Gscene - June 2013

CONTENTS

JUNE 2013 GSCENE magazine www.gscene.org @gscene GScene.Brighton

INTERVAL RECEPTION FOR MAYOR OF BRIGHTON & HOVE AT THE ACTUALLY GAY MEN’S CHORUS CONCERT ST ANDREWS CHURCH, HOVE

JOAN BOND HOSTS THE NEW MAD COW TEA PARTY EVERY THURSDAY NIGHT AT CHARLES STREET

PUBLISHED BY Peter Storrow TEL 01273 722457 EDITORIAL info@gscene.com ADS+ARTWORK design@gscene.com EDITORIAL TEAM James Ledward, Graham Robson ARTS EDITOR Michael Hootman SUB-EDITOR Graham Robson DESIGN Michèle Allardyce

FRONT COVER MODEL Michael Silvester Twitter: @cloisterblackm PHOTOGRAPHY Dean Stockings www.deanstockings.co.uk

LGBT COMMUNITY SAFETY FORUM TEAM AT THE GOLDEN HANDBAG QUIZ @ CHARLES STREET

CONTRIBUTORS Jaq Bayles, Jo Bourne, Nick Boston, Matt Carver, Suchi Chatterjee, Nick Douglas, Craig Hanlon Smith, Adam Highway, Enzo Marra, Andrew Modd, Rick Moore, Netty, Charles Nyereyegona, Carl Oprey, Eric Page, Steph Scott, Del Sharp, Keith Sharpe, Gay Socrates, Darren Solo, Brian Stacey, Glen Stevens, Craig Storrie, Duncan Stewart, Vron, Roger Wheeler, Mike Wall, Morham White, Kate Wildblood

NEWS 6 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR 8 NEWS

SCENE LISTINGS 32 Brighton Listings 49 Solent & Bournemouth Listings

ARTS

PHOTOGRAPHERS Michael Hootman, Sarah Haddow, James Ledward, Ian Mager-Playford Momentcatcher mrmomentcatcher.com

© GSCENE 2013

FEATURES

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.

20 PEER ACTION

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.

Dr Les Ellam on how pet massage cheered up his grumpy pooch.

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.

Author Nicola Hill explains how she went from writing to mothering.

Arts News Art Matters Classical Notes Film Reviews Arts: Books

The holistic therapies on offer by Peer Action.

REGULARS

21 PET MASSAGE

Stefan Holmström, the choir’s musical director, talks to Gscene.

28 30 31 52 52 53 61 62 66 67 67 68 69 69 70 71 71 72 73 73 74

64 WALKING IN SUSSEX

INFORMATION

22 A DAVID & GOLIATH STORY Christina Chatfield takes on the dental establishment, and triumphs!

23 FOSTERING 24 LGBT YOUTH SUPPORT Gscene takes a look at services in the south east for LGBT youth.

27 ALBERT KENNEDY TRUST The LGBT youth homeless charity needs your help!

PABLO SALGADO & JULIAN AMAYA BECAME CIVIL PARTNERS LAST MONTH AT BRIGHTON REGISTER OFFICE

54 55 58 59 60

28 STRAIGHT DOWN THE MIDDLE Honorary pouf, Ken Brown, on the company and support of neighbours.

56 DIAMOND Gscene talks to Dave Lynn and Stephen Richards about their new show.

57 RESOUND MALE VOICES Roger Wheeler explores the Sussex countryside.

65 EXOTIC BALI Stephen Lusher and Richard John Sawyer take in the sights

Wine & Dine With James Charlie’s Kitchen Come Dine With Morham Dance Music DJ Profile: Ben Castle The Man Who...

Geek Scene Shopping Craig’s Thoughts Wall’s Words Gay Socrates Heart & Sole Guilded Ghetto Choir Boys Charlie Says Lunch Positive TV Scene Keith Sharpe Transcribe Addicted MindOut

75 Services Directory 76 Classifieds 78 Advertisers’ Map

6 GSCENE

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR SEND LETTERS TO: GSCENE, 111 WESTERN ROAD, HOVE, BN3 1DD OR EMAIL TO: INFO@GSCENE.COM

However, I hope the organisers don't get bogged down in arguments about the name of the event otherwise all side of the community will start using exactly the same argument about language that Mx Scott was doing in her column last month. Call it Trans Pride and be proud!

Name and address supplied

VISUAL ABNORMALITIES IN ME

IDAHOBIT DAY I would like express my gratitude to those attending the event on Friday, May 17 marking the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT). It was reassuring to see so many of the community turn out to mark the important occasion.

I particularly want to extend my thanks to those who made the difficult decision to openly talk about their personal experiences to a pubic audience. I appreciate that this was not easy and thank you for your commitment to the event. The participation from our guest speakers was paramount to the event’s success and was much appreciated.

On behalf of the Brighton & Hove LGBT Community Safety Forum I thank all attendees and contributors for their time and consideration.

We look forward to seeing you again soon.

Billie Lewis, Chair, LGBT Community Safety Forum

GAY OR LGBT? I want to respond to your trans contributor Steph Scott and the views expressed in last month’s column. The suggestion was floated that Pride in choosing ‘Gay Icons' as the theme for this year’s event had marginalised trans people. It was also suggested that the word 'Gay' as used by people nowadays does not apply to bi, trans and some lesbian people.

Furthermore the suggestion was floated that Pride should change the name of this year’s theme to accommodate this.

My understanding is that the Pride Parade this year is called the LGBT Community Parade. That is clearly inclusive.

Stonewall has identified in its research that ‘Gay’ is used as a negative word in much of the bullying that happens to young children in schools. Pride’s publicity says that their decision to choose ‘Gay Icons’ as the theme was done to help reclaim the word as a positive rather than negative.

Is Mx Scott suggesting that the word ‘Gay’ should not appear in the name of the event at all? If so

we need to look at this very seriously because the message will be sent out that as a community we are buying into the very mind set that allows the bullies in the playground to bully their victims by using ‘Gay’ negatively.

Madonna is a ‘Gay Icon’ not an ‘LGBT Icon’.

While we need to be inclusive of all grouping within the community we must not get bogged down in agenda driven dogma.

It is important to reclaim the word ‘Gay’ as a positive word, something all grouping within the community can be proud of while neutralising the negative aspects of it when used by the bullies.

As a trans woman I feel naming the Pride Parade as the LGBT Community Parade is inclusive enough for me and hope that for one year it is possible to prioritise the needs of youngsters in the playground who are being relentlessly bullied, rather than get bogged down in demonising the word ‘Gay’.

I hear that the trans community are organising a Trans Pride event this year. That’s great news.

Research just published has shown that people affected by ME experience visual processing problems and these findings could help with diagnosing the syndrome.

Scientists at the University of Leicester assessed visual attention difficulties commonly reported by those with Myalgic Encephalopathy (ME) or Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) and have provided experimental evidence for ME/CFSrelated difficulties in directing visual attention. These findings support the subjective reports of those with ME and could represent a potential means to improve diagnosis.

Many people with the illness report focusing adjustment problems and it's good to know that these difficulties have now been identified by researchers.

ME that can follow a viral infection or trauma affects around 6,000 adults and children across Sussex.

Colin Barton Sussex ME/CFS Society

THANK YOU Terrence Higgins Trust (THT) Brighton would like to thank Mark the manager, all the staff and everyone that came along to the Quiz night at the Camelford Arms staged to benefit the THT earlier this year. The Paint Baller’s emerged victorious to win the prize of Sunday lunch for the whole team that was kindly donated by Camelford Arms.

A brilliant £261.35 was raised via the raffle with prizes supplied by Prowler and Betty La La’s Restaurant in St James’ Street. The money raised will support local HIV prevention and support services.

Ross Boseley, THT Brighton

THANK YOU I would like to thank Mark and the staff at the Camelford Arms for last month hosting a Eurovision

Song Contest Party to benefit Peer Action, the HIV+ peer support and social group for people in Brighton & Hove living with and affected by HIV. The evening raised £200 and a fantastic time was had by everyone. It really is the best way to watch the contest, in your local pub with friends old and new.

A massive thank you for all the wonderful raffle prizes donated by the community and let’s get together again next year to watch what Denmark serves up for all of us Eurovision fans.

Ian Sheldon Peer Action

NO WAY JOSÉ!

I have only just realised that this year I will have to pay to get into Pride on Preston Park. I want to see Alison Moyet and Hazel Dean but don't understand why I have to pay. I have never paid to get into a Pride in my life and don't want to start now. Can you explain why there is a charge as I am desperate to see Alison Moyet.

José Botero Ed. You have to pay because the Council and Police have made it a condition of the licence being issued and landlord consent being given, that Preston Park is fenced so that numbers can be controlled and people are safe. This rockets the budget for the event and because when the event was free people did not put money into the buckets the organiser that ran Pride in the past ran up large debts. If you are unhappy with this condition take it up with the police and your local councillor.

If you want to see Alison Moyet she will be at the Brighton Dome on October 21, tickets are available at £49.50. The average ticket price for entry to local music festivals is over £30. The Shakedown Festival in Stanmer Park this year is £34.50 plus booking fee.

Early Bird tickets are still available for Pride from Brighton Gay venues costing £9. £1 from every ticket sold for Pride is donated to local LGBT organisations so by my reckoning you can see Alison Moyet for £9, donate £1 to local LGBT organisations and feel good about yourself.

If you are still concerned about the cost of Pride just go without a wrap of coke for a week. That will save you £50!

GSCENE 7

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GOLDEN HANDBAG VOTING CLOSES JUNE 19

RUTTERS STOCKTAKERS ARE HEADLINE SPONSOR FOR GOLDEN HANDBAG AWARDS

t The voting for this year’s Golden Handbag Awards closes on Wednesday, June 19 at noon.

There is no postal vote this year so the only opportunity you have to register your vote is online at www.gscene.com. The awards will be presented at a star studded evening at the Brighton Metropole Hilton on Sunday, June 23, in the Oxford Suite, starting at 7.30pm

sponsor this year's awards. Operating in Brighton for over 60 years, we are always looking at ways to support local projects and the LGBT community are an important part of our client base. This gives us an opportunity to enjoy an evening with many of our existing clients whilst also supporting the fine work of the Rainbow Fund. We thank them for their support and hope they enjoy our big night.”

To contact Rutters Stocktakers call 01273 911045 or email: office@rutters-stocktakers.co.uk LOLA LASAGNE

This year’s event will be hosted

by Lola Lasagne and the lineup of artists will be announced online at www.gscene.com on Monday, June 17. There is one reserved table left seating 12 people and costing £240.

The voting has been designed so that a computer To book, call 01273 722 457. can only be used once to vote. If you try to submit a If you’re not on one of the vote a second time from the same computer I am premier reserved business tables, unreserved single afraid the vote will be rejected. Voting is closer than tickets can be purchased for £20 each from Prowler ever before with the categories for Favourite Hostess, at 112 St James Street, 01273 683680. Tickets Favourite Club and Favourite Entertainer being must be bought in person and paid for in cash as particular close this year.

Prowler are not charging a booking fee.

This year’s headline sponsor for the Golden Handbag All profits from the evening will be donated to the Awards are Rutters Stocktakers Ltd. Jon Rutter, Rainbow Fund.

Managing Director of the Brighton-based stock To vote in this years Golden Handbags view: auditing firm, said: "We're absolutely delighted to www.gscene.com

ALISON MOYET

MAIN STAGE RETURNS TO BRIGHTON PRIDE

t Alison Moyet joins Paloma Faith and the original Sugababes as the main stage returns to Brighton Pride. One of the biggest ‘Gay Icons’ of them all, Alison Moyet has confirmed she is thrilled to be performing on the main stage on August 3.

She joins the original Sugababes and Paloma Faith who will be playing a unique DJ set in the biggest lineup of stars ever announced to appear at Brighton Pride. Dulcie Weaver, Pride organiser, said: “Alison Moyet is a true Icon and a hero to many LGBT people. We are so excited to be able to confirm such an amazing legend for Pride 2013.”

Also appearing exclusively on Prides main stage are MKS the original line up of The Sugababes.

Mutya, Keisha and Siobhan have reformed the original Sugarbabes line-up and are performing under the name MKS with brand new material being written for them by none other than Emeli Sande.

This is one of the most anticipated reunions in years.

Popular girl group Stooshe will also be appearing.

Their single Black Heart was one of the largest selling and airplay records of 2012, while multi Brit award winner Ms Dynamite will be performing her signature sound of R&B, grime and UK garage.

Pride wouldn’t be complete without some boy band action and so far The Mend, stars of Britain’s Got Talent and up and coming boy band Class A have also signed to appear. MKS, Paloma Faith, Stooshe, Ms Dynamite, The Mend and Class A will be joined on the main stage by Lindy Layton, Stacey Jackson and disco legend Hazel Dean for a day to remember.

In the Women’s Performance Tent, Pride have upped the anti by adding headliners for this area for the first time with performances from lesbian icon Horse and X-Factors Lucy Spraggan.

Dulcie Weaver said: “We are thrilled with the line-up that has been organised so far for this year Pride, and with so many other major acts to announce anyone who takes advantage of the £12.50 earlybird ticket offer this year is getting themselves a serious bargain!’

Brighton Pride 2013 takes place on Saturday August 3 2013 from noon–8pm at Preston Park, Brighton Early Bird Tickets online now are only £12.50 going up to £17.50 in July (or subject to availability)

LAST CALL FOR ENTRIES TO LGBT COMMUNITY PRIDE PARADE

t This years LGBT Community Pride Parade is set to be the most outrageous and colourful ever with Pride supporters all enthusiastically embracing the ‘Icons’ theme. Organisers already have whole hosts of Freddie Mercurys, Madonnas and Lady Gaga’s registered to take part as well as decorated floats and walking groups becoming 'Icons' for the big day.

“I knew that the community and certain individuals would just love this years theme’’ says Dulcie Weaver “the subject of Icons is so broad and people are choosing to interpret it in their own way which is very exciting. There are bound to be some real surprises on the day” Each year the eyes of the city focus on the Pride LGBT Community Parade while the media give the Parade national and international profile. For this reason, businesses, voluntary groups and general show offs choose the parade as a great way to engage the general public and spread their message.

While most of the space on the parade has already been booked, you still have a fews days left to secure a position on one of the most viewed Pride Parades in the UK. Get your application to the Pride office before the June 7 to secure your proud place.

For an application form, view: http://brightonpride.coffeecup.com/forms/LGBT%20PARADE%20 finished/

LAST FEW £9 PRIDE TICKETS AVAILABLE TILL JUNE 10

t If you have still not got your tickets for Pride on August 3 there are a handful of early bird tickets left costing just £9 available exclusively from Brighton venues. All early bird tickets costing £8.50 have already sold out. At present if you buy tickets online they cost £12.50 and remain available till the beginning of July when they rise to £17.50.

Dulcie Weaver, Pride organiser, said: “We’ve been inundated with enquiries about £9 ticket availability.

It’s a fantastic offer and I don’t want anyone to miss out on such a saving. If you buy your tickets early you make the biggest savings.”

Prides biggest lineup of stars ever including Paloma Faith, the original Sugababes and the legendary Alison Moyet provide excellent value for money when you compare with the price of a ticket to Shakedown'Festival of £34.50 (+ booking fee). £1 from the sale of each ticket goes directly to the Rainbow Fund to distribute through their grants programme to LGBT organisation in Brighton & Hove.

Limited £9 tickets are still available from: Prowler (London and Brighton), Queens Arms, Charles Street, Legends, Bar Revenge, Poison Ivy, Abar, Marine Tavern, Dr Brightons and 112 Church St. £12.50 early-bird tickets are available from http://brighton-pride.org Ticket prices increase to £17.50 from July.

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SUSSEX BEACON FUNDRAISER

BRIGHTON SCHOOL OF SAMBA SEEKS DRAG QUEENS FOR PRIDE PARADE

t The Brighton School of Samba (BSS) are seeking sequined, glamorous and fabulous Drag Queens to join their Ala Travesti (Transvestite group) on this year’s Pride Parade. BSS (GRES Cidade Brilhante - Bright City) was formed in May 2007 as a non-profit organisation. Created in the traditional structure of the Rio Samba Schools, Cidade Brilhante is committed to community values and an inclusive policy. The School brings a taste of the vibrant Rio Carnival to the streets of Brighton for members, audiences and the wider community, gay and straight.

BSS’ colours are navy, turquoise, gold and white and so as long as your outfit is suitably audacious and in keeping with their colours you can join them on the parade, strut your stuff and shimmy to the sizzling hot samba beats they will be playing!

If you want to be involved in the Pride Parade as a non-performer, BSS would love to hear from you too! Help is needed with costume-making, stewarding and some cyclists’ pedal-power for the mobile PA system on the parade also.

Beyond Pride 2013, if you would like to be a regular dancer with BSS, go along to one of their dance workshops, or if you can’t dance, join their drumming workshops.

To register your interest, email: info@brightonschoolofsamba.org.uk For more information view: www.brightonschoolofsamba.org.uk

t Gloria Stays, drag artiste will be performing a fundraiser for the Sussex Beacon in the basement of The Regency Tavern, Brighton on Monday, June 10 at 6pm and 7pm.

ROBERT CLOTHIER

t Think you've got talent? The Queen's Arms in George Street, Brighton and Pride are looking for performers: comedians, magicians, singers, dancers, in fact, anyone who thinks they have what it takes to be crowned Pride's Got Talent 2013 champion.

Heats take place on the June 19 & 26, and July 3, 10, 17 and 24. The grand final will be taking place at The Queen’s Arms on Wednesday, July 31 as part of Summer Festival Week.

The winner, who the judges decide to be the most talented of all acts, will get a free ticket to Pride 2013, £100 cash and a guest spot on the Cabaret Stage in Preston Park.

The competition is open to anyone aged 18 or over who has any talent that they'd like the opportunity to showcase.

To enter, turn up to any heat at the Queen’s Arms before 9pm, pick up an entry form in the bar, or call 01273 69687.

For more information, email: andyqueensarms@yahoo.co.uk

t Local entertainer Robert Clothier appeared at Westminster Magistrates Court on April 24 charged with "allegedly arranging or facilitating the commission of a child sex offence".

Mr Clothier has been ordered to stand trial at Southwark Crown Court where he will appear on May 31. An application for bail was refused and he remains on remand awaiting trial.

MURDER SUSPECT ARRESTED

RICARDO PISANO

t Brighton Pride's second ever 'Ambassador' has been chosen to march at the front of this year's community parade. Helen Marie Carter, an author and playwright, received the most nominations in the second selection round. She will join Bear Patrol organiser, Danny Dwyer, at the front of the Pride Parade this year. Helen told her story to Gscene readers last year about her gender reassignment surgery. Pride's third Ambassador will be announced in the July Gscene.

• Do you know someone in Brighton who volunteers for an LGBT or HIV organisation, donating their time to helping others?

• Do you know someone in Brighton who has made a difference to the lives of local LGBT people?

• Is there someone you are proud of who makes a fantastic contribution to the local LGBT community?

Now is your opportunity to say ‘thank you’ and acknowledge the contribution these quiet heroes make to Gay Brighton. Email suggestions to: info@gscene.com Four Pride Ambassadors will lead the LGBT Community Parade Parade, Gay Icons on Saturday, August 3 as it winds its way from Madeira Drive to Preston Park.

• Brighton Pride is administered by a CIC Company formed to manage the 2013 event. Its directors are Paul Kemp of Aeon Events Ltd, David Hill of E3 and Dulcie Weaver.

• £1 per head for each ticket sold is ring fenced for the Rainbow Fund to distribute through their grants program administered by the Sussex Community Foundation to LGBT organisations in Brighton & Hove.

LOCAL ENTERTAINER TO STAND TRIAL

CAN YOU SING, DANCE, TELL JOKES OR DO MAGIC?

t A man known to police as Ricardo Pisano, but whose real identity still remains in doubt, was arrested last month in Southampton following a disturbance in a house. He was taken to Southampton police station where he was identified as wanted for the murder of Michael Polding, who was found dead in his flat in Brighton in July 2012.

There had been an international search for Pisano also known as Ricky, Ree, and Brandon Victor Pillay, who has links to South Africa and New Zealand, after he was believed to have been the last person to see Michael Polding alive.

The search has included liaison with law enforcement agencies and the public via a dedicated website seeking information.

He remains in custody at Brighton and is being interviewed by members of the Surrey and Sussex Major Crime Team.

TORIES SELECT NEW LEADERSHIP TEAM

The show, which follows Gloria making it big, before succumbing to drugs and mental health issues will feature costume changes and tunes, all followed by in-house pianist, and the show's costume designer, Jerome.

Tickets: £10, 100% donated to Sussex Beacon (maximum of 20 tickets per performance).

To book call 01273 325652.

t Brighton Conservatives AGM confirmed Councillor Geoffrey Theobald as group leader in April. He ran unopposed for the top job and is now beginning his third year in charge.

However there is a change in one of the Deputy Leader positions which sees Woodingdean Councillor Dee Simmons replacing Denise Cobb who became Mayor of Brighton & Hove in May. The other Deputy Leader position remains unchanged with Gary Pelzer Dunn continuing in the role.

CLLR GEOFFREY THEOBALD

HELEN MARIE CARTER

PRIDE’S SECOND AMBASSADOR CHOSEN

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LUNCH POSITIVE CELEBRATE NATIONAL VOLUNTEERS WEEK

t Lunch Positive, the charity which provides a weekly lunch club and community space for people with HIV, is developing a three-year business plan to respond to greater numbers of people attending the project and increased need for the service.

The lunch club is provided through a team of 25 volunteers who are helping look at future plans for the project and how to contribute.

The business planning project is being supported in its initial stages by Impetus, the local charity which empowers local people by championing volunteering and strengthening community and voluntary organisations.

EARLY BIRD TICKETS FOR SUSSEX BEACON OPEN GARDENS

THE BRUNSWICK TOWN ART FAIR

t Two artists exhibiting at the third Brunswick Town Art Fair have used the architecture of the city as their inspiration. The fair will be held amongst the Regency splendour of Brunswick Square Gardens, Hove, on Sunday, June 30 and will include the work of over 60 artists.

Gary Pargeter, Project Manager, said: “We continue to see consistent uptake of new people using Lunch Positive, many of whom do not access any other support services locally. The difficult economic climate has shown that many more people are struggling financially – finding difficulty in eating healthily on a regular basis.

Large numbers also find it difficult to meet their peers and find support. As we see more people and respond to greater need it’s essential that everyone has the opportunity to get involved in planning for the future. Along with our members we’ve a great team of people who bring a host of knowledge and skills, and commitment to our future. We are just about to celebrate National Volunteers Week and also our fourth anniversary, so this is a great time to start work on our longer term plans.”

For more information about Lunch Positive, view: www.lunchpositive.org

BUMPER RAFFLE FOR BRIGHTON BEAR WEEKEND

t This year’s Brighton Bear Weekend takes places from Friday, June 28 to Sunday June 30. Registration and a welcome party takes place at Church Street on Friday, June 28 from 8–11pm.

Fundraising during the weekend will benefit the Rainbow Fund which give grants to LGBT/HIV organisations providing frontline services to LGBT people through an independent grants programme, managed independently by the Sussex Community Foundation. The major fundraising effort of the weekend will be a Mega Raffle which takes place at the 'Bears at the Toe' street party at the Camelford Arms on Sunday, June 30 from 3-8pm.

The list of prizes at the moment includes: • Tea for Two at the Grand Hotel, Brighton • A ride on the Brighton Wheel for six adults and two children.

• Beginner's class in stained glass making worth £129, donated by David Lilly of Simply Stained Glass, includes use of tools and all materials • A limited edition erotic print • A painted skull • Two tickets to Sunday Krater Comedy Club at Komedia, Brighton • A hamper of goodies, donated by Jon Summers • Several bottles of bubbly, donated by Jon Summers • Erotic DVD and book • Two tickets for Actually Gay Men's Chorus Pride Show (August 1 2013, St Andrew's Church, Hove) • A copy of the Actually Gay Men's Chorus album Somewhere For Me • £100 cash prize kindly donated by John Summers • A two-hour massage from Chillax Massage (massage can be given in Brighton area or Bournemouth) For more information see: www.brightonbearweekender.com

Spanish artist Alejandro Martinez studied architecture in Seville before moving to Brighton where he found the landscape and sea perfect subjects for his delicate pen and ink drawings.

Brighton artist Adam Regester will be exhibiting his series of classic landmark images at the fair. Intrigued by local and iconic architecture, Adam likes to break down complex images into simple and somewhat naive sketch work, with bold block colour accents.

The event features local artists exhibiting paintings, prints, photographs, cards, ceramics, sculpture and jewellery focusing on high quality but affordable work which is all for sale.

Refreshments will be provided by local businesses and best of all, admission is completely free.

t The Sussex Beacon, the HIV charity, are offering a 20% early bird discount for weekend tickets bought in May and the beginning of June to the Brighton & Hove Open Gardens event taking place on Saturday, June 20 and Sunday, June 30 from 11am. From small city centre courtyards to expansive open spaces, the event sees over 70 private gardens and community spaces open to the public to raise money for the Sussex Beacon.

Gardeners will make you feel at home with a cup of tea, a slice of cake or even lunch and a glass of bubbly across inspiring places in Hove, Montpelier, Fiveways and Roundhill, Preston Park and Surrenden, Stanmer, East of Brighton, Rottingdean, Saltdean and Newhaven.

For more info and to receive the discount, using the code SB2357, view: www.sussexbeacon.org.uk/opengardens

PEER ACTION

t Peer Action, a Brighton-based charity offering peer support for all those living with HIV have another month filled with a wide range of activities to suit all tastes. As well as their regular line up of Yoga, Meditation, Bingo at the Brighton Gala, Games at the Barley Mow, Afternoon Swimming Club and their Therapy Day at the THT buildings in Ship Street, Peer Action are also organising a minibus trip for this year’s Sussex Beacon, Open Gardens (formally known as the Garden Gadabout).

On Sunday, June 30 join Peer Action for a 'through the keyhole' tour around Brighton & Hove's best kept private gardens. Take the leg work out of it and travel by minibus to enjoy tea, home-made cake and even a glass of Pimms. They’ll be stopping off at points around the city to explore some secret garden paradises not normally open to the public. Tickets are £10 and all proceeds from ticket sales go to the Sussex Beacon.

Pick-up at 12 noon from the Big Wheel on Madeira Drive.

For more information on times, places and how to get involved with Peer Action, please visits their website www.peeraction.co.uk

GSCENE 13

RAINBOW FUND REPORTS ON RECENT GRANT FUNDING FOR LGBT GROUPS

PAUL ELGOOD

t During the 2012/13 financial year the Rainbow Fund gave out over £31,000 worth of grants to a wide range of local LGBT groups. The fund receives money from fundraiser supporters throughout the year to provide grants to local groups providing front line services to the local LBGT community. The Rainbow Fund has no salaries to pay, no expenses, no office costs and so all of its activists can wear the same ‘Volunteer’ badge at events. The only overhead relates to the safe receipt and fair distribution of grants by the Sussex Community Foundation, the group's professional advisers. The Rainbow Fund's constitution ensures that donated funds are given out as quickly as possible after receipt, and usually within approximately four months.

Groups and projects funded in 2012/13 include Lunch Positive, LGBT Switchboard, Sussex Beacon, Allsorts, Radio Reverb's Out in Brighton, LGBT Community Safety Forum, GEMS and the provision of maintenance funding for the AIDS Memorial. Each group funded has to report on the outcomes of their grant, and how it benefited the local LGBT community.

Talking about how the funding benefitted their organisation, Helen Jones, Director of MindOut, said: “The Rainbow Fund has enabled MindOut to provide weekly support for 49 people over a year. The group is run by and for LGBT people who experience mental health issues. With the Rainbow Fund grant, we’re able to provide a safe, welcoming, space to share experiences and, give and receive support to each other. This is a vital opportunity for some very isolated people to build social networks, and a rare alternative to the commercial LGBT 'scene'.”

Feedback from users of the service says: “A supportive space to breathe, a break from life, space to talk and think”, “I can express myself without being judged, empathy can go a long way”, "The groups are open, accepting, warm, friendly" Paul Elgood, Rainbow Fund Chairman Paul Elgood, said: “MindOut is an excellent example of how the money donated to the Rainbow Fund is put to good use benefitting the local LGBT community. The money donated to the Rainbow Fund is given out quickly and on a needs-led basis for frontline projects. We have to keep encouraging our supporters to fundraise otherwise there will be no money for the next round of grants, it’s as simple as that. In the coming months we’re looking forward to events such as the Brighton Bear Weekend, Golden Handbags and Pride. Please give generously if you can.”

Donate directly to the Rainbow Fund at: http://localgiving.com/charity/rainbowfund

BRIAN DOWLING

THE NATIONAL DIVERSITY AWARDS 2013

t Nominations have opened for The National Diversity Awards 2013. The awards take place at The Queens Hotel in Leeds on Friday, September 20 and will be hosted by Brian Dowling and Cerrie Burnsell. Categories include Positive Role Model, Community Organisation, and Entrepreneurial of Excellence categories, which are split into age, disability, gender, LGBT and race/faith/ religion. Nominations already received from Brighton & Hove, include: Ludy Roper, Co-Chair of Brighton Bothways, a bisexuality support group, for the Positive Role Model award; Ralph Francis Fox, of My Transsexual Summer, for promoting transgender matters in the media; MindOut, LGBT mental health charity, for supporting the LGBT community of Brighton with mental health issues; Jason Saw, MindOut Senior Practitioner, for developing LGBT suicide prevention and coordinating advocacy and group work services; The Clare Project for providing a safe and confidential place for those who wish to explore gender identity; Men Get Eating Disorders Too in the Gender Category award; Anti-Bullying Charity, Ditch the Label, in the Multi Strand Category; and its founder Liam Hackett, for The Entrepreneurial of Excellence Award. Paul Sesay, Chief Executive of The National Diversity Awards, said: “If ever there was a time to celebrate and elevate the truly staggering diversity of talent the UK has to offer – it is now.”

Nominations close Friday, July 19, and shortlisted nominees will be announced shortly after. To nominate, view: www.nationaldiversityawards.co.uk Or for a nomination form, email: emma@thediversitygroup.co.uk

We are an independent LGBT Forum working with the Community to address and improve safety issues in Brighton & Hove. We hold quarterly public meetings. Please sign up for our news letter at: www.lgbt-safety-forum-brighton.com/newsletter

LGBT SAFETY FORUM AGM

6pm TUES 16th JULY The Queens Hotel, Brighton, BN1 1NS

ALL WELCOME For more info visit: lgbt-safety-forum-brighton.com If you would like register interest in joining the LGBT CSF visit www.lgbt-safety-forum-brighton.com/get-involved/

We would like to send a massive thank you VOTE FOR US to all those who AS BEST VOLUNTARY SECTOR ORGANISATION IN THE attended our GOLDEN HANDBAG IDAHOBIT Event!

AWARDS 2013 REMEMBER TO

ANTI-STIGMA CO-ORDINATOR 21 hours a week £22,000 pro rata (£13,200) _______________________________________ Enthusiastic, creative worker to set up and run an LGB&T mental health anti-stigma project. You will need experience of working with volunteers and running events and be able to work some evenings and week-ends. Lived experience of mental health issues will be viewed positively.

All posts are subject to satisfactory references and enhanced CRB check.

This is a fixed term contract until 31st March 2015. ____________________________________________________

For more details and an application pack please see www.mindout.org.uk or email info@mindout.org.uk or send a large SAE to: MindOut, Community Base, 113 Queens Road, Brighton BN1 3XG Closing date: Wednesday 12th June Interviews will be held on: Monday 17th June Registered Charity No 1140098

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BISHOP OF CHICHESTER ATTENDS GAY CHRISTIAN CONFERENCE IN BRIGHTON

Simon Kirby has been a longstanding committed supporter of equal marriage. Earlier this year, he said: “I support equality because I believe the institution of marriage strengthens families and society, and I think that the benefits of a legally defined marriage should not be excluded to anyone because of their sexuality. I will be doing my utmost to support the cause of equal marriage in Parliament in the weeks and months ahead.”

LANDSLIDE SUPPORT FOR GAY MARRIAGE BILL

t MPs have again voted overwhelmingly in favour of the Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Bill which passed its Third Reading vote in the House of Commons by 366 votes to 161 last month. This was despite what was seen as a wrecking amendment tabled by Tim Loughton, MP for East Worthing and Shoreham who wanted to allow heterosexual sexual people have Civil Partnerships. Government accommodated Mr Loughton’s sudden concerns about equality for everyone with the promise of a separate consultation for this.

The Bill will extend the legal form of marriage to lesbian, gay and bisexual (LGB) people and permit religious denominations to celebrate such marriages should they wish. It now heads to the House of Lords for debate in June.

Bishop Martin said: “Brighton and Hove is the largest concentrated area of LGBT people anywhere in the country. The welcome I received at the event was unquestionably gracious and generous. We should be enormously grateful for the voice that this community brings to our ministry.”

BEN SUMMERSKILL

DR KEITH SHARPE

Nigel Nash, convenor of Brighton & Hove LGCM, said: “We are grateful to Bishop Martin for coming to the conference and for delivering such a positive statement. This offers real hope for future cooperation.”

Rev Sharon Ferguson, Chief Executive of LGCM, said: “It was reassuring to hear the welcoming message from Bishop Martin which was sincere and heartfelt, and his response to the varied questions that were presented was honest even when the answer was not necessarily what the audience wanted to hear. This sort of dialogue allows for both parties to be heard and real progress to be made. I feel confident that a true listening process will be instigated and that the LGBT community in Bishop Martin's diocese will find a welcome within the Church.”

Christina Summers is now an independent Brighton councillor after she was controversially expelled from the Green Party because of her opposition to same-sex marriage, based on her Christian convictions. During a council debate on the issue, she declared: “When you touch marriage, you’re hitting at the very heart of God, and I have an enormous problem with that.”

The supporting speaker for gay marriage will be the Rev David Page, and a colleague of Councillor Summers will also speak against. There will be an opportunity for audience members to ask questions and raise issues with the speakers. Everybody is welcome and entry is free.

For more information, email: keith@changingattitudesussex.com

In answer to questioning Bishop Martin said he was not in favour of gay marriage on theological grounds but he felt the Church needed to find ways to honour gay relationships. These were different from marriage but deserved equally to be respected and valued. He announced that the listening process (listening to the experience of LGBT people) initiated by the 1998 Lambeth Conference, which had not really developed in this diocese, would begin afresh. He also confirmed that being in a civil partnership is not necessarily a bar to ordination.

Dr Keith Sharpe, Chair of Changing Attitude Sussex, commented: “We are delighted that Bishop Martin has committed himself and the Diocese of Chichester to fighting against homophobia and for inclusion. Hopefully the renewed listening process will mean that a real and open dialogue can develop between the Church and the LGBT community. In the light of his remarks about marriage we also hope that Bishop Martin will vote for civil partnerships to be celebrated in Church when this is discussed in the House of Bishops.”

MP SIMON KIRBY

t Changing Attitude Sussex will stage a debate on Gay Marriage on Friday, June 21 at 8pm in St Mary’s Church on the corner of St James’ Street and Rock Gardens, Kemptown, Brighton, in the heart of the gay village. The principal speakers will be Simon Kirby, MP for Kemptown, and Brighton Councillor Christina Summers.

CHRISTINA SUMMERS

t The Right Reverend Dr Martin Warner, the 103rd Bishop of Chichester, addressed the Annual Conference of the Lesbian and Gay Christian Movement (LGCM) at the end of April. His principal message to those present was "You are among friends".

This was the first time a senior Anglican bishop had attended a specific conference of LGBT people. It came in the same week as the Archbishop of Canterbury had meetings with gay rights campaigner Peter Tatchell and also with members of the LGBT Anglican Coalition.

Bishop Martin shared in the opening worship, welcomed the conference to his diocese and took questions. He said that the Diocese of Chichester valued the LGBT community in its midst and that LGBT people have enriched the life of the Church and of the area. He identified himself with the conference strapline, challenging homophobia, creating an inclusive church and told a story about a young person who was suicidal because of his inability to reconcile his faith with his sexuality but who was eventually saved by hearing The Reverend Dr Jeffrey John, the ‘out’ gay partnered Dean of St Albans, speak at a festival. “Brighton is a city full of students and young people, many of whom are similarly vulnerable”, he added.

PUBLIC DEBATE ON 'GAY MARRIAGE' IN BRIGHTON’S GAY VILLAGE

Ben Summerskill, Stonewall Chief Executive, said: “This vote shows MPs are on the public’s side, as poll after poll shows a clear majority of people in Britain support equal marriage. Now that the Bill has cleared the Commons without any of the wrecking amendments tabled by opponents, we hope peers will show the same respect to public attitudes.

“Sadly in recent weeks several peers have expressed deeply unpleasant views about gay people. Stonewall expects one of our toughest fights yet ahead of us.

We’ll continue to work tirelessly every day to help secure this final modest measure of legislative equality."

The Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Bill passed its Second Reading with a majority of 225 votes on February 5. MPs rejected a wrecking amendment - by 375 votes to 70 - during the Bill’s Report Stage in the House of Commons on 20 May. For more information about Stonewall’s campaign for equal marriage, view: http://www.stonewall.org.uk/what_we_do/parliamentary/5714.asp

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t Louise Kerr, a nurse and Masters student of Southampton University, needs your help with conducting research to compare how health and care services differ for older HIV positive and HIV negative men. The research, which forms part of Louise's dissertation, comes at a time when people with HIV are living longer, thus increasing the number of older HIV positive gay men requiring care in the UK. Louise said: “I’m a nurse who has worked in HIV and sexual health services, both in London and in Brighton, for more than 20 years and I have a particular interest in HIV and ageing. This study wants to discover what older HIV-positive gay men believe they will need from health and care services as they grow older. It also wants to see if the needs of older HIV-positive gay men are different to those of older HIV-negative gay men.

“It is hoped the knowledge gained from this research study will help to ensure that future service development has been informed by the views of older gay men. If you are a gay man aged over 65 and you would like the opportunity to think and talk about your health and care concerns, I would love to hear from you.”

To contact Louise, email: ljk2e11@soton.ac.uk or call: 0755 457 6079 All information will be treated confidentially.

