trans community’s continued development and strength. Crucially these allies have recognised that they can help by empowering trans people to do things for themselves rather than trying to do the work for them. Education underpins the continued growth in allies. When people become aware of the issues, they cannot unsee what they’ve been shown. I’ve been doing my bit to educate the police and other public services. Most recently training our police communications department. To you and me, they’re the folks that answer 999 and 101 calls. The work around trans equality that Brighton & Hove City Council has been leading on has been an example of trans people and their allies getting together to address the inequalities that face the community. There is still so much work to be done, which the forthcoming strategic needs assessment report will highlight. One area in particular I am concerned about is the chronic under-reporting of hate crime. This is a massive challenge that I believe we all have a part to play in. We should call out transphobia where we see it, especially when it rears its ugly head in our scene; our bars and clubs and other settings. Being LGB doesn’t automatically give us an understanding of T, nor does it give us a free pass to mock or malign our trans brethren. Enjoy Trans Pride and ‘big’ Pride this year. Both events are to celebrate who we are. Everyone is welcome and should feel safe during the weekend. Party well, and remember to respect yourself – know your limits, respect each other – think before you speak and ask before you touch, and respect and celebrate our various identities and presentations.
THIS MONTH’S FIGURES ) In May we had four incidents and eight anti-LGBT crimes. We had several third-party reports which, whilst we cannot investigate and prosecute, can be used to identify where issues have been occurring. There were a couple of incidences of harassment, malicious communications and a burglary. There were no specific reports of transphobic hate and the majority were aimed towards gay men.
CONTACT INFORMATION We both have Facebook profiles and a page – our usernames are: f PC Sarah Laker and f LGBT Caseworker Rory Smith, and f Brighton and Hove LGBT Police Team. t We tweet @PoliceLGBT. Social media should not be used for reporting incidents – call us on 101, or if it’s an emergency, 999.
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SHARP WORDS STOW AWAY DEL SHARP TALKS CLUTTER AND ACHIEVING A TIDY MIND ) Sharp Words has realised that something is making life very wearisome indeed, and now knows why. The keeping of 'stuff' is indeed “clogging to the mind, while decluttering can achieve control, sanity and clarity to your life”. I know this now because I read an article on it, printed it off to refer to and have been carrying it around scrunched up in the bottom of my work bag for 10 months. I specify ‘work bag’ as there is a bag (or two) for when not at work; a selection of smaller bags when I don't want to carry much; and of course other bags that are out of favour or only useful for holding specific things such as other more foldable bags which I might need when out and about on my important errands. Well actually, it's usually going up and down London Road; but don't underestimate the purposeful stride between charity shops, it makes me look like I'm on my way to something better. Perusing other people's junk should be inspirational really, if they didn't want it why should I? And surely I can get rid of things too? But then there's always the DVD I never replaced from videotape, or jeans that will fit perfectly if I just lost a tiny bit of weight that are hard not to be tempted by. Though I know I can always donate something back once I realise it doesn't fit, won't ever fit or actually isn't quite as pleasurable after viewing again. I always try to bear in mind a note to self about only acquiring something if I get rid of something in return, but find I'm accruing quite a few IOUs to the local charity shops. Sometimes I feel that I sit on top of my treasure like Smaug the dragon - except I don't sleep peacefully. Instead I wake up tormented and would probably pace around cursing, although there's no space to do that, so I meekly rearrange anything that really does prevent me from leaving the front door. Even in hyperspace I'm cluttered. Somewhere there is a server groaning under the weight of the 3,000 emails that I have in my inbox. I have no idea what they are because I never look. The weekly feeble deletions I carry out only seem to get rid of the Peruvian political bulletin I inexplicably receive and the weekly
bargains from an endless array of suppliers that I feel compelled to read in case of missing out on something that no doubt I don't need. Digital is probably how I should be going musically, but I still have an attraction to a CD or twenty. I can't help but liking the covers and reading the lyrics. I may be tone deaf (as told venomously by my music teacher when I was aged seven) so my singing is accurate if not tuneful - but they just take up room. Better though than my vinyl, stored who knows where, which has followed me around for the 30 years I haven't actually had a turntable. It might just be time for a new generation to enjoy the odd white label or limited edition gatefold sleeve of some obscure 1980s band I slavishly followed. One of these days I'm sure I'll wheel my precious grooved friends to somewhere they'll be appreciated, and possibly sold for slightly more than the desperately saved pocket money that they cost... but as I'm not tripping over them now I can gladly put it off. Books are a sore point facing me every day as I look at my lovingly purpose-built shelves that have a regular, well annual, purge. Have I read it? Did I love it? Is it special? Do I need it? Mostly ‘no’ to many, and yet, there's always the ‘I will soon’ and ‘It might be’ that prevents the whole lot from their imminent journey onto someone else’s shelves. Of course I know about Kindle and such like, but having an infinite amount of books to carry around with me, albeit weightless, that I still don't have time to read, would only make me (more) agitated. I've had a moratorium on buying clothes since putting on a couple of pounds with the exception of a few items as a treat that I fully intend to slim into. However what with things being as they are, I appear to now own two wardrobes. Not for summer and winter, just one for pristine unworn items, and a second for ancient shabby things that used to fit loosely and now only just fit tightly (on a good day). Clearly my weight loss strategy needs a little more planning. But hey, at least the kitchen seems more streamlined. Did you know that just 20% of the items in your kitchen are used 80% of the time? I've discovered wonderful little stepped shelf organisers for arranging things at different levels which in truth haven't really made me get rid of much clutter, but at least I can see it all a lot easier now.
“I've discovered wonderful little stepped shelf organisers for arranging things at different levels which in truth haven't really made me get rid of much clutter, but at least I can see it all a lot easier now” The growing use of self-storage is something I've had sight of recently. Walking along eerie corridors of a vast complex, suddenly you can see people sitting in a unit with the door open, surrounded by boxes of things or loading up bulk purchases of food; mending bicycles; sorting through racks of clothes; you name it, people are actually paying for another room to sort their life out. Which may be a good idea, except I'd only fill it or spend more time in it than my own home. No, far better is to purge my belongings and keep the stuff I can't do without. Maybe next month I'll have another go. This gives me a little extra time to decide if my five-year-old pasta is worth hanging onto, watch Ferris Bueller's Day Off just once more and lose a stone. Sanity and clarity, here I come.
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TRANS ADVOCACY For many years MindOut has been lobbying to set up an advocacy service for trans people in Brighton & Hove ) One of the first clients to use the brand new LGBT Advocacy Service we set up in 1999 was a trans woman who was desperately struggling to get her needs taken seriously, struggling to get to London for appointments at the Gender Identity Clinic in Kings Cross, suffering daily abuse and derision at work and at home as she conformed to the then care pathway requirement of living in your ‘chosen’ gender. She was anxious, depressed and suicidal. Her family had rejected her. She had had so much time off work they were threatening to sack her. She felt unsafe in the bedsit she rented because her neighbours had been hostile and one got drunk regularly and shouted abuse up the stairwell. The advocacy worker was able to go with her to appointments with her GP and psychiatrist, to step in if she got distressed and to help her describe her needs fully. As a result she felt that they listened more to her. The advocacy worker helped her prepare for her GIC appointments so she was ready, helped her understand her options for care and treatment and to make sure she was being offered the services she was entitled to. The advocacy worker referred her to a specialist employment support worker who helped her negotiate with her employer. Together the worker and client contacted the landlord of the property she lived in to complain about the other tenant’s behaviour. That’s an example of the kind of help an advocacy service can offer, some specific to trans support, some which would apply to any LGBTQ client.