THT UNIFORM PARTY AT THE HART

t The Hart Pub in Eastbourne are holding a ‘uniform’ themed night to raise awareness of HIV and sexual health issues and services available locally in June. The themed party at The Hart, 89 Cavendish Place, Eastbourne, is free to attend, starts at 9pm on Saturday, June 29 and will feature a live show from resident drag queen Fonda Cox as well as a selection of music to fill the dance floor. THT staff and volunteers will be on hand throughout the evening, distributing safer sex resources and condoms and answering any questions about contraception, sexual health and getting help locally. More information, view: www.thehart.co.uk

CLLR DENISE COBB

CLLR PHELIM MAC CAFFERTY

COUNCIL'S TRANS MX MIX

t Brighton & Hove Council, much to the chagrin of Daily Mail readers up and down the land, have decided to add the option of ‘Mx’ to all their forms, as a new honorific title. It will be available as an alternative to the usual Mr, Mrs and Ms for anyone to use, but the council had the trans community in mind when coming up with the idea. As part of a package of measures to support trans people in the city following their recent Trans Scrutiny Review, the council have not only approved the use of the new suffix, but are also looking into the option of formfillers being able to simply leave the honorific title box blank Cllr Phelim MacCafferty, Chair of the cross-party Trans Equality Scrutiny Panel, said: “Our trans community is one of the most marginalised groups in Brighton & Hove, and ignorance about the trans community suffocates meaningful discussion about their needs. I’m proud to have proposed and chaired the cross-party panel that worked on addressing this. There has been inadequate awareness of the lives of trans people for too long, and not enough has been done to help our trans residents access services. But these proposals, and ongoing engagement with the trans community will change this. We have a fantastic opportunity to do some truly groundbreaking work and go forward hand in hand with the trans community for a fairer future.”

Cllr Denise Cobb, Conservative Group member on the Panel, said: “I’m pleased to see that there are already improvements being made for trans people as a result of this work in terms of accessing services and I hope that this will continue in the future as we begin to get a better understanding of their needs. I know that other councils have been keeping a close eye on this and so hopefully trans people in other areas of the country will also be able to benefit from this groundbreaking piece of work here in Brighton & Hove.”

To see the list of recommendations and responses as part of the Policy & Resources Committee meeting agenda, view: http://present.brightonhove.gov.uk/ieListDocuments.aspx?CId=689&MId=4090

AVERT RELEASE HIV MYTH BUSTING FACT SHEET

t Avert, the Horsham-based international HIV and AIDS education and prevention charity, have created a Myth Busting Fact Sheet to help people separate the facts and myths about HIV.

The colourful fact sheet, which Avert hope to have placed in as many schools, bars, restaurants and faith centres as possible, has been designed to answer frequently asked questions, including 'how can HIV be transmitted?'.

For more information, view: www.avert.org

TRANS SURVEY

t Julia Walker, a PhD student and Post Graduate Researcher at the University of Huddersfield, is conducting research through an online survey investigating transgender people's experienced of intimate partner violence and abuse. The survey, which has the full ethical approval of the university, takes 10-15 minutes to complete. You must be aged over 18. To complete the online survey, view: www.esurveyspro.com/Su rvey.aspx?id=7a7a3b2c-bd164451-8617-80cf843c0c85 For an overview of the research, view: http://juliakwalker.blogsp ot.co.uk

DISCRIMINATION AT WORK SURVEY

t A survey looking at the experiences of coming out in the work place and discrimination against LGBT people at work has been launched by JobsinBrightonandHove.co.uk Results for the survey, which takes 5 minutes and is treated in the strictest of confidence, will be published this month.

To complete the survey, view: www.jobsinbrightonandhove.co .uk/lgbt-workplace-survey/

BRIGHTON OURSTORY PROJECT TO CLOSE

t Brighton Ourstory, a registered charity, was set up to collect and preserve our lesbian, gay and bisexual (LGB) history.

Their long term aim was to establish an archive in its own premises. Sadly the people who run the organisation have decided to call it a day and have issued the following statement on their website.

“It's over... We are sad to announce that after 24 years of searching out and telling the stories of Brighton's LGB communities and individuals, Brighton Ourstory is unable to continue in this work. Just too tired to go on, we hope we have sown the seeds of interest for those who come after – there is plenty yet to do – and we made a bit of history ourselves.

“We would like to thank all those, too numerous to mention individually here, who have supported Ourstory's work and to apologise to those whom we have been unable to help over the last year, whilst this painful conclusion has been emerging.

"We are currently making arrangements to re-home the items deposited in our archive.

We hope to produce a last newsletter and will be writing to all our Friends individually soon.

It seems likely that the website will continue, so carry on clicking."

To see the Brighton Ourstory website, view: www.brightonourstory.co.uk

Q-TUBE

t The latest episode of Q-Tube, the LGBT programme on Latest TV, is now broadcasting. Jonesy and Torsten take a look at the pinker side of the Brighton Fringe Festival, Torsten goes cruising, Jonesy chats with Phillip Gandey, creative director of The Lady Boys of Bangkok and Steve Bustin from the Fringe shares his thoughts about the importance of LGBT performance in the festival. In The Symposium Frankie, Sharon, Emma and Susan talk about their relationship with gay men. Latest TV is a new community TV station that will commence broadcasting in 2014. You will find the station at channel 8 on the main terrestrial TV menu.

To see the episode, view: www.youtube.com/watch?v=D3z2xMHw QW8&feature=youtu.be

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CALLS FOR CONTRIBUTIONS FOR BRIGHTON CONFERENCE

t Brighton & Sussex Sexualities Network (BSSN) are calling for contributions to its conference, Queer in Brighton: Life Stories, Histories and Differences, which will take place at Brighton University on September 18 at 10am. Co-organised by Queer in Brighton and Brighton Transformed, the conference seeks to work across activist/academic debates in order to develop understandings of LGBT and queer life stories, histories and differences in Brighton and beyond.

Organisers invite presentations, readings, workshops and other interventions that address questions such as: • How is place important to queer politics and LGBT lives?

• What are queer life stories and queer his/her/hir-stories? How are these celebrated/contested? Who is left out of these stories?

• How can we tell our life stories and his/her/hir-stories?

• What does it mean to be/do/practice ‘queer’, ‘now’ and ‘then’?

• How do queer practices and understandings relate to embodied considerations, such as those relating to health?

• What are the norms/canons of queer representation in Brighton and other Sussex heritage sites?

• Is a queer historiography needed to tell a queer history?

• What politics do these themes bring to the table?

Proposals of around 200 words should be made to BSSN@brighton.ac.uk before July 25. For more information, view: www.cmis.brighton.ac.uk/bssn/

DR MARGARETTA JOLLY

NEW PATRON FOR QUEENSPARK

t QueenSpark, Brighton & Hove's very own community publishing venture, has a new patron in the shape of Dr Margaretta Jolly. Dr Jolly, a reader in Cultural Studies at Sussex University, has been a fan of QueenSpark Books since she came across them in the 1990s, and has been involved with them in her other job as Director of the Centre for Life History and Life Writing Research for 15 years.

John Riches, QueenSpark Development Director, said: “We're delighted that Margaretta has agreed to become one of our patrons. Her deep knowledge and expertise in the field of writing and oral history, and her support for our publications and work, will be immensely valuable to us.”

QueenSpark Books are the oldest community-run book publisher in this country having celebrated their 40th birthday last year. This year they plan a new departure when they bring out a new graphic novel in October.

For more information, view: www.queensparkbooks.org.uk/

RORY SMITH

TRANS PROJECT AT QUEENSPARK BOOKS

t QueenSpark, the city’s publisher of local voices, is embarking on a new project to bring the lives and experiences of Brighton & Hove’s Trans community to a wider audience. Called Brighton Transformed, the project will document the life stories of local trans people online, in book form, and also as documentaries to be broadcast on RadioReverb.

Over the course of a year and a half, a team of trained volunteers will record stories from trans contributors, which will then be stored on an online archive.

A book of life stories will also be produced, together with a public exhibition.

This will coincide with the transmission of the radio programmes.

Rory Smith, chair of FTM Brighton, said: “Trans identities are often neglected, re-written or even erased from formal histories. This project is important because, if for no other reason, it says ‘we were here.’”

For more information email the Project Co-ordinator: kathy@queensparkbooks.org.uk

GET FIT AT BLAGSS’ BIG GAY SPORTS DAY

t Those Brighton lads and lasses from Brighton Lesbian & Gay Sports Society (BLAGSS), who are determined to get us all fit and Adonis-like, are giving us a taster of all the sports on offer in the city, handily packaged in one Big Gay Sports Day this month. Taking place at the Stanley Deason Leisure Centre on June 29, almost all the sports you can think of will be there for all to see and try.

Laid Back Lindas can give yoga and tai chi a go, Sporty Sidneys will get a kick out of tennis and volleyball, while Bulging Berthas will be well at home with boxing and ‘bootcamp’. In addition there will be badminton, trampolining, ju-jitsu, walking, cycling, golf, petanque, football, softball, beach volleyball, rock-climbing, squash, and just plain stretching and exercising.

BLAGSS is the city’s largest LGBT group and, having formed nearly 20 years ago, must now be responsible for many a bulging Brighton muscle. They run over 700 sports events throughout the year, but if you’re too nervous to plunge in at the deep end, this taster day is a perfect ‘in’ for everyone, young and old.

It’s part of the council’s now established Take Part Festival, happening around town from June 22 to July 7. The Big Gay Sports Day will be a social occasion too, with the midday meal being provided by Lunch Positive, the HIV charity who provide nutritious meals for people with HIV once a week and there will be a lovely big ramble at the end of the day up on the South Downs with BLAGSS most popular group, the Walkers.

BLAGSS Big Gay Sports Day is at the Stanley Deason Leisure Centre, Wilson Avenue, Brighton, June 29, from 10am–6pm. It’s a ‘turn up on the day’ event. Entry is a £2 donation to MindOut, the LGBT mental health charity.

For more information view: www.blagss.org and www.brightonhove.gov.uk/takepart

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IDAHOBIT DAY

IDAHOBIT OLD STEINE BRIGHTON

t This year’s IDAHOBIT Day drew a larger crowd than usual to the Old Steine in Brighton last month. IDAHOBIT commemorates the day in 1990 when the World Health Organisation (WHO) removed homosexuality from its list of mental disorders. In 86 countries globally, homosexual acts remain illegal while in many countries lesbians, gay men, bisexuals and those who identify as trans (LGBT) are sometimes murdered simply for their sexuality or gender identity. The theme of this year’s IDAHOBIT Day was mental health.

It was unfortunate that this year’s event played out to a background of live musicians playing to a handful of alcohol drinkers outside the Spiegeltent also on the Old Steine.

The Rainbow Chorus opened and closed the event. Guest speakers included Simon Kirby MP (Conservative), Caroline Lucas MP (Greens), Police Crime Commissioner Kay Bourne, Cllr Warren Morgan (new Labour group Leader on Brighton & Hove Council), Cllr Dee Simpson (Conservative deputy leader on Brighton & Hove Council) and Cllr Bill Randall the Mayor of Brighton & Hove.

Speakers from the community included: Simon Dowe, chief executive of the Sussex Beacon; Kate Web and Becky from MindOut; David Pleavin from the student union; Stephanie Scott from The Clare Project; Rory Smith the LGBT Liaison Officer for Sussex Police; Candice Armah a BME student union rep; Jo Rowland Stuart from Regard; Malcolm Short from LGBT Switchboard; Ludy Roper from Brighton Bothways; Stephen and Lucas from Allsorts youth project; Sarah Savage from Trans Pride and Maria Baker from the LGBT Community Safety Forum.

The event was organised by the LGBT Community Safety Forum and hosted by its chair, Billie Lewis. Half way through everyone present engaged in a minute of noise. There was a balloon launch at the end of the event and the THT outreach service provided hot drinks.

To mark the day, Brighton & Hove City Council flew the rainbow flag from its headquarters at Kings House in Hove. Barclays Bank marked the day with posters and rainbow flags in all their Brighton Branches.

VINCE LAWS

BANNED POET PERFORMS IN LONDON

t Vince Laws, controversial poet and artist, performed at Incite, an evening of LGBT poetry and in house jazz, at the Phoenix Artist Club in London last month. Vince took his This Pope Is Pants, Mental Helmet and Queen Never plaques along to the event, which was hosted by Trudy Howson and featured LGBT poets, performance artists and open-mic opportunities.

Vince's living poem This Pope is Pants was banned from Brighton's Jubilee Library in February during LGBT History Month, prior to the Pope resigning. A council spokesperson at the time, said: “Whilst we support artistic expression, we have to strike a balance between controversial work being exhibited in an exhibition in the foyer of a public library and not offending other library users or their religious beliefs. Where possible we accommodate artists,but our overall display policy is not to promote a particular religious view or cause library users offence.”

In April, two months later, the city council agreed to let March For England fascists march on the seafront, bringing the city to a standstill and decimating business for seafront traders. This was despite a large and vocal opposition from local residents and anti fascist-supporters to their presence in the city.

For more information about Vince Laws, view: www.vincelaws.com

MARINE TAVERN BAKE OFF RAISES FUNDS FOR MINDOUT COULD YOU GIVE A CHILD A FOSTER HOME?

t Foster carers, gay or straight, are always desperately needed. It is estimated that a further 9,000 foster families are needed across the country in the next year alone, with a particular need for people to foster teenagers, sibling groups and disabled children.

The Fostering Network charity commissioned a new survey into the state of foster caring in the UK and the results are scary. It showed that existing carers are having to take in more and more children due to the lack of new families volunteering. This is not good for a child as it means that they will ultimately have to be moved yet again when a more suitable place is found for them.

The shortage also means that children are being moved too far away from their families, are unnecessarily split up from siblings, and are forced to move schools.

Clare Marshall, care leaver, said: “I lived in 42 different homes in five years as a very young child, but when I was eight I went to a foster carer who is now my mum to me.

I've had stability since then but it's also been extremely difficult to get over the trauma of my early years.”

Anyone wanting to find out more about fostering, view: www.fostering.net/could-youfoster#.UZyuy-ukDeA Or contact their local council's fostering service.

t Jamie Jones, barman at the Marine Tavern, hands over a cheque for £175 to Helen Jones, the director of MindOut, the mental health project. The proceeds were raised from the Great Bake Off held in April. Regulars at the Marine Tavern paid a fee to enter their cakes into the competition and afterwards slices of the cake were sold off to customers.

Eleven cakes were entered and the winner was Paul Samuels who baked beautiful pink fairy cakes in the shape of ladies’ stiletto shoes. Paul donated his cash prize winnings and along with the slices of cake sold, a total of £175 was raised for MindOut, the LGBT mental health charity, Local entertainer, Miss Jason was joined in her judging duties by the landlord’s mother, Rose and Sgt Alex Evans from Sussex Police. More info about MindOut view: www.mindout.org.uk

MARATHON RUNNERS SUPPORT MINDOUT

t In April a team of runners ran the Brighton Marathon for MindOut, the LGBT mental health project raising an impressive £3,500 for the charity.

The runners were Michael Gaunt, Linda Morrish and Adam Cox. Helen Jones, Director of MindOut said: “What a brilliant effort! Thank you on behalf of everyone at MindOut.” More information about MindOut, view: www.mindout.org.uk

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THE KEEP IS COMING!

SUBLINE WIN THE GOLDEN QUIZ

t Subline bar and club came out top of the brains list at the annual Golden Quiz at Charles Street last month. Seventeen teams from the business, voluntary and statutory sectors battled it out to win the first Golden Handbag Oscar of the season and in the process raised £400 for the Rainbow Fund.

Golden Quiz virgins from the council's Partnership Community Safety Team were given a warm welcome while the police team were the butt of some of Lola's cruelest jokes. James Brooks created the questions for the quiz and along with Huw Edwards and Ian Mager-Playford were the invigilators when it came to checking the marks. Team Camelford Arms came a close second and Team Gscene came in third.

Special thanks to Charles Street, Kat and the staff for hosting the night on behalf of the Rainbow Fund, an independent LGBT fund administered by the Sussex Community Foundation who gives grants to LGBT and HIV organisations who provide front line services to the LGBT community in Brighton & Hove.

STONEWALL RAISE £65,000 ON BRIGHTON WALK

t Over 800 Stonewall supporters took to the streets of Brighton for the 10th annual Equality Walk last month. The annual fundraiser, supported by American Express and Square Peg Media, made over £65,000. Stonewall will use the funds to support its new DVD film for primary schools, FREE, which will help strengthen the charity’s campaign against homophobic bullying. This year's host, local comic Zoe Lyon, was joined for a picnic in the Royal Pavilion Gardens by hundreds of families and fundraising teams. MPs John Bercow, Caroline Lucas, Simon Kirby and the Mayor of Brighton & Hove, Bill Randall, attended the 10k walk, which ended at sea-front bar Coalition where Zoe congratulated the top fundraising team (PwC, who made nearly £2,700) and the best individual fundraiser, Jason Sloan, who made over £1,000 and won a weekend in Paris courtesy of American Express.

Wes Streeting, Stonewall Head of Education, said: “We're bowled over by how hard our 800 walkers worked to raise such a huge sum for our anti-bullying work.

While we all enjoyed the sunshine, we always keep in mind the fact that over half of gay young people in Britain face a gloomy nightmare of homophobic bullying at school. Every penny raised this weekend will help us make sure those young people can look forward to better days."

Stonewall’s new DVD for primary schools, FREE, will help teachers tackle homophobia, which is one of the most common causes of bullying in primary schools. The film follows the success of the charity’s popular secondary school film FIT, which was distributed to every secondary school in Britain. Playwright Rikki Beadle-Blair produced FIT and has returned to work on Free, which is currently in production and will be released later this year.

t The Keep is a new historical resource centre for East Sussex and the Brighton & Hove Unitary Authority. Its conservators will collect, protect and connect with Brighton & Hove’s ancient and often unique heritage. The facility which is being built on land close to the University of Brighton at Moulsecomb, will be opening to the public in November 2013. To find it drive along the Lewes Road and turn left under the new flyover. Bus stops are being organised as we speak.

In 1997 Brighton & Hove became a Unitary Authority, but its own archives, historic and modern, remained integrated into the archives of East Sussex County all currently housed at the East Sussex Records Office in Lewes, crammed into a listed former malthouse, The Maltings.

Following an inspection in 2006, The National Archives condemned The Maltings as "not fit for purpose" and threatened to move the archive material ”If a better facility could not be provided within the county.”

The Keep is the brand new, purpose built, spectacularly modern and up to date building that has emerged after this historical crisis. It will store and shelter, conserve and preserve, all of the archives, documents, and historical records of Brighton & Hove, including written records, prints, maps, photographs, oral histories and includes manuscripts by Rudyard Kipling and Virginia Woolf.

The University of Sussex's Special Collections, including the records of the Mass Observation Project, will be housed there. The Sussex Family History Group will also be based in the building, and will move its library there from Brighton Museum.

The Keep has six miles of temperature controlled underground storage. Even after all of the East Sussex and Brighton & Hove archives have been moved in, it is estimated that a third of the storage space will still be available. Research facilities, including bar code digitalisation linked to computers, will be provided for public use. Educational visits by volunteer groups, societies and schools will also be welcomed. On the light and roomy ground floor there are public reading and study rooms and a recording centre for oral histories. Conservation and archive preservation laboratories are on the first floor and a separate Energy Centre on the top floor.

Electricity will be generated from photovoltaic panels, turning rainwater into usable water and generating heat from a 'biomass' boiler which will help The Keep meet its aim of being "the most sustainable archive building in the country'.

A user group has been set up and an all inclusive information drive has begun to tell the citizens of Brighton & Hove of all hues, green, blue, red, yellow and rainbow of The Keep's long awaited arrival.

OUR LOVE IS THE SAME LOVE

t Couples! Do you fancy having your portrait taken in the comfort of your own home for free? If so, photography student Will Corder is working on a community-based photography project called Same Love and needs same-sex couples in the area to be sitters.

The project, initially confined to Bournemouth, now spread east, was inspired by a quote from Stonewall: "Long-term gay relationships are being publicly compared to 'bestiality', 'slavery' and 'child abuse' by opponents of equal marriage who will stop at almost nothing to prevent Britain's lesbian, gay and bisexual people from enjoying this last measure of equality."

Corder has decided to fight back with his camera and to make a body of work which can be shown in local public spaces like libraries and schools in the area where the photos were taken. He said: "Same sex couples are no different to any others. I want to show them for what they are – caring relationships between two people. Gay, straight, or otherwise, it's the same love."

If you are interested in becoming a subject for Corder, view: www.sameloveproject.co.uk/

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PEER ACTION Holistic Therapy Sessions Peer Action, a local support group for all those living with or affected by HIV, bring people together, to break down stigma and help people develop and move forward in their lives through a variety of social activities. Peer Action recognises that many people living with HIV could greatly benefit from some form of holistic therapy, which has been proven to be particularly effective on an emotional, mental and physical level. However, Peer Action also understands that some people may feel unsure about joining one of their holistic groups for the first time, worried about what the individual treatments or classes involve. Peer Action invited Peers, Dan, Phil, Matt and some of the therapist from Active Lightworks and Pathways to Health, to say a little about their chosen therapy. In doing so, they hope to break down some of the myths about holistic therapies, as well as highlighting the many benefits of joining any one of the groups. For more information on how to access any of the above activities, pleases visit the Peer Action website: www.peeraction.co.uk

DAN: YOGA PRACTITIONER The need to take care of one’s health and wellbeing may be a little more emotionally charged for the individual with an HIV positive status, or even be a source of anxiety sometimes. It's possible, but not necessarily the case that the body may sometimes feel like a source of locked in frustration, tension and worry; like it has failed you in some way. Yoga is about the exact opposite of all that, it’s about opening up the body, unpicking tightness, shaking loose restriction. Yoga can help us to find ownership, fluidity, strength and courage in our physicality, so that our inner being, perhaps paradoxically, is less troubled by the limitations of the body.

In the Peer Action yoga class, these inherent qualities of yoga are perhaps emphasised a little more at times. We focus often on physically empowering, ‘heroic’ and uplifting poses such as Warrior. If that sounds daunting, it shouldn't, all the yoga postures/asana are practised within the safe boundaries of each individual’s abilities.

Periods of illness, and sometimes combination therapy, can lead to fatigue, nausea, digestive upsets, and extra tight muscles; so any yoga class, aimed at people who have positive status should promote and encourage deep belly breathing and visualisations to relax the digestive system.

Recuperative and restful postures should be included sometimes, and gentler modifications of all stronger asana offered to anyone who needs them. We want to promote a more loving relationship with the body, viewing it as friend not foe.

At the Peer Action yoga class, I take care to include a range of different postures in each class. We welcome newcomers, irrespective of experience or ability. The class is open to friends, family and partners of anyone who is HIV+ and by attending you will help to keep this important service alive.

CLAIR: SHIATSU PRACTITIONER I became a shiatsu practitioner through a gradual evolution and intertwining of my pleasures and interests: learning t'ai chi and chi gung, receiving acupuncture and developing an interest in Chinese Medicine's perspective on health and sickness and learning massage. I’ve now been a qualified shiatsu practitioner for 15 years.

Shiatsu is a therapy that connects deeply with others through touch, through your clothes. It works on the energetic system connecting with the meridians (energy channels/ pathways) through stretches, rotations of the joints, palm and thumb pressure and still holding. It’s a very sensitive and flexible technique and each treatment is a unique response to the particular person receiving the treatment. The aim is to bring the receiver’s energetic system into greater balance, bringing energy where it is lacking, dispersing areas where it has become blocked and increasing a sense of harmonious flow.

Receivers will usually find a treatment very relaxing and nurturing. It has a great value in enhancing the receiver’s awareness of their own condition and a course of treatment can be a catalyst for self-reflection and personal change.

For those living with HIV, a shiatsu treatment can be an experience of being recognised and supported. The treatment focuses on the meridians where deep touch is most welcome and this feels very nurturing, giving a sense of a need met.

ANDY SWAN: NO HANDS MASSAGE Over the years I have participated in a number of highly physical sports, including, kick boxing and martial arts. As a consequence I wanted to know more about how the body worked and muscles functioned and what type of therapies were available to help combat sports injuries. In 2008, I undertook a course in sports and massage and

activated stretching at the The London School of Sports Massage (LSSM) which fired up my interest in the power of sport and holistic therapies. During this time I was aware of repetitive strain injuries in my own hands which inspired me to develop my sports therapy knowledge so I could help people from a wide range of backgrounds, not just within the sports group.

From here I was introduced to No Hands Massage, founded by Gerry Pyves. No Hands Massage puts the client at the centre of the therapy, which I’ve found particularly helpful for people living with long term conditions like HIV. Instead of asking where the client’s aches and pains are, the No Hands Massage treatment works on not just the physical, (using the full length of your forearms rather than your hands and fingers) but on the mental and emotional side of the client too. For example the session begins by asking the client how they wish to feel by the end of session and they may reply, ‘more energised, pain free or looser in their joints.’ From here I’m able to help focus the client as we work together in improving not only their physical wellbeing, but also their emotional, mental and spiritual, energetic side.

YAMINA: INTEGRATED ENERGY THERAPIST I’ve always been interested in alternative therapies because of their holistic approach. I embarked on a personal journey to address some issues linked to childhood traumas when I attended my training course in integrated energy. My opening up to energy work has improved my wellbeing and taught me a useful set of tools.

I’ve been practising since I graduated in June 2012 from a three year training course.

Integrated Energy Therapy involves the transfer of energy by placing my hands on specific areas of the recipient’s clothed body. The energy helps clear away physical, mental, emotional and spiritual blockages within the body. I believe that energy work can support HIV patients when they experience fatigue or feel worn out. A session of energy work also helps facilitate a deep connection with the body and helps support those living with HIV in ‘recharging their batteries’.

GETHYN: THE BOWEN TECHNIQUE. Fourteen years ago, when I started a four year course in acupuncture, and for the last three years I have been doing The Bowen Technique, a restful treatment consisting of a series of gentle moves. The first benefit is relaxation and release of stress, physical and emotional, which helps allow the body to function better, making it an ideal treatment for many of the symptoms related to HIV.

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MATT: HYPNOTHERAPY NEURO-LINGUISTIC PROGRAMMING For years I’ve been curious about the power of the mind, and now I'm more fascinated than ever about the effect it has on the body. I've studied Hypnotherapy Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) and Life Coaching, and have first-hand experience of how these therapies have helped both myself and other people make useful and lasting changes in their lives.

I believe that the therapy I’m involved in has the potential to benefit many people living with HIV. A new diagnosis can leave some people feeling scared, lonely, anxious and depressed about their future, and these are the areas where I believe we can work together to improve their confidence and self-esteem, set goals for their future and coach them towards achieving them.

Adherence to taking medication correctly is an area in which I believe Hypnotherapy and NLP has the potential to help. By integrating these three therapies my intention is to help HIV+ clients improve their adherence and feel good about the future.

PHIL: MEDITATION FACILITATOR Meditation helps focus the mind which leads to stress reduction, heightened self-awareness, being able to tune out distractions, more control over your feelings and emotions, helps you see and accept things for what they are, more energy to get things done, easier to make decisions, helps reduce anxiety, gives us control over the endless flow of thoughts about the past and the future that constantly floods most of our minds so that we can enjoy the present.

Meditating together with other people enhances the experience. For people with isolation or social anxiety issues it provides a non-threatening, unconditionally accepting social environment where you can talk to other people if you want to or you can just meditate and not talk to anyone, but either way you're not physically isolated.

Each week Phil will concentrate on a different form of meditation, from transcendental meditation, mindfulness meditation, chakra meditation, visualisation meditation, music meditation, movement meditation. Some of these techniques are rooted in Buddhist traditions, others are used in counselling and self-help techniques; some are just scientific ways of calming the mind. In fact, they all boil down to focusing the mind and enjoying the calm and insight that comes with it. There's no need to adhere to any specific religion or philosophy for meditation to work.

PET MASSAGE Sarah’s story – or how a grumpy dog turned back into a Diva who loves massage by Dr Les Ellam We have two collie/spaniel dogs: brother and sister, Sam and Sarah. We were warned that they would develop obsessive behaviour so knew what to expect. As it happened they developed different obsessions. Sam discovered seagulls, which is fortunate as we live right by the beach. His goal in life is to chase each and every seagull in Sussex, barking at the top of his voice. Why? We’ve never figured that out. He hasn’t a hope of catching them unless he develops wings. But the smile on his face as he runs, weaving up and down the beach, in and out of the sea is enough reason (and pleasure) for us.

Sarah isn’t so fussed with seagulls; instead she discovered the delights of tennis balls.

Being a good dad (or so I thought at the time), I used to encourage her by carrying a ball in every pocket and constantly giving in to her demands of “Throw it dad… now”.

They’re only six years old, but at the start of the year we noticed that Sarah was beginning to stiffen as she got up or walked up stairs after a heavy ball-playing session. I’m a qualified masseur so automatically used to rub her down after such a session but didn’t really know what I was doing dog-wise (dogs are different from humans, they have more legs and their muscles are in different places!).

We attended an Introduction to Canine Massage workshop and took Sam and Sarah for practice. Although they’re siblings they’re surprisingly different. Sam is a ‘normal dog’ – you can pick up his skin, it’s loose. He has soft fur. Sarah was quite abnormal. Her skin was like it was superglued to her and wouldn’t pick up and her fur was like a loo brush.

This was a classic case of the ‘good’ dad being a ‘bad’ dad and causing unknown injury by constantly throwing the ball. Because her exercise was largely jumping (rather than Sam’s weaving and running) she developed what would be called a stiff neck and back in human terms – a VERY stiff back. Because her

skin was so adhered, her fur was suffering as well and was becoming coarse and loo brushlike. We were shown a few simple techniques to use on her: skin rolling and lifting the adhered skin to allow fresh nutrients to circulate, plus some other basic techniques.

Sarah loved them and instead of having to chase her around, she began to demand a massage… daily, hourly, all the time. Yes, a new obsession, but a healthy one this time.

After just one week we noticed the difference in her skin; it was getting easy to lift. After a month it wasn’t just her skin and fur but her personality which had changed. She was now back to the bright eyed, happy, loving dog we started out with and not the grumpy, tired dog she had become. This change wasn’t only visible to us. The groomer and dog walker both asked what we’d done with the ‘old’ Sarah as this ‘new’ model seemed so much better. The groomer in particular said that when she used to cut Sarah’s fur it was like sandpaper but is now like running a hot knife through butter.

CHILLED MASSAGE DIVA DOG Several months later and we definitely have our girl back. She drives her brother mad by constantly chasing him. She sleeps with both eyes closed in a total relaxed state. She still gets a ball, but on my terms and for limited times only. The bad dad has learned to be a good dad through canine massage. Okay we now have a Massage Diva but we can live with that. This is what convinced me to train as a professional in canine massage and qualify as a practitioner. Hopefully my skills can now be put to use on more dogs and give the same new quality of life our Sarah has.

For more information please check out the AchyPaw website: www.achypaw.com or call 07544 844120

22 GSCENE they awarded her the titles of Hygienist of the Year in December 2012.

Christina said: “For many years I’ve had a vision of changing the industry and empowering the patient by making dental hygiene accessible to all. The introduction of Direct Access means that the general public can now see a dental hygienist without having to be referred by a dentist. This is great! Not only will it undoubtedly improve access to dental care to those who are nervous of the dentist or feel that finance is an issue, but will also give patients the freedom to book dental hygiene treatment when desired rather than when advised.”

On Wednesday, May 1 when the rules changed, I was Christina's first customer for a dental hygiene check up and treatment. The Spa is modern and fresh and feels nothing like a dentist's surgery. Some people, including me, have a fear of going to the dentist. All I can say is that I found my visit to the Spa very relaxing and just what the doctor ordered. As a diabetic it is important to keep my mouth clean and healthy and just being able to drop in without worrying about a dental visit will make that much easier. I relaxed on a comfortable sofa while I waited to be seen and once in the chair all the equipment was modern and up to date.

A MODERN DAVID AND GOLIATH STORY

There is a nursery for children so mothers can be checked while the kids play. In 2009 Christina opened a children's clinic called Spa Kids, one of only three dental clinics in the south of England with state of the art Oral Insights technology. Oral Insights lets children watch on screen as they clean their own teeth, highlighting problem areas and teaching children how to brush their teeth properly before bad habits set in.

Local business woman, Christina Chatfield, takes on the dental establishment and triumphs!

Christina and the Dental Health Spa has been short listed in the Brighton & Hove Business awards for Best Customer Service on June 6.

In 2003 the Consumers Association instigated the biggest ever super complaint against the private dentistry industry. The Office of Fair Trading (OFT) investigated and recommended transparency of pricing, choice and most importantly the removal of the monopoly of dentists being the only ones to manage the business of dentistry. They also recommended the General Dental Council (GDC) should review the 'under a prescription rule' and consider whether dentists should be obliged to inform consumers of their choice. However, the OFT had no power to enforce their recommendations.

Christina Chatfield, along with two business partners hoping to benefit from the recommendations, set up the country's first high street Dental Health Spa on Queen’s Road in Brighton in 2007. She was passionate about making dental hygiene treatment available to everyone from a high street location but the rules meant that customers still needed to be referred by a dentist which made the financial viability of her business model fragile. So Christina spent the next six years campaigning for the proposed changes to happen. On Wednesday May 1, 2013 they did. Christina's battle to make dental hygiene available to everyone without seeing a dentist changed with the introduction of Direct Access.

This is a classic David and Goliath story but in the intervening years, while Christina campaigned for the changes, she lost her two business partners along the way, her bank wobbled and she was forced to sell her house to keep the business going while waiting for Direct Access to be implemented.

Thanks to Christina's perseverance, seeing a hygienist has now become as easy as seeing an optician or going to the supermarket. Now you can pop into the Dental Health Spa while you’re out shopping and have your teeth cleaned and gums treated without a dentist’s prescription.

Historically every member of a dental team had to work on the prescription of a dentist. This meant that to see a hygienist you first had to be seen by a dentist with the costs that this involved.

Christina who is passionate about empowering the patient and giving them choices can be thanked for championing this change in the rules which has finally brought real competition to the dental hygiene industry. Christina’s work in the area of Direct Access and her passion to raise awareness to the benefits of seeing a hygienist were recognised by her peers nationally (Dental Hygiene & Therapists) when

Be 100% kissable and follow/like Christina on Twitter and Facebook to win a free air polish. www.twitter.com/dentalhealthspa or www.facebook.com/dentalhealthspa Full information about the services offered: www.dentalhealthspa.co.uk You can find the Dental Health Spa at 14-15 Queen’s Road, Brighton Tel: 01273 710831

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FOSTERING Nicola Hill, author of the Pink Guide to Adoption and Proud Parents: Lesbian And Gay Fostering And Adoption Experiences, explains how she went from writing a book to fostering two children

NICOLA & LAURA

When I was researching my book, The Pink Guide to Adoption, I realised that there was actually a huge need for long-term foster carers, particularly for older children and siblings. The Fostering Network estimates that an extra 9,000 foster carers are needed.

My partner, Laura, and I wanted to have a family, so we decided to explore this as an option.

We were called the following day and our assessment started promptly.

THE ASSESSMENT We had to go through each year of our lives remembering anything significant and how it made us feel and what we had learned from it. We also discussed our relationship and previous relationships. They wanted to know about our parenting styles. It was a useful overview of our lives and gave us time to reflect. They also interviewed people we had nominated as referees.

Even though we were supposedly fast-tracked because of the potential match with the two children, it still took six months for us to be approved. I’m glad to say we didn’t encounter any homophobia in the process.

TRAINING Long-term foster care is similar to adoption, in that children are placed with you on a permanent basis and they will not go back to their parents. The differences are that you usually have some contact with parents and possibly other family members. You don’t have legal responsibility for the children but day-to-day authority is delegated to you. You have more involvement with social services or the independent fostering agency, with regular meetings and reviews. You also get an allowance to cover the costs of looking after the children.

OUR FIRST STEP Three years ago, we went to the local authority’s fostering open evening, wondering if we would be the only lesbian couple. In fact, we were the only people who turned up.

Two social workers and a foster carer gave us useful information but we didn’t commit ourselves to anything. By chance, as we were leaving one of the social workers asked if either of us spoke a specific European language, as she was trying to place two children who were dual heritage. My partner used to teach this language and I have conversational ability. The children, a boy aged 7 and a girl aged 11, also needed to be the only or youngest children in the household, be placed with two white carers and remain in the borough. We fulfilled all of these criteria.

We went on a four-day preparation course about fostering regulations, safer caring and the issues and challenges we might face.

We also went on the Fostering Changes course. It has been invaluable, helping us to manage challenging behaviour, praise the behaviour we want to see, create ‘special time’ to play with the children, set boundaries and establish rewards and consequences.

INTRODUCTIONS We had a three-week introduction to the children. On the first day, we went to the park. We were very excited as they seemed really sweet and very chatty.

Over the three weeks, we went out for longer visits with them, playing tennis, going out for a meal and then they came for a sleepover. It was exhausting as it is such an emotional experience, thinking these children are going to be such a major part of your life.

MOVING IN The children moved in during a half-term and we planned lots of activities, going to a

nature park, the cinema, the seaside, swimming, tennis and cycling as well as helping them decorate their rooms. We were completely exhausted by the end of the week and very glad that they were of school age so that we could recover!

After ten days, our foster son had a serious accident at school, which meant we had to spend two nights in hospital with him and then a week off school, followed by a lot of physical care for the next two months. Our lives became even more complicated but it gave us a good chance to bond with him.

OUR LIVES TOGETHER The children have settled in very well with us, they are affectionate, lively, confident and talk about our future together.

It has been very hard sometimes, establishing boundaries, managing contact with parents, which happens four times a year and dealing with social services.

We have had some great experiences together, particularly during the holidays.

We have been to America, the Canary Islands and France several times. We also went to the Olympics and Paralympics last summer and hope to go to the Commonwealth Games next year.

The children also go to PGL activity camps twice a year, which they enjoy. It gives us a much needed rest. On a weekly basis, the children take part in lots of activities including cricket, tennis, piano, drama, cycling and karate. We also go to events organised by New Family Social, a support group for LGBT adopters and foster carers.

The children are both doing well at school.