What is advocacy? The MindOut Advocacy Service is run by trained LGBTQ advocacy workers. They can provide information and advice as well as representation. They help you to: • Have your voice heard on issues that are important to you • Defend and safeguard your rights • Have your views and wishes considered when decisions are being made about your life Advocacy will enable you to: • Explore options and make informed choices • Express your views and concerns • Get information and access to services Advocates can: • Negotiate with service providers • Ask for what you want
• Write letters • Attend meetings
How can advocacy help? Advocacy offers a confidential, independent and impartial service which is led by you, focussing on your needs as defined by you. Advocate and client identify what the client needs and the desired outcomes. Together they plan what actions both will take, when to review progress and identify key dates. The client remains in control of the process at all stages, advocacy is based on the principle of ‘nothing about me without me’. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the healthcare system. Advocacy works to empower people to make informed choices and to ensure informed consent to care and treatment. Advocacy promotes individual and collective human and civil rights. Many people do not know what they are entitled to receive. Advocates can help with negotiations with service providers and gatekeepers, help to write letters, apply for welfare rights, raise concerns and make complaints, and understand care pathways. Advocacy operates a casework, issue-based process. One person may have one or more advocacy cases for separate issues, eg one person may wish to complain about mental health provision and make a social housing application and require different levels of assistance with both. As a client’s ability to self-advocate may vary issue to issue or over time they may require more or less input from the advocate. The vast majority of advocacy clients highly value the service, appreciate having someone ‘on their side’ and benefit from feeling understood, valued and listened to. Some clients develop advocacy skills themselves and go on to offer peer advocacy to others with similar concerns.
Why do we need trans advocacy, and why now? Demand for MindOut’s advocacy service grows year on year, and the number of people with trans-related issues has grown hugely. We have the evidence from the Trans Scrutiny held in Brighton & Hove as well as large research studies such as the Scottish Transgender Alliance mental health study 2012. This found that 84% of respondents
had contemplated suicide, dropping to 3% post-transition. We know that trans people have higher rates of experiencing mental health issues than cisgender and LGB people. Trans people experience mental health issues in relation to the discomfort, prejudice and discrimination they encounter. If you transition and live in the gender you identify with or come out as non-binary, you may encounter difficulties in relationships, employment, being a victim of hate crime and being discriminated against. The reality, and the fear of, such prejudice can cause huge significant psychological distress. Added to this, getting information and access to services can cause further stress as can some coping strategies, eg use of drugs, self-medicating etc. All these factors may compound people’s experience of mental distress. Having somewhere safe to talk about mental health, to find out about access to services, to find out what your rights are and someone to help you get what you need is vital. That’s what advocacy offers. If you would like to know more about our work, or if you have mental health experiences you would like to discuss with us, or if you would like support from any of our services then please do get in touch. • Our online instant chat service is open out of hours, see the website for opening times. This is a confidential one-to-one service run by trained volunteers. • Our advice and information and advocacy services offer telephone and/or in person support from an ‘out’ LGBTQ mental health worker who can help you find services and support, help you plan and negotiate getting what you want and need. • Our peer support group work service runs a range of weekly groups where you can meet with other LGBTQ people with experience of mental health issues and share, learn from, learn with and develop how you manage your mental health. • Our well-being service offers a range of groups and workshops throughout the year on mental health topics including self-esteem, living well, personal safety, first aid, suicide prevention and mindfulness meditation.
MINDOUT SERVICES All MindOut’s services are run by and for LGB&T people who have experience of mental health issues. All our services are free, confidential, non-judgemental and independent. ) info@mindout.org.uk ) 01273 234839 ) www.mindout.org.uk
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SERVICES
DIRECTORY LGBT SERVICES ) ACCESS 4 ALL LGBT disabled people’s forum. Safe, welcoming, support, activities, awareness. Tel: 07981 170071 or email stevenwithn@talktalk.net
) ALLSORTS YOUTH PROJECT Drop-in for LGBT or unsure young people under 26, Tues 5.30-8.30pm. Tel: 01273 721211 or email info@allsortsyouth.org.uk, www.allsortsyouth.org.uk
) BRIGHTON & HOVE POLICE Report all homophobic and transphobic incidents to: • The Sussex Police 101 (for emergencies 999) email: LGBT@sussex.pnn.police.uk tweet: @policeLGBT and @pclaker • LGBT Officer PC Sarah Laker on 101 ext 550727 • LGBT Caseworker Rory Smith on 101 ext 550217 or 07775 546548 • Facebook: Brighton LGBT Police
) BRIGHTON & HOVE LGBT SAFETY FORUM Independent LGBT forum working with the community to address and improve safety issues in Brighton & Hove. info@lgbt-safety-forum-brighton.com www.lgbt-safety-forum-brighton.com
) BRIGHTON & HOVE LGBT SWITCHBOARD Phone helpline, hate crime reporting, counselling service, Proud2connect (relationship counselling in partnership with Brighton Relate). www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton • Helpline from 5pm daily: 01273 204050 • Services info: 01273 234009 • email: brighton.manager@switchboard.org.uk • or brighton.admin@switchboard.org.uk
noon–2.30pm, Community Room, Dorset Gdns Methodist Church, Dorset Gardens, Brighton. Lunch £1.50. Tel: 07846 464384 or www.lunchpositive.org
) MINDOUT Independent, impartial info, guidance for LGBT people with mental health problems. 24 hr confidential answerphone: 01273 234839 or info@mindout.org.uk www.mindout.org.uk
) PEER ACTION Regular low cost yoga, therapies, swimming, meditation & social groups for people with HIV. peeractionemail@gmail.com or www.peeraction.co.uk
) RAINBOW FAMILIES Support group for lesbian and/or gay parents. Tel: 07951 082013 or info@rainbowfamilies.org.uk www.rainbowfamilies.org.uk
) SOME PEOPLE Social/support group for LGB or questioning aged 14-19, Tue, 6-8pm, Hastings. Call/text Nicola Tel: 07974 579865 or email Neil or Nicola: somepeople@eastsussex.gov.uk
) VICTIM SUPPORT Practical, emotional support for victims of crime. Tel: 08453 899 528
) THE VILLAGE MCC Christian church serving the LGBTQ community. Sundays 6pm, Somerset Day Centre, Kemptown Tel: 07476 667353, www.thevillagemcc.org
HIV PREVENTION, CARE & TREATMENT SERVICES ) AVERT Sussex HIV & AIDS info service, available by phone Tel: 01403 210202 or email confidential@avert.org
) BRIGHTON & HOVE CAB HIV PROJECT
Info, counselling, drop-in space, support groups. Tel: 01273 698036 or visit www.womenscentre.org.uk
Money, benefits, employment, housing, info, advocacy. Appointments: Tue-Thur 9am-4pm, Wed 9am-12.30pm Brighton & Hove Citizens Advice Bureau, 1 Tisbury Rd, Hove. Tel: 0845 1203710 or www.brightonhovecab.org.uk
) FTM BRIGHTON
) CLINIC M
Social/peer support group for FTM, transmasculine & gender-queer people. Every 3rd Fri of month, 7-9pm at Space for Change, Windlesham Venue, BN1 3AH. For info email info@ftmbrighton.org.uk or visit www.ftmbrighton.org.uk
Free confidential testing & treatment for STIs including HIV, plus Hep A & B vaccinations. Claude Nicol Centre, Sussex County Hospital, on Weds from 5-8pm. Tel: 01273 664721 or www.brightonsexualhealth.com
) BRIGHTON GEMS (GAY ELDERLY MEN’S SOCIETY)
Medical advice, treatment for HIV+, specialist clinics, diet & welfare advice, drug trials. Tel: 01273 664722
) BRIGHTON WOMEN’S CENTRE
Social group for mature gay men, meet 7–10pm every last Fri of month at Dorset Gardens Methodist Church Hall. Tel: 01273 385000 or info@gems-bh.org.uk www.brightongems.com