The deputy head stopped me in the playground the other day and said how much our son has blossomed. Our daughter is very popular with the teachers – they all want her to take their options at GCSE level. I’ll stop as I’m beginning to sound like a proud parent!

USEFUL RESOURCES • Proud Parents: Lesbian & Gay Fostering & Adoption Experiences www.baaf.org.uk/bookshop/book_Proud_Parents • The Pink Guide to Adoption www.baaf.org.uk/bookshop/book_pinkguide • Fostering Network www.fostering.net/ • New Family Social www.newfamilysocial.org.uk/

LGBT CHILDREN, YOUNG PEOPLE AND FAMILIES DAY

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phobia from many communities, not only the heterosexual community but the LGT ones too.

Many people don’t realise bi people have specific needs and think we just fall into the LGT categories. That’s really not the case; bi young people face a very different range of issues and therefore need very different support.”

Gscene takes a look at the services that are available in Brighton and the South East for young people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans or unsure of their sexual orientation and/or gender identity ADDITIONS TO ALLSORTS GROUPS

ALLSORTS YOUTH PROJECT Allsorts Youth Project is based in Brighton and works with young people aged 13-25 who identify as LGBT or are unsure of their sexual orientation and/or gender identity (LGBTU).

Its mission is to campaign, train and support. Allsorts are aware from schools’ data and their own research that LGBT young people experience bullying, isolation and/or stigmatisation. The impact of this on their mental health and self-confidence can be devastating.

A recent survey by Allsorts highlighted that 10% of LGBTU young people attempted suicide, 28% contemplated suicide, 23% selfharmed and 10% had been homeless.

ALLSORTS DROP-IN In order to support vulnerable and at risk LGBT young people the project has a weekly Drop-In every Tuesday evening. Along with this they provide support, social and campaign groups as well as 1-2-1 support and homophobia workshops which they carry out in schools and colleges across Brighton & Hove. The groups meet at a central Brighton location. For more information please email: info@allsortsyouth.org.uk

The newest services, Transformers and the Bi Network, were both launched last year.

Transformers, has been a great success with an average of 12 people attending every month. It provides young trans people with a safe and secure environment where they can access support, guidance and have freedom to be themselves. In May 2013, Allsorts was awarded £130,000 from Comic Relief and Children in Need to develop and expand Transformers.

Social group, Bi Network, provides a safe and specific space for young people who are bisexual, pan/omni/polysexual, queer or see their sexual orientation as fluid.

Mel Berry, the Bi Network Co-ordinator, said: “Being a bi young person may be seen as being ‘cool’. In reality it’s very different, identifying as bi means you can experience

ALLSORTS 1-2-1 SUPPORT Male, female, trans and bi Youth Support and Sessional Workers provide one-to-one support whenever it is needed. This is sometimes in Drop-In or can often be on a different day agreed by the young person and worker. The Youth Support Workers provide a listening ear on issues such as transitioning, sexual health, relationships, coming out and much more.

Likewise, Allsorts has a TAPA (Teen to Adult Personal Advisor - CAMHS community psychiatric nurse) worker who also conducts one-to-ones for young people experiencing acute distress.

YOUNG PEOPLE’S VOICE In January 2012, Allsorts launched the new engagement project Young People’s Voice for LGBT young people who are passionate about campaigning. They represent LGBT youth by promoting awareness of their issues and rights in the wider community. They engage with LGBT youth on a number of platforms so YOUNG PEOPLES VOICE

LGBT YOUTH SUPPORT

Mel’s perspective on the group is: “As much as it is a place of support, it is also a place to have fun and meet like-minded young people.”

GSCENE 25 In a follow-up survey of the long-term impact of their LGBT awareness workshops, all schools, colleges and youth projects agreed that the workshops helped create a more LGBT inclusive environment at their organisation.

they can get their voices and experiences heard.

One of the main ways they campaign is through the use of social and digital media such as Facebook and Twitter. They ran two short campaigns using social and digital media including the What Can Schools Do Better campaign for the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT). This year their campaign I am... was an even bigger success working alongside LGBT Youth Project STARS on the south coast.

In Brighton & Hove, they have worked in partnership with the Healthy Schools Team to design and deliver PSHE workshops for students and training for staff in various local secondary and primary schools. Training for staff has included how to challenge homophobic language (for example, use of the word ‘gay’ as an insult) and how to support LGBTU young people.

They also helped the Healthy Schools Team to update their PSHE resource All of Us which aims to promote discussion among students around the issues of sexual orientation and gender identity. Last year the Peer Educators work was recognised in the National vInspired Awards when they won Best Team for the south east region.

ALLSORTS RESOURCES Allsorts also create powerful and colourful LGBT youth resources such as posters and books about their experiences which they distribute throughout the UK. Books include Different & Beautiful, an anthology of writings by Allsorts young people; Healthy Heads & Hearts, a mental health support and resource booklet; and Blue Deep Sea, an anthology of writings by LGB young people from Allsorts.

They have also created bi/trans and homophobia posters, as well as a Me, Myself & I postcard. Their sexual health leaflets include Sex, Love & Coming Out, a guide for girls who like girls.

To download pdfs or order resources view: www.allsorts.org.uk

ALLSORTS RECEIVE FUNDING FOR TRANS WORK

In February the Campaigns Co-ordinators put on the first LGBT Children, Young People and Families Day with the theme of Togetherness. This included three events: Tea Party, LGBT Youth Prom and Champions dinner. Next year they plan to make an even bigger impact in the city with a particlar focus on schools and partnering with LGBT youth projects across the UK.

ALLSORTS PRIDE 2012

In the past few years Allsorts have significantly expanded their Peer Education and Outreach programme to schools, colleges and youth projects. In 2010/11, 17 LGBT young people have been trained as peer educators and peer outreach volunteers. They have helped deliver 67 LGBT awareness workshops and 10 outreach activities to 1,787 young people and 972 workers at schools, colleges and youth projects throughout Brighton, Hove and Sussex. As a result, 25 schools, colleges and youth agencies have improved services, provided safer and more inclusive spaces and have a better understanding of the support needs of LGBT young people.

understanding of what trans children and young people need and this project will not only help the children and young people involved and their families but also help to raise awareness throughout the city, especially in our schools.”

The groundbreaking service, one of the few trans youth projects in the UK, will offer trans young people a twice monthly group for 16–25 year olds and two support groups; • one for children under 16 • one for children under 13 The team will also provide 1-2-1 support, advice and information for parents/carers and youth practitioners, as well as providing guidance for teachers and other support staff in schools.

Elliot Klimek, the Trans Team Leader, said: “The new funding for the trans work is brilliant news. One of our primary aims is to reduce feelings of isolation for the trans and gender questioning young people because we are all too aware of the impact these feelings can have on their self-esteem and mental wellbeing. The young people we work with are creative and inspiring and with their input I hope that Allsorts trans youth project can be a catalyst for greater trans inclusivity in the wider community.”

JESS WOOD MBE

PEER EDUCATION IN SCHOOLS

Allsorts Youth Project will be expanding their pilot trans children and youth groups in 2013 after receiving £130,000 over three years from Comic Relief and Children in Need. This will fund a trans children and young people’s team of three workers.

Allsorts was set up in 1999 and runs a weekly drop-in for LGBT young people and a variety of support groups for young men, young women, bi young people and the under 16s.

LGBT young people from the project train as peer-educators and lead workshops in schools to combat homophobic, bi and transphobic bullying.

Jess Wood MBE, the Project Director, said: “Trans children and young people are often bullied and isolated in school, college and at work. As a result, trans children and young people can face a tough journey to express their deeper identity. There is little

They also create LGBT youth resources such as posters, stickers and books about their experiences. Their vibrant social media presence has enabled LGBT young volunteers to campaign on behalf of LGBT young people across the UK. The set up of Transformers was aided with a seed funding grant from the Rainbow Fund in 2012.

For more details about Transformers or Allsorts, view: www.allsortsyouth.org.uk Or call Elliot at the Allsorts office: 01273 72121

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Young LGBTU people on the south coast making it happen!

• FACE VALUE a weekly group for young people that are transgender or genderquestioning offering group support and activities to combat isolation.

Blueprint 22 is a youth organisation for people aged 16-25 years old. It offers a range of projects designed by young people for young people and operates along the coastal strip from Brighton through to Littlehampton.

Launched two years ago as a new social enterprise led by young people, it attracts a diverse clientele and has established a safe environment for LGBTU young people to express themselves.

BLUEPRINT PROJECTS Blueprint 22 offers a range of free LGBTU projects based in Worthing which include:

• PROFILE a weekly drop-in session offering support and the opportunity to relax and make new friends.

• SCREENED OUT with author Rose Collis, an LGBT film-based project looking at the history of LGBTU films shown locally and helping young people create their own film that speaks to their generation.

• SPEAK OUT! a research based project to help young people create social change and to combat homophobia, biphobia and transphobia using film to translate their message to a wider audience.

• WHAT’S LOVE GOT TO DO WITH IT? an LGBT project aimed at creating healthy and safe sexual and emotional relationships.

LGBTU young people have been trained to become peer mentors to enable them to offer support and guidance to their friends and new attendees at the various projects.

With a new timetable of LGBT activities and events for the summer, Blueprint 22 aims to encourage Worthing to take pride in their LGBT young people.

Amanda Baker, Founder and Project Development Director, said: “I set up Blueprint 22 because I wanted to run an organisation that really meant what it said about two key things: putting young people first and getting young people to make it happen for themselves.

AMANDA BAKER

BLUEPRINT 22

Prior to the launch of these projects access to LGBTU support in the Worthing area was extremely limited with young people having to access services in Brighton.

“I’ve worked with children and young people for 20 years and have been a project developer for a wide range of high profile services. Most importantly I’m committed to encouraging young people to fulfil their potential and to enable them to reach their personal and professional goals with a bit of help, supporting and steering in the right direction.”

For more information about Blueprint 22, view: www.blueprint22.org.uk

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The Albert Kennedy Trust, the LGBT youth homeless charity, need your help!

Homelessness is a huge issue for young LGBT+ people. Research done by the University of Sussex and Hove YMCA suggests that almost a quarter of all young homeless people in urban areas are LGBT+. The Albert Kennedy Trust (AKT) works with LGBT+ young people aged 16-25, who are homeless or in crisis at home.

Based in London, Manchester and, just recently, Newcastle, we help several hundred young people each year. We provide them with mentoring, supported lodgings, information, advice and advocacy. We will shortly be launching residential services in London and Manchester, which will include the UK’s first LGBT+ safe house for young people fleeing violence and exploitation.

Now we are receiving a record number of calls from young people who really need our help and we are working hard to meet this growing need. Given positive changes in legislation, and the increased visibility of the LGBT+ community, we would hope that the young people who call us would be accepted for who they are, but too often that isn’t the case.

sofa surfed and slept wherever I could.

“By 18 I drank heavily and moved in with my girlfriend who got me addicted to drugs and would routinely beat me if she didn't get her way. I had no choice but to stay. A bed’s better than a bus stop or a car right? It is until you’re fearing for your life.

“That's when a friend helped me to get in touch with the AKT. The next day I was in the office and they were helping me get my life back. From that day I didn't spend another night on the street. I stayed in a hostel for a couple days then put in with AKT carers, who were amazing.

“With everyone’s help I quit drugs and alcohol and was able to apply to a housing charity. A month later I was moving into my new flat with my own bed covers and cutlery also provided by the AKT, and for the first time ever, I felt safe.”

It costs just £15 to give a young person a safe place to stay for the night. If you can give just £15 you could keep someone safe from the dangers of being living on the street. Please visit http://tinyurl.com/give15 now to donate. To find out more about The Albert Kennedy Trust, what we do, and how you can help, view: www.akt.org.uk

THE ALBERT KENNEDY TRUST AND OUTPOST HOUSING MERGE The Albert Kennedy Trust (AKT), and Outpost Housing both LGBT youth homeless charities, have merged to meet rising demand and sustain vital services for young people.

Homelessness in general is on the rise. Crisis, the national charity for single homeless people, estimates a rise of nearly a third in urban areas, and we’re also seeing a rise in rough sleeping. Nearly a third of the young people we’re working with in London at the moment have slept rough at some point, many repeatedly.

The merger sees the charities rebranded as AKT Outpost. Outpost will continue its vital services in the north east of England, which includes offering support and accommodation to LGBT young people at risk of homelessness, while AKT will continue to offer its range of services for LGBT young people in the north west of England and London.

Robin is one of our young people and this is her story in her own words: “When I was 15 I told my mum I was gay. It was the scariest night of my life. My mum was homophobic and I knew she wouldn't understand but I couldn't lie anymore. That night she kicked me out and I spent Boxing Day on the street. For the next three years I

Tim Sigsworth, AKT Chief Executive, said: “AKT and Outpost have a lot in common and by coming together we hope to continue and enhance the level of help and support that LGBT young people at risk of homelessness receive across the north east, north west and in London.

“Nationally we are now seeing an increase in demand for our services of around 30% and by sharing our knowledge, expertise and some of our running costs with Outpost we can ensure every penny possible goes directly to support the growing numbers of young people who need our help.”

Jim McElderry, Chair of Outpost Housing, continued: “Outpost has received tremendous support in recent years from local funders such as Newcastle City Council and the Northern Rock Foundation, but we know if we are going to be able to protect and develop housing support services for LGBT young people in the North East we need to do more.

“This merger opens up new funding opportunities for us and means we can now be part of a national campaign for LGBT young people without losing our local identity.”

For more information view: www.akt.org.uk

28 GSCENE

WINING & DINING

WITH MR LEDWARD

BY JAMES LEDWARD

LA MAISON DU VIN 70 East Street, Brighton, BN1 1HQ; Tel 01273 726 006; www.maison.co.uk

By Ken Brown “Let’s Start At The Very Beginning” I was born in Lewes and lived there until 1935, before moving to Brighton, where my father had bought a newsagent in Kemptown. I went to Varndean Secondary School for Boys, (now Varndean Sixth Form College), until the WW2 started. My father had joined the Auxiliary Fire Service in 1938, so I left school and worked in our shop until I was called up in 1942, spending the next five years in the Royal Corps of Signals in England and Wales, India and Burma.

After demobilisation, I was happy to return to the family business there wasn’t much call for wireless operators in civvy street so I was once again a shop-keeper. I was soon back to summertime in Brighton, and one day fortune smiled on me on the beach. I swam out to the Corporation Boat, manned by my friend Bob Lawson, the life-guard, heaved myself aboard and met his passenger Alice Townsend, whom I promptly dated, courted and wed - a marriage which lasted for 54 years and produced a daughter and son, whom I love dearly. But nothing is forever, and sadly, eight years ago Alice died - and so did much of me.

However I was blessed with a caring family and many supportive friends - and two of those friends are responsible for inspiring me to write this. Roger and Mike are my near and gay neighbours and they’ve been nothing short of wonderful. I’m frequently invited to travel (all of three doors away) to join them and sometimes their friends for dinner. This is great, as my culinary skills fall into the category of ‘plain but lazy’. But it’s not just for the food, though I would never say no, it’s the warm companionship, it is simply comfortable.

I’ve always enjoyed the company of others, meeting them in many different places and ways: the Services, ex-Service Associations and Clubs, apart from socialising generally. But times and circumstances change. Years ago, those ‘closet’ doors were firmly closed, and sexual orientation may have almost been subject to the Official Secrets Act. Nowadays ‘things ain’t what they used to be’, and those same doors open quite readily.

Quite often all of the company I’m happy to share is gay and so I find myself unique, being straight, but I hasten to aver that, for me, this has never been a problem - why should it be? Whilst the majority of my friends are straight, over the last 89 years I’ve become reasonably able to assess people’s worth, and all of my gay friends are good people. Very good! I simply hope that they know how much I value both their company and their friendship.

Note from Roger & Mike: Soon after his wife died we started to see a lot more of Ken, we’re always happy to share our food and friends with him and his company is never less than entertaining. It’s been interesting to see the scales gradually fall from his eyes as he slowly realised that quite a number of his very wide circle of friends and associates were in fact gay. Living in Kemptown, how could it be otherwise? But it’s been very gratifying to see that he’s put the entire question of sexuality into context and that in fact it’s of little importance. We’ve even gone to the extent of electing him an ‘honorary pouf’, a badge he wears with some pride.

La Maison du Vin is the latest additional to the restaurants in East Street. It has been fully refurbished and doubles up comfortably as a cocktail/wine bar at the front with a beautifully laid out and styled restaurant at the back. The star attraction on our visit was the barman who took immense pleasure in mixing cocktails for us. Not your usual choice of cocktails, these included chillies and other exotic ingredients and were top notch. Just tell the barman what you like and trust him to mix something for you. His service added to our overall experience and I would happily come here just to have his cocktails.

If you’re just dropping in for a drink there is a wide choice of bistro tapas on offer at £3.90 each or 3 for £10 including: duck rillettes paté with toast; deep fried breaded whitebait; prawns in garlic and white wine; breaded melted brie with cranberry; homemade chicken croquettes; deep fried calamari squid; and fresh chorizo flamed skewer. We tried most of them and they were tasty and excellent value.

There is also a range of platters: plateau de charcuterie with ham, salami, cheeses, olives, rillettes, fresh bread and dips for £8.50 or £15 sharing; plateau de fruits de mer with calamari, squid, king prawns, whitebait, mussels and dips for £9.95 or £18 sharing; plateau camembert with baked melted camembert cheese served with a selection of bread and crudities for £6.95 or £10.50 sharing and a plateau vegetarian with grilled marinated vegetables, cheeses, hummus, olives and bread for £6.95 or £13 sharing. We had the plateau de charcuterie which was excellent with high quality ham and cheese.

For the main course I had pan fried sea bass cooked in white wine, prawns, butter and parsley sauce with a spinach salad (£13.70). The sauce was subtle and the fish was cooked to perfection. My partner sampled the grand filet de boeuf de Paris topped with foie gras ganache and finished with a champignon sauce and puy lentils (£21.50). The steak was cooked exactly as ordered (medium rare) was tender and tasty and the accompanying sauce perfectly complemented the meat. We shared a cheese board to finish (£10). The cheeses had been left to breath and were just right, with the brie and camembert in particular spot on.

La Maison du Vin boasts an extensive wine list. The waitress was very knowledgable so I trusted her to choose and she came up trumps with a magnificent Chateauneuf du Pape, Prince du Logis de Laville (£42.50). Wines on the menu ranged from the house wine at £14.50 to top of the range options at £134.30 for a bottle of white Puligny-Montrachet, Louis Jadot. Average prices for a bottle of wine were in the £20 to £30 price bracket.

La Maison du Vin is a fine addition to the Brighton restaurant scene. It’s stylish, comfortable and offers a unique blend of French flavours with a modern twist. The restaurant is open all day for breakfast, lunch and evening meals. There’s a lunch and pre-theatre menu from Monday to Friday from noon–6pm at £7.95 for two courses and £9.95 for three.

GSCENE 29

NEW WINE LIST AT LEGENDS Legends have introduced a new wine list featuring a range of very fine wines. Prices range from £10.50 to £15 a bottle. White selections include: Finca Ramos, a Sauvignon Blanc from Chile (£10.50); Conto Vecchio, a Pinot Grigio from Italy (£12.50); Solar Viejo, a fabulous white Rioja from Spain (£13.50); La Joya Viognier from Chile (£14); and Nobilo Marlborough, a Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand (£15).

Reds include: Inca Ramos, a Cabernet Sauvignon from Chile (£10.50); Barefoot Shiraz from USA (£12.50); Deakin Estate Artisan's Blend, a Shiraz Viognier (£13.50); La Joya Merlot from Chile (£14); and a magnificent Castillo De Clavijo Rioja Crianza from Spain (£15).

PROUD CABARET 83 St George’s Rd, Kemptown, BN2 1EF; Tel: 01273 605789; brightonreservations@proud.co.uk; www.brightoncabaret.com I visited the new 50 Shades of Cabaret evening at Proud Cabaret in Kemptown last month. It was fascinating! I should have realised when I received an email on the afternoon of the event from Proud Cabaret asking me to agree to the following conditions that this wouldn’t be a typical night out for dinner. The email read: “During the evening, guests may be subject to any or all of the following: Mild restraint (handcuffs, shackles or blindfolds) / mild physical contact and ‘punishments’ from your waiter or waitress (light spanking, drink challenges, dares etc.). ‘Punishments’ may be incurred for any reason deemed appropriate by staff. Witnessing performances of a mildly sexual/fetish themed nature. You will be required to adhere to ‘the rules’ of your table. Please note all of the above is with good intent and in no way forces guests to participate. Guests are free to leave at any time. Guests will also be provided with a safety word should you feel uncomfortable with your situation. At the beginning of the evening guests will be able to blow out their candle should they not wish to get involved in the show but want to watch only.”

"YOU MUST NOT TOUCH YOUR WAITER/WAITRESS AT ANY TIME. "Dress code is strictly dress to impress, and dress up is strongly encouraged: fetish-inspired/burlesque/vintage/PVC/gothic. No casual street wear will be permitted. Toilet or cigarette breaks must be requested from a member of staff, who will grant you permission.

Taking longer than the allocated time may result in a ‘punishment’ from your waiter/waitress."

What played out when we arrived was classic master/slave role play.

Our waitress introduced herself and left us in no doubt as to who was in control of the evening’s events. Her permission had to be sought to go to the toilet or outside to smoke. If you wanted salt with your food you had to beg, which was all good fun until you upset her and then you were taken to the stage to be publicly spanked or spend time on all fours in the cage on the stage. Our waitress was a very good mistress indeed!

You choose what to eat online before you arrive. My partner and I both had sweet pea & watercress soup, followed by herb crusted rack of lamb, finishing with a selection of British cheeses. The food was excellent - great soup, lamb cooked to perfection and well chosen cheeses. Very often the food at these types of venues is a bit of a let down but it certainly wasn’t here, I would thoroughly recommend it.

The show started towards the end of the meal. The artists were individually very entertaining, but the show wasn’t held together well, going on for too long and with long gaps between acts. Tighten that up and you have a great evening out. The meal and show cost a very reasonable £24 and the drinks weren’t too expensive. Performers each week include: Miss Betty, Chi Chi Revolver, Dolly Rocket and Betsie Bon Bon. A 12.5% service charge is added to your bill at the end of the evening. If you want only to see the show tickets are £11.20.

Proud Cabaret is a lovely venue and there is nothing quite like this type of night out in Brighton. Ideal for birthdays and anniversaries.

My favourites are the two Riojas but all the wines are fine and deserve checking out. It’s always bemused me why the quality of the wine you buy in bars or pubs can be questionable. Legends have clearly decided to make good wine available at a reasonable price and they should be applauded. From Monday to Thursday, buy a bottle of wine and you get the second bottle for half price.

It you like something more bubbly there is a fine Italia Prosecco (£18). Champagnes include Moet & Chandon Brut Imperial NV (£45); Perrier Jouet Grand Brut (£49); Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label NV (£52) and Perrier Jouet Rose (£55).

NEW LOVEFIT CAFÉ OPENS IN CENTRAL BRIGHTON Jason Bright and his business partner, Steve Lampard, have opened their second branch of LoveFit café at 110 Queen’s Road, Brighton.

Their original LoveFit cafe at 14 Brighton Square, has proved a big hit since it opened and continues to serve up healthy options. The new café is stylish and perfectly located between two of the city's busiest gyms.

Healthy food and drinks are the order of the day at LoveFit café while those nasty saturated fats remain the enemy. They offer healthy breakfasts, lunches, drinks and even do take away for those determined to be careful about what they put into their bodies daily.

How exactly is Lovefit Café food healthier for you?

• They only use light mayonnaise (half the calories and fat but all the flavour) • They use Lo-Salt which helps reduce your sodium intake • They only use wholemeal bread or multi seed baguettes • Panini's are sourced to have low saturated fat • Their cheeses are high protein not high fat • Sausages are low fat and bacon is rindless • The hot chocolate is low fat • They use organic semi-skimmed milk not full fat as standard for coffee • Even their tomato ketchup is reduced salt and sugar.

For more information, view: www.lovefit.co.uk

30 GSCENE

CHARLIE’S KITCHEN

BY CHARLIE NYEREYEGONA

Method: Heat the oil in a large saucepan over a high heat and add the mustard seeds and onions. When they start to pop, turn down to a medium heat and add the cumin, ginger, garlic, turmeric, pepper, salt and tomato ketchup and stir well together. Add the chopped and fresh tomatoes and reduce to a simmer. Cover and allow to cook for a further 10-15 minutes.

Remove the lid and gently place the eggs in the sauce. Add the lime juice and continue to simmer for a further 2-3 minutes.

To serve: Serve immediately garnished with the mint and coriander and rice or naan bread. Enjoy!

CHILLI & AUBERGINE ENCHILADAS June is the perfect time for aubergine and this simple recipe will help you enjoy them to their fullest!

CHARLIE’S RECIPES BARBECUED TOFU WITH STRAWBERRY & MANGO SALAD This is a delicious vegetarian alternative at any summer barbecue!

Ingredients: • 1 pack firm white silken tofu • 1 tbsp sesame oil • 2 large red chillies (finely chopped) • 1 tbsp red wine vinaigrette (mix 2 parts red wine vinegar to 1 part olive oil, pinch of salt, pepper, sugar) • Runny honey • Good handful fresh mint • ½ a punnet strawberries • 1 ripe mango (peeled & cut into bite size pieces • 1 ripe avocado • Good handful cooked French beans • Handful toasted sesame seeds • Salt & cracked black pepper to taste • Kebab skewers • Salad leaves Method: Light the barbecue or turn on the grill to high. Cut the tofu into thumb size cubes (larger if you like!). Brush well with the sesame oil, honey, salt and pepper. Add a squeeze of lemon juice and dip in the chilli.

When the barbecue coals are glowing white place the skewers on the BBQ, turning as they become golden. Alternatively place under a hot grill.

Meanwhile in a salad bowl arrange the French beans and salad leaves alternating with pieces of avocado, mango and strawberry

To serve: Dress the salad with the red wine vinaigrette. Place the tofu kebabs on each plate and generously sprinkle with the toasted sesame seeds. Delicious!

SPICY EGG & TOMATO CURRY This is a great alternative when you don’t feel like eating meat or fish.

Ingredients: • 4 boiled eggs (halved) • 8 plum tomatoes (halved) • 1 tin chopped tomatoes • 1 tsp black mustard seeds • ½ tsp cumin seeds • ¼ tsp crushed black pepper • 6 fresh curry leaves (you can use dried) • A finger of ginger (crushed) • 4 cloves of garlic (crushed) • 1 tsp turmeric • ¼ tsp salt • 1 large red onion (finely chopped) • 2 hot green chillies (roughly chopped) • 1 tbsp vegetable oil • 1 tsp tomato ketchup • Juice of ½ a lime • Good handful fresh mint • Good handful fresh coriander

Ingredients: • 1 packet corn tortillas • 1 large aubergine • 1 large green chilli • 1 large white onion • Juice of a lime • 2 large cloves garlic • 4 large tomatoes • 1 tbsp tomato paste • 1 red pepper • 250g grated cheddar cheese • 1 small tub greek yoghurt • Extra virgin oil • Good salt • Cracked black pepper Method: Pre-heat the oven to 180˚c. Cut the end of the aubergine, slice in half lengthwise and then slice finely. Place spread out on a large dish and sprinkle well with salt. Cover and leave for half an hour. This will draw out the bitter water. Wash off the salt and pat pieces dry with kitchen towel. Brush the aubergine pieces on both sides with olive oil and place under a hot grill, turning as they become golden.

Meanwhile dice the onion and peel and grate the garlic. Remove the seeds from the capsicum and finely slice. Roughly chop the tomato and chilli.

On a medium heat fry the capsicum, chilli, onion and garlic in a tablespoon of olive oil until the onion is golden brown. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Warm the tortillas in the oven for a few minutes. Put on a plate. Place aubergine pieces in the middle of each tortilla and pour over some of the pepper chilli, tomato mixture. Squeeze over a bit of lime. Roll over to the middle of each and place space apart in a large baking dish. Top with the rest of the chilli tomato mixture and sprinkle generously with cheese. Ready when the cheese has melted!

To Serve: with a generous dollop of yoghurt, a San Miguel and a smile!

GSCENE 31

COME DINE

WITH MORHAM

BY MORHAM WHITE

TWENTY FOUR ST GEORGES RESTAURANT 24-25 St George’s Road, Kemptown Village, Brighton, BN2 1ED Open: Tue–Fri 6pm, Sat 12.30pm Tel: 01273 626060; reservations@24stgeorges.co.uk; www.24stgeorges.co.uk A day of fog and sea frets, and just when I thought spring was about to kick in.

It had been a taxing day, with a dead washing machine and a dodgy tyre.

So a suggestion to eat out was well received. With previous trips to the former Samsons and Kemp Town Brasserie in Kemptown, there’s now a stylish reincarnation, 24 St Georges. A little research on their website revealed, amongst other things, that the restaurant secured a listing with Michelin after just 20 months. Impressive! So, why am I so fidgety after a meal of second choices? Okay, I allowed my companion first choice, so what was wrong with the second choices? Well, the cheese & onion starter, whilst visually stylish, for me lacked balance, with three parcels of goats’ cheese, one minute onion ring, three cocktail onions, two squares of toast, two petals and some greenery. I had to resort to bread to help me out.

And the brill on lobster risotto? Well, I carefully sipped some water to cleanse the palette and the brill was insipid and whilst bright pink, the risotto was no more impressive. No, I admit I’m not strong on goats’ cheese or fish but I tried... and came away disappointed. After two less than stirring dishes I couldn’t go with the coconut & anise dessert sorry, I stopped there, liking neither. So we both resorted to the Chocolate Orange, a veritable triumph, which we would both commend to the world!

So what went wrong? Perhaps, if encouraging a more modest bill, the options might be less limited: three starters, three mains and just two desserts? Should the kitchen offer something more mainstream? Just a thought… At the outset, a swift assessment of the a la carte menu left one thinking that the pricing regime could well lead to a £90 mid-week hit for two with £6.95 starters, mains up to £22 and desserts £6.50, so we resorted to the menu du jour deal which offers selected dishes from the a la carte menu, with two courses for £16.95 or three courses for £19.95; not cheap, but tolerable..

With three rooms there’s plenty of space, and midweek there were six tables is use. Distilled water arrived, followed by olive bread and a warm and elegant minted pea-shooter as an amuse bouche.

The best starter was the Quail Picnic (breast, leg and scotch egg with spinach puree, pickled beetroot and apple) eagerly devoured by Sir, whilst I attempted the vegetarian cheese & onion option (Sussex goats’ cheese brûlée, textures of onion & toast). Again the favoured main must be the tasty pork fillet and cheek, and there’s me with my brill on a bed of lobster risotto. C’est la vie.

Thank goodness I didn’t trying the panna cotta (coconut & anise panna cotta with spice roasted pineapple). Three misses would have been too much. Sorry, not into coconut nor anise… but the Chocolate Orange was the star (chocolate delice & sorbet with caramelised orange, passion fruit jelly & honeycomb): chic presentation, bold flavours and quite delicious!

The wine list is expensive with just two bottles under £20 for the reds, so we had a Tempranillo, £19 a bottle, rounding off the evening with two coffees and the bill for two, without tip, just over £60. Was I disappointed? Yes. Was I fair? I hope so…

As a rider to last month’s breakfasts, I was also treated to an early bird trip with the Gardening Club at the Conservatory, at the Racecourse Garden Centre, a deal only available to members, Monday to Saturdays inclusive till 10.30am; £1.99 for a ‘5 element’ platter with a choice of sausage, bacon, beans, egg, hash brown or toast. Usually it’s £4.49 which is still quite competitive. Can’t say it was filling but it’s a large, warm space and the parking is free.

From a cheap trip one Friday I was then completely outsmarted with a freebie at the Cavalaire Hotel, a class act and difficult to better for quality and bonhomie.

32 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT

PICS FROM A-BAR, BAR 7 CRAWLEY + BULLDOG

JUNE

LISTINGS

A-BAR

n ONE FOR THE DAIRY: Fri (28) is a Pride Fundraising Evening with special guests, n REGULARS: Fri (7 & 21) is DECADES DISCO with DJ Mikalos at 9pm, free entry. All other Fri & Sat is Pre-Club with drink promos. n Wed is the OPEN MIC Night with Mark Hodge; sing your favourite tune with Mark or just listen at 8.30pm. n FOOD: available Mon–Sat noon–7pm; Sunday roasts served noon–5pm, booking recommended: 01273 696691. n DRINK DEALS: double up on spirits for an extra £1.50, all day, every day. Wed & Thur are cocktail nights from 9pm; buy one get the other half price. n OPEN: Sun noon–midnight; Mon–Thur 11am–midnight; Fri & Sat 11–2am.

Unrivalled sea view, large heated smoking terrace and all big sport events.