) LESBIAN LINK BRIGHTON Local social group offers friendship, social events, meets 1st Thurs at Regency Tavern, 7.30pm. Tel: 07594 578035 www.lesbianlinkbrighton.co.uk
) LESBIAN & GAY AA 12-step self-help programme for alcohol addictions. Sun 7.30pm, Chapel Royal, North St, Btn (side entrance). Tel: 01273 203343 (general AA line)
) LGBT NA GROUP Brighton-based LGBT (welcomes others) Narcotics Anonymous group every Tue 6.30–8pm, Millwood Centre, Nelson Row, Kingswood St. Tel: 0300 999 1212
) LGBT MEDITATION GROUP Meditation & discussion, every 2nd & 4th Thur, 5.30–7pm, Anahata Clinic, 119 Edward St, Brighton. Tel: 07789 861367 or www.bodhitreebrighton.org.uk
) LUNCH POSITIVE Lunch club for people with HIV to meet/make friends, find peer support in a safe environment. Every Fri,
) LAWSON UNIT
) SUBSTANCE MISUSE SERVICE CRI / Sussex Partnership Foundation Trust. Open access drop-in, assessment, support, advice, info on drug & alcohol issues. Tel 01273 607575. LGB&T worker provides confidential, non-judgemental outreach service. Support for people over 18 wishing to address substance misuse. Tel 07717 774 658
) SUSSEX BEACON 24 hour nursing & medical care, day care. Tel: 01273 694222 or www.sussexbeacon.org.uk
) TERRENCE HIGGINS TRUST SERVICES For more info about these free services go to the THT office, 61 Ship St, Brighton, Mon–Fri, 9.30am–5.30pm. Tel: 01273 764200 or info.brighton@tht.org.uk • Venue Outreach: info on HIV, sexual health, personal safety, safer drug/alcohol use, free condoms/lubricant for men who have sex with men. • The Bushes Outreach Service @ Dukes Mound: advice, support, info on HIV, sexual health, personal safety. Free condoms, lube, tea/coffee from Outreach van parked next to ‘The Patio’ at the Bushes. • Netreach (online Outreach in Brighton & Hove): info/advice on HIV/sexual health/local services. THT Brighton Outreach workers online @ Gaydar:
Thur 7–10pm, Sat 6pm-12am, chatroom HEALTH INFO THT. • Condom Male: discreet, confidential service posts free condoms/lube/sexual health info to men who have sex with men without access to commercial gay scene in East Sussex. • Positive Voices: volunteers who go to organisations to talk about personal experiences of living with HIV. • Fastest (HIV Testing): walk-in, (no appointment) rapid HIV testing service for men who have sex with men. Pre & post test discussion with clinical staff. Results in an hour. 10 men max tested per session. Mon: 6–8pm. (Full sexual health screen available) • Sauna Fastest at The Brighton Sauna (HIV Testing): walk-in, (no appointment) rapid HIV testing service for men who have sex with men. Pre & post test discussion with clinical staff. Results in 30 minutes. Wed: 6–8pm. (STI Testing available). • Face2Face: confidential info & advice on sexual health & HIV for men who have sex with men. Face-2-face or phone. Up to 3 one hour appointments. • Specialist Training: wide range of courses for groups/ individuals. Specific courses to suit needs. • Counselling: from qualified counsellors for up to 12 sessions for people living with/affected by HIV. • Informed Passions: Expert Volunteers project to identify & support sexual health needs of local men who have sex with men and carry out field research in B&H on issues affecting men’s sexual health. Extensive training provided. • Lounge (Group for Gay Men Living with HIV): fortnightly peer support group for gay men. • What Next? Thurs eve, 6 week peer support group work programme for newly diagnosed HIV+ gay men. • HIV Support Services: info, support & practical advice for people living with/affected by HIV. • Volunteer Support Services: 1-2-1 community support for people living with or affected by HIV. • HIV Welfare Rights Advice: Find out about benefits or benefit changes. Advice line: Mon–Thur 1:30-2:30pm. 1-2-1 appts for advice & workshops on key benefits.
) TERRENCE HIGGINS EASTBOURNE Dyke House, 110 South St, Eastbourne, BN21 4LZ, Tel: 01323 649927 or info.eastbourne@tht.org.uk • HIV Services support for HIV diagnosis, managing side effects, sex and relationships, understanding medication, talking to your doctor, finding healthier lifestyle. Assessment of support needs and signposting on to relevant services. Support in person, by phone or email. • Support for people at risk of HIV confidential info and advice on sexual health and HIV for men who have sex with men. Up to 3 one hour appointments depending on need. Sessions in person or on phone. • Web support & info on HIV, sexual health & local services via netreach and myhiv.org.uk • Positive Voices: volunteers who go to organisations to talk about personal experiences of living with HIV. • Positively Social Informal peer support groups for people living with HIV, monthly meets in Eastbourne & Hastings.
) WARREN BROWNE UNIT Free confidential tests & treatment for STIs inc HIV. Hep A & B vaccinations. Shoreham based. Tel: 01273 461453
NATIONAL HELPLINES ) BROKEN RAINBOW LGBT Domestic Violence Helpline, Mon 2-8pm, Wed 10-1pm, Thur 2-8pm Tel: 08452 604460
) LONDON LESBIAN & GAY SWITCHBOARD Tel: 02078 377324
) POSITIVELINE (EDDIE SURMAN TRUST) Mon-Fri 11am-10pm, Sat & Sun 4-10pm Tel: 0800 1696806
) MAINLINERS Tel: 02075 825226 ) NATIONAL AIDS HELPLINE 08005 67123 ) NATIONAL DRUGS HELPLINE 08007 76600 ) THT AIDS TREATMENT PHONELINE Tel: 08459 470047
) THT DIRECT Tel: 0845 1221200
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) SHOPS 32 PROWLER 112 St James’ St, 683680 33 SUSSEX BEACON Charity Shop 130 St James’ St, 682992 www.sussexbeacon.org.uk 34 SUSSEX BEACON Home Store 72-73 London Rd, 680264
) ESTATE AGENTS 35 JUSTIN LLOYD (Kemptown) 118 St James’ St, 692424 www.justinlloyd.co.uk 36 JUSTIN LLOYD (Brunswick) 111 Western Rd, Hove, 692424
18 THREE JOLLY BUTCHERS 59 North Rd, 608571 www.three-jolly-butchers.co.uk 38 VELVET JACKS 50 Norfolk Sq, 07720 661290
9 CHARLES STREET BAR 8-9 Marine Parade, 624091 www.charles-street.com 37 CUP OF JOE 28 St George’s Rd, 698873 www.cupofjoebrighton.co.uk 12 LEGENDS BAR 31-34 Marine Parade, 624462 www.legendsbrighton.com 13 MARINE TAVERN 13 Broad St, 681284 www.marinetavern.co.uk 25 NEW STEINE BISTRO 12a New Steine, 681546 www.newsteinehotel.com 20 OHSO SOCIAL 259a Kings Rd Arches, 818527 www.ohsobrighton.co.uk 14 PARIS HOUSE 21 Western Rod, 724195 www.parishouse.com 16 REGENCY TAVERN 32-34 Russell Sq, 325652 www.regencytavern.co.uk
) SAUNAS 39 BOILER ROOM 84 Denmark Villas, 723733 www.theboilerroomsauna.com 40 BRIGHTON SAUNA 75 Grand Parade, 689966 www.thebrightonsauna.com
) LEGAL & FINANCE 41 ENGLEHARTS 49 Vallance Hall, Hove St, Hove, 204411
) COMMUNITY 42 BRIGHTON WOMEN’S CENTRE 72 High St, 698036 www.womenscentre.org.uk 43 LUNCH POSITIVE Dorset Gardens Methodist Church, 07846 464384 www.lunchpositive.org