Lee Harris 11pm n BEDFORD TAVERN open noon n BRIGHTON TAVERN open 11am n BULLDOG DJ V John 10pm; DJ Lil Alex 3am; karaoke 10pm; open 11am SATURDAY 1 n CAMELFORD ARMS food noon-7pm; n A-BAR Pre-club music; food noon-7pm; open noon open 11am n CHARLES ST Boys In The Bar: all-male n BAR 7@CRAWLEY cabaret: Son of a Tutu; DJs Jonesy, Lil Alex, Grant Knowles, Leeroy on open 6pm rotation 9pm; food noon-7.45pm; open noon n BAR REVENGE F@#k Me! It’s Free n 112 CHURCH ST food noon-late; open warm-up: DJ Fifilicious 9pm; open noon-6am noon n BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Fusion: DJ n DR BRIGHTONS Sexy Sat: DJ Tony B Information is correct at the time of going to press. Gscene magazine cannot be held responsible for any changes or alterations to the listings

9.30pm; open 1pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n FUNKYFISH CLUB Old Skool Sat: DJ Sean Quinn 10pm n LEGENDS BAR Pre-Club DJs 7pm; food noon-7pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN open noon n PARIS HOUSE live jazz 4pm; TC’s Joyful Noise: DJ Kenny 9pm; open 10am n POISON IVY afternoon karaoke & Betty Swollocks’ karaoke till midnight; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS cabaret: Trudi Styles & Piano Man 4.30pm; disco, karaoke & Kamp Kevin’s Jeremy Kyle Experience; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN food noon-6pm; open 11am n REVENGE F@#k Me! It’s Still Free: 2 floors, DJs King K & regulars 10.30pm n SUBLINE Men’s Room: DJ Screwpulous 9pm; open 5pm n VAVAVOOM open 6pm n ZONE cabaret: Sally Vate 9.30pm; open 10am

DJ Claire Fuller 11pm n BEDFORD TAVERN Sunday roasts 12.305pm; Piano Bingo 5pm; open noon n BULLDOG DJ Grant 8pm; karaoke 8pm; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS Sunday roasts & selected menu noon-till gone; Post-London to Brighton Mini Run gathering; Bear Bash 5pm; open noon n CHARLES ST cabaret: Sandra 7.30pm; Tranny Rock & Roll Bingo: Sally Vate, roll over jackpot 8.30pm; Sun lunch noon-7pm n 112 CHURCH ST Richard’s Sun Roast noon-late; open noon n DR BRIGHTONS Hangover Therapy; open 1pm n LEGENDS BAR cabaret: Titti La Camp 3.15pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN open 1pm n PARIS HOUSE live music: Area Code 273 6pm; open 10am n POISON IVY cabaret: Tina Sparkle 5.30pm; karaoke; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS cabaret: Miss Penny 6pm; SUNDAY 2 Sissy Sucs’ karaoke till midnight; open noon n A-BAR Sunday lunch: bookings 01273 n REGENCY TAVERN Sunday roasts noon696691 noon-5pm; open noon 5pm; Piano Bar 1.30pm; open noon n BAR 7@CRAWLEY quiz or karaoke 6pm n SUBLINE Come in Your Pants: DJ N.U.D.E, n BAR REVENGE Sunday Funday: retro underwear party 9pm games; Karaoke Queens: LouBag & Smithy n THREE JOLLY BUTCHERS live jazz 3-6pm 8pm; open noon n ZONE live music: Collusion 4pm; karaoke; n BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Pop!Candy: open 10am

BAR 7 CRAWLEY

n ONE FOR THE DAIRY: Fri (14) is the UNIFORM PARTY with DJ Magic; entry free b4 8pm, £3 after. n REGULARS: Fri is LUST with DJ Patio and drink offers. n Sat CABARET: Son of a Tutu (1), Laquisha Jonz (29), entry free b4 8pm, £5 after. Every other Sat is PARTY NIGHT with drink specials and DJs. n Sun is KARAOKE, sing to win a shot at 8pm. n Tue is PARTY NIGHT with happy hour 6–9pm. n Wed is Mary Hinge's BIG BALL BINGO at 7.30pm with cash & boozy prizes; 1st & 2nd plays are free, third play £1. n Thur is PROUD TO PARTY with DJ Magic and drink promos at 9pm. n OPEN: 6pm–12.30am Sun & Tue; 6pm–2.30am Thur–Sat. Closed Mon. www.7crawley.co.uk

BRIGHTON SAUNA

n REGULARS: Wed (5) is BEARS NIGHT for bears, cubs and their admirers; drink offers, club music at 7pm. Wed (12 & 26) is NAKED DAY all day, no towels to be worn. Wed (19) is mandatory UNDERWEAR NIGHT, thongs, briefs, speedos, at 7pm. n DRINKS: licensed bar 7 days a week; Sun–Thur 11–1am and Fri & Sat 11–2am. n OPEN: For future listings visit: www.thebrightonsauna.com

PICS FROM THE BULLDOG

GSCENE OUT & ABOUT 33

BULLDOG

n ONE FOR THE DAIRY: Tue (25) is REGGAE NIGHT with DJ Micklos at 9pm. n REGULARS: Tue is POPTASTIC with DJ Lee at 10pm. n Wed is DIVA RUSH CABARET with host Joe McJoe, DJ Marcia and performers at 11pm: Champagne Shirley (5), Tilly (12), Dolly Partem (19), Titti La Camp (26); all drinks £1.60 when selected artist is played and traffic light turns green, 10pm–2am. n Thur is RELEASE with DJ Grant Knowles at 10pm. n Fri CABARET in the top bar at midnight: Rose Garden (7), Glam Jam (14), Lucinda Lashes (21), Trashville (28); DJ Grant Knowles is downstairs at 10pm. n Sat is DJ V John at 10pm, DJ Lil Alex at 3am, and KARAOKE upstairs at 10pm. n Sun is DJ Grant Knowles at 8pm, KARAOKE upstairs at 8pm. n Mon is DJ Marcia’s GLITTER BALL with 70s/80s tunes at 10pm. n DRINK DEALS: Mon & Tue 3–7pm & 11pm–midnight; Wed 3–7pm; Thur 3–7pm & 10pm–midnight; Fri 3–7pm & drinks £1.60 10pm–midnight; Sat 10pm–midnight; Sun all day–midnight. Drinks include: pints from £1.95, double spirit & mixer from £2.30, bottles from £1.85 (Terms & conditions apply). n OPEN: daily from 11am–very late. www.bulldogbrighton.com

MONDAY 3 n A-BAR bar food noon-7pm; open 11am n BAR REVENGE Quiz with Liz: cash prizes 8.30pm; pizza 5-9pm; open noon n BEDFORD TAVERN open noon n BULLDOG DJ Marcia’s Glitter Ball 10pm; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS food noon-3pm & 6-9pm; open noon n CHARLES ST food noon-8pm; open noon n 112 CHURCH ST food noon-late; open noon n DR BRIGHTONS Medication Mon; open 3pm n ENVY Studio 150: Student night 10.30pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n LEGENDS BAR Miss Jason Does Legends 9.30pm; food noon-7pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN open noon n POISON IVY Bar 150 karaoke 7pm; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS karaoke party; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; open noon n ZONE classic films/vids 8.30pm; open 10am TUESDAY 4 n A-BAR food noon-7pm; open 11am n BAR 7@CRAWLEY Proud to Party: DJ Magic 9pm; open 6pm n BAR REVENGE VIP Tue: Harry’s Karaoke,

DJs Kelly & Fifi, win drinks/VIP cards/bar tabs 8pm; pizza 5-9pm; open noon n BEDFORD TAVERN Games Galore; open noon n BULLDOG Poptastic: DJ Lee 10pm; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS food noon-3pm & 6-9pm; open noon n CHARLES ST food noon-8pm; open noon n 112 CHURCH ST food noon-late; open noon n DR BRIGHTONS Twisted Tue; open 3pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n LEGENDS BAR food noon-7pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN Nat’s Quiz 9pm; open noon n POISON IVY Bar 150 karaoke 7pm; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS Lollipop karaoke 9pm; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; open noon n REVENGE Naughty Pop: DJs Trick & Alex Baker 11pm n THREE JOLLY BUTCHERS live music: The Pickin’ Circle 8pm n ZONE comedy night 8.30pm; open 10am WEDNESDAY 5 n A-BAR open mic with Mark Hodge 8.30pm; bar food noon-7pm; cocktail night; open 11am

34 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT

PICS FROM CAMELFORD ARMS

JUNE

LISTINGS

CAMELFORD ARMS

n ONE FOR THE DAIRY: Sun (16), The Camelford will be hosting a Pimms and beer tent at the Bark in the Park Dog Show at Queen's Park from 11am. n REGULARS: Sun (2 & 16) is the BEAR BASH at 5pm; Sun (2) is also a a PostLondon to Brighton Mini Run gathering. n Thur is the £300 BIG CASH QUIZ at 9pm. n THE FRIDAY CLUB is at 6pm. n FOOD: home-cooked menu & manager's specials served Mon–Fri noon–3pm & 6–9pm; Sat noon–7pm; Sunday roasts & selected menu served noon–till gone! n OPEN: daily from noon. The most dog-friendly pub in town! n BAR 7@CRAWLEY Mary Hinge’s Big Ball Bingo: cash/booze prizes 7.30pm; open 6pm n BAR REVENGE pizza 5-9pm; open noon n BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Crush: DJ Missy B 10pm n BEDFORD TAVERN open noon n BRIGHTON SAUNA Naked Day: no towels 10-1am n BULLDOG Diva Rush cabaret: host Joe McJoe & Champagne Shirley 11pm; DJ Marcia; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS food noon-3pm & 6-9pm; open noon n CHARLES ST Your Boss is a Drag TB Alert Fundraiser: host Miss Jason, donations welcome 8pm; food noon-8pm; open noon n 112 CHURCH ST food 12-late; open 12 n DR BRIGHTONS Cocktail Clinic; open 3pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n LEGENDS BAR food 12-7pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN open noon n POISON IVY Barbara Fella’s Karaoke & In It To Win It: win £100 bar tab 7pm; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS Candi’s Capers: karaoke & tunes; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; open noon n SUBLINE Backlash: retro night 9pm n ZONE Rachel’s A Question of Music: music quiz & cash prize 8.30pm; open 10am THURSDAY 6 n A-BAR food noon-7pm; cocktail night; open 11am n BAR 7@CRAWLEY Thursgay: DJ Patio 6pm n BAR REVENGE Girls On Top warm-up: DJ Kelly L 9pm; pizza 5-9pm; open noon n BEDFORD TAVERN Thur Social; open 12 n BULLDOG Release: DJ Grant 10pm; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS £300 Big Cash Quiz 9pm; food noon-3pm & 6-9pm; open noon n CHARLES ST Mad Cow’s Tea Party: Ms Joan Bond, tea pot cocktails, ‘drink me’ shots, fab decor, tunes & win bar tabs 8pm; open 12 n 112 CHURCH ST food 12-late; open 12 n DR BRIGHTONS Thirsty Thur; open 3pm n ENVY Mad Cow’s Tea Party: Ms Joan Bond, fab decor, tunes & win bar tabs 8pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon

n LEGENDS BAR Mark Hodge’s Comedy Night 9.30pm; food noon-7pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN It’s Pants: free drinks every hour if your pants match the picture 8.30pm; open noon n POISON IVY cabaret: Baga Chips MBE & Mini Diamond 9pm; Misty Lee’s karaoke; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS Bling Rival Cabaret: Son of a Tutu & Mzz Kimberley, wear your bling 9.30pm; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; open noon n REVENGE Girls On Top v inDecent End of Term Foam Party: DJs over 2 floors 10.30pm n SUBLINE Leathered 9pm n VAVAVOOM open 7pm n ZONE cabaret: Tammy Twinkle 8.30pm; open 10am FRIDAY 7 n A-BAR Decades Disco: DJ Mikalos 9pm; food noon-7pm; open 11am n BAR 7@CRAWLEY Lust: DJ Patio 6pm n BAR REVENGE Shameless warm-up 9pm; pizza 5-9pm; open noon-6am n BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Friday Night Live with Lady La Rue: 2 floor party, DJ Peter Castle in club 11pm n BEDFORD TAVERN Krazy Kamikaze Karaoke 8.30pm; open noon

n BULLDOG DJ Grant Knowles 10pm; cabaret: Rose Garden midnight; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS food noon-3pm & 69pm; Friday Club 6pm; open noon n CHARLES ST Fruity Fri Fix: DJ Leeroy 9pm; food noon-7.45pm; open noon n 112 CHURCH ST cabaret: Davina Sparkle 9pm; food noon-late; open noon n DR BRIGHTONS Funky Fri: DJ Nick Hirst 9.30pm; open 1pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n FUNKYFISH CLUB Dirty Retro 10.30pm n LEGENDS BAR Friday Night Live with Lady La Rue, 2 floor party, promo boys 9pm; DJ Peter Castle in club 11pm; food noon-7pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN open noon n POISON IVY camp disco, video bar & Spice’s Karaoke 7pm; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS Camp Attack with Flashback 9pm; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; open 11am n REVENGE Shameless: DJs Lee Harris &

Trick 10.30pm n SUBLINE Steam 9pm; open 5pm n VAVAVOOM open 7pm n ZONE cabaret: tba 9.30pm; open 10am SATURDAY 8 n A-BAR Pre-club music; food noon-7pm; open 11am n BAR 7@CRAWLEY School Disco-themed Night: DJ Waynsie-Rude-Boy 6pm n BAR REVENGE F@#k Me! It’s Free warmup: DJ Fifilicious 9pm; open noon-6am n BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Fusion: DJ Peter Castle 11pm n BEDFORD TAVERN live music: Cellar Doors; open noon n BULLDOG DJ V John 10pm; DJ Lil Alex 3am; karaoke 10pm; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS food noon-7pm; open noon n CHARLES ST The Boys In The Bar: all-male DJs Jonesy, Lil Alex, Grant Knowles, Leeroy on rotation 9pm; food noon-7.45pm; open noon n 112 CHURCH ST food 12-late; open 12

36 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT

PICS FROM CHARLES STREET + ENVY

JUNE

LISTINGS

CHARLES STREET BAR

n ONE FOR THE DAIRY: Wed (5) is YOUR BOSS IS A DRAG Charity Fundraiser for TB Alert with host Miss Jason and featuring a gaggle of bosses nominated by their staff to drag up at 8pm n REGULARS: New to Wed is CABARET CAROUSEL at 9.30pm: Trashville Tennessee performs (12 & 26) and Myra Dubois performs (19), free entry. n Thur is The MAD COW'S TEA PARTY with Alice in Wonderland décor, tea pot cocktails, 'drink me' shots, pumping tunes & hostess Ms Joan Bond at 8pm, drinks from £1, entry £1. n FRUITY FRIDAY FIX is with DJ Leeroy spinning the best dance & funky house at 9pm; plus cocktails from £3.50 for a glass, £8.50 for a jug from 9pm–close, free entry. n Sat is The BOYS IN THE BAR with an all-male DJ line-up including Jonesy, Lil Alex, Grant Knowles & Leeroy on rotation at 9pm, free entry! Sat (26) is the WIG PARTY with Ms Joan Bond measuring the most outrageous hair pieces at 8pm. n Sun CABARET at 7.30pm: Sandra (2), La Voix (9), Maisie Trollette (16), Davina Sparkle (23), Myra Dubois (30); TRANNY ROCK & ROLL BINGO with Sally Vate and a rolling jackpot follows at 8.30pm. n FOOD: Two for £7.95 on selected mains and 2-4-1 on all desserts, all day every day; Sunday Lunch: home roast beef, chicken or veggie served noon–7pm, £6.95. n DRINK DEALS: All drinks 1/3rd off Mon–Sat from 5–9pm, till 8pm on Thurs, on Sun after the show till close. All deals excl sparkling wine & cocktails & not in conjunction with other offers. n OPEN: daily from noon. www.charles-street.com n DR BRIGHTONS Sexy Sat: DJ Tony B 9.30pm; open 1pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n FUNKYFISH CLUB Old Skool Sat: DJ Sean Quinn 10pm n LEGENDS BAR Pre-Club DJs 7pm; food noon-7pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN open noon n PARIS HOUSE live jazz 4pm; TC’s Joyful Noise: DJ Kenny 9pm; open 10am n POISON IVY afternoon karaoke & Betty Swollocks’ karaoke till midnight; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS cabaret: Auntie Robbie 4.30pm; disco, karaoke & Kamp Kevin’s Jeremy Kyle Experience; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN food noon-6pm; open 11am n REVENGE F@#k Me! It’s Still Free: DJs King K & regs over 2 floors 10.30pm n SPELLBOUND@KOMEDIA alt-80s night feat DJs Simon Price & Jenna Allsopp 9pm n SUBLINE Men’s Room: DJ Screwpulous 9pm; open 5pm n VAVAVOOM open 6pm n ZONE cabaret: Maisie Trollette 9.30pm; open 10am

SUNDAY 9 n A-BAR Sunday lunch: bookings 01273 696691 noon-5pm; open noon n BAR 7@CRAWLEY karaoke 6pm n BAR REVENGE Sunday Funday: retro games; Karaoke Queens: LouBag & Smithy 8pm; open noon n BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Pop!Candy: DJ Claire Fuller 11pm n BEDFORD TAVERN Sunday roasts 12.305pm; Piano Bingo 5pm; open noon n BULLDOG DJ Grant 8pm; karaoke 8pm; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS Sunday roasts & selected menu noon-till gone; open noon n CHARLES ST cabaret: La Voix 7.30pm; Tranny Rock & Roll Bingo: Sally Vate & roll over jackpot 8.30pm; Sunday lunch noon7pm n 112 CHURCH ST Richard’s Sun Roast noon-late; open noon n DR BRIGHTONS Hangover Therapy; open 1pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n LEGENDS BAR cabaret: Lizzy Drip 3.15pm; open 11am

ENVY @ CHARLES ST

n ONE FOR THE DAIRY: Brighton Bears Weekend: Sat (29) is COME TO DADDY with DJs Rick Parker, Fozzy Bear and Oh MG at 10pm; entry £5 with BBWE wristbands, £7 without, £1 from each ticket sold donated to Sussex Beacon. n REGULARS: Mon is the STUDIO 150 student night with singles or bottles for £1.50 all night, entry £1.50. n Thur is THE MAD COW'S TEA PARTY with Alice in Wonderland décor, tea pot cocktails, 'drink me' shots, pumping tunes & hostess Ms Joan Bond at 8pm, drinks from £1, entry £1. n www.charles-street.com n MARINE TAVERN open 1pm n POISON IVY cabaret: Mary Gold 5.30pm; karaoke; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS cabaret: Davina Sparkle 6pm; Sissy Sucs’ karaoke till midnight; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN Sunday roasts noon5pm; Piano Bar 1.30pm; open noon n SUBLINE Come in Your Pants: DJ N.U.D.E, underwear party 9pm n THREE JOLLY BUTCHERS live jazz 36pm n ZONE live music: Stone & Street 4pm; karaoke; open 10am

n ENVY Studio 150: student night 10pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n LEGENDS BAR Miss Jason Does Legends 9.30pm; food noon-7pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN open noon n POISON IVY Wicked Mon Karaoke: win 2 tickets to see Wicked 7pm; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS Transgender Party with DJ Kamp Kevin & cabaret from Tammy Twinkle 8pm; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; open noon n ZONE classic films/vids 8.30pm; open 10am

MONDAY 10 n A-BAR bar food noon-7pm; open 11am n BAR REVENGE Quiz with Liz 8.30pm; pizza 5-9pm; open noon n BEDFORD TAVERN open noon n BULLDOG DJ Marcia’s Glitter Ball 10pm; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS food noon-3pm & 6-9pm; open noon n CHARLES ST food noon-8pm; open noon n 112 CHURCH ST food noon-late; open noon n DR BRIGHTONS Medication Mon; open 3pm

TUESDAY 11 n A-BAR food noon-7pm; open 11am n BAR 7@CRAWLEY Proud to Party: DJ Magic 9pm; open 6pm n BAR REVENGE VIP Tue: Harry’s Karaoke, DJs Kelly & Fifi, win drinks/VIP cards/bar tabs 8pm; pizza 5-9pm; open noon n BEDFORD TAVERN Games Galore; open noon n BULLDOG Poptastic: DJ Lee 10pm; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS food noon-3pm & 6-9pm; open noon n CHARLES ST food noon-8pm; open noon

38 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT

PICS FROM CHURCH STREET + DR BRIGHTONS

JUNE

LISTINGS

CHURCH STREET

n ONE FOR THE DAIRY: Fri (28) is the BRIGHTON BEAR WEEKEND opening party with Play Your Cards Right with host Mysterry and cabaret from Miss Jason at 8pm. n REGULARS: Fri CABARET at 9pm: Davina Sparkle (7), Jason Lee (14) and Jennie Castelle (21). n FOOD: food specials served Mon–Sat noon–late, buy two lunches for £10; Richard's Golden Handbag-winning Sunday lunches served noon–late. n OPEN: Enjoy the summer sun in the secret beer garden, it's the perfect place for a drink and a smoke! n 112 CHURCH ST food 12-late; open 12 n DR BRIGHTONS Twisted Tue; open 3pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n LEGENDS BAR food noon-7pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN Nat’s Quiz 9pm; open noon n POISON IVY Bar 150 karaoke 7pm; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS Lollipop karaoke 9pm; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; open noon n REVENGE Naughty Pop: DJs Trick & Alex Baker 11pm n ZONE comedy night 8.30pm; open 10am WEDNESDAY 12 n A-BAR open mic with Mark Hodge 8.30pm; bar food noon-7pm; cocktail night; open 11am n BAR 7@CRAWLEY Mary Hinge’s Big Ball Bingo: cash/booze prizes 7.30pm; open 6pm n BAR REVENGE pizza 5-9pm; open noon n BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Crush: DJ Missy B 10pm n BEDFORD TAVERN open noon n BRIGHTON SAUNA Underwear Night: licensed bar 7pm n BULLDOG Diva Rush cabaret: host Joe McJoe & Tilly 11pm; DJ Marcia; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS food noon-3pm & 6-9pm; open noon

FUNKY FISH

n CHARLES ST Cabaret Carousel: Trashville Tennessee 9.30pm; food noon-8pm; open noon n 112 CHURCH ST food noon-late; open noon n DR BRIGHTONS Cocktail Clinic; open 3pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n LEGENDS BAR food noon-7pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN open noon n POISON IVY Barbara Fella’s Karaoke & In It To Win It: win £100 bar tab 7pm; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS Candi’s Capers: karaoke & tunes; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; open noon n SUBLINE Backlash: retro night 9pm n ZONE Rachel’s A Question of Music: music quiz & cash prize 8.30pm; open 10am THURSDAY 13 n A-BAR food noon-7pm; cocktail night; open 11am n BAR 7@CRAWLEY Thursgay: DJ Patio 6pm n BAR REVENGE Girls On Top warm-up: DJ Kelly L 9pm; pizza 5-9pm; open noon n BEDFORD TAVERN Thur Social; open noon n BULLDOG Release: DJ Grant 10pm; open 11am

n REGULARS: Fri is THANK FUNK IT’S FRIDAY with DJ Antony funk/soul/Motown/ disco at 10.30pm, free entry. n OLD SCHOOL SATURDAY is with DJ Sean Quinn playing funky 70s/70s/80s/90s with a splash of recent tunes at 10pm, entry £5. n OPEN: The Funky Fish Bar is open daily from noon. n www.funkyfishclub.co.uk

DR BRIGHTONS

n REGULARS: FUNKY FRIDAY with DJ Nick Hirst at 9.30pm, free entry. n SEXY SATURDAY with DJ Tony B at 9.30pm, free entry. n DRINK DEALS: from Sun–Thur all day and Fri & Sat from 1–7pm: Fosters & Carling £3.15 a pint, large Smirnoff & mixer £4, large Smirnoff & energy drink £5. Buy two cocktails for £11 from Sun–Thur. Free game of pool every day with every round of drinks purchased during happy hour. n OPEN: Mon–Thur 3pm–midnight; Fri & Sat 1pm–2am; Sun 1pm–midnight. www.doctorbrightons.co.uk n CAMELFORD ARMS £300 Big Cash Quiz 9pm; food noon-3pm & 6-9pm; open noon n CHARLES ST Mad Cow’s Tea Party: Ms Joan Bond, tea pot cocktails, ‘drink me’ shots, fab decor, tunes & win bar tabs 8pm; open noon n 112 CHURCH ST food noon-late; open noon n DR BRIGHTONS Thirsty Thur; open 3pm n ENVY Mad Cow’s Tea Party: Ms Joan Bond, tea pot cocktails, ‘drink me’ shots, fab decor, tunes & win bar tabs 8pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n LEGENDS BAR Mark Hodge’s Comedy Night 9.30pm; food noon-7pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN It’s Pants: free drinks every hour if your pants match the picture 8.30pm; open noon n POISON IVY cabaret: Benji Official 9pm; Misty Lee’s karaoke 7pm; open 11am

n QUEEN’S ARMS Bling Rival Cabaret: Son of a Tutu & Mzz Kimberley, wear your bling 9.30pm; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; open noon n REVENGE Girls On Top v inDecent: DJs over 2 floors 10.30pm n SUBLINE Leathered 9pm n VAVAVOOM open 7pm n ZONE Tammy Twinkle’s Gameshow Fever with prizes 8.30pm; open 10am FRIDAY 14 n A-BAR Pre-club music; food noon-7pm; open 11am n BAR 7@CRAWLEY Uniform Party: DJ Magic 6pm n BAR REVENGE Shameless warm-up 9pm; pizza 5-9pm; open noon-6am

42 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT

PICS FROM LEGENDS BAR + BASEMENT CLUB

JUNE

LISTINGS

LEGENDS BAR

n ONE FOR THE DAIRY: Sunday CABARET at 3.15pm: Titti La Camp (2), Lizzy Drip (9), Sandra (16), Adora Dix (23) and Drag With No Name (30). n REGULARS: Mon is MISS JASON DOES LEGENDS at 9.30pm. n Thur is PIANO CABARET with Mark Hodge at 9.30pm. n FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE over 2 floors with Lady La Rue, DJ Peter Castle, promo boys, £1 shots, bottles of Becks £1.50. n Sat is PRE-FUSION with club tracks. n FOOD: new summer menu, including gourmet burgers with chunky chips and relishes and other lunch options served noon–7pm Mon–Sat. Special offer Mon–Thur, selected burgers 2 for £10. Check Legends' Facebook or website for other food promos. n DRINK DEALS: Wine Promo: Mon–Thur till midnight, buy any bottle from the quality wine list and get the second half price. n OPEN: daily from 11am–5am. Heated smoking area, free entry and all day sun terrace. www.legendsbrighton.com

n BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Friday Night Live with Lady La Rue: 2 floor party, DJ Peter Castle in club 11pm n BEDFORD TAVERN Krazy Kamikaze Karaoke 8.30pm; open noon n BULLDOG DJ Grant Knowles 10pm; cabaret: Glam Jam midnight; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS food noon-3pm & 6-9pm; Friday Club 6pm; open noon n CHARLES ST Fruity Fri Fix: DJ Leeroy 9pm; food noon-7.45pm; open noon n 112 CHURCH ST cabaret:Jason Lee 9pm; food noon-late; open noon n DR BRIGHTONS Funky Fri: DJ Nick Hirst 9.30pm; open 1pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n FUNKYFISH CLUB Thank Funk It’s Friday: DJ Antony 10.30pm n LEGENDS BAR Friday Night Live with Lady La Rue, 2 floor party, promo boys 9pm; DJ Peter Castle in club 11pm; food noon-7pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN open noon n POISON IVY camp disco, video bar & Spice’s Karaoke 7pm; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS Camp Attack with Flashback 9pm; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; open 11am n REVENGE Shameless: DJs Lee Harris & Trick 10.30pm

n SUBLINE Dry Clean Only: suited & booted night 9pm; open 5pm n VAVAVOOM open 7pm n ZONE live music: JJ & Co 9.30pm; open 10am SATURDAY 15 n A-BAR Pre-club music; food noon-7pm; open 11am n BAR 7@CRAWLEY DJ: party night 6pm n BAR REVENGE F@#k Me! It’s Free warm-up: DJ Fifilicious 9pm; open noon-6am n BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Fusion: DJ Peter Castle 11pm n BEDFORD TAVERN open noon n BULLDOG DJ V John 10pm; DJ Lil Alex 3am; karaoke 10pm; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS food noon-7pm; open noon n CHARLES ST The Boys In The Bar: allmale DJs Jonesy, Lil Alex, Grant Knowles, Leeroy on rotation 9pm; food noon-7.45pm; open noon n 112 CHURCH ST food noon-late; open noon n DR BRIGHTONS Sexy Sat: DJ Tony B 9.30pm; open 1pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n FUNKYFISH CLUB Old Skool Sat: DJ Sean Quinn 10pm

LEGENDS BASEMENT CLUB

n FREE ENTRY: to the Basement Club every day. n ONE FOR THE DAIRY: Wed is CRUSH with DJ Missy B playing tracks to get you jumping and requests, drinks from £2, £1.50 shots. n REGULARS: FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE over 2 floors with Lady La Rue, DJ Peter Castle, promo boys, £1 shots all night, bottles of Becks £1.50. n Sat is FUSION with DJ Peter Castle house & chart sounds. Sat (1) is with DJ Lee Harris. n Sun is POP!CANDY with DJ Claire Fuller recent /classic pop tracks, drinks from £2. n OPEN: Fri–Sun 11pm & Wed 10pm. Closed Mon, Tue & Thur. Legends will host your party from £150, call Matt on 01273 624462 for more info. www.legendsbrighton.com

n LEGENDS BAR Pre-Club DJs 7pm; food noon-7pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN open noon n PARIS HOUSE live jazz 4pm; TC’s Joyful Noise: DJ Kenny 9pm; open 10am n POISON IVY afternoon karaoke & Betty Swollocks’ karaoke till midnight; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS cabaret: Peter Davis 4.30pm; disco, karaoke & Kamp Kevin’s Jeremy Kyle Experience; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN food noon-6pm; open 11am n REVENGE F@#k Me! It’s Still Free: DJ King K, regs & guest Zach Burns 10.30pm n SUBLINE Men’s Room: DJ Screwpulous 9pm; open 5pm n VAVAVOOM open 6pm n ZONE cabaret: Miss Jason 9.30pm; open 10am SUNDAY 16 n A-BAR Sunday lunch: bookings 01273 696691 noon-5pm; open noon n BAR 7@CRAWLEY Quiz 6pm n BAR REVENGE Sunday Funday: retro games; Karaoke Queens: LouBag & Smithy 8pm; open noon n BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Pop!Candy: DJ Claire Fuller 11pm n BEDFORD TAVERN Sunday roasts 12.305pm; Piano Bingo 5pm; open noon n BULLDOG DJ Grant 8pm; karaoke 8pm; open 11am

n CAMELFORD ARMS Father’s Day Sunday roasts & selected menu noon-till gone; Bear Bash 5pm; open noon n CHARLES ST cabaret: Maisie Trollette 7.30pm; Tranny Rock & Roll Bingo: Sally Vate & roll over jackpot 8.30pm; Sunday lunch noon-7pm n 112 CHURCH ST Richard’s Sun Roast noon-late; open noon n DR BRIGHTONS Hangover Therapy; open 1pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n LEGENDS BAR cabaret: Sandra 3.15pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN open 1pm n POISON IVY cabaret: Andora Dix 5.30pm; karaoke; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS cabaret: Son of a Tutu 6pm; Sissy Sucs’ karaoke till midnight; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN Sunday roasts noon5pm; Piano Bar 1.30pm; open noon n SUBLINE Come in Your Pants: DJ N.U.D.E, underwear party 9pm n THREE JOLLY BUTCHERS live jazz 36pm n ZONE live music: BackBeat 4pm; karaoke; open 10am MONDAY 17 n A-BAR bar food noon-7pm; open 11am n BAR REVENGE Quiz with Liz 8.30pm; pizza 5-9pm; open noon n BEDFORD TAVERN open noon

PICS FROM LEGENDS + MARINE TAVERN

GSCENE OUT & ABOUT 43

JUNE

LISTINGS

MARINE TAVERN

n ONE FOR THE DAIRY: Thur is IT’S PANTS competition: win a free drink if the brand or colour of your pants matches the picture, every hour at 8.30pm, 9.30pm and 10.30pm. n REGULARS: Tue is NAT’S QUIZ at 9pm. n DRINK DEALS: Wed & Thur 7–11pm: pints of Carlsberg & Stowford Press £3, plus buy a single spirit and get the mixer free. n OPEN: Mon–Sat noon, Sun 1pm.

n BULLDOG DJ Marcia’s Glitter Ball 10pm; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS food noon-3pm & 6-9pm; open noon n CHARLES ST food noon-8pm; open noon n 112 CHURCH ST food noon-late; open noon n DR BRIGHTONS Medication Mon; open 3pm n ENVY Studio 150: student night 10pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n LEGENDS BAR Miss Jason Does Legends 9.30pm; food noon-7pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN open noon n POISON IVY karaoke 7pm; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS karaoke party; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; open noon n ZONE classic films/vids 8.30pm; open 10am

n CHARLES ST food noon-8pm; open noon n 112 CHURCH ST food noon-late; open noon n DR BRIGHTONS Twisted Tue; open 3pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n LEGENDS BAR food noon-7pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN Nat’s Quiz 9pm; open noon n POISON IVY Bar 150 karaoke 7pm; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS Lollipop karaoke 9pm; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; open noon n REVENGE Naughty Pop: DJs Trick & Alex Baker 11pm n THREE JOLLY BUTCHERS live music: The Pickin’ Circle 8pm n ZONE comedy night 8.30pm; open 10am

TUESDAY 18 n A-BAR food noon-7pm; open 11am n BAR 7@CRAWLEY Proud to Party: DJ Magic 9pm; open 6pm n BAR REVENGE VIP Tue: Harry’s Karaoke, DJs Kelly & Fifi, win drinks/VIP cards/bar tabs 8pm; pizza 5-9pm; open noon n BEDFORD TAVERN Games Galore; open noon n BULLDOG Poptastic: DJ Lee 10pm; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS food noon-3pm & 6-9pm; open noon

WEDNESDAY 19 n A-BAR open mic with Mark Hodge 8.30pm; bar food noon-7pm; cocktail night; open 11am n BAR 7@CRAWLEY Mary Hinge’s Big Ball Bingo: cash/booze prizes 7.30pm; open 6pm n BAR REVENGE pizza 5-9pm; open noon n BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Crush: DJ Missy B 10pm n BEDFORD TAVERN open noon n BRIGHTON SAUNA Naked Day: no towels 10-1am n BULLDOG Diva Rush cabaret: host Joe

McJoe & Dolly Partem 11pm; DJ Marcia; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS food noon-3pm & 6-9pm; open noon n CHARLES ST Cabaret Carousel: Myra Dubois 9.30pm; food noon-8pm; open noon n 112 CHURCH ST food noon-late; open noon n DR BRIGHTONS Cocktail Clinic; open 3pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n LEGENDS BAR food noon-7pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN open noon n POISON IVY Barbara Fella’s Karaoke & In It To Win It: win £100 bar tab 7pm; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS Pride’s Got Talent 2013: talent competition, win performance in cabaret tent at Pride & £100 9pm; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; open noon n SUBLINE Backlash: retro night 9pm n ZONE Rachel’s A Question of Music: music quiz & cash prize 8.30pm; open 10am THURSDAY 20 n A-BAR food noon-7pm; cocktail night; open 11am n BAR 7@CRAWLEY Thursgay: DJ Patio 6pm n BAR REVENGE Girls On Top warm-up: DJ Kelly L 9pm; pizza 5-9pm; open noon n BEDFORD TAVERN Thur Social; open noon n BULLDOG Release: DJ Grant 10pm; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS £300 Big Cash Quiz 9pm; food noon-3pm & 6-9pm; open noon n CHARLES ST Mad Cow’s Tea Party: Ms

Joan Bond, tea pot cocktails, ‘drink me’ shots, fab decor, tunes & win bar tabs 8pm; open noon n 112 CHURCH ST food noon-late; open noon n DR BRIGHTONS Thirsty Thur; open 3pm n ENVY Mad Cow’s Tea Party: Ms Joan Bond, tea pot cocktails, ‘drink me’ shots, fab decor, tunes & win bar tabs 8pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n LEGENDS BAR Mark Hodge’s Comedy Night 9.30pm; food noon-7pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN It’s Pants: free drinks every hour if your pants match the picture 8.30pm; open noon n POISON IVY cabaret: TBA 9pm; Misty Lee’s karaoke 7pm; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS Bling Rival Cabaret: Son of a Tutu & Mzz Kimberley, wear your bling 9.30pm; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; open noon n REVENGE Girls On Top v inDecent: DJs over 2 floors 10.30pm n SUBLINE Leathered 9pm n VAVAVOOM open 7pm n ZONE Tammy Twinkle’s Gameshow Fever with prizes 8.30pm; open 10am FRIDAY 21 n A-BAR Decades Disco: DJ Mikalos 9pm; food noon-7pm; open 11am n BAR 7@CRAWLEY Lust: DJ Patio 6pm n BAR REVENGE Shameless warm-up 9pm; pizza 5-9pm; open noon-6am n BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Friday Night Live with Lady La Rue: 2 floor party, DJ Peter Castle in club 11pm

44 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT

PICS FROM POISON IVY, QUEENS ARMS + PARIS HOUSE

JUNE

LISTINGS

POISON IVY

n ONE FOR THE DAIRY: Wed is KARAOKE COMPETITION with Gloria Hole, win £100! n REGULARS: KARAOKE 7 nights a week with Drag hosts every night, including: Spice, Betty Swollocks, Misty Lee & Gloria Hole. n Tue is BAR 150 KARAOKE. n Thur CABARET at 9.30pm. n Sun CABARET at 5.30pm. n DRINK DEALS: 60 Happy hours a week, including 11am–7pm Tue–Sat; all day Sun & Mon. n OPEN: daily from 11am. n BEDFORD TAVERN Krazy Kamikaze Karaoke 8.30pm; open noon n BULLDOG DJ Grant Knowles 10pm; cabaret: Lucinda Lashes midnight; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS food noon-3pm & 6-9pm; Friday Club 6pm; open noon n CHARLES ST Fruity Fri Fix: DJ Leeroy 9pm; food noon-7.45pm; open noon n 112 CHURCH ST cabaret:Jennie Castell 9pm; food noon-late; open noon n DR BRIGHTONS Funky Fri: DJ Nick Hirst 9.30pm; open 1pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n FUNKYFISH CLUB Thank Funk It’s Friday: DJ Antony 10.30pm n LEGENDS BAR Friday Night Live with Lady La Rue, 2 floor party, promo boys 9pm; DJ

PARIS HOUSE

Peter Castle in club 11pm; food noon-7pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN open noon n POISON IVY camp disco, video bar & Spice’s Karaoke 7pm; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS Camp Attack with Flashback 9pm; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; open 11am n REVENGE Shameless: DJ Trick & Lee Harris 10.30pm n SUBLINE Big Scrum: sportskit night 9pm; open 5pm n VAVAVOOM open 7pm n ZONE live music: Collusion 9.30pm; open 10am

n ONE FOR THE DAIRY: Sun (2) is a live set with Area Code 273 at 6pm. n REGULARS: Sat is free live jazz at 4pm; then it's TC's Joyful Noise with DJ Kenny at 9pm, free entry. n FOOD: platter of French food to share & large carafe of wine £15. n OPEN: daily from 10am. n www.parishousebrighton.com

QUEENS ARMS

n ONE FOR THE DAIRY: Mon (10) is the TRANSGENDER PARTY with DJ Kamp Kevin and cabaret from Tammy Twinkle at 8pm, free entry. n REGULARS: Wed (from 19) is PRIDE'S GOT TALENT at 9pm with a prize package including £100 and a performance in the Cabaret Tent at Pride. n Thur is BLING RIVAL CABARET with Son of a Tutu & Mzz Kimberely, bring your bling at 9.30pm. n Fri is CAMP ATTACK including Flashback to the 70s/80s/90s at 9pm. n Sat CABARET at 4.30pm: Trudi Styles & Piano Man (1), Auntie Robbie (8), Peter Davis (15), a new act (22) and Cosmic Stars (29) followed by a disco, karaoke & Kamp Kevin's The JEREMY KYLE EXPERIENCE. n Sun CABARET hosted by Sissy Sucs at 6pm: Miss Penny (2), Davina Sparkle (9), Son of a Tutu (16), Tanya Hyde (23) and Mary Mac (30) followed by karaoke till midnight. n Mon is KARAOKE PARTY with drink promos 9pm–midnight. n Tue is LOLLIPOP KARAOKE with drink promos at 9pm. n OPEN: daily from noon.