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22 AVALON HOTEL 7 Upper Rock Gardens, 692344 23 GULLIVERS HOTEL 12a New Steine, 695415 www.gullivershotel.com 24 HOTEL PELIROCCO 10 Regency Sq, 327055 www.hotelpelirocco.co.uk 25 HUDSONS 22 Devonshire Place, 683642 12 LEGENDS HOTEL 31-34 Marine Parade, 624462 www.legendsbrighton.com 26 NEW STEINE HOTEL 10/11 New Steine, 681546 www.newsteinehotel.com 27 QUEENS HOTEL 1/3 Kings Rd, 321222 www.queenshotelbrighton.com 28 CLINIC M Claude Nicol, Abbey Rd, 664721 www.brightonsexualhealth.com/node/11 29 DENTAL HEALTH SPA 14–15 Queens Rd, 710831 www.dentalhealthspa.co.uk 30 THT BRIGHTON 61 Ship St, 764200
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) CLUBS 12 BASEMENT CLUB (below Legends) 31-34 Marine Parade, 624462 www.legendsbrighton.com 6 BOUTIQUE CLUB 2 Boyces St @ West St, 327607 www.boutiqueclubbrighton.com 9 ENVY (above Charles St Bar) 8-9 Marine Parade, 624091 www.charles-street.com 2 FUNKY FISH 19-23 Marine Parade, 698331 www.funkyfishclub.co.uk 20 OHSO SOCIAL 259a Kings Rd Arches, 818527 www.ohsobrighton.co.uk
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) PUBS & BARS 1 A-BAR 11–12 Marine Parade, 696691 www.abarbrighton.co.uk 2 BAR RED (@ Funky Fish) 19-23 Marine Parade, 698331 www.funkyfishclub.co.uk 3 BAR REVENGE 7 Marine Parade, 606064 www.revenge.co.uk 4 BAR BROADWAY 10 Steine Street, 609777 www.barbroadway.co.uk 5 BEDFORD TAVERN 30 Western Street, 739495 6 BOUTIQUE BAR 2 Boyces St @ West St, 327607 www.boutiqueclubbrighton.com 7 BULLDOG TAVERN 31 St James’ St, 696996 www.bulldogbrighton.com 8 CAMELFORD ARMS 30-31Camelford St, 622386 www.camelford-arms.co.uk 9 CHARLES STREET BAR 8-9 Marine Parade, 624091 www.charles-street.com 10 DR BRIGHTON’S 16 Kings Rd, 208113 www.doctorbrightons.co.uk 11 GROSVENOR 16 Western Street, 770712 12 LEGENDS BAR 31-34 Marine Parade, 624462 www.legendsbrighton.com 13 MARINE TAVERN 13 Broad St, 681284 www.marinetavern.co.uk 14 PARIS HOUSE 21 Western Rod, 724195 www.parishouse.com 15 QUEEN’S ARMS 7 George St, 696873 thequeensarms.wix.com/thequeensarms 16 REGENCY TAVERN 32-34 Russell Sq, 325652 www.regencytavern.co.uk 17 SUBLINE 129 St James St, 624100 www.sublinebrighton.co.uk 18 THREE JOLLY BUTCHERS 59 North Rd, 608571 www.three-jolly-butchers.co.uk 19 ZONE 33 St James’ St, 682249 www.zonebar.co.uk
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CLASSIFIEDS
JUL 2015
CALL 01273 722457 BY 13TH JUL TO GUARANTEE ADVERT PLACEMENT
BUILDERS, CARPENTERS, ELECTRICIANS, FITTED KITCHENS, PAINTERS & DECORATORS, PLASTERING, PLUMBING & HEATING SERVICES, PROJECT MANAGEMENT, TILES & TILERS
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Need some help with your project? Experienced project managers in refurbishment, new build and home adaptations works.