SATURDAY 22 n A-BAR Pre-club music; food noon-7pm; open 11am n BAR 7@CRAWLEY cabaret: Tammy Twinkle 6pm n BAR REVENGE F@#k Me! It’s Free warmup: DJ Fifilicious 9pm; open noon-6am n BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Fusion: DJ Peter Castle 11pm n BEDFORD TAVERN open noon n BULLDOG DJ V John 10pm; DJ Lil Alex 3am; karaoke 10pm; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS food noon-7pm; open noon n CHARLES ST The Boys In The Bar: all-male DJs Jonesy, Lil Alex, Grant Knowles, Leeroy on rotation 9pm; food noon-7.45pm; open noon n 112 CHURCH ST food noon-late; open noon n DR BRIGHTONS Sexy Sat: DJ Tony B 9.30pm; open 1pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n FUNKYFISH CLUB Old Skool Sat: DJ Sean Quinn 10pm n LEGENDS BAR Pre-Club DJs 7pm; food noon-7pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN open noon n PARIS HOUSE live jazz 4pm; TC’s Joyful Noise: DJ Kenny 9pm; open 10am n POISON IVY afternoon karaoke & Betty Swollocks’ karaoke till midnight; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS cabaret 4.30pm; disco, karaoke & Kamp Kevin’s Jeremy Kyle Experience; open noon

n REGENCY TAVERN food noon-6pm; open 11am n REVENGE F@#k Me! It’s Still Free: DJs King K & regs over 2 floors 10.30pm n SUBLINE Men’s Room: DJ Screwpulous 9pm; open 5pm n VAVAVOOM open 6pm n ZONE cabaret: Sally Vate 9.30pm; open 10am SUNDAY 23 n A-BAR Sunday lunch: bookings 01273 696691 noon-5pm; open noon n BAR 7@CRAWLEY karaoke 6pm n BAR REVENGE Sunday Funday: retro games; Karaoke Queens: LouBag & Smithy 8pm; open noon n BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Pop!Candy: DJ Claire Fuller 11pm n BEDFORD TAVERN Sunday roasts 12.305pm; Piano Bingo 5pm; open noon n BULLDOG DJ Grant 8pm; karaoke 8pm; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS Sunday roasts & selected menu noon-till gone; open noon n CHARLES ST cabaret: Davina Sparkle 7.30pm; Tranny Rock & Roll Bingo: Sally Vate, roll over jackpot 8.30pm; Sun lunch noon7pm n 112 CHURCH ST Richard’s Sun Roast noon-late; open noon n DR BRIGHTONS Hangover Therapy; open 1pm

GSCENE OUT & ABOUT 45

n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n LEGENDS BAR cabaret: Adora Dix 3.15pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN open 1pm n POISON IVY cabaret: Scarlette Diamante 5.30pm; karaoke; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS cabaret: Tanya Hyde 6pm; Sissy Sucs’ karaoke till midnight; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN Sunday roasts noon5pm; Piano Bar 1.30pm; open noon n SUBLINE Come in Your Pants: DJ N.U.D.E, underwear party 9pm n THREE JOLLY BUTCHERS live jazz 36pm n ZONE live music: Stone & Street 4pm; karaoke; open 10am MONDAY 24 n A-BAR bar food noon-7pm; open 11am n BAR REVENGE Quiz with Liz 8.30pm; pizza 5-9pm; open noon n BEDFORD TAVERN open noon n BULLDOG DJ Marcia’s Glitter Ball 10pm; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS food noon-3pm & 6-9pm; open noon n CHARLES ST food 12-8pm; open 12 n 112 CHURCH ST food 12-late; open 12 n DR BRIGHTONS Medication Mon; open 3pm n ENVY Studio 150: student night 10pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n LEGENDS BAR Miss Jason Does Legends 9.30pm; food noon-7pm; open 11am

46 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT

PICS FROM BAR REVENGE + REVENGE

JUNE

KERRY KATONA

LISTINGS

BAR REVENGE

n ONE FOR THE DAIRY: SUNDAY FUNDAY with retro games at the bar, and Karaoke Queens with LouBag & Smithy at 8pm. n REGULARS: Mon is QUIZ WITH LIZ with cash prizes at 8.30pm. n Tue is VIP KARAOKE with Harry & DJs Kelly & Fifi; win drinks, VIP cards and bar tabs in the club. n Thur is the Girls on Top Official Warm-Up with DJ Kelly L at 9pm. n Fri is the Shameless Warm-Up with DJ Alpha at 9pm. n Sat is the F@#ck Me! It’s Free Warm-Up with DJ Fifilicious at 9pm. n FOOD: served Sun–Fri 5–9pm and Fri & Sat midnight–6am; pizzas, sandwiches, burgers & more; buy a pizza & 4 drinks for £9.99 Mon–Fri. n DRINK DEALS: shots £1.50 all day, all night, every day; 2-4-1 cocktails Sun–Fri 5–9pm; drinks from £1.99, wines from £5.25 a bottle from noon–late on Wed; from £1.50 Thur after 7pm; from £2.49 Fri & Sat; Jagerbombs £1.99 on Sat. n REVENGE PASSES: Free Revenge discount passes on Thur; buy a drink and get free entry into the club on Fri before midnight & Sat before 1am. n OPEN: daily from noon–2am & till 6am on Fri & Sat. n www.revenge.co.uk

n MARINE TAVERN open noon n POISON IVY karaoke 7pm; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS karaoke party; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; open noon n ZONE classic films/vids 8.30pm; open 10am

n QUEEN’S ARMS Lollipop karaoke 9pm; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; open noon n REVENGE Naughty Pop: DJs Trick & Alex Baker 11pm n ZONE comedy night 8.30pm; open 10am

TUESDAY 25 n A-BAR food noon-7pm; open 11am n BAR 7@CRAWLEY Proud to Party: DJ Magic 9pm; open 6pm n BAR REVENGE VIP Tue: Harry’s Karaoke, DJs Kelly & Fifi, win drinks/VIP cards/bar tabs 8pm; pizza 5-9pm; open noon n BEDFORD TAVERN Games Galore; open noon n BULLDOG Reggae: DJ Micklos 9pm; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS food noon-3pm & 6-9pm; open noon n CHARLES ST food noon-8pm; open noon n 112 CHURCH ST food 12-late; open 12 n DR BRIGHTONS Twisted Tue; open 3pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n LEGENDS BAR food noon-7pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN Nat’s Quiz 9pm; open noon n POISON IVY Bar 150 karaoke 7pm; open 11am

WEDNESDAY 26 n A-BAR open mic with Mark Hodge 8.30pm; bar food noon-7pm; cocktail night; open 11am n BAR 7@CRAWLEY Mary Hinge’s Big Ball Bingo: cash/booze prizes 7.30pm; open 6pm n BAR REVENGE pizza 5-9pm; open noon n BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Crush: DJ Missy B 10pm n BEDFORD TAVERN open noon n BRIGHTON SAUNA Naked Day: no towels 10-1am n BULLDOG Diva Rush cabaret: host Joe McJoe & Titti La Camp 11pm; DJ Marcia; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS food noon-3pm & 6-9pm; open noon n CHARLES ST Cabaret Carousel: Trashville Tennessee 9.30pm; food noon-8pm; open noon n 112 CHURCH ST food 12-late; open 12 n DR BRIGHTONS Cocktail Clinic; open 3pm

REVENGE

n ONE FOR THE DAIRY: Thur (6) is GIRLS ON TOP v INDECENT End of Term Party with pop on the main floor, house anthems on level 2; entry £4/£3 NUS. n REGULARS: Tue is NAUGHTY POP with DJs Trick & Alex spinning the best pop from the last 20 years; £1.50 shots, all other drinks £2, entry £3, £2 NUS. n Thur is GIRLS ON TOP V INDECENT lesbian night with pop on the main floor, house on level 2; drinks from £1.50, entry £4/£3 NUS. Thurs (6) Foam Party. n Fri is SHAMELESS with lDJs Trick and Lee Harris playing fresh pop/guilty pleasures; entry £5/£4 NUS. n Sat is F@#K ME! IT’S STILL FREE with regular DJ King K & regulars play pop & house and Zach Burns (15), Lee Harris (29); all drinks £2.50 b4 midnight, Jagerbombs £2.50 all night, double up for £1 all night, free entry b4 1am with pass, £5 after/£4 NUS. n DRINK DEALS: All drink specials exclude champers & doubles (excl doubling up). n REVENGE PASSES: Free entry passes available through the week from Bar Revenge or from www.revenge.co.uk. n OPEN: 11pm on Tue; 10.30pm Thur & Fri; 10pm Sat.

n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n LEGENDS BAR food noon-7pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN open noon n POISON IVY Barbara Fella’s Karaoke & In It To Win It: win £100 bar tab 7pm; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS Pride’s Got Talent 2013: talent competition, win performance in cabaret tent at Pride & £100 9pm; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; open noon n SUBLINE Backlash: retro night 9pm n ZONE Rachel’s A Question of Music: music quiz & cash prize 8.30pm; open 10am THURSDAY 27 n A-BAR food noon-7pm; cocktail night; open 11am

n BAR 7@CRAWLEY Thursgay: DJ Patio 6pm n BAR REVENGE Girls On Top warm-up: DJ Kelly L 9pm; pizza 5-9pm; open noon n BEDFORD TAVERN Thur Social; open noon n BULLDOG Release: DJ Grant 10pm; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS £300 Big Cash Quiz 9pm; food noon-3pm & 6-9pm; open noon n CHARLES ST Mad Cow’s Tea Party: Ms Joan Bond, tea pot cocktails, ‘drink me’ shots, fab decor, tunes & win bar tabs 8pm; open noon n 112 CHURCH ST food noon-late; open noon

PICS FROM REVENGE

n DR BRIGHTONS Thirsty Thur; open 3pm n ENVY Mad Cow’s Tea Party: Ms Joan Bond, tea pot cocktails, ‘drink me’ shots, fab decor, tunes & win bar tabs 8pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n LEGENDS BAR Mark Hodge’s Comedy Night 9.30pm; food noon-7pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN It’s Pants: free drinks every hour if your pants match the picture 8.30pm; open noon n POISON IVY cabaret: TBA 9pm; Misty Lee’s karaoke 7pm; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS Bling Rival Cabaret: Son of a Tutu & Mzz Kimberley, wear your bling 9.30pm; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; open noon n REVENGE Girls On Top v inDecent: DJs over 2 floors 10.30pm n SUBLINE Leathered 9pm n VAVAVOOM open 7pm n ZONE cabaret: Tammy Twinkle 8.30pm; open 10am FRIDAY 28 n A-BAR Pride Fundraising Evening with special guests; food noon-7pm; open 11am n BAR 7@CRAWLEY Lust: DJ Patio 6pm n BAR REVENGE Shameless warm-up 9pm; pizza 5-9pm; open noon-6am n BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Friday Night Live with Lady La Rue: 2 floor party, DJ Peter Castle in club 11pm n BEDFORD TAVERN Krazy Kamikaze Karaoke 8.30pm; open noon n BULLDOG DJ Grant Knowles 10pm; cabaret: Trashville midnight; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS food noon-3pm & 69pm; Friday Club 6pm; open noon

GSCENE OUT & ABOUT 47

n CHARLES ST Fruity Fri Fix: DJ Leeroy 9pm; food noon-7.45pm; open noon n 112 CHURCH ST Bear Weekender opening party 8pm, Play Your Cards Right with Mysterry & cabaret with Miss Jason; food noon-late; open noon n DR BRIGHTONS Funky Fri: DJ Nick Hirst 9.30pm; open 1pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n FUNKYFISH CLUB Thank Funk It’s Friday: DJ Antony 10.30pm n LEGENDS BAR Friday Night Live with Lady La Rue, 2 floor party, promo boys 9pm; DJ Peter Castle in club 11pm; food noon-7pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN open noon n POISON IVY camp disco, video bar & Spice’s Karaoke 7pm; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS Camp Attack with Flashback 9pm; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN food noon-2.30pm & 6-8.30pm; open 11am n REVENGE Shameless: DJs Trick & Lee Harris 10.30pm n SUBLINE Brighton Bear Weekend: The Bear Cave: DJ Bozzybear 10pm; open 5pm n VAVAVOOM open 7pm n ZONE live music: BackBeat 9.30pm; open 10am SATURDAY 29 n A-BAR Pre-club music; food noon-7pm; open 11am n BAR 7@CRAWLEY cabaret: Laquisha Jonz 6pm n BAR REVENGE F@#k Me! It’s Free warmup: DJ Fifilicious 9pm; open noon-6am n BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Fusion: DJ Peter Castle 11pm

48 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT

PICS FROM SUBLINE, THE THREE JOLLY BUTCHERS + THE ZONE

JUNE

LISTINGS

SUBLINE

n ONE FOR THE DAIRY: Brighton Bears Weekend: Fri (28) is The BEAR CAVE with DJ Bozzybear, entry £5 or £3 with a BBWE wristband. Sat (29) is with DJ Screwpulous at 10pm. Sun (30) is UNDERBEARS, an underwear party with DJ Nude at 10pm, entry free with BBWE wristband. n REGULARS: Fri (14) is DRY CLEAN ONLY suit party, free entry for those dressed smart, regular entry for those in casual gear; (21) is THE BIG SCRUM at 10pm, entry £6 in kit/£8 otherwise. n Sat is THE MEN'S ROOM with DJ Screwpulous, members get cheap drinks and free entry till 11pm. n Sun is COME IN YOUR PANTS underwear party with DJ N.U.D.E. n Wed is BACKLASH retro tunes and prices, including selected drinks £3 all night for members. n Thur is LEATHERED with free lockers. n DRINK DEALS: Fri & Sat with £2.50 pints 5–9pm. n OPEN: Fri & Sat from 5pm–4am, Sun from 8pm–2am, Wed & Thur from 9pm–1.30am. Closed Mon & Tue. www.subline-brighton.com

n BEDFORD TAVERN open noon n BULLDOG DJ V John 10pm; DJ Lil Alex 3am; karaoke 10pm; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS food 12-7pm; open 12 n CHARLES ST Wig Party: Ms Joan Bond hosts a night of outrageous hair pieces + DJs 8pm; food noon-7.45pm; open noon n 112 CHURCH ST food 12-late; open 12 n DR BRIGHTONS Sexy Sat: DJ Tony B 9.30pm; open 1pm n ENVY Brighton Bears Weekend: Come To Daddy: DJs Rick Parker, Fozzy Bear, Oh MG & Sussex Beacon Fundraiser 10pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n FUNKYFISH CLUB Old Skool Sat: DJ Sean Quinn 10pm n LEGENDS BAR Pre-Club DJs 7pm; food noon-7pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN open noon n PARIS HOUSE live jazz 4pm; TC’s Joyful Noise: DJ Kenny 9pm; open 10am n POISON IVY afternoon karaoke & Betty Swollocks’ karaoke till midnight; open 11am

n QUEEN’S ARMS cabaret: Cosmic Stars 4.30pm; disco, karaoke & Kamp Kevin’s Jeremy Kyle Experience; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN food 12-6pm; open 11am n REVENGE F@#k Me! It’s Still Free: DJs King K, regs & guest Lee Harris 10.30pm n SUBLINE Brighton Bear Weekend: DJ Screwpulous 10pm; open 5pm n VAVAVOOM open 6pm n ZONE cabaret: Tammy Twinkle 9.30pm; open 10am

5pm; Piano Bingo 5pm; open noon n BULLDOG DJ Grant 8pm; karaoke 8pm; open 11am n CAMELFORD ARMS Sunday roasts & selected menu noon-till gone; open noon n CHARLES ST cabaret: Myra Dubois 7.30pm; Tranny Rock & Roll Bingo: Sally Vate, roll over jackpot 8.30pm; Sun lunch noon-7pm n 112 CHURCH ST Richard’s Sunday Roast noon-late; open noon n DR BRIGHTONS Hangover Therapy; open 1pm n FUNKYFISH BAR open noon n LEGENDS BAR cabaret: Drag With No Name

SUNDAY 30 n A-BAR Sunday lunch: bookings 01273 696691 noon-5pm; open noon n BAR 7@CRAWLEY karaoke 6pm n BAR REVENGE Sunday Funday: retro games; Karaoke Queens: LouBag & Smithy 8pm; open noon n BASEMENT CLUB@LEGENDS Pop!Candy: DJ Claire Fuller 11pm n BEDFORD TAVERN Sunday roasts 12.30-

ZONE

THREE JOLLY BUTCHERS

3.15pm; open 11am n MARINE TAVERN open 1pm n POISON IVY cabaret: Scarlette Diamante 5.30pm; karaoke; open 11am n QUEEN’S ARMS cabaret: Mary Mac 6pm; Sissy Sucs’ karaoke till midnight; open noon n REGENCY TAVERN Sunday roasts noon5pm; Piano Bar 1.30pm; open noon n SUBLINE Brighton Bear Weekend: Underbears: DJ N.U.D.E, underwear party 10pm n THREE JOLLY BUTCHERS live jazz 3-6pm n ZONE Charity Fundraiser for Thai Orphans: Miss Jason, Maisie Trollette, cabaret artists, singers & bands 3pm; open 10am

n ONE FOR THE DAIRY: Tue (4 & 18) is live bluegrass and old-time country with The Pickin' Circle at 8pm, free entry. n REGULARS: Sun is live jazz at 3pm, free entry. n FOOD: served noon–3pm & 6–9pm; two burger meals £15. n OPEN: 11.30am every day. Private function room available for parties call 01273 608571. www.3jollybutchers.com

n ONE FOR THE DAIRY: Sun (30) is a Charity Fundraiser for Thai Orphans featuring Miss Jason & Maisie Trollette plus other cabaret stars, singers and bands at 3pm. n REGULARS: Mon is CLASSIC FILMS and video night at 8.30pm. n Tue is COMEDY night at 8.30pm. n Wed is Rachel's A QUESTION OF MUSIC QUIZ with prize money at 8.30pm. n Thur (6 & 27) is CABARET with Tammy Twinkle at 8.30pm. Thur (13 & 20) is Tammy Twinkle's GAMESHOW FEVER with prizes at 8.30pm. n Fri is LIVE MUSIC at 9.30pm: tba (7), JJ & Co (14), Collusion (21) and Back Beat (28). n Sat CABARET at 9.30pm: Sally Vate (1 & 22), Maisie Trollette (8), Miss Jason (15) and Tammy Twinkle (29). n Sun is LIVE MUSIC at 4pm: Collusion (2), Stone & Street (9 & 23), Back Beat (16); karaoke follows immediately after. n HAPPY HOURS: all night Mon & Wed. n OPEN: daily from 10am.

GSCENE OUT & ABOUT 49

SOLENT & BOURNEMOUTH BOURNEMOUTH

n BAKERS ARMS 77-79 Commercial Rd, BH2 5RT, Tel: 01202 555506 n BAR VENTANA at CUMBERLAND HOTEL East Overcliff Dr, BH1 3AF, Tel: 01202 556529 www.cumberlandbournemouth.co.uk n BRANKSOME ARMS 152-154 Commercial Rd, BH2 5LU, Tel: 01202 292254 n CUMBERLAND HOTEL East Overcliff Drive, BH1 3AF, Tel: 01202 290722 www.cumberlandbournemouth.co.uk n DYMK 31 Poole Hill, BH2 5PW, www.dymk-bar.com n SAUNABAR 140 Commercial Rd, BH2 5LU, Tel: 01202 552654 www.gaysaunabournemouth.co.uk n 2930 THE TRIANGLE CLUB 29-30 The Triangle, BH2 5SE, Tel: 0845 496 2934 www.2930thetriangle.com n EASY TIGER 27 The Triangle, BH2 5SE; open: Mon-Fri 10am-8pm, Sat 10am-6.30pm, Sun 11am-5pm. Tel: 01202 554195 www.easytigerstore.com n XCHANGE 4 The Triangle, BH2 5RY, Tel: 01202 294321

PORTSMOUTH

n HAMPSHIRE BOULEVARD 1 Hampshire Terr, Southsea, Tel: 02392 297509 www.thehampshireboulevard.co.uk Open: Mon: 3pm-11pm, Tue: noon-1am, Wed-

SATURDAY 1 BOURNEMOUTH n CUMBERLAND HOTEL food & drinks; open 9am n DYMK open 2pm PORTSMOUTH n HAMPSHIRE BLVD DJ till 3am n OLD VIC food noon-5pm; DJs all night SOUTHAMPTON n EDGE The Big One: DJs, 2 dancefloors, 3 bars 9pm n LONDON HOTEL cabaret: Eva La Diva & DJ Neil Sackley’s Guilty Pleasures 10pm; food noon-3pm; open noon SUNDAY 2 BOURNEMOUTH n CUMBERLAND HOTEL Sunday lunch 12.30-2.30pm & 7-9pm; open 9am n DYMK open noon PORTSMOUTH n HAMPSHIRE BLVD karaoke till 2am n OLD VIC Sun lunch 1-5pm; open noon SOUTHAMPTON n EDGE Fundays: DJ Liam Searle 11pm n LONDON HOTEL Dolly Partem’s Sunday Service 8.30pm; Drag With No Name 9.30pm; Sun lunch noon-3.30pm; open noon

Thur: noon-2am, Fri-Sat: noon-3am, Sun: noon-2am, cabaret bar and club n OLD VIC 104 St Pauls Rd, Southsea Tel: 02392 297013 www.oldvicportsmouth.co.uk Open: Mon-Fri: 11am till late, Sat: 5pm-late, Sun: noon-12,30am. Regular cabaret, food. n TROPICS SAUNA 2 Market Way Tel: 02380 296100 www.tropics-sauna.com Open: Mon-Wed: 12-8pm, Thur-Sat: 11am-9pm

SOUTHAMPTON

n ISOBAR 100c St Mary’s Street Tel: 02380 222028 Open: Sun-Tue: 2pm-11pm, Wed-Sat: 2pmmidnight. Modern bar, decked garden, popular with younger crowd. n LONDON HOTEL 2 Terminus Terrace Tel: 02380 710652 www.the-london.co.uk Open: Mon-Thur: noon-11pm, Fri-Sat: noon12.30am, Sun: noon-11.30am. Friendly cabaret venue, serves food. n EDGE Compton Walk Tel: 02380 366163 www.theedgesouthampton.com Open: Tue-Fri & Sun: 9pm-3am, Sat: 9pm5am. Stylish club on 2 floors with 3 bars. Party till 5am on a Saturday night - last entry at 3am. n PINK BROADWAY SAUNA 797/80 East St Tel: 02380 238804 www.pink-broadway.com/sauna.html Open: Sun-Thur: noon-10pm, Fri-Sat: noon-2am

PORTSMOUTH n OLD VIC Quiz 8pm; food noon-5pm SOUTHAMPTON n EDGE Bomb It!: video jukebox 11pm n LONDON HOTEL chillout; food noon-3pm WEDNESDAY 5 BOURNEMOUTH n CUMBERLAND HOTEL food & drinks; open 9am n DYMK open 2pm PORTSMOUTH n HAMPSHIRE BLVD open till 2am n OLD VIC NUS night 7pm; food noon-5pm SOUTHAMPTON n EDGE Bar 150: DJ Lady Bex, Liam Searle, Cheeky Pete’s karaoke & WKD giveaways 9pm n LONDON HOTEL Quiz 8.30pm; food noon3pm

THURSDAY 6 BOURNEMOUTH n CUMBERLAND HOTEL food & drinks; open 9am n DYMK open 2pm PORTSMOUTH n HAMPSHIRE BLVD karaoke till 2am n OLD VIC karaoke 8pm; food noon-5pm SOUTHAMPTON n EDGE Pure Pop!: DJ Neil Sackley 11pm MONDAY 3 n LONDON HOTEL Karaoke Cruising: Pat BOURNEMOUTH n CUMBERLAND HOTEL food & drinks; open Cruise 8.30pm; food noon-3pm; open noon 9am FRIDAY 7 n DYMK open 2pm BOURNEMOUTH PORTSMOUTH n CUMBERLAND HOTEL food & drinks; open n HAMPSHIRE BLVD DJ till 2am 9am n OLD VIC food noon-5pm; open noon n DYMK open 2pm SOUTHAMPTON n LONDON HOTEL chillout; food noon-3pm PORTSMOUTH n HAMPSHIRE BLVD DJ till 3am n OLD VIC food noon-5pm; party till 2am TUESDAY 4 SOUTHAMPTON BOURNEMOUTH n EDGE Get Some: DJs Lady Bex, Lohands, n CUMBERLAND HOTEL food/drinks; open Rob Davies 9pm 9am n LONDON HOTEL Fairylea: DJ Ruby Roo n DYMK open 2pm 8.30pm; cabaret: Benji 10pm; food noon-3pm

50 GSCENE OUT & ABOUT

PICS FROM THE EDGE + THE LONDON HOTEL, SOUTHAMPTON

SOLENT & BOURNEMOUTH

LONDON HOTEL SOUTHAMPTON

EDGE SOUTHAMPTON

n ONE FOR THE DIARY: Sat (8)–Sun (9) is The Edge's 18th BIRTHDAY PARTY: Sat is The Official COMING OF AGE PARTY with DJs Tim Sandford & Mikey G; Sun is the £1.80 PARTY with DJ Liam Searle, £1.80 drinks, free entry b4 11.30pm, £1.80 after. n REGULARS: Sun is FUNDAYS with DJ Liam Searle, bullet of bodka £1, house double £2, VS bottle £1.25, white sambucca £1.50, cocktail pint £4, entry free b4 11.30pm, £2 after. n Tue is BOMB IT with 3-4-2 Jagerbombs, free video jukebox & entry. n Wed is BAR 150 with DJs Lady Bex, Liam Searle and Cheeky Pete’s Karaoke, win a case of WKD, entry free b4 10pm, £3-£6 after. Wed (12) is the SCHOOL DISCO BAR 150. n Thur is PURE POP! with DJ Neil Sackley playing pop tunes; £2.50 cocktails, free sweets, entry £1. n Fri is GET SOME with DJs Lohands, Lady Bex, Rob Davies & huge give-aways, entry £1-£6. n Sat is THE BIG ONE with resident DJs, guest Lee Harris (22), 3 bars with drink deals & 2 dancefloors, entry free–£6. n OPEN: Tue, Thur & Sun 10pm–3am; Wed, Fri & Sat 9pm–5am. Closed Mon. n www.theedgesouthampton.com

SATURDAY 8 BOURNEMOUTH n CUMBERLAND HOTEL food & drinks; open 9am n DYMK open 2pm PORTSMOUTH n HAMPSHIRE BLVD DJ till 3am n OLD VIC food noon-5pm; DJs all night SOUTHAMPTON n EDGE Edge’s 18th Birthday The Coming of Age Party: DJs Tim Sandford & Mikey G, 2 dancefloors, 3 bars 9pm n LONDON HOTEL DJ Pat Cruise’s Guilty Pleasures 10pm; food noon-3pm; open noon

SOUTHAMPTON n LONDON HOTEL chillout; food noon-3pm TUESDAY 11 BOURNEMOUTH n CUMBERLAND HOTEL food & drinks; open 9am n DYMK open 2pm PORTSMOUTH n OLD VIC Quiz 8pm; food noon-5pm SOUTHAMPTON n EDGE Bomb It!: video jukebox 11pm n LONDON HOTEL chillout; food noon-3pm

n ONE FOR THE DIARY: Sun (9) is the DRAG IDOL SEMI FINAL with Topping & Butch at 8.30pm. n REGULARS: Wed (5) is monthly QUIZ night with cash prizes at 8.30pm. n Thur is Pat Cruise’s KARAOKE CRUISING at 8.30pm. n Fri is FAIRYLEA with DJ Ruby Roo at 8.30pm and CABARET at 10pm: Benji (7), Connie Conway (14), Ricky Zalez (21) and Ruthie T (28). n Sat is GUILTY PLEASURES with DJs & cabaret at 8.30pm: Neil Sackley with Eva La Diva (1), Pat Cruise (8), Mike Sweeney with James Bedford (15), Tiny (22) and Dazza (29). n Dolly Partem’s SUNDAY SERVICE is at 8.30pm, cabaret follows at 9.30pm: DRAG WITH NO NAME (2), Scarlette Diamante (16) and Lola Lasagne (30). n FOOD: traditional pub food served Mon–Sat noon–3pm; Sunday lunch served noon–3.30pm. Chill out in the new lounge areas. n OPEN: daily from noon. n www.the-london.co.uk n LONDON HOTEL Karaoke Cruising: Pat Cruise 8.30pm; food noon-3pm; open noon FRIDAY 14 BOURNEMOUTH n CUMBERLAND HOTEL food & drinks; open 9am n DYMK open 2pm PORTSMOUTH n HAMPSHIRE BLVD DJ till 3am n OLD VIC food noon-5pm; party till 2am SOUTHAMPTON n EDGE Get Some: DJs Lady Bex, Lohands, Rob Davies 9pm n LONDON HOTEL Fairylea: DJ Ruby Roo 8.30pm; cabaret: Connie Conway 10pm; food noon-3pm

PORTSMOUTH n HAMPSHIRE BLVD DJ till 2am n OLD VIC food noon-5pm; open noon SOUTHAMPTON n LONDON HOTEL chillout; food noon-3pm TUESDAY 18 BOURNEMOUTH n CUMBERLAND HOTEL food/drink; open 9am n DYMK open 2pm PORTSMOUTH n OLD VIC Quiz 8pm; food noon-5pm SOUTHAMPTON n EDGE Bomb It!: video jukebox 11pm n LONDON HOTEL chillout; food noon-3pm WEDNESDAY 19 BOURNEMOUTH n CUMBERLAND HOTEL food/drink; open 9am n DYMK open 2pm PORTSMOUTH n HAMPSHIRE BLVD open till 2am n OLD VIC NUS night 7pm; food noon-5pm SOUTHAMPTON n EDGE Bar 150: DJ Lady Bex, Liam Searle, Cheeky Pete’s karaoke & WKD giveaways 9pm n LONDON HOTEL chillout; food noon-3pm

SATURDAY 15 BOURNEMOUTH n CUMBERLAND HOTEL food & drinks; open 9am n DYMK open 2pm PORTSMOUTH n HAMPSHIRE BLVD DJ till 3am n OLD VIC food noon-5pm; DJs all night SOUTHAMPTON WEDNESDAY 12 n EDGE The Big One: DJs, 2 dancefloors, 3 BOURNEMOUTH bars 9pm SUNDAY 9 n CUMBERLAND HOTEL Ventana Bar & n LONDON HOTEL cabaret: James Bedford & THURSDAY 20 BOURNEMOUTH n CUMBERLAND HOTEL Sun lunch 12.30- Brasserie: food, afternoon tea, drinks; open 9am DJ Mike Sweeney’s Guilty Pleasures 10pm; food BOURNEMOUTH n DYMK open 2pm n CUMBERLAND HOTEL food/drink; open 9am noon-3pm; open noon 2.30pm & 7-9pm; open 9am PORTSMOUTH n DYMK open 2pm n DYMK open 2pm n HAMPSHIRE BLVD open till 2am PORTSMOUTH SUNDAY 16 PORTSMOUTH n OLD VIC NUS night 7pm; food noon-5pm n HAMPSHIRE BLVD karaoke till 2am BOURNEMOUTH n HAMPSHIRE BLVD karaoke till 2am SOUTHAMPTON n OLD VIC karaoke 8pm; food noon-5pm n CUMBERLAND HOTEL Sunday lunch n OLD VIC Sun lunch 1-5pm; open noon n EDGE Bar 150 School Disco: DJ Lady Bex, SOUTHAMPTON 12.30-2.30pm & 7-9pm; open 9am SOUTHAMPTON n EDGE Pure Pop!: DJ Neil Sackley 11pm n DYMK open 2pm n EDGE Edge’s 18th Birthday £1.80 Party: DJ Liam Searle, Cheeky Pete’s karaoke, WKD giveaways 9pm n LONDON HOTEL Karaoke Cruising: Pat PORTSMOUTH Liam Searle 11pm Cruise 8.30pm; food noon-3pm; open noon n HAMPSHIRE BLVD karaoke till 2am n LONDON HOTEL Drag Idol Semi Final with n LONDON HOTEL chillout; food noon-3pm n OLD VIC Sun lunch 1-5pm; open noon Topping & Butch 8.30pm; Sun lunch noonTHURSDAY 13 FRIDAY 21 SOUTHAMPTON 3.30pm; open noon BOURNEMOUTH BOURNEMOUTH n EDGE Fundays: DJ Liam Searle 11pm n CUMBERLAND HOTEL food & drinks; open n LONDON HOTEL Dolly Partem’s Sunday n CUMBERLAND HOTEL food/drink; open 9am MONDAY 10 9am n DYMK open 2pm Service 8.30pm; Scarlette Diamante 9.30pm; BOURNEMOUTH PORTSMOUTH Sun lunch noon-3.30pm; open noon n CUMBERLAND HOTEL food & drinks; open n DYMK open 2pm PORTSMOUTH n HAMPSHIRE BLVD DJ till 3am 9am n HAMPSHIRE BLVD karaoke till 2am n OLD VIC food noon-5pm; party till 2am MONDAY 17 n DYMK open 2pm n OLD VIC karaoke 8pm; food noon-5pm SOUTHAMPTON BOURNEMOUTH PORTSMOUTH SOUTHAMPTON n CUMBERLAND HOTEL food/drink; open 9am n EDGE Get Some: DJs Lady Bex, Lohands, Rob n HAMPSHIRE BLVD DJ till 2am n EDGE Pure Pop!: DJ Neil Sackley 11pm Davies 9pm n DYMK open 2pm n OLD VIC food noon-5pm; open noon

GSCENE OUT & ABOUT 51

SOLENT & BOURNEMOUTH PORTSMOUTH n OLD VIC Quiz 8pm; food noon-5pm SOUTHAMPTON n EDGE Bomb It!: video jukebox 11pm n LONDON HOTEL chillout; food noon-3pm

n LONDON HOTEL Fairylea: DJ Ruby Roo 8.30pm; cabaret: Ricky Zalez 10pm; food noon-3pm SATURDAY 22 BOURNEMOUTH n CUMBERLAND HOTEL food & drinks; open 9am n DYMK open 2pm PORTSMOUTH n HAMPSHIRE BLVD DJ till 3am n OLD VIC food noon-5pm SOUTHAMPTON n EDGE The Big One: DJ Lee Harris & regs, 2 dancefloors, 3 bars 9pm n LONDON HOTEL DJ Tiny’s Guilty Pleasures 10pm; food noon-3pm SUNDAY 23 BOURNEMOUTH n CUMBERLAND HOTEL Sun lunch 12.302.30pm & 7-9pm; open 9am n DYMK open 2pm PORTSMOUTH n HAMPSHIRE BLVD karaoke till 2am

n OLD VIC Sun lunch 1-5pm; open noon SOUTHAMPTON n EDGE Fundays: DJ Liam Searle 11pm n LONDON HOTEL Dolly Partem’s Sunday Service 8.30pm; Sun lunch noon-3.30pm; open noon MONDAY 24 BOURNEMOUTH n CUMBERLAND HOTEL food & drinks; open 9am n DYMK open 2pm PORTSMOUTH n HAMPSHIRE BLVD DJ till 2am n OLD VIC food noon-5pm; open noon SOUTHAMPTON n LONDON HOTEL chillout; food noon-3pm TUESDAY 25 BOURNEMOUTH n CUMBERLAND HOTEL food & drinks; open 9am n DYMK open 2pm

WEDNESDAY 26 BOURNEMOUTH n CUMBERLAND HOTEL food & drinks; open 9am n DYMK open 2pm PORTSMOUTH n HAMPSHIRE BLVD open till 2am n OLD VIC NUS night 7pm; food noon-5pm SOUTHAMPTON n EDGE Bar 150: DJ Lady Bex, Liam Searle, Cheeky Pete’s karaoke & WKD giveaways 9pm n LONDON HOTEL food noon-3pm; open noon THURSDAY 27 BOURNEMOUTH n CUMBERLAND HOTEL food/drink; open 9am n DYMK open 2pm PORTSMOUTH n HAMPSHIRE BLVD karaoke till 2am n OLD VIC karaoke 8pm; food noon-5pm SOUTHAMPTON n EDGE Pure Pop!: DJ Neil Sackley 11pm n LONDON HOTEL Karaoke Cruising: Pat Cruise 8.30pm; food noon-3pm; open noon

PORTSMOUTH n HAMPSHIRE BLVD DJ till 3am n OLD VIC food noon-5pm; party till 2am SOUTHAMPTON n EDGE Get Some: DJs Lady Bex, Lohands & Rob Davies 9pm n LONDON HOTEL Fairylea: DJ Ruby Roo 8.30pm; cabaret: Ruthie T 10pm; food noon3pm SATURDAY 29 BOURNEMOUTH n CUMBERLAND HOTEL food/drink; open 9am n DYMK open 2pm PORTSMOUTH n HAMPSHIRE BLVD DJ till 3am n OLD VIC food noon-5pm SOUTHAMPTON n EDGE The Big One: DJs, 2 dancefloors, 3 bars 9pm n LONDON HOTEL DJ Dazza’s Guilty Pleasures 10pm; food noon-3pm

SUNDAY 30 BOURNEMOUTH n CUMBERLAND HOTEL Sunday lunch 12.30-2.30pm & 7-9pm; open 9am n DYMK open 2pm PORTSMOUTH n HAMPSHIRE BLVD karaoke till 2am n OLD VIC Sun lunch 1-5pm; open noon SOUTHAMPTON FRIDAY 28 n EDGE Fundays: DJ Liam Searle 11pm BOURNEMOUTH n LONDON HOTEL Dolly Partem’s Sunday n CUMBERLAND HOTEL food/drink; open 9am Service 8.30pm; Lola Lasagne 9.30pm; Sun n DYMK open 2pm lunch noon-3.30pm; open noon

52 GSCENE

DANCE

MUSIC

BY QUEEN JOSEPHINE

REVIEWS Right then, it’s full steam ahead into what I bloody well hope is going to be a boiling steamy summer my disco darlings. So here are some wonders to bounce about to whilst you’re slipping into your bikinis… n And what a start we have here as Chilean DJ Dinky reveals her song-writing talents on the beautiful album Dimension D on Visionquest. With her ethereal vocals wrapping themselves around complex stories of relationships and encounters in far-flung cities there’s a certain jazzy intrigue that will entrance you, plus enough of a nod to the rhythms of the night to keep that bikini-clad arse swaying nicely. n As will the rather gorgeous Late Night Beats by Joss Moog on Robsoul Recordings. Mister Moog is the master of blending live instrumentation with soulful beats and vintage house samples, creating a lovely, deep and musical collection. Yet tracks such as Big Dudes and That Woman not only have superb titles, they also have enough bite to bump that dancefloor. Or indeed, BBQ. n Airhead For Years on R&S is a complex little gem; sometimes introspective such as on Knives

(which also features his melancholic friend James Blake), playful (check the Bossa nova type lilt of Autumn) and there’s even the sunshine-y house of Fault Line.

A soupcon of something for everyone here. Nice! n For those with eclectic tastes, please try Peven Everett’s King Of Hearts on Makin Moves. Basically an album of lurve songs (and we all need those, do we not?) floating seamlessly across all genres from r&b, funk, soul and rap right through to soulful house. Go on, get smoochy in that swim wear. I dare you!

Finally, here are a couple of compilations to tickle your fancy. n Firstly MK’s Defected Presents MK In The House is a must for everyone intending to party the summer away. Come on… it’s even got MK’s fabulous remix of the Pet Shop Boys’ Can You Forgive Her on it! n Secondly, keeping up the lovely house vibe on Holic Trax, various artists including JMF and Ranacat will keep you wiggling with top album Tom Tam Club.

Right, I’m off to top up my tan.

Catch me and Wildblood on Saucefm, at DSD and Musica. And I do believe Kate is finally leaving the library.

JUNE TWELVE INCHES n MISS B Don’t Stop White

Delicious deepness from the fabulous Miss B n MIGUEL CAMPBELL Beams Of Light Hot Creations Fan-bleedin’-tastic. Alexis Raphael mix stands out! n SIGNATURE SOUL More And More Disco’s Revenge Gets right under your (suntanned skin). Gorgeous! n BEAVERHAUSEN Open Up Let’s Do It EP Jeepers Music Splendid house/tech from the Brightonian n JAMIE JONES Moan And Groan Crosstown Rebels I’ll always moan and groan for Mr Jones n MARTIN KRAVEL Garden Of Eden MUM It’s dark and dirty in that there garden…. n GROMIE & SAGE Caswell Vines/Pyrex Peach Space-age house for a sunny day n ROLAND NIGHTS Til The Morning Lost My Dog Perfection is Mr V in the mix n ASADINHO Transgression EP RvS Music Naughty naughty naughty. And very nice. n KON All About You EP Soul Clap Check out Runaway. Wonderful in everyway!

DJ PROFILE As the beautiful month of June is upon us, it’s time to catch up with a little ray of dancefloor sunshine, Ben Castle. But hey, I hear you cry, there’s a familiar ring to the name of this month’s darling DJ. Well, you’re not wrong, for Ben is the son of DJ Pete Castle who was featured some time back in this very magazine. And with his party-friendly tunes it seems that Mr Castle Jnr really is a bit of a chip off the old block!

Queen Josephine finds out where to hear him, the tune he’ll not be playing again in a hurry and what he likes to nibble on guiltily.

Where can we catch you DJing?

You can see me mostly at JJWhispers in Crawley on Saturday nights but I play at Legends Basement Club covering Friday nights and other events. I have also played at Madame Geishas.

Describe your DJing style?

I love to play a lot of chart remixes. For the songs that you can have a good sing along to I’ll always play the originals, but for the rest I'll mix it up however I can!

Favourite song of all time?

It has to be T-Rex’s I Love To Boogie because it’s got so much energy!

Tune that always fills/rescues your dancefloor?

My dancefloor never needs rescuing... hahaha! Seriously though, at the moment the one that gets everybody going is Maroon 5 Move Like Jagger.

Ultimate dream gig?

A set at a festival like Glastonbury would be quite cool!

Tune you wish you’d never played?

Mika’s Grace Kelly and surprisingly not because it cleared the dancefloor but because the sound of all the drunk people trying to sing along to the high notes was completely terrible!

Your guilty pleasure?

Musically it has to be David Bowie and I absolutely LOVE Turkish Delight!

Favourite ever gig so far?

I did a gig alongside JLS, that was quite a good one! But really I just love playing at Legends… it’s got the best atmosphere!

Tell us a secret.

I can't DJ with r&b! It’s not that I don't like r&b... it’s just that it won't happen!

What music do you and your dad have in common?

We both like Moto Blanco remixes.

CURRENT TOP 5

n DAFT PUNK Get Lucky Columbia n MACKLEMORE Thrift Shop Macklemore LLC n JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE Suit And Tie (Aeroplane Remix) RCA n DUKE DAMONT feat AME Need You 100% Blasé Boys Club n NINA NESBIT Stay Out Universal Music Group

GSCENE 53

MONTHLY SERIAL BY CARL OPREY: EPISODE 9 Sean quietly sipped Armagnac on the sofa as the younger of two CID officers took notes. Alex followed the older officer, straining to see, steadying ornaments as the officer carelessly bumped into furniture. Sean sat inanimate while Alex spoke. “He lied his way into the wedding. He could be gathering information on us at this very minute.”

The older detective leant heavily against the sideboard housing Alex’s recent collection of Moreno glass. “And you’re sure neither of you had seen him before?’ asked the older officer. Alex sat down next to Sean and placed a hand onto his lap. “I swear on my life, Sean, I never even saw him before the wedding.” Sean placed his hand on top of Alex’s. “I know, Alex. I believe you.”

The younger detective stood up. “This is happening a lot to people like you,” he said, slapping his notebook closed.

“People like us?” Alex replied.

“Yes, the… comfortably off?” Sean walked to the window and opened the shutter. “I want to drop the charges.” The detectives glanced at each other and smiled. “There are no charges yet, sir.”

“It’s just an isolated thing.” Sean turned back towards Alex. “It’s my problem. I’ll sort it out.”

Alex turned Sean around. “What… Are you sure?”

“I’m sure. Let’s just forget it, Alex.” They stood for a moment in silence with Sean avoiding Alex’s face. The older detective cleared his throat and glanced at his colleague. “Did you, perhaps, know the man in question, sir?”

Sean turned to face the window and looked down through the rain into the street. Alex placed his hand onto his shoulder. “Sean. I’ve never seen you like this before.” Sean rubbed his face hard with the palms of his hands. The officer placed his notebook back into his inside pocket. “I’ll open a general breaking and entering file at the station.”

The older detective nodded for his colleague to follow him and, as he opened the door, he took a last look around the apartment. “We have a zero tolerance policy to fulfil now. It doesn’t help when people back down or get scared. You’re not helping anyone in your community, either.”

Alex turned to the officer. “What community?”

The detectives opened the apartment door. “Look, why don’t you sort yourselves out, then call us?”

When the police had gone, Sean and Alex lay on the sofa together. “Anything that happened before the wedding doesn’t count, Sean. That was the agreement.” Alex squeezed Sean closer.

“It does, Alex. It really does…” Alex sat upright.

“Remember, I was the spit-roast of Fire Island. For two seasons…”

“I remember.”

“And the Crack Whore.” Alex’s humour failed to work this time. Sean recalled the missing hours and days of his undergraduate life. He told Alex that in his third year at university, his parents had cut off his allowance following an incident with Sarah’s latest boyfriend, a bag of pot and John Matthews’ prized Austin Healey. “Everyone was going to Greece that summer and those bastards cut off my allowance,” Sean said, sitting down and taking Alex’s hand. It felt just like it did when Sean sometimes had to warn parents of impending doom. Alex exhaled, then smiled.

“Is this about being busted for pot, Sean?”

“No, Sarah’s boyfriend came up with this scheme to raise money.” Alex shuffled in his seat. “A scheme?”

“Yes. Selling sperm samples to Embryology at £25 a pop. He called it wanking my way to Greece.”

When Alex’s laughter eventually subsided, he sat cold, on the edge of the sofa. Sean said he’d been told the samples were ‘throwaways’, used once for research in the same way blood and urine were used for consistency checks.

“So what are you saying, Sean?”

“I think they used them for fertility instead.”

“They did what?”

“It was the beginning of this whole IVF thing...”

“Are you shitting me?” Alex withdrew his hand in increments from Sean’s. He rose. “And I thought nothing could ever top Fire Island.”

Alex wandered about the living room. He stuttered, beginning sentences without finishing them. “So...” Alex’s mind wandered off again.

“So… What?” said Sean.

“So, how did he find you?” Sean pulled out Michael’s letter. “You’d better read this.” He watched Alex’s face change as he read the letter.

At one point, Alex read it aloud. “It’s the line: ‘Dad, either help me out or I contact my brothers and sisters’ that really fucking gets to me. Why didn’t you give this to the police?” Alex threw the letter on the table. “And what’s that fucking website about?” Sean folded the letter and placed it back into his pocket. “Let’s just forget it, Alex.”

“Forget it? It’s extortion, you can’t just forget it…” Alex stormed towards the bedroom. “This is the worst day of my fucking life. And you want me to forget it?” He slammed the door.

The following day, as on most Saturdays, Sean headed over to Sarah’s house near Broadway Market. Unlike most Saturdays, this time he was alone. He slumped on the sofa with a glass of Merlot and his goddaughter asleep across him as Sarah grilled him. “It was that summer you went full homo and your parents cut off your allowance?”

“Well, yes. That and the pot episode, yes.”

“How’s Alex taking it?”

“He’s having the apartment re-alarmed.”

“What can I do, Sarah?”

“That depends if you want anything to do with him,” she replied.

“What do you think?”

“It’s not about what I think.” Sean avoided an answer and looked instead at Molly sleeping. She was wearing a dress he and Alex had bought her on the Kings Road earlier that year. It was now smeared with glitter and jam.

“Either way, you need a blood test from this Michael guy,” Sarah said.

“And how will I do that? Tie him down?”

Sarah topped up Sean’s half full glass. “I signed a waiver. It was supposed to be anonymous.”

“But you were a medical student at the same university.”

“We were all given code numbers.”

Sarah smiled sympathetically. “Remember Gareth Jones, the genetics student I was shagging that summer? He told me everything going on there…”

Sean sank back into his seat. “So?”’ “Not my area of Law, but weren’t all donations in the early 80s anonymous? Until HIV and all that?”

“This is not a ‘gay thing’, Sarah...”

“I’m not saying it’s a gay thing. You remember all that AIDS stuff, the campaign? No one could even give blood after that.”

“What are you trying to say?”

“Just that things were a bit more lax back then.”

Molly moved, rubbing her face. Sean shivered; it felt like the start of a cold. “He’s also set up this website to find the rest of them. The kids.”

Sarah leant forward on the sofa. “Well, this changes everything. This is blackmail, Sean.”

Sean pulled down the sleeves of his jumper over his hands. “It’s ridiculous. He can’t blackmail me over this.” He laughed at the ridiculousness of it all. He felt a weight across his shoulders as if something was driving him into the ground. He felt that he was being asked questions he knew needed answering, but had pushed away. He straightened his back, his defensiveness visible. “What could it be if it’s not blackmail?”

“You tell me,” Sarah said. Sean tried to give her reasons why, but they trailed off in unformed sentences. There were too many reasons that he couldn’t tell her, because he hadn’t really told himself. It wasn’t the first time he’d retreated away from the advice of Alex and Sarah. As soon as he tried to approach anything with reason, he kept going back to the same beginning.

“Is this Gareth Jones still around?” Sean said.

“No idea. I can find out, though.”

Sean brightened for a moment. “There might be something in that coat he left?” Sarah finished her latest glass. ”Don’t you ever watch 911? Even Special Branch only gets three days with live DNA. I’ll get someone in the office onto it. It’ll be shameful, but I’ll call him up this week.” © Carl Oprey

JULIAN CLARY

54 GSCENE

ARTS

BY MICHAEL HOOTMAN

Kings Rd, Brighton, Box office: 0844 847 1515 www.brightoncentre.co.uk n n EDDIE IZZARD: FORCE MAJEURE (Sat 1–Sun 2). This is part of 'the most extensive comedy tour ever' which goes from Cardiff to Kathmandu. ‘King of the Universe... Comic genius... Entertainment incarnate!’ The Telegraph. n KILLER QUEEN (Thu 6). Expert musicianship, extraordinary energy and accurate portrayal of the world’s greatest live band have earned Killer Queen the reputation of Queen tribute royalty.

DOME Church Street, Brighton Box office: 01273 709709 www.brightondome.org n JULIAN CLARY (Sat 1).

Following his uber-selling Lord Of The Mince tour, the king of the double entendre and selfproclaimed 'national trinket' is back on the road… This time he's looking for love and he's not leaving empty-handed! Join the celebrated stand-up, novelist, columnist and TV star as he promises to ‘leave no straight unturned’ in this concerted quest to find a husband.

ARUNDEL SUITE Holiday Inn, King's Road n HAVE A WORD (Wed 12).

Brighton’s new LGBT arts, literary and performance night takes place

the second Wednesday of each month. The event will be an opportunity to hear Polari prize winner John McCullough read from his book The Frost Fairs and singer/stand-up comedian Nicky Mitchell will be performing songs from Ella Fitzgerald to Billie Holiday. Printmaker, writer and poet Nicholas Collins will be reading from new and old works from the last 20 years including poems taken from Beyond Paradise, an anthology featuring lesbian and gay writers from the north, and actor/director Matt Fennemore will be exploring and re-visiting the profound and electrifying theatricality of artist David Wonarowicz.

n DIAMOND (Mon 3–Sun 9). Back by popular demand, with a new score and a new twist, Diamond is based on the life of one of the East End’s most memorable characters, Harry Young, who as Diamond Lil, dressed solely as a woman from the age of 14.

Wandering the streets of Bethnal Green in heels and makeup she became the unlikely heartbeat of the community during WWII and beyond. Uncompromising, funny and tragic at times this is a story with a real heart about real people some of whose lives truly were stranger than fiction. Stars Dave Lynn and Stephen Richards.

EMPORIUM 88 London Road, Brighton tickets@emporiumbrighton.com n PATTERN CUTTING AND CONSTRUCTION FOR DRAG ARTISTES (Tue 4–Thu 6). Kevin Freeman is a master of astounding couture drag and cabaret costumes. This three-day course teaches how male body blocks are adjusted and manipulated to create a female persona through clever seaming and detail, accurate fitting, padding and corsetry.

KOMEDIA Gardner Street, Brighton Box office: 0845 293 8480 www.komedia.co.uk n BENT DOUBLE (Sun 2). Hosted by star of Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow, Zoe Lyons.

Featuring headliner Alistair Barrie. 'Critics Choice' The Times.

DUKEBOX THEATRE Iron Duke, 3 Waterloo St, Hove www.wegottickets.com/thedukeb oxtheatre n YOU KNOW ME, I'M JACK RUBY! (Sat 1). Lee Harvey Oswald, the suspected assassin of President Kennedy, is gunned down in the basement of the Dallas Police Department by local nightclub

ALISTAIR BARRIE

THE MOODY BLUES (Fri 21). The group sings hits such as incredible roster of hits includes: Nights In White Satin, Tuesday Afternoon, Ride My See Saw, The Story In Your Eyes, Isn’t Life Strange, . n ELVIS COSTELLO & THE IMPOSTERS (Sat 22). 'A funny, boisterous, big-hearted musical-hall variety show' The Times; 'Showman Elvis spins his big hits' The Telegraph. n STRICTLY CONFIDENTIAL (Jul 3). Told through the eyes of Lisa Riley, under the direction of TV’s most notorious judge, Craig Revel Horwood, Strictly Confidential is a dance and music extravaganza, complete with sequins, spray tans and behind the scenes action from the BBC One Saturday night entertainment series. Artem Chigvintsev, Natalie Lowe and Ian Waite will take your breath away with their exquisite performances of all your favourite ballroom and Latin routines, as well as their insider knowledge of the world of Strictly.

DAVE LYNN DIAMOND LIL

KILLER QUEEN

EDDIE IZZARD

BRIGHTON CENTRE

owner Jacob Rubenstein, known as Jack Ruby, the Mafia's man in Dallas. Really? n MY FRIEND LESTER (Sun 2).

Billie Holiday and saxophonist Lester Young played and recorded such achingly beautiful music together that many believed they were lovers. This magical story tells the untold tale of their romance through their words and the songs they recorded together. n ONE UP - ONE DOWN (Fri 14).

Join Stephen Foster, winner of Search For A Star Sussex and star of Sky1, for an evening of standup comedy, joined by Liverpool's finest comedian, Phil Reid.

Stephen returns to Sussex after the success of his sell out Licence To Offend tour last year.

GSCENE 55

ART

M AT T E R S

BY ENZO MARRA

CREEKSIDE OPEN 2013

MISS JASON

THE HAWTH

1 Kings Road, Brighton Box office: 01273 321222 n AN EVENING WITH MISS JASON (7pm, Sat 22). Let Miss Jason take you back in time to the by gone days of old time music hall.

The evening starts at 7pm with a champange and canape reception, followed by a sumptious four course gala dinner (including one of Jason’s favorite tipples - a glass of ort served with the cheese course) in the Sandringham Suite.

After dinner, Miss Jason will transport us back to the days of old time music hall in a show lasting over 2 hours with special guest, Rosemary Ashe, accompanied on keyboard by Josh Mills. Tickets are £49 per person which includes the reception, dinner and show.

Hawth Avenue, Crawley Box office 01293 553636 n BENJAMIN BRITTEN – PEACE & CONFLICT (Fri 7 & Tue 18).

A filmed combination of drama, performance, interview and archive, exploring the pacifism that was such a powerful influence on composer Benjamin Britten’s life and work. The story begins in 1929 at Gresham’s School in Norfolk where the schoolboy Ben Britten and a group of fine young professional actors take us into a world which still resonates with the horrors of the First World War, where pupils are encouraged to address social and political issues and Benjamin Britten’s hatred of all things militaristic is forged.

UNIVERSITY OF BRIGHTON FACULTY OF ARTS GRADUATE SHOW 2013 Grand Parade and Pavilion Parade. www.artsbrighton.ac.uk/graduate-show n June is the time of year when Brighton’s final year art and design students stop camping out at Urban Outfitters and drinking in the cheapest bars long enough to deliver the fruits of their artistic labour. The UNIVERSITY OF BRIGHTON FACULTY OF ARTS GRADUATE SHOW 2013 (Sat 1–Wed 12) promises a mix of architecture, design, fine art, sculpture, performance, textiles, film and history of art and design, proving this year’s graduates are more than just pretty faces. Highlights include Karol Michalec’s performative work The Messiah, Jodie Evans’ take on gender concepts and photography, Rhys Lewis’ reflections on the wonders of Welsh museums and Gscene’s own Kate Wildblood’s Strike A Pose examines the role imagery plays in gay clubbing. Spread over two sites at Grand Parade and Pavilion Parade this is your chance to immerse yourself in the work of over 500 students and celebrate the talent they bring to our city.

OCCUPY MY TIME GALLERY

ENZO MARA

QUEENS HOTEL

A.P.T Gallery, Harold Wharf, 6 Creekside, Deptford, London SE8 4SA www.creeksideopen.org n Beginning with my recent success, I was selected for both parts of the Creekside Open 2013. For the first part in May I was selected by Paul Noble and for the second part (12–5pm, Thurs–Sun, Jun 6-30) I was selected by Ceri Hand. There will be an opening reception and prize giving (3–6pm, Sat 8) where Ceri Hand will award three prizes.

Enclave 9, Resolution Way, Deptford, London SE8 www.occupymytimearts.yolasite.com n Also in Deptford, I’m curating an Arts Council-funded group show of contemporary LGBT artworks (Jun 6–Jul 6) at the Occupy My Time Gallery. TOGETHER is a group show of 12 artists who are all not straight. Their works are not confined or stereotypically inspired by their differing sexualities, even when the themes that led to them are socially and politically based upon pertinent deep felt truths.

Inspired to curate this group show by the unfortunate connections of overt fantasy bodies and unfeasible sexual scenes potentially accompanied by a rainbow, which the term LGBT art usually inspires, the selection of artists included are from the LGBT community but do not feel the necessity or pressure to rigidly employ the stereotypical subject matter expected, offering their work a greater richness and complexity which relates to them as people and not merely as sexual preferences.

Amongst this number there are exhibitors from the Threadneedle Prize and the John Moores Painting Prize, recipients of the John Jones ‘Art on Paper’ acquisition award via the Zoo Art Fair and the Abbey Award at the British School at Rome, successful artists who have set up and are running one of London’s leading contemporary artist-run spaces, ‘Pride In The House’ overall winners at Lauderdale House and GFEST exhibitors.

The artists included in the exhibition are Christina Berry, Paul Coombs, Ian Hodgson, Jon Howe, David Lock, Enzo Marra, Patrick O'Donnell, Erin Prior, Jay Rechsteiner, Chris Shoulder, Boa Swindler and Chiara Williams.

NOW AND AGAIN 17B Beaconsfield Villas, Brighton http://now-and-again-at17b.blogspot.co.uk TESSA PAYNE Maps (2–5pm, Sat 8 & Sat 15, or by appointment) is the first show at this new gallery space, Now And Again. An exhibition of paintings and drawings by the artist, shows her subtle intuitive works executed in acrylics on both canvas and paper. The private view is on (5–8pm, Fri 7).

TESSA PAYNE

ROSEMARY ASHE

This June I have found a selection of opportunities for you to experience the works of Brighton-based artists away from home in London, to see my work in an open submission exhibition, as well as the first show in a new local gallery.

56 GSCENE hope audiences recognise that the people, and story, still reflect modern times and attitudes despite advances and leave the theatre with a happy heart and a smile as big as the one Diamond Lil shows throughout."

The remaining lineup includes Richard Pocock as Maisie, Mark Enticknap as George, Allan Jay as Arnie, Holli Hoffman as Bella, Corinna Grey as Lena and Georgina Budd as Gladys.

James Ledward talks to Dave Lynn and Stephen Richards about their roles in the forthcoming show at the Dome Studio On June 3, Dave Lynn revives the role he played at the Kings Head Theatre in London in 2006 when he created the iconic character, Diamond Lil in the musical drama Diamond.

The show played to rave reviews at the time with Dave's performance of Diamond Lil coming in for special praise. Nicholas de Jongh, the Evening Standard's senior drama critic at the time, awarded the production a four star review. Dave is looking forward to bringing this new production to a Brighton audience; “What makes this show so interesting are the characters. They are fascinating people. You cannot help but like them and believe them and their stories. They are so real and create a challenging opportunity for any actor.”

Dave has played many roles in his career both in and out of drag including Shirelle in Coronation Street, he crossed swords with Anne Robinson on The Weakest Link, played a performer in drag in Jonathon Harvey's film Beautiful Thing and was cast by the BBC as Barry Elkins and Lilly White, a transgender character, in the mainstream drama series, Silent Witness. His theatre work includes staring roles in Torch Song Trilogy, My Night With Reg and last year’s revival of Boys In The Band at the Theatre Royal as well as countless pantomimes over the years. He said: ”I’m so looking forward to working with this company. It was a wonderful experience playing in Boy's In The Band last year. The company was fantastic and even though many of us knew each other, the experience brought us closer together as friends and colleagues.

In many ways the experience mirrored the community feel that Diamond is all about.”

Diamond is the true story of Harry Young who made the decision at the age of 14 to dress as a woman. He wandered the streets of Bethnal Green in heels, frock and makeup becoming one of the East End’s most memorable and much loved characters - the heartbeat of the local community! The show is set during World War II around the East End and tells us the story of Lil, her tempestuous relationship with

partner Maisie, and the colourful characters in her community that gravitated to and socialised at The Royal Oak Pub on Columbia Road. Real characters with real stories.

Dave is joined in this production by an impressive cast which includes local entertainer, Stephen Richards (aka Lola Lasagne) who, throws off his drag attire for the second time in his career, to perform ‘straight’ as Lil’s brother Bill. Stephen in his drag persona Lola Lasagne has been entertaining audiences nationally and internationally since 1989 when he made his debut at the Royal Vauxhall Tavern in London.

His television work included being the soap critic on The Big Breakfast (Channel 4) and he took on Anne Robison during the special Drag Queen episode of The Weakest Link where he managed to get the last word in despite doing the walk of shame in round three. Stephen has organised the cabaret tent at Brighton Pride for 10 of the last 12 years and has hosted the Golden Handbag Awards for Gscene Magazine for the last seven.

Last year he played to critical acclaim the role of Alan McCarthy in Boys In The Band at the Theatre Royal and played Dame for the first time in Cinderella at the Broadway Theatre in Catford. Stephen said: “Despite being Lola Lasagne for 24 years, it was only during Boys In The Band and preparing for pantomime, that I realised that this is what I've wanted to do all my life! That's why I'm so excited to be in Diamond. To work with a fabulous company and expose a complete different side to myself. I've never had any formal training so to be granted the opportunity to move away from my comfort zone is something I really appreciate and I hope that the experience helps me learn new skills that will benefit any future acting roles as well as my work as Lola.

“I saw the original production in London and remember being moved by the story about community, friendship and love which made me want to do this version, even though my character, Bill, shows little of those traits! It's a story about acceptance through adversity. I

Written by Linda Wilkinson, Diamond is inspired by her book Watercress But No Sandwiches – 300 years of the Columbia Road Area which tells the moving stories of old EastEnders, whose memories through their families go back almost 200 years. Linda grew up in Bethnal Green where she still lives. Her mother was a dressmaker and her father worked for the Gas Board which has now morphed into British Gas. Most importantly she knew Lil; “As a child growing up, Lil was this glamorous figure who raised spirits and kept everyone smiling, she enlivened our lives and we thought he really was a she. I’ve pieced together her life from interviews with people who knew her, from her partner Maisie’s living relatives and my own recollections. The most astounding thing is the way that she was totally accepted within her community and was a central pillar in the dark days of war. This is a real slice of life about Columbia Road during WWII - to this day people still talk about Diamond Lil” The book won the prestigious Raymond Williams prize and was a BBC Radio 4 play; before being performed as a play with music at the Kings Head Theatre, Islington, London. For this revival in Brighton, the script has been rewritten and extra music numbers composed by music scholar, Robert Orledge, who, when studying at Cambridge, worked as musical director of Footlights with Clive James, Pete Atkin and Julie Covington. Since taking early retirement in 2004 he has committed more of his time to composing and has started completing the unfinished theatre works of Claude Debussy.

Other projects include the Poe opera Fall Of The House Of Usher which has gained international success and will be performed by the Welsh National Opera in June 2014. Robert says: “I always wanted to write a musical, and when I was introduced to Linda Wilkinson's taut, powerful and original script for Diamond by producer, Tim Anscombe, I found just what I had been looking for.”

In contrast to the original production, the songs are now by one composer instead of several, and the role of the music has been expanded, whilst retaining the wartime and period songs that proved so popular.

Directed by Ed Burnside, designed by Ryan Laight, choreographed by Damien Delaney, lit by Stephen Holroyd and produced by Stephen Holroyd and Tim Anscombe.

Diamond, Brighton Dome Studio, June 3-9, £17.50, £15 & £12.50, all tickets £12.50 on Monday, June 3.

GSCENE 57

THANK YOU FOR THE MUSIC! As the Resound Male Voices celebrate their second anniversary musical director, Stefan Holmström, tells Gscene more about the choir and how they are looking for a few new members!

Following a string of bold performances in its first two years, Resound Male Voices, Brighton & Hove’s newest male vocal group, has carved a niche for itself in the city’s busy music scene. Led by Swedish-born opera singer and vocal coach Stefan Holmström, this aspirational group plans to continue giving audiences the quirky, witty, and humorous shows they’ve come to expect.

Congratulations on your anniversary!

Thank you!

Can you give us a little background on Resound Male Voices?

Resound began as an informal vocal workshop with seven members who sought a new kind of group that valued vocal development just as much as learning music.

What led up to you becoming Resound’s musical director?

My interest in small vocal groups began in Sweden where I was a member of one myself – the Rilke Ensemble. The sounds we made were magical because they were the result of the total commitment of each individual member. There was also a playful element to the music-making, which was loved by both us and our audiences. I’ve never forgotten those experiences so when the opportunity to be musical director for Resound came along, I didn’t hesitate to say ‘yes!’

Why did you choose the name Resound?

Initially, we called ourselves The Vocal Workshop, but it didn’t entirely reflect the

fabulous sounds that were coming out of our sessions! Resound is about a well-produced sound that has great beauty and great feeling.

Brighton has a vibrant choral scene with dozens of groups performing throughout the year. How does Resound fit into this landscape and what makes the group different?

We’re a small group with a strong sense of community and our members are really keen to make music and learn more about their voices. We do everything from early music to close harmony jazz to ABBA in a wild mix. I think it’s the intimacy you get with a small group that makes us different. With us it really matters what each individual brings, and when it all comes together it’s fantastic.

In just a short period of time, Resound has grown a following. What is it about the group that people like?

I think it’s a fact of nature that male voices, singing together, is very moving - the sound goes straight to people’s hearts! Back home in Sweden, there’s a strong tradition of big, bombastic male choirs, which certainly has its place, but with Resound I’m keen to find a more sophisticated sound. The variety of music that we do is also something which people like. We work with a cabaret style of concert often in collaboration with other musicians like the Alvin Burrell Jazz Quintet for instance.

What projects are you working on at the moment?

In addition to a few gigs we’ve lined up over the next six months and planning for our next show in March 2014, we’ve got an exciting group video project on the way – watch this space!

You’ve said that Resound will remain a small group. Are you still looking for new members?

Yes! At the moment we are 13, but we’d like to increase our membership to 16-20 singers.

We’re looking for people with some experience of singing who are interested in the musical challenges that go hand in hand with a small group. Joining Resound is not only a great opportunity to develop your voice in a really friendly, supportive environment, but also a chance to meet some great people.

If someone is interested in becoming a member, what should they do?

We welcome people to join us either at our Monday evening rehearsals or at our Saturday workshops – both currently at St Andrew’s Church in Waterloo Street, Hove. Part of your first time with us will include an informal chat and audition. This term our Monday rehearsals will run weekly until July 15 and our monthly Saturday workshops will take place on June 8 and July 11. Contact me at stefan@resoundmalevoices.org for times and just to let us know to expect you!

Anything else you’d like to say?

Thanks to Gscene for your marvellous support during our first two years!

RESOUND

n Resound rehearse on Monday evenings at St Andrew’s Church, Waterloo St, Hove. n The next monthly Saturday workshops are on June 8 and July 11 n Contact Stefan Holmström on stefan@resoundmalevoices.org n If you’re interested in learning more about Resound, view: www.resoundmalevoices.org

58 GSCENE

BY NICK BOSTON

REVIEWS n French composer ERNEST CHAUSSON (1855-1899) was sadly killed in a cycling accident when he was 44, just as his career was starting to take off. He was working on his String Quartet, and it was to take a break from this very work that he went on that fateful cycle ride.

Consequently, the work was left unfinished, with the final bars of the third movement being completed by Vincent d’Indy. A fourth movement was no doubt planned, but it stands up well as a three movement work, and in this new recording from the Doric String Quartet, it receives a subtle and sensitive performance.

The calm slow movement is particularly beautifully played, and they bring out the complexities of the third movement’s combined thematic material effortlessly.

The String Quartet is accompanied on this disc by his Concert – unusually scored for violin, piano and string quartet. The Dorics are joined by violinist Jennifer Pike and pianist Tom Poster. The influence of Chausson’s teacher, César Franck, are here, but Chausson also showed early promise of a individual style here.

The first movement opens gravely with the piano, joined by the string quartet, before the solo violin enters with the second theme.

Poster is in total command of the challenging piano part, and Pike produces a perfectly lyrical, romantic tone. This is a fascinating piece, and these young players perform with great authority and spirit. Another great disc from the Dorics. Chandos CHAN10754

n Another French composer, FRANCIS POULENC (1899-1963) was born in the year that Chausson died. A composer with an extraordinarily individual style, he is often thought of as the first openly gay classical composer, and was also a practising Catholic. This new disc from the Stuttgart Radio Symphony Orchestra, conducted

by Stéphane Denève, beautifully captures the idiosyncracies of this witty yet often profound composer. First, his Stabat Mater, composed on the death of his painter friend, Christian Bérard.

Then we have his early ballet, Les Biches, composed for Diaghilev and the Ballets Russes. The SWR Vokalensemble Stuttgart perform both works, and are joined by the NDR Chor and soprano Marlis Petersen in the Stabat Mater, which is a glorious piece, full of tenderness and mystery. Les Biches involves a sequence of interactions, sometimes playful, sometimes erotic, between three athletic men and a number of beautiful woman, including an ‘innocent girl in blue’ and a lesbian couple.

The performances here are very strong, with a uniform, well-tuned choral sound, and great orchestral playing. The sound of the choir is a little recessed at times, but they excel in the acapella Fac ut ardeat movement. Petersen’s soprano voice is perfectly suited, and Denève expertly brings out the sensitivity and depth of the Stabat Mater, as well as the quirkiness and jazzy energy of Les Biches. Hänssler Classic CD93.297 n Violinist James Ehnes is joined

once again by pianist Andrew Armstrong for the second volume of his survey of works for violin and piano by BÉLA BARTÓK (1881-1945). Here we have the

n Edward Gardner and the BBC

Symphony Orchestra are on their fifth volume of Polish music, now moving on from Lutoslawski to KAROL SZYMANOWSKI (18821937). They begin with an early Concert Overture, and follow it

with two Symphonies – the fourth, a ‘Symphonie concertante’ for piano and orchestra, with pianist Louis Lortie, and the second. The Overture and the second symphony show definite Straussian influence, whilst the fourth symphony, a piano concerto to all intents and purposes, has more in common with Bartók – yet all the works have notable individuality, perhaps most clearly in the fourth symphony.

Lortie’s playing here is perfectly matched with the precision Gardner elicits from the orchestra,

particularly in the dance-like finale.

It’s evident that the orchestra and Gardner are having a great time in the lively Overture, and they balance the full-on big orchestral sounds as well as the small scale, almost chamber passages, particularly in the first movement. I really enjoyed discovering Lutoslawski in the earlier volumes of this Polish survey, and now I’m definitely looking forward to more Szymanowski. Chandos CHSA5115 Reviews, comments and events: nicks-classical-notes.blogspot.co.uk Email: nbclassical@hotmail.co.uk

FILM n The Royal Opera House are screening GLORIANA by Benjamin Britten live (7.15pm, Mon 24). Catch it at the Odeon and at Duke’s at Komedia in Brighton, Cineworld in Eastbourne and at other cinemas nationally. The cast includes Susan Bullock, Toby Spence and Kate Royal.

CONCERTS ST LUKE’S CHURCH Queens Park Road, Brighton www.stlukesconcerts.webeden.co.uk n Pianist AGNIESZKA PLUTA plays music

by Chopin and Argentinian composer Alberto Ginastera (7.30pm, Fri 14). n The SPIKE WELLS JAZZ TRIO perform a mix of standards and original material (7.30pm, Sun 23). n The IRELAND TRIO play music by Ireland, Bridge and new works from the local composer’s collective, New Music Brighton (7.30pm, Fri 28).

AGNIESZKA PLUTA

NOTES

Sonata for Solo Violin, a youthful Sonata that was long forgotten until it was published in the 1960s, and three sets of folk dances, transcribed by the composer others from his solo piano pieces – Hungarian Folksongs, Hungarian Folk Tunes, and Romanian Folk Dances. The Sonata for Solo Violin was Bartók’s final work for the instrument, and clearly owes a debt to Bach, and was composed for Yehudi Menuhin, after Bartók heard him perform one of Bach’s solo sonatas. Ehnes shows no fear in this challenging piece, negotiating the leaps and stopped chords with razor sharp intonation. Yet this is not purely a technical show – he really communicates the essence of this arresting piece.The early Sonata has more obvious roots in Brahms, yet Bartók’s distinctive voice is in evidence too.

Armstrong’s accompaniment is lively, and he particularly shines in the variations of the middle movement. The folksong sets are products of the composer’s commitment to the collection of folk tunes, travelling from village to village recording the authentic melodies, as opposed to the somewhat sanitised Viennese version of ‘folk music’. Chandos CHAN10752

SUSAN BULLOCK

CLASSICAL

GSCENE 59

FILM

BY MICHAEL HOOTMAN

MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING Dir: Joss Whedon Stars: Amy Acker, Alexis Denisof, Fran Kranz Plot: A modern setting of Shakespeare's classic comedy about two pairs of lovers with different takes on romance and a way with words.

Word on net: “It's rather joyous to see a name director pursue a true passion project, and realise it with such simplicity, elegance and emotional directness.” n “A triumph of charm and wit, going down so easily that we forget how astonishing it is that it actually exists.” n “So many comedies are unable to have more than a handful of memorable moments, but Much Ado has dozens.”

learn, with deathly consequences, the secret shared by the two mysterious women who have sought shelter at a local resort.

Word on net: “I simply have no more room in my life for ennuibesotted vampires.” n “Even with all the wonderful shots, costumes and the odd splash of blood it all adds up to a fairly average vampire flick.” n “Looks nice yet simply can’t hold a candle to any above average genre entry and end up being merely forgettable.” n “Slightly weird, slightly off-balance and always visually beautiful.”

Heat, ends up closer to a highgloss episode of The Bill.”

BLOOD

AGUIRRE WRATH OF GOD Dir: Werner Herzog Stars: Klaus Kinski, Cecilia Rivera, Ruy Guerra, Peter Berling Plot: In the 16th century the ruthless and insane Aguirre leads a Spanish expedition in search of El Dorado. Reissue of 1972 classic.

Word on net: “Not just a great movie but an essential one.” n “A saga of adventurers driven headlong into annihilation by their own hubris and desire for immortality.” n “One of the great haunting visions of the cinema.” n “The powerful and near demonic screen presence of Klaus Kinski, combined with the very real danger of the nature that surrounds him, is remarkable.”

Dir: Nick Murphy Stars: Mark Strong, Paul Bettany, Brian Cox Plot: Two cop brothers, their careers lived under the shadow of their former police chief father, must investigate a crime they

themselves have committed.

Word on net: “Melancholic film that deals head on with guilt and morality, dripping with mood and atmosphere and never sparing on the gory details of the situation at hand.” n “At times over-elliptical or underwritten, but for the most part this is an intense study of family loyalties and legacies.” n “A portentous, sub-BBC production in ALL THINGS TO ALL MEN which no corrupt cop trope is left Dir: George Isaac Stars: Toby Stephens, Rufus Sewell, unturned.” n “Engaging, at times nerve wracking piece that would Mark Badham work better as a star studded twoPlot: A thief is caught up in a part drama on Sunday nights.” deadly game of cat-and-mouse between a maverick cop and BYZANTIUM London crime boss.

Dir: Neil Jordan Word on net: "It's a stylish and Stars: Saoirse Ronan, Gemma involving experience, with an Arterton, Caleb Landry Jones intriguing touch of Mike Hodges.” n “Everybody's a supporting player. Plot: Residents of a coastal town Nobody finds a trajectory worth following. Everybody is modestly corrupt. Nobody is believably conflicted.” n “The spiralling plot becomes increasingly academic while it seems to think it's being terribly clever.” n “Wants to be

struggles to break free from social pressures and her boring suburban setting.

Word on net: “An exquisite portrait of a free spirit, stifled in a marriage of convenience.” n “Suitably hushed in tone, aptly circling death and notably classical in its approach.” n “Tautou is impressive as a shrewish, unhappy woman who, despite her extreme actions, finds that her fate remains frustratingly beyond her control."

ALSO OUT...

NO ONE LIVES Dir: Ryûhei Kitamura Stars: Luke Evans, Adelaide Clemens, Derek Magyar Plot: A gang of ruthless highway killers kidnap a wealthy couple travelling cross country only to shockingly discover that things are not what they seem.

Word on net: “Is never quite able to recapture the gloriousness of its opening half hour.” n “This one's got it all: great gore effects, a real curveball of a story and a wonderfully evil villain.” n “An entertainingly off-kilter package that will undoubtedly appeal to fans of the director or the kind of person who enjoys seeing a man being lowered head first into a wood-chipper.”

THÉRÈSE DESQUEYROUX Dir: Claude Miller Stars: Audrey Tautou, Gilles Lellouche, Anaïs Demoustier Plot: An unhappily married woman

n Ethan Hawke and Lena Headey star in THE PURGE. One night every year citizens can commit any crime without facing consequences. Over the course of a single evening, a family will be tested to see how far they will go to protect themselves when the

vicious outside world breaks into their home. n Incredibly, people are still giving M Night Shyamalan money to make pictures. At least his latest, AFTER EARTH, is written by someone else. Will Smith stars as a man stranded on Earth with his son 1,000 years after events forced humanity's escape. n MAN OF STEEL stars Henry Cavill as a Superman forced to confront his extraterrestrial heritage when Earth is invaded by members of his race.

FILM C O M P E T I T I O N n Steven Soderbergh's Liberace biopic BEHIND THE CANDELABRA looks at the relationship between the flamboyantly gay, yet closeted, pianist (Michael Douglas) and his younger lover (Matt Damon).

To win two tickets to the Odeon Brighton send the answer to the following question to Gscene Film Competition, 111 Western Rd, Hove, BN3 1DD: Liberace successfully sued which newspaper for calling him a "fruit-flavoured, mincing, ice-covered heap of mother love"?

MAY COMPETITION: American Horror Story.

60 GSCENE

ARTS

BOOKS B Y E R I C PAG E

n THE PALACE OF CURIOSITIES by

n SEX & PUNISHMENT: 4,000 YEARS OF JUDGING DESIRE by Eric Berkowitz (£17.99) This book is simply stunning, a hugely detailed history of the authorities’ legal response to sexual behaviour stuffed with fascinating facts and information and written with a witty flair that always manages to be entertaining and never inappropriate.

Berkowitz takes us on a journey from the beginnings of human society and shows how our current moral and legal attitudes to sexual behaviour, and the way the state and church has chosen to legislate and punish, have evolved.

There’s hideous examples of how societies chose to punish sexual wrongdoers, from the Egyptians to the Roman Empire, then following the rise of the Church and its war against personal preference and sexual peccadilloes, up to the modern states and development of legal codes governing behaviour and vice. The links between the Church and prostitution and its owning of brothels for hundreds of years, the gay Roman charioteer whose arrest started the collapse of the whole empire. The book charts the experiences of real people from across history, with details of their forbidden sex and how each was judged. Justice, as Berkowitz shows, rarely had much to do with it. Different forms of punishments are explained along with the back stories and individuals who have changed our moral compass, both for good and bad. I can’t recommend this book enough to anyone with an interest in sexual politics or the history of sexuality and sexual behaviour.

Great fun, witty and endlessly fascinating.

Rosie Garland (£14.99).

Cast out by Victorian society, Eve and Abel find succour from an unlikely source. They soar to fame as The Lion Faced Girl and The Flayed Man, star performers in Professor Josiah Arroner’s Palace of Curiosities. Set in 1850s London, this is the story of Eve and Abel, both freaks of nature searching for escape. It tenderly explores what it's like to be different, and traces their struggle for self-discovery on the boundaries of what is perceived as human.

Garland has produced a fascinating and delightful book. Like a cross between Phillip Pullman and Angela Carter, she takes us on an evocative and wonderful journey, full of magical delights and stunning set pieces.

It’s her debut novel and such an accomplished work. Her style is a joy. She made me gasp with the audacity of her ideas and smile with the lush beauty of her prose.

Check her website for performance, poetry and written work. She’s as interesting and original as the characters she creates! www.rosiegarland.com Go and buy yourself a copy now, please - you’ll love it! n I KNOW VERY WELL HOW I GOT MY NAME by Elliott DeLine (£10).

The night he loses his virginity, he becomes Dean. Amy Wagner names him and she would know best. Amy knows all kinds of things that Dean doesn’t understand, things about sex, music, and the darker side of life. All Dean knows is his safe suburban home with his parents, books, and imaginary games. Until now, he has hidden

his true identity, even from himself. To the rest of the world, he is an awkward, boyish, teenage girl, but a girl nonetheless.

I Know Very Well How I Got My Name chronicles Dean’s clumsy progression through the American school system. Set in 1990s/early 2000s in suburban Syracuse, New York, LGBTQ bullying isn’t yet a hot topic in schools, and there’s little tolerance for outsiders of any kind.

love and lust for gay and straight readers alike. (Read here: www.thestranger.com/seattle/Sav ageLove). He helped spur a revolution in attitudes toward LGBTQ youth and bullying by spearheading the It Gets Better YouTube project. Now, one of America’s greatest and funniest pundits and provocateurs, he tackles everything from health care to gun control, the Catholic Church to marriage equality, parenting to sex education. His blunt common sense approach to readers’ sexual problems are a weekly treat and in this book he tackles some of the bigger issues confronting society today. A great read, funny as hell and always makes you think.

A prequel to the award-winning Refuse, DeLine’s second book looks at the prevailing myths surrounding bullying and abuse, the hardships of being young and transgender without a community, support, or a roadmap.

It’s evocative and the characters ring true with their ability to resist conformity and to live their lives n 2013/14 SPARTACUS on their own terms. A thumping INTERNATIONAL GAY GUIDE good story too. (£19.99). Spartacus is the benchmark for gay travel and the most authoritative, up-to-date n AMERICAN SAVAGE, INSIGHTS, guide available. Now in its 42nd SLIGHTS, AND FIGHTS ON FAITH, edition, this is the longest running SEX, LOVE, AND POLITICS by Dan gay guide in print. Meticulously Savage (£17.70). Dan Savage changed the sex advice game with researched and fully revised, it lists his hugely popular column Savage saunas, hotels, bars, clubs, beaches, cruising spots, local and Love which, along with the New York Times bestselling book of the international events, parties and same name, is the go-to source of gay celebrations. The info is presented in an easy to understand no-effing-around wisdom about format with a refined code system, pictograms, maps and contact information. Accompanying venue information includes what they offer and who they serve. Each country is introduced with a short, informative text, which describes the legal and social position of homosexuals.

There’s an e-book version, a smart phone/tablet app and their website is free to use: www.spartacusworld.com/en For more info or to buy the book: www.brunogmuender.com/produc ts/details/id/7400_Spartacus_Int ernational_Gay_Guide_20132014/cat/369_Reise/

GSCENE 61

GEEK

SCENE

BY CRAIG STORRIE

COMICS TOP SUPERMAN STORIES This month sees the release of the highly anticipated Man of Steel, the latest in the series of Superman films. Man of Steel is the reboot that really needed to happen after the incredible let down that Superman Returns was. Now under the watchful eye of Christopher Nolan, the man who reignited the Batman franchise, and directed by Zack Synder, the visionary director of Watchmen and 300, everything seems to have fallen into place to create the Superman film that every fan wanted.

As we are celebrating the return of the last son of Krypton to the silver screen, let’s take a look at the greatest stories ever told about Superman and see what makes the Man of Steel such a fantastic character. n One of the most devastating stories to ever revolve around Superman has to be For The Man Who Has Everything. Written by the legendary Alan Moore with art from Dave Gibbons, who is best known for drawing Watchmen, the comic sees Batman, Robin and Wonder Woman visit the Fortress of Solitude with gifts on Superman's birthday, only to find him with a large plant stuck to his chest, its tendrils wrapped around his body. Unable to wake him the three discover Mongul (a Superman villain and would be Warlord) is behind the plot who reveals to the heroes that that the plant is named Black Mercy, an alien plant that has put Superman into a coma, feeding him an extremely realistic and plausible dream based on his ‘heart's desire’. It’s a heart wrenching story revolving around Superman regaining his home planet, parents and having a family of his own. When he discovers it is all a dream and he has to say goodbye to his son, his face says what words can’t, he is truly devastated. The beat down he gives Mongul after awakening shows why you should never ever piss Superman off! n 1992’s The Death of Superman says all it needs to in the title.

Superman engages in battle with a seemingly unstoppable killing machine named Doomsday in the streets of Metropolis. At the fight's conclusion, both combatants die from their wounds with Superman passing away in Lois Lane’s arms. Of course it was all a rouse and Kal El was only in a regenerative coma that simulated death but that’s beside the point! Just watching Superman batter Doomsday in an attempt to save his beloved Metropolis is in itself tear jerking as he is obviously fighting an enemy he seemingly cannot defeat. The art just sings off the page, saying everything that words cannot. It is probably best read with the two stories that deal with the fallout of Superman’s death: Funeral For A Friend and Reign Of The Supermen. For a brilliantly humorous look at this storyline make sure you search Death Of Superman on YouTube!

Other notable mentions are: H’El on Earth, Last Son, Brainiac, The Trial of Superman and For Tomorrow!

GAYMING INJUSTICE Of all the games released since late last year, one particular fighting game has gotten most of my attention and love... Not Dead Space 3 (disappointing), Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance (great fun) or even Bioshock: Infinite (amazing in every way). Nothing has had a grip on me like INJUSTICE: GODS AMONG US, and for good reason - it is bloody fantastic in every way! Neatherrealm (makers of the brilliant latest Mortal Kombat game) have delved deep into the vaults of DC Comics to give us an amazing fighting game that, whilst admittedly sometimes feeling like a Mortal Kombat game with a DC skin, succeeds in making you feel like an actual super hero or villain and that is the way you should feel when taking control of such iconic characters.

The story mode revolves around what would happen if the heroes of another dimension come to a subjugated world and wrestle power away from a tyrant like Superman who has gone mad with grief. It’s a clever story that weaves around a collection of fighters to show you both sides of the argument and wouldn’t feel out of place within a DC Comic which is what the developers were aiming for. The story mode takes many cues from 2011’s Mortal Kombat storyline with a multitude of fighters and the cut scenes using the in-game engine to seamlessly transition from story to action to battles. Neatherrealm should be applauded for the features that they have managed to get in this game. Characters have a range of different fighting styles and power levels but everyone is matched in strength due to the in game explanation that there is a pill to cause the fighters’ bodies to deal and take much more damage than they are used to. Again, it feels like a very comic book explanation but it fits within the world that the game inhabits. Multiplayer has the usual versus and online options such as king of the hill and ranked matches whilst single players can tackle a few different modes such as single fights, battles (another word for a ladder match) and the superb STAR Labs.

STAR Labs is a collection of 10 challenges per fighter (making 240 challenges) which can literally range from using lightning to destroying asteroids within the Earth’s atmosphere to controlling Catwoman’s prized cat Isis as she tries to escape the guards and tripwires of a museum. Each challenge has up to three stars to earn which gives the maximum experience upon completion gaining one star can be easy but getting three stars requires some skill and may result in throwing the pad at the screen in frustration!

All in all Injustice is a worthy fighting game for anyone with an interest in comics or a fan of the characters. The class system, fighting engine and overall presentation are amazing making this game one of the best fighting games of this console generation.

More reviews on Craig’s blog: www.redbarrels.net

62 GSCENE Recesky Twin Lens Reflex Camera Kit: £24.95, (This Is Not a Butchers, 28 Bond St, Brighton, 01273 327796)

SHOPPING WITH MICHAEL HOOTMAN

Swimwear: Oiler & Boiler: £33 [yellow]; Calvin Klein: £37 [purple]; Aussibum [yellow and blue/cherry] from £47 (Prowler, 112 St James' St, Brighton, 01273 683680).

Prowler has introduced a specially revamped customer reward card valid in all three stores; Soho, Birmingham and Brighton. By spending a minimum of £15 on 10 separate occasions, cardholders receive a fantastic 15% off their next purchase. The card is valid until December 31 2014. Make sure you ask for a card next time you make a purchase at Prowler.

Joe Columbo 1970s Clock by Alessi: £39 (Caz Systems, 17 Church St, Brighton, 01273 326471)

Vinocchio Decanter with violet base: £109 (Edited, 3 Gardner St,Brighton, editedbrighton.com) Mini Architectural Model Kit: £14.99 (Junkfunk, 27 Gloucester Road, Brighton, 01273 680555)

CRACKSTUFFERS COMPETITION Crackstuffers are designed by men with greedy bottoms for men with greedy bottoms and made from soft warm blue vinyl rubber and open you up slowly, smoothly and deeper than you could have ever imagined. The range available in Prowler kicks off with the Small Goose Plug (£23.95), 15cm high, 4cm at its insertable widest and weighing 200g. It also comes in a taller/wider/heavier 400g!

Medium (£26.99) and bigger/ heavier Large (£44.99) as well as traditional style Will (£44.50) and Paul (£38). Moving into kinkier territory the Medium Deep Plug (£49.99); soft-ridged double-ender Small Bone (£50); Medium Bobbin (£65) with notches and the missile-like Medium Rough Rider (£49.99) covered in stimulating nodules, 26cm high and 16.5cm round at its widest. If you still have that boyhood policeman fantasy there’s the Small Plain or Tree Truncheons (£50).

Three Gscene readers can win a Small or Medium Crackstuffers Goose Plug. Just answer the following question: What colour are Crackstuffers dildos? and send the answer, your preferred size and your email and postal address contact details on a postcard to: CRACKSTUFFERS COMPETITION, Gscene Magazine, 111 Western Road, Hove, BN3 1DD.

Polar Bear Ice Cube Dispenser: £10 (England at Home, 59 Ship St, 01273 738270)

THEOREM (BFI blu-ray). Pasolini's story of a mysterious young man who visits a bourgeois family and has sex with all four members, plus the maid, is perhaps the quintessential 1960s European art house film, though it's a quintessence which occasionally borders on parody. There's Terence Stamp, legs spread wide as possible, reading Rimbaud on the lawn; incredibly pretentious dialogue; occasional shots of a bleak volcanic landscape; a skipping telegram delivery boy; a levitating maid. What does it mean? To decipher it you need a working knowledge of Catholicism, Marx and Freud. The landscapes are impressive and the main musical theme, Ted Curson's Tears for Dolphy, is strangely uncredited and is perhaps the film's finest achievement.

64 GSCENE

A WALK ON THE NOT SO WILD SIDE Roger Wheeler explores the Sussex countryside

picturesque places in the whole region. This place was settled in the Iron Age, then by the Romans, and it’s in the Domesday Book from which you will gather it’s pretty ancient. The village is actually called Barcombe Cross but it has since been shortened. It’s on the River Ouse and there are miles of lovely footpaths along the riverbank. This is truly one of the most unspoilt spots you can find. The Anchor is a great pub right on the river bank, serving very good food and you can also stay the night. They rent rowing boats so you can take your beloved for a romantic boat trip (luckily the river is not deep).

CUCKMERE VALLEY

This part of East Sussex is stuffed with thatched roofed chocolate box villages with ancient inns, medieval churches, Range Rovers and Grand Design barn conversions, gentlemen farmers in green wellies with wet dogs. But that’s only half the picture, take a stroll through the centre of Ripe (about three miles

THE LAMB RIPE

Sussex in the spring has got everything: beautiful villages, gorgeous scenic countryside, three or four country parks and nature reserves including the Seven Sisters Country Park and the South Downs National Park, miles and miles of coast, hundreds of country pubs (some even with good restaurants), and dozens of fine historic houses and towns you can visit. There’s also, of course, the South Downs Way, a mere 100 mile walk from Winchester to Eastbourne. So why do we all fly off abroad? In one word, the climate.

That being said, given a few hot days (yes they do exist) it’s very had to beat a walk in some of the most beautiful countryside in the country. Drive over to Seaford, go right along the seafront as far as you can and then walk up Seaford Head and carry on to the Cuckmere Valley. You can explore the seashore, so long as it’s low tide, and then marvel at one of the most famous views in England, The Seven Sisters. So beautiful is this particular view that the Dover Tourist Authority even used it thinking that it was better than their famous White Cliffs, which aren’t particularly white anyway.

ANCHOR INN BARCOMBE

Just five miles north of Lewes lies the tiny hamlet of Barcombe, one of the most

north of the A27, just five miles from Lewes) and read the parish notices. They are a revelation of real rural life in 2013. Pop into The Lamb, one of the county’s best gastropubs.

It’s all happening in these little communities, and they are communities in the real sense of the word. They are by no means cut off in their bucolic surroundings but are as much in touch with today’s world as anyone living in the centre of London. It looks idyllic and from the casual observer a perfect place to live.

RYE

THE SEVEN SISTERS

This is quite a walk, probably three or four miles, but you end up at the Golden Galleon, a pub in the Cuckmere Valley serving good beer and reasonable food. The River Cuckmere has been carving its way through the Downs for centuries and has resulted in the famous meanders or ox-bow lakes. The river has been diverted into a straight channel through what is now The Cuckmere Valley Nature Reserve Country Park. The whole valley teems with birdlife and it’s difficult to remember that this was one of the frontline defences during WW2. You can still see pill boxes, concrete gun emplacements and antitank concrete pillars. Today it’s a peaceful and tranquil spot. The Environment Agency has decided to stop protecting this area from the inevitable erosion by the sea and let nature take its course. These plans have provoked controversy in the valley, especially among property owners. Some residents have formed a Rescue The Cuckmere Valley group, to try and create an alternative to proposed seasonal flooding. It will take years for any great change to take place but it does make sense; let the sea back in and the resulting salt marshes will provide a great wildlife area.

We shouldn’t forget Rye, one of the south coast’s historic Cinque Port towns, which without doubt has one of the prettiest historic Georgian high streets in the south east.

But whether or not city folk could adapt to living in these tranquil settings is doubtful. A very good friend once said that it was lovely going to see the countryside but after a few hours it was good to get back to the city.

We live in the centre of Brighton but in a very short time we can be in the country. Wherever you actually live, take a chance and get out and take a walk, you know it makes sense.

GSCENE 65

BALI

By Stephen Lusher and Richard John Sawyer

pool and soak up the sun with a cocktail in hand or relax at a Balinese or Indonesian Spa. At the other extreme you can go rafting on the Telaga Waja and Ayung River or surfing the waves off the Bali Strait and there’s plenty of places off the coast to go snorkeling.

Visit the Bali National Park, Tegenungan Waterfall, the hot springs, the Besakih Temple or take a trip to Kintamani and climb the Volcano. If you do this, go first thing in the morning due to the temperatures at midday and early afternoon. A must see is the sunset at Ku De Ta, even if you only go there once. Check with the hotel or google the time for sunset and get there half to one hour earlier as it gets very busy.

VILLA ISSA

STEPHEN LUSHER AND RICHARD JOHN SAWYER

UK Passport holders can get a visa on arrival.

There is an Arrival and Departure Tax at Bali Airport. The Arrival Tax must be in USD

SUNSET AT KU DE TA

The rainly season is from December to March though we didn’t have any rain while we were there this Feb. The year round temperature is between 24ºand 32º and humidity averages between 60% and 80%. They dry season, with least humidity, is from June to September.

Balinese and Indonesian are the most widely spoken languages in Bali, and the vast majority of Balinese people are bilingual or trilingual. English is widely spoken amongst the locals

Flying to Bali is a bit of an experience in itself; it can involve one, two or even three stopovers if flying from the UK. The most direct option with only one stopover is to fly via Singapore, Hong Kong or Kuala Lumpar so to maximise your experience, what’s quite often done is to package Bali as a two center destination ie Bali & Hong Kong, Bali & Singapore or Bali & Kuala Lumpar. The flying time on this option can be as little as 17 to 20hrs. Other cheaper options with two or three stopovers are via Amsterdam, Paris, Dubai & Doha. Flying time can be as long as 24-30hrs. I recommend that you weigh up the saving made against the time spent traveling; sometimes the price difference is minimal.

ABUD TEMPLE

(USD25) and the Departure Tax is (RP1500) paid in the local currency IDR Indonesia Rupiahs. The current exchange rate is £1 = RP15,013.

Staying in Bali can be simple and cheap or grand and luxurious depending on your budget. There are plenty guesthouses, hostels and run of the mill hotels or at the other end of the scale The Oberio or W Hotel. Another great value option is to stay in a villa. They come in all sizes and budgets and if there’s enough of you going, can be more economical than staying at a five star hotel. We stayed in Semenyak, one of the nicer areas of Bali, at a fantastic villa called Villa Issa which came with a full length pool, gym, driver, chef and 24-hour butler!

What is there to do in Bali? As little or as much as you want to do! You can laze by the

RICE FIELDS

Bali is a province in the country of Indonesia. The province covers a few small neighbouring islands as well as the isle of Bali. The main island is located in the westernmost end of the Lesser Sunda Islands, lying between Java to the west and Lombok to the east. It is one of the country's 34 provinces with the provincial capital at Denpasar towards the south of the island.

We took a trip inland to Ubud, a great little town with character and fab silver shops (Bali is known for silver jewelry production). Don’t forget to barter! There’s a great restaurant just outside Ubud called Indus which has superb views over the Rice Terraces. Eating out in Bali is in-expensive and the food is fantastic but always drink bottled water in the bars, restaurants and at the hotel or villa.

Most of the gay life centers around Seminyak and consists of late night bars. There aren’t clubs as we know them in the UK. Most bars are open until the mid hours of the morning and usually busy from 10pm onwards. All the bars have some form of cabaret, either a drag queen or bar gogo dancers most evenings.

Pickpockets are a common in the bars and western tourists are the obvious targets so if anyone buys you a drink watch what is being bought for you.

RECOMMENDED BARS BALI JOE – Jln. Camplung Tanduk (Ex Dhyana Pura) No. 8, Seminyak.

Mixwell BAR – Mixwell Bar, Dyana Pura – Seminyak.

Face Bar (F Club) – Jln Champlung Tanduk (off Jln Raya Seminyak).

DIX BAR - Jln Champlung Tanduk, Seminyak.

66 GSCENE

CRAIG’S THOUGHTS THE RAINBOW ENDS YESTERDAY WHEN I WAS YOUNG

BY CRAIG HANLON-SMITH In the closing months of my university education I pulled pints in a locals-frequented South East London boozer. It was a time of great personal change that began with my coming out to closest friends and that followed me through the experimentation of early gay-ness.

Compared to the young folk of 2013 I was somewhat late to the party at 21 and playing catch-up. In short, for my first shift I resembled a long-haired indie-pop grunge meister, and towards the end of my tenure all but roller-booted around the bar in white cut-off denim hot pants and a dayglo orange crop top. I’m not exaggerating. Although given that outfit you’d be forgiven for thinking otherwise this was not a gaypub per se, but there were a few local older gentlemen who frequented the bar who were either long-time companions or confirmed bachelors, and a smattering of openly gay thirty-somethings whose silent lack of friendliness at the time I assumed was jealousy but upon reflection they were possibly just kindly letting me get on with it, knowing that I would grow out of my “I’m Gay, Bitches” routine within a year or so.

Two gentlemen in particular were Monday evening regulars and would regale the bar with tales of their glamorous yesteryear. Evenings spent skulking in the shadows under a bowler hat hoping for a mysterious tryst, playing cloak and dagger with the street boys before slipping home to the wife, children and apple pie kitchen, bemoaning the pressures of ‘working-late’. How their wives and in some instances mothers thought nothing of accompanying their respective beaus and sons to the final performances of Judy Garland’s career at Talk Of The Town; much of which was spent in the gentlemen’s suite listening to Judy’s drunken drawls from behind two closed doors, a flushing cistern and a mouthful of shame.

One evening towards the twilight of my bar years, as I had paired my denim hot-pants with Che Guevara boots, white hiking socks pulled up to the knee and a belly top stamped with the tampax logo and It’s My Life emblazoned across my chest (there are photographs), my two elder gay statesmen were typically trawling through another tale of 1960s secrets and lies when their approach became quite maudlin and sorrowful. Their repeated phrase ‘you youngsters don’t know how easily you have it now’ did little to endear me to them as I threw my drunken ass into the back of a mini-cab shouting “To The White Swan; I’m Gay Bitches”. Fifteen years later – how I wish I had pulled up a stool and listened.

Two years ago, as my husband, friend and I were leaving The Theatre Royal slightly stunned and emotionally wobbled by Tracie Bennett’s End Of The Rainbow performance as Judy Garland, I was struck by the great

swathes (and I’m talking hundreds) of older gay men leaving the theatre – when I say older we’re talking in their seventies and eighties. One elderly chap asked us if we had the opportunity to see the real Judy Garland in her day but was quickly chastised by his companion as we were clearly not even born ‘that’ side of 1970. That evening I couldn’t shake the experience – yes of a towering virtuoso performance from Ms Bennett which was possibly compounding my sensitivity, but much more so reminded of a book I was read as a child Where Does the Butterfly Go When It Rains? And a wondering of where have all these old gay-people come from? Again too eager to race to the local hostelry to rizzle kick with the young people, I wish I had taken the time to ask.

The gay scene is a young man’s (yes I know I said ‘man’s) game.

Recently in Freedom Bar Soho I could not get served for love nor money, not that I was offering the former, and let me tell you I’m no wall flower. Even bright yellow trousers, half a shaved head, a three inch quiff and a very expensive snugly tailored jacket did nothing to attract the attentions of the twentysomethings behind the bar. I didn’t want their asses, just a beer and I am sorry to say that as I have heard many women over the age of forty bemoan, I felt invisible. Perhaps I should dust off the tampax t-shirt for the next visit.

In the May issue of this magazine under the heading Dirty Laundry, I explored the dangers of blogging one’s most intimate moments perhaps naively expecting privacy please later. Brighton we have a development.

I have been slightly confused by a number of recent twitter postings requesting that whilst their authors welcome older ‘followers’, they would rather ‘older’ (and in one case the gentleman was quite specific that older means beyond 35) gay men did not openly respond to barechested or underwear shots (that have been posted online for all to see) as these were not for older eyes. I repeat the ‘May’ call: if you’re putting it online, give it up, it’s not yours to police, but more so – what constitutes ‘older’? And is it a case of the older folk may look but should not openly contribute? In short remain skulking in the shadows under the guise of working late and leave participation to the next generation.

“I was perturbed, disappointed and in some cases horrified to see the young gay twitterati outpouring their unreserved respect for a ‘great Prime Minister’, ‘a woman who stood up for everyone’” As much as I was to be found rolling my eyes at the boy George Osborne wiping away a tear at Margaret Thatcher’s funeral, the funeral of a woman he has never met (God forbid something awful should happen to someone that he actually knows – we’re going to have to get the man a straightjacket) I was perturbed, disappointed and in some cases horrified to see the young gay twitterati outpouring their unreserved respect for a ‘great Prime Minister’, ‘a woman who stood up for everyone’ and my favourite ‘still the original Spice Girl’ (thanks Geri Halliwell).

At the risk of indulging in reverse ageism I would ask that all gay men who were born post-1990 buy a 20th century history book and preferably one not written by a Tory or Gordon Brown. Andy Bell, George O’Dowd, Marc Almond and Jimmy Somerville (look them up), four men I admire as much as my Grandmother, pushed their careers forward in spite of what was happening in this country politically, not because they were supported by a Prime Minister ‘who stood up for everyone’.

Somerville’s first record with Bronski Beat adorned with a huge pink triangle under the banner The Age of Consent: or “I’m Gay, Bitches”.

I could opt to close this piece with a phrase that haunts me to this day: ‘you youngsters don’t know how easily you have it now’; but in the interest of community harmony: if you’re old – call me, if you’re young tweet me, but either way the rainbow ends for all of us, right around the corner.

GSCENE 67

WALL’S

WORDS

GAY

WISDOM

BY MIKE WALL

BY GAY SOCRATES

A FRIEND IN NEED IS A FRIEND INDEED

WANTED: SEXY, VIRILE YOUTH!

What is a friend? Is it someone that sticks by you through thick and thin or is it someone who is free for lunch occasionally? In moments when you feel at your lowest, true friends are those who rally round and help you through the worst. Recently I discovered I had quite a few of these, but I also found out that some ran for the hills. I even discovered that a few were prepared to give me a swift kick while I was down.

Senile, grey-haired, balding elder seeking relationship with sexy, virile youth.

Me: Arthritic, ageing and forgetful with varicose veins, piles and a hernia.

You: Confident, narcissus, articulate and intelligent with a mistrust of authority and a disdain for paternalistic platitudes. Your pulsating hormones drive you to copulate preferentially with young bodies and my old carcass will disgust you.

I have nothing to offer but myself as a living example of the magnificent tenacity of life. A gnarled old oak simply existing! I have no wisdom to offer other than that ‘indispensable wisdom is un-dispensable’.

Making friends is a wonderful thing. It can be like the beginning of a relationship. Suddenly someone enters your life and enriches it. You find someone who shares an interest or you just click. This is the good part. Keeping friends can be difficult. When people overstep the line and expect more, it can be difficult to say no. Saying no potentially ends the relationship or when you discover that what you think you agreed on suddenly isn’t so clear. But of course every relationship has the potential to end. The breakup! This can happen slowly over a period of weeks, months and years. Or, it can end very abruptly. My

You will generate your own wisdom by learning from your own experience and by developing a sense of discernment: the capacity to judge the consequences of your actions. For this there are no prophets, no seers, no gurus, no oracles to guide you.

You will do what you do to get what you want. You will do what you do to get what you need. You will do what you do to fit in, to gain approval, to soothe a sense of having been marginalised, isolated and invalidated. With discernment, however, you will sense the inevitable direction your path must follow in spite of these influences.

In the realm of queerdom, we are one, you and I. The hurt you push on me will cause you pain. Yet every one of your new learnings will spin a thread of the finest silk to cocoon all of our tribe. Together we will crysa-lyse the ugly frog-skin of conformity and cast it from our backs to reveal the satin smooth faerie-wings of our truest natures.

partner and I had very good neighbours. We called them friends but we recently discovered that they probably called us ‘useful’. This was one of those relationships that ended very quickly. One error in judgement, resulting in a complete disregard for feelings has soured a once close connection. It has even become quite nasty. It’s so sad to feel that for years the people you entertained, helped, child minded, cat minded and even mother minded for, suddenly forget all this and well and truly shaft you. But I guess this is all part of the wonderful tapestry of life. We’ve realised that we cannot mend this situation and we now have a new family living next door. This new family aren’t as friendly as the last but then you can’t have everything.

“Making friends is a wonderful thing It can be like the beginning of a relationship” But this still hasn’t answered my first question. What is a friend? Well I know that my partner is my best friend. He’s there for me every day, through thick and thin. He’s even there for me when I am ‘weird’ as he likes to call it. I can be difficult to live with - can’t we all? But I know that he will always support me. Recently, during one of the most difficult times I have had in years, he has definitely been my rock. He has allowed me to be short tempered, to be sad, to be close to tears and to laugh. I respect him and love him. I would do anything for him and I know he will always do the same. This of course is the ultimate form of friendship, but I feel lucky enough to have many other people in my life that offer me the same but as a ‘lite’ version.

There is one saying that I adore about friendship - A friend will help you move but a true friend will help you move a body.

The Greek philosopher Socrates said: “My friends, why do you care so much about laying up the greatest amount of money and honour and reputation and so little about wisdom, truth and the greatest improvement of the soul?” He said this not as a wise man to the youth of Athens. He did not consider himself wise. He was speaking to those Athenian elders who proclaimed themselves as wise.

His gentle ridicule of the pompous was a great entertainment to the young men who gathered to watch old Socrates in action. He was ultimately accused of corrupting the youth of the State with his ideals, found guilty at trial and was sentenced to forced suicide by selfadministered hemlock poisoning.

So, as GaySocrates, I say to those elders in our gay community who put great store by material wealth, social standing and assimilation: Where is your wisdom? Find and feed your souls!

And to you my sweet, tender youth I say simply: Be who you are and become who you are meant to become!

And when I die, which I surely will, and most probably many years before you, I shall have the final words of Socrates inscribed on my headstone.

The hour of departure has arrived and we must go on our ways; I to die and you to live.

Which is better?

God only knows! gaysocrates@gmail.com http://www.gaysocrates.blogspot.co.uk

68 GSCENE

HEART & SOLE IN MY DAY...

TIMES ARE A’CHANGING

BY DARREN SOLE Becoming a fully-fledged, grown-up member of our ‘club’, takes more than knowing the complete discography of Madonna, the price points of Jo Malone’s scented candles or how many inches separate Tom Hardy’s nipples. Because some things that we have to learn, cannot be taught. The chickens of Class 2013 who come home to roost, will have, like most of us, meandered their way down the unchartered, precarious passageway of gay youth; and each tentative step, a daunting first.

But social progression means that the kids’ Gay to Z is getting evermore comprehensive with every passing year; the Post-War book might’ve only offered scant Polari-ised rations, but today’s edition is a bulging leather-bound, Wiki’d-up, scratch-and-sniff compendium of the who’s, why’s and what goes where’s. We may be living in the Age of (too much) Information, but there are still things that today’s gay kid has to discover, as have all past generations, for themselves. My little earthquakes were probably much like yours, and you certainly can’t learn these three Rs from a manual.

THE REFLEX (THE 1st STIRRING) As the lead singer in the school production of The Emperor’s New Clothes, I was placed, for my main ‘number’, opposite the ‘Emperor’ played by a classmate, whose ‘costume’ was nothing except a pair of Y-Fronts. We were seven years old, he was half naked (this WAS the 1970s), and as I gazed, I knew at that moment, something was definitely up.

THE REALITY (THE 1st PUBLIC DECLARATION) As I entered my first gay pub, I felt physically sick. Was it the fear, admittance or fingers of Pernod I’d downed? Full of denial, I convinced myself I was just a tourist and, at the very least, Bi (now, gay later); “I don’t fancy ‘blokes’; only Mark Wahlberg”. To Speak Was A Sin, but it was there in The Smugglers Arms, I discovered that a gay pub could bring me Safety In Numbers.

If these random moments represent just some of the steps we take toward our awakening, then they’re certainly directed by the conditions of the age in which we live them; call it the zeitgayst, if you like. Influences beyond our control such as law, pop culture and public opinion are omnipresent and thankfully, have (mostly) shifted in favour of today’s young’uns, making it easier for the cocooned fumblers to transform into 3D A-Gays.

Like many, I lived through Thatcher’s Section 28 where, if I’d raised my pant-staring ponderings to a teacher, I would have received sanctioned short shrift. But how times change, as this year, the High Court upheld a classroom ban on a Christian science teacher (CHRISTIAN SCIENCE!) who condemned the ‘homosexual lifestyle’ as disgusting in front of his 15 year old pupils.

Pop Culture changes through the years too. The 1980s offered only a few meagre leaders to hold a mirror up to, mainly in the passive guise of cartoons Inman and Grayson (heroes now, confusing then) but luckily, also in bravely active, politicised pop heroes Jimmy Somerville and Andy Bell. Today of course, the good news is that kids have access to a whole bank of positive icons to pore over, in the gay rappers, sportsmen, and even (heave) politicians who are currently blazing their trails.

And as for the gay pub initiation, is this now a mythical right of passage? Throughout the decades, these lifelines have been boarded up, windowed out, and now (apparently) deserted. Are they an irrelevance to the iKids, who with their hand-helds, can create their own pop up (and get off) gay scene wherever they desire? 25 years ago, 60% of the UK reckoned that same-sex relations were ‘always wrong’, but as that figure now hobbles below 20%, maybe it’s perceived that the sanctuary a queer hub provides, isn’t needed anymore?

Times change though, and every generation produces a specific vintage of Gay Man. Yes, my salad days (NB. Salad never existed in the 1980s) may have been rooted in an era that brought Panic on the streets of Portsmouth, but I’m glad my teenage kicks didn’t feature the empty and over-stylized musings of Gaga, Glee and Grindr.

“The Class of 2013 may be more fragmented and less politicised than ever, but being assimilated into the mainstream is what we wanted, right?”

THE REALISATION (THE 1st ‘MIRROR MOMENT’) Another decisive moment of gay youth is recognising yourself in someone else. It was 1980 in the council estate’s corner shop and a bone-thin, henna-haired man (think Bejam meets Quentin Crisp) minced in for a Fray Bentos, I was told by the person passing as my Mother, to “steer clear from the queer”. And so, as a door of intriguing light swished opened, it was immediately, forcefully shut. This was the kind of man then, not to know, be like, or breathe the same air as.

The Class of 2013 may be more fragmented and less politicised than ever, but being assimilated into the mainstream is what we wanted, right? I wonder how things will be in 2023? Perhaps the discovery of a ‘gay gene’, would make coming out happen in the womb, putting the decision of whether a queer foetus actually comes out - at all – firmly in the hands of the unborn’s parents.

But my message to today’s ‘youth’? Some of us older souls may appear ancient, but we’ve got a lot more in common than you think. If you’re having problems with those baby steps, then ask us – you never know, we might be able to help. Believe me; we've been there, seen it and worn the crop top.

Darren Sole is a freelance TV Producer @DarrenSole

GSCENE 69

TWISTED

GILDED GHETTO

BY ERIC PAGE

CHOIR

BOYS

BY MIKE TIETZ

“THE OLDER I GET, THE BETTER I WAS”

THE GENERATION GAP

They say that youth is wasted on the young, but who are ‘they’ that say such things? The old do. It’s not wasted, if the old had youth on tap they would exploit it, wring every last penny and moment out of it until it lay a gasping worn out shell. Those who make the worst use of their time are the first to complain of its shortness. I say leave youth to the young, let the youth of today have the delights of enthusiasm and energy, let them rush in where world weary angels fear to tread, let mistakes rain down on them as they pick the fragrant blooms of experience, let them run barefoot in the Valley of Death, unaware of the bored finger rapping of Chronos. Youth can make a day of any size.

I was never young, I shot out of the womb stuffed with a life view that made me slap the midwife. My childhood was an endless moment of time, stretched out long and golden, that I wobbled and lurched in like a lamb, but unlike the gambling lamb I knew the butcher was waiting, could hear the wet stone being scraped with cold steel, kept one eye on the clock. Not to worry, oh no, but to ensure I lived as sweetly and deeply as I could, and still do. Education was my best friend, my ticket out of the grimly green and broken Valleys I grew up in. It also was my temptress, books told me of other places, different people, they sang a song of the body electric and dripped hope like expanding insulation foam into the empty spaces that disappointment wanted to crawl into.

I’m quite proud of myself. I put a poster by the stairs to the IT suite (I'm a high school teacher, you see) that says “Some People Are Gay! Get Over It!” I felt like I had single-handedly orchestrated the Stonewall riots, and expected furious debate and controversy to ensue imminently! And what do they do? They walk past it, without so much as batting an eyelid.

But what is ‘gay’ today anyway? It is arguably easier for today’s youth to be gay. In the Brighton Gay Men's Chorus, I have several friends who tell of times gone by when it was the norm to be in the closet.

Having two lives really, and living those as quite separate from each other. The thought of coming out at work or at school unthinkable.

And now? Now, I have a law that says I can turn up on Monday in a dress if I so please and no one can call me ‘queer’. My pupils call everything gay (especially the home work I set them!) but start a debate about equal marriage and eight out of ten of them will fiercely argue that everyone deserves to love who they want.

The secret of youth is to live each moment as if it’s your first, to embrace the errors of enthusiasm over the bitter chill of experience, to feel connected to your passions and disconnected from the expectations of your peers. To be a rebel without a pause, to love widely and strong and to laugh so much you cry, then cry so hard you sleep.

Youth is the gift of nature, but age a work of art, and it’s the patina and contrasts that time well spent gives us that mark out those who are no longer young, but is youth just a number? Hell No, it’s a state of mind, a stage we are going through and one we can hold on to, not by cramming ourselves into tighter T-shirts and still dancing to Kylie remixes when we are 40+, or cutting our soft flesh and trying to move our faces around, or drugging or drinking ourselves into shameless states of abandonment and excess, no. These are the stupid excess of youth, not the joys. Real youth is the ability to see beauty in everything, to be delighted by the dawn, awed by the stars at night, to want to spend all night talking with your friends and all glorious afternoon laying in the sun with your lover. Real youth sees opportunity in every learning, and the scars of life are the tattoos of experience. Tender aye, but not restricting.

I was lucky, I had much older gay friends when I was young, and their guidance helped me not to worry, told me life was hard but fun, that some things you can’t change and others are worth fighting for, but mostly, that life was terribly short and love was glorious. They shared what they had learned from life, not to stop me making my own mistakes, but to stop me feeling I was the only one. They also insisted I be exquisite and never explain.

The entire concept of being gay has changed tremendously over the last few decades. Older gays are still trying to get to grips with the next new dating app on the smart phone their niece is still explaining to them, whilst young gays stare at you blankly (through their guylinered eyes) when you talk about Christopher Street.

One of the things I enjoy most about being in our Chorus is that I get to interact with gay men of all ages and it's enriching to share stories and experiences across the generation gap. The ‘gay scene’ as it used to exist, in no small part through the necessity of finding others, is arguably no longer needed in the way it used to be. This is because the norm is to date via the internet, although perhaps we've lost a certain sense of community that there used to be.

If that’s the case, it's a little sad that those born after a certain time will never quite know the community atmosphere of days gone by.

Maybe that is precisely the reason why we need organisations such as ours, where we can learn from each other because the gays of yesteryear have a lot to teach those of today. And vice versa, of course.

And no matter how old we are, we should never, ever rest on our laurels and forget that things weren't always that easy. They still aren't. I’m pretty certain I saw one or two teenagers glance at that Stonewall poster very quickly when they thought no one was looking.

And they seemed just a little bit nervous.

If you'd like more information about the Brighton Gay Men’s Chorus, please visit www.brightongmc.org

70 GSCENE

CHARLIE SAYS C’EST LA VIE FRANCE HAS FALLEN AGAIN

BY CHARLIE BAUER PhD There’s a ‘Les Mis’-type revolutionary warmth that occasionally blows across the channel, reminding us that we are still a constitutional monarchy and not a republic like our French neighbours. Images of students and idealistic youths waving banners from rooftops have always reminded us of the continental power of idealism. And even when that idealism shifts into the occasional fracas, we are reminded of how far the ‘youths’ will go on the elders’ behalf, in order to instigate some long overdue changes.

opposite, if you are for a woman’s right, turns you into something altogether different. That’s right – you’re Anti Life. So, whoever gets there first claims the term and controls the meaning.

Let’s take a look at the language that this French organisation uses.

The Demonstration For All is not for all. By the same token, any direct action against this provocative group will be seen as ‘non-family loving’, violent opponents will be seen as the ‘queer thugs’. They also state that they are a ‘spontaneous’ movement yet are ‘entrenched deeply in the republic’. That they are ‘non combative.’ It’s a ‘nonpartisan’ and ‘non-denominational’, ‘deeply peaceful’ movement which is vigorously opposed to homophobia. Excuse me? I didn’t quite get that?

They are also for ‘sustainable humanity’ (they mean ‘natural’ child birthing methods here) which therefore turns homos against ‘sustainable’ humanity. Hang on, I’m beginning to sound like a Gestapo officer and I haven’t even left Café Nero…

Images of fresh-faced youths have been used as a marketing tool ever since the School of Athens to remind us of latent power. The Nazis’ blond haired blue-eyed, tight chested, bulging thighed model was a perfect and beautiful mirror to the monstrous, ugly, paunched, middle aged instigators of the Third Reich that came in the form of Hitler and pal Joey Goebbels. After all, everybody knows a great diversion tactic.

But that vital, youthful face is always open to be exploited for evil means. Universally they represent ‘hope’ - they’re the ones who have more time to see out the so-called ideals of their elders. Except that they never do. The Hippies didn’t and neither did the Hitler Youth (except for that turncoat last Pope). And in the same way, neither has the French organisation La Manif Pour Tous (Demonstration For All), the most recent youth cattle-prodding exercise by the French rightwing, who are against same-sex marriage. Not gays. Just same-sex marriage.

What we are seeing this time around is a softer, more wholesome Kristallnacht. A peaceful, apparently non-political gust of righteousness sweeping through the French political landscape. But hang on a minute - I’m not suggesting for one moment that France would ever be capable of separatism and genocide - it’s a western developed nation for lord’s sake. It’s bound by the Geneva Convention, no less.

“La Manif Pour Tous (the most recent youth cattle-prodding exercise by the French right wing)... is against same-sex marriage. Not gays.

Just same-sex marriage” Modern linguistics were also developed in France, that is, the Philosophy of Language, your meaning, or someone else’s control behind the words. Think of ‘nationalism’ as being proud of your country and ‘socialism’, as a fairness for all against rampant capitalism. Put them together and what do you have? ‘National socialism’ – socialism for the good to the nation? No, because the term national socialism was piggybacked by ‘Nazism’ – a term that defies its very description.

These inversions are important because they trick people into believing something different, usually the opposite.

It’s that subtle reversal, or the spaces in-between the language, that’s the trick. Now think of the American Pro Life movement, which is a movement against a woman’s right to choose abortion. The natural

Here’s a peak at their manifesto: Principle 1: Serve a clear purpose. Marriage equality and same-sex parenting is muddy and these parents are confused – they don’t understand the ‘love’ part. Kids of different sex couples also become confused because they don’t know what the ‘love’ thing is either.

2: To have an objective of sending ‘clear and strong’ messages to the elected and the citizens. These messages express the refusal to accept marriages of persons of the same-sex, adoption for all and the implementation of the theory of ‘gender’. Just to recap here – they are supposed to be opposed to homophobia and queer baiting of any form.

3: Respect the individual. Never endangering the lives of others, to observe a great respect for political opponents (whether reciprocal or not) and to distinguish people from their functions and mandates.

Sounds good to me.

4: Respect the Common Good (ie gay parents are disrespecting the ‘common good’) 5: Keep popular support (As opposed to any gay ‘underground’ becoming ‘mainstream’) 6: The Demonstration For All is a popular and spontaneous movement.

Through this opposition to marriage for all, this movement is a catalyst for the expression of the French people. The actions cannot impede or block the French people. (Not French gay people, however) They must also gather as much support as possible. (Does this all sound dodgy yet?)

So far there are cells of this movement in Australia, French Guyana, French speaking New Caladonia and London.

Maybe drop them a line and show your support of the good, natural and righteous people of the world. Let them know who the real libertarians are. You decide who you think is operating on a premise of equality and fairness, and please let them know. I’m sure they’d love to hear because - as they list on their website, these are their sole ‘virtues’. Just think of the opposite of that statement and you become, by definition, non-virtuous without even leaving the sofa.

GSCENE 71

LUNCH

POSITIVE www.lunchpositive.org

TV SCENE

BY MATT PHIL CARVER

“I WANT TO GIVE SOMETHING BACK”

SPRING TV ROCKED BECAUSE...

Very often we hear this from people who want to join with what we do and become a volunteer. But what does it really mean? It's great that volunteering can be an activity which responds to people’s sense of giving, but for us it's equally important that people feel comfortable and are able to benefit and take something from the experience.

...Khaleesi freed some slaves in Game of Tense Conversations, grizzly bears put on their own performance of Sophie’s Choice, and there are no unattractive people in Australia. Here’s what to catch up on this month:

Volunteering has changed greatly, for the better, since my first involvement 15 years ago. Increasingly, no longer are volunteers 'add ons' to the work of staff teams who are perceived as the only 'experts'.

Volunteers bring with them their own expertise, experiences, insight, ideas, aspirations, energy and commitment that are invaluable. I struggle to think of places where I've seen such a diversity of people involved. It has to be right that with all these gifted resources, people can derive some personal benefit through volunteering.

I recall when we first started Lunch Positive that a few people expressed 'they'll never pull it off – they're only volunteers'. Forget the 'only'! Just look for what people can achieve, for others and themselves, when they have a common purpose, support one another and are valued. Volunteering for a front-line service is not unlike other work places. People work hard, professionally, using existing and newly learned skills; and at times need to respond to the unexpected. So it was good to hear from 17 of our volunteers recently what they got from all this! We heard that being a volunteer in this type of organisation can be fun, enjoyable, and help people to feel good about themselves. It helps people value and test their abilities and feel more able to fulfil their potential.

“Being a volunteer fosters a sense of togetherness and provides a source of support and encouragement between people” Looking a bit deeper we found out that being involved in an activity which requires commitment, reliability, hard work and an ability to work under pressure helps people find routines, improve health and develop abilities to cope, both whilst volunteering and in personal lives. Just as we hope for people who use the lunch club, being a volunteer fosters a sense of togetherness and provides a source of support and encouragement between people. People find greater resources to understand, accept and get to know people they might not otherwise meet. We're determined that Lunch Positive will maintain and develop its win-win approach to volunteering, and that there's always a mutual benefit to becoming involved.

The first week of June is National Volunteering Week and a time to celebrate the achievements of volunteers and volunteering. If you know anyone that volunteers for us, or elsewhere, we hope you'll recognise that their input to the life and health of our community is huge, and that the numbers of people involved and hours of time given is massive.

We're always looking for people to join our team, and are especially keen to involve people with HIV. So if you, or someone you know would be interested, make an enquiry now! Information about volunteering with Lunch Positive can be found on our website: www.lunchpositive.org Lunch Positive is a lunch club for people with HIV which runs every Friday from Dorset Gardens Methodist Church, Dorset Gardens, Brighton. To find out more about joining or becoming a volunteer visit: www.lunchpositive.org; or call 07846 464384.

Season three of Game of Thrones (Mon, 9pm – Sky Atlantic) started slowly and seemed to show some very erratic budgeting. It seemed that the writers’ predilection for an epic, sprawling, CGI-fest of a final five minutes left most episodes a little short of cash – resulting in huge amount of lengthy, albeit absorbing, dialogue scenes. In episode five though, the death and sex suddenly returned. Loras Tyrell got jiggy with his squire Olyvar and was stunned by his ability to recognise straight away that he preferred the lads to the ladies. There are some devious reasons to explain why Olyvar knew Loras to be [insert medieval word for ‘up for it’], but that’s not the point. The question here is why this intuition is even being questioned in the first place – this is a fantasy realm in which some clever folks can occupy the minds of animals, fire-spewing dragons are mothered by a cute blonde, and the kid from Love Actually is a full-on psychic. So why is a fully functional gaydar apparently so impressive?

As much as the casting director on Game of Thrones seems to have a penchant for prettiness, nothing matches the sheer hottie to nottie ratio of Australia’s Next Top Model (Tue, 9pm – Sky Livingit) cycle seven. Where the British and American Top Model shows look primarily for girls that are unique, interesting and charming to shape into catwalk queens, the Aussies just want them by-the-book FIT. They would not be interested in the ‘flawsome’ beauties unearthed by the UK and US; not freckled bombshell Jade Thompson or loveable weirdo Allison Harvard. Nope, Sarah Murdoch’s crew like them tall, feminine and flawless. But it’s not just the girls – even all of the photographers, stylists, mentors and catering staff seem to be smoking hot too. If any sixes or sevens amble into shot, they must either call cut or just edit them out in post-production.

All this aside though, Top Model Aussie-style is probably the one show that gives the best insight into the world of fashion – it doesn’t have the crazy, ostentatious ‘get me on TV’ contestants that can prove tiresome in the US version, and it seems to get much better access to the industry’s top dogs that the UK version. Plus with Sarah Murdoch hosting, there’s always a chance of another monumental cock up, like when she announced the wrong winner in the series six live finale (YouTube it).

The cute-porn corner this month comes with a strong content warning. Episode one of Great Bear Stakeout (still available on BBC iPlayer or YouTube) follows the adventures of an Alaskan grizzly bear called Parsnip and her cub, Pushki, and is expertly narrated by Billy Connolly. As cute and furry and adorable as the baby bear is, be warned, for the first ten minutes, there are two of them. This is cuteness with a dash of real world grimness and when Billy says, in a sombre voice, “she cannot save them both”, hugging some kind of cuddly toy is advisable.

72 GSCENE

KEITH SHARPE GOOD & THE BAD WANTED AND UNWANTED

BY DR KEITH SHARPE, CHANGING ATTITUDE SUSSEX This past month has brought me two strikingly contrasting attitudes to LGBT people from religious institutions.

The first was a pleasant surprise from an unexpected source – the hierarchy of the Church of England. 'You are among friends' was the principal message given by The Right Reverend Dr Martin Warner, the 103rd Bishop of Chichester, as he addressed the Annual Conference of the Lesbian & Gay Christian Movement (LGCM) in Brighton on Saturday, April 20. This was the first time a senior Anglican bishop had attended a specific conference of LGBT people. It came in the same week as the Archbishop of Canterbury had meetings with gay rights campaigner Peter Tatchell and also with members of the LGBT Anglican Coalition.

Bishop Martin shared in the opening worship, welcomed the conference to his diocese and took questions. He said that the Diocese of Chichester values the LGBT community in its midst and that LGBT people have enriched the life of the Church and of the area. He identified himself with the conference strapline, Challenging Homophobia, Creating An Inclusive Church and told a story about a young person who was suicidal because of his inability to reconcile his faith with his sexuality but who was eventually saved by hearing The Reverend Dr Jeffrey John, the ‘out’ gay partnered Dean of St Albans, speak at a festival. “Brighton is a city full of students and young people, many of whom are similarly vulnerable”, he added.

In answer to questioning Bishop Martin said he was not in favour of gay marriage on theological grounds but he felt the Church needed to find ways to honour gay relationships. These were different from marriage but deserved equally to be respected and valued. He announced that the 'listening process' (listening to the experience of LGBT people) initiated by the 1998 Lambeth Conference, which had not really developed in this diocese, would begin afresh. And he confirmed that being in a civil partnership is not necessarily a bar to ordination.

Bishop Martin said: “Brighton & Hove is the largest concentrated area of LGBT people anywhere in the country. The welcome I received at the event was unquestionably gracious and generous. We should be enormously grateful for the voice that this community brings to our ministry.”

Personally I was delighted that Bishop Martin has committed himself and the Diocese of Chichester to fighting against homophobia and for inclusion. Hopefully the renewed listening process will mean that a real and open dialogue can develop between the Church and the LGBT community. In the light of his remarks about marriage I also hope that Bishop Martin will vote for civil partnerships to be celebrated in Church when this is discussed in the House of Bishops.

Rev Sharon Ferguson, Chief Executive of LGCM, said, “It was reassuring to hear the welcoming message from Bishop Martin which was sincere and heartfelt, and his response to the varied questions that were presented was honest even when the answer was not necessarily what the audience wanted to hear. This sort of dialogue allows for both parties to be heard and real progress to be made. I feel confident that a true listening process will be instigated and that the LGBT community in Bishop Martin's diocese will find a welcome within the Church.”

The second experience has been altogether less pleasant. I have had to respond to some conservative evangelical Christians who continue to insist that being gay is a terrible thing best described as having to live with ‘unwanted same-sex attraction’.

The problem with people who talk about 'people with unwanted samesex attraction' is that they do not define themselves in this way. They are just people. They do not call themselves 'people with opposite-sex attraction', wanted or unwanted. The implicit assumption is that we same-sexers are defective people. We are people with a highly undesirable fault which if we weren't so sinful we could pray to God to cure. Ludicrous and offensive.

For this reason I believe that such language has to be challenged at every turn. It makes the core of us, that which makes us capable of loving, appear as some kind of ghastly tumourous growth which is 'unwanted' and needs excising. It is a vile distortion of the truth.

The ideal for these particular evangelical Christians is the total suppression of what for us are good, holy and wholesome natural instincts. They argue that the consolations of the Church can compensate for a bleak and arid existence. I think such an argument is simultaneously naive, contemptible and laughable. Have these people learnt nothing from the Roman Catholic priest abuse scandals which arise from enforced celibacy? The consolations of the Church were obviously not enough for them.

“Have these people learnt nothing from the Roman Catholic priest abuse scandals which arise from enforced celibacy?”

I have been reading Teilhard de Chardin’s Phenomenon Of Man, written in the 1940s. He was a Catholic priest but also an evolutionary scientist who understood the evolution of the Universe long before the concept of the Big Bang was developed in the post-war period. He believed that everything including human consciousness was in a process of evolution.

I think some of the Christians who fantasise about being in control of the process of dealing with LGBT people in the Church should recognise that they are utterly deluded. It is quite clear that an evolutionary development has taken place in the consciousness of the wider society, and that most people, including most churchgoers, now recognise the human equality and common humanity of lesbian and gay souls.

This ‘unwanted same-sex attraction’ terminology increasingly therefore appears as the LGBT equivalent of racist language. I remember in the 1950s how even on the radio commentators could legitimately make derogatory remarks in public about 'coloured people', as though whites were not also coloured. I think in years to come the language of 'unwanted same-sex attraction' will come to be seen as unacceptable as the language of superior and inferior skin colours is now.

OPEN AND WELCOMING CHURCHES The next Changing Attitude Sussex event is a public debate on gay marriage with Simon Kirby MP and Councillor Christina Summers on Friday, June 21 at 8pm at St Mary's Church, 61 St James' Street, Kemptown, Brighton BN2 1PR. Free entry, all welcome.

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. For more information, view: www.changingattitudesussex.com and www.thegaygospels.com

GSCENE 73

TRANS

SCRIBE

ADDICTED

BY NICK DOUGLAS

BY GRAHAM HAMILTON

IT TAKES ALLSORTS

NO GOOD ADVICE

Remember that old mobile phone ad: ‘The future’s bright. The future’s Orange’? When it comes to trans youth, I want to nick it and adapt it slightly: ‘The future’s bright. The future’s Allsorts’. There were things we heard from trans youth in the scrutiny hearings that made me feel not so much ‘glass half empty’, more like ‘someone’s taken my pint away and I hadn’t bloody finished it!’. We heard sometimes heartbreaking stories about violence and harassment, discrimination in education and at work, as well as difficulties in getting help from the very health and social care services set up to help people in need and struggling with gender identity issues. And remember, these are still youngsters, being given a very clear message about their second-class status before they've even fully started out in life.

Since I am no longer a young person myself, I can only speculate in this issue about how young people engage with the LGBT community and scene. It seems to me a very different gay world than the one I emerged into back in the 1980s. One thing that I believe remains true for all of us is that, whatever your age, there are always so many people ready to give you their point of view and advice about things.

But this wasn't the whole story. There were also stories of resistance and resilience, love and acceptance. And there's real reason for optimism. The Allsorts crew, which helps to support, inform and empower LGBT youth, have two fantastic projects I want to highlight.

The first is the Transformers group for trans youth, which I have raved about here before. Whenever I get invited to visit with my LGBT HIP hat on I always do because it has such a welcoming, positive vibe.

“Imagine if as a youngster you could have packed your parents off somewhere where they would be given some information and support” Then there’s the work they do with the Council’s Healthy Schools Team to deliver training and support on trans awareness in schools.

The reason I’m so chipper is because the scrutiny highlighted how this just wasn’t receiving the funding it needed and the Council have now committed to find more resources for the work. Result! Also a couple of charitable applications have come up trumps, which means that Allsorts can extend their capacity. So now these two brilliant projects can do more. Fantastic news!

But it doesn’t end there. Allsorts also has a new initiative which is a group led by and for the parents and carers of LGBT young people.

Imagine how great it would have been if as a youngster you could have packed your parents off to somewhere where they could have got some information and support. Where they could have worked through any worries they had about you being LGB and/or T in a safe, confidential space, with others who shared their experience. Might have made a real difference eh?

So, know any youngsters who’d like a bit of support with gender issues or just want to meet up with other young trans folk? Think the school where you work or send your kids could do with a bit of advice and information on trans awareness?

Want to get together with other parents of LGBT youngsters or know someone who does? Here’s the Allsorts number. Give them a quick ring today before you forget. Tel: 01273 721211.

For more info about Allsorts, view: www.allsortsyouth.org.uk Nick writes this column in a personal capacity.

The Government now tells you that you should find a partner, have a civil partnership and live a regular life as a fully integrated, taxcoded gay couple. If this is what you want, then fair enough – go for it. But, if you actually enjoy being outside the spectrum of normality and embrace being different, then maybe this isn’t the right path for you.

Personally, I believe honesty is more important than monotony, whoops – monogamy. Two people I know recently told me how they had enjoyed the most blissful ceremony but, once their details had been registered, one lost all his benefits, the other had to work extra shifts to make up the state imposed shortfall. They saw less of each other and were thinking of splitting up.

As well as the national opinion and advice giving, there will always be those so-called friends, (normally the bloke in the pub) that says, ‘You need to do this,’ or, ‘It’s about time you did that.’ It could be that this advice is genuinely heartfelt and wise from an older member of our community. However, it may be that the person they are really advising is themself. Perhaps they are in a loveless relationship, in a boring job or simply propping up their spirits with drugs or alcohol?

Instead of sorting themselves out they project their issues onto you.

“I need to try and change my thinking away from ‘All rules suck,’ to ‘Some rules are good for you and others are just plain silly’” Sometimes I wish I could take other people’s advice, but it seems that I have to always experience things first-hand in order to take them on board. Everyone knows the importance of safe sex, eating healthily, not drinking too much, being engaged in work, but I have this fundamental flaw in my persona which says, ‘sod doing what everyone else does, I’m going to do it my way.’

In rehab I learnt that I have a negative cognitive bias to rules. I need to try and change my thinking away from ‘All rules suck,’ to ‘Some rules are good for you and others are just plain silly.’ It’s not easy to work this one out.

One mantra, which I got from AA, which I truly believe and would like to share with you, is the Serenity Prayer. It goes like this: God, (in whatever form you understand him to be) grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.’

Apart from this, it’s probably a good idea just to ignore any of the other advice I have just given you.

74 GSCENE

“I can’t allow other people’s misconceptions about mental illness to silence me. I’d rather be labelled ‘another crazy lesbian’ than treat my mental health as taboo” his goth friends liked me because I was “spooky”. To this day, Wednesday Addams is a style icon of mine.

I’D RATHER BE LABELLED ‘ANOTHER CRAZY LESBIAN’ THAN TREAT MY MENTAL HEALTH AS TABOO SAYS ELEANOR MARGOLIS: SAPPHIC CYNIC AT LARGE While dealing with the beak-faced bastard of my own depression, I worry that I’m a traitor for perpetuating the ‘crazy lesbian’ stereotype.

The ‘crazy lesbian’ is everywhere. From the dreary melodrama dragged out again and again by programmes like The L Word and Lip Service, to Natalie Portman sprouting feathers of the mind and having unhinged girl-on-girl sex in Black Swan; popular culture seems to have diagnosed all gay women with nonspecific mental illness.

I’ve suffered from depression since I was a teenager and after a thankfully short and unsuccessful career as a tortured adolescent poet, I’m just beginning to get used to my status as ‘another crazy lesbian’. Girls I’ve dated have even rolled their eyes at me when I’ve opened up to them about head stuff (FYI, I try not to do this on first dates, but lesbian emotional over sharing is a definite thing).

For lesbians, the stereotypical deranged dyke has become an in joke. But how much of my own depression and anxiety (which is far from derangement, incidentally) is actually rooted in being gay?

A number of studies have shown that LGBT people are more likely to have poor mental health than heterosexuals. According to the NUS, we are ten times more likely to commit suicide than straight people. With the huge pressure that often surrounds coming out and the prevalence of homophobic bullying, this is hardly surprising. As illustrated by the recent tragic case of Lucy Meadows, the country’s most widely-read newspapers are about as kind to the LGBT community as The Meat Trades Journal is to the cow community. There are even charities like MindOut (an offshoot of Mind) and PACE that focus entirely on the mental health of non-straight people.

I was diagnosed with clinical depression around the same time as I came out. I was nineteen and I’d been spending entire weeks in bed, wondering if I was ever going to stop feeling like one of those bird-masked plague doctors was trying to push my brain through a sieve. Depression is like a physical presence.

A lot of people subscribe to Winston Churchill’s description of it as a black dog; for me, it’s more a beak-faced bastard watching indifferently through a pair of eyeholes. As a teenager, the trouble I was having accepting my sexuality was a major contributor to my fragile mental health. I was prescribed antidepressants (which I still take), I was given some counselling and things slowly started to level out.

But I’m certain that my depression wasn’t and isn’t entirely a by-product of lesbianism. I remember having my first major panic attack when I was about nine and I tried to comprehend infinity. I was a quiet, pensive kid. The word “daydreamer” always cropped up in my school reports and I had my first therapy session when I was eleven. When my older brother went through a Satanist phase,

So I was prone to rumination and depressive episodes long before my sexuality became a major worry. What’s more, when my family and friends were fully supportive of my coming out, and even when I started getting comfortable with my sexuality, the depression lingered on like a squatter in the attic bedroom. The problem I now have is that I feel like a traitor for perpetuating the “crazy lesbian” stereotype. Every time I bring up my mental health, I can’t help feeling that I’m letting the team down.

But I’ve come to realise that I can’t allow other people’s misconceptions about mental illness to silence me. I’d rather be labelled ‘another crazy lesbian’ than treat my mental health as taboo. ‘Crazy’ is only how the eyerollers choose to see me when they hear buzzwords like ‘depression’. In reality, I use antidepressants in the same way that diabetics use insulin. They don’t alter my personality; they stabilise my mood and prevent panic attacks. In fact, an unexpected side-effect of my depression is that I’m never surprised by anything that goes on in my head. I just know it all so well. When you spend so much time locked inside your own mind, you learn to find your way around. You get to know every dark corner and the spectres that lurk there become less and less horrifying. Craziness is a lazy, superficial and ultimately meaningless concept that hints at being out of control. That’s exactly what I’m not.

Eleanor Margolis writes a column, Lez Miserable, every Tuesday at Newstatesman.com

MINDOUT SERVICES MindOut provides free, independent, mental health advice, information and advocacy.

We also run a peer support group work service and activity groups for LGBT people with mental health issues. If you, or anyone you know, has mental health issues and you would like to talk in confidence to an ‘out’ LGBT mental health worker or would like to offer us your support, please contact us.

• 24hr confidential answerphone: 01273 234839 • Email: info@mindout.org.uk • Website: www.mindout.org.uk All MindOut services are free, confidential and non-judgemental.

GSCENE 75

SERVICES

DIRECTORY LGBT SERVICES t ACCESS 4 ALL

LGBT disabled people’s forum. Safe, welcoming, support, activities, awareness.

Tel: 07981 170071 or access4all@fsmail.net

t ANYTHING BUT…

Youth social support group for LGB or unsure under 26, every other Wed. Tel: 01424 724150 or 01424 447033

t ALLSORTS YOUTH PROJECT

Drop in for LGBT or unsure young people under 26, Tues 5.30-8.30pm. Tel: 01273 721211 or info@allsortsyouth.org.uk, www.allsortsyouth.org.uk

t 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 • LGBT Officer PC Rich Bridger on 101 ext 50727 • LGBT caseworker Rory Smith on 101 ext 50727 • Facebook Brighton LGBT Police

t BRIGHTON & HOVE LGBT SAFETY FORUM Independent LGBT forum working with the Community to address and improve safety issues throughout Brighton & Hove. info@lgbt-safety-forum-brighton.com www.lgbt-safety-forum-brighton.com

t BRIGHTON & HOVE LGBT SWITCHBOARD Tel Helpline, Hate Crime reporting, Counselling service, Proud2connect (relationship counselling in partnership with Brighton Relate). www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton • Helpline from 5pm daily: Tel: 01273 204050 • Services info 01273 234009 • email brighton.manager@switchboard.org.uk • or brighton.admin@switchboard.org.uk

t BRIGHTON OURSTORY PROJECT

Oral history projects including shows, exhibitions, books, support to researchers Tel: 01273 207757 or 01273 328592 or www.brightonourstory.co.uk

t BRIGHTON WOMEN’S CENTRE

Info, counselling, drop-in space, support groups.

Tel: 01273 698036 or www.womenscentre.org.uk

t FTM BRIGHTON

Social/support group for all female-to-male trans people.

Every 3rd Sat of month, 6–8pm, THT Office, 61 Ship St, Brighton, BN1 1AE. Tel: 07504 652129 or FTMBrighton@hotmail.co.uk

t GEMS (GAY ELDERLY MEN’S SOCIETY)

Twice monthly meeting for over 50s Tel: 01273 884285 or peterotto337@btinternet.com www.gems-bh.org.uk

t LESBIAN LINK BRIGHTON

Local social group offers friendship, social events, meets 1st Thursday at The Regency Tavern 7.30pm Tel: 07594 578035 (eve) www.lesbianlinkbrighton.co.uk

t 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)

t LGBT NA GROUP

Brighton based LGBT (welcomes others) Narcotics Anonymous group every Tue 6.30–8pm, Millwood Centre, Nelson Row, Kingswood St. Tel: NA Helpline 604604

t LGBT MEDITATION GROUP

Meditation & discussion, every 2nd & 4th Thur, 5.30–7pm, Anahata Clinic, 119 Edward St, Tel: 07789 861367 www.bodhitreebrighton.org.uk

t LUNCH POSITIVE Lunch club for people with HIV to meet, make friends, find peer support in safe environment. Every Fri, noon–2.30pm, Community Room, Dorset Gdns Methodist Church, Dorset Gardens, Brighton. Lunch £1.50.

Tel: 07846 464384 or www.lunchpositive.org

t MINDOUT

Independent, impartial info, guidance for LGBT people with mental health problems. 24 hr confidential answerphone: Tel: o1273 234839 or info@mindout.org.uk www.mindout.org.uk

t RAINBOW FAMILIES

Support group for lesbian and/or gay parents Tel: 07951 082013 or info@rainbowfamilies.org.uk www.rainbowfamilies.org.uk

t VICTIM SUPPORT

Practical, emotional support for victims of crime.

Tel: Brighton 01273 234009 or Hove 01273 439942

HIV PREVENTION TREATMENT & CARE SERVICES t AVERT

Sussex HIV & AIDS info service, available by phone Tel: 01403 210202 or email confidential@avert.org

t BRIGHTON & HOVE CAB HIV PROJECT

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 www.brightonhovecab.org.uk

t CLAUDE NICOL CENTRE/ WILDE CLINIC

Free confidential testing & treatment for STIs including HIV. Hep A & B vaccinations. Out Patients Dept of Royal Sussex County Hospital, Eastern Rd. Tel: 01273 664721 www.brightonsexualhealth.com

t LAWSON UNIT

Medical advice, treatment for HIV+, specialist clinics, diet & welfare advice, drug trials. Tel: 01273 664722

t 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

t SUSSEX BEACON

24 hour nursing & medical care, day care.

Tel: 01273 694222 or www.sussexbeacon.org.uk

t TERRENCE HIGGINS TRUST SERVICES

• 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 1–4pm, 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 & West 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: 6.30–8.30pm (waiting room open: 6pm)

• 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 • HIV Health Trainer: Face-2-face/phone/email support to help understand diagnosis & meds, manage side effects, sex & relationships, talk to doctor, diet & nutrition.

• Informed Passions: Expert Volunteers project to identify & support sexual health needs of local men who have sex with men and carry out wide-ranging 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 diagnosed with HIV for at least 1 year, on HIV medication or not.

• What Next? Thurs eve, 6 week peer support group work programme for newly diagnosed HIV+ gay men.

• Co Infection group: 6 week peer support group work programme for gay men with HIV & HEP C. • Telling it Straight: monthly Tues eve support group for straight HIV+ men/women. Guest speakers.

• 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: help & advice line Wed: 10am–1pm 01273 764205. 1-2-1/group support to claim DLA. Guidance on return to work & in-work benefits For more info about these FREE services go to the THT office, 61 Ship St, Btn, Mon–Fri, 9.30am–5.30pm Tel: 01273 764200 or info.brighton@tht.org.uk

t TERRENCE HIGGINS EASTBOURNE

Covering East Sussex, Services: Health Promotion Outreach, free condoms, lube, sexual health info & advice; HIV Health Coach, short term support for people living with HIV; counselling; Positive Grants; Face-2-Face 1-2-1 support & advice on sexual health, HIV; Condom Male: free condoms by post; Fastest: 1 hour HIV tests; Positively Social: group for people living with HIV; Volunteering.

Dyke House, 110 South St, Eastbourne, BN21 4LZ, Tel: 01323 649927 or info.eastbourne@tht.org.uk

t WARREN BROWNE UNIT

Free confidential tests & treatment for STIs inc HIV. Hep A & B vaccinations. Shoreham based. Tel: 01273 461453

t WILDE CLINIC

Gay men’s sexual health clinic. Wed 5-6.30pm. Opposite Royal Sussex County Hospital entrance Abbey Rd. Tel: 01273 664721

NATIONAL HELPLINES t BROKEN RAINBOW

LGBT Domestic Violence Helpline, Mon 2-8pm, Wed 101pm, Thur 2-8pm Tel: 08452 604460

t LONDON LESBIAN & GAY SWITCHBOARD Tel: 02078 377324

t POSITIVELINE (EDDIE SURMAN TRUST) Mon-Fri 11am-10pm, Sat & Sun 4-10pm Tel: 0800 1696806

t MAINLINERS Tel: 02075 825226

t NATIONAL AIDS HELPLINE 08005 67123

t NATIONAL DRUGS HELPLINE 08007 76600 t THT AIDS TREATMENT PHONELINE Tel: 08459 470047

t THT DIRECT Tel: 0845 1221200

76 GSCENE

JUN 2013

CLASSIFIEDS

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GSCENE 77

JUN 2013 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

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COUNSELLING, MASSAGE, TREATMENTS, SEXUAL HEALTH GSCENE SUGGESTS READERS VERIFY THERAPISTS QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

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1 A-BAR 11–12 Marine Parade, 688825 2 BAR REVENGE 7 Marine Parade, 606064 6 CAMELFORD ARMS 30-31Camelford St, 622386 7 CHARLES ST BAR 8-9 Marine Parade, 624091 30 SMOAKIES 123-125 Kings Rd, 323888 40 NEIGHBOURHOOD 101 St James St, 673891 13 LEGENDS BAR 31-34 Marine Parade, 624462 33 NEW STEINE BISTRO 12a New Steine, 681546

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41 BRIGHTON SAUNA 75 Grand Parade, 689966 42 TBS2 SAUNA 84-86 Denmark Villas, Hove, 723733

45 LUNCH POSITIVE Dorset Gardens Methodist Church, 07846 464384 43 ENGLEHARTS www.lunchpositive.org 49 Vallance Hall, Hove St, Hove, 204411 46 MINDOUT Community Base, 113 Queens Rd l COMMUNITY 234839 www.mindout.org.uk 44 BRIGHTON WOMEN’S CENTRE 46 SWITCHBOARD 72 High St, 698036 Community Base, 113 Queens Rd www.womenscentre.org.uk 204050 (5–11pm)

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18 31 GULLIVERS HOTEL 12a New Steine, 695415 32 HUDSONS 22 Devonshire Place, 683642 13 LEGENDS HOTEL 31-34 Marine Parade, 624462 33 NEW STEINE HOTEL 10/11 New Steine, 681546 34 QUEENS HOTEL 1/3 Kings Rd, 321222

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1 A-BAR 11–12 Marine Parade, 688825 2 BAR REVENGE 7 Marine Parade, 606064 3 BEDFORD TAVERN 30 Western St, 739495 4 BULLDOG TAVERN 31 St James’ St, 696996 5 BRIGHTON TAVERN 99-100 Gloucester Rd, 680365 6 CAMELFORD ARMS 30-31Camelford St, 622386 7 CHARLES STREET BAR 8-9 Marine Parade, 624091 8 CHURCH STREET 112 Church St, 606864 9 DR BRIGHTONS 16 Kings Rd, 208113 10 GROSVENOR 16 Western St, 770712 11 IRON DUKE 3 Waterloo St, Hove, 734806 13 LEGENDS BAR 31-34 Marine Parade, 624462 14 MARINE TAVERN 13 Broad St, 681284 15 MARLBOROUGH 4 Princes St, 570028 16 POISON IVY 129 St James St 17 QUEENS ARMS 7 George St, 696873 18 REGENCY TAVERN 32-34 Russell Sq, 325652 19 SUBLINE 129 St James St, 01273 624100 20 ZONE 33 St James’ St, 682249

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Carlisle Road, Hove

£ 4000 pcm Fabulous four bedroom double fronted detached property in sought after New Church Road area. This fantastic home is beautifully appointed throughout, with delightful living space, family kitchen/diner and 70ft west facing rear garden with terrace. Available 3rd July.

Unfurnished.

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Unrivalled service with the lettings experts.

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Four of our favourite properties this week. Visit our website at justinlloyd.co.uk to view all our properties.

Grand Parade, Brighton

£ 1350 pcm Moments from Brighton Pier, the Pavilion and the city centre, this two bedroom luxury apartment benefits include lift access, two double bedrooms with storage, two bathrooms, fully fitted kitchen with appliances and a balcony. Water rates are included in the rent.

Available 12th July. Unfurnished.

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Devonshire Place, Brighton

Montpelier Road, Brighton

£ 1800 pcm

£ 1100 pcm

Stunning three double bedroom apartment over three floors of a period townhouse in Kemp Town. Comprising: bright living room with west facing roof terrace with sea views, large modern kitchen/diner, and three bedrooms each with own en-suite bathroom. Available 10th June. Unfurnished.

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An immaculate one bedroom period property, beautifully renovated to a very high specification. Centrally located close to Brighton Station, this ground floor flat benefits from parking designated to the block which is available on a first come first served basis. Available 1st June. Unfurnished.

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“I was abroad when this tenant was found and installed. The whole process was managed superbly on my behalf, initiative was taken & efforts made beyond the line of duty. Very impressed” Landlord Comment

Call us now 01273 692424 Email info@justinlloyd.co.uk

Visit justinlloyd.co.uk

Kemp Town 118 St James’s Street, Brighton BN2 1TH City 111 Western Road, Hove BN3 1DD Hove 176 Church Road, Hove BN3 2DJ