Get the results you want without having to shoulder the stress and hassle of sourcing, dealing with and managing multiple contractors and suppliers. From a small kitchen or bathroom through to complete refurbs and home adaptations. Registered installers of Impey wetroom systems.
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Why did you become an estate agent? It wasn't necessarily something I always thought I would do, but I did always think it would be enjoyable. Six years down the line and I’ve been proved right!
Buy&sell with the experts. This month we are giving you an insight in to the inner workings of an award winning estate agent, what makes them tick, what makes them click, and hopefully some handy tips! With over 6 years of experience in the industry we take a look at Nick Kelly – Sales Manager – and ask what sets him, and Justin Lloyd apart from the (increasingly abundant) competition. Marine Parade, Brighton
£ 950,000 (Also above photo) A stunning three bedroom, two bathroom duplex penthouse apartment situated in one of the most sought after and prestigious buildings in Brighton - The Van Alen Building. This superb property boasts magnificent uninterrupted sea views, a south facing balcony, secure allocated underground parking, and a concierge. 3
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“I let my property through Justin Lloyd and have always found them to be very professional, friendly and efficient. The photographs they took were excellent, and I have no complaints at all about their service. Would recommend to others.” Landlord Comment January 2015
What’s your proudest moment in estate agency? Winning an award at the International Property Awards was fantastic...and a chance to get out the bow tie and dinner jacket! Where’s the first place you lived in Brighton? I moved to Brighton for University so my first home was in the halls of residence at the University of Sussex. What is the biggest threat to our industry? I’d have to say 'online' agencies. I love giving a proper service to my clients, and this is something that these companies simply cannot offer to the same extent. If you could change one thing about the buying process what would it be? I guess the speed in which it takes to reach exchange. My record is about 10 days... so it can be done! What’s the most stressful part of your day? Without doubt if a sale falls through after months of time and effort - especially as often it is completely out of your control. What’s the most enjoyable part of your day? Having offers accepted and when properties exchange - still gives me a 'buzz'. One piece of advice for first time buyers? Get your mortgage sorted out first of all so that you put yourself in the strongest possible position when making offers. One piece of advice for buy-to-let investors? A good yield is one thing, but make sure you a buy in a good or upcoming area - in a rising market this can bring much better financial gains. One piece of advice for those downsizing? First come to terms with the fact that you will need to get rid of some of your furniture. I still always here the phrase “Where are we going to put everything?”
Kemp Town 118 St James’s Street, Brighton BN2 1TH Brunswick 111 Western Road, Hove BN3 1DD
Dolphin Mews, Brighton
£ 1350.00pcm Charming two/three bedroom mid-terrace mews house in a private gated development. The property is arranged over four floors; living room with Juliet balconies, separate kitchen and utility room, two double bedrooms, third single bedroom/study, and family bathroom. Unfurnished. Available June 30th. 2
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“Justin Lloyd were head-andshoulders above the competition. They were communicative, responsive and kept me informed. A genuine asset during the buying process - I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them. They’ll be my first call when I next decide to move.” Vendor comment, April 2015
We will be showing our support for the local community with two fun packed days starting at the Brunswick Town Art Fair on 30th June, followed by 'Paddle Round The Pier' on the 4th & 5th July.
St James's Street, Brighton
£ 299,950 Newly refurbished and excellently presented throughout, two double bedroom, two bathroom apartment situated on the first floor of a converted period building. The property is in a superb location, just off the seafront and moments from Brighton Pier. 2
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Call us now 01273 692424 Email info@justinlloyd.co.uk
